Big Crowds at Both Frankie Z & Firehouse Grill for Kerry Speech

Lowdown from Chicago:

60-70 People gathered at Frankie Z's to watch John Kerry accept the nomination as Candidate for President of the United States. Veteran volunteers mixed with Campaign neophytes in both the front room and backroom of this distiguished Chicago location. TV's in the front and back -- including the huge screen in the back -- were all tuned to the proceedings in Boston. It was the perfect environment to watch the event.

Particularly popular with the crowd was the speech by Clark. It drew a lot of applause. Max Cleland's speech also received a warm reception.

Of course, the man of the moment, the person we all came to see, received the longest and most substained applause. A cameraman from ABC/7 was there to document the feelings of the crowd as Kerry began to speak. We leaped to our feet and did so several times as Kerry, through his words and delivery, made it clear why he's the right man for the job -- why he's going to be the next president of the United States.

Thursday night was truly a special volunteer occasion.

Lowdown from Evanston:

Slightly under one hundred excited Kerry volunteers gathered in the "upper room" at the Firehouse Grill including many new faces to hear the last night of the convention. What a barnburner it turned out to be!

Alex and Vanessa Kerry's speeches had people laughing and cheering. When "band of brothers" veteran Jim Wasser of Illinois was announced the crowd cheered loudly. Many of the 4JKB4IA volunteers worked with Jim in Davenport during the primary. (FYI, Jim might be visiting Chicago to help us with the Air and Water show.)

However, the biggest cheer and standing ovation of the night before the acceptance speech was reserved for former Sen. Max Cleland. Max represents the truth about this current administration simply put, there is no lie too big or insidious for this administration when they attempt to hide behind the flag and as they try to strip Americans who don’t agree of their patriotism.

And what can we say about Kerry's speech? He DELIVERED! What a fantastic speech! "I'm John Kerry, and I am reporting for duty" brought people to their feet from the start. He hammered home the message that Democrats are the optimists in this race. You go JK!

See Photo Gallery - Chicago / Photo Gallery - Evanston.

Report from Boston

From our Correspondent Tanya Baker:

Hey Chicagoland!

Your IL delegates have finally managed to get to a computer over here in Boston. We're getting ready to head over to the convention center for JK's speech on this final big night.

We've got a ton of great pictures that we'll post upon our return (Asim with John Glenn, Tanya with Clark, Gary with Obama, Nora with Teresa, ...). The energy couldn't be higher in this city. We are so ready to win!

Here's a quick wrap up of what we've experienced so far.

Security is real tight, but they're treating us all very well. Walking around the hotels and on the convention floor has been so much fun meeting other great volunteers & Kerry supporters, exchanging stories and buttons. The Democrats are unifying -- it's really great.

LaRouche people have been hounding the Back Bay Hilton where the IL delegates are staying but no one is picking up their "democratic platform" packets. It's exciting to be around so many political bigwigs all of the time. It's quite an experience. The freebies are out of control -- bags, t-shirts, pens, stuffed animals, buttons, cameras, cookies, donkey shaped mac n' cheese, candy bars, hats, ... We're collecting things to bring back to the gang.

Every night they pass out a ton of signs to hype the crowds. We'll be bringing back some of those also to decorate our new office once Avis is able to secure one for us.

We're losing our voices from yelling so much. Our feet and knees are sore from this non-stop fun. This has all been about getting us on the same page, getting energized about our party's ideals and message, focusing on what steps we all need to take to cinch this election. We are way positive and super psyched to win big in November.

One thing is clear, though. Everyone is saying that this is the most important election of their lives. We have got a lot of work to do before November! We all need to deliver the message of John Kerry and John Edwards through our own networks and we have to grow our outreach to spread this message to all of the voters of Illinois one on one. We need to grow the Democratic party! We have to make more Illinois residents voters! We need to reach out to the young voters, to the single women, to the GLBT community, to the African American community, to the hispanic community, to EVERYONE!

Monday
People on the streets were already asking us about Obama -- his reputation was high even before the speech. There was a party for him at the Harvard Faculty center beforehand. Clinton's speech was amazing.

Tuesday
Tuesday was all about IL at the convention. Before the convention started there was a nice reception at the swanky (and expensive! Thanks to Asim's boss!) State Room with live jazz and political shmoozing.

Carol Mosely Braun, Durbin & of course our man Obama brought down the house with his keynote address. The energy truly peaked (madness!) with his amazing delivery. He made us proud. He also made those Obama buttons a hot commodity -- they're worth their weight in gold now. We've been swapping them for all sorts of other great convention memorabilia =) He had a packed hip hop party that night at Vinalia. It was
way crowded, especially around Obama. The buzz around Boston is that he's very presidential (woohoo! GO OBAMA!) Elaina, the kids for Kerry founder, gave an outstanding speech. We have to vote for the kids
because they can't vote but they are our future!

Wednesday
The convention pre-party was at Cheers. We got donkey stuffed animals =) Everyone was on their feet for Sharpton's speech the entire time -- he's the only
speaker so far that has done this. It was amazing. Elizabeth & John Edwards were awesome, too. We got to vote for nominee, too! Yay! Roll call!

When I Say 'O', You Say Obama

Report from Sue Schell, Evanston’s Cub Reporter:

Approximately 65 people attended a Democratic Convention Party at the Schell house last night to celebrate our party’s attributes and speakers.

Watching the Convention

Everyone in attendance gave all of the speakers shining reviews and often through the night, loud thunderous applause was heard coming from the third floor (for those fortunate enough to find an available seat in the theater room) and the family room, where TVs were set to C-Span.

Throughout the night, I kept hearing from everyone that watching the convention with a crowd of people was much more entertaining and fun, than you sitting at home and watching it alone. The observations and responses to each speaker were always interesting. Sometimes a party guest would make a comment to help clue others into where the speaker was trying to lead the audience. It was fun hearing Bonita point to the Illinois delegation and say, “Isn’t that Alex?” Alternatively, I kept hearing her say, “I think I just saw “Bonnie”.

Then resembling the Boston convention crowd, whenever a speaker said something that we totally related to, we began waving our Kerry/Edwards, and Obama signs.(Speaking of which, if possible, could someone please get us some Teresa Heinz Kerry signs?)

Anyway, just as he was the big hit of the Boston Convention, Barak Obama, was a big hit here, also. What a connection he was able to make with all of us. Someone asked if we thought he had written his speech and without hesitation, many of us responded, yes. Of course, Michelle his wife, I am sure had a little something to do with it, but he carried the night with his incredible intelligence, warmth, and global vision. Someone commented that he had just made Senator Kerry’s job Thursday night a little harder. How could anyone outperform that performance?

see full story.

Comments on the 1st Night of The Convention

Hey, Mr. & Mrs. Chicagoland,

Leave your comments here. Who'd you like? What speech or comments did you remember? How was the coverage -- was it fair and balanced? Were you with other people? What did they think?

LEO

Visibility Hits Stride in Chicago Over the Weekend

Eager Kerry volunteers swarmed into two events over the weekend at the Taste of Lincoln Avenue and Summer on Southport.

The first event was organized and led by Kathy Karsten and the second by Visibility Coordinator Jen Lyng. At the second event alone, seven (!) volunteers showed up to hand out stickers and take down names and email addresses. We also had several new people who heard of us either through our own website at chicagolandforkerry.com or through the John Kerry Volunteer Center.

Kerry volunteers are reaching out and spreading the word about the Kerry-Edwards Bandwagon. This weekend's draw is a great harbinger for future big events like Venitian Night (7/31), Bud Billiken (8/14) and of course the Air & Water Show (8/21-8/22).

For more information about events, see the Events Section.

If you would like to participate in an event, please contact Event Coordinator Jen Lyng

See also the Photo Gallery.

Thursday's Meetup at Goose Island (7/22)

Report from Josh:

As usual, the Goose Island Meetup was a diverse group of about forty people, containing several attendees new to Meetup as well as seasoned veterans.

Josh Lange hosted the event, and provided flyers regarding upcoming events as well as information on John Kerry and John Edwards (have you picked up your Time and Newsweek copies yet?).

Speakers for several committees were present, and Visibility and Outreach gained significant recruits. Media member Betsy Storm raised some money for new buttons and stickers. August will highlight fundraising, trips to swing states like Wisconsin, and will feature new literature.

[Josh is Meetup Coordinator for ChicagolandforKerry--leo]

Thursday's Kerry Meetup at Ann Sathers

Report from Dan Pawlus:

Kerry supporters gathered once again at Ann Sather's on the North side on Thursday July 22 to show their support for our candidate and his new running mate.

A lively crowd of about thirty were in attendance with many newcomers to the group. Agenda topics included the several upcoming visibility events as well as outreach recruitment and opportunities to battleground states in the near future. The enthusiatic crowd took part in breakout discussions that included engaging feedback around John Edwards and his strengths on the campaign trail, the healthcare challenge that is a key issue in the election, as well as lively talk about the recent "Outfoxed" movie that is causing quite a stir in the conservative camp.

Attendees left interested, motivated and ready to take their passion to the streets as we lean into the next few months of momentum building campaign fever. The meetup was hosted by Joey Hampton, Dan Pawlus and Leo Robert Klein and a concerted call out to South and West side Meet-up expansion was put to the group.

Kerry Voluteers at Old St. Pat's Block Party

Report from Jen Lyng:

Armed with Kerry/Edwards materials hot off the presses, we handed out stickers, buttons and the newsletter at the Friday opening of the Old St. Pat's Block Party. With only one entrance to the party, we had great traffic, and also managed to sign up some new volunteers.

Before you head out to your local block party this summer, please contact the Visibility committee for stickers and/or buttons. We can cover many neighborhoods while having a great time socializing with voters and possible new volunteers.

[Jen is Visibility Coordinator for ChicagolandforKerry-leo]

Crowds Can't Get Enough Kerry Stickers on Opening Night at Millenium Park

Kerry Volunteers were doing a Land-Office Business just getting a sticker to everyone who wanted one at the opening night of Millenium Park on Friday, July 16.

People waited in line to snap up the familiar blue Lapel Stickers. Mothers and fathers would request them not only for themselves but for all their children. Old people, young people, people of all races and backgrounds eagarly snapped the things up. We could hardly peel them off quickly enough!

This was one of the biggest events of the season. The popularity of the symbol -- a simple sticker -- was a great illustration (as if we needed one) of how greatly the people of this city and state identify with the campaign to elect John Kerry president of the United States. It was a wonderful event.

July 15th Salon Kerry Night ... Bursting with Excitement

Excerpt from Susan Schell's Report:

Close to forty enthusiastic Kerry supporters attended this week’s Salon Kerry Night at the Firehouse Grill, 750 Chicago Ave., Evanston, for a night of campaign discussion, strategizing and friendship.

Missing our leader, Daniel Dennison, who was away on business in California, we sailed the ship without him. Nevertheless, to Daniel’s credit, the Core Kerry Team did not miss a beat at welcoming our newcomers and making the needed weekly announcements.

Continue to Full Report!

Fun Night at DJ Wednesday

DJ Wednesdays at Grant Park is really turning out to be a fabulous regular event. Enthusiasm for Kerry is palpable.

DJs last night included DJ ESP Woody McBride/ DJ Josh Werner (Techno). They wowed the crowd with a distinct electronic beat.

The big news was the Obama people who came and joined us (Yea! Obama). They really made the concert seem like a truly Democratic Event.

Leo in an effort to reach out, made friends with several Republicans, pointing out that Bush would continue to have problems until he came up with supporters who could dance as well as us! Yeah, I know, fat chance.

At least on the dance floor, we've got this thing sewn up! See you next Wednesday.

See Schedule.

Voter Registration at Saturday's Folk & Roots Fest

Report from Jennifer:

Volunteers registered more than 55 voters at last Saturday's Folk & Roots Festival in Lincoln Square. The question, "Are you currently registered to vote at your current address?" (repeated over and over throughout the day) encouraged many to be sure they were ready to vote on November 2.

A grassroots volunteer committee, known loosely as VR Kerry ('VR' for Voter Registration) and organized by Chicagoan Cara Hendrickson, has been attending Democratic-leaning events across the city in preparation of the November election. The Folk & Roots Festival was Saturday's choice.

Saturday's volunteers included: Maryann, Aaron, Cherie, Diane, Karen, Kathy, and Jennifer.

Interested in getting involved? Visit the VR Kerry Yahoo Group or e-mail jennifer.

See Photo Gallery.

Edwards in Chicago July 14!

The Next Vice President of the United States, John Edwards, visits Chicago on July 14, 2004

From Finance Director Helen Mirieskind:

Dear Friends:

On Wednesday, July 14, 2004, we are honored to be holding a reception and dinner for Senator John Edwards, the next Vice President of the United States.

Please join us for a reception and dinner at 7:00 pm at the Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL to celebrate the selection of John Edwards as John Kerry's running mate and to cheer the Democratic ticket on to victory.

Please consider putting together a table or purchasing individual tickets by calling 312-832-0220 or emailing
EdwardsChicago@johnkerry.com.

Thank you.

Helen I. F. Marieskind
Midwest Finance Director
John Kerry for President

Kerry Dance Volunteers at DJ Wednesday

Well, the Kerry Volunteer Dance Instructors showed their stuff on the dance floor once again this Wednesday.

This time round it was the "Deep House" Superjane Collective featuring DJ Colette, DJ Heather, and DJ Lady D. The absolutely fab music was interrupted only intermittently by rain showers.

As usual the Kerry Volunteer Dance Instructors attracted a considerable amount of positive feedback as they danced and handed out their Kerry lapel stickers. Comments included, "I'm not sure about Kerry but you sure can dance" (person obviously needs more work) and "It's so great to see a bunch of happy Democrats"!

You can find this bunch of Happy Democrats weekly at DJ Wednesdays in Grant Park at Michigan Ave. and Harrison -- 6:30pm-9:30.

See Schedule.

The Hyde Park 4th of July Parade was all for Kerry!

Report from Tanya:

Many many thanks to the marching crew that made our Hyde Park 4th of July parade look like a John Kerry for President parade =)

While we were getting ready to march, an overwhelming majority of the other participants in the parade eagerly agreed to wear John Kerry stickers and even offered to carry signs for us. A driver in the parade came running up to ask us for a large Kerry yard sign to display on the hood of his SUV which was in the parade.

We were able to dress up our Kerry signs with streamers, balloons and american flags, and the best signs were made by John proudly stating Hyde Parkers for Kerry! Armed with a roll of John Kerry stickers purchased with the funds raised at our June meet-up and bags of candy, John Moore, Jessica Lent & her friend,
Joanne Yao, Emily Boening, Marieke Guillen-Treadway, Gabe McArthur, Christopher Greenwald and Susan Hoffman marched through the streets of Hyde Park spreading Kerry cheer. It was a huge success!

Thanks Hyde Park for Kerry supporters! You made it clear to our community that we are united and ready for a positive change in the White House!

See Photo Gallery

Brookfield Independence Day Parade

Report from Nora:

About 30 Kerry and Obama supporters marched together and for each other. We had marchers from 3 yo to late 70's.

We chanted "Vote, Obama, Kerry, Now!" the whole way despite being between 2 musical groups. There was a Christian Rock band in front of us. The Summersnowmen.com group behind us played the recording, "Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow" - they were a hoot!

We were well received on the first half of the parade route in the northern side of Brookfield but the applause decreased considerably for the second half.

We tossed candy, handed out buttons, stickers, bumper stickers and leaflets. We didn't pace ourselves and were almost out as we started the second half. This less supportive crowd didn't miss it, except for the kids without candy, :(.

A WWII veteran was very pleased to accept a Veterans for Kerry button from me.

My 7 year neighbor Joey begrudgingly agreed to get up early and march with us. He and Kerry both like to play hockey, see. He finished the parade with a big smile, sticky with candy residue, and agreed that he had a great time.

Nora E. Rowley
Western Cook For Kerry

See Photo Gallery

Event with Bill Clinton in Chicago Stresses Unity & Action

Report from Josh:

Last night was an evening of music and politics at the Lyric Opera House. Musical acts included Ben Sidran's jazz trio, Big Time Sarahand the Teardrops, American Idol favorite Jennifer Hudson, and Chicago Samba.

Speakers ranged from Studs Terkel to Mort Sahl, Diana Kerry to our new Illinois Field Director Avis La Velle. Even Senator Durbin spoke, supporting both Kerry and the local Senate front-runner, saying "Tell your Mama, tell your Papa, America needs Barack Obama."

Kerry supporters from all across the state were also in attendance, and greeted the headlining speaker Bill Clinton with a warm ovation once he appeared.

The former President spoke of the key differences between the Republicans in power and candidate John Kerry. He noted the cost of the Bush tax cuts. He noted that after-school programs have been cut, police officers have been let go; that port security remains ineffective, and that National Guard soldiers continue to go without health care.

President Clinton stressed that people in the audience go away with these examples firmly in mind. "Not even 5% of America knows about this -- you've got to get out there and tell your family and friends," he said.

Judging by the enthusiasm of last night's crowd, his words did not fall on deaf ears.

Note, see Gary's great write-up in the Comments Section!

Smashing Success for Chicago's Creatives for Kerry Fundraising Event

Report from Alex Kogan:

The Creatives for Kerry event was a big success. We raised over $30,000 and had around 200 attendees.

Judy Roberts was great. Aaron Freeman was great. Alderman Walter Burnett, Congressman Danny Davis and Diana Kerry were all great! There was tons of great
food and everyone had a great time.

The Creatives for Kerry Fundraising Event took place on Wednesday June 20 at the West Loop Studio in Chicago.

For more information on Creatives for Kerry, please see their site.

Big Day for Outreach at Gay Pride

Report from Andy Szekeres:

Well, Pridefest went very well for the DNC. We collected over 1000 names and handed out 2500 stickers and 500 buttons and 350 bumper stickers. We also gave out bunch of signs to anyone who wanted them.

We won the Best Design Booth Award! Oh yeah :-)

Pride went GREAT. We had about 65 marchers. We had Elizabeth Birch in the Yellow Thunder bird and some great people. We handed out 17,000 stickers and it looked great walking around with people covered in Kerry stickers. I went back and handed out Stonewall and DNC stuffout and got petitions signed until I was super tired.

Just Back from the DJ Concert in Grant Park

Once again, the ChicagolandforKerry Volunteer Dance Instructors wowed the crowds at the DJ concert in Grant Park with their signature mix of dance finesse and political savvy. Kerry stickers were in great demand.

Featured DJ was Ralphi Rosario. He played an interesting mix of remixed 80's pop and tunes with a softer almost Latin flavor.

Comments from the admiring crowd included, "you dance like a professional" (to Tanya) and "do you really like this music? Will you be here next week?".

We danced from the first tune to the last. We also went through a whole roll of stickers.

Note, DJ Wednesdays will be running throughout the summer and feature some of the most well-known DJs in House and Club Music. See the Full Schedule.