Obama tickets come with a catch
By Kevin Vaughan, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)
Published August 12, 2008 at 7:29 p.m.
Updated August 12, 2008 at 7:29 p.m.
Some of those hoping to wrangle a seat for Barack Obama's speech were told this week they have to put in six hours of volunteer work for his campaign by Friday to have a shot at a ticket.
And that ruffled at least a few feathers.
"My whole reason why I'm so mad about it is because Democrats need to act like Democrats," said Heather Kreider, a working mother from Centennial.
"Democrats work for a living, and they have to work and take care of their families. And they say these are open to those in the community, so they shouldn't ask people to drop everything in their lives for this," Kreider said Tuesday.
"It's not fair. It's elitist. And they need to practice what they're preaching," she added,
Doing the volunteer work only makes someone eligible for a ticket and doesn't guarantee one, according to the phone message from the campaign.
Obama's decision to move the last night of the Democratic National Convention to Invesco Field at Mile High, where he will speak to a crowd of more than 75,000, sparked a frenzy for tickets.
Campaign organizers pledged that more than half those in the stadium would be Coloradans, but they have been vague about how they would decide who got tickets.
Kreider was among more than 80,000 people who applied for tickets to Obama's Aug. 28 speech accepting his party's presidential nomination. As part of the application process, people were asked to check a box if they were willing to volunteer for the Obama campaign.
Matt Chandler, a spokesman for the Obama campaign, said the only people who were asked to volunteer were those who said on their applications that they were willing to do the work.
Those who don't volunteer will still have a chance at the tickets, Chandler said.
"The vast majority of people who get credentials won't have to volunteer," he said. "The folks who might have accidentally hit the 'volunteer' tab, they don't have to worry. They're in the same place in line."
People asked to volunteer are those in line for "all star" tickets that will put them closer to the stage and are being contacted first, said Stephanie Mueller, campaign spokeswoman. Applicants who didn't offer to volunteer will be contacted later this week, she said.
But Kreider said she is certain she didn't hit the "volunteer" box on the online application.
Still, Kreider got a message telling her that she had to do six hours of volunteer work by Friday if she wanted a chance at a ticket. Kreider said she will not do the work.
"Absolutely not," she said. "Now it's pure principal. I was a Hillary Clinton supporter, and this is literally my first touch with the Obama campaign. And it's just disappointing."
A man, who spoke to the Rocky on the condition that he not be named, said he got a message saying he had to do 12 hours of phone work or canvassing to have a chance at the two tickets he wants.
Asked if he planned to do the work, he said "hell no" and called the campaign's conditions "blackmail."
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August 12, 2008
8:10 p.m.
The_Punnisher writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
August 12, 2008
8:26 p.m.
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racheltech81 writes:
This is no rumor. I got two series of phone calls yesterday asking me to volunteer - for 1 ticket (I asked for 2) I was told I would need to knock on at least 40 doors in my neighborhood before Saturday (I outright refused). Then, call #2, I was given a login for a site to do cold calling. My "goal" is 250 calls before Saturday for a "maybe" shot at tickets. This makes me angry because A) I have been an Obama supporter for over a year now, INCLUDING offering my financial support and B) I canvassed neighborhoods earlier this year. I have two small kids at home and they are asking me to do this with less than five days notice. It's absurd. If this is a first come, first serve situation (as I heard it was supposed to be) then tell the 30,000 Coloradans who registered for the tickets FIRST that they have them, and let the rest of us move on with our lives. Really upsetting.
August 12, 2008
8:32 p.m.
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geo3453 writes:
Wow, given the chance, people will b***h and moan about anything. What a spoiled, lazy country this is. 6 hours is not that much, people. I work one full time job and a second part time job, and I don't think this is unreasonable in the least. You don't wanna do the work? Fine. There are plenty of people who will be willing. If there was no requirement you'd be b***hing that you were one of the ones not selected for the free tickets, of which there is a limited supply.
At least this way we don't have to worry about those jackasses who were planning on taking 2 free tickets from deserving supporters so they could hock 'em on ebay...
August 12, 2008
8:38 p.m.
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racheltech81 writes:
OK Geo, you have two little kids you want to cart around door to door with you while trying to register voters? I've ALREADY worked for the Obama campaign, and it took more than 5 days notice to get it arranged eight hours of my day. AND I did it gladly, voluntarily. Not every Obama voter has your lifestyle and can make arrangements like this at the drop of a hat, or can pull this stuff off every weekend.
August 12, 2008
8:39 p.m.
Suggest removal
MTN_Frank writes:
This woman's story sounds like total bull. Just like the lie the Rocky had about Obama's dual citizenship, when the blogs proved the Rocky wrong they were to cowardly to issue a retraction.
The woman says she is a democrat? I don't buy it.
-----
Kreider said Tuesday.
"It's not fair. It's elitist. And they need to practice what they're preaching," she added
-------
Only rebpugs use the word elitist.
August 12, 2008
8:41 p.m.
Suggest removal
geo3453 writes:
My lifestyle? I guess you missed the part where I said I work two jobs. I average about 12 hours of work a day Mon-Fri, 8-10 hrs. on Sats & Suns. If I'm lucky.
August 12, 2008
8:43 p.m.
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geo3453 writes:
The fact is, they are giving the tickets away for free and therefore can do what they want with them. You don't like it? Don't vote for him.
August 12, 2008
8:43 p.m.
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timeandagain writes:
Classic... Get used to it folks. OBAMA IS NOT WHAT HE SEEMS!!! The Ole' Obama Bait and Switch!! What a crooked bunch of thieves. Keep your hands on your wallets if Obama manages to get elected!!
August 12, 2008
8:47 p.m.
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racheltech81 writes:
Wow geo. You must not sleep or eat or anything. Just work and volunteer. What a stand-up citizen Dem you are. Have they tried to clone you yet?
August 12, 2008
8:53 p.m.
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easy writes:
WHAT??
"It's not fair. It's elitist. And they need to practice what they're preaching"
How is earning your ticket in a seller's market ELITIST? Do you know what elitist means?
This is easily the most ignorant reaction I've ever seen. Demand is high - I'd be happy to put in 6 hrs to attend this historic event. Unbelievably pathetic reaction.
August 12, 2008
8:58 p.m.
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coarizona writes:
I hope they gave the homeless tickets. I know they want them to go to the movies. But, wouldn't it be better that they witnessed the event of a lifetime?
August 12, 2008
8:58 p.m.
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geo3453 writes:
I eat and sleep just fine, thanks. There are 168 hours in a week, ya know. I see you spend most of your time trying to be witty. Good for you! And I work, I don't volunteer, and I'm not planning on volunteering for tickets, either. I'm just sick and tired of listening to people complain about everything. That's all this country does: b***h and moan over every little thing. Life isn't always fair. Deal with it.
August 12, 2008
9:17 p.m.
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racheltech81 writes:
Hmm. So what your saying is - you have no interest in this column whatsoever except to stop by and "b**ch and moan" about how people who legitimately want tickets to this event are upset because they don't all have 6 hours of "free time" before the 15th (your hard-working self being the exception, but only if you wanted to, which of course you don't). And thanks so much for your insight into the inherent unfairness of life. I'm sure nobody here has ever been graced with that gem of wisdom before.
August 12, 2008
9:32 p.m.
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ecoscience writes:
Well people, all I can tell you is the disillusionment is only just beginning. This guy Obama is not who you think he is.... He is going to drain what blood is left out of the working middle class.
August 12, 2008
9:35 p.m.
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easy writes:
NoPCme ... wow, so now we have a new discussion. Was your racism born into you or nurtured into you?
Gotta love when the Republicant's true colors show through. Keep your hate to yourself.
August 12, 2008
9:51 p.m.
Suggest removal
bonnieaaa writes:
I don't understand why anyone would complain for being asked to volunteer a few hours for the campaign in order to be eligible for attending the convention. If anyone wants to join the convention so badly they should be willing to put forth the effort to support their party. "Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country", right?
August 12, 2008
9:57 p.m.
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Crystal Preston-Watson writes:
Racist comments will not be tolerated. They violate the user agreement and will get you banned. There are many ways to voice your displeasure without reverting to racial slurs.
Thanks,
Crystal Preston-Watson
Web Producer
August 12, 2008
10:05 p.m.
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racheltech81 writes:
Right. The working, middle class who have already contributed to this campaign in small amounts, through monetary contributions or volunteer work, should have to DO something MORE for their tickets. Or, being an Obama supporter and a registered voter is simply not enough. Wasting your time calling the unmanned hotlines over and over again and managing to make it to the site before it became a waitlist - (of course, that's more than the apathetic majority of Americans who won't even vote in this election bother with) - counts for nothing.
On the other hand, the various Party insiders who no doubt already KNOW they'll have tickets in hand on the day of the event have already done enough simply by having deep enough pocketbooks or connections to this campaign that ensure their spot. Now I remember why I could not be persuaded to become an affiliated Democrat before the primaries.
August 12, 2008
10:06 p.m.
Suggest removal
blacksho89 writes:
Hm. They haven't asked me to knock on doors, or make phone calls.
I figure if they do, I'll challenge them to prove the Obama! is really a uniter. See, I'm a Republican committeeman who wants to see the speech. My wife is a Hilary delegate. We'll see if the man is for real or another empty suit.
My breath, I am not holding.
August 12, 2008
10:46 p.m.
Suggest removal
FCZ writes:
"It's not fair. It's elitist. And they need to practice what they're preaching," she added,
Hope and Change .
August 12, 2008
10:55 p.m.
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SaraSmile writes:
Hmmm... I didn't mind spending the weekend canvassing with my twelve-year-old daughter (whom I hope to take to the speech if we do get the tickets); I just chalk it up to teaching her a lesson in civic involvement and being willing to "walk the walk." And before anyone accuses me of being elitist or someone who sits around all day with hours and hours to spare, know that I have a full-time job, a part-time job in the family company, three kids and grad school to juggle. I did what I could to rearrange my schedule for a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and by all accounts, people don't HAVE to have put in the hours in order to be eligible for tickets.
August 12, 2008
11:28 p.m.
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Ofearghail writes:
So... I guess going to the event with anti-Obama signs would be out of the question?
August 12, 2008
11:31 p.m.
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Ofearghail writes:
How many hours of "community service" do you have to do to get a cushy seat in one of the boxes?
August 12, 2008
11:57 p.m.
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yeayea writes:
i was called yesterday and told that i would need to complete at least 2 different 3 hour volunteering shifts by friday.
when i told the guy i could try, but didn't know if i'd be able to do it by friday with work and all, he just told me 'well if you want a chance to go you'll have to get that done.'
what a joke.
i swear these guys are gonna lose this whole state by the end of the freakin convention. way to disenchant the largest communities of would be voters in colorado. these candidates both stink. good luck in november, i didn't think there was a candidate worth my vote but after THAT phone call i definitely know one who doesnt.
August 13, 2008
12:11 a.m.
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BobinBeijing writes:
Hey, the only reason you're asked to volunteer, is Congress is out of session and Obama hasn't figured out a way to pay for the speech from taxes.
August 13, 2008
12:29 a.m.
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cn writes:
All of the Clinton functions were free and open to the public. Americans did not have to volunteer unless they just wanted to. The only people who would have ever been turned away were people who the fire marshalls might have said "there are too many people". The Clintons wanted every American to meet them and hear their message for free.
I volunteered for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton all of the time; however, that was only because I wanted to. When I wanted to hear both candidates locally, I was told by his campaign staff that I would have to volunteer in order to have a chance to have a "ticket". Give me a break. Why didn't he chose a larger venue locally as Hillary did? That way, everyone could hear their message.
Don't worry, we will pay if he is elected. Get ready to be looked down on. Are you having "buyer's remorse" yet for those of you who voted for this guy in the Primary? He is an egomaniac. He is not strong and that is why he married Michelle because she is a strong black woman. He can't even make up his mind from day to day. He likes a person or issue and then the very next day he changes his mind.
The only way that I would vote for him is if Hillary were VP, then I could start to try and like him again. However, he needs to ease up on the elitist crap. The Clintons are filthy rich; however, they treat everyone like human beings. They talk to you like you would talk to your own neighbor.
Go Hillary!!! It's not over....or go McCain (what's another 4 years). Sorry Hillary, I just can't stand the way that the media and some men treated women during the Primary; they laughed at us.
People magazine wrote that the Obama's have House Rules, one of which is having their daughters only pull up the sheets when making the bed (what a good message he would be sending to the troops as Commander and Cheif if he were to be elected.....they have to make their bedding perfect!). Plus, in the magazine, it stated that the Obama children did not receive Birthday or Christmas presents....that is crazy!
As far as that church, I would have gotten up during the middle of church and left; I can't believe he subjected his girls to that church for so long...he attended that church for 20 years and didn't get the hint that maybe something wasn't quite right?
Also, he is a big fan of rap music, which is notorious for downgrading women. That fits right in with how we were treated during the Primary. Don't get me wrong, I love R&B, that's all I listen to; however, it is nice music, not "ho" music.
Good luck BO and MO (that's what they like to call themselves, short for Barack Obama and Michelle Obama). I just like to call you Barry because I know the real you and the real you is not so bad, so get over this ego trip and come back down to earth and please have Hillary as your VP to be fair to both of us.
Thank you,
Chris
August 13, 2008
12:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
AmericanPatriot writes:
I don’t know who you talked to, but it was explained to me that volunteer service would not make a difference in whether I got credentials or not, but that it was the right thing to do. It is pretty obvious what the night is going to be about, so if you’re not an Obama supporter, then why bother?
I was planning on doing some volunteer work anyway, so it was no big deal. In fact, it was a bit of a motivator to get myself going. I certainly understand the frustration of those who get shut out of this historic event, but then I got shut out of the World Series even though I’d supported the Rockies through both good times and bad. It’s too bad that someone didn’t think to hold it a Cherry Creek Reservoir where they could have accommodated the hundreds of thousands of people that truly want to attend.
August 13, 2008
1:47 a.m.
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swimmey writes:
I support Obama and think his policy ideas are right on, including the idea of service and community involvement. But this volunteering for tickets thing has not been thought through by his young staff. They have put their lives on hold to get their guy elected, which is admirable, but I suspect they don't quite grasp what they're asking people to do, on short notice, at the start of the school year.
My daughter and I signed up to canvass. We were told that two three-hour shifts each (a total of 12 hours of volunteering) would be necessary. We put in a three-hour shift going door to door. Then we were told that canvassing together wouldn't count for both of us and that we didn't contact enough people. We would have to do more. I'm trying to figure out how I can shoehorn more hours into my schedule the week that my two teenagers start school, but I suspect we're just going to stay home and watch it on TV.
August 13, 2008
2:11 a.m.
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angryman1n writes:
HA!!! This is just funny. The irony of people being bold enough to require extra from the same "working class heroes" that can't afford to take time off for fear of losing their homes is AWESOME! Making it known less than a week out, even better!
However, what might be the best part of this entire article is people seem unwilling to help out. Yes, let’s start all these nice social programs, but NIMBY. Oh and I ain't doing it, and I ain't willing to pay for it neither. CLASSIC!
I would actually support this measure if it’s just community service. But, Obama’s ballsy enough to require 6 hours of campaign support? That is just wrong. It should look good on TV. This guarantees a loud and rambunctious crowd. ;-|
August 13, 2008
2:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
angryman1n writes:
MTN_Frank.... Last time I checked the Clintons were democrats. I think you've got some catching up to do. Here's some help.
Hillary Clinton Calls Obama's Comments "Elitist"
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=065_12...
Clinton plays elitist card against Obama
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2008/...
August 13, 2008
2:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
angryman1n writes:
Geo3453.... So you were the first in line to volunteer 6 of your (now only) 16 hours off, right?
August 13, 2008
2:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
angryman1n writes:
mymilehi... That was pretty funny, and yet oh so true.
Here's an idea. I've got some people willing to help you out. buy a bunch unwrap them check for the ticket, the rewrap in wax paper put in a insulated box w/ dry ice, and ship to the troops. I'm sure they'll be a hit.
Thank you for your support.
August 13, 2008
3:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
angryman1n writes:
BobinBeijing... Remember that public campaign financing Obama rejected? He knows how to do it, but doesn't want to limit himself to McCain's level.
Obama to Reject Public Funds for Election
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/...
August 13, 2008
4:03 a.m.
Suggest removal
Daisy1279 writes:
This is exactly why I said from the start that tickets should have just been for sale (ie. $75-$100 to sit up close, $15-25 for farther away, and $50 for some place in the middle) like they would be for any other type of sporting event, concert, etc. They still could have given priority to locals, put a limit on how many tickets one person could have, and people could have reserved seats in the section that they want to. Problem solved! So what if scalping occurred. It happens! Maybe the Dems should worry more about the economy, homeland security, and foreign policy and less about a select group capitalizing on this event in order to pay for the gas they need to get to a job that doesn't pay them enough for the skills that they put themselves in debt to have.
August 13, 2008
5:20 a.m.
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Mainer1776 writes:
... and then, you have to purchase a tee shirt and hat.
August 13, 2008
5:26 a.m.
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mpdamon writes:
I'd be happy to donate time towards working for the Democratic party . . . as long as time spent blogging on PUMApac counts. Guys, this is only a sample of what you'll have if Obama wins this thing. THIS is the "change you can believe in".
August 13, 2008
5:34 a.m.
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Mainer1776 writes:
I can't believe anyone thinks kissing up to a narcissist is worthy use of his or her personal time. Obama is just another lying politician. Those who idolize him, who "worship" him for no real apparent reason, are delusional enablers.
August 13, 2008
7:05 a.m.
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dilligaf writes:
Mainer1776
Well then don't vote for him. Go and buy all the delusional BS that McCain is peddling. You would vote for Mickey Mouse if he was on the GOP ticket. Which makes you the delusional enabler.
As far as volunteering come people get real. If you are serious about getting the cons out of the White House you should be willing to do anything. Don't sit back and be a follower. That is how these crooks won the last two elections. I will be doing everything I can to help and I'm an independent.
August 13, 2008
7:23 a.m.
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sheepherder writes:
I'll definately make my calls! I want that ticket bad! My call speech, "Hello, please write Ron Paul in for president if you REALLY want a change!"
August 13, 2008
7:26 a.m.
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iamwoman writes:
Have any of you heard "there's no free lunch"?
What's wrong with putting in a few hours to help the campaign? If you want the Democracts to win in November, then a few hours shouldn't be that much of an issue.
I'm an 'unaffiliated' voter who has racked up several weekends canvassing on behalf of the Democrats.
Why, when I probably don't have a chance in h____ of getting a ticket? Because I think that all of us who believe in our country and it's ideals need to support the candidates of their choice in whatever ethical manner possible.
I have to tell you; my volunteer time has been very rewarding and informative and I don't regret a minute (even when it was over 100 degrees out).
If the voters had put forth the effort on behalf of Gore & Kerry that's being given to this year's Democracts, the country wouldn't be in the current mess. Stop complaining, get out there and have some fun!
August 13, 2008
7:35 a.m.
Suggest removal
JTT writes:
Michelle Obama warned you all of their plans for a commie America:
"Barack Obama will require you to work. He is going to demand that you shed your cynicism. That you put down your divisions. That you come out of your isolation, that you move out of your comfort zones. That you push yourselves to be better. And that you engage. Barack will never allow you to go back to your lives as usual, uninvolved, uninformed."
August 13, 2008
7:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
denverone writes:
I find it hilarious that Obama would have the stones to ask his constituents for their time when they are all waiting at their mailboxes for their welfare checks, free health-care and other socialist programs. If the Great Failed Community Organizer wants people that will actually work for something he should consider changing parties!
August 13, 2008
7:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
tlatexaspuma writes:
yeayea writes: "he just told me 'well if you want a chance to go you'll have to get that done.'
So in other words you do the work and still not sure you will get a ticket. First, it is not a coronation as the DNC is doing. Next, there is some question as to whether Senator Obama is even the preumptive nominee of the Democratic party.
These videos was released by Sam J Ervin Jr, former chairman of Watergate commission, library and museum
in Morgantown NC on Aug 9th. All three video's are attched, but look at video 3 (Part 3) Obama is "NOT" the presumptive nominee.
Part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lPCun...
Part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-Khsg...
Part 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXpz8A... *VERY IMPORTANT PART: Why
Obama is not the nominee
August 13, 2008
7:55 a.m.
Suggest removal
raysmom writes:
steel- LMAO!
I am not an Obama supporter by any stretch of the imagination, but in all fairness, McCain followed suit with preaching public service when O did it. This is not govt's place. Taking morality out of the hands of the people and putting it into the hands of the gov't is a bad idea on every level. But this is not a Colorado campaign stunt- Obama has promised to make 100 hours of community service mandatory to college students in exchange for a $4,000 scholarship. This is ridiculous policy. $40 an hour to pick up trash? And what about the people who are WORKING through school? Isn't this enough? Fiscally and politically, this is indicative of the kind of control an Obama administration stands for. We volunteer and donate to charity freely, because it's the right thing to do- gov't mandating of this is completely improper, as politically correct as the left wants it to sound.
BTW- Republicans work for a living, too. In fact, Dems make 6% more gross income in this country, but Republicans give 13% more to charity. Such hypocrisy.
August 13, 2008
8:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
DemsAreDumb writes:
See my moniker... nuff said.
August 13, 2008
8:35 a.m.
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youme writes:
Now you are starting to see the true usury of the politicians, anything to help themselves.
August 13, 2008
9:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
Cwillyrun1 writes:
rachel........ you have a legitimate gripe. What's sad is others coming on here ripping you for your posts. I guess they don't understand the meaning of "compassion", do they? I think it's BS to ask for people to volunteer if they want the tickets, and just because someone related to the campaign says it's not necessary to volunteer to get the tickets doesn't mean that's actually the case. Who's to know if that's true or not when there's no accountability for it? I'd have no problem with being asked to volunteer for something, but to use it as a way for getting tickets to a speech is disappointing. I'm the same as you, I'm independant and it's because I don't see how either party on the national level is concerned about the average American citizen. Reading through the posts rachel, yours make the most sense out of anyone. Some don't understand because they don't have kids or because they can just have their spouse watch them while they volunteer. I don't have either, but I can still see how this comes out unfair, and like you said, "elitist".
For some of you who spin this into a rant against the Republicans, give it up already. Both parties are disappointing, but when you can't even say the party you worship is wrong for something, it makes you come across as pathetic and simple minded.
dilligaf, don't you have to know what the meaning of the word delusional is to use it?
August 13, 2008
9:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
DemsAreDumb writes:
Soon, we will all be required to "volunteer" for the right to be in this country with this commie running for president.
August 13, 2008
9:20 a.m.
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casey47 writes:
"Pay to Play" - guess their taking a page right out of the Bush playbook. What happened to 'change' and 'hope' ?
Awfully early to be showing their true colors - not a good sign!
August 13, 2008
9:28 a.m.
Suggest removal
Elaina writes:
I'm a life-long Democrat who is sickened by the turn to the Extreme Left my Party has taken. I blame the delegates who did not vote the wishes of their constituency. I'm not surprised at anything the Dems do now, since they evidently no longer respect the will of their Party members or the voters. What a shame that this sham coronation is being paraded before the world -- selected, not elected is in the Democratic Party's by-laws now.
August 13, 2008
9:49 a.m.
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sweetie writes:
Well you are supporting the candidate for change?If you don't like this WHAT ELSE WILL HE CHANGE?
I don't see how any one could vote for a candidate that is running on CHANGE and you don't know what the CHANGE will be.
August 13, 2008
10 a.m.
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uglyred08 writes:
How many hours of volunteer work did the Germans do for Obama's grand speech? How many hours did the people of Oregon give to his campaign?
How much is the DNC giving to new registered voters, $10 each
I hear.
Get use to this as Obama has plans for everyone who wants to be a part of this new democracy, it'll cost not just money, but your time. Expect nothing in return.
August 13, 2008
10:06 a.m.
Suggest removal
Frontranger writes:
apparently some of you neo-cons can't read and it seems this women is a phony:
Matt Chandler, a spokesman for the Obama campaign, said the only people who were asked to volunteer were those who said on their applications that they were willing to do the work.
Those who don't volunteer will still have a chance at the tickets, Chandler said.
"The vast majority of people who get credentials won't have to volunteer," he said. "The folks who might have accidentally hit the 'volunteer' tab, they don't have to worry. They're in the same place in line."
People asked to volunteer are those in line for "all star" tickets that will put them closer to the stage and are being contacted first, said Stephanie Mueller, campaign spokeswoman. Applicants who didn't offer to volunteer will be contacted later this week, she said.
But Kreider said she is certain she didn't hit the "volunteer" box on the online application.
August 13, 2008
10:11 a.m.
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eastcoast writes:
WHAT ELSE IS NEW?
OBAMA HAS BASED HIS ENTIRE CAMPAIGN ON LIES! THE DNC "SELECTED" OBAMA --- HE WAS NOT "ELECTED" BY THE PEOPLE. HILLARY SHOULD BE THE DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE.
NOW HE WANTS "FREE LABOR" TO WORK FOR HIS CAMPAIGN AND --- MAYBE --- JUST MAYBE --- THEY CAN ATTEND THE CONVENTION!
I'M VOTING FOR JOHN McCAIN IN NOVEMBER.
August 13, 2008
10:18 a.m.
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racheltech81 writes:
Thanks Cwilly. I don't expect everyone on this board to sympathize with my positions on the matter and it does not surprise me that they make jabs at how I am just looking for a "free lunch", etc. Am I mistaken or did the Obama campaign make the assertion that these tickets were "free"? THEY made that decision, not me, and not the 80,000 people who supposedly signed up for them either. The response may not have been so overwhelming if they'd just charged for the tickets.
To be clear it's been repeatedly emphasized that "they can't promise anything." Which to me means that even if I put in all of this time and work, I may at the end of the day have to kick back and just be content with the fact that I made a difference and expect nothing in return. Which, if I am not mistaken, is the difference between "Volunteering" and "Working". As far as I'm concerned, this is the latter of the two, which means that at the very least I SHOULD expect to be compensated. Allow me if I may to define the word "Free" as it supposedly pertains to these tickets:
"Given without consideration of a return or reward"
Not looking so free anymore, are they?
August 13, 2008
10:24 a.m.
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sweetie writes:
City readies warehouse for mass DNC arrests
New lockup has chain-link cages, stun-gun warnings
Some protesters arrested at the Democratic National Convention could be jailed in a city- owned warehouse, complete with metal cages and barbed wire, CBS4 News has learned.
Investigative reporter Rick Sallinger discovered the location and managed to get inside Tuesday for a look. The newly created lockup, in a warehouse northeast of Denver, contains dozens of metal cages made of chain-link fence material, topped by rolls of barbed wire.
Each of these fenced-in areas is about 15 feet by 15 feet, with a lock on the door.
A sign on the wall reads “Warning, electric stun devices used in this facility.”
Sallinger showed video of the warehouse to Adam Jung of Tent State University and Zoe Williams of Code Pink, leaders of groups that plan to demonstrate during the convention. “This is very bare-bones and very reminiscent of a political prisoner camp or a concentration camp,” Williams said.
“That’s how you treat cattle,” Jung siad. “You showed the sign where it said stun gun in use. And you just change the word gun for bolt, and it’s a meat-processing plant.”
http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news...
August 13, 2008
10:30 a.m.
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P_Denver writes:
"Obama Tickets Come with a Catch"
So, what else is new?
Obama HIMSELF comes with a catch.
Get used to it.
August 13, 2008
11:44 a.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
rachel, you're not looking for a "free lunch" like some claim. You're looking for the DNC organizers to live up to their word. It's one reason why I have issues with both parties, because they're both capable of manipulating the public to get the results they want. In this case, it's free labor in exchange for the opportunity to get a ticket, but with no guarantee for it, just like you mentioned. It adds to the mess the DNC created with tickets to the exhibit they have, but having tickets to it doesn't mean a person can see it. That person would still have to have a ticket for the speech.
Your description at the end of your post is accurate, they're not free when you still have to work for them. Nice posts by someone who gets it......... you're a smart one rachel! ;)
August 13, 2008
11:52 a.m.
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Buckshot_Magee writes:
Obama backers wanting something for nothing? Why am I not surprised. Just sit on your a$$ and watch it on TV for free. This should be a very familiar routine.
August 13, 2008
12:21 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
steel,
I don't understand why she wants to punch you in the face.
August 13, 2008
12:22 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
Because she thinks you are BO?
August 13, 2008
12:32 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
Well, he's not very nice.
August 13, 2008
12:34 p.m.
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Heidi writes:
Unless he wants to punch BO in the face and not you.
August 13, 2008
12:51 p.m.
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Frank_US writes:
It's called a work ethic.
Do John McCain or conservative republicans respect the moral foundations of this country? The U.S. Constitution was designed to protect the people of America from misguided government.
U.S. Constitution: Amendment I - Freedom of Religion
Right now, for the first time ever, your tax dollars are funding religious groups you may not agree with. To add insult to injury, conservative judges have ruled that taxpayers do not have a right to challenge this expenditure.
Amendment IV - Search and seizure
Under the guise of court action against abortion, Conservative republicans had John Ashcroft subpoena all the medical records of literally thousands of women just like you and members of your family. Conservative republicans are invading your privacy every day. Unfortunately for all of us, they don't appear to care about our U.S. constitution, or by extension, the people of our great country.
Amendment X - Powers of the States and People
John McCain and conservative republicans have tried consistently to overturn States Laws. They used your tax dollars to destroy the will of the people of Oregon, and the famous "Death with Dignity" law; they lost, but undoubtedly will try again. Conservative republicans and John McCain do not respect States Rights.
Amendment VIII - Cruel and Unusual punishment
Would you rather die, or support a government which supported and sanctioned torture? The founding fathers would rather have died, and in fact they were proud to fight and die for our government: A government which specifically outlaws cruel and unusual punishment for very important reasons.
John McCain and the conservative republicans have destroyed the moral foundations of our country. I urge you to keep this in mind in the coming election as we rebuild our nation together by voting Democrat.
August 13, 2008
12:53 p.m.
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DenverDan writes:
People do think you are going to get AC/DC tickets for free? They are the hottest tickets in town right now. Like it or not. People who want to go bad enough will work for it, period. I hope it is full of happy Obama supporters who want to be part of history! Like it or not.....
Obama 08
August 13, 2008
1:09 p.m.
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Cwillyrun1 writes:
frank......... Amendment 1 is about Freedom of Religion. It's not about Freedom "from" Religion. I don't believe in the Atheist religion, but all Americans are forced to support that position just as much as they are any other religion. Amendment IV has been broken by both parties, not just Republicans. Neither party at the national level respects Amendment X. Amendment VIII isn't exclusively violated by Republicans, torture took place during Vietnam under the Democratic leadership of Lyndon Johnson.
I have something for you to think about........ the illegal wiretapping everyone criticizes Bush for was taking place during the Clinton administration, under a top secret program called "Echelon". Next time KBDI Channel 12 shows a program titled "America: Freedom or Fascism", you should watch it. Things are not as simple as you think.
August 13, 2008
2:54 p.m.
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freethinker07 writes:
Froward
You probably don't pay attention to such things but on the average, Republicans give a larger percentage of their income to charity than Democrats.
A good example of the extreme is VP Cheney. He made $6.9 million and gave 90% of it to charity last year.
Obama gave 5% of his income in 2007. McCain gave 27%
http://www.johnmccain.com/mccainfinan... http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pi...
August 13, 2008
2:58 p.m.
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treecat writes:
How about those cars that used the city gas pumps, will they be available for transportation? I might need a ride for my volunteer work. A ride to and from might be worth a few hours work.
Hey, Obama gave free Concerts at Seattel and Berlin to bring out the crowds.
August 13, 2008
3:08 p.m.
airbornebigfoot writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
August 13, 2008
4:42 p.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
Crystal Preston-Watson writes:
Racist comments will not be tolerated. They violate the user agreement and will get you banned. There are many ways to voice your displeasure without reverting to racial slurs.
Thanks,
Crystal Preston-Watson
Web Producer
airbornebigfoot writes:
this is too funny.
a black man wants slaves to earn tickets to his party!
thats affirmative action, Baby!
Hmm. You allow this post, but CENSOR mine.
I didn't even use the B word.
Your censorship is inconsistent.
I repeat, is this an example of the REPARATIONS that a certain group DEMANDS??
August 13, 2008
5:28 p.m.
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sheepherder writes:
LOL! These are some of the best comments I have read in a long time! My next 250 calls will go like this, "Hello, I am calling for BO who would like me to convince you to vote for him, I suggest you call his office and tell him to hose off. Thank you, this message has been endorsed by the big BO himself."
August 13, 2008
7:44 p.m.
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GetReal writes:
Crystal Preston-Watson,
Where were you the day Tony Snow died and everyday poster jay stated he "hoped it hurt" regarding Snow's slow death from colon cancer?
That must be considered un-hateful and acceptable because that comment is still there, along with multiple others posted by libs celebrating Snow's death.
Why didn't you have the scruples to delete their comments, much less threaten them with an all out ban?
So libs have Card Blanche but anyone right of center better watch out?
I agree hateful comments should not be tolerated (I don't even know what Punisher said) but your lack of consistency to enforce the same standards with lib posters only further exemplifies the glaring liberal bias the Rocky exhibits daily in their news pages.
Either let everybody say anything or be fair and censor across the board.
Is that too much too ask?
Maybe I'm wrong, and you could honestly provide the statistical breakdown concerning deleted/banned posts/posters along political lines.
That would be interesting but highly unlikely.
Wouldn't it?
August 13, 2008
7:50 p.m.
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PACE2008 writes:
people respect him for his stance on not taking lobbyist money, but when they have to volunteer <shreek,,, not that!!!> the whining starts........ "poor you"
August 13, 2008
7:54 p.m.
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fencergal writes:
You can expect more of this if this man wins the election. His wife has already laid it out"Barack will make you work hard". The Democrats think they know what is best for you and they will make sure you follow their instructions. The regimentation that was on display at the Olympic opening ceremonies is a glimpse of what these liberals want the US to be.
August 13, 2008
8 p.m.
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PACE2008 writes:
The current president isn't making the citizens work hard?
August 13, 2008
8:14 p.m.
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The_Punnisher writes:
The gist of my censored statement is in my rant about censorship. I did not use a particular name or type of people, but my statement got censored anyway.
I have made certain comparisons in other places and this behavior follows my predictions...
We are in for some rough times, folks.
August 14, 2008
3:16 p.m.
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SungLee writes:
Here's my take on the situation: I am volunteering for my spot at a historic event. It's reasonable. But... I have a bit of constructive criticism for the Obama Camp (which at this point, I'm now affiliated with). It seems a bit self serving to have people volunteer for a political campaign. I would have appreciated if the Obama camp had set up volunteer opportunites for various non-profit agencies in Denver in order to gain tickets (homeless shelters, "green" organizations, collecting school supplies for needy kids, etc.).
Obama struck a cord with me when he spoke about our responsibility to our community through volunteer work (paraphrasing). I think volunteer work is important- but telemarketing for a political campaign?? Should I say more?
August 15, 2008
10:27 a.m.
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tcfodor writes:
I tried to get credentails via the website and it was very clear to me that the optional volunteer work was only for 'all-star' tickets. I don't understand how this got turned into the Obama campaign forcing people to volunteer for tickets. It's possible that mistakes were made - I'm sure that with so much work to do in such a short time, there were mistakes.
Although, I indicated that I would be willing to volunteer, I was put on the waiting list for tickets. Of course I'm disappointed that I likely won't be able to attend the event, but it's nothing to trash Obama over.
It disappoints and frightens me that people are actually using this issue to determine their vote in November. With all of the problems we face now, there are plenty of valid issues to vote on - not getting tickets to an event is not one of them.
August 15, 2008
9:24 p.m.
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billo39206 writes:
I hope the Obama campaign is ready to do all the ppwrk for these contributions in kind that they are requiring to attend his speech.
August 18, 2008
11:23 a.m.
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StuCozza writes:
"The current president isn't making the citizens work hard?"
What about the U.S. House of Reprehensibles and the Senate? Their antics are most of the reason those of us who work are paying so much in taxes to support those who make us pay so much in taxes. Yup... it is a vicious cycle, and the President has less to do with things than people think.
The voters yell and whine about "Bush Must Go!" (he probably does go.... at least a couple of times each day ;) ), blaming him and the V-P for all that is perceived to be wrong in this country, but the ones who perpetuate the problem are voted back into office. Many of them have been and will continue to be in Washington (DC, for those in Rio Linda) much longer than the eight years of any presidency.
If the President actually had as much power as many people assumed he had, I could understand the fervor that occurs with each presidential race. People are mostly not considering their congressional candidates as being most of the cause of the problems we face. Instead, we follow the media's coverage of the election for what has become Panderer-in-Chief.