Daily Archives: 05/20/2008

(Community Matters) It isn’t unique to Republicans. When Democrats had been in charge for a long period, our benches were disgustingly full of industry players and lobbyists as well. Nevertheless, as McCain’s campaign so ably demonstrates (good gosh, a Texan shouldn’t really be throwing stones, look at Rick Perry’s, Tom Craddick’s and David Dewhurst’s administrations) the corruption of self-interests is deep and ubiquitous.

(Community Matters)

(Community Matters) Lots of chatter that Obama will declare victory after tonight’s primaries. I have no idea if this is true or not. My uninformed perspective is that a “declaration” of victory is doubtful. The campaign has changed tacts during the last two weeks and focused more on the general. I agree we’re at an important and sensitive stage where we need to include Hillary supporters for the vision of Democratic success.

Lunch yesterday with Bryan Jones, CEO Moximity.com. Many of my new 20-something friends fill the important space of new ideas and ways of thinking of former UT students. I hadn’t heard of an Austin startup community – interesting chatter.

An hour with ACF’s new Pres/CEO, Ken Gladish. Good gosh this man is brilliant and motivated.

Productive meeting with City of Austin ACM David Lurie, Vince Cobalis and Shannon Jones.

Steven back on the west coast.

(Community Matters) Kirk Rudy, Alexa Lange, a few other Obama enthusiasts and I are organizing an Obama fundraiser on June 9 where the campaign’s chief strategist, David Axelrod, will speak. In efforts to attract even more 20- & 30-something donors, we’re organizing a briefing and launch of an Austin Obama Leadership Team, especially for younger Obama fundraisers who can sell 10 tickets to the June 9 event. Ian & Amy have encouraged us to also meet with equally enthusiastic supporters who might not be able to foot the $250 bill, so another happy hour in the works for next Monday.

(Community Matters) Jo Baylor, daughter of Midtown owners, back in the news. here

(Community Matters) In Gambia, the West African country bordering Senegal, the president has promised to behead all gays. here