Believe it or not there is a positive vibe here in NC.

Dear Kossacks,

I've been searching...wondering...growing more antsy...for a long time...how I can help "crash the gate"?  The number of folks answering the clarion call is humbling and inspiring.  After much thought, some friends and I launched a progressive media production company called, "The Community Action Project".

(more)

Raleigh, NC - Last night my family attended the reopening of Fayetteville Street to traffic after 30 years of "use" as a pedestrian mall...very fun, very good for urbanism.  Of course, all the expected dignitaries were present including my congressman and fellow Kossack, Brad Miller.   Also out in force, unfortunately, was his opponent, Vernon Robinson.  There was also what seemed to be an active team of canvassers.  Robinson is bigot of epic proportions, as clearly demoed in his now infamous radio spot:

http://vernonrobinson.com/...

More following...

Some friends and are putting a NC event called, "Put W Back In Crawford."   It will give Democrats and progressives a chance to speak out and take action as we head towards election day.  Families are welcome.

Here are the specs:

WHAT: A political action event
WHY: To give what we can and sign up to volunteer
WHEN: Sunday, October 10th, 3 to 7 PM
WHERE: Poole's Diner (formerly Vertigo) and Kings Barcade on McDowell Street, Raleigh

We've gotten a great response and seems like it will be big.  Check out our website:

www.putwbackincrawford.org
will@putwbackincrawford.org

Entertainment:

Kings Barcade-
Kenny Roby, 3PM
The Cartridge Family, 4PM
The Olympic Ass Kicking Team, 5PM
The Greatest Hits, 6PM

Poole's Diner-
DJ Madcow
Auction
Videos
Guest Speakers
Comedy
Advocacy Groups

PASS THE WORD.  BRING A FRIEND.  KIDS WELCOME.

Hi.  Been around Daily Kos a long time, but this is my initial entry.  First, I love this place.  I am more educated and motivated than I ever have been politically and this site is my fuel.  Thanks everyone!!

Second, I have an idea and would like the feedback from the good minds that frequent this joint.  Namely, I was inspired by two people who planning to tap their professional skills and in some way educate and/or persuade.

The first person is Josh Marshall.  You may be aware from reading his recent entries on TPM that he, "plans on covering the New Hampshire primary on location for the ten days leading up to the vote, and that the trip would be funded by reader contributions ear-marked just for this purpose."  What a grassroots, novel concept.

The second person is client of mine.  In 2004 he plans to take the entire month of October off to do nothing but campaign for Democrats.  That is a testament to dissatisfaction, I tell ya.  

I own a video production company in Raleigh, North Carolina.  My partner and I are very politically motivated, and, like many on Dkos, pissed off about where our country is going and want to make a stand.  

Now, here is my idea (inspired by Marshall and my client): taking a month or two off from the daily grind of producing marketing and educational media to work on behalf of like minded people and causes.  This would involve offering our firm's people and equipment, at little or no charge, to produce content that will help tell the stories that need to be told.  This could be done via longer form internet-based video "programs" or something as mundane as producing TV and radio ads for candidates.

The hitch is I will have to turn away lots of business from paying clientele to do this.  However, Josh Marshall's plan inspired me.  I wonder whether using one's professional skills/resources to bring change, but getting a small amount of financial help to make it feasible could work.

That's just the start.  Please, I would love to hear your ideas.