Thursday, August 28, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri "Word From The Road"

I just caught a piece from Hotline On Call, written by TIM SAHD, who is live-blogging out in Denver at the DNC. He caught up with John Boccieri(D-Alliance) while he was spending time with the Delegates from Ohio's 16th District.

It seems to Kirk Schuring that this is some kind of "mortal sin". He couldn't be more wrong! Most of the OH-16 Delagation is comprised of influential voters who represent all corner's of the district.


Schuring said:

"This is just another example of how close Senator Boccieri is to Washington insiders. These are the same people who are out of touch with the people of the 16th District.

John doesn't understand that it is not important who you know in Washington. What is important is what you can get done in Washington by being a voice for the people back home."

"I was surprised to hear that during the week of the Stark County Fair my opponent decided to make a trip to Denver. I was extended an invitation to attend the Republican National Convention next week, but opted to remain closer to home and meet with voters in Stark, Wayne, Medina and Ashland counties."

Well, guess what Kirk! You may have made another huge "mis-statement"! Insulting influential voters from the district just doesn't seem like smart politics.

Boccieri countered:

"I'm here because I want to make sure our party's platform is weighted heavily towards veterans. And if my opponent wants to beat me up for standing up for veterans, then he smacks one veteran he smacks them all."

That is dead-on assessment! Schuring's only plan for our Veterans is to keep them in harms way. You know the old axiom of the Bush/Cheney War Plan..."Stay the course."

Word from the street says, "The Fair isn't over until Monday night!"

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Live DNC Coverage

Pull up the The Chief Source with Kyle Kutuchief for "Real- Time" coverage!

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

OH-16: 21st Century Democrats Endorse John Boccieri

Friday an endorsement broke in favor of John Boccieri(D-Alliance) from the 21st Century Democrats!

Today, 21st Century Democrats is proud to announce our endorsement of John Boccieri for Congress. Boccieri is a progressive leader and is needed to help future President Obama pursue a progressive program. We stand behind him in this campaign and will do whatever we can to ensure that on November 4th, voters make the progressive choice and send John Boccieri to Washington for the 111th Congress.

Thank you, 21st Century Dems, for recognizing the exceptional leadership qualities that John has proven time and time again as a State Representative, State Senator, and brave Airforce C-130 Commander serving in more than 40 countries around the globe and four combat tours. Let's make them proud, Bo!

Sunday, August 24, 2008

OH-16: Sen. Boccieri Praises America's Next Vice President

Boccieri Banner
Canton, OH - John Boccieri released the following statement today in response to Barack Obama's selection of Senator Joe Biden as his running mate:

"Like Barack Obama, Joe Biden understands that patriotism isn't about what political party you belong to but whether you'll stand up and fight for America's best interests in the global arena and right here at home - and Senator Biden has done so again and again.

After his incredible efforts to protect women from domestic violence, resolve conflicts around the world, and support the success of America's middle class, I look forward to working with Vice President Biden to turn around Ohio's economy and help working families get ahead."

Saturday, August 23, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri Summer Fun Edition

Team,

With less than a month to go in the summer season, our campaign and our candidate are still going strong at events across the district. Thanks to those of you who participated in the Carnation Days Festival Parade, the Wooster Cruise-In, the Canton Greek Festival, the North Canton Festival, and the Obama Headquarters opening.

John had another great week, making stops at a Canton neighborhood block party, several house parties in Wadsworth , the North Canton Festival, and the Wayne County and Ashland County Farm Bureau annual meetings. John also spent part of Thursday meeting with business leaders, workers and community members in Ashland.

John at a neighborhood block party in Canton
John at a neighborhood block party in Canton

John at a house party in Wadsworth
John at a house party in Wadsworth

John at the North Canton Festival
John at the North Canton Festival

We also want to spotlight our second Volunteer of the Week: Dan Ehret. Dan is a Massillon resident and student at Stark State who has been volunteering with the Boccieri campaign since early spring. Dan has contributed in countless ways, including hosting and organizing a "Backyard Economic Discussion" at his home last month.

Dan Ehret
Dan Ehret

One other reminder, high school football starts this week. Make sure to wear your Boccieri for Congress T-shirt in support of John at your local high school game. Stay tuned for campaign activities related to the football season!

And, as always, we are looking for individuals to stop by our campaign headquarters (601 Cleveland Ave., NW in Canton) to make phone calls between the hours of 11AM and 8PM. For details, email Chris at http://us.f831.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=cccupples@yahoo.com or call (330) 754-0534.

Looking ahead...

Rock N' Rod Reunion Parade
Where: Midway Ave., NE by 14th Street, NE (Mahoning Road Corridor) in Canton
When: Saturday, August 23 (2:30PM, Parade steps off at 3PM)
Notes: Come join John for a parade. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: House Party with John Boccieri
Where: Massillon
When: Saturday, August 23 (4:30PM-6:30PM)
Notes: The weather is supposed to be great this Saturday so come on out and join us for a backyard picnic with John. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Stark County Fair
Where: Stark County Fairgrounds in Canton
When: Tuesday, August 26-Monday, September 1
Notes: We have our own booth at the fair and need volunteers to sign up for two hours shifts beginning the first day of the fair. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Barack Obama Convention Speech Watch Party
Where: Downtown Canton in the Park (2nd Ave. & Market Ave.)
When: Thursday, August 28 (8:30PM-11:00PM)
Notes: Senator Obama will be giving his acceptance speech at 10PM. Put on your Boccieri T-shirts and come out to the park. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

We appreciate all of your hard work and support. Please feel free to contact us about anything in this email or any other questions or concerns you may have about the campaign.

Thanks,

Ian Walton
Campaign Manager, John Boccieri for Congress
ian@johnforcongress.com
(330) 754-0534

Friday, August 22, 2008

OH-16: Meet John Boccieri

Boccieri Banner
Somedays the Campaign Team at John Boccieri for U.S. Congress makes this job a true pleasure. We've been out stumping, knocking on doors, and holding "Backyard Town Hall Meetings". It's a great thing when it all comes together. Check out "our" new video!



Visit John Boccieri for U.S. Congress or call 330-754-0534 to volunteer for Team Boccieri!

Thursday, August 21, 2008

OH-16: Date Set for Fourth Boccieri-Schuring Debate

Boccieri Banner
Date Set for Fourth Boccieri-Schuring Debate

Schuring, Canton Chamber of Commerce Reject Additional Forums

Both 16th District congressional candidates have agreed to a fourth debate before the November election. This discussion will take place live on the WHBC radio show "Points to Ponder" on October 15.

Unfortunately, Sen. Kirk Schuring has refused a debate proposed by the AARP that was to take place at Stark State College of Technology. Sen. John Boccieri had agreed to this debate, but the AARP has canceled the event after Schuring rejected their offer.

Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance) responded to the news as follows:

"It's unfortunate that Senator Schuring refused to participate in an open discussion about the issues facing our seniors in this election. Social Security, pension protections, and the cost of health care and prescription drugs are vital concerns that the next Congress will have to address, and it's disheartening that Senator Schuring is unwilling to do so."

Don Singer, a representative of the Boccieri campaign, also responded to the Canton Chamber of Commerce's cancellation of a debate that both candidates were willing to participate in:
"After much progress, I'm disappointed that the Chamber of Commerce suddenly closed the door on negotiations despite Senator Boccieri's willingness to debate the candidate they had just endorsed."


What gives? The Canton Chamber of Commerce endorses Schuring, plans a debate, but as soon as John Boccieri accepts they pull the plug? I might be wrong, but this just doesn't pass "the smell test". As for the AARP debate, I think we covered that here.

OH-16: John Boccieri Receives Endorsement of National Farmers Union

Boccieri Banner
Boccieri Receives Endorsement of National Farmers Union

Canton, OH - The National Farmers Union Political Action Committee has endorsed State Senator John Boccieri's candidacy for U.S. Congress in Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

The National Farmers Union is one of the largest general farm organizations in the United States, with a membership of a quarter of a million farm and ranch families nationwide.

The Farmers Union thanked Boccieri for his commitment to addressing "the public policy needs of family farmers, ranchers, and the communities in which they live."

Boccieri welcomed the Farmers Union's support saying:

"The 16th District includes some of the most agriculturally productive areas in Ohio, and in these tough economic times we need to stand up for our local farmers.

Ohio's farming communities need stronger representation in Congress, and I'm committed to controlling rising costs, developing rural infrastructure, and supporting new opportunities for agriculturally-based energy production that will help our farmers thrive."

This is great news for our candidate in his campaign to win election to the U.S. House of Representatives!

OH-16: Sen. Boccieri Mourns the Passing of Stephanie Tubbs Jones

Boccieri Banner
Senator Boccieri Mourns the Passing of Stephanie Tubbs Jones

Canton, OH - John Boccieri released the following statement:

"I am stunned and deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Stephanie Tubbs Jones. Her strength, spirit and limitless energy achieved so much for the people of Northeast Ohio and made her a groundbreaking leader on the national stage. No one can replace her rare leadership, but her unforgettable courage will inspire us to carry on her fight.

My prayers are with Rep. Tubbs Jones' family and her friends and supporters across Ohio and America."

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

OH-16: Boccieri, Schuring Agree to Three Debates

Boccieri Banner
Canton, OH - Both candidates for the 16th District congressional seat have accepted invitations to three debates about the issues at stake in the 2008 election, with additional debates still on the table.

The Roy C. Bliss Institute for Applied Politics, the Wooster Coalition for Support of Business and Jobs, and the Greater Canton Veterans Council are the hosts of the debates to which both candidates have agreed.

Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance) said today:

"These debates are great opportunities to share our visions for this district and the country with voters. The views of our local workers, veterans, business leaders and middle class families are vital to the future of this community, and I look forward to addressing them in these spirited discussions."

Bob Harper of the Greater Canton Veterans Council expressed his excitement for a veterans-focused debate.
"With over 46,000 veterans in Stark County alone, I'm honored that both candidates have personally committed to discuss veterans' concerns in this forum."

Boccieri also addressed the Canton Chamber of Commerce's sudden cancellation of a Stark County debate:
"After an initial agreement and months of planning, I'm surprised that the Chamber of Commerce decided to walk away from the negotiating table before Senator Schuring could tell us whether he will engage with me in other important Stark County debates. I am still eager to discuss my strong business voting record in this forum if Senator Schuring is willing to discuss the issues facing seniors, students and working families in the other Stark County debates that I've already agreed to."

The dates and locations for the debates to which both Boccieri and Schuring have agreed are as follows:

Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics
When: October 20
Where: University of Akron Medina Campus

Greater Canton Veterans Council
When: October 4
Where: Canton VFW Post 3747

Wooster Coalition for Support of Business and Jobs
When: October 8
Where: Wayne County Public Library

Schuring has yet to respond to invitations to the following debates which Boccieri has accepted:

AARP / Stark State College of Technology
When: September 5
Where: Stark State College of Technology

Time-Warner Cable
When: September 23
Where: Studio Recording for Broadcast

Temple Israel Brotherhood Election Dinner
When: October 12
Where: Temple Israel, Canton

WHBC - Points to Ponder
When: October 22
Where: Live Radio Debate

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri Leads Schuring on Energy Issues

Boccieri Banner
Schuring Follows Boccieri's Lead on Energy

Canton, OH - Months after U.S. Congressional Candidate John Boccieri first announced his energy plan, opponent Kirk Schuring has finally offered an energy proposal that endorses many of Boccieri's policies.

Senator Major John Boccieri said in a statement, today:

"I'm flattered that Sen. Schuring has finally embraced energy ideas I've been talking about for months, but I'm disappointed it took him this long to realize people are concerned about high gas prices. Unfortunately, his plan still doesn't provide enough short-term solutions to our high gas prices, and I think voters will wonder whether someone who raised their gas taxes and has taken $20,000 from oil executives is really serious about making the big energy policy changes we need."

Today Schuring adopted Boccieri's proposals to crack down on Wall Street speculation, build new refineries, encourage fuel conservation and fuel-efficient vehicle research, and invest in U.S.-based alternative energy technologies like clean coal, nuclear, wind, solar, and biofuels.

I wonder how that will play with the "independent swing-voters"?

However, Schuring's plan still does not include many measures Boccieri has proposed to provide short-term relief at the pump, such as releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve or pushing oil companies to drill first on the untapped U.S. leases they already hold, including 33.5 million acres off America's coasts.

Instead, Schuring continues to claim that opening up ANWR and more U.S. coastline to drilling is a "short-term solution" to high gas prices. This notion has been refuted by experts across the political spectrum, including George W. Bush's own Energy Department, which found that these steps would not have an impact for roughly 20 years.

Boccieri added:
"We need a lot more than drilling to get us out of this mess. We need to do what it takes to lower gas prices quickly and transition to home-grown alternative energy sources as soon as possible."

Boccieri recently released a new radio spot about his energy plan, which can be heard here.

You can read Boccieri's complete energy plan is available on his website.

One fact just isn't going away:

Monday, August 18, 2008

OH-16: UPDATE - John Boccieri Agrees to Five Debates

Boccieri Banner
It's time to get serious about your choice for U.S. Congressional House Representative for Ohio's Fighting 16th District!

Candidate for U.S. Congress John Boccieri has accepted five requests to participate in debates with opponent Kirk Schuring about the most pressing issues facing voters of Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

In a statement released to day, Senator Major John Boccieri(d-Aliance declared:


"There is so much at stake in this election. Voters deserve more from us than 30 second soundbites or misleading attacks from shadowy Washington groups. We need serious debates in fair forums with unbiased moderators who are going to focus on the issues this community really cares about - creating good jobs, turning around the economy, and helping the middle class get ahead.

"I hope Senator Schuring is willing to join me to discuss our ideas with the people of this district."
Open, balanced public debates have been a fundamental part of America's democratic process since the nation's founding. In this spirit, Boccieri has agreed to engage with Schuring in the following debates hosted by respected local leaders and institutions:

AARP / Stark State College of Technology
When: September 5
Where: Stark State College of Technology

Time-Warner Cable
When: September 23
Where: Studio Recording for Broadcast

Temple Israel Brotherhood Election Dinner
When: October 12
Where: Temple Israel, Canton

Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics
When: October 20
Where: University of Akron Medina Campus

WHBC - Points to Ponder
When: October 22
Where: Live Radio Debate

Boccieri is eager to participate in more debates that adhere to the same standards of fairness and community involvement as those listed above. He will also attend meet-the-candidates forums and other policy-focused events across the 16th District.

In closing Johbn Boccieri stated:

"The people of this district deserve to hear from Sen. Schuring and myself on
the issues as often as possible."

It's finally time to put an end to "The Schuring Distraction Campaign" and get to the issues at heart in this highly watched U.S. Congressional race!
UPDATE: Kirk Schuring has still NOT responded to Sen. John Boccieri's request to debate.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri - Protecting Social Security

Retirement and Social Security - Supporting America's Seniors

Citizens who have spent their entire lives contributing to the strength of America deserve the best support and care we can provide. The keys to a secure, comfortable retirement include a strong Social Security system, robust pensions and retirement savings, and high-quality, affordable health care services.

John has consistently supported seniors in the Ohio state legislature, working to protect pensions, control prescription drug costs and improve in-home health care and nursing home care. In Congress, he will fight to secure the promise of a comfortable retirement for this generation and many more to come.

John will fight for these priorities in Washington:

Protect and Strengthen Social Security

Social Security is a vital program that helps millions of Americans in their senior years. It must be protected and preserved.

John opposes any effort to privatize Social Security. Contrary to the claims of alarmists, Social Security will remain solvent and pay full benefits for decades to come. The program faces a long-term challenge, and we should take careful steps that will secure the benefits of this successful program for future generations with minimal impact on taxpayers or beneficiaries today.

Help Workers Save for Retirement

While Social Security provides an essential safety net, a comfortable retirement requires additional long-term savings. Today, the amount Americans save for retirement depends largely on the type of savings programs their employer chooses to provide. Roughly half of the U.S. workforce has no retirement plan at work, dramatically reducing the chances that workers will save enough to supplement Social Security in retirement.

We can address this problem by providing easy retirement savings options for workers who do not receive a retirement plan through their employer. Giving these workers incentives to enroll in their own retirement savings accounts would make saving simple and let them continue saving even when they leave or change jobs. This system would also ease burdens on employers, who should be encouraged to make matching contributions to employees’ retirement savings.

Enhance Pension Protections

Workers who have paid into an employer-provided retirement plan must have every guarantee that they will actually receive their benefits when they retire. Employers cannot be allowed to fold a company and leave employees who have been working there for decades with dramatically reduced pension payments or no pension at all.

We need to strengthen the laws that protect pensions to ensure that companies are responsibly managing their pension liabilities and that workers receive the benefits they were promised even if a company declares bankruptcy. We should also give employers and employees incentives to choose retirement savings options that maximize security and minimize risk.

Strengthen and Improve Medicare

42 million Americans currently receive health care support from Medicare. This vital program can be made more effective and cost-efficient by:

  • Allowing Medicare to Negotiate Lower Prescription Drug Prices.
Medicare Part D currently bans the government from negotiating with drug companies to get seniors lower prices on prescription drugs – even though the VA, Department of Defense, and other government agencies are allowed to negotiate drug prices. This ban was added to the Medicare law by a Congressman who now works as the top lobbyist for the pharmaceutical industry. With the cost of brand name prescription drugs rising 50% since 2002, it’s time to end this ban and allow Medicare to negotiate cheaper drug prices for seniors.
  • Closing the Medicare Part D Coverage Gap.

Medicare D currently provides no help with prescription drug expenses over $2,500 and under $5,700 per year – a large gap in coverage often called the “donut hole.” We should act to shrink this gap and help seniors avoid unmanageable drug costs.

  • Emphasizing Preventive Care.

Providing easy, affordable access to health services to prevent illness or catch medical problems early is one of the most effective ways to reduce costs across our health care system. Medicare should provide incentives to beneficiaries to seek preventive care.

Fix Our Broken Health Care System

High-quality health care is especially important for older Americans. Those between the ages of 55 and 64 spend almost twice as much on health care as people between 35 and 44, and costs only rise from there. Health care premiums have doubled since 2001.

We need to overhaul our healthcare system to ensure that every American can receive quality, affordable care. Encouraging preventive care, making health coverage portable from one job to the next, and ending discrimination based on pre-existing conditions will go a long way toward fixing our health care system. Through a combination of public and private solutions, we can put patients and doctors first, control costs, and give all Americans the choice they want and the care they need.

Improve the Quality and Affordability of Long-Term Care

As America’s population ages, access to a range of choices for long-term care is more important than ever. We need to ensure the quality of in-home professional caregivers and nursing home facilities, and give families the resources and knowledge they need to provide their own care and make informed long-term care decisions. This will require strong standards, increased access to information about care options for seniors and their families, and investments in training for caregivers.

Help with High Heating Costs

The rising price of oil not only impacts prices at the gas pump but the cost to heat many homes during the winter months. The Low-Income Heating Assistance Program helps many seniors afford the cost of heating oil, and we must ensure that this program is prepared to meet rising need as fuel costs increase.

"With two parents who are retired, this is a personal issue for me. We need to support our citizens who have worked hard and given back to their communities their entire lives." ~ Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance), Thursday, August 14, 2008

Opponent Kirk Schuring has not only voted to raise the retirement age, strip half a billion dollars from state pension funds, and block lower prescription drug costs for seniors, but actually sponsored legislation to eliminate privacy protections for Golden Buckeye cardholders by releasing their names to the public. Schuring was the only State Representative to vote against the Golden Buckeye program to negotiate lower drug prices for seniors.

Listen to John discussing the success of Social Security and his plans to preserve it.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

OH-16: Volunteer of the Week

Team,

Today, I am excited to announce our first "Volunteer of the Week." This campaign is only possible because of your dedication and support, and we want to recognize your hard work to send John to Congress and turn our district around.

This week's Volunteer is Alexa Roggenkamp. Alexa grew up in Alliance and is now majoring in Political Science at the College of Wooster. She has followed John's public career since he ran for State Rep in 2000, and has been volunteering at our headquarters since May. Whether calling voters, writing letters, managing data or answering phones, there's no campaign challenge Alexa's afraid to take on.

We're already looking for our next Volunteer of the Week. Check out the events below or help out in our office for just a few hours to be in the running for this prestigious award!

Now, here's what we've got coming up.

Our campaign will be present at the Carnation Festival in Alliance tonight and at tomorrow's parade. If you would like to be a part of the festivities, or join us at the Governor's Corn Hole Tournament in Canton tomorrow, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com.

As always, we are looking for individuals to stop by our campaign headquarters (601 Cleveland Ave., NW in Canton) to make phone calls between the hours of 11AM and 8PM. For details, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com or call (330) 754-0534.

We also welcome you to participate in these exciting upcoming events:

Obama Campaign Office Opening
Where: 2nd Ave. & Market Ave. in Canton
When: Wednesday, August 20 (6PM-7PM)
Notes: John will be speaking at around 6:15 or 6:30 p.m. Please come out and show your support for John and Barack. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

Rock N' Rod Reunion Parade
Where: Midway Ave., NE by 14th Street, NE (Mahoning Road Corridor) in Canton
When: Saturday, August 23 (2:30PM, Parade steps off at 3PM)
Notes: Come join John for a parade. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

Stark County Fair
Where: Stark County Fairgrounds in Canton
When: Tuesday, August 26 - Monday, September 1
Notes: We have our own booth at the fair and need volunteers to sign up for two hours shifts beginning the first day of the fair. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

Barack Obama Convention Speech Watch Party
Where: Downtown Canton in the Park (2nd Ave. & Market Ave.)
When: Thursday, August 28 (8:30PM-11:00PM)
Notes: Senator Obama will be giving his acceptance speech at 10PM. Put on your Boccieri T-shirts and come out to the park. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

John Boccieri Campaign Cookout and Final Push Toward Victory
Where: Campaign Headquarters (601 Cleveland Ave., NW, Canton)
When: Saturday, August 30 (5PM-8PM)
Notes: Join John, campaign staff, local leaders, and volunteers as the campaign kicks off the final two months of this election cycle. We will have food, drinks, and an opportunity for everyone to spend some time with John. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

We appreciate all of your hard work and support. Please feel free to contact us about anything in this email or any other questions or concerns you may have about the campaign.

Thanks,

Ian Walton
Campaign Manager, John Boccieri for Congress
ian@johnforcongress.com
(330) 754-0534

Thursday, August 14, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri Calls for Protecting Social Security

Boccieri Banner
Boccieri Calls for Protecting Social Security on 73rd Anniversary

Boccieri's complete plan is available on his campaign website. (Click here to read the full plan.)

Boccieri said today:

"I will fight in Congress to keep Social Security strong for future generations and protect it from politicians who want to privatize it and hand it over to Wall Street."

Since the enactment of the Social Security Act, poverty rates among America's seniors have fallen from over 35% to under 10%. Contrary to the claims of alarmists, Social Security as currently structured will continue to pay full benefits until at least 2046 according to the Congressional Budget Office.

In Congress, Boccieri will take careful steps to secure the benefits of Social Security for future generations with minimal impact on taxpayers or beneficiaries today. His plan to support America's seniors also calls for:
Helping workers save for retirement
Enhancing pension protections
Strengthening and improving Medicare
Fixing America's broken health care system
Improving the quality and affordability of long-term care
Helping seniors with high heating costs

Boccieri has been a strong supporter of seniors in the state legislature, fighting to protect pensions, reduce prescription drug costs and improve in-home health care and nursing home care.

Opponent Kirk Schuring has not only voted to raise the retirement age, strip half a billion dollars from state pension funds, and block lower prescription drug costs for seniors, but actually sponsored legislation to eliminate privacy protections for Golden Buckeye cardholders by releasing their names to the public. Schuring was the only State Representative to vote against the Golden Buckeye program to negotiate lower drug prices for seniors.

This would make for a good opportunity for a "comparison and contrast", but Schuring does not even acknowledge Social Security on his web-site.

Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance) drives home the importance of this issue to all of us:
"With two parents who are retired, this is a personal issue for me. We need to support our citizens who have worked hard and given back to their communities their entire lives."

Does Kirk Schuring even care about the elderly?

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri's Economic Plan

John Boccieri has a plan to reform America's trade policies and restore our competitiveness.

Reforming Trade and Restoring America's Competitiveness

Unfair trade practices have had a devastating impact on our local communities. Since 2001, the state of Ohio has lost more than 102,000 jobs to China alone – the 5th highest amount of all 50 U.S. states.

Two thirds of U.S. jobs lost to China have come from our manufacturing sector, which won’t surprise local community members who have seen factories closed and jobs shipped away.

John Boccieri believes that America can become a strong competitor again, but we need a major change in our approach to the global economy.

Here is what Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance) has laid out for us:

Put America first when it comes to trade:
The fast-growing economies of countries like China would collapse if U.S. consumers weren’t buying their goods. Instead of rubberstamping bad trade deals written by international corporate lobbyists, leaders in Washington should use that leverage to negotiate fair trade deals that benefit America’s workforce.

Of course, John's opponent thinks our first priority should be extending the "Bush-onomics" of "lowering the capital gains tax". This additional tax cut does nothing more than lower federal revenue, line the pockets of businesses, and the wealthiest of investors.

Enhance and enforce fair international trade standards:
We should use our global economic leverage to increase labor, human-rights and environmental standards around the world, not weaken our own protections in a race to the bottom. We should push countries like China to stop manipulating currency values, open their markets to U.S. exports, and honor and enforce standards that will level the playing field for American workers.

Of course, John's opponent thinks our second priority should be a "crack down on the frivolous lawsuits". We're not stupid; this is simply a code phrase for "Tort Reform", lowering the penalty against manufacturers of faulty products that injure, maim, and kill unsuspecting consumers and workers to just $250,000. Is this "fair compensation" for the life of your family's bread-winner?

Protect the health and safety of American consumers:
Higher international trade standards won’t just help U.S. workers – they will protect American consumers from lead-tainted toys, poisonous pet food, or other dangers of cheap but poorly-regulated overseas production.

Gosh, I think I just covered this one with my last comment! Just for the sake of fairness, his opponent suggests "Regulatory Reform". "Tort Reform" becomes an insurance policy for this irresponsible cousin.

Restore fiscal responsibility in Washington:
President Bush will leave us with the largest deficit in American history, and his reckless spending has driven us deeply into debt. Other nations have bought huge amounts of our debt to manipulate international currency values to their advantage. Restoring spending sanity in Washington is an important step to improving our balance of trade.

John's opponent claims he will "fight to restore the fiscal discipline for which Republicans were once known". This leads to a serious question; "Just how do you propose to "restore fiscal responsibility" while we spend $12 billion per month on The Iraq War?"

Reward investment in America:
We should reward companies that find innovative ways to create jobs and compete right here in the United States. These businesses should receive tax breaks, first priority for state and federal contracts, and other benefits to help them grow and succeed.

John's opponent suggests "reforming unfair trade laws" that were put on the "fast-track" by the Bush/Cheney administration. Wouldn't we find this much simpler to achieve had we never entered into these "trade agreements" without first making sure America's middle-class working families were put first and foremost?

Turn around our education system:
America has fewer students graduating from high school today than we did a generation ago. We need to put a diploma and college or skills training within reach of every single young American by making smart investments in education, expanding much-needed grants and loans, and offering scholarships in exchange for public service.

John's opponent proposes to "shift the burden of funding from property taxes to sales and income taxes". Does it make sense that John's opponent wants to lower taxes for the wealthiest investors and raise taxes on the working middle class while we spend $12 Billion per month in Iraq?

Support and invest in displaced workers:
Workers whose jobs have been outsourced often lose their health insurance and pensions, too, and even if they find new jobs they rarely pay as well. We need effective workforce retraining programs, stronger protections for pensions, and a health care system that gives every American coverage that is portable, affordable, and not subject to pre-existing conditions.

John's opponent proposes to "Create Economic Empowerment Zones". "Strengthening partnerships between industry and government" reads like the lobbyists win, again. Albeit, the "free market principles", such as health care savings accounts, tax credits, and employer reimbursement reads much like the "Bush Privatization Model".

Make our economy work for all Americans again:
We have to end the disconnect between booming corporate profits and stagnating middle class incomes. When CEO salaries rise, workers’ paychecks and benefits should grow, too.

“Senator Schuring is welcome to keep defending Bob Taft’s policies and looking out for the corporate executives who fund his campaign. I’m focused on relief for the working families who are being hit hardest by our economic crisis.” ~ Senator John Boccieri, July 23, 2008

Invest in industries that can’t be outsourced:
Producing our own energy here in America is a matter of national security. The Apollo Alliance estimates that the development of renewable domestic energy sources like wind farms, solar arrays, biofuel crops, and geothermal, nuclear, and clean coal plants would create more than 23,000 new “green collar” jobs in Ohio. Half a million more jobs could see wage and benefit growth from those investments.

Industries like this are the key to new jobs and prosperity for generations of Americans to come.

It's a 4355 mile commute to ANWR and if traffic is in your favor you might make it there in 90 hours!

A Moment of Silence

Arkansas Democratic chairman shot at HQ dies

36 minutes ago

HOUSTON (Reuters) - The chairman of the Arkansas Democratic Party, Bill Gwatney, died in a hospital after being shot by a lone gunman at the party's headquarters in Little Rock, officials said on Wednesday.

His unidentified killer also died after a high-speed chase and exchange of gunfire with police. The motive for the shooting remained unknown.

"Arkansas has lost a great son, and I have lost a great friend. There is deep pain in Arkansas tonight," Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe, a Democrat, said in a statement.

Gwatney, 48, was a former state Senator and his shooting shocked the southern state and the Democratic Party establishment. As a state party chairman, he would have also been a "superdelegate" at the party's national convention in Denver later this month.

Local media reports said the gunman had fired three shots in Gwatney's office before fleeing the scene.

Former U.S. President and Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton and his wife Sen. Hillary Hillary mourned the loss of Gwatney in a statement.

"We are deeply saddened by the news that Bill Gwatney has passed away," they said. Gwatney had been an early and enthusiastic supporter of Sen. Clinton's failed bid for the Democratic Party's presidential nomination.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri - Competing Beyond the Olympics

As we cheer for all the U.S. athletes competing to bring home the gold in Beijing, I want to thank you for helping us meet our own campaign goals.

Because of your incredible support, we hit our goal of $6,845, and our message of change will stay on the radio in the 16th Congressional District. This would not have been possible without your grassroots energy.

The Olympic Games in China raise another important issue that we need to address. Like so many of you, I'm thrilled by the spirit and excitement of the games - but I also know that a gold, silver and bronze medal in every event couldn't begin to bring back the economic treasure America has lost to China in recent years.

A just-released report found that Ohio ranks fifth out of all 50 states for the number of jobs we've lost to China - more than 102,000 since 2001.

Unfair trade deals and poor economic leadership in Washington have also allowed China to buy huge amounts of U.S. debt, manipulate our currency, dump artificially cheap and sometimes unsafe products on the American market, and buy out U.S. companies like Hoover.

We need a major change in our approach to global trade if we're going to compete with countries like China and help America's middle class get ahead again.

I've released a plan to compete beyond the Olympics by fighting for fair trade and restoring America's competitiveness. Click here to read the plan.

As always, I invite you to contact me with suggestions or ideas of your own. Thank you for all that you do.

Sincerely,






John Boccieri

Saturday, August 9, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri - "We're Under Attack"

The ad is outrageous, a stunning misrepresentation of political reality even by the increasingly loose standards of political advertising.
That's what the Akron Beacon Journal said today about a new radio advertisement attacking me. It's yet another false attack from Freedom's Watch, a shadowy group of George W. Bush operatives and corrupt gambling executives who are spending big bucks to try to send more Bush-style politicians to Washington.

I'm not going to let this attack go unanswered, and I'm asking for your help to respond.

We're a little more than halfway to our goal of raising enough for two more weeks of radio ads. With this new negative ad on the air, it's especially important that we have what it takes to broadcast our own message

With your support, we can overcome the latest round of false attacks.

One of Freedom's Watch's biggest advisors is none other than Karl Rove himself. I know what he's capable of, and I know that a swift response is essential.

Help me say no to the Karl Rove style of politics and set the record straight immediately.

This big-money Washington group doesn't really care about our high fuel costs; they're just trying to elect one more politician who's taken tens of thousands of dollars from oil executives and will do their bidding in Congress.

I thank Freedom's Watch for giving me yet another chance to tell people about my fight against Ohio gas tax increases and my plan to immediately lower fuel costs. I've been engaging with voters about energy for months, and I welcome you to read my plan at http://www.johnforcongress.com/.

As always, thank you for your incredible support, and for all that you do.

Sincerely yours,





John Boccieri

PS - In the face of false attacks like this, a strong, swift response is essential. Your support before our August 10th deadline will be especially helpful for countering these negative ads with our own message. Tune in and raise our frequency by making a contribution today.

Friday, August 8, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri - From Factories to Funnel Cakes

Team,

Our candidate had another busy week on the campaign trail. John spent a full day in Wayne County talking to business leaders and community members about all aspects of the economy, jobs, healthcare, and other issues. John's visit included stops to Moog Flo-Tork, the Wooster Business Incubator, Wooster Brush, and LUK USA. Our campaign also had a great turnout at Friday's ‘Backyard Discussion' and at Wooster's Italian Festival.
The Hall of Fame Weekend wrapped up as well right in downtown Canton in front of our headquarters. Thanks to everyone who braved the really early morning hours on Saturday to walk the parade route with John. More thanks go out to those who showed their support for John at the Medina County Fair, the Oaks Club Ox Roast in Massillon, and at the Hall of Fame Concert and Fireworks.

Looking ahead...

What: O'Jays Family Reunion Festival Parade
Where: O'Jay's Parkway (4th & Gibbs St., NW)
When: Saturday, August 9 (12:30PM, Parade steps off at 1PM)
Notes: For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Uniontown Lions Parade
Where: In Uniontown just off of Cleveland Ave.
When: Saturday, August 9 (2:30PM, Parade steps off at 3PM)
Notes: For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Magnolia Parade
Where: Magnolia
When: Sunday, August 10 (1PM, Parade steps off at 2PM)
Notes: For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Democrat Booth at the Carnation Festival
Where: Alliance
When: Wednesday, August 13 (5:00PM-7:00PM)
Notes: We will be helping the Democrats staff their booth at the Carnation Festival. Put on your Boccieri T-shirts and come join us. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

As always, please also remember that our campaign is phone banking Monday-Friday from 11AM-7PM every week. Feel free to stop by our office or email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com and I will get you plugged in.

We appreciate all of your hard work and support. Please feel free to contact us about anything in this email or any other questions or concerns you may have about the campaign. Thanks!

Ian Walton
Campaign Manager, John Boccieri for Congress
ian@johnforcongress.com
(330) 754-0534

Thursday, August 7, 2008

OH-16: John Boccieri Calls on Schuring to Retract Public Lie



John Boccieri Calls on Schuring to Retract Public Lie

Today, candidate for U.S. Congress John Boccieri (OH-16) called on opponent Kirk Schuring to issue an immediate public apology for reporting completely false information about Senator Boccieri to the press, and to start talking about the issues that matter to the people of the 16th District instead of Washington-style politics.

In a press release issued on August 7 entitled “Boccieri Attends New York Fundraiser,” the Schuring campaign stated that Boccieri “attended a fundraiser in New York City Wednesday night.” Schuring attempted to attack Boccieri for traveling to New York while Schuring was in Ohio.

Unfortunately, the Schuring campaign’s assertion about Sen. Boccieri’s whereabouts is completely untrue. Boccieri was not in New York yesterday – in fact, he was in Canton, Ohio, the same city Sen. Schuring won't come to because he “might be shot at.”

Boccieri said today:

“The desperation of Sen. Schuring to disconnect himself with Washington insiders is revealing. He has some nerve to falsely attack me about Washington politics while he has Karl Rove’s group running radio ads for his campaign. Maybe he was just repeating bad information from his handlers in Washington, in which case I hope he will have the honor and decency to admit his mistake, issue a public correction to the press, and promise to start running his own campaign from now on.”
Why won't Mr. Schuring debate the issues? Does he expect to win OH-16 with "Rovellian Distraction Tactics"?


OH-16: Help Us Keep John on the Radio!

Team Boccieri,

We've entered the final three months before our campaign makes history by winning in Ohio's 16th Congressional District on November 4. It's time to begin broadcasting our message of change to every single person in this district. That's why we've started running this ad on local radio stations.

Now we need your support to keep this ad on the air. You've tuned in to help us break grassroots fundraising records again and again, which is why we're asking you to raise our frequency one more time.

Help us reach our fundraising goal of $6,845 to keep us on the radio for another two weeks!

John has heard so many stories from people across the 16th District who want change now. They want good, secure jobs, they want to be able to afford both their medicines and their monthly bills, and they want a representative in Washington who puts the middle class first.

Your contribution will strengthen John's message of economic change. Help us reach our online goal before August 10th.

It's time to restore the promise of America for every single working family. That's what John's radio message is all about. With your help, we can ensure that every voter in the district hears from John and knows what he stands for.

Please support our fight to change Washington and put America first again.

We could not have made it this far without you, and we appreciate your unwavering support. Together, we can turn things around here in Northeast Ohio and across our great nation.

Sincerely,
Ian Walton
Campaign Manager

PS - Your support before our August 10th deadline will help provide the resources we need to continue airing our message to the voters of the 16th Congressional District. Tune in and raise our frequency by making a contribution today. Thanks again for your support.

OH-16: John Boccieri Fires Back at Freedom's Watch...Again!

Boccieri Banner
Freedom’s Watch Still Hasn’t Figured Out Who’s Responsible for Ohio’s Gas Tax

Freedom’s Watch, a Washington-based group of George W. Bush operatives and corrupt gambling executives, is once again trying to attack John Boccieri(D) for opponent Kirk Schuring’s Ohio gas tax hike. After sending out automated phone messages in July with the same false claim, the group is now intervening in the 16th District congressional race with a radio spot blaming Boccieri for the high gas taxes he opposed.

Yeah, we really need a "Bush-ist Crony" who can't own up to his gas tax hike representing OH's 16th Congressional District!

Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance) fired back at Freedom's Watch:

“I thank Freedom’s Watch for giving me one more chance to tell people about my fight against Ohio gas tax increases and my plan to immediately lower fuel costs. I’m just wondering when they’ll finally get around to having voters call Kirk Schuring and ask him why he raised their gas taxes.”


Call Kirk Schuring and ask him why he voted to raise your gas taxes: 330-455-9199.

Schuring not only voted to raise the state gas tax by more than 25% in 2003, but issued a press release just two weeks ago expressing pride in his vote to increase the tax burden on Ohio families by $250 million per year.

Boccieri continued:
“My energy plan would bring down gas prices immediately by releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, closing legal loopholes for energy speculators, and making oil companies drill on the untapped U.S. lands and costal waters they already control. We also need a rapid transition to home-grown alternative energy sources that would create thousands of green-collar Ohio jobs while freeing America from dependence on oil forever.”


This is sound "Energy Independence Policy" for Oh-16! "Just what is this Freedom's Watch Lobbyist group?", you ask.

Freedom’s Watch is headed by right-wing Las Vegas casino mogul Sheldon Adelson, a major Bush donor who worked with Tom Delay to block U.S. congressional protests against the Chinese Olympics in order to protect his gambling interests in Macau.

What does John think about the Schuring/Bush special interest group?

John Boccieri's take:
“This big-money Washington special interest group doesn’t really care about our high fuel costs – they’re just trying to elect one more George Bush-style politician who’s taken tens of thousands of dollars from oil executives and will do their bidding in Congress.”


You can read the detailed outline of the Boccieri Energy Plan on his website.