HD37 Dems

HD37 News & Monthly Meeting Reminder - TUESDAY January 24th

2012-01-20T21:52:00.002-07:00

(First, a note from your chairperson: this will be my last email to you as chair of HD37. I have found it necessary to resign my position in order to focus on increased family and work responsibilities, as well as the Obama re-election campaign. I have greatly enjoyed working with you all, and hope to see you around in 2012! The Arapahoe County reorganization - due to reapportionment - takes place THIS SATURDAY, please contact John Buckley (john@arapahoedems.org) for more information, or if you are interested in any of the HD37 leadership positions.)

Greetings!

Just a quick reminder about our upcoming monthly meeting on TUESDAY JANUARY 24th. We meet the 4th Tuesday of every month at CB & Potts, which is near the United Artist movie theaters off Arapahoe Rd. between Quebec and Yosemite. For GPS users, the address is:

6575 Greenwood Plaza Blvd

Englewood, Colorado 80112

(303) 770-1982

We gather for dinner (Dutch treat) at 6pm, and the meeting starts at 7pm. Please join us this month in THE OVERTIME ROOM (to the left as you come in the front door) to watch and discuss President Obama's State of the Union address.

Other upcoming meeting dates are:

Feb. 28: Update on proposed legislation re: education in the Colorado legislature (Angela Engel)
March 27: TBD
April 24: TBD
May 22: TBD

Would LOVE to hear your speaker/programming ideas and suggestions!

MANY OF US HAVE NEW PRECINCT NUMBERS AND/OR HOUSE DISTRICT CHANGES!! Please check the postcard you should have recently received from the Arapahoe County Elections Division. If you're still not sure which precinct or house district you are in now, you can go here to check: www.arapahoevotes.com. Click on "Register/Verify Registration". Click on "Register to Vote Online". Under "View", click on "District Information". Click on "Verify/Update Record". Enter the requested info, then go to line 20 in the "District Information" section to see your current (possibly new) House District number. PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU MIGHT ALSO HAVE A NEW PRECINCT NUMBER! Check line 14 for your current (possibly new - mine is!) precinct number. If you need additional assistance or info, just let me know.

Several of our HD officers were re-districted into other House Districts, so we have several openings. If you are interested, please let John Buckley (john@arapahoedems.org) know!

Chair: Open
1st Vice Chair: Open
2nd Vice Chair: Ellen Campos
Treasurer: Open
Secretary: Barbara Jones

Hope to see many of you on Tuesday!

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

__._,_.___

Voter information cards sent to Arapahoe County registered voters

2012-01-18T18:50:00.002-07:00

For release: January 18, 2012

Contact:

Nancy Doty
Clerk and Recorder
Direct: 303-795-4285

E-mail: ndoty@co.arapahoe.co.us

Voter information cards sent to Arapahoe County registered voters

Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder�s Office has notified voters of district changes

Littleton, Colo. � Registered voters in Arapahoe County received voter information cards in the mail this week, advising them of changes to their congressional, legislative and commissioner districts and precincts. Voters do not need to take action to return the card or contact the Clerk and Recorder�s Office, unless they need to update their voting preferences, party affiliation or contact information.

�We have received a number of inquiries from interested voters about whether a response is needed after receiving their voter information cards,� said Nancy Doty, Arapahoe County Clerk and Recorder. �I want to assure our voters that no response is necessary unless they�d like to make changes to their voter record.�

Voter information cards are provided for the voter�s knowledge and do not need to be brought to the polls on Election Day. Voters may return the card to make a new request for a mail-in ballot for every election, but citizens who have already done so do not need to take action and will remain on the mailing list.

The majority of registered voters in Arapahoe County will see a change to one or more of their districts or their election precinct. These changes were a result of the reapportionment of Colorado�s senatorial and representative districts that is required by law every ten years following the U.S. Census. County election precincts and commissioner districts were also redrawn as a result of these changes.

However, these changes will not affect where voters can cast a ballot in the General and Coordinated Elections because Arapahoe County is using Vote Centers, which replace precinct polling places.

The 2012 Primary Election on June 26 is anticipated to be conducted by mail-in ballot only. All active voters will automatically receive the ballots through the mail. The 2012 General Election in November will offer three options for voting. All voters who have requested to receive their ballots through the mail will automatically receive their ballots. All remaining voters may vote early or vote at one of approximately 30 Vote Centers on Election Day, Nov. 6, regardless of where they live in the County.

For more information on elections in Arapahoe County or to update your contact information or voting preferences, please call 303-795-4511 or visit www.arapahoevotes.com.

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THIS MONDAY! Martin Luther King Marade - March with Obama Supporter Group!

2012-01-14T10:43:00.002-07:00

MARCH WITH US in the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Marade! For more details and to sign up, click here:

https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gpp3mx

The 2012 campaign is heating up, but President Obama has always emphasized that this is about more than an election. This movement is built on the idea that one voice can change a community—it just requires us to step up. Organizing for America began by remembering the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a national day of service on the President's inauguration. We're honoring the legacy of Dr. King today by organizing service events in our communities to build the better future he envisioned-- together. If you've been waiting to get involved, this is the perfect time to join! We will be marching in the Martin Luther King Day Parade in Denver!

WHAT: 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Marade and Day of Service

WHEN: Monday, January 16, 2012, 9:30am-12:30pm

HOST: Nina Anziska (OFA)

WHERE: City Park, Denver
(meet by the statue in City Park, near the Museum of Nature and Science, at 9:30 to begin the march)

LOOK FOR THE OBAMA 2012 SIGNS! WEAR YOUR OBAMA GEAR AND BRING YOUR OWN SIGNS!

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

2012 Obama Re-Election Kickoff!

2012-01-11T12:46:00.002-07:00

Greetings folks - if you were involved in the 2008 campaign, you know what an exciting, successful, and inspiring experience it was to help elect Barack Hussein Obama

as President of the United States! Believe it or not, here we are four years later, and it's time to do it again! The last 3 years have been, to say the least, challenging.

We are committed to re-electing President Obama to a second term, and western Arapahoe County is once again a key swing area! Please join us as we embark on this adventure; Obama campaign folks will be there to tell us how we can help!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 21ST, 2012

11:00AM - 1:00PM

SOUTHGLENN LIBRARY

You can find a map here: http://tinyurl.com/7r6mvlz

If you are disillusioned and thinking about sitting this one out, please consider the following:

One year ago, Republicans took control of the U.S. House of Representatives. Here's what they've done in the past year:

14 Votes to repeal patient health care protections
10 Anti-Consumer votes
7 Votes to keep unnecessary subsidies for Big Oil companies
4 Votes to restrict women's access to health care
3 Votes to end Medicare
3 Votes to roll back workers' rights
0 Comprehensive jobs bills

In spite of unprecedented obstructionism, unprofessionalism, and Congressional ineffectiveness, President Obama has managed to accomplish a great deal in the areas of women's rights, health care, jobs creation, ending the war in Iraq, and much more. Please see www.barackobama.com for a complete and detailed listing of accomplishments in these and other areas.

There is still much work to do. Won't you join us?

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

Spencer Swalm's January 2012 Town Hall

2012-01-04T09:28:00.002-07:00

Please Join State Rep. Spencer Swalm

Town Hall

State Representative Spencer Swalm

Saturday, January 28, 1:00pm - 3:30pm
Koelbel Library, Room B

5955 S. Holly Street, Centennial

TOPIC: Preview the 2012 legislative session.

As always, your thoughts and questions on any topic are welcome.

HAPPY, HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR TO YOU!

Join Our Mailing List!

State Representative Spencer Swalm

7250 S. Ivy Court

Centennial, Colorado 80112

303-903-2624

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State Representative Spencer Swalm 7250 S. Ivy Court Centennial CO 80112

REMINDER: Meet Joe Miklosi, CD6 Candidate, THIS FRIDAY DECEMBER 9cohd

2011-12-08T12:00:00.002-07:00

Hi Progressive Friends and Neighbors,

Please join us THIS FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9, to meet and get to know Joe Miklosi,
our Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress in Congressional District (CD) 6!
Learn how Joe is willing, ready, and able to take on and defeat Rep. Mike Coffman!
With the newly drawn COMPETITIVE CD6 boundaries, we have a REAL
OPPORTUNITY to win this congressional seat and get a U.S. Congressman
who will actually listen to us and represent OUR values and interests.

Rep. Coffman cannot be defeated without OUR support - GET INVOLVED!

WHEN: Friday, December 9, 5:30-7:30pm

WHERE: The Knolls Clubhouse, 3400 E. Geddes Dr.,(near Arapahoe Rd.
and Colorado Blvd.) in West Centennial

Please join us, ask your questions, share your opinions, and re-connect with
other involved neighbors.

Please forward this invitation to any of your friends and neighbors!

If you have questions, please contact:

Pam Gail: 720-308-1535, DeAndrea_Gail@yahoo.com or

Anita Burbank-Jenkins: 303-798-3481, aebjenk@gmail.com

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

Meet Our U.S. Congress Candidate Joe Miklosi FRIDAY DECEMBER 9

2011-11-28T21:12:00.002-07:00

Hi Progressive Friends and Neighbors,

Here's your chance to meet and get to know Joe Miklosi, our Democratic
candidate for U.S. Congress in Congressional District (CD) 6! Learn how
Joe is willing, ready, and able to take on and defeat Rep. Mike Coffman!
With the newly drawn COMPETITIVE CD6 boundaries, we have a REAL
OPPORTUNITY to win this congressional seat and get a U.S. Congressman
who will actually listen to us and represent OUR values and interests.

Rep. Coffman cannot be defeated without OUR support - GET INVOLVED!

WHEN: Friday, December 9, 5:30-7:30pm

WHERE: The Knolls Clubhouse, 3400 E. Geddes Dr.,(near Arapahoe Rd.
and Colorado Blvd.) in West Centennial

Please join us, ask your questions, share your opinions, and re-connect with
other involved neighbors.

Please forward this invitation to any of your friends and neighbors!

If you have questions, please contact:

Pam Gail: 720-308-1535, DeAndrea_Gail@yahoo.com or

Anita Burbank-Jenkins: 303-798-3481, aebjenk@gmail.com

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

Notes from The Chair

2011-11-22T09:43:00.001-07:00

Greetings all!

Just a reminder that we will NOT have HD37 meetings in November or December; our next regular meeting will be on Tuesday, January 24, 2012.

2012 promises to be a year full of challenges, opportunities, and HARD WORK! Colorado and Arapahoe County will once again be critical for Dems' success in 2012! Due to redrawn district lines which are now competitive, we will have, for the first time (ever?), the opportunity to elect a Democrat to represent Congressional District 6 in the U.S. House of Representatives. I, for one, would NOT be disappointed to see Mike Coffman go away. There will be many opportunities to play a critical role in various races, including Linda Newell's re-election to the Colorado State Senate, amongst others. And OF COURSE, our number one goal in 2012 will be to re-elect Barack Hussein Obama to a second term as President! Choose the race you want to effect, and then GET TO WORK!

Many of you are familiar with an organization called ArapaHope Community Team (ACT), which was formed by a western Arapahoe County Obama neighborhood team to keep activists and volunteers informed and ready to mobilize when needed. Several ACT leaders (including me, as one of the founders) are meeting with the Obama 2012 campaign folks (OFA - Organizing for America) in upcoming weeks, and we will be communicating SOON how YOU can get involved in western Arapahoe County once again. Please watch your email for our 2012 KICKOFF meeting in January. We did it once, and we can do it again! TEAM ARAPAHOPE LIVES! ;)

Wishing each and every one of you a very Happy Thanksgiving and a holiday season of peace, joy, and optimism!

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

P.S. In HD37, rumor has it that our current representative, Spencer Swalm (R) (who could be re-elected for a 4th, and last, 2-year term) is planning to run for the Colorado Senate District 27 seat being vacated by Nancy Spence (R), who is term-limited and can't run again. This would give us the opportunity to run a candidate for HD37 who would NOT be running against an incumbent. At this time we have no candidate who has expressed interest. Please join me in recruiting a candidate for a 2012 HD37 run! If Swalm decides not to run for SD27, we can NOT let him run again in HD37 unopposed! I will keep you informed as events unfold.

Urgent Action Requested on Health Care Reform Vote

2011-11-14T14:10:00.002-07:00

Dear HD37 Dems:

FYI, a request from Consumer's Union to send a message (on a provided template) to our CO insurance commissioner to not water down a key provision of health care reform in a vote that may occur in the next week. See the details and links in the below message.

It's no shock the insurance companies hate the new health reform law that requires them to spend most of your premium on your health care – not on their reams of paperwork, marketing, TV ads and CEO salaries.

What is shocking is a plan that could put the money you deserve back in the insurance companies' pockets!

Next week a group of little-known state insurance commissioners may vote to tell Congress to undermine this new law. Make sure they know you are watching what they do!

Tell your state Insurance Commissioner to vote for consumers, not the insurance companies!

What's at stake is one of the most pro-consumer rules in the much-maligned national health care law. This rule says insurance companies can't spend more than 20 percent of your premium on their administrative costs and profits. It finally holds companies accountable for how they spend your money – and helps hold down our rates as well.

Even better, if insurance companies don't keep their costs down, they have to give YOU a rebate for how much they went over that 20 percent. It's estimated consumers could get at least $2 billion in rebates next year!

Of course the industry hates this rule. And one way around it is to claim the money they pay insurance brokers to sell their policies shouldn't come out of that 20 percent. If the Commissioners vote to let them do that, then we may have to say goodbye to most of those rebates – and hello to spiraling rates!

Tell your Insurance Commissioner to reject this anti-consumer scheme!

We beat back this attempt once with your help. Now we need you to weigh in again with the Insurance Commissioners and tell them consumers are watching what they do – and there will be consequences! Please act, then forward this to others so they can too!

Please Join Us Monday, November 14th

2011-11-13T14:00:00.002-07:00

U.S. Congressional District 6 is now COMPETITIVE, and we have a wonderful candidate who truly represents the middle class running to oust Mike Coffman! Please come and meet Joe Miklosi, see some Dem friends, and raise money for Joe's campaign!

Please Join:

Senator Suzanne Williams, Senator Morgan Carroll, Senator Mary Hodge

Representative Nancy Todd, Representative Su Ryden,

Representative Rhonda Fields,

Commissioner Frank and Pat Weddig, Commissioner Nancy Jackson

For a fundraiser to support:

Joe Miklosi

Candidate for US House of Representatives

Please Click Here to Contribute Now!

Monday, November 14th, 2011

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Dora's Mexican Restaurant

2406 S. Parker Road, 80220

Corner of Parker Road and Havana in Aurora

Please join us for a fun happy hour featuring our next Congressman.

Suggested Contribution: $25, $50, or $100

Any amount is greatly appreciated

Maximum Allowable Contribution: $5,000

RSVP

303-770-6993 or events@joemiklosi.com

www.joemiklosi.com

PO Box 3975 Greenwood Village, CO 80155

Paid for by Joe Miklosi for Congress, Rebecca McClellan, Treasurer

Contributions to Joe Miklosi for Congress are not tax deductible and are limited by federal law to $5000 per election cycle per individual. Contributions must be made from personal funds and cannot be reimbursed by a third party. Contributors must be over the age of 18 and be citizens or legal permanent residents. To comply with federal law, we must use our best efforts to obtain information regarding a contributor's occupation & employer.

Paid for by Joe Miklosi for Congress, Rebecca McClellan, Treasurer

PO Box 3975
Greenwood Village, CO 80115

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Jobs Fair - November 7th

2011-11-05T12:12:00.002-06:00

November 2, 2011 - Coffman to Host Jobs Fair

(LONE TREE, CO) – Congressman Mike Coffman (R-Aurora), is hosting a career opportunity fair in conjunction with the Arapahoe / Douglas Works! Workforce Center and the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. Nearly 40 businesses from the security, finance, customer service, administrative, retail, education, health care, IT, and hospitality sectors will be representing approximately 700 available jobs. Admission to the event is free.

In addition to meeting potential employers, job seekers will have the opportunity to receive a one-on-one resume review and to participate in an interview workshop. Participants interested in participating in the interview workshop must pre-register with Arapahoe / Douglas Works! Workforce Center.

WHAT: Career Opportunity Fair
WHO: Congressman Coffman, Arapahoe / Douglas Works! Workforce Center,
Colorado Department of Labor and nearly 40 businesses representing
approximately 700 jobs
WHEN: November 7, 2011, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. MT
WHERE: Doubletree Hotel, Denver Tech Center
7801 E. Orchard Road
Greenwood Village, CO 80111
(Just one block south of the Orchard light rail station.)

For more information, please call Rep. Coffman's Lone Tree office at (720) 283-9772 or click here for a informational brochure.

Spencer Swalm's November 2011 Town Hall

2011-10-30T13:15:00.002-06:00

Hi folks - as frustrating as these can be (only calling on "his" people, etc.), WE NEED TO KEEP SHOWING UP!

Please Join State Rep. Spencer Swalm

Town Hall

State Representative Spencer Swalm

DATE: Monday, November 14

TIME: 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Southglenn Library

6972 S. Vine Street, Centennial

TOPIC: We will discuss immigration-related issues. As always, your questions and concerns on any topic are welcomed.

Join Our Mailing List!

State Representative Spencer Swalm

7250 S. Ivy Court

Centennial, Colorado 80112

303-903-2624

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State Representative Spencer Swalm | 7250 S. Ivy Court | Centennial | CO | 80112

Meeting Reminder: Tuesday, October 25th

2011-10-21T18:21:00.002-06:00

Hi all, just a quick reminder of our monthly meeting THIS TUESDAY, October 25. Come for (dutch treat) dinner at 6pm, meeting starts at 7pm.

This meeting will be a work session for Proposition 103, as well as for our two Centennial City Council candidates, Vorry Moon and Keith Gardner.

Location: C.B. & Potts, 6575 S Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village, 80111

We will not have regular monthly meetings in November or December due to the holidays; our first meeting of 2012 will be on Tuesday, January 24th.

Laurie Ritchie
HD 37 Chair
303-596-4243

Spencer Swalm's October 2011 Town Hall - WE NEED TO SHOW UP

2011-10-18T17:02:00.001-06:00

Our Republican "friend" Mr. Swalm needs to hear from his constituents whose views and values he does NOT represent - let's not allow him to get away with saying that the folks he hears from agree with him!

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

Please Join State Rep. Spencer Swalm

Town Hall

State Representative Spencer Swalm

Saturday, October 22

9:00am - 11:30am
Koelbel Library, Room B

5955 S. Holly Street, Centennial

TOPIC: Proposition 103 increases Colorado sales tax and income tax.

For information about this important ballot issue, please join us for presentations explaining its impact on Colorado.

In fairness, we'll hear from both sides:

Opponents: Too Taxing for Colorado

Supporters: Colorado Center for Law and Policy

Representative Swalm strongly opposes Proposition 103.

Join Our Mailing List!

State Representative Spencer Swalm

7250 S. Ivy Court

Centennial, Colorado 80112

303-903-2624

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State Representative Spencer Swalm | 7250 S. Ivy Court | Centennial | CO | 80112

Ballots Mail Out TOMORROW! Vote YES on Proposition 103!

2011-10-10T13:51:00.001-06:00

Many of you are already familiar with Proposition 103 - in which case this is a reminder! If you are not, or you are tempted not to complete your ballot because there are no "big issues" on it, please re-consider! School funding is a BIG ISSUE!

IMPORTANT NOTE: Arapahoe County is one of FOUR counties (out of 64) in Colorado that is NOT doing a mail-in ballot-only election (the others are Lake, Jackson, and San Juan counties) - see below for details. Questions, please call me or see the websites below.

For Arapahoe County: if you are not signed up to receive a mail-in ballot, you can early vote or vote on Election Day (November 1) at one of 17 county vote center locations. DO NOT GO TO YOUR PREVIOUS NEIGHBORHOOD POLLING LOCATION TO VOTE - Arapahoe County has gone to VOTE CENTERS ONLY. Please go to http://www.arapahoevotes.com/2011-coordinated-election to find information on early voting, vote center locations, and mail-in ballot drop off locations.

P.S. PLEASE forward this to 10-20 of your friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc. to remind them to vote! Funding our schools is a NON-PARTISAN measure! The coalition supporting Proposition 103 is a grassroots group of parents, community leaders, grandparents, teachers, civic groups and state leaders who believe now is the time to strengthen our schools and communities.

GET BEHIND COLORADO SCHOOLS!

VOTE YES ON PROPOSITION 103!

Proposition 103 is the ONLY state-wide initiative on the ballot this November, and it affects all of Colorado's schools, colleges and universities. In short, a YES vote will restore our taxes to 1999 levels for 5 years and provide much-needed funds to mitigate (and we emphasize mitigate) future cuts to K-12 schools and Colorado's colleges and universities. While this is not a long-term solution to our funding problem, it's the ONLY solution we have to stop the cuts.

Additional information on Proposition 103 can be found on the Great Education Colorado website at www.greateducation.org and on Proposition 103's campaign website www.voteyeson103.com. FAQs can be found HERE.

Cuts and reductions have affected all Colorado K-12 schools. Here's information for the Cherry Creek School District . If you're not in CCSD, go to the campaign website to see how your school district has been affected:

· CCSD funding under the School Finance Act was reduced in 2008-09 by $1.7 million, in 2009-10 by $8.1 million, in 2010-11 by $23.7 million, and for 2011-12 by $47.5 million through a statewide reduction of per pupil funding caused by State revenue shortfalls. This is a cumulative total of $81 million over 4 years.

· Last year for CCSD, because we had made prior cuts that would continue, we were faced with about a $25 million dollar shortfall between revenues and expenditures. Our $25 million dollar solution was a combination of more cuts ($14M) and utilization of reserves ($11).

Colorado's colleges and universities have been affected significantly causing an increase in higher ed tuition of 146% betwe en 2006 and 2010!

You can take action immediately:

1. Sign-Up - Great Ed's website is HERE and you can sign up to get continuous information on education funding.

2. Facebook - Great Education Arapahoe County has a Great Ed Chapter. Go onto our Facebook page now and LIKE us.

3. E-Mail - Forward this e-mail to everyone in your personal data base. Remember that we cannot forward e-mails to any school district e-mails! Please do NOT use PTO Manager to send out any information on Prop 103 either. Only use your personal e-mail data base.

4. Letter Writing - Have a letter-writing party in your home. Great Ed has packets of form letters that we can provide you or you can print out your own. Set a date and time, e-mail your friends, ask them to bring stamps with them, have them over to sign the letters and personalize them a bit, then send them out.

5. Presentations – We have a limited amount of speakers, so we can't promise we can fill every request, but if you'd like a speaker to make a 5-10 minute presentation at your PTO/PTCO/PTA, business group, or your place of worship, provide the date and time and we'll respond quickly.

6. Contact – E-mail Margie Adams for more information, to order letter writing packets or speaking engagements at margieadams@comcast.net

Margie Adams

Chair, Great Education Colorado Board of Directors

margieadams@comcast.net

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

hd37@arapahoedems.org

Proposition 103 Event: BALLOTS ARRIVE NEXT WEEK!

2011-10-07T17:07:00.002-06:00

Letter-Writing Party for Prop 103!

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 6:30 - 8:30
8683 E. Kettle Ave., Centennial: Laura Hoeppner's house

Ballots will be delivered sometime next week so we need to get the word out to our friends and neighbors that they need to Vote Yes on Prop 103!

RSVP to Laura at LauraHoeppner@comcast.net so I know how much food and beverage to prepare!

You can take action at the party by:

writing letters (it's easy - there is a great program online that makes it simple!)
making calls (the same online tool will give you phone numbers to call, and a script)
picking up yard signs

"What can I bring?" you ask?

Your laptop (we can hook you up to wifi and you can look up phone numbers to call, etc.)
Your cell phone if you want to make calls.
Postage stamps (to mail the letters). (Another option would be to take a walk the next day to drop off letters on doorsteps.)
A friend.
A great attitude and readiness to stop the cuts in education funding!

Or just come and learn more about Prop 103!

GET BEHIND COLORADO SCHOOLS! SUPPORT PROPOSITION 103!

Proposition 103 is the ONLY state-wide initiative on the ballot this November, and it affects all of Colorado's schools, colleges and universities. In short, a YES vote will restore our taxes to 1999 levels for 5 years and provide much-needed funds to mitigate (and we emphasize mitigate) future cuts to K-12 schools and Colorado's colleges and universities. While this is not a long-term solution to our funding problem, it's the ONLY solution we have to stop the cuts.

Additional information on Proposition 103 can be found on the Great Education Colorado website at www.greateducation.org and on Proposition 103's campaign website www.voteyeson103.com. FAQs can be found HERE.

Cuts and reductions have affected all Colorado K-12 schools. Here's information for the Cherry Creek School District . If you're not in CCSD, go to the campaign website to see how your school district has been affected:

Colorado's colleges and universities have been affected significantly causing an increase in higher ed tuition of 146% betwe en 2006 and 2010!

You can take action immediately:

1. Sign-Up - Great Ed's website is HERE and you can sign up to get continuous information on education funding.

2. Facebook - Great Education Arapahoe County has a Great Ed Chapter. Go onto our Facebook page now and LIKE us.

3. E-Mail - Forward this e-mail to everyone in your personal data base. Remember that we cannot forward e-mails to any school district e-mails! Please do NOT use PTO Manager to send out any information on Prop 103 either. Only use your personal e-mail data base.

4. Letter Writing - Have a letter-writing party in your home. Great Ed has packets of form letters that we can provide you or you can print out your own. Set a date and time, e-mail your friends, ask them to bring stamps with them, have them over to sign the letters and personalize them a bit, then send them out.

5. Presentations – We have a limited amount of speakers, so we can't promise we can fill every request, but if you'd like a speaker to make a 5-10 minute presentation at your PTO/PTCO/PTA, business group, or your place of worship, provide the date and time and we'll respond quickly.

6. Contact – E-mail Margie Adams for more information, to order letter writing packets or speaking engagements at margieadams@comcast.net

Margie Adams

Chair, Great Education Colorado Board of Directors

margieadams@comcast.net

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

hd37@arapahoedems.org

Proposition 103 Phone Bank Event!

2011-10-03T12:21:00.002-06:00

PROPOSITION 103 PHONE BANK EVENT:

Hello Friends,

By now, you have probably heard about Colorado Proposition 103, which will help to raise an anticipated $532 million per year in order to restore the devastating cuts that have been inflicted on our schools for the last few years. This measure will be on the ballot this November 1st, so it is critical that we work hard for the next four weeks and pass it!

What you can do to help?

On Saturday, October 8th, we are hosting a phone bank for supporters of Proposition 103 to come together and make phone calls to their friends and neighbors, urging them to vote Yes on 103.

Phone Bank Party to Support Prop 103

When: Saturday, October 8th

11am-1pm , 1pm-3pm , 3pm-5pm , 5pm-7pm

Where: 16686 E Dorado Ave

Centennial, Colorado 80015

Please note the RSVP instructions at the end of this email

Why should you support 103?

Without ballot action, it is anticipated that P-12 will face a fourth year of deep cuts in the 2012-13 school year and higher education will continue to experience significantly diminished state funding, resulting in higher tuition, reduced financial aid, and possibly even closures of colleges and departments.
While this initiative will not reverse the cuts schools and colleges have endured over the past four years, it will help to prevent or minimize future cuts.
This initiative provides the ONLY opportunity available to stop deep cuts in the 2012-13 school year.
The proposal simply restores tax rates to 1999 levels.
The proposal's five-year limit is intended to ensure that the initiative cannot be viewed as a permanent solution to public education funding. This initiative is like a tourniquet that will prevent more irreparable cuts while providing a few years to build consensus on long-term fiscal reform.

Attend the Phone Bank

Pick one or more shift times that you can attend. We have four time slots available.
RSVP to rsvp@batemanforcolorado.com noting what time(s) you can be there
If you are able, please bring a laptop computer with you. This allows us to save paper by loading the call-sheets onto your screen instead of printing them. We will have plenty of power strips available.
Refreshments will be provided, but feel free to bring a drink or snack to share

Spread the Word!

Please forward this email onto all of your friends and colleagues. We need all the help we can get.

Can't Make It?

Great Education Colorado - a statewide advocacy organization that I support - has set the Goal of making 21,000 phone calls before October 14th. Visit their website to learn how you can help meet that goal.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Sincerely,

Andrew Bateman

Candidate for State House

Colorado District 41

www.BatemanForColorado.com

Prop 103 Needs Our Support!

2011-09-30T21:49:00.002-06:00

GET BEHIND COLORADO SCHOOLS! SUPPORT PROPOSITION 103!

Proposition 103 is the ONLY state-wide initiative on the ballot this November, and it affects all of Colorado's schools, colleges and universities. In short, a YES vote will restore our taxes to 1999 levels for 5 years and provide much-needed funds to mitigate (and we emphasize mitigate) future cuts to K-12 schools and Colorado's colleges and universities. While this is not a long-term solution to our funding problem, it's the ONLY solution we have to stop the cuts.

Colorado's colleges and universities have been affected significantly causing an increase in higher ed tuition of 146% betwe en 2006 and 2010!

You can take action immediately:

1. Sign-Up - Great Ed's website is HERE and you can sign up to get continuous information on education funding.

2. Facebook - Great Education Arapahoe County has a Great Ed Chapter. Go onto our Facebook page now and LIKE us.

6. Contact – E-mail Margie Adams for more information, to order letter writing packets or speaking engagements at margieadams@comcast.net

Margie Adams

Chair, Great Education Colorado Board of Directors

margieadams@comcast.net

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

hd37@arapahoedems.org

URGENT Notice: 9/28 House Party for Joe Miklosi

2011-09-27T14:52:00.000-06:00

Please Join:

Margie Adams, Hon. Rebecca & Jim McClellan, Barb McDaniel, Dani Newsom, Mary Ellen Wolf, and WomenInformed.net

For a fundraiser to support:

Joe Miklosi
Candidate for US House of Representatives

Wednesday, September 28, 2011
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

At the home of
Rebecca & Jim McClellan
8356 E. Otero Place
Centennial, CO 80112

Suggested Contribution: $25
Host Committee: $100
Maximum Allowable Contribution: $5,000

Children welcome

RSVP : 720-628-8530 or events@joemiklosi.com

Contributions to Joe Miklosi for Congress are not tax deductible and are limited by federal law to $5000 per election cycle per individual. Contributions must be made from personal funds and cannot be reimbursed by a third party. Contributors must be over the age of 18 and be citizens or legal permanent residents. To comply with federal law, we must use our best efforts to obtain information egarding a contributor’s occupation & employer.

www.joemiklosi.com
PO Box 3975
Greenwood Village, CO 80155

Paid for by Joe Miklosi for Congress, Rebecca McClellan, Treasurer

REMINDER: Tuesday Meeting

2011-09-26T08:47:00.001-06:00

Just a quick reminder of our monthly HD37 meeting TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27th.

Dinner (dutch treat) at 6:00pm, meeting starts at 7:00pm.
Location: C.B. & Potts, 6575 S Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village, 80111

NOTE: Our last meeting for 2011 will be on October 25th. We will not have HD37 meetings in November or December.

This meeting will be a work session for our two Centennial City Council candidates, Vorry Moon and Keith Gardner.

As we get into 2012 and closer to the Presidential election, we will have a combination of speaker meetings and work session meetings.

Laurie Ritchie
HD 37 Chair
303-596-4243

Arapahoe County Dems Century Club Sat.

2011-09-21T12:03:00.002-06:00

Century Club Members, hope you can come and please bring a guest! RSVP appreciated. Barb McDaniel

Please Join Us!

Associate Professor Melissa Hart of the University of Colorado Law School will be discussing her recent testimony before the U.S. Senate Judiciary committee and how the Supreme Court's Recent Rulings Will Affect Corporate Behavior.

………

Saturday, September 24, 2011

5:00-7:00 PM

Willow Creek Clubhouse located at 8500 E. Mineral Drive, Centennial, CO 80112.

From I-25, take Dry Creek west to Yosemite. Go South onto Yosemite, and take your second right into the Willow Creek subdivision onto Mineral Drive. The club house will be on your left, next to the tennis courts and pool. There's a small parking lot, and on street parking. We ask that guests not park in the cul de sac across from the club house, but street parking along Mineral is plentiful.

Free for Arapahoe County 2011 Century Club (includes 10s for Dems) Members

And one guest per member

You may join the club by writing a $100.00 check to Arapahoe Dems, or pay online at www.arapahoedems.org or by signing up for at least $10.00/month automatic deductions from your bank or credit card.

Please RSVP to Barb McDaniel barbmcdanl@aol.com or cell (303) 902-9846

ATT: Colorado voters in Congressional District 6!

2011-09-13T14:31:00.002-06:00

(Repost due to format issues in original post)

IF YOU ARE ON FACEBOOK, PLEASE POST THIS ON YOUR WALL!

Please see the below link for details on theAmerican Jobs Act that President Obama has presented to Congress, and contact CD6 U.S. Congressman (hopefully not for long) Mike Coffman to let him know how you want him to vote on this bill.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/09/09/american-jobs-act-read-all-details

Please be advised that direct wall posts (even polite, respectful, thoughtful ones) on his FB page that express a viewpoint opposed to his are routinely deleted; it is best to post a comment to an existing wall post. If you experience a deletion of your post, e-mail Mike with your concern via the e-mail link below.

Contact information:

Office phone number: 202-225-7882

Email form: http://forms.house.gov/coffman/webforms/issue_subscribe.htm

Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/repmikecoffman

Twitter: http://twitter.com/repmikecoffman

Laurie Ritchie HD37 Chair 303-596-4243

Century Club Presents Congressman Ed Perlmutter Sept. 10th @ 3pm in Centennial

2011-09-01T08:57:00.001-06:00

Not a Century Club member yet? It's a great way to support your county party and attend some great events!

It's only $10/month or $100/year. Please visit www.arapahoedems.org to join now!

ARAPAHOE COUNTY DEMS CENTURY CLUB PRESENTS

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE ED PERLMUTTER

The Arapahoe County Democrats Century Club invites you to hear U.S Representative Ed Perlmutter discuss legislative accomplishments of the President & Congressional Democrats in 2011 and a path to Democratic success in 2012.

In 1994, Ed was elected to the Colorado State Senate as the first Democrat in his district to hold the seat in 30 years. He served two terms and garnered the reputation as a bipartisan bridge-builder and a champion of renewable energy and smart growth policies. Through his leadership role in the state senate, Ed is credited as being one of the principal architects of the "Blueprint" – a strategy which ended Republican dominance of Colorado politics.

In 2006, Ed was first elected to represent the 7th Congressional District in Congress and is serving in his third term. In the 112th Congress, Ed is proud to be assigned to the exclusive Financial Services Committee. This event is free for Century Club members.

DATE: SEPT. 10, 2011

TIME: 3:00 PM

PLACE: 7797 S. FOREST CT. CENTENNIAL 80122

Hold Coffman Accountable - Attendees needed for Mike Coffman's Townhall Saturday Aug. 27, 11am-12pm Arapahoe Sheriff's Office

2011-08-26T08:51:00.002-06:00

A Message from Todd Mata, Arapahoe County Dems Chair.

PLEASE EMAIL TODD AT todd@arapahoedems.org IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND; WE ARE ANTICIPATING A LAST MINUTE CHANGE OF TIME OR VENUE, AS IS TYPICAL OF COFFMAN, AND WANT TO BE ABLE TO NOTIFY EVERYONE IF THIS OCCURS:

Guys,

Rep. Coffman is having a townhall on August 27th at the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office here in Centennial. The tea party is expected to have a strong presence, given its proximity to the metro area. It would be a darn shame & embarrassment for the Arapahoe Dems if we couldn't get our Democrats and progressives to come out.

As we all know, his voting record for the folks of Arapahoe County and Colorado is abysmal. For that reason, I am asking each of you to go to this townhall and ask him in person when he is going to stop pandering to the small teaparty minority in CD-6 and special interests and actually start representing Coloradans. Here are some specific questions to ask him:

Instead of working with the President and Democrats in Congress to propose meaningful legislation that will help put Coloradans back to work, why is he proposing legislation that will disenfranchise millions of American citizens by requiring English-only ballots.

Ask him why he refuses to increase taxes on the wealthiest 1% in the US, but is more than happy to take away Medicare and Medicaid from our senior citizens.

Ask him why he refuses to support H.R. 1084, a bill which would require the contents of fracking fluids to be publicly disclosed as needed to protect the public health, just as with other toxic discharges. This is especially important to the folks of Arapahoe County as fracking is set to commence in Aurora.

Those and other questions need to be answered so that the people of Arapahoe County can see whose interests Coffman is really representing. If you long for the day when we vote Coffman out of office, this is your time to show Arapahoe County that we can do better than him.

Please send me, Pam Gail, John Buckley, Matt Salek and Mary Prtichard an e-mail response if you will be attending this townhall. In a show of solidarity for all Coloradans, I'm asking all attendees to wear a blue shirt and make sure you sign in at the townhall (Townhall address below).

Thanks,

Todd

Coffman Townhall Location:

August 27, from 11am to 1pm – Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office

Sheriff's Office

Arapahoe County Government

13101 Broncos Parkway

Centennial, CO 80112

August 23 Meeting: SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER - Lorez Meinhold, Colorado Director of Health Care Reform

2011-08-19T10:46:00.002-06:00

Let's talk about something besides the economy - you do not want to miss this speaker!

Lorez Meinhold

Colorado Director of Health Care Reform Implementation

How is Colorado meeting the challenges and maximizing the opportunities of implementing health care reform?

How is the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Health Care Reform) being implemented in Colorado -

what has been accomplished already, what are the current priorities, and how will all of this benefit Colorado and its residents?

Come and find out - and bring your questions for Ms. Meinhold.

HD37 August Meeting

Tuesday, August 23, 7:00pm

Come for (dutch treat) dinner at 6pm, meeting starts at 7pm.

Location: C.B. & Potts, 6575 S Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village, 80111

Also, please mark your calendar for these future HD37 meeting dates:

September 27
October 25

November & December dates TBD

Other dates of interest:

August 26th: Dancing with the Stars at the Stampede, 5-7pm
August 28th: 1st Annual HD37 Dems Picnic, DeKoevend Park, 5:30-7:30pm
September 10th: Century Club with U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter
September 24th: Century Club with Melissa Hart (C.U. Regent candidate) - The Supreme Court and Corporate Behavior
November 2011 (specific date TBD): 1st Annual HD37 Chili Cookoff

See you on Tuesday!

Laurie Ritchie
HD 37 Chair
303-596-4243

Please Buy Your Tickets Now to the Pat Schroeder Dinner August 20

2011-08-14T09:14:00.002-06:00

HD37 Dems:

As all of you know by now, the Arapahoe Democrats' 5th Annual Patricia Schroeder Dinner is Saturday, August 20. I'd like to invite you to join us for a night of good food and good company as we celebrate the successes of 2010 and look to 2012!

Please don't wait...get your tickets today! Go to our website at www.arapahoedems.org and order your tickets through ACT BLUE!

· Keynote speaker: US Sen. Michael Bennet

· Additional guest speaker: Carol Tombari, noted author and Manager of Stakeholder Relations at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory

· 5:30pm: Cash bar reception and silent auction (note time change from earlier info)

· 6:45pm: Dinner

· Sheraton Denver Tech Center, 7007 S Clinton St, Greenwood Village (south on Clinton from Arapahoe & I-25).

Tickets are still $85, $1,000 for a table.

Look forward to seeing all of you there.

Todd E. Mata, Chair

Arapahoe County Democratic Party

303-993-9933

__._,_.___

Progressives Rising! This Friday!

2011-08-08T21:51:00.002-06:00

Hi Progressives,

Am I the only one who feels that Republicans will do ANYTHING to defeat President Obama and take back the White House in 2012 - even if it means driving our country right off a cliff? I didn't think so. Their clearly stated NUMBER ONE GOAL to make Barack Obama a one-term president is disgusting, repulsive, and self-serving - they could instead use their energy to solve the real problems our country is facing. How are they getting away with this? Today's Republicans are masters at spin, blame-shifting, blackmail, and outright lying to acheive their goals of serving the top 2% of our country's wealthy, while sending the other 98% back to scrambling for their part of the American Dream. My personal opinion is that Ronald Reagen and many other Republicans would not agree with these tactics and would consider them beneath their dignity. Those were the days.

Many of us are not happy with much of what has occurred in the last 2 1/2 years; we have two choices:

1) We can complain

2) We can complain, and then we can DO something about it!

Choose Door Number 2!

WE CANNOT TAKE THIS LYING DOWN! We have the power to work together to maintain the strides we've made and fulfill the ideals we all worked SO hard towards in 2008. You can bet your bottom dollar that the Republicans will focus solely on undoing what Obama has achieved (which is tremendous, in light of the toxic atmosphere in which he has worked SO hard) rather than with moving our country forward. Our efforts and BOOTS ON THE GROUND right here in Arapahoe County are what led us to victory in 2008, and we will need even more determination and hard work to re-elect Barack Hussein Obama to his second term in office. Southern Arapahoe County is once again being called "Ground Zero" for the 2012 elections.

Some very dedicated Democrats are holding a neighborhood meeting on Friday, August 12 at the Knolls Clubhouse, 3368 E. Geddes Dr, Centennial, CO 80122. The Knolls is located between Arapahoe Rd. and Dry Creek, West of Colorado Blvd.

We are all busy; we can all do SOMETHING. There will be many jobs, small, medium, and large, for volunteers to do over the next year and a half. Our primary need is for canvassers, but there will be phone banks, placards to make, babysitters, events to attend. A rapid response team is planned, so that we can organize events or participate in Republican events very rapidly. There is plenty for everyone to do.

Please invite some like-minded neighbors for this event, and get together to share food, drink, and to discuss the challenges we face in the upcoming campaigns.

The event will start at 6:00PM. Bring a friend, your suggestions, and a dish to share. Soft drinks will be provided, as will dinnerware. Feel free to bring your favorite beverage!

Please RSVP to Anita so we have an idea of how many to plan for: aebjenk@gmail.com

Are you FIRED UP and READY TO GO?? Let's make it happen!

Event Hostesses:
Anita Burbank-Jenkins and Pamela Gail

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

URGENT Announcement - Legislative Reapportionment Hearing Tomorrow - Please Come Out and Support Democracy!

2011-08-07T18:54:00.002-06:00

Hello Arapahoe Dems,

Tomorrow evening (Monday, August 8) is a very important public hearing for Aurora and is being held by the Colorado Reapportionment Commission at Community College of Aurora. The Reapportionment Commission will be hearing testimony from Arapahoe County citizens as to our great concerns regarding the preliminary approved HD legislative maps. The HD maps, as preliminarily approved, do great injustice by ignoring the important social, economic and educational ties existing in many long-standing communities. These maps, which are identical to those proposed by the Republican party, are hyper-partisan and exist for the primary purpose of perpetuating Republican control in the State House.

We also want to voice our support for the preliminarily approved Senate legislative maps. Unlike the HD maps, the Senate maps preliminarily-approved maintain important communities of interest and provide for much more competitive races.

We are asking you to come out Monday August 8 and voice your concern about this injustice being done to the citizens of Arapahoe County. Here is the event information:

August 8, 2011 6pm (please arrive early) - Community College of Aurora, Student Center Rotunda, 16000 East CenterTech Parkway, Aurora, CO 80011

The second public hearing will be held in Littleton next Tuesday for the purpose of gathering testimony for issues related to the western part of the county. Here is the information for that hearing:

August 16, 2011 6pm - Arapahoe Community College, Half Moon (M1800), 5900 South Santa Fe Drive, Littleton, CO 80120

Please try and attend both hearings.

Thanks,

Todd Mata

Chair, Arapahoe County Democratic Party

CORRECTION: Pat Schroeder Dinner is AUGUST 20th

2011-08-04T23:07:00.004-06:00

TWO THINGS:

First, our apologies for recent spam sent to this list - our (volunteer) list administrator, the incomparable David Golias (thanks David!) has adjusted some additional settings/safeguards to prevent this from happening in the future. Please rest assured that none of your personal contact information has been accessed or compromised.

Second, guess I'm trying to juggle too many things this week - the Pat Schroeder Dinner is Saturday, AUGUST 20th - I got it right in the text of the email but wrong in the subject line. Sigh.

PLEASE contact me ASAP to donate ANY AMOUNT (I have a few commitments from $5 to $50 so far to purchase gift cards) or a gift card for the HD37 silent auction basket. This is a huge fundraiser for your Arapahoe County Democratic Party and it helps to pay (amongst other things) expenses to keep the office open and operating.

Below are the details again:

Hi all, the Arapahoe County Democratic Party is pleased to present the 5th Annual Patricia Schroeder Dinner on Saturday, August 20, 2011.

We will be celebrating the successes we had in 2010 and looking ahead to the elections and the beginning of the 2012 campaign cycle.

Our award ceremony will recognize the outstanding volunteers and activists who helped us become the majority party in Arapahoe County.

Date: Saturday August 20, 2011
Place: Sheraton Hotel Denver Tech Center, 7007 S Clinton St, Greenwood Village (south on Clinton from Arapahoe & I-25)
Keynote Speaker: US Sen. Michael Bennet
Time: 5:30pm: Cash Bar Reception and Silent Auction; 6:45pm: Dinner

Individual tickets $85 ($95 after August 5)
Table of 10 sponsorships $1000 ($1100 after August 5)

This is a key fundraiser for the Arapahoe Dems - please consider donating items for the silent auction and nominating someone for the awards.

In addition, each house district will be putting together a basket for the Silent Auction - HD37 will be doing a GIFT CARD BASKET - please contact Laurie ASAP to donate a card in any amount, or to donate cash in any amount to purchase gift cards for the basket.

More info and to purchase tickets: http://www.arapahoedems.org/your-party/87-2011-pat-schroeder-dinner

See you there!

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

Annual Pat Schroeder Dinner - SEPTEMBER 20th - HD37 Gift Card Basket

2011-08-02T17:43:00.001-06:00

Hi all, the Arapahoe County Democratic Party is pleased to present the 5th Annual Patricia Schroeder Dinner on Saturday, August 20, 2011.

We will be celebrating the great successes we had in 2010 and looking ahead to the elections and the beginning of the 2012 campaign cycle. Our award ceremony will recognize the outstanding volunteers and activists who helped us become the majority party in Arapahoe County.

Date: Saturday August 20, 2011
Place: Sheraton Hotel Denver Tech Center, 7007 S Clinton St, Greenwood Village (south on Clinton from Arapahoe & I-25)
Keynote Speaker: US Sen. Michael Bennet
Time: 5:30pm: Cash Bar Reception and Silent Auction; 6:45pm: Dinner

Individual tickets $85 ($95 after August 5)
Table of 10 sponsorships $1000 ($1100 after August 5)

This is a key fundraiser for the Arapahoe Dems - please consider donating items for the silent auction and nominating someone for the awards.

In addition, each house district will be putting together a basket for the Silent Auction - HD37 will be doing a GIFT CARD BASKET - please contact Laurie ASAP to donate a card in any amount, or to donate cash to purchase gift cards for the basket.

More info and to purchase tickets: http://www.arapahoedems.org/your-party/87-2011-pat-schroeder-dinner

See you there!

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

LOCATION CHANGE for Joe Miklosi Campaign Kickoff - THURSDAY JULY 28 5:30-8:30pm

2011-07-27T22:08:00.000-06:00

Due to the incredible response for this event, Joe Miklosi's CD6 Congressional Campaign Kickoff has been moved to the bigger CB & Potts at 6575 Greenwood Plaza Blvd (just off Arapahoe & 1-25).

Please see full information below - see you there!

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

-----Original Message-----
From: Laurie Ritchie <alritchie@aol.com>
To: cohd37dems.laurie@blogger.com
Cc: dstric2@hotmail.com
Sent: Sun, Jul 24, 2011 8:31 pm
Subject: A Message from Joe Miklosi, Newly Announced Democratic Candidate for CD6!

Dear Friend:

When I was young, I was taught that if you work hard and play by the rules, your unique version of the American Dream can come true.

Sadly, too many Coloradoans' dreams are being pushed out-of-reach by rising prices: skyrocketing college tuition, increasing health care costs and even sticker shock at the gas pump, just to name a few. The harsh reality is that families are struggling to address significant debt amid stagnate wages. Making matters worse, right now, House Republicans are voting to dismantle Medicare.

I am running for Congress in Colorado's soon-to-be-formed, competitive, 6th Congressional District because I want to restore job growth and economic growth so every Coloradoan can achieve their unique version of the American Dream. As I have in the Colorado State House of Representatives, I will continue to focus on creating more educational and economic opportunities, such as much needed help to small business owners so they can access loans, create jobs and grow.

As your Congressman, I will fight to make Colorado the Renewable Energy Capital of our Country. We must win our freedom from foreign oil to create a secure future for the United States of America. I will also honor our commitment to Social Security and Medicare, insist on fair trade with China and focus on world-class schools that emphasize critical thinking skills, not standardized testing. We must prepare our students to compete and win in a global economy.

Help me stop Mike Coffman's radical agenda. Consider donating $200 today at www.JoeMiklosi.com and attend my Campaign Kick-Off on July 28th from 5:30pm - 7:30pm at the CB Potts in Greenwood Village, near I-25 & Arapahoe Road.

I will champion efforts to:

Make sure that creating good paying, private sector jobs for all Coloradans is Congress's #1 priority.
Increase security, especially by protecting Medicare and Social Security.
Balance the budget responsibly through shared sacrifice, closing excessive corporate loopholes and by encouraging corporations to hire more American workers, instead of shipping jobs overseas.
Promote freedom from foreign oil and work towards energy independence.

I bring a well-rounded professional background to the race. It includes six years of technology, business development experience, in which I helped start an Internet software company, nearly four years of civic experience working for Project C.U.R.E., the most amazing organization in the world that provides donated medical supplies and equipment to hospitals in over 120 developing nations, and 12 years of public policy and political experience, including three years of Colorado legislative experience working across party lines to get things done in the Colorado House of Representatives.

But most of all, I bring a fighting, blue-collar spirit that I was taught from a young age that your dream – the American Dream – is alive and well if only we have leaders who believe in it as much as you do. With your support, we will get there together because the American Dream is about us all.

Please consider donating $200 today at www.JoeMiklosi.com

My opponent, Congressman Mike Coffman, has a very different vision. Self described, Tea Party member recklessly voted not once, but twice, for two radical bills that would have destroyed Medicare as we know it. Recently, the Bloomberg Report and the Census Bureau reported that Colorado's 6th congressional district would have been the 10th most negatively impacted congressional district in the entire country and caused 74,000 residents to lose Medicare and pay an additional $6,400 a year. This is not representing the district.

In Congress, Coffman has continued his quest for a radical social agenda including a recent vote to empower federal agents of the IRS to intimidate women who choose to have an abortion even in the most serious life threatening situations.

These are just a couple of his out-of-touch votes. These are not values I share nor do most Coloradoans.

Please join my team today at www.JoeMiklosi.com and sign up to be a volunteer, to host a house party, to learn more or to make a contribution.

I look forward to speaking with you and every voter in the soon-to-be-formed, competitive 6th Congressional District between now and November 6, 2012.

Never forget – together we can make a difference!

Sincerely,

Joe Miklosi
Colorado State Representative
Democratic Candidate for Congress – Soon-to-be-formed 6th Congressional District
Cell: 720-628-8530
Joe@JoeMiklosi.com

P.S.: We can win this race with your early support. Please go to www.JoeMiklosi.com to make a contribution of up to $5,000 today.

A Message from Joe Miklosi, Newly Announced Democratic Candidate for CD6!

2011-07-24T20:31:00.001-06:00

Dear Friend:

When I was young, I was taught that if you work hard and play by the rules, your unique version of the American Dream can come true.

Sadly, too many Coloradoans' dreams are being pushed out-of-reach by rising prices: skyrocketing college tuition, increasing health care costs and even sticker shock at the gas pump, just to name a few. The harsh reality is that families are struggling to address significant debt amid stagnate wages. Making matters worse, right now, House Republicans are voting to dismantle Medicare.

I am running for Congress in Colorado's soon-to-be-formed, competitive, 6th Congressional District because I want to restore job growth and economic growth so every Coloradoan can achieve their unique version of the American Dream. As I have in the Colorado State House of Representatives, I will continue to focus on creating more educational and economic opportunities, such as much needed help to small business owners so they can access loans, create jobs and grow.

As your Congressman, I will fight to make Colorado the Renewable Energy Capital of our Country. We must win our freedom from foreign oil to create a secure future for the United States of America. I will also honor our commitment to Social Security and Medicare, insist on fair trade with China and focus on world-class schools that emphasize critical thinking skills, not standardized testing. We must prepare our students to compete and win in a global economy.

Help me stop Mike Coffman's radical agenda. Consider donating $200 today at www.JoeMiklosi.com and attend my Campaign Kick-Off on July 28th from 5:30pm - 7:30pm at the CB Potts in Highlands Ranch, Colorado near C-470 and Broadway.

I will champion efforts to:

Make sure that creating good paying, private sector jobs for all Coloradans is Congress's #1 priority.
Increase security, especially by protecting Medicare and Social Security.
Balance the budget responsibly through shared sacrifice, closing excessive corporate loopholes and by encouraging corporations to hire more American workers, instead of shipping jobs overseas.
Promote freedom from foreign oil and work towards energy independence.

REMINDER: July Meeting this TUESDAY July 26

2011-07-24T20:30:00.001-06:00

Hi all, just a quick reminder of our monthly meeting THIS TUESDAY, July 26. Come for (dutch treat) dinner at 6pm, meeting starts at 7pm. We will be talking about various topics of interest to HD 37 Democrats.

Location: C.B. & Potts, 6575 S Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village, 80111

We will hopefully be back in "our" room, the Mt. Evans Room, straight back as you come into the restaurant.

Also, please mark your calendar for these future HD37 meeting dates:

August 23 - you do NOT want to miss this one, we will hear from Lorez Meinhold, Colorado's Director of Health Reform Implementation

September 27
October 25

Other dates of interest:

July 28th: Joe Miklosi for Congress Kickoff (details to follow)
August 20th: Annual Pat Schroeder dinner
August 28th: 1st Annual HD37 Leadership Picnic, DeKoevend Park
November 2011 (specific date TBD): 1st Annual HD37 Chili Cookoff

See you on Tuesday!

Laurie Ritchie
HD 37 Chair
303-596-4243

REMINDER: Campaign/Candidate Training TONIGHT!

2011-07-13T08:28:00.000-06:00

Hello Everyone,

To help our Democrats who are seeking election to a municipal office this fall, a number of Arapahoe's seasoned Legislative leaders and campaign veterans have graciously offered to share their experience and time to offer practical training tips for success. The workshop topics we will discuss are listed below.

The format for this training is informal. There may be a short talk on some best practices. We will then open up each workshop for Q&A and practice implementation. So, if you're interested in running for office or becoming a campaign manager, this will be a good learning opportunity for you.

This is a TWO PART training; topics will include:

July 13^th 6:30pm-8:30pm

1. Effective Messaging

2. Preparing the Elevator Speech - You Only Get One Chance to Make a First Impression

3. Campaign Finance

July 20^th 6:30pm-8:30pm

1. Fundraising Techniques & Strategies

2. Developing a Communication Plan - Earned Media, Yard Signs, Mailings, Phonebanking

3. Volunteer Recruitment & Coordinating through VAN

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

Let Them Herd Cats!

2011-07-09T19:06:00.001-06:00

Dear HD37 Dems:

This is why we need to work NOW to build our grassroots support in advance of the 2012 elections! This is a quote from last week's NEWSWEEK magazine, in which Arapahoe County is once again being identified as a KEY swing county in next year's presidential election.

"In Arapahoe County, outside Denver, Democrats only recently came to outnumber Republicans in voter enrollment. But the trend lines are clear: whereas Bush beat Kerry 51–47 in 2004, Obama romped McCain by 56–43 in 2008, when turnout was about 15 percent higher than four years earlier.

In the last decade, the Latino population of Arapahoe County has more than doubled, to 105,249. If the Democratic Party can register and mobilize this key Obama constituency—Latinos gave him 67 percent of their votes nationally last time—the president would likely carry Arapahoe by a far larger margin than he did in '08. But Olivia Mendoza, executive director of the nonpartisan Colorado Latino Forum, says the community's temperature about Obama is awfully lukewarm. "This is very anecdotal," Mendoza ventures, "but overall, in my experience? General dissatisfaction."

Todd Mata, the county Democratic chairman, acknowledges that "a lot of people are a little disillusioned, rightly or wrongly," with Obama, but he says that on the ground, the party structure is working much more closely than last time with Organizing for America (OFA), the Obama get-out-the-vote vehicle. Obama might benefit here from a local GOP that "doesn't have it together," according to Scott Adler, political-science professor at the University of Colorado. When I spoke with Joy Hoffman, the county Republican chairwoman, she did acknowledge she's herding cats, between the more traditional Republicans and no fewer than "15 or 16 distinct Tea Party groupings in the county." But, she insisted, the state GOP is picking up the pieces from its 2010 debacle, when its gubernatorial candidate got just 11 percent of the vote."

To read the entire article, go here:

http://tinyurl.com/5r6j3gl

Please email or call me if you want to help NOW! No amount of time you can offer is too little. We have MANY vacancies in precincts for Precinct Committee Persons - if we all do a little, we can do a lot!

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

hd37@arapahoedems.org

303-596-4243

State Senator Linda Newell TOWN HALL MEETING this Saturday!

2011-07-06T10:30:00.001-06:00

If you live west of Colorado Blvd., Senator Newell is your State Senator. Please plan to attend her next town hall - ALL are welcome!

Laurie Ritchie, HD37 Chair

Buy Local, Be Local Town Hall!

Senator Linda Newell

Hi neighbor! This is your state senator, Linda Newell, and I am inviting you to my FREE Buy Local, Be Local town hall. Come and learn about your community's farmers' markets, arisan markets, and all the locall businesses you should know about. I am thrilled to provide easy ways for you to eat healthy, fresh foods and buy locally to support the economic vitality of our community!

We'll have several presenters who can answer all your questions.

Please join me
Saturday, July 9, 9:00 a.m.
Blueberry's Bakery and Cafe
1500 W. Littleton Blvd.
(SE corner of Littleton Blvd. and Windermere)

I look forward to seeing you there!

Office phone: 303-866-4846
www.senlindanewell.com

Arapahoe Dems Night at the BALL PARK!

2011-06-26T18:29:00.001-06:00

Hello HD37 Democrats!

Here are some details about Arapahoe Dems Night at the Rockies game! We are having a fundraising event at the Rockies vs. Brewers game on SATURDAY, JULY 16th. The game starts at 6:10pm, and the Arapahoe County Democrats group will be acknowledged and welcomed on the BIG SCREEN!

Seats are on the 1st base side and are only $40 each with no service charge added. The Arapahoe Dems will earn a minimum of $10 per ticket sold.

Why do we need to raise money, you ask? To be a stronger county party, we need some money! There are a number of people working very hard to come up with creative, fun ideas to do this. As we get closer to 2012, we would like to REALLY increase our outreach to Democrats in Arapahoe County so we can have an amazing team going into the 2012 re-election campaign of Barack Hussein Obama. Every dollar counts, and since we are a TRUE grassroots party, we WANT to talk to fellow Democrats and involve everyone in our efforts. We need some funds to get things moving! Believe me, your dollar will S-T-R-E-T-C-H a long way with the creative thinking of YOUR Arapahoe Dems.

SO, we have until JUNE 29 - this Wednesday - to fill up our section before the tickets are released to the general public. Come and have some fun with your old friends, and meet some new ones. KIDS WELCOME!

Here's how to get yours:

To get your tickets by debit or credit card go to www. Arapahoedems.org and click on the Rockies button.

To pay by check, mail to Myrna Maier, 1091 Wheeling St., Aurora, CO 80011

To pay with cash, call Myrna @ 720-324-8361

Hope to see you at the game!

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

HD 37 Dems - Monthly Meeting Reminder - Tuesday, June 28

2011-06-24T20:23:00.001-06:00

Hi all, just a quick reminder of our monthly meeting THIS NEXT TUESDAY, June 28. Come for (dutch treat) dinner at 6pm, meeting starts at 7pm. On the agenda is an end-of-legislative session re-cap, featuring Colorado Senator Linda Newell.

Location: C.B. & Potts, 6575 S Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village, 80111

The Mt. Evans room is booked (by a paying group!) so we will be in the Overtime Room, to your left as you enter the restaurant.

Also, please mark your calendar for these future meeting dates:

July 26
August 23
September 27
October 25

See you on Tuesday!

Laurie Ritchie
HD 37 Chair
303-596-4243

Reminder of Arapahoe Dems FUN Events

2011-06-22T14:37:00.002-06:00

Please don't unsubscribe! We're changing to a new e-mail provider ... and adding "Like" & "Tweet" buttons (bottom of e-mail) so you can continue to spread the word with friends & family as the 2012 election approaches.

Visit http://HD37Dems.org now for FUN summer Arapahoe Dems events!

Upcoming Arapahoe Dems FUN Events - Save the Dates!

2011-06-17T11:00:00.001-06:00

Please mark your calendar and SAVE THE DATE for these upcoming Arapahoe Dems events!

Century Club Event Featuring Nathan Wilkes

Nathan has devoted much of his personal life over the last 7 years to health care research and reform. He has worked with several organizations around the country on the issue of universal health care, including working with the White House to eliminate lifetime caps in the Affordable Care Act. Nathan serves on the board of Health Care for All Colorado (HCAC) and is currently the VP of the HCAC Foundation. He has testified before Congress on the problem of under-insurance, and has served on the 208 Commission Business Task Force and the All Payer Claims Database Advisory Committee. Most recently, he has been recommended by the Health Advocates Alliance to serve on the Colorado Health Benefits Exchange Board. Nathan frequently speaks on health reform, patient advocacy, and emergency preparedness.

Saturday June 25, 2011, 5pm - 7pm
Home of Decker Swann, 980 S Fulton St, Aurora
Featured speaker will be Nathan Wilkes, VP of the Health Care for All Colorado Foundation
Free for 2011 Arapahoe Dems Century Club members + one guest
RSVP to Peggy Stahl (720-379-3664, margstahl619@gmail.com) by June 22

Not a Century Club member yet? It's only $10/mo or $100/year and is great support for your Arapahoe Dems!

To join, go to: http://www.arapahoedems.org/shop/Contribute.html

Arapahoe Dems Night at Coors Field

Come spend a warm summer night at Coors Field and cheer on your Colorado Rockies as they take on the Milwaukee Brewers! The Arapahoe Dems are hosting a block of tickets for the game on Saturday July 16, game time 6:10pm. Seats are in Section 116 (right field foul line lower level). Tickets are $35 each. Hope to see you there!

Purchase your tickets online via PayPal
Or send a check to our office, 15445 E Iliff Ave Unit C, Aurora, CO 80013 noting the check is for the Rockies Game.

Other Upcoming Arapahoe Dems Summer Events - More details TBA

HD 36 Poker Night Saturday July 30
Pat Schroeder Dinner Saturday August 20 at the Sheraton Hotel near Arapahoe & I-25

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

Arapahoe Dems to Participate in PrideFest Parade THIS SUNDAY June 19

2011-06-14T22:55:00.001-06:00

Please join your Arapahoe County Democratic Party THIS SUNDAY for the 2011 Denver PrideFest Parade! We will be marching with the Colorado Democratic Party and other county Democratic parties. Hope you can make it!

We will be marching under the banner of the newly revitalized Colorado Stonewall Democrats. The Stonewall Democrats is an official entity of the Colorado Democratic Party, charged with conducting outreach to the GLBT community throughout Colorado.

Please join us in section B1 at 8:00am on Sunday, June 19th for juice and coffee.

What: PrideFest Parade
When: 8am Sunday, June 19th
Where: Parade Section B1 in Denver's Cheesman Park

Produced by the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center of Colorado (The Center), and recognized as one of the top 10 Pride events in the country, Denver PrideFest 2011 takes place Saturday, June 18 from 11am-7pm and Sunday, June 19 from 10am-6pm in downtown Denver's Civic Center Park. This year's event features the Coors Light PrideFest Parade, a Dance Stage with DJs, a Country Stage with line-dancing lessons, a Latino Stage with folk dancers and the Main Stage with live entertainment, and plenty of celebrating both days. Denver PrideFest also features more than 200 vendor booths with arts, crafts, food and more.

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

This Saturday! Arapahoe Dems Annual Pancake Breakfast!

2011-05-18T20:40:00.001-06:00

Please join us for the Arapahoe Dems Annual Pancake Breakfast!

Saturday, May 21st, 7am - 12pm
Woodlawn Shopping Center
1500 Littleton Blvd., Littleton, CO

This annual fun event features a delicious and nutritious pancake and sausage breakfast. South Metro Forum is bringing their speaker series to this breakfast event - our special guest will be former Speaker of the House, Andrew Romanoff. Please join us as Andrew discusses the important work he is doing with International Development Enterprises, which makes agricultural training and technology available to the world's poorest people.

At $5/adults and $1/kids, this is a great deal and a wonderful opportunity to hang out with cool, like-minded people and eat some tasty grub!

Thanks for supporting this important Arapahoe Dems fundraiser!

Colorado Legislative Session Re-Cap Town Hall Meetings

2011-05-02T10:15:00.000-06:00

Save the date for a town hall in your area on our End-of-Session Senate District 26 Tour!

A recap of the 2011 Legislative Session

End-of-Session District 26 Tour is a recap of the 2011 legislative session and the progress we've made to better our state.
The events are free and open to the public. Bring a friend and come with questions! Even if you are not in Senate District 26, you are welcome to come!

Upcoming Sessions:

Centennial

Tuesday, May 3, 6:30-8:00p.m.

South Metro Chamber of Commerce

6840 S. University Blvd., Centennial

(Near SE corner of Arapahoe & University)

Littleton/Sheridan - Joined by Rep. Jeanne Labuda

Saturday, May 14, 9:00-10:30a.m.

Blueberry's Bakery and Cafe (In Woodlawn Shopping Ctr, corner of Littleton Blvd. & Windermere St.)

1500 W. Littleton Blvd., Littleton

(In Woodlawn Shopping Ctr, corner of Littleton Blvd. & Windermere St.)

Englewood/Cherry Hills - Joined by Rep. Daniel Kagan

Saturday, May 21, 10:30 to noon

Englewood Malley Senior Recreation Center

3380 S. Lincoln St., Englewood

Please Support this Dem Fundraiser and Have Some FUN!

2011-04-25T11:10:00.003-06:00

May Day Labor Gala: Working Stiffs Ball!

Come celebrate International Labor Day and honor our local Unions at a fabulous fun filled gala for working stiffs!

WHO: Invitation to all Union members, Public Sector Workers, and Democrats. Even if you think you just might be a Democrat! Come find out more about our party!

WHEN: Saturday, April 30, 2011, 7:00 pm to midnight

WHERE: Club Fuego Event Center – 10801 E. Mississippi Avenue, Aurora, CO 80012

(Just east of intersection of Havana and Mississippi)

DRESS: Business casual, or Dressed to the Nines!

COST: $12 @ the door, cash only

PLEASE RSVP BY EMAIL TO: HD41dems@gmail.com , by April 24^th, if you plan to attend

(Subject line: "gala"; give your full name, and how many will be attending in your party)

***Or purchase tickets online @ www.arapahoedems.org by April 26^th

***The Romero Theatre Troupe will present 30 minutes of highlights of their play about U.S. Labor history, "Which Side Are You On?"

***Live Band, DJ and dancing ***Finger food provided!...Cash Bar

Sponsored by: Arapahoe Democrats, House Districts 40 and 41

***Primary event contact:

*Sonia Skakick-Scrima- email: joederman@msn.com; Cell: 303-917-5160

*Brynn McKenna- email: brynn2011@gmail.com; Cell: 303-437-4498

Monthly Meeting Reminder Notice - TUESDAY APRIL 26

2011-04-24T18:38:00.001-06:00

Hi all, just a quick reminder of our monthly meeting THIS TUESDAY, April 26. Come for (dutch treat) dinner at 6pm, meeting starts at 7pm. We will hear an informative, succinct presentation by Mark Neuman-Lee, Policy Analyst at the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute regarding the Colorado budget situation. I have heard Mark speak and he makes what can be a rather dry topic VERY interesting and understandable!

Location: C.B. & Potts, 6575 S Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village, 80111

Also, please mark your calendar for upcoming meeting dates:

March 22
April 26
May 24
June 28
July 26
August 23

See you on Tuesday!

Laurie Ritchie
HD 37 Chair
303-596-4243

Monday, April 4 - A BIG DAY!

2011-04-02T12:05:00.002-06:00

WE ARE ONE Colorado!

If you are disturbed of the extremist attacks on the middle class,

If you are fed up with them limiting or making it hard to vote,

If you are incensed with them taking away or making it hard to have women's rights,

If you are furious with them taking away money from the poor, children, elderly, and disabled,

If you are angry with them taking away worker's rights (Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana, and many other states),

If you are enraged with them taking money away from keeping us safe, the water safe, and the air safe,

If you are shocked with their disregard for the law and constitution,

If you are dazed with their attempt to bring back child labor with below minimum wages (Governor LePage in Maine),

If you are outraged with their huge tax breaks for the top 400 most wealthiest yet take money from us,

If you are afraid of the future of democracy and our right to our voice being bought (Citizens United decision),

Join These National Organizations

For April 4th Events All Over Colorado

Bring your friends, fellow workers, relatives, neighbors, and anyone else you can bring.

With a large showing of people and events, we can show them how displeased we are.

Without large numbers of people, they may not get the message.

These events will be happening all across the nation.

America Votes

AFL-CIO

Blue Green Alliance

Campaign For America's Future

Center For American Progress

Center For Community Change

Coalition of Black Trade Unionists

Coalition on Human Needs

Common Cause

CWA

HCAN

Interfaith Worker Justice

Jobs with Justice

The Leadership Conference

MoveOn.Org

National Coalition for Asian Pacific American Community Development

National Gay and Lesbian Task Force

National Women's Law Center

NEA

NELP

OCA

Partnership for Working Families

PowerPAC

Progress Michigan

Public Campaign

SEIU

Sierra Club

UFCW

United Farm Workers

USAction

UWUA

Working America

Rally & Candlelight Vigil

City Park Band Stand, Denver, CO

Monday, April 4, 2011

5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

The Denver City Park Band Shell facility is located on the West side of Ferril Lake

Enter at the East 17th Ave and Steele St. park entrance

Join us for music, faith, and solidarity

Contact: AFL-CIO 303-433-2100

Get On The Bus! DexOne Protest (Two events in one)

CWA will be protesting the outsourcing and off-shoring of jobs in Colorado.

Denver City Park, 17th and Esplanade
Monday, April 4, 2011

Bus leaves at 1:00 p.m. then returns for the candlelight vigil

Contact: CWA 303-781-8700 to reserve your seat on the bus

SEIU Justice for Janitors March

March and rally in support of workers and to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

March will leave from the corner of California and 17th and proceed to the Republic Plaza on 16th & Tremont
Monday, April 4, 2011

11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Contact: Deborah Cardenas 303-727-8004

Labor March and Auraria Campus Teach-In

Join the Justice for Janitors March and stay for the Teach-in.

Auraria Campus, Plaza Steps on Lawrence Mall
Monday, April 4, 2011

12:30 p.m. following the SEIU March (above)

Contact: Russell Bannan 864-978-9374

Meet Our New State Party Chair, Rick Palacio!

2011-03-30T12:14:00.000-06:00

Dear HD37 Dems:

Please forgive me for forwarding this message in its entirety - I usually try to re-phrase and/or condense information before sending it on, but every word of this forwarded message is relevant! This is a FANTASTIC opportunity to BOTH meet our new STATE PARTY CHAIR, Rick Palacio, AND to support our Arapahoe County Democratic Party.

Please consider joining the Century Club or Tens for Dems; your membership entiitles you and a guest to join us for this gathering and others!

In the event that the membership form doesn't forward properly, please visit http://www.arapahoedems.org/shop/Contribute.html to become a Century Club or a Tens for Dems member!

Sincerely,

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

REMINDER: Meeting This Tuesday! Special Guest!

2011-03-20T16:33:00.001-06:00

Greetings HD37 Democrats!

Please mark your calendar and plan to join us, we have some great speakers and topics coming up! Meetings are at C.B. & Potts, 6575 S Greenwood Plaza Blvd., Greenwood Village, 80111. Dinner (dutch treat) at 6pm, meeting starts at 7pm.

Let me know topic and speaker suggestions for upcoming meetings - what would YOU like to hear about?

Upcoming meeting dates:

March 22
April 26
May 24
June 28
July 26
August 23

THIS TUESDAY, March 22, we will have a guest speaker from Organizing for America (OFA)! Many of you will remember that OFA was Obama for America during the 2008 campaign, and became Organizing for America afterwards. OFA has 5 full-time staff members in Colorado and their mission is to work to ensure the re-election of President Obama in 2012. Anand Singh, OFA Arapahoe County liaison, will speak to us and with us about what OFA is doing NOW to work towards 2012, and why what WE do now is critical to once again deliver HD37 and Arapahoe County to President Obama.

See you all on Tuesday!

Laurie Ritchie

HD37 Chair

303-596-4243

State Budget Cuts to Education Funding - TOWN HALL MEETINGS

2011-03-06T15:27:00.000-07:00

About 1/3 of HD37 is in the Cherry Creek School District: Please read if this includes you or your interest! I have searched for and not found information on similar events in Littleton Public Schools; if anyone has this information please forward it to me and I will send it out to the group!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE STATE BUDGET CUTS TO EDUCATION FUNDING:

As a parent (or other interested party) in the Cherry Creek School District, here are some opportunities to learn more about the proposed state budget cuts as they affect CCSD. As you are likely aware, the governor has proposed over $375 million in budget cuts to public schools in Colorado. Cherry Creek School District alone is facing over $21 million in cuts if this goes through as proposed. This is a staggering sum in addition to the $33 million cuts that CCSD has made over the past 3 years. The public's understanding of the impact of these proposed cuts is critical!

PLEASE FORWARD TO FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS:

Monday, March 7^th – West Middle School Commons – 6:30pm – Jennifer Churchfield, CCSD Board member, Mary Chesley, Superintendent, Senator Nancy Spence and Representative Daniel Kagan

Thursday, March 10^th – Cherry Creek High School – 6:00pm – Fine Arts Lobby – Presentation by Mary Chesley, Superintendent

Wednesday, March 16^th - Cherry Creek School District Day at the Capitol. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the budgetary process, gain an appreciation for how our schools are funded, and meet legislators that represent our District. Even if you can only come for two hours, it is an insightful way to get a snapshot of what is happening at the Capitol, and for our elected officials to see and hear from us.

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

Be Part of the COLORADO Health Care Discussion TONIGHT

2011-02-28T22:53:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the late notice folks, hope you can make it TONIGHT!

FROM: Carol Blackard, MD (ArapaHope Community Team - ACT - Health Care Team)

Please attend a thoughtful discussion of Senator Aguilar's Health Coop Bill (SB11-168) this Tuesday evening, March 1, at 7 pm at Willow Creek One Clubhouse, 8050 E. Jamison Drive, Centennial 80112 . The senator and other guests will be there.

The essential outline of the bill is as follows:

The bill empowers the hiring of a consultant to design a Colorado system as follows: A universal Colorado tax will fund a member-owned Co-op, a non-profit statewide organization, which pays per member/per month global payments to integrated health systems like Kaiser or Mesa County (not necessarily localized in one building), which would provide comprehensive in-patient and out-patient health services, including dental and vision.

The system would not be implemented until 2014, but would (I believe) take the place of PPACA (The federal health care reform act).

Consumers could move between systems, but might be required to pay the extra charge incurred (but isn't this balance-billing which was made illegal last year?)

Among the many questions the ACT Health Care Team has are:

1) Are doctors and providers ready to form the required alliances to deliver quality and cost-controlled services? Will they be willing to take full risk for a bad mix of very sick patients? Will they have worked out their plan for splitting up the money or will they fight amongst themselves? Can all this be accomplished by 2014?

2) How is the whole thing financed? When is the money collected and will there really be enough to pay for all Coloradans' health care?

3) Is there enough individual responsibility built in? Patients have to care about controlling costs too, or doctors will feel squeezed between pressures from their patients to do more and pressures of their integrated systems to save money.

4) Isn't a looser shared savings system better where doctors can depend on a certain base payment, then the group is rewarded if the systems they devise are cost-effective?

5) Why isn't the money already lined up to pay for the Authority (gifts and donations)?

6) Will there be an economic hit to Colorado if we wipe out all of the insurance companies? What will happen to persons with those jobs? Any plan? And won't retraining cost money?Who pays for that?

7) Would this be a potential second option if the US Supreme Court votes down the individual mandate? Or would it fall prey to the same decision?

8) How would Medicare and Medicaid be handled in the system and what assurances do we have that waivers can be acquired?

The concepts discussed at this meeting have the potential to affect all people in Colorado, consumers and providers alike, as well as the insurance industry and employers. I hope to see you there.

URGENT! Action Alert for WEDNESDAY, February 23

2011-02-22T22:17:00.000-07:00

HD37 Democrats!

There is a vote coming up sometime on Thursday in the Colorado House Finance Committee, and our very own HD37 Representative Spencer Swalm (R-Centennial) is thought to be a key vote. Please read the below synopsis, and the attached detail if you wish. If you agree that HB1104 is a good idea, please CALL or EMAIL Rep. Swalm on WEDNESDAY (anytime) or THURSDAY (morning) and ask him to support HB1104. The vote will come up on Thursday this week after House adjournment, most likely in the early afternoon.

State Representative Spencer Swalm
200 E. Colfax, Room 271
Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 303.866.5510
Spencer.swalm.house@state.co.us
Legislative Aide (during session only): Andrew Valle

According to the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute: HB 1104 will improve transparency by giving taxpayers more information about our tax policies and help us better understand what tax policies work and which do not.

More information is also available on the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute website, www.cclponline.org

Also, here is a link to the Independence Institute blog, Colorado Spending Transparency Project, which supports for HB1104. http://www.i2i.org/transparencyhomepage.php.

** Even though we may often disagree with the Independence Institute, referencing the Independence Institute (and their support for HB1104) in an email or call to Rep. Swalm would be very helpful, as he is very familiar with them. **

For further information, please contact:

Terry Scanlon

Fiscal Policy Analyst

Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute

(303) 573-5669 ext. 311

(303) 957-8137 (cell)

www.cclponline.org

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair
303-596-4243

REMINDER: HD37 Monthly Meeting TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22

2011-02-21T17:00:00.000-07:00

REMINDER: HD37 Monthly Meeting TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 6pm for Dinner, 7pm for Meeting

C.B. & Potts
6575 S. Greenwood Plaza Blvd.
Englewood, CO 80111
303-770-1982

We REALLY need our wonderful Precinct Committee Persons to attend, to help define how we will move forward in 2011! We can accomplish a LOT by working together. Of course our ultimate goal in 2012 is the RE-ELECTION OF BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA for another four years, but we have a lot of work to do in the meantime.

Please come and meet your new leadership team, and bring your suggestions and enthusiasm! Share dinner and/or a drink with your fellow HD37 Democrats!

See you all TUESDAY evening.

Sincerely,

Your HD37 Officers:

Laurie Ritchie, Chair
Ron Puening, 1st Vice Chair
Ellen Campos, 2nd Vice Chair
Barbara Jones, Secretary
Maureen Thyfault, Treasurer

New HD37 Leadership Welcomes Input! (reposted)

2011-02-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone! As most of you know, the Arapahoe County Democratic Party biennial re-organization meeting took place on Saturday, February 5. As a result, we have new leadership for House District 37.

Newly elected officers are:

Laurie Ritchie, Chair
Ron Puening, 1st Vice Chair
Ellen Campos, 2nd Vice Chair
Barbara Jones, Secretary
Maureen Thyfault, Treasurer (re-elected)

We'd like to introduce ourselves to you at the next HD37 meeting (Feb. 22, C.B. & Potts, 6pm for dinner, meeting at 7pm) , share some ideas with you, and get your input on how we should move forward and what you'd like our priorites to be. We have a great opportunity to build our framework and connections in advance of the 2012 election and would like to start doing that now, with your suggestions and enthusiasm!

We'd love to see as many folks as possible (PCP's, friends, neighbors wanting to get involved) turn out for the Feb. 22 meeting, so mark your calendar now and watch this space for details!

Thank you for putting your trust and confidence in us. We will do our best to earn it! Feel free to give me a call or send me an email to discuss any issues of concern to you.

Sincerely,

Laurie Ritchie, Chair
HD37
303-596-4243

(reposted)

Fwd: Call for letters

2011-02-06T12:34:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Carol Blackard, MD" <Carol.Blackard@ArapaHope.org>
To: vcmoon@comcast.net
Sent: Saturday, February 5, 2011 10:19:28 PM
Subject: Call for letters

Vorry,

All Arapahope Members who want to support the Health Care Team - Action Alert

Kathleen Odefey and Deb Dobersen are asking for your help in their support of HB11-1069.

They are both testifying to support this bill which will require that all schools provide 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Kathleen is a former teacher, and Deb is a nutritionist who works with diabetic patients. Both strongly feel that physical activity makes learning more effective and contributes to the overall health of Colorado's children. The sponsors of the bill, Rep Massey and Rep Fields, are recommending they bring letters from our members who might have something relevant to say. Included below are some talking points that you could include in your letter. Kathleen can pick up your letter Sunday before the committee meeting on Monday. Please call her at 303 771-4168 as soon as possible to let her know you will have a letter she can pick up.

Physical activity helps control the obesity and type 2 diabetes in students
American Academy of Pediatrics states, "Schools are in a uniquely favorable position to increase physical activity and fitness among students" and may promote more activity throughout life.
Children's brain development is linked to physical fitness. (Science Daily, based on research at University of Illinos at Urbana-Champaign)
Children are able to pay attention better and solve problems after physical activity. http://wwwsciencedaily.com/releases/2009/01/0901281113246.htm
Physically fit students scored better on standardized tests in math and English. http://sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/01/090128113246htm.

People can also just write what they feel and observe. If you have a child in school and you would appreciate this law and can say something about how it would help your child, that is highly relevant and you should write it up. These letters will be handed to the committee for their review, but will not be read aloud.

You are also welcome to come to the committee meeting and watch your fellow activists at work. It should be very interesting. The meeting is Feb 7 at 1:30 pm, Room 0112 on the first floor of the capitol.

Carol Blackard, MD

This message was sent to vcmoon@comcast.net. If you do not want to receive any more ArapaHope Community Team action alerts, click this link

Fwd: 2011 CDP JJ Dinner

2011-02-01T16:21:00.003-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Mike Hamrick" <mike@arapahoedems.org>
To: "Mike Hamrick" <chair@arapahoedems.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 1, 2011 2:33:15 PM
Subject: 2011 CDP JJ Dinner

At this years dinner, two of our fellow Arapahoe Democratics wil be receiving awards. Let show our support and help the CDP raise money for the 2011 budget.

The 78^th annual Jefferson – Jackson Day Dinner
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Four Seasons Ball Room • Colorado Convention Center 700
14th Street Denver, Colorado
5:30 pm - Check-in 7:00 pm - Dinner

KEYNOTE SPEAKER - MASSACHUSETTS GOVERNOR DEVAL PATRICK

The 2011 CDP Dinner is Saturday March 5th. We have reserved five tables to date. A current time we have 7 Seats remaining on these initial five Arapahoe County tables. If you would like to attend with fellow Arapahoe County Dems, please email as soon as possible. If we fill these reaming seven seats and have enough interest we can add another table but I will need to let the CDP know this asap.

Lifetime Achievement Award is in recognition of the contributions of Daniel Candelaria. Dan was a member of the Arapahoe County Democrats and the Colorado Democratic Party Latino Initiative. He was a Viet Nam Veteran who volunteered constantly. Dan died recently of cancer, and the award will be accepted by his wife Diane.

The Rising Star Award recognizes State Representative Rhonda Fields. Rhonda Fields was elected to serve the Colorado House of Representative for the 68th General Assembly in 2010. She becomes the first African American Woman elected to the state legislature to represent Aurora's House District 42, Arapahoe County. Representative Fields defeated a Republican candidate by a 2 to 1 margin, after State Rep. Karen Middleton decided not to run for re-election.

--
Mike Hamrick
Chair
Arapahoe County Democrats
303-518-1733

Fwd: Reorganization Candidate Information

2011-02-01T16:21:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Mike Hamrick" <mike@arapahoedems.org>
To: "Michael Hamrick" <mike@arapahoedems.org>
Sent: Tuesday, February 1, 2011 2:00:06 PM
Subject: Reorganization Candidate Information

To all members of the Arapahoe Central Committee:

Just a reminder that our 2011 reorganization meeting is this Saturday Feb 5th. Sign in is at 9:30am at Rangeview High School, we plan on starting at 10:00am. Our goal will be to complete this meeting by 1:00PM. Please enter at the west main entrance. Sign in tables will be in the commons area.

The attached documents contains information on all candidates that have notified the party of their intent to run for the county offices. I have also attached the list of names that have declared to run for the state central and executive committees. If you plan on running for any of these position, please email me by 5:00PM tomorrow. We will print ballots, with the names of those who have declared tomorrow evening.

Finally, If you are not attending, please send in your proxy as soon as possible.

Declared Candidates (as of 31 Jan 11)

County Chair, Todd Mata; 1^st Vice Chair, Pam Gail; 2^nd Vice Chair, John Buckley; Secretary, Mary Pritchard; Treasurer Matt Salek

State Central Committee (30 Member plus 30 Alternates) Gender Balanced

Harold Thyfault, Ted Fritschel, Don Strickland, Phil Duran, Mike Hamrick, John Buckley, Robert Reed, Steve Justino, Donovan O'Dell, Solomon "Joe" Juarez, Mike Collins, Tom Tobiassen, Arnie McDaniel

Carolyn Boller, Karen Hart , Gale Drexler, Maureen Thyfault, Mary Ellen Wolf, Debi Holen Hunter, Barbara Jones, Cheryl Hutchison, Brynn McKenna, Peggy Stahl, Eliza Hamrick, Barb McDaniel

State Executive Committee (13 Members Plus 13 Alternates) Gender Balanced

Harold Thyfault, Ted Fritschel, Don Strickland, Phil Duran, Mike Hamrick, John Buckley, Robert Reed, Steve Justino, , Mike Collins.

Carolyn Boller, Karen Hart , Gale Drexler, Maureen Thyfault, Mary Ellen Wolf, Debi Holen Hunter, , Brynn McKenna, Peggy Stahl.

--
Mike Hamrick
Chair
Arapahoe County Democrats
303-518-1733

Fwd: Meeting Canceled

2011-02-01T07:46:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Mike Hamrick" <mike@arapahoedems.org>
To: "Mike Hamrick" <chair@arapahoedems.org>
Sent: Monday, January 31, 2011 4:04:47 PM
Subject: Meeting Canceled

To All Executive Committee Members:

Due to the inclement weather today and the forecast for more snow, ice and extreme cold temperatures. The officers have decided it was in the best interest and safety of all to cancel tomorrow nights executive committee meeting.

Since the meetings main topic was to be concerning our reorganization meeting at Rangeview High School. I will be sending district election instructions out to all district chairs in advance for your review.

House District Chairs and your sign volunteers please try to arrive at Rangeview at 9:00am on Saturday.

Be safe

--
Mike Hamrick
Chair
Arapahoe County Democrats
303-518-1733

Fwd: Centennial is turning 10!

2011-01-26T15:40:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Allison Wittern" <awittern@centennialcolorado.com>
Sent: Wednesday, January 26, 2011 2:39:28 PM
Subject: Centennial is turning 10!

Please remember to RSVP by next Monday, January 31.

*** You may also RSVP by clicking the following link: http://www.centennialcolorado.com/forms.aspx?FID=98

***********************************************************************************************************************

Turner Construction selected to construct the 11 acre Centennial Civic Center Park

(Centennial, COLO) This past Monday, the Centennial City Council approved a resolution to move forward with plans to build Phase 1 of the Civic Center Park, which will be just west of the Centennial Civic Center. Turner Construction will be the general contractor on the site.

The 11 acres for the park was acquired by the City in early 2008 and a master plan was completed in 2009. The park will provide a variety of recreation amenities including a playground, water play, shelters, restroom, mountain view overlook, environmental and historical education, open space meadow, sledding hill, climbing walls, walking trails, formal amphitheater, parking for users and entry gateways to provide an identity for the park and community.

Phase 1 of the project is scheduled to begin in the next 30-45 days. This phase includes general site work and major utilities. The parking lot, shelter, water play feature, playground, amphitheater and climbing wall will be constructed this year.

This initial phase is completely funded. The City will use Arapahoe County Share-Back Funds and Colorado Conservation Trust Funds (CTF) to construct the project. This funding will be supplemented with grants from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) and Arapahoe County. The grants received exceed $1 million. The cost of Phase 1 is $5,349,033.00.

"We are very excited to see plans for the Civic Center Park now become a reality . I look forward to this park creating the sense of place for our City that brings the east and west sides of Centennial together , says Centennial Mayor Cathy Noon. This is a great addition to our community."

This project will be completed by the end of 2011.

###

Allison Wittern

Public Information & Special Events Manager

City of Centennial

13133 E. Arapahoe Rd.

Centennial, CO 80112

303-754-3443

awittern@centennialcolorado.com

HD 37 Monthly Meeting

2011-01-24T15:35:00.001-07:00

Remember the Meeting Date

HD 37 Monthly Meeting

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

7:00 PM MT CB&Potts Restaurant

6575 South Greenwood Plaza Blvd. Greenwood Village, CO 80111

Watch the State of the Union Speech and meet candidates for Arapahoe County Democratic Party offices.

Fwd: Rebecca McClellan Reports: January 18, 2011

2011-01-18T15:02:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Rebecca McClellan" <RMCentennial@aol.com>
To: vcmoon@comcast.net
Sent: Tuesday, January 18, 2011 1:03:10 PM
Subject: Rebecca McClellan Reports: January 18, 2011

Friends and Constituents,

I hope this finds you enjoying the new year. Following the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, this week's City Council meeting will take place tonight, January 18th, at the Centennial Civic Center, 13133 E. Arapahoe Road. Our Study Session begins at 6 PM, and the Regular Meeting begins at 7 PM. Public Comment is welcomed at the start of the Regular Meeting, and citizens can also contact all council members at once, using Council@CentennialColorado.com.

Save the Date: The next State of the City luncheon will take place on Thursday, April 7, 2011, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Centennial.

Your calls and comments are always appreciated. You can reach me at (303) 956-2845, or e-mail RMcClellan@CentennialColorado.com. News items follow.

Kind Regards,

Rebecca McClellan

Centennial Council Member, Dist. 3

(303) 956-2845

Special Meeting on Proposed Civic Center Park

On the evening of Monday, January 24th, Centennial Council will have a special meeting dedicated to the issue of the proposed Civic Center Park. I've favored a more modest budget in the interest of reducing waste and providing better equity in our open space expenditures across the city.

Our meetings are open to the public. Public comment is welcomed at the start of the 7 PM Regular Meeting. You can also listen to City Council meetings from home using the link on the city web site, at www.CentennialColorado.com. You can send a note to all of our City's elected officials at once, at council@centennialcolorado.com.

Please note that the Long Range Draft Agenda for upcoming items can change. Don't hesitate to call on Thursday before a Monday meeting. That's when we get our council packets, and I can confirm the agenda. You can also check the city web site for updates.

Neighborhood Meeting: Jan. 20th

A neighborhood meeting is planned for a Preliminary and Final Development Plan for the Rocky Mountain Community Church proposed within the Panorama Office Park. The subject site is currently developed as a parking lot. The Applicant is proposing an amendment to the Preliminary Development Plan to rezone the property to increase the maximum building height from 35 to 45 feet with a maximum height of 55 feet for a church steeple, tower or similar accessory structure. The Applicant is also proposing a Final Development Plan for the construction of a 30,000 square foot place of public assembly (church).

Project Site Location: SE of E. Panorama Drive and S. Yosemite Street

Neighborhood Meeting: January 20, 2011, 6:30 p.m.

Neighborhood Meeting Location: Willow Creek Mineral Clubhouse, 8500 E. Mineral Drive


                     Lane Closure at Arapahoe & Parker

Thru 11 pm., Wednesday the 19th: CDOT will close the ramp from westbound Arapahoe Road to northbound Parker Road as well as the right lane of westbound Arapahoe Road just east of Parker Road.

Until 11 p.m. on Wednesday, January 19th, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) will close the ramp from westbound Arapahoe Road to northbound Parker Road as well as the right lane of westbound Arapahoe Road just east of Parker Road. The closure is necessary for crews to complete storm sewer work at the intersection.

"We are connecting a new storm sewer line to the existing storm sewer line that is located in the northeast corner of the intersection," said CDOT Project Engineer Ed Bullard. "Since all of the work comes together at the ramp from Arapahoe Road to Parker Road, it is necessary to close the ramp until the work is complete."

During the closure, motorists on westbound Arapahoe Road needing access to northbound Parker Road will be detoured north on Lewiston Way, which connects to northbound Parker Road at a traffic signal. Uniformed traffic control will be on-site during peak hours on Tuesday and Wednesday (Monday is a holiday) to help move traffic through the area.

Major delays are expected on westbound Arapahoe Road and Lewiston Way and alternate routes are strongly advised. CDOT would like to remind motorists to obey all construction signs and flaggers and to "Slow for the Cone Zone." All lanes of westbound Arapahoe Road and the ramp from westbound Arapahoe Road to northbound Parker Road will reopen by 11 p.m. Wednesday.

Building Code Open House

Wednesday, January 19, Noon - 3 pm., CENTENNIAL OPEN HOUSE ON 2009 INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE ADOPTION

The City of Centennial Building Division has scheduled an open house to receive feedback about the adoption of the 2009 International Building Codes. This open house is Wednesday, January 19, 2011 from noon - 3 p.m. at the Centennial Civic Center, 13133 E. Arapahoe Road.

First Wednesday, Each Month: Centennial Airport Noise Roundtable Meeting

The Airport Noise Committee meets on the first Wednesday of each month at the Hotel Gold Crown Ramada, by the Air Traffic Control Tower at 7770 S Peoria St. Ppublic comment is allowed at the start of each meeting.

            Advice on Coyote Encounters
This is the time of year when coyote pups leave their dens and are taught how to hunt for food. Centennial residents may see more coyotes and their pups out and about in backyards, neighborhoods, and in open spaces.

Coyotes are attracted to neighborhoods due to the availability of their natural food sources, pet food, birdfeeders, compost piles and garbage. Please keep these attractants away and securely fastened. In addition, pets may be easy prey for coyotes. To ensure pet safety cats should stay indoors and small dogs should be accompanied outdoors. Pets should be on a leash at all times. Stay in well lit areas and keep a whistle handy. If small dogs must be kept outdoors daily or at night, the City strongly recommends a fully enclosed dog run secured to the house.

The following measures have been reported to work well in hazing and in actively co-existing with wildlife in our urban areas. If approached by a coyote practice the following hazing techniques:

·         Wave arms and yell in an authoritative voice

·         Bang pots and pans

·         Spray with garden hose

·         Throw rocks, sticks, tennis balls and any non-edible items toward the coyote

·         Use air horns or whistles

·         Motion detection yard lights

·         Coyote Can Shaker - soda can with pennies wrapped in aluminum foil sealed with duct tape. Shake to make noise or throw toward the coyote

·         Do NOT feed coyotes- it is illegal to feed coyotes in the state of Colorado. Please report individuals feeding coyotes to the Colorado Department of Wildlife at (303) 291-7227.

When using hazing techniques it is very important to change the hazing method used each time. It is important to continue hazing until the coyote leaves the area.



           Arapahoe / I-25 Interchange Project

A meeting of the Arapahoe & I-25 Coalition is being planned, to discuss another trip to Washington, D.C. To my knowledge, the meeting will not be open to the public.  I do not have the dates of the Washington trip.

The project's lobbying contract with Capitol Partnerships (VA) Inc., is run through the City of Greenwood Village, with the monthly payments of $5,000 each from Arapahoe County and Centennial, being paid to the City of Greenwood Village. The annual total for this contract is $180,000.

The lobbyist at Capitol Partnerships (VA), Inc., is Mr. Ken Butler, who is also the Chairman of the "National Council for Public-Private Partnerships," which recently gave the City of Centennial a "Distinguished Service Award."

I support the aim to improve the interchange itself. But I'm concerned that citizens may have had a less public process than we should have, with Coalition meetings and technical and executive committee meetings having been held unrecorded and without adequate public involvement.

Plans to improve the I-25 & Arapahoe Rd. interchange could include an underpass from the Country Dinner Playhouse area, under I-25, to intersect Yosemite near Walnut Hills. The underpass would direct an eventual 18,000 cars daily onto Yosemite, and would add at least $55.6 million to the cost of the project.

You may have heard that the process to select a plan to improve the interchange is only beginning. Unfortunately, the underpass plan has been communicated to members of Congress as a locally preferred option according to the post trip report from the February, 2010 Washington trip. This followed written notice from the Walnut Hills Civic Association, formally opposing the underpass.

Initiated in 2005, the Arapahoe Road Corridor Study public outreach is thought by many to have been insufficient.  Going door to door in 2009, I could not find a single resident who knew about any underpass plan.  According to David Evans & Associates, who performed the Study's public outreach, only three residents west of Yosemite were mailed notice of the 2005 Arapahoe Road Corridor Study by that firm. Centennial was represented on the Arapahoe Road Corridor Study's executive committee by then Mayor Randy Pye, a lobbyist with Capitol Solutions for the last year of his mayoral term.

Centennial City Council has adopted potentially protective 1041 regulations that may require a permit before construction of an underpass into Centennial. To hear my support for these protections, please listen to the audio portion of the Regular Meeting of June 21, 2010, under General Business, Item C, click on item xi, then listen to the proceedings after the vote on item xi, at www.CentennialColorado.com.   I was disappointed that concerned citizens were not given any warning that their protections under the 1041 regulations might be changed on June 21st, because the matter was not on the agenda. I worked quickly to help ensure that the council would remain in a position to take responsibility in this matter.

Citizens can state their opinions on the I-25 & Arapahoe Road project for the Environmental Assessment record by writing to: Leah Langerman, Community Outreach Coordinator, David Evans & Associates, 1331 17th Street, Suite 900, Denver, CO 80202. phone: (720) 225-4651, fax: (720) 946-0973. LLangerman@deainc.com. David Evans & Associates has been contracted to conduct public outreach for the federally required Environmental Assessment.

To contact me, Councilwoman Rebecca McClellan, or be added to my e-mail update list, call 303-956-2845, or e-mail RMCentennial@aol.com.

Below are links related to the project, from the outcome of the Arapahoe Road Corridor Study begun in 2005, to the current Environmental Assessment process.

I-25/Arapahoe Interchange System Level Feasibility Study:

http://www.co.arapahoe.co.us/Departments/PW/FinaSystemLevelFeasibilityStudy%20-%20June%202008.pdf

Arapahoe Corridor Study & project documents:
http://www.arapahoecorridor.com/index.html

Current Environmental Assessment:
Contact info: Joe Hart or Leah Langerman, David Evans and Associates, Inc.

720-946-0969, jhart@deainc.com , llangerman@deainc.com

Project Website: www.I25ArapahoeRoadEA.com

This message was sent from Rebecca McClellan to vcmoon@comcast.net. It was sent from: Rebecca McClellan , 13133 E. Arapahoe Road, Centennial, CO 80112. You can modify/update your subscription via the link below.

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Fwd: Arapahoe County Reorganizational Meeting

2011-01-13T12:40:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Mike Hamrick" <mike@arapahoedems.org>
To: "Mike Hamrick" <chair@arapahoedems.org>
Sent: Wednesday, January 12, 2011 6:00:09 PM
Subject: Arapahoe County Reorganizational Meeting

To all Central Committee Members,

The Arapahoe County Democrats will hold the 2011 Re organizational meeting on February 5th at 10:00am. This will take place at Rangeview High School,17599 E Iliff Ave, Aurora, CO 80013.

Official calls will be going out via email in the near future, once we finalize the agenda.

I have attached a document explaining reorganization.

If you have any questions, please give me a call or email me.

--
Mike Hamrick
Chair
Arapahoe County Democrats
303-518-1733

Fwd: You are invited: South Metro Forum Saturday Jan 15

2011-01-11T11:45:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: nantedfrit@aol.com
To: nantedfrit@aol.com
Sent: Monday, January 10, 2011 5:34:28 PM
Subject: You are invited: South Metro Forum Saturday Jan 15

-----Original Message-----
From: nantedfrit <nantedfrit@aol.com>
To: jameshcain <jameshcain@aol.com>; gpbjbrown <gpbjbrown@comcast.net>;
nanck <nanck@q.com>; dianaholland <dianaholland@usa.net>; ahwoehrle
<ahwoehrle@myway.com>; eric <eric@systematek.com>; joerice38
<joerice38@msn.com>; stras20 <stras20@msn.com>
Sent: Mon, Jan 10, 2011 5:31 pm
Subject: Fwd: You are invited: South Metro Forum Saturday Jan 15

South Metro Democrats' Forum
Saturday, January 15, 2011
8:30 – 10:15am breakfast

"Can USA born youth of undocumented immigrants
be allowed in-State tuition for college?"
(pending State legislation)
Speaker:
Matt Gettleman, "Higher Ed Access Alliance"

NOTE: THE RESTAURANT HAS A NEW POLICY --
A minimum of 35 to reserve the room. SO BRING ALL YOUR FRIENDS
Also new low price: $7.50 at the door (please announce yourself.)
(includes, meal, with drink, and tip)

We look forward to seeing you.
3rd Saturday of each month
Meeting in our 26th year
Speakers at the Forum are public office holders, candidates and
community leaders dealing with political and community topics and
ballot issues. There is discussion time.
Democratic Party leaders announce upcoming events.
Voter registration is available.
Opportunities for political action are aplenty!
Folks attend from Arapahoe, Douglas, Jefferson and Denver Counties.
Public invited.

COUNTRY BUFFET RESTAURANT
7245 Park Meadows Drive, Lone Tree
(Southeast corner of C-470 & S. Quebec St.)

For info:
Ted Fritschel – 303/689-0755 -- Dan Parker – 303/794-1884
Or www.arapahoedemocrats.org – 303/338-1202

Fwd: HD 37 Planning Meeting Notes

2011-01-11T11:35:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Laurie Ritchie" <alritchie@aol.com>
To: "todd mata" <todd.mata@yahoo.com>, puening@q.com, carol-blackard@comcast.net, pypprsrb@msn.com, ellen@cr-a.com, abjenk@gmail.com, heidiparish@hotmail.com, vcmoon@comcast.net, nantedfrit@aol.com, dianaholland@usa.net, risamike@gmail.com, haroldthyfault@comcast.net, "deandrea gail" <deandrea_gail@yahoo.com>
Sent: Saturday, January 8, 2011 12:49:23 PM
Subject: Re: HD 37 Planning Meeting Notes

Hi everyone, wanted to give you all an update. First of all, many of you already know that I have decided to run for HD37 chair, with the inimitable Ron Puening running for vice-chair. In light of these developments (and while we don't anticipate any opposition), we thought it would be better to wait until after the Feb. 5 Arapahoe County re-organization meeting to do any further strategic planning. Ron and I are very happy with the ideas we all came up with at the strategy meeting at Koelbel, and are very excited and enthusiastic to move forward and implement them. However, since we have announced our intentions, we feel it would be presumptuous to do any more planning prior to the changeover. We want to include everyone and feel this is a good plan.

Therefore, we will not be having a follow-up meeting on Jan. 18. The January 25 HD37 meeting will be taking place as scheduled, with Vorry Moon presiding over his last meeting as HD37 chair. Ron and I plan to introduce ourselves as candidates at that meeting and outline what our plans might include going forward, with input of course from attendees. What we anticipate is making the regular HD37 monthly meeting on Feb. 25 (C.B. & Potts on Arapahoe Rd., 6pm for dinner, 7pm meeting) a strategy/planning meeting for HD37. We hope you are all able to make it!

We are also counting on everyone to attend the Feb. 5 re-organization meeting, so hope to see you there! Please call with any questions or comments.

Sincerely,

Laurie Ritchie
HD37 Chair Candidate
303-596-4243

-----Original Message-----
From: Todd Mata <todd.mata@yahoo.com>
To: puening@q.com; carol-blackard@comcast.net; pypprsrb@msn.com; ellen@cr-a.com; abjenk@gmail.com; heidiparish@hotmail.com; vcmoon@comcast.net; nantedfrit@aol.com; Diana Holland <dianaholland@usa.net>; Risa and <risamike@gmail.com>; haroldthyfault@comcast.net; alritchie@aol.com; deandrea_gail@yahoo.com
Sent: Wed, Dec 15, 2010 5:24 am
Subject: HD 37 Planning Meeting Notes

Folks,

Attached are the list of "To Dos" coming out of our meeting on Monday. THe follow-up meeting is on January 18th 6:30pm. Location is TBA.

Thanks,

Todd

From: Todd Mata <todd.mata@yahoo.com>
To: puening@q.com; carol-blackard@comcast.net; pypprsrb@msn.com; ellen@cr-a.com; abjenk@gmail.com; heidiparish@hotmail.com; vcmoon@comcast.net; nantedfrit@aol.com; Diana Holland <dianaholland@usa.net>
Sent: Sun, December 12, 2010 7:43:34 PM
Subject: Re: HD 37 Planning Meeting & Demo Holiday Party

See everyone tomorrow!

Todd

From: Todd Mata <todd.mata@yahoo.com>
To: puening@q.com; carol-blackard@comcast.net; pypprsrb@msn.com; ellen@cr-a.com; abjenk@gmail.com; heidiparish@hotmail.com; vcmoon@comcast.net; nantedfrit@aol.com
Sent: Sun, December 5, 2010 7:14:37 PM
Subject: HD 37 Planning Meeting & Demo Holiday Party

Hi Guys,

Before the Holidays go into full throttle, I thought it would be a good idea to get together and get a jump on HD project planning for the new year. A lot of us are pretty fired up from the 2010 elections and want to get a head-start on planning for building our ground game in 2012.

Let's make this a holiday party and brings some winter treats to share. I apologize for not making it out to the normal HD 37 meeting, but I typically teach an MBA class on Tuesday nights. I have this meeting set up for Dec. 13th 6:30pm-9:00pm at the Koelbel Library, unless someone has a better idea. Here is the specifics:

Room: Koelbel Room B
Library: Koelbel Library
Date(s): Monday, December 13, 2010
Time: 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM

Hope you all can make it.

Todd

HD 37 January Meeting

2011-01-06T11:10:00.001-07:00

SAVE THE DATE

JANUARY 25, 2011

HD 37 MONTHLY MEETING

CB&POTTS 6575 S. GREENWOOD PLAZA BLVD.

6:00 PM DINNER (ON YOUR OWN)

7:00 PM MEETING

Fwd: Inauguration Volunteer Reminder

2011-01-05T10:33:00.001-07:00

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: "Mike Hamrick" <mike@arapahoedems.org>
To: "Mike Hamrick" <chair@arapahoedems.org>
Sent: Tuesday, January 4, 2011 4:48:22 PM
Subject: Fwd: Inauguration Volunteer Reminder

FYI see below for volunteer opportunities with Gov. Hickenlooper.

Mike

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Lisa Nemerovski <lisa@coloradocando.com>
Date: Mon, Jan 3, 2011 at 3:31 PM
Subject: Inauguration Volunteer Reminder
To: Lisa Nemerovski <lisa@coloradocando.com>

We are still looking for volunteers for the Inauguration Dinner from 5:00PM-10:00PM and the Inaugural Concert from 8:00PM-10:00PM. If you are interested and have not responded or know of anyone who is interested in volunteering, please email me at lisa@coloradocando.com or call my cell phone at 773-816-7550.

Thanks!

Lisa

--
Mike Hamrick
Chair
Arapahoe County Democrats
303-518-1733

HD37 Dems

HD37 News & Monthly Meeting Reminder - TUESDAY January 24th

Voter information cards sent to Arapahoe County registered voters

For release: January 18, 2012

THIS MONDAY! Martin Luther King Marade - March with Obama Supporter Group!

2012 Obama Re-Election Kickoff!

Spencer Swalm's January 2012 Town Hall

REMINDER: Meet Joe Miklosi, CD6 Candidate, THIS FRIDAY DECEMBER 9cohd

Meet Our U.S. Congress Candidate Joe Miklosi FRIDAY DECEMBER 9

Notes from The Chair

Urgent Action Requested on Health Care Reform Vote

Please Join Us Monday, November 14th

Jobs Fair - November 7th

Spencer Swalm's November 2011 Town Hall

Meeting Reminder: Tuesday, October 25th

Spencer Swalm's October 2011 Town Hall - WE NEED TO SHOW UP

Ballots Mail Out TOMORROW! Vote YES on Proposition 103!

Proposition 103 Event: BALLOTS ARRIVE NEXT WEEK!

Proposition 103 Phone Bank Event!

Prop 103 Needs Our Support!

URGENT Notice: 9/28 House Party for Joe Miklosi

REMINDER: Tuesday Meeting

Arapahoe County Dems Century Club Sat.

ATT: Colorado voters in Congressional District 6!

Century Club Presents Congressman Ed Perlmutter Sept. 10th @ 3pm in Centennial

Hold Coffman Accountable - Attendees needed for Mike Coffman's Townhall Saturday Aug. 27, 11am-12pm Arapahoe Sheriff's Office

Guys,

August 23 Meeting: SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER - Lorez Meinhold, Colorado Director of Health Care Reform

Please Buy Your Tickets Now to the Pat Schroeder Dinner August 20

Progressives Rising! This Friday!

URGENT Announcement - Legislative Reapportionment Hearing Tomorrow - Please Come Out and Support Democracy!

CORRECTION: Pat Schroeder Dinner is AUGUST 20th

Annual Pat Schroeder Dinner - SEPTEMBER 20th - HD37 Gift Card Basket

LOCATION CHANGE for Joe Miklosi Campaign Kickoff - THURSDAY JULY 28 5:30-8:30pm

A Message from Joe Miklosi, Newly Announced Democratic Candidate for CD6!

REMINDER: July Meeting this TUESDAY July 26

REMINDER: Campaign/Candidate Training TONIGHT!

Let Them Herd Cats!

State Senator Linda Newell TOWN HALL MEETING this Saturday!

If you live west of Colorado Blvd., Senator Newell is your State Senator. Please plan to attend her next town hall - ALL are welcome!

Laurie Ritchie, HD37 Chair

Buy Local, Be Local Town Hall!

Arapahoe Dems Night at the BALL PARK!

HD 37 Dems - Monthly Meeting Reminder - Tuesday, June 28

Reminder of Arapahoe Dems FUN Events

Upcoming Arapahoe Dems FUN Events - Save the Dates!

Please mark your calendar and SAVE THE DATE for these upcoming Arapahoe Dems events! Century Club Event Featuring Nathan Wilkes

Not a Century Club member yet? It's only $10/mo or $100/year and is great support for your Arapahoe Dems! To join, go to: http://www.arapahoedems.org/shop/Contribute.html

To join, go to: http://www.arapahoedems.org/shop/Contribute.html

Arapahoe Dems Night at Coors Field

Other Upcoming Arapahoe Dems Summer Events - More details TBA

Arapahoe Dems to Participate in PrideFest Parade THIS SUNDAY June 19

This Saturday! Arapahoe Dems Annual Pancake Breakfast!

Colorado Legislative Session Re-Cap Town Hall Meetings

Please Support this Dem Fundraiser and Have Some FUN!

Monthly Meeting Reminder Notice - TUESDAY APRIL 26

Monday, April 4 - A BIG DAY!

Meet Our New State Party Chair, Rick Palacio!

REMINDER: Meeting This Tuesday! Special Guest!

State Budget Cuts to Education Funding - TOWN HALL MEETINGS

Be Part of the COLORADO Health Care Discussion TONIGHT

URGENT! Action Alert for WEDNESDAY, February 23

REMINDER: HD37 Monthly Meeting TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 22

New HD37 Leadership Welcomes Input! (reposted)

Fwd: Call for letters

Fwd: 2011 CDP JJ Dinner

Fwd: Reorganization Candidate Information

Fwd: Meeting Canceled

Fwd: Centennial is turning 10!

HD 37 Monthly Meeting

Fwd: Rebecca McClellan Reports: January 18, 2011

Special Meeting on Proposed Civic Center Park

On the evening of Monday, January 24th, Centennial Council will have a special meeting dedicated to the issue of the proposed Civic Center Park. I've favored a more modest budget in the interest of reducing waste and providing better equity in our open space expenditures across the city.

Please note that the Long Range Draft Agenda for upcoming items can change. Don't hesitate to call on Thursday before a Monday meeting. That's when we get our council packets, and I can confirm the agenda. You can also check the city web site for updates.

Building Code Open House

Fwd: Arapahoe County Reorganizational Meeting

Fwd: You are invited: South Metro Forum Saturday Jan 15

Fwd: HD 37 Planning Meeting Notes

HD 37 January Meeting

Fwd: Inauguration Volunteer Reminder

Please mark your calendar and SAVE THE DATE for these upcoming Arapahoe Dems events!

Century Club Event Featuring Nathan Wilkes

Not a Century Club member yet? It's only $10/mo or $100/year and is great support for your Arapahoe Dems!

To join, go to: http://www.arapahoedems.org/shop/Contribute.html