West River Blue Blog: 2009

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

[PenDems (175)] Merry Christmas from Ritchie!

Ritchie Nordstrom asked me to send this along to all of you dedicated Pendems from him:

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Click here: http://tinyurl.com/yjvcb7h

--
The PenDemorandum is a publication of the Pennington County Democratic Party. Please forward it along to your friends! Back issues are posted at http://pendem.org -- click the "Blog" link.

To subscribe, send a message to pendems-subscribe@googlegroups.com
To unsubscribe, send a message to pendems-unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/pendems

Thursday, December 17, 2009

[PenDems (174)] PENDEMORANDUM

PenDemorandum
Good afternoon All
There will be NO MEETING this evening. Please enjoy the company of your family and friends (and finish your holiday shopping!)

We will readjorn on January 28th at 7pm. IBEW building at 922-1/2 E. St. Patrick.
Happy holidays to you all
Jeff Nelsen
Chair
Pennington County Democratic Party
605-390-9966 (c)
jeff_n2@msn.com

Reminder! County party meeting tonight

Just a reminder that the Pennington County Democratic Party will meet tonight at 6 p.m. at our office at 922 E. St. Patrick St. Brief business meeting to plan for 2010 events.

If you can't make it, have a wonderful holiday season and we'll see you in the New Year.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

[PenDems (173)] Reminder

7 pm Tonight

922-1/2 E. St. Patrick (Ibew hall)

Pennington County Democrats

Program; City Government
Featuring: Malcom Chapman, Patti Martinson & Karen Hall

CU There!
Jeff Nelsen
Chair
Pennington County Democratic Party
605-390-9966 (c)
jeff_n2@msn.com

Thursday, November 12, 2009

SD4HCS FREE Health Clinic, Nov 21, in Rapid City

Please print and share this flyer (pdf format).

All Are Welcome!

FREE HEALTH CARE CLINIC

Do you need to talk to a doctor about your health?

Insured, uninsured or underinsured - all are welcome!

No Appointment Necessary! First Come - First Serve!

Seniors, families and kids - all ages are welcome!

Saturday, November 21^st

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, Rapid City

Pennington County H1N1 flu vaccination clinic at Central High 10 AM-2PM. FREE for children!

Email rapidfreeclinic@gmail.com for more information.

Is basic health care out of reach?

INSIST on VOTES FOR Quality, Affordable Health Care Reform!

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson - Toll Free - 1-800-537-0025

U.S. Senator John Thune - Toll Free - 1-866-850-3855

U.S. Representative Stephanie Herseth Sandlin - Toll Free - 1-866-371-8747

It's Time to Deliver Health Care Reform!

Services offered FREE of Charge:

Primary Care Consultations
Cholesterol & Blood Screen (8 hour fast is optimal)
OB/GYN Consultation
Diabetes Testing & Education
Eye Screening & Exams
Mental Health & Depression Screening
Insurance Consultation
Dental Screening
No controlled substances or scheduled drugs will be on premise or prescribed.

Sponsored By

South Dakotans For Health Care Solutions

South Dakotans For Health Care Reform

Thursday, November 05, 2009

[PenDems (171)] FW: An Evening with the Artists

From the Custer Co Dems:

From David Melmer, Chairman of the Custer County Democrats

Fellow Democrat, we are living in strange times. We are witnessing political upheaval like we have never seen before. Outrageous accusations about health care, stimulus funding, and other legislation that does little but to fuel an explosion of partisanship, hatred and promotes ignorance.

We need a break. So, the Custer County Democrats offer you a brief sojourn into the world of artists minds and creativity. Three or our own, Dan O'Brien, Linda Hasslestrom and Paul Horsted will provide us an evening of entertainment, enlightenment and enjoyment all in a stable, non-threatening atmosphere. No politics will be spoken.

We want to you and your family to take a break from the day to day grind, the daily bombardment of political clap trap and enjoy yourselves. Meet the writers, talk to them, have them sign your books or buy new ones. These books will make great gifts for the holidays.

If you have friends who are Republicans, Tea Party members or political agnostics, bring them along, they are most welcome. Republicans and Tea Party members will have to check their placards outside.

Open the attachment to see the poster. Print one out and take it to work or place it in a location where others will see it.

We hope to see you on Nov. 12 at Crazy Horse Memorial Laughing Water Restaurant. There will be appetizers and a cash bar.

See you there,

David

605-673-3958
Cell: 605-440-2442
dmelmer@gwtc.net

Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort. -- FDR

--~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~
The PenDemorandum is a publication of the Pennington County Democratic Party. Please forward it along to your friends! Back issues are posted at http://pendem.org -- click the "Blog" link.

To subscribe, send a message to pendems-subscribe@googlegroups.com
To unsubscribe, send a message to pendems-unsubscribe@googlegroups.com
For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/pendems
-~----------~----~----~----~------~----~------~--~---

Thursday, October 29, 2009

[PenDems (170)] FYI, Custer event

From: Jacqui Gerenz [mailto:jgerenz@yahoo.com]
Sent: Thursday, October 29, 2009 12:40 PM
To: pendems+owner@googlegroups.com
Subject: postponed

Custer County Democrats have postponed our "Evening with the Artists" scheduled for tonight (29th) at Crazy Horse Monument. We will re-schedule and advise.

[PenDems (169)] Open Letter to SD Dems from Judy Olsen Duhamel

October 25, 2009

Dear Friends,

As we draw closer to 2010 I hope you are as excited and as motivated as I am when it comes to furthering the priorities that we as Democrats hold dear. As a party, it’s more critical than ever that we work together on behalf of South Dakota families and businesses.

The fabric of our party is vibrant with passion and energy . . . and there is no shortage of good ideas. Those qualities are what make us strong. Democrats have traditionally been a party that avoids litmus tests and remains open to diverse viewpoints—an approach that yields success. I’m asking that we do just that--------respect diverse points of view,

I’m sorry to address an uncomfortable subject, but I am compelled to write after reading a recent essay by Sam Hurst that you may have seen. As passionate as he is---and we all know that he is passionate and articulate---Sam’s attacks on Congresswoman Herseth Sandlin are unfounded and misplaced. I like Sam and admire his talent, but I must take a moment to express my thoughts about our exceptional Congresswoman---------clearly a rising star on all levels.

Please, let’s not forget what a strong leader, committed advocate, and tireless champion Stephanie Herseth Sandlin has been for us on critical priorities since she arrived in Congress.

* She serves on the Agriculture Committee, where she fought tirelessly to ensure that the new Farm Bill fairly represented the interests of our farmers and ranchers. One of her signature accomplishments in that fight was in achieving a new program to benefit “Beginning Farmers and Ranchers”.
* In her relatively short time in Congress she has already ascended to become the Chairwoman of the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee for Economic Opportunity, where she works to ensure that our male and female veterans have all the benefits they deserve when they return from their service. A key focus for the Congresswoman has been concentrating on the unique needs of female veterans to make sure that the VA reflects the changing demographic of our military. And just this past week she traveled to the White House to join President Obama for a signing ceremony for the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency signing ceremony for the Veterans Health Care Budget Reform and Transparency Act--a critical bill, which is now law, that will help ensure that resources for veterans are not affected by legislative delays in the yearly budget process.
* She also serves on the House Natural Resources Committee which allows her to represent the interests of South Dakota’s nine sovereign Sioux tribes. No one, and I do mean no one questions Stephanie’s commitment and results when it comes to advocating for Indian Country. Whether it’s law enforcement, health care, education or economic development, Stephanie IS a dedicated advocate and partner on these issues.
* Stephanie has been a top leader in the House on establishing energy independence and, in particular, working for a strong new renewable fuels standard that includes aggressive goals for advanced ethanol made from inputs other than corn. As we all know, this not only helps our environment, it helps our economy and our national security as we strive for energy independence. It’s also worth noting that Speaker Nancy Pelosi appointed Stephanie to the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming in order to ensure that rural America has a seat at the table.
* Our Congresswoman is also a strong voice for fiscal responsibility--an issue that all South Dakota Democrats understand. Stephanie has also been a leader in communicating the idea that the deficit didn’t magically appear when President Obama took office-----it resulted from years of wasteful spending under President Bush and the Republican-controlled Congress. But regardless of who caused it, she’s committed to ensuring American’s fiscal security—for your children and grandchildren.
* Just recently, you may have read in the Argus-Leader or the Rapid City Journal about her work to raise awareness about domestic violence. In South Dakota, this is a particularly acute problem in Indian Country. Recently, in Rapid City our Congresswoman braved the cold to hand out purple shawls and in Sioux Falls, she organized and hosted a roundtable for brave victims of domestic violence to tell their stories and provide courage and inspiration to others.

Whether it’s supporting our ag economy, fighting for those who have served our country, representing Indian Country, working for energy independence, guarding our tax dollars, ensuring that women can make decisions about their own health care without government interference, or drawing attention to critical issues like domestic violence, it is clear to me that our Congresswoman is fighting for the issues that matter.

Of course, South Dakota does have a diverse Democratic party, and we aren’t going to agree on every issue. That has always been true regardless of who has represented us in the House or the Senate, and it is true of both political parties. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Particularly on the issue of health care, while many of us may disagree on elements of this bill, it’s important to know that Stephanie is working to ensure that South Dakota gets treated fairly. I’d ask you to consider that fact that her comprehension of the complexity of health care issues is far greater than the understanding most of us have.

Like all Democrats and most South Dakotans, she recognizes that the current system is unsustainable. I have heard her say many times that “We can’t afford not to reform health care”. I know she is committed to serious reform that makes health care more affordable and available for all. She proved that last year when she helped pass a strong reauthorization of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program. And now, she is working productively with House leadership to craft a bill that will not only reform our health care system, but keep health costs down, and improve coverage. You know how deeply she cares and I know how deeply she cares. At a minimum she deserves our respect.

Thank you all for your continued passion, involvement and investment in South Dakota, the state that we love. Please, let’s not forget in the heat of these battles the one fight we have already won---------we have a smart, aggressive, talented and effective rising star in the United States Congress working hard every day for us.

Genuinely,

Judy Olson Duhamel

[PenDems (168)] Pendemorandum 10-29-09

PenDemorandum
Good Morning on this Snowy Thursday!
The Pennington County Democrats had a productive meeting Thursday the 22nd. Jenny Sorenson reported on the Black Hills Pow Wow in Deanna's absence.

Karen Hall gave the wrap up on Oktoberfest.

Two groundbreaking decisions were made Thursday evening. The Pennington County Democrats have voted to increase the membership on the executive board.

The new positions are;
Pennington County Young Democrats
Native American representative.

We are very excited about the additions to the E-Board.

I have attached a letter from Judy Olson Duhamel, past chair of the SD Democratic Party. Judy writes in support of Congresswoman Herseth-Sandlin, outlining some of her many accomplishments. I believe it is important to bring an open mind to the debate and I thank Judy for her comments.

REMINDER:
November 19th, 7 pm
922-1/2 E. St. Patrick

Check out the 'NEW' office and meeting room.
Presentation on city government and volunteer opportunities
Patti Martinson, ward 1 will attend.

Thank you for all you do !
Jeff Nelsen
Chair
Pennington County Democratic Party
605-390-9966 (c)
jeff_n2@msn.com

Monday, October 19, 2009

[PenDems (167)] FW: DRAFT PenDemorandum for Meeting Notice

PenDemorandum

NEW MEETING TIME, NEW MEETING PLACE!

Pennington County Democrats will meet for our regular monthly meeting on Thursday, October 22, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (I.B.E.W.) Building, 922 ½ East Saint Patrick Street, Rapid City. Our county party office is in the building, which is located next to the Labor Temple, and one of the perks of rental is using their large conference room. Please join us for this second meeting in our new location, and note the new time.

WITH APPRECIATION

Thank you to all the volunteers and all the attendees who made Oktoberfest a great event, despite the weather! Please join us at our regular monthly meeting Thursday night to hear about how things went.

TOPICS & DISCUSSION

Free medical Clinic, November 21st.

Update on health care reform.

Independents vote in our primaries !

Precinct men / women selection process

ETC

Join your fellow dems for an informative evening.

Thank you all,

Jeff Nelsen
Chair
Pennington County Democratic Party
605-390-9966 (c)

[PenDems (166)] Custer county Event !

PenDemorandum

An evening with the Artists

appreciating our South Dakota Roots

Thursday, October 29th, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Laughing Water Restaurant at Crazy Horse

Live Music, Appetizers, and Cash Bar

Adults $15 Students $7.50

Tickets available at Moran Law Office or call 673-2841

Tickets also available at the door

(admission to Crazy Horse for this event is waived!)

Sponsored by the Custer County Democrats

Monday, October 12, 2009

SHS Oktoberfest Speech Rebuttal

This an open letter to Rep. Herseth Sandlin from our own Sarge Preston

Dear Congresswoman Herseth Sandlin:

Thank you for coming to the Pennington County Democrats Oktoberfest. It was educational to hear your viewpoints.

What I brought away from your presentation was:

1. The health care lobby, in spending over $600,000 dollars daily on lobbying Congress, has been effective to some degree, though I want to believe it has affected you little.

2. The health insurance efforts against the public insurance option prove that it will work. You quoted the President on several occasions. Remember he also said that, “They (Republicans) say the government cannot run anything. Then why are they afraid of a little competition from the public option?”

3. You failed to make a case for keeping insurance premiums affordable. You indicated that “competition” will keep policies affordable. Not true. So called competition has not worked very well in the past 5 years with 70% plus increase in premiums paid by South Dakotans. You never mentioned price controls, antitrust enforcement, or any other provisions to keep premium costs under control.

4. You know that the insurance industry will get around the “competition” fantasy by merging (which Congress seems to have to stomach to address), colluding on prices, and lobbying Congress to continue to enjoy the profits they desire at the expense of our citizens health and our economy.

5. You seem to not be aware that corruption is occurring in some rural electric coops, which will happen in insurance coops without a public option safety net.

6. Triggers? The Medicare part D plan, which was written by the pharmaceutical industry during the Bush Administration, has a trigger that has never been pulled. This has caused a severe hardship for many of my Medicare patients. Why will a trigger provision written by the insurance industry be any different?

7. You seem to totally dismiss the fact that we have already given up what nearly every other industrialized nation provides for its citizens; health care. Let’s not give this away as gift to the insurance industry. Why with more money to lobby even harder and produce ever more antireform propaganda will there be a time in the future to get this right?

Congresswoman Herseth Sandlin, it time to stand with the Senator Johnson and the leadership of the House, and help produce a bill with a strong public option. The time is NOW!

Robert C. Preston, MD
Member, Pennington County Executive Board
Member, South Dakota State Democratic Central Committee Executive Board

Friday, October 09, 2009

[PenDems (165)] FW: Herseth Sandlin to Attend Oktoberfest!

PenDemorandum

Although her visit will be brief, Congresswoman Stephanie Herseth Sandlin will be stopping by to see us at Oktoberfest on Sunday!

Again, we’ll be INSIDE the Old Governor’s Mansion at 3777 Anderson Road in Rapid Valley, a good thing since snow is now forecast. The planned order of events is as follows:

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.    Food and drink in the lower level of the Mansion
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.    Stephanie arrives and greets people downstairs as they finish lunch
2:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.    Stephanie speaks briefly to the assembled crowd upstairs in the living room
                                   (It’s unlikely that she will take questions because she has to leave by 2:45. If you have concerns, please try to catch her before she speaks.)
2:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.    Introduction of speakers and keynote address by Steve Jarding, eminent campaign manager and political strategist
3:15 p.m. – 3:40 p.m     Remarks by local elected Democrats: Suzan Nolan and Bret Swanson, school board, and Malcom Chapman, city council
3:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.    Porchcrop plays in the lower level

After the speeches, please stop by the items donated for the silent auction and if something strikes your fancy, write down a bid.

The fabulous band, Porchcrop, will set up downstairs while the speakers finish their program, and will start up immediately following the program. Got some dancing shoes?

(NOTE: All proceeds from the event, including admission, will go toward 2010 election efforts. Ticket prices are $20.10 per person, $30 per couple, and $15 per senior or student with ID.)

We hope to see all of you there. It’ll be lots of fun!

Wednesday, October 07, 2009

[PenDems (164)] Map to Nyla's

Sorry group, let's try the map as a jpg insert!

<<...>>

Double click on the jpg, it should open.

Manual directions;
20751 Shirt Tail Gulch Road
Deadwood, SD

Take Boulder Canyon Road to Shirt Tail Gulch RD.

From Sturgis: right hand turn 9 miles west of Sturgis
OR ……...
From Deadwood: left hand turn 1 mile east of the hwy 85 turn off to Spearfish

Nyla's cell number is; 605-381-9717

I hope that clears this up. Thanks for your patience.
Jeff

[PenDems (162)] Pendemorandum

PenDemorandum
FYI; courtesy of Nyla
FUN RAISING PARTY FOR BEN "BJ" NESSELHUF
FREE FOOD! FREE DRINKS! LOTS OF FUN!

Friday October 9th, 6 pm
Nyla and Tom Griffith home - map attached
20751 Shirt Tail Gulch Road, Deadwood, SD
Nyla's cell (in case you get lost) 605-381-9717

Ben "BJ" Nesselhuf is running for South Dakota Secretary of State. Show your support by showing up!
Bring a donation if you like but more importantly bring everyone you know to meet Ben and have a great time.

Campaign donations will be accepted but not required.

Benjamin J. 'BJ, Ben' Nesselhuf is a Democratic member of the South Dakota Senate, representing the 17th district since 2004. Previously he was a member of the South Dakota House of Representatives from 2000 through 2004.

Monday, October 05, 2009

[PenDems (161)] Pendemorandum -- Oktoberfest to Be Held INSIDE This Year!

PenDemorandum

OKTOBERFEST INSIDE THE OLD GOVERNOR’S MANSION on SUNDAY!

Remember how cold you were at last year’s Oktoberfest? During last week’s hearty South Dakota winds, the big tent at the Old Governor’s Mansion, our Oktoberfest venue, was shredded and is no longer usable. Rather than huddle outside on what may be a cold and snowy day, we will celebrate Oktoberfest INSIDE the Mansion this year!

Date: Sunday, October 11, 2009
Time: 1:30 – 5:00 p.m.
Place: INSIDE the Old Governor’s Mansion, 3777 Anderson Road, Rapid Valley

Activities:

· Silent Auction – We have an intriguing array of items for the silent auction this year, donated by local businesses and individuals. (Thanks to all of you!) Bring your checkbooks, bring cash, because there are things you’ll definitely want to bid on!

· 50/50 Ticket Sales -- Buy a chance to share equally in the proceeds by purchasing tickets. Winner drawn at the end of the event!

· Live Music – weather permitting

· Great Food – Burgers and buffalo brats and dogs, homemade salads and desserts, cash bar.

· Great Speakers –

o Steve Jarding, our keynote speaker, is a nationally recognized political operative and strategist. Recently, Jarding has made numerous appearances on MSNBC's Hardball with Chris Matthews and worked as a senior advisor on Jim Webb’s successful campaign defeating Virginia Senator George Allen, which turned the balance of power in the Senate. Jarding’s role in the winning Warner and Webb campaigns show he is the leading political mind for a Democratic southern strategy.

o Local elected Democrats, our own rock stars!

Tickets: $20.10 per person, $30 per couple, $15 seniors and students with ID

All proceeds will go toward 2010 election efforts. We hope to see you there.

Please join us for a rousing, warm, and cordial good time!

[PenDems (160)] Test Message

Only a test message, real information to follow.
Jeff

Friday, October 02, 2009

Shocking I say--no Capitalism in Rapid City

Sorry, no theaters are available within 40 miles of zip code 57701 that are playing the movie "Capitalism: A Love Story" on Friday, Oct. 2.

Please try:

- extending your search range, or
- entering a new zip code, or
- choosing another date.

If after trying different options and your movie still does not appear with showtimes, your movie may not be playing nearby for the options you chose.

Ya think?

Thursday, October 01, 2009

[PenDems (159)] Celebrate!

PenDemorandum

OKTOBERFEST 2009 !!!

It's that time of year when the Pennington County Democrats celebrate being just that – DEMOCRATS!

We're celebrating under the big tent at the Old Governor's Mansion again this year. We'll have great food, fabulous music, and an exceptional keynote speaker, Steve Jarding, author of Foxes in the Henhouse: How the Republicans Stole the South and the Heartland and What the Democrats Must Do to Run 'em Out. Steve is a nationally recognized campaign manager and political strategist, and a former Executive Director of the South Dakota Democratic Party. He managed Jim Webb's winning senatorial campaign as well as Mark Warner's winning gubernatorial campaign, both in Virginia. He gives a rousing speech, and it's one you won't want to miss! We'll also introduce our locally elected Democrats – they're our rock stars here! We've also invited Democrats from Lawrence, Meade, Custer and Fall River Counties to join us, with part of their ticket proceeds going back to their county parties. Let's ALL gear up for 2010 – there is MUCH TO DO!

Here are the details:

WHEN: Sunday, October 11, 2009

1:30 – 5 p.m.

WHERE: Old Governor's Mansion

3777 Andersen Road, Rapid Valley (dress warmly and hope for good weather – we'll be outside under the tent)

TICKETS: $20.10 per person

$30 per couple

$15 seniors and students with ID

KEYNOTE: Steve Jarding

MUSIC: Porchcrop

FOOD: Buffalo burgers and brats, sides and desserts (and a little something for vegetarians, too)

Want to help? Contact Karen Hall at 348-426 or karen_hall350@msn.com.

POWWOW BUFFALO FEED!

The 23^rd annual Black Hills PowWow is coming up next weekend, too. The South Dakota Democratic Party, in conjunction with the PenDems, will host a FREE buffalo feed on Saturday night. We hope that you will all join us there for this cultural celebration with citizens of the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota Nations following an all-day State-Tribal Relations Forum.

Here are the details:

WHEN: Saturday, October 10, 2009

5 – 7 p.m.

WHERE: Rushmore Plaza Civic Center

TICKETS: Free!

If you are interested in volunteering to help with the Buffalo Feed, please contact Deanna Dowlin at 430-5715 or deanna@dowlin.com.

Please join us for these fabulous fall events!

Friday, September 25, 2009

[PenDems (158)] TONIGHT: Abourezk and McGovern rally for Heidepriem at Labor Temple

URGENT

Pendemorandum!

Former Senators Jim Abourezk and George McGovern will be

holding a town hall meeting / fundraiser for the

Scott Heidepriem For Governor campaign!

Rapid City Labor Temple

922 E St Patrick St

Rapid City

TONIGHT

Friday September 25th

7:30 pm

This will be a great event, hosting TWO of our senior statesmen on one stage!

The suggested contribution is $25 per person, but all are welcome--
the most important contribution you can bring is yourself.

PenDems will be starting to set up at six.
If you can come early to help, please do so.

More information: Call Tom Katus, 718-0543

Thursday, September 24, 2009

[PenDems (157)] Reminder Meeting Tonight

PenDemorandum

September Meeting Location:
Pennington County is 'test driving' a new meeting location!
Thursday's meeting is at:
922-1/2 East Saint Patrick Street
The meeting room in the IBEW hall. The blue building in the rear of
the labor temple parking lot.
We are scheduled to start at 6 pm and wrap up our conversation by 7
pm.
Hope to see you there!
Jeff Nelsen
Chair
Pennington County Democratic Party
605-390-9966 (c)
jeff_n2@msn.com

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

[PenDems (155)] PenDemorandum for September 2

PenDemorandum

NEW WEBSITE

Pennington County has now joined Beadle, Brookings,
Custer, Hamlin, Hughes, Stanley, Lawrence and Meade County
Democrats with our very own page on the brand-new
South Dakota Democratic Party website at http://sddp.org

The new site looks great and will allow our counties to
work together better. You should also see our Pendemorandums
(Pendemoranda?) look nicer and bounce less!

Please be patient while we move our calendar and info pages
(http://pendem.org) to new digs!

WITH APPRECIATION

Thank you to all the volunteers who staffed the booth at the
Central States Fair. Once again, we showed the voters of
western South Dakota that we are friendly, reasonable people
who are interested in their concerns.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS!

The office on St. Patrick street needs a fall house cleaning.
We need 2 - 3 people who can donate a morning or afternoon
this week and don't mind getting a little dusty. We will be sorting
and organizing the 'stuff' we need for events, etc.
Contact Karen Hall or Jeff Nelsen at 348-4626 to volunteer.

If your campaign / issue group left material at the CSF booth and
would like it back, please let Jeff Nelsen know and we will get it to you.
The cleaning process will purge any left over material!

Thank you all for your help.

STAND UP FOR HEALTH CARE ON LABOR DAY
Labor Day March and Health Care Rally
Monday, September 7
9:30 am: Line up for the parade
12 noon: Potluck Picnic, Old Storybook Island

Support President Obama's Plans for Change!
- Quality, affordable health care for everyone, including a public option.
- Free choice for employees to organize and join unions.
- Medicare reform that protects seniors and their grandchildren.
More details:
http://penndemocrats.blogspot.com/2009/09/get-it-done-rally.html

BEER AND BRATS
Friday, September 4th - 4:30-7pm
Beer and Brats BBQ, Huron, SD
$20 - General Admission. Discounts apply for student, seniors
and Founder's Club members
LOCATION CHANGE -
It's now at the VFW...Can't miss it right across from
the giant Pheasant on 4th Street

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Pen Dems Annual Oktoberfest will actually be in October this year!
More details to follow, but save the date:
Sunday, October 11, in the afternoon.

COUNTY PARTY OFFICERS TO ATTEND STATE MEETING

The SDDP Central Committee is meeting in Huron this weekend to review
recommended revisions to the state party constitution. According to
State Party Chair Cheryl Chapman, "the changes are designed to make
us more competitive as a nimble, transparent organization, which attracts
volunteers, candidates—and most importantly—voters to our side of the ticket."
The proposed revision package was assembled by an ad-hoc committee
and included participation from PenDems Suzanne Martley,
Sarge Preston and Linda Lea Viken.

[PenDems (156)] PenDems resolve to push for health care reform!

CONGRESS, GET BACK TO WORK!

If you support President Obama's plans for change,

If you want to see quality, affordable health care for everyone,

If you think employees should have a free choice to organize and join unions,

If you believe in Medicare reform that protects seniors and their grandchildren,

If you are ready to join a clean energy economy that creates green jobs,

Then get in line!

Line up at 9:30 a.m., Monday September 7 for a LABOR DAY MARCH.
Parade formation at Third and Main Street, downtown Rapid City.
Picnic following at noon at Old Story Book Island!

We are calling on Congress to "get back to work" after Labor Day,
and begin to deliver on the agenda we voted for nine months ago.

Color this Labor Day March progressive: South Dakotans for
Health Care Solutions is asking doctors to wear their white coats,
nurses to wear their favorite scrubs, union members to wear their
local's shirt, Native Americans to wear the honor of their tribes,
clean energy supporters to wear green, students to wear school colors.

MAKE YOUR CALLS NOW

The last push is on for health care reform.

The Pennington County Democratic Party passed a resolution
at the county party meeting August 27 to support reform, including
a public option. Copies of the resolution have been sent to our
Congressional delegation, with thanks to Sen. Tim Johnson for
supporting reform, an urgent request to Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin
to think about South Dakotans who are without health care options,
and a reminder to Sen. John Thune that some of us don't agree
that the health care system is fine.

Be personal in your message.
Do you have health care insurance? Is it affordable?
Do you have any stories to tell? Are your kids covered?
Do you operate a small business? Don't just repeat talking points,
tell them what it is to be in South Dakota with very few options
to acquire health insurance.

Be sure to thank Senator Johnson for his public support of health care reform.

Here are contact points for our delegation:

The Honorable Stephanie Herseth Sandlin

343 Quincy Street

Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: (605) 394-5280
Fax: (605) 394-5282

In Washington, DC:
331 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
Phone: (202) 225-2801
Fax: (202) 225-5823
Email: http://hersethsandlin.house.gov/contact2.htm

Senator Tim Johnson

405 E. Omaha St., Suite B
Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: (605) 341-3990
Fax: (605) 341-2207

In Washington, DC:
136 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: (202) 224-5842
Fax: (202)228-5765
Email: http://johnson.senate.gov/contact/

Senator John Thune
1313 West Main Street
Rapid City, SD 57701
Phone: (605) 348-7551
In Washington, DC:
493 Russell Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: (202) 224-2321
Fax: (202) 228-5429
TollFree: 1-866-850-3855
Email: http://thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.Email

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

Let's Get It Done Rally

Hello Friends of Health Care Reform:

We need to show Tim, Stephanie and John that we're serious about our support for health insurance reform - including a public option - and it's time to get the job done in Washington! Join us in Huron, Sioux Falls or Rapid City and add your voice to the millions across the country! Help spread the word to your friends and family! Forward this email!! Thanks.

We don't think Congress is moving too fast.

We think it's time for Congress to get the job done!

LET'S GET IT DONE RALLY!

LABOR DAY MARCH
&
HEALTH CARE RALLY

Monday, September 7th

9:30 AM Parade Line Up,
3rd & Main Street, Rapid City

Potluck Picnic at NOON at Old Story Book Island

Support President Obama's Plans for Change!

Quality, affordable health care for everyone, including a public option.
Free choice for employees to organize and join unions.
Medicare reform that protects seniors and their grandchildren.

Doctors: wear your white coats!
Union Members: wear your local's shirt!
Nurses: wear your favorite scrubs!
Women: wear your pink and purple!
Natives: wear the honor of your tribe!
Clean Energy Fans: wear your green!
Students: wear your school colors!
Seniors: wear comfortable shoes!

South Dakotans For Health Care Solutions!

For More Information Contact Jane C. Murphy at jcmurphy "@" wildblue.net

Friday, August 28, 2009

[PenDems (154)] Apologies for date confusion

END OF BUSY WEEK

With apologies to all for date error: both the county party meeting
and the wake for Sen. Kennedy were on THURSDAY evening.
--~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~
The PenDemorandum is a publication of the Pennington County Democratic Party. Please forward it along to your friends! Back issues are posted at http://pendem.org -- click the "Blog" link.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

[PenDems (153)] Pay respects before you come to supper

WALSH HOSTING IRISH WAKE FOR SEN. KENNEDY

Bill Walsh has invited West River Democrats to join in paying their
respects to the life and work of Senator Ted Kennedy, beginning at 5
p.m. Thursday August 28 in the downstairs room at Dublin Square.

Stop in before coming over to the Labor Temple for the August County
Party pot luck, meeting and forum on health care.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

[PenDems (152)] Busy Week Continues

FUND RAISER REMINDER

Don't forget the the event to support Congresswoman Stephanie-Herseth
Sandlin tonight at Bill and Judy
Duhamel's. The event runs from 6pm to 7.30pm this evening. For more
details you may contact Katy Hayes @ 605-332-1901, email
katy@stephanieforsouthdakota.org, Judy Duhamel or Bill Walsh, who is
co-hosting the event.

YOUNG DEMS ENERGY CANVAS SATURDAY

The Black Hills Young Democrats are sponsoring a canvassing shift for
Repower America on Saturday, August 29th at 11:00 am.

Repower South Dakota is organizing canvasses across the state to
encourage members to go door to door in their neighborhoods asking
friends and neighbors to support comprehensive climate and clean
energy legislation this year. The 11:00 am shift will be sponsored by
the Black Hills Young Democrats. Whether you are a young Democrat or
young at heart, join us to push for clean energy legislation. Contact
Michael Pyle, of the Black Hills Young Democrats at 605-254-5302 or
Edie Renner from Repower America: 605-641-7794.

Monday, August 24, 2009

[PenDems (151)] Friday morning Health Care forum in Rapid City!

We don't think Congress is moving too fast.

We think it's time for Congress to get the job done!

Friday, August 28th at 8:30 AM, Surbeck Center Ballroom, SDSM&T, Rapid City

Tell Senator Thune,

We Support President Obama's Plans for Change!

Quality, affordable health care for everyone,

including a public health insurance option.

South Dakota's Congressional Delegation Needs to Hear from YOU!

U.S. Senator Tim Johnson - Toll Free - 1-800-537-0025

U.S. Senator John Thune - Toll Free - 1-866-850-3855

U.S. Representative Stephanie Herseth Sandlin - Toll Free - 1-866-371-8747

South Dakotans For Health Care Solutions!

Friday, August 21, 2009

[PenDems (150)] PENDEMORANDUM FOR AUGUST 21-28

SHOW UP! STAND UP! SIGN UP!

The Central States Fair has grass, straw, dust, tents, food, music and
lots of folks, not much "astroturf."

Democrats from SDDP and West River county parties, Volunteers in
Organizing for America, volunteers from South Dakotans for Health Care
Reform, and organized labor are all at the Fair making a final push
this month to gather grassroots support for President Obama's health
insurance reform policy.

We still need volunteers for some shifts on every day of the Central
States Fair. Don't assume "somebody else will do it." Contact Ritchie
Nordstrom to sign up for a shift <ritch@rushmore.com>.

HEALTHFUL FOOD & HEALTH CARE REFORM ON THURSDAY'S PEN DEMS MENU

Join Pennington County Democrats for a picnic supper and panel
discussion this Thursday. Find out what's really going on with Health
Care Reform from advocates in the midst of the action.

Doctors, nurses, hospital administrators, consumers and activists will
provide information and answer your questions.

Pennington County Dems are hosting a picnic and panel discussion on
health care reform on Thursday, August 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the AFL-
CIO Labor Temple, 922 E. St. Patrick St. We'll provide the chili.
Bring something to share.

REP. HERSETH SANDLIN TO SPEAK AT CHAMBER LUNCH

The Rapid City Area Chamber's Young Professionals Group - Political
Awareness Subcommittee (PAS) is hosting a luncheon with Rep. Stephanie
Herseth Sandlin on Wednesday, Aug. 26. The event will be from11:30
a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn.

The event is open to the public for $20, $15 for YPG Members. Email
rsvp@rapidcitychamber.com or call 343-1744.

SOUTH DAKOTA DEMOCRATS
AT SOUTH DAKOTA STATE FAIR

Join the Party at the State Fair BBQ Fundraiser, Friday, September 4,
2009 4:30 - 7pm at the Izaak Walton Clubhouse (also known as the
Sportsmen's Club) in Huron. Tickets are $20. Founder's Club and
Student Discounts apply. RSVP to erin@sddp.org. The State Central
Committee meets the next day and meetings are open to all members of
the Democratic Party. Find out what's happening.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

[PenDems (149)] PenDemorandum for August 2009

CALL GOVERNOR ROUNDS ON BOGUS APPLES AND ORANGES ARGUMENT

If an apple a day keeps the doctor away, what will keep our GOP
governor from mixing apples and oranges in his bogus arguments against
reforming health care for South Dakotans?

In an interview with the Rapid City Journal,
http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/articles/2009/08/10/news/local/doc4a7f5751dd121262737460.txt,
Rounds tries to argue against health care reform by pointing to
problems with the Indian Health Service.

While no South Dakotans would disagree that Indian Health Care needs
reform, too, trying to stop President Obama's health care policy by
changing the subject is part of the nationwide corporate campaign to
take attention away from the real issues. It is part of the same
script that finances protesters who are aligned with the corporate
lobbyists and insurance companies who are trying to stop reform. These
are the people who got us into this mess to begin with, and South
Dakota's Governor is part of that industry.

August is the critical time. Call or write TODAY to tell Governor
Rounds, Rep. Herseth-Sandlin, Sen. Johnson and Sen. Thune that South
Dakotans want the same cure for our sick health care system as all
Americans—affordability, access, and quality.

Fight back! Click here to email, call or write:

http://www.state.sd.us/governor/
http://hersethsandlin.house.gov/contact.html
http://thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Contact.Email
http://johnson.senate.gov/contact/
http://healthcareforamericanow.org/site/fight

MEET ME AT THE FAIR!

The Pennington County Democratic Party will join forces with other
West River county parties to staff a booth at the Central States Fair
from noon, Friday August 21 to noon on Sunday, Aug. 30. Ritchie
Nordstrom is chairing the effort to recruit staff to tend the booth
from noon to 8 p.m. daily. Ritchie is looking for your ideas to make
the booth attractive, and your time to meet and greet neighbors and
friends. Please sign up for a two-hour shift on any of the days of the
fair, to help set up on the 21st or take down on the 30th. You can
contact Ritchie at ritch@rushmore.com.

HEALTH CARE TOPIC OF AUGUST COUNTY MEETING

Find out what's really going on with Health Care Reform from advocates
in the midst of the action.

Watch this site for more details.

SENATE DEMOCRATIC LEADER BEGINS CAMPAIGN

State Senator Scott Heidepriem of Sioux Falls is running for governor
of South Dakota!

The campaign website will launch soon, but in the meantime, supporters
can join Sen. Heidepriem's Facebook group here:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=122462618768#/group.php?gid=122462618768

This group serves as an official meeting place for all of his
supporters. You can show support for the campaign, offer comments or
ask questions of Scott. All are also encouraged to use this group to
organize community-wide door-to-door campaign events with family and
friends, or any number of other events to celebrate and support
Scott's campaign.

Heidepriem for Governor
431 N. Phillips Ave., Suite 400
Sioux Falls, SD 57104

You can check out news from the South Dakota Democratic Party
Newsletter at http://sddp.org/ or download a copy of the latest
newsletter, Tatanka Blue.