STIRRINGS IN THE GRASSROOTS

Barack's boys (and girls) are stirring the grassroots in Licking County this month, so it's a good time to get involved if your commitment goes beyond wearing a "Obama "08" pin or slapping on a bumper sticker.

It's still a little confusing who's doing what, but here's what I've been told:

• Chris Keck, formerly of Licking County Young Democrats, informs that Obama calling and canvassing has begun, and volunteers are being sought for two hours shifts, 7 days a week,  Contacts are Keck at 614-946-3678 (keck785@gmail.com ) or Brian Clark, field organizer for eastern Franklin County at bcinsocal@yahoo.com .
• Lauren Durham, a Licking County native and Denison University graduate, is an Obama regional field director for Licking, Delaware and Knox counties and is working out of the county Democratic office in Newark.  She can be reached at 740-403-1894.  Eager to meet & greet (and recruit) Licking County volunteers.
• Mark Johns, who organized an Obama support group here during the primaries, is hosting a 7 p.m. meeting next Monday (the 21st) at the Newark Public Library to gather input for the Democratic Party platform and discuss campaign plans for Licking County.

So, with all this rustling in the bushes, when will Obama visit Licking County as John Kerry did in 2004?  Can we beat the curse of our middling location (too close to Columbus, too far from Ohio Appalachia) and make it happen again?

While we wait to find out, here are some other can't-miss Democratic events coming up.

• Howard Hill, candidate for the Ohio House from the 71st District, hosts a golf outing Saturday, July 18, kicking off at 8:30 a.m. at Links at Echo Springs in Granville.  The $65 entry fee includes the golf and a meal.  RSVP to hgk@howardhill.us
• Governor Strickland joins State Rep. Dan Dodd for a Saturday (July 19) fund raiser at the Buckeye Lake Yacht Club from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Requested contribution, $100.  RSVP to 740-973-5930 or dandodd@gmail.com
• The annual Alexandria Parade kicks off at 11 a.m., Saturday, July 19, with participants asked to form up at 10 a.m.
• Canvassing for the re-election of US Rep. Zack Space is scheduled from 3-6 p.m. this Saturday, July 19.  Contact is vfoggie1973@hotmail.com
• Space will also be the featured guest on Saturday, July 26, at the Licking County Democratic Club's JFK Breakfast from 8-11 a.m.  at the GMP Union Hall, 350 Hudson Ave. in Newark.  Admission: $15 at the door.

(Gray Hunter)