Nevada HQ

Adventures in Interning

User from Henderson, NV — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 15:38:29 MST

Hello, I'm Conor Fitzpatrick. I am currently a freshman at Albion College and I graduated from Foothill High School in Henderson, Nevada.

These days, it is almost too easy to pick on the game known as politics. The hair-spray, the canned jokes, and that slightly over-eager teen volunteer that calls you at 9:45 pm. On television, it can appear that those involved in politics want nothing more than to swindle you into giving your vote to their candidate. However, when one takes a step away and delves into the process, one makes a truly startling discovery: a presidential campaign is made up of people like you. No matter what state the workers come from or what campaign they work for, they all share an interest in making the world a better place for the rest of us. Through my tenure of interning for the Richardson for President Campaign, I have discovered that a presidential campaign is nothing more than a group of everyday Americans trying to make this a better country for generations to come.

I'm sure when you hear that I am an Intern, you immediately think that I do nothing more than make copies and coffee. This couldn't be further from the truth; some of the workers enjoy tea. Regardless of job title, everyone shares the same goal: We want nothing more than to see Bill Richardson in the White House. We are all ready and willing to do anything that will lead to that result. For me, that has meant anything from making speeches to putting brochures together. The experience at the Richardson Campaign has been a dream come true. I have been able to satiate my appetite for politics while supporting a candidate with whom I wholeheartedly agree. I encourage everyone, young and old, to become involved with a political campaign.

Now for my story. Until the early summer, I was undecided in the Democratic Presidential race. I found that I agreed with most of what the Democratic Candidates had to say but had yet to find a candidate that truly represented my views. That all changed when I saw a speech by New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson on C-Span. After listening to Richardson's speech, I was rather elated. I had finally found a candidate that shared my fervor to withdraw from Iraq while simultaneously rebuilding alliances around the Middle East. Governor Richardson also shares my desire to restore the bill of rights, especially the 4th amendment by ending warrantless wiretaps. Finally, I saw in Richardson something different than all the others. While the other candidates eloquently stated their positions and plans, Richardson was the only candidate that had a record of accomplishing these goals. While Governor, he balanced the budget while simultaneously increasing education scores and teacher pay. Because of these and many more accomplishments I am proud to tell my classmates that the first vote I will ever cast will be for Bill Richardson.

CALL TONIGHT and Weekend Recap

Josh McNeil — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 09:38:49 MST

First things first – make sure to join Governor Richardson on a special conference call with Nevada supporters TONIGHT, Wednesday, December 13, at 7:15pm. Call HQ at (702) 385 – 2455 for your special passcode.

If you’ve been reading the paper or watching the news, you already know that the Richardson campaign in Nevada had a pretty incredible weekend. Governor Richardson was in Las Vegas on Saturday and Monday. Not only was he the first candidate to visit Sun City Anthem, not only did he rally with hundreds of Democrats at Rancho High School, not only did he earn two MAJOR endorsement, but he was joined for it all by First Lady Barbara Richardson.

Jorge and Steve have already posted about Saturday’s events, so I want to take this opportunity to celebrate two new additions to our campaign: State Senator Maggie Carlton and Assemblyman Mo Denis. These two influential legislators have announced their support for Governor Richardson and will be key to our efforts to win on January 19. Check out the press releases at the right for more information on our new teammates, and take a look at what they had to say:

“I asked Bill Richardson about his plans to improve education and to support America's families. He showed me the depth of both his experience and his commitment to helping them succeed. He has my wholehearted support." Nevada State Assemblyman Mo Denis, District 28

"Democrats are blessed with a lot of great candidates, but I believe that Bill Richardson has the best experience and the proven record to deliver for my constituents and for working people across the country. In addition, he is the most electable candidate in our party. He will bring Nevada and the West into the Democratic camp and ensure that the Republican disaster of the last 7 years comes to an end." Nevada State Senator Maggie Carlton, District 2

To sum up: our momentum is building, our organization is growing, and with your help, we’re set to make history in Nevada. Join us on the call tonight to find out how.

From house party host Steve Sacks

Josh McNeil — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 23:55:49 MST

A post from Steve Sacks:

My wife Felice and I live in Sun City Anthem, in Henderson, NV. We have been supporting Gov. Richardson since early this year, when we became aware of his amazing track record in both domestic and international affairs. We are lifelong democrats, and believe the Gov. is the most experienced democrat in the field, by far.

We had volunteered our home for a "routine" Saturday house party to support the campaign, expecting a campaign aide to show a video clip of Governor Richardson and explain the caucus process to 20-30 of our neighbors. Three days before the December 8th event, however, the Governor announced that he and his wife Barbara would be in Las Vegas, and would attend IN PERSON. We were, of course, thrilled and delighted, albeit somewhat concerned as to whether our house would hold the crowd. As it turned out, more than 100 showed up, on very short notice, to meet and hear him. It was wall to wall people, but everyone squeezed in, including my 91 year old dad, who has been voting for democrats since FDR's days.

As always, Gov. Richardson was concise, straightforward, and on point. He also displayed his disarming sense of humor. And, as is his practice, the Governor did not leave after his remarks until he had shaken hands and personally greeted everyone in the house.

Felice and I want to thank Holly Welborn, Ken Rosenberg, and the rest of the Richardson team here in Las Vegas for their assistance in putting the gathering together and affording us the opportunity to meet Governor Richardson and his wife Barbara, and make our modest contribution to his campaign.

Hundreds Gather for Mock Caucus

Jorge — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 13:22:22 MST

"Si Se Puede! Si Se Puede! Si Se Puede!" echoed through the halls of Rancho High School as Governor Bill Richardson addressed a crowd gathered for a mock caucus. The mock caucus was organized by the Nevada Democratic Party in the heart of the Hispanic community to engage them in this important election.

With scattered drizzle at 8AM, the day started with the Richardson team in full force posting signs in and around Rancho High to show the community that East Las Vegas is Richardson Land. As mariachi's and folklorico dancers livened up the audience, Governor Richardson was introduced by his wife, First Lady Barbara Richardson.

"Muchas gracias" the Governor said as he greeted the audience. The Governor stressed the importance of the Nevada Democratic Caucus in the nominating process for our party. "America is going to be watching Nevada," said the Governor. Seeing so many people come out for a mock caucus was exciting. Over 300 people showed up to learn about the caucus process and what to expect on January 19th.

The day was long and well worth it. At the end of the training, people rushed to the Richardson table to sign pledge cards and volunteer! As part of the Richardson team in East Las Vegas I know that come January 19th the Hispanic community will stand up con todos for Governor Bill Richardson!

-Jorge Adame

A message from the Co-Chair of the Rural Advisory Board

Josh McNeil — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 13:01:07 MST

My husband Tim and I are proud to co-Chair the Richardson for President campaign’s Small Towns and Rural Communities Advisory Board in Nevada with Bob Johnston of Fallon and Marco Ruela of Mesquite. We, along with many others in rural Nevada, know that Governor Richardson is the only candidate who has personally worked in areas like Pahrump and the only one with the experience to help our communities thrive.

As a westerner, Bill has already dealt with problems facing small towns like Pahrump. He has been a champion on issues such as water, land use, health care and energy for the last five years as Governor and for 14 years as a U.S. Congressman representing New Mexico.

While we care about rural issues, towns like ours can only succeed if America succeeds. We believe that Bill Richardson has the most innovative, aggressive and realistic plans to get our troops out of Iraq, to deal with immigration, and to address out nation’s health care crisis. More than that, he has the experience to put his plans into action.

He will bring our troops home in a year. No other candidate has made that commitment and no other candidate has put forth a realistic plan that incorporates diplomacy and an understanding of the region.

As the Governor of a border state, he has already worked to secure the border and formulated an immigration plan that works. He was the first Governor to declare a State of Emergency on the border, which helped get vital resources to the state and local law enforcement officials that are forced to do the federal government’s job.

Richardson’s universal health care plan is by far the most comprehensive. He will provide coverage to working families and small businesses and offer the same health care plan available to Congressional members.

His plan to introduce a Hero’s Health Card should be his rally cry. In places like Pahrump, the closest VA hospital is over 70 miles away. The Hero’s Health Card will allow all veterans to choose any physician wherever they live.

We know that Governor Richardson will honor his commitments as president because he has kept his promises throughout his career. Rural Nevada needs answers, and Bill Richardson has them. More than that, he’s shown that he’ll follow through and get things done.

We’re proud to support Bill and will work hard to let our neighbors in Pahrump know what a great candidate we have.

Sincerely,

Susan Terrell

A Family that campaigns together stays together!

Mara — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 19:35:56 MST

Every Tuesday morning, Dorothy and Percy Stevenson come strolling into the Reno Richardson Office. Both greet the staff with hugs, and Percy always adds a discontented "do I have to make more phone calls?" Regardless of what activity may be needed of the grandparents of 14, they do it knowing that Bill Richardson is the best candidate for President. "…He is the best man for the job, and everyone should get behind him. We're dedicated, we want to see him become president."

Their outstanding commitment is a family affair. Ross Armstrong, the Stevenson's grandson, started volunteering with the campaign in the spring of 2007. He soon became the staff's "go to" volunteer. Ross's patriotism and innate sense of kindness inspired many. Wherever Ross would go, Richardson for President was always a priority. "I care about the future of our country. My generation is often labeled as apathetic and I fight the stereotype. Bill Richardson has the experience and ideas for change that is desperately lacking in the other democratic candidates. He is a presidential contender that both my republican father and democratic mother can support and inspires multiple generations. He truly is an intergenerational candidate." Even though Ross left Nevada to begin his first year in law school this fall, his family has picked up where he left off.

Dee Lynn and Mark Armstrong, Ross's parents, lead Assembly District 24 fearlessly. They aren't strangers to canvassing, phone calls, and even the occasional house party. Every week, the Armstrongs come into the office and lend a helping hand. They are often asking for more work and are eager to mobilize Richardson supporters in their neighborhood. "We do what's asked." Dee Lynn says. "We know that little things make big things happen."

The Armstrong/Stevenson family have all the volunteer bases covered it seems. Percy is an expert mailer, Mark is a great canvasser, Dorothy has a special touch on the phone, Dee Lynn knows how to throw the most successful house parties, Ross blogs and votes all over the internet, and Alyson makes the best chocolate chip cookies. Regardless of the task, they find a way to say yes. "The family that campaigns together stays together."

First Lady Richardson Celebrated Gov. Richardson's Birthday in Nevada

Kristin Johnson — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 10:22:21 MST

Yesterday was an exciting day for the Richardson for President campaign in Nevada. First Lady Barbara Richardson accompanied her husband, Governor Richardson, on his 19th trip to Nevada to help celebrate his 60th birthday. Our staff had a very busy day!

First Lady Richardson attended a Nevada "Women for Richardson" luncheon at Neiman Marcus' Mariposa restaurant yesterday. First Lady Richardson recognized and specially thanked Eva Garcia Mendoza, Chair of the Women For Richardson chapter of Nevada; Sharon Maloof, Deputy Secretary of the New Mexico Tourism Department; Mary Gallagher, founder of the "Tom and Mary Gallagher Foundation" and Yolanda Muro, who organized the event. Other local supporters included Kristin Haycocks, Cecilia Martinez-Avila, Peggy Gibson, Sarah Denton, Lovee Arum, Hui Lim Ang and LeeAnn Inadomi.

Holly Welborn and I watched the debate from the Clark County Debate watch party at the Paris Hotel, held before the Jefferson-Jackson dinner. In celebration of Governor Richardson's birthday, we decorated tables with birthday balloons, cupcakes, confetti and presents. Everyone loved the decorations! Our tables and cheerful supporters definitely stood out from the other campaigns' groups at the debate watch party.

We were all very proud of Governor Richardson's performance during the debate. He distinguished himself from other candidates by pointing out his differences on the Iraq war and that he is the only candidate with hands-on experience dealing with Western issues. By not engaging in mudslinging, he showed real leadership and led the other candidates to a real discussion of the issues. Our group was the loudest of all the campaigns at the debate watch party, and Governor Richardson's responses even drew loud cheers from supporters of other campaigns in the room.

After the debate, First Lady and Governor Richardson went to the Nevada Jefferson-Jackson dinner where John Hunt, Chairman of the Clark County Central Committee, interrupted the scheduled agenda to introduce Governor Richardson first, and wish him a happy birthday. The entire audience sang "Happy Birthday" to Governor Richardson, and he only looked a little embarassed.

At the JJ Dinner, Governor Richardson walked on stage with his wife and Nevada State Senator Maggie Carlton. First Lady Barbara Richardson stayed on stage during Governor Richardson's entire speech. She was very enthusiastic in support of her husband, and it was obvious that her presence gave Governor Richardson extra energy, because he had the audience cheering during his entire speech.

Thanks to John Hunt allowing Governor Richardson to speak first, First Lady and Governor Richardson were able to make an early exit in order to share a private dinner to celebrate Governor Richardson's birthday.

After the Jefferson-Jackson dinner, the Richardson for President national staff joined the Nevada staff for dinner for our own celebration: another successful visit to Nevada by Governor Richardson!

Northern Nevada throws Birthday Parties for Governor Richardson

Josh McNeil — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 16:44:35 MST

Our Reno staff passed along this report on some great events in Northern Nevada:

As Gov. Richardson took the stage in Las Vegas during the debate, Northern Nevada threw him three great birthday parties.

In Reno, Drs. Lynn and Paul Brosy opened their home to a group of about 15 democrats. “ We live in a very republican neighborhood, so this chance to connect with other Democrats was great,” Lynn said. Down in Carson City, Janet and Merle Riggs led their crowd in singing “Happy Birthday” complete with cake and ice cream. Douglas County Democrats enjoyed food and conversation at Marie Louise Lekumberry’s home.

Both Richardson supporters and undecided voters watched the debate and discussed the different strengths of the candidates. Everyone agreed that Richardson gave a tremendously strong performance and appreciated his concern for renewable energy and his plan for an immediatewithdrawal from Iraq. “It’s time to get the troops home,” Brosy said.

Carson City’s attendees were impressed with Richardson’s experience in foreign policy and diplomacy. “We need a president who prioritizes peace. Gov. Richardson has now been nominated five times for the Nobel Peace Prize. That’s impressive,” Carson City resident Rex Harold said.

In Douglas County, hosts Marie Louise and Evan Beavers were excited with the turnout and energy of the crowd. Marie was even successful in recruiting a couple of canvassers. “Volunteering on the campaign is easy and a lot of fun as well,”Marie told party guests.

Though a tad jealous that Las Vegas received all the notice, house party guests were excited for the national attention on Nevada. The three parties were a fun and informative chance to support the best candidate and only Westerner in the race, Bill Richardson.

November 15 by the Numbers

Josh McNeil — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 19:04:17 MST

Of the many days that Governor Richardson has spent campaigning in Nevada, yesterday may have been the my favorite. The Richardson campaign held a tremendous number of events thoughout the day, and we'll be posting reports and photos of those events in the next couple of days. Governor Richardson delivered an incredible debate performance, In the meantime, here are the vital statistics:

19: November 15 was the Governor's 19th day campaigning in Nevada, more than any other candidate.

1: New Mexico 1st Lady Barbara Richardson joined Chair Eva Garcia Mendoza at a luncheon for Nevada Women for Richardson and spoke about the Governor's amazing history of rescuing American hostages from some of the world's most dangerous countries, including Iraq, Sudan, and North Korea.

5: Yesterday, Governor Richardson earned his 5th nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize in honor of his lifelong commitment to peace through diplomacy.

60: He doesn't like to talk about it, but yesterday was Governor Richardson's 60th birthday, celebrated with the Democrats of Las Vegas.

2000: Governor Richardson spoke to more than 2000 Democrats at the Clark County Jefferson-Jackson Dinner, and demonstrated his unique experience with water, traffic, land-use and the other Western issues that affect Nevada.

12: The Richardson for President campaign hosted 12 debate watch parties held across Nevada. Hundreds of supporters came together from Boulder City to Douglas County to watch the only Western candidate take part in the first major Western debate.

2013: Richardson supporters held "2013" signes in front of the debate, asking the other candidates why they plan to leave combat troops in Iraq for five more years, and why it will take them longer to end the war in Iraq than it took President Roosevelt to win World War II.

1: Ultimately, the day belonged to Governor Richardson: The 1 candidate with a plan to get our troops out within 1 year, the 1 candidate with the knowledge and courage to take real stands on every issue put forward in the debate, the 1 candidate who cared more about the issues than about tearing down other Democrats, and the 1 candidate who proved last night that he has the experience to lead this country in the right direction.

We'll have more details on the debate, on the Jefferson-Jackson dinner and on the First Lady's visit in future posts. In the meantime, I hope you're as proud as we are to support Governor Richardson. November 15 was a great day for our campaign, a great day for Democrats, and a great day for Nevada.

Debate week is here!

Ed Espinoza — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 14:32:26 MST

This is Ed Espinoza, Nevada Caucus Director for Governor Bill Richardson's presidential campaign. This week I will be posting blog entries about our campaign events, as well as providing a glimpse into the day-to-day work of our campaign staff.

It's an exciting time to be a Democrat in Nevada this week! In just two days, Las Vegas will host the CNN Presidential debate at UNLV, followed by the annual Clark County Jefferson Jackson dinner. It’s going to be a busy, interesting and fun week of campaigning. I’m looking forward to seeing all of our volunteers and supporters at the office and at our rally. I’ll be posting a diary each day this week to give you updates on our campaign activities and other news along the way.

This week comes after 10 days of traveling, including a trip to Iowa where I was able to receive hands-on training in a traditional caucus state. I also had the pleasure of talking to voters who have been engaged in the presidential caucus process for decades. It’s interesting to see their take on the process, their reminders of how anything can happen, and how they all know that caucus night results can switch dramatically from what the polls said the day before (as was the case in 2004).

Talking to voters about the political process is one of the more rewarding aspects of this type of work. As is the case here in Nevada, from Boulder City to Winnemucca, it’s moving to see our democratic process unfold and the sense of empowerment it provides people.

In the past few weeks, I have traveled to Elko, Reno, Iowa and Washington DC and now back home to Las Vegas – all while living out of a suitcase and eating on the road. It’s not exactly jet-setting, adjusting to different time zones, sleeping on couches and eating too much fast food. Still, the work we are doing to spread the word about Governor Richardson and his message of change and experience does make these minor inconveniences worth it. Especially when the work you are doing isn’t just a job – it’s a mission to change America for the better and end eight years of failed Republican policies.

But in the meantime it is nice to be back home, do a load of laundry and get a meal of food that doesn’t come between two pieces of bread.

Keep reading this week - I'll post a glimpse of debate prep, info on our house parties and our various organizing activities in rural communities around Nevada!

Elko office up and running

Josh McNeil — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 01:17:56 MDT

A post From Lance Whitney, Northeastern Nevada Regional Field Director:

It’s official. The Northeaster Nevada headquarters for Bill Richardson for President is open for business.

We kicked off the opening last Saturday to a crowd of over 50 people from the area. Caucus goers from all over Elko County came to enjoy food and fun…but most importantly, they came to learn more about Governor Richardson and our campaign.

I started the conversation by introducing myself and our staff. I talked about what it meant to be a rural Nevadan and how important rural Nevada is to the Governor. I spoke about growing up here in Elko, and what an honor it was to have been selected to head the campaign here. Being the only Regional Field Director from any campaign in the area who’s a native of Elko really says something about how important we are to this campaign.

I turned the conversation over to Be-Be Adams, the campaign’s County Chair and executive of Barrick Goldstrike, the world’s largest gold producer. Be-Be explained that the reason she joined us is because Governor Richardson understands mining. Mining happens to be the lifeblood of the Northeastern Nevada economy, and Governor Richardson is the only candidate who has hands-on experience working with mining communities. She continued by saying that our staff if the best staff she’s had the privilege of working with, and she very much looks forward to working with us in the coming months.

Our State Director, Roberta Lange, wrapped up the conversation by talking about our statewide presence in Nevada. She spoke about how each individual on our team was hand-picked because of his or her unique skills and talents, and how the Governor put such a high priority on hiring people from Nevada. She talked about how important Nevada is to the campaign and to the Governor, and how great it will be to elect a western Democrat to the Presidency.

At the end, we took questions from the crowd and talked about the issues, and when all was said and done, we had a new group of supporters and volunteers. Voters had come to hear about the Governor and ended up leaving with the knowledge that he really is the best candidate in the race.

So, it is official. We are open for business and ready to win it for Bill Richardson in Northeastern Nevada!

Richardson Earns Key Endorsements Across Nevada

Josh McNeil — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 01:17:56 MDT

Yesterday was a red-letter day for the Richardson campaign here in Nevada. Governor Richardson met with hundreds of people from across the state and proved to them that he's got the right stuff to lead this country and the skill to win this race. The highlights of the day were four important endorsements: Las Vegas Mayor Pro-Tem Gary Reese, the Plasterers' and Cement Masons' Local 797, Carson City Democratic Party Chair Steve Platt, and National Stonewall Democrats Board Member Bill Jacobs have joined our team!

Read more about these endorsements in the official press release after the link.

Red Rock Democrats Canvass with Team Richardson

Josh McNeil — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 21:43:23 MDT

From Regional Field Director Kristin Johnson:

On October 13, New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson was the first Democratic candidate to meet with Red Rock Democratic Club members and Summerlin residents. Governor Richardson met us before Red Rock members and Richardson For President campaign staff went knocking on doors to talk to neighbors about Governor Richardson, the upcoming caucus and ways to get involved.

This was Governor Richardson’s first event of the day. He was full of energy and charisma when he greeted the crowd of over 100 people. He proceeded to shake hands all the way to the podium, jump up on stage, thank everyone for their help, and pump up the crowd. Governor Richardson spoke about his commitment to issues important to Nevada, such as water rights, traffic and land use. To much applause, he spoke about his plans for national health care and getting our troops out of Iraq immediately.

The Richardson For President campaign prepared materials for attendees to walk door to door to speak with voters about Governor Richardson and the upcoming January caucus. Steve Fernlund, President of the Red Rock Democratic Club, introduced Governor Richardson. Steve lauded Governor Richardson’s many accomplishments as one of our country’s most experienced statesman, focusing on his leadership in New Mexico.

We met in the parking lot of the Three Angry Wives Pub in Boca Park. The restaurant staff was so excited to host Governor Richardson that they set up tables and coffee for our volunteers in the parking lot. After the event, one of the bartenders even lent us his personal truck so we could bring our stage back to our office! Committed volunteers and generous people make campaigning in Nevada such a pleasure.

We want to thank all of the volunteers, both from our campaign and from Red Rock. Not only was the event with the Governor a great kick-off, our joint canvass was a real success.

Great event in Boulder City

Josh McNeil — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 12:33:32 MDT

Just a quick note to let you know that Governor Richardson's event last night in Boulder City succeeded beyond all expectations. The response to this first 2008 Presidential candidate visit to Boulder City overwhelmed us. People were lined up out the door to get into the packed room!

Governor Richardson gave detailed answers to tough questions and interacted with the crowd in the way that only he can. After the event, one of our guests walked up to Caucus Director Ed Espinoza and, unsolicited, handed him a $2,300 donation because she and her husband were so impressed with the Governor's depth of knowledge and experience.

I could talk about the event all day, but I'll let Molly Ball from the Las Vegas Review-Journal tell you about it.

Click the link below for her account of the Governor's trip to Boulder City:

http://www.lvrj.com/news/10200216.html

Why Sarah supports Governor Richardson - her brother

Josh McNeil — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 11:35:49 MDT

This post comes from Sarah Ridge, a Richardson for President organizer in Las Vegas:

I first came to support Governor Richardson because he is the only candidate to demand all of our American troops out of Iraq. That is the number one issue for me, because my big brother is in the Army Reserves and recently got called to Iraq. He will be deployed any day now. I pray every day that he will be safe, and I'm doing what I can to make it happen. No other candidate is calling for a complete withdrawal. No one else promises to bring my brother home to Nevada. Bill Richardson does. That is why he has my vote.

A Message from our Volunteer of the Week

Josh McNeil — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 14:15:24 MDT

My name is Bob Rodriguez, and I have volunteered with the Governor’s campaign for some five months. The Governor’s campaign is not one that addresses the masses but talks to the people at the grass roots level on a one-to-one basis. The other volunteers and I are an important part of that outreach effort and we’re making a difference, while the staff has impressed me by their professionalism and contacts.

The enthusiasm, professionalism and motivation of all involved was recently brought into clearer focus during the visit of the Roadrunners, numerous volunteers who came from New Mexico to Nevada to engage in campaign activities for the Governor.

Thanks to the Roadrunners!

Josh McNeil — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 21:10:56 MDT

Dear Roadrunners,

On behalf of the Richardson for President Nevada staff and our local volunteers, I want to thank Richardson’s Roadrunners, the dozens of volunteers from New Mexico who made the long trek from Albuquerque to Las Vegas. You made a real difference, giving thousands of Nevadans your first-hand accounts of Governor Richardson’s abilities and priorities. Aside from the Governor himself, there are no better ambassadors for our campaign than those of us who have directly benefited from his leadership in New Mexico.

The Governor in Pahrump September 8

Kristin Johnson — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 19:34:56 MDT

Please take a look at the following post, originally posted at:
http://nyenevada.blogspot.com/2007/09/chairman-loyal-watkins-lauds-bill.html

Chairman Loyal Watkins Lauds Bill Richardson Visit

Mr. Loyal R. Watkins, Chairman of the Nye County Democratic Central Committee, issued the following statement yesterday. [Nye County Democratic Party]

On Saturday, September 8, I had the personal pleasure and honor of introducing Democratic Presidential candidate, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, to over 200 voters in Pahrump's Honeysuckle Park.

Though I have long admired Governor Richardson for his many accomplishments, I was especially impressed by his ability to personally connect with residents of Pahrump on Saturday while, at the same time, appearing very Presidential. The Governor spoke about issues that affect Nye County and other rural areas of Nevada in a manner that shows he has a genuine understanding of both our concerns and our culture.

The Governor was very well received by the crowd, which turned in to a rally for Governor Richardson by the end of his speech. After his remarks, Governor Richardson took the time to personally engage with the crowd and answer specific questions about his proposed plans. As Chair of the Nye County Democratic Central Committee I am prohibited from endorsing any candidate at this stage but I greatly appreciate the motivation Governor Richardson's visit provided to get more Democrats involved in Pahrump!

During my remarks, I mentioned that Nye County has already benefited from Governor Richardson's leadership, which the Governor explained further in his address. As Secretary of Energy, Governor Richardson proposed broader benefits and better coverage for nuclear workers, and was the first to award compensation to workers at the Nevada Test Site. Richardson's proposals provide that workers who develop cancer after radiation exposure or lung diseases receive government-paid medical care plus a lump sum payment. I am pleased to have met the person who made this happen.

Governor Richardson also discussed his plans to promote and protect rural areas. He would introduce the national Rural Jobs Tax Credit, which will offer companies a tax credit for moving into rural areas, creating jobs, and paying good wages. Richardson said that he will establish a Cabinet level Department of Water and establish a national water plan. He stressed that as Governor of New Mexico, he has consistently stood up to the federal government to protect our land and water.

He also has a plan for veterans, called the Heroes Health Card, that would be provided to every American veteran and all military personnel, which would allow them to be treated in any doctor's office or hospital as if it were a VA facility. A Heroes Health Card would be especially beneficial for places like Pahrump, Beatty, Amargosa, Tonopah, Duckwater, Round Mountain, Manhattan and Gabbs where the closest VA facility is far away.

I am proud that this great Westerner campaigned in Pahrump and we hope to see him again soon.

Loyal R. Watkins, Chairman, Nye County Democratic Central Committee

Labor Days

Taylor — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 14:18:16 MDT

A team of Richardson for President supporters packed their bags and hit the road this past Labor Day weekend. The team was 16 people strong, with supporters joining us from Elko, Reno and as far away as Las Vegas. We set out to represent the Governor's message of Change and Experience across beautiful rural Nevada. Lance has already posted about our time in Elko, but I want to tell you about the rest of our trip.

On Saturday we rose early and made the 90-minute trek under clear skies to
Winnemucca, Nevada. An enthusiastic crowd of town residents lined the
avenues and we made our way along the route. Although we had a minor snag - our classic green Chevy pick-up truck over-heated in the afternoon sun - it was no match for our team's enthusiasm as we forged ahead, completing the journey by foot. A group of Shriners were nice enough to give us a hitch back in their air conditioned bus. If you are reading this, Shriners, - thanks for the hospitality! Several Shriners were familiar with Governor Richardson and complimented us on his position in favor of a balanced budget amendment.

Sunday was a visit to Sparks, Nevada for the annual Rib Cook-off, where we spoke to hundreds of people and were seen by thousands more. And of course we ate some of the best ribs on Earth! We recommend the thermonuclear ribs, if you ever make it down. They literally sting the nostrils.

On Monday the team split and went into two directions. One team found itself in the historic mining town and popular tourist destination of Virginia City, Nevada. The town is almost completely done in the old West style, with plank board sidewalks, saloons, and, I'm told, the occasion gun fight. The Governor would have fit right in. We received many compliments on the Governor's record and his reputation as a sportsman and gun owner.
Imagine that in an old Western gun town?

The other team headed out to Churchill County to participate in Fallon's Labor Day parade, where the crew was seen by yet another highly visible community of onlookers. We also participated in the Cantaloupe festival - good times and fantastic food.

The crew was exhausted by the end of the trip but still managed to make it to the Stonewall Democrats Ice Cream social in Reno before everyone parted ways on Monday evening.

All said it was a hugely successful trip. Many a rural Nevadan are now more familiar with the Governor and his outstanding combination of Change and Experience. Happy belated Labor Day - we will see you on the trail!

Staff Visit to Elko aka A Grand Weekend Out

Lance Whitney — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 19:16:06 MDT

On a bright and sunny Labor Day weekend, Richardson for President supporters
from northern Nevada rural counties and from around the state gathered in
Elko to talk to voters about the election. The weekend was electric! I got
to spend quality time with other members of the campaign and talk to voters
about why Bill Richardson is the man that we all want to be the next
president.

The Friday of Labor Day weekend was the big Labor Day parade in Elko. Our
team gathered early that morning and decorated a big truck with signs,
balloons, and streamers and made our way down Idaho Street in the parade.
The street was filled with thousands of residents waving and cheering. The
reception we received was breathtaking. Northeastern Nevadans love them
some Bill Richardson.

Then we were off to the Elko County Fair where we handed out the Governor's
baseball cards (he was a pitcher in college). We chatted with the folks
about the election, exchanged ideas and signed-up supporters. And of course
drank lemonade and took in the horse races. Elko fairs are a real blast!

At the end of the day came the best part of the trip - dinner at the Star!
On our way in, we ran into Governor Gibbons. He told us to go home because
he'd eaten all the food, but we went in anyway. We started dinner off the
right way with the famous before-dinner cocktail, the Picon Punch. We
survived, had a huge and delicious meal, celebrated the birthday of one of
our staff, and had a great time.

All of the Richardson supporters were very genuine and down to earth. I
felt that I connected with everyone on a personal level. I've never really
had an experience like that with co-workers before, and the volunteers who
joined us were just as inspiring. I'm of the mind that you can judge a
politician by the people they have around them. Well, Bill Richardson has
some amazing people around him, and I believe he will be the next president.
I'm glad to be a part of this amazing campaign and this wonderful group of
supporters.

Those who came in for the parade from out of town kept telling me how much
they loved Elko and the people here. And really, who doesn't? That's why I
love to call Elko home. Meanwhile, everyone in Elko was grateful to
Governor Richardson for being the first candidate to visit Elko and happy
that so many of his supporters came out to celebrate Labor Day with us.