Political Information Network (PIN) News Blog

Presidential Candidate Visit: Senator Hillary Clinton

2008-05-17T05:18:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 17, 2008
Hood River Solutions for America Event with Bill Clinton
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Hood River County Library
502 State Street
Hood River, OR 97031

Sunday, May 18, 2008
President Bill Clinton and Chelsea Clinton Participate in an "I Have a Dream" Foundation Service Project
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Woodlawn Elementary School
7200 NE 11th Avenue
Portland, OR 97211

Sunday, May 18, 2008
Salem Solutions for America Event with Bill and Chelsea Clinton
1:45 PM - 3:15 PM
Salem Riverfront Park Amphitheatre
101 Front St NE
Salem, OR 97301

Sunday, May 18, 2008
Ashland Solutions for America Event with Bill and Chelsea Clinton
5:15 PM - 6:45 PM
Southern Oregon University
1250 Siskiyou Boulevard
Ashland, OR 97520

Presidential Candidate Visit: Senator Barack Obama

2008-05-17T05:04:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 17
Roseburg Town Hall Meeting with Barack Obama
Roseburg High School
400 West Harvard Ave
Roseburg, OR
Doors Open: 9:30 AM
Program Begins: 11:30 AM

Sunday, May 18
Gresham Discussion with Seniors with Barack Obama
Huntington Terrace1410 NE Cleveland Ave.
Gresham, OR
Doors Open: 10:15 AM

Sunday, May 18
Portland Rally with Barack Obama
The Bowl, Waterfront Park
Corner of Southwest Columbia and Southwest Naito
South of the Hawthorn Bridge
Portland, OR
Doors Open: 12:30 PM
Program begins: 2:30 PM

Sunday, May 18
Pendleton Town Hall with Barack Obama
Pendleton Convention Center
1601 Westgate
Pendleton, OR
Media Pre-Set: 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Media Access: 3:30 PM
Doors Open: 4:30 PM
Program Begins: 6:30 PM

For more information visit http://www.barackobama.com

Meet The Candidates This Weekend

2008-05-14T14:39:00.000-07:00

from ReDirect Guide and Greener Homes & Gardens Expo

Join us in a townhall style forum with the upcoming Primary Candidates to discuss their views and answer questions on the Environment, Energy Policy, Transportation Policy, Sustainability, and fostering the Green Economy.

This will be an excellent opportunity to have a 1-on-1 dialog with candidates, learn where they stand on these issues as well as share your concerns with them. So before you cast your vote, be sure to come with questions and an open mind.

So far, the following candidates have confirmed their participation:

Saturday, May 17
1:00 PM Charles Lewis(Portland City Council Candidate)
2:00 PM Jeff Bissonnette (Portland City Council Candidate)
3:00 PM Sho Dozono(Portland Mayoral Candidate)
4:00 PM Will Hobbs(US House Of Representatives Candidate)

Sunday, May 18
12:00 PM Sam Adams (Portland Mayoral Candidate)
1:00 PM Christopher Smith (Portland City Council Candidate)
2:00 PM Steve Novick (US Senate Candidate)
3:00 PM John Branam (Portland City Council Candidate)

We are currently in discussions with several other candidates and hope to announce their participation shortly. Please check back our website or join our mailing list to stay informed.

Visit http://www.greenerhomesandgardens.com/ for more information.

News: Oregon's Patriot Act ruling appealed

2007-10-12T09:40:00.000-07:00

Administration to defend use of secret searches, wiretaps

BY WILLIAM MCCALLThe Associated Press
October 11, 2007

PORTLAND -- The Bush administration is appealing a ruling by a federal judge in Oregon striking down key portions of the USA Patriot Act as unconstitutional.
U.S. District Judge Ann Aiken ruled last month that the act cannot be used to authorize secret searches and wiretapping to gather criminal evidence -- instead of intelligence gathering -- without violating the Fourth Amendment ban on unreasonable searches and seizures. >>continue

Big Tobacco Spends Big to Fight Measure 50

2007-10-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

According to recent reports, Cigarette Companies, R.J. Reynolds and Philip Morris, dropped $6.6 million in to the No on Measure 50 campaign working to defeat the cigarette tax initiative which would provide health care to children.

Big Tobacco Spends Big to Fight Ore. Tax

By JULIA SILVERMAN
10.11.07, 2:13 PM ET

PORTLAND, Ore. - The way tobacco companies tell it, Oregon's constitution is a pristine document that would be badly damaged by the proposed inclusion of a tax on cigarettes, which would pay for an expansion of children's health care coverage.
R.J. Reynolds and Philip Morris have poured a record $9.1 million into fighting Measure 50, the proposed cigarette tax in Oregon, the most ever spent on a ballot initiative in the state, and much of the money has gone to drive home that point. >>continue

Oregon News: Attorney general won't run in 2008

2007-08-27T00:33:00.000-07:00

No fourth term - Hardy Myers' tenure includes new consumer laws and work on a tobacco settlement

Wednesday, August 22, 2007
ASHBEL S. GREEN and MICHELLE COLE
The Oregonian Staff

Attorney General Hardy Myers, a low-key fixture in Oregon politics for more than three decades, announced Tuesday that he won't seek a fourth term.

"This decision is not the result of any waning of my desire to serve the people of Oregon as attorney general," said Myers, a Democrat. Rather, he turns 68 in October and running for re-election "would have me pushing hard on the age envelope." >>

Digital Politics forum tonight in Portland

2007-05-15T05:55:00.000-07:00

This event listing is from the left leaning Blue Oregon Blog:

The Bus Project and Loaded
Orygun present:

Digital Politics: How technology is transforming the
political playing field

It’s an evening of eye-poppingly awesome infotainment moderated by
renowned author, blogger, and political strategist David Sirota, and sponsored by the Portland Mercury
Also featuring:Kari Chisholm from Blue Oregon & Mandate Media Anna Galland from MoveOn.org, Amy Ruiz from the Portland Mercury, David Goldstein from horsesass.org and KIRO-FM Seattle and everyone’s favorite (or most hated) office assistant, Clippy from MS Word!

When and Where:

Tuesday, May 15th, 7pm
Acme Food & Drink
1305 SE 8th Ave (SE 8th and Main)
Portland, Oregon
Cost: FREEEEE!

Oregon Republican Party Event in Tigard Tonight

2007-04-13T12:57:00.000-07:00

From Oregon Republican:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Shawn Cleave
Thursday, April 05, 2007 Office: 503-587-9233 ext. 227
Cell: 503-559-0785

Media Advisory

Karl Rove Hosted by Washington County Republican Party

Reception Open to Credentialed Media

When: Friday, April 13, 2007 at 5:30pm

Where:

Embassy Suites
9000 SW Washington Square Road
Tigard, Oregon

Requirements: Media Must RSVP by Thursday, April 12 by 5pm
RSVPs can be made by calling Shawn Cleave at the number provided

Date of Requirements: RSVPed media must check in by 5:30 with Shawn Cleave at the Embassy Suites lobby prior to entering the reception

Oregon News: House GOP balks at fixes reported for Measure 37

2007-04-12T03:28:00.000-07:00

'Solution' was announced prematurely, they say

PETER WONG
Statesman Journal

April 3, 2007

The Oregon Legislature's minority Republicans are unhappy with discussions about how to fix the flaws in Oregon's property-compensation law, which voters approved as Measure 37 in 2004.

House Republicans who have been involved say the Democratic co-chairmen of a joint committee spoke too soon when they conducted a news conference last week about a potential solution.

Measure 37 requires government either to pay landowners or waive regulations and allow development when those regulations result in reduced property values. More than 7,000 claims have been filed; many are awaiting resolution by a 180-day deadline that is approaching in the next few weeks.

Rep. Bill Garrard, R-Klamath Falls, said he is interested in achieving two things in a bill. One is a right of landowners to transfer their development rights to others. The other is to reduce the growing backlog of court cases.>>

Washington News: State Legislature passes domestic partnership measure

2007-04-12T03:23:00.000-07:00

By Rachel La Corte

The Associated Press

OLYMPIA — The Washington state House has passed a bill that would create domestic partnerships for same-sex couples, and the measure now heads to Gov. Chris Gregoire, who is expected to sign it into law.

The bill, which passed the Senate last month, passed the House today on a 63-35 vote.

Supporters said the measure was needed to "provide some relief, some remedy, some humanity" to couples in need.

"I wish we were here to talk about marriage," said Rep. Joe McDermott, D-Seattle and one of five openly gay lawmakers in the Legislature. "Unfortunately we are not. Married couples receive over 400 rights, responsibilities and privileges, but same-sex couples are prohibited from doing this." >>

Immigration Debate: OFIR Rally & Banquet Event

2007-04-11T22:53:00.000-07:00

From OFIR:

Oregon senator a top target of Democrats in 2008

2007-04-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

By BRAD CAIN

The Associated Press

SALEM, Ore. -- National Democrats have made it plain that one of their top targets in the 2008 Senate election will be Oregon Republican Sen. Gordon Smith, who has been reaching out more to moderate voters of late.

But Smith could also face potential trouble within his own party at home.

There are rumors that Smith might draw a primary challenge from the party's right wing. A national group that promotes fiscal conservatism is making noises about possibly bankrolling such an effort.>>

Oregonians For Immigration Reform Announcment

2007-04-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

From OFIR:

OFIR-VP-Rick Hickey will be speaking before the Lane County Republicans on Tues. April 10th in Newport @ Noon @ the Shilo Inn. Free admission and lunch will be available for a small fee if you wish.

If you are aware of any organization that wishes to have either Jim Ludwick or Rick Hickey as a speaker please let us know. They have spoken on behalf of OFIR at Democrat and Republican organizations, service clubs, (Kiwanis, Elks, Rotary, etc.), high schools, universities and numerous public forums.

OFIR Immigration Reform Legislative Rally Today

2007-02-09T06:04:00.000-08:00

From Oregonians for Immigration Reform:

Immigration Reform Legislative Rally

Friday, February 9th, 2007 at Noon

Oregon State Capitol Steps, Salem

You’re invited to join State Representative Linda Flores (R-Clackamas), State Representative Kim Thatcher (R-Keizer) and other legislators as they unveil legislation for immigration reform in Oregon.

Washington News: Free-speech dispute over union fees

2007-01-11T13:25:00.000-08:00

US Supreme Court to look at how much permission unions need to put nonmembers' dues toward political causes.

By Warren Richey | Staff writer of The Christian Science Monitor

WASHINGTON – The US Constitution forbids unions from using fees collected from nonunion workers to finance political activities unless the nonmembers grant permission.
Without consent, such action would raise the specter of nonmembers being dragooned into subsidizing political efforts they may not support. And that would violate the free speech and association clauses of the First Amendment. >>

Wastington State Voter Alert: County Elections affected by flooding

2006-11-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

Washington State has some major flooding going on which has closed some county polling places and ballot drop sites.

"Gov. Chris Gregoire declared a state of emergency for 18 counties, authorizing the National Guard and the state Emergency Management Division to offer assistance. Helicopters and hovercraft were pressed into service for rescues." >>read full article

Gov. Gregoire's declaration in response to the flooding:

Governor Gregoire Proclaims Emergency Due to Flooding
OLYMPIA - Governor Chris Gregoire today proclaimed a state of emergency in 18 counties due to widespread flooding. The proclamation covers Chelan, Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Mason, Okanogan, Pacific, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, Wahkiakum and Whatcom counties. >>continue

This is what the Washington State Elections has at their website in regard to the flooding:

County Election Officials Respond to FloodingSome polling places and some mail ballot drop boxes have been adversely impacted by the current flooding. Local election officials have been responding. For more information, go to your county election official's web site for the latest information and phone numbers: http://www.secstate.wa.gov/elections/auditors.aspx

Washington State Elections is urging voters to contact their county elections offices to see if their county is affected by flooding. Here is the link for the map tool below that will allow you to get contact information for your county. For other questions, you can call the Washington Secretary of State at: (360) 902-4180

Press Release from Senator Wyden-OR on voting difficulties

2006-11-07T12:14:00.000-08:00

Washington, D.C. - As already reported voting difficulties continue to frustrate voters in another decisive election, U.S. Senator Ron Wyden renewed his proposal to simplify the way Americans vote. Wyden has introduced legislation to provide funds to help states adopt Vote by Mail election systems, such as Oregon's.

"The great Yogi Berra said it best: 'It's Déjà vu all over again.' Except instead of the boys of October, we're talking about the long lines and broken machines of November." Wyden said. "Allegations of election fraud and voter suppression were once rarities, today they're business as usual for the American voter. It's time to stop throwing taxpayer dollars at a broken system. Oregonians have a solution "Vote by Mail."

For more than a decade Oregonians have been successfully voting by mail. Up to three weeks before Election Day, ballots are sent to all registered voters, giving busy families time to research their votes and carefully mark their ballots, which are then either dropped in the mailbox or delivered to secure drop boxes at libraries, county offices and other convenient locations.

Trained election officials then match the signature on each ballot against the signature on each voter's registration card, before processing the vote.

The transparency of Vote by Mail eliminates virtually all fraud, while addressing many traditional voting challenges:

Vote by Mail eliminates poll problems, there are no long lines, polls to open late or even confusion about where to vote.

Vote by Mail eliminates voter roll issues and the need for provisional ballots, ballots are mailed only to registered voters at their official address. Those who do not receive a ballot have ample time to resolve the issue with election officials.

Vote by Mail virtually eliminates voter fraud, no vote is processed or counted until a trained election official is satisfied that the signature on the ballot matches the signature on the voter's registration card.

Vote by Mail reduces the risk of voter intimidation, a 2003 study of Oregon voters showed that groups, like the elderly, who are most vulnerable to coercion prefer Vote by Mail.

Vote by Mail creates a paper trail.

Vote by Mail increases voter turnout, by eliminating the need to stand in line at the polling place, voting becomes convenient for hourly wage employees and other working families. Oregon's consistently ranks among the top five states in voter participation.

Vote by Mail encourages educated voters, receiving ballots weeks in advance, gives voters an opportunity to research issues and deliberate in a way that is not possible in a voting booth.

Vote by Mail saves taxpayer dollars, because there is no longer a need to transport equipment to polling stations and to hire and train poll workers, Oregon has reduced its election-related costs by 30 percent since implementing Vote by Mail.

In September of this year, building on the success of Vote by Mail in his own state, Wyden teamed up with Senators John Kerry and Barack Obama to sponsor legislation to help other states implement their own version of VBM. Wyden's bill creates a $110 million, three-year grant program to provide funds to states to help offset the cost of adopting VBM election systems.

States have the option of adopting VBM statewide, within a group of selected counties (or municipalities in states where elections are overseen at this level), or even in a single county or municipality.

"Vote by Mail works. This legislation gives states funds they can use to make the transition away from traditional voting methods that have led to so many problems, so many concerns and so little confidence in the American election system," Wyden said.

To contact Senator Wyden, go to http://wyden.senate.gov/contact/

Oregon: Dropping Your Ballot Off--Too Late To Send by U.S. Mail

2006-11-05T19:14:00.000-08:00

If you live in Oregon and haven't already mailed in your ballot and it is November 5th, it is too late for you to send it by U.S. Mail--Postmark does not matter. You will need to drop it off at one of the ballot drop sites in your county by 8:00 pm on Tuesday, November 7th.

You can find a list of locations by county: HERE.

Should you have any questions regarding your ballot, you can call the toll-free voter information line at 1-866-ORE-VOTES (1-866-673-8683) or use the TTY line, if you’re hearing impaired, at 1-866-350-0596. Elections representatives are available, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm – or you can log onto the Oregon State Elections website and look for your answers there anytime at www.oregonvotes.org.

You can also read the article in the Oregonian that could help answer some of your questions:

Lost your ballot? Using a black pen? (Don't) Made a boo-boo on a bubble?
Here are the answers to help you fill out your ballot and vote

Saturday, November 04, 2006
MICHELLE COLE

It's crunch time, voters. You must turn in your ballot before Tuesday's 8 p.m. deadline.
But wait. You still have questions about how to vote by mail. Or you made a mistake marking your ballot. What to do?

We called the experts at the Oregon Secretary of State's office, Multnomah County Elections and even a local post office official...continue>>

Event: Town Hall with Senator Wyden

2006-10-18T22:41:00.000-07:00

Come Join

United States Senator
Ron Wyden
At a
Multnomah County Town Hall Meeting

County residents are invited to attend the community meeting in Portland
to voice their questions and concerns on any issue.

Date: Thursday, October 19
Time: 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Multnomah Arts Center
(in the gym)
Where: 7688 SW Capitol Highway, Portland

CONTACT: Loretta or Mary at (503) 326-7525
For
Additional information

Oregon's TABOR Measure fight stands as the biggest in the nation

2006-09-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

Oregon is biggest spending cap fight left
Oregon - Three states drop from their ballots proposed measures to limit budget growth
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
BETSY HAMMOND
Oregon will be one of three states with a proposed spending cap on this fall's ballot, after officials in Michigan, Nevada and Montana disqualified proposed spending cap measures.
Oregon is by far the biggest of the three -- the others being Maine and Nebraska -- positioning it to be the most-watched battleground on the issue.
The measures would limit increases in state spending to the gain in inflation plus population.
In Michigan, which has nearly three times the population of Oregon, the state Supreme Court killed the measure last week because too many signatures were duplicates or invalid. At the extreme, one man signed 19 times, opponents found.
In Nevada, the Supreme Court unanimously rejected the spending cap measure this month because proponents circulated slightly different versions that would have had differing financial effects.
In Montana, a district court judge disqualified the spending cap measure last week after finding massive fraud by signature gatherers who lied about their addresses and misled voters into signing for three measures under the guise they needed three signatures on a single measure and lacked carbon paper.
Two other states where proponents had spent half a million dollars or more to get a spending cap on the ballot also saw authorities yank their measures earlier this summer.
In Oklahoma, a unanimous Supreme Court threw out that state's spending cap measure on Aug. 31 because signatures were gathered by out-of-state circulators. And in Missouri, where backers poured more than $2 million into a campaign for it and another measure, proponents conceded this month that the spending cap won't be on the ballot because they submitted signatures out of the order required by law.
That means a coordinated effort to get spending caps on the ballots of eight states now will have to focus on Oregon, Maine and Nebraska. A court case is pending in Nebraska, where opponents of the spending limit contend it violates the state law limiting ballot measures to a single subject.
All the proposed spending limit measures were championed by Americans for Limited Government, a libertarian political group headed by Howard Rich, a New York real estate investor.
Backers of Oregon's measure submitted 109,000 valid signatures, comfortably above the minimum. Nearly 90 percent of the money for their signature drive came from Americans for Limited Government.
A broad coalition of unions, businesses, retiree groups, education advocates and law enforcement workers has formed to fight the Oregon measure. The coalition says it would harm vital services, including schools, public health and roads, whose costs often rise faster than inflation.
But advocates at the Taxpayer Association of Oregon, whose leaders wrote the measure, say they are confident Oregonians will favor a measure that allows limited growth in government and is likely to divert huge sums of tax revenues into a rainy day fund.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. Betsy Hammond: 503-294-7632; betsyhammond@news.oregonian.com

Illegal Initiative Signature Gathering in Oregon

2006-06-21T11:27:00.000-07:00

KATU Report

June 20, 2006

Is State Allowing Illegal Signature Gathering?

By Melica Johnson

PORTLAND - Oregon voters passed a law banning initiative campaigns from paying petitioners per signature, but one political signature-gathering firm may be breaking the law and doing so with the state's blessing.

KATU News obtained a copy of Arno Political Consulting's employee handbook which lists how much the California company pays its signature gatherers. Payment ranges from $13 for 9-12 signatures gathered per hour to $64 for 46-50 signatures per hour, clearly laying out a formula that the more signatures gathered, the more money a person makes.

Arno officials would not comment on camera, but a manager for the firm said their lawyers presented their plan to the Secretary of State about a month ago and their payment structure was given a green light.

The state's elections director, John Lindback, said his office did look at Arno's employee handbook, and at first glance, the company's payment arrangement appeared to comply with the state's ban on payment per signature.

But he said it isn't as black-and-white as it appears. The state had to adopt some regulations to allow signature-gathering firms to expect some sort of minimum quota from canvassers so that firms would not "have to keep them onboard if they're not performing at a certain level," Lindback said.
Patty Wentz, of Our Oregon, said the firm is clearly violating the law that was intended to keep signature gatherers from forging names. "If you know you're going to get more money for every signature you turn in, you're much more likely to forge," she said.

This payment formula appears to be more widespread than just one company as demonstrated by signature gatherer Shalisa who is working for The Hemp & Cannabis Foundation in an effort to get an initiative on the ballot.

"It's 10 dollars an hour, but if I get more than 10 signatures an hour, say I get 26 signatures, I get 26 dollars an hour," she said. In addition, if she gathers 250 signatures in the next three weeks she'll receive a bonus of $225.

"They just really want the signatures," she said.

Secretary of State Bill Bradbury declined to comment for this story, but just before air time, his office gave a letter to KATU News saying that it plans to send it (the letter) to Arno Political Consultants telling them that it is concerned about the company's payment arrangement and that it may be breaking the law.

Additionally, Patty Wentz of Our Oregon plans to file a complaint with the state, which in all likelihood will trigger a state investigation into the matter.

http://www.katu.com/stories/86998.html

Oregon News: 6/20/06

2006-06-21T10:12:00.000-07:00

Is Oregon's initiative process in decline?
Is State Allowing Illegal Signature Gathering?
Candidate as colorful as career

Oregon Bus Project Gala

2006-06-21T01:32:00.000-07:00

from the Oregon Bus Project:

The 2006 Bus Gala:DRIVE.
A night of politics as unusual.

DRIVE. The 2006 Bus Gala
Date: 06/24/2006

Fire up your action engine on June 24th.

Gathering at NW 14th and Marshall in Portland, thousands of hungry young progressives will come together and experience the Bus Project’s 2006 gala: DRIVE.
In 2002, we christened the Bus. In 2003, we honored Gov. Kitzhaber. In 2004, we hosted the biggest political party in memory. In 2005, we traveled Through the Looking Glass.

So what’s in store for 2006?
We return to Machineworks, the site of 2004’s RISE… and we’ll DRIVE all night. On June 24, we take over the giant Pearl District warehouse with airplane-hanger-like-aspirations - actually, we better make that zeppelin-hanger-like-aspirations.

A bevy of bands…Liv and the Warfield Project…The Retrofits…Justin Carroll and the Time Being…Calvin Johnson…DJ’s Ben and Ravi…One giant bus…Vehicular mayhem…The Zero to Sixty video contest…The next gen of Oregon’s leadership…Swanky VIP pre-func…After-party lasting well into the 25th…… and ultimately, a collective call to change democracy for the better. Damn.

Main Event8pm - $18 ($9 student w/ ID) - Buy online

VIP Grand Prix 6pm - $125 - Buy online

Mark your calendar and buy tickets now. This is the night to rev up Oregon politics.

More information

Event: Town Hall on Independent Judiciary

2005-06-22T16:25:00.000-07:00

Oregon Coalition For A Fair And Independent Judiciary presents:

Independent Judiciary Town Hall
The Courts: Our Rights, Our Justice, Our Future

When? Wednesday, June 29, 2005 at 6:00pm

Where? First Unitarian Church, Salmon Street Sanctuary, 1011 SW 12th, Portland OR

The Oregon Coalition For A Fair And Independent Judiciary is hosting a town hall to address the Bush Administration’s court packing plan and the threat it brings to our basic rights and freedoms.

There will be a panel of speakers from a range of communities that will discuss how the Federal and Supreme Courts work, the importance of a fair and independent judiciary and what people can do to help in this effort to protect our nations courts.

Don’t let the radical right take over our courts without a fight. Come and learn the facts!

The Oregon Coalition for a Fair and Independent Judiciary is a partnership of individuals and organizations dedicated to ensuring the nomination of moderate federal and Supreme Court justices who will uphold basic rights and freedoms for all individuals. For more information, please visit our website at: www.oregonjudicialcoalition.org or call 503.789.8213

Oregon News: 5/31/05

2005-05-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

Lawmakers rush to disclose previous trips
Sen. Smith sits above filibuster fray
Protester nears end of first day in Hood River tree
Former prostitutes can't become teachers
State likely to siphon medical pot fees
As landscape shifts, Oregon struggles to protect farmland
Budget troubles mean hiring struggle
Today's statehouse schedule
Iris blossoms brighten spirits, soothe tempers in Senate

Washington News: 5/31/05

2005-05-31T06:59:00.000-07:00

Election challenge trial, week two: Democrats defend election
State elections director biased, GOP suggests
Hazardous material scare investigated
Democrats set to defend state election

Oregon News: 5/30/05

2005-05-30T07:58:00.000-07:00

Remembering Oregon's heroes on Memorial Day
Oregon lawmakers scramble to tackle meth
Wal-Mart takes on Oregon only way it can: it'll change
Eugene City Beat: Transgender law proposal to get airing

Washington News: 3/30/05

2005-05-30T07:57:00.000-07:00

By law, manufactured homes are now welcome everywhere
Tacoma broke law in meeting about initiative
Conservatives’ efforts tilt balance of power to the right

Oregon News: 5/15/05

2005-05-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

Lobbyists and lackeys cripple the Legislature
Traditional city taxes on phone lines being lost to cellular-phone users
Liquefied gas projects energize opposition
Political Notebook
Opponents launch campaign against civil union bill
Oregon gets taste of '90s booming economy
Study: Forests can't support logging plan
Raising gas taxes tough sell to voters

Oregon News: 5/14/05

2005-05-14T08:26:00.000-07:00

Senate passes school budget
Columbia dredging plan hits snag
Legislature's checkbook grows
New technology untangles state's road projects
OR Lawmakers Vow To Fight Rumsfeld's Plan
Leonard: Votes exist to pass cell phone tax
Union opposes citizen review

Washington News: 5/14/05

2005-05-14T08:25:00.000-07:00

Portland eyes tax on cell phones
Some waste allowed to go to Hanford
Female officer wins $800,000 settlement in discrimination suit
Each party’s experts claim win

Oregon News: 5/13/05

2005-05-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

Opponents speak out on water bill
2 families in Measure 37 fight get Oregon's OK to develop
Airport bill faces political turbulence
Dredging plan hurting for cash, time
Mayor won't sign letter urging USA Patriot Act changes
Expert sees low-cost child-welfare fixes
Pooling health plans will save money, governor says
Fetal-homicide legislation passes House

Washington News: 5/13/05

2005-05-13T07:17:00.000-07:00

In the Northwest: Indo-Canadians overcome setbacks to gain clout
Wild, wild West case a study in hypocrisy
Closing arguments heard on Hanford
State law enforcement to get feds' help
State's water situation still poor
Meeting gives people a chance to talk with public officials

Oregon News: 5/12/05

2005-05-12T07:40:00.000-07:00

City board votes to sue state over wages
Program gives a hand for a home
No decision reached about driver's licenses
Most readers in favor of implementing driver’s license law
Linn voters offered Spanish ballots
Timber towns get federal lift
Funding is cut off for aide to elderly
Panel OKs a larger budget to cover costs
District attorney plans to ignore small crimes
DHS clients were overpaid, audit shows

Washington News: 5/12/05

2005-05-12T07:38:00.000-07:00

Spokane city attorney calls for outside investigations of mayor
King County Housing Authority cuts more than 4,000 from waiting list
Last call on timber plan for saving salmon
Fishing industry suffers with salmon runs at historic low
Audits to scrutinize how state agencies perform
House GOP may shake up leadership
State joins others with bill targeting meth ingredients
Initiative planned to overturn gas tax
New laws aim to watch how state spends money
Fluoridation fight lives on
Emotions high on housing for the at-risk
Election officials receive citations
State adds anti-meth measures
Complaint prompts school probe
Gregoire signs accountability measures

Oregon News: 5/11/05

2005-05-11T07:37:00.000-07:00

House OKs ban on gun damage lawsuits
Blueprint drawn for land-use/Measure 37 overhaul
Political Notebook
Senators announce victim assistance grant
State budget update
Senate panel OKs school funds
Senate passes watered-down junk food bill
Educators target Republicans’ tax-break proposals
Democrats advance education budget
Bills would expand child health coverage
Critics rally to oppose Westlund over same-sex issue
U.S. bill will alter Oregon's ID rules
Pesticide reaching streams, group says
Today's statehouse schedule

Washington News: 5/11/05

2005-05-11T07:35:00.000-07:00

Locke weighs in on election
State rules out new hospital in Issaquah
In the Northwest: Going negative in politics goes north to Canada
Gregoire signs law to help problem gamblers

Oregon News: 5/10/05

2005-05-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

House OKs capital gains tax cut
Undocumented, under siege
Bill extends lawsuit rights of Vioxx users
Bill would aid victims of domestic violence
House GOP Pass Two Bills to Help Oregon's Economy
Senate takes steps to improve healthcare
Blumenauer Announces Opposition to CAFTA
Congresswoman Hooley's good cause
Al Franken headlines Portland democratic event
Political Notebook
Sprawl still the rule as "new urbanism" struggles to catch on
Today's Legislative schedule
Oregon, Washington seek delay in U.S. ruling on coho protection
Gov. signs Wash. gas tax bill to help fund new Vancouver bridge
Law of little help to churches
Phil Stanford: PDC, Clean Money campaign & more

Washington News: 5/10/05

2005-05-10T07:07:00.000-07:00

Felons vote Democratic, national study says
Theories abound on voting by felons
Gas tax signed and maligned
Gregoire commits state to helping problem gamblers

Oregon News: 5/9/05

2005-05-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

Same-sex marriage opponents want county to pay legal fees
Senate gives rights to video voyeurism victims
Bill could help victims of domestic violence escape
Tribes buy into political process
Backers may revise civil unions measure
‘Choose Life’ License Plates?
Today's Statehouse schedule
E-mails agree with mayor on prayer breakfast

Washington News: 5/9/05

2005-05-09T07:05:00.000-07:00

Gregoire signs bill requiring cleaner vehicles
In The Northwest: In B.C., ruling party's 'gold' looks a lot like poop
Former governor’s candidate will speak on election reform

Oregon News: 5/6/05

2005-05-06T07:11:00.000-07:00

Senate Democrats unveil new spending plan
Smith builds stature with risky stand against party
Four land rulings; a mess to go
Bush team asks states to rethink forest land
Governor's comments on revised budget
House passes bill that would reverse school speed-zone law
Lawsuit seeks to block proposed Gorge casino
Beer tax hike proposed again
Governor sued over proposed casino
Smith treads carefully about Social Security at workshop
Senate budget chief holds ground on school funds
Land law is not burden to religion, high court rules
Civil unions bill generates emotional six-hour debate
Elected officials, religious leaders gather for National Day of Prayer
Political Notebook
Students march against racism

Washington News: 5/6/05

2005-05-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

Gay sex scandal rocks Spokane
Residents fear fallout of school closures
Did Spokane paper act properly?
Parents dig in for long battle against school-closure plan
To kids, adults, it was police brutality
Strip club ban likely to endure
Gray whale apparently had starved
Canadian drug bill signed
Candidates have private lives, too, they tell forum
State’s forest plan left to Gregoire

Oregon News: 5/5/05

2005-05-05T08:08:00.000-07:00

Sen. Smith: Trip To Ireland May Have Violated Ethics Rules
Favor, fury on gay-rights legislation
Budget officials react to school spending plan
Eugene mayor says she'll skip prayer breakfast
Oregon bill targets speeders who surpass 100 mph
Schools consider random drug tests
Vermont lawmaker urges Oregon to enact civil union legislation
Today's Statehouse schedule
City agency's no-bid work concerns Potter
Capitol Update: House to vote to protect gun rights from lawsuits
Governor stirs from behind budget curtain
Campaign finance bill passes House panel
Senate OKs bill millions of years in the making

Washington News: 5/5/05

2005-05-05T08:07:00.000-07:00

Council's Republicans seek ouster of elections director
Commission tightens ethics rules
Whale dies after getting trapped under Navy pier
Tobacco foes decry diversion of funds
Gig Harbor could get tax breaks to offset tollSmith opposes free-trade bill

Oregon News: 5/3/05

2005-05-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

House limits fees for public information
Sen. Smith, Rep. Blumenauer criticize Potter about task force
Battle brewing over civil unions
Senate clears bill to put teeth in no-call list
Senate Dems continue to fight for school funds
Smith honored for legislation to prevent suicides
Political Notebook
Workers urge rejection of free-trade pact
Today's Statehouse schedule
Washington GOP handed an important victory in election challenge
Blumenauer and Smith Host Trade Forum
Portland school board candidates for Zone 5 differ on temporary tax
Salem Conf. Center wage rift prompts state suit
Minnis may reshuffle budget deck
State budget talks between House and Senate hit skids
613,000 Oregonians lack insurance
Forum to address policies about gays
‘Living room’ for homeless hits bricks
OT ruling goes against Farmers
Sen. Smith deserves tonight’s award

Washington News: 5/3/05

2005-05-03T08:08:00.000-07:00

GOP wins key issue, keeps alive vote suit
Parents angry over Seattle schools plan that ends open enrollment
King County sets rules for tent city permit
Lobbying firm paid for part of Dicks trip, violating ethics rules
Dicks runs afoul of travel rule
GOP gets to count contest its way
Elections manager will speak at Republican club’s meeting
$69,000 in new fines for Grant County farmer
Valley to vote on annexing to library district
Richland reactor shut down for good
More in Oregon lack health insurance
Montana wind farm plans set in motion
CH2M Hill Hanford to study health

Oregon News: 5/2/05

2005-05-02T07:52:00.000-07:00

Mexican residents gain ID benefits
Why we don’t run for office
Wood Village utters the once unthinkable: city sales tax
Workers, supporters turn out for Portland May Day parade
Governor proclaims Transportation Safety Month
Scientist who saw old growth in new light wins award
Cultural Competency: Defended?
Group seeks public input about health care
Wu's letter to Norton riles local officials
Construction-work law raises questions
Daily pledge sought in schools
Ore. lawmakers designate breast-feeding rooms
Senator Wyden to hold town hall meetings

Washington News: 5/2/05

2005-05-02T07:51:00.000-07:00

Pastor holds the line on gay unions
In election struggle, Kerry rides again to Gregoire's aid
GOP tries to make election case
Lawyer's suit an unfunny affair for taxpayers
In The Northwest: Kerry's back and, he tells the P-I, in 'fighting mood'
Thousands march to raise money for preemies
Governor battle back in court
Building ban on homes lifted
Ex-governor steps in for first lady
Lakewood council favors $100 gift limit
Access to Care seeks out those with medical needs
Lawmakers bring home the bacon
Republican group warns of takeover by extremists

Oregon News: 5/1/05

2005-05-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

Is Fareless careless?
Cops keep an eye out for May Day mayhem
Governor wants 4-year university for Bend region
Area representative says he champions 'people-first' language
May Day march in downtown
Proponents of gay rights pursue civil unions bill

Washington News: 5/1/05

2005-05-01T09:48:00.000-07:00

Legislature loads up governor’s to-do box
Schools to trim $12.6 million
ROLL CALL

Oregon News: 4/30/05

2005-04-30T08:46:00.000-07:00

'Choose Life' plates hit roadblock in House hearing
Deputy clerk accused of stealing marriage license fees

Washington News: 4/30/05

2005-04-30T08:44:00.000-07:00

Now, Democrats turn up 428 felons who voted
Parents pick a school, hoping it won't be closed
Federal agency fined over nuclear sludge
Railroad, Idaho clash over safety of depot
Indian tribes seek approval to kill salmon-eating sea lions
Vague reporting obscures agendas of lobbyists' clients
Solution to high health cost eluded lawmakers
Public can meet council candidate at gathering of Democrats club
Slew of property rules rolls out
Core drilling starts at FFTF

Oregon State Elections Lists PNWP On Oregon Votes

2005-04-28T10:53:00.000-07:00

Pacific Northwest Project is now listed on Oregon Votes website maintained by Oregon Election Division. The site maintains information and resources on voting in Oregon. Please visit the site for more information.

Oregon News: 4/28/05

2005-04-28T08:25:00.001-07:00

Kulongoski makes pitch for civil-union legislation
Reciprocal benefits, civil unions compete
Richardson plays ‘Hardball’ on civil unions
Budget gap vexes lawmakers
First lady visiting NE Portland to spotlight children's program
Bill would limit hikes in the minimum wage
Doyle now faces criminal inquiry
Effort may hinder PGE deal
Oregon lawmakers prioritize and compromise on way to new budget
Portland's vote on FBI force could have fallout
Candidate has criminal record
Firefighters lobby for fire-safe cigarette bill
Walker plan gives senators more clout
Downtown Salem parking tax put on hold
Salmon advocates, feds spar about dams
Burley joins local leaders in Pitching Central Oregon initiative to Governor

Washington News: 4/28/05

2005-04-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

Pierce County reveals uncounted votes
Legislation makes animal neglect a felony
Seattle schools find $9 million in savings but still face deficit
Plan for gas pipeline generates resistance in Thorp
Oregon lawmakers urged to pass gay rights bill
Judge hears salmon-recovery case
Governors team up to cope with threat of huge wildfires
HUD cuts off grants to Tulalip TribesNew vote flaws come to light

Oregon News: 4/27/05

2005-04-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Ex-Rep. Doyle will face criminal inquiry
Can The Two Leaders Overcome Their Divide?
School officials vent about funding dispute
Boycott dims Gervais candidate fair
New Portland teachers face threat of pink slips
Oregon teachers union elects new president
Kulongoski seeks tougher air standards
House panel struggles on campaign finance bill
State hunts cougar
Wood Village officials thinking about a 1 percent sales tax

Washington News: 4/27/05

2005-04-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

High gas prices really sting low-wage workers
North Bay may be in for land-use makeover
An elementary plea: 'Save Montlake!'
Concerns over the safety of shellfish beds
Large tax increase for Hospital District No. 1 passing
Spokane extends domestic partner benefits
Conservation group to buy climbing area
Pet license amnesty, spay special announced
Socialist candidate can keep donors' names private
Parties will sue over primary
Scope of King County ballot blunders remains mystery

Oregon News: 4/26/05

2005-04-26T07:11:00.000-07:00

Bipartisan budget negotiations resume
Gift-card grab gets Senate OK
Mannix challenges utility-purchase plan
Marion commissioners consider what to do with medical waste
Portland trims teaching jobs
Legislature considers undoing ‘time, place and manner’ law
Senate seeks bigger role in appointments
AG announces sentencing on health care fraud conviction
Gorge panel wants court's take on Measure 37
Kulongoski puts emissions plan in gear
Portland mayor leaves chief out of loop
Council to vote on task force pullout
Political Notebook
Foes differ over school choice debate

Washington News: 4/26/05

2005-04-26T07:09:00.000-07:00

Daunting task: To raise more money for roads
Citizens panel on elections approved
Hanford health-effects trial opens
Bill aimed at drivers using cell phones fails
Benefits extended to partners
Session has Democrats smiling, GOP grumbling

Oregon: Three Upcoming Political Rallies

2005-04-25T14:39:00.000-07:00

Rally for Social Security in Portland

The fight to save Social Security is tilting our way, but it's far
from over. So, here's another opportunity to have your voice heard on
the issue, at a key moment.

On Tuesday, April 26, 2005, Oregon United to Protect Social Security
is organizing a large rally in Portland to coincide with the Senate
Finance Committee's hearing discussing proposals to privatize Social
Security in Washington, DC. In addition to the rally in Portland,
rallies will be held in over 30 states and Washington, DC on that
day. By attending the rally we can make it clear to our members of
Congress that Social Security privatization is wrong and unacceptable.

Oregon United to Protect Social Security's Rally for Social Security
in Portland

Date: Tuesday, April 26th, 2005 Time: 12:00 PM

Location: Outside Sen. Gordon Smith's Office, Portland World Trade
Center, 121 SW Salmon Street, Portland, OR 97204, Portland, OR 97204

SIGNS WILL BE PROVIDED

Contact Information: If you have any questions or to RSVP, please
contact: Ed Yoon at 213-503-5455 or
yoon@americansforsocialsecurity.com
*********************************************************************

Rally to "Stop the Judicial Takeover"

COALITION FOR A FAIR AND INDEPENDENT JUDICIARY

Any day now, radical Republicans are hoping to seize absolute power
to appoint Supreme Court justices who favor right-wing, corporate
interests over the rest of us. To do it, Vice President Cheney and
Senate Republican leader Bill Frist are threatening to use what they
call the "nuclear option"-a parliamentary maneuver to overturn the
200-year-old tradition that all judges have broad support in Congress.

MoveOn PAC and the Coalition for a Fair and Independent Judiciary are
organizing a massive national wave of protest to stop them,
culminating with emergency rallies across the country on Wednesday,
April 27, at 5 PM (or earlier in a few cities).

This is an "all hands on deck" moment, and we need everyone to turn
out and be counted.

Portland Rally to Stop the Judicial Takeover

27 Apr 12:00 noon

Gus G. Solomon United States Court House.

We'll gather outside the Court House to send a message to Sen. Gordon
Smith that he shouldn't side with the radical Republican agenda over
the concerns of Oregonians.
*********************************************************************

No to "Free Trade" and CAFTA Rally

*Come to a rally and public forum and tell our public officials:
Fair Trade, not CAFTA.
Monday, May 2nd, 8:30 am (sharp)
University of Portland, Buckley Center
5000 N. Willamette*

*On May 2, Rep. Earl Blumenauer and Sen. Gordon Smith will hold a
public forum on trade and globalization. This is the first -- and
possibly last-chance to voice opposition to the Central America
Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) directly to our elected
representatives before it Congress votes on it. CAFTA extends the
destructive NAFTA to Central America and has "trade in services"
provisions that go even beyond NAFTA in perpetuating the race to
the bottom.

Portland JWJ and CBLOC will rally before the forum with organized
labor, environmental groups, and small farmers to send a positive
message to our Reps. in DC: "We CAN legislate trade deals that
respect workers' rights and protect the environment, but CAFTA
doesn't cut it. Vote No on CAFTA!"

*For more information, call 503-236-7916 *