Met Howard Dean! DNC could make their own newspaper! Article ideas??

[Dems Will Win]

I am the consultant that suggested and created The Dean Times during the IA and NH primaries. 275,000 copies.

I went to Burlington and met with Howard Dean's top staff and we explored the possibility of making a regular DFA newspaper.

I am here asking DU would you subscribe to a DNC newspaper that would be published by a DNC run by Dean?

and secondly, please suggest below the issues you think the media has failed on and what you would like to see reported on the paper. Also suggestions for charts, interviews, stories, framing, how the newspaper can be used to organize, etc.

I think we could soon be open for business, BABY! 1 million copies for the first issue, about half the size of the NY Times. That oughta keep the press on their toes! America will be shocked to read the truth for once.

"Become the media" - That's my motto.

[merbex]

1. I'll subscribe - where do I sign up? n/t

[Dems Will Win]

2. I guess we'll send out an e-mail and have a subscription page

on DEMOCRATS.ORG !!

[FreedomAngel82]

76. I think it would be cool

Would there be an Email version?

[annabanana]

150. I'm in.....................eom

[thedailyshow]

3. I'll definitely subscribe to that!

Would it be possible to distribute it in bookstores, coffeeshops, and the like?

[Dems Will Win]

4. Yes local committees and DFAs would be able to buy bulk copies

with house party money and distribute/drop throughout their community. That's the other half of the idea.

We would also start very visible community development drives so that it's not all politics--and then report on success in the paper!

Plus states could get together and buy their own sheet to insert and have state news!

[Just Me]

34. That is truly awesome!!! Please, please be sure to hit rural America.

It's so lonely out here *LOL*!!!!

I assume ya'll be publishing the names of "local committees" so that folks like me can get these papers distributed in important rural areas.

Hey, I just want to tell you how grateful I am for all the PROACTIVE work you are doing!!!

:yourock:

[Dems Will Win]

36. Thanks, just me! I drive my wife crazy!

[DebJ]

5. Amen brother! (or sister?) Sign me up!

Here's a story idea: do stories on local Dem parties: both really good functioning ones, and ones that are really struggling.
Great great idea, this paper. Can we start yesterday????

We should also get our local Dem party to sign up to receive issues we can resell at Dem HQ to keep pumping out the info.

I met Howard Dean in Gettsyburg the week before the election. A dream come true; the only living hero I have ever had. Because of Dean, my husband voted for the first time in his 54 years, and I got to thank Howard specifically for that.

[Dems Will Win]

7. Dean was so excited about the DNC Chair going his way,

I don't think his feet were actually touching the ground at any one point.

[DebJ]

20. What a great image! I'll share that with my fellow Deaniacs here.

I'm planning a party for next Saturday night. I can't wait. I'll be floating through all next week!

[Eloriel]

111. Now I have to ask -- who else in the WORLD

could generate such excitement? Hell, the last time the chairmanship ws up, it barely got noticed by ANYone, let alone generated all this excitement.

Go, Dean!!

[katmondoo]

12. 1,000 Amen's

[DebJ]

6. When local Dems do things supportive of American family

values, this should be published. Like food drives, or cleaning up the city, etc. Show we LIVE family values, not just Orwellian speak them!

[Dems Will Win]

9. That's right! Tree-planting, river cleanup, conservation drives

then onto to regional planning and Smart Growth Development instead of Dumb Growth development. THe people will see how GOOD we Dems are!

I HAVE A DREAM!

HELP ME MAKE IT COME TRUE!

[FreedomAngel82]

77. Yes!

Good idea DebJ! I'm for that!

[janx]

8. Yes, I would, and

maybe the newspaper could have news of what is going on in all 50 states! News from the state and local levels on a regular basis would be great.

[Dems Will Win]

10. Each state party would fundraise and have their own state page in paper

Newspapers are the best way to raise issues and organize a community. I have made 12 campaign newspapers now and they all were extremely effective.

[Democrat 4 Ever]

14. Great idea - there is a real need for a newspaper that is

willing to print news honestly. Sign me up!

[lojasmo]

11. Yes I would. I'll be registering at democrats.org on saturday....

AFTER Roemer gets kicked to the curb.

[Dems Will Win]

13. Well we haven't taken over yet

Give us a month to get it together...

[Dems Will Win]

18. Hey if somebody has a Web site, I'll send you a PDF of

THE DEAN TIMES and we can all look at the NH primary paper to get ideas. PM me. Thanks!

[AP]

15. Articles from the persective of LABOR rather than CAPITAL

The news is filled with a million stories from the perspective of management and owners, and nothing about what it's like to work for a living anymore.

Give Bararbara Ehrenreich a regular column.

[bobbieinok]

147. from grassroots

[dusty64]

16. I'm in.

The truth of ALL important issues cause the corporate media has failed to tell us about anything that doesn't benefit the extreme rightwing agenda.

[lastknowngood]

17. Yea just pm me when you need the subscription.

n/t

[PollyH]

19. Dem Newspaper

Yes, I'll subscribe. Let me know when.

[AP]

21. Also, I think it would be interesting to do a regular column where

you address a relevant policy debate at the federal or state level and then interview someone from the Rockridge Institute about what is really goind on a linguistic/cog sci level with that debate.

[Dems Will Win]

22. Don't know Rockridge...

Link?

[AP]

26. It's George Lakoff's think tank:

http://www.rockridgeinstitute.org/

[lonestarnot]

23. You were in touch with a mind when you met Howard....PAPER THAT

I'LL READ! AT LAST!

[Dems Will Win]

25. He thanked me for making the Dean Times for him!

[MaineDem]

24. "...Take over the DNC"?

Sorry, I appreciate your enthusiasm and all and I like the idea of Governor Dean leading the DNC but to imply DFA is taking over the DNC is a little bit premature, at the least.

Good luck with your plans; it sounds terrific!

[Dems Will Win]

28. How about "assume control" then?

[dansolo]

95. Not going to happen

Even Dean himself said that DFA is going to remain as a separate entity, which is a good thing. DFA can still be useful even with Dean as DNC chair.

[Mend]

27. I would subscribe

and would like to see a regular feature doing what Media Whores Online did...outting the MSM. We look forward to your paper; we also get the Iconoclast from Crawford. Cancelled the NYT over four years ago.

[Dems Will Win]

30. I was thinking of a regular column called

DECONSTRUCTING THE NEWS and would be a quick rundown of how the media pulls the wool over everyone's eyes on the different issues and what they are NOT telling you!

[Eloriel]

113. Yes -- and get Media Matters in on it

They'd be a terrific resource for all SORTS of news deconstructing. They need their own column (if not page!).

[calimary]

122. That's a HUGE thorn in my side.

Everything from the panels that are assembled on "Scarborough Country" to the fact that Bill Schneider is NEVER identified on CNN as a senior fellow of the American Enterprise Institute. EVER. Oh, he doesn't have an agenda, now, does he?!?!?!

[democrank]

29. If this is a grassroots effort, count me in.

I`ve boycotted corporate media since November 3rd because I have no desire to hear/read any more spin by overpaid, out-of-touch consultants. If this newsletter is a true grassroots effort, I`ll help in any way I can.

We need to collectively bypass mainstream media and render them irrelevant by creating interest in and enthusiasm for constructive, populist dialogue. There`s no end to what we could be for one another if we just had the forum.

I`d love to see guest editorials from members or other folks America never gets to hear. The mainstream press just recycles the same old blowhards. There are some amazing thinkers in this country. Let`s give them a chance to be heard.

Let`s also begin to take charge of our message and restate the positive aspects of liberal/progressive/populist principles. As it stands now, the only definition floating around in mainstream media is that offered by the likes of Limbaugh, Hannity and Savage. Let`s ignore these freaks and begin to frame our own message.

The possibilities are endless. Let`s do it. Thanks for posting this.

[Dems Will Win]

31. Was thinking of that too actually. People can e-mail in their own

articles and the best will get printed. Kind of a talent contest. We'll put their picture in there too!

[sallyseven]

32. I want to contribute. That paper will be a god send.

We should correct the blab that goes for reporting in the main stream news papers. I read my newspaper this morning and one of the best reporters in our area said "U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy, D.Mass was crucified by conservatives last week when he proposed that about 12,000 U.S. troops be withdrawn as part of gradual pullout. Kennedy was called an appeaser and weak-kneed. He was accused of undermining the troops and giving aid and comfort to the enemy. This week Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz, the darling of conservatives said 15,000 troops could be pulled out soon, starting next month.
There were no howls of protest. During the presidential campaign, Kerry proposed expanding the size of the armed forces, saying that they were spread too thin. His proposal was condemned by Bush and others as costly and unnecessary. Wouldn't you know it Wolfowitz this week disclosed plans to expand the Army by 30,000. troops. There were no howls of protest.Maybe Kerry and Kennedy are secretly calling the shots at the pentagon behind the scenes."

We need a paper and reporters that will catch this nonsense and set the record stright. I'll put my money up for that.

If you need verification of my post go to thesunchronicle.com and read this article on page 3.

[AP]

33. Also, plug all those great books progressives have been writing

and incorporate their authors into current policy debates.

Talk to Lisa Duggan about gay marriage or about any time one "identity politics" group is played off another.

Talk to David Cay Johnston about the tax code.

Talk to Joe Stiglitz about land reform.

Talk to Kevin Phillips about war profiteering are about what he thinks about GHWB being Deep Throat.

,,,

[Dems Will Win]

35. These are all good

Articles on how Bush lied about the DRAFT as well.

[AP]

53. Don't trun it into a paper that just attacks Bush. Make it a paper

that tells what Demcorats stand for.

Plug Democratic IDEAS and VALUES.

Bush won't be running for president again. People need to know what they're voting for.

[Dems Will Win]

55. It will be a lot of positive stuff

Especially local community development the Dems are supporting and how all 50 States will be involved in every campaign.

One aim of the paper is to build community by the proactive stances the newspaper will make on Federal, State and even local laws that affect local towns and regions.

Communitarian projects that are sorely needed and regional vision plans based on the ecological and social sciences will be supported.

[AP]

60. I think the best thing that Democratic media could do today is to

give people a language for explaining things that are happening in the world today and a progressive lens for looking at them.

There's so much shit going on in the world that is so contrary to progressive values, but the language that dominates the mediat and which describes those events is so unbelievably right wing.

For example, ABC reports on a federal court opinion about Guantanamo Bay as a "setback in the war on terror," and Bush and all the MSM attach the lable "freedom" and "liberty" to everything that goes on in Iraq.

Labels and lenses that serve the RW: that's what the MSM does.

Democrats need media which provides progressive language and lenses for looking at the same issues.

There are plenty of progressives, like Lakoff and Ehrenreich and Duggan who are trying to give people those lenses and language, but what they advocate just doesn't filter up to the top.

I think people would flock to a media outlet that did that because I think there is so much cognitive dissonance created by MSM's whoring and Armstrong Williams obviously paid-for opinions that people are hungry for what the sense is the other side to those arguments.

[Dems Will Win]

61. Like the War on Terror including Iraq

We would deconstruct that first!

[AP]

63. Well, I would start a little broader. The framework would be

that these wars are about profit and not about liberty and freedom.

I would talk about how having elections that exclude a regional, racial, religious or ethnic minority from participation tend to create instability. That's the story of post-colonialism around the world, and it's such conventional wisdom that you have to wonder how the US couldn't have intended the inevitable consequences. (And how is that spreading libery and freedom?)

As for the "setback" in the war on terror, progressives needs to explain how torture is generally not used in the US because it's UNRELIABLE. People will say ANYTHING so that they don't get tortured. Furthermore, we have a consitution that has lasted this long because it WORKS not because it doesn't.

But, more importantly, talking abotu war all the time is a poor framework for setting out progressive values. I would hope tha tyour first "deconstruction" would be of a much bigger issue -- one that puts way more of the world in context for progressives than an article about Iraq. You need a big, long article about how everything bush has done so far has concentrated more economic, political and cultural power in the hands of fewer and fewer people.

[Peak_Oil]

88. Sections of paper: Health care, Education, Environment, etc.

Frame the issues by having the sections of the paper be directly related to the issues.

1. Federal Budget
2. Workers and Wages
3. Health Care
4. Corporate Corruption
5. Unions
6. War in the World
7. Sports (?) Gotta have a hook, y'know?

Or whatever the sections are called.

In each section, highlight an issue, and have a piece of a page that can be torn out, filled out, folded in half and taped, stamped, and mailed right into some government agency's office or corporation's headquarters. Make it really convenient for people to mail it out. Have a couple of check boxes to highlight the issue and a place to write a paragraph. With a circulation of a million, and a 1% response ratio, you could easily get 10,000 letters ending up on somebody's desk every week/month/circulation period.

That might be enough to get somebody's attention.

[Eloriel]

114. This is a FABULOUS idea

Please find a way to incorporate it.

[calimary]

123. Also, there should be a regular debunking of the fancy-talking

that's used to sell the snake oil that bush AND the rest of the republi-CONS perpetrate on unwitting, well-meaning but gullible Americans. For example, we need to state, flat-out, that the "Defense of Marriage" act is really the "Marriage DISCRIMINATION Act." We need to call out all these fancy-schmancy groups and think tanks with their lofty-sounding names, and rip the covers off them so everyone can see them for what they are. The Heritage Foundation, the American Enterprise Institute, The Cato Institute, Concerned Women of (or for) America, Citizens for Tax Justice, The Club for Growth, and all these other fronts for piracy.

We also need more rapid response, and OUR talking points to deflate and debunk their talking points. Something like "he said, she said," where we present their baloney and the translation into Truthspeak. They're saying this... But they REALLY mean THIS:

[Just Me]

38. Yea,...and plug "progressive" faith groups, too: Sojourners,...

,...Interfaith Alliance, National Friends Committee, etc.

:bounce:

[NYCGirl]

37. I'd rather make sure we get the right message out to the big media first,

and get them off their asses to do their jobs. A DNC newspaper would be preaching to the choir, IMO.

[Dems Will Win]

40. No see, we also drop it in the local communities

give it out to friends and family after we read it.

Newspapers CIRCULATE! Brochures and glossy lit are just thrown out and people believe newspapers too. In small towns they read every word just because it's on newsprint--they're programmed to do so.

[NYCGirl]

42. People seldom read newspapers anymore. It's the media that shapes ideas

now.

[Dems Will Win]

45. Don't tell the NY TImes that

They sell 2 million copies a day.

During the primary, I printed up 275,000 copies of The Dean Times and the voters took the paper at the door and often said "Wow! This has a lot of information in it" and started reading it right there! The volunteer drop reports were amazing. I've seen campaign newspapers swing a race 10% to 15% overnight.

People don't read the coporate press because it's all ads and Fake News. If you want the real news go to the Daily Show, they figure.
People WILL read a Dean/DNC paper because it will have REAL NEWS and NO ADS.

[NYCGirl]

51. Newspaper circulation has been declining for decades

(as a side note, I work in advertising). People go to the Daily Show, first and foremost, because it's funny.

NY Times from Business Week:
http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/05_03/b3916001_mz001.htm

While the Times appears to be regaining its stride journalistically, it has not been rewarded with circulation gains. In 2004, the paper posted an infinitesimal 0.2% increase in the circulation of both the daily edition, which now stands at about 1.1 million, and the Sunday paper, which is just under 1.7 million. Since the national expansion began in 1998, the Times has added 150,000 daily subscribers outside New York but is thought to have lost about 96,000 subscribers in its home market. The net increase of 54,000 represents a 5.1% uptick, which compares with the 3.5% decline in U.S. daily newspaper circulation over this period. What's more, the Times posted its gains despite boosting the price of a subscription by more than 25% on average.

New subscribers are increasingly hard to come by for all newspapers as advances in digital communications spur the proliferation of alternative sources of news and information. For the under-30 set in particular, digital accessibility and interactivity tend to trump the familiarity of long-established names like The New York Times, CBS, or CNN.

[Just Me]

47. I believe we can do both.

Although a lot of people don't read, many who are in positions of influence in local communities DO read.

I believe this publication a worthy cause with great potential.

However, I also agree that we must still confront the failure of CM to serve the interests of our people by fulfilling the obligation of being an "informant" of actions by our government.

[candy331]

109. I would donate and pass it out in my community and talk it up at

every opportunity I could. I believe it would be highly effective since I have met so many people who have given up on msm.

[democrank]

44. NYC Girl....

Get big media off their asses? Don`t hold your breath. One of the reasons we`re in this fix is that we`ve waited far too long for those in charge to change. It isn`t going to happen. Now it`s OUR turn to lead.

Big media and all the corporate interests connected to them will continue to do what they do best: put profit above national interest and gasp over Janet Jackson`s breast while they ignore our spreading Iraq with Depleted Uranium.

They`ll haul out a half dozen American flags for a Tom Brokaw special at the same time they refuse to show photos of caskets returning from Iraq. Concentrate on big media if you want. I`m done with them.

[NYCGirl]

46. Give 'em something compelling to report, and if they think they'll get the

viewers, they'll run it.

[Dems Will Win]

48. Exactomundo! "BECOME THE MEDIA"

[GetTheRightVote]

39. Where is the dotted line, I want my copy now !!! Dean, our top dog

I would love to stay in touch with Dean and DNC actions.
I would also love to show it off to all my fellow Dems.
When can I expect my first copy ?

On line web subscription I am sure is in the paper's future, but pamphlets to spread around would be great. Include bills/legation that is being moved thru congress. Also, share personal stories concerning Dems in elected offices, put on the human touch.

:kick:

[Dems Will Win]

41. End of March or in April, hopefully.

[GetTheRightVote]

43. Keep our member names and emails handy for the big day

You should have a grand opening celebration for the new arrival, like any new born should have ??

:kick:

[Dems Will Win]

49. This will be the only thread on this. Wanted to float balloon

and get ideas.

But yes, there will be a press conference and launch and I see Howard holding up the first copy of the first million printed and the audiences going WILD!

[wildflower]

50. Will the name still be Dean Times? And, issues...

Wonderful idea, I'm sure lots will subscribe.

You asked about issues.

-The environment! We are seeing more and more alarming stories every day that don't get a peep in the news.

-Election problems and reform

-Iraq, of course

-Follow-ups on all the investigations (or things that should have been investigated) that have just dropped off the radar.

Re: framing, I've brought this up before, but a lot can be learned from the story of how Schweitzer won the governorship in Montana. I'll have to go find the link again.

EDIT to give link: http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/features/2004/0412.sirota.html

And also, I mentioned this yesterday, but basic marketing principles are needed to get the message through to the people. I'll go find a link to my post on that and put it in here.

EDIT: Here's the link: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=103&topic_id=103386

-wildflower

[Dems Will Win]

52. Thanks for the post. What should we call it guys

It can't be The Dean Times obviously.

NAME CONTEST!!

[democrank]

56. We should try to figure out a way to....

reach folks who don`t have a computer or don`t want to use one. I`m in the wilds of Vermont and I regularly run into people who aren`t internet savvy and have no idea of where they can go for alternative news and information.

Just a couple of days ago I talked with three older women (60`s) who really want to get activated but don`t know where to start. If we could figure out a way to reach people like this, it would help them and help us. For example, if I had a few dozen copies, I could leave some at the local laundramat or other places that usually get forgotten.

As for a newsletter name, my vote would be to use something that connected with regular folks....real news, real people kinda thing.

[Old and In the Way]

57. How about 'Progressive Times'?

Definitely publish the same content on the web......or make the web a daily version and the paper publication weekly/bi-weekly/monthly that culls the best stories (or highest rated stories) from the web edition.
Should also have state/local stories connected (like DU's state group forums) that can funnel stories up to the readers.

[Dems Will Win]

59. Very good Old and in the Way!

Will file it away. There already is a democrats.org Web site and they do have a lot of issues and news on it but a separate area to cover a little of what's in the paper would be good.

Any other names, anyone??

[Cha]

82. There is already a "Progressive Populist"

that is an amazing twice monthly newspaper that is now online, too..http://www.populist.com/

SNIP~

Fund manager calls Bush SSI plan 'silly'
Bill Gross, manager of the world's largest bond fund, is criticizing President Bush's plan to privatize part of Social Security, CNN reported 2/4/05. Gross, managing director at Pimco, called the argument about the solvency of Social Security "silly" and said it was an example of the president not focusing on more important issues, such as the budget deficit.

The president's argument for individual Social Security accounts is meant "to promote an agenda that has little to do with seniors and more to do with Bush, his ownership society, and ultimately his domestic legacy alongside the likes of Ronald Reagan and FDR," Gross wrote in comments posted on Pimco's Web site.

More at..http://www.populist.com/

We could still call it something "Progressive", though..it's such a good word!

[thedailyshow]

62. The Democratic Press

[AntiCoup2K4]

69. How about the "Daily YEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAARRRRRGGGGHHH"!

Ok, I'm kidding.....or am I? ;)

Hell if I know. Newspaper names are so generic. How many "Post" or "Times" or "Sentinel" is there

The "Daily Donkey" would be too cheesy.

[Dems Will Win]

75. OK DAILY YYYYYEEEEAAAARRRGGGHHH! It is.

[Peak_Oil]

81. How about Verified News? n/t

[July]

119. Seriously, use it.

I would LOVE to see that. Turn that whole media farce about the "scream" on its head. Show the thugs we'll say what we want, and say it the way we want, and their misrepresentations mean not a whit to us.

[calimary]

124. It's great. I'm not afraid to say my heart belongs to "Hollerin' Howard."

Because I, too, am hollering. Just as loudly.

[wildflower]

74. I would give it a name that is about people, individuals:

Such as "The People's Press." (Though this exact name may already exist.) Stress the theme of the people vs. the corporations. Remember Teddy Roosevelt's anti-trust theme. Make it appeal to the individual.

I think it should be about progressive/democratic issues, but framed to attract all those who want a newspaper for the people. Thus some undecideds and true conservatives might pick it up.

I like titles with "Progressive" - most people want progress - but some see this as anti-traditionalist. First you need to get people to pick up the paper, then they'll start to realize that progressive values are their values, too.

Because progressive values *are* traditional values. Many people just haven't been given to understand this. As has often been said, the values of most people are liberal. It's the marketing that's the problem. Good ideas unfortunately have to be sold or framed in the right way.

While I'm on the topic, one biggie on the list of basic marketing concepts that I forgot to mention in my post above is features vs. benefits. For example, "This toothpaste has baking soda" is a feature. "The baking soda naturally freshens your breath" is a benefit.

Dems tend to talk only about features, i.e. the description of an issue, and not the benefits or problems that it causes the individual voter.

This is especially true when it comes to the environment.

For example, I remember once when Al Franken was talking to his conservative friend Mark Luther; I think it was about fish dying in a lake. Mark's response was something like "Well, I don't have any great love for fish."

Instead, Al should have translated the issue into what it means for human beings: "If the lake is killing the fish, could it be killing us too?" (This is what Schweitzer did in the Montana governor's race I mentioned in the post above.)

I think this is why people are not listening when it comes to the environment. All they hear is that we care about fish & trees more than people, and thus we're environmental wackos.

Anyway, I hope that helps!

-wildflower

P.S. ON EDIT: One more thing about naming it. The name should be something you can easily say, so that (a) news of the paper can be spread easily by word of mouth and (b) people will talk about issues of the day from the paper.

When testing a name, say things such as the following out loud:

"Did you see the article on health care in _____________ yesterday?"
"I picked up ______________ in town today."
"I'd like to subscribe to _____________."
"Have you heard of ______________?"
"A new paper, _____________ is making a big splash throughout the country. You can find _____________ at your local newsstand." (Envision a TV anchor saying this. :) )

[Liberty Belle]

128. Democracy Times could be a good title.

Short, clear, and not so left-sounding that it would discourage conservative or moderate voters from reading a copy. After all, they're the ones who most need to be educated.

"80% of Democrats are just uneducated Republicans." -- Robert F. Kennedy

[DebJ]

144. error in your quote??? shouldn't that be 80% of Republicans are

uneducated Democrats?

[Liberty Belle]

145. Oops, yes

No more late-night posting for me. Thanks.

[Liberty Belle]

130. Wildflower is right on about the environment.

Do a story on how asthma rates are up 79-80% nationwide, then link it to the increased air pollution under Republican environmental policies. Tie it all in to the corporate looters/polluters who are Bush's biggest donors.

[HootieMcBoob]

91. A name that doesn't give the contents away on first glance

I think it should have a name that doesn't scream "partisan" or give the impression to joe barcalounger that it might be something other than "fair and balanced".

Papers like "The Washington Times", "The New York Post" and the "Pittsburgh Tribune-Review" are conservative newspapers but you wouldn't know it from the titles. People pick them up and figure they're just regular old newspapers that are printing "news".

I think it would be good to stay away from names that have been used in the past by socialist or communist groups that could be misconstrued by some and intentionally misconstrued by others in the corporate media, i.e. names that include "Peoples" or "Workers" in them. Although they seem to be who we're going after they bring a lot of baggage along with them.

Maybe something that says the same thing but without the baggage like:
"The Citizen" or something like that. Maybe with a subheading of something like "Maintaining an informed electorate since 2005".

But "The Yeeeaarrgh" is appealing too :)

[Peak_Oil]

92. The American Citizen!!!

How about that one? Put a big flag on the front, too! Take back that symbol!

How fucking audacious! Mom, Apple Pie, the whole fucking thing! Baseball! You gotta have a section on baseball! DUDE!

How can you possibly object to a newspaper called The American Citizen? Oh, I got more. You're gonna love this one. Have a section on good news. You ever read the paper and just say, Fer crissakes, if I read one more story about horrible shit I'm just gonna flip right the fuck out? Seriously. I remember reading the LA times on Christmas Day two years ago and the whole front section was all good news. Fireman Saves Kitty. Priest Performs Marriage. fucking Kid Finds Lost Frisbee. It was GREAT!

This is a good one, float this one up there too! Oh, the humanity! The American Citizen's Good News section! Limbaugh would go friggin BERSERK! Nothing to argue with! Imagine Crossfire trying to tear this apart! HAhahaha!

[HootieMcBoob]

97. That's it!

You took my "citizen" suggestion and made it 100 times better. That's the perfect name, in my opinion. And I'm totally with you on the baseball section.

[Peak_Oil]

98. Yeah!

It just came to me in a flash. I was fishing around for something, couldn't get a decent hook. Your Citizen thing was great, I just put a little sauce on it.

One of my friends in high school used to call me the Joke Refining Machine. He'd feed me raw material and I could multiply that shit out. I have a hard time coming up with the original idea, though.

This one is good.

Not only is it 100% teflon coated, it also gets the idea across to those who are in the Know. Citizen = worker = populist, the whole thing.

Oh yeah.

[wildflower]

103. Good name. One thing, though...

Might "citizen" be perceived as anti-immigrant? Or rather, make immigrants hesitant?

There's also the personal/impersonal aspect. But I can see your point about "People's." Do others here get that connotation? For the most effective marketing, my concern, as yours is, is that each person perceives the paper to be for him or her, not politics, big business, or anything else impersonal.

Good news is I've found only two instances of the newspaper name "The American Citizen" so far; and both are historical. One was published in Iowa from 1940-1943; the other was published in Kansas City from 1889-1907. I'm not aware of the name being in current use.

The name also passes the repeatability ("watercooler") test well, I think.

-wildflower

[HootieMcBoob]

104. I don't see the anti-immigrant connotation but...

I could be missing something.

The way I look at it, the immigrants who we should be concerned with are the one's who either are citizens already or who want to become citizens. America is a nation of immigrants after all and all of her citizens are either immigrants themselves or come from immigrant families with the exception of native Americans.

Also, if there's nothing within the pages that could be perceived as anti-immigrant there shouldn't be a problem.

Nice job on the research :)

I wonder what Dems Will Win thinks of it?

[wildflower]

105. I'm thinking here of the "pickupability" factor,

putting myself in the shoes of more recent immigrant populations. I might be a little intimidated because "The American Citizen" has a very traditional, established sound (which is generally a good thing) and is slightly impersonal and removed.

Thanks about the research :) Whoever makes the decision should (and will, I'm sure) of course do a full copyright and trademark searches on all aspects involved in the paper.

I'm interested to see what Dems Will Win thinks too. This has been great, all of us here already doing some grass-roots work on this! :hi:

-wildflower

[Dems Will Win]

136. The Citizen is good, American Citizen is good

With brainstorming you want to come up with a big long list of ideas and then there' more to pick from...

So keep going!

[Cha]

100. All this reasoning sounds great to

me..things I hadn't thought of ..like that it shouldn't be partisan sounding.

Something for everyone of us.. "American Citizens"..

[candy331]

110. Like your ideas peak, "The American Citizen" really catchy!

"THE AMERICAN CITIZEN" = 1 vote from me.

[Eloriel]

116. I like it -- and here's another idea to toss around

Ties into what Dean wants to accomplish, and is kind of a play on words in that the title can apply locally as well as within the party and nationally and even, dare I say it, globally:

Community News

with an eyebrow: DNC's Community News

[wildflower]

140. I like it (Community News); it has that personal, local sense. n/t

[Al-CIAda]

117. lmao- great suggestions -eom

[July]

120. Another good suggestion. nt

[dansolo]

96. It should not be called "Dean Times"

This should be about the party, not the individual. Even DFA changed it's name when the focus was no longer on just him.

[moggie12]

54. A DNC newspaper would be great -- I like the idea of bulk drops, too

Maybe there could be special, smaller, less-expensive-to-print issues that activists could drop off in their local supermarkets, etc. Free issues that people brainwashed by Bush propaganda could pick up and read..... Geared not to the base but to the "swing voters" and the masses of uninformed and misinformed voters.

[Dems Will Win]

58. Actually the subscriptions help pay for free issues

and then locals have to hold house parties and raise the lesser amount needed for their drops or handouts.

IT will be a blast to hand them out believe me! Nothing is funner! And it will make the Dems look like they've landed wherever we can get this going.

It will get bigger and bigger every month until each first of the month when it prints, the RWCM and the WH will have to go running to it to see what's been exposed this time!

[NYCGirl]

64. Have you met with any DNC people about this? NT

[Dems Will Win]

65. Not yet, but soon the top DFA people will be in DC

and they will then assume control. All 5 of them!

Unless of course the good doctor lets out another YYYEEEAAARRGHH!

[NYCGirl]

66. I was under the impression that the top DFA people would continue to run

DFA.

[Dems Will Win]

67. Yes, some off them will stay in Burlington and run DFA

But his top staff (3 people) will no doubt go to DC with Howard. There aren't a whole lot of them up there right now.

[democrank]

68. I`d love to hear another

YYYEEEAAARRGHH! At least I can say for certain that there`s some life in one of our leaders. What a welcome change that would be from the usual "Mr. Lieberman votes aye" or even yet another DLC memo warning the party elites against supporting anti-war Democrats.

Let `er rip, Howard.

[MaineDem]

73. "assume control"

I'm sorry but I wonder what the DNC members have to say about the DFA assuming control?

If I remember correctly Dean said DFA will remain a separate organization with a new person in charge.

[ScreamingMeemie]

70. It depends upon the content. If Dean is actually allowed to run the

DNC, and this is not just a ploy by the DNC to keep Gov. Dean under their watch...sure. But not until I had seen a couple of issues.

[DebJ]

71. Name suggestion: You Have the Power!!!

It was those four words, echoing my own statements over many years, that turned me into a Deaniac.

And won't this continue to be his focus, empowering the people?

We should have notes added to articles in the paper that come under the little box: what you can do.

[Cha]

84. I like that!

It's catchy! ;-)

[wildflower]

139. I think this would be an awesome title for a recurring feature...

where there is a story each week about how one person has made a difference in some small way. At the end, the feature could encourage readers to send in their own stories. Make people feel involved, and that their participation makes a difference.

-wildflower

[Al-CIAda]

72. In no particular order-

1. JOBS- aside from Lou Dobbs, I see NO ONE covering the outsourcing and bleeding of decent technical jobs and skilled worker opportunity.

2. HEALTH CARE- Rising at a rate of 5%+ per yr. over the last 4 years.

3. EDUCATION- We are raising a nation of idiots.

4. NAT'l. SAFETY- Our madness must stop. The PNAC treason and agenda should be exposed.

5. GOVERNMENT CORRUPTION- It is running rampant. Corporatism and its ongoing subversion of our democracy should be exposed.

6. ENVIRONMENT- Can we be any more destructive?

7. VOTING RIGHTS- In my opinion, we may never have another fair election. The machines and rules are rigged by partisan and nefarious criminals.

[Dr Fate]

78. Lots of exposures of the Pro-Bush media.

Tap into media matters & even DU posts and you can find daily examples of it.

We need to make it a household issue just like the mythical "Liberal media" was in the 90s...

[Capn Sunshine]

79. I'm really jazzed about this prospect

I already PM'd you about California.
I'll ask Gov. Dean if he'll do another interview for the first edition....

[cidliz2004]

80. AWESOME

Yes, sign me up! I would like a paper the first day that it is issued.

Focusing on the TRUTH, like SS for instance. We are not in a crisis and the fact that the Government didn't invest the surplus and that there is no money to back up the bonds or whatever they are called.

The deficeit: SPELL IT OUT REPEAT IT OVER AND OVER AND OVER

Bush's lies again SPELL THEM OUT AND REPEAT THEM OVER AND OVER AND OVER

Iraq - show the real price that is being paid by our soldiers thier citizens and our reputation around the world and our deficeit.

Election Fraud

Media Hypocrisy

Patriot Act

Dumb down what laws and rights have been passed since Bush has been in office

Name names on broadcasters and how they lie and name their lies, call it the truth on journalism page, day by day repeat the lies told by journalists/broadcasters and keep track of their guests lies to. Then 1 a month/quarter/year give awards to the biggest liars in the media and the biggest lying guests on the media

BOLDLY make charges and claims don't worry about "BEING POLITICALLY CORRECT"

Recognize the truth and validity from "both" sides, use integrity.

Give voice to our strongest leaders, Wes Clark, Barbara Boxer, Howard Dean, Kucinich....

Enlist financing and get on T.V. somewhow, someway...

sign me up to help if you need any.

[mdmc]

83. I'll take ten subscriptions!

just the prescription for my blue state of mind!

[mdmc]

85. I want lots of cartoons, pictures, and humor.

Please, lets make this thing fly!

Progressive Picayune!

The National Democrat

[Cha]

86. Thanks, Dems Will Win!

I remember when "The Dean Times" came out..many of us were so stoked that there was truth getting out there in newspaper form.

"It's The Media, Stupid" has been our biggest problem for so long..it's time that we "Become The Media"!

Thank you so much for all your energy and creativity that goes into what could be,imho,a major turning point in getting our message out!

[Dems Will Win]

99. Thanks! If somebody has a Web site we could put up the NH Dean TImes

and all look at it and get ideas...

[Freddie Stubbs]

87. Considering how well Dean did in Iowa and NH,

I'm not too sure how well this would work.

[RetroLounge]

89. Yawn

:eyes:

RL

[Cha]

93. That is "YAWN"!

Amazing how Yawning some things can be!

[redwitch]

90. I almost met Howard Dean last weekend

He was 10 feet from me at the Roosevelt Hotel in NYC. I was too shy to go up to him- and he was talking to a group of people at a DNC chair meeting. I am still kicking myself. I would LOVE to subscribe, tell us when and how.

[Cha]

94. You lucky.. to be so close!

I want to meet him in this lifetime..and maybe someday I'll have the chance.

[chicagojoe]

101. Sign me up!

A real outlet like this will cause a bit of Depends soiling on the Radical Right.

[mzmolly]

102. YEARRRRGH!

:yourock:

[sunnystarr]

106. The Left View ... The Blue Times ... Blue Patriot ....

Blue Truth ... Dems Speak... True View ... True Blue ... Blue View ...Left is Right ... Beyond the Spin ... Spin Unspun ... Inquiring Minds ... The Real Deal ... Unspun News ... Shut Out Spin (SOS) ... The Untold Truth

Oh and sign me up :)

[MassLiberal]

107. I'd subscribe

But I'd want this paper to tell the truth--not to pretend that everything is fine, and not to look away. I don't want more of the same.

[natureman]

108. Great Idea

We either lead or follow. It is time to lead. I am optimistic
about the prospects of new ideas being implemented in the DNC.

[Top Lizard]

112. The DNC Needs a Better Way to Connect with Voters

I have given money to the DNC, off and on, since the Clinton years--even though I'm not someone with a lot of money. Despite these contributions, I have always felt that national party officials didn't give a damn about me UNLESS they needed dough. The only occasions that I ever heard from the DNC (by mail or phone) were when they wanted me to pony up some cash.

I gave more money and spent more time volunteering for the Kerry campaign than I ever have before for the presidential nominee, but I'm starting to get tired of feeling used by the party bigwigs in Washington. The last time a DNC fundraiser called me, I explained my situation and asked for time to think about it. I have since determined that I would not be giving any so-called political "professionals" money in the near future. If/when Howard Dean becomes DNC chair, then I would be more willing.

My personal experience may be different from most people's, but I really think the DNC needs a way a) to apprise members in "flyover country" of what they're doing, and b) to seek input from them. Dialogue between local or regional elected officials and those in Washington is one way of consulting and coordinating to improve the party, but a newsletter or newspaper might be another. I certainly think that if it's financially feasible, underwriting a regular communique would be a better use of funds than paying people like Robert Shrum for their supposed expertise. Having such a newsletter might also give people like myself talking points for conversation with others, and one could also pass this kind of publication around to help spread the word.

In short, yes, I think it's a pretty good idea!

[imagine1989]

115. Success is likely

Look at the Libertarians, they started a monthly magazine and you can find it in almost any bookstore! Huge circulation for such a small party too.

[WLKjr]

118. Wow! I would sign up if the price was right

I would even offer to contribute stuff from time to time if needed.

[calimary]

121. Yes, I'd subscribe. YES!!!

That is an excellent suggestion!

[Liberty Belle]

125. Yes. I'm a journalist with 20 years of newspaper writing

experience. I've published thousands of articles in publications ranging from daily metropolitan newspapers to national consumer magazines and international trade journals. Nothing would make me happier than to write for the DNC News!

Issues not adequately covered by the mainstream media include:

- Electoral issues (especially voting fraud/GOP-owned machines)

- The neocon agenda clearly outlined by right-wing think tanks
(destruction of social programs, multiple military invasions)

- Environmental degradation under the Bush administration
(rewarding corporate looters and polluters by rolling back
decades of progress in clean air, water, etc.)

- International concerns over global warming ignored by Bush

- Corporate control of the media (I've spoken on this topic and have
been speaking out on dangers of media consolidation since before
it was on the radar for most people)

- Dismantling of consumer protections, notably a bill now coming
to the Senate Floor to restrict class action lawsuits against
corporations

- Pandering to corporate interests over public interests
(Note: I am researching an expose article and looking for a place
to publish it: "World's 10 Worst Corporations All Have Strong
Ties to Bush")

- The anti-compassionate aspects of "compassionate conservatism"
(Bush has created more poverty, more abortions, etc.)

- How No Child Left Behind is negatively impacting education

- Destabilization of the U.S. economy under Bush's leadership
(Could our economy collapse? Many foreign investors are converting
dollars to other forms of currency)

- The dangers posed by Bush's efforts to create a theocracy

- Bush's march toward fascism (taking away our civil liberties,
ignoring human rights, controlling the media through propaganda,
are all danger signs. Banning DFA members in Fargo from attending
the president's speech smacks of suppressing political opposition. How far could it go? Gulags? Re-education "camps?")

If you would like to see a resume, please send me a private message.

[Al-CIAda]

126. "The American Citizen" is perfect IMO, and think Peak Oil has fantastic

ideas. The 'mailing' feature is nice. I like his 'sections' idea as well.


Good brainstorming here.

[Liberty Belle]

127. Another idea: Publish an Action Alerts section

Here's a sample that I've begun compiling and posting at DU. Of course, in a newspaper you could run an explanation of each issue along with a "Take Action" recommendation.

TAKE ACTION!
DU ACTION ALERTS 2-3-2005

All--This is a new feature I will be updating twice weekly. Please keep this thread kicked!


IMPEACH BUSH!
Ramsey Clark has almost half a million signatures.
Please sign and forward this link to others:
http://www.votetoimpeach.org /

More on how you can help persuade Congress to impeach Bush:
http://www.impeach-bush-now.org /

SAVE OUR RIGHT TO SUE CORPORATIONS!
Tell Congress: Laws Should Protect People, Not Corporations
Petition: http://www.care2.com/go/z/21141
Congress could act soon on the so-called Class Action
Fairness Act, S. 5. This legislative "reform" would limit the rights of citizens to file class action lawsuits when they are victimized by corporations that pollute our communities or hide the truth about the harm their products cause. (HOT--this may be voted on in Senate any day now.)


INVESTIGATE PAYOLA PUNDITS
From FreePress.net
Ask your Senators & Congressional member to investigate "payola pundits" (journalists taking taxpayer money to promote Administration propaganda): http://www.freepress.net/action/callcongress.php?a=nopa ...

PROTECT SOCIAL SECURITY
From Working Families:
Take action to protect Social Security by signing the petition:
http://www.unionvoice.org/ct/171nc991rcrI /

SAVE THE FAIRNESS DOCTRINE
Several media reform groups are pushing forward with plans to eliminate media.
Please sign and forward!
http://www.fairnessdoctrine.com /


SUPPORT THE VOTING INTEGRITY & VERIFICATION ACT OF 2005
Tell Congress: Support real electoral reform:
http://www.commoncause.org/site/pp.asp?c=dkLNK1MQIwG&b= ...

FUND UNITED NATIONS POPULATION FUND
Ask President Bush to stop blocking critical funding to the United Nations Population Fund. These funds could prevent 2 million unwanted pregnancies, 800,000 induced abortions, and 4,700 maternal deaths each year. Act here:
http://www.care2.com/go/z/21143

IMPROVE ACCESS TO MORNING AFTER PILL
Over-the-counter access of the morning-after pill could prevent up to half of all unintended pregnancies, and is critical for victims of sexual assault. Urge the FDA to do the right thing now:
http://www.care2.com/go/z/21145

STRENGTHEN SOCIAL SECURITY
From CARE2: Social Security: Strengthen Protections for Families,
Not Wall Street. Petition: http://www.care2.com/go/z/21147

[Renew Deal]

129. I would pick it up.

Why not? As long as the price is fair I'd get it.

[Liberty Belle]

131. I publish a political newsletter with some sections that might work.

My publication is the Liberty Belle Log. I can send you a copy, if you'd like.

Regular features include:

"Propaganda Watch" (stories about media bias)

"Rogues Gallery" (Bush nominees/cabinet officials)

"Immoral Values" (Republican unethical acts)

"Labor Pains" (policies that hurt workers)

You could counter the negative stuff with positive stories highlighting Democrats, ie "The Boxer Rebellion" for Barbara Boxer's courageous stances recently. Also community activists who made a difference. Example: San Diegans who rallied against electoral theft succeeded in getting a local Fox News station to cover vote-counting problems in our mayoral race. Profile healthcare workers in inner city clinics and also people in rural areas to show a cross-section of problems and solutions in America.

[Liberty Belle]

132. Do a Spanish version. The right wing controls Hispanic radio

since NBC took over many stations.

[Dems Will Win]

138. absolutely Spanish

[Jim Sagle]

133. "New Millenium: The News that Will Shape your Future"

[Us vs Them]

134. Included in the party news it would be helpful to see

articles that feature what citizens around the nation are doing to benefit fellow Americans and the Democratic party.

For example, a number of individuals have set up groups through the DFA and continue to have interaction with their communities at the local level. In my own city, a number of College Democrat organizations are in the process of joining forces to stand as a united Student Democrat Front. I think one of the biggest problems facing America is the increasing distance between the individual and the sense of community. (We can blame TV/Media culture for this great disconnect.) Articles outlining real life examples of how Democrats working together can spark change could be a real benefit in showing everyday citizens that they, too, can have a voice and work towards the goal of a better country. I'm very excited about the prospects of this publication and will do everything I can to promote it once it's off the ground.

[calimary]

135. Might be good to have a "Trouble-shooting" column

that would help readers respond to coworkers or people who send those email whoppers but don't know how to debunk the lies or distortions or misrepresentations. Maybe publish the "email of the month" that either canonizes bush or bashes Clinton or the Democrats or liberals or some such thing, and then feature the rebuttal that's ready-to-serve, either as a link they can go to and cut-n-paste, to send out in email form, or to say around the water cooler or over the back fence or in the back of the room at the PTA meeting or waiting in line for the movies or at the checkout counter. Ways to counter some of the spew that seems to be everywhere. Sort of - hannity (or o'reilly or limbaugh or hedgecock or some nutcase) claims that blah-blah-blah - but what they won't tell you is... or - but the truth of the matter is...

Like a "People's Talking Points."

Here, too, is where you could inspire people to new heights of clever creativity with the ideal retort or memorable buzz phrase or funny one-liner or slogan that just might get 'em thinking.

ALSO: How about something I just saw here tonight - a monthly (or weekly) contest for renaming whatever it is. There's a thread somewhere here asking folks to come up with different names for the Social Security "fix." And some of 'em are JUST SPLENDID - and well worth using and repeating.

We need to give people the TOOLS with which to fight back. Sometimes that's all they need. How many times have you heard or read a complaint from someone who wished they'd known what to say to set the record straight when they heard somebody else mouthing the "party line"? This could be a REAL public service, not to mention how it could sharpen everybody up.

[jab105]

137. FRAMING the debate!! Stop this moving to the middle crap...

and instead frame the debate successfully so that they move to your position...I think they could do a big article on this with examples!!

[wildflower]

141. Ideas for weekly features/columns

Here are some ideas for weekly features/columns:

"Whatever Happened to" or "Down the Memory Hole" (about items such as energy meetings, Plame, and the whole list of things that got dropped in the media).

"Conflict of Interest of the Week" (with a catchier title; start with voting machines).

"Making a Difference" or "You Have the Power" (weekly story about one person who did a small thing to make a difference; encourage people to send in their stories each week).

"How the Environment is Affecting You" (tie in environmental problems to how they affect the average citizen, in order to get people more interested in this crucial issue).

And a people-versus-big-money-type feature, to continue the overall theme of the paper (see my above posts), and to give a frame for talking about, e.g., trial lawyers (personal vs. corporate) and voting (people vs. machines & big money).

-wildflower

[Lorien]

142. Global climate change/ renewable energy

Global climate change is a thousand times greater a threat to humanity than terrorism. I'd also like to see a National "Apollo project" on renewable energy, and discussion about putting America back to work with a National high speed rail system.

Framing the debate and weekly talking points would also be good. Liberals are notorious for NOT taking action, and anything that can be done to remedy that problem would be appreciated. I'm sick of everyone taking the time to point out what's wrong without offering alternatives and solutions.

Oh, and yes, I'd subscribe.

[rockymountaindem]

143. I hope this actually happens.

I'd be awfully disappointed if it didn't after reading this great thread!

[Dems Will Win]

149. Me too!

Actually they already approved me to try and start a DFA paper so I'm assuming we'll just go big-time now.

[Democrat Dragon]

146. This is a great idea because the Democrats can now make their own money

instead of geting corporate quid pro quo. Intead of answering to the billionares they can answer to the "common folk". This will be OUR party! Who know? maybe the DNC could even sell stocks! :evil:

[bobbieinok]

148. every time a list of what admin has done....eg, authorized logging

in the Sequoia National Forest

very little monitoring of containers coming into US

control of scientitic input available to US depts.....

admin, spokespeople's claims vs their previous claims..eg about Iraq

simple, straight forward info ON SOCIAL SECURITY