Sunday, September 28, 2008

Great Event Last Night!


We had a fantastic backyard party Saturday night in South Tulsa. Thanks to Ann and Ray Schlitt and Kim Koleber who put the entire event together and invited so many of their neighbors and friends.


The food was fantastic - I particularly enjoyed the m&m's that matched the colors in our logo - and they have a beautiful backyard. I appreciated the members of the Jenks Young Democrats who came and had great questions and I'm looking forward to their involvement in the race.


Chebon

Thursday, September 25, 2008

The Candidate and The Foodie

IMG_9446
I would like to introduce you to my best friend since college, Georgianna Oliver. She is currently the Democratic nominee for US Congress representing District 1 in Oklahoma. She has recruited me to help her run for office and given me the position of Web Master on her professional campaign team. Of course with our history, I could not say no. Not that I would want to, as this has been my friend's dream since the day I met her.

I met Georgianna on the first day of my Sophomore year in 1988 at Oklahoma State University. She was hosting a bean bag toss for the incoming Freshmen on behalf of the Student Government Association and I was a volunteer tour guide taking a group of Freshman through their orientation on campus. I liked her friendly energy immediately, and our friendship was born while the Freshmen threw bean bags at her display. 

In college, she was very serious and hard-working. She knew exactly what she wanted to do with her life and how to achieve it. She worked for the college in a high level administrative position while going to class and still made time for her campus committees and friends. She encouraged me to get involved with the school and through her persuasion I applied and got a position as a reporter with the school newspaper, The O'Collegian. I later went on to work in the Advertising department for the newspaper selling ad space, as that is what my major was in. (I think it is ironic today that I have a degree in journalism but always wanted to work in advertising. So, I built my career around marketing and advertising and now all I want to do is write.)

 We had much in common. Her one serious boyfriend in college was friends with my one serious boyfriend in college as they both worked for the school newspaper. She grew up in the small town of Sapulpa, outside of Tulsa and I grew up in the small town of Claremore, outside of Tulsa. She lived off-campus and I lived off-campus. We both graduated from OSU in 1991. She with her degree in political science and me with my degree in journalism. She wanted to help the people of Oklahoma and impact change in the world, I wanted to sell more stuff to more people through my impactful advertising campaigns. Okay, so we did have a few differences.

My Wedding
I can remember sitting in the living room of her small apartment across from the OSU campus and talking about our futures as graduation loomed. She was in the kitchen making green beans from a can and toast for our dinner. Seriously, we ate that many nights. My inner Foodie would not be discovered until later, but don't knock it . . .veggies and wheat toast was a healthy and filling dinner for all college girls on a budget.

That's when she asked me: "So what do you want to do after graduation?"
I said: "I am getting the heck out of Oklahoma, I want to work on Madison Avenue in New York."
She said: "Well, I am leaving to go to Washington D.C., but then coming back to Oklahoma to run for office."

She had so much determination in her voice as she explained how she would go to Washington DC and get a job as a aide on "The Hill", and then come back to Oklahoma to raise her family and run for office. I remember thinking, I wonder if either of us will really do what we think we are going to do with our lives? The talk that night seemed like pipe dreams of young ladies about to be let loose on the world. I clearly underestimated us and our drive and determination at the time.

We had our pictures taking together with our families on our graduation day from OSU, and Georgianna did indeed go to Washington DC and work for Congressman Bill Brewster. I remember traveling up to visit her many times while she was in DC, and I toured Bill Brewster's office and the capital and had brand new respect for my friend who did exactly what she said she was going to. She was on her path.

Buffy's WeddingGeorgianna was in my wedding and I was in her's. I gave birth to my son and she adopted her's from overseas. I grew into being a businesswoman, wife and mother and so did she. For a while she and her family lived in Kansas City, where her husband Jack is from originally. This is where she started her technology company, Evergreen Solutions and grew it into the multi-million dollar business it is today.

When she asked me to be on her campaign team, she told me: "Oh, come on, it will be fun." I have traveled to Tulsa many times since her campaign started, and although our days are filled with campaign strategy, plans for winning, fundraising events and appearances . . .she has always remembered to honor my dreams at the same time we are planning hers. Again, just like in college, she is out to help the people of Oklahoma
and impact change in the world and I am out to become a Foodie.

Mr
She always makes a point to take me to a different or new restaurant for lunch or dinner while I am in Tulsa. Not that she really wants to, as she is happiest eating at home with her son and husband, but she does it because she knows that I want to. She patiently sits, waiting, while I pull out my camera and take pictures of both her dishes and mine, and she always asks to have the Chef come out to talk to us and introduces me as her friend, "The Foodie from Kansas City." I have learned through her what an interesting food scene Tulsa is cultivating. Much different than when I lived in those parts, for sure. Georgianna doesn't have to do that for me, but she knows I care about it, so she makes a point to care about it too.  I love her for that.

We have enjoyed exploring Tulsa's north side, which is full of wonderful authentic Mexican restaurants. We blew through the drive-thru of Mr. Taco, where The Candidate snapped this photo above of the nice man who recommended the shredded beef quesadilla.  We were suspicious of what we would get, but we took this young man's recommendation and we were pleasantly surprised to find almost no cheese but instead they were brimming with moist meat, lettuce and a little queso fresco sprinkled on top. Best of all, they came with a home-made red sauce or green sauce for dipping.

El Rio Verde Food
Then we went to El Rio Verde which has been in the same location for almost 17 years in Tulsa. The place was packed at lunch with corporate suits, construction workers and at least one Candidate and one Foodie. I had a beef tongue soft taco and a beef cheek sopa so good it would make you cry. Muchas gracias to The Candidate for showing me that delightful place.

We have enjoyed the fun atmosphere and fresh fish at In the Raw on Peoria which is basically restaurant row in Tulsa.


Brassiere
We have had quieter meals of a French persuasion at The Brasserie, where Executive Chef Justin Thompson has been voted the favorite chef in Tulsa by Oklahoma Magazine. The special of the day, Steamed Mussels with Frites stole my heart when it came to the table in a tiny red Le Creuset pot.

After a few evening meetings or fundraisers we have stopped in for a quick snack at the Polo Grill, where we sat quietly and shared a fruit and cheese plate while we went over our notes from the event and made our list of to-do's for the morning.

Oliver Twist
Oliver Twist was a recent stop for a quick bite before heading off to our next meeting with the campaign team back at the office. We interrupted a staff meeting they were having to order our food, but they did not miss a beat with deep fried olives that had been stuffed with cheese and bacon-wrapped shrimp that were perfectly grilled.

Smoked Fish Lucky's
Finally, across the street and down from campaign headquarters is Lucky's on Cherry Street. This is a relatively new spot in Tulsa, but the appetizer of smoked trout with cucumbers, horseradish and crema on toast was an unexpected treat during a long endorsements conversation with the team at the table.

I joke with "The Candidate" about the very different quests that we are on, and how her dream is so much more lofty than mine. She says: "Well, that what friends do, they help each other realize dreams. You are helping me achieve mine by being a part of this campaign and I am helping you achieve yours by re-introducing you to how cool the Tulsa food scene has become." Then she said the thing that makes her the best candidate for US Congress: "How could I be happy living my dream, if you weren't living yours as well?" It's about collaboration and caring for others.

I respectfully ask the people in Oklahoma living in District 1 for their vote for Georgianna Oliver for US Congress.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Skiatook Pioneer Days

Saturday was a success! We saw hundreds of people at the Skiatook Pioneer Days while we were in the Parade and had a booth giving out Blue Bell Ice Cream!
Georgianna met one-on-one with people at our booth and was able to give personal attention to each of their concerns and questions.
We had several volunteers help out at the booth all day long while others "mingled" with the crowd and passed out information!
It was great to meet new constituents and let them know about Georgianna's campaign for Congress! The closer the election gets, the more excited I get! We CAN AND WILL WIN!!
See you all at our next event!

Megan
Volunteer Coordinator

Monday, September 15, 2008

Watching CNN this morning in a clip of McCain, he had the incredible audacity to say that the US economy is basically sound. So let's take a very quick view and see how supportable that comment might be. In the past few days, Merrill Lynch was a forced sale to Bank of America, Lehman Brothers could not find a buyer and therefore filed for bankruptcy and AIG insurance is on the brink of financial disaster not to mention the Federal government's bailout of Bear Sterns and the takeover by Federal regulators of both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the holders of some 50% of all mortgages in the United States. These are 6 of the largest financial institutions in this country. All have suffered at the hands of the real estate crises and the sub-prime mortgage debacle.

Additionally the trade deficit is at an all time high. The National debt is at an all time high. (This country is virtually broke) The value of the dollar is at or near all time lows against foreign currencies. The market lost over 500 points in one day (9/15). And let's see if that's not enough how about spending some 15 to 20 billion dollars a month in Iraq which has a mere 80 billion in unearmarked money form oil sales. Oh,speaking of oil how about $4 gas.

This information doesn't sound like a very sound economy to me. Probably the only reason there will not be a depression is because the Federal Reserve won't let it. But if the Federal government doesn't change their ways the job will be more onerous than it already is. Yeh Sen. McCain, your all over this economic issue. Oliver's got it and constantly has said that the economy is the number one issue of this election and number one for Oklahoma's district one.

Jack Charles

KRMG Town Hall

Next Tuesday, KRMG will be hosting a Red, White and You town hall-style forum to discuss this year's elections on September 23 - next Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm.  Tulsa County Democratic Party Chair Elaine Dodd and former Republican Chair Don Burdick will join the KRMG crew for this one night event.  

While the forum is free, you do need to register for tickets.  You can visit the KRMG site and register for the free tickets online by clicking here.  

The Oliver Team will be there, next Tuesday, at the Schusterman Learning Center on the OU-Tulsa campus.  Hope to see you there!

Chebon

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Coweta Fall Festival Parade

The Oliver Team had a great time today in Coweta. We had an entry in the parade and handed out what felt like a ton of candy to kids, and even a few parents.

One of my favorite parts of any parade is always the time spent after everyone is all lined up, but the parade actually hasn't begun. It is a chance to catch up with old friends, and chat with all of the other participants.

Even though it got a little soggy later in the afternoon, we enjoyed visiting with vendors and people working booths downtown. We even took home a Patriotic Santa purchased in the Blue Star Mom's auction.

It really is great to see how well Coweta is doing, growing and expanding. Of course, it would help if they had a little more assistance from their member of Congress.

Chebon

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Israel

With all of the middle east issues that have been lingering for decades the US has taken the appropriate position that a strong democratic Israel is critical to the US and its future middle east positioning. Both houses of Congress pander to the US Jewish population with admittedly several having a genuine, not just political motivation, concern for this very small vulnerable country. The main position that members of Congress take is that Israel be able to have defensible borders. And to help, the US has provided Israel with an annual $3B grant to assist with their defense budget.

With this short synopsis in mind it helps to know that US House candidate Oliver takes a more aggressive position. Jerusalem not becoming a divided city; safe, controllable borders and an increase in the US annual grant. A no nonsense, strong publicly stated position towards Israel needs to be made so that not just US citizenry hears but the rest of the world, particularly the Arab community, that the US will not tolerate and will assist Israel in the event of ANY aggression towards it. Peace is what is needed. What is being shoved down Israel's throat is coexistence with Palestine (and others in the neighborhood). That is NOT peace and continues to be a threat. I'm pleased that Georgianna understands that and will do what she can to make for a strong Israel.

Jack

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Healthier Kids In Oklahoma

The Tulsa World reports that child immunizations in our state have reached their highest level in state history - 78.5% by the age of 35 months.  

This is the kind of positive news we have all come to expect from state government since Governor Brad Henry took office in 2003.  The OK BY ONE program, implemented during his tenure, and managed by the State Health Department has had a significant impact in protecting the youngest in our society.   The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ranks us 15th in the US, up from 22nd place just two years ago.  

This is the kind of positive leadership we need more of in government that provides real dividends, in this case making kids healthier in Oklahoma.  

Chebon

Monday, September 8, 2008

Tulsa Gun Show

I had a great time working our booth out at the Tulsa Gun Show this weekend.  Thanks to all of the volunteers who came out to help.  The best part was registering an 18 year old who will be voting in his first election this fall.  And he's supporting Georgianna! 

Of course, it was also fun to find a little time to check out all of the dealers and other booths out at the Expo.  I especially appreciate the guys who kept bringing us snacks.  

It was a great opportunity to get the message out that Georgianna is a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights and will be a friend in the U.S. House of Representatives.  Another great weekend for the campaign.  

Chebon



Friday, September 5, 2008

Harwelden Fundraiser!


The fundraising event at the beautiful Harwelden Mansion was a success! Several local, prominent lawyers were on hand to meet Georgianna and speak to her about her plans for District 1.
One host, Rob Ridenour did an amazing job of introducing Georgianna to our guests and giving a brief testimony to her background in Tulsa. She spoke of the change we need in District 1 and what she can do when she is the Congresswomen in the great state of Oklahoma!

I am thrilled to be a part of this campaign as the Volunteer Coordinator! We are making great strides and WE CAN WIN!!

Megan Q.

Unemployment Jumps

One more piece of bad news for John Sullivan.  Not that working men and women needed any agency to tell them that the economy is souring, but it was confirmed this week when the Labor Department reported that the jobless rate has jumped to 6.1% - the highest its been since Sullivan took office.  More than 84,000 jobs were cut during the month of August - over 605,000 this year already.  

And don't let anyone tell you that "Oklahoma's economy remains strong so that doesn't matter".  Each time the national economy falters, companies who do business across the country make cuts everywhere.  As sales slip in Indiana or Ohio, companies are hurt in Oklahoma.  The tide lifts all boats and we can all sink together.  

Chebon
  

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Today at the office

I just love working with such a lively group! We vibe off each other! It is definitely a Women's World, and I love it! Today we put Georgianna on the Map! We booked her all over Tulsa, and we also, had a volunteer meeting! It was great to meet new people ready to spank the Republicans! We meet some wonderful movers and shakers in the community who are pumped for Team Oliver! Yeah boo! It was also great to have Georgianna interacting with us, she loves us! We give her a second wind. The phone just has not stopped ringing, I am pumped!!!


-Sharron M. Pettiford
State Political Director

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Mayor's Fitness Challenge- Tulsa Mud Run


Recently, I took part in the first annual Tulsa Mud Run, at Mohawk Park. I was on Team Oliver for US Congress, which consisted of me and my cousin (thanks Derek). We wore our bright neon green Oliver shirts with pride thinking we would stand out and have lots of pictures. It was a new experience for me as I am not a runner and rarely exercise. However, it was one of the most memorable experiences of my campaign life. I literally ran two miles, through obstacles while covered in wet dirt a.k.a MUD. Running through mud seems fairly easy, the part people tend to forget about is the mud in your shoes, which makes it feels like cement blocks tied to your ankles! Team Oliver placed 46th out of 74th. Not too hot, but we finished and that is what really counts! I placed 109th out of 309. I still cannot believe I ran two miles in 19.05, unbelievable for someone like me! Anyways, the Mud Run was a success as I learned something new about myself and my team. GO TEAM OLIVER!!!!!
Keela Baker
Public Relations
Oliver for US Congress

Volunteer Meeting Thursday Night

Want to help us defeat John Sullivan?  Come by the Headquarters Thursday night and visit with us about how you would like to get involved.  

This isn't a "top down" campaign - no one is going to tell you what to do - we want to hear what your ideas about helping.  Knock doors, make calls, write letters or help with events.  Have a special skill?  We want you to use that too.  Design a flyer for us or paint a picture we can auction off.  

We'll have pizza and drinks, just stop by sometime between 6pm and 8pm and talk with us.  The headquarters is located at:

1325 East 15th Street 
Suite 203

The building is right across the street from Camille's, and you park behind the building and come upstairs.  If tomorrow night isn't a good time, give us a call to visit at 918-585-8886.

See you tomorrow night.

Chebon
  

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Welcome to My Official Campaign Blog

Welcome to the blog. I’m very glad that you stopped by to catch up on the campaign and share your thoughts!

This is the place where we will have an opportunity to update you on the very latest developments in the Oliver for U.S. Congress campaign.

We will be posting here regularly, so please be sure to check back often. We’ll be introducing you to the people and places we visit as we work our way across this district spreading my message of change and collaboration to find solutions to the issues that impact the people of Oklahoma the most – the economy, jobs, the energy crisis, healthcare, the elderly, education, and the care of our veterans.

But, we need your help. We have a lot of work ahead of us in order to raise the manpower and money it is going to take to declare victory over the incumbent, John Sullivan, who has been sitting quite comfortably for too long in his seat in Congress with no true progress to show to the people of District 1.

Every little bit helps. There is no gesture or token too small. We believe one person can make a difference in this election and we believe that person is you. United with hundreds and thousands like you, you can support our cause by choosing to put one of our signs in your yard, by hosting a fundraising event with your friends and co-workers for the campaign, or by agreeing to join our team of volunteers – we need your support and your vote on November 4, 2008. Everyone has a place in my campaign, and everyone will be heard and represented in Congress when I am elected.

I am in this race to win this race. All things are possible if we are united on the core issues and values, and are willing to work together to create the change we want to see in this country.

There are no limitations on what we can achieve together once we set our minds to it. We just have to decide to begin to change TODAY.