OH-16: John Boccieri for U.S. Congress

OH-16: Boccieri Selects Trevena to Lead Congressional Office

2008-12-01T11:41:00.003-05:00

I had to take some time off post-election; one never gets a true understanding of the physical, psychological, and emotional drain of a Congressional race until it comes to a close. John Boccieri is a true leader and to have campaigned with him gave me a first-hand perspective of the internal drive he has developed over his lifetime.

Ohio's Fighting 16th District can only thrive through John's internal energies and first-class connections he already holds in Washington, DC. Prior to the Thanksgiving break, Ian Walton, Campaign Manager for John Boccieri for U.S Congress, gave me an update on "The Transition Team".

Boccieri Selects Trevena to Lead Congressional Office

CANTON -- Congressman-Elect John Boccieri (D-Alliance) today released the following statement on naming Anthony Trevena as his chief of staff:

Boccieri said:

"I am pleased Anthony has agreed to serve as my chief of staff in the 111th Congress. This is a critical position, and I am confident Anthony's background and experience make him a perfect fit as chief of staff for the people of the 16th Congressional District."

Trevena has a Bachelor's degree in education and Master's degree in business administration. He previously served on Gov. Ted Strickland's Congressional staff and currently serves as the the Deputy Director of Administration for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Trevena will officially join Congressman-elect Boccieri's staff in early January.

Boccieri added:

"Anthony has been a trusted adviser to me for eight years and has served the people of Ohio at the state and federal level with integrity throughout his career. I know he understands the complex issues facing Ohio's families, and I am confident in the skills he brings to this position."

It is still unknown what the future holds for our blog, but believe me, whenever "Bo" calls for "Boots on the Ground!", Ohio's Fighting 16th will be ready to "Stand up!"

OH-16: Congressman Major John Boccieri - "Thank You!" Edition

2008-11-06T09:16:00.004-05:00

Dear Ohio's Fighting 16th District,

This Tuesday night, all of the time you have put in knocking on doors, making phone calls, helping out with events and contributing what you can over the past year and a half finally paid off.

Together, we have brought a historic change to the 16th Congressional District. For the first time since 1948, the voters here have elected a Democrat to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives.

I am honored to accept this awesome responsibility. But as I said over and over again on the campaign trail, this race has never been about me or my opponent - it's about you. It was your struggles and hopes for the future that motivated me, and it was your hard work that made the difference on Election Day. I can't thank you enough for all that you did.

Tuesday was a historic night. But now, the real history-making begins. It's time to roll up our sleeves and get about the work of the American people: creating new jobs, negotiating fairer trade deals, ensuring health care coverage for every American and bringing our troops home from Iraq safely, honorably, and soon.

I could not have gotten to this point without your support. Now, as your next Congressman, I need your help even more. I want you to hold me accountable every day that I'm in Washington, ensuring that I'm always putting your needs first and your interests ahead of special interests.

America is facing some of the biggest challenges we've seen in at least a generation, and only together can we overcome them and restore the hope and promise of our great nation.

Thank you once again for standing with me throughout this campaign. I will never forget your energy, dedication, and unwavering support.

Sincerely,
John Boccieri

As the Editor of OH-16: John Boccieri for U.S. Congress, it has been my great pleasure to follow Congressman Major John Boccieri across Ohio's Fighting 16th District. I only can echo John, "...it's about you. It was your struggles and hopes for the future that motivated me, and it was your hard work that made the difference on Election Day. I can't thank you enough for all that you did."

Everytime John called on us to "Stand up!", we delivered. We saw the GOP noise machines try to blur the issues of this race, but we stood up, unrelenting.

Now, we have come to see the pay-off. But, we must be clear on one important issue, the battle against the "Potomac Villagers" has only begun.

I can only imagine the tears of pride that will hit the corners of our cheeks as Congressman John Boccieri delivers to Ohio's Fighting 16th over and over, again.

I want to kick-off the 2010 election cycle with my favorite part of the 2008 cycle:

OH-16: John Boccieri - "All Hands On Deck!" Edition

2008-10-27T22:50:00.006-04:00

We're almost there!

Only 7 days left until one of the biggest elections in our lifetimes. We need every last bit of help as we make the final push to elect John Boccieri and bring real change to the 16th Congressional District.

We are asking volunteers to sign up for at least one three-hour shift during the final four days of the campaign. You'll be helping us get out the vote by making phone calls, knocking on doors, or getting John Boccieri's name out around the district.

Here are the shift times. If you see a time that works for you, just click on it to sign up by email!

Saturday, Nov 1: 10am - 1pm, 1 - 4pm, 4 - 7pm
Sunday, Nov 2: 1 - 4pm, 4 - 7pm
Monday, Nov 3: 1 - 4pm, 4 - 7pm
Election Day (Tuesday, Nov 4): 10am - 1pm, 1 - 4pm, 4 - 7pm

You can also sign up over the phone by calling (330) 754-0534 and asking for Matt or Danielle.
John spoke at several candidates forums this past week, including ones in Ashland, Orrville, and on WCPN radio.

This week's "Volunteers of the Week" are Denny Miller and Phil Whaitley. Denny is a Wayne County native who comes to the Canton field office weekly to help with data entry, phone calls, and other activities. Phil is a Stark County local who volunteers at our Canton office on the days he has off from work. Phil has made more phone calls than just about anybody on the campaign. Thanks Denny and Phil for your hard work and commitment to getting John elected!

Here's what's coming up in the FINAL WEEK OF THIS CAMPAIGN...

What: Breakfast Reception with John & U.S. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer
Where: McKinley Grand Hotel, 320 Market Ave., Canton
When: Wednesday, October 29, 8:00 - 9:30 am
Notes: RSVP to Justin Palmer at 330-438-1632 or jpalmer@johnforcongress.com

What: Get Out The Vote (GOTV) Week
Where: Boccieri Campaign Headquarters, 601 Cleveland Ave., NW, Canton
When: Saturday, November 1 - Tuesday, November 4
Notes: Please call our main headquarters at (330) 754-0534 or email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com to sign up for GOTV activities

Boccieri Breaking News:

From the Ashland Times-Gazette...

Candidates Focus on Economy

"The campaign train stopped in Ashland County on Tuesday night...

State senators John Boccieri, D-Alliance, and Kirk Schuring, R-Canton, fielded questions about the federal economic bailout, increased government spending, health care and partisanship.

Boccieri said the election is not about him or Schuring, but is about Ohioans.

"It's about middle class families. It's not just about working together. It's about working together with the right priorities."

Read the full article...

And, yet...another endorsement comes in!

Medina Gazette: "Congress needs Boccieri’s fresh approach"

Medina, OH -The Medina Gazette has endorsed John Boccieri in the race for Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

"America cannot continue its current path," the editors wrote in their endorsement today. "Congress needs Boccieri's fresh approach on Nov. 4."

The Gazette cited Boccieri's plans for fixing America's broken health care system as a major factor in the endorsement decision. "There is no issue more critical than health care because of its impact on employers, family budgets and quality of life," the editorial stated. "We like Boccieri’s ideas for cutting costs and providing incentives to make care more affordable."

The Gazette also highlighted the importance of Boccieri's service overseas. "His experience as an Iraq veteran gives him a boots-on-the-ground perspective on U.S. foreign policy," the editors wrote.
Click here to read the full editorial.

If that isn't enough good news for one sitting, check out what Chris Callizza recently posted on The Fix's House Line:

9. Ohio's 16th district (R): State Sen. John Boccieri appears to have recovered from a bit of a rough spot as a candidate during the summer months and once again is the odds-on favorite to claim the seat being vacated by Rep. Ralph Regula (R). Boccieri has a cash edge over fellow state Sen. Kirk Schuring (R) and a Democratic poll released earlier this month showed him ahead comfortably. (Previous ranking: 12)

As always, we appreciate everything you've done in this campaign. Together, we are now just a few short days away from achieving victory and a better future for our community and our country. Please help out in whatever way you can in this final week!

OH-16: John Boccieri - "Change is Coming!"

2008-10-27T11:24:00.004-04:00

Dear Friends,

With just eight days before the November 4 election, we're faced with a choice about the direction we want our community, our state and our country to go.

With so much at stake, I want you to know why I am running for Congress and how I plan to work for what matters most to you: a job that pays enough to raise a family, affordable health care that's there whenever you need it, and middle class tax cuts to help send your children to college or care for an aging relative.

Take a look at this new video to see the core reasons why I am running for Congress...

Like you, I believe in the promise of America: that if you work hard, play by the rules and give back to your community you can realize the American Dream. But for far too many Ohio families, that dream is slipping out of reach.

I am committed to changing that. As a father, a veteran and a state legislator who has represented this area for eight years, I know that we need to put middle class families first. In Congress, I want to wake up every day and make it my job to fight for your job.

With so much at stake, I hope I can count on your support. If you want to learn more, you can visit my website at www.johnforcongress.com/, or feel free to contact me with any questions or ideas at the email address below.

Sincerely,

John Boccieri

john@johnforcongress.com

OH-16: Alliance for Retired Americans Endorses John Boccieri

2008-10-24T14:28:00.003-04:00

The Alliance for Retired Americans says John Boccieri is the best choice to succeed retiring Rep. Ralph Regula in the race for Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

The organization, which has nearly 271,000 members in Ohio and represents over 3.5 million seniors across America, wrote in their endorsement that Boccieri's "election to the House of Representatives will enhance the quality of life for older Americans."

The Alliance cited:

"Boccieri's leadership on issues such as fighting Social Security privatization and strengthening the Social Security and Medicare systems... In addition, our members can support your candidacy because of your belief in the need to provide more affordable health care for older Americans, to create a Medicare drug program that benefits seniors, not insurance and drug companies, as well as the need for stronger retirement and pension security, and quality long term and nursing home care."

Boccieri thanked the group for its endorsement and reiterated his commitment to standing up for seniors.

"If you've worked hard, played by the rules, and given back to your community your entire life, you deserve your pension benefits, affordable health care, and financial security in retirement. That's the dream that has made America strong, and that's the promise that I will fight for in Congress."

Boccieri has a strong record of supporting seniors in the state legislature and has committed to use his voice in Congress to address the plight of local retirees like those from Republic Technologies who have been denied much of their promised pension benefits.

In stark contrast, when Republic Technologies retirees invited State Sen. Kirk Schuring to an October 11 meeting about their pension struggles, Schuring never showed up. And this Tuesday, the editors of the Akron Beacon Journal noted that Schuring has expressed "willingness to consider privatizing a portion of Social Security" if elected to Congress.

In 2001, Schuring cast the only Ohio House vote against creating the Golden Buckeye discount prescription drug program ["Legislation Would Give Seniors Drug Discount," Dayton Daily News, 6/6/01], and more recently voted to raise the retirement age and strip half a billion dollars from state pension funds. [127 SB 148]

OH-16: Boccieri Stays Positive with Final TV Spot

2008-10-23T13:51:00.002-04:00

Candidate for U.S. Congress John Boccieri has released a new television ad that will run across Ohio's 16th Congressional District in the final weeks of the campaign.

Like Boccieri's previous TV spot, the new spot is entirely positive and focused on the issues that matter to middle class families: job creation, health care coverage, affordable education and middle class tax relief. (The script is included below.)

Spot title: "Change"

VOICE OVER:

A voice for Ohio families - that's John Boccieri.

Raising his young family here, John Boccieri knows the challenges we face and will bring real change to Congress.

John Boccieri will make sure our children can see a doctor when they're sick, and seniors will have low-cost prescription drugs.

John Boccieri will work for middle class tax relief, affordable college tuition, and new jobs so our children can stay here.

John Boccieri: the change we need.

JOHN BOCCIERI:I'm John Boccieri and I approve this message.

Upcoming events...

What: Orrville at Wooster High School Football Game
Where: Wooster High School
When: Friday, October 24, 7:00 p.m.
Notes: It's the final week of regular season high school football. Come join us in Wooster or attend your local high school football. For details on distributing campaign materials, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: McKinley vs. Massillon Tailgate Parties
Where: Paul Brown Massillon Stadium
When: Saturday, October 25, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Notes: Show your support for John and your local football team (whoever it might be!) as we enjoy the tailgate festivities before the 2 p.m. kick off. For details, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Ashland County Ox Roast Dinner Party
Where: Ashland
When: Saturday, October 25, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Notes: Join John for a fall cookout and and BBQ in Ashland County. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

OH-16: John Boccieri Weekend Preview

2008-10-22T15:35:00.004-04:00

John Boccieri Offers Events Across The District This Weekend

Going into this weekend, John Boccieri for U.S. Congress is hosting events that favor all flavors of fun!

Here's what we've got...

What: Backyard Economic Discussion
Where: Alliance
When:Wednesday, October 22, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Notes: Come join John and campaign supporters as friends and families discuss the current economic crisis and other issues affecting the 16th Congressional District. For details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Orrville at Wooster High School Football Game
Where: Wooster High School
When: Friday, October 24, 7:00 p.m.
Notes: It's the final week of regular season high school football. Come join us in Wooster or attend your local high school football. For details on distributing campaign materials, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: McKinley vs. Massillon Tailgate Parties
Where: Paul Brown Massillon Stadium
When: Saturday, October 25, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Notes: Show your support for John and your local football team (whoever it might be!) as we enjoy the tailgate festivities before the 2 p.m. kick off. For details, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Ashland County Ox Roast Dinner Party
Where: Ashland
When: Saturday, October 25, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Notes: Join John for a fall cookout and and BBQ in Ashland County. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

I was just surfing the blogs and it appears Boccieri's opponent has received a very lack-luster endorsement from the Akron Beacon Journal:

To be sure, this editorial page disagrees sharply with Schuring, especially his willingness to consider privatizing a portion of Social Security and his devotion to the market as the route to repair the health-care system. He argues that drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge would yield a significant benefit for the country. Schuring seems obsessed with Boccieri living in the district since the end of the school year, knowing that his opponent's Senate turf includes part of the U.S. House district and that there is no residency requirement.

Go read it! Is that a "non-endorsement" endorsement or what?

OH-16: (UPDATED)John Boccieri - Embracing America's Middle Class

2008-10-21T10:38:00.005-04:00

We're "LIVE-BLOGGING" from John Boccieri for U.S. Congress HQ's in Downtown Canton, Ohio, today!

First things first...

Tue Oct 21, 2008 at 10:15:00 AM EDT - Progressive Blue Blog has put "us" on the Front Page in a special "candidates final push week". I'll be back and forth between these two blogs throughout most of the day. I'll be working to bring updates as quickly as I can them posted.

11:18:00 AM EDT
Boccieri Wins Endorsement from Ohio Federation of Teachers

October 20, 2008
The Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), representing 20,000 public education professionals, has endorsed John Boccieri in the race for Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

In the OFT's letter of endorsement, President Sue Taylor wrote that Boccieri was chosen for his

"support for public education, including higher education, and human services, and rights of public employees."

Taylor stated:

“We believe you can make a difference in funding for K-12 public education, holding charter schools accountable, stopping the spread of tax funded tuition vouchers, restoring higher education funding, and extending collective bargaining rights for part-time faculty and graduate employees.”

Boccieri thanked the OFT for its endorsement.

“As the son of two teachers, I am incredibly honored to have the support of Ohio’s public education professionals. High-quality education from pre-K to post-graduate is the key to keeping America's workforce competitive in the global economy. Education decisions should be driven by our local teachers and education professionals, and I will take their voices to Washington."

The OFT is one of the leading voices in the state for high-quality public education, representing public education employees, higher education faculty and support staff, and public employees across Ohio. The OFT is an affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers.

11:41:00 AM EDT
What I heard on the radio - October 20, 2008

Tomorrow, we will be exactly two weeks away from the biggest election of our lifetime and this critical Congressional race here in Ohio's 16th District.

I couldn't be more proud of my husband for the stands he has taken in this campaign, and I am so thankful to each one of you for standing with him every step of the way.

Thanks to your support, we are about to change the direction of our community and our country. But my husband's opponent, desperate and down in the polls, has resorted to personal attacks to try and bring John down.

John is a tested Air Force pilot, and he knows how to fight back:
Listen to this radio ad John just released to respond to Kirk Schuring's negative attacks.

Many of you have already written checks and volunteered your time to help John's campaign. Our family is humbled by this outpouring of support, and it's difficult for me to ask you to give once more. However, we need your help to ensure that John has the resources to run this ad, set the record straight, and stay focused on the issues that really matter to middle class families like ours.

With people across the 16th District seeking change on the economy, health care, energy and Iraq, please consider making a contribution to John's campaign so that John can win on Election Day, take these priorities to Congress and put our interests first again.

Thank you so much for your support of John's campaign. We could have never come this far without you.

Sincerely,
Stacey Boccieri

1:50:00 PM EDT - Last Update

Saturday, October 18, 2008 9:00 AM
Team,

With only 17 days until the election, our momentum just keeps building. CNN reported this week that the 16th Congressional District is one of the 10 most likely House seats in the entire country to switch parties this year!

Your commitment to John's campaign has brought us to this point; now it's time to sprint for the finish. There are just 13 days until we start our Get Out The Vote (GOTV) efforts, and we need all hands on deck!

If every supporter commits just four hours in the last four days of this campaign, we can run the GOTV operation we need to win. To sign up now, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com or call our headquarters at (330) 754-0534 and ask for Matt.

John had two more strong debate performances in Canton and Medina this week, and he was endorsed by the Medina Sun!

We also want to thank Randy and Julie Gonzalez for hosting over 150 people at their home for a Boccieri house party last Saturday.

This weekʼs ʽVolunteer of the Weekʼ is Alene Helling. A Stark County resident, Alene loves to travel all over the world, but she always manages to squeeze in some serious volunteer hours right before she goes on vacation. We wish her the best vacation of all on November 5!

With just two weeks to go, here's what's coming up this week...

What: GOTV Meeting with Chris Van Hollen, Democratic House Campaign Chair
Where: Canton
When: Wednesday, October 22nd, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Notes: For details and to RSVP, please contact Matt at 330-754-0534 or matt@johnforcongress.com

What: Backyard Economic Discussion
Where: Alliance
When:Wednesday, October 22, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Notes: Come join John and campaign supporters as friends and families discuss the current economic crisis and other issues affecting the 16th Congressional District. For details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Orrville at Wooster High School Football Game
Where: Wooster High School
When: Friday, October 24, 7:00 p.m.
Notes: It's the final week of regular season high school football. Come join us in Wooster or attend your local high school football. For details on distributing campaign materials, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: McKinley vs. Massillon Tailgate Parties
Where: Paul Brown Massillon Stadium
When: Saturday, October 25, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Notes: Show your support for John and your local football team (whoever it might be!) as we enjoy the tailgate festivities before the 2 p.m. kick off. For details, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Ashland County Ox Roast Dinner Party
Where: Ashland
When: Saturday, October 25, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Notes: Join John for a fall cookout and and BBQ in Ashland County. 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 ideas you may have for the campaign.

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

Thanks for hanging out with us today! Get your "Boots on the Ground!"

OH-16: Once Again, Grassroots Donors Break Records for Boccieri

2008-10-17T07:57:00.004-04:00

Schuring rakes in another $8,000 from oil industry

Thousands of small contributions have helped position John Boccieri to drive home his message of change for the middle class in the final weeks of this hard-fought race for Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

Boccieri enters the last 20 days of the campaign with $464,474.66 on hand, having raised $415,738.74 in the third quarter. The majority of Boccieri's contributions, both for this quarter and the whole of the campaign, have come in amounts of $100 or less.

Boccieri said today:

"Middle class families who have been ignored by Washington for too long are uniting behind our campaign for change. Working people are out knocking on doors, talking to their neighbors, and contributing whatever they can afford because they want a Congressman who will put their interests first."

Boccieri holds a strong cash-on-hand advantage over his opponent, Kirk Schuring. While Boccieri enters the final quarter with over $464,000 in immediately-available financial resources, Schuring has only $127,000 on hand.

As Schuring's support dwindles, he has become even more dependent on corporate special interests to bankroll his campaign. Schuring brought in more than $8,000 from the oil industry this quarter alone, raising his total from this interest group to roughly $30,000.

The Political Action Committee of ConocoPhillips, one of the world's six largest oil companies, donated $3,000 to Schuring in the third quarter after combined "big six" profits this past summer rolled in at a rate of $400,000 per minute. [Bloomberg, 8/1/08] Meanwhile, Americans are still struggling to afford record high prices at the pump.

But, that's not all...

Medina Sun Endorses Boccieri

"...has more detailed and well-thought-out plans to help the district"

On the eve of a major debate at the University of Akron's Medina Campus, the Medina Sun has endorsed Democrat John Boccieri in the race for Ohio's 16th Congressional District."A state senator, Boccieri has the intelligence and the background to make a fine U. S. representative, " the Sun wrote in an editorial today. "With the dissatisfaction with GOP leadership in Washington, we think voters are looking to make a change."

According to the Sun, the deciding factor in the endorsement was Boccieri's clear vision for the future of the 16th District, Ohio, and the nation. The editorial praised Boccieri's focus on creating local jobs, fixing unfair trade agreements, concluding America's massive military and financial commitment to Iraq, and reforming education.

After a comparison of the two contenders for the 16th District seat, Boccieri "has more detailed and well-thought-out plans to help the district," the editorial concluded. (Click here to read the full editorial.)

And, it gets even better...

The Cook Political Report has announced a change in the status of Ohio's 16th Congressional race on Thursday. The Report has changed Ohio's 16th Congressional District from "Toss-up" to "Lean Democratic."

Remember, we still need volunteers to work through election day to finish this race strong! If you would like to give some time to John, contact Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com or call Camp Boccieri at (330) 754-0534.

OH-16: Kirk Schuring's Having Trouble...

2008-10-15T13:34:00.004-04:00

As we approach Election Day, you may have noticed a strange phenomenon while driving around your community.

If you're not sure what we're talking about, Team Boccieri documented it on video. Take a look...

That just appears to be more litter to clean up in Downtown Canton!

The NRCC seems to be pulling the plug on Schuring's campaign!

PolitickerOH.com reports:

House Republicans have slashed advertising time in the hotly contested race for Ohio's 16th Congressional District, the National Republican Congressional Committee confirmed today.

The NRCC had reserved $820,000 to spend over two weeks in the race between state Sens. Kirk Schuring (R-Jackson Township) and John Boccieri (D-Alliance), but it has decided to eliminate its second week of advertising, which was worth about $320,000.

The NRCC claims:

"The NRCC doesn't comment on strategy."

Ryan Rudominer, a spokesman for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee said:

"No amount of spin from out of touch Washington Republicans during these tough economic times can cover up the fact that middle class Ohioans are simply rejecting Kirk Schuring for raising the gas tax to .28 per gallon costing families $250 million a year, supporting the infamous Taft tax hike costing $2.5 billion--the largest tax increase in Ohio history, all the while Schuring selfishly failed to pay more than $18,000 of his own in taxes."

With just 20 days until Election Day, it's looking more likely that Kirk Schuring picked the wrong year to run. On a final note, we sure did have fun in Jackson Township on Saturday night!

OH-16: UPDATE - John Boccieri Saturday Live Blog Edition

2008-10-11T13:32:00.017-04:00

We're live blogging from the John Boccieri for U.S. Congress Campaign Headquarters in Downtown Canton, Ohio. This edition will be updated throughout the day, because Team Boccieri has so much work to and a lot events happening in the field.

4:55PM - Final Update

Team Boccieri is heading out to our House Party, soon. This is your last chance to contact Chris!

What: 'Backyard Economic Discussion' and House Party
When: Saturday, October 11, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Where: Canton
Notes: Join campaign volunteers, local elected officials, and friends for a fall weekend discussion and party. For details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

It's been a busy day here at HQ and now it's time to put "The Boots On The Ground"!

We'll be back later with a Field Report for you.

3:15 - UPDATE
Check out this post over on BuckeyeStateBlog OH-16: Boccieri Getting A Boost From Hillary Clinton

I'm sure that will give the Schuring Camp some "whine time"!

More good news for John Boccieri ! The League of Conservative Voters has given their endorsement to John Boccieri:

"John Boccieri will champion energy and environmental issues in Congress just as he has done in the Ohio Legislature," LCV President Gene Karpinski said. "He recognizes the enormous importance of shaping sound legislation to ensure a sustainable future and will be a responsible steward of our natural resources."

"Since being elected to the Ohio legislature, John Boccieri has championed issues of wise land use and management of our natural resources," Ohio League of Conservation Voters Executive Director Don Hollister said. "His commitment to conservation and clean energy has served Ohio well, and as a Congressman, his leadership will be even more effective."

Boccieri said:

"Our energy should come from Midwest innovation, not Middle East Oil. Ohio can be a leader in the development of renewable technology which will produce clean, home-grown, and affordable energy while creating jobs and turning around the economy right here in the 16th District."

Davis Dewitt has the whole story over at PolitickerOH.com !

3:45 PMThat leads into a great story from Yesterday!

Boccieri Tours Canton's New Sustainable Refinery

Canton, OH - U.S. Congressional Candidate John Boccieri (OH-16) was joined yesterday by Congressman Jay Inslee (D-WA) for a tour of the just-opened Hydrodec sustainable transformer oil refinery in Canton.

The Hydrodec facility is the first of its kind in America and the second in the world. It recycles the oil used in power transformers so that electric companies can re-use it instead of purchasing new oil and selling old, contaminated oil to be burned in dirty industries. Hydrodec estimates that, "at full capacity, the oil produced at the plant will reduce CO2 emissions by more than 150 million gallons per year."

“This is exactly the kind of cutting-edge green energy facility that can both help solve our energy crisis and create jobs right here in this community,” Boccieri said after touring the facility. "The 16th Congressional District can be a center for research and production of new technologies like this that will make our economy thrive.

"In addition to producing a clean, sustainable product, the Hydrodec refinery is built on an abandoned former industrial site, or “brownfield.” Boccieri has sponsored a bill in the Ohio Senate to support this type of cleanup and reuse of brownfields as alternative fuel refineries. [127 SB 32]

Rep. Jay Inslee of Washington State, who joined Boccieri on the tour, is a leader in Congress on energy issues. He sits on the Energy and Commerce Committee and the Select Committee on Global Warming, and is the author of “Apollo’s Fire,” a book about alternative energy opportunities in America. Hydrodec's North American headquarters are located in Seattle.

From inbox this morning:

If You Haven't Volunteered Yet...

Team,

We have a little over three weeks left to go! John is leading by double-digits in the polls, our early vote supporters are turning out strongly, and we continue to knock on over 15,000 doors each week.
But we can't let up until Election Day, and we need your help now more than ever. We only got this far because you've been with us every step of the way. Now we're sending canvassers out every day, making phone calls, and working on other special projects.
Stop by our office any time between 10:00am and 6:00pm Monday through Saturday or 11:00am to 6:00pm on Sundays. For specific questions about volunteering, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com or call (330)754-0534

We need volunteers right now!
Our biggest event this week was of course the debate in Wooster - the first event where John and his opponent squared off face-to-face! You can read all about it here. If you were at the debate, it would be great if you could send a letter to the editor to your local paper with your thoughts on the event.
If you need another reason to come in and volunteer with us, how about this: There are only three more opportunities to win Volunteer of the Week!
This week's volunteer is Brian George from the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT). Brian spends his Fridays volunteering at our main headquarters here in Canton. Brian helps with voter contact in the office. He has a great attitude and is always willing to do whatever needs to be done to help elect John Boccieri as our next Congressman.

Please remember to watch your mailboxes, TV's, the radio and newspapers for ads or campaign materials about both candidates in the race to represent the 16th Congressional District. If you find anything, please let us know immediately - and record the ad or transcribe the call if you can. The closer we get to Election Day, the more important this type of rapid response becomes.

Now here's what we've got lined up for Week Three:

What: 'Backyard Economic Discussion' and House Party
When: Saturday, October 11, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
Where: Canton
Notes: Join campaign volunteers, local elected officials, and friends for a fall weekend discussion and party. For details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

Time is short so contact Chris ASAP!

What: University of Akron Bliss Institute 16th Congressional District Debate
When: Thursday, October 16, 6:45PM-9PM
Where: 6300 Technology Lane, Medina, OH 44256
Notes: This will be one of the most important and exciting debates in this campaign for Congress! For ticket information, please email Pete at petezeigler@gmail.com

What: Your Local High School Football Game
When: Friday, October 17
Where: Your local high school in the 16th Congressional District
Notes: With only a few weeks left in high school football season, there are still a lot of big games. If you would like to pass out special football game oriented materials please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

We appreciate all of your hard work and support. As always, feel free to reply to this email with questions or ideas.

Thanks,

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

It's almost 3PM and the Blogger needs something to eat and a re-charge. Stop back soon; we've got more coming your way!
BRB

OH-16: Schuring Sides with Social Security Privatizers

2008-10-07T23:31:00.004-04:00

Canton, OH - Kirk Schuring is getting his Social Security policy guidance from one of the leading groups behind President Bush's failed attempt to privatize the program.

In a press release issued on October 6, Schuring's campaign cites http://www.socialsecurity.org/, the website of the "Project on Social Security Choice", and proudly notes that Schuring used the group's talking points in his appearance before the Greater Canton Veterans Council on October 4.

A 2004 Los Angeles Times article quotes the director of the Project on Social Security Choice as one of the major supporters of President Bush's plan to shift Social Security savings into Wall Street investment accounts. The New York Times reported that the group was actually called the "Project on Social Security Privatization" until the name was changed to make it more politically palatable.

16th District congressional candidate John Boccieri asked today:

"How out of touch can Kirk Schuring be that in the middle of a global financial meltdown, he's getting his Social Security policies from a group that advocates gambling away our retirement on the stock market?"

Boccieri added:

"This raises serious questions about his commitment to protecting Social Security, especially given his poor record on seniors' issues in the State Legislature."

In Columbus, Schuring has voted to strip half a billion dollars from state pension funds while raising the retirement age, and was the only State Representative to vote against creating the Golden Buckeye program that negotiates lower prescription drug prices for Ohio seniors. (Schuring refused to support the program after his amendment to released participant names to the public was rejected.)

Schuring has strained throughout the campaign to conceal his willingness to turn America's most successful social safety net over to Wall Street - but this is not the first time he has let his true feelings show. In a meeting with local reporters at the Alliance Review on August 14, Schuring said that "everything should be on the table" when it comes to Social Security.

Boccieri's Social Security facts, which the Schuring campaign attacked in their press release, come from the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office. The Akron Beacon Journal cited the same information as recently as August.

BACKGROUND:

"The Cato Institute, a libertarian research center, established a Project on Social Security Privatization in 1995, but in 2002 it was renamed the Project on Social Security Choice. ...'Republicans in Congress do not like the word 'privatization' because it does not poll well,' said Michael Tanner, director of the project." ["AARP Opposes Bush Plan to Replace Social Security With Private Accounts," New York Times, 11/12/2004]

"President Bush on Thursday set the stage for a monumental legislative battle by placing Social Security reform at the top of his second-term agenda... 'It’s going to be an enormously bloody fight,” predicted Michael Tanner, director of the Project on Social Security Choice at the libertarian Cato Institute. “But the political climate really has changed, and it is possible to do this now.' " ["Privatized Accounts Moved to ‘Fast Track’," Los Angeles Times, 11/5/04]

The website description for www.socialsecurity.org - apparently unchanged since 2004 - invites visitors to "Read about privatization and benefits of moving current Social Security systems capital into private pension funds." [Page source, http://www.socialsecurity.org, accessed 10/7/08]

In their October 6 press release, the Schuring campaign quotes the Project on Social Security Choice's claim that the Social Security Trust Fund "has no money in it and it never did." This is a resurrection of George W. Bush's widely-mocked claim in 2005 that Social Security was nothing but "I.O.U.s" inside a "filing cabinet." As the Akron Beacon Journal recently reported, "Bush's statements left many economists shaking their heads..." ["Social Security more solvent than most Americans realize," Akron Beacon Journal, 8/24/08]

In the state legislature last year, Schuring voted to strip half a billion dollars from state pension funds while raising the retirement age. [127 SB 148] He was the only State Representative to vote against creating the Golden Buckeye program that negotiates lower prescription drug prices for Ohio seniors. [124 HB 4] Schuring refused to support the discount drug program after an amendment he sponsored to release Golden Buckeye cardholder names to the public was rejected.

In an interview in Alliance on August 14, Schuring told reporters and editors from Dix Communications, "I think everything should be on the table" when it comes to Social Security reform. ["Kirk Schuring on Social Security/Medicare," Dix Communications, 9/5/08]

The 2006 Congressional Budget Office report cited by Boccieri at the Greater Canton Veterans Council forum projected that Social Security will remain solvent until 2046. ["Updated Long-Term Projections for Social Security," Congressional Budget Office, 6/06] A newly-released CBO report actually extends the program's projected solvency to 2049. ["Updated Long-Term Projections for Social Security," Congressional Budget Office, 8/08]

OH-16: John Boccieri Breaking Blue - Up Double Digits In Research 2000 Poll

2008-10-07T14:33:00.008-04:00

UPDATE: This on The Front Page!

Over on The DailyKos, brownsox has a great post up!

Research 2000 for Daily Kos. 9/30-10/01. Likely voters. MoE 5%

Boccieri (D) 48
Schuring (R) 38

Wow. Boccieri leads among men and women, among all age brackets, and has a 13-point lead among independents to go with his comfortable edge among Democrats.

Boccieri far outstrips Obama's performance in OH-16 at the moment; Obama merits a three-point edge over McCain, 49% to 46%. Not that that's bad, not by a long shot; Bush won by nine points in 2000 and eight points in 2004.

Boccieri - a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, State Senator, and former semiprofessional baseball player - has proven to be a terrific candidate, and this lead appears to be for real; SurveyUSA has pegged the race as 49% for Boccieri, 41% for Schuring.

Jump over to Kos for the complete polling data!!!

OH-16: John Boccieri Events Across The District 28 Days Out

2008-10-07T09:11:00.005-04:00

Maybe, you have Tuesday off? Well, John Boccieri has a busy Tuesday planned across Ohio's 16th Congressional District and your invited to join our "Campaign for Change".

We still need volunteers to knock on doors and make phone calls for early vote and more. Please stop by our main campaign headquarters between the hours of 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. We have less than four weeks left to ensure victory in the 16th Congressional District!

Be our eyes and ears!

Watch your mailboxes, TV's, the radio and newspapers for advertisements or electioneering materials about both candidates in the race to represent the 16th Congressional District. If you receive mail, phone calls, or see or hear a TV/radio ad, please let us know immediately - and if you can record the ad or transcribe the call. These efforts will help our "Rapid Response Team" by providing real-time information.

Looking for something a little more "heady"?

What: Health Care Reform Discussion
Where: Anywhere in the 16th Congressional District
When: Tuesday, October 7, 12:30 p.m.
Notes: Do you have a story to share about high health care costs, trouble getting coverage, or any other aspect of America's broken health care system? John's going to be focusing on health care next week, and we want your input. To participate, email bryan@johnforcongress.com

Do you want be active?

What: Working America Canvass Kick-Off
Where: 4125 Hills and Dales Dr., Suite 200, Canton
When: Tuesday, October 7, 3PM
Notes: For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

Maybe, you would like to meet John?

What: "Backyard Economic Discussion"
Where: Canal Fulton
When: Tuesday, October 7, 5:30PM-7:00PM
Notes: Come join John and local voters for a discussion about how to fix the struggling economy. For 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 ideas you may have for the campaign.

OH-16: FINAL DAY OF ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING

2008-10-06T13:18:00.006-04:00

TODAY IS THE VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE
FINAL DAY OF ONE-STOP EARLY VOTING

Vote today in Stark County at:
Stark County Board Of Elections
201 3rd Street Northeast, Canton

Hours: From now through November 3, open Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Saturday November 1 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Monday, October 6th, is the last day to register to vote in Ohio. It's also the last day to participate in One-Stop Early Voting, where you can register and cast your ballot in one stop.

Being a Stark County Democratic Party, Central Committee Member, from a Precinct in Canton, Ohio, not Butler County, I urge you to get to the Board of Elections and Vote for Change. This is your opportunity to take an unregistered friend or family member and show them how our election system is supposed to work!

John Boccieri for U.S. Congress has urged constituents across the district on his stump to vote:

FOR: Obama/Biden

We need an unprecedented Democratic turnout to send a clear message to Washington, DC, that Ohio's 16th Congressional District is ready for real change.

Make sure you vote:

FOR: John Boccieri, U.S. Representative, 16th District

A Distinguished Record Fighting for Ohio’s Families
First elected to public office in 2000, John served three terms as a state representative, where his peers elected him assistant minority whip. In 2006, John was elected to the state Senate. In the legislature, John has been a strong advocate for Ohio’s veterans, working families and the jobs and industries that have built the state.

He worked to lower property taxes for working families and sponsored a bill to help grandparents raising their grandchildren with housing grants. John has fought for Ohio’s steel industry jobs, helped give seniors access to donated prescription drugs, co-sponsored legislation to safeguard pension funds from corporate greed, and has been an avid supporter of conservation efforts in Ohio.

John has also championed and passed numerous bills to support Ohio’s veterans and military families. Most recently, John sponsored the "Military Injury Relief Fund" bill, a tax check-off program that gives Ohioans an opportunity to help our injured soldiers transition back into civilian life and assist with their medical expenses.

John’s record of standing up for Ohioans has earned accolades from groups throughout Ohio. He received the Merle Shoemaker award for integrity in office by Ohio Democrats and was recognized as the Legislator of the Year by the AMVETS and East Central Ohio Education Association in 2004. In addition, he received the 2006 Legislator of the Year award from the Ohio League of Sportsman for state conservation efforts.

John Boccieri At Canton's Golden Lodge #1123

30 SEPT 2008

There's your motivational speech, now...get out there! When you cast that ballot, ask yourself,"Is my economy better than it was eight years ago? Can I afford another four years of the same failed policies?"

To verify your early vote location or to make sure you're registered, visit VoteForChange.com. Then encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to do the same.

Team Boccieri thanks you for your unwavering support! Remember, this Campaign for Change does not end until ALL votes are counted on November 4th!

OH-16: VFW Post # 3747 Pre-Debate Photo Blog

2008-10-05T11:51:00.008-04:00

This entry is dedicated to Team Boccieri and the Boccieri Backers that came out to the Walter S. Auer, VFW Post #3747, without tickets, but, with heart-felt support for John Boccieri, our candidate for Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

The best part of the event was knowing that we put the surprise on John!

A special "Thank You" to Chris for making it happen and giving a Blogger some fun.

OH-16: Four Weeks Left

2008-10-04T15:36:00.003-04:00

Team,

“Magic Week” sure has been magical!

Thanks to you, we have already knocked on over 10,000 doors since same-day registration and early voting started this past Tuesday, September 30. John and other local elected officials helped kick of the week with an early vote rally and press conference in downtown Canton:

Please don’t forget that you can still register to vote up through Monday, October 6 and you can continue to early vote at your County Board of Elections until the November 4 Election.

We still need volunteers to knock on doors and make phone calls for early vote and more. Please stop by our main campaign headquarters between the hours of 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. We only have a little more than four weeks left to ensure victory in the 16th Congressional District!

A few quick announcements…

Be our eyes and ears!

Watch your mailboxes, TV's, the radio and newspapers for advertisements or electioneering materials about both candidates in the race to represent the 16th Congressional District. If you receive mail, phone calls, or see or hear a TV/radio ad, please let us know immediately - and if you can record the ad or transcribe the call. These efforts will help our ‘Rapid Response’ Team by providing real-time information.

Congratulations!

This week’s ‘Volunteer of the Week’ is Kathleen Turner. Kathleen is a resident of Canton and a local mail carrier. Kathleen has spent countless hours on her days off entering data and answering the phone. Kathleen originally committed 10 hours of volunteer time, but said she had such a positive experience that she has continued to come back and donate her time again and again!

Now, here's what's coming up…

What: Health Care Reform Discussion
Where: Anywhere in the 16th Congressional District
When: Tuesday, October 7, 12:30 p.m.
Notes: Do you have a story to share about high health care costs, trouble getting coverage, or any other aspect of America's broken health care system? John's going to be focusing on health care next week, and we want your input. To participate, email bryan@johnforcongress.com
What: Working America Canvass Kick-Off
Where: 4125 Hills and Dales Dr., Suite 200, Canton
When: Tuesday, October 7, 3PM
Notes: For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: ‘Backyard Economic Discussion’
Where: Canal Fulton
When: Tuesday, October 7, 5:30PM-7:00PM
Notes: Come join John and local voters for a discussion about how to fix the struggling economy. For details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Your Local High School Football Game
Where: Your Hometown in the 16th District
When: Friday, October 10 and Beyond
Notes: We have football game oriented materials for you to take with you to your local football game. 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 ideas you may have for the campaign.

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

Boccieri Breaking News:

Boccieri, Schuring bank on experience as state legislators in replacing Regula

"Replacing a 36-year U.S. House member won't be easy, but John Boccieri and Kirk Schuring are banking on their experience as state legislators to strengthen their standing as potential freshman lawmakers. ...

Boccieri, a military veteran of 14 years serving in the United States Air Force Reserve, was elected to the Ohio House General Assembly in 2000. He said he has a history of reaching "across the aisle" to Democrats and Republicans to get business accomplished at the state level, including legislation targeting assistance for military veterans and their families. ...

If elected, he said, some of his top priorities will focus on health care reform, boosting the state and national economies and developing alternative energy sources."

Read the full article...

OH-16: Veterans Group Endorses John Boccieri

2008-10-03T16:06:00.006-04:00

Veterans and Military Families for Progress Endorses John Boccieri

The organization Veterans and Military Families for Progress has endorsed John Boccieri's candidacy for Congress in Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

Veterans and Military Families for Progress wrote in their endorsement:

"We feel that veterans, active duty, military families, and in fact, all people of Ohio’s Sixteenth Congressional District will be well-served with John Boccieri as their representative by ensuring that America remains strong in national defense and in fighting terrorism."

"Boccieri’s service to our country cannot be questioned. He has served in the U.S. Air Force for fourteen years and shares the values of our military forces."

The group also praised Boccieri's support for veterans.

"Boccieri’s strong commitment to the issues that are critical to veterans, those serving now, and their families is unsurpassed. His public support for mandatory full funding of the Veterans Administration and his declared determination to provide for the establishment of a national veterans and military family policy give veterans and their families hope that at long last a Congressman will vote in such a way as to keep faith with those who have served and sacrificed."

Boccieri said he was honored to receive the endorsement and will fight for the needs of veterans in Congress.

"America's military men and women are serving honorably in Iraq, Afghanistan and around the world. When they come home, we need to stand up for them because they stood up for us."

Founded in 2005, Veterans and Military Families for Progress is dedicated to ensuring that the rights and needs of veterans, active-duty service members (including National Guard and Reservists), and their families are understood by the American public, endorsed by elected officials, and protected by legislation, regulation, and public policy initiatives.

VMFP is a 21st Century organization made up of members located throughout the country, and from across the breadth of rank and military services, who served, are serving, or are family members of those who have heeded the call to serve their country in the U.S. military.

This is great news on the eve of the first of five joint appearances scheduled between Ohio 16th District congressional candidates John Boccieri and Kirk Schuring.

The first is Saturday, October 4th, from 6:00 - 8:30 PM, sponsored by the Greater Canton Veterans Council. The organization is part of the Stark County Veterans Commission and represents some 46,000 veterans throughout the area. We talked with the event co-ordinator yesterday and were informed that the 400 tickets made available for the Town Hall event gone inside of two days.

If you are so lucky as to be holding an event pass, I truely envy you! This first debate will present each candidate with 7 questions sent in from 30 veterans groups across the district.

Contact Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com or (330) 754-0534 for additional heads-up information going into Saturday evening!

OH-16: Midnight Tonight!

2008-09-30T18:46:00.005-04:00

An Important Message from John Boccieri

Dear Friend,

Our campaign for Congress has an important deadline at midnight tonight, and I need your help.

After the events of the last few weeks, it couldn't be more clear that we need new leaders in Washington who will put America's middle class first. Wall Street has enough support in Congress - I want to be a representative who makes it my job to fight for your job. We have to make our economy work for working families again, and restore the hope and promise of America.

You can read more about my position on yesterday's $700 billion bailout vote here. Now, with the final financial filing deadline before Election Day at midnight tonight, I need your help to bring change to Washington.

You may have seen the poll last week that showed our campaign leading 49 percent to 41 percent in this race to represent Ohio’s 16th Congressional District. Victory is within reach - will you help us get there?

This fight will get much tougher before Election Day. Our opposition is gearing up to spend nearly a million dollars on negative attack ads. You can fight back with a contribtion of any size - from $23 to $2,300. (The maximum contribution amount is $2,300 per person, or $4,600 per couple.)

Please help us in the final stretch by making a contribution of any amount you can afford today.
Contributions from people like you are the key to victory in this campaign, change in Washington, and a new direction for Ohio and America. Thank you for your unwavering support.
Sincerely,

John Boccieri
P.S. We have a financial filing deadline at midnight tonight. A contribution before midnight would be especially effective for our campaign. Thanks again for your support.

Contributions or gifts to John Boccieri for Congress are not tax deductible. We may accept contributions from an individual totaling up to $2,300 per election; $4,600 per election cycle. Federal law prohibits contributions to the campaign from corporations, labor organizations and national banks; from any person contributing another person’s funds; from foreign nationals who lack permanent resident status; from federal government contractors.Federal law requires us to use our best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in an election cycle.

Paid for by John Boccieri for Congress

OH-16: John Boccieri Responds to House Bailout Vote

2008-09-29T22:53:00.002-04:00

Boccieri Responds to House Bailout Vote

U.S. congressional candidate John Boccieri (OH-16) responded today to the U.S. House of Representatives' vote against a proposed economic rescue plan for Wall Street:

"While a difficult vote, I believe the House’s decision today was the right one. The proposed bailout package did not do enough to address the housing crisis which, along with greed, is at the root of this meltdown. In my judgment, Washington was prepared to commit too much taxpayer money to Wall Street with too few safeguards to prevent this from happening again.

"Now it’s time for Congress to sit down and hammer out a bill that prioritizes immediate help for homeowners and reform on Wall Street. We need to act swiftly to keep people in their homes, limit excess and greed, put strong new safeguards in place on Wall Street, and find ways to provide short-term financial stability that don’t validate or bail out reckless lending behavior."

OH-16: Lunch With John Boccieri At Pileggi's

2008-09-29T18:33:00.003-04:00

Today, more than 50 supporters from across the district descended on Pileggi's Italian Cafe just outside of Canton, Ohio, to have lunch with John Boccieri, candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives for Ohio's 16th Congressional District,

The keynote speaker had been scheduled to be U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn, but we informed that he had been held up in Washington, D.C., awaiting the final vote count on Emergency Economic Stabilization Act Of 2008.

The guests weren't at all disappointed as they were treated to a "Boccieri-style" spread prepared by Sil Pileggio, Propriotor. The fare was a buffet of casual Italian food.

As we awaited John's entrance, friends new and old dined in Pileggi's warm atmosphere. Steven P. Okey, Alliance City Council At-large and Joe Carbenia, Canton City Council Ward 9 were among Boccieri's Endorsors on hand. I also encountered a couple that had travelled over from Massillon.

John enetered to a round of applause and mingled with supporters as they were finishing up lunch. As usual, he took his time, working his way around the room listening to voter's concerns and giving plenty of photo-ops to supporters who had not yet had the chance.

Thomas West, Canton City Council Ward 2, and strong Endorsor of John Boccieri gave the guests an introduction before Boccieri spoke. Below is short clip of what Tom had to say:

John started his stump with a few words about his opponent, stating:

"Quite frankly, Kirk Schuring is a nice guy, but the 16th District does not belong to Ralph Regula or Kirk Schuring. He's a nice guy, but this district doesn't need a nice guy...it needs a fighter! And every day I wake up in Washington I want to fight for your homes! I want to fight for your jobs! And, I want to fight for your families!"

He went on to tell a story about the "fallen and wounded" he had flown out of Bahgdad. Two soldiers, one had lost a leg and the other had a traumatic head injury, but was still able to stand. Boccieri was impressed with his valour:

"If he could stand up, it's time America for America to stand up! It's time for Ohio to stand up! Now is the time for Ohio's 16th Congressional District to stand up!"

I've heard John Boccieri on the stump many times, but today instead of shooting video, I chose to listen to my candidates promise of hope.

"If there ever was a place in the world, if there was ever a place in America, if there was ever a place in Ohio that needs change, it is right here in the 16th District! For the first time since 1948, the voters of this district have a chance to make that change!"

On a sad note, Congress capitulated on the bi-partisan Emergency Economic Stabilization Act Of 2008.

The legislation failed in the House by a vote of 228-205. Democrats voted 140 for and 95 against; Republicans voted 65 for and 133 against. That's 2:1 against America!

Stocks continued to plummet even as House members voted. The stock market fell 777 points on Monday, which exceeds the previous 721 point record set the day after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Majority Whip James E. Clyburn, D-S.C., said:

"60 percent of the Democrats voted yes, and 67 percent of the Republicans voted no. Do the math."

Clyburn said Republicans who opposed the bill "put political ideology ahead of the interests of our country."

There's still hope!

What: AFL-CIO Canvass Kickoff
When: Tuesday, September 30, 11:30PM
Where: Golden Lodge, 1234 Harrison Ave., SW
Notes: Help us spread John and the rest of the Democrats message and encourage voters to vote early. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

...and, don't forget to vote!

OH-16: John Boccieri Joins 50 Farmers for Forum

2008-09-29T15:56:00.005-04:00

Boccieri Joins More than 50 Farmers at Wayne County Forum

This Saturday, candidate for U.S. Congress John Boccieri OH-16) sat down with farmers, ranchers, veterinarians and milk haulers in the barn of John Anderson for an in-depth discussion of local agriculture issues.

Boccieri, who sits on the Agriculture Committee in the Ohio Senates said:

"In a state where agriculture is the top industry and one in seven jobs are tied to it, it's vital that we hear directly from our farmers about their priorities and concerns. The 16th District contains some of the most agriculturally productive regions in Ohio, and I'm going to go to Washington and fight to make sure our farmers succeed."

The Wayne County forum at Summerhill Farm focused on a wide range of issues, especially farmers' struggles with complicated state and federal regulations and their eagerness to explore agriculturally-based alternative energy technologies.

Attendees pointed out that the high number of dairy cows in Wayne County make it a perfect location for the testing of anaerobic digesters - technology that can extract methane gas from cow manure to be used for power generation, while the remaining solid product is highly concentrated fertilizer.

Many farmers present were also eager to pursue cultivation of next-generation biofuels like switchgrass on land that is unsuitable for other crops. They noted that the Ohio Agricultural and Research Development Center (OARDC) is currently researching cellulosic ethanol and anaerobic digester technology.

One participant said:

"The more locally you produce your energy, the more secure and sustainable you become."

Farmers at the forum also emphasized the need to attract more young people to their profession and ease taxes and regulations to encourage the transfer of farm property to the next generation.

Boccieri said following the forum:
"We have such a great opportunity to make our rural communities in this district the producers and exporters of cutting-edge alternative energy. I want to see to it that Washington helps our farmers develop those technologies, and that our agricultural programs and policies are structured to help farmers prosper."

Sen. Sherrod Brown was unable to attend the Farmers' Forum because he was working with other leaders in Washington on a solution to the nation's financial crisis. Several members of his staff attended the event in his place.

We'll be posting soon on "Lunch With John At Pileggio's" in the meantime, mark your calender!

What: AFL-CIO Canvass Kickoff
When: Tuesday, September 30, 11:30PM
Where: Golden Lodge, 1234 Harrison Ave., SW
Notes: Help us spread John and the rest of the Democrats message and encourage voters to vote early. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

...and, don't forget to vote!

OH-16: John Boccieri Made It to the Final 6!

2008-09-27T00:32:00.006-04:00

Team,

Thanks to your incredible efforts, John Boccieri made it to the Final Six in 21st Century Democrats' online contest!

Now we've entered the final round. If John is among the top three candidates by Midnight on Tuesday, Sept. 31, he'll win at least $1,000 for his campaign - and could win two extra field organizers if he comes in first.

There are only 4 days left, and John is just 130 votes away from the Top Three.

Please vote one more time for John!

We have a very important week coming up.
Between Sept. 30 and Oct. 6, individuals are able to go to county Boards of Elections to register to vote AND vote at the same time.

We're still looking for volunteers to help make phone calls and knock on doors during this key week. To help out, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com or call our main campaign headquarters at (330) 754-0534.

John's had an intense week. He's been focused on addressing the economic crisis - you can listen to his response here. But he also made it out to the Louisville Constitution Day Parade, the Medina Chamber of Commerce Candidates Forum, the Stark County Gun Collectors meeting, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) Annual Luncheon, and a house party in Massillon.

Here's John at the Louisville Parade:

Our latest Volunteer of the Week is Kathleen Purdy.
Kathleen is a resident of Alliance who has known John for many years. She has been volunteering on John’s Congressional campaign since before the primary election. As a teacher in the Plain Local Schools District, Kathleen voiced her appreciation for John and his leadership skills in a recent letter to the editor in the Canton Repository. Click here to read Kathleen's letter.

(By the way, writing a letter to the editor is a great way to support John! If you have questions about how to submit a letter, just ask our communications director, Bryan Collinsworth, at bryan@johnforcongress.com )

And finally, here's what we've got coming up:

What: WoosterFest
When: Friday, Sept. 26 and Saturday, Sept. 27
Where: Downtown Wooster (Corner of Liberty St. & Market St.)
Notes: Come wear your Boccieri t-shirts and join us for a great fall weekend in Wooster. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Lunch with U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn
When: Monday, September 29, 12:00 p.m.
Where: Canton, OH
Notes: Tickets start at $35. For more information or to RSVP, contact Justin Palmer at 330-438-1632 or jpalmer@johnforcongress.com

What: AFL-CIO Canvass Kickoff
When: Tuesday, September 30, 11:30PM
Where: Golden Lodge, 1234 Harrison Ave., SW
Notes: Help us spread John and the rest of the Democrats message and encourage voters to vote early. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: John Boccieri's Birthday Bash / First Friday
When: Friday, October 3, 5:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Where: Napoli's Italian Restaurant, 2211 Market Street
Notes: Stop by to celebrate John's 39th birthday, then enjoy the First Friday festivities downtown! For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Your Local High School Football Game
When: Friday, October 3 and Beyond
Where: Your Hometown High School
Notes: We still have campaign materials available to distribute at the local football games. For more information, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

I want to thank each and every one of you for all of your hard work and support. You are the reason John is up in the polls today, and you're the reason we will achieve victory on Election Day.

You have my sincere thanks for all that you do.

Until next week,
Ian Walton
Campaign Manager, John Boccieri for Congress
ianrwalton@johnforcongress.com
(330) 754-0534

OH-16: Put More "Boots On The Ground" For John Boccieri

2008-09-26T15:00:00.008-04:00

Team,

Thank you for voting in Round One of 21st Century Democrats' Vote08 Contest. John Boccieri was one of the top six candidates and has moved on to Round Two - but now he needs your support again. Vote in Round Two now!

Round One was extremely competitive, with barely 300 votes separating the top six candidates. Round Two includes:

John Adler (NJ-3)
Judy Baker (MO-9)
John Boccieri (OH-16)
Mary Jo Kilroy (OH-15)
Betsy Markey (CO-4)
Dan Seal (IL-10)

Please take a moment and vote in Round Two. Just a few seconds of your time could make the difference and give John Boccieri some extra help on the ground over the last six weeks of the campaign. Voting ends on September 30th and the winners will be announced on October 1st.

We also need to keep our television ad on the air across Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

I believe this spot captures the core message of our campaign - fighting for good jobs and new hope for middle class families.

When Washington is pushing for a $700 billion bailout of irresponsible Wall Street corporations while American taxpayers get nothing but the bill, it's time for a change. It's time for leaders who will fight to put the middle class first again.

That's what this campaign is about, and that's what this ad is about. Now I need your help to keep it on the air.
I'll be honest: It costs a lot to create an ad like this, and even more to make sure that everyone in the district sees it.
We've invested the resources to get it on the air. Can you help us keep it there?
This campaign is powered by grassroots support, and anything you can contribute - $10, $20, $50 - would be a huge help.
We only have six weeks left. We need to be fighting every moment to get our message out. I'd be honored to have your support. ~ John Boccieri

Get involved starting tonight!

What: Your Local High School Football Game
When: Friday, September 26 and Beyond
Where: Your Hometown High School
Notes: We still have campaign materials available to distribute at the local football games. For more information, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

The GlenOak Eagles are #1 in OHSAA Division 1 - Region 2 and face off with the McKinley Bulldogs at home. This looks to be the premier game of the week!

What: Lunch with U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn
When: Monday, September 29, 12:00 p.m.
Where: Canton, OH
Notes: Tickets start at $35. For more information or to RSVP, contact Justin Palmer at 330-438-1632 or jpalmer@johnforcongress.com

Thanks again for all you do!

OH-16: John Boccieri Receives Another "Citizen Journalist's" Endorsement

2008-09-25T12:38:00.004-04:00

I spend an incredible amount of time at this keyboard writing about the Congressional Race that's brewing here in OH's 16th District. I can come across "gems" that make the whole process of reaching out to the netroots community a pleasure. "Citizen Journalism" is one of today's polical heroes in The Netroots Nation. Today, I happened to stumble upon one of those beauties in The Canton Repository's, "Letters to the Editor":

As state senator, Boccieri has given time, attention to teachers, education issues
Thursday, September 25, 2008

I am a teacher in the Plain Local Schools District and an Alliance-area resident who has been impressively represented in the Ohio Senate by John Boccieri.

Thanks to John's efforts, our industries have increased in jobs and sales volume, the community offers more health seminars to identify residents needing wellness programs, and schools have had a stronger voice in Columbus on issues of accountability and community involvement to make sure students are able to learn.

As district president of the East Central Ohio Education Association (2000-2007), I discovered the importance of John Boccieri's interest in education through his actions when I visited Columbus for Ohio Education Association Member Lobby Days. He was always willing to give his personal attention to everyone's concerns regardless of ethnicity, social status or educational level.

In 2004, without hesitation, I nominated John for our ECOEA Friend of Education Award based on his honesty and service to the people he represented, not just here in Alliance but throughout his state Senate district.

His wife, Stacey, his two small daughters and his parents accepted this distinguished award because he was overseas carrying out his military duties to continue to protect and serve.

When our only son, Staff Sgt. Rowland Purdy Jr. was stationed in Iraq, John encouraged us, and in November 2007, my father's oldest sibling, my 90-year-old Aunt Carrie, who still lives in her home in Alliance, was phoned by John to wish her a happy birthday.

We need to have John Boccieri join other leaders to offer the change we so desperately need to fulfill the promise of hope and success for a stronger community. We are proud of John's dedication, sincerity and leadership.

KATHLEEN PURDY,

LEXINGTON TOWNSHIP

This Plain Local School District Teacher does a great job of showing the personal side of John Boccieri. Now, let's take a look at the business side of John Boccieri's Education Platform:

Education

The Key to American Competitiveness

Education has always been an essential part of the American Dream, but in a competitive global economy it matters more than ever. Fast-growing nations like China and India are making huge investments in their education systems while American students are falling behind. We have to reform funding and standards to ensure a first-class education for every American student, and put college and advanced degrees within reach of every family.

K-12 Education

The percentage of young Americans graduating from high school is lower today than a generation ago, and too many schools are struggling with limited funding and flawed requirements. To improve America’s K-12 education system, we need to:

Encourage Full and Fair Education Funding at the State and Local Level
Ohio’s broken school funding system has been ruled unconstitutional four times. It needs serious reform, and the Federal Government can use its legislative power and the share of education funding it provides as leverage to push for effective solutions at the state level.

Make the Federal Government Put Its Money Where Its Mouth Is
Washington has to stop placing new requirements and expectations on our local schools without providing the resources to meet them. We should either fully fund federal education programs or cut back on the burdens placed on local schools from the national level.

Fix Federal Education Policy
While No Child Left Behind set an important goal of ensuring student proficiency in basic subjects, the structure of the program has made it very difficult for local schools to meet its requirements. To fix this, we need to:

Ensure that the Federal Government works with state and local education systems to develop its education policies, rather than handing down orders from above;

Change the standards by which we measure school quality and student achievement to emphasize growth and improvements over time;

Ensure that all states are using similar standards to evaluate student achievement and that those standards measure genuine knowledge, preparedness and success, not just the ability to pass a certain test;

Hold schools accountable through constructive feedback and effective support.

Prepare Our Students for the 21st Century Workforce
America’s schools should not only provide a first-class education in English, math and history, but a special emphasis on scientific and technical knowledge. Students should have opportunities to receive vocational training and graduate from high school fully prepared to pursue college degrees in cutting-edge technical fields.

Support and Strengthen Our Teachers
Talented teachers are at the heart of a high-quality education system. We need to fairly reward our best teachers and encourage a new generation of lifelong educators with college scholarships, high-quality teacher preparation, partnerships between teacher training programs and successful schools, and strong support systems for new educators.

Get Parents Engaged and Keep Kids in School
Parental involvement is also vital to student success, and increasing graduation rates will strengthen our workforce while reducing the financial and social instabilities that arise when young people have little hope for the future. We need to ensure that families are engaged in their children’s education and help schools prevent at-risk students from dropping out.

Support Early Childhood Education
Pre-K education leads to dramatic benefits throughout the rest of a child’s time in school, including improved achievement, higher graduation rates, and less risky or criminal behavior. It is estimated that for every one dollar invested in early education, America can save as much as seven dollars that would otherwise be spent addressing problems later.

College Education

A college degree is more important than ever in today’s competitive global economy, but average tuition at America’s public universities has nearly doubled since 2001. A college education should be affordable for everyone, and innovative new policies can address costs while encourage young Americans to contribute to the strength of our nation.

Provide College Aid in Exchange for Public Service
John’s service in the Military enabled him to pursue Master’s Degrees in Business and Public Administration, and the new G.I. Bill puts a college education in reach of every U.S. veteran. We should use this model to provide college scholarships and financial aid to young Americans willing to serve not only in the military but as teachers, health care providers, first responders and other public servants.

Expand Financial Aid and Give Tuition Tax Breaks to Middle-Class Families
The skyrocketing cost of college makes tuition a challenge even for families who are otherwise financially secure. We should simplify the current tangle of college tax incentives into a single tax credit, available to every middle class family, that would cover most of the first year of tuition at a public university for each child. We also need to expand federal grants and loans for low-income families and stop subsidizing college loan schemes that are inefficient or even corrupt.

Control College Costs
We have to ensure that hard-working students and their families are receiving a fair return for the high cost of college by ensuring accountability in our higher education industry. Textbook publishers and other suppliers of educational needs should not be allowed to take advantage of students who are already struggling with college costs.

Encourage Advanced Degrees for American Students
In the last quarter-century, America’s population has grown by nearly 75 million, but the number of students admitted to U.S. medical schools has barely increased at all. We have a shortage of nurses, may soon face a shortage of doctors, and the same is true in many other advanced fields. While we are proud that students travel from around the world to pursue advanced degrees in the United States, we also have to expand advanced education opportunities for American students who will use their talents to turn around our economy and strengthen our nation.

It's time we started putting our next generation first; they are our future. One read of the current political headlines shows just how bad the failed policies of the last eight years has damaged their future. At a minimum they deserve quality education at every level. John Boccieri is the candidate to bring real change to Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

If you have a personal endorsement be sure to let us know. We love to here it and you just might get to see it here!

OH-16: Schuring on Wrong Side of Economic Crisis

2008-09-24T13:24:00.007-04:00

Blocked predatory lending crackdown, wants more giveaways to Wall Street

A devastating week for the U.S. financial sector has underscored the danger of congressional candidate Kirk Schuring’s economic policies for working families in the 16th Congressional District and across America.

Democratic candidate John Boccieri said today:

"Kirk Schuring's economic philosophy is as bankrupt as Lehman Brothers. He is not offering the change that middle class families need to bounce back from this economic crisis."

Schuring is staking his campaign on the same failed policies that caused the crisis by constantly siding with Wall Street over Main Street. His policy stances will actually worsen the impact of economic instability for middle class families.

FACT: Schuring blocked crackdowns on predatory lenders in the state legislature. In 2001, he helped push through a sham reform bill supported by predatory lenders in order to prevent Ohio's local communities from regulating out-of-control predatory mortgage loans. [HB 386; "Home Security," The Columbus Dispatch, 9/21/05]

FACT: Schuring’s top economic priority is giving more tax breaks to the Wall Street firms that created this financial mess. Corporate tax giveaways are the very first item in Schuring’s “jobs plan” – but he has not proposed a single tax cut directed at the middle class. [www.schuringforcongress.com/issues, accessed 9/24/08]

FACT: Schuring's response to the crisis focuses only on helping Wall Street. In an interview on WHBC this morning, Schuring did not once call for direct assistance to the innocent homeowners at the heart of this crisis.

FACT: While Schuring claims to oppose out-of-control spending in Washington, he insists on an open-ended commitment to spending $5,000 per second in Iraq, which has already led to the largest budget deficit in American history, forced the government to borrow billions from nations like China, and left us with limited resources to stabilize our struggling economy. [“16th District Notebook,” The Canton Repository, 9/21/08]

FACT: Schuring has said “I think everything should be on the table” when it comes to Social Security. [“Kirk Schuring on Social Security/Medicare,” accessed 9/24/08] Schuring's Republican allies in Washington have been trying for years to turn Social Security over to Wall Street, and Schuring’s stunningly anti-senior record in the state legislature makes clear that he can’t be trusted to look out for older Americans in Congress. ["Boccieri Calls for Protecting Social Security on 73rd Anniversary"]

Let the facts speak for themselves; Kirk Schuring's policy positions are not what the working families of Ohio's 16th Congressional District need in the United States Congress.

OH-16: John Boccieri Leads By 8 Points in New Independent Poll

2008-09-23T15:48:00.008-04:00

Focus on putting middle class before Wall Street resonates with voters

An independent poll released today finds John Boccieri leading Kirk Schuring 49% to 41% in the race for Ohio’s 16th Congressional District.

The poll was commissioned by the newspaper Roll Call and conducted by the independent polling firm Survey USA, which earned a reputation for accuracy during this year's extended presidential primary contests.

Boccieri responded to the poll results today.

“Every day, I’m focused on fighting for the middle class, fighting for jobs, and fighting to get our economy back on track. That’s clearly the kind of change the people of our district want.”

The poll found that more than half of the district's voters rank the economy as their top priority, and Boccieri is winning those voters by almost 20 points. This week, Boccieri maintained his focus on putting working families first by addressing the crisis on Wall Street and the Bush Administration’s proposed bailout.

Boccieri said:

“It’s totally unacceptable that Wall Street would get a $700 billion blank-check bailout and all taxpayers get is the bill. I know people who have been fighting to hold on to their homes for months and years. I can’t support this sudden rush to rescue Wall Street until millions of American homeowners get the help they need to stay in their homes and protect their housing values."

“We shouldn’t be giving corporate CEOs the ultimate golden parachute, we should be holding them accountable for gambling away America’s wealth. And we shouldn’t be giving George Bush’s Treasury Secretary sweeping new powers with near-total immunity from oversight. We should stand up for the homeowners at the heart of this crisis.”

Click here for the Roll Call article on the poll.
Click here for detailed poll results.

In a conference call held on Monday, Boccieri, who has a degree in economics, said it's "extremely disconcerting to find our country in this kind of economic turmoil" given the trillions of dollars in wealth that has "evaporated in less than a week."

Boccieri added:

"I have known people who have been in foreclosure of their homes for months, if not years on end, and there hasn't been anything in terms of what has been suggested for Main Street."

"My fear is that at the end of the day the big CEOs, the hedge fund managers are going to find their golden parachute and land safely, and find that Ohioans are standing in line, with no homes and no food and no job."

Boccieri said that the current proposal reminds him of the kind of rush to action of the Bush administration and Congress when the U.S. Patriot Act was passed. He also stated that the Patriot Act legislation had problems and was not necessarily weighted to the best interests of all Americans. Boccieri contends that the American people deserve a plan that's going to help average Americans and they would be well served if Congress were to think this proposal through seriously.

The Chief Source

Election Advantage

OH-16: John Boccieri - Our First TV Ad

2008-09-23T13:52:00.004-04:00

Today, our first television advertisement of this campaign goes up on the air - and I wanted you to be the first to see it.

This ad will be on TV across the 16th Congressional District, but you can watch it right here:

I believe this spot captures the core message of our campaign - fighting for good jobs and new hope for middle class families.

When Washington is pushing for a $700 billion bailout of irresponsible Wall Street corporations while American taxpayers get nothing but the bill, it's time for a change. It's time for leaders who will fight to put the middle class first again.

That's what this campaign is about, and that's what this ad is about. Now I need your help to keep it on the air.

I'll be honest: It costs a lot to create an ad like this, and even more to make sure that everyone in the district sees it.

We've invested the resources to get it on the air. Can you help us keep it there?

This campaign is powered by grassroots support, and anything you can contribute - $10, $20, $50 - would be a huge help.

We only have six weeks left. We need to be fighting every moment to get our message out. I'd be honored to have your support.

Sincerely yours,

John Boccieri

OH-16: John Boccieri Makes The Final Six

2008-09-22T19:24:00.004-04:00

Team,

Thank you for voting in Round One of 21st Century Democrats' Vote08 Contest. John Boccieri was one of the top six candidates and has moved on to Round Two - but now he needs your support again. Vote in Round Two now!

Round One was extremely competitive, with barely 300 votes separating the top six candidates. Round Two includes:

John Adler (NJ-3)
Judy Baker (MO-9)
John Boccieri (OH-16)
Mary Jo Kilroy (OH-15)
Betsy Markey (CO-4)
Dan Seal (IL-10)
Please take a moment and vote in Round Two. Just a few seconds of your time could make the difference and give John Boccieri some extra help on the ground over the last six weeks of the campaign. Voting ends on September 30th and the winners will be announced on October 1st.

Thank you again for your vote and your support!
21st Century Democrats

OH-16: John Boccieri Needs 15 More Votes

2008-09-20T10:11:00.008-04:00

Boccieri Breaking News:

John is Just 15 Votes from the Final Round - Vote Now!

From the Akron Beacon Journal:

VP candidate draws 2,500 in Canton

"...Gov. Ted Strickland and state Sen. John Boccieri, the Democratic candidate for the Canton-based 16th Congressional District, introduced Biden to the Canton crowd, with the three of them locking hands in a victory pose. Strickland called Boccieri one of his ''closest personal friends.''

Boccieri, D-Alliance, told the audience: ''It is time we elect change. That is why we need Barack Obama and Joe Biden. ''

Boccieri said Biden is from a middle-class family and is a ''tough, smart and realistic leader.''

Read the full article...

There's more...

Team,

John only needs 15 more votes by midnight on Saturday to advance to the final round in 21st Century Democrats online contest!

If you haven't voted, please vote now. If you have, please urge all your friends to vote, too.

Again, the winners of this contest will receive an additional staff member for their campaigns. That extra organizer could lead to dozens of extra volunteers, thousands more phone calls and door-knocks, and a winning margin of votes on Election Day.

The deadline for Round 1 voting is midnight on Saturday. Please vote ASAP!

Along with everyone who has helped John out in this contest, I want to thank all of you who volunteered this past week at the Ashland County Fair.

I also want to recognize our latest Volunteer of the Week: Joe Newkirk. Joe is a Canton resident and a specialist in computers and technology. He spent countless hours entering data from the more than 10,000 doors that Boccieri supporters knocked on this week!

Here's what we've got coming up:

What: Louisville Constitution Parade
When: Sunday, September 21, 2008 (1:30PM)
Where: Nickleplate & South (downtown Louisville)
Notes: We only have a few parades left before the election, so come out and join us. For details, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Backyard Economic Discussion
When: Wednesday, September 24, 2008 (5:30PM-7PM)
Where: Home in Massillon
Notes: Stop by to share refreshments, meet other local voters, and talk with John about our economic situation. For more details, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Your Local High School Football Game
When: Friday, September 26 and Beyond
Where: Your Hometown High School
Notes: We still have campaign materials available to distribute at the local football games. For more information, email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Lunch with U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn
When: Monday, September 29, 12:00 p.m.
Where: Canton, OH
Notes: Tickets start at $35. For more information or to RSVP, contact Justin Palmer at 330-438-1632 or jpalmer@johnforcongress.com

Thanks,

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

OH-16: John Boccieri Vows to Tackle Pension Problems

2008-09-19T15:19:00.003-04:00

Boccieri Vows to Tackle Pension Problems

After meeting on Thursday with local retirees from Republic Technologies International (RTI) who have been battling for years to secure the pensions they were promised, State Sen. John Boccieri affirmed his commitment to fight for a resolution to their struggle as a member of the U.S. Congress.

Boccieri also promised to attend a major public meeting about these pension problems on Saturday, October 11. Other elected officials, candidates, and members of the press have also been invited.

State Senator John Boccieri said:

"It's criminal that you would work your whole life, pay into a pension plan, and then get almost nothing because bad trade policies or irresponsible executives bankrupt your company. This issue requires a strong and loud voice in Congress to ensure that laws protecting pensions are enforced and are strengthened to protect workers."

For years, thousands of local workers and retirees from RTI have been struggling with the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), the government agency that takes over a company's pension plan if it declares bankruptcy to ensure that employees still receive pension benefits.

Despite this intent, many workers see their pensions dramatically reduced when the PBGC takes over from a bankrupt company, due to funding problems and complex laws governing how the agency makes payments.

In the case of RTI, the situation was made worse by extended legal battles over the amounts owed by the PBGC to affected workers, which have now resulted in the agency demanding that retirees pay back pension "overpayments" as large as $60- or $70,000.

Individuals at Thursday's meetings also expressed frustrations with the PBGC's lack of responsiveness and consistency in addressing their concerns. "You ask the same question three times and get three different answers," one retiree said. Others said that PBGC had miscalculated benefits, confused the benefits owed by RTI and previous companies operating the same facilities, and awarded, reduced or revoked benefits arbitrarily.(emphasis added)

Boccieri's initial proposals to address these concerns include:

Working directly with the PBGC, as well as with Senator Sherrod Brown, the Steelworkers Union, and others who have taken the lead on these issues, to push for swift, fair solutions;

Creating a "Pension Protection Caucus" in Congress that would bring together legislators from all of the districts and states affected by these pension problems to seek resolutions;

Increasing enforcement of pension protection laws to ensure that both corporations and the PBGC are honoring their obligations to workers;

Passing legislative improvements to current law, such as measures to give workers' pensions fairer treatment in bankruptcy proceedings and prevent retirees from having to repay PBGC when it takes years to recalculate pension payments;

Improving the responsiveness and transparency of the PBGC in its dealings with pension recipients;

Ensuring that improvements in enforcement and legislation are retroactive in order to address the plight of RTI employees.

Once again, Senator Major John Boccieri is first on the issues that most affect the voters of Ohio's 16th Congressional District!

OH-16: John Boccieri, Ted Strickland and Joe Biden Move The H.O.F.

2008-09-19T11:05:00.008-04:00

Democratic vice presidential nominee Senator Joe Biden made a campaign stop at the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Thursday morning, addressing an estimated outdoor crowd of 2,500.

After an hour long tour of the Hall of Fame, Gov. Ted Strickland and state Sen. John Boccieri, D-Alliance, who is running for Congress, introduced him to the crowd.

With the three of them locking hands in a victory pose, Strickland called Boccieri one of his "closest personal friends."

Boccieri, D-Alliance, told the audience:

''It is time we elect change. That is why we need Barack Obama and Joe Biden.''

Boccieri added:

"Joe Biden is from a middle-class family and is a tough, smart and realistic leader."

Biden, spoke for about 32 minutes, and tied Republican presidential nominee John McCain to the current president.

"Well, we know how that story ended. Eight straight years of trouble. Eight months of unemployment rising every month. Nearly 46 million people in America without health insurance. Foreclosures skyrocketing more than anytime since the Great Depression."

"John McCain stands alone in saying the economy is strong. "He is totally out of touch with the problems of average people."

He recalled getting knocked out when he played football as a fourth-grader. He said his father told him:

"If nothing is broken, get up. It's time for America to get up!"

Biden briefly paused during his remarks as a person in the audience held up a sign that read, "Abstinence Only is Phony Baloney."

He asked security not to take the sign, adding, "I happen to agree," and told the sign-holder they'd talk later.

Biden said he and Obama would create 2 million jobs by rebuilding America's infrastructure and another 5 million jobs by investing in green technology, including solar and wind.

Dennis Brommer, a subdirector for the United Steelworkers District 2 based in Canton, said Biden has been a strong supporter of labor.

He said Biden is a "middle class guy who understands the problems of the middle class."

OH-16: (UPDATED) Joe Biden with Eric Mansfield in Wooster, OH

2008-09-18T11:43:00.005-04:00

UPDATE: We now have the video of Senator Joe Biden on the stump in Wooster, OH.

Joe Biden spoke with Eric Mansfield during his stop in Wooster yesterday for about 10 minutes. They touch on keeping college graduates working in Ohio after school, home foreclosure, job loss from Ohio, and Ohio's National Guard. It is clear that Joe Biden has a sound understanding of the issues important in our state. ~ Kyle Kutuchief on The Point

Joe Biden is hitting Ohio hard this week. Today, he will campaign in hard hit Canton, where he will be introduced by Congressional Candidate John Boccieri.

(HT: Kyle)

OH-16: John Boccieri to Introduce Joe Biden in Canton Thursday

2008-09-17T11:01:00.007-04:00

September 17, 2008

Contact: Bryan Collinsworth, 330-754-0534 / bryan@johnforcongress.com

John Boccieri to Introduce Joe Biden in Canton Thursday

At approximately 10:00 a.m. this Thursday, Sept. 18, candidate for U.S. Congress John Boccieri (OH-16) will introduce Senator and Democratic Vice Presidential Nominee Joe Biden at a rally in downtown Canton.

Boccieri will address the audience prior to Biden's appearance, focusing on the need for change in the 16th Congressional District.

WHO: State Sen. John Boccieri (D-Alliance), 16th District Congressional Candidate, Sen. Joe Biden (DE), Democratic Vice Presidential Nominee
WHAT: Change We Need Rally
WHERE: Football Hall of Fame, 2121 George Halas Drive NW, Canton, OH
WHEN: Approximately 10:00 a.m. (doors open at 8:00 a.m.)

John Boccieri is the Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress in the 16th Congressional District. The district's current congressman, Ralph Regula, is retiring this year.

Boccieri has represented eastern Stark County for eight years in the Ohio legislature as a State Representative and State Senator. Boccieri has also served 14 years in the U.S. Air Force, including four tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, and currently holds the rank of Major. Boccieri was born and raised in northeast Ohio and lives in Alliance with his wife, Stacey, and four children.

The event is free and open to the public; however, tickets are required. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

For security reasons, do not bring bags. Please limit personal items. No signs or banners allowed.

For more information, call the Canton Campaign for Change office (330) 452-4746

OH-16: Keep John Boccieri in the Top Six

2008-09-13T10:05:00.008-04:00

Team,

Great news – thanks to your support, John Boccieri is among the top six contenders in an online contest to win an additional field organizer for our campaign.

In order to make it to the final round, we have to keep John in the top six through September 20.

If you haven’t voted for him yet, please visit www.21stDems.org/vote08 and vote right now!

This was such an exciting week for the Boccieri campaign. A rainy weekend didn't stop hundreds of people from showing up to our labor rally in Canton or a house party with Ohio First Lady Frances Strickland.

Our campaign also had a great showing at the Wayne County Fair. Volunteers and staff members gave away over 4,000 John Boccieri for Congress bags to fair attendees. Thanks to everyone who helped out!

With only 54 days left in the campaign, John hosted a “BBQ at HQ” this past Wednesday for volunteers, supporters, and voters interested in learning more.

The cookout was an opportunity for John to thank everyone for their hard work AND to remind us that we still have a lot of work to do knocking on doors, making phone calls, and getting John’s message out in the 16th Congressional District.

Congratulations Keith Strobelt!

This week’s ‘Volunteer of the Week’ is Keith Strobelt. Keith took the lead with our Stark County Field Organizer to get John’s Stark County Fair booth up and running throughout fair week. Keith has also organized our campaign’s outreach at the local football games. Keith stays in constant contact with the campaign and always knows what’s going on in the community.

(I, personally, had the opportunity to caucus with Keith at Ohio's 16th District Democratic Presidential Caucus. He was the number one vote getter in our caucus room. Keith has an exceptionally strong voice and is a great contribution to Team Boccieri. ~ GARoach)

Coming Up…

What: Your Local High School Football Game
Where: Your Hometown in the 16th District
When: Friday, September 12 (Tonight!) and Beyond
Notes: We have football game oriented materials for you to take with you to your local football game. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Swiss Steak Dinner at Canal Fulton NW Senior Center
Where: Canal Fulton
When: Saturday, September 13 (4PM-6PM)
Notes: We can still use more volunteers to help serve dinner at the senior center. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Ashland County Fair
Where: Ashland County Fairgrounds
When: Sunday, September 14 – Saturday, September 20
Notes: Come out wearing your John Boccieri t-shirts or help the local Democratic Party staff their both. For more details, please email Jake at japhillips@zoominternet.net

What: Canvass with John Boccieri and Celeste DeHoff
Where: Uniontown Community Park, 3696 Apollo St., NW, Uniontown, OH
When: Saturday, September 20 (10AM)
Notes: 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 you may have about the campaign.

Thanks,

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

I'd like to give a "shout out" to our latest ActBlue Thermometer contributor! You know who you are and Team Boccieri thanks you for your support! We can still hit our target before October 31st.

OH-16: Canton Firefighters Endorse Boccieri

2008-09-12T14:26:00.003-04:00

Canton Firefighters Endorse Boccieri

The Canton Professional Firefighters Association, IAFF Local 249, has endorsed John Boccieri in the race for Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

Dan Reed, President of Local 249, said:

"John has always been very responsive to us. We appreciate his respect for firefighters, his military service, and his commitment to collective bargaining rights. I know he'll listen to our needs and stand up for us in Washington."

The Canton Professional Firefighters Association has a membership of 163 Canton firefighters.

Boccieri said he was honored to receive the group's endorsement.

"Canton's firefighters put their lives on the line for us every day, and I couldn't be prouder of their service and dedication. I'll fight in Congress to make sure they have all the support and resources they need to do their job and keep our community safe."

OH-16: John Boccieri Commemorates September 11

2008-09-11T11:33:00.004-04:00

Commemorating September 11

State Sen. John Boccieri released the following statement today on the seventh anniversary of the terrorists attacks of September 11, 2001:

"After seven years, the shock of September 11 is still with us, but America's resolve is stronger than ever. We will never forget our brothers and sisters who lost their lives that day, or the selflessness of the first responders and everyday heroes who came to their aid - many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice themselves.

In the past seven years, Americans have come to honor those killed in the attacks by giving of ourselves for the strength of our nation. Today we express our gratitude to all who have answered the call to serve. Through service, we cherish the memory and preserve the spirit of those who were taken from us."

To commemorate the heroism and sacrifice of America's first responders today, Boccieri will present Canton firefighters with a United States flag flown into Iraq during a Combat Mission in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

In Memory of "The 3000 Fallen on 9/11/2001"

2008-09-11T07:31:00.007-04:00

Each of us has a story about where we were on September 11th, 2001, but they pale in contrast to the stories of "The 3000 Fallen" from approximately 90 countries.

I pay tribute to these lost souls, on this 7th Anniversary, through one of the world's most healing condolence cards ever produced. During the "Half-Time Show" at the Super Bowl, in NOLA of all places, just four months after this tragic event, U2 reached out to America and the World. Bono, the Edge, and the band helped a nation heal from a grave wound. (Please, take away the commercial at the end and find this a fitting tribute.)

May God Bless those that gave all.

OH-16: Free BBQ Dinner with John Boccieri

2008-09-09T15:24:00.005-04:00

Yes, your eyes are really reading FREE! I will tell you from experience, when John Boccieri puts on a feed, you don't want to miss out. John loves to feed his people!

If you're free on Wednesday night, please join us for a barbecue dinner and open house at John Boccieri's campaign headquarters in downtown Canton.

If you haven't met John in person yet, this is a great opportunity to connect with him and learn more about his campaign to change Congress.

If you're already helping out, you'll get to meet other supporters, share good food and conversation, and gear up for the final eight weeks before Election Day.

Please stop by anytime between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday night. We look forward to seeing you there.

WHAT: "BBQ at HQ" cookout and John Boccieri open house
WHEN: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 10
WHERE: Boccieri Campaign HQ parking lot,
601 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44702

With only eight weeks left until Election Day and so much at stake this year, now is the time to get involved. If you have any questions about the BBQ at HQ event, feel free to email me.

Also, while admission is free, we're always working to keep our campaign office well-stocked. If you'd like to help out, feel free to bring any of these items with you to the BBQ:

Paper, pens, highlighters, markers, folders, labels, clip boards, snack food, coffee, drinks, cups, bottled water, umbrellas, ponchos, etc. (AMP for the Blogger)

I hope we'll see you Wednesday!
Thanks,
Ian Walton
Campaign Manager, John Boccieri for Congress
ian@johnforcongress.com
(330) 754-0534

P.S. You can get driving directions to the "BBQ at HQ" here.

Thank you, Team Boccieri!

OH-16: On Rainy Saturday, John Boccieri Events Draw Hundreds

2008-09-08T21:45:00.015-04:00

EXCLUSIVE

John Boccieri for U.S. Congress, Communications Director, Bryan Collinsworth reported in from the field this Saturday evening. Tonight, I'm posting his "guest-blog" that many of our readers have been checking in to read.

September 7, 2008

On Rainy Saturday Morning, Union Members and Lifelong Republicans Alike Turn Out for Boccieri

Canton, OH - A steady drizzle didn't stop more than 200 local workers from showing up to a labor rally in support of John Boccieri's campaign for Congress on Saturday morning; nor did lingering clouds deter roughly 75 community members from joining lifelong Republican Frank Fleischer at his North Canton home to hear from Boccieri and Ohio First Lady Frances Strickland.

The 10:00 a.m. rally at the Steelworkers Local 1123 Golden Lodge Hall in Canton was sponsored by the Steelworkers and Teamsters, and also featured Canton Mayor William J. Healy, II. The house party began at noon, and was hosted by Fleischer and his wife Barbara.

Frances Strickland told house party attendees that Boccieri had cautioned her husband, Gov. Ted Strickland, during the run-up to the invasion of Iraq, when he was serving in the U.S. House of Representatives. She said that Boccieri, a member of the U.S. Air Force, urged Strickland to look out for the best interests of America's military men and women by asking tough questions about the rationale for war.

The First Lady said:

"John will go to Washington and use his first-hand experience to stand up for what's right. That's the kind of leadership we need in Congress now."

House Party host Frank Fleischer decided to support Boccieri after he gave the candidate a list of policy questions and Boccieri took time to sit down with him and go through the issues one-by-one.

Fleischer said:

"He's fought for America, and I know he'll fight for the middle class."

Photographs from both events are included below, with captions.

16th District congressional candidate John Boccieri speaks to workers at Saturday morning's labor rally.

Ohio First Lady Frances Strickland speaks about her support for John Boccieri at the North Canton house party.

Frances Strickland and John Boccieri at the Fleischers' house party.

A sign displayed by house party host Frank Fleischer, a lifelong Republican, outside his North Canton home.

John Boccieri speaks with voters at Saturday's house party.

John Boccieri for Congress * P.O. Box 3016 * Alliance, Ohio 44601
(330) 754-0534 * www.johnforcongress.com

OH-16: John Boccieri: A Fighter. For Us.

2008-09-08T08:32:00.003-04:00

I was surfing blogs this morning and stumbled upon this great ad for Senator John Boccieri(D).

We have lost major employers and suffered through "Kirk Schuring's Gas Tax" increase while he gave himself a $9000 pay raise.

Senator Major John Boccieri(D) has served us in Iraq, Afghanastan, and 40 countries around the world. He has committed to stand up against Big Oil and help to bring down sky-rocketing gas prices. He stands with the middle class and organized labor. John Boccieri is the clear choice for Ohio's Fighting 16th District!

John Boccieri: A Fighter. For Us. (OH-16)

A veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, John Boccieri is the right candidate to represent Ohio's 16th Congressional District in Washington.

OH-16: 16th District Business Leaders Back John Boccieri

2008-09-07T12:24:00.007-04:00

If you've been around John Boccieri(D) long enough, you will have come to notice that he is a "do-er". As long I have been living in Ohio's 16th Congressional District, I have yet to see any candidate set clear policy agenda, meet with business and labor leaders, and deliver his message directly to voters with energy John brings to our district.

With that said, Boccieri's Communications Director, Bryan Collinsworth dropped this great piece of news in my in-box this week.

September 4, 2008

A wide range of business leaders from every corner of the 16th Congressional District have come together to call for change by supporting John Boccieri and his candidacy for U.S. Congress. This growing coalition of Democrats, Republicans, and Independents is backing and advising Boccieri's campaign and will be a strong voice when he goes to Washington.

Jim Pastore, Jr., owner of Park Farms, which has operated in Canton for more than 60 years said:

"John has fought to support my small business in the state legislature. He has visited my plant, worked with Governor Strickland on the possibility of securing small business loans, and always stood out for his responsiveness and attentiveness to our needs."

Bob Shearer, C.E.O. of Shearer's Foods, another longstanding Stark County business, remarked:

"I was very impressed with John Boccieri. Not only because he serves in the military and clearly loves this country, but because he came to our facility and was very in tune with the economic progress we’re trying to make here in Stark County. I know he’ll be a strong advocate for local business in Washington."

Raymond Williams, President of Canton-based U.S. Technology Corp. said:

"I appreciate John’s sense of urgency when it comes to small business issues. He’s a legislator who takes action, and he has a record of supporting business strong enough to have earned the endorsement of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce in the state legislature.”

Tom Antonosanti, owner of ADTEK Promotions in Alliance, has worked with Boccieri during his eight years in the Ohio Statehouse. He adds:

"Since I've come to know John, he has always asked how government can help small business. I certainly wasn't shy about telling him. Now I'm certain that he will listen to us and work with us to strengthen our local economy."

Steven DiPietro, an owner of several local business ventures including the Pizza Oven and Papa Bear's Italian Restaurant in Canton, also praised Boccieri's responsiveness and engagement.

"I have tried in vain to explain to current office holders the real world problems facing our small business and our employees. Senator John Boccieri is the only candidate to listen and understand the gravity of the situation we face. I proudly support John in his campaign for Congress."(emphasis added)

Chris Schmid of Wooster, who has been engaged in creating and leading businesses in the 16th District for 25 years, said that meetings and discussions with Boccieri convinced him that:

"John will serve the economy of our region well. He understands that economic prosperity can only be achieved if initiatives benefit all citizens."(emphasis added)

Schmid has helped start up companies like LuK USA and TekFor, Inc., and an annual award from the Wayne County Economic Development Council is named in his honor. Schmid added:

"John’s intellect, energy, and determination give me the confidence that he will work hard on critical issues and will build coalitions in Washington that bring lasting benefits to our district and our country."

Many other local business leaders publicly back Boccieri, including Phil Dechellis, owner of Napoli's Restaurant in downtown Canton, Harry Featherstone, former C.E.O. of Wil-Burt Co. in Orrville, Charlie Grove, owner of Grove TV Appliance and Audio in Alliance, and Ted Madison, a former banker. Even more are providing behind-the-scenes support for Boccieri's campaign.

Boccieri responded:

"I'm honored to have worked with so many impressive local business leaders while representing part of this district for the past eight years in Columbus. With businesspeople like these, the economic future of our area is bright. In Congress, I look forward to continuing to partner with business leaders, workers and organized labor to fight for good jobs and new opportunities for our middle class families."

These aren't just "chummy" relationships; these are strong business leaders, throughout Ohio's 16th Congressional District, that are putting all of their weight behind "our" campaign for real change.

OH-16: Vote for John Boccieri Online!

2008-09-06T07:47:00.008-04:00

Team,

Thanks again to everyone who helped us out at the Stark County Fair. John and his family had a great time connecting with voters there!

The Wayne County Fair starts tomorrow and the Ashland County fair begins September 14. Our campaign will be teaming up with the county Democratic Parties for both fairs. To volunteer, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com.

A few quick announcements...

Be our eyes and ears!

Pay attention to your mailboxes, TVs, radio and newspapers for ads or election materials about either candidate in the race to represent the 16th Congressional District.

If you catch anything, please let us know immediately - and try to record the ad or transcribe the call. These efforts will help our ‘Rapid Response' Team by providing real-time information
(Any information may also be left on this blog in the comment box.)

Vote for John Boccieri in our online contest!

Go to www.21stdems.org/vote08 right now, vote for John, and our campaign could receive a new staff member to help us win in the 16th District!

John is competing with 11 other campaigns across the country in an online contest sponsored by the group 21st Century Democrats(an endorser for John Boccieri for U.S. Congress...see the link to the right!). The candidates who receive the most votes between now and September 20th could win an extra field organizer for their campaigns.

If there was ever a time to show your grassroots support, this is it. Please vote at www.21stdems.org/vote08 today!

Congratulations Justin Chenevey!

This week's ‘Volunteer of the Week' is Justin Chenevey. Justin has been with the campaign since just after the primary in March. He came seeking school credit, but even after his official internship was over, he stayed to fight for change with John!

Justin is a master at everything from poring through the morning newspapers for important news stories to rallying volunteers for parades and events. Today, we honor Justin's service and dedication to building a brighter future for the people of the 16th District.

Justin Chenevey

The Rest of the Week...
What: Your Local High School Football Game
Where: Your Hometown in the 16th District
When: Friday, September 5 and Beyond
Notes: We have new football game oriented materials for you to take with you to your local football game. For details on participating, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: Labor Rally for Local Candidates
Where: Golden Lodge No. 1123 Steelworkers of America AFL-CIO, 1234 Harrison Ave., SW, Canton
When: Saturday, September 6, 10AM
Notes: Come out and join John as we support organized labor right here in the 16th Congressional District. For more details, please email Chris at cccupples@yahoo.com

What: House Party with Special Guest Ohio First Lady Frances Strickland
Where: A private home of John Boccieri supporters in Canton
When: Saturday, September 6, 12PM-2PM
Notes: RSVP to Ian at ianrwalton@johnforcongress.com

What: John Boccieri Campaign Cookout and Final Push Toward Victory
Where: Campaign Headquarters ( 601 Cleveland Ave., NW, Canton)
When: Wednesday, September 10, 5:30PM-7:30PM
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

OH-16: Ohio Society of CPAs Endorses John Boccieri

2008-09-03T22:14:00.003-04:00

Canton, OH - The Ohio Society of CPAs has endorsed State Sen. John Boccieri's candidacy for U.S. Congress in Ohio's 16th Congressional District.

The society has a membership of 23,000 Certified Public Accountants statewide providing financial management and accounting services for businesses, government, organizations and individuals. In its endorsement, the Society said it is backing Boccieri because he will "be a positive influence in Washington."

Boccieri said in response to the endorsement:

"I'm pleased to have the Ohio Society of CPAs' support in our campaign to change Congress. If there's anybody who understands that Washington needs to start living within its means like working families, it's our state's Certified Public Accountants."

The Ohio Society of CPAs provides professional support for its members, serves as their advocate to government and the general public, and encourages educational opportunities to foster the next generation of CPAs.

OH-16: Tax Cuts for Ohio's Middle Class

2008-09-03T16:29:00.004-04:00

A Messge From John Boccieri!

Dear Voter,

In today's economy, middle class families need all the relief we can get. That's why I've just proposed a package of tax cuts focused directly on the middle class - not big corporations or Wall Street billionaires.

In Congress, these are the tax cuts I'll fight for:

A $1000-per-year tax cut for middle class families

Permanent property tax relief

Tax refunds on care for children and aging parents

A tax cut for college tuition

Expanded tax breaks for homeowners

An improved Child Tax Credit

Expanded marriage penalty relief

A permanent fix for the Alternative Minimum Tax

You can learn more about any of these proposals by clicking the links above.

(He sure makes easy to find what you're looking for!)

We have an unusual situation in this race for Congress: A Democrat who's calling for tax cuts and a Republican with a clear record of raising taxes.

My opponent voted for two of the largest tax increases in Ohio's history while he was serving in the state legislature under Governor Taft. He even voted to raise the state gas tax.

We need new leaders in Washington who will fight for tax cuts for the middle class, not tax hikes.

If you have questions, comments, or stories about how middle class tax relief could help your family, feel free to send me an e-mail at john@johnforcongress.com.

Sincerely yours,

OH-16: John Boccieri Calls for Cutting Taxes after Opponent Raised Them

2008-09-02T10:22:00.007-04:00

Boccieri Proposes Middle Class Tax Cuts

Opponent Hiked Ohio Taxes after Failing to Pay His Own

In his final "Fairside Chat" on Monday at the Stark County Fair, congressional candidate John Boccieri (OH-16) announced a broad plan for middle class tax relief that would give every working family an income tax cut of up to $1,000 and help American families pay for college, care for children and aging relatives, and escape unfair tax penalties.

Boccieri said:

“It's time the tax cut talk turns to action for middle class families. We have a surprising situation in this race: A Democrat who’s calling for cutting taxes and a Republican with a clear record of raising them."

Boccieri's opponent, State Sen. Kirk Schuring, voted for two of the largest tax increases in Ohio's history during the Taft Administration [HB 95, 6/19/03; HB 66, 6/21/05]. He cast these votes even after failing to pay more than $18,000 of his own taxes. ["In campaigns, tax liens emerge as issue," The Politico, 7/23/08]

Boccieri Campaign Spokesman Bryan Collinsworth said:

"The difference is clear - Kirk Schuring hasn’t proposed a single tax cut to help the middle class. Instead, he’s voted to raise taxes on Ohio families after failing to pay his own."

In the state legislature, Boccieri has opposed Gov. Taft's massive tax increases, fought for lower property taxes, and passed a law protecting Ohio truckers from the gas tax hike that Schuring supported. Meanwhile, Schuring's record leaves little doubt that in Washington he would continue President Bush's pattern of giving tax breaks to corporations and Wall Street millionaires while shifting a larger share of the U.S. tax burden onto middle class families.

Boccieri added:

"It's time to put the middle class first again, and that means putting middle class tax cuts before more giveaways to corporate executives."

Boccieri will fight for middle class tax relief by supporting:

A $1000-per-year tax cut for working families
Permanent property tax relief
Tax refunds on care for children and aging parents
A tax cut for college tuition
Expanded tax breaks for homeowners
An improved Child Tax Credit
Expanded marriage penalty relief
A permanent fix for the Alternative Minimum Tax

Click here for the details of these tax cut proposals.

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

2008-08-28T10:50:00.007-04:00

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!"

Live DNC Coverage

2008-08-27T20:46:00.001-04:00

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

OH-16: 21st Century Democrats Endorse John Boccieri

2008-08-26T13:04:00.004-04:00

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!

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

2008-08-24T09:20:00.003-04:00

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."

OH-16: John Boccieri Summer Fun Edition

2008-08-23T09:38:00.005-04:00

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 house party in Wadsworth

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

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

OH-16: Meet John Boccieri

2008-08-22T13:41:00.005-04:00

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!

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

2008-08-21T21:09:00.006-04:00

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

2008-08-21T16:37:00.005-04:00

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

2008-08-21T09:10:00.002-04:00

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."

OH-16: Boccieri, Schuring Agree to Three Debates

2008-08-20T13:15:00.004-04:00

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

OH-16: John Boccieri Leads Schuring on Energy Issues

2008-08-19T19:48:00.006-04:00

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:

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

2008-08-18T18:10:00.012-04:00

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.

OH-16: John Boccieri - Protecting Social Security

2008-08-17T08:47:00.006-04:00

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.

OH-16: Volunteer of the Week

2008-08-16T10:38:00.009-04:00

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

OH-16: John Boccieri Calls for Protecting Social Security

2008-08-14T18:25:00.008-04:00

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?

OH-16: John Boccieri's Economic Plan

2008-08-13T23:30:00.005-04:00

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

2008-08-13T19:33:00.004-04:00

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.

OH-16: John Boccieri - Competing Beyond the Olympics

2008-08-12T14:07:00.004-04:00

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

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

2008-08-09T10:48:00.006-04:00

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.

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

2008-08-08T12:04:00.004-04:00

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

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

2008-08-07T15:52:00.006-04:00

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!

2008-08-07T12:14:00.004-04:00

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!

2008-08-07T11:12:00.010-04:00

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.

OH-16: John Boccieri(D) - A "Citizen Journalist's Take" on the Energy Issue

2008-07-31T15:49:00.006-04:00

"We need to focus not on middle-east oil, but on mid-west innovation." ~ Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance)

I spend an incredible amount of time at this keyboard writing about the Congressional Race that's brewing here in OH's 16th District. I can come across "gems" that make the whole process of reaching out to the netroots community a pleasure. "Citizen Journalism" is one of today's polical heroes in The Netroots Nation. Today, I happened to stumble upon one of those beauties in The Canton Repository's, "Letters to the Editor":

Boccieri offers short-, long-term solutions to America's energy problems
Thursday, July 31, 2008

The present energy crisis has become an important issue in the lives of all Americans and in the political debate. To see where each candidate for the 16th Congressional stands, I went to both state Sen. Kirk Schuring's and state Sen. John Boccieri's Web sites.

The Schuring sites reads: "Kirk believes we need to look at both long term and short-term solutions to our energy problems. … We need start immediately doing more to take advantage of the natural resources in our own backyard, as well as look to alternative energy solutions that won't put a burden on the economy and on the pocket book of citizens of our community."

Schuring has also publicly stated that opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and more of America's coastal waters to drilling is a "short-term" solution to high gas prices.

I guess that to him, short-term is 20 years because that's how long it will take to get oil from those two objectives.

The Boccieri energy plan includes the following: "Require oil companies to drill on the 68 million U.S. acres" they already hold leases to; "invest in next-generation biofuels that can be grown in the 16th District; build new local refineries to process biofuels and other next-generation fuel sources; create an Apollo program to revolutionize our energy sources": invest in cutting-edge technologies like wind, solar, clean coal and biomass power; and free us from oil dependence forever.

Between the two candidates, it is clear that only John Boccieri has "short-term" solutions to the oil crisis.

DAVID B. MCCOY, PERRY TOWNSHIP

To me there is nothing more awesome than when the voters see through the "noise and distractions" being thrown at them by the MSM and Potomac Villagers. Mr. McCoy receives a standing round of applause right her, right now! He gets it and I give him the video version of his observations:

You can read more about Senator Major John Boccieri's Energy Plan here.

OH-16: Your "Team Boccieri HOF Weekend Preview"

2008-07-31T14:38:00.005-04:00

Team,

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Festivities have officially begun. Whether or not you are a pro football fan, the week ahead is going to be an exciting one.

A special thanks goes out to everyone who helped us in the Rittman Sleepwalker Parade and to those who made phone calls and knocked on doors. Our campaign contacted more voters this week than any previous week in the general election cycle. Please help us keep up this pace by coming to the office anytime between 11AM and 7PM, Monday-Friday to make phone calls or knock on doors.

Below are pictures from the ‘Backyard Discussion' House Party and the Rittman Parade.

And now for the upcoming activities and events...

What: Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival Event (Ribs Burn-Off)
Where: Stark County Fairgrounds
When: Wednesday, July 30-Friday, August 1 (5PM-8PM)
Notes: Come out wearing your Boccieri t-shirt and show your support at one of Canton's biggest events of the year. For details on participating with us, please email me at chris@johnforcongress.com

What: Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival Event (Timken Grand Parade)
Where: John Boccieri for Congress Headquarters (601 Cleveland Ave., NW, Canton)
When: Saturday, August 2 (6AM-8AM)
Notes: Come out wearing your Boccieri t-shirt and help us work the crowd before the parade starts. For details on participating with us, please email me at chris@johnforcongress.com

What: Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival Event (Concert and Fireworks)
Where: Downtown Canton
When: Saturday, August 2 (8PM-10PM)
Notes: Come out wearing your Boccieri t-shirt and show your support while enjoying the music and fireworks. For details on participating with us, please email me at chris@johnforcongress.com

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

Chris Cupples
Field Director,
John Boccieri for Congress
chris@johnforcongress.com
(330) 754-0534

OH-16: How's Your Economy?

2008-07-30T08:28:00.004-04:00

I was sitting here looking over this morning's e-mails and looking at the "stock market advisories", when this nefarious question popped into my head. How's your economy after almost eight years of "Bush-enomics"?

Well, a look at historical Dow Jones Industrial Index closing numbers lead me down a mathematical path. I found out that the old axiom about the stock market growing at a rate of 8%-12% per annum has been proven untrue under the "Bush/Cheney Watch". Stay with me here.

On January 28, 2000, the DJI closed at 10,739. On July 29, 2008, the DJI closed at 11,398. Now, let's look at the reality of "delta".

11,398 - 10, 739 = 659 points
659/11,398 = 0.0578 (points divided by points = a ratio)
0.0578 x 100% = 5.78% (this represents "total delta" over the 7-1/2 year run"
5.78%/7.5 years = 0.771% per annum over the run (divide by 12 to get monthly "delta")

I don't know how that works out for your IRA or 401k, but I'm guessing it's not moving mountains for the average middle-class American worker. So, I ask, again...

"How's your economy?"

OH-16: John Boccieri "Backyard Town Hall Meeting #1" V-Log

2008-07-26T06:38:00.012-04:00

We felt like bringing you something different, today. The videos in this V-Log were shot LIVE! at Senator Major John Boccieri's(D-Alliance) first "Backyard Town Hall Meeting". We thank all of those that were present and especially those that participated in the discussions.

“I’m going to keep listening to stories like these, because every one of these hard-working people motivates me daily,” Boccieri told attendees. “We’re going to Washington to put America first again. I want to be a congressman who wakes up every day and makes it my job to fight for your job.”

Be sure to contact Bryan, at (330)754-0534, for details for the Massilon, OH, meeting on 26July08. Hope to see you there!

OH-16: REMINDER: Massillon Backyard Economic Event Saturday

2008-07-25T16:33:00.004-04:00

REMINDER: Massillon Backyard Economic Event Saturday

Canton, OH – At 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, U.S. Congressional Candidate John Boccieri (OH-16) will discuss the economy with local residents at a backyard barbeque in Massillon . The event is part of a series of economic discussions across the 16th Congressional District.

Attendees are invited to share their concerns about the economy and tell their own stories about jobs, health care, housing, pensions, or any other aspect of the economic squeeze. Boccieri will answer questions about his plans to turn around the economy and restore prosperity for Ohio ’s working families.

The event is open to the public and the press, but RSVPs are required. Those interested in attending should contact Boccieri’s campaign headquarters at 330-754-0534.

Who: Congressional Candidate John Boccieri, local community members

What: Backyard barbeque and economic discussion

When: Saturday, July 26 at 6:30 p.m.

Where: Home in Massillon, OH for address, call Bryan at 330-754-0534

Before you go to the "Backyard Town-Hall Meeting", you might like to see a parade:

What: Johnny Appleseed Days Parade
Where: Downtown Apple Creek
When: Saturday, July 26, 3:00PM (Parade starts at 3:30PM)
Notes: For details on participating in the parade with us, please email Chris at chris@johnforcongress.com

OH-16: First Boccieri Backyard Discussion Addresses Pensions, Health Care

2008-07-25T15:07:00.004-04:00

First Boccieri Backyard Discussion Addresses Pensions, Health Care

Canton, OH – On Wednesday evening, U.S. Congressional Candidate John Boccieri (OH-16) discussed economic concerns with local community members at a backyard gathering in Canton . The meeting was the first in a series of economic discussions, with the next event scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 26 in Massillon .

Attendees’ stories focused on health care and pension struggles. “Last year I spent $20,000 on medicines and doctors,” Harry Featherstone of Wooster told the gathering.

George Korcedes, a Canton resident, described how his employer had taken premiums out of his paycheck for three months without actually providing health insurance, then laid him off – leaving him uninsured for more than 62 days and allowing insurers to deny him coverage based on preexisting conditions. He has since had two heart attacks, but has no health coverage.

Several attendees explained that their employers had repeatedly slashed retirement pensions, even when they were defined benefit plans supposedly protected by law. A 41-year employee of Republic Steel said he has seen his expected pension cut again and again. “You can’t retire,” he said. “You can’t go from $2- or 3,000 a month down to $400, with no insurance.”

“The answers to our nation’s problems are not in Washington ; they’re right here in backyards like this,” Boccieri said at the event. “The success of each of us depends on the success of all of us. We should protect American jobs and American workers.

“I’m going to keep listening to stories like these, because every one of these hard-working people motivates me daily,” Boccieri told attendees. “We’re going to Washington to put America first again. I want to be a congressman who wakes up every day and makes it my job to fight for your job.”

Look for a V-Blog of the event coming your way, soon!

OH-16: John Boccieri - "Senator Schuring is welcome to keep defending Bob Taft’s policies"

2008-07-24T09:29:00.005-04:00

Schuring Attempts to Justify $1 Billion Gas Tax Hike

Sen. Kirk Schuring issued a press release attempting to explain his vote for the 2003 Taft transportation bill that has cost Ohio families more than $1 billion in new gas taxes over the past five years. U.S. Congressional Candidate John Boccieri(D-Alliance) released the following response:

“It’s disappointing that Sen. Schuring thinks massive tax hikes on the middle class are the only way to pay for our infrastructure improvements. Government needs to live within its means like working people, which is why I opposed this bloated Taft-era transportation bill that included $580 million in new fees and taxes and raised Ohio gas taxes by over $250 million per year."

“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.”

OH-16: John Boccieri: "A Real Plan for America's Energy Crisis"

2008-07-23T16:01:00.007-04:00

Controlling Costs, Creating Jobs, Ending our Dependence on Oil

Since 2001, the price of gas in Ohio has doubled while progress toward energy independence has stalled in Washington. Oil companies have received billions in tax giveaways and quadrupled their profits under George W. Bush, but they haven't even begun to drill for oil on 68 million acres of U.S. land and coastal waters that are approved for drilling today. Americans are left just as dependent on foreign dictators and rogue regimes for our energy as we were seven years ago.

John believes that America's energy should come from Midwest innovation, not Middle East oil. To start relieving pain at the pump today, we should open the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, crack down on oil speculators, make oil companies drill on the U.S. lands and coastal waters they already have, and transition to alternative energy sources as soon as possible.

In the same 10-20 years it would take to develop new sources of oil, we could invest in cutting-edge technologies like wind, solar, biomass, biofuels, geothermal, clean coal and nuclear that will lead to home-grown, affordable, renewable energy while creating jobs and turning around the economy right here in the 16th District.

John's short-term and long-term energy solutions include:

Release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. The Reserve was created in the 1970s to respond to a gas crisis just like this one. Today, it is 98% full. Releasing just 7% of the Reserve’s current oil supply would begin to lower our fuel costs immediately. When President Bush announced he was releasing oil from the Reserve after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, prices began dropping that same day.

Crack down on Wall Street speculators who are artificially inflating oil prices. Experts say that closing a loophole in federal law that exempts electronic energy futures trading from government regulation could immediately lower the price of oil by 25 to 50%. Today, these futures markets are not regulated like other commodities futures markets, because in 2000 the collapsed energy company Enron pushed through a law exempting them from regulation. (This exemption is often called the “Enron Loophole.”)

Require oil companies to drill on the 68 million U.S. acres they already have. The number of U.S. drilling permits held by oil companies has doubled in the past 5 years, yet oil companies are only drilling on one quarter of the leases they currently hold. That leaves 68 million leased acres undeveloped – including 33.5 million acres off U.S. coasts. In the western Gulf of Mexico alone, oil companies hold more than 4,000 undeveloped leases. They should drill on these areas – where they can start today – rather than stockpiling even more leases that will not yield oil for decades.

Increase energy efficiency and conservation in the United States. Reducing our consumption of fuels is as important as developing alternative energy sources. We need to make serious investments in cutting-edge research like the fuel cell program at Stark State to develop vehicles, appliances, and buildings that run on less and cleaner energy.

Invest in next-generation biofuels that can be grown in the 16th District. Our region includes some of the most agriculturally productive areas in all of Ohio. We should develop diversified, next-generation biofuels that we can grow right here, boosting our whole economy.

Build new local refineries to process biofuels and other next-generation fuel sources. Once we’ve grown biofuels locally, we can also refine them at brand new local facilities employing hundreds of people. John sponsored a bill in the Ohio state legislature (SB 32) to build new alternative fuel refineries on “brownfields,” or abandoned industrial sites.

Create an Apollo program to revolutionize our energy sources. A large-scale transition to 21st-Century American energy sources like wind, solar, clean coal and biomass power would free us from oil dependence forever. At the same time, a report by the Apollo Alliance estimates that nearly 23,000 manufacturing jobs could be created in Ohio through production of alternative energy, and the Political Economy Research Institute finds that more than half a million workers in Ohio could see job growth and wage increases as a result of new green energy investments.

If you liked the video and want to help us get John's energy message out, consider making a contribution of just $22 to our campaign -- one dollar for every year we'll have to wait until Kirk Schuring's "short-term" energy solution has any effect.

As you can obviously see, hanging onto "The Bush/Cheney Energy Plan" is not a logical, nor, a feasible option. Ohio's 16th District requires much more than that. Don't you think it's time we started working for Energy Independence, today? Senator Major John Boccieri's opponent believes in big oil's "stay the course" ideology. We need a serious open discussion, today, if we are to help the next generation of tomorrow.

So much of what we use is derived from petroleum. Do we continue down this "dead-end road" or do we pull together behind forward thinking leaders like John Boccieri(D-Alliance)? You tell me. This "our open forum" guaranteed by great veterans like John. Let's take the fear and misguided emotion out of the equation and start working for our new "green today"!

OH-16:"Where will you be in 2030?"

2008-07-23T12:35:00.005-04:00

"We need to focus not on middle-east oil, but on mid-west innovation. ~ Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance)

In July, John spoke about high gas prices and his energy solutions at a Canton gas station. You can watch video excerpts below:

After John has been talking for weeks about his solutions to our energy crisis, his opponent finally gave us a proposal of his own this weekend. But while John has offered serious policies to both reduce oil prices immediately and transition away from oil dependence as soon as possible, Kirk Schuring's "plan" is nothing but a page out of George W. Bush's failed playbook.

Just like President Bush, Schuring claims that opening ANWR and more of America's coastal waters to drilling is a "short-term" solution to high gas prices.

Here's our response:

If you liked the video and want to help us get John's energy message out, consider making a contribution of just $22 to our campaign -- one dollar for every year we'll have to wait until Kirk Schuring's "short-term" energy solution has any effect.

OH-16: Boccieri Launches Backyard Economic Series at Canton Home

2008-07-22T18:06:00.005-04:00

There is some chatter coming from the street that Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance) is back on the move. You know what that means. "Boots on the Ground!"

It's time to stop the fear-mongering and distorted blurbs that are being thrown at John by his opponents' surrogates! John Boccieri has the courage and honor to walk into your community and tell you the truth about the issues.

This campaign isn't going to be driven on Bush's old playbook of distortion and noise.

John Boccieri for U.S. Congress is bringing his message, derived from facts and logical reasoning, founded in the greatest human attribute...TRUTH!

So, what's the word?

On Wednesday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m., U.S. Congressional Candidate John Boccieri (OH-16) will hold the first in a series of backyard economic discussions with 16th District voters who have been hurt by the struggling economy.

Community members will join Boccieri at a local Canton home to share their personal experiences with economic hardship, including job losses, pension cuts, and health care struggles. Boccieri will moderate the discussion and lay out his plans for restoring prosperity for Ohio ’s middle class.

And, a second Boccieri backyard economic discussion may already be in the works!

If, you are motivated and want to know more; you should know how to get the "skinny"! In the meanwhile, get your beverage and popcorn...it's movie time!

OH-16: John Boccieri "Schuring Will Cost Ohio $5 Billion at the Pump"

2008-07-22T12:29:00.006-04:00

We've got a little food for thought, today. The Senator Major John Boccieri(D-Alliance) issued a statement on the ongoing battle over energy indepence. This more "smart policy" for Ohio's 16th Congressional District!

Schuring Will Cost Ohio $5 Billion at the Pump before “Energy Plan” Takes Effect

Canton, OH – Rather than providing bold solutions to begin immediately easing pain at the pump, Kirk Schuring has endorsed George W. Bush’s energy stance, which calls for Americans to sit back and wait 20 years while big oil companies prospect for new sources of oil.

In Sunday’s edition of the Canton Repository, Schuring said that opening new areas in ANWR and the Outer Continental Shelf to drilling was a “short-term” solution that would “dramatically increase domestic energy production” and “have an immediate impact at the pump.”

Even George W. Bush’s Department of Energy projects that this approach “would not have a significant impact on domestic crude oil and natural gas production or prices before 2030,” and that expanded drilling in both ANWR and offshore would boost domestic oil production by at most 4% twenty years from now. Experts predict that even that increase would be largely cancelled out by declining global supply.

“Middle class families can’t wait 20 years for lower gas prices, especially when Kirk Schuring’s gas tax hike is going to cost them an extra $5 billion at the pump between now and then,” Congressional Candidate John Boccieri (D-Alliance) said today.

“Instead of giving voters a serious plan to bring down oil prices and lower gas prices immediately, my opponent offers nothing but failed gimmicks straight from George W. Bush’s playbook.”

Without a single serious proposal for short-term relief, the Schuring/Bush energy “plan” is nothing more than a continuation of the last seven years of failed Washington policies that provide giveaways to the oil industry while Americans’ gas prices double. This comes as no surprise, given that Schuring has taken over $20,000 from oil companies and chaired George Bush’s 2004 re-election campaign in Stark County .

“We need swift, serious, far-reaching energy solutions,” Boccieri said. “To start relieving pain at the pump today, we should open the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, drill on the 68 million acres of U.S. land and coastal waters that are already approved for drilling, and transition to alternative energy sources as soon as possible.”

We don't need George W. Bush's failed policy and Kirk Schuring's Tax Increase strangling OH-16 from The U.S. House of Representatives! We need real solutions that benefit the citizens of our district instead of big oil, special interest groups, and Washington lobbyists!

OH-16: John Boccieri on "Gas Prices and Energy" an Editorial

2008-07-21T15:21:00.004-04:00

Just in case you missed it!

We know that all of the readers of the John Boccieri for U.S. Congress don't all get "The Canton Repository". So, it is our great pleasure to bring you a Sunday, "Editorial" by the Senator Major John Boccieri(D) himself. This is "smart" OH-16 energy policy!

Make oil companies drill on land they already have

Sunday, July 20, 2008

BY STATE SEN. JOHN BOCCIERI

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE,

16TH OHIO DISTRICT, U.S. HOUSE

We need to bring gas prices down today and achieve energy independence as soon as possible. That means releasing fuel from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, making oil companies drill on the land they already have, and accelerating our transition to alternative energy sources. ANWR drilling wouldn't yield oil for 10-20 years and would do more for oil company profits than for the American middle class.

Right now, oil companies are sitting on 68 million U.S. acres, including coastal waters, that are approved for drilling today. They should stop prospecting and start drilling.

Under the Bush administration, oil companies have received huge tax breaks and quadrupled their profits, and all we have is $4-per-gallon gas. They've done nothing to demonstrate that giving them even more will get us out of this mess.

Reducing our fuel consumption is as important as developing alternative energy sources.

In the same time that big oil companies want to spend prospecting, we could completely transition to proven alternatives like wind and solar that would create "green-collar" jobs and free us from oil forever. We need to invest in serious research, like Stark State's fuel-cell facility, not game show gimmicks.

Nuclear should be a part of America's energy policy, but only if reliable and completely safe for local communities and the environment.

Park Farms in Canton is struggling to afford corn feed for chickens. We should develop diversified, next-generation biofuels that we can grow in the 16th District and refine at cutting-edge local refineries, boosting our entire economy. Utilities should be required to develop 25 percent of their production from "clean" energy sources by 2025. In the Ohio Legislature, I supported a similar measure.

Ohio sits on 250 years of coal reserves. A clean-coal refinery is being built in a neighboring county. Stark County could be the next location for a cutting-edge facility.