Ed Fallon's new organization, I'M for Iowa

Written by: Suzette Astley on Jan 12, 2007 9:16 AM EST

Linked to groups: DFA Blog Network

Dear Friends,

For those of you who have been asking, "So, Ed.  What are you going to do next?" . . . drum roll please!

Out of the ashes of my gubernatorial campaign a phoenix arises.  We're calling it I'M for Iowa, which is an acronym for an Independence Movement for Iowa.   Building on the resources that assembled during my campaign for governor, I'M for Iowa provides a new vehicle for me, my co-workers and YOU to continue to build a progressive majority in Iowa, one that puts people before profit.

In consultation with co-workers, friends and volunteers, we've come up with the following general goals:

(1) Work with Iowans across the state to develop the tools they need to address problems confronting them and their communities, particularly issues involving land, justice and poverty;

(2) Advocate for progressive legislative changes, particularly voter-owned clean elections (campaign finance reform), local control and universal health care;

(3) Continue to build the organizational base necessary for progressive candidates to succeed at running for office, and recruit and help elect candidates across the state;

(4) Through supporting local businesses and Iowa farmers, and through using more community- and environmentally-friendly technologies, set a personal example of the many ways in which individuals can lead lives that are more sustainable and truly independent;  and

(5) Build the infrastructure needed to create a grassroots, democratic force that can become an Independence Movement for Iowa, and work in coalition with groups committed to these goals and ideals.

What does it mean to create an independence movement for Iowa?  In the 1770s, America's founders challenged the unjust economic policies of an illegitimate foreign power.  In the 1890s, rural Midwesterners ignited a progressive populist movement to reclaim control of their lives and economies from moneyed interests grown greedy and corrupt.

In 2007, the growing power of corporate lobbyists, special interests and unresponsive politicians threatens the very foundations of our democracy.  This threat demands a stronger, more politically engaged grassroots movement committed to the patriotic ideals upon which our nation was founded.  Across Iowa and across the nation, more and more of us are fighting to regain control of our lives, our government and our country.

I'M for Iowa - an Independence Movement for Iowa - is committed to developing a broad network of Iowans working for:
 
. Independence from special-interest campaign contributions.
o Instead, we want voluntary public financing of state and local elections, since the current system has turned our elections into auctions and many public officials into pawns of special interests.

. Independence from poverty, injustice and discrimination.
o Instead, we want a government that recognizes the value of Iowa's diversity - both rural and urban - and invests in the basic services we all need to achieve our fullest potential, including education, health care, a clean environment, public safety and a balanced transportation system.

. Independence from fossil fuels and foreign oil.
o Instead, we want a diverse, renewable energy industry that emphasizes conservation and energy efficiency, one that is rooted in Iowa's natural resources and controlled by Iowa farmers and entrepreneurs.

. Independence from government subsidies for big business, from risky ventures that waste our tax dollars while failing to deliver on promises of economic prosperity, and from national chains that exert a strangle-hold on our communities.
o Instead, we want a strong, locally-controlled, free-market economy whose businesses are owned and operated primarily by Iowans.

. Independence from government officials who operate without the public's interest in mind, often behind closed doors, and with a lack of integrity and accountability.
o Instead, we want government that operates with transparency and a minimal amount of bureaucracy, and we want more concerned citizens who share these values to run for public office.

That's a brief introduction to I'M for Iowa.  We'd like your feedback.  Send your comments and suggestions to this e-mail address, or call (515) 201-9405.  Either Lynn or I will do our best to respond to every inquiry within 24 hours.

For the past 22 years, my life has been dedicated to public service.  Today, I reiterate that commitment.  I'M for Iowa provides the structural framework to conduct this work.  But if it is to bear fruit, my co-workers and I will continue to need your wisdom, time, effort and financial support.  If you've got an issue you'd like to discuss, or if you'd like to invite us to a meeting or an event in your community, please don't hesitate to ask.

Two other points of interest I want to share with you:

(1) If you'd like to hear me discuss I'M for Iowa with my favorite sparring partner, Jan Mickelson, tune in Friday, January 12th at 9:00 a.m. on WHO Radio (1040 a.m.).  Call (515) 284-1040 or (800) 469-4295 if you'd like to join the conversation.
(2) Lynn Heuss and I have been talking with Senator John Edwards and his staff about working with the Senator's campaign for President.  More on this in the very near future.

Thank you for reading this letter.  I'm excited about the potential that 2007 holds for moving Iowa forward on the road toward greater independence, sustainability and justice.  I am eager to travel that road with you, and with the thousands of other Iowans who are fed up with the status quo, hungry for change and committed to doing something about it.

Sincerely,

Ed Fallon

Canvass for Loebsack Oct. 29

Written by: Suzette Astley on Oct 23, 2006 8:11 PM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

We need your help now to help send our candidate for the 2nd Congressional District, Dave Loebsack, to Washington to fight for us. We will again be canvassing on Sunday, Oct. 29, 1-4PM, this time in the 15th precinct.

Door knocking is a fun way to meet fellow citizens, talk about the issues with them, and win some votes for Dave. He is making great strides in the polls, but there are still people out there who haven't heard his name or haven't made up their minds yet. I've found them to receptive to Dave's message.

We will be gathering at Cherokee Trail Park at the Corner of Midway Dr. NW and Johnson Ave. The intersection is just west of Edgewood Rd. Be there, or be square!

Sue

Oct. 15 canvassing for Dave Loebsack

Written by: Suzette Astley on Oct 12, 2006 11:02 PM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

Dear Member,

Please attend Oct. 15 canvassing for Dave Loebsack on Sunday, October 15, 2006 at 1:00 PM. You can RSVP at:

www.dfalink.com/event.php?id=145...

What: Oct. 15 canvassing for Dave Loebsack
When: Sunday, October 15, 2006, 1:00 PM
Where: Ellis Park
Ellis Ln. NW
Cedar Rapids IA 52405

Good News!!! A recent independent poll has Dave Loebsack in a dead heat with Jim Leach for the 2nd District Congressional seat.

Let's do all we can to help Dave win. Canvass with us this Sunday beginning at 1PM with a starting point of Ellis Park. If you have questions or can't find us, please call Sue at 319 202-1099. And RSVP if you know you can come so we can update you if necessary.

Tyler Wilson, the Field Director for the campaign, gave these directions: Take Ellis Blvd. NW to Ellis Ln NW and go the end of Ellis Ln NW where it goes into Ellis Park.
(1st St NW connects to Ellis Blvd. NW. right along the river)

Attend Oct. 11 Canvassing for Dave Loebsack

Written by: Suzette Astley on Oct 9, 2006 7:58 PM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

Dear Member,

Please attend Oct. 11 Canvassing for Dave Loebsack on Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at 6:00 PM. You can RSVP at:

www.dfalink.com/event.php?id=143...

What: Oct. 11 Canvassing for Dave Loebsack
When: Wednesday, October 11, 2006, 6:00 PM
Where: Bever Park Zoo Parking Lot
2700 Bever Ave. SE
Cedar Rapids IA 52403

We will be canvassing in Precinct 41 Wednesday for Dave Loebsack to finish up this Precinct and the neighboring one. Dave needs OUR help to win in the Second District. Linn County is extremely important in this effort, and the campaign is putting in an all-out push to win here. Please help in this effort and RSVP if you think you can make it so we will be watching for you and have sufficient materials.

Attend Oct. 8 Canvassing for Dave Loebsack on October 8!

Written by: Suzette Astley on Oct 4, 2006 8:44 PM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

Dear Member,

What: Oct. 8 Canvassing for Dave Loebsack
When: Sunday, October 8, 2006, 1:00 PM
Where: To be announced
to be announced
Cedar Rapids IA 52204
You can RSVP at: www.dfalink.com/event.php?id=139...

Canvassing Sunday for Dave Loebsack will be in two shifts: 1-3 PM and 3-5PM. The location will be announced. Please RSVP if you think you can make it so we will be watching for you and have sufficient materials.

The Loebsack campaign is turning its full attention to Linn County in the few weeks left until the election, and will be canvassing every Wednesday and Sunday. Please join us at one of the canvassing events that will be announced on our Meetup website with the usual reminders. Sorry for so many e-mails, but it is DO OR DIE time. And we plan to DO.

Election day, November 7, is fast approaching, and we need to get out the vote for our endorsed candidate, Dave Loebsack. We are asking all DFA - Linn County members who are able to work at least twice on our group canvassing efforts for Dave, and to volunteer at least twice more on their own for Dave or for one of the other worthy Democratic candidates or the Coordinated Campaign.

Thanks for all you do for democracy!
Sue
319 202-1099
or e-mail psychosue@mchsi.com or crmeetup@mchsi.com

Location for Canvassing for Dave Loebsack

Written by: Suzette Astley on Sep 30, 2006 11:25 AM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

Just a reminder that we are canvassing for Dave Loebsack tomorrow, Sunday Oct. 1, in Cedar Rapids' 45th Precinct from 1-3.

The location for beginning the canvassing has been determined. We are meeting at the Sac and Fox Trailhead, at E Post Rd. SE and Cottage Grove Pkwy (NOT Cottage Grove Ln).

(E Post Rd is just East of HyVee on Mt. Vernon Rd, or can be reached from the Marion Bypass or 38th St. From the latter two approaches, head south on E Post Rd.)

No experience is necessary -- all materials for the canvass and a script will be provided. And, newbies can canvass with an experienced person for a while to get the feel of things before approaching the first door themselves. Some of us find canvassing a fun way to meet other Iowans and talk politics while also getting some exercise. Please join us!!

If you have questions please feel free to e-mail me at psychosue@mchsi.com or if you are lost on Sunday call me at 319 202-1099.

Sue

Sept. 30 filing deadline

Written by: Suzette Astley on Sep 25, 2006 8:52 PM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

DFA - Linn County Members,

Sorry for the plethora of e-mails lately, but we are doing
all we can to help Dave Loebsack and other Democratic
candidates win in Iowa. The Loebsack campaign REALLY NEEDS donations by the Sept. 30 deadline to be able to buy some TV air time. We all know how many households TV ad reach, so please, dig deep in your pockets for just a little more change, and think about making a contribution before the reporting quarter ends. Good end-of-quarter reports tend to bring in more money and good PR for candidates. A note from Trish Nelson and Ellen Ballas of the Rapid Response Network on this
topic is below.

Sue


Dear All,

Saturday night, September 30th is the end of the fundraising
quarter. Please forward this email to everyone.

The Nov. 7th election against 30-year incumbent, Jim Leach, is goingto take all the muscle we have to win. Leach must go!!!

On November 8th, let's not wish we could have done more to send Leachinto retirement.

Together, let's send Dave Loebsack to Congress, can you help with a donation for a TV ad? Check out the table below.


www.loebsackforcongress.org/cont...

If you prefer, you can mail a check to:

Loebsack for Congress
385 E. College St.
Iowa City, IA 52240

Table: Contributions & goal:

$10-- need 2000-- to reach $20,000
$25-- need 800-- to reach $20,000
$50-- need 400-- to reach $20,000
$75-- need 267-- to reach $20,000
$100-- need 200 -- to reach $20,000
$200-- need 100-- to reach $20,000

Hopefully, on November 8th we won't have to beg Jim Leach for another thing... EVER!!!

www.loebsackforcongress.org/cont...

Thanks for your help,
Ellen & Trish

Canvassing for Dave Loebsack

Written by: Suzette Astley on Sep 25, 2006 8:49 PM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

Event Description: DFA - Linn County will be helping Dave
Loebsack in his run for Congress this SUNDAY, OCT. 1, FROM 1-3PM. We will be canvassing the 45th Precinct, and at this
point, Dave is planning to canvass with us. Scripts and lists
of names and addresses will be provided. Canvassing is fun,
and a good way to get the word out.

Face to face conversations are a great way to get the word out about a candidate. So PLEASE HELP if you can. Please RSVP if you think you can come, so we can keep you informed.

We are not having our regular Meetups this month, and instead are organizing to work twice as a group on Dave Loebsack's
Campaign. We are encouraging all members to volunteer at least twice on their own for other Democratic campaign efforts.

Election Season

Written by: Suzette Astley on Sep 21, 2006 8:26 AM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

DFAers,

This campaign season is particularly important, and at our last meeting it was emphasized how important it is that we do all we can to get Democrats, and especially the more progressive among our ranks, elected to office.

For that reason, we will not be having our regular discussion meetings in October and November. Instead, we are organizing two times that we will volunteer as a group for the Loebsack for Congress Campaign, and encouraging our members to volunteer for a campaign two additional times on their own.

More information will be forthcoming about our Loebsack Campaign involvement, and about other campaigns for which our members might consider volunteering.

In the meantime, Adam Zimmerman, Field Organizer for the Iowa Democratic Party, has noted that the Loebsack Campaign supports their absentee ballot efforts. He asked me to circulate the notice below to all DFA - Linn County members.

Sue Astley
Democracy for America, Linn County Linkup host

From Adam Zimmerman:
ALL DEMOCRATS NEEDED - IMPERATIVE ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

We are having an absentee ballot courier training this Saturday, September 23rd at 1pm. We will be certifying all potential volunteers to handle the absentee ballots that we will be collecting after September 28th. Collecting absentee ballots is uniquely rewarding in that each ballot picked up is a vote in the bank for our Democratic candidates. We will also be discussing the progress we have made and the strides we will have to make in the next 45 days. This training is a vital step in our campaign. We need all Democrats to be on the same page if we hope to be successful in November. Please RSVP to Adam at azimmermann@iowademocrats.org or 221-1065.


[If you absolutely can not make this meeting please contact Adam to schedule an alternative training time.]

Adam Zimmermann
Field Organizer
Iowa Democratic Party
319-221-1065 (office)
319-321-1407 (cell)

Linn County Coordinated Campaign

Written by: Suzette Astley on Sep 14, 2006 10:28 AM EDT

Linked to groups: Cedar Rapids Democracy for America MeetUp

The Democratic Coordinated Campaign is working hard to get out the vote in Linn County and ensure a Democratic win in all races here. They need Precinct Captains, Get out the Vote help, and are recruiting and collecting absentee ballots.

They are sharing the Linn Dems office at 601 2nd Ave. SE in Cedar Rapids. The phone there is 319 221-1064 and 221-1065. The Field Organizers are Derek Eadon and Adam Zimmerman who can be reached by e-mail with first initial and last name followed by @iowademocrats.org.

The Precinct Captain program is "the most important element of our field plan." Precinct Captains work in their own precinct, building a relationship with potential supporters in the precinct, identifying volunteers, and getting out the vote. Please think about playing this important role in your precinct.

Important Upcoming Dates:

Sept. 23 1-4 PM Absentee Ballot Courier Training
Oct. 28 Get out the Vote (GOTV) Meeting
Nov. 4 Beginning of GOTV Program
Nov. 7 ELECTION DAY