Blog For Arizona

Press Conference/Rally For the Recall of Jan Brewer

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

I have been hesitant to post about the latest effort to recall our Red Queen, Jan Brewer, not because I disagree with the sentiment but because such a massive undertaking has to be led by a strong organization with a proven track record of success and the ability to raise tons of money in short order for what will be a costly effort. Last year's recall effort was not serious because it entirely lacked this capacity.

A recall is also a distraction that takes volunteers and money away from what I see as far more criticial at this juncture: winning legislative seats, a senate seat, congressional seats, and defeating right-wing measures headed for the ballot in November. Randy Parraz at Citizens for a Better Arizona independently came to the same conclusion.

Nothing personal, but Leonard Clark, a Phoenix area activist, is not the person to be leading a recall effort against Jan Brewer. Mr. Clark has a bad habit of filing recalls against politicians with whom he disagrees that never amount to anything but a statement of protest. (He has also filed a recall against U.S. Senator Jon Kyl, who is not subject to recall and is out the door in January 2013).

That being said, last Friday Leonard Clark filed a recall initiative against Governor Jan Brewer, RC-01-2012. The Committee to Recall Jan Brewer will have until June 2, 2012 to collect 432,021 valid signatures to force a recall election. Click here for full text of initiative: PDF.

A Press conference and rally to recall Jan Brewer is scheduled for this Saturday, February 11, at 10:00 a.m. at Wesley Bolin Plaza (state capitol grounds). The Facebook event announcement is below the fold:

Political Calendar: Week of February 5, 2012

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

SPECIAL ELECTION DEADLINES

• Candidate nomination petitions are due Monday, February 27, 2012 by 5:00 p.m.
• Legal challenges to candidate nomination petitions must be filed by Monday, March 5, 2012.
• Early ballot voting begins Monday, April 2, 2012. (15 days)
• Party primaries Primary Day is Tuesday, April 17, 2012.
• Early ballot voting begins Tuesday, May 29 , 2012. (15 days)
• Candidate nomination petitions for the general election are due Wednesday, May 30, 2012 by 5:00 p.m. (prior to the Special Election)
• Normal statutory rules for legal challenges to candidate nomination petitions apply to general election.
• 'Special' Election Day is Tuesday, June 12, 2012.

We Are Listening in 2012! Campaigns are encouraged to submit notices of campaign events to BforAZ at BlogForArizona@gmail.com.

Political Calendar For The Week of February 5, 2012

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Sunday, February 5, 3:00 p.m.: Tanque Verde Valley Democrats meeting, at the Kirk-Bear Canyon Library, 8959 E. Tanque Verde Road (Tucson). Featured speaker is U.S. Senate candidate former U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona. The Club invites our fellow Democrats to join us for this occasion. For more information please contact info@tanqueverdedems.org or visit our website. They promise you will be home in time for kickoff of the Superbowl.

Monday, February 6, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speakers are Pat Fleming, candidate for LD 25 (New LD 14) Senate, and Mohur Sarah Sidhwa, candidate for LD 28 (new LD 9) House. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: David Bradley, candidate for LD 28 (new LD 10) Senate.

Saguaro Eastside Democrats 8th Annual 'I Love Liberty' Party

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

This is the first "must attend" event of the campaign season for candidates running for office in Pima County. This meet & greet is your chance to introduce yourself to Democratic Party activists and donors.

LD 30 Boot Stompin' Red Hot Chili Lovers Cook-Off!

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

  

 You are cordially invited to the AZ LD 30

  

"Boot Stompin' Red Hot 

Chili Lovers Cook-off!"
   

Saturday, February 25^th

12:00 - 2:00 PM

Unitarian Universalist Church of Tucson

4831 E. 22^nd St.

Tucson, AZ 85711

 

Master of Ceremonies:

Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild

 

Celebrity judging panel:

Cheryl Cage, Linda McNulty, Jeff Rogers, John C. Scott

 

 Prices awarded for:

 Best Beef or Pork Chili, Best Turkey or Chicken Chili, Best Vegetarian Chili

 

Ticket Prices - includes chili samples and soft drinks:

Contestant $10

Attendee $20 in advance, $25 at the door

Kids under 12 free admission

 

To purchase tickets contact:

Paul Olson at 520.358.9779 or paul@vantagepointrealty.com

 

To obtain tickets, entry form and contest rules contact:

Jen Prileson at 520.299.2317 or jenprileson@earthlink.net

 

 

Conservationists for Nancy Young Wright

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Former Rep. Nancy Young Wright (D-LD 26) is running for Pima County Board of Supervisors (District 1) this year. Below is an Announcement (.pdf) for a campaign event from her campaign.

Political Calendar: Week of January 29, 2012

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to defeat Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio and to recall Gov. Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona. Randy Parraz will focus on Joe Arpaio in 2012, and consider a recall of Jan Brewer in 2013 when she would be the only question on the ballot.

We Are Listening in 2012! Campaigns are encouraged to submit notices of campaign events to BforAZ at BlogForArizona@gmail.com.

Political Calendar For The Week of January 29, 2012

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson

Monday, January 30, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.: White House Hispanic Community Action Summit, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 East Bilby Road (Tucson). The summit will connect senior Obama Administration officials from diverse policy areas with community leaders, business owners, and other stakeholders to discuss issues critical to the Hispanic community, Tucson, and the nation. Please go to this link to complete information to RSVP for this event. White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson, Arizona.

Monday, January 30, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Pat Fleming, candidate for LD 25 (New LD 14) Senate, and Mohur Sarah Sidhwa, candidate for LD 28 (new LD 9) House.

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Tuesday, January 31, 5:30 p.m.: U..S. Attorney’s First Public Civil Rights Forum for Southern Arizona, at the YWCA of Tucson, 525 N. Bonita Avenue. The YWCA of Tucson and the Southern Arizona Hate Crimes Taskforce would like to invite you to join us as we welcome Acting U.S. Attorney Ann Birmingham Scheel to her first public forum. Doors open at 5:30 pm and the forum will begin at 6 p.m. We encourage the public to attend with their questions for federal prosecutors and federal law enforcement. AUSA Karen Rolley and FBI Special Agent Christopher McKinney will present on how hate crimes are prosecuted using the Shepard-Byrd Act, as well as inform the public on how to report police misconduct and other civil rights abuses. Please invite your family and friends for an educational evening on how to protect your civil rights. For more information please contact Tim Jefferson, Victim Witness Specialist. at timothy.jefferson@usdoj.gov or (520) 620-7461. (h/t Carolyn's Community).

Wednesday, February 1, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at the Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block south of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

Election Deadlines for the Giffords Seat

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

There will be two congressional races overlapping one another for the Giffords seat -- a special election and the general election.

Here are the dates you need to know:

SPECIAL ELECTION

Candidate nomination petitions are due Monday, February 27, 2012 by 5:00 p.m.

Legal challenges to candidate nomination petitions must be filed by Monday, March 5, 2012.

Early ballot voting begins Monday, April 2, 2012. (15 days)

Party primaries Primary Day is Tuesday, April 17, 2012.

Early ballot voting begins Tuesday, May 29 , 2012. (15 days)

'Special' Election Day is Tuesday, June 12, 2012.

Here's where it gets tricky:

GENERAL ELECTION

Candidate nomination petitions are due Wednesday, May 30, 2012 by 5:00 p.m. (prior to the Special Election)

Normal statutory rules for legal challenges to candidate nomination petitions apply.

Early ballot voting begins Thursday, August 2, 2012.

Party primaries Primary Day is Tuesday, August 28, 2012.

Early ballot voting begins October 11, 2012.

'General' Election Day is Tuesday, November 6, 2012.

If House Speaker Any Tobin gets the Tea-Publican legislature to agree to his unconstitutional plan to refer the redistricting maps that he and FAIR Trust operative John Mills put together in secret to a special election, this special election would occur on Tuesday, May 15, 2012, just two weeks prior to the filing deadline for candidate nomination petitions on May 30, 2012. This means that candidates will not know in what district they are running or the contours of their district. I suspect legal challenges and DOJ preclearance will prevent "Tobin's Tyranny" from ever occurring.

Political Calendar: Week of January 22, 2012

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona. You can ask Randy Parraz about the status at Democrats of Greater Tucson on Monday.

We Are Listening in 2012! Campaigns are encouraged to submit notices of campaign events to BforAZ at BlogForArizona@gmail.com.

Political Calendar For The Week of January 22, 2012

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, January 23: 2012 Chinese New Year - Year of the Dragon (black water dragon).

Monday, January 23, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Randy Parraz, President of Citizens for a Better Arizona.Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild.

Monday, January 23, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Tucson downtown library, 101 N. Stone Avenue. For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Tuesday, January 24: State of the Union Address.

Wednesday, January 25: President Obama visits Phoenix, AZ. Details TBA.

Arizona Democratic Progressive Caucus Meet and Greet

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

For Democrats arriving in Tucson on Friday evening for the Arizona Democratic Party State Committee Meeting on Saturday, here is an event you may want to attend:

Progressive Caucus Meet and Greet

Friday Jan. 20^th 6:30 p.m.

Holiday Inn Palo Verde, Tucson Airport

Phil Lopes of Tucson PDA has reserved a space in the bar area for a meet and greet at the ADP host hotel. If you are coming to the ADP State Committee please join us Friday at 6:30 the Holiday Inn Palo Verde Tucson airport.

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There is also a Meet and Greet sponsored by the Veterans and Military Families Caucus on Friday evening, January 20, at the host hotel, Holiday Inn Tucson Airport.  6:00 p.m., munchies, no-host bar, $5.00 suggested donation, everybody welcome!

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual High Desert Dinner

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Please RSVP with menu choice. Menu choices are chicken cannelloni or portabella mushroom & artichoke heart lasagna. Download CafeRoka2012reservationformforFeb272011 (.pdf), or pay by secure web site https://secure.actblue.com/contribute/page/roca Must be received by Monday, February 20.

Political Calendar: Week of January 15, 2012

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona.

We Are Listening in 2012! Campaigns are encouraged to submit notices of campaign events to BforAZ at BlogForArizona@gmail.com.

Political Calendar For The Week of January 15, 2012

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). Our guest this week is Rep. Steve Farley (LD 28) on new bills in the Arizona legislature. An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, January 16: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (observed).

Monday, January 16, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. No DGT today in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Randy Parraz, President of Citizens for a Better Arizona. Following Week: Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild.

Monday, January 16, 6:30 p.m.: Saguaro Eastside Democrats meeting, at the New Spirit Lutheran Church, 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail (northeast corner of Camino Seco). The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. with light refreshments and time for socializing. Former state prosecutor Vince Rabago will speak at 7:00 p.m. about problems surrounding Arizona’s private prisons, followed by questions from the audience. Topic includes Rabago's representation of the American Friends Service Committee challenge to the issuance of contracts for 5,000 new private prison beds in Arizona. All SED meetings are free and open to the public. For more information please contact (520) 850-6755.

Tuesday, January 17, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women of Southeast Arizona meeting, at the Pueblo del Sol Country Club (Sierra Vista). Members and guests are encouraged to attend and the public is invited. The cost for the luncheon is $14.00. For more information please contact Pat Hickey at jopath54@live.com or (520)378-1874 to make reservations.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Pima Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menu Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket purchase. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Tuesday, January 17, 6:30 p.m.: Oracle Democrats meeting, at the Oracle Fire Department, 1475 W. American Avenue (Oracle). For more information please contact Cecile at(480) 983-7853.

Tuesday, January 17, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room) 6265 N. La Canada (Tucson). For more information please contact Brian Clymer at brianclymer@yahoo.com or (520) 297-3599.

Wednesday, January 18, 10:00 a.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, Board Room, 219 E. Cherry (Flagstaff). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Wednesday, January 18, 3:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors, Board Room, 1015 Fair Street (Prescott). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Wednesday, January 18, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 25 meeting, at the Wheeler Taft Abbett, Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drve (Marana). for more information please contact Jeff Lawrence at AZLD25@aol.com.

Wednesday, January 18, 7:00 p.m.: Pinal County Democratic Party meeting, at the Pinal County Democratic Party HQ, 350 N. Main Street (Florence). For more information please contact Joe Robison at pinaldemocrat@gmail.com.

Thursday, January 19, 5:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Nucleus Club meeting, at the Viscount Suite Hotel, 4855 E. Broadway Blvd. Featured speakers are Sen. Olivia Cajero Bedford and Rep. Steve Farley. For more information please contact Martin Bacal at (520) 326-3716.

Thursday, January 19, 6:00 p.m.: Casa Grande Democrats meeting, at Eva's Mexican Restaurant, 2033 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Thursday, January 19, 7:00 p.m.: Heritage Highlands/Dove Mountain Democrats meeting, at the Heritage Highlands Club House, 4949 W. Heritage Club Blvd. (Marana). For more information please contact Sandi Tiffany at stiffany60@mac.com.

Friday January 20, 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.: Move to Amend sponsors "Occupy the Courts Day" on the second anniversary of Citizens United, to foster petitioning to amend the U.S. Constitution to state that “corporations are not people and money is not speech.” We plan to create a peaceful presence in front of the Evo. A DeConcini U.S. District Courthouse, 405 W. Congress Street (starting location) and the James A. Walsh U.S. Bankruptcy Courthouse, 38 South Scott Avenue (Tucson). Some of us will march the 1/2 mile in between the two Courts for greater visibility. We will carry poignant but respectful signs and some of us will even sing to gain attention and stimulate interaction and enthusiasm. Although some people will be asked to commit to working a 2-hour shift, we will accept any amount of time at the event. For more information please contact ddvoskin@cox.net or (520) 343-9367.

Friday, January 20, 2:15 p.m.: UPDATED Democratic Women in Action meeting, at Joyner Green Valley Library, 601 N. La Canada Drive (Green Valley). Featured speaker is Micheal (Mickey) Duniho, a member of the pima County Election Integrity Commission. he brings a wealth of experience to the Commission, including serving at the Election Inspector level for 11 years in Maryland. he was a cryptanalylist for the CIA and a consultant for the FBI, NSA and DOJ in a number of areas dealing with computer systems. For more information please contact Laurie Cirrincione at crinkster5@msn.com or (520) 625-3133.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Tucson, AZ

Saturday, January 21, 9:00 a.m.: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, at Desert View High School, 4101 E. Valencia Road (Tucson). For more information go to Arizona Democratic Party: State Committee. Vice chair and Democratic National Committee Member elections. Meet & Greet with candidates. Following state committee meeting is a fundraiser for Building Arizona's Future, a political committee created by Democratic leadership in the Arizona Legislature to support our candidates. Drop by from 5-7:00 p.m. at Renee Morton's house, 526 S. Stone Avenue (Tucson) and meet House Minority Leader Chad Campbell and Rep. Steve Farley. Please RSVP to Devin Rankin, devin@rankinconsultingllc.com or (602) 770-3077. Mail checks to: 216 W. Turney Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85013. Please make checks payable to: Building Arizona’s Future. You can also contribute online at https://secure.actblue.com/contribute/page/baf2.

Saturday, January 21, 2:30 p.m.: Democratic Club of Quail Creek meeting, at the Madera Clubhouse (Silver Room). Featured speaker is Andrea Witt from Connect the Dots USA on "Budgets, Deficits and Debt, Oh My!" Followed by annual election of officers and a potluck social at the home of Frank and Marianne Cobarrubias. RSVP for potluck to: MscArbonne@yahoo.com or (520) 664-4588. For more information about the Democratic Club of Quail Creek go to our web site at www.dcqc.org/.

Saturday, January 21: South Carolina Primary.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Monday, January 23: 2012 Chinese New Year - Year of the Dragon (black water dragon).

Monday, January 23, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Tucson downtown library, 101 N. Stone Avenue. For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Tuesday, January 24: State of the Union Address.

Wednesday January 25, 6:00 p.m.: Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Southern Arizona Candidate Academy, four sessions thru Wednesday, February 15. Open to the public. The Southern Arizona Candidate Academy is for those interested in running for elected office or working on a campaign. Non Partisan. Endorsed by the Pima County Democrat and Pima County Republican Parties. The cost for the four sessions is $99. For more information please contact Lea Marquez Peterson or call (520) 620-0005. For more information, click here.

Foothills Democratic Forum

Thursday, January 26, 5:30 p.m.: The Foothills Democratic Forum, at the Skyline Country Club, 5200 East St. Andrews Drive (Tucson). The topic is: Getting Ahead or Losing Ground: Are Your Children Downwardly Mobile? Is America still the land of opportunity it once was? What does the future hold for the next generation? Even if your family is doing well—even if you are one of “the 1%” — your children and your children’s children are facing rapidly narrowing opportunities to sustain their bright future. Whether your chief concern is for yourself, your descendants, or your community, you are invited to attend. During this discussion you will:

• Learn how and why social mobility has stalled or turned down-ward for so many in America.

• Learn why a vibrant middle class is the engine of our country’s economy—and why its disappearance threatens all Americans, regardless of income level.

• Discuss and explore specific actions you can take to expand the opportunities for your children, your grandchildren, and our community.

Cost is $15.00 per person including cash bar and hot Hors d’oeuvres. Register to attend https://sites.google.com/site/foothillsdemocraticforum/. For more information please contact (520) 505-1847.

Pima County Democratic Party Conference, Tucson - POSTPONED

Saturday, January 28, 9:00 a.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Conference, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 E. Bilby Road (Tucson). Workshops, trainings, guest speakers and Labor 101 presented by UFCW.

Saturday, January 28, 10:00 a.m.: Northern Cochise County Democrats meeting, at the TA Truck Center in Wilcox. For more information please contact Marv Sorensen at msorensen8@cox.net or (520) 586-0786, Lisa Glenn at llglenn@vtc.net or (520) 384-2658, or Kathleen Day-Cain at (520) 824-3482.

White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson

Monday, January 30, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.: White House Hispanic Community Action Summit, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 East Bilby Road (Tucson). The summit will connect senior Obama Administration officials from diverse policy areas with community leaders, business owners, and other stakeholders to discuss issues critical to the Hispanic community, Tucson, and the nation. Please go to this link to complete information to RSVP for this event. White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson, Arizona.

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Saturday, February 4: Nevada Caucus. Maine Caucus Feb. 4-11.

Tuesday, February 7: Colorado Caucus. Minnesota Caucus. Missouri Primary.

Wednesday, February 8, 2:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Arizona Capitol, Secretary of State, 7th Floor Conference Room, 1700 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Saguaro Eastside Democrats 8th Annual 'I Love Liberty' Party

Saturday, February 11, 2:00 p.m.: The Saguaro Eastside Democrats host their 8th Annual 'I Love Liberty' Party, at the home of Bob & Shelley Schwartz, 3455 N. Winslow (4 blocks West of Sabino Canyon Road, One block North of Cloud Road). This has become the traditional meet and greet event for candidates seeking office in Pima County. Meet the candidates and socialize with your fellow Democrats. Please bring an appetizer or dessert with your own serving utensils. Wine, beer and soft drinks are provided by SED. Please RSVP to Steve Gall to let him know what you will be bringing at stevejgall@hotmail.com or (520) 777-3000.

Tuesday, February 14: Arizona Statehood Centennial - 100 today!

Arizona Advocacy Network Dinner with Sen. Bernie Sanders - Save the Date!

Thursday, February 23, 5:30 p.m.: Arizona Advocacy Network Dinner with Sen. Bernie Sanders, at the Wyndham Downtown Phoenix Hotel, 50 E. Adams Street (Phoenix). You can rsvp a table of 10 now to fill with your friends. Ticket and table prices will be announced after January 1st. Save some holiday cash so you can join us for an event that will help change the direction of Arizona for our next 100 years!

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual High Desert Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27, 5:45 p.m.: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual High Desert Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca, 35 Main Street (Bisbee). Cash bar at 5:45 p.m., Dinner at 6:30 p.m., brief comments by candidates at 7:00 p.m. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $75 each, additional contibution amount greatly appreciated. Seating is limited - please RSVP with menu choice. Menu choices are chicken cannelloni or portabella mushroom & artichoke heart lasagna. Download CafeRoka2012reservationformforFeb272011 (.pdf), or pay by secure web site https://secure.actblue.com/contribute/page/roca Must be received by Monday, February 20.

Tuesday, February 28: Arizona Primary. Michigan Primary.

Saturday, March 3: Washington Caucus.

Tuesday, March 6: "Super Tuesday": Alaska (caucus), Georgia (primary), Idaho (caucus), Massachusetts (primary), North Dakota (caucus), Ohio (primary), Oklahoma (primary), Tennessee (primary), Vermont (primary), Virginia (primary), Wyoming (caucus, March 6-10).

Wednesday, March 7, 2:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Arizona Capitol, Secretary of State, 7th Floor Conference Room, 1700 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

1st Annual Morris and Stewart Udall Dinner - Save the Date!

Sunday, March 16, 6:00 p.m.: The Pima County Democratic Party hosts the 1st Annual Morris and Stewart Udall Dinner, featuring Keynote Speaker U.S. Sen. Mark Udall (D-CO). $75 general admission, $65 for precinct committeepersons. Details TBA.

Arizona Democratic Party Presidential Nomination Caucuses - Save the Dates!

Saturday, March 31: All registered Democrats in Arizona may participate in Arizona's Presidential Nomination Caucuses which will be held in each congressional district. Arizona is allocated a total of 79 delegates and 6 alternates for the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. during the week of Sept. 3. Delegates are responsible for all costs incurred during their travel and stay at the convention. The Arizona Democratic Party will release the list of all caucus locations on or before Feb. 17.

Those interested in running for delegate to the national convention must contact the Arizona Democratic Party and file a statement of candidacy by March 1 to be considered eligible for selection at the March 31 district-level caucuses. A total of 46 delegates will be selected by Democratic precinct committee persons at the caucuses.

Those interested in running for delegate to the National Convention but unable to attend the March 31 district-level caucuses will have one additional opportunity to be selected: the Democratic State Convention on April 21. Interested parties must file a statement of candidacy by March 21 in order to be considered eligible for selection at the April 21 Democratic State Convention. A total of 15 delegates and 6 alternates will be selected by Democratic state committee members at the Democratic State Convention on April 21.

For more information about Presidential Nomination Caucuses, the 2012 Democratic National Convention or Delegate Selection, please call (602) 298-4200.

White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Announcement from the White House White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson, Arizona:

On Monday, January 30, 2012 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., please join us at the White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson, Arizona.

The summit will connect senior Obama Administration officials from diverse policy areas with community  leaders, business owners, and other stakeholders to discuss issues critical to the Hispanic community, Tucson, and the nation.

Event information
Date: Monday, January 30, 2012
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Address: Sunnyside High School, 1725 East Bilby Road, Tucson, AZ 85706

Go to link to fill out information to RSVP for the event White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson, Arizona.

Political Calendar: Week of January 8, 2012

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona. An announcement regarding the status of the recall is expected by January 9.

We Are Listening in 2012! Campaigns are encouraged to submit notices of campaign events to BforAZ at BlogForArizona@gmail.com.

Political Calendar For The Week of January 8, 2012

Sunday, January 8: Remembering January 8th, "Honoring the Spirit of Tucson." A series of day long events includes a community-wide ringing of bells at 10:11 a.m., an Interfaith Service "We Remember, We Celebrate, We Believe" at St. Augustine Cathedral, reflections honoring the lives of the victims featuring Sen. Mark Udall at the University of Arizona Centennial Hall, and a candlelight vigil at the University of Arizona Mall. For more information please contact Daniel J. Benavidez at info@rememberingjanuary8.org or (520) 331-4989.

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, January 9: Opening day of Arizona Legislature. Join Arizona List, Arizona Women’s Political Caucus, Business and Professional Women of Arizona, National Council of Jewish Women, NARAL Pro-Choice Arizona, National Organization for Women and Planned Parenthood Arizona at the opening day of the Arizona Legislature as women, men and families from across Arizona gather at the Capitol to remind our legislators… women are watching, educating their friends, sharing, taking action, and WE WILL BE VOTING. Show your legislators that Women are Watching! Immediately after the rally, join us at Oaxaca Restaurante for a no-host lunch! 1516 W. Van Buren, Phoenix 12:45p.m. Please RSVP to Bridget Sharpe (602) 263-4240 or bsharpe@ppaz.org.

Monday, January 9, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Denise Early - Everything You Want to Know About Medicare. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: TBA.

Monday, January 9, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. For more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

Monday, January 9, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Public Library (located at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive - Oro Valley). Featured speaker is Elna Otter Ph.D. Elna represents The Climate Reality Project, www.climaterealityproject.org, founded and chaired by Al Gore. Her topic will be “An Inconvenient Update on Climate Change.” Elna currently serves on the state executive committee of the Sierra Club. Come early at 6:45 and enjoy socializing before the meeting. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

Tuesday, January 10: New Hampshire Primary.

Tuesday, January 10, 2:00 p.m./5:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Arizona Capitol, Executive Tower, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 1700 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Saturday, January 14, 10:00 a.m.: Legislative District 30 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Marilee Malmberg at azld30dems@gmail.com or (520) 301-5246.

Saturday, January 14, 10:00 a.m.: Mule Mountain Democrat Club meeting, at the Bisbee Senior Center on Collins Road (behind the Safeway and off Naco Road). For more information please contact John Viverto at Vivertos@aol.com or (520) 432-2366.

Saturday, January 14, 11:00 a.m.: Legislative District 29 Town Hall, at Quincie Douglas Library, 1585 E. 36th Street (Tucson). Rep. Daniel Patterson invites the public to this town hall to hear from Tucsonans and to listen to what matters to them in the 2012 legislative session. "I want to hear from you and listen to your ideas on how we can make our quality of life better for Arizona families. Please join me.”

Saturday, January 14, 12:30 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area meeting, at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Featured speaker is Andrea Witt from Connect the Dots for Democracy on "Dude, where's my job?" For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or (520) 838-o590.

Saturday, January 14, 3:00 p.m.: Saddlebrooke Democrats meeting, at the Saddlebrooke Club House. For more information please contact Holly Lyon at pinaldemocrat@gmail.com or (703) 989-0764.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Monday, January 16: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (observed).

Monday, January 16, 6:30 p.m.: Saguaro Eastside Democrats meeting, at the New Spirit Lutheran Church, 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail (northeast corner of Camino Seco). The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. with light refreshments and time for socializing. Former state prosecutor Vince Rabago will speak at 7:00 p.m. about problems surrounding Arizona’s private prisons, followed by questions from the audience. Topic includes Rabago's representation of the American Friends Service Committee challenge to the issuance of contracts for 5,000 new private prison beds in Arizona. All SED meetings are free and open to the public. For more information please contact (520) 850-6755.

Tuesday, January 17, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women of Southeast Arizona meeting, at the Pueblo del Sol Country Club (Sierra Vista). Members and guests are encouraged to attend and the public is invited. The cost for the luncheon is $14.00. For more information please contact Pat Hickey at jopath54@live.com or (520)378-1874 to make reservations.

Tuesday, January 17, 6:30 p.m.: Oracle Democrats meeting, at the Oracle Fire Department, 1475 W. American Avenue (Oracle). For more information please contact Cecile at(480) 983-7853.

Tuesday, January 17, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room) 6265 N. La Canada (Tucson). For more information please contact Brian Clymer at brianclymer@yahoo.com or (520) 297-3599.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Pima Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menu Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket purchase. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Wednesday, January 18, 10:00 a.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, Board Room, 219 E. Cherry (Flagstaff). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Wednesday, January 18, 3:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors, Board Room, 1015 Fair Street (Prescott). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Wednesday, January 18, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 25 meeting, at the Wheeler Taft Abbett, Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drve (Marana). for more information please contact Jeff Lawrence at AZLD25@aol.com.

Wednesday, January 18, 7:00 p.m.: Pinal County Democratic Party meeting, at the Pinal County Democratic Party HQ, 350 N. Main Street (Florence). For more information please contact Joe Robison at pinaldemocrat@gmail.com.

Thursday, January 19, 5:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Nucleus Club meeting, at the Viscount Suite Hotel, 4855 E. Broadway Blvd. Featured speakers are Sen. Olivia Cajero Bedford and Rep. Steve Farley. For more information please contact Martin Bacal at (520) 326-3716.

Thursday, January 19, 6:00 p.m.: Casa Grande Democrats meeting, at Eva's Mexican Restaurant, 2033 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Thursday, January 19, 7:00 p.m.: Heritage Highlands/Dove Mountain Democrats meeting, at the Heritage Highlands Club House, 4949 W. Heritage Club Blvd. (Marana). For more information please contact Sandi Tiffany at stiffany60@mac.com.

Friday, January 20, 12:30 p.m.: Democratic Women in Action meeting, at Friends in Deed, 301 W. Camino Casa Verde (Green Valley). For more information please contact Laurie Cirrincione at crinkster5@msn.com or (520) 625-3133.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Tucson, AZ

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, at Desert View High School, 4101 E. Valencia Road (Tucson). For more information go to Arizona Democratic Party: State Committee. Must attend for victory in 2012!

Saturday, January 21, 2:30 p.m.: Democratic Club of Quail Creek meeting, at the Madera Clubhouse (Silver Room). Featured speaker is Andrea Witt from  Connect the Dots USA on "Budgets, Deficits and Debt, Oh My!" Followed by annual election of officers and a potluck social at the home of Frank and Marianne Cobarrubias. RSVP for potluck to: MscArbonne@yahoo.com or (520) 664-4588. For more information about the Democratic Club of Quail Creek go to our web site at www.dcqc.org/.

Saturday, January 21: South Carolina Primary.

Monday, January 23: 2012 Chinese New Year - Year of the Dragon (black water dragon).

Monday, January 23, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Tucson downtown library, 101 N. Stone Avenue. For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Wednesday January 25, 6:00 p.m.: Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Southern Arizona Candidate Academy, four sessions thru Wednesday, February 15. Open to the public. The Southern Arizona Candidate Academy is for those interested in running for elected office or working on a campaign. Non Partisan. Endorsed by the Pima County Democrat and Pima County Republican Parties. The cost for the four sessions is $99. For more information please contact Lea Marquez Peterson or call (520) 620-0005. For more information, click here.

Foothills Democratic Forum

Thursday, January 26, 5:30 p.m.: The Foothills Democratic Forum, at the Skyline Country Club, 5200 East St. Andrews Drive (Tucson). The topic is: Getting Ahead or Losing Ground: Are Your Children Downwardly Mobile? Is America still the land of opportunity it once was? What does the future hold for the next generation? Even if your family is doing well—even if you are one of “the 1%” — your children and your children’s children are facing rapidly narrowing opportunities to sustain their bright future. Whether your chief concern is for yourself, your descendants, or your community, you are invited to attend. During this discussion you will:

• Learn how and why social mobility has stalled or turned down-ward for so many in America.

• Learn why a vibrant middle class is the engine of our country’s economy—and why its disappearance threatens all Americans, regardless of income level.

• Discuss and explore specific actions you can take to expand the opportunities for your children, your grandchildren, and our community.

Cost is $15.00 per person including cash bar and hot Hors d’oeuvres. Register to attend https://sites.google.com/site/foothillsdemocraticforum/. For more information please contact (520) 505-1847.

Pima County Democratic Party Conference, Tucson AZ

Saturday, January 28, 9:00 a.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Conference, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 E. Bilby Road (Tucson). Workshops, trainings, guest speakers and Labor 101 presented by UFCW. Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28, 10:00 a.m.: Northern Cochise County Democrats meeting, at the TA Truck Center in Wilcox. For more information please contact Marv Sorensen at msorensen8@cox.net or (520) 586-0786, Lisa Glenn at llglenn@vtc.net or (520) 384-2658, or Kathleen Day-Cain at (520) 824-3482.

White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson

Monday, January 30, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.: White House Hispanic Community Action Summit, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 East Bilby Road (Tucson). The summit will connect senior Obama Administration officials from diverse policy areas with community leaders, business owners, and other stakeholders to discuss issues critical to the Hispanic community, Tucson, and the nation. Please go to this link to complete information to RSVP for this event. White House Hispanic Community Action Summit in Tucson, Arizona.

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Saturday, February 4: Nevada Caucus. Maine Caucus Feb. 4-11.

Tuesday, February 7: Colorado Caucus. Minnesota Caucus. Missouri Primary.

Wednesday, February 8, 2:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Arizona Capitol, Secretary of State, 7th Floor Conference Room, 1700 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Saguaro Eastside Democrats 8th Annual 'I Love Liberty' Party

Saturday, February 11, 2:00 p.m.: The Saguaro Eastside Democrats host their 8th Annual 'I Love Liberty' Party, at the home of Bob & Shelley Schwartz, 3455 N. Winslow (4 blocks West of Sabino Canyon Road, One block North of Cloud Road). This has become the traditional meet and greet event for candidates seeking office in Pima County. Meet the candidates and socialize with your fellow Democrats. Please bring an appetizer or dessert with your own serving utensils. Wine, beer and soft drinks are provided by SED. Please RSVP to Steve Gall to let him know what you will be bringing at stevejgall@hotmail.com or (520) 777-3000.

Tuesday, February 14: Arizona Statehood Centennial - 100 today!

Arizona Advocacy Network Dinner with Sen. Bernie Sanders - Save the Date!

Thursday, February 23, 5:30 p.m.: Arizona Advocacy Network Dinner with Sen. Bernie Sanders, at the Wyndham Downtown Phoenix Hotel, 50 E. Adams Street (Phoenix). You can rsvp a table of 10 now to fill with your friends. Ticket and table prices will be announced after January 1st. Save some holiday cash so you can join us for an event that will help change the direction of Arizona for our next 100 years!

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca in Bisbee. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Tuesday, February 28: Arizona Primary. Michigan Primary.

Saturday, March 3: Washington Caucus.

Tuesday, March 6: "Super Tuesday": Alaska (caucus), Georgia (primary), Idaho (caucus), Massachusetts (primary), North Dakota (caucus), Ohio (primary), Oklahoma (primary), Tennessee (primary), Vermont (primary), Virginia (primary), Wyoming (caucus, March 6-10).

Wednesday, March 7, 2:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Arizona Capitol, Secretary of State, 7th Floor Conference Room, 1700 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Arizona Democratic Party Presidential Nomination Caucuses - Save the Dates!

Saturday, March 31: All registered Democrats in Arizona may participate in Arizona's Presidential Nomination Caucuses which will be held in each congressional district. Arizona is allocated a total of 79 delegates and 6 alternates for the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. during the week of Sept. 3. Delegates are responsible for all costs incurred during their travel and stay at the convention. The Arizona Democratic Party will release the list of all caucus locations on or before Feb. 17.

Those interested in running for delegate to the national convention must contact the Arizona Democratic Party and file a statement of candidacy by March 1 to be considered eligible for selection at the March 31 district-level caucuses. A total of 46 delegates will be selected by Democratic precinct committee persons at the caucuses.

Those interested in running for delegate to the National Convention but unable to attend the March 31 district-level caucuses will have one additional opportunity to be selected: the Democratic State Convention on April 21. Interested parties must file a statement of candidacy by March 21 in order to be considered eligible for selection at the April 21 Democratic State Convention. A total of 15 delegates and 6 alternates will be selected by Democratic state committee members at the Democratic State Convention on April 21.

For more information about Presidential Nomination Caucuses, the 2012 Democratic National Convention or Delegate Selection, please call (602) 298-4200.

AIRC Update: Hearing Schedule

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Theeeey're back! And these may be the last public hearings before the Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission votes to approve the final "final maps" for congressional and legislative districts after receiving a voting rights analysis and sending the maps off to the Department of Justice Voting Rights Section for Voting Rights Act preclearance.

The AIRC will receive a report regarding voting rights analysis of proposed legislative and congressional districts, followed by discussion, direction to mapping consultant and possible action regarding adjustments to the approved Final Tentative Legislative Districts Map to address technical or legal issues; and discussion, direction to mapping consultant and possible action regarding adjustments to the approved Tentative Final Congressional Districts Map to address technical or legal issues.

There will be a discussion and possible action regarding renumbering the Congressional and/or Legislative districts, and discussion and possible action to adopt and certify final Legislative and/or Congressional districts.

As always, there will be a call to the audience for public testimony.

Location:

Fiesta Inn (Fiesta Ballroom I – Conference Center)
2100 South Priest Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282

Dates and Times:

Monday, January 9, 2012 – 9:30 A.M.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012 – 4:30 P.M.

Agenda

Political Calendar: Week of January 1, 2012

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona. An announcement regarding the status of the recall is expected by January 9.

We Are Listening in 2012! Campaigns are encouraged to submit notices of campaign events to BforAZ at BlogForArizona@gmail.com.

Happy New Year!

Political Calendar For The Week of January 1, 2012

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, January 2, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. NO DGT on 1/2/12. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Dennis Denise Early - Everything You Want to Know About Medicare.

Tuesday, January 3: Iowa Caucus.

Tuesday, January 3, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democrats meeting, at the Cochise County Democratic Party HQ, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at maggzilla2u@yahoo.com or (520) 417-1533.

Tuesday, January 3, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Wednesday, January 4, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Featured speaker is former U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona, candidate for U.S. Senate. For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

Thursday, January 5, 2:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Pima County Elections Center, 6550 S. Country Club Road (Tucson). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Friday, January 6, 3:00 p.m.: Special Court Session to Honor The Memory of Chief Judge John M. Roll, at the Tucson Music Hall in the Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Avenue (Tucson). Judges of the United States District Court, District of Arizona, will convene in a special session to celebrate the memory of the late Honorable Chief Judge John M. Roll. Seating begins at 2:30 p.m. Attendees should plan to arrive early to process through security and be seated by 3:00 p.m. Attendees will need government-issued identification to be permitted entry. Backpacks and briefcases are not permitted. Purses and handbags are subject to search. The special session will run approximately one hour. A reception will be held at the Tucson Music Hall immediately following the special session. Please join the court family in honoring his memory.

BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit

Saturday, January 7: BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - for a community-wide event to commemorate and celebrate loved ones injured and lost on January 8th, 2011, at sites all over Pima County. We will move beyond the tragedy and commit to a better future with events that are safe, fun, inclusive and active across Southern Arizona. We will walk, hike, run, ride, stroll and come together to remember what happened, acknowledge how it changed us, and celebrate our community. Stay tuned for more details. Visit www.beyond-tucson.org or the group's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/beyond.tucson for updates. for more information please contact info@beyond-tucson.org. See post Beyond: Commemorate, Celebrate, Commit.

Remembering January 8th, "Honoring the Spirit of Tucson"

Sunday, January 8: Remembering January 8th, "Honoring the Spirit of Tucson." A series of day long events includes a community-wide ringing of bells at 10:11 a.m., an Interfaith Service "We Remember, We Celebrate, We Believe" at St. Augustine Cathedral, reflections honoring the lives of the victims featuring Sen. Mark Udall at the University of Arizona Centennial Hall, and a candlelight vigil at the University of Arizona Mall. For more information please contact Daniel J. Benavidez at info@rememberingjanuary8.org or (520) 331-4989. See post Community Events Remembering January 8th.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Monday, January 9: Opening day of Arizona Legislature. Join Arizona List, Arizona Women’s Political Caucus, Business and Professional Women of Arizona, National Council of Jewish Women, NARAL Pro-Choice Arizona, National Organization for Women and Planned Parenthood Arizona at the opening day of the Arizona Legislature as women, men and families from across Arizona gather at the Capitol to remind our legislators… women are watching, educating their friends, sharing, taking action, and WE WILL BE VOTING. Show your legislators that Women are Watching! Immediately after the rally, join us at Oaxaca Restaurante for a no-host lunch! 1516 W. Van Buren, Phoenix 12:45p.m. Please RSVP to Bridget Sharpe (602) 263-4240 or bsharpe@ppaz.org.

Monday, January 9, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. For more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

Monday, January 9, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Public Library (located at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive - Oro Valley). Featured speaker is Elna Otter Ph.D. Elna represents The Climate Reality Project, www.climaterealityproject.org, founded and chaired by Al Gore. Her topic will be “An Inconvenient Update on Climate Change.” Elna currently serves on the state executive committee of the Sierra Club. Come early at 6:45 and enjoy socializing before the meeting. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

Tuesday, January 10: New Hampshire Primary.

Tuesday, January 10, 2:00 p.m./5:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Arizona Capitol, Executive Tower, 2nd Floor Confrence Room, 1700 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Saturday, January 14, 10:00 a.m.: Legislative District 30 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Marilee Malmberg at azld30dems@gmail.com or (520) 301-5246.

Saturday, January 14, 10:00 a.m.: Mule Mountain Democrat Club meeting, at the Bisbee Senior Center on Collins Road (behind the Safeway and off Naco Road). For more information please contact John Viverto at Vivertos@aol.com or (520) 432-2366.

Saturday, January 14, 11:00 a.m.: Legislative District 29 Town Hall, at Quincie Douglas Library, 1585 E. 36th Street (Tucson). Rep. Daniel Patterson invites the public to this town hall to hear from Tucsonans and to listen to what matters to them in the 2012 legislative session. "I want to hear from you and listen to your ideas on how we can make our quality of life better for Arizona families. Please join me.”

Monday, January 16: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (observed).

Monday, January 16, 6:30 p.m.: Saguaro Eastside Democrats meeting, at the New Spirit Lutheran Church, 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail (northeast corner of Camino Seco). The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. with light refreshments and time for socializing. Former state prosecutor Vince Rabago will speak at 7:00 p.m. about problems surrounding Arizona’s private prisons, followed by questions from the audience. Topic includes Rabago's representation of the American Friends Service Committee challenge to the issuance of contracts for 5,000 new private prison beds in Arizona. All SED meetings are free and open to the public. For more information please contact (520) 850-6755.

Tuesday, January 17, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women of Southeast Arizona meeting, at the Pueblo del Sol Country Club (Sierra Vista). Members and guests are encouraged to attend and the public is invited. The cost for the luncheon is $14.00. For more information please contact Pat Hickey at jopath54@live.com or (520)378-1874 to make reservations.

Tuesday, January 17, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room) 6265 N. La Canada (Tucson). For more information please contact Brian Clymer at brianclymer@yahoo.com or (520) 297-3599.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Pima Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menu Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket purchase. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Wednesday, January 18, 10:00 a.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, Board Room, 219 E. Cherry (Flagstaff). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Wednesday, January 18, 3:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors, Board Room, 1015 Fair Street (Prescott). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Wednesday, January 18, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 25 meeting, at the Wheeler Taft Abbett, Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drve (Marana). for more information please contact Jeff Lawrence at AZLD25@aol.com.

Thursday, January 19, 5:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Nucleus Club meeting, at the Viscount Suite Hotel, 4855 E. Broadway Blvd. Featured guest TBA. For more information please contact Martin Bacal at (520) 326-3716.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Tucson, AZ - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, at Desert View High School, 4101 E. Valencia Road (Tucson). For more information go to Arizona Democratic Party: State Committee. Must attend for victory in 2012!

Saturday, January 21: South Carolina Primary.

Monday, January 23: 2012 Chinese New Year - Year of the Dragon (black water dragon).

Monday, January 23, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Tucson downtown library, 101 N. Stone Avenue. For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Foothills Democratic Forum

Thursday, January 26, 5:30 p.m.: The Foothills Democratic Forum, at the Skyline Country Club, 5200 East St. Andrews Drive (Tucson). The topic is: Getting Ahead or Losing Ground: Are Your Children Downwardly Mobile? Is America still the land of opportunity it once was? What does the future hold for the next generation? Even if your family is doing well—even if you are one of “the 1%” — your children and your children’s children are facing rapidly narrowing opportunities to sustain their bright future. Whether your chief concern is for yourself, your descendants, or your community, you are invited to attend. During this discussion you will:

• Learn how and why social mobility has stalled or turned down-ward for so many in America.

• Learn why a vibrant middle class is the engine of our country’s economy—and why its disappearance threatens all Americans, regardless of income level.

• Discuss and explore specific actions you can take to expand the opportunities for your children, your grandchildren, and our community.

Cost is $15.00 per person including cash bar and hot Hors d’oeuvres. Register to attend https://sites.google.com/site/foothillsdemocraticforum/. For more information please contact (520) 505-1847.

Pima County Democratic Party Conference, Tucson AZ- Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28, 9:00 a.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Conference, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 E. Bilby Road (Tucson). Workshops, trainings, guest speakers and Labor 101 presented by UFCW. Save the Date!

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Saturday, February 4: Nevada Caucus. Maine Caucus Feb. 4-11.

Tuesday, February 7: Colorado Caucus. Minnesota Caucus. Missouri Primary.

Wednesday, February 8, 2:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Arizona Capitol, Secretary of State, 7th Floor Confrence Room, 1700 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Saguaro Eastside Democrats 8th Annual 'I Love Liberty' Party

Saturday, February 11, 2:00 p.m.: The Saguaro Eastside Democrats host their 8th Annual 'I Love Liberty' Party, at the home of Bob & Shelley Schwartz, 3455 N. Winslow (4 blocks West of Sabino Canyon Road, One block North of Cloud Road). This has become the traditional meet and greet event for candidates seeking office in Pima County. Meet the candidates and socialize with your fellow Democrats. Please bring an appetizer or dessert with your own serving utensils. Wine, beer and soft drinks are provided by SED. Please RSVP to Steve Gall to let him know what you will be bringing at stevejgall@hotmail.com or (520) 777-3000.

Tuesday, February 14: Arizona Statehood Centennial - 100 today!

Arizona Advocacy Network Dinner with Sen. Bernie Sanders - Save the Date!

Thursday, February 23, 5:30 p.m.: Arizona Advocacy Network Dinner with Sen. Bernie Sanders, at the Wyndham Downtown Phoenix Hotel, 50 E. Adams Street (Phoenix). You can rsvp a table of 10 now to fill with your friends. Ticket and table prices will be announced after January 1st. Save some holiday cash so you can join us for an event that will help change the direction of Arizona for our next 100 years!

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca in Bisbee. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Tuesday, February 28: Arizona Primary. Michigan Primary.

Saturday, March 3: Washington Caucus.

Wednesday, March 7, 2:00 p.m.: Arizona Secretary of State campaign-finance workshop, at the Arizona Capitol, Secretary of State, 7th Floor Confrence Room, 1700 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). A special Invitation is extended to all candidates and to treasurers of political committees. Presentations on Arizona campaign finance laws and campaign finance reporting requirements will provide information for the upcoming 2012 Primary and General Elections. Political committees that file campaign finance reports with the Secretary of State must do so electronically using the Secretary of State provided web-based campaign finance reporting system. Learn how to do it correctly. Candidates and their treasurers are strongly encouraged to attend. For more information please contact (602) 542-8683.

Arizona Democratic Party Presidential Nomination Caucuses - Save the Dates!

Saturday, March 31: All registered Democrats in Arizona may participate in Arizona's Presidential Nomination Caucuses which will be held in each congressional district. Arizona is allocated a total of 79 delegates and 6 alternates for the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. during the week of Sept. 3. Delegates are responsible for all costs incurred during their travel and stay at the convention. The Arizona Democratic Party will release the list of all caucus locations on or before Feb. 17.

Those interested in running for delegate to the national convention must contact the Arizona Democratic Party and file a statement of candidacy by March 1 to be considered eligible for selection at the March 31 district-level caucuses. A total of 46 delegates will be selected by Democratic precinct committee persons at the caucuses.

Those interested in running for delegate to the National Convention but unable to attend the March 31 district-level caucuses will have one additional opportunity to be selected: the Democratic State Convention on April 21. Interested parties must file a statement of candidacy by March 21 in order to be considered eligible for selection at the April 21 Democratic State Convention. A total of 15 delegates and 6 alternates will be selected by Democratic state committee members at the Democratic State Convention on April 21.

For more information about Presidential Nomination Caucuses, the 2012 Democratic National Convention or Delegate Selection, please call (602) 298-4200.

Community Events Remembering January 8th

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

H/t to friend of Blog for Arizona Carolyn Classen for her timely post Remembering January 8th - Carolyn's Community:

Remembering January 8, “Honoring the Spirit of Tucson”

Listed below are community events scheduled for January 8:

January 8th
Together Tucson

7:00 am Ben’s Bells Distribution

Description: Hundreds of Ben’s Bells will be randomly distributed throughout Tucson in memory of those we lost on January 8th, 2011 and in gratitude for our beautifully supportive community.

Location:Ben’s Bells Main Gate, 816 E. University Blvd.
Contact: Phone:520-628-2829

10-5pm A Day of Kindness at the Children’s Museum Tucson

Description: Join Ben’s Bells at the Children’s Museum Tucson For a Day of Kindness. Ben’s Bells invites families to gather to sign the Kindness Contract, to paint Kindness Coins and to hang Kindness Wishes in the trees at the Museum. The Museum will serve as a gathering point for families to celebrate the kindness in our community.

Location: Children’s Museum Tucson, 260 S. 6th Ave.
Contact: 520-792-9985 (Children’s Museum), 520-628-2829 (Ben’s Bells)

10:11am Community-wide Ringing of Bells

10:15 am Remembering January 8, 2011: Hurting, Healing, Hoping

Description: January 8, 2012, marks the first anniversary of the Tucson tragedy where six people died and thirteen were injured. Join the Rev. Dr. John Kitagawa, at 10:15 a.m., remembering and reflecting on our memories of that day and the year that has followed. In this session, we remember those lost and injured and share reflections of the time since the tragedy. All are welcome to join in this community conversation in the Murphey Gallery at St. Philip’s and at the 9:00 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. worship services which will also honor the tragedy of January 8, 2011.

Location:St. Philip’s In The Hills Episcopal Church, 4440 N. Campbell Ave. at River Road, Tucson, AZ 85718

10:45- noon Journey from Mental Illness to Mental Health

St. Francis in the Foothills is offering a class that is open to the public discussing the journey from mental Illness to mental health. Members of the National Alliance on Mental Illness will be presenting information to enlarge community mental health awareness and promote civil engagement.

Location: St. Francis in the Foothills, 4625 E. River Rd (River west of Swan), Tucson, Arizona

1:00pm “We Remember, We Celebrate, We Believe” Interfaith Service

Description: All faith communities in Tucson are invited to join in commemoration of both the tragedy and the triumph of Jan. 8, 2011. The service will consist of prayer, music, reflections, dance and the participation of those attending. The service will include Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Baha’i and Sikh traditions of prayer.

Location: St. Augustine Cathedral, 192 S. Stone Avenue, Tucson, Arizona

3:00pm Reflections: Honoring the lives of January 8 shooting victims

Description: A series of talks reflecting on the lives of Congresswoman Giffords and those who were killed on January 8.

Speakers include:
Senator Mark Udall (for Congresswoman Giffords)
Federal Judge Raner Collins (for Judge John Roll)
Dr. Lattie Coor (for Gabe Zimmerman)
Serenity Hammerich (for Christina Taylor-Green)
Ron Barber (for Dorwin Stoddard)
Classical Music (for Phyliss Schneck)

Location: Centennial Hall – University of Arizona Campus, 1020 E. University Boulevard, Tucson, AZ

6:30pm Candlelight Vigil
University of Arizona Mall

6:30 pm Shining the Light of Hope and Peace

Description: The entire Tucson community is invited to attend a special evening service of songs, prayer and healing.

Location: Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2450 East Fort Lowell Road, Tucson, Arizona
Contact: 520-327-7121, ext. 229

For more information: Daniel J. Benavidez at (520) 331-4989, or info@rememberingjanuary8.org.

The Arizona Capitol Times (subscription required) reports Giffords, survivors to commemorate mass shooting:

U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, other survivors of the Tucson shooting rampage and numerous others will come together in the close-knit southern Arizona city on Jan. 8 to commemorate the one-year mark of that tragic day and remember those who died.

A number of events are planned that Sunday, although it remained unclear which Giffords will attend or whether she will make any public statements.

Other survivors of the shooting, including Giffords’ staffers Ron Barber and Pam Simon, plan on going to every event that they can.

UPDATE: Arizona Public Media's Tom Kleespie has created a documentary "Together We Heal," which will air on Thursday, January 5 at 8:00 p.m. on KUAT. The documentary rounds up survivors, family members who lost loved ones, first responders and medical professionals who treated victims to take a moving snapshot of a city coming to terms with one of its darkest hours.

Beyond: Commemorate, Celebrate, Commit

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

A group founded by the family of slain congressional aide Gabe Zimmerman has announced a list of events that will take place to remember the Jan. 8 Tucson shootings tragedy, as part of a daylong event titled "Beyond: Commemorate, Celebrate, Commit," which will take place on Saturday, January 7, 2012. Zimmerman family unveils events Jan. 7 to promote wellness:

Beyond is the inaugural event for the Tucson Trails Tribute Fund, which was established by Zimmerman's family to support a sense of community through enjoyment of the outdoors, particularly public lands.

Beyond's Jan. 7 events will include:

• The opening will be a Health and Wellness Fair from 7:15 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Tucson Medical Center, 5301 E. Grant Road.

The fair will begin with a sunrise meditation and interactive music making. There will be activities along a two-mile paved walking/jogging path, a run/walk to the Rillito River Path, blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, Zumba and Jazzercise.

• The main event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Reid Park, 960 S. Randolph Way. Participants can run or walk the Beyond Outdoor Experience Activity course, take a Zumba class or a session with Yoga Oasis or the UnCarved Block Program, and ride Pima County's bicycle obstacle course.

There also will be activities with the Ben's Bells Project, Beads of Courage, Stories that Soar and other groups.

• The closing ceremony will take place from 4 p.m to 6 p.m. at Kino Stadium, 2500 E. Ajo Way. It will include choirs and speakers, along with special LED candles to honor and commemorate the sharing of community and its loss.

There will be dozens of runs, walks, hikes and other activities throughout the day at different locations.

For a complete list of all events, go to www.beyond-tucson.org or the group's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/beyond.tucson

Arizona Advocacy Network: Reclaiming government for the People

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Political Calendar: Week of December 25, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona.

We Are Listening in 2012! Campaigns are encouraged to submit notices of campaign events to BforAZ at BlogForArizona@gmail.com.

A Merry Christmas and Feliz Navidad to one and all.

Political Calendar For The Week of December 25, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. No meeting. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Sunday, December 25: Christmas Day.

Monday, December 26, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. NO DGT on 12/26/11 or 1/2/12. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next meeting January 9: Dennis Early - Everything You Want to Know About Medicare.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

Sunday, January 1, 2012: New Year's Day.

Tuesday, January 3: Iowa Caucus.

Tuesday, January 3, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democrats meeting, at the Cochise County Democratic Party HQ, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at maggzilla2u@yahoo.com or (520) 417-1533.

Tuesday, January 3, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Wednesday, January 4, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Featured speaker is former U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona, candidate for U.S. Senate. For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

Friday, January 6, 3:00 p.m.: Special Court Session to Honor The Memory of Chief Judge John M. Roll, at the Tucson Music Hall in the Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Avenue (Tucson). Judges of the United States District Court, District of Arizona, will convene in a special session to celebrate the memory of the late Honorable Chief Judge John M. Roll. Seating begins at 2:30 p.m. Attendees should plan to arrive early to process through security and be seated by 3:00 p.m. Attendees will need government-issued identification to be permitted entry. Backpacks and briefcases are not permitted. Purses and handbags are subject to search. The special session will run approximately one hour. A reception will be held at the Tucson Music Hall immediately following the special session. Please join the court family in honoring his memory.

BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 7: BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - for a community-wide event to commemorate and celebrate loved ones injured and lost on January 8th, 2011, at sites all over Pima County. We will move beyond the tragedy and commit to a better future with events that are safe, fun, inclusive and active across Southern Arizona. We will walk, hike, run, ride, stroll and come together to remember what happened, acknowledge how it changed us, and celebrate our community. Stay tuned for more details. Visit www.beyond-tucson.org for updates. for more information please contact info@beyond-tucson.org. For Press Inquiries please contact press@beyond-tucson.org.

Monday, January 9: Opening day of Arizona Legislature.

Monday, January 9, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Public Library (located at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive - Oro Valley). Featured speaker is Elna Otter Ph.D. Elna represents The Climate Reality Project, www.climaterealityproject.org, founded and chaired by Al Gore. Her topic will be “An Inconvenient Update on Climate Change.” Elna currently serves on the state executive committee of the Sierra Club. Come early at 6:45 and enjoy socializing before the meeting. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

Tuesday, January 10: New Hampshire Primary.

Saturday, January 14, 10:00 a.m.: Legislative District 30 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Marilee Malmberg at azld30dems@gmail.com or (520) 301-5246.

Saturday, January 14, 10:00 a.m.: Mule Mountain Democrat Club meeting, at the Bisbee Senior Center on Collins Road (behind the Safeway and off Naco Road). For more information please contact John Viverto at Vivertos@aol.com or (520) 432-2366.

Saturday, January 14, 11:00 a.m.: Legislative District 29 Town Hall, at Quincie Douglas Library, 1585 E. 36th Street (Tucson). Rep. Daniel Patterson invites the public to this town hall to hear from Tucsonans and to listen to what matters to them in the 2012 legislative session. "I want to hear from you and listen to your ideas on how we can make our quality of life better for Arizona families. Please join me.”

Monday, January 16: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (observed).

Tuesday, January 17, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women of Southeast Arizona meeting, at the Pueblo del Sol Country Club (Sierra Vista). Members and guests are encouraged to attend and the public is invited. The cost for the luncheon is $14.00. For more information please contact Pat Hickey at jopath54@live.com or (520)378-1874 to make reservations.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Pima Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menu Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket purchase. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Tucson, AZ - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, at Desert View High School, 4101 E. Valencia Road (Tucson). For more information go to Arizona Democratic Party: State Committee. Must attend for victory in 2012!

Saturday, January 21: South Carolina Primary.

Pima County Democratic Party Conference, Tucson AZ- Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28, 9:00 a.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Conference, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 E. Bilby Road (Tucson). Workshops, trainings, guest speakers and Labor 101 presented by UFCW. Save the Date!

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Saturday, February 4: Nevada Caucus. Maine Caucus Feb. 4-11.

Tuesday, February 7: Colorado Caucus. Minnesota Caucus. Missouri Primary.

Tuesday, February 14: Arizona Statehood Centennial - 100 today!

Arizona Advocacy Network Dinner with Sen. Bernie Sanders - Save the Date!

Thursday, February 23, 5:30 p.m.: Arizona Advocacy Network Dinner with Sen. Bernie Sanders, at the Wyndham Downtown Phoenix Hotel, 50 E. Adams Street (Phoenix). You can rsvp a table of 10 now to fill with your friends. Ticket and table prices will be announced after January 1st. Save some holiday cash so you can join us for an event that will help change the direction of Arizona for our next 100 years!

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca in Bisbee. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons. Save the Date! Details TBA.

February 28: Arizona Primary. Michigan Primary.

March 3: Washington Caucus.

Arizona Democratic Party Presidential Nomination Caucuses - Save the Dates!

Saturday, March 31: All registered Democrats in Arizona may participate in Arizona's Presidential Nomination Caucuses which will be held in each congressional district. Arizona is allocated a total of 79 delegates and 6 alternates for the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. during the week of Sept. 3. Delegates are responsible for all costs incurred during their travel and stay at the convention. The Arizona Democratic Party will release the list of all caucus locations on or before Feb. 17.

Those interested in running for delegate to the national convention must contact the Arizona Democratic Party and file a statement of candidacy by March 1 to be considered eligible for selection at the March 31 district-level caucuses. A total of 46 delegates will be selected by Democratic precinct committee persons at the caucuses.

Those interested in running for delegate to the National Convention but unable to attend the March 31 district-level caucuses will have one additional opportunity to be selected: the Democratic State Convention on April 21. Interested parties must file a statement of candidacy by March 21 in order to be considered eligible for selection at the April 21 Democratic State Convention. A total of 15 delegates and 6 alternates will be selected by Democratic state committee members at the Democratic State Convention on April 21.

For more information about Presidential Nomination Caucuses, the 2012 Democratic National Convention or Delegate Selection, please call (602) 298-4200.

Political Calendar: Week of December 18, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona.

Happy Hanukkah and a Merry Christmas to one and all.

Political Calendar For The Week of December 18, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck

Sunday, December 18, 3:00 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Please RSVP to (520) 326-3716 or pimadem@pimadems.org and let us know what you would like to bring.

Monday, December 19, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. DGT Featured speaker is Russell Lowe – Cracking and crackpots – 21st Century energy resources. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: NO DGT on 12/26/11 or 1/2/12. Next meeting January 9: Dennis Early - Everything You Want to Know About Medicare.

Tuesday, December 20: Hanukkah begins.

Tuesday, December 20, 6:30 p.m.: Oracle Democrats meeting, at the Oracle Fire Department, 1475 W. American Avenue (Oracle). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Tuesday, December 20, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room), 6265 N. La Cañada Drive. Featured speaker is Pima County Sheriff Clarence Dupnik. For more information please contact Brian Clymer at (520) 323-1234.

Wednesday, December 21, 7:00 p.m.: Pinal County Democratic Party meeting, at the Pinal County Democratic Party HQ, 350 N. Main Street (Florence). For more information please contact Joe Robison at pinaldemocrats@gmail.org.

Saturday, December 24, 10:00 a.m.: Northern Cochise County Democrats meeting, at the TA Truck Stop in Willcox. For more information please contact Marv Sorensen at msorensen8@cox.net or (520) 586-0786, Lisa Glenn at llglenn@vtc.net or (520) 384-2658, or Kathleen Day-Cain at (520) 824-3482.

Sunday, December 25: Christmas Day.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

Sunday, January 1, 2012: New Year's Day.

Monday, January 2, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Tuesday, January 3: Iowa Caucus.

Tuesday, January 3, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democrats meeting, at the Cochise County Democratic Party HQ, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at maggzilla2u@yahoo.com or (520) 417-1533.

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Wednesday, January 4, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 7: BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - for a community-wide event to commemorate and celebrate loved ones injured and lost on January 8th, 2011, at sites all over Pima County. We will move beyond the tragedy and commit to a better future with events that are safe, fun, inclusive and active across Southern Arizona. We will walk, hike, run, ride, stroll and come together to remember what happened, acknowledge how it changed us, and celebrate our community. Stay tuned for more details. Visit www.beyond-tucson.org for updates. for more information please contact info@beyond-tucson.org. For Press Inquiries please contact press@beyond-tucson.org.

Monday, January 9: Opening day of Arizona Legislature.

Monday, January 9, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Public Library (located at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive - Oro Valley). Featured speaker is Elna Otter Ph.D. Elna represents The Climate Reality Project, www.climaterealityproject.org, founded and chaired by Al Gore. Her topic will be “An Inconvenient Update on Climate Change.” Elna currently serves on the state executive committee of the Sierra Club. Come early at 6:45 and enjoy socializing before the meeting. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

Tuesday, January 10: New Hampshire Primary.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Poma Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menu Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket purchase. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Tucson, AZ - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, in Tucson, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Saturday, January 21: South Carolina Primary.

Pima County Democratic Party Conference, Tucson AZ- Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28, 9:00 a.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Conference, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 E. Bilby Road (Tucson). Workshops, trainings, guest speakers and Labor 101 presented by UFCW. Save the Date!

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca in Bisbee. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Arizona Democratic Party Presidential Nomination Caucuses - Save the Dates!

Saturday, March 31: All registered Democrats in Arizona may participate in Arizona's Presidential Nomination Caucuses which will be held in each congressional district. Arizona is allocated a total of 79 delegates and 6 alternates for the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. during the week of Sept. 3. Delegates are responsible for all costs incurred during their travel and stay at the convention. The Arizona Democratic Party will release the list of all caucus locations on or before Feb. 17.

Those interested in running for delegate to the national convention must contact the Arizona Democratic Party and file a statement of candidacy by March 1 to be considered eligible for selection at the March 31 district-level caucuses. A total of 46 delegates will be selected by Democratic precinct committee persons at the caucuses.

Those interested in running for delegate to the National Convention but unable to attend the March 31 district-level caucuses will have one additional opportunity to be selected: the Democratic State Convention on April 21. Interested parties must file a statement of candidacy by March 21 in order to be considered eligible for selection at the April 21 Democratic State Convention. A total of 15 delegates and 6 alternates will be selected by Democratic state committee members at the Democratic State Convention on April 21.

For more information about Presidential Nomination Caucuses, the 2012 Democratic National Convention or Delegate Selection, please call (602) 298-4200.

Political Calendar: Week of December 11, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona.

Political Calendar For The Week of December 11, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, December 12, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. DGT board nominations and elections, followed by candidate announcements from David Bradley (Tentative LD 10 Senate) and Robert Leach (Tentative LD 1 Senate). Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Russell Lowe – Cracking and crackpots – 21st Century energy resources .

Democrats of Oro Valley Holiday Party

Monday, December 12, 5:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley holiday party, at Macayo’s Mexican Restaurant, 7360 N. Oracle Road (Tucson). A cover charge of $10 for members and $15 for non-members will be collected at the door which goes toward the round-the-clock Miniature DINNER Buffet and the Holiday Dessert. Special Happy Hour Drinks: $3 in effect for Macayo’s Margaritas, House Wine, Domestic & Imported Beers and Well Drinks. Unlimited refills of coffee, tea & soda: $2.49. Don’t forget to bring some extra money to participate in our DOV Holiday Raffle. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

Monday, December 12, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. For more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

Wednesday, December 14, 11:30 a.m.: Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild and City Councilman Paul Cunningham are hosting a roundtable with members of the business community, at the Eastside City Hall, 7575 E. Speedway Blvd. The roundtable, which will focus on Mayor Rothschild's 180-day plan. Space is limited so please RSVP to (520) 791-4687.

Wednesday, December 14, Noon: Northwest Democrats meeting, at the Coco's Restaurant (back room), 7250 N. Oracle Road (Tucson). Featured speaker is attorney and activist Robert Schwartz on the topic of possible ballot propositions, candidates and issues for the upcoming 2012 election. For more information please contact Contact Rod McLeod or Harvey Akeson at (520) 297-0095.

Thursday, December 15, 6:00 p.m.: Casa Grande Democrats meeting, at Eva's Mexican Restaurant, 2033 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Thursday, December 15, 7:00 pm.: Heritage Highlands/Dove Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Heritage Highlands Club House, 4949 W Heritage Club Blvd. (Marana). For more information please contact Sandi Tiffany at stiffany60@mac.com.

Friday, December 16, 12:30 p.m.: Democratic Women in Action meeting, at Friends in Deed, 301 W. Camino Casa Verde (Green Valley). For more information please contact Laurie Cirrincione at crinkster5@msn.com or (520) 625-3133.

Legislative District 27 Winter Solstice Party

Friday, December 16, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 Winter Solstice Party and fundraiser, at the Milagro Cohousing Community. 3027 N. Gaia Place. For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Saturday December 17, 8:00 p.m.: Congressman Ed Pastor invites you to a holiday celebration at Corona Ranch, 7611 S. 29th Avenue (Phoenix). Music by Power Drive and DJ Rabbit. For more information please contact info@edpastor.com.

Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck

Sunday, December 18, 3:00 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Please RSVP to (520) 326-3716 or pimadem@pimadems.org and let us know what you would like to bring.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

Tuesday, December 20: Hanukkah begins.

Tuesday, December 20, 6:30 p.m.: Oracle Democrats meeting, at the Oracle Fire Department, 1475 W. American Avenue (Oracle). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Tuesday, December 20, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room), 6265 N. La Cañada Drive. Featured speaker is Pima County Sheriff Clarence Dupnik. For more information please contact Brian Clymer at (520) 323-1234.

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Wednesday, December 21, 7:00 p.m.: Pinal County Democratic Party meeting, at the Pinal County Democratic Party HQ, 350 N. Main Street (Florence). For more information please contact Joe Robison at pinaldemocrats@gmail.org.

Saturday, December 24, 10:00 a.m.: Northern Cochise County Democrats meeting, at the TA Truck Stop in Willcox. For more information please contact Marv Sorensen at msorensen8@cox.net pr (520) 586-0786, Lisa Glenn at llglenn@vtc.net or (520) 384-2658, or Kathleen Day-Cain at (520) 824-3482.

Sunday, December 25: Christmas Day.

Sunday, January 1, 2012: New Year's Day.

Monday, January 2, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Tuesday, January 3: Iowa Caucus.

Tuesday, January 3, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democrats meeting, at the Cochise County Democratic Party HQ, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at maggzilla2u@yahoo.com or (520) 417-1533.

Wednesday, January 4, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 7: BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - for a community-wide event to commemorate and celebrate loved ones injured and lost on January 8th, 2011, at sites all over Pima County. We will move beyond the tragedy and commit to a better future with events that are safe, fun, inclusive and active across Southern Arizona. We will walk, hike, run, ride, stroll and come together to remember what happened, acknowledge how it changed us, and celebrate our community. Stay tuned for more details. Visit www.beyond-tucson.org for updates. for more information please contact info@beyond-tucson.org. For Press Inquiries please contact press@beyond-tucson.org.

Monday, January 9: Opening day of Arizona Legislature.

Monday, January 9, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Public Library (located at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive - Oro Valley). Featured speakeris Elna Otter Ph.D. Elna represents The Climate Reality Project, www.climaterealityproject.org, founded and chaired by Al Gore. Her topic will be “An Inconvenient Update on Climate Change.” Elna currently serves on the state executive committee of the Sierra Club. Come early at 6:45 and enjoy socializing before the meeting. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

Tuesday, January 10: New Hampshire Primary.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Poma Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menue Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket purchase. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Tucson, AZ - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, in Tucson, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Saturday, January 21: South Carolina Primary.

Pima County Democratic Party Conference, Tucson AZ- Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28, 9:00 a.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Conference, at Sunnyside High School, 1725 E. Bilby Road (Tucson). Workshops, trainings, guest speakers and Labor 101 presented by UFCW. Save the Date!

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca in Bisbee. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Arizona Democratic Party Presidential Nomination Caucuses - Save the Dates!

Saturday, March 31: All registered Democrats in Arizona may participate in Arizona's Presidential Nomination Caucuses which will be held in each congressional district. Arizona is allocated a total of 79 delegates and 6 alternates for the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. during the week of Sept. 3. Delegates are responsible for all costs incurred during their travel and stay at the convention. The Arizona Democratic Party will release the list of all caucus locations on or before Feb. 17.

Those interested in running for delegate to the national convention must contact the Arizona Democratic Party and file a statement of candidacy by March 1 to be considered eligible for selection at the March 31 district-level caucuses. A total of 46 delegates will be selected by Democratic precinct committee persons at the caucuses.

Those interested in running for delegate to the National Convention but unable to attend the March 31 district-level caucuses will have one additional opportunity to be selected: the Democratic State Convention on April 21. Interested parties must file a statement of candidacy by March 21 in order to be considered eligible for selection at the April 21 Democratic State Convention. A total of 15 delegates and 6 alternates will be selected by Democratic state committee members at the Democratic State Convention on April 21.

For more information about Presidential Nomination Caucuses, the 2012 Democratic National Convention or Delegate Selection, please call (602) 298-4200.

AIRC Update: Schedule of public hearings

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Please be aware that, according to the publicy announced agenda, a final vote to finalize maps could occur at any one of these scheduled meetings.

Location:

Fiesta Inn Resort – Fiesta I Ballroom
2100 South Priest Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282

Date & Time:

Monday, December 12, 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday, December 13, 3:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 15, 1:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 17, 9:00 a.m.

Agenda Info

Arizona Democrats to hold Presidential Caucus March 31, 2012

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Press release from the Arizona Democratic Party:

Procedures for 2012 presidential nomination and delegate selection for Democratic National Convention

PHOENIX -- The Arizona Democratic Party has chosen not to participate in the 2012 Presidential Preference Primary Election. We agree with Maricopa County Recorder Helen Purcell and County Elections Director Karen Osborne that in these tough economic times, it is inappropriate to spend $5 million in taxpayer dollars to hold a partisan election that discriminates against the fast-growing bloc of independent voters.

Instead, the party will conduct congressional district-level caucuses to choose a nominee for the 2012 presidential election and to select Arizona delegates for the 2012 Democratic National Convention (see timetable).

The following rules and procedures are in accordance with the Charter and Bylaws of the Democratic Party of the United States, the Delegate Selection Rules for the 2012 Democratic National Convention, the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws Committee for the 2012 Democratic National Convention, and the bylaws of the Arizona Democratic Party:

• The purpose of the Presidential Nomination Caucuses will be to choose Arizona's preferred nominee for the 2012 presidential election.
• All registered Democrats in Arizona may participate in Arizona's Presidential Nomination Caucuses scheduled for Saturday, March 31.
• The Presidential Nomination Caucuses will be held in each congressional district in accordance to the Charter and Bylaws of the Democratic Party of the United States, the Delegate Selection Rules for the 2012 Democratic National Convention, the Regulations of the Rules and Bylaws Committee for the 2012 Democratic National Convention, and the bylaws of the Arizona Democratic Party. The Arizona Democratic Party will release the list of all caucus locations on or before Feb. 17.
• Directly following the Presidential Nomination Caucuses will be selection of delegates to the 2012 Democratic National Convention.
• The purpose of the Democratic National Convention is to choose the presidential nominee for the 2012 Presidential Election. All states will send delegates to participate in the nomination process. Arizona is allocated a total of 79 delegates and 6 alternates for the 2012 Democratic National Convention
• All registered Democrats in Arizona are eligible candidates for the position of Arizona Delegate to the September 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C.
• Delegates to the convention are selected by registered Democratic precinct committee persons or state committee members.
• Those interested in running for delegate to the national convention must contact the Arizona Democratic Party and file a statement of candidacy by March 1 to be considered eligible for selection at the March 31 district-level caucuses. A total of 46 delegates will be selected by Democratic precinct committee persons at those caucuses.
• Those interested in running for delegate to the National Convention but unable to attend the March 31 district-level caucuses will have one additional opportunity to be selected: the Democratic State Convention on April 21. Interested parties must file a statement of candidacy by March 21 in order to be considered eligible for selection at the April 21 Democratic State Convention. A total of 15 delegates and 6 alternates will be selected by Democratic state committee members at the Democratic State Convention on April 21.

Click here to view the timetable for the 2012 Arizona Delegate Selection process.

All delegates to the 2012 Democratic National Convention will attend the convention in Charlotte during the week of Sept. 3. Delegates are responsible for all costs incurred during their travel and stay at the convention.

As part of the Arizona Democratic Party's ongoing efforts to include groups historically under-represented in the Democratic Party‟s affairs and to assist in the achievement of full participation by these groups, we encourage participation by those of diverse race/ethnicity, age, sexual orientation or disability.

For more information about Presidential Nomination Caucuses, the 2012 Democratic National Convention or Delegate Selection, call 602-298-4200.

###

Political Calendar: Week of December 4, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona.

Political Calendar For The Week of December 4, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Our featured speaker is Lisa Hoffman on the topic of ALEC. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, December 5, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. No DGT today in favor of the Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration at the TCC. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: DGT board nominations and elections - membership dues must be up-to-date by November 30 to be eligible and to vote.

Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration Luncheon

Monday, December 5, Noon: Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration, at the Tucson Convention Center Ballroom, 260 S. Church Avenue. Inauguration day celebration for Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild, and Tucson Council Members Regina Romero, Paul Cunningham, and Shirley Scott. Vice Mayor Karin Uhlich and Council Members Richard Fimbres and Steve Kozachik are invited guests. Individual Tickets are $75, Table Sponsor $750. Please RSVP to (520) 326-3716 or online at www.PimaDems.org.

Monday, December 5, 7:00 p.m.: Douglas Area Democrats meeting, at Los Obreros Hall, 406 8th Street (Douglas). For more information please contact Corny Munoz at douglasrfl@hotmail.com or (520) 227-7125.

Tuesday, December 6, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democratic Club meeting, at the Cochise County Democratic Party HQ, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at maggzilla2u@yahoo.com or (520) 417-1533.

Tuesday, December 6, 6:30 p.m.: (Special Date) Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Tuesday, December 6, 7:30 p.m.: The Tucson Festival of Books presents a special interview and book-signing event with Navy Capt. Mark Kelly, husband of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and co-author of the newly released book, "Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope," at the University of Arizona's Centennial Hall. This ticketed event is free and open to the general public. Tickets available on Nov. 15. VISIT http://uanews.org/node/43300 for full details.

Wednesday, December 7, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at the Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 First Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Annual holiday pot luck. PC's are encouraged to bring their families. We are collecting for the Community Food Bank, so please bring cash or nonperishable food items. For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

The 2012 Arizona Democratic Candidate Summit

Friday December 9 and Saturday December 10: The 2012 Democratic Candidate Summit will be held on December 9-10, at the Wyndham Hotel, 50 East Adams Street (Phoenix). This two-day event will feature campaign essentials that every candidate, potential candidate and campaign principal should add to their 2012 artillery. All those interested are invited to participate in one of two tracks. Candidate Track: Participants in the candidate track should be Democratic candidates or potential candidates for the 2012 election cycle or future elections. The candidate track will be appropriate for all levels of government. Participants will receive training in the areas of fundraising, strategic communications/​messaging and grassroots networking. Campaign Manager Track: Participants in the campaign manager track should be the campaign manager of an upcoming Democratic campaign or a key campaign operative. Participants will receive training on building and maintaining a campaign operation. Areas will include campaign plan logistics, targeting, budgets and field operations. The training will run from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 9 and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 10. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the training will begin each day at 9:30 a.m. SHARP. There is a nominal $35 registration fee to attend this seminar. Arizona Democratic Party and Arizona List will provide breakfast, lunch, supplies and training materials that you will need throughout the day. Participants must commit to attending the entire program in order to participate. Participants should RSVP by Dec. 7 at 5 p.m. to Jackie Adams at jadams@azdem.org or (602) 234-6803.

Arizona Democratic Party Hall of Fame Reception - DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz

Friday, December 9, 6:00 p.m.: The Arizona Democratic Party is very proud to announce that this year’s Hall of Fame Reception keynote speaker will be none other than DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. Reception at the Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Avenue (Phoenix). Doors will open at 6 p.m. so guests can tour the Heard Museum. Reception 6:30 p.m. Keynote address 7:30 p.m. Dem-AZ rate $50, Precinct Committee members $75, Individual ticket $100, sponsorships available. Click here to RSVP and purchase your ticket.  Please click here for more event information.

Saturday, December 10, 10:00 a.m.: Mule Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Bisbee Senior Center on Collins Road (behind the Safeway off Naco Road). For more information please contact John Viverto at Vivertos@aol.com or (520) 432-2366.

Saturday, December 10, 3:00 p.m.: Saddlebrooke Democratic Club meeting, at the Saddlebrooke Club House, 66567 E. Catalina Hills Drive (Saddlebrooke). For more information please contact Holly Lyon at (703) 989-0764.

Las Adelitas Posada to Benefit Save Ethnic Studies

Saturday, December 10, 6:00 p.m.: Please Join Las Adelitas Arizona for a Traditional Mexican Posada to Benefit Save Ethnic Studies in AZ. A traditional Mexican posada is a holiday party that includes delicious food and drink, music, singing, pinatas, fun for the kids, and more! Tickets are $20 for individuals and $10 per student. Please join us to learn more about what can be done to defend Mexican American Studies in TUSD and enjoy a fun, family friendly holiday tradition. For more information please contact LasAdelitasArizona@gmail.com or check out our facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Las-Adelitas-Arizona/125491824156168, or the Save Ethnic Studies in AZ facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Save-Ethnic-Studies-in-Arizona/118309161523946.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

Democrats of Oro Valley Holiday Party

Monday, December 12, 5:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley holiday party, at Macayo’s Mexican Restaurant, 7360 N. Oracle Road (Tucson). A cover charge of $10 for members and $15 for non-members will be collected at the door which goes toward the round-the-clock Miniature DINNER Buffet and the Holiday Dessert. Special Happy Hour Drinks: $3 in effect for Macayo’s Margaritas, House Wine, Domestic & Imported Beers and Well Drinks. Unlimited refills of coffee, tea & soda: $2.49. Don’t forget to bring some extra money to participate in our DOV Holiday Raffle. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

Monday, December 12, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. For more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Wednesday, December 14, 11:30 a.m.: Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild and City Councilman Paul Cunningham are hosting a roundtable with members of the business community, at the Eastside City Hall, 7575 E. Speedway Blvd. The roundtable, which will focus on Mayor Rothschild's 180-day plan. Space is limited so please RSVP to (520) 791-4687.

Wednesday, December 14, Noon: Northwest Democrats meeting, at the Coco's Restaurant (back room), 7250 N. Oracle Road (Tucson). Featured speaker is attorney and activist Robert Schwartz on the topic of possible ballot propostions, candidates and issues for the upcoming 2012 election. For more information please contact Contact Rod McLeod or Harvey Akeson at (520) 297-0095.

Thursday, December 15, 7:00 pm.: Heritage Highlands/Dove Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Heritage Highlands Club House, 4949 W Heritage Club Blvd. (Marana). For more information please contact Sandi Tiffany at stiffany60@mac.com.

Friday, December 16, 12:30 p.m.: Democratic Women in Action meeting, at Friends in Deed, 301 W. Camino Casa Verde (Green Valley). For more information please contact Laurie Cirrincione at crinkster5@msn.com or (520) 625-3133.

Legislative District 27 Winter Solstice Party - Save the Date!

Friday, December 16, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 Winter Solstice Party and fund raiser. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck

Sunday, December 18, 3:00 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Please RSVP to (520) 326-3716 or pimadem@pimadems.org and let us know what you would like to bring.

Tuesday, December 20, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room), 6265 N. La Cañada Drive. Featured speaker is Pima County Sheriff Clarence Dupnik. For more information please contact Brian Clymer at (520) 323-1234.

Tuesday, December 20: Hanukkah begins.

Sunday, December 25: Christmas Day.

Sunday, January 1, 2012: New Year's Day.

Tuesday, January 3: Iowa Caucus.

BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 7: BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - for a community-wide event to commemorate and celebrate loved ones injured and lost on January 8th, 2011, at sites all over Pima County. We will move beyond the tragedy and commit to a better future with events that are safe, fun, inclusive and active across Southern Arizona. We will walk, hike, run, ride, stroll and come together to remember what happened, acknowledge how it changed us, and celebrate our community. Stay tuned for more details. Visit www.beyond-tucson.org for updates. for more information please contact info@beyond-tucson.org. For Press Inquiries please contact press@beyond-tucson.org.

Monday, January 9: Opening day of Arizona Legislature.

Tuesday, January 10: New Hampshire Primary.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Poma Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menue Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket payment by November 25th. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Tucson, AZ - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, in Tucson, AZ (New location). Save the Date! Details TBA.

Saturday, January 21: South Carolina Primary.

Pima County Democratic Party General Meeting, Tucson AZ- Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28: Pima County Democratic Party General Meeting, in Tucson, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca in Bisbee. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons. Save the Date! Details TBA.

DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz to keynote Arizona Democratic Party's 2011 Hall of Fame Reception

Posted  by AzBlueMeanie:

Event announcement from the Arizona Democratic Party:

DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz will be our keynote speaker at our Hall of Fame Reception on December 9.

Chairwoman Wasserman Schultz is excited by our progress in Arizona, and she believes as I do that the wind is at our backs heading into 2012. This month, Arizona voters launched a new era of responsible leadership. For the first time in 20 years, both Tucson and Phoenix elected Democratic mayors. And for the first time in American history, a state legislative leader was recalled from office -- a victory for mainstream solutions over extreme ideology. As Arizona Democrats, we must now unite and show that we are prepared to win in 2012.

Click here to RSVP and purchase your ticket.

So much is at stake in 2012. Not only will we battle to deliver Arizona’s electoral votes to re-elect President Obama, but we can help the U.S. Senate stay in Democratic control by electing a Democrat to Arizona’s first open Senate seat in nearly two decades. And we have the chance to elect more strong Democrats to Congress and gain seats in the state Legislature.

The Arizona Democratic Party is excited to host the DNC chairwoman and eager to hear what she sees for Arizona in 2012 and how we will get there.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. so guests can tour the Heard Museum. Exhibits will be open for attendees to enjoy. Please click here for more event information.

UPDATE: We are happy to announce our Hall of Fame selection committee has made a decision on the 2011 inductees.

Hall of Fame Inductees:

Ben Furlong

Former Yavapai County Chair.

Jaime Gutiérrez and Linda Mazon Gutiérrez

Former State Senator and Arizona community leader.

Debbie McCune Davis

State Legislator for District 14.

David Mendoza

Currently the Political Action Representative for AFSCME International.

Harry Mitchell

Former Congressman, Mayor of Tempe, State Senator, and State Party Chair.

Political Calendar: Week of November 27, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

To volunteer to Recall Jan Brewer go to Volunteer – - Citizens for a Better Arizona.

Political Calendar For The Week of November 27, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, November 28, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Attorney Barry Kirschner on the topic: Where have all the legal remedies gone? Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: No DGT in favor of the Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration at the TCC. Following Week: DGT board nominations and elections - membership dues must be up-to-date by November 30 to be eligible and to vote.

Monday, November 28, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Main Library, 101 N. Stone Avenue (parking in basement under library). For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Tuesday, November 29, 5:30 p.m.: Precinct committeeperson training, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Topics will include basic PC duties, tools available to the PC, relationship between the PC and the structure of the party from local to national, legalese as well as other interesting information. All new PCs are strongly advised to attend. Those who need a refresher are welcome to attend as well. Please RSVP to Mohur Sidhwa: msidhwa@cox.net. Please include your precinct number when you RSVP as we will be preparing materials especially for you.

Saturday, December 3, 8:00 a.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley Roadside Clean-up! DOV gives back to the community via meaningful activities like cleaning our adopted section of road along La Cholla, from Hardy north to Overton. It’s easy to clean if we get enough volunteers to help us. Bring gloves and anything that could help you pick up litter. We will provide the bags and water. We need your support. Meet at the turnout on La Cholla. Look for our cars. Thanks for the help to keep our roads clean and beautiful. For more inforamtion please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

LD 30 December Meeting & Potluck

Saturday, December 3, 10:00 a.m.: Legislative District 30 monthly meeting & Potluck, at the Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 First Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). This meeting will be a working session to review the opportunities and challenges ahead of us for 2012. Our goal will be to put together a political timetable, working backwards from November 2, 2012. Additionally, we’ll review LD 30 committee assignments. For more information please contact Marilee Malmberg at azld30dems@gmail.com or (520) 301-5246.

Amigos de Saldate Contra Pearce

Saturday, December 3, 2:00p.m.: Please join Amigos de Saldate Contra Pearce for a victory celebration, at Las Cazuelitas West, 1365 W. Grant Road (Grant Road West of I-10).

Saguaro Eastside Democrats Wine and Cheese Fund Raiser

Saturday, December 3, 4:00 p.m.: Saguaro Eastside Democrats will be a fundraiser for our club's 2012 activities at the Civano HOA Clubhouse, 10501 E. Seven Generations Way (off Houghton Road). Tickets are $20 per person. The winemaster will be Jon Rogers of "Wines Without Mystery" and brother of the Pima County Democratic Party's chairman, Jeff Rogers. Jon, who has 20 years experience of hosting wine and cheese parties, will introduce four wines of different types for tasting along with matching cheeses. There will also be a dessert. In addition, several bottles of wine will be given as door prizes to lucky participants. To purchase tickets please contact Steve Gall (stevejgall@hotmail.com or (520) 777-3000), or individual board members and at our November meeting.

DCSRA December Meeting & Potluck

Saturday, December 3, 5:30 p.m.: DCSRA December Meeting & Potluck with Special Guests declared 2012 Democratic candidates, at the Desert Hills Social Center, 2980 S. Camino Del Sol (Green Valley). We will hold the election for DCSRA board candidates, as well as enjoy the company of declared 2012 Democratic candidates, and a few surprise guests! The main course will include spiral sliced ham & chicken. Attendees are asked to bring side dishes using the following guidelines: Last names beginning A-F bring SALAD, Last names beginning with G-O bring VEGETABLE DISH or CASSEROLE, Last names beginning with P-Z bring DESSERT, BYOB for alcoholic beverages. Guests are encouraged to bring food donations (non-perishable or canned food products needed) and/or your check made out to the Amado Community Food Bank - make sure the memo includes designation for milk, eggs & other food products. Please RSVP by calling Democratic HQ Green Valley at 520.838.0590 by November 28th.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration Luncheon

Monday, December 5, Noon: Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration, at the Tucson Convention Center Ballroom, 260 S. Church Avenue. Inauguration day celebration for Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild, and Tucson Council Members Regina Romero, Paul Cunningham, and Shirley Scott. Vice Mayor Karin Uhlich and Council Members Richard Fimbres and Steve Kozachik are invited guests. Individual Tickets are $75, Table Sponsor $750. Please RSVP to (520) 326-3716 or online at www.PimaDems.org.

Monday, December 5, 7:00 p.m.: Douglas Area Democrats meeting, at Los Obreros Hall, 406 8th Street (Douglas). For more information please contact Corny Munoz at douglasrfl@hotmail.com or (520) 227-7125.

Tuesday, December 6, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democratic Club meeting, at the Cochise County Democratic Party HQ, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at maggzilla2u@yahoo.com or (520) 417-1533.

Tuesday, December 6, 6:30 p.m.: (Special Date) Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Tuesday, December 6, 7:30 p.m.: The Tucson Festival of Books presents a special interview and book-signing event with Navy Capt. Mark Kelly, husband of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and co-author of the newly released book, "Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope," at the University of Arizona's Centennial Hall. This ticketed event is free and open to the general public. Tickets available on Nov. 15. VISIT http://uanews.org/node/43300 for full details.

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Wednesday, December 7, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at the Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 First Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Annual holiday pot luck. PC's are encouraged to bring their families. We are collecting for the Community Food Bank, so please bring cash or nonperishable food items. For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

The 2012 Arizona Democratic Candidate Summit

Friday December 9 and Saturday December 10: The 2012 Democratic Candidate Summit will be held on December 9-10, at the Wyndham Hotel, 50 East Adams Street (Phoenix). This two-day event will feature campaign essentials that every candidate, potential candidate and campaign principal should add to their 2012 artillery. All those interested are invited to participate in one of two tracks. Candidate Track: Participants in the candidate track should be Democratic candidates or potential candidates for the 2012 election cycle or future elections. The candidate track will be appropriate for all levels of government. Participants will receive training in the areas of fundraising, strategic communications/​messaging and grassroots networking. Campaign Manager Track: Participants in the campaign manager track should be the campaign manager of an upcoming Democratic campaign or a key campaign operative. Participants will receive training on building and maintaining a campaign operation. Areas will include campaign plan logistics, targeting, budgets and field operations. The training will run from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 9 and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 10. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the training will begin each day at 9:30 a.m. SHARP. There is a nominal $35 registration fee to attend this seminar. Arizona Democratic Party and Arizona List will provide breakfast, lunch, supplies and training materials that you will need throughout the day. Participants must commit to attending the entire program in order to participate. Participants should RSVP by Dec. 7 at 5 p.m. to Jackie Adams at jadams@azdem.org or (602) 234-6803.

Arizona Democratic Party Hall of Fame Reception - With DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz

Friday, December 9, 6:00 p.m.: The Arizona Democratic Party is very proud to announce that this year’s Hall of Fame Reception keynote speaker will be none other than DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. Reception at the Heard Museum, 2301 N. Central Avenue (Phoenix). Doors will open at 6 p.m. so guests can tour the Heard Museum. Reception 6:30 p.m. Keynote address 7:30 p.m. Dem-AZ rate $50, Precinct Committee members $75, Individual ticket $100, sponsorships available. Click here to RSVP and purchase your ticket.  Please click here for more event information.

Saturday, December 10, 10:00 a.m.: Mule Mountain Democrat Club meeting, at the Bisbee Senior Center on Collins Road (behind the Safeway off Naco Road). For more information please contact John Viverto at Vivertos@aol.com or (520) 432-2366.

Saturday, December 10, 3:00 p.m.: Saddlebrooke Democratic Club meeting, at the Saddlebrooke Club House, 66567 E. Catalina Hills Drive (Saddlebrooke). For more information please contact Holly Lyon at (703) 989-0764.

Las Adelitas Posada to Benefit Save Ethnic Studies

Saturday, December 10, 6:00 p.m.: Please Join Las Adelitas Arizona for a Traditional Mexican Posada to Benefit Save Ethnic Studies in AZ. A traditional Mexican posada is a holiday party that includes delicious food and drink, music, singing, pinatas, fun for the kids, and more! Tickets are $20 for individuals and $10 per student. Please join us to learn more about what can be done to defend Mexican American Studies in TUSD and enjoy a fun, family friendly holiday tradition. For more information please contact LasAdelitasArizona@gmail.com or check out our facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Las-Adelitas-Arizona/125491824156168, or the Save Ethnic Studies in AZ facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Save-Ethnic-Studies-in-Arizona/118309161523946.

Democrats of Oro Valley Holiday Party

Monday, December 12, 5:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley holiday party, at Macayo’s Mexican Restaurant, 7360 N. Oracle Road (Tucson). A cover charge of $10 for members and $15 for non-members will be collected at the door which goes toward the round-the-clock Miniature DINNER Buffet and the Holiday Dessert. Special Happy Hour Drinks: $3 in effect for Macayo’s Margaritas, House Wine, Domestic & Imported Beers and Well Drinks. Unlimited refills of coffee, tea & soda: $2.49. Don’t forget to bring some extra money to participate in our DOV Holiday Raffle. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774.

Monday, December 12, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. For more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

Wednesday, December 14, 11:30 a.m.: Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild and City Councilman Paul Cunningham are hosting a roundtable with members of the business community, at the Eastside City Hall, 7575 E. Speedway Blvd. The roundtable, which will focus on Mayor Rothschild's 180-day plan. Space is limited so please RSVP to (520) 791-4687.

Wednesday, December 14, Noon: Northwest Democrats meeting, at the Coco's Restaurant (back room), 7250 N. Oracle Road (Tucson). Featured speaker is attorney and activist Robert Schwartz on the topic of possible ballot propostions, candidates and issues for the upcoming 2012 election. For more information please contact Contact Rod McLeod or Harvey Akeson at (520) 297-0095.

Thursday, December 15, 7:00 pm.: Heritage Highlands/Dove Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Heritage Highlands Club House, 4949 W Heritage Club Blvd. (Marana). For more information please contact Sandi Tiffany at stiffany60@mac.com.

Friday, December 16, 12:30 p.m.: Democratic Women in Action meeting, at Friends in Deed, 301 W. Camino Casa Verde (Green Valley). For more information please contact Laurie Cirrincione at crinkster5@msn.com or (520) 625-3133.

Legislative District 27 Winter Solstice Party - Save the Date!

Friday, December 16, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 Winter Solstice Party and fund raiser. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck - Save the Date!

Sunday, December 18, 3:00 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Save the Date! Details TBA.

Tuesday, December 20: Hanukkah begins.

Sunday, December 25: Christmas Day.

Sunday, January 1, 2012: New Year's Day.

Tuesday, January 3: Iowa Caucus.

BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 7: BEYOND: Celebrate, Commemorate, Commit - for a community-wide event to commemorate and celebrate loved ones injured and lost on January 8th, 2011, at sites all over Pima County. We will move beyond the tragedy and commit to a better future with events that are safe, fun, inclusive and active across Southern Arizona. We will walk, hike, run, ride, stroll and come together to remember what happened, acknowledge how it changed us, and celebrate our community. Stay tuned for more details. Visit www.beyond-tucson.org for updates. for more information please contact info@beyond-tucson.org. For Press Inquiries please contact press@beyond-tucson.org.

Monday, January 9: Opening day of Arizona Legislature.

Tuesday, January 10: New Hampshire Primary.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Poma Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menue Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket payment by November 25th. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Phoenix, AZ - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, in Phoenix, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Saturday, January 21: South Carolina Primary.

Pima County Democratic Party General Meeting, Tucson AZ- Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28: Pima County Democratic Party General Meeting, in Tucson, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Tuesday, January 31: Florida Primary.

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca in Bisbee. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons. Save the Date! Details TBA.

(Repost) 2012 Democratic Candidate Summit

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Announcment from the Arizona Democratic Party:

2012 Democratic Candidate Summit - December 9, 10

The Arizona Democratic Party and Arizona List are proud to partner in an important resource for candidates going into the 2012 election cycle. The 2012 Democratic Candidate Summit will be held on Dec. 9-10 at the Wyndham Hotel in downtown Phoenix. This two-day event will feature campaign essentials that every candidate, potential candidate and campaign principal should add to their 2012 artillery. All those interested are invited to participate in one of two tracks:

Candidate Track
Participants in the candidate track should be Democratic candidates or potential candidates for the 2012 election cycle or future elections. The candidate track will be appropriate for all levels of government. Participants will receive training in the areas of fundraising, strategic communications/messaging and grassroots networking.

Campaign Manager Track
Participants in the campaign manager track should be the campaign manager of an upcoming Democratic campaign or a key campaign operative. Participants will receive training on building and maintaining a campaign operation. Areas will include campaign plan logistics, targeting, budgets and field operations.

The training will run from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 9 and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 10. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the training will begin each day at 9:30 a.m. SHARP.

There is a nominal $35 registration fee to attend this seminar. Arizona Democratic Party and Arizona List will provide breakfast, lunch, supplies and training materials that you will need throughout the day. Partial participation is not possible. Participants must commit to attending the entire program in order to participate.

For questions, please call or email Mira Jones at 252-375-6951 or mira@arizonalist.org

Participants should RSVP by Dec. 7 at 5 p.m. to Jackie Adams at 602-234-6803 or jadams@azdem.org

(Update) ALEC States & Nation Policy Summit Nov. 30 - Dec. 2 in Scottsdale

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) updated its web page for its upcoming States & Nation Policy Summit at the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, 6902 E. Greenway Parkway, Scottsdale, Arizona from November 30 - December 2, 2011. Registration is closed. Registration. The Agenda is here.

Michael Bryan, editor & publisher of Blog for Arizona, requested media credentials, and finally received a response this week:

Michael:

Thank you for your interest in covering the American Legislative Exchange Council’s States and Nation Policy Summit November 30-December 2. We will not be able to issue media credentials for BlogforArizon.com as our media policy states that “[j]ournalists may not register as ‘media’ if their news outlet is funded by a think-tank, political party/candidate, activist/advocacy organization, lobbying organization, trade association or corporation.” Please let us know if you have any further questions.

Thank you,
Kaitlyn Buss

Funding? What funding? Is the boss holding out on us? Is this spokesperson for ALEC just ignorant of the facts? Or is this a classic dodge to deny media credentials to a media outlet that has a decidedly anti-ALEC view in its coverage of ALEC? I'm going with the latter.

"AZ resists ALEC" is an Arizona grassroots organization with an informative web site and is planning an "Occupy ALEC" event. AZ resists ALEC:

This website is dedicated to the rising resistance against ALEC, their planned summit, and all corporate greed that would serve to perpetuate state oppression in already impoverished communities on already occupied land. Here you will find a lot more information on the link between ALEC, the private prison industry, and recent legislation like Arizona’s own SB-1070; you will find news articles, reports, and websites exposing ALEC; you will find multimedia pieces explaining the growing and explicit connections between corporate power and community oppression; you will find links to other websites and organizations building resistance in Arizona; and lastly, you will find ways to plug in.

We’re calling on all people to take a stand.

*Come to Phoenix from November 29-December 3 to tell ALEC we will not allow them to further criminalize and oppress our communities in order to fatten the coffers of their corporate members.

*Organize an action in your community for November 30th.

*Keep checking the website for updates on information, events, and actions.

*Spread the word about ALEC and how its members and their greed have affected your home, your family, your life.

AZ resists ALEC | Facebook

AZ resists ALEC (azresistsalec) on Twitter

Political Calendar: Week of November 20, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

This week is the quintessential American holiday -- Thanksgiving. It's too bad that it has been overshadowed by the commercialization of Christmas and "Black Friday." We have lost something of our American character. I still love Thanksgiving -- I even do all the cooking! Got to get those pumpkin pies just right. Mmmm, pumpkin pie! Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving with your families, friends and loved ones.

Political Calendar For The Week of November 20, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, November 21, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Brig. Gen., Ret. John Adams on the topic: ‘Nuclear security issues.’ Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Attorney Barry Kirschner on the topic: Where have all the legal remedies gone?

Monday, November 21, 6:30 p.m.: Saguaro Eastside Democrats meeting, at New Spirit Lutheran Church, 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail (northeast corner at Camino Seco). The meeting begins at 6:30 pm with light refreshments and time for socializing. Meeting begins at 7:00p.m. A panel discussion about the state of education in Arizona. Panelists include June Webb-Vignery, PhD., Executive Director of the Metropolitan Education Committee, Ann-Eve Pedersen, President, Arizona Education Network, and Senator Paula Aboud (LD 28). The panelists will look at the issue from their varied perspectives with a focus on how a properly funded school system can be, and has been shown to be, an economic engine for our state. There will be ample time allotted for an audience question and answer period. All meetings of SED are free and open to the public. For more information please, call (520) 850-6755.

Thursday, November 24: Thanksgiving Day.

Saturday, November 26, 10:00 a.m.: Northern Cochise County Democrats meeting, at the TA Truck Stop in Willcox. For more information please contact Marv Sorensen at msorensen8@cox.net or (520) 586-0786, Lisa Glenn at llglenn@vtc.net or (520) 384-2658, or Kathleen Day-Cain at (520) 824-3482

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

Monday, November 28, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Main Library, 101 N. Stone Avenue (parking in basement under library). For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Tuesday, November 29, 5:30 p.m.: Precinct committeeperson training, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Topics will include basic PC duties, tools available to the PC, relationship between the PC and the structure of the party from local to national, legalese as well as other interesting information. All new PCs are strongly advised to attend. Those who need a refresher are welcome to attend as well. Please RSVP to Mohur Sidhwa: msidhwa@cox.net. Please include your precinct number when you RSVP as we will be preparing materials especially for you.

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

LD 30 December Meeting & Potluck

Saturday, December 3, 10:00 a.m.: Legislative District 30 monthly meeting & Potluck, at the Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 First Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). This meeting will be a working session to review the opportunities and challenges ahead of us for 2012. Our goal will be to put together a political timetable, working backwards from November 2, 2012. Additionally, we’ll review LD 30 committee assignments. For more information please contact Marilee Malmberg at azld30dems@gmail.com or (520) 301-5246.

Amigos de Saldate Contra Pearce

Saturday, December 3, 2:00p.m.: Please join Amigos de Saldate Contra Pearce for a victory celebration, at Las Cazuelitas West, 1365 W. Grant Road (Grant Road West of I-10).

Saguaro Eastside Democrats Wine and Cheese Fund Raiser

Saturday, December 3, 4:00 p.m.: Saguaro Eastside Democrats will be a fundraiser for our club's 2012 activities at the Civano HOA Clubhouse, 10501 E. Seven Generations Way (off Houghton Road). Tickets are $20 per person. The winemaster will be Jon Rogers of "Wines Without Mystery" and brother of the Pima County Democratic Party's chairman, Jeff Rogers. Jon, who has 20 years experience of hosting wine and cheese parties, will introduce four wines of different types for tasting along with matching cheeses. There will also be a dessert. In addition, several bottles of wine will be given as door prizes to lucky participants. To purchase tickets please contact Steve Gall (stevejgall@hotmail.com or (520) 777-3000), or individual board members and at our November meeting.

DCSRA December Meeting & Potluck

Saturday, December 3, 5:30 p.m.: DCSRA December Meeting & Potluck with Special Guests declared 2012 Democratic candidates, at the Desert Hills Social Center, 2980 S. Camino Del Sol (Green Valley). We will hold the election for DCSRA board candidates, as well as enjoy the company of declared 2012 Democratic candidates, and a few surprise guests! The main course will include spiral sliced ham & chicken. Attendees are asked to bring side dishes using the following guidelines: Last names beginning A-F bring SALAD, Last names beginning with G-O bring VEGETABLE DISH or CASSEROLE, Last names beginning with P-Z bring DESSERT, BYOB for alcoholic beverages. Guests are encouraged to bring food donations (non-perishable or canned food products needed) and/or your check made out to the Amado Community Food Bank - make sure the memo includes designation for milk, eggs & other food products. Please RSVP by calling Democratic HQ Green Valley at 520.838.0590 by November 28th.

Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration Luncheon

Monday, December 5, Noon: Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration, at the Tucson Convention Center Ballroom, 260 S. Church Avenue. Inauguration day celebration for Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild, and Tucson Council Members Regina Romero, Paul Cunningham, and Shirley Scott. Vice Mayor Karin Uhlich and Council Members Richard Fimbres and Steve Kozachik are invited guests. Individual Tickets are $75, Table Sponsor $750. Please RSVP to (520) 326-3716 or online at www.PimaDems.org.

Monday, December 5, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Monday, December 5, 7:00 p.m.: Douglas Area Democrats meeting, at Los Obreros Hall, 406 8th Street (Douglas). For more information please contact Corny Munoz at douglasrfl@hotmail.com or (520) 227-7125.

Tuesday, December 6, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democratic Club meeting, at the Cochise County Democratic Party HQ, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at maggzilla2u@yahoo.com or (520) 417-1533.

Tuesday, December 6, 7:30 p.m.: The Tucson Festival of Books presents a special interview and book-signing event with Navy Capt. Mark Kelly, husband of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and co-author of the newly released book, "Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope," at the University of Arizona's Centennial Hall. This ticketed event is free and open to the general public. Tickets available on Nov. 15.
VISIT http://uanews.org/node/43300 for full details.

Wednesday, December 7, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at the Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 First Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

Arizona Democratic Party Hall of Fame Reception - Save the Date!

Friday, December 9: The Arizona Democratic Party is very proud to announce that this year’s Hall of Fame Reception speaker will be none other than DNC Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. Event time and location details to follow in the coming days. Save the date!

Saturday, December 10, 10:00 a.m.: Mule Mountain Democrat Club meeting, at the Bisbee Senior Center on Collins Road (behind the Safeway off Naco Road). For more information please contact John Viverto at Vivertos@aol.com or (520) 432-2366.

Las Adelitas Posada to Benefit Save Ethnic Studies

Saturday, December 10, 6:00 p.m.: Please Join Las Adelitas Arizona for a Traditional Mexican Posada to Benefit Save Ethnic Studies in AZ. A traditional Mexican posada is a holiday party that includes delicious food and drink, music, singing, pinatas, fun for the kids, and more! Tickets are $20 for individuals and $10 per student. Please join us to learn more about what can be done to defend Mexican American Studies in TUSD and enjoy a fun, family friendly holiday tradition. For more information please contact LasAdelitasArizona@gmail.com or check out our facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Las-Adelitas-Arizona/125491824156168, or the Save Ethnic Studies in AZ facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Save-Ethnic-Studies-in-Arizona/118309161523946.

Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck - Save the Date!

Sunday, December 18, 3:00 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Save the Date! Details TBA.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Poma Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menue Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket payment by November 25th. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Phoenix, AZ - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, in Phoenix, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Pima County Democratic Party General Meeting, Tucson AZ- Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28: Pima County Democratic Party General Meeting, in Tucson, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner - Save the Date!

Monday, February 27: Cochise County Democratic Party's Annual Presidents' Day Dinner/Fundraiser, at Cafe Roca in Bisbee. Our special guest is political cartoonist and humorist David Fitzsimmons. Save the Date! Details TBA.

DCSRA December Meeting & Pot Luck

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

 

You are invited

to the

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area

 

December Meeting

&

Potluck

with

Special Guests 

Declared 2012

Democratic Candidates  

 

Saturday, December 3rd

5:30 - 8:00 PM

Desert Hills Social Center

2980 S. Camino del Sol

Green Valley, AZ  85622

 

We will hold the election for DCSRA board candidates, as well as enjoy the company of declared 2012 Democratic candidates, and a few surprise guests!

The main course will include spiral sliced ham & chicken.  Attendees are asked to bring side dishes using the following guidelines:

• Last names beginning A-F bring SALAD
• Last names beginning with G-O bring VEGETABLE DISH or CASSEROLE
• Last names beginning with P-Z bring DESSERT                        
• BYOB for alcoholic beverages 

 

Guests are encouraged to bring food donations (non-perishable or canned food products needed) and/or your check made out to the Amado Community Food Bank - make sure the memo includes designation for milk, eggs & other food products.  To learn more about a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for your contribution, click here.

 

 

Please RSVP by calling Democratic HQ Green Valley at
520.838.0590 by November 28th

2012 Democratic Candidate Summit

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Announcment from the Arizona Democratic Party:

2012 Democratic Candidate Summit - December 9, 10

The Arizona Democratic Party and Arizona List are proud to partner in an important resource for candidates going into the 2012 election cycle. The 2012 Democratic Candidate Summit will be held on Dec. 9-10 at the Wyndham Hotel in downtown Phoenix. This two-day event will feature campaign essentials that every candidate, potential candidate and campaign principal should add to their 2012 artillery. All those interested are invited to participate in one of two tracks:

Candidate Track
Participants in the candidate track should be Democratic candidates or potential candidates for the 2012 election cycle or future elections. The candidate track will be appropriate for all levels of government. Participants will receive training in the areas of fundraising, strategic communications/messaging and grassroots networking.

Campaign Manager Track
Participants in the campaign manager track should be the campaign manager of an upcoming Democratic campaign or a key campaign operative. Participants will receive training on building and maintaining a campaign operation. Areas will include campaign plan logistics, targeting, budgets and field operations.

The training will run from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Dec. 9 and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 10. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the training will begin each day at 9:30 a.m. SHARP.

There is a nominal $35 registration fee to attend this seminar. Arizona Democratic Party and Arizona List will provide breakfast, lunch, supplies and training materials that you will need throughout the day. Partial participation is not possible. Participants must commit to attending the entire program in order to participate.

For questions, please call or email Mira Jones at 252-375-6951 or mira@arizonalist.org

Participants should RSVP by Dec. 7 at 5 p.m. to Jackie Adams at 602-234-6803 or jadams@azdem.org

Political Calendar: Week of November 13, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

Political Calendar For The Week of November 13, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Sunday, November 13, 2:30 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at Cochise College, 1025 South Highway 90 (Benson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Monday, November 14, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is the Rev. John Fife on the topic: A Culture of Cruelty: The systematic abuse of migrants in the borderlands. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Gen. John Adams on the topic: ‘Nuclear security issues.’

Monday, November 14, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at Holy Trinity Parish, 1300 N. Greasewood Road (Tucson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. For more information please call (520) 792 4515. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Monday, November 14, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. For more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

Monday, October 14, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Monday, November 14, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Library, 1305 W. Naranja Drive (at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive). The Democrats of Oro Valley will host Bunny Davis, J.D., M.Ed., who will explore the Constitution and Bill of Rights. The meeting is open to the public at no cost. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774, or visit our web site at www.demsov.org.

Monday, November 14, 9:00 p.m.: ABC News prime time special with Diane Sawyer. Interview of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, Astronaut Mark Kelly, on the eve of the release of their joint memoir, "Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope."

Tuesday, November 15, 11:00 a..m.: Democratic Women of Southeast Arizona luncheon, at the Pueblo Del Sol Country Club, 2770 Saint Andrews Drive (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Perrie Barnes at mjb3@cox.net.

Tuesday, November 15, 6:30 p.m.: Oracle Democrats meeting, at the Oracle Fire Department, 1475 W. American Avenue (Oracle). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Tuesday, November 15, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room), 6265 N. La Cañada Drive. UPDATED AIRC Commissioner Linda McNulty U.S. Senate candidate Don Bivens and LD 26 House candidate Victoria Steele are the featured speakers. For more information please contact Brian Clymer at (520) 323-1234.

Wednesday, November 16, 6:00 p.m.: CORRECTED Legislative District 25 meeting, at the Wheeler Taft Abbett, Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drive (Marana). For more information please contact Jeff Lawrence at AZLD25@aol.com.

Wednesday, November 16, 7:00 p.m.: Pinal County Democratic Party meeting, at Pinal County Democratic Party HQ, 350 N. Main Street (Florence). For more information please contact Joe Robison at pinaldemocrat@gmail.com.

Thursday, November 17, 6:00 p.m.: Casa Grande Democrats meeting, at Eva's Mexican Restaurant, 2033 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande), For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Thursday, November 17, 7:00 p.m.: Heritage Highands/Dove Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Heritage Highlands Clubhouse, 4949 W. Heritage Club Blvd. (Marana). For more information please contact Sandi Tiffany at stiffany60@mac.com.

Friday November 18, 12:30 p.m.: Democratic Women in Action meeting, at Friends in Deed, 301 W. Camino Casa Verde (Green Valley). For more information please contact Laurie Cirrincione at crinkster5@msn.com or (520) 625-3133.

Friday, November 18, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, in Yuma has been CANCELED. A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. For more information please visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Abandoned Mine Safety Silent Auction Fundraiser

Friday, November 18, 6:00 p.m.: Silent Auction Fundraiser benefiting Abandoned Mine Safety, at The Rosson House Museum at Heritage Square, 113 N. 6th Street (Phoenix). Abandoned Mine Safety is a non-profit organization dedicated to the closing and securing of abandoned mines in and around our communities, as well as providing abandoned mine safety education to schools K-12, private organizations, businesses, and public events. Please RSVP to abandonedminesafety@gmail.com or call (623) 388-4945.

Arizona Democratic Party Fall State Committee Meeting, Yuma, AZ

Saturday, November 19, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.: Arizona Democratic Party Fall State Committee Meeting, at the Hilton Garden Inn, 310 N. Madison, Yuma, AZ. For Full info packet go to www.azdem.org/about/state_committee_and_other_committees/.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Monday, November 21, 6:30 p.m.: Saguaro Eastside Democrats meeting, at New Spirit Lutheran Church, 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail (northeast corner at Camino Seco). The meeting begins at 6:30 pm with light refreshments and time for socializing. Meeting begins at 7:00p.m. A panel discussion about the state of education in Arizona. Panelists include June Webb-Vignery, PhD., Executive Director of the Metropolitan Education Committee, Ann-Eve Pedersen, President, Arizona Education Network, and Senator Paula Aboud (LD 28). The panelists will look at the issue from their varied perspectives with a focus on how a properly funded school system can be, and has been shown to be, an economic engine for our state. There will be ample time allotted for an audience question and answer period. All meetings of SED are free and open to the public. For more information please, call (520) 850-6755.

Thursday, November 24: Thanksgiving Day.

Saturday, November 26, 10:00 a.m.: Northern Cochise County Democrats meeting, at the TA Truck Stop in Willcox. For more information please contact Marv Sorensen at msorensen8@cox.net or (520) 586-0786, Lisa Glenn at llglenn@vtc.net or (520) 384-2658, or Kathleen Day-Cain at (520) 824-3482

Monday, November 28, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Main Library, 101 N. Stone Avenue (parking in basement under library). For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Tuesday, November 29, 5:30 p.m.: Precinct committeeperson training, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Topics will include basic PC duties, tools available to the PC, relationship between the PC and the structure of the party from local to national, legalese as well as other interesting information. All new PCs are strongly advised to attend. Those who need a refresher are welcome to attend as well. Please RSVP to Mohur Sidhwa: msidhwa@cox.net. Please include your precinct number when you RSVP as we will be preparing materials especially for you.

Saguaro Eastside Democrats Wine and Cheese Fund Raiser

Saturday, December 3, 4:00 p.m.: Saguaro Eastside Democrats will be a fundraiser for our club's 2012 activities at the Civano HOA Clubhouse, 10501 E. Seven Generations Way (off Houghton Road). Tickets are $20 per person. The winemaster will be Jon Rogers of "Wines Without Mystery" and brother of the Pima County Democratic Party's chairman, Jeff Rogers. Jon, who has 20 years experience of hosting wine and cheese parties, will introduce four wines of different types for tasting along with matching cheeses. There will also be a dessert. In addition, several bottles of wine will be given as door prizes to lucky participants. To purchase tickets please contact Steve Gall (stevejgall@hotmail.com or (520) 777-3000), or individual board members and at our November meeting.

DCSRA December Meeting & Potluck

Saturday, December 3, 5:30 p.m.: DCSRA December Meeting & Potluck with Special Guests declared 2012 Democratic candidates, at the Desert Hills Social Center, 2980 S. Camino Del Sol (Green Valley). We will hold the election for DCSRA board candidates, as well as enjoy the company of declared 2012 Democratic candidates, and a few surprise guests! The main course will include spiral sliced ham & chicken. Attendees are asked to bring side dishes using the following guidelines: Last names beginning A-F bring SALAD, Last names beginning with G-O bring VEGETABLE DISH or CASSEROLE, Last names beginning with P-Z bring DESSERT, BYOB for alcoholic beverages. Guests are encouraged to bring food donations (non-perishable or canned food products needed) and/or your check made out to the Amado Community Food Bank - make sure the memo includes designation for milk, eggs & other food products. Please RSVP by calling Democratic HQ Green Valley at 520.838.0590 by November 28th.

Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration Luncheon

Monday, December 5, Noon: Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration, at the Tucson Convention Center Ballroom, 260 S. Church Avenue. Inauguration day celebration for Tucson Mayor Jonathan Rothschild, and Tucson Council Members Regina Romero, Paul Cunningham, and Shirley Scott. Vice Mayor Karin Uhlich and Council Members Richard Fimbres and Steve Kozachik are invited guests. Individual Tickets are $75, Table Sponsor $750. Please RSVP to (520) 326-3716 or online at www.PimaDems.org.

Monday, December 5, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Las Adelitas Posada to Benefit Save Ethnic Studies

Saturday, December 10, 6:00 p.m.: Please Join Las Adelitas Arizona for a Traditional Mexican Posada to Benefit Save Ethnic Studies in AZ. A traditional Mexican posada is a holiday party that includes delicious food and drink, music, singing, pinatas, fun for the kids, and more! Tickets are $20 for individuals and $10 per student. Please join us to learn more about what can be done to defend Mexican American Studies in TUSD and enjoy a fun, family friendly holiday tradition. For more information please contact LasAdelitasArizona@gmail.com or check out our facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Las-Adelitas-Arizona/125491824156168, or the Save Ethnic Studies in AZ facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Save-Ethnic-Studies-in-Arizona/118309161523946.

Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck - Save the Date!

Sunday, December 18, 3:00 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Holiday Pot Luck, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). Save the Date! Details TBA.

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area: An Evening With David Fitzsimmons

Tuesday, January 17, 6:00 p.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts An Evening With David Fitzsimmons, at the Desert Diamond Casino, 1100 E. Poma Mine Road at I-19. Cash bar at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6:00 p.m. Political Satire at 7:00 p..m. Menue Options include Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian (we will call you to obtain your preference). Ticket Pricing: DCSRA members - Basic $50, Sponsor $100, Patron $200; Non-Members - Basic $75, Sponsor $125, Patron $225. Pay on line using ActBlue, or by check: mail your check payable to DCSRA, P.O.Box 131, Green Valley, AZ 85622, Attn: Jan. 17. Seating is limited. Please RSVP via ticket payment by November 25th. All proceeds go toward DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley. For more information please contact gvdemocrats@gmail.com or call HQ at (520) 838-0590.

Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting, Phoenix, AZ - Save the Date!

Saturday, January 21: Arizona Democratic Party Winter State Committee Meeting,in Phoenix, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

Pima County Democratic Party General Meeting, Tucson AZ- Save the Date!

Saturday, January 28: Pima County Democratic Party General Meeting, in Tucson, AZ. Save the Date! Details TBA.

UPDATED

Moving Tucson Forward: Inauguration Celebration Luncheon

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Moving Tucson Forward:
Inauguration Celebration Luncheon
featuring Mayor-Elect
Jonathan
Rothschild

 

 

Featuring: Council Members Regina Romero, Paul Cunningham and Shirley Scott

Invited Guests: Vice Mayor Karin Uhlich, Council Members Richard Fimbres and Steve Kozachik

 

12:00 pm, Monday, December 5th

 

Tucson Convention Center Ballroom

260 S. Church Ave.

 

Individual Tickets $75, Tables $750 │RSVP 520.326.3716 or www.PimaDems.org

 

Axe the Flat Tax! Forum on Monday

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Panel to discuss Legislative plan to raise taxes on middle class

Would cut taxes for those making over $100k annually

State Capitol, Phoenix - Organizers in southern Arizona are gearing up to stop the Legislature’s flat tax bill - an income tax plan that will raise taxes on 8 out of every 9 Arizonans while giving the rich a massive tax cut.

A forum sponsored by State Senator Paula Aboud and the Arizona Ecumenical Council will host a panel discussion with audience questions on Monday, Nov. 14th from 6:30-8 p.m. at Most Holy Trinity Parish, 1300 N. Greasewood in Tucson.

Moderated by Arizona Public Media’s Christopher Conover, panelists will include: UA economist Dr. Alberta Charney; CPA Annette Stevens; Jim Murphy, President & CEO of Pima Council on Aging; and Pastor La'Tresa Jester of Gideon Missionary Baptist Church. They will discuss the real world impact of the flat tax on Arizona's middle class families.

One such shocking impact is that people earning less than $10,000 adjusted gross income would see a 20,000 percent increase in their taxes and median income earners would see a 30 percent hike. Meanwhile, those making over $100,000 annually would get a tax cut and the lucky few who make more than $500,000 a year would have their taxes cut nearly in half (source: Arizona Department of Revenue).

“In these hard economic times the wealthy should be giving to charity – not getting it,” said Senator Paula Aboud. “And it is wrong for the Legislature to raise taxes on the middle class without receiving the public’s input.  That’s why I’m facilitating these forums: to give the public a chance to be informed about this change that could be coming their way.”

The "Flat Tax" (HB2636) was approved in the House last session with the support of 40 Republican legislators. It then made it through the Senate Finance Committee only to be held by the sponsor when military leaders and the Arizona Association of Realtors objected. The bill would eliminate deductions for mortgage interest, charitable donations, military pay exemptions and veterans’ and pension benefit exemptions.

"This 'Reverse-Robin Hood' scheme represents an out-of-touch agenda," Aboud said. “Taxing struggling Arizonans to benefit the wealthy is no way to improve our state’s weak economy.”

###

DCSRA Event: An Evening with David Fitzsimmons

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The

Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area

 

cordially invites you to join us for

 

An  

evening 

 

with 

David Fitzsimmons 

 

  

January 17, 2012 

5:30 - 6:00 PM  Cash Bar

6:00 - 7:00 PM  Dinner

7:00 - 8:00 PM  Fitzsimmons Political Satire

 

Desert Diamond Casino

1100 W. Pima Mine Road @ I-19

Sahuarita, AZ  85629

_____

   

Menu options include:

Steak, chicken, fish or vegetarian

We will call you to obtain your preferences

 ____ 

Ticket Pricing:

                                                   Basic    Sponsor    Patron

               DCSRA members             $50        $100        $200

               Non-members                $75        $125        $225

 

How to pay:

 

1) On-line using Act Blue -  Click here to pay on-line 

 - OR -

2) By check - Address & mail your check to:

 

DCSRA

PO Box 131

Green Valley, AZ  85622

Attn: Jan. 17

  _____ 

 

Seating is limited  

Please RSVP via ticket payment by November 25^th

 

Need a ride?  

Click here to send us an e-mail, or 

call HQ at 520.838.0590

 

All proceeds go toward  

DCSRA & Democratic HQ Green Valley

 

'Scourge of Wisconsin' Protest Rally on Thursday

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

I told you about this on Monday. Gov. Scott Walker of Fitzwalkerstan in Scottsdale on Thursday - tell him what you really think of him!

Now the Arizona AFL-CIO has a "Scourge of Wisconsin" Protest Rally to give Walker a proper "welcome."

On Thursday, Wisconsin’s infamous Governor Scott Walker will be in Phoenix attending the 2011 Goldwater Institute Fundraiser Dinner as the featured guest speaker. Shame on the Goldwater Institute and shame on Scott Walker! 

Join us as we tell the Goldwater Institute the anti-worker politics of Scott Walker have no place in Arizona, Wisconsin, or anywhere else in this country.

When: 4:00 PM, Thursday, November 10, 2011

Where: The Phoenician Resort, 6000 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale, AZ

When Scott Walker and his cronies unleashed radical and reckless legislation stripping Wisconsin public employees of the right to collectively bargain, the labor movement across the country stood in solidarity with Wisconsin workers. Let's stand together again -  for an injury to one is an injury to all!

(We will have buses to the picket location that will pick us up at  3:30 pm from UA Local 469, 3109 N. 24th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85016)

RSVP’s are REQUIRED:  please send your information to cchacon@azaflcio.org if you will be joining us on the bus!

Political Calendar: Week of October 30, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

Happy Halloween!

The Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission will be holding public hearings in Marana on Friday and Green Valley on Saturday. This is your last chance to testify in person or to submit your comments online. www.azredistricting.com.

It's that time of year again, we need to rally our volunteers and keep Tucson BLUE! Ballots were mailed on October 19. So VOTE!

Early Voting location: Tucson City Clerk Election Center, 800 E. 12th Street, open October 20-November 7, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Mon.-Fri.)

All vote-by-mail ballots must be in the possession of the City Clerk by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day in order for your ballot to be counted. The final day to vote (Election Day) is Tuesday, November 8. For a list of voting locations on Election Day see http://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/sites/default/files/clerks/Ballot%20Replacement%20Sites.pdf.

Please remember to sign and date the affidavit portion of your ballot envelope.

Then come on over for GOTV, and bring a friend!

New Volunteer Hours!

Coordinated Campaign Phone Banks!
Pima Dems HQ- 4639 E 1st St
Monday - Thursday 10:00 am & 5:00 pm
Friday & Saturday 10:00 am

Neighborhood Walks!
Every Saturday 9:00am
Sundays 2:00 pm
Jonathan Rothschild HQ, 3400 E. Speedway

and
Saturdays 9:00 am
Mission Mannor Park, 6100 S. 12th Ave
Walking in support of all of our Democratic candidates
and the Sunnyside Bond & Override

Political Calendar For The Week of October 30, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, October 31, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. CORRECTION: Featured speaker is Attorney Kathleen Williamson on the topic: Bank and Mortgage Frauds and their connections to other seemingly unrelated industries. November 7: Featured speaker is Lisa Hoffman on ALEC - Who writes your laws – model bills and strategy. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Following Week: Rev. John Fife on the topic: A Culture of Cruelty: The systematic abuse of migrants in the borderlands.

Tuesday, November 1, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democratic Cub meeting, at Cochise County Democratic Party HQ, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at (520) 417-1533 or maggzilla2u@yahoo.com.

Wednesday, November 2, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

Thursday, November 3, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at St. Marks Church, 1431 W. Magee Road (Tucson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Friday, November 4, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Marana Municipal Complex Auditorium, 11555 W. Civic Center Drive (Marana).

Friday, November 4: LAST DAY TO MAIL YOUR MAIL-IN BALLOT. Do NOT mail it after Friday, but hand-deliver it to any ballot replacement center on Election Day, Tuesday, November 8.

Saturday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Desert Hills Social Center, Desert Hills Auditorium, 2980 S. Camino Del Sol (Green Valley).

Saturday, November 5, 2:00 p.m.: Legislative District 30 meeting, special election for chair, at the Green Valley Democratic HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). For more information please contact Mariana Spier at mariana_spier@hotmail.com.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Monday, November 7, 7:00 p.m.: Douglas Area Democrats meeting, at Los Obreros Hall, 406 8th Street (Douglas). For more information please contact Corny Munoz (520) 227-7125 or douglasrfl@hotmail.com.

Tuesday, November 8, 7:00 p.m.: Election Night Celebration. The Pima County Democratic Party invites you to join Council Members Regina Romero, Paul Cunningham, Shirley Scott and Jonathan Rothschild, the first Democratic Mayor in twelve years to celebrate all of our victories at Tucson’s hidden treasure, Lodge on the Desert, 306 N. Alvernon Way. Cash Bar and refreshments provided. Event is free, but contributions are always appreciated.

Friday, November 11: Veteran's Day.

Saturday, November 12, 10:00 a.m.: Mule Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Bisbee Senior Center on Collins Road (behind the Safeway and off Naco Road). For more information please contact John Viverto at 432-2366 or Vivertos@aol.com.

Democratic Women in Action "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon

Saturday, November 12, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women in Action host the annual "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon, at the Diamond Center, Desert Diamond Casino, 7350 South Nogales Highway (Tucson). Apparel will be provided by Encore Classics of Green Valley and Twice As Nice & Desert Vintage of Tucson. The event will host a Silent Auction, Centerpieces by Lisa Aiken of All Natural Soap & Bodycare Products, and VIP models. Tickets are now on sale for $49 each. For more information please contact Denise Morse at drcampo@q.com or (520) 762-1957, or visit our web site at http://azdemocraticwomen.org/.

Saturday, November 12, 3:00 p.m.: Saddlebrooke Democrats meeting, at the Saddlebrooke Club House. For more information please contact Holly Lyon at (703) 989-0764.

Saturday, November 12, 7:00 p.m.: Sowing the Seeds Floricanto Fundraiser for Saving Ethnic Studies, at the Fluxx Studio, 414 E. 9th Street (Tucson). Sowing the Seeds of Tucson, a collective of women writers, will be hosting a Floricanto Fundraiser to support Saving Ethnic Studies in the fight against Arizona's HB 2281, which bans the teaching of ethnic studies in K-12 public and charter schools. Committed to supporting Ethnic Studies in Arizona, the writers of Sowing the Seeds are leading a community Floricanto (poetry reading). Featured readers included members of the group and invited poets. There will also be an Open Mic session. Free admission, donations accepted at the door! Poets interested in participating please contact Andrea Hernandez Holm at ahholm@email.arizona.edu with questions.

Sunday, November 13, 2:30 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at Cochise College, 1025 South Highway 90 (Benson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Monday, November 14: ABC News prime time special with Diane Sawyer. Interview of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and her husband, Astronaut Mark Kelly, on the eve of the release of their joint memoir, "Gabby: A Story of Courage and Hope." (check local listings for time).

Monday, November 14, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at Holy Trinity Parish, 1300 N. Greasewood Road (Tucson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. For more information please call (520) 792 4515. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Monday, November 14, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. For more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

Monday, October 14, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Monday, November 14, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Library, 1305 W. Naranja Drive (at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive). The Democrats of Oro Valley will host Bunny Davis, J.D., M.Ed., who will explore the Constitution and Bill of Rights. The meeting is open to the public at no cost. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774, or visit our web site at www.demsov.org.

Tuesday, November 15, 6:30 p.m.: Oracle Democrats meeting, at the Oracle Fire Department, 1475 W. American Avenue (Oracle). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Wednesday, November 16, 7:00 p.m.: Pinal County Democratic Party meeting, at Pinal County Democratic Party HQ, 350 N. Main Street (Florence). For more information please contact Joe Robison at pinaldemocrat@gmail.com. 

Thursday, November 17, 6:00 p.m.: Casa Grande Democrats meeting, at Eva's Mexican Restaurant, 2033 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande), For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Friday, November 18, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, location TBD in Yuma, AZ. A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. For more information please call (520) 792 4515. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Abandoned Mine Safety Silent Auction Fundraiser

Friday, November 18, 6:00 p.m.: Silent Auction Fundraiser benefitting Abandoned Mine Safety, at The Rosson House Museum at Heritage Square, 113 N. 6th Street (Phoenix). Abandoned Mine Safety is a non-profit organization dedicated to the closing and securing of abandoned mines in and around our communities, as well as providing abandoned mine safety education to schools K-12, private organizations, businesses, and public events. Please RSVP to abandonedminesafety@gmail.com or call (623) 388-4945.

Arizona Democratic Party Fall State Committee Meeting, Yuma, AZ - Save The Date!

Saturday, November 19, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.: Arizona Democratic Party Fall State Committee Meeting, at the Hilton Garden Inn, 310 N. Madison, Yuma, AZ. For Full info packet go to www.azdem.org/about/state_committee_and_other_committees/.

Axe the Flat Tax! Forum

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Panel to discuss Legislative plan to raise taxes on middle class
Would cut taxes for those making over $100k annually

State Capitol, Phoenix - Organizers in southern Arizona are gearing up to stop the Legislature’s Flat Tax bill - an income tax plan that will raise taxes on 8 out of every 9 Arizonans while giving the rich a massive tax cut.

A forum sponsored by State Senator Paula Aboud and the Arizona Ecumenical Council will host a panel discussion with audience questions on Nov. 3rd from 7-8:30 pm at St. Marks United Methodist Church, 1431 W. Magee Rd in Tucson.

Panelists will include UA economist Dr. Alberta Charney, CPA Annette Stevens and Dana Naimark, President & CEO of Children's Action Alliance. They will discuss the real world impact of the flat tax on Arizona's middle class families.

One such shocking impact is that people earning less than $10,000 adjusted gross income would see a 20,000 percent increase in their taxes and median income earners would see a 30 percent hike. Meanwhile, those making over $100,000 annually would get a tax cut and the lucky few who make more than $500,000 a year would have their taxes cut nearly in half (source: Arizona Department of Revenue).

“In these hard economic times the wealthy should be giving to charity – not getting it,” said Senator Paula Aboud. “And it is wrong for the Legislature to raise taxes on the middle class without receiving the public’s input. That’s why I’m facilitating these forums: to give the public a chance to be informed about this change that could be coming their way.”

The "Flat Tax" (HB2636) was approved in the House last session with the support of 40 Republican legislators. It then made it through the Senate Finance Committee only to be held by the sponsor when military leaders and the Arizona Association of Realtors objected. The bill would eliminate deductions for mortgage interest, charitable donations, military pay exemptions and veterans’ and pension benefit exemptions.

"This 'Reverse-Robin Hood' scheme represents an out-of-touch agenda," Aboud said. “Taxing struggling Arizonans to benefit the wealthy is no way to improve our state’s weak economy.”

See documents: Joint Legislative Budget Council Analysis and Arizona Republic editorial

###

Political Calendar: Week of October 23, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

The Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission will be holding public hearings in Baja Arizona starting this week. This is your last chance to testify in person or to submit your comments online. www.azredistricting.com.

It's that time of year again, we need to rally our volunteers and keep Tucson BLUE! Ballots were mailed on October 19. So VOTE!

Early Voting location: Tucson City Clerk Election Center, 800 E. 12th Street, open October 20-November 7, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Mon.-Fri.)

All vote-by-mail ballots must be in the possession of the City Clerk by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day in order for your ballot to be counted. The final day to vote (Election Day) is Tuesday, November 8. For a list of voting locations on Election Day see http://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/sites/default/files/clerks/Ballot%20Replacement%20Sites.pdf.

Please remember to sign and date the affidavit portion of your ballot envelope.

Then come on over for GOTV, and bring a friend!

New Volunteer Hours!

Coordinated Campaign Phone Banks!
Pima Dems HQ- 4639 E 1st St
Monday - Thursday 10:00 am & 5:00 pm
Friday & Saturday 10:00 am

Neighborhood Walks!
Every Saturday 9:00am
Sundays 2:00 pm
Jonathan Rothschild HQ, 3400 E. Speedway

and
Saturdays 9:00 am
Mission Mannor Park, 6100 S. 12th Ave
Walking in support of all of our Democratic candidates
and the Sunnyside Bond & Override

Political Calendar For The Week of October 23, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, October 24, 11:00 a.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Tohono O’odham Utility Authority, Conference Room, Hwy. 86 Mile Post 112 (Sells).

Monday, October 24, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Roberto Reveles, who served on the staff of 5 congressmen in Washington, D.C. for a total of 24 years, on the topic: Congress - Then and Now. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Lisa Hoffman on ALEC - Who writes your laws – model bills and strategy.

Monday, October 24, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the University of Arizona, Student Union Memorial Center, North Ballroom, 1303 E. University Blvd. (Tucson).

Monday, October 24, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Main Library, 101 N. Stone Avenue (parking in basement under library). For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Monday, October 24, 6:30 p.m.: (Special Date) Saguaro Eastside Democrats meeting, at the New Spirit Lutheran Church, 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail (northeast corner at Camino Seco). The President of Save the Scenic Santa Ritas Association, Gayle Hartmann will be the guest speaker to give an update on the issues surrounding the proposed Rosemont Mine in the Santa Rita Mountains. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. with light refreshments and time for socializing. Hartmann will begin her talk at 7 p.m. There will be ample time allotted for an audience question and answer period. All meetings of SED are free and open to the public. For more information please call (520) 850-6755.

Tuesday, October 25, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Buena Performing Arts Center (Buena High School), 5225 Buena School Boulevard (Sierra Vista).

Voices for Education’s Parent Leadership Institute

Wednesday, October 26, 5:30 p.m.: Voices for Education’s Parent Leadership Institute, at Holladay Elementary Magnet School, 1110 E. 33rd Street (Tucson). Rep. Daniel Patterson and Rep. Matt Heinz, who represent District 29, will discuss how the legislature affects public education. Voices for Education is a parent-based education advocacy organization that works to improve the educational outcomes of Arizona’s students. For more information go to www.voicesforeducation.org.

Wednesday, October 26, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Holiday Inn, 777 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande).

Wednesday, October 26, 6:00 p.m.: Pima County Working Young Democrats meeting, at The Shanty, 401 East 9th Street (at 4th Avenue).

An Event Honoring Terry Bracy of the Udall Foundation

Thursday, October 27, 6:00 p.m.: A dinner honoring Terry Bracy and his distinguished service as Chair of the Udall Foundation Board of Trustees, at the Westward Look Resort, Sonoran Ballroom, 245 E. Ina Road, Tucson, AZ. Featured Speaker is Senator Bill Bradley. Cost is $50.00/person (payable by check only to the Udall Foundation). RSVP to (520) 901-8500 or fernandez@udall.gov by October 19, 2011. Ask for entrée choices when you RSVP. Payment is due in advance of the dinner. Mail payment to Udall Foundation, 130 S. Scott Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701, ATTN: Theresa Fernandez.

Thursday, October 27, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Eastern Arizona College, Lee Little Theater - Activity Center, 1014 N. College Avenue (Thatcher). Remote location: Greenlee County Board of Supervisors Hearing Room, Greenlee County Courthouse, 253 5th Street (Clifton).

Thursday, October 27, 7:00 p.m.: The Pima County/Tucson Women’s Commission continues its series of seminars on “How Government Works,” at the agency’s headquarters in downtown Tucson, 240 N. Court Avenue. Arizona Sen. Linda Lopez (Dist. 29) will be the guest speaker. The seminars are free. To register, call (520) 622-0905.

Friday, October 28, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Americana Hotel, 639 N. Grand Avenue (Nogales).

Saturday, October 29, 1:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Yuma City Hall Council Chambers, One City Plaza, just north of Giss Pkwy. between 1st Avenue and Madison Avenue (Yuma).

Saturday, October 29, 3:00 pm: Tanque Verde Valley Democrats meeting, at the Cactus Cove B&B, 10066 E. Kleindale Road (Tucson). Jessica Schultz from Congresswoman Giffords campaign staff and Sen. Ruben Gallego have been following the AIRC public hearings and will answer all your questions about redistricting. For more information please contact (520) 615-5144.

LD 22 Dems 5th Annual Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 29, 6:00 p.m.: LD 22 Dems 5th Annual Oktoberfest, at the home of an LD 22 Dems member. Save the Date! - Saturday, October 29th - 6pm to 8pm Beer, Brats, & Fun! Cost: $25 Individual, $40 Couple, $20 Young Democrat More details to come! For more information please contact Megan McPherson at megan14l@gmail.com or (602) 430-2248.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

Thursday, November 3, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at St. Marks Church, 1431 W. Magee Road (Tucson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Friday, November 4, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Marana Municipal Complex Auditorium, 11555 W. Civic Center Drive (Marana).

Friday, November 4: LAST DAY TO MAIL YOUR MAIL-IN BALLOT. Do Not mail it after Friday, but hand-deliver it to any ballot replacement center on Election Day, Tuesday, November 8.

Saturday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.: Legislative District 30 meeting, special election for chair, at the George Miller Golf Links Library, 9640 E. Golf Links Road (Tucson). For more information please contact Mariana Spier at mariana_spier@hotmail.com.

Saturday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Desert Hills Social Center, Desert Hills Auditorium, 2980 S. Camino Del Sol (Green Valley).

Tuesday, November 8: ELECTION DAY!

Democratic Women in Action "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon

Saturday, November 12, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women in Action host the annual "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon, at the Diamond Center, Desert Diamond Casino, 7350 South Nogales Highway (Tucson). Apparel will be provided by Encore Classics of Green Valley and Twice As Nice & Desert Vintage of Tucson. The event will host a Silent Auction, Centerpieces by Lisa Aiken of All Natural Soap & Bodycare Products, and VIP models. Tickets are now on sale for $49 each. For more information please contact Denise Morse at drcampo@q.com or (520) 762-1957, or visit our web site at http://azdemocraticwomen.org/.

Sunday, November 13, 2:30 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at Cochise College, 1025 South Highway 90 (Benson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Monday, November 14, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at Holy Trinity Parish, 1300 N. Greasewood Road (Tucson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. For more information please call (520) 792 4515. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Friday, November 18, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, location TBD in Yuma, AZ. A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. For more information please call (520) 792 4515. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Abandoned Mine Safety Silent Auction Fundraiser

Friday, November 18, 6:00 p.m.: Silent Auction Fundraiser benefitting Abandoned Mine Safety, at The Rosson House Museum at Heritage Square, 113 N. 6th Street (Phoenix). Abandoned Mine Safety is a non-profit organization dedicated to the closing and securing of abandoned mines in and around our communities, as well as providing abandoned mine safety education to schools K-12, private organizations, businesses, and public events. Please RSVP to abandonedminesafety@gmail.com or call (623) 388-4945.

Arizona Democratic Party Fall State Committee Meeting, Yuma, AZ - Save The Date!

Saturday, November 19, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.: Arizona Democratic Party Fall State Committee Meeting, at the Hilton Garden Inn, 310 N. Madison, Yuma, AZ. For Full info packet go to www.azdem.org/about/state_committee_and_other_committees/.

Office of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords presents a Financial Literacy Fair

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Announcement from the Office of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords:

Financial Literacy Fair

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

2:30-6:00pm

 

Flowing Wells High School

3725 N. Flowing Wells Road

Tucson, Arizona 85705

 

The Office of Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, in partnership with the United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, invites you to attend a financial literacy fair to learn more about smart money strategies. 

 

The fair will bring together local organizations and showcase the services and resources available to assist you and your family with your financial needs.  Participating organizations include:

 

 

	Metropolitan Education Commission	Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona
	Goodwill	Don’t Borrow Trouble
	Pio Decimo Center	Primavera Foundation
Pima Council on Aging

 

The event also will feature interactive workshops:

 

3 p.m. – Is the Cost of College Scaring You?

What students can do to afford college or other post-secondary education.

 

4 p.m. – Is Someone Hiding Behind Your Identity?

What seniors can do to prevent identity theft and the financial troubles that come with it.

 

5 p.m. – Is the Cost of College Scaring You?

What parents can do to help their student afford college or other post-secondary education.

Tucson City Council General Election is October 20-November 8: VOTE!

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Tucson City Council General Election: Vote-by-mail ballots were dropped in the mail on October 19. Voters will begin receiving their ballots today.

Early Voting location: Tucson City Clerk Election Center, 800 E. 12th Street, open October 20-November 7, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (Mon.-Fri.)

All vote-by-mail ballots must be in the possession of the City Clerk by 7:00 p.m. on Election Day in order for your ballot to be counted. The final day to vote (Election Day) is Tuesday, November 8. For a list of voting locations on Election Day see http://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/sites/default/files/clerks/Ballot%20Replacement%20Sites.pdf.

Please remember to sign and date the affidavit portion of your ballot envelope.

The sooner you return your vote-by-mail ballot, the sooner the phone calls to your home reminding you to vote will stop. So do it today!

League of Women Voters Tucson Candidate Forum This Monday

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Please plan to arrive between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. Seating is limited.

The League of Women Voters does not allow audience members to have signs or wear political t-shirts or political buttons at the debate.

Political Calendar: Week of October 16, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

It's that time of year again, we need to rally our volunteers and keep Tucson BLUE! Ballots will be mailed this Wednesday. So VOTE and come on over for GOTV, and bring a friend!

It's Time To Win Some Elections!

Coordinated Campaign Phone Banks!
Pima Dems HQ- 4639 E. 1st Street
Mondays- 10am
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays- 5pm

Neighborhood Walks!
Every Saturday 9am
Rothschild HQ- 3400 E. Speedway

Political Calendar For The Week of October 16, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Monday, October 17, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Sen. Paula Aboud on "Flat Tax, Flat Broke." Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Roberto Reveles, who served on the staff of 5 congressmen in Washington, D.C. for a total of 24 years, on the topic: Congress - Then and Now.

League of Women Voters City of Tucson Candidate Forum

Monday, October 17, 6:00 p.m.: The League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson, along with the Pima County/Tucson Women's Commission, invite you to attend a free candidate forum, at Temple Emanu-El, 225 N. Country Club Road (between Broadway and 6th St.) Here's your chance to meet and hear all the candidates running for Mayor and City Council in November's election. The Moderator will be Lupita Murillo, a member of KVOA's News 4 Tucson team. All candidates have committed to participate.

Tuesday, October 18, 6:30 p.m.: Oracle Democrats meeting, at the Oracle Fire Department, 1475 W. American Avenue (Oracle). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Tuesday, October 18, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room), 6265 N. La Cañada Drive. For more information please contact Brian Clymer at (520) 323-1234.

Wednesday, October 19: Tucson City Council Election mail ballots are mailed, ballot replacement early voting sites open. VOTE!

Wednesday, October 19, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 25 meeting, at the Wheeler Taft Abbett, Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drive (Marana). For more information please contact Jeff Lawrence at AZLD25@aol.com or (520) 572-1881.

Wednesday, October 19, 7:00 p.m.: Pinal County Democratic Party meeting, at the Pinal County Democratic Party HQ, 350 N. Main Street (Florence). For more information please contact Joe Robison at pinaldemocrat@gmail.com.

Thursday, October 20, 5:00 p.m.: Northwest LD 26 Get Acquainted Party, at the Taste of Texas Steakhouse, 8310 N. Thornydale Road, in the Basha’s Shopping Center (Tucson). Come meet your friends and neighbors to learn how you can be part of electing Democrats in 2012! Guest speaker – Rex Scott on education. No-host bar; Snacks provided. For more information and to RSVP, please contact Barb at (520) 297-4896 or blwherry@msn.com.

Thursday, October 20, 6:00 p.m.: Casa Grande Democrats meeting, at Eva's Mexican Restaurant, 2033 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Thursday, October 20, 7:00 p.m.: Heritage Highlands/Dove Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Heritage Highlands Clubhouse, 4949 W. Heritage Club Blvd. (Marana). For more information please contact Sandi Tiffany at stiffany60@mac.com.

Friday, October 21, 2:00 p.m.: Democratic Women in Action meeting, at the Joyner Green Valley Library, 601 N. La Canada Drive (Green Valley). Nationally recognized author, educator and feminist Sheila Tobias will be our guest speaker. Her topic is the current state of the woman’s movement and where we must go from here. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information please contact drcampo@q.com or 520-762-1957.

Truman-Clinton Dinner - Sedona

Friday, October 21, 6:00 p.m.: Democrats of the Red Rocks, Democrats of the Verde Valley, and Yavapai County Democratic Party host the Truman-Clinton Dinner and Fundraiser, at the Sedona Hilton Resort and Spa, 90 Ridge Trail Drive (Sedona). Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva will be our keynote speaker. Master of ceremonies is Rodney Glassman. Featured music is the quartet Outside The Box. Yavapai Blue VIP Reception at 4:00 p.m. Welcome 6:00 p.m., Dinner 6:30 p.m. Keynote address 7:30 p.m. Presentation of Hope Award 8:00 p.m. Reserve your tickets now! VIP Blue Reception with Rep. Grijalva $125; Individual banquet $75. Click here to see the menu and pay via PayPal. If you prefer, you can send a check (for the dinner and reception, or dinner only) made out to DORR and mail it to PO Box 1165, Sedona 86339-1165. Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, email, the number of tickets you are buying and your food choice(s). For more information please contact Democrats of the Red Rocks (DORR) at (928) 203-5858 or visit our website www.democratsoftheredrocks.org.

Saturday, October 22, 10:00 a.m.: Northern Cochise County Democrats meeting, at the TA Truck Stop in Willcox. For more information please contact Marv Sorensen at msorensen8@cox.net or (520) 586-0786, Lisa Glenn at llglenn@vtc.net or (520) 384-2658, or Kathleen Day-Cain at (520) 824-3482.

Luz de Vida Benefit Concert and Album Release

Saturday, October 22, 7:00 p.m.: Luz de Vida Benefit Concert, at the Rialto Theater, 318 E. Congress Street (Tucson). Luz de Vida is a compilation album of music from artists both in Tucson and affiliated with Tucson. All proceeds from the sale of Luz de Vida will go to the Tucson Together Fund, the only officially sanctioned fund established to assist victims, families, and witnesses of the Jan. 8 tragedy. Luz de Vida – Spanish for Light of Life – is an expression of community, love, healing, grace and hope, a positive response from Tucson musicians and national artists who have a special bond with Tucson. Luz de Vida will be available on Oct. 18 in two formats: as a 37-track digital album and a special limited-edition 12-song vinyl release, with exclusively Tucson bands. Get your copy of Luz de Vida and enjoy special performances from a host of Tucson bands. $5 Suggested Donation for Entrance; $10 Entrance + Luz de Vida Digital Download; $20 Entrance + Luz de Vida Vinyl & Digital Download. For more information visit: www.musicagainstviolence.org.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

Monday, October 24, 11:00 a.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Tohono O’odham Utility Authority, Conference Room, Hwy. 86 Mile Post 112 (Sells).

Monday, October 24, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the University of Arizona, Student Union Memorial Center, North Ballroom, 1303 E. University Blvd. (Tucson).

Monday, October 24, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Main Library, 101 N. Stone Avenue (parking in basement under library). For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Monday, October 24, 6:30 p.m.: (Special Date) Saguaro Eastside Democrats meeting, at the New Spirit Lutheran Church, 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail (northeast corner at Camino Seco). The President of Save the Scenic Santa Ritas Association, Gayle Hartmann will be the guest speaker to give an update on the issues surrounding the proposed Rosemont Mine in the Santa Rita Mountains. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. with light refreshments and time for socializing. Hartmann will begin her talk at 7 p.m. There will be ample time allotted for an audience question and answer period. All meetings of SED are free and open to the public. For more information please call (520) 850-6755.

Tuesday, October 25, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Buena Performing Arts Center (Buena High School), 5225 Buena School Boulevard (Sierra Vista).

Voices for Education’s Parent Leadership Institute

Wednesday, October 26, 5:30 p.m.: Voices for Education’s Parent Leadership Institute, at Holladay Elementary Magnet School, 1110 E. 33rd Street (Tucson). Rep. Daniel Patterson and Rep. Matt Heinz, who represent District 29, will discuss how the legislature affects public education. Voices for Education is a parent-based education advocacy organization that works to improve the educational outcomes of Arizona’s students. For more information go to www.voicesforeducation.org.

Wednesday, October 26, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Holiday Inn, 777 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande).

Wednesday, October 26, 6:00 p.m.: Pima County Working Young Democrats meeting, at The Shanty, 401 East 9th Street (at 4th Avenue).

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

An Event Honoring Terry Bracy of the Udall Foundation

Thursday, October 27, 6:00 p.m.: A dinner honoring Terry Bracy and his distinguished service as Chair of the Udall Foundation Board of Trustees, at the Westward Look Resort, Sonoran Ballroom, 245 E. Ina Road, Tucson, AZ. Featured Speaker is Senator Bill Bradley. Cost is $50.00/person (payable by check only to the Udall Foundation). RSVP to (520) 901-8500 or fernandez@udall.gov by October 19, 2011. Ask for entrée choices when you RSVP. Payment is due in advance of the dinner. Mail payment to Udall Foundation, 130 S. Scott Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701, ATTN: Theresa Fernandez.

Thursday, October 27, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Eastern Arizona College, 615 N. Stadium Avenue (Thatcher).

Friday, October 28, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Americana Hotel, 639 N. Grand Avenue (Nogales).

Saturday, October 29, 1:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Yuma City Hall Council Chambers, One City Plaza, just north of Giss Pkwy. between 1st Avenue and Madison Avenue (Yuma).

LD 22 Dems 5th Annual Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 29, 6:00 p.m.: LD 22 Dems 5th Annual Oktoberfest, at the home of an LD 22 Dems member. Save the Date! - Saturday, October 29th - 6pm to 8pm Beer, Brats, & Fun! Cost: $25 Individual, $40 Couple, $20 Young Democrat More details to come! For more information please contact Megan McPherson at megan14l@gmail.com or (602) 430-2248.

Thursday, November 3, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at St. Marks Church, 1431 W. Magee Road (Tucson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Friday, November 4, 6:00 p.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Marana Municipal Complex Auditorium, 11555 W. Civic Center Drive (Marana).

Saturday, November 5, 10:00 a.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at Town of Green Valley TBA.

Democratic Women in Action "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon

Saturday, November 12, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women in Action host the annual "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon, at the Diamond Center, Desert Diamond Casino, 7350 South Nogales Highway (Tucson). Apparel will be provided by Encore Classics of Green Valley and Twice As Nice & Desert Vintage of Tucson. The event will host a Silent Auction, Centerpieces by Lisa Aiken of All Natural Soap & Bodycare Products, and VIP models. Tickets are now on sale for $49 each. For more information please contact Denise Morse at drcampo@q.com or (520) 762-1957, or visit our web site at http://azdemocraticwomen.org/.

Sunday, November 13, 2:30 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at Cochise College, 1025 South Highway 90 (Benson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Monday, November 14, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, at Holy Trinity Parish, 1300 N. Greasewood Road (Tucson). A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. For more information please call (520) 792 4515. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Friday, November 18, 6:00 p.m.: Axe the Flat Tax! Forum, location TBD in Yuma, AZ. A forum on a harmful plan that will raise taxes for the poor and middle-income and lower taxes for the rich. For more information please call (520) 792 4515. Visit Axe The Flat Tax.

Arizona Democratic Party Fall State Committee Meeting, Yuma, AZ - Save The Date!

Saturday, November 19, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.: Arizona Democratic Party Fall State Committee Meeting, in Yuma, Arizona. Details TBA.

OccupyTucson on Saturday, October 15

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Phoenix version of Occupy Wall Street is ramping up with a Web page #OccupyPhoenix | Taking the power back!, plus info feeds on Facebook and Twitter.

Organizers want protesters to "flood into Cesar Chavez Plaza" on Saturday, October 15. They will be joined by members of the Arizona AFL-CIO at Noon following their "Jobs, Not Cuts" rally in the same location at 10:00 am.

There is also an Occupy Tucson organization. The OccupyTucson protest and occupation also begins on Saturday, October 15, at 9:00 am. The Location is at Military Plaza Park "aka Armory Park." Like their FaceBook page at Occupy Tucson | Facebook and follow them on Occupy Tucson (OccupyTucson) on Twitter.

Political Calendar: Week of October 9, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

It's that time of year again, we need to rally our volunteers and keep Tucson BLUE! So come on over and bring a friend!

It's Time To Win Some Elections!

Coordinated Campaign Phone Banks!
Pima Dems HQ- 4639 E. 1st Street
Mondays- 10am
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays- 5pm

Neighborhood Walks!
Every Saturday 9am
Rothschild HQ- 3400 E. Speedway

Political Calendar For The Week of October 9, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Arizona Democratic Party 2011 Volunteer Awards Night

Sunday, October 9, 6:00 p.m.: 2011 Volunteer Awards Night, at the Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington Street (Phoenix). Tucson guests will have the opportunity to take a chartered bus for $15 with a RSVP to Nick Holder at nholder@azdem.org or (602) 234-6820. Special Guest is astronaut Mark Kelly, husband of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Individual tickets are $50, sponsorships are available. For more information and to purchase tickets please see Arizona Democratic Party: 2011 Volunteer Awards Night. Please call (602) 234-6820 for further questions.

Monday, October 10, 9:30 a.m.: Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Four Points by Sheraton Tucson University Plaza, 1900 E. Speedway Blvd. (at Campbell Avenue).

Monday, October 10, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Richard Kimball from Project Vote Smart. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Sen. Paula Aboud on "Flat Tax, Flat Broke."

Monday, October 10, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. for more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

Monday, October 10, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Library, 1305 W. Naranja Drive (at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive). Democrats of Oro Valley will present “Moving Women Forward with Arizona List” with Cheryl Cage, who is the new Executive Director of Arizona List. Come learn what Arizona List is doing to change the political landscape in our state, and to strengthen the voice of progressive women. The meeting is open to the public at no cost. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774 or visit www.demsov.org.

Tuesday, October 11, 9:30 a.m.: CANCELED Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission public hearing, at the Four Points by Sheraton Tucson University Plaza, 1900 E. Speedway Blvd. (at Campbell Avenue).

Democrats of the Santa Rita Area Harvest Moon Dinner & Art Auction

Tuesday, October 11, 5:00 p.m.: Democrats of the Santa Rita Area host their Harvest Moon Dinner & Art Auction, at Melio's Trattoria, 2261 E. Frontage Road (Amado). Reception & Silent Auction 5:00 PM, Dinner & Live Auction 6:00 PM. Music performed by the Allan Riding Jazz Band. For ticket information and to RSVP or for more information, please call Democratic HQ Green Valley at (520) 838-0590.

Pima Area Labor Federation Presents "Dude, Where's My Job?"

Tuesday, October 11, 6:00 p.m.: As part of "America Wants a Job" week the Pima Area Labor Federation will present Andrea Witte from Connect The Dots for Democracy with "Dude, Where's My Job?," at the IBEW 570, 750 S. Tucson Blvd. Join us for this entertaining and educational perspective on the economy and what we really need to crate jobs. For more information please contact PALF at (520)388-4139.

Thursday, October 13, 5:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Nucleus Club meeting, at the Viscount Suite Hotel, 4855 E. Broadway. Featured speakers are Tucson City Council Members Paul Cunningham (a Nucleus member), Shirley Scott and Regina Romero, candidates for the Tucson City Council. For more information and to RSVP, please contact Martin Bacal at (520) 326-3716.

OccupyTucson

Saturday, October 15, 9:00 a.m.: The OccupyTucson protest and occupation begins at Military Plaza Park "aka Armory Park." Like their FaceBook page at Occupy Tucson | Facebook and follow them on Twitter.

Arizona AFL-CIO "Jobs, Not Cuts" Rally / #OccupyPhoenix

Saturday, October 15, 10:00 a.m.: Arizona AFL-CIO "Jobs, Not Cuts Rally, at Cesar Chavez Plaza, 201 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). Please join us and our community ally MoveOn.org as we call for "Jobs, Not Cuts." Following the "Jobs not Cuts" rally, working people, their friends and families will be turning out for #OccupyPhoenix at Noon (same location).  #OccupyPhoenix is an ongoing event. Follow them on Facebook and Twitter. The Arizona AFL-CIO supports the #OccupyPhoenix protesters and their determination to hold Wall Street accountable and create good jobs. We encourage everyone to attend.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

League of Women Voters City of Tucson Candidate Forum

Monday, October 17, 6:00 p.m.: The League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson, along with the Pima County/Tucson Women's Commission, invite you to attend a free candidate forum, at Temple Emanu-El, 225 N. Country Club Road (between Broadway and 6th St.) Here's your chance to meet and hear all the candidates running for Mayor and City Council in November's election. The Moderator will be Lupita Murillo, a member of KVOA's News 4 Tucson team. All candidates have committed to participate.

Tuesday, October 18, 6:30 p.m.: Oracle Democrats meeting, at the Oracle Fire Department, 1475 W. American Avenue (Oracle). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Tuesday, October 18, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room), 6265 N. La Cañada Drive. For more information please contact Brian Clymer at (520) 323-1234.

Wednesday, October 19: Tucson City Council Election mail ballots are mailed, ballot replacement early voting sites open.

Wednesday, October 19, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 25 meeting, at the Wheeler Taft Abbett, Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drive (Marana). For more information please contact Jeff Lawrence at AZLD25@aol.com or (520) 572-1881.

Wednesday, October 19, 7:00 p.m.: Pinal County Democratic Party meeting, at the Pinal County Democratic Party HQ, 350 N. Main Street (Florence). For more information please contact Joe Robison at pinaldemocrat@gmail.com.

Thursday, October 20, 6:00 p.m.: Casa Grande Democrats meeting, at Eva's Mexican Restaurant, 2033 N. Pinal Avenue (Casa Grande). For more information please contact Cecile at (480) 983-7853.

Thursday, October 20, 7:00 p.m.: Heritage Highlands/Dove Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Heritage Highlands Clubhouse, 4949 W, Heritage Club Blvd. (Marana). For more information please contact Sandi Tiffany at stiffany60@mac.com.

Friday, October 21, 2:00 p.m.: Democratic Women in Action meeting, at the Joyner Green Valley Library, 601 N. La Canada Drive (Green Valley).  Nationally recognized author, educator and feminist Sheila Tobias will be our guest speaker. Her topic is the current state of the woman’s movement and where we must go from here. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information please contact drcampo@q.com or 520-762-1957.

Truman-Clinton Dinner - Sedona

Friday, October 21, 6:00 p.m.: Democrats of the Red Rocks, Democrats of the Verde Valley, and Yavapai County Democratic Party host the Truman-Clinton Dinner and Fundraiser, at the Sedona Hilton Resort and Spa, 90 Ridge Trail Drive (Sedona). Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva will be our keynote speaker. Master of ceremonies is Rodney Glassman. Featured music is the quartet Outside The Box. Yavapai Blue VIP Reception at 4:00 p.m. Welcome 6:00 p.m., Dinner 6:30 p.m. Keynote address 7:30 p.m. Presentation of Hope Award 8:00 p.m. Reserve your tickets now! VIP Blue Reception with Rep. Grijalva $125; Individual banquet $75. Click here to see the menu and pay via PayPal. If you prefer, you can send a check (for the dinner and reception, or dinner only) made out to DORR and mail it to PO Box 1165, Sedona 86339-1165. Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, email, the number of tickets you are buying and your food choice(s). For more information please contact Democrats of the Red Rocks (DORR) at (928) 203-5858 or visit our website www.democratsoftheredrocks.org.

Saturday, October 22, 10:00 a.m.: Northern Cochise County Democrats meeting, at the TA Truck Stop in Willcox. For more information please contact Marv Sorensen at msorensen8@cox.net or (520) 586-0786, Lisa Glenn at llglenn@vtc.net or (520) 384-2658, or Kathleen Day-Cain at (520) 824-3482.

Luz de Vida Benefit Concert and Album Release

Saturday, October 22, 7:00 p.m.: Luz de Vida Benefit Concert, at Hotel Congress, 318 E. Congress Street (Tucson). Luz de Vida is a compilation album of music from artists both in Tucson and affiliated with Tucson. All proceeds from the sale of Luz de Vida will go to the Tucson Together Fund, the only officially sanctioned fund established to assist victims, families, and witnesses of the Jan. 8 tragedy. Luz de Vida – Spanish for Light of Life – is an expression of community, love, healing, grace and hope, a positive response from Tucson musicians and national artists who have a special bond with Tucson. Luz de Vida will be available on Oct. 18 in two formats: as a 37-track digital album and a special limited-edition 12-song vinyl release, with exclusively Tucson bands. Get your copy of Luz de Vida and enjoy special performances from a host of Tucson bands. $5 Suggested Donation for Entrance; $10 Entrance + Luz de Vida Digital Download; $20 Entrance + Luz de Vida Vinyl & Digital Download. For more information visit: www.musicagainstviolence.org.

Monday, October 24, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Main Library, 101 N. Stone Avenue (parking in basement under library). For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

Monday, October 24, 6:30 p.m.: (Special Date) Saguaro Eastside Democrats meeting, at the New Spirit Lutheran Church, 8701 E. Old Spanish Trail (northeast corner at Camino Seco). The President of Save the Scenic Santa Ritas Association, Gayle Hartmann will be the guest speaker to give an update on the issues surrounding the proposed Rosemont Mine in the Santa Rita Mountains. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. with light refreshments and time for socializing. Hartmann will begin her talk at 7 p.m. There will be ample time allotted for an audience question and answer period. All meetings of SED are free and open to the public. For more information please call (520) 850-6755.

Wednesday, October 26, 6:00 p.m.: Pima County Working Young Democrats meeting, at The Shanty, 401 East 9th Street (at 4th Avenue).

Voices for Education’s Parent Leadership Institute

Wednesday, October 26, 5:30 p.m.: Voices for Education’s Parent Leadership Institute, at Holladay Elementary Magnet School, 1110 E. 33rd Street (Tucson). Rep. Daniel Patterson and Rep. Matt Heinz, who represent District 29, will discuss how the legislature affects public education. Voices for Education is a parent-based education advocacy organization that works to improve the educational outcomes of Arizona’s students. For more information go to www.voicesforeducation.org.

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

An Event Honoring Terry Bracy of the Udall Foundation

Thursday, October 27, 6:00 p.m.: A dinner honoring Terry Bracy and his distinguished service as Chair of the Udall Foundation Board of Trustees, at the Westward Look Resort, Sonoran Ballroom, 245 E. Ina Road, Tucson, AZ. Featured Speaker is Senator Bill Bradley. Cost is $50.00/person (payable by check only to the Udall Foundation). RSVP to (520) 901-8500 or fernandez@udall.gov by October 19, 2011. Ask for entrée choices when you RSVP. Payment is due in advance of the dinner. Mail payment to Udall Foundation, 130 S. Scott Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701, ATTN: Theresa Fernandez.

LD 22 Dems 5th Annual Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 29, 6:00 p.m.: LD 22 Dems 5th Annual Oktoberfest, at the home of an LD 22 Dems member. Save the Date! - Saturday, October 29th - 6pm to 8pm Beer, Brats, & Fun! Cost: $25 Individual, $40 Couple, $20 Young Democrat More details to come! For more information please contact Megan McPherson at megan14l@gmail.com or (602) 430-2248.

Democratic Women in Action "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon

Saturday, November 12, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women in Action host the annual "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon, at the Diamond Center, Desert Diamond Casino, 7350 South Nogales Highway (Tucson). Apparel will be provided by Encore Classics of Green Valley and Twice As Nice & Desert Vintage of Tucson. The event will host a Silent Auction, Centerpieces by Lisa Aiken of All Natural Soap & Bodycare Products, and VIP models. Tickets are now on sale for $49 each. For more information please contact Denise Morse at drcampo@q.com or (520) 762-1957, or visit our web site at http://azdemocraticwomen.org/.

AIRC Update: Schedule of Round Two of Public Hearings Announced

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Arizona Independent Redistricitng Commission (AIRC) has announced the schedule for Round Two of public hearings around the state. If you have not previously attended any hearings, these hearings will be your last opportunity to make your voice heard.

Round two of AIRC Public Outreach Meetings

Download PDF

Meetings are subject to change or cancellation.  Go to www.azredistricting.org  for latest updates.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Central Phoenix 6:00 p.m.
Phoenix College Auditorium
1202 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, AZ 85044

Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Town of Payson 6:00 p.m.
Best Western Payson Inn
801 North Beeline Highway 87 
Payson, AZ 85547

Thursday, October 13, 2011
City of Flagstaff 6:00 p.m.
Flagstaff City Hall
Council Chambers
211 West Aspen Avenue 
Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Friday, October 14, 2011
Window Rock 1:00 p.m. (MDT) and 12:00 p.m. (MST)
Navajo Nation Museum
Highway 264 and Loop Road
Window Rock, AZ 86515

Saturday, October 15, 2011
Town of Eagar 9:00 a.m.
Town Hall Council Chambers
22 West 2nd Street
Eagar, AZ 85925

Saturday, October 15, 2011
Hon Dah 3:00 p.m.
Hon Dah Resort – Casino
Mt. Baldy Room
777 Hwy 260
Pinetop, AZ 85935

Monday, October 17, 2011
Tuba City 10:00 a.m. (MDT)  and 9:00 a.m. (MST)
Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites
Junction Hwy 160 
Tuba City, AZ 860452

Monday, October 17, 2011
Town of Prescott Valley 6:00 p.m.
Prescott Valley Public Library
Council Chambers/Auditorium
7401 E. Civic Circle
Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

Tuesday, October 18, 2011
City of Chandler 6:00 p.m.
Chandler City Hall
Council Chambers
175 S. Arizona Avenue
Chandler, AZ 85244

Wednesday, October 19, 2011
City of Bullhead City 6:00 p.m.
Bullhead City Council Chambers
1255 Marina Boulevard
Bullhead City, AZ  86422

Thursday, October 20, 2011
Maryvale 6:00 p.m.
Maryvale High School Auditorium
3415 N. 59th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85033

Friday, October 21, 2011
San Carlos 11:00 a.m.
Apache Gold Casino Resort
5 miles East of Globe on Highway 70
San Carlos, AZ 85550

Friday, October 21, 2011
City of Globe 6:00 p.m.
TBA

Saturday, October 22, 2011
City of Avondale 1:00 p.m.
West View High School
10850 W. Garden Lakes Parkway
Avondale, AZ 85392

Monday, October 24, 2011
Tohono O’odham (Sells) 11:00 a.m.
Tohono O’odham Utility Authority 
Conference Room
Hwy 86 Mile Post 112
Sells, AZ 85634

Monday, October 24, 2011
City of Tucson 6:00 p.m.
University of Arizona
Student Union Memorial Center
North Ballroom
1303 E. University Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85721

Tuesday, October 25, 2011
City of Sierra Vista 6:00 p.m.
Buena Performing Arts Center (Buena High School)
5225 Buena School Boulevard
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635

Wednesday, October 26, 2011
City of Casa Grande 6:00 p.m.
Holiday Inn 
777 N. Pinal Avenue
Casa Grande, AZ 85122

Thursday, October 27, 2011
Thatcher/Safford
Eastern Arizona College
615 N. Stadium Ave.
Thatcher, AZ 855523

Friday, October 28, 2011
City of Nogales 6:00 p.m.
Americana Hotel
639 N. Grand Avenue
Nogales, AZ 85621

Saturday, October 29, 2011
City of Yuma 1:00 p.m.
Yuma City Hall
City Council Chambers
One City Plaza 85364

Tuesday, November 1, 2011
South Phoenix 6:00 p.m.
South Mountain Community College
7050 South 24thStreet
Phoenix, AZ  85402

Wednesday, November 2, 2011
City of Peoria 6:00 p.m.
TBA

Thursday, November 3, 2011
City of Scottsdale 6:00 p.m.
Granite Reef Senior Center 
1700 North Granite Reef Road 
Scottsdale, AZ 85257

Friday, November 4, 2011
Town of Marana 6:00 p.m.
Town of Marana
Marana Municipal Complex Auditorium
11555 W. Civic Center Drive
Marana, AZ 85653

Saturday, November 5, 2011
Town of Green Valley 10:00 a.m.
TBA

AFL-CIO 'Jobs, Not Cuts' Rally / #OccupyPhoenix on October 15

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Announcement from the Arizona AFL-CIO:

On Saturday, October 15, please join us and our community ally MoveOn.org as we call for "Jobs, Not Cuts." The event will take place at Cesar Chavez Plaza, 201 W. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ 85003 beginning at 10:00am.
 
As we did when we rallied at the state capitol in March, Arizona working families will call out for: good jobs, protect vital social service programs, and an end to the attacks on the middle class by right-wing politicians and their corporate backers.

Following the "Jobs not Cuts" rally, working people, their friends and families will be turning out for #OccupyPhoenix, a growing grassroots protest movement that began on Wall Street and is spreading across the country.

The Arizona AFL-CIO supports the #OccupyPhoenix protesters and their determination to hold Wall Street accountable and create good jobs. We encourage everyone to attend.

For far too long the people who do the work to keep our great country running have been robbed not only of income, but of a voice.  It is time for all of us—the 99 percent—to be heard.  

What:    “Jobs, not Cuts" Rally
Where:  Cesar Chavez Plaza, 201 W. Washington St., Phoenix AZ 85003
When:   10:00am Saturday, October 15, 2011

What:   #OccupyPhoenix
Where: Cesar Chavez Plaza, 201 W. Washington St., Phoenix AZ 85003
When:  12:00 Noon Saturday, October 15 - ongoing

Reminder: 2011 Volunteer Awards Night this Sunday

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

Arizona Democratic Party 2011 Volunteer Awards Night, at the Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington Street (Phoenix). Tucson guests will have the opportunity to take a chartered bus for $15 with a RSVP to Nick Holder at nholder@azdem.org or (602) 234-6820.

Special Guest is astronaut Mark Kelly, husband of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Individual tickets are $50, sponsorships are available. For more information and to purchase tickets please see Arizona Democratic Party: 2011 Volunteer Awards Night.

AFL-CIO 'America Wants to Work' Week October 10-16

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The "Occupy Wall Street" protests against Wall Street that are spreading nationwide will help build a movement by workers and the unemployed to “rebuild the American dream,” AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka said. Anti-Wall Street Protests Fuel Drive for U.S. Jobs, Trumka Says - Businessweek:

Trumka said the AFL-CIO, the nation’s largest labor federation, will join the protests with a week of rallies called “America Wants to Work.”

"America Wants to Work" Week is October 10-16. You can find an event near you at the We Are One event page.

In Tucson, We Are One | Dude, Where's My Job:

October 11, 2011 06:00PM to 07:30PM

Hosted by Laura Hogan

Contact: 520-388-4139

Event Description:

In the confusion of today’s 24/7 spin machine, doesn’t it often seem like the “Flat Earth Society” gets equal or more time than the “Round Earth Society”? And, left unchallenged by journalists, people are free to just pick their own facts?

The goal of these visual, easy-to-understand presentations is to help regular, busy folks like yourself understand the issues and what is happening with our political process. Then we can start to connect the dots to get our policies to work for the benefit of most Americans again.

Join us for this entertaining and educational perspective on the economy and what we really need to create jobs.

Sponsored by:
Central Labor Council
Local Pima Area Labor Federation

Event Type: Other

Location:
IBEW 570, 750 S. Tucson Blvd
Tucson, AZ
85716

Political Calendar: Week of October 2, 2011

Posted by AzBlueMeanie:

The Political Calendar is posted on Sundays. Please send us notice of your political events prior to the Sunday before your event (7 days would be most helpful). See the calendar icon in the right-hand column of the blog page for easy access to the calendar.

It's that time of year again, we need to rally our volunteers and keep Tucson BLUE! So come on over and bring a friend!

It's Time To Win Some Elections!

Coordinated Campaign Phone Banks!
Pima Dems HQ- 4639 E. 1st Street
Mondays- 10am
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays- 5pm

Neighborhood Walks!
Every Saturday 9am
Rothschild HQ- 3400 E. Speedway

Political Calendar For The Week of October 2, 2011

Sundays, 6:00 p.m.: Drinking Liberally, at The Shanty, 401 E. 9th Street (at 4th Avenue). An informal, inclusive progressive social group, and lively discussion. Contact: www.livingliberallytucson.org.

Annual Dems of RedRock /Dems of Verde Valley Picnic

Sunday, October 2, 11:30 a.m.: Democrats of the Verde Valley and Democrats of the Red Rocks present their annual fund-raising picnic, at Living Springs Camp in Oak Creek Canyon, 3500 N. State Route 89A (at the Trout Farm, cross the creek and veer right past the Farm to the Camp's parking area. We will have signs to help you.) Free food, beverages, ice cream. Buffet begins at Noon. Raffle prizes, silent auction, and bake sale. Political speakers and musical entertainment. You can mingle with like-minded people and hear our guest speakers. To volunteer on or near the event date (set up is at 10:00 am), contact Peggy Chaikin at 634-3837, 821-1529  email: pchaikin@msn.com. To donating prize items, Call Angela: 399-0999 email: aglefevre@sedona.net or Pat: 204-5649 email: patamon@aol.com. To donate baked goods for the bake sale, Call Jan at: 634-7563 or email: adobegraham@q.com. FREE Admission, but Parking is $5 per car - carpool. For more information please contact Democrats of the Red Rocks (DORR) at (928) 203-5858 or visit our website www.democratsoftheredrocks.org.

LD 30's 2nd Annual Oktoberfest

Sunday, October 2, 3:00 p.m.: Legislative District 30's 2nd Annual Oktoberfest, at Reid Park, Ramada #7 (on the south side - same as last year), from Randolph Way off 22nd Street (Tucson). Beer, brats, sides and salads, and desserts. Soft drinks and lemonade also. Music! Tickets on sale now for $20 each. For more information and to purchase tickets, please contact Mariana at mariana_spier@hotmail.com. If you have not ordered your tickets, show up with your $20 and they will be happy to take your money -- and also feed you!

Monday, October 3, Noon: Democrats of Greater Tucson luncheon, Dragon's View Restaurant (400 N. Bonita, South of St. Mary's Road between the Freeway and Grande Avenue, turn South at Furr's Cafeteria), buffet lunch costs $8.50. Featured speaker is Former Attorney General Terry Goddard, Topic: Then & Now – Arizona 1911 – 2011. Visit DGT's web site at www.tucsondemocrats.org. Next Week: Richard Kimball from Project Vote Smart.

Monday, October 3, 6:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Executive Committee meeting.

Tuesday, October 4, 5:30 p.m.: Greater Huachuca Area Democratic Club meeting, at Cochise County Democrats Headquarters, 1010 E. Fry Blvd. (Sierra Vista). For more information please contact Maggs at (520) 417-1533 or email maggzilla2u@yahoo.com.

Wednesday, October 5, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 28 meeting, at Pima County Democratic Party HQ, 4639 E. 1st Street (one block South of Speedway and West of Swan). For more information please contact Ted Prezelski at prezelski@aol.com or (520) 326-3716 (leave message).

Thursday, October 6, 7:00 p.m.: UA Young Democrats first meeting of the year,in the Sabino Room of the University of AZ Student Union Memorial Center. We’ll have some food and socializing! We’re hoping to have some elected officials there to mingle and mix with! Then we’ll have a quick, and official meeting to get through some business! Ffollow us on facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/University-of-Arizona-Young-Democrats/141941065896078

The Muslims Are Coming! Comedy Tour

Thursday, October 6, 8:00 p.m.: The Muslims Are Coming! Comedy Tour, at the El Casino Ballroom, 437 E. 26th Street. "Our hope is to use stand-up comedy to bring people of all faiths and backgrounds together to laugh and to foster understanding," explains coproducer and comedian Dean Obeidallah, who co-starred in the Comdey Central Axis of Evil special and has appeared on numerous TV shows. Tickets are FREE. "The shows are free by design because we want to reach as many people as possible with our shows ... especially people who have never met a a Muslim before," adds co-producer and comedian Negin Farsad, recently named One of The 50 Funniest Women by Huffington Post and who has been a writer for or appeared on numerous TV shows. To RSVP for tickets please email vaguelyqualifiedproductions@gmail.com with city name and number in party. For more information contact the El Casino Ballroom at (520) 623‐1865 or visit its web site at www.elcasinoballroom.com.

Saturday, October 8, 9:00 a.m.: Tanque Verde Valley Democrats meeting, at the Java Edge coffee house (Southeast Corner of Tanque Verde Road and Bear Canyon Road). For more information please contact Vera Berkman at (520) 615-5144.

Saturday, October 8, 10:00 a.m.: Mule Mountain Democratic Club meeting, at the Bisbee Senior Center on Collins Road (behind the Safeway off Naco Road). For more information please contact John Viverto at Vivertos@aol.com or (520) 432-2366.

Saturday, October 8, 3:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 Football fundraiser, at the home of Rep. Matt Heinz, 840 S. Meyer Avenue. Come hang out with your LD 29 friends and watch football. $10 gets you food, drinks, and all the football you want on the big screen. The proceeds will go to help electing Democrat locally this year!

Arizona Democratic Party 2011 Volunteer Awards Night

Sunday, October 9, 6:00 p.m.: 2011 Volunteer Awards Night, at the Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington Street (Phoenix). Tucson guests will have the opportunity to take a chartered bus for $15 with a RSVP to Nick Holder at nholder@azdem.org or (602) 234-6820. Special Guest is astronaut Mark Kelly, husband of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Individual tickets are $50, sponsorships are available. For more information and to purchase tickets please see Arizona Democratic Party: 2011 Volunteer Awards Night. Please call (602) 234-6820 for further questions.

Note: for additional Democratic Party events around the state see http://azdem.org/events/Calendar/.

Special Announcements:

Monday, October 10, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 29 meeting, at the Sam Lena Library, 1607 S. 6th Avenue. for more information please contact Matt Kopec at LD29Chair@gmail.com or (520) 400-3020.

Monday, October 10, 7:00 p.m.: Democrats of Oro Valley meeting, at the Oro Valley Library, 1305 W. Naranja Drive (at the corner of La Canada and Naranja Drive). Democrats of Oro Valley will present “Moving Women Forward with Arizona List” with Cheryl Cage, who is the new Executive Director of Arizona List. Come learn what Arizona List is doing to change the political landscape in our state, and to strengthen the voice of progressive women. The meeting is open to the public at no cost. For more information please contact Mike Dayton at (520) 742-3774 or visit www.demsov.org.

Democrats of the Santa Rita Area Harvest Moon Dinner & Art Auction

Tuesday, October 11, 5:00 p.m.: Democrats of the Santa Rita Area host their Harvest Moon Dinner & Art Auction, at Melio's Trattoria, 2261 E. Frontage Road (Amado). Reception & Silent Auction 5:00 PM, Dinner & Live Auction 6:00 PM. Music performed by the Allan Riding Jazz Band. For ticket information and to RSVP or for more information, please call Democratic HQ Green Valley at (520) 838-0590.

Pima Area Labor Federation Presents "Dude, Where's My Job?"

Tuesday, October 11, 6:00 p.m.: As part of "America Wants a Job" week the Pima Area Labor Federation will present Andrea Witte from Connect The Dots for Democracy with "Dude, Where's My Job?," at the IBEW 570, 750 S. Tucson Blvd. Join us for this entertaining and edcational perspective on the economy and what we really need to crate jobs. For more information please contact PALF at (520)388-4139.

Thursday, October 13, 5:30 p.m.: Pima County Democratic Party Nucleus Club meeting, at the Viscount Suite Hotel, 4855 E. Broadway. Featured speakers are Tucson City Council Members Paul Cunningham (a Nucleus member), Shirley Scott and Regina Romero, candidates for the Tucson City Council. For more information and to RSVP, please contact Martin Bacal at (520) 326-3716.

Arizona AFL-CIO "Jobs, Not Cuts" Rally / #OccupyPhoenix

Saturday, October 15, 10:00 a.m.: Arizona AFL-CIO "Jobs, Not Cuts Rally, at Cesar Chavez Plaza, 201 W. Washington Street (Phoenix). Please join us and our community ally MoveOn.org as we call for "Jobs, Not Cuts." Following the "Jobs not Cuts" rally, working people, their friends and families will be turning out for #OccupyPhoenix at Noon (same location). #OccupyPhoenix is an ongoing event. The Arizona AFL-CIO supports the #OccupyPhoenix protesters and their determination to hold Wall Street accountable and create good jobs. We encourage everyone to attend.

Tuesday, October 18, 7:00 p.m.: Legislative District 26 meeting, at the Metro Water (Board Room), 6265 N. La Cañada Drive. For more information please contact Brian Clymer at (520) 323-1234.

Wednesday, October 19, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 25 meeting, at the Wheeler Taft Abbett, Sr. Library, 7800 N. Schisler Drive (Marana). For more information please contact Jeff Lawrence at AZLD25@aol.com.

Friday, October 21, 2:00 p.m.: Democratic Women in Action meeting, at the Joyner Green Valley Library, 601 N. La Canada Drive (Green Valley).  Nationally recognized author, educator and feminist Sheila Tobias will be our guest speaker. Her topic is the current state of the woman’s movement and where we must go from here. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information please contact drcampo@q.com or 520-762-1957.

Monday, October 24, 6:00 p.m.: Legislative District 27 meeting, at the Main Library, 101 N. Stone Avenue (parking in basement under library). For more information please contact Greg Wagner at gregory.m.wagner@gmail.com or (520) 784-8355.

DCSRA Discussion Group

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Club of the Santa Rita Area hosts a Current Events Discussion Group at Green Valley Democratic Party HQ, Continental Shopping Plaza, 240 W. Continental Road (exit 63), Upstairs Meeting Room (elevator is available). Join us at the weekly meeting of the Democratic Headquarters Current Events Discussion Group. We'll talk about some of the major events of the previous week, including but not limited to political topics, and try and go behind the news for a deeper understanding. For more information, please contact Amy Johnson at acalkins10@aol.com.

County Fairs - Save the Date!

Graham County Fair, October 6-9, Safford, AZ.

Arizona State Fair, Oct. 14-Nov. 6, Phoenix, AZ.

League of Women Voters City of Tucson Candidate Forum

Monday, October 17, 6:00 p.m.: The League of Women Voters of Greater Tucson, along with the Pima County/Tucson Women's Commission, invite you to attend a free candidate forum, at Temple Emanu-El, 225 N. Country Club Road (between Broadway and 6th St.) Here's your chance to meet and hear all the candidates running for Mayor and City Council in November's election. The Moderator will be Lupita Murillo, a member of KVOA's News 4 Tucson team. All candidates have committed to participate.

Truman-Clinton Dinner - Sedona

Friday, October 21, 6:00 p.m.: Democrats of the Red Rocks, Democrats of the Verde Valley, and Yavapai County Democratic Party host the Truman-Clinton Dinner and Fundraiser, at the Sedona Hilton Resort and Spa, 90 Ridge Trail Drive (Sedona). Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva will be our keynote speaker. Master of ceremonies is Rodney Glassman. Featured music is the quartet Outside The Box. Yavapai Blue VIP Reception at 4:00 p.m. Welcome 6:00 p.m., Dinner 6:30 p.m. Keynote address 7:30 p.m. Presentation of Hope Award 8:00 p.m. Reserve your tickets now! VIP Blue Reception with Rep. Grijalva $125; Individual banquet $75. Click here to see the menu and pay via PayPal. If you prefer, you can send a check (for the dinner and reception, or dinner only) made out to DORR and mail it to PO Box 1165, Sedona 86339-1165. Be sure to include your name, address, phone number, email, the number of tickets you are buying and your food choice(s). For more information please contact Democrats of the Red Rocks (DORR) at (928) 203-5858 or visit our website www.democratsoftheredrocks.org.

An Event Honoring Terry Bracy of the Udall Foundation

Thursday, October 27, 6:00 p.m.: A dinner honoring Terry Bracy and his distinguished service as Chair of the Udall Foundation Board of Trustees, at the Westward Look Resort, Sonoran Ballroom, 245 E. Ina Road, Tucson, AZ. Featured Speaker is Senator Bill Bradley. Cost is $50.00/person (payable by check only to the Udall Foundation). RSVP to (520) 901-8500 or fernandez@udall.gov by October 19, 2011. Ask for entrée choices when you RSVP. Payment is due in advance of the dinner. Mail payment to Udall Foundation, 130 S. Scott Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701, ATTN: Theresa Fernandez.

LD 22 Dems 5th Annual Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 29, 6:00 p.m.: LD 22 Dems 5th Annuial Oktoberfest, at the home of an LD 22 Dems member. Save the Date! - Saturday, October 29th - 6pm to 8pm Beer, Brats, & Fun! Cost: $25 Individual, $40 Couple, $20 Young Democrat More details to come! For more information please contact Megan McPherson at megan14l@gmail.com or (602) 430-2248.

Democratic Women in Action "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon

Saturday, November 12, 11:00 a.m.: Democratic Women in Action host the annual "Women Make a Difference" Fashion Show Luncheon, at the Diamond Center, Desert Diamond Casino, 7350 South Nogales Highway (Tucson). Apparel will be provided by Encore Classics of Green Valley and Twice As Nice & Desert Vintage of Tucson. The event will host a Silent Auction, Centerpieces by Lisa Aiken of All Natural Soap & Bodycare Products, and VIP models. Tickets are now on sale for $49 each. For more information please contact Denise Morse at drcampo@q.com or (520) 762-1957, or visit our web site at http://azdemocraticwomen.org/.