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WARNING: THIS POST HAS CONTENT THAT MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!
THIS POST IS A CONTINUATION OF THE BLOG POST TITLED, "I AM NO LONGER BEING AN ACTIVIST IN THE SAME WAY THAT I WAS, PART 3" (WHICH CAN BE SEEN IN THE PREVIOUS POST NO. 151). AND IT HAS ALL OF THE UPDATES WRITTEN FROM NOVEMBER 2023 TO DECMEBER 2023
I Am No Longer Being An Activist
In The Same Way That I Was, Part 4
Due to being stressed out—and until further notice—I am no longer being an 'Online Activist' in the same way that I was before, which includes no longer signing petitions from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations, as well as no longer making donations to political, social, environmental and charitable causes the same way that I was in the past. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS.) And so, I am consciously choosing to not engage in any 'activism,' however, I am still planning to exercise my 'civic duty' by voting in upcoming elections.
Now, to clarify something: I cannot edit my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog—for an unknown reason—as of May 11th, 2026. So, any editing that I have tried to do on this blog post, after May 11th, for some reason won't save...
…Although, on June 20th, 2026, I thought to relocate all of the 2026 updates from my original blog post, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," to my newer "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was, Part 2." You see, I had created this 'Part 2' blog post as a backup post, because there was a period of time when the original blog post kept being unpublished by Blogger for being too 'spammy'—I am guessing because of all the hyperlinks that I was providing for news articles that I was referring to my readers!
Anyway, that relocation of the 2026 updates seemed to have worked in getting the original blog post to be "editable" again, at least temporarily...
...But, then, later on that same day, I tried to add some additional text to the post and it would not save again! However, at least this time, instead of just saying that the "Update failed," it specifically stated, "The body is too large." Thus, I am assuming the 'unknown reason' that I stopped being able to edit the original post on May 11th was because I had—apparently—reached some sort of blog post size threshold!
So now, I am thinking of editing out most of the news updates, which I wrote on that original post, because those updates weren't nearly as pertinent to my "Online Activism" as was responding to the text message, email, and regular mail communications that I was receiving from various political, progressive and charitable organizations.
And, below, please find relevant quotes from a series of 'updates' that highlight the most important changes to my current activism, which are titled as follows:
▪ [A Quote From My] March 7th, 2017 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] November 5th, 2018 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] September 16th, 2021 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] November 10th, 2021 Update, Written On November 11th, 2021
▪ [A Quote From My] March 13th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] March 16th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] March 17th, 2022 Update, Which Also Discusses March 16th, 2022
▪ [A Quote From My] April 3rd, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] April 12th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued Further, Written On June 17th, 2022
▪ [A Quote From My] June 17th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022
▪ [A Quote From My] July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On July 27th, 2022)
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2023 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2023 Update—Continued
▪ [A Quote From My] November 6th, 2024 Update No. 1
▪ [A Series of Excerpts From My] April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 and
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On April 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026], as well as
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 2, Written On April 19th, 2026), in addition to
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 3, Written On May 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026, Part 2], and finally,
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 4, Written On June 15th, 2026, Which Also Discusses June 14th, 2026)
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[A Quote From My] March 7th, 2017 Update: "This update is a follow-up to my 'November 2nd, 2016 Update,' where I explained, in part, that I am no longer being an 'Online Activist' in the same way that I was before, which includes no longer signing petitions from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations, as well as no longer making donations to political, social, environmental and charitable causes the same way that I was in the past. I wanted to clarify the fact that I do still donate to homeless folks where I live, as a way of giving 'alms to the poor.' And I also donate to charitable organizations that are fundraising through local stores at which I shop, as well as to charities that may be fundraising on the street. Besides that, I also sometimes donate to charities that send me 'free gifts enclosed' (such as calendars, greeting cards, key chains, etc.) when they are asking for a donation. Thus, I occasionally utilize one of those 'free gifts enclosed,' and so I send them a donation if I do!"
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[A Quote From My] November 5th, 2018 Update: "I wanted to explain to you the way that I have changed how I vote! And, in order to explain how I changed, please let me quote myself—specifically from my July 1st, 2012 post titled, 'For the Year 2012 — My Posting Sabbatical, Part 2,' which is published on my 'Small All White in the Forest' and 'Poet, Artist and Philosopher' blogs:
My Writing About How I Vote: When I vote, I typically consider the recommendations of various organizations, news publications, as well as election 'political mailers' and, then, I decide whose recommendations for, or against, each candidate or ballot measure make the most sense. Plus, I usually always vote for Democrats. And that's how democracy rolls in this house! –Paul Whiting (written October 28th, 2012 and revised November 8th, 2022)
Now, that quote still applies to how I vote; however, in 2018, I decided to not just read voter recommendations of 'various organizations, news publications, as well as election 'political mailers.'' Instead, I read news publications during the entire year. And, in that way, I can be a more informed voter, as well as a more informed citizen, throughout the year! And, thusly, when it comes to voting on Election Day, I have spent the entire year preparing to vote and have not been preparing only when it's time to vote. And, just to clarify, for some publications, I still only read their voter recommendation editions when I am preparing to vote."
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[A Quote From My] September 16th, 2021 Update: "I wanted to let you know that I have started subscribing to news organizations, which I can afford given my monthly spending budget (the reader should know that I am HIV-positive and that I have full-blown AIDS; plus, I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited), since I have a smart phone again, after years of only having a feature phone.
So, I subscribe to the news organizations whose news articles I read the most, based upon Google news searches that I do in order to keep up with the news! Thus, I scan the titles of the most popular articles and then I read the articles that I feel are the most relevant.
And I am reading news organizations' articles during the entire year, so that I can be a more informed voter, as well as a more informed citizen, which is how I am being an activist these days along with how I spend my money.
You see, I figured out that 'putting my money where my mouth is'—in terms of being a 'Conscious Consumer,' who is aware of how my spending habits affect the entire planet and all of its inhabitants—is the best way for me to be an activist, in addition to keeping up with the news and making sure that I vote!"
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[A Quote From My] November 10th, 2021 Update, Written On November 11th, 2021: "I signed up on Charity Navigator to make donations for holidays, special occasions, or current issues, to highly-rated charities..."
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[A Quote From My] March 13th, 2022 Update: "I have started donating to Democrats on a regular basis again, because I recently signed a petition regarding saving the United States Postal Service and then I made a political donation! And that's basically the first political petition that I have signed and/or political donation that I have made since around November of 2016.
You see, I am a 'Democratic Activist!' And I think that the Republicans know who I am—and they DO NOT like me—which is basically why I stopped signing political petitions and/or making political donations right before the November 2016 Election, when I created this 'I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was' post on my 'Poet, Artist and Philosopher' blog.
Thus, I was afraid that the Republicans might retaliate against me in some way, depending upon what type of activism I was engaged in, if they were in control of both Congress and the White House. And I also feared that once the Republicans won Congress and the White House that they would try to turn America into an oligarchy!
And, after the January 6th, 2021 Capitol Attack, my fears were confirmed. [Or, it was the January 6th, *1776* 'normal tourist group'; or, the insurrectionists that attacked the Capitol Complex—in order to stop the certification of Joe Biden's win—were really 'Antifa' protestors; or, they were Black Lives Matter protestors; or, they were paid actors and actresses; or, in all actuality, they were incited by ('Gasp!') the FBI. Regardless, however, it was clearly 'a false flag operation' designed to make President Donald J. Trump 'look bad'—like he needs any assistance doing that!]
Therefore, I am trying to stay informed about what is happening in politics again, especially due to the upcoming 2022 Midterm Elections. So, I am trying to help Democrats win, because I am greatly concerned about the Republicans retaking both the House and Senate of Congress, and eventually retaking the White House, since Republicans are acting like Radical Christian Terrorists!"
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[A Quote From My] March 16th, 2022 Update: "I made charitable donations today, March 16th, 2022, to multiple charitable organizations via Charity Navigator for the 'Crisis in Ukraine' after I watched three videos on YouTube titled, 'Zelenskyy: Peace Talks Between Ukraine And Russia 'Sound More Realistic'' and 'Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivers virtual address to the U.S. Congress — 3/16/22,' in addition to 'Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Calls For Assistance In Virtual Address to Congress.' For, I am greatly concerned about this act of war against Ukraine!"
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[A Quote From My] March 17th, 2022 Update, Which Also Discusses March 16th, 2022: "I made a donation today, March 17th, 2022, as well as yesterday, March 16th, 2022, to the USO (United Service Organizations). You see, I received a text message yesterday, March 16th, 2022, from the USO, which stated the following:
USO: Sorry to interrupt, but as war unfolds in Ukraine, thousands of U.S. troops are deployed in Eastern Europe to support NATO allies.
We still need 76?2+ more Americans to sign our card by midnight to thank them for their sacrifices -- and your name is missing. Will you sign now?***
And so, I filled out that survey yesterday, March 16th, 2022, and then I made a one-time donation to the USO via Charity Navigator as part of the charitable donations that I made yesterday for the 'Crisis in Ukraine,' which I explained in my 'March 16th, 2022 Update.'
And then today, March 17th, 2022, I received an email from the USO with the subject line, 'TAKE THE QUIZ: How many military terms do you know?', which stated the following:
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR MILITARY LINGO?
TAKE THE QUIZ »***
Paul: From the National Guard to the Marines, each branch of our military uses different phrases to quickly pass important information to their fellow service members.
We know you're a dedicated patriot, so this quiz is perfect for you. Have some fun testing yourself on how well you understand the jargon our troops are using every day!
Take our 60-second quiz to test your knowledge of all kinds of military words and phrases.
TAKE THE QUIZ »***
Good luck!
The USO
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, after I took the quiz, I made a one-time donation on the USO.org website. Plus, I also included a monthly donation in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel..."
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[A Quote From My] April 3rd, 2022 Update: "I keep changing the way that I donate to Democratic political organizations based upon three basic factors: Factor Number One, I am trying to stay within some kind of 'monthly donating budget' of how much I can give within each month (the reader should know that I am HIV-positive and that I have full-blown AIDS; plus, I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited); Factor Number Two, I am trying to donate as often as I can manage for each Democratic organization from which I am receiving emails and/or text messages (since I decided to start getting emails and/or text messages from the Democrats in order to keep up with all of the updates for the 2022 Midterm Elections); and Factor Number Three, I am donating on a monthly basis to the USO (United Service Organizations), which starts this month, April 2022, and so I am also including those donations in my 'monthly donating budget.' Therefore, I am hopefully helping the Democrats to win this November in order to prevent Republicans from controlling both Congress and the White House, because I fear that the Republicans will try to turn America into an oligarchy!"
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[A Quote From My] April 12th, 2022 Update: "I am donating to Democratic political organizations—while still trying to stay within a 'monthly donating budget'—so I am basically making one donation per organization per day from which I am receiving emails and/or text messages each day..."
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[A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update: "...This update is a follow-up to my 'March 17th, 2022 Update, Which Also Discusses March 16th, 2022,' where I explained, in part, that I made a donation on March 17th, 2022, to the USO (United Service Organizations) on the USO.org website. And with that one-time donation, I included a recurring monthly donation in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel. Thus, that recurring monthly donation started today, April 17th, 2022..."
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[A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued: "I have started making recurring monthly donations today, April 17th, 2022, to Democratic political organizations. And my plan is to let these recurring donations on the 17th of each month be the donations that I make for that day of each month, since I am making one donation per Democratic political organization per day from which I am receiving emails and/or text messages each day—while I am still trying to stay within a 'monthly donating budget'—which is all that I can afford given my monthly spending budget..."
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[A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued Further, Written On June 17th, 2022: "I explained on my 'April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued' that I started making recurring monthly donations on April 17th, 2022, to Democratic political organizations via ActBlue.com**; however, I deleted my ActBlue account on June 11th, 2022.
You see, I think that my ActBlue account was compromised because, on June 8th, 2022, I attempted to make a $1.15 donation to the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC), plus I included an $0.11 tip for ActBlue, but when the payment processed, it was for $1,000.11! And that is why I deleted my ActBlue account on June 11th, 2022. Please see my 'June 11th, 2022 Update,' which can be found below for a detailed explanation.
**[I deleted my ActBlue account! Although, I am still processing payments through the ActBlue website (they seem to be the main donation processing website for most Democratic political organizations and many progressive organizations); however, since I deleted my ActBlue account I have noticed that there are more options for making contributions via ActBlue, but by utilizing different payment processors, such as Google Pay, PayPal and Venmo. Please see my 'June 11th, 2022 Update' for a detailed explanation.]..."
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[A Quote From My] June 17th, 2022 Update: "This update is a follow-up to my 'April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued Further, Written On June 17th, 2022,' where I explained that I deleted my ActBlue account on June 11th, 2022. ... So, I have restarted making recurring monthly donations today, June 17th, 2022, to Democratic political organizations. Therefore, my plan is to make regular donations to the various Democratic political organizations from which I am receiving emails and/or text messages each day—while I am still trying to stay within a 'monthly donating budget'—which is all that I can afford given my monthly spending budget..."
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[A Quote From My] July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022: "I have made approximately $[redacted] in total donations to Democratic political organizations and to various Democratic political campaigns from about March 2nd, 2022 through about July 5th, 2022.
And, as of July 7th, 2022, the total amount that I owe on my credit card is $[redacted], which is going to take me at least one year and eight months to pay off!
Plus, I am also making recurring donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations of $3.00 on the 17th of each month: and my plan is to continue donating those recurring donations indefinitely, since that is all that I can really afford to donate given my monthly spending budget...
...In addition to that, I already make a recurring monthly donation to the USO in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel...
...Thus, the total for the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations recurring donations, and for the USO recurring donation, is $46.00 per month (which used to be $41.00 per month, but I increased my monthly USO donation from $5.00 to $10.00 per month, so starting on August 17th, 2022 the total monthly donations are now $46.00 per month).
Therefore, I am continuing to make recurring monthly donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations...and to the USO; however, that is all I can afford to donate for the foreseeable future (with the exception of occasional one-time donations to the USO, plus various progressive organizations), given how much I went over my spending budget on political donations...
...And, as I mentioned above, the total amount that I owe on my credit card, as of July 7th, 2022, is $[redacted], which is going to take me at least one year and eight months to pay off as I have calculated, which I have estimated without any interest being calculated, and without any additional future charges, besides the above-mentioned monthly recurring donations.
So, this political donation information is why I wanted to update you with regard to my most recent donations to Democratic political organizations—as well as to Democratic political campaigns—and my planned recurring monthly donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations recurring donations, as well as to the USO.
And I am still making one-time donations to the USO—as often as I can manage when they request a donation via email or text message, in addition to making the aforementioned recurring monthly donation. Plus, I am also still making one-time donations to various progressive organizations."
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[A Quote From My] July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On July 27th, 2022): "This update is a follow-up to my 'July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022' and it is kind of complicated!
You see, my monthly donations of $3.00 each to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations processed on July 17th, 2022...
...And then, today July 27th, 2022, I also made one-time donations to Democratic political campaigns of $3.00 each for the most competitive races (of which I am aware) regarding Democratic House of Representatives and Senate seats. In addition to that, I made one-time donations of $3.00 each to the most competitive races (of which I am aware) regarding Democratic gubernatorial—or governor's—seats. Plus, I made an additional one-time donation to my local Democratic Party of Oregon.
Now, here is where my 'July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On July 27th, 2022)' gets complicated: Earlier, I said that I was going to only 'make recurring monthly donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations...and to the USO...with the exception of occasional one-time donations to the USO, plus various progressive organizations,' which is what I have done, so far!
However, I decided that I needed to 'up my game' and to continue making donations to individual Democratic political campaigns, but I am planning to only donate to them once per month, on the 27th of each month, until election day. Thus, I am donating each month—and I am donating $3.00 per campaign, just like I am donating to each of the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating organizations—and that way I am donating to help Democrats win in November, in a way that is affordable to me, for the 2022 Midterm Elections."
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[A Quote From My] April 17th, 2023 Update: "This update is a follow-up to my 'April 17th, 2022 Update,' where I explained, in part, the following:
'...This update is a follow-up to my 'March 17th, 2022 Update, Which Also Discusses March 16th, 2022,' where I explained, in part, that I made a donation on March 17th, 2022, to the USO (United Service Organizations) on the USO.org website. And with that one-time donation, I included a recurring monthly donation in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel. Thus, that recurring monthly donation started today, April 17th, 2022...'
Plus, this update is a follow-up to my 'July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022,' where I explained, in part, the following:
'...In addition to that, I already make a recurring monthly donation to the USO in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel:
01. USO: United Service Organizations recurring donation of $10.00 (which used to be $5.00 per month, but I increased it by an additional $5.00 per month; so starting on August 17th, 2022, the USO recurring donation is now $10.00 per month)...'
Therefore, today, April 17th, 2023, is the first full year that I have made a recurring monthly donation to the USO!
In addition to that, I usually make one-time donations to the USO each month—as often as I can manage when they request a donation via email or text message—in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel! Therefore, I am planning to continue making one-time donations to the USO in the future, as often as I can manage to make donations, in addition to making the aforementioned recurring monthly donation.
By the way, did you know that the USO is a not-for-profit organization and not part of the Department of Defense (DoD)? The following description of the USO is from their 'About Us' webpage:
"The USO is not part of the federal government. A congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of volunteers to accomplish our mission of connection."
So, that is why I 'volunteer financially' as a member of the "USO Home Team" through a recurring monthly donation, as well as through one-time donations to the USO each month!"
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[A Quote From My] April 17th, 2023 Update—Continued: "This update is a follow-up to my 'April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued,' where I explained, in part, the following:
'I have started making recurring monthly donations today, April 17th, 2022, to Democratic political organizations...
...And so, here are the Democratic political organizations to which I am making these recurring monthly donations via ActBlue.com** (although, I did not include a tip for ActBlue on these donations, which I usually do, due to the fact that the 'tip box' did not appear, because I made these donations through ActBlue Express):
01. DCCC: Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
02. DGA: Democratic Governors Association
03. DNC: Democratic National Committee
04. DSCC: Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
05. NCDM: National Conference of Democratic Mayors
06. DLCC: Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee
07. DAGA: Democratic Attorneys General Association
08. DASS: Democratic Association of Secretaries of State
09. NDCO: National Democratic County Officials
10. DMO: Democratic Municipal Officials
11. NDRC: National Democratic Redistricting Committee
12. DPO: Democratic Party of Oregon...'
Plus, this update is a follow-up to my 'April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued Further, Written On June 17th, 2022,' where I explained, in part, the following:
'I explained on my 'April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued' that I started making recurring monthly donations on April 17th, 2022, to Democratic political organizations via ActBlue.com**; however, I deleted my ActBlue account on June 11th, 2022.
You see, I think that my ActBlue account was compromised because, on June 8th, 2022, I attempted to make a $1.15 donation to the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC), plus I included an $0.11 tip for ActBlue, but when the payment processed, it was for $1,000.11! And that is why I deleted my ActBlue account on June 11th, 2022. Please see my 'June 11th, 2022 Update' for a detailed explanation...'
Besides that, this update is a follow-up to my 'June 17th, 2022 Update,' where I explained, in part, the following:
'This update is a follow-up to my 'April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued Further, Written On June 17th, 2022,' where I explained that I deleted my ActBlue account on June 11th, 2022...
...So, I have restarted making recurring monthly donations today, June 17th, 2022, to Democratic political organizations...
...And so, here are the Democratic political organizations to which I am making recurring monthly donations via ActBlue.com** [although, because I no longer have an ActBlue account—since I deleted it, due to the fact that I think the account was compromised—I am still donating through the ActBlue website (they seem to be the main donation processing website for most Democratic political organizations and many progressive organizations), but I am donating for some of these recurring donations through other payment processors, such as Google Pay]:
01. DCCC: Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
02. DGA: Democratic Governors Association
03. DNC: Democratic National Committee
04. DSCC: Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
05. NCDM: National Conference of Democratic Mayors
06. DLCC: Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee
07. DAGA: Democratic Attorneys General Association
08. DASS: Democratic Association of Secretaries of State
09. NDCO: National Democratic County Officials
10. DMO: Democratic Municipal Officials
11. NDRC: National Democratic Redistricting Committee
12. DPO: Democratic Party of Oregon...'
In addition to that, this update is a follow-up to my 'July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022,' where I explained, in part, the following:
'...I am also making recurring donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations of $3.00 on the 17th of each month: and my plan is to continue donating those recurring donations indefinitely, since that is all that I can really afford to donate given my monthly spending budget. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And so, here are the Democratic political organizations to which I am making recurring monthly donations via ActBlue.com**...:
01. DCCC: Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee recurring donation of $3.00
02. DGA: Democratic Governors Association recurring donation of $3.00
03. DNC: Democratic National Committee recurring donation of $3.00
04. DSCC: Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee recurring donation of $3.00
05. NCDM: National Conference of Democratic Mayors recurring donation of $3.00
06. DLCC: Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee recurring donation of $3.00
07. DAGA: Democratic Attorneys General Association recurring donation of $3.00
08. DASS: Democratic Association of Secretaries of State recurring donation of $3.00
09. NDCO: National Democratic County Officials recurring donation of $3.00
10. DMO: Democratic Municipal Officials recurring donation of $3.00
11. NDRC: National Democratic Redistricting Committee recurring donation of $3.00
12. DPO: Democratic Party of Oregon recurring donation of $3.00
Total Democratic Organizations Monthly Recurring Donations: $36.00...'
**[I deleted my ActBlue account! Although, I am still processing payments through the ActBlue website, since they seem to be the main donation processing website for most Democratic political organizations and many progressive organizations. Please see my 'June 11th, 2022 Update' on my blog post "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog, for a detailed explanation.]
Thus, April 17th, 2023 is the anniversary of the first year that I have made recurring monthly donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations! Plus, this past year is the first time that I have donated to Democratic political organizations when it isn't an election year; however, I decided to change the way that I am donating to Democrats, so that I am helping their fundraising and coordinating operations throughout the year and not just during election years.
And I have just gotta say how incredibly nice it is to be able to make recurring monthly donations to Democratic political organizations—because the payments process automatically each month—and I don't have to do one extra thing in order to help fund the operations of the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating political organizations throughout the year!"
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[A Quote From My] November 6th, 2024 Update No. 1 [My Writing About No Longer Being An 'Online Activist' In Any Way, Shape Or Form]: "Due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election—and until further notice—I am no longer being an 'Online Activist' in any way, shape or form, which includes no longer signing petitions from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations, and no longer sending letters to my Representative and Senators in Congress, as well as no longer making donations to political, social, environmental and charitable causes. Full stop! I am also unsubscribing from any of the emails that I used to receive from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations. In fact, I am even cancelling all of my monthly political donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating organizations, as well as to the USO (United Service Organizations), in addition to cancelling all of my monthly news organization subscriptions, or news organization donations, because I am absolutely terrified of this second Trump administration. And I fully expect that democracy in America as we know it will be over! So, I am choosing to not engage in any 'activism' whatsoever—plus, I am not even sure that I will be exercising my 'civic duty' by voting in any upcoming elections because, as a (formerly) donating and a (potentially former) voting Democrat, I totally fear the retribution of President Donald J. Trump. Full stop!"
P.S.: It's July 31st, 2025, and I feel like I need to provide an addendum (that is, "an item of additional material added at the end of a book or document, typically in order to correct, clarify, or supplement something") to this November 6th, 2024 'update!'
You see, a couple of days ago, on July 29th, 2025, I copied the text of this update to use as my reason for unsubscribing from a particular political email that I received that same day!
And so, I actually bothered to read this update—in order to verify that it made sense for me to use as a response to the request on this political email's unsubscribe page which stated, "Please tell us why you are leaving"—during which I realized there was a typo (that is, 'a typographical error') in the text of the update, as I have highlighted below, with the correction in brackets:
"And I fully expect that democracy in America as we know [it] will be over!"
Thus, I accidentally left out the word "it" in the sentence above. Hence, I corrected said typo on July 29th, the verification of which can be seen reflected in the addition of the date "revised July 29th, 2025" after my name.
However, as I got to thinking about the fact that I had originally said I may not be voting in any upcoming elections, I realized that, in fact, I did vote in Portland Oregon's Multnomah County Special District Election on May 20th, 2025, just like I usually do! [I always vote in every election (even 'special elections') and I always vote Democrat, which is why I was worried about voting in any upcoming elections given President Trump's clear disdain for Democrats.]
Therefore, I decided to write this "P.S." today, July 31st, as a way to clarify that I am still voting in elections (even 'special elections'), it's just that I am no longer engaging in any 'Online Activism,' during Trump's Presidency, as I explained in great detail above. (I hope that makes sense!)
---------------------------------------------
[A Series of Excerpts From My] April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1: I received a text message today, April 16th, 2026, from the USO (United Service Organizations), which stated the following:
[Image of the 2026 USO T-shirt design.]
USO T-shirt alert: Paul, we're so excited to share that the exclusive 2026 USO T-shirts are here! As a thank you for being a top supporter, we're giving you early access before the T-shirts are available to the general public. So please, get yours now before they're gone! 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲 $𝟮𝟵 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧-𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘁 — 𝗼𝗿 $𝟱𝟮 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝗧-𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘁𝘀?***
As the official uniform of military supporters, this exclusive USO T-shirt is one of the best ways to show your pride and support our nation's service members. Please, don't miss your chance to be among the first to get yours.
𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗨𝗦𝗢 𝗧-𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗿𝘁:***
—The USO
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage ...
... And so, I made a one-time donation on the USO.org website in order to support the USO's following statement: "Wear your support for our troops — support they can see. Every donation helps support critical programs for our brave soldiers that keep them connected to home as they serve worldwide. This year's T-shirt also celebrates America's 250th birthday, so supplies won't last long!" ...
... In addition to that, I used to make a recurring monthly donation to the USO in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel. Besides that, I also formerly made one-time donations to the USO as often as I could manage whenever they requested a donation via email or text message. However, I am currently on an "Activist Sabbatical" due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election. ...
---------------------------------------------
[A Series of Excerpts From My] April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On April 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026]: Yesterday, April 16th, 2026, I wrote about receiving a text message from the USO (United Service Organizations) regarding the 2026 USO T-shirt design! And I explained that I made a one-time donation for said T-shirt, but I also clarified that I am not currently donating to the USO on a recurring monthly basis, like I used to do, due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election.
Now, today, I realized that I shouldn't really be withholding monthly donations just because Donald Trump is President, since the USO is providing really important support to Our Troops, who are putting themselves in harm's way in order to Protect Our Country and Defend Democracy!
So, what got me to thinking about restarting my recurring monthly donations to the USO is the fact that I received an email from the USO yesterday, after I opened the donation webpage from their original text message referenced in my 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1,' which can be found above, to get the correct phrasing from that donation webpage in order to represent said page as accurately as possible for the description that I provided in my 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1.' And, in doing so, I entered the information in each box, just like I was planning to make a donation! However, I was simply capturing the formatting of the USO's donation webpage text, so that I could replicate it.
Then—lo and behold—yesterday, April 16th, 2026, I received an email from the USO, with the subject line, "You are so close to providing help & support," which stated the following:
[Picture of "a soldier sitting against a fence, looking pensive while holding a small object in his hands. The background features trees and grass, indicating a calm outdoor setting."]
Don’t leave your impact unfinished
You can make a powerful impact for service members and their families.
By making a donation today
• You give our heroes a lifeline: The USO is the only nonprofit dedicated to keeping service members connected to loved ones and the comforts of home — from free Wi-Fi calls to connections home and holiday meals that remind them their sacrifice is valued.
• You make sure no one serves alone: No matter how far, remote or dangerous the deployment, the USO shows up — just like our service members show up for us. But 6 in 10 service members don’t even know the full range of programs available. Your support ensures they can find and use the help they deserve.
• You help power $230,000 of care every single day: It takes $230,000 a day to provide these life-changing programs. Your generosity makes it possible for every hero to feel the comfort of home no matter where duty takes them.
Every day the USO is on the frontlines with our service members. We couldn't do this critical work without generous friends like you.
For the People Who Serve,
– [Names redacted], USO
Complete your donation***
The USO is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and acknowledges that no goods or services were provided to you in return for your contribution. Donations to USO are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. ...
... And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, however—in order for me to clarify something—this is where I usually say in these kinds of updates, "the relevant text of which can be found below," but when I opened that page, I realized that I would simply be making another donation for the 2026 USO T-shirt!
Therefore, I decided to refer to my own previous blog post updates where I extol the virtues of making recurring monthly donations as part of the USO Home Team, the text of which can be found below:
So, that is why I 'volunteer financially' as a member of the "USO Home Team" through a recurring monthly donation, as well as through one-time donations to the USO each month!
And, after I read my own blog post update text, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage ...
... And to clarify another thing: I decided to increase what I donate to the USO on a monthly recurring basis to $20.00, since I used to donate $10.00 per month—which was increased from $5.00 per month—as explained below, from my 'April 17th, 2023 Update,' …
"...In addition to that, I already make a recurring monthly donation to the USO in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel:
01. USO: United Service Organizations recurring donation of $10.00 (which used to be $5.00 per month, but I increased it by an additional $5.00 per month; so starting on August 17th, 2022, the USO recurring donation is now $10.00 per month)..."
Then, after I made said donation, I received an email from the USO today, April 17th, 2026, with the subject line, "Welcome to the USO Home Team, Paul" ...
... Thus, I made a recurring donation on the USO.org website in order to support the USO's following statement: "Our service members keep our nation safe. And we work hard to keep them connected to home — but we can't do that without support from military supporters like you. Our heroes are counting on you to be a part of this important work for our country." ...
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[A Series of Excerpts From My] April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 2, Written On April 19th, 2026): Three days ago, on April 16th, 2026, I wrote about receiving a text message from the USO (United Service Organizations) regarding the 2026 USO T-shirt! And I explained that I made a one-time donation for said T-shirt, but I also clarified that I am not currently donating to the USO on a recurring monthly basis, like I used to do, due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election.
Then, on April 17th, 2026, I wrote about restarting my recurring monthly donations to the USO due to the fact that I received an email from the USO two days ago, on April 17th, 2026, because I realized that I shouldn't really be withholding monthly donations just because Donald Trump is President, since the USO is providing really important support to Our Troops, who are putting themselves in harm's way in order to Protect Our Country and Defend Democracy!
Then today, April 19th, 2026, I received an email from the USO, with the subject line, "Will your employer match your donation?", which stated the following:
[Graphic image showing a USO logo, then a "+" (plus sign), followed by a gift box emoji with the word "You" written under it, then another "+" (plus sign), followed by another gift box emoji with the words "Company Match" written under it, then the "=" (equals sign), followed by a much larger gift box emoji with the words "Double the impact" written under it.]
Hi Paul,
We’re so thankful for your recent donation!
Did you know that thousands of companies match donations made by their employees to organizations like the USO? Please visit our matching gift page to see if your company will match your gift and to access the forms, guidelines, and instructions that you need to complete your submission.
[ ] Step 1: See if I'm eligible! Click here***
We want to know when you’ve submitted your matching gift request! Once you’ve submitted, click the link below to let us know.
[ ] Step 2: I've submitted my matching gift request! Click here***
If your company doesn't offer a matching gift program or won't match your donation, click the link below to help us keep our records up to date.
[✓] I'm not eligible for a matching gift.***
For the People Who Serve,
[Name redacted], [name redacted] and [name redacted]
USO Matching Gift Team
Sent on behalf of United Service Organizations., Inc. ...
... And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Let us know why your gift is ineligible
Thank you for notifying us that your donation is not eligible to be matched by your company. To note this in our records, please select one of the reasons below. Your selection will not be saved until you click "Submit" below.
[ ] I'm retired.
[✓] I am self-employed, a government employee, or not currently working.
[ ] I'm self-employed.
[✓] I'm not currently working.
[Blogger's Note: The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so that is why I indicated that "I'm not currently working."]
[ ] I'm a stay-at-home parent.
[ ] I'm in the public sector.
[ ] I work for a nonprofit.
[ ] I work part-time.
[ ] My company doesn't offer a matching program.
[ ] I don't work for the company you sent info for.
[ ] My donation doesn't meet my company's matching gift program requirements.
[ ] I don't want to submit a match request for this gift.
[ ] I prefer not to say.
Submit
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for your response. We have updated our records.
Thus, I responded to the USO's request to see if my donation could be matched, by indicating that "I'm not currently working." ...
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[A Series of Excerpts From My] April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 3, Written On May 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026, Part 2]: This update is a follow-up to my 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On April 17th, 2026)', wherein I explained, in part, that I made a donation on April 16th, 2026, to the USO (United Service Organizations) on the USO.org website regarding the 2026 USO T-shirt design!
Plus, I clarified that—even though I made a one-time donation for said T-shirt—I am not currently donating to the USO on a recurring monthly basis, like I used to do, due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election.
And I go on to explain that I shouldn't really be withholding monthly donations just because Donald Trump is President, since the USO is providing really important support to Our Troops, who are putting themselves in harm's way in order to Protect Our Country and Defend Democracy!
Therefore, I explained that I decided to restart my recurring monthly donations, as part of the USO Home Team, on April 17th, 2026!
And I also clarified that I decided to increase what I donate to the USO on a monthly recurring basis to $20.00, since I used to donate $10.00 per month, which was increased from $5.00 per month.
Thus, that first recurring monthly donation started today, May 17th, 2026! ...
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[A Series of Excerpts From My] April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 4, Written On June 15th, 2026, Which Also Discusses June 14th, 2026): This update is a follow-up to my 'April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1', wherein I wrote about receiving a text message on April 16th, 2026 from the USO (United Service Organizations) regarding the 2026 USO T-shirt design! And I explained that I made a one-time donation for said T-shirt on the USO.org website!
Well, just before midnight on June 14th, 2026, after checking my regular mail, I received the T-shirt—which I must say looks even better than the promotional image! And contained within the packaging for the T-shirt, there was an enclosed letter from the USO, dated May 30th, 2026, which stated the following:
★★★ USO ★★★
FOR THE PEOPLE WHO SERVE.™
USO ★ [Street Address and Suite No. redacted] ★ [City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
May 30, 2026
Dear Paul Whiting:
Thank you again for your support of the USO. Enclosed is your 16th Anniversary USO T-shirt, a special collector's edition honoring America's 250th birthday. We hope that each time you wear it, you will be reminded of the brave service members you help support and the sacrifices they make to serve our country.
Thanks to you, and other caring Americans, the USO is able to reach our men and women in uniform wherever they are stationed. You also help the wounded heroes traveling the difficult road from the battlefield to recovery.
Simply put, your gifts help our service members by:
• Paying for Wi-Fi, email access and phone calls home that allow them to stay in touch with their families and loved ones from anywhere in the world — for free.
• Delivering care packages filled with snacks, games and personal hygiene items that our military service members on patrol in remote locations simply wouldn't have otherwise.
• Opening new USO locations across the world and maintaining operations around the clock to give our brave service members serving the comfort of home.
You help the USO make life better for our Armed Forces and their families. However, as the USO faces the daunting task of making life better for all these troops, we need to ask if you can do even more. And if you can find it in your heart to send an additional donation today, you will send a message of hope and gratitude to all those we serve. Thank you again for your support of the USO and the U.S. military.
With heartfelt thanks and best wishes,
Your USO Team
P.S. In the event you are able to make an additional gift now on behalf of our American heroes, please use the attached donation form which has been personalized with your name, address and USO donor number. You may also visit uso.org/usosupporter.
https://give.uso.org/page/2604_tshirt_2a
P.P.S If you requested more than one T-shirt, your items may arrive in separate packages. Be sure to keep an eye out for additional shipments. If you do not receive all items within 6-8 weeks after your donation was made, please reach out to us at [email redacted] so we can assist you.
---------------------------------------------
★★★ USO ★★★
FOR THE PEOPLE WHO SERVE.™
USO DONATION FORM
(Please detach and return this form with your tax-deductible contribution in the envelope provided.)
The people of our U.S. military, and their families, need to know that America still stands behind them. Please accept this additional contribution on their behalf:
[ ] $35
[ ] $50
[ ] $100
[✓] Other $7.00
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Make check payable to The USO. To donate using your credit card or to make your donation monthly, please use the other side of this form. Your gift is tax deductible as allowed by law. Thank you for your generosity.
And, after I read the letter above, I entered the hyperlink to the referenced webpage ...
... And so, I made a one-time donation on the USO.org website in order to support the USO's following statement: "Thanks to you, and other caring Americans, the USO is able to reach our men and women in uniform wherever they are stationed. You also help the wounded heroes traveling the difficult road from the battlefield to recovery. ... You help the USO make life better for our Armed Forces and their families. However, as the USO faces the daunting task of making life better for all these troops, we need to ask if you can do even more. And if you can find it in your heart to send an additional donation today, you will send a message of hope and gratitude to all those we serve."
Then, after I made said donation, I received an email from the USO today, June 15th, 2026, with the subject line, "Thank You for Your Donation to the USO" …
… In addition to that, I already make a recurring monthly donation to the USO in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel! You see, I usually make one-time donations to the USO—as often as I can manage when they request a donation via regular mail, email or text message. (I also donate for specific situations, such as receiving a USO T-shirt!) Therefore, I am planning to continue making one-time donations to the USO in the future, as often as I can manage, in addition to making the aforementioned recurring monthly donation. ...
---------------------------------------------
Above, please find relevant quotes from a series of 'updates' that highlight the most important changes to my current activism, which are titled as follows:
▪ [A Quote From My] March 7th, 2017 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] November 5th, 2018 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] September 16th, 2021 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] November 10th, 2021 Update, Written On November 11th, 2021
▪ [A Quote From My] March 13th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] March 16th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] March 17th, 2022 Update, Which Also Discusses March 16th, 2022
▪ [A Quote From My] April 3rd, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] April 12th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2022 Update—Continued Further, Written On June 17th, 2022
▪ [A Quote From My] June 17th, 2022 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022
▪ [A Quote From My] July 7th, 2022 Update, Written On July 11th, 2022 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On July 27th, 2022)
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2023 Update
▪ [A Quote From My] April 17th, 2023 Update—Continued
▪ [A Quote From My] November 6th, 2024 Update No. 1
▪ [A Series of Excerpts From My] April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 and
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On April 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026], as well as
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 2, Written On April 19th, 2026), in addition to
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 3, Written On May 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026, Part 2], and finally,
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 4, Written On June 15th, 2026, Which Also Discusses June 14th, 2026)
This prose (with some poetry) was only published on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog.
-Paul Whiting
(a.k.a., Poet, Artist and Philosopher)
"I am the poet who thinks that he knows it!"
-------------------------------------------------------------------
My Philosophical Notes:
The reason that I wrote this prose can be summed up with the following statement: "Due to being stressed out—and until further notice—I am no longer being an 'Online Activist' in the same way that I was before, which includes no longer signing petitions from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations, as well as no longer making donations to political, social, environmental and charitable causes the same way that I was in the past. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS.) And so, I am consciously choosing to not engage in any 'activism,' however, I am still planning to exercise my 'civic duty' by voting in upcoming elections."
Now, to clarify something: I cannot edit my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog—for an unknown reason—as of May 11th, 2026. So, any editing that I have tried to do on this blog post, after May 11th, for some reason won't save...
…Although, on June 20th, 2026, I thought to relocate all of the 2026 updates from my original blog post, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," to my newer "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was, Part 2." You see, I had created this 'Part 2' blog post as a backup post, because there was a period of time when the original blog post kept being unpublished by Blogger for being too 'spammy'—I am guessing because of all the hyperlinks that I was providing for news articles that I was referring to my readers!
Anyway, that relocation of the 2026 updates seemed to have worked in getting the original blog post to be "editable" again, at least temporarily...
...But, then, later on that same day, I tried to add some additional text to the post and it would not save again! However, at least this time, instead of just saying that the "Update failed," it specifically stated, "The body is too large." Thus, I am assuming the 'unknown reason' that I stopped being able to edit the original post on May 11th was because I had—apparently—reached some sort of blog post size threshold!
So now, I am thinking of editing out most of the news updates, which I wrote on that original post, because those updates weren't nearly as pertinent to my "Online Activism" as was responding to the text message, email, and regular mail communications that I was receiving from various political, progressive and charitable organizations.
This prose was only published on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog.
This prose was written in Portland, Oregon.
-Paulee
THIS POST IS A CONTINUATION OF THE BLOG POST TITLED, "I AM NO LONGER BEING AN ACTIVIST IN THE SAME WAY THAT I WAS, PART 3" (WHICH CAN BE SEEN IN THE PREVIOUS POST NO. 151, WITH A HYPERLINK PROVIDED BELOW). AND IT HAS ALL OF THE UPDATES WRITTEN FROM 2026 TO THE PRESENT:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist-part-3.html
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YEAR 2023 UPDATES FOR NOVEMBER:
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November 2nd, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from Native American Rights Fund (NARF) today, November 2nd, 2023, with the subject line, "You can be part of the change", which stated the following:
Dear Paul,
November is Native American Heritage Month. It is a wonderful opportunity to honor various Native cultures and traditions, and we hope that you are able to set aside some time this month for the celebrations happening online and across the country.
In addition to these festivities, November is a good time to acknowledge that the fight for justice continues! Progress is being made, but this type of change takes time. We give thanks for those who stand strong for Native rights. It takes tireless commitment to change the flow of history and assert and protect Native rights and tribal sovereignty.
This Native American Heritage Month, will you help us raise awareness and spread the word? Over the next month, we invite you to connect with us on social media and share our posts to amplify stories about Native American Tribes and individuals committed to defending Native rights, resources, and lifeways.
This Heritage Month, you can be part of the change⸺for today and for future generations!
(FB [Facebook]: @NativeAmericanRightsFund [https://m.facebook.com/NativeAmericanRightsFund];
IG [Instagram]: @NativeAmericanRightsFund [https://www.instagram.com/nativeamericanrightsfund/];
LI [LinkedIn]: @NativeAmericanRightsFund [https://www.linkedin.com/company/nativeamericanrightsfund];
X [formerly Twitter]: @ndnrights [https://twitter.com/NDNrights])!
NARF
Native American Rights Fund
And so, that is why I posted the email above as an 'update,' because "this Heritage Month, [I] can be part of the change⸺for today and for future generations!" –Paul Whiting (November 2nd, 2023)
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November 2nd, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses November 1st, 2023: This 'update' that I am writing today, November 2nd, 2023, is from both my usual reading of Time Magazine articles, as well as from my oftentimes daily news searches on Google.
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day. Then, I usually check each day's news via a Google search under several news topics sometime after I check my email, as well as after I check my previous day's cellular data usage, which I track very carefully.
Thus, I usually check on what is happening in the news via various Google searches that I do on an oftentimes daily basis under the following topics:
American News
United States News
USA News
President Biden News
Joe Biden News
Democrats News
Republicans News
Political News
World News
Global Warming News
Workers On Strike News
Portland Oregon News
Then, I read the news articles that I feel are the most important for me to read from those Time Magazine emails and/or from those Google news searches.
Now, I usually try to publish these current news 'updates' on the day that I actually read the news articles referenced in the 'update'; however, lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news!
Not only that, I have been busy, as well, with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that require their very own 'updates!' Besides that, I am often engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Plus, I am trying to throttle my cellular data usage in order to stay below the amount of usage that my data plan offers each month, which I track very carefully, so that I don't go over that amount.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 2nd, 2023, as well as that I received yesterday, November 1st, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 1st, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "The Gaza Invasion Will Not Make Israel Safer":
https://time.com/6330157/israel-gaza-invasion-essay
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The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Entire Families Have Been ‘Wiped Out’ by Israeli Airstrikes, Human Rights Group Says":
https://time.com/6330210/israel-hamas-gaza-families-amnesty-international
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The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Why Republicans Think They’ve Finally Cracked the Abortion Question":
https://time.com/6330238/republicans-abortion-15-weeks-virginia-elections
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The following are the articles which I received today, November 2nd, 2023:
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "How Holocaust Survivors in Israel Are Coping With the War":
https://time.com/6330299/holocaust-survivors-israel-hamas-war
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The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Listening to the Voices of Young People From Gaza":
https://time.com/6330411/young-people-gaza-storytelling-essay
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The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "What Happens When Diners Are Shown Climate Warning Labels on Meat Dishes":
https://time.com/6330520/climate-warning-labels-on-meat-study
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The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "The Arabic Word Thakla Speaks to Gaza’s Grief. There’s No English Equivalent":
https://time.com/6330481/thakla-grief-gaza-israeli-airstrikes
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The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Ukraine Is Using AI to Help Clear Millions of Russian Landmines":
https://time.com/6330445/demining-ukraine
Continuing on—as I mentioned above—lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news. And I was doing my oftentimes daily news searches on Google today, November 2nd, 2023, when I noticed many different articles from various news organizations!
Therefore, due to this sudden inundation of news, I am simply opening a webpage for each of the various news articles that I am planning to read, based upon the title of each news article and/or based upon the topic of each news article, in preparation for reading each article later on.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these news articles that I highlight regarding current news, on these types of 'updates' that I write, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, due to the number of articles for which I have an introduction to write lately, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the current news 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with the news organization's name in addition to a hyperlink.
And to clarify: I still have to read these articles! So, I have each article opened as a webpage on my smartphone's Google browser until such a time as I can get around to actually reading them, due to the number of them.
Another clarification: I greatly simplified how these articles are listed—that I still have yet to read—in order to set them apart from the articles in previous 'updates' where I have already read the articles. Plus, I am listing these articles by the initial Google search category under which I found each article. [Although, to clarify, sometimes the same article appears (or, articles appear) under different search categories.] And I will indicate whether, or not, I have read each article below its title and hyperlink.
Thus, I will indicate the date that I read each article below the title and hyperlink to the article, after I read the article. Therefore, I plan to indicate when I complete reading the articles below, whenever I can actually get around to reading them—when I have access to WiFi, such as at my local library, or at a place of business where I have been shopping, or at a coffee shop, etc., in order to save usage on my cellular data plan through my mobile phone company, as noted above.
GOOGLE SEARCH: AMERICAN NEWS
1. The Guardian
White House condemns Fox News over ‘sickening attack’ on Arab Americans
https://amp.theguardian.com/media/2023/nov/02/fox-news-jesse-watters-arab-americans-white-house
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
2. Mediaite ("...a news website focusing on politics and the media.")
White House Demands Fox News Apologize For Jesse Watters Saying He’s ‘Had It’ with Arab-Americans
https://www.mediaite.com/news/white-house-demands-fox-news-apologize-for-jesse-watters-saying-hes-had-it-with-arab-americans/amp
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: UNITED STATES NEWS
3. CNN
US intelligence currently assesses Iran and its proxies are seeking to avoid a wider war with Israel
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/02/politics/us-intelligence-iran-proxies/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
4. USNews.com
Trump Condemns Efforts to Remove Him From the Ballot Under Insurrection Clause
https://www.usnews.com/news/national-news/articles/2023-11-02/trump-condemns-efforts-to-remove-him-from-the-ballot-under-insurrection-clause
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
5. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
U.S. to Press Israel for 'Pauses' in War With Hamas
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/02/us/politics/biden-israel-gaza-fighting-pause.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
6. Al Jazeera
Biden calls for ‘pause’ in Israel’s war in Gaza for the first time
https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2023/11/2/biden-calls-for-pause-in-israels-war-in-gaza-for-the-first-time
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
7. The Guardian
Biden calls for ‘pause’ in Israel-Hamas war during Minnesota event
https://amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/nov/02/biden-pause-ceasefire-israel-hamas-war-minnesota
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: USA NEWS
8. USA Today (By the way, I am a subscriber to USA Today.)
Indiana attorney general reprimanded over 10-year-old's abortion case (Indiana AG Rokita reprimanded for comments on doctor who provided 10-year-old rape victim's abortion)
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/11/02/indiana-attorney-general-reprimanded-abortion-case/71428894007
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
9. Defense News
Opinion | How arming Saudi Arabia helped Israel and the United States
https://www.defensenews.com/opinion/2023/11/02/how-arming-saudi-arabia-helped-israel-and-the-united-states/
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
10. UN [United Nations] News
General Assembly votes overwhelmingly against US Cuba embargo
https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/11/1143112
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
11. USA Today (By the way, I am a subscriber to USA Today.)
Was Hamas drug crazed from Captagon during Oct. 7 attacks? (Were the Hamas attacks on Israel so brutal because the killers were high on the drug Captagon?)
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2023/11/02/hamas-captagon-drug-use-idf-claim/71288873007
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
12. Deseret News ("...is based in Salt Lake City, Utah and is published by Deseret News Publishing Company, a subsidiary of Deseret Management Corporation, which is owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.")
Biden announces $5 billion for rural United States
https://www.deseret.com/utah/2023/11/1/23940276/biden-announce-5-billion-for-rural-united-states-american-rescue-plan-agriculture-tom-vilsak-utah
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: PRESIDENT BIDEN NEWS
13. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
Biden's Support for Israel Now Comes With Words of Caution
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/30/us/politics/biden-israel.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: JOE BIDEN NEWS
14. Reuters
Heckler pushes Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Biden says: 'we need a pause'
https://www.reuters.com/world/heckler-pushes-israel-hamas-ceasefire-biden-says-we-need-pause-2023-11-02
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
15. NBC News
Biden officials voice new concerns and warnings over Israel’s war with Hamas
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123445
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
16. NBC News
Biden to travel to Maine days after mass shooting
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123243
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
17. Star Tribune
Minneapolis rabbi bought fundraiser ticket to confront President Biden, demand cease-fire
https://m.startribune.com/minneapolis-rabbi-bought-fundraiser-ticket-to-heckle-president-biden-demanding-cease-fire/600316878/?clmob=y&c=n&clmob=y&c=n
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: DEMOCRATS NEWS
18. Axios
George Santos finds unlikely protectors in House Democrats
https://www.axios.com/2023/11/02/george-santos-expulsion-vote-house-democrats
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
19. NPR
Rep. George Santos survives effort to expel him from the House
https://www.npr.org/2023/11/02/1210084363/rep-george-santos-survives-effort-to-expel-him-from-the-house
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: REPUBLICANS NEWS
20. The Guardian
Trump gloats over retirement of Republican who attacked election lie
https://amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/nov/02/trump-ken-buck-retire-republicans-2020-election
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
21. ABC News
Retiring Republican congressman slams GOP leaders for 'lying to America'
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Politics/republicans-ken-buck-kay-granger-retire-congress-buck/story?id=104547157
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
22. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
G.O.P.'s Buck Won't Seek Re-Election, Citing His Party's Election Denialism
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/01/us/politics/ken-buck-election-republicans.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
23. Rolling Stone
‘Shut Up, Colonel Sanders’: Republicans Can’t Stop Attacking Each Other
https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-news/marjorie-taylor-greene-chip-roy-tlaib-censure-1234868754/amp
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
24. Politico
Republicans claw back control of elections in key states
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/11/01/republicans-elections-key-states-2024-00124734
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
25. AP News
Rep. George Santos survives effort to expel him from the House. But he still faces an ethics report
https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-expel-house-republicans-new-york-249bd2341d157bc6727b77607d8d45ae
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
26. MSNBC News
Black journalists group condemns Republicans who jeered ABC News reporter
https://www.msnbc.com/msnbc/amp/shows/reidout/blog/rcna122877
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
27. Axios
Savage fights unravel GOP's newfound unity
https://www.axios.com/2023/11/02/republicans-twitter-greene-buck-roy-boebert-tuberville
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
28. Los Angeles Times
Fall of Kevin McCarthy puts California Republicans in pickle (Why the fall of Kevin McCarthy leaves California Republicans in a tough spot)
https://www.latimes.com/politics/story/2023-11-02/kevin-mccarthy-speaker-california-republicans-biden
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: POLITICAL NEWS
29. CNN
Trump’s verbal slip-ups threaten his argument about Biden
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/02/politics/trump-verbal-slip-ups/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
30. Axios
Poll: Sarah Huckabee Sanders' approval rating the lowest for an Arkansas governor in 20 years
https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2023/11/01/sarah-huckabee-sanders-poll-approval
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: WORLD NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: GLOBAL WARMING NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: WORKERS ON STRIKE NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: PORTLAND OREGON NEWS
31. KOIN 6 ("...a television station in Portland, Oregon, United States, affiliated with CBS.")
Green Day announce 2024 Providence Park show with The Smashing Pumpkins
https://www.koin.com/entertainment-news/green-day-announce-2024-providence-park-show-with-the-smashing-pumpkins/amp
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
32. KGW ("...a television station in Portland, Oregon, United States, affiliated with NBC.")
Providence Park announces second stadium concert in 2024
https://www.kgw.com/amp/article/entertainment/music/green-day-portland-providence-park-concert/283-3df7e7c9-8286-45d4-8a12-6fe2d7c74135
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
And I decided to highlight these articles from the various news organizations above for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 2nd, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023 and revised January 28th, 2024)
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November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 1—Which Also Discusses November 2nd, 2023: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these campaign donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations that I make virtually every time that I make a campaign donation—within which I usually include the text from each political campaign's requesting email, or text message, along with some of each campaign's donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign (which is usually $3.00 per campaign), plus how much I tipped ActBlue (which is usually $0.11 per donation)—however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of campaign donation requests!
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign donation 'updates' and combine every campaign donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for campaign donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political campaign communication that I responded to today was an email that I forwarded today, November 3rd, 2023, from my previous email account (that I no longer use, but I still frequently check) from the Pete Aguilar for Congress campaign that I received yesterday, November 2nd, 2023, with the subject line, "I’m sick to my stomach, Paul", which stated the following:
From: Pete [email redacted]
Sent: Thursday, November 2, 2023 5:01 PM
To: Paul Whiting [email redacted]
Subject: I’m sick to my stomach, Paul
Paul, I’m sick to my stomach. The MAGA GOP’s new speaker, Mike Johnson, has his sights set on GUTTING Social Security. House Democrats are committed to saving it but we NEED a flood of public outrage from voters to show overwhelming support for Social Security. Sign my petition to save Social Security from brutal GOP funding cuts »***
20,000 SIGNATURE GOAL: Sign now to save Social Security »***
Paul, Johnson’s track record on Social Security is appalling:
• He championed slashing $750 billion in funding!
• He BASHED the program, calling it an "existential threat" to America!
• He voted for a commission to cut Social Security behind closed doors!
We can FORCE the GOP to keep their hands off our Social Security if we show MASSIVE public outrage over cutting it.
HURRY Paul! Add your signature now to save Social Security from brutal GOP funding cuts before it’s too late »
20,000 SIGNATURE GOAL: Sign now to save Social Security »***
We can’t let them get away with this,
- Pete Aguilar
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
SAVE SOCIAL SECURITY
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Email: [redacted]
Mobile Phone: [redacted]
[CONFIRM YOUR SIGNATURE] Will you sign your name to save Social Security from brutal GOP funding cuts?
[✓] Yes! Add my name!
[BEFORE YOU GO] The GOP is dedicated to destroying programs like Social Security and they are flooding Congressional races across the country with dark money!
That's why it's crucial Pete Aguilar hits his $10,000 weekly fundraising goal. If we're going to retake the House majority in 2024, we HAVE to hit every single fundraising deadline.
Will you take the critical next step and include a contribution to our campaign with your signature?
[✓] Yes, I'll chip in $3!
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $10!
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $25!
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $50!
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in a custom amount!
[ ] I can't even spare even $1 today to support Pete, but I'd still like to submit my responses! (Your responses will be recorded and you'll be directed for a final chance to give)
SIGN THEN DONATE »
Thanks for Signing!
Pete Aguilar, Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, is fighting in Congress every day to stand up to the MAGA Republican majority.
But he needs support from grassroots Democrats like you to get it done!
Please, stand with Pete and chip in $7, $15, or any amount to stand with Democratic leadership now >>
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Pete Aguilar.
[✓] DONATE $3 →
[ ] DONATE $10 →
[ ] DONATE $25 →
[ ] DONATE $50 →
[ ] DONATE $100 →
[ ] DONATE $250 →
[ ] OTHER AMOUNT
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
Power the nonprofit fundraising platform Democratic candidates & progressive causes rely on.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.11
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Pete Aguilar for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to show my support for the "petition to save Social Security from brutal GOP funding cuts," because "Pete Aguilar, Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, is fighting in Congress every day to stand up to the MAGA Republican majority."
Thus, this one campaign—Pete Aguilar for Congress—is the political campaign that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (November 3rd, 2023)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, November 3rd, 2023, with the subject line, "Help your community prepare to vote on Tuesday", which stated the following:
Paul, next Tuesday is Election Day in many states – so we're reaching out to ACLU supporters across the country to make sure that everyone is ready to vote like our rights depend on it.
Why? Because this year, our civil liberties are on the line. States like Ohio, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and others are making major decisions that will determine our fundamental rights like whether we can access abortion. While these elections are only in some states, what happens next Tuesday will set the stage for our fight for reproductive freedom and our democracy in 2024.
Even if you don't have an election on Tuesday, staying informed on key elections and sharing information with your community can make a big difference in our shared work.
So our teams have assembled a voting plan guide for anyone to use – if you voted early, are already prepared to vote, or don't have an election in your area, we urge you to share this with your friends and neighbors.
Make Your Election Day Plan:
[✓] First, find out what elections are happening in your area and research what's at stake in your local races and ballot measures. If your area isn't voting on Tuesday, read up on key elections the ACLU is tracking in Ohio [1.] (https://www.aclu.org/podcast/religious-communities-in-ohio-are-fighting-to-preserve-reproductive-rights), Virginia [2.] (https://www.aclu.org/virginia-legislative-races), and Pennsylvania [3.] (https://www.aclu.org/news/reproductive-freedom/whats-at-stake-in-pennsylvanias-supreme-court-election).
[✓] Check your state's voter guidelines to confirm your polling location, ballot return deadlines, any materials you might need to bring with you like your state ID, and other details.
[✓] Don't have an election this year? Confirm your voter registration is up to date so you don't miss an opportunity to have your vote cast and counted in the future.
[✓] If you have a mail-in ballot that you have not returned yet, use a drop box or return it in person if your state allows.
[✓] If you are voting in person, pack a few essentials in case your line to vote is longer – like water, food, and entertainment.
[✓] Remember to call the Election Protection Hotline if you run into any problems or have any questions on Election Day:
English: 1-866-OUR-VOTE / 1-866-687-8683
Spanish: 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA / 1-888-839-8682
Arabic: 1-844-YALLA-US / 1-844-925-5287
For Bengali, Cantonese, Hindi, Urdu, Korean, Mandarin, Tagalog, or Vietnamese: 1-888-274-8683
After Tuesday, whether you had an election or not, join us in tracking the results so you can help educate your community on what's next in the fight for abortion access, voting rights, and beyond.
Finally, remember that no matter what happens on Tuesday, the ACLU will always be here ready to protect your civil liberties wherever we may be needed – and we're so grateful to you for being part of this work with us.
Thanks for all you do,
The ACLU Team
DONATE NOW
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpages. A brief introduction to each webpage can be found below in the order that they are referenced above:
[1.] ACLU
AT LIBERTY PODCAST
Religious Communities in Ohio Are Fighting to Preserve Reproductive Rights
On November 7th, Ohio voters will decide whether to pass Issue 1, which would protect their decisions on contraception, fertility treatment, miscarriage care, and abortion. ...
Please see the hyperlink below for the webpage:
https://www.aclu.org/podcast/religious-communities-in-ohio-are-fighting-to-preserve-reproductive-rights
[Blogger's Note: I listened to the ACLU's At Liberty Podcast titled, "Religious Communities in Ohio Are Fighting to Preserve Reproductive Rights."]
[2.] ACLU
Virginia Legislative Races
Seize the opportunity: more seats are up for grabs than ever thanks to Virginia redistricting. This year, every election counts! ...
Please see the hyperlink below for the webpage:
https://www.aclu.org/virginia-legislative-races
[Blogger's Note: I briefly read the ACLU's webpage titled, "Virginia Legislative Races," which is clearly written for Virginia voters.]
[3.] ACLU
NEWS & COMMENTARY
What's at Stake in Pennsylvania's Supreme Court Election
As the nation steels itself ahead of what is sure to be a contentious 2024 election year, here in Pennsylvania all eyes are on Nov. 7, 2023. In just a few weeks, Pennsylvania voters will choose the next state Supreme Court justice in an election that could decide which rights and freedoms Pennsylvanians enjoy in coming years. ...
Please see the hyperlink below for the webpage:
https://www.aclu.org/news/reproductive-freedom/whats-at-stake-in-pennsylvanias-supreme-court-election
[Blogger's Note: I read the ACLU's News & Commentary article titled, "What's at Stake in Pennsylvania's Supreme Court Election."]
Plus, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to the ACLU in order to support their "voting plan guide for anyone to use," because "if you voted early, are already prepared to vote, or don't have an election in your area, we urge you to share this with your friends and neighbors." –Paul Whiting (written November 3rd, 2023 and revised November 7th, 2023)
P.S.: This 'November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 2' incorrectly stated the subject line of the ACLU's email as "Our plan to protect voters," however that was actually the email subject line from an ACLU email that I received on October 24th, 2023 (please see my 'October 24th, 2023 Update No. 2,' which can be found above). And I didn't notice this error until today, November 7th, 2023! So, that is why I corrected the email subject of this 'update' to "Help your community prepare to vote on Tuesday", which is what it was supposed to be! This blogger regrets the error.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 3: I received an email from Planned Parenthood Action Fund today, November 3rd, 2023, with the subject line, "This election — and the next", which stated the following:
Dear Paul,
The clock is ticking for reproductive rights in Ohio — and for the rest of the country. This is our moment to confront the threats to our rights and push forward with courage and conviction.
On Tuesday, Ohioans will vote on a state constitutional amendment that would prevent a 6-week abortion ban from going into effect and protect the right to abortion in the state constitution. If it passes, it will be more proof of what we have seen in Kansas and Kentucky, in Michigan and Montana: the majority of voters don't want abortion bans. Period.
With lawmakers in more and more states rushing to ban abortion and cut people off from care, we need to act now. Fighting back — not just in a handful of states, but nationwide — will take all of us working together. Planned Parenthood Action Fund is already mobilizing and organizing in key battlegrounds, and your support will determine how fast we can grow this movement.
DONATE***
Make your gift today to help reach and educate voters and protect access to care.
This fight isn't just about Ohio, and it's not just about what happens on Tuesday. Ongoing court battles — from the attacks on abortion medication to the baseless $1.8 billion lawsuit against Planned Parenthood in Texas — show just how much is at stake for the people Planned Parenthood serves. And the future of reproductive rights in this country will be on the line in the 2024 election.
Chip in now to make sure Planned Parenthood Action Fund has the resources to confront the most serious threats to our health and rights — and win. Your gift will help:
[✓] Put abortion protection on the ballot in key states.
[✓] Reach voters, educate them about the stakes, and get them to the polls.
[✓] Hold lawmakers accountable for banning abortion and restricting access to reproductive health care.
[✓] Make sure every patient can get the information and care they need, no matter where they live or who they are.
We have no time to lose, Paul — but we can do this. We can win in state houses and at the ballot box. We can protect reproductive rights and expand access to care. Are you ready to chip in with a gift today?
— Planned Parenthood Action Fund
Your contribution to Planned Parenthood Action Fund will not be earmarked for any purpose, and will generally support our activities to protect and promote reproductive health nationwide.
DONATE NOW »
Visit plannedparenthoodaction.org
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, I made a one-time donation to Planned Parenthood Action Fund because, "with lawmakers in more and more states rushing to ban abortion and cut people off from care, we need to act now," since "ongoing court battles — from the attacks on abortion medication to the baseless $1.8 billion lawsuit against Planned Parenthood in Texas — show just how much is at stake for the people Planned Parenthood serves." So that is why I chipped in now "to make sure Planned Parenthood Action Fund has the resources to confront the most serious threats to our health and rights." –Paul Whiting (November 3rd, 2023)
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November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 4: I received an email from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) today, November 3rd, 2023, with the subject line, "The surge in dangerous antisemitism", which stated the following:
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Jews being attacked in the streets, threatened on college campuses—targeted simply for being Jewish. It is happening today in the United States and abroad. Read the Museum’s statement on the surge in dangerous antisemitism.
https://www.ushmm.org/information/press/museum-deeply-alarmed-by-surge-in-dangerous-antisemitism
[Blogger's Note: I read the USHMM Press Room news release titled, "Museum Deeply Alarmed by Surge in Dangerous Antisemitism."]
We know antisemitism didn’t start or end with the Holocaust, but this history teaches us where it can lead if left unchecked. The Museum’s educational resources can help address this dangerous trend. Help us expand our reach by sharing the stories and resources below. What you do matters.
Lesson Plans Explore the History of Antisemitism and Nazi Racism
Share with a teacher >>
https://www.ushmm.org/teach/teaching-materials/antisemitism-racism
[Blogger's Note: I read the USHMM Lesson Plans overview titled, "Teaching Materials on Antisemitism and Racism."]
Confronting Hate by Sharing the Facts on Social Media
Follow the Museum >>
https://m.facebook.com/holocaustmuseum
[Blogger's Note: I did NOT follow the USHMM Facebook page because I am no longer on Facebook. However, I used to have an account way back when I was actually on Facebook, which I haven't been for years...]
Museum Videos Define Antisemitism and Explore Its Long History
Watch and share >>
https://www.ushmm.org/antisemitism/what-is-antisemitism/explained
[Blogger's Note: I read the USHMM webpage titled, "Antisemitism Explained." I also watched the videos titled, "What Is Antisemitism?" and "Antisemitism Throughout Time."]
Learn More about the Importance of Israel to Holocaust Survivors
Read the article >>
https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/postwar-refugee-crisis-and-the-establishment-of-the-state-of-israel
[Blogger's Note: I read the USHMM Holocaust Encyclopedia article titled, "Holocaust Survivors and the Establishment of the State of Israel (MAY 14, 1948)." By the way, I read also this article on October 10th, 2023. (Please see my 'October 10th, 2023 Update—Continued,' which can be found above.)]
Collection of More than 900 Artifacts Reveals Centuries of Anti-Jewish Hatred
Explore and share >>
https://www.ushmm.org/collections/the-museums-collections/collections-highlights/500-years-of-antisemitic-propaganda
[Blogger's Note: I read the USHMM article titled, "500 Years of Antisemitic Propaganda."]
Why R. Derek Black Renounced the White Supremacist Movement
Watch and share >>
https://youtu.be/p5PRlvu27e0?si=Sx1WSmTcKXVUbirv
[Blogger's Note: I watched the USHMM YouTube video titled, "Why R. Derek Black Renounced the White Supremacist Movement," which is slightly over eighteen minutes, just to let you know.]
NEW EPISODE | STAY CONNECTED LIVE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 9:30 A.M. ET
The Night of Broken Glass: A Warning of Future Nazi Crimes
Remind me to watch this free, virtual program >>
Donate to Keep Holocaust Memory Alive
DONATE
And, after I read the email above, I read all of the articles—as well as watched all of the videos—mentioned above regarding the history of antisemitism, as noted above. I also signed up to be reminded to watch the livestream "The Night of Broken Glass: A Warning of Future Nazi Crimes." Plus, I made a one-time donation to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum to show my support for the Museum’s above-mentioned educational resources. –Paul Whiting (November 3rd, 2023)
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November 4th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from Planned Parenthood Federation of America today, November 4th, 2023, with the subject line, "As serious as they come", which stated the following:
Paul, among the many attacks on reproductive care happening across the country, there is a baseless lawsuit against Planned Parenthood that is directly aimed at keeping patients from getting the care they need at Planned Parenthood health centers. Last week, Texas federal judge [name redacted] ordered a trial in this politically-motivated case.
Will you add your name and say you're with Planned Parenthood in this fight?
Here's what you need to know:
[START OF GIF]
Gif with a dark blue background. Text appears on a light blue circle and says:
"With a baseless $1.8 billion lawsuit, an anonymous plaintiff & politicians are trying to shut down Planned Parenthood. The false allegations are part of a decades-long strategy to block patients from Planned Parenthood health centers. 1 in 4 people in the U.S. has visited Planned Parenthood for high-quality affordable birth control, cancer screenings & much more. We'll never back down. All people deserve essential care — are you with us?"
[END OF GIF]
While this lawsuit should have been dismissed, we'll continue to fight for Planned Parenthood patients — and we need you with us. Sign the petition now »***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Planned Parenthood
Add your name: I'm For Planned Parenthood
All people deserve essential care — are you with us?
Among the many nationwide attacks on reproductive care, a meritless Texas-based lawsuit against Planned Parenthood aims to shut down Planned Parenthood health centers and keep patients from the care they need. Now, Texas federal Judge [name redacted] has ordered a trial in this politically motivated case.
This lawsuit, based on false allegations, should've already been dismissed. The facts are clear: Planned Parenthood did nothing wrong. We'll never stop fighting to provide patients with access to essential care — and we need you with us.
Sign your name and say "I'm For Planned Parenthood" in this fight.
Add Your Name
First Name (Optional): Paul
Last Name (Optional): Whiting
Zip: [redacted]
Email: [redacted]
Mobile Phone (Optional): [redacted]
And, after I signed the petition above, I received a confirmation email today, November 4th, 2023, from Planned Parenthood Federation of America, with the subject line, "Thank you for saying 'I'm For Planned Parenthood'", which stated the following:
Once again, politicians hostile to reproductive health and rights are targeting patients and Planned Parenthood health centers — this time, with a baseless lawsuit. They're playing with people's lives by putting politics ahead of their constituents.
The facts are clear: Planned Parenthood did nothing wrong. This politically motivated lawsuit, based on false allegations, should've already been dismissed. We'll never stop fighting for Planned Parenthood patients. And we're grateful that you're with us in this fight.
You can help make an even bigger difference by showing your support for Planned Parenthood and asking your friends and family to join you.
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
You can also help out by making a tax-deductible gift to Planned Parenthood Federation of America. Your support will help us stand strong in the face of continued attacks on reproductive health and rights, and support Planned Parenthood health centers in providing vital care like birth control, cancer screenings, abortion services and more.
Together we can make a difference in protecting reproductive health and rights — thanks for taking action and pitching in when it counts.
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
So, I selected the "Share on Twitter" option (by the way, I only have a Twitter account so I can read tweets which are included in some online articles that I read) in order for me to provide you, my readers, with the text and hyperlink below:
Texas is trying to shut down Planned Parenthood health centers with a baseless $1.8 BILLION lawsuit. Sign your name and say, "I'm For Planned Parenthood!"
https://www.weareplannedparenthood.org/lu_MutDNwkybpJ8nsMyzFQ2?sourceid=1015858&ms=3NALzzzzzz1N1V&contactdata=bg6YNkqLeCCb8BMeLmKVG7fskfWOlbsOz1Ls0quCPNm7Di3fRJXcWTS0fsaWMjeZOQXUuocFOz%2fNBjRAz2aYmU7WhjUOPz+tIwLKuCYJfmWD0W1UPo1vIVTd2S%2fAWABVMrN4whRgB1KjaqZxGM2+XAHz+YV%2fHndGbxoa5vj3GKQW8J95M2D2j1A5FPPGJzZFVRRsTqH9YYA1iNuq3+IkEfqQhzQaXqlk01n36c9M4fOaE++T0tgzrI%2fZrAx1vf85gpYXHazZ4cdtTO2OUDZFge7Wp7gJsj6V2aClAlO8tCrNk+%2fRUU9Vrz%2fxwro22xUt&emci=7a7c3c1b-347b-ee11-b004-00224832eb73&emdi=6e789f27-347b-ee11-b004-00224832eb73&ceid=16975505&am=100&amtOpts=200%2c100%2c60%2c35&recurringAm=35&recurringAmtOpts=50%2c35%2c25%2c15
And, after I signed the petition above, I made a one-time donation to Planned Parenthood Federation of America because "Texas is trying to shut down Planned Parenthood health centers with a baseless $1.8 BILLION lawsuit," so that is why I signed my name to say, "I'm For Planned Parenthood!" –Paul Whiting (written November 4th, 2023, revised November 17th, 2023 and revised March 13th, 2024)
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November 4th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses November 3rd, 2023: This 'update' that I am writing today, November 4th, 2023, is from both my usual reading of Time Magazine articles, as well as from my oftentimes daily news searches on Google.
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day. Then, I usually check each day's news via a Google search under several news topics sometime after I check my email, as well as after I check my previous day's cellular data usage, which I track very carefully.
Thus, I usually check on what is happening in the news via various Google searches that I do on an oftentimes daily basis under the following topics:
American News
United States News
USA News
President Biden News
Joe Biden News
Democrats News
Republicans News
Political News
World News
Global Warming News
Workers On Strike News
Portland Oregon News
Then, I read the news articles that I feel are the most important for me to read from those Time Magazine emails and/or from those Google news searches.
Now, I usually try to publish these current news 'updates' on the day that I actually read the news articles referenced in the 'update'; however, lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news!
Not only that, I have been busy, as well, with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that require their very own 'updates!' Besides that, I am often engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Plus, I am trying to throttle my cellular data usage in order to stay below the amount of usage that my data plan offers each month, which I track very carefully, so that I don't go over that amount.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 4th, 2023, as well as that I received yesterday, November 3rd, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 3rd, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Facing Israel’s Trauma":
https://time.com/6330832/israel-after-october-7-attacks-trauma
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Elon Musk Tells Rishi Sunak AI Will Eliminate the Need for Jobs":
https://time.com/6331056/rishi-sunak-elon-musk-ai
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "When the U.S. Successfully Tackled Homelessness":
https://time.com/6322025/homelessness-new-deal
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Challenges Ahead for New Speaker as House Passes Israel Aid":
https://time.com/6331044/house-gop-israel-aid-mike-johnson
---------------------------------------------
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Why Palestinians Fear Permanent Displacement From Gaza":
https://time.com/6330904/palestinians-gaza-fear-permanent-expulsion
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received today, November 4th, 2023:
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "The Israel-Hamas War is Taking an Unprecedented and Deadly Toll on Journalists":
https://time.com/6330906/israel-hamas-war-journalist-death
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "How Daylight Savings Time Can Affect Your Health":
https://time.com/6331288/daylight-savings-time-health
---------------------------------------------
The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "What to Know About U.S. Military Support for Israel’s Gaza Offensive":
https://time.com/6331133/israel-gaza-biden-military-support
Continuing on—as I mentioned above—lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news. And I was doing my oftentimes daily news searches on Google today, November 4th, 2023, when I noticed many different articles from various news organizations!
Therefore, due to this sudden inundation of news, I am simply opening a webpage for each of the various news articles that I am planning to read, based upon the title of each news article and/or based upon the topic of each news article, in preparation for reading each article later on.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these news articles that I highlight regarding current news, on these types of 'updates' that I write, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, due to the number of articles for which I have an introduction to write lately, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the current news 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with the news organization's name in addition to a hyperlink.
And to clarify: I still have to read these articles! So, I have each article opened as a webpage on my smartphone's Google browser until such a time as I can get around to actually reading them, due to the number of them.
Another clarification: I greatly simplified how these articles are listed—that I still have yet to read—in order to set them apart from the articles in previous 'updates' where I have already read the articles. Plus, I am listing these articles by the initial Google search category under which I found each article. [Although, to clarify, sometimes the same article appears (or, articles appear) under different search categories.] And I will indicate whether, or not, I have read each article below its title and hyperlink.
Thus, I will indicate the date that I read each article below the title and hyperlink to the article, after I read the article. Therefore, I plan to indicate when I complete reading the articles below, whenever I can actually get around to reading them—when I have access to WiFi, such as at my local library, or at a place of business where I have been shopping, or at a coffee shop, etc., in order to save usage on my cellular data plan through my mobile phone company, as noted above.
GOOGLE SEARCH: AMERICAN NEWS
1. ABC News
'We expect American citizens to exit' Gaza Wednesday, Biden says
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/International/expect-american-citizens-exit-gaza-wednesday-biden/story?id=104546508
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
2. CNN
White House condemns Fox News for ‘standing up on behalf of hate’ after host attacks CNN anchors’ Jewish heritage
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/03/media/fox-mark-levin-holocaust-cnn/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
3. The Guardian
Mike Johnson, theocrat: the House speaker and a plot against America
https://amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/nov/04/mike-johnson-theocrat-house-speaker-christian-trump
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
4. CBS News
Hundreds of Americans appear set to leave Gaza through Rafah border crossing into Egypt
https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/israel-palestine-hamas-gaza-rafah-border-crossing-egypt
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: UNITED STATES NEWS
5. AP News
Israel resists US pressure to pause the war to allow more aid to Gaza, wants hostages back first
https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-news-11-3-2023-94d5d0b58bc10a14be6ac191060e47e1
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
6. ABC News
The third Republican debate stage will be less crowded
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/538/republican-debate-stage-crowded/story?id=104606713
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
7. NBC News
Trump appointee who assaulted Capitol officers on Jan. 6 sentenced to nearly 6 years
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123188
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
8. CNN
The US economy added 150,000 jobs last month. Here’s what that means
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/03/economy/jobs-report-october-final/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
9. HuffPost
Republicans Introduce Bill To Expel Palestinians From The United States
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/ryan-zinke-republicans-expel-palestinians_n_65454496e4b01b258583b5de/amp
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: USA NEWS
10. VOA News
US Takes Up China’s Infrastructure Mantel in Africa
https://www.voanews.com/amp/u-s-takes-up-china-s-infrastructure-mantel-in-africa/7340560.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: PRESIDENT BIDEN NEWS
11. ABC News
Biden, first lady visit Maine to grieve with community in wake of Lewiston mass shooting
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Politics/biden-lady-visit-maine-grieve-community-wake-mass/story?id=104604334
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
12. AP News
Biden calls for humanitarian 'pause' in Israel-Hamas war
https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-biden-ceasefire-422ed95081e5fe224dd9f0ed7920c4e8
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
13. CNN
Muslim leaders have a message for President Biden on Israel
https://www.cnn.com/videos/us/2023/11/02/muslim-americans-biden-ceasefire-israel-gaza-source-vpx.cnn
[I have NOT watched this video yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: JOE BIDEN NEWS
14. CBS News
President Joe Biden touts economic agenda, rural investments during farm stop in Minnesota
https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/minnesota/live-updates/president-biden-visits-minnesota-to-tout-rural-investments
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: DEMOCRATS NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: REPUBLICANS NEWS
15. NPR (National Public Radio)
Speaker Mike Johnson and the alliance of white evangelicals and Republicans
https://www.npr.org/2023/11/04/1210528749/house-speaker-mike-johnson-evangelical-christian-republican-party
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
16. ABC News
Speaker Mike Johnson tells Senate Republicans he's open to Ukraine aid, but Israel aid will have to move first and separately
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Politics/speaker-mike-johnson-tells-senate-republicans-open-ukraine/story?id=104553153
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
17. USA Today (By the way, I am a subscriber to USA Today.)
Republicans are in chaos yet again as government shutdown looms large (House Speaker Johnson says Republicans are united. It's good he has a sense of humor.)
https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/columnist/2023/11/03/republican-chaos-mike-johnson-marjorie-taylor-greene-government-shutdown/71421952007
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: POLITICAL NEWS
18. NBC News
Senate passes 3 funding bills as battle to prevent shutdown heats up
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123227
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
19. POLITICO
The nation's cartoonists on the week in politics
https://www.politico.com/gallery/2023/11/03/the-nations-cartoonists-on-the-week-in-politics-00125128?slide=0
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: WORLD NEWS
20. Boston.com
Israel-Hamas war misinformation is everywhere. Here are the facts
https://www.boston.com/news/world-news/2023/11/03/israel-hamas-war-misinformation-is-everywhere-here-are-the-facts/?amp=1
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: GLOBAL WARMING NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: WORKERS ON STRIKE NEWS
21. AP News
UAW members at the first Ford plant to go on strike overwhelmingly approve the new contract
https://apnews.com/article/ford-plant-approves-tentative-contract-agreement-uaw-strike-12e62184b7c321b502ca268ae30f7901
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: PORTLAND OREGON NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
And I decided to highlight these articles from the various news organizations above for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 4th, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023 and revised January 28th, 2024)
P.S.: By the way, today, November 4th, 2023, I read the September 25th, 2023 news articles from my ‘September 25th, 2023 Update—Continued,’ which can be found above.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 5th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these campaign donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations that I make virtually every time that I make a campaign donation—within which I usually include the text from each political campaign's requesting email, or text message, along with some of each campaign's donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign (which is usually $3.00 per campaign), plus how much I tipped ActBlue (which is usually $0.11 per donation)—however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of campaign donation requests!
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign donation 'updates' and combine every campaign donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for campaign donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political campaign communication that I responded to was a text message today, November 4th, 2023, from the Mike O'Brien for PA (Mike O'Brien for Pennsylvania) campaign, which stated the following:
Paul, Mike O'Brien here, a retired U.S. Marine Corps TOPGUN fighter pilot and Democrat from Pennsylvania who is going to help FLIP THE HOUSE.
My opponent, MAGA extremist and Freedom Caucus Chairman Scott Perry, continues to undermine our democracy, chip away at our freedoms, and put our future at risk:
→ He played a key role in the effort to overturn the 2020 election for Trump on Jan. 6th
→ He wants to ban abortion nationwide
→ And he says that climate change "is a problem that doesn't exist"
That's why I'm running for Congress, because it's time to replace an insurrectionist with a REAL PATRIOT.
But Perry has stockpiled millions from far-right donors and he's already attacking me. I'm not afraid of his insults, but I need your help to have the resources to fight back. This ultra-competitive seat could decide the House Majority, but right now I'm behind my $5,000 midnight fundraising goal...
So I'm asking you now - can I count on you to chip in just $25 to help me defeat insurrectionist Scott Perry?***
Thank you,
Mike O'Brien
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Mike O'Brien
U.S. Congress Pennsylvania
Donate to Mike O'Brien
Mike O’Brien is a patriot, Democrat, and former Marine Lt. Colonel who defended freedom abroad for 20 years as a TOPGUN F-35 Stealth Fighter Pilot.
Now he’s back home in Pennsylvania, and he’s running for Congress to serve Pennsylvania and defeat far-right extremist Congressman Scott Perry.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Mike O'Brien.
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
Power the nonprofit fundraising platform Democratic candidates & progressive causes rely on.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.11
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Mike O'Brien for PA campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "Mike O'Brien...a retired U.S. Marine Corps TOPGUN fighter pilot and Democrat from Pennsylvania...is going to help FLIP THE HOUSE," since "[Mike's] opponent, MAGA extremist and Freedom Caucus Chairman Scott Perry, continues to undermine our democracy, chip away at our freedoms, and put our future at risk."
Thus, this one campaign—Mike O'Brien for PA—is the political campaign that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 5th, 2023 and revised November 14th, 2023)
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November 5th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received two emails from the Assault Rifle Ban Accountability Project, which is a Project of Brady PAC (Brady Political Action Committee) today, November 5th, 2023.
The first email that I received from Brady PAC's Assault Rifle Ban Accountability Project today, with the subject line, "represent [ZIP Code redacted] in our live poll", stated the following:
ASSAULT RIFLE BAN
—Accountability Project—
A Project of Brady PAC
Paul, President Biden is calling on Congress to ban assault weapons and end gun violence after the horrific shooting in Lewiston:
"Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it." – President Joe Biden
Please, respond to our live poll before 11:59 p.m. to tell us what you think of President Biden's leadership:
What grade would you give President Biden's leadership on gun violence?
[✓] A
[ ] B
[ ] C
[ ] D
[ ] F
Paul, President Biden has been fighting tooth and nail to protect communities from gun violence:
[✓] He oversaw the passage of the first package of gun violence reforms in nearly 30 years and has used his executive power to expand background checks.
[✓] He created the first-ever Office of Gun Violence Prevention to give our government the resources needed to end this epidemic.
[✓] Now, he's calling on Congress to ban assault weapons, create universal background checks and pass other lifesaving reforms.
But the gun lobby has spent the last THREE YEARS pushing incessant attacks against him – and they're only going to ramp up as the 2024 election gets underway. That's why we need to know if Americans are standing with President Biden and his gun safety agenda. Please, will you respond before 11:59 p.m. tonight to represent your area in our live poll?
What grade would you give President Biden's leadership on gun violence?
[✓] A
[ ] B
[ ] C
[ ] D
[ ] F
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Brady Pac
End Gun Violence Survey [MIDNIGHT DEADLINE]
Thank you for taking our survey. Your responses will be especially helpful as we fight for gun violence prevention.
Email: [redacted]
Cell Phone: [redacted]
Please confirm your response: What grade would you give President Biden's leadership on gun violence?
[✓] A
[ ] B
[ ] C
[ ] D
[ ] F
How much should Congress prioritize listening to President Biden and passing gun safety reforms?
Lowest Priority
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[✓] 5
Highest Priority
Last year, the gun safety majority in Congress passed a set of major reforms. But there is still so much work to do, including fully closing the boyfriend loophole. And now, the NRA is scheming to destroy the progress we’ve made by defeating gun safety leaders and bankrolling their extremist candidates.
How worried are you that gun safety leaders will be outspent in 2024 by the gun lobby and their dark-money donors?
[✓] Extremely worried
[ ] Very worried
[ ] Somewhat worried
[ ] Not at all worried
With the White House and Congress up for grabs in 2024, the NRA is working overtime to retake power in Washington. Brady PAC is dedicated to defeating their dark-money donors and electing gun safety leaders up and down the ballot.
With so many critical elections in 2024, how important is it for grassroots activists to invest in our fight against the NRA?
[✓] Extremely important
[ ] Very important
[ ] Somewhat important
[ ] Not at all important
[IMPORTANT QUESTION. DON’T SKIP!]
Thank you for taking our survey. We have one last question for you.
The NRA and their dark-money donors are gearing up for one of the most consequential elections of our lifetime. They’re going to be spending MILLIONS to retake power in Washington, undo all of the progress we’ve won and elect more bought-and-paid-for politicians who will push their anti-gun safety agenda.
But we’re preparing for this fight too. We’re working overtime to support President Biden’s reelection campaign, expand our gun violence prevention majorities in the House and Senate and build a team of gun safety leaders in all 50 states.
This is going to be a pivotal election year. We’re counting on strong grassroots support from passionate gun safety activists like you to compete with the gun lobby’s dark money. Will you rush a donation of $5 or more before midnight tonight to help us elect leaders like President Biden who will keep our children and our communities safe?
[ ] Yes, I can chip in $5 to elect gun safety leaders.
[ ] Yes, I can chip in $30 to elect gun safety leaders.
[✓] Yes, and I can chip in MORE to elect gun safety leaders.*
*[Blogger's Note: I selected this option—although I donated less than $30, or even less than $5—because it's an option that got me to the donation webpage!]
And so, I made a one-time donation to Brady PAC (the sister organization of which is Brady: United Against Gun Violence) because I gave an A grade to "President Biden's leadership on gun violence" in Brady PAC's Assault Rifle Ban Accountability Project End Gun Violence Survey.
The second email that I received from Brady PAC's Assault Rifle Ban Accountability Project today, with the subject line, "Will you step up to help us ban assault weapons?", stated the following:
ASSAULT RIFLE BAN
—Accountability Project—
A Project of Brady PAC
Paul,
Recently, we reached out about a dramatic decrease in donor contributions. The drop-off at the end of October has taken a toll on our fundraising, and as a result, we risk not having the resources needed to continue our work to ban assault weapons nationwide.
But in the last few days, there has been a strong outpouring of support among people across the country to help us get back on track. These are just some of the supporters who have donated to help us in our fight to ban assault weapons – take a look!
[START OF ROLLING GIF]
ASSAULT RIFLE BAN
—Accountability Project—
A Project of Brady PAC
[First name redacted], New York $5
[First name redacted], Indiana $5
[First name redacted], New Jersey $15
[First name redacted], Iowa $20
[First name redacted], New York $2
[First name redacted], Illinois $3
[First name redacted], California $5
[First name redacted], Oregon $50
[First name redacted], Pennsylvania $15
[First name redacted], Wisconsin $5
[First name redacted], Delaware $50
[First name redacted], Virginia $13
[END OF ROLLING GIF]
Paul, we want to add your name to this list. So, before tomorrow at midnight, will you contribute $5, or any amount, to help us raise $10,000 and support our work to ban assault weapons nationwide? →
If you've saved payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:
[ ] Donate $5
[ ] Donate $25
[ ] Donate $50
[✓] Donate Another Amount***
Every goal we set is critical to our efforts to elect gun safety leaders who will commit to banning assault weapons in all 50 states. The gun lobby doesn't take any days off – neither can we.
An assault weapons ban is only possible if we retake our gun safety majority in the House and protect the Senate and the White House in 2024. And we need all hands on deck to ensure we have the resources to make it happen.
Paul: Today's the perfect day to chip in and support our work. Donate $5 before tomorrow at midnight and join the growing team of grassroots supporters demanding a nationwide ban on assault weapons >>>
Thanks,
Brady PAC
We can't wait any longer for action on gun safety. Brady PAC is fighting for lifesaving legislation like universal background checks and an assault weapons ban, but we need your support. Chip in now to help us end gun violence in America. →
[✓] DONATE***
[ ] DONATE MONTHLY
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, I made another one-time donation to Brady PAC (the sister organization of which is Brady: United Against Gun Violence) because I want Brady PAC's Assault Rifle Ban Accountability Project "to add [my] name to this list ... of the supporters who have donated to help [Brady PAC] in [their] fight to ban assault weapons."
Thus, I made two one-time donations to Brady PAC (the sister organization of which is Brady: United Against Gun Violence) because "Brady PAC is fighting for lifesaving legislation like universal background checks and an assault weapons ban." –Paul Whiting (written November 5th, 2023, revised November 7th, 2023, revised December 1st, 2023 and revised January 7th, 2024)
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November 6th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) today, November 6th, 2023, with the subject line "This Veterans Day is about more than thanks", which stated the following:
Paul,
Veterans Day is right around the corner, and this year is an opportunity to channel gratitude into action.
Our country is at a pivotal moment, and the pressing challenges we face both at home and abroad can only be solved with two things: LEADERSHIP and UNITY.
My fellow veterans have stepped up to fight for all Americans, regardless of any real or perceived differences. We’ve united in service to our country, demonstrated that we know how to put the mission first, and we need our leaders on the national stage to follow our lead now more than ever.
IAVA is leading on behalf of America’s veterans — and we need you to join us.
This Veterans Day, will you commit to leading with us? We need your voice in the fight too.
YES, I’M WITH YOU!
https://iava.org/become-a-veteran-advocate
Together, we can make this Veterans Day — and all of Veterans Month — about more than just thanking vets.
When you add your voice to our fight, you help us build the future for our country that we put our lives on the line for.
Thanks so much for being a part of Team IAVA.
Onward!
— [First name redacted]
[Name redacted]
Iraq War Veteran
IAVA [Title redacted]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
IAVA
BECOME A VETERAN ADVOCATE
We fight and win for veterans every day, but we can’t do it without you. Commit to supporting veterans and we’ll keep you updated about our important work and let you know how you can help.
Contact Details
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Email: [redacted]
Postal Code: [redacted]
Submit
---------------------------------------------
IAVA'S POLICY PRIORITIES
Thank you so much for your commitment to addressing the issues that matter most to post-9/11 veterans. We’ll send you an email when it’s time to contact your representatives. In the meantime, click on the topics below to learn more about our most pressing policy priorities.
Commit to Take Action Big 6: "IAVA’s members have identified 6 priority issues that matter most to them."
COMBAT SUICIDE
IAVA is committed to ending the veteran suicide epidemic.
https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/combat-suicide/#combat-suicide
[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "COMBAT SUICIDE AMONG TROOPS AND VETERANS."]
BURN PITS & TOXIC EXPOSURES
Burn pits are the Agent Orange of our generation. Our members see burn pits as a critical, urgent and growing threat.
https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/burn-pits-toxic-exposures/#bpte
[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "BURN PITS & TOXIC EXPOSURES."]
MODERNIZE VA [Veterans Administration]
We must ensure that our veterans receive the best possible care.
https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/modernize-va/#modernize-va
[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "MODERNIZE VA."]
WOMEN VETERANS
As the number of male veterans is expected to decline in the next decades, the population of women veterans will continue to increase.
https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/women-veterans/#women-veterans
[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "WOMEN VETERANS."]
ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES
Civilians and veterans should have the same standard of care. Our veterans must have the same right to pursue alternative therapies while under VA care.
https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/cannabis-alternative-therapies/#canalt
[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES," which includes the action to "Urge Congress to cosponsor and work to enact the bipartisan VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act (S. 326/H.R. 1003) that states that the VA can conduct research into the efficacy of medical cannabis as a treatment for veterans with chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions," as outlined below*]
EDUCATION BENEFITS
The Post-9/11 GI Bill has now sent more than one million veterans and dependents to school. We must ensure veterans and their dependents have access to education benefits.
https://iava.org/big-6-priorities/education-benefits/#education-benefits
[Blogger's Note: I read the IAVA'S BIG 6 webpage titled, "EDUCATION BENEFITS."]
By the way, all of the individual webpages above are actually contained within the main webpage that is titled, "IAVA'S BIG 6: IAVA’s members have identified 6 priority issues that matter most to them." Therefore, you will see each one of the above-mentioned categories, including "COMBAT SUICIDE," "BURN PITS & TOXIC EXPOSURES," "MODERNIZE VA," "WOMEN VETERANS," "ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES" and "EDUCATION BENEFITS," on every one of the webpages. It's just that the individual webpages above highlight each particular topic listed above within the "IAVA'S BIG 6" main page.
*And, after I read the webpage above, regarding ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
EMPOWER VETERANS WHO WANT TO USE MEDICAL CANNABIS (S. 326/H.R. 1003)
Who You're Contacting:
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
[Phone number redacted]
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
[Phone number redacted]
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
[Phone number redacted]
What You're Saying
Subject: Begin VA Research on Benefits of Medical Cannabis for Veterans
[Decision Maker]:
Veterans have passionately stated that medical cannabis has helped them tackle some of the most pressing war injuries veterans face such as PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Eighty-eight percent of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) members surveyed support the additional research on medical cannabis. Policies are outdated, research is lacking, and stigma persists. IAVA has set out to change that and launch a national conversation underscoring the need for bipartisan, data-based solutions that can bring relief to millions.
I stand with my fellow IAVA members and urge you and Congress to cosponsor and work to enact the bipartisan VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act (S. 326/H.R. 1003) by Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester and Sen. Dan Sullivan, and Reps. Lou Correa and Peter Meijer, states that the VA can research the efficacy of medical cannabis as a treatment for veterans with chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions.
[Your name]
[Your email address]
Contact Information
First name: Paul
Last name: Whiting
Email: [redacted]
Address: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Country: [redacted]
ZIP Code: [redacted]
SEND IT!
HELP SPREAD THE WORD:
SUPPORT VETERANS TODAY
Our country has an obligation to fulfill its promise to honor and support vets. Make a donation today to help IAVA fulfill its mission to connect, unite, and empower post-9/11 veterans.
DONATE
So, I selected the "Share on Twitter" option (by the way, I only have a Twitter account so I can read tweets which are included in some online articles that I read) in order for me to provide you, my readers, with the text and hyperlink below:
Empower Veterans Who Want to Use Medical Cannabis (S. 326/H.R. 1003)
https://act.iava.org/empowerveteransmedicalcannabis
Thus, I become a Veteran Advocate with the IAVA (Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America) in order to show my support for our U.S. Veterans! Plus, after I sent the letter above to my Senators and Representative in Congress, via the IAVA website, I also made a one-time donation to Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), because "our country has an obligation to fulfill its promise to honor and support vets." –Paul Whiting (written November 6th, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023 and revised April 10th, 2024)
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November 6th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses November 5th, 2023 And November 7th, 2023: This 'update' that I am writing today, November 6th, 2023, is from both my usual reading of Time Magazine articles, as well as from my oftentimes daily news searches on Google.
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day. Then, I usually check each day's news via a Google search under several news topics sometime after I check my email, as well as after I check my previous day's cellular data usage, which I track very carefully.
Thus, I usually check on what is happening in the news via various Google searches that I do on an oftentimes daily basis under the following topics:
American News
United States News
USA News
President Biden News
Joe Biden News
Democrats News
Republicans News
Political News
World News
Global Warming News
Workers On Strike News
Portland Oregon News
Then, I read the news articles that I feel are the most important for me to read from those Time Magazine emails and/or from those Google news searches.
Now, I usually try to publish these current news 'updates' on the day that I actually read the news articles referenced in the 'update'; however, lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news!
Not only that, I have been busy, as well, with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that require their very own 'updates!' Besides that, I am often engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Plus, I am trying to throttle my cellular data usage in order to stay below the amount of usage that my data plan offers each month, which I track very carefully, so that I don't go over that amount.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 6th, 2023, as well as that I received yesterday, November 5th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 5th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "People With Disabilities in Gaza Face Additional Barriers in the Israel-Hamas War":
https://time.com/6331630/israel-hamas-war-gaza-disability-barriers
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "The West Is Losing the Global South Over Gaza":
https://time.com/6330746/global-south-ukraine-israel-gaza
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Why China’s Involvement in the U.K. AI Safety Summit Was So Significant":
https://time.com/6331320/us-china-ai-safety-summit
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "It’s Time to Rethink Infrastructure":
https://time.com/6330317/rethink-infrastructure-essay
---------------------------------------------
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Protest Marches Across the Globe Call for Immediate Halt to Israeli Bombing of Gaza":
https://time.com/6331625/protests-us-global-israel-gaza-ceasefire
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received today, November 6th, 2023:
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Key Moments From the Pro-Palestinian Marches Across the U.S.":
https://time.com/6331688/protest-marches-us-gaza-war-ceasefire
By the way, I also watched the video accompanying the article above that is titled, "Protest Marches Across the Globe Call for Immediate Halt to Israeli Bombing of Gaza." And within that video, I noticed a sign that read "TEXT 'CEASEFIRE' TO 44321." And so, I sent a text message to that number and received a reply, which can be found below:
Msg & data rates may apply. 4 msg/req. Text STOP to end.
Donate using this secure link:
https://secure.givelively.org/donate/peoples-forum-inc/the-people-demand-a-ceasefire-now
Donate Now | The People Demand a Ceasefire
We stand on the precipice of a historic event: this Saturday's National March on Washington to Free Palestine.
And so, I made a one-time donation to The People Demand a Ceasefire, via the Give Lively website, because "people from across the United States are coming together to demand that Gaza be allowed to live."
Besides that, I watched most of the videos from X (formerly Twitter) on that same article.
[Blogger's Note: I was actually afraid of including this donation to "The People Demand a Ceasefire" as part of my 'November 6th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses November 5th, 2023 And November 7th, 2023,' since the Israel-Hamas war is a very sensitive topic to many individuals; but, I am still totally in favor of a ceasefire!
And if you read my blogs, you know that I write a lot about Holocaust remembrance, and I donate to quite a few different Jewish organizations throughout the year, mostly having to do with Holocaust remembrance.
However, when it is Hamas terrorists whom Israel fights against—because of Hamas's horrendous killing of 1,400 Israelis, and the abduction of over 240 Israelis as hostages, on October 7th, 2023—I think that Gazan civilians being killed is just as horrendous!
Why do I think that?!?
The 10,000 plus Gazans who have been killed so far are three quarters civilians—who are predominantly women, children and the elderly, as explained below:
From CNN: "Ministry spokesperson Ashraf Al Qudra said 10,022 Palestinians in the enclave had been killed by Israeli strikes, including 4,104 children, 2,641 women and 611 elderly people. Those numbers suggest about three-quarters of the dead are from vulnerable populations."
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/06/middleeast/gaza-10k-deaths-intl/index.html#:~:text=Ministry%20spokesperson%20Ashraf%20Al%20Qudra,dead%20are%20from%20vulnerable%20populations.]
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "The Struggle to Save Lives Inside Gaza’s Hospitals":
https://time.com/6331271/gaza-hospitals-cover-story
Continuing on—as I mentioned above—lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news. And I was doing my oftentimes daily news searches on Google today, November 6th, 2023, when I noticed many different articles from various news organizations!
[Blogger's Note: I actually didn't check the news for November 6th, 2023 until shortly before midnight PST (Pacific Standard Time)! So, this could be considered the current news for either late November 6th, 2023, or early November 7th, 2023, depending upon how you look at it.]
Therefore, due to this sudden inundation of news, I am simply opening a webpage for each of the various news articles that I am planning to read, based upon the title of each news article and/or based upon the topic of each news article, in preparation for reading each article later on.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these news articles that I highlight regarding current news, on these types of 'updates' that I write, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, due to the number of articles for which I have an introduction to write lately, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the current news 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with the news organization's name in addition to a hyperlink.
And to clarify: I still have to read these articles! So, I have each article opened as a webpage on my smartphone's Google browser until such a time as I can get around to actually reading them, due to the number of them.
Another clarification: I greatly simplified how these articles are listed—that I still have yet to read—in order to set them apart from the articles in previous 'updates' where I have already read the articles. Plus, I am listing these articles by the initial Google search category under which I found each article. [Although, to clarify, sometimes the same article appears (or, articles appear) under different search categories.] And I will indicate whether, or not, I have read each article below its title and hyperlink.
Thus, I will indicate the date that I read each article below the title and hyperlink to the article, after I read the article. Therefore, I plan to indicate when I complete reading the articles below, whenever I can actually get around to reading them—when I have access to WiFi, such as at my local library, or at a place of business where I have been shopping, or at a coffee shop, etc., in order to save usage on my cellular data plan through my mobile phone company, as noted above.
GOOGLE SEARCH: AMERICAN NEWS
1. CBS News
More than 300 Americans have left Gaza in recent days, deputy national security adviser says
https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/israel-hamas-war-americans-leave-gaza-hostages-jon-finer-face-the-nation
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: UNITED STATES NEWS
2. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
Biden Confronts Limits of U.S. Leverage in Israel and Ukraine Wars
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/06/us/politics/biden-israel-gaza-ukraine.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
3. NBC News
Zelenskyy invites Trump to Ukraine, says he needs just 24 minutes to explain to him why he ‘can’t bring peace’
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123713
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
4. NBC News
Map: The states in favor of yearlong daylight saving time
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123051
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: USA NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: PRESIDENT BIDEN NEWS
5. ABC News
'Nobody's hands are clean': Obama, some Democrats break with Biden on support for Israel
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Politics/nobodys-hands-clean-obama-democrats-break-biden-support/story?id=104657266
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
6. NBC News
Biden touts 'Bidenomics' in a speech announcing new rail project funding
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123790
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: JOE BIDEN NEWS
7. CNN
Biden impeachment inquiry end game comes into focus, but moderate Republicans still not sold
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/06/politics/impeachment-inquiry-house-republicans/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
8. AP News
'Amtrak Joe' Biden visits Delaware to promote $16 billion for passenger rail projects
https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-white-house-economy-amtrak-infrastructure-38150ad86f29daa330af26f491a8a491
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
9. AP News
Inside President Biden - Speaker Johnson relationship: Greetings and clashes (Inside the Joe Biden-Mike Johnson relationship: Greetings, briefings and clashes over foreign aid)
https://apnews.com/article/biden-speaker-mike-johnson-israel-hamas-ukraine-fab4636b25eb7a9939df5f5e73e7adf0
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: DEMOCRATS NEWS
10. CNN
Opinion: Why Democrats shouldn’t despair over concerning new polls about Biden
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/05/opinions/biden-bad-poll-numbers-democrats-obeidallah/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
11. NBC News
Republicans threaten to reject Ukraine aid unless Democrats agree to tighten U.S. immigration laws
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123926
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: REPUBLICANS NEWS
12. CBS News
Senate Republicans seek drastic asylum limits in emergency funding package
https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/senate-republicans-asylum-limits-funding-bill
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
13. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
Opinion | Donald Trump Has Closed the Republican Mind (Republicans Have Chosen Nihilism)
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/06/opinion/trump-allan-bloom-republicans.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: POLITICAL NEWS
14. Al Jazeera
Gaza could see return of PA [Palestinian Authority] in case of a ‘political solution’, says [President Mahmoud] Abbas
https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2023/11/5/gaza-could-see-return-of-pa-in-case-of-a-political-solution-says-abbas
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
15. Reuters
G7's political relevance at stake over Israel-Gaza response
https://www.reuters.com/world/g7s-political-relevance-stake-over-israel-gaza-response-2023-11-06
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
16. Reuters
Exclusive: Meta bars political advertisers from using generative AI ads tools
https://www.reuters.com/technology/meta-bar-political-advertisers-using-generative-ai-ads-tools-2023-11-06
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: WORLD NEWS
17. CNN
The world is turning against Israel’s war in Gaza – and many Israelis don’t understand why
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/07/middleeast/israel-mood-gaza-war-intl-cmd/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
18. ABC News
Netanyahu to ABC's Muir: 'No cease-fire' without release of hostages
https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/netanyahu-abcs-muir-cease-fire-release-hostages/story?id=104661239
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
19. Hindustan Times
If Hezbollah attacks Israel, US ‘prepared to intervene militarily’: Report
https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-if-hezbollah-attacks-israel-us-prepared-to-intervene-militarily-report-101699252344824-amp.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
20. Reuters
Russia says Israeli nuclear remark raises 'huge number of questions'
https://www.reuters.com/world/russia-says-israeli-remark-nuclear-weapons-raises-many-questions-2023-11-07
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
21. AP News
Demonstrators from around the world call for a cease-fire in Gaza (Protest marches from US to Berlin call for immediate halt to Israeli bombing of Gaza)
https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-palestinians-protests-europe-193a9aaca97df2c5c6a515f756a40a34
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: GLOBAL WARMING NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: WORKERS ON STRIKE NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
---------------------------------------------
GOOGLE SEARCH: PORTLAND OREGON NEWS
I did not select any articles from this category.
And I decided to highlight these articles from the various news organizations above for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 6th, 2023, revised November 7th, 2023, revised November 10th, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023, revised January 10th, 2024 and revised January 28th, 2024)
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November 7th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, November 7th, 2023, with the subject line, "Are you prepared for today's elections?", which stated the following:
It's finally Election Day, Paul!
This is a pivotal moment in the fight for so many of our rights. Abortion rights are on the ballot in states across the country, including Ohio, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. And with so many rights at stake, it's essential that every one of us with an election today is ready to cast a vote – and that ALL of us are paying attention to what's on the line.
While these elections are only in some states, what happens this evening will set the stage for our fight for reproductive freedom and our democracy in 2024 when abortion will be on the ballot in every state.
We've put together a one-stop guide with everything you need for today if you're voting – so screenshot, save, and share this with your community (and beyond) to make sure all of our votes can be cast and counted.
Know Your Rights
[✓] If the polls close while you're still in line, stay in line. You have the right to vote.
[✓] If you make a mistake on your ballot, ask for a new one.
[✓] If the machines are down at your polling place, ask for a paper ballot.
[✓] If you run into any problems or have questions on Election Day, call the Election Protection Hotline:
English: 1-866-OUR-VOTE / 1-866-687-8683
Spanish: 1-888-VE-Y-VOTA / 1-888-839-8682
Arabic: 1-844-YALLA-US / 1-844-925-5287
For Bengali, Cantonese, Hindi, Urdu, Korean, Mandarin, Tagalog, or Vietnamese: 1-888-274-8683
[✓] Nationwide, our attorneys are monitoring today's elections and are ready to step in to protect you at the polls and ensure every vote is counted, no matter what.
[✓] Remember, Election Day might not be results day – and that's normal. With absentee ballots, mail-in ballots, and other considerations, it takes time for state elections officials to count every vote.
Today's elections will help determine what the fight to protect abortion rights looks like in all fifty states going forward. We must send a clear message that we will not tolerate any attempt to rollback our rights, and ensure our friends and family know what this moment means for the future of abortion rights and our democracy.
If you're not voting today, follow us on social media to hear the results as they come in and help keep your friends informed so you can be part of the work to protect abortion rights in every single state. (The link above will direct you to a third party site, twitter.com).
https://twitter.com/ACLU
Paul, you and I know the work to protect our civil liberties doesn't end on Election Day. While so many of us cast our ballots today, we will be ready to fight any efforts to suppress voters and continue the year-round work to protect our civil liberties.
For our democracy,
The ACLU Team
P.S. If you find this guide helpful, please share with friends, family, or anyone else you know who plans to vote today! Our democracy is strongest when every one of us is able to vote for our values.
DONATE NOW
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to the ACLU in order to support their statement: "If you find this guide helpful, please share with friends, family, or anyone else you know who plans to vote today! Our democracy is strongest when every one of us is able to vote for our values." –Paul Whiting (November 7th, 2023)
P.S.: My 'November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 2,' regarding Election Day 2023, which is today, November 7th, 2023, incorrectly stated the subject line of that November 3rd, 2023 ACLU email as "Our plan to protect voters," however that was actually the email subject line from an ACLU email that I received on October 24th, 2023 (please see my 'October 24th, 2023 Update No. 2,' which can be found above). And I didn't notice this error until today, November 7th, 2023! So, that is why I corrected the email subject of that 'November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 2' to "Help your community prepare to vote on Tuesday", which is what it was supposed to be! This blogger regrets the error. And since this 'update' is the same topic of a "voting guide," so to speak, for Election Day 2023, I thought that it was pertinent for me to mention that correction from the 'November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 2' above.
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November 7th, 2023 Update No. 2: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these campaign donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations that I make virtually every time that I make a campaign donation—within which I usually include the text from each political campaign's requesting email, or text message, along with some of each campaign's donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign (which is usually $3.00 per campaign), plus how much I tipped ActBlue (which is usually $0.11 per donation)—however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of campaign donation requests!
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign donation 'updates' and combine every campaign donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for campaign donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political campaign communication that I responded to was an email from the Ryan Busse for Governor (Ryan Busse for Montana) campaign today, November 7th, 2023, with the subject line, "I’m a dad, a hunter, a former firearms exec, and I’m a proud Democrat running for Governor of Montana.", which stated the following:
Ryan Busse for Governor
Hi Paul, it's Ryan Busse. I’m a dad, a hunter, a former firearms exec, and I’m a proud Democrat running for Governor of Montana.
Right now, our way of life as Montanans is under attack. Thanks to billionaire Governor Greg Gianforte, Montana is being overrun by outsiders and his wealthy buddies who are buying their second, third, and fourth homes.
Meanwhile, real Montanans can’t even afford to live in our state anymore!
I believe in personal freedoms, responsibility, and opportunity for all Montanans. I believe in a Montana where we protect our rivers, public lands, and the air we breathe for our kids and grandkids. And I believe all Montana kids deserve a quality education.
A second term for Gianforte would be even more disastrous than his first. In just one term, he’s:
• Pushed for a huge property tax hike,
• Ignored Montana’s housing crisis,
• Limited our access to public lands,
• And threatened women’s privacy and freedom.
If given a second term, Gianforte will wipe out Montana’s Constitution, defund our public schools and turn Montana into a playground for the rich.
Do I need to go on?
Paul, this is going to be a competitive race, and there’s a LOT on the line. My team and I have to make some important decisions about where we’ll be focusing our efforts throughout the rest of this campaign. That’s where you come in.
Will you take 30 seconds to fill out this quick priorities survey to let me know what you want to see from my campaign? I’d really appreciate your input→
TAKE SHORT SURVEY***
I’m running for Governor because as a ranch kid, I was taught that if you saw something that needed to be done, you just did it. And right now, Montana is at a crossroads.
I’m determined to fight back against the extremists who are dead-set on ruining our state and to represent ALL Montanans, not just the rich. In other words, your priorities are my priorities, Paul.
On the other hand, here’s a quick rundown of Greg Gianforte’s priorities…
❌ Raising property taxes for Montana homeowners
❌ Giving tax breaks to fellow billionaires and huge corporations
❌ Stripping funding from our public schools
❌ Kicking tens of thousands of people off Medicaid (including over 24,000 children!)
❌ Going after women’s healthcare rights
I’m not like Greg Gianforte, Paul. I’m just an everyday Montanan fighting for everyday Montanans, and I want to make sure I’m doing the best I can. So if you have 30 seconds, please fill out the following short survey and let me know what issues are most important to you and your family:
BEGIN SHORT SURVEY***
I really appreciate you taking the time to help me out, Paul.
Ryan Busse
Candidate for Governor of Montana
DONATE
Ryan is running to fight for freedom, fairness, and common sense. Meanwhile, liars, cheats, billionaires, and fascists are unraveling American democracy before our eyes. We should be terrified of their anti-freedom agenda. Greg Gianforte is the problem. He’s already raised your taxes, ignored the high cost of housing, lied to Montanans, and even went jet-setting in Italy while Montanans had to deal with record-breaking floods. He’s just getting started. Ryan is ready to deliver “a new brand for Montana,” and protect the Last Best Place from Greg Gianforte’s dangerous, failed leadership.
[ ] CONTRIBUTE MONTHLY »
[✓] CONTRIBUTE »
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Ryan Busse for Governor
PRIORITIES SURVEY
Please fill out this quick priorities survey to let me know what you want to see from my campaign in the next few months!
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Postal Code (Optional): [redacted] Mobile Phone (Optional): [redacted]
Which of the following issues are most important to you and your family right now? Please check all that apply. (Optional)
[✓] Rising costs of living
[✓] Gun violence
[✓] Reproductive rights and freedom
[✓] Healthcare
[✓] Medicare & Social Security
[✓] Protecting the environment
[✓] Preserving public lands and access to them
[✓] Public education
[✓] LGBTQ+ rights
[✓] Better roads, bridges, schools and hospitals
[✓] Supporting military & veterans
[✓] Other: I actually live in Portland, Oregon! So all of the above-mentioned issues are a concern for me as an Oregonian.
Are you frustrated with Greg Gianforte and other right-wing extremists’ attacks on freedom and democracy? (Optional)
[✓] Yes, I am
[ ] No, I’m not
Are you afraid of what will happen if we continue to let right-wing extremism go unchecked? (Optional)
[✓] Yes, I am
No, I’m not
Who would you prefer to be making decisions that directly impact you and your family: (Optional)
[✓] A dad, a hunter, a fisherman, and a proud Democrat
[ ] An extremist billionaire who only cares about making life even easier for himself and his wealthy cronies
Ryan Busse is running to fight back against right-wing extremism and represent ALL Montanans — not just the rich. Will you chip in any amount today to support Ryan’s campaign? (Optional)
[ ] Yes, I’ll chip in $25!
[ ] Yes, I’ll chip in $10!
[ ] Yes, I’ll chip in $5!
[✓] Yes, I’ll chip in an amount not listed here!
[ ] I can’t chip in right now (You will still be redirected to a donation page, but only to record your responses)
SUBMIT
SUPPORT RYAN BUSSE:
Any amount helps!
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Ryan Busse.
[ ] DONATE $10 →
[ ] DONATE $25 →
[ ] DONATE $50 →
[ ] DONATE $100 →
[ ] DONATE $250 →
[ ] DONATE $500 →
[ ] DONATE $1,000 →
[✓] OTHER AMOUNT $3.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
Power the nonprofit fundraising platform Democratic candidates & progressive causes rely on.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.11
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Ryan Busse for Montana campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) since "[Ryan's] running for Governor because as a ranch kid, [he] was taught that if you saw something that needed to be done, you just did it," and so "[he's] determined to fight back against the extremists who are dead-set on ruining [their] state and to represent ALL Montanans, not just the rich." You see, "thanks to billionaire Governor Greg Gianforte, Montana is being overrun by outsiders and his wealthy buddies who are buying their second, third, and fourth homes ... If given a second term, Gianforte will wipe out Montana’s Constitution, defund [Montana's] public schools and turn Montana into a playground for the rich."
Thus, this one campaign—Ryan Busse for Montana—is the political campaign that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 7th, 2023 and revised November 14th, 2023)
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November 7th, 2023 No. 3—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023: I received a mailer from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) twelve days ago on October 26th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "Right Now: Be a Defender of Democracy," as well as "YOUR ACTION PLAN IS ENCLOSED!", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
DEMOCRATS
Mr. Paul [Middle Initial] Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Dear Mr. Whiting,
I hope you're ready to stand with us as a staunch defender of democracy as we power full speed ahead towards Election Day.
We're just one year out from early voting in the 2024 elections and closely approaching three key governors' races this year. Our need to organize volunteers, mobilize voters, and secure digital and TV ad space to broadcast our message is growing each day.
MAGA Republicans are already hard at work trying to roll back the progress we've made and attack Americans' rights and freedoms.
For Democrats to win in 2023 and 2024, and defend our democracy from Republicans who are determined to destroy it, we need every supporter of the Democratic National Committee to, once again, join us in the fight for our nation's future.
Mr. Whiting, you've stood strong with the DNC before. Will you give an additional contribution of $20, $30, $40, or more today to help make the investments necessary now to win this year, next year, and to defeat Republicans up and down the ticket?
Dangerous MAGA Republicans are vying for their party's nomination in the race for the White House, promising to end protections on our critical rights and freedoms. Without a doubt, the winner of the presidency will shape our nation's future for generations to come.
But as we put our strong support into reelecting President Biden and Vice President Harris, we need to put just as much effort into electing down-ballot Democrats to help enact their progressive agenda and block GOP assaults on our fundamental rights. Some of the worst attacks on reproductive freedom, voting rights, public education, and more stem from Republican-led state legislatures.
With so much riding on the outcome of these elections from the state house to the White House — we can't afford to wait to scale up the strategies that will propel us to victory.
There are critical actions we must take between now and Election Day 2024 so we can safeguard democracy and advance an agenda the American people believe in. I've enclosed for you the DNC's 2023-2024 Action Plan. You can see what we're up against and how we have our work cut out for us. You can also see how you can help.
The DNC is fiercely dedicated to protecting our democracy. Because we can't just hope for a better, fairer, and brighter future. We have to fight for it — every day between now and Election Day. But it will take continued support from you and supporters like you to make our shared vision a reality.
You and I know that the votes we cast today directly shape our tomorrow. It's the DNC's job to spread the message to every voter about how the Biden-Harris administration and Democratic leaders in the states are moving our nation forward.
We need to be on the ground in communities across the country, showing voters the very real choice between progress with Democrats or a Republican Party that's laser-focused on turning back the clock. If we prevail, we'll restore a great measure of hope in our nation. If we don't succeed, we risk losing even more rights and freedoms.
I'm not willing to take that risk. That's why my team and I are on the ground now, organizing activists and building a winning strategy, so we can reelect President Biden and Vice President Harris, grow our Senate majority, take back the House from MAGA Republicans, and strengthen our state Parties to hold and flip state legislatures. But that takes a lot of work.
To win these elections in the months ahead we must ramp up today. Please donate now with the strongest contribution you can give to make it happen.
Your support today can pull our candidates over the finish line. With make-or-break races occurring across the country and at every level of government, the DNC must devote resources to candidates up and down the ballot.
This work will be fundamental to the Democratic Party's success, and the future we believe in. I hope you'll join us again,
Sincerely,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
Democratic National Committee
P.S. Your power to defend democracy is greater than you may realize. When your support is combined with that of our network of grassroots supporters, we can reelect President Biden and Vice President Harris, secure a Democratic Congress, and elect Democrats nationwide who will protect the values that define us as Americans. Please return your urgent contribution to the DNC today in the envelope provided, or, put your gift to work immediately by donating at www.democrats.org/Oct2023. I look forward to keeping in touch.
Plus, there was also a letter from President Biden, which stated the following:
DEMOCRATS
Dear Mr. Whiting,
Right now, Americans are faced with a decision about what kind of country we want to live in and what kind of future we want for future generations.
Election Day might seem like a long way off. But now is the time Democrats running for office nationwide must be able to engage with voters and demonstrate the very clear difference between Democrats' and Republicans' visions for the future:
Will we live in a country with more freedoms and opportunities, or one with less?
Mr. Whiting, it's up to us to fight for the future we want to see. There are big challenges. in front of us today. And to continue making progress for folks across this country, the Democratic National Committee is counting on you.
Every contribution — of $20, $30, $40, or more — will help Democrats to reach voters and share what our Party is doing to lift up Americans and communities nationwide.
Laying the groundwork early can decide close races months down the road. Your support today will help the DNC keep working around the clock so Democrats can achieve victory up and down the ballot, and safeguard our democracy I hope you'll stand with our Party again today.
Sincerely,
Joe Biden
President of the United States
P.S. Your continued support for the DNC will help invest in resources to reach voters, ensure all voters have equal access to the ballot box, and stand in defense against Republicans' attacks on our freedoms. Thank you for your generous past support. Please stand with us again.
And, after I read both of the letters above, I read the referenced DNC's 2023-2024 Action Plan, which can be found below:
2023-2024 ELECTIONS
Democratic National Committee Action Plan
Republicans continue to do everything in their power to dismantle our democracy, and they are already launching well-funded attacks on Democratic candidates in key races. These races nearly always go down to the wire. We need your help to hold the line and secure Democratic gains. Please review our action plan and return your support now to defend democracy.
ACTION
Elect Democrats at the State Level
The best way to stop the assault on our freedoms is by building Democratic power at the state level, in all 50 states and the territories. With strong Democratic candidates running in races across the country, we can beat back the GOP's extremist agenda and protect our democracy.
ACTION
Defend and Grow Our Senate Majority
It is essential that we hold — and grow — our majority in the Senate. But it's a challenging state-by-state battle. We must defend more seats than the GOP does in 2024, including in states Trump won in 2020 like Ohio. West Virginia, and Montana, and in battleground states like Nevada, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
ACTION
Take Back the House
Democrats have identified 62 seats in play next year in the US. House of Representatives. There are at-risk blue seats we must defend, seats currently held by extreme Republicans that we must flip from red to blue, as well as open seats we will have to fight for. The good news is that we need to net just five seats to take back the House next year.
ACTION
Fight for Voting Rights
Democrats can't win if Republicans continue to keep voters from registering to vote, kick them off the voter rolls, or put up barriers at the polls. That's why the DNC invested in a full-time, national English- and Spanish-language voter hotline to help Americans check their registration status and determine how, when, and where to vote. Races up and down the ballot will be won or lost by razor-thin margins, so we have to be ready to defend every American's right to vote.
ACTION
Support the DNC Today
In every key race and state, your donation will support our winning operations. Help us spread our message of accomplishment and hope, turn out the vote, and defend democracy by getting Democrats elected across our country and across the ticket. Please donate today!
[QR code] ← Scan this QR code with your smartphone's camera to let us know your thoughts on our Action Plan!
And, after I read the DNC's 2023-2024 Action Plan above, I scanned the above-mentioned QR code and opened the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DEMOCRATS
STRATEGY FOR REVIEW: DNC 2023-2024 Action Plan
We need your feedback — and it’s urgent: Republicans continue to do everything in their power to undermine our democracy, and they are already launching well-funded attacks on Democratic candidates all across the country. The fate of these races will depend on the resources provided by each Party.
We need your help to hold the line and secure Democratic gains. Will you please take just a moment to review our action plan and leave your feedback? We’re seeking input from 85 or more highly engaged Democrats before our next strategy meeting.
With so many attacks on basic freedoms happening at the state and local level, how important do you think it is to elect more Democrats to city councils and state legislatures?
[✓] Extremely important
[ ] Very important
[ ] Somewhat important
[ ] Not at all important
President Biden and Democrats have made so much progress thanks to our Senate majority, and we must protect that majority by defending seats — particularly in states that Trump won in 2020 like Ohio, West Virginia, and Montana, and in battleground states like Nevada, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
How much of a priority should protecting and expanding our Senate majority be for the DNC?
Not a priority
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[✓] 5
The most urgent priority
The map to take back the House is critical. There are 62 seats in play, and Democrats only need to net five of them to win back the majority.
How much of a priority should winning key House races be for the DNC?
Not a priority
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[✓] 5
The most urgent priority
Republicans have been working to institute several voter suppression tactics across the country, including making it harder for people to register to vote, kicking voters off the voter rolls, and putting up barriers at the polls.
The DNC has already invested in a full-time voter hotline for Americans to check their registration and determine how, when, and where to vote. How important do you think it is for the DNC to do even more to fight for voting rights?
[✓] Extremely important
[ ] Very important
[ ] Somewhat important
[ ] Not at all important
This is important: How committed are you to voting for Democrats and helping Democrats up and down the ballot win elections?
Not committed
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[✓] 5
100% committed
Thank you for your feedback. President Biden is running for reelection as president of the United States to build on the already historic progress he’s made for our country, and Democrats everywhere are fighting hard to win back full control of Congress.
But Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, and Democrats across the country can’t win without grassroots support. So we’re helping raise another $10,000 before our next fundraising deadline at midnight tonight. Can we count on you to help us get there with a donation of just $40 or more?
[✓] Yes, I can donate $40 to help reelect Joe Biden and elect Democrats up and down the ballot.*
[ ] Yes, and I can donate $65! (This is the average amount Democrats have given in response to this action plan.)
[ ] Yes, and I can make a monthly investment to help the DNC reelect Joe Biden and elect Democrats everywhere!
*[Blogger's Note: I selected this option—although I donated less than $40—because it's an option that got me to the donation webpage!]
Democratic National Committee (DNC) - Direct Marketing
Support the Democratic National Committee Donate to help elect Democrats up and down the ballot nationwide!
Your generous donation will help us fight for the Biden-Harris agenda, hold the GOP accountable, and elect more Democrats. Donate to the DNC now to invest in the resources our candidates are relying on to compete and win year after year.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Democratic National Committee (DNC) - Direct Marketing.
[ ] Donate $5 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $7.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.41
[ ] Leave no tip
And, after I read the letters and the DNC 2023-2024 Action Plan above, as well as after I took the survey above, I competed the reply form "2023 — 2024 Action Plan: My Contribution to Defend Democracy and Elect Democrats!", a relevant quote from which can be found below:
YES, [name redacted]! I understand the need to put our election plans into action now to defeat Republicans and defend democracy. I am committed to holding and growing our Democratic majorities up and down the ballot, protecting voting rights, investing in state Parties, and more.
Enclosed is my urgent contribution to the DNC to power this work, in the amount of:
[ ] $20
[ ] $30
[ ] $40
[✓] Other $7.00
Go to www.democrats.org/Oct2023 to put your gift to work immediately.
Thus, I made a one-time donation to the DNC (with a tip to ActBlue) today, November 7th, 2023, in order to confirm the reply memorandum statement above, since "I am committed to holding and growing our Democratic majorities up and down the ballot, protecting voting rights, investing in state Parties, and more."
By the way, I usually respond to these political mailers closer to the time that I actually receive them! However, I placed this mailer on the left side of my computer desk where I group together all of my future donations that I am planning to make, so that I'll remember to make those donations. And I had this mailer within the stack of donations that I am planning to make for Thanksgiving (and, eventually, Christmas) to those particular charitable organizations that send requests for holiday donations with "meal vouchers" enclosed. Then today, November 7th, 2023, I decided to go through that stack of mailers, since I received another Thanksgiving mailer today, in preparation for making my Thanksgiving donations, which I try to do about ten days before Thanksgiving Day. So—lo and behold—I see this mailer from the DNC grouped with my future holiday donations! And I realized that I had accidentally placed this mailer with those other mailers without ever opening it...even though I took the time to handwrite on the envelope "Received on 10/26/2023," which is the day that I got this DNC mailer. You see, I only hand write the date that I have received mailers if I am planning to donate to them. Thus, I realized my error today when I started to get my Thanksgiving charitable organization mailers ready, because I am planning to donate for Thanksgiving, in a few days, on November 13th, 2023. (Whew!)
–Paul Whiting (written November 7th, 2023 and revised November 12th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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November 8th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these campaign donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations that I make virtually every time that I make a campaign donation—within which I usually include the text from each political campaign's requesting email, or text message, along with some of each campaign's donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign (which is usually $3.00 per campaign), plus how much I tipped ActBlue (which is usually $0.11 per donation)—however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of campaign donation requests!
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign donation 'updates' and combine every campaign donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for campaign donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political campaign communication that I responded to was an email from the Ilhan Omar for Congress (Ilhan for Congress) campaign today, November 8th, 2023, with the subject line, "I am asking you to personally endorse my reelection.", which stated the following:
Ilhan for Congress
Paul -
I am someone who has survived war and experienced injustice firsthand, who is alive today because I was welcomed into this country as a refugee.
28 years ago I arrived in America as a young refugee. I would never in my wildest dreams have imagined that I would have the opportunity to represent the community that welcomed me with open arms in Congress.
I never imagined that I would have the privilege to directly impact policy in ways that would make our world, our democracy and our economy better for working families like mine. I get to wake up every day and fight for little girls like me dreaming of a safer future.
When I got to Congress, my colleagues and the DC pundits told me that I was destined to fail. They said the first Somali, refugee, Muslim, Hijabi-wearing and only African-born person in Congress couldn’t lead our movement in an institution with rules not created for us. They said I would never succeed in creating change.
But we did not back down. We fought hard for our ideas. We forced climate action to the top of the agenda. We empowered Medicare to finally negotiate prescription drug prices. We made justice our priority.
But this work is far from over, and the insiders and special interests who never wanted me in Congress are going to come back with more money and resources than ever before to try to take me down in 2024.
So I am asking you to stand with me and our movement today. Will you add your name to personally endorse my reelection?
ADD YOUR NAME***
When I was first elected to Congress in 2018, our ideas were called radical.
Medicare for All
A Green New Deal
Raising the Minimum Wage
Canceling Student Loans
Banning Assault Weapons
Together, our progressive movement made these ideas mainstream. We demanded an economy that works for the many, not the few. All of us — and especially young people — deserve a country that lives up to her promise of justice for all.
There’s no doubt that these ideas have put a constant target on me from Republicans and their corporate allies. The DC insiders and special interests that thrive on the status quo have come after me nonstop. Every election, they recruit another challenger who will fall in line with their agenda, and their super PACs pump my district full of dark money to try to silence all of us.
They are already preparing to do it again in 2024. But I didn’t come to Congress to be silent. I came to Congress to be a voice for you. For working families. For little girls like me. And for those who have felt ignored or silenced for too long.
Today, I need you to add your voice to mine as we prepare for the fights ahead.
Please add your name to personally endorse my reelection. I need as many people as possible to stand with me in this campaign.
It may seem like a small action, but your voice is powerful. It’s a way to say that you are with our progressive movement for the fights ahead.
Our movement’s greatest strength is our collective power. Together, we will secure real change and a just future.
In solidarity,
Ilhan Omar
ADD YOUR NAME***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Ilhan for Congress
ADD YOUR NAME: ENDORSE ILHAN
No one — not Ilhan Omar or anyone else — can take on the right-wing and fight back against extremist Republicans alone. That's something that will ONLY happen if we're all in this together.
Will you add your name to personally endorse Ilhan Omar for Congress? We're looking for a LOT of signatures today, and are hoping yours is next on our list.
First name: Paul
Last name: Whiting
Email address: [redacted]
ZIP Code: [redacted]
Mobile phone: [redacted]
Will you consider making a donation to our campaign to re-elect Congresswoman Ilhan Omar? Our movement is powered by grassroots support. (Not required, but appreciated!)
[✓] Yes, I'll donate $3
[ ] Yes, I'll donate $20
[ ] Yes, and I'll donate more!
SUBMIT
Thanks for adding your name! Now take the next step:
Ilhan is fighting against the status quo and for an America that puts people first — never corporations.
Chip in whatever you can to make sure Ilhan can keep fighting for our progressive values in Congress.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Ilhan Omar.
[ ] $5 →
[ ] $10 →
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $500 →
[✓] Other $3.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.11
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Ilhan Omar for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "personally endorse Ilhan Omar for Congress."
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The second political campaign communication that I responded to was a text message today, November 8th, 2023, from the Jacky Rosen for Nevada (Jacky Rosen for U.S. Senate) campaign, which stated the following:
Paul, President Biden has spent his time in the White House delivering crucial progress and strong leadership for the American people.
Because voter enthusiasm is now a key indicator of future voter turnout patterns, it's crucial to know where YOU stand so we can set a winning strategy for the coming months.
Our rapid-response survey is closing at 11:59 p.m. tonight, and we're still missing 12 responses from – including yours. So please, Paul, tell us now:
Will you vote for President Biden in 2024?
[✓] YES >>***
[ ] NO >>
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Jacky Rosen for U.S. Senate
Thank you for standing with President Biden! To confirm your submission, please enter your information below:
First Name: Paul
Email: [redacted]
Mobile Phone: [redacted]
Biden 2024 Survey | 11:59 p.m. Deadline
Thank you for standing with President Biden! Will you now take just 60 seconds to answer a few more quick questions? We’re relying on your grassroots input to help us defeat the GOP and win in 2024. – Team Rosen
If the presidential election were held today, would you support Joe Biden over Donald Trump?
[✓] Yes, absolutely.
[ ] No, I want Trump back in the White House.
Which of President Biden and Senate Democrats' accomplishments are you most excited about? (Select all that apply.)
[ ] Expanding access to the COVID-19 vaccines
[ ] Creating millions of new jobs
[ ] Providing student loan forgiveness to hundreds of thousands of Americans
[ ] Making climate change action a top priority
[ ] Fighting to protect and expand voting rights
[ ] Enshrining marriage equality into federal law
[ ] Addressing the gun violence epidemic
[ ] Expanding access to health care
[ ] Nominating and confirming historic judicial nominees like Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson
[✓] All of the above!
In your opinion, which of the following issues are most important for President Biden to prioritize in his 2024 campaign? (Select TWO only.)
[ ] Fighting inflation and lowering everyday costs for families
[ ] Protecting and expanding voting rights
[ ] Restoring abortion rights
[ ] Expanding access to quality, affordable health care
[ ] Securing bold climate action
[ ] Passing commonsense gun reforms
[ ] Raising the minimum wage
[ ] Investing in public education
[✓] Other: All of the above!
Democrats are fighting every day to deliver progress that will directly impact you and your family. But here's the problem: The GOP is just two seats away from retaking Senate control, and according to experts at CNN, it could all come down to battleground Nevada - just like in 2022. Do you think we should do everything we can to keep Nevada and the Senate blue?
[✓] Yes, we can't let Mitch McConnell and GOP extremists regain power.
[ ] No, I support McConnell and GOP extremists.
Jacky Rosen (D-NV) is one of the most vulnerable senators in the country. The GOP knows this, which is why they're coming after her as a TOP target for defeat. Now, polling shows her 2 points down!
The only way she can fight back, pull ahead, and protect her critical seat is with immediate grassroots support from people like you. She needs to raise another $5,724 by midnight - so please, will you give $5 or more right now to win in Nevada and defend Democrats' Senate majority?
[✓] Yes, I can give $5.*
[ ] Yes, and I can give more!
*[Blogger's Note: I selected this option—although I donated less than $5—because it's an option that got me to the donation webpage!]
Jacky Rosen for U.S. Senate
Donate now to keep Nevada blue, defend our Democratic Senate majority, and protect reproductive rights nationwide!
In this post-Roe v. Wade America, the GOP is working around the clock to restrict abortion access – even proposing a national ban – and we must do everything in our power to stop them. I’m fighting in the Senate to protect reproductive rights in Nevada and across the country, but I can’t do it alone.
The battle for Senate control could once again come down to Nevada, and the GOP is zeroing in on me as a top target for defeat. Now, experts at The Washington Post say that I’m one of the most endangered Democrats up for reelection. That’s why I’m asking for your immediate grassroots support.
Sitting on the sidelines is simply not an option – so please: Will you chip in now to help me keep Nevada and the Senate blue?
Thank you,
Jacky Rosen
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Jacky Rosen.
[ ] Donate $5→
[ ] Donate $10→
[ ] Donate $15→
[ ] Donate $25→
[ ] Donate $50→
[ ] Donate $100→
[ ] Donate $250→
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.11
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Jacky Rosen for Nevada campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "[Jacky Rosen is] fighting in the Senate to protect reproductive rights in Nevada and across the country," since "the battle for Senate control could once again come down to Nevada, and the GOP is zeroing in on [Jacky] as a top target for defeat." That's why "sitting on the sidelines is simply not an option – so [I chipped] in now to help [Jacky] keep Nevada and the Senate blue!"
Thus, these two campaigns—Ilhan Omar for Congress, as well as Jacky Rosen for Nevada—are the political campaigns that I donated to today, for the most part!* –Paul Whiting (written November 8th, 2023 and revised November 14th, 2023)
*P.S.: Please see my 'November 8th, 2023 Update No. 4,' which can be found below, for a donation that I made between the Sherrod Brown - Senator for Ohio campaign and Brady PAC (Brady Political Action Committee) as a split donation.
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November 8th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, November 8th, 2023, with the subject line, "The state of abortion rights after last night's elections", which stated the following:
Paul –
Last night was a critical victory for reproductive freedom. Results in Ohio, Virginia, and Pennsylvania demonstrate what we know to be true across America: The overwhelming majority of people want to protect reproductive freedom and abortion access.
In Ohio, voters said loud and clear that they won't put up with politicians banning abortion and forcing people to carry pregnancies against their will. They passed Issue 1 to enshrine a right to reproductive freedom, including decisions about abortion, contraceptives, and miscarriage care, in the state constitution.
In Virginia, voters elected a pro-abortion rights majorities in the General Assembly, rejecting pledges from anti-abortion extremists to pass a 15-week abortion ban if they took power.
In Pennsylvania, voters elected a new justice to the state Supreme Court who will protect abortion access, maintaining a majority on the court that will be a backstop against potential attacks on reproductive freedom.
These are resounding wins for reproductive freedom. They demonstrate that abortion rights represent the will of the people. But across the country, in more than a dozen states, abortion bans remain in place – impacting more than 20 million people who could be denied care. State-by-state victories, while crucial, will not solve the crisis created by Roe being overturned. We need federal protections for abortion.
In the wake of these victories and the ongoing post-Roe crisis, we're urging you to demand that Congress pass federal legislation protecting abortion and birth control.
TAKE ACTION***
The ACLU devoted significant resources across Ohio, Virginia, and Pennsylvania – and partnered with incredible reproductive freedom champions on the ground to secure these victories.
But the fight is far from over. The ACLU will do everything in its power to secure federal protections for abortion rights – and fight any and all attempts to ban abortion nationwide. We'll need you with us through it all, Paul, and are truly grateful for being with us in this fight.
Thank you for taking action,
The ACLU Team
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, which can be found below:
DEFEND REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM NOW
It's now been a year since the Supreme Court's shameful decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, and states across the country have moved to enforce abortion bans – stripping millions of people of their right to decide if, and when, to start a family. As politicians continue to attack our bodily autonomy nationwide, we need federal safeguards more than ever. We need Congress to act.
The House has already re-introduced a bill to affirm the right for health care workers to provide birth control and for people to use it. But more protections are needed to defend reproductive freedom across the board, especially abortion access. Please, send a message to Congress now and urge them to support legislation that safeguards the right to access abortion and all reproductive health care nationwide.
Message Recipients: Your U.S. Senators and U.S. Representative
YOUR MESSAGE
Subject: Defend Reproductive Freedom Now
As your constituent, I'm writing to ask you to support legislation that protects abortion access and reproductive freedom on the federal level. At a time when our right to bodily autonomy is under attack more than ever before, it is increasingly urgent that our country protect access to essential health care nationwide.
We are a year out from the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, and even though the vast majority of Americans support access to abortion, politicians around the country are passing laws that ban care, forcing people to travel thousands of miles to the closest provider, self-manage care, or suffer through the life-altering impacts of pregnancy and giving birth against their will. These same politicians have also taken aim at birth control. We cannot allow our reproductive freedom to be chipped away like this.
Our right to make decisions for our own health, futures, and lives are on the line: Please protect everyone's ability to access abortion care and birth control care now.
Sincerely,
[First Name] [Last Name]
YOUR INFORMATION
Salutation (required by some officials): Mr.
First name: Paul
Last name: Whiting
E-mail address: [redacted]
Address: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Zip Code: [redacted]
Phone: [redacted]
And, after I sent the letter above, I received a confirmation email today, November 8th, 2023, from the ACLU with the subject line, "One more thing - can you spread the word?", which stated the following:
Hi Paul,
Thank you for taking action to defend reproductive freedom.
Help us build our power: Share the action by forwarding the email below to your friends, or by sharing this link: aclu.org/dobbs
Thank you,
The ACLU Team
~~~~~
Hi friend,
After the Supreme Court's shameful decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, states across the country have moved to enforce abortion bans – stripping millions of people of their right to decide if, and when, to start a family.
As politicians continue to attack our bodily autonomy nationwide, we need federal safeguards more than ever.
That's why I just joined the ACLU in sending a message to Congress urging them to support legislation that safeguards the right to access abortion and all reproductive health care nationwide.
Will you join me? https://action.aclu.org/send-message/defend-reproductive-freedom-now
Thanks.
Plus, after I sent the letter above to my U.S. Senators and U.S. Representative, via the ACLU website, I made a one-time donation to the ACLU because "last night [November 7th, 2023] was a critical victory for reproductive freedom." However, "across the country, in more than a dozen states, abortion bans remain in place – impacting more than 20 million people who could be denied care." Therefore, "state-by-state victories, while crucial, will not solve the crisis created by Roe being overturned." Thus, "in the wake of these victories and the ongoing post-Roe crisis, [I urgently demanded] that Congress pass federal legislation protecting abortion and birth control."
By the way, after I sent the above-mentioned letter to my U.S. Senators and U.S. Representative, I checked my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was" and I realized that I already took this action to "Defend Reproductive Freedom Now" on June 24th, 2023 (please see my 'June 24th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above) however, that was about five months ago, so sending this letter again was probably a good idea!
–Paul Whiting (written November 8th, 2023, revised November 9th, 2023 and revised November 27th, 2023)
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November 8th, 2023 Update No. 3: I received an email from Everytown for Gun Safety today, November 8th, 2023, with the subject line, "Victories for gun safety up and down the ballot!", which stated the following:
Paul, gun safety won BIG at the ballot box last night.
Across the country, and up and down the ballot, Gun Sense Candidates who ran on the issue of gun safety won their elections. In Virginia, where MAGA Republicans were hoping to win a trifecta, we not only held a Gun Sense Majority in the Senate, but flipped the House of Delegates to secure a Gun Sense Majority in both chambers—including nine Moms Demand Action volunteers.
We're especially proud of the 162 Moms Demand Action volunteers across the country who ran for office in this year's elections—a majority of whom have already declared victory in the races called so far! There are now more former Moms Demand Action volunteers in elected office than ever before. Truly, our volunteer-led movement is bringing real change at all levels of government thanks to their hard work, expertise, and organizing power.
Yesterday's victories prove once again that gun safety is a winning issue at the ballot box. And it's evidence that the movement to end gun violence is stronger than ever.
Paul, while we're celebrating our wins, we're more determined than ever to forge ahead in our work to pass stronger gun laws, take on the powerful gun lobby, and end gun violence in America. And we couldn't do it without supporters like you: Help fuel our movement so we can continue our life-saving work to fight for a future free from gun violence.
DONATE***
We know we've got our work cut out for us in the year ahead, but we've never backed down from the hard work it will take to defeat the gun lobby and fight for the changes we need to end gun violence.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible movement,
Everytown for Gun Safety
As a movement of Americans fighting for common-sense gun policies, we depend on contributions from supporters like you to fund important work to reduce gun violence.
Contributions to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund are not tax-deductible as a charitable contribution or as a business expense under IRC Section 162(e).
DONATE***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund in order to "help fuel [Everytown for Gun Safety's] movement so we can continue our life-saving work to fight for a future free from gun violence." –Paul Whiting (November 8th, 2023)
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November 8th, 2023 Update No. 4: I received an email from Brady PAC (Brady Political Action Committee) today, November 8th, 2023, that was written by Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown, with the subject line, "Our huge win in Ohio", which stated the following:
This is monumental news, Paul: Ohioans just resoundingly voted to enshrine abortion access in our state’s constitution!
Voters came out in droves yesterday to send a clear message: Ohioans believe women’s health care decisions should be between them and their doctors, not politicians.
Moments like this make me especially proud to be an Ohioan – and to represent my state in the Senate. Now that we've protected abortion access in Ohio, I promise you that I'll continue to work every day to make sure women’s rights to make their own health care decisions are also protected nationwide.
But here's the deal: I'm up for reelection, and I'm running against three anti-abortion extremists – all of whom would support a national abortion ban. The latest polls show us neck and neck, and our Democratic Senate majority is up for grabs. If I'm going to win this race and protect abortion rights from Mitch McConnell, I need your immediate grassroots support.
So today, as we celebrate this victory, I'm personally asking you to help me keep up our momentum: Will you chip in $5 or more now – split between my campaign and Brady PAC’s – to defend Ohio's Democratic seat and protect our pro-choice Senate majority?
CONTRIBUTE***
Thank you for joining me in this fight. I’m so grateful to have you by my side.
In solidarity,
Sherrod Brown
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Donate to Sherrod Brown and Brady PAC >>
Politico reports that Ohio could decide Senate control, and Mitch McConnell has personally named Sherrod Brown a top GOP target in 2024.
That's why this race is on track to be one of the most competitive and expensive in the country.
Please, will you split a gift between Brady PAC and Sherrod Brown before midnight to power our movement to victory?
Split your donation:
Total contribution $5.00
Customize amounts
Brady PAC $2.00
Sherrod Brown (OH-Sen) $3.00
[✓] Donate $5
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I split a one-time donation between Brady PAC (the sister organization of which is Brady: United Against Gun Violence) and Sherrod Brown - Senator for Ohio (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "defend Ohio's Democratic seat and protect our pro-choice Senate majority." –Paul Whiting (November 8th, 2023)
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November 8th, 2023 Update No. 5—Which Also Discusses November 7th, 2023 And November 9th, 2023: [CONTENT WARNING: THIS UPDATE CONTAINS ARTICLES WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!] This 'update' that I am writing today, November 8th, 2023, is from both my usual reading of Time Magazine articles, as well as from my oftentimes daily news searches on Google.
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day. Then, I usually check each day's news via a Google search under several news topics sometime after I check my email, as well as after I check my previous day's cellular data usage, which I track very carefully.
Thus, I usually check on what is happening in the news via various Google searches that I do on an oftentimes daily basis under the following topics:
American News
United States News
USA News
President Biden News
Joe Biden News
Democrats News
Republicans News
Political News
World News
Global Warming News
Workers On Strike News
Portland Oregon News
Then, I read the news articles that I feel are the most important for me to read from those Time Magazine emails and/or from those Google news searches.
Now, I usually try to publish these current news 'updates' on the day that I actually read the news articles referenced in the 'update'; however, lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news!
Not only that, I have been busy, as well, with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that require their very own 'updates!' Besides that, I am often engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Plus, I am trying to throttle my cellular data usage in order to stay below the amount of usage that my data plan offers each month, which I track very carefully, so that I don't go over that amount.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 8th, 2023, as well as that I received yesterday, November 7th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 7th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Jailed Iranian Activist and Nobel Laureate Narges Mohammadi Goes on Hunger Strike":
https://time.com/6332284/narges-mohammadi-hunger-strike-iran-nobel
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "As Israeli Forces Encircle Gaza City, the War Enters a New Phase": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6332051/gaza-city-israel-ground-offensive
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The following are the articles which I received today, November 8th, 2023:
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "I Was Trafficked as a Teen. Here’s What I Want People to Understand":
https://time.com/6332526/dismantling-child-sex-trafficking-narratives-essay
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "House Republicans Narrow Strategies to Avert Government Shutdown, but Can’t Find Consensus":
https://time.com/6332575/house-republicans-mike-johnson-shutdown-plan
---------------------------------------------
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "U.S. House Votes to Censure Rep. Rashida Tlaib Over Israel Stance":
https://time.com/6332791/rashida-tlaib-censure-congress-israel
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The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Ohio Votes to Protect Abortion Access in Major Statewide Victory for Reproductive Rights":
https://time.com/6332769/ohio-abortion-rights-amendment-passes
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The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Gun Injuries to Children Have Soared. So Have Their Impacts": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT GUN VIOLENCE WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6332323/gun-injuries-in-children-have-doubled-so-have-their-impacts
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The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Supreme Court to Decide Whether Some Domestic Abusers Can Have Guns":
https://time.com/6332044/supreme-court-rahimi-guns-domest-violence-case
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The ninth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "How Ukraine is Pioneering New Ways to Prosecute War Crimes":
https://time.com/6331902/ukraine-war-crimes-prosecutor
Continuing on—as I mentioned above—lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news. And I was doing my oftentimes daily news searches on Google today, November 8th, 2023, when I noticed many different articles from various news organizations!
[Blogger's Note: I actually didn't check the news for November 8th, 2023 until shortly before midnight PST (Pacific Standard Time)! So, this could be considered the current news for either late November 8th, 2023, or early November 9th, 2023, depending upon how you look at it.]
Therefore, due to this sudden inundation of news, I am simply opening a webpage for each of the various news articles that I am planning to read, based upon the title of each news article and/or based upon the topic of each news article, in preparation for reading each article later on.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these news articles that I highlight regarding current news, on these types of 'updates' that I write, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, due to the number of articles for which I have an introduction to write lately, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the current news 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with the news organization's name in addition to a hyperlink.
And to clarify: I still have to read these articles! So, I have each article opened as a webpage on my smartphone's Google browser until such a time as I can get around to actually reading them, due to the number of them.
Another clarification: I greatly simplified how these articles are listed—that I still have yet to read—in order to set them apart from the articles in previous 'updates' where I have already read the articles. Plus, I am listing these articles by the initial Google search category under which I found each article. [Although, to clarify, sometimes the same article appears (or, articles appear) under different search categories.] And I will indicate whether, or not, I have read each article below its title and hyperlink.
Thus, I will indicate the date that I read each article below the title and hyperlink to the article, after I read the article. Therefore, I plan to indicate when I complete reading the articles below, whenever I can actually get around to reading them—when I have access to WiFi, such as at my local library, or at a place of business where I have been shopping, or at a coffee shop, etc., in order to save usage on my cellular data plan through my mobile phone company, as noted above.
GOOGLE SEARCH: AMERICAN NEWS
1. CNN
Live updates: Election Day 2023 (The latest from elections in Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky and results)
https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/politics/live-news/election-live-updates-11-07-23/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
2. NBC News
House censures Rep. Rashida Tlaib over Israel remarks
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna124005
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
3. Ukrinform (The National News Agency of Ukraine)
Ukraine interested in engaging American businesses in recovery projects - PM Shmyhal
https://www.ukrinform.net/amp/rubric-economy/3784410-ukraine-interested-in-engaging-american-businesses-in-recovery-projects-pm-shmyhal.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
4. Department of Defense
Nation Celebrates Native American Heritage Month > U.S.
https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3584448/nation-celebrates-native-american-heritage-month
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: UNITED STATES NEWS
5. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
Blinken Says Palestinian Authority Could Lead Gaza After War (Blinken Lays Out Possible Endgame in Gaza Under Palestinian Authority)
https://www.websitename.here
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
6. AP News
Election results 2023: Biggest moments from key races (Democrats won big on abortion rights Tuesday. Here’s what the results say for the US going into 2024)
https://apnews.com/article/election-2023-highlights-868a21bf3537a0533ae3fd8007d07eef
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
7. The Guardian
Abortion rights and historic wins: key takeaways from the US’s off-year elections
https://amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/nov/08/us-elections-2023-abortion-rights-virginia-kentucky
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
8. CNN
Live updates: Republican presidential debate in Miami on NBC News
https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/politics/live-news/republican-debate-11-08-23/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
9. Reuters
US says prostitution ring counted politicians, tech execs, lawyers as clients
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-says-prostitution-ring-counted-politicians-tech-execs-lawyers-clients-2023-11-08
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
10. NBC News
U.S. looks to China to commit to working together on fentanyl crisis as Biden and Xi prepare to meet
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna124318
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
11. Al Jazeera
Why are US Republicans pushing for aid to Israel but not Ukraine?
https://www.aljazeera.com/amp/news/2023/11/8/why-are-us-republicans-pushing-for-aid-to-israel-but-not-ukraine
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: USA NEWS
12. USA Today (By the way, I am a subscriber to USA Today.)
Were 2023 election results 'another loss for Trump'? 3 key takeaways
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2023/11/08/2023-election-results-takeaways/71493035007
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: PRESIDENT BIDEN NEWS
13. AP News
Democratic lawmakers want President Biden to protect Palestinians in US from being forced home
https://apnews.com/article/biden-democrats-palestinian-protections-immigration-congress-war-daeae8cb727907f4aca8e5cf228fe5bb
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
14. Chicago Tribune
President Biden, state and city launching migrant work permit program (President Biden, Illinois and Chicago officials launching a one-stop work permit program for migrants)
https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-biden-migrant-work-permit-20231107-hnotv3q7rjeedgbmwgh5pk2y7a-story.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
15. ABC7 Chicago
President joe Biden set to visit Belvidere, Illinois, where Stellantis will reopen assembly plant as part of UAW deal
https://abc7chicago.com/amp/president-joe-biden-belvidere-assembly-plant-illinois-uaw/14025862
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
16. CBS News
Biden says he asked Netanyahu for a pause in fighting on Monday
https://www.cbsnews.com/amp/news/joe-biden-asked-netanyahu-for-pause-in-fighting-israel-gaza-hostages
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: JOE BIDEN NEWS
17. Reuters
Joe Biden, Xi Jinping set to steal APEC spotlight with talks to steady ties
https://www.reuters.com/world/biden-xi-set-steal-apec-spotlight-with-talks-steady-ties-2023-11-08
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
18. AP News
The US and Chinese finance ministers are opening talks to lay the groundwork for a Biden-Xi meeting
https://apnews.com/article/yellen-china-biden-white-house-trade-04e57bc5256b3e71cb00b2d4ea1ae7d1
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
19. Council on Foreign Relations ("...is an American think tank specializing in U.S. foreign policy and international relations.")
Can a Summit Ease U.S.-China Tensions?
https://www.cfr.org/article/can-summit-ease-us-china-tensions
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
20. Chicago Tribune
President Biden coming to Belvidere, says UAW deal confirms economic plan
https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-biden-visit-to-belvidere-uaw-2023-20231108-nu3rcfkeurasvf5jiqz5ydh4eq-story.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
21. Politico
What the UAW and Big 3 really thought of Biden's picket line visit
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/11/06/joe-biden-uaw-strike-politics-00125505
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: DEMOCRATS NEWS
22. NBC News
Election 2023 results: Ohio voters approve abortion protections; Kentucky re-elects Democrat
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/live-blog/rcna121782
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
23. Politico
6 takeaways from New Jersey Democrats' unexpected big night
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/11/08/6-takeaways-from-new-jersey-democrats-unexpected-big-night-00126056
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
24. NBC News
Democrats block GOP bid to take control of Virginia state government (Virginia Democrats block GOP bid to take full control of state government)
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna122104
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
25. AP News Youngkin expresses disappointment in legislative wins by Virginia Democrats, pledges bipartisanship
https://apnews.com/article/virginia-legislature-election-2023-c928555713fa88b29b0c35f966893f8c
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
26. The Daily Beast
Fox News Left Shell Shocked by Dems' Election Night Romp
https://www.websitename.here
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
27. NBC News
Democrats criticize Rep. Rashida Tlaib for her pro-Palestinian comments
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna123735
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
28. WHYY ("...is a television station licensed to Wilmington, Delaware, United States, serving as the primary PBS member station for the Philadelphia area.") How Democrats flipped a Central Bucks School Board embroiled in controversy
https://whyy.org/articles/central-bucks-school-board-elections-democrats-sweep
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
29. 6ABC ["WPVI-TV (channel 6), branded on-air as 6 ABC, is a television station in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, serving as the market's ABC outlet."]
Democrats flip school board majority in Central Bucks, Pennridge, Perkiomen Valley school districts after elections
https://6abc.com/amp/central-bucks-school-district-election-day-2023-democratic-majority-board-elections/14028806
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
30. NBC10 Philadelphia ["WCAU (channel 10) is a television station in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, serving as the market's NBC outlet."] Bucks Co. voters reject controversial conservative school reforms that drew national interest
https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/politics/democrats-sweep-seats-on-bucks-co-school-board-that-adopted-controversial-curriculum/3690283/?amp=1
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: REPUBLICANS NEWS
31. NPR (National Public Radio)
5 Republican candidates debated in Miami. Here are some highlights (Here are some of the memorable moments in the third GOP presidential debate)
https://www.npr.org/2023/11/08/1211339001/republican-debate-miami-news
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
32. ABC News
'A complete failure': Senate Republicans on a punishing election night
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Politics/complete-failure-senate-republicans-punishing-election-night/story?id=104730469
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
33. NBC News
GOP strategists urge congressional candidates to campaign against a national abortion ban
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna124253
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
34. NBC News
Republicans say it's time for a wake-up call on abortion. Again.
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna124118
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
35. NBC News
House Republicans don't want a government shutdown, but there's still no plan
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/rcna124214
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
36. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
House Republicans Toil for a Spending Strategy With a Shutdown Close at Hand
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/07/us/politics/house-republicans-spending-shutdown.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
37. Reuters
As shutdown looms, US House Republicans search for stopgap solution
https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-republicans-expect-no-votes-stopgap-this-week-shutdown-looms-2023-11-07
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: POLITICAL NEWS
38. CNN
Takeaways from elections in Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky and more
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/07/politics/takeaways-election-day/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
39. NBC News
Highlights from the third Republican Debate: Ramaswamy, Haley and DeSantis spar over Trump, abortion and the economy
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/amp/live-blog/rcna121790
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
40. CNN
Takeaways from the third Republican presidential debate
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/08/politics/takeaways-republican-debate/index.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
41. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
Meta to Require Political Advertisers to Disclose Use of A.I.
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/08/technology/meta-political-ads-artificial-intelligence.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
42. AP News
To help 2024 voters, Meta says it will begin labeling political ads that use AI-generated imagery
https://apnews.com/article/meta-facebook-instagram-political-ads-deepfakes-2024-c4aec653d5043a09b1c78b4fb5dcd79b
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
43. ABC News
To help 2024 voters, Meta says it will begin labeling political ads that use AI-generated imagery
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Business/wireStory/2024-voters-meta-begin-labeling-political-ads-ai-104714650
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
44. USNews.com
Ohio Votes to Guarantee Abortion Rights | Political News | U.S. News
https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2023-11-07/ohio-votes-to-guarantee-abortion-rights
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
45. Politico
Feds charge 3 with running high-end brothels allegedly frequented by politicians
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/11/08/feds-brothel-investigation-politicians-00126153
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: WORLD NEWS
46. Hindustan Times
Top 3 Hamas leaders worth $11 billion. Its goal is ‘not to run Gaza, but…’ (Top 3 Hamas leaders worth $11 billion. Its goal is ‘not to bring water, electricity to Gaza, but…’)
https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/hamas-top-brass-is-worth-11-billion-its-goal-is-not-to-bring-water-electricity-to-gaza-101699508169872-amp.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
47. ABC News
White House says Israel should not reoccupy Gaza, after Netanyahu remarks
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/Politics/white-house-israel-reoccupy-gaza-after-netanyahu-remarks/story?id=104698360
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
48. NDTV (New Delhi Television)
Fight "Until It Ends" For The Israeli Military In Devastated Gaza
https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/israel-war-gaza-palestine-hams-fight-until-it-ends-for-the-israeli-military-in-devastated-gaza-4559670/amp/1
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: GLOBAL WARMING NEWS
49. NASA Climate Change
Vanishing Corals, Part Two: Climate Change is Stressing Corals, But There's Hope
https://climate.nasa.gov/explore/ask-nasa-climate/3290/vanishing-corals-part-two-climate-change-is-stressing-corals-but-theres-hope
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
50. The New York Times (By the way, I am a subscriber to The New York Times.)
Fossil Fuel Use Increasing, Not Decreasing, as Key Target Looms (Nations That Vowed to Halt Warming Are Expanding Fossil Fuels, Report Finds)
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/08/climate/fossil-fuels-expanding.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: WORKERS ON STRIKE NEWS
51. Reuters
Caesars averts strike in deal with Las Vegas unions
https://www.reuters.com/business/culinary-union-reaches-labor-deal-with-caesars-las-vegas-2023-11-08
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
52. ABC News
Tentative deal is close with Las Vegas hotel workers union amid strike threat, says MGM's CEO
https://abcnews.go.com/amp/US/wireStory/las-vegas-hotel-workers-union-reaches-tentative-deal-104718363
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
53. The New York Times
Tesla Faces Blockade in All Swedish Ports, Union Says
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/07/world/europe/sweden-tesla-strike.html
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
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GOOGLE SEARCH: PORTLAND OREGON NEWS
54. KGW ("...a television station in Portland, Oregon, United States, affiliated with NBC.")
Shopping for the holidays? These 9 pop-up shops are open around downtown Portland
https://www.kgw.com/amp/article/news/community/pdx-pop-up-shops-downtown-portland-holidays/283-afc980b1-663a-4838-94ce-dacbfdd25b98
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
55. KPTV ("...is a television station in Portland, Oregon, United States. affiliated with the Fox network.")
Downtown Portland welcomes holiday season
https://www.kptv.com/video/2023/11/09/downtown-portland-welcomes-holiday-season
[I have NOT read this article yet.]
And I decided to highlight these articles from the various news organizations above for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 8th, 2023, revised November 9th, 2023, revised November 10th, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023, revised January 28th, 2024 and revised April 26th, 2024)
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November 9th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from the World Jewish Congress, American Section, today, November 9th, 2023, with the subject line, "Remembrance of Kristallnacht is different this year", which stated the following:
World Jewish Congress
American Section
Paul,
85 years ago today: Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass.
Only a month ago, in our eternal homeland, we experienced the most deadly single-day attack on Jews since the Holocaust. At this devastating time, our remembrance of Kristallnacht is all is all the more painful, and urgent.
On November 9, 1938, across Nazi Germany, Austria, and Czechoslovakia, synagogues and Jewish businesses, homes, and schools were vandalized, burned, and destroyed. Jews were murdered and some 30,000 Jewish men were arrested and sent to concentration camps. It was the start of the Holocaust.
These shocking events foreshadowed the tragedy to come. And they remind us today that we can never be silent in the face of antisemitic terror and evil.
We had hoped that the hatred we faced back then would never, could never, resurface. Painfully, we were wrong. We have been sounding the alarm over the past several years about growing and spreading antisemitic sentiments. Now, sadly, our worst nightmare has come to pass.
Paul, in 1938 our voice was small, and we did not have sufficient resources to fight back. But today, we are not powerless. Today, when we stand together as one united global Jewish family, we have the strength and resolve to take urgent action to protect global Jewry and stand with Israel at this critical moment. Your gift to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, empowers all the WJC’s crucial work to confront antisemitism and defend the Jewish future from any and every threat.
REMEMBER THE PAST / FIGHT FOR THE FUTURE:
https://support.worldjewishcongress.org/page/35206/donate/1
In a time when antisemitism is rising rapidly and becoming mainstream — when celebrities, public figures, and political voices across the spectrum continue to voice anti-Israel and anti-Jewish rhetoric and spread lies and propaganda that should be condemned by all — we must all do everything in our power to fight back against this vile resurgence of Jew hatred.
If not now, when?
Paul, please make a tax-deductible gift today to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, to ensure that the WJC will have the necessary funding to safeguard all Jewish communities.
Thank you, as always, for your commitment to our founding ideal and shared belief that “all Jews are responsible for one another.”
World Jewish Congress
P.S. Your support today will go right to work to stand in solidarity with Israel and fight for the safety and security of global Jewry. We are in a battle for the Jewish future. It is a battle we cannot afford to lose — so please, donate today.
Support Our Work
The World Jewish Congress, American Section, supports the vital work and projects of the World Jewish Congress. For more information on the World Jewish Congress, visit worldjewishcongress.org.
And so, I made a one-time donation to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, in order to "ensure that the WJC will have the necessary funding to safeguard all Jewish communities." –Paul Whiting (November 9th, 2023)
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November 9th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) today, November 9th, 2023, with the subject line, "A 14-year-old girl recounts the terror of Kristallnacht", which stated the following:
Kristallnacht: Targeted for being Jewish
“Get out, you dirty Jew.” When Hedy Wachenheimer heard her principal shout these words at her, she said, “I heard it, but I couldn’t believe it.”
It was in Germany on November 10, 1938, the day 14-year-old Hedy said her whole world collapsed.
Shortly after school began, her principal, usually mild-mannered and kind, entered her classroom to make the hateful speech. He then instructed the other students to join a public demonstration against the Jews. On their way outside, some of her own classmates pushed Hedy and also called her a “dirty Jew.”
The only other Jewish student at the school, a boy named Hans, joined Hedy in her deserted classroom. Out the window, they saw a group of Jewish men chained together, SS members whipping them as they were forced to march down the street.
Hedy and Hans went to call their parents to find out what to do, but instead of familiar voices, they were met by an operator, announcing the line was disconnected. Afraid and confused, they decided to go home.
Learn what happened next when Hedy went to find her parents in Kippenheim, Germany, on Kristallnacht, or the “Night of Broken Glass.”
What happened next?
https://medium.com/memory-action/from-neighbors-to-enemies-when-a-community-disowned-a-girl-4a5509c6b601#f8c1
[Blogger's Note: I read the USHMM Memory & Action article titled, "From Neighbors to Enemies: When a Community Disowned a Girl."]
Learn More
Kristallnacht 85 YEARS AGO
What Is the History of Kristallnacht?
Nationwide night of violence >>
https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/kristallnacht
[Blogger's Note: I read the USHMM Holocaust Encyclopedia article titled, "KRISTALLNACHT."]
STAY CONNECTED LIVE
The Night of Broken Glass: A Warning of Future Nazi Crimes
Watch the program >>
https://www.youtube.com/live/3aKNYIuhZxY?si=eW6c7Jf5VIznrWLl
[Blogger's Note: I watched the USHMM YouTube video titled, "The Night of Broken Glass: A Warning of Future Nazi Crimes."]
FRONT-PAGE NEWS
Attacks on Jews Shock Americans
Responses to Kristallnacht >>
https://exhibitions.ushmm.org/americans-and-the-holocaust/main/us-news-about-kristallnacht
[Blogger's Note: I viewed the USHMM Exhibitions slide titled, "PUBLIC OPINION POLLS AFTER KRISTALLNACHT." And that is just one part of the presentation titled, "Americans And The Holocaust," which I also read.**]
Donate to Keep Holocaust Memory Alive
DONATE
You see, I originally received an email on November 8th, 2023, from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum with the subject line, "Watch Live Program | The Night of Broken Glass: A Warning of Future Nazi Crimes", which stated, in part, the following:
Live Digital Program
The Night of Broken Glass: A Warning of Future Nazi Crimes
Thursday, November 9
9:30 a.m. ET
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum’s Facebook page
REMIND ME
Starting on November 9, 1938, the Nazis orchestrated a wave of nationwide violence targeting Jewish communities. Rioters destroyed synagogues, attacked and looted Jewish shops, and ambushed people in their homes. Around 30,000 men were arrested and sent to concentration camps merely for being Jewish. Jews were left bereft, desperate to escape Nazi Germany by any means possible.
After the initial outrage, world attention faded and the Nazis carried out even greater horrors. Join us on the 85th anniversary of the “Night of Broken Glass” to understand this pivotal moment on the path to mass murder.
Request a reminder to join us for this program.
Guest
[Name redacted], [title redacted] of the Americans and the Holocaust exhibition, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Host
[Name redacted], [title redacted], United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Watch live at facebook.com/holocaustmuseum and join in the conversation.
You do not need a Facebook account to view our program. After the broadcast, the recording will be available to watch on demand on the Museum’s Facebook and YouTube pages.
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum to show my support for the Museum’s above-mentioned educational resources regarding the history of Kristallnacht (the Night of Broken Glass). Plus, I read all of the articles mentioned above and I watched the video of the livestreamed event, "The Night of Broken Glass: A Warning of Future Nazi Crimes," as noted above.
Now, to clarify, I always wait until after these USHMM events have livestreamed to watch them, since I only have a cellular data plan through my cell phone company (so, I don't have access to WiFi on my smartphone). Additionally, whenever I watch these livestreamed programs as a recording, I can go back to parts of the program that I wish to repeat in order to watch them over again.
–Paul Whiting (November 9th, 2023)
**P.S.: On one particular page of the USHMM Exhibitions presentation titled, "Americans And The Holocaust," there is a video regarding the 'AMERICAN NEWSREELS' that is described from the website, as follows: "The newsreel clips in this six-minute compilation, depicting both national and international events, were shown in American theaters between 1934 and 1938." However, the video does not play correctly! So, I sent the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum feedback regarding this issue via Google Forms, as can be seen below:
Americans and the Holocaust Reader Feedback
Thank you for taking the time to give us feedback on this online exhibition. We would love for you to share your thoughts so we can deliver the best experience possible.
[Email redacted] Switch account
* Indicates required question
Please tell us how old you are.*
[ ] Under 12 years old
[ ] 12-18 years old
[ ] 19-26 years old
[ ] 27-40 years old
[ ] 41-54 years old
[✓] 55-64 years old
[ ] 65 or older
[ ] I prefer not to say
If you would like to talk about a specific page, please paste the URL here.
https://exhibitions.ushmm.org/americans-and-the-holocaust/main/american-newsreels-1934-to-1938
Please share your feedback here. We want to hear about what you like, don't like, and what you think might be missing from the site.
*The video "AMERICAN NEWSREELS" does not play properly!
Please leave your email address if you are open to being contacted by the Museum with feedback surveys about our website and other digital resources.
[Email redacted]
This form was created inside of United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Google Forms
Then, after I read every word and watched every video from the USHMM Exhibitions presentation titled, "Americans And The Holocaust," I followed up on my above-mentioned Google Forms feedback by contacting the Museum directly via their website:
Contact the Museum
SHARE Please submit your inquiry and contact information below.
*First Name: Paul
*Last Name: Whiting
*Email Address: [redacted]
*Category: Library and Archives
*Comments: On one particular page of the USHMM Exhibitions presentation titled, "Americans And The Holocaust," there is a video regarding the 'AMERICAN NEWSREELS' that is described from the website, as follows: "The newsreel clips in this six-minute compilation, depicting both national and international events, were shown in American theaters between 1934 and 1938." However, the video does not play correctly! The link to the video is: https://exhibitions.ushmm.org/americans-and-the-holocaust/main/american-newsreels-1934-to-1938 By the way, I sent the Museum feedback regarding this issue via Google Forms, as well.
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November 9th, 2023 Update No. 3: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these campaign donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations that I make virtually every time that I make a campaign donation—within which I usually include the text from each political campaign's requesting email, or text message, along with some of each campaign's donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign (which is usually $3.00 per campaign), plus how much I tipped ActBlue (which is usually $0.11 per donation)—however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of campaign donation requests!
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign donation 'updates' and combine every campaign donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for campaign donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political campaign communication that I responded to was an email from the Lanon Baccam for Congress campaign today, November 9th, 2023, with the subject line, "Huge announcement, Paul", which stated the following:
Lanon Baccam for Congress
Hi Paul — I’m Lanon Baccam.
I’m a veteran, an Iowan born and raised, and I’m officially running for Congress to represent Iowa’s Third Congressional District — and I’m asking you to join my campaign as a Founding Donor.
BECOME A FOUNDING DONOR »***
My career in public service began as a teenager.
When I joined the Iowa National Guard, I started with an ambush. I brought an Army Recruiter home to meet my parents because they had to cosign my papers to join the military at 17.
As refugees following the Vietnam War, my parents remembered the price of conflicts and were hesitant at first. But my mom and dad saw how determined I was to serve our country, to give back to the community that embraced my family as Americans, and eventually, they agreed.
After 9/11, my Iowa National Guard unit was activated and we deployed to Afghanistan in 2004. As a combat engineer, I was focused on explosive demolitions and force protection in and around Kandahar.
I was proud of my service and grateful to make it home. This experience strengthened my determination to continue serving our country.
It’s been the honor of my life serving this country as an Iowan.
I was born and raised in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. I went to public school, community college, and later earned my degree from Drake University by using the G.I. Bill. Following my deployment, I had the opportunity to join Secretary Vilsack’s team at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
At the USDA, I helped to expand economic opportunities for farmers in Iowa and across the country. I also lead the department’s veterans outreach program, helping thousands of transitioning service members learn about opportunities in farming, ranching, and agriculture.
I met my wife in Iowa and we're raising our daughter here. We live just blocks away from where my wife grew up. Our daughter goes to the same elementary school my wife did as a kid.
Serving this great state and our country isn’t just a privilege — it’s an honor and it’s my way of giving back to the community that has given me so much.
I know Iowans are tired of partisan political games and the dysfunction in Congress, and we deserve so much better than extreme politicians like Zach Nunn.
We can win this race. In 2022, this district was decided by less than seven-tenths of one percent – that’s just a few votes per precinct. Right now, we have a real opportunity to flip this seat from red to blue — and with it, the House Majority — and when we do, we will restore principled, effective leadership in our state.
Paul, my team set a $10,000 launch day fundraising goal so we can start strong, overcome the narrow margin, and win this district. Will you join me as a Founding Donor today?
BECOME A FOUNDING DONOR »***
This race is poised to be one of the closest in the country. If we’re going to win back this seat in 2024 and flip the House, we’ll need to build our momentum from the jump.
I’m grateful to have you on my team, Paul. And I look forward to fighting alongside you from now until Election Day.
Sincerely,
Lanon Baccam
Candidate for Congress, IA-03
Lanon Baccam is a veteran, a lifelong Iowan, and now, he's running to restore principled, effective leadership in Washington. The 2022 election in Iowa’s Third was decided by less than seven-tenths of a percent. Right now, we have a real opportunity to flip this district from red to blue — but we need your help to finish this fight and take back the House in 2024.
DONATE »
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Lanon Baccam for Congress
Lanon is Running for Congress! Become a Founding Donor Today
Lanon Baccam is a combat veteran, public servant and son of rural Iowa. He was born and raised in Mt. Pleasant, and at age 17, enlisted in the Iowa National Guard to give back to the state and country that gave him so much.
In the wake of 9/11, Lanon left community college and answered the call to serve his country. As an Iowa National Guardsman, Lanon was activated and deployed to Afghanistan in 2004 as a combat engineer, focusing on explosive demolitions and force protection in and around Kandahar.
Following his service in the Army, Lanon served in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) under former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack. There he worked to support veterans, expand pathways to jobs in the agriculture industry, and promote training and entrepreneurship opportunities for veterans transitioning to careers in agriculture.
Lanon is running for Congress because he believes all Iowans should have the opportunities afforded to him and his family: access to good paying jobs, affordable health care, the ability to retire with dignity, and reproductive rights. Help him flip IA-03 blue by becoming a Founding Donor today.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Lanon Baccam.
[ ] DONATE $10→
[ ] DONATE $15→
[ ] DONATE $25→
[ ] DONATE $50→
[ ] DONATE $75→
[ ] DONATE $100→
[ ] DONATE $250→
[✓] OTHER AMOUNT $3.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
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Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip [I pressed this button by mistake!*]
*P.S.: I usually leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, I accidentally pressed the "Leave no tip" button, rather than pressing the "Add custom amount" button—like I usually do—with this donation! So, in order to compensate for my mistake, I went to the ActBlue website and made a $1.00 contribution directly to ActBlue:
Contribute Now to Support ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit organization that builds tools Democrats count on to run their own small-dollar fundraising programs. Small-dollar donors are giving in record numbers in 2020, and we’re only expecting things to get busier.
Will you chip in with a contribution to support our work? Your donation will go directly to ActBlue to help us support this nationwide grassroots movement. If you are looking to donate to a candidate or cause, please see our directory.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit ActBlue.
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $1.00
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Lanon Baccam for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "join [Lanon Baccam's] campaign [for Congress] as a Founding Donor."
Thus, this one campaign—Lanon Baccam for Congress—is the political campaign that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 9th, 2023 and revised November 14th, 2023)
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November 10th, 2023 Update No. 1—Which Also Discusses November 9th, 2023: This 'update' that I am writing today, November 10th, 2023, is only from my usual reading of Time Magazine articles.
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 10th, 2023, as well as that I received yesterday, November 9th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 9th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Nikki Haley Walks Away With the Debate, and the Attention of Trump-Averse Republicans":
https://time.com/6333320/third-republican-debate-analysis-winners-losers
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Hollywood Actors Union Reaches Tentative Deal With Studios to End Strike":
https://time.com/6333324/hollywood-actors-union-tentative-deal-strike-over
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "‘War Is Expensive’: How the Israel Aid Package Went From Big to Bigger":
https://time.com/6333253/aid-israel-price-us-14-billion
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "The Biggest Moments From the Third Republican Debate":
https://time.com/6333316/third-republican-debate-biggest-moments
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received today, November 10th, 2023:
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Was Thomas Hobbes Too Optimistic?":
https://time.com/6333259/thomas-hobbes-state-of-nature-john-gray-essay
---------------------------------------------
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Tech Companies Are Taking Action on AI Election Misinformation. Will It Matter?":
https://time.com/6333288/tech-companies-ai-misinformation
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "What Pregnant Women Face in Gaza":
https://time.com/6333474/israel-hamas-gaza-pregnant-women-hospital
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 10th, 2023 and revised November 26th, 2023)
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November 11th, 2023 Update No. 1: In order to respect and honor the many sacrifices made by those who served their country in the U.S. Military, I made one-time donations for Veterans Day to Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). –Paul Whiting (November 11th, 2023)
P.S.: For a detailed description of my Veterans Day donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), please see my 'November 11th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023' that can be found below.
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November 11th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023: I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) sixteen days ago on October 26th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR AMERICA'S INJURED HEROES!", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS
Paul, Use your NEW patriotic stickers to show your support for America's heroes on Veterans Day!
Dear Mr. Whiting,
Military heroes show their exceptional courage, character, and bravery on the battlefield as they fight to keep us safe and free.
You show you honor them by the actions you take. You've helped so many heroes! And I'm hoping you'll demonstrate your support once again today.
Veterans Day is coming soon. It's so important to let American heroes — including our brave wounded warriors — know that their service has not been forgotten.
Please sign and send back the thank-you card I'm enclosing. and I'll make sure your gratitude and warm wishes are shared with an injured veteran.
Your gratitude could reach a hero like [name redacted], who served our country with honor for 22 years!
We can't let wounded warriors like [name redacted] feel forgotten on Veterans Day. We also must make sure they continue to get the critical help and support they need.
So, as you send back your signed card today, please also include your generous gift of $15, $18, or even $21 to help more heroes in our 2023 Portland-Area Veterans Day Fund Drive.
Paul, your support for Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) means warriors and their families never pay a penny for our programs. After all, they paid their dues on the battlefield!
Thanks to you, WWP is fighting just as hard for our American herons as they fought for us. Just ask [name redacted]...
[Name redacted] struggled in school. But that's just because he hadn't found his true purpose yet! Once he graduated, he went right into the U.S. Army, and that's when [name redacted] began to excel.
Soon, he was discovering leadership qualities and a deep sense of pride. "I became proud of not just being in the Army, but being an American."
[Name redacted] was an excellent soldier. He risked his life for his country. But his service in Iraq took a toll on him. He was targeted in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack and developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Soon, it began to take over his life.
His sense of pride turned to fear and distrust. His marriage fell apart, and he moved back in with his parents. For the longest time, [name redacted] wouldn't even leave the house unless he was carrying a gun.
PTSD affects different veterans in different ways. But what [name redacted] experienced is all too common.
That kind of hypervigilance, worrying the enemy is around every corner, can make it hard to readjust to civilian life ... hard to be a parent ... and even hard to get through the day.
[Name redacted] was in a dark place. But in his darkest moment, he got the help he needed. It came from WWP and good people like you. [Name redacted] credits WWP with saving his life!
He says, "WWP helped me realize that there's always going to be someone there. Don't ever think that you're alone."
Our wounded warriors aren't alone. You're there for them! And I hope you will continue to be because your support is urgently needed now!
That's why I urge you to send the most generous Veterans Day gift you can today.
Help our heroes get the urgent help they need to face all the challenges before them. When they're ready to start their next mission, we stand ready to serve!
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
[Military rank and status redacted]
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project
P.S. This Veterans Day, please honor Sean and all the military heroes in your community in every way you can. Write your words of gratitude on the enclosed thank-you card and send it back to me. Use the WWP patriotic stickers as another way of showing your support. And make sure injured veterans get the crucial support they need now by donating to WWP today. Thank you.
---------------------------------------------
2023 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors
To donate online, go to supportwwp.org
[✓] YES, I received my stickers, and I'll help wounded warriors! To show our nation's injured veterans, like Sean, they can count on me, I'm unclosing my tax-deductible Veterans Day gift of:
[ ] $15
[ ] $18
[ ] $21
[✓] My best gift of $7.00
---------------------------------------------
Straight from the heart...
"To the donors of Wounded Warrior Project, the only thing I can say is, "Thank you. You've changed my life."
— [Name redacted] Wounded Warrior
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in order to show my support for the WWP Portland-Area Veterans Day Fund Drive! Plus, I also wrote "words of gratitude on the enclosed thank-you card," which I plan to mail back to WWP when I return my "2023 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors" delivery confirmation form within the next few days. –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2023, revised November 12th, 2023 and revised December 28th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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November 11th, 2023 Update No. 3: I received an email from Native American Rights Fund (NARF) today, November 11th, 2023, with the subject line, "On this Veterans Day", which stated the following:
On this Veterans Day, we celebrate and remember our Native American military veterans. We thank you! —Native American Rights Fund
Dear Paul,
On this Veterans Day and in the midst of Native American Heritage month, we celebrate and remember American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian military veterans. We thank you.
Over the years, Native American veterans have consistently dedicated themselves to protecting and serving all American citizens. Native Americans have served proudly and courageously in every major U.S. conflict since the Revolutionary War.
This Veterans Day, we celebrate, remember, thank, and honor veterans, past and present, for all that they have done and given. We are grateful for you, not just this day, not just this month, but always.
NARF
Native American Rights Fund
DONATE NOW
And so, I made a one-time donation to Native American Rights Fund in order to "celebrate and remember American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian military veterans," because "Native Americans have served proudly and courageously in every major U.S. conflict since the Revolutionary War." –Paul Whiting (November 11th, 2023)
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November 11th, 2023 Update No. 4: I received an email from Planned Parenthood Action Fund today, November 11th, 2023, with the subject line, "INSIDE: Abortion is undefeated at the ballot box, Michigan's latest, and more", which stated the following:
Planned Parenthood Action Fund Update
Action Fund Update is the monthly newsletter for members of the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. As an associate member of the Action Fund, you'll receive timely, insider information on our legislative, advocacy, and electoral work.
Member News
Paul,
We'll keep saying it: When abortion rights are on the ballot, freedom wins. Abortion remains undefeated at the ballot box since the 2022 Dobbs decision, as Ohio just became the latest state to approve an amendment to enshrine abortion rights in its state constitution.
Ohio voters approved Issue 1 (https://www.huffpost.com/entry/ohio-votes-to-codify-abortion-rights-into-state-constitution_n_65411b43e4b0ae2dc0b56c1a) to amend the state constitution and protect abortion access in the state for generations to come: 57% of voters said YES to reproductive freedom — proving once again that abortion is a winning issue across the political spectrum.
"The future is bright, and tonight we can celebrate this win for bodily autonomy and reproductive rights," [name redacted], Planned Parenthood Advocates of Ohio [title redacted] and [title redacted] of Ohioans United for Reproductive Rights (OURR), told a packed room of volunteers and supporters in Columbus. "Today, Ohioans made it clear abortion is a winning issue."
The good news doesn't stop there: Reproductive rights champions endorsed by Planned Parenthood advocacy and political organizations also won decisively in key races in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky — wins that will help secure abortion access now and in the future.
We're energized and will keep up the momentum. Thanks for being a part of this.
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
Planned Parenthood Action Fund
Take Action
Tell Congress: Stop the attacks on Planned Parenthood patients and sexual & reproductive health care.
As the House majority pushes us closer and closer to a government shutdown, politicians never cease to surprise us in their dramatic efforts to deny women, trans, and nonbinary people the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies.
Newly appointed House Speaker Mike Johnson has spent his career fighting abortion rights, and Congress is packing must-pass government funding bills with measures to attack Planned Parenthood and sexual and reproductive health care.
There is too much at stake to let them get away with their anti-abortion agenda. But we can fight this together.
Tell Congress to stop the attacks on sexual and reproductive health care >>
https://www.weareplannedparenthoodaction.org/Ouu_KkV390iFwUqOFNDuPg2?sourceid=1015475
[By the way, I already took this action to "Tell Congress: Stop the attacks on Planned Parenthood patients and sexual & reproductive health care" on September 30th, 2023 (please see my 'September 30th, 2023 Update—Continued,' which can be found above).]
State Spotlight: Michigan
This week, the Michigan legislature sent the Reproductive Health Act (RHA) to Gov. Whitmer's desk after passing the bill in both chambers. The RHA repeals some of Michigan's targeted regulation of abortion provider (TRAP) laws and other harmful restrictions on the books in Michigan, including restrictions on private insurance coverage of abortion.
While the RHA is an important step forward, there's more work needed to secure access for all Michiganders. The final RHA does not include repeal of the state's prohibition on Medicaid coverage for abortion care, the mandatory 24-hour waiting period, or biased counseling requirements. These restrictions remain law and disproportionately harm Black, Latino and other communities of color as well as people with low incomes, and rural Michiganders — groups who already face formidable barriers to getting essential care.
Planned Parenthood advocacy and political organizations will continue fighting to expand abortion access in the state and ensure everyone has the care they need.
Read more >>
https://wwmt.com/news/state/michigan-senate-reproductive-health-act-abortion-healthcare-governor-gretchen-whitmer-medical-roe-vs-wade
Around the Web
[New York Magazine's] The Cut: More people denied abortions challenge their states' bans
https://www.thecut.com/2023/09/idaho-tennesee-oklahoma-abortion-ban-challenges.html
Politico: Here's where Speaker Mike Johnson stands on the issues
https://www.politico.com/news/2023/10/25/new-house-speaker-mike-johnson-on-the-issues-00123627
Associated Press: After Ohio vote, advocates in a dozen states are trying to put abortion on 2024 ballots
https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ballot-measure-2024-state-vote-e7d635835dc3a440789ad87787553ec1
Visit plannedparenthoodaction.org
By the way, I read all of the articles referenced in the email above including the article referenced with regard to 'Ohio voters approved Issue 1,' which is titled, "Ohio Votes To Codify Abortion Rights Into State Constitution." I also read all of the articles listed under the 'State Spotlight' and the 'Around the Web' sections above, which is what I always do when I receive these monthly newsletters from Planned Parenthood Action Fund—in addition to taking any requested action from the newsletter, if I haven't already taken that same requested action (or, those same requested actions), as noted from previous 'updates.' –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2023, revised February 17th, 2024 and revised March 16th, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, I used to make one-time donations to the organization that is the subject of these 'updates' each time that I took an action as requested by that organization; however, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am greatly reducing the number of times that I donate for the same organization per month down to once—or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis." (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.) Thus, because I have already donated to Planned Parenthood Action Fund on November 3rd, 2023 (please see my 'November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above) that is the one-time donation which I made to Planned Parenthood Action Fund for November 2023.
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November 12th, 2023 Update No. 1—Which Also Discusses November 11th, 2023: This 'update' that I am writing today, November 12th, 2023, is only from my usual reading of Time Magazine articles.
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day.
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 12th, 2023, as well as that I received yesterday, November 11th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 11th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Hollywood Actors Union Board Approves Strike-Ending Deal as Leaders Tout Gains":
https://time.com/6334007/hollywood-actors-union-approves-deal-strike-ends
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Somber Bells Mark Armistice Day Around the Globe as Wars Drown Out Peace Messages":
https://time.com/6334014/armistice-day-global-remembrance
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Winning the Peace Is Just as Crucial to Israel’s Future":
https://time.com/6332705/israeli-gaza-abraham-accords-essay
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received today, November 12th, 2023:
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Why Renewables Are Key to COP28 Success":
https://time.com/6333831/renewables-are-key-to-cop28-success
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The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "What Israelis Think of the War With Hamas":
https://time.com/6333781/israel-hamas-poll-palestine
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The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "It’s Not Easy to Be Jewish on American Campuses Today":
https://time.com/6333456/jewish-students-college-antisemitism-essay
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "‘They Are Behaving in a Fascist Way:’ An Israeli-Arab Lawmaker on the Stifling of Anti-War Voices":
https://time.com/6333939/israeli-arab-lawmaker-aida-touma-sliman-anti-war-gaza
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 12th, 2023 and revised November 26th, 2023)
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November 13th, 2023 Update No. 1: Thanksgiving Day is ten days away from today, November 13th, 2023! And so, I decided to make one-time donations to charities who are helping those in need during the Thanksgiving holiday, which includes local nonprofits who are helping homeless folks (Portland Rescue Mission, Sisters of the Road, Blanchet House & Farm and Union Gospel Mission), as well as nonprofits who are helping hungry folks, including a local food bank (Oregon Food Bank), a national hunger-relief organization (Feeding America), plus your favorite holiday red kettle "bell ringers" and mine (The Salvation Army)!
And I was inspired to make these donations by mailers that I recently received from some of the above-mentioned charitable organizations, including three mailers from local nonprofits helping homeless folks, one mailer from the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States helping hungry folks, as well as one mailer from everyone's favorite red kettle charity with the "bell ringers," who are well-known for collecting donations during the holiday season, as I mentioned above.
–Paul Whiting (written November 13th, 2023, revised November 14th, 2023 and revised December 15th, 2023)
P.S.: Please see my detailed descriptions—immediately after this 'update'—of the following Thanksgiving donations for which I received the above-mentioned mailers!
Feeding America: 'November 13th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023' that can be found below.
The Salvation Army: 'November 13th, 2023 Update No. 3—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023' that can be found below.
Blanchet House & Farm: 'November 13th, 2023 Update No. 4—Which Also Discusses October 14th, 2023 And October 26th, 2023' that can be found below.
Union Gospel Mission: 'November 13th, 2023 Update No. 5—Which Also Discusses November 7th, 2023' that can be found below.
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November 13th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023: I received a mailer from Feeding America seventeen days ago on October 26th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "Lend a hand this Thanksgiving. Help a child facing hunger. Special match inside!", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
FEEDING AMERICA
Paul Whiting
[Apt. No. redacted]
[Street Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Your gift can have DOUBLE the impact to help more children like [name redacted] get the meals they need.
October 4, 2023
Dear Paul Whiting,
During the holidays, [name redacted] wants nothing more than to spend time with her two children — [name redacted] and [name redacted]. [Name redacted] works in home healthcare, but like so many of us, she's been affected by the high cost of everyday necessities.
Everyone should have access to the food they need to thrive, especially at Thanksgiving.
Today, there are many people across America like [name redacted]. With food prices at record highs, parents are trying their best to make ends meet. As the holidays approach, we want to make sure everyone has a chance to gather with family and friends to share a delicious meal.
By supporting Feeding America during this season of giving, you can help our neighbors put food on the table. Normally, every $1 you give helps provide at least 10 meals through the Feeding America nationwide network of food banks. But right now, thanks to an exciting $350,000 challenge match from a generous donor, every $1 can have TWICE the impact and help provide at least 20 meals for families facing hunger this Thanksgiving.
Your generosity can help people like [name redacted] get nutritious food just in time for the holidays. Through her local food bank, a member of the Feeding America network, [name redacted] and her children were able to get everything they needed to make a traditional Thanksgiving meal.
"This is going to help a lot," [name redacted] said as volunteers loaded bags of holiday food including a ham and sides into her trunk. "We'll have this for the holiday and then have leftovers for a while, too."
We need passionate supporters like you right now. Please send a gift of $15, $20 or even $25 to Feeding America today with one of the enclosed Thanksgiving Match Replies.
Together, we can make sure nobody faces hunger this holiday season. Right now, the cost of a Thanksgiving meal is higher than it's been in decades. With your help, families facing hunger will be able to get all the ingredients they need for holiday meals—like a turkey or sweet potatoes.
Paul Whiting, when you extend a helping hand, you'll help neighbors like [name redacted] prepare a memorable Thanksgiving meal for their families.
I hope you send your donation to Feeding America as soon as possible. You can help neighbors get the meals they need this Thanksgiving and beyond. Thank you in advance for your support.
Sincerely,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted], Feeding America
P.S. Paul Whiting, please reply before Thanksgiving so your contribution can help children and families facing hunger get TWICE as many meals. Send your gift to Feeding America today to take advantage of the $350,000 challenge match.
Thank you for showing up for families facing hunger this holiday season.
"QR code message": Your gift can provide TWICE as many meals. Scan here or visit www.SupportFeedingAmerica.org/Match
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THANKSGIVING MATCH REPLY
At this special time of year, I want to share meals with children and families facing hunger in Oregon and across the country by giving to Feeding America. My enclosed donation of:
[ ] $15 can help provide at least 300 meals
[ ] I'm giving by credit card. (Please see section on back)
[✓] $7.00 can help provide as many main as possible.
[ ] I want to make an aven bigger impact by giving monthly
Paul Whiting
[Apt. No. redacted]
[Street Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Right now, $15 can help provide at least 300 meals.
PLEASE REPLY BY NOVEMBER 17
YOUR GIFT can have TWICE the impact for a child.
Give online: www.SupportFeedingAmerica.org/Match
And so, I made a one-time donation to Feeding America in order to support their "THANKSGIVING MATCH REPLY," because "right now, [$7] can help provide at least [140] meals." –Paul Whiting (written November 13th, 2023 and revised November 14th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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November 13th, 2023 Update No. 3—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023: I received a mailer from The Salvation Army Portland Metro seventeen days ago on October 26th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "GOOD NEWS INSIDE! ENCLOSED: VALUABLE THANKSGIVING MEAL VOUCHERS FOR YOU!", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
The Salvation Army
DOING THE MOST GOOD
2023 ANNUAL THANKSGIVING APPEAL
Mr. Whiting,
Just $2.37 shares a filling Thanksgiving meal with a hungry neighbor in the Portland Metro area.
I pray you'll respond quickly!
— [Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
Dear Mr. Whiting,
THIS IS REALLY WONDERFUL NEWS ...
Just $2.37 gives a hungry neighbor a warm Thanksgiving meal. That's all it takes to share nourishing food — and God's love — with someone who is hungry and alone this season.
You know how hard this time of year can be for people who are struggling. And with inflation driving up the cost of everything, more of our neighbors are hurting. Many are facing hunger and hardship. Sadly, it's often the children who are affected the most.
But not if YOU help!
Imagine the joy your gift will offer a mom or dad who worried there would be no Thanksgiving dinner for their children. Or imagine the smile that will light up the face of a hungry senior who thought she was all alone.
That's the power of what you can do simply by giving today!
And when you give, you'll feel good knowing you shared a love beyond hunger with local families who are less fortunate. It's what this season is really all about!
✴ We've enclosed valuable Thanksgiving Meal Vouchers for you. Please use them to decide how many meals you can provide to a hungry neighbor in the Portland Metro area.
+ A gift of $9.48, along with the red voucher, will provide 4 meals.
+ If you give $18.96 with the blue voucher, that will mean 8 meals.
+ Or use the green voucher, and fill in the amount you can give. We'll provide as many Thanksgiving meals as we can, thanks to your gift!
Mr. Whiting, your previous generosity has helped so much. Whichever amount you can give today, please know how blessed we feel to count on your support of The Salvation Army. You give our neighbors the courage to move forward, even when they face their darkest days.
You should feel very proud!
So please continue to make a life-changing impact by sending a gift today.
JUST $2.37 WILL FILL AN EMPTY PLATE WITH FOOD ... AND A LONELY HEART WITH HOPE.
May God bless you for all you're doing to reach out to people in the Portland Metro area who need our compassion most.
Thank you for your kindness and support!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Sincerely,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
P.S. I hope you enjoy the special Thanksgiving stories I've enclosed, showing how you share love beyond hunger for our neighbors in need.
→ Remember: Just $2.37 provides a meal! With inflation impacting so many families with children in the Portland Metro area, your gift will mean so much. Please give generously so a hungry neighbor has the food and friendship they need this Thanksgiving. Thank you.
GIVE ONLINE! IT'S SECURE AND EASY. GO TO: SalArmy-Cascade.org
[Blogger's Note: For The Salvation Army USA website, at which there's a local donation page for you to make a donation to The Salvation Army in your area, please visit https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn where you will see the "Donate Local" button at the top right-hand corner of their website! And thank you for considering making a donation to The Salvation Army this holiday season!]
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The Salvation Army
DOING THE MOST GOOD
NEWS OF THE SEASON | SPECIAL THANKSGIVING EDITION
THANKS TO YOU, [NAME REDACTED] HAS A HOME
When [name redacted] was just 8 years old, she suffered a devastating loss: Her mother passed away.
It was traumatizing. But [name redacted] treasured the memories she had. One of those was how her mother kept their home. especially the way she decorated it and made it her own.
As she grew up, [name redacted] always dreamed of having a place she could call her own, just like her mom.
Yet, years later, when [name redacted] was expecting her own child, those dreams seemed very far away. [Name redacted] and her fiancé [name redacted] were struggling to keep their heads above water. They felt the odds were against them. They didn't know where to turn.
Fortunately, and thanks to friends like you, the young couple did know where they could go for some much-needed food: The Salvation Army. Here, they knew that whatever else they faced, they could find a good meal, [name redacted] could meet her own nutritional needs, as well as those of the baby on the way.
Throughout the year, neighbors turn to The Salvation Army for food — especially at Thanksgiving, And this Thanksgiving, we're expecting many more families to come through our doors. The ongoing high prices for food and other essentials are making it harder for neighbors to make ends meet.
During one of [name redacted] and [name redacted's] visits, they found out about other programs your support helps make possible. Nervous at first, the couple worked up the courage to ask for additional help. And your kindness came through for them!
We helped them find housing — and provided them with the support and skills needed to keep it. This was so important as they welcomed a new baby to their growing family.
[Name redacted] calls the support you helped provide "a miracle." And [name redacted] finally achieved her dream, grateful to have her "home sweet home."
The couple encourages others who are going through hard times to come to The Salvation Army for help. "Now I get to pass on the blessing to other people who are going through the same thing," [name redacted] smiles.
When times are hard, whether at Thanksgiving or any other time of year, you've been there for your neighbors. We are very grateful... and so are they.
MAY GOD BLESS YOU!
FUN FACTS FOR THANKSGIVING
President Abraham Lincoln first proclaimed Thanksgiving as a national holiday in 1863 — the result of a 17-year letter-writing campaign by a woman named Sarah Hale. This wasn't Hale's only writing success. She also penned the nursery rhyme "Mary Had a Little Lamb."
The tradition of football games played on Thanksgiving predates the National Football League, going all the way back to 1876, not long after the game was invented. It made sense, as Thanksgiving was a day most people had off from work.
According to a 2015 Harris poll. most people actually prefer eating Thanksgiving food as leftovers. It wasn't close, either. The poll found that nearly 8 out of 10 Americans. enjoyed the next day's turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pie more than they did at the original meal.
SHARE YOUR BLESSINGS THIS THANKSGIVING
Here at The Salvation Army, the holidays are always a busy time. This Thanksgiving, we expect many of our neighbors will be coming to us for help.
By making a Thanksgiving gift today, you share a love beyond hunger and hopelessness with:
+ FAMILIES — hardworking moms and dads struggling to make ends meet, worried about how they'll put food on the table and a roof over their children's heads. Your gift will help ease their burden, providing the food they need along with words of hope and encouragement.
+ SENIORS — lonely, sometimes facing an illness, and often challenged to stretch a limited income far enough to cover both food and medications. You'll brighten their Thanksgiving with nutritious food and compassion.
+ MEN AND WOMEN who are homeless — hurt, hungry, and almost without hope. You'll offer them food, nourish their spirits, and restore their hope.
Because you are a compassionate person, YOU can make this Thanksgiving even more meaningful. Your generous gift to The Salvation Army shares your blessings with people in need. What a wonderful way to honor the spirit of the holiday — and to give thanks! Please consider making a special Thanksgiving gift.
Your generous gift shares your blessings at Thanksgiving — and offers love beyond the holidays, too.
THANK YOU, may God bless you, and may you and yours enjoy a happy Thanksgiving.
[Blogger's Note: For The Salvation Army USA website, at which there's a local donation page for you to make a donation to The Salvation Army in your area, please visit https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn where you will see the "Donate Local" button at the top right-hand corner of their website! And thank you for considering making a donation to The Salvation Army this holiday season!]
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THE SALVATION ARMY THANKSGIVING MEAL VOUCHER
VOUCHER NO. 3
A HEARTFELT GIFT FROM: Mr. Paul Whiting
Enclosed is my gift to provide as many meals as possible to our hungry neighbors at Thanksgiving: $7.00
JUST $2.37 A MEAL! Any amount will help!
Thank you! Please make your check payable to The Salvation Army, and mail it with this voucher in the enclosed envelope. See back of form to give by credit card, or donate securely online at SalArmy-Cascade.org.
From: Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
To: The Salvation Army
Portland Metro Donation Processing Center
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, I made a one-time donation to The Salvation Army Cascade Division in order to support The Salvation Army's 2023 ANNUAL THANKSGIVING APPEAL, because "just $2.37 shares a filling Thanksgiving meal with a hungry neighbor in the Portland Metro area." –Paul Whiting (written November 13th, 2023, revised November 14th, 2023 and revised December 12th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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November 13th, 2023 Update No. 4—Which Also Discusses October 14th, 2023 And October 26th, 2023: I recently received two mailers from Blanchet House & Farm (pronounced Blan-shāy). The first mailer that I received was thirty days ago on October 14th, 2023, which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
From the Executive Director
Blanchet Farm's mural recovery program has been incredibly successful in helping people change their Eues for the better. But the facilities are worn out.
The Blanchet Farm capital campaign is raising critical funds to build a stronger future for our one-of-a-kind rural addiction recovery program. It will give us the ability to add trauma-informed spaces where the Yamhill County community can come together to hope and heal.
Your donation builds futures.
-[Name redacted]
Watch the Video
Scan the QR code to learn more about how your support will help build a strong future for our rural addiction recovery program.
"Rebuilding Blanchet Farm: Capital Campaign" on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/g-wwVICtADY?si=N7iVXQKWyywZnJgK
Therapeutic work aids recovery.
BEEKEEPING
Residents learn new skills while being present in a nature.
WOOD WORKING
Residents engage in on activity that builds: confidence and self-worth.
ANIMAL CARE
Residents show and receive love to the animals without fear of judgment.
New Programs
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
This program will give residents meaningful ways to take pride in their work.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
New programs, such as welding, will provide skills training and opportunities for job placement.
The Facility
A new 14,000 square feet mix-use facility will benefit the antine community by providing a pathway for up to 21 men too overcome addiction and homelessness.
A meaningful gift will:
FORGE WORKFORCES: $10 per month
CONSTRUCT HOPE: $25 per month
GROW COMMUNITY: $50 per month
BUILD RECOVERY: $100 per month
Donate today! Help rebuild Blanchet Farm.
Please accept this [ ] Monthly [✓] One-time donation of $7.00
Donor Info
Name: Paul Whiting
Address: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Email: [redacted]
Zip Code: [redacted]
Phone: [redacted]
Scan to Donate Online:
https://blanchethouse.app.neoncrm.com/forms/28
The second mailer that I received from Blanchet House & Farm was seventeen days ago on October 26th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the newsletter that read, "A Meal. A Home. A Future.", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
Blanchet House & Farm
BLANCHET HOUSE NEWSLETTER
NOVEMBER 2023
IN THE CAFE
LABOR DAY HOT DOGS
383 hot dogs and four vegan dogs were served for dinner on Labor Day thanks to your generous donations. We asked supporters to bring Blanchet [House of Hospitality] buns and you delivered!
"It's Labor Day so people are doing hot dogs, hamburgers and we thought we could do that too, [name redacted], [title redacted] said. "We are open on holidays because people still need food."
[Name redacted] also made homemade potato salad. Our guests were very grateful. One young man was overcome with gratitude for the hospitality and hugged a volunteer!
A little kindness means so much to people struggling.
SERVICE NEWS
Day Spaces Are Needed Now More Than Ever
By [Name redacted]
With Portland's new camping ban in effect, nonprofits like Blanchet House that provide daytime services are seeing an influx of clients, as people are now required to be mobile during the day.
The new low requires people experiencing homelessness to pack up their belongings by 8 a.m. A violation can result in a $100 fine and/or 30 days in jail.
More people are seeking the warmth of our cafe. We served an unbelievable 53% more meals in Sept. 2023 than in Sept 2022! We also receive more calls and inquiries about joining our residential programs. We can house up to 45 men at Blanchet House.
Because of this, we're allowing diners to bring in more of their belongings. Allowing pets, small carts bikes, suitcases, and other personal property helps guests enjoy meals without fear of their things being stolen. We know that the few possessions they have are critical for surviving the night outdoors.
Why else are day spaces like our low-barrier cafe needed, especially now?
1. We serve people experiencing dire poverty, not just people who are unsheltered. Our services help people make ends meet, enjoy community, and provide a kitchen that many low-income rooming houses lack.
2. Our peer support specialists help guests sign up for housing, disability, and can refer them to shelters.
3. We're serving people in marginalized groups who due to discrimination are often the last to secure stable shelter. This includes our BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, people with untreated mental illness, or those awaiting detox.
4. We provide critical services like food, clothing, hygiene products, and hope to keep people moving forward.
The more we can do to stabilize people living homeless, the more successful we'll be in placing them in housing. When you donate to Blanchet House you are providing so much more than food. You're offering support for a better future!
MEET OUR GUESTS
What do you want people know about you?
"I'm a good man. I try to help people," says [name redacted]. "What happens to me isn't just my story, it's the whole community's story. My success will be because of community support. Thank you from my heart."
RESIDENT NEWS
Resident Saves Diner's Life
It seems that most residents staying with us at Blanchet House and Blanchet Farm have a unique background and surprising skills.
[Name redacted] (above) is one of those special souls. He watched cafe staff try to save a man's life with Narcan from his window one day. The man had overdosed and stopped breathing. As a former nurse, [name redacted] knew that the stranger needed to have his head adjusted so he could start breathing again. [Name redacted] ran outside to do just that and the man became conscious. He saved a stranger's life.
"I'm drawn to helping where I can. Just because I'm not a nurse anymore doesn't mean my skills have gone away," [name redacted] told us. "I've learned what my real purpose is being here. I've always been in the health field and I want to stay in it and figure out how. Being here has really given me a lot of hope for my future."
[Name redacted] came to stay with us after finding himself homeless due to health challenges. His positive presence has influenced many of us. Thank you.
Donations make our residential programs possible. We need your support to give men like [name redacted] a second chance.
Untreated Mental Health Hurts
Pictured above is [name redacted], cafe manager, bringing a guest a sleeping bag and rolling suitcase. "L" sadly was released to the street from a hospital with only the clothes on her back. She showed us her papers with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and a prescription she didn't trust. Blanchet's sidewalk has become her home, the only place she feels safe.
We have quite a few guests like "L" who suffer with untreated mental illness. Their severe illness won't allow them to accept help and they are excluded from shelters because of their behaviors. Their families have often walked all avenues to help them. So becoming homeless is the fate of many.
They are so alone and sleeping in horrific conditions.
Building trust with people who've experienced so much trauma takes time. Our caring staff works day by day to do just that so we can help end suffering.
Your support makes our services and hospitality possible.
GIVE!GUIDE 2023
We're participating in Give Guide again this year! Willamette Week, a local newspaper, hosts Give Guide as a fun way to support local charities like Blanchet House & Farm. Donations given via Give Guide's website enter you to receive special gifts like:
[✓] A bag of Stumptown coffee
[✓] A 12oz jar of Ground Up cinnamon snicker doodle nut butter
[✓] Wood cutting boards hand crafted at Blanchet Farm
PLUS: This year, we're offering donors an exclusive event with master beekeeper [name redacted] at Blanchet Farm. This event will include a farm tour, guest speakers, and a tasting of honey harvested from our hives.
Scan the QR code with your smart phone to view all Give!Guide gifts and the dates to enter.
https://blanchethouse.org/give-guide
JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST
Scan the QR code to enter your email address.
https://blanchethouse.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/blanchethouse/submitSubscription.jsp
You can also call us to sign up over the phone at [phone number redacted].
We will never share or sell your information with anyone outside of our organization
MEN'S SHOE DRIVE
A man sleeping outside our building was seen wearing gloves for shoes. We looked in our clothing closet for a pair to offer him but were out of large sizes for men. We seem to always be in need of sizes 10-12.
We're asking supporters to please purchase a new pair of men's athletic shoes or donate gently used shoes. It's important that shoes not be torn or have worn away soles because it is our mission to restore dignity to the people we serve--head to toe.
Drop Off
Mon-Sat, 8-10:30 a.m. or 1:30-4 p.m.
Ship To [Street Address redacted]
SERVICE NEWS
FREE PET CARE
The incredible veterinarian [name redacted], volunteers every month to help the pets of people experiencing homelessness and poverty. He hosts a free animal care clinic in our parking lot during lunch.
With the Oregon Humane Society where he's a board member, [name redacted] provides free vaccines, flea and tick treatments, leashes, and food. He can also refer animals with higher care needs to free clinics for treatment.
FARM NEWS
Rebuilding Blanchet Farm
We are excited to share that construction on a new dormitory and facility has begun at Blanchet Farm! It's been a long time coming. The facilities were worn out, in disrepair, and desperately needed to be rebuilt.
Blanchet Farm was opened in 1962 as a place of refuge and recovery for people struggling with addiction and other challenges. The farm's rural recovery program has been incredibly successful in helping people better their lives. But we need your help to complete the construction.
Building a Future
On May 31, 2023 we broke ground on a 14,000 square feet mix-use facility that will benefit the entire community. The new dormitory will provide a pathway for up to 24 men to overcome addiction and homelessness.
It will also include:
[✓] Offices for social ventures to support the nonprofit mission of the farm.
[✓] Space for case management to help residents access mental and physical health care, employment, and housing.
[✓] An energy efficient kitchen and larger dining area.
[✓] Areas for the outside community to attend AA and NA meetings.
[✓] Room for children and families to reconnect.
Clean Energy Efficiency
The new facility will operate using clean solar energy thanks to a grant from Portland General Electric's 2022 Renewable Development Fund. The Renewable Development Fund, which awards grants for clean energy projects in the community, is fully funded by PGE'S Green Future customers.
Help Us Rebuild Blanchet Farm!
For more information on the Building Pathways Home campaign, visit the website by scanning the QR code.
https://blanchethouse.org/blanchet-farm-capital-campaign
ON THE STREET
We Serve the Lost and Missing
Our free cafe has become a hub for people lost and those looking for them. Recently we found a flier (pictured) taped to the window.
It read:
Missing [name redacted]
Please Call Home
God Bless You!!
We receive countless emails, calls, and messages asking if we've seen a missing loved one. We welcome families to stand outside the cafe to see if their loved one comes or goes but we respect our guests' privacy while they are inside dining with us.
It's very sad for families and friends.
This summer a mom and dad drove from Idaho looking for their son. The next day a woman came in tears looking for her husband who had relapsed. They all said thanks for offering services to their loved ones.
If you can, please donate today so we can provide refuge for people suffering. Their loved ones thank you too.
I'd rather sleep outside than in a shelter. I've had too many bad experiences there," said K., a meal guest living in a tent nearby. Her HOPE ring caught our eye.
K. is looking for a room with a bathroom but can't work. Our peer support staff are helping K. sign up for disability and get on to housing lists. She will need our daily support for meals and clothing while she waits.
K.'s not the first woman, and won't be the last, we've supported during a difficult time. We received this message on Facebook from the daughter of a woman who dined with us:
[Name redacted]
Blanchet house kept my biological mom alive while she waited 18 year[s] for her disability claim to be approved. She's since been living safely and independently in her own home. Thank you for all you do ☺️ 💕
And so, I made a one-time donation to the capital campaign for Blanchet Farm in order to "help rebuild Blanchet Farm," because "the Blanchet Farm capital campaign is raising critical funds to build a stronger future for our one-of-a-kind rural addiction recovery program." –Paul Whiting (written November 13th, 2023, revised November 14th, 2023, revised November 24th, 2023 and revised November 30th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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November 13th, 2023 Update No. 5—Which Also Discusses November 7th, 2023: I received a mailer from Union Gospel Mission six days ago on November 7th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "Your Thanksgiving newsletter is enclosed.", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
UNION GOSPEL MISSION
The Path To LifeChange
November 1, 2023
Mr. Paul [Middle Initial] Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Dear Paul,
Before coming to the Mission, [name redacted] had nothing to be grateful for, no reason to get up in the morning and definitely no hope that tomorrow would be any better than today.
But then God stepped in, and He used friends like you to do it. Now, [redacted] is a completely different person and he's one of the most grateful people I know. That's why I'm so excited to tell you his story in our Thanksgiving newsletter, which we recently redesigned. Let me know what you think!
Life change like his isn't commonplace on the streets of Portland. But Life Changes Here all the time at the Mission. And it happens because of partners like you. As the [title redacted] and [title redacted] of the Mission, I have a unique insight.
I see how generous you are.
I see the difference it makes.
I know that this place doesn't work without you.
So I have to ask: Will you give a Thanksgiving gift like you did last year?
Paul, [name redacted] didn't come to us during the holidays, but as you know, a lot of people do. In fact, it's our busiest time of year. That means with your help again this year, we can share God's love with a lot more hurting people. Will you help make that possible by giving a gift of $11.65, $16.31 or $23.30 to provide Thanksgiving meals?
During Thanksgiving week we'll serve over 1,000 holiday meals. But only with your help!
Change lives even faster by giving online: ugmportland.org/here
In Christ,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
P.S. To help in time for Thanksgiving, please respond by Nov. 20. Every $2.33 you give provides a full Thanksgiving meal.
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GIVE THANKSGIVING MEALS!
Every $2.33 you give provides an entire Thanksgiving meal for someone like [name redacted].
Yes, [name redacted]! I will help provide meals at Thanksgiving again this year!
I'm sending a gift of:
[ ] $16.31 to provide 7 meals.
[ ] $23.30 to provide 10 meals.
[ ] $11.65 to provide 5 meals.
[✓] $7.00 to provide as many meals as possible.
Mr. Paul [Middle Initial] Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
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UNION GOSPEL MISSION
LIFE CHANGE LETTER
NOVEMBER 2023
"I don't know how I survived." -[Name redacted]
INSIDE:
• Alive and Thriving Because of You!
• Your Passions Are Not Boring
• It's Not a Transaction. It's a Relationship.
"Blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence." Jeremiah 17:7
[NAME REDACTED'S] STORY:
Alive and Thriving Because of You!
HUNGER. REGRET. PAIN. SHAME. REMORSE. Those are the feelings that [name redacted] was always trying to escape. Meth and fentanyl helped for a little while, but the hunger and all the rest of those feelings would always come back.
He was homeless for four years, living in his car, scraping by just to eat and get his next fix. Then, on a Sunday night, [name redacted] finally gave up.
"For the first time in four years, I looked up and instead of cursing God and being mad at Him, I asked Him for help," he says.
The next morning, he called the Mission. A few hours later, he was walking through our doors.
For [name redacted], even coming here was a big challenge. He remembers walking past other people on the streets who were shooting up and smoking.
He remembers feeling drawn back to the drugs, almost stopping a few times.
"It was scary fighting through the gauntlet of people out there. but when I got through the doors, I was home and I knew it," he says. "It was a good place. It was a safe place to come."
"Now with the Mission, I have a family to be a part of."
It took [name redacted] about a month to detox. During that time, the meals friends like you provided helped nourish him.
As he watched the other men in the LifeChange Recovery Program, he began to imagine a new life for himself.
"I was looking at these guys and I've never seen somebody ever do anything so brave in my life," [name redacted] says.
Now, six months in, [name redacted] is the brave one. He's opened up to people and to God in ways he never imagined.
"All I needed was a relationship with Christ to get repaired, and this place gave me a safe place to do that, to dig into the word and find out who God is," says [name redacted].
It's All About Relationships
"Here, they support restoring relationships... It's what makes you feel human."
Today [name redacted] isn't just feeling human, he's feeling fully alive.
"Every step that I've made towards recovery is what Christ has given me," he says.
The Lord, working through friends like you, has given [name redacted] hot meals at the Mission, a bed to sleep in, time in our LifeChange program, the gift of sobriety and the joy of being around people. In fact, last Thanksgiving all he wanted was to be alone. This Thanksgiving, he can't wait to eat and celebrate with others.
Friends like you are the only reason [name redacted] was able to discover that Life Changes Here. Thank you for helping him when no one else would. Thank you for giving him the chance to live a new life.
We're Thankful For . . .
We asked our guests what they are thankful for this Thanksgiving, and here's what a few of them said:
"I'm so thankful for the food at the Mission! I don't have to stress about where my next meal is going to come from. Having those basic needs met is key to my recovery. I can spend that time and energy healing from past wounds."
[Name redacted]
Previous LifeChange Resident
"I'm so happy to have the food during Thanksgiving. It's pretty miserable when you're on the streets and have nowhere to go during the holidays. Coming to the Mission makes all that go away. Even if it's just for a moment, I feel loved and at peace here."
[Name redacted]
Homeless Services Guest
"When I was out on the streets, it felt like the whole world was against me . . . Being at the Mission for the holidays is such a treat. Having a warm meal and chatting with all the guests really brings joy to the season."
[Name redacted]
Previous LifeChange Resident
"There's always a line out the door at the Mission, especially during the holidays . . . but they don't leave you lined up, they come out and offer some coffee and water, and talk with you. They do all they can to make you comfortable as you wait."
[Name redacted]
Homeless Services Guest
Your Passions Are Not Boring
There are people who know that planned giving falls into the same category as wills, trusts and estate plans. They may be right. But to us, it means so much more.
To us, planned giving is about sharing your passion and leaving a legacy that shows your loved ones what matters most to you. And there's nothing boring about that. In fact, we think it's so important that we launched a Planned Giving program.
PLANNED GIVING
If you don't already have a legacy plan that incintes bonoring the things you are most passionate about, we'd love to help. To get started, contact [name redacted] at [email redacted]
Thanks for Being Part of Our Family
TRADITIONS ARE HONORED in my family. Every Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter are spent together around a dinner table enjoying each other's company and sharing a good meal. We always open with a prayer of thankfulness for what the Lord has done for us, all we have been provided, and thoughts of those less fortunate. My best friend is a LifeChange graduate who always joins us.
But holidays can be very difficult for those in LifeChange. Separation from family and facing a lifetime of bad decisions is a formula for depression and self-medication. Thankfully, many LifeChange residents at the Mission can create new families. They are no longer alone. Many know what it's like to come through the front door broken. To join others who love the Lord and are seeking a new life creates hope and new friendships. They find that wherever they have been and whatever they have done God loves them. God forgives them. God desires a relationship with them. And through Jesus we can all be radically changed.
[Name redacted] came by a my office today with his wife [name redacted] to say hello. [Name redacted] graduated from LifeChange 22 years ago and he came to say thank you to UGM [Union Gospel Mission] for saving his life. He's battling cancer and he knows that we love him. That we pray for him. And that we stand by him like a good family member does.
In Christ,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
It's Not a Transaction.
It's a Relationship.
The Union Copel Mission is not a transactional place.
Sure, people can come in, eat a hot meal and leave. They absolutely can stay just one night in our winter shelter and never come back. They can accept a hot cup of coffee from our Search+Rescue team and not tell us their name.
But most of the time that's not what happens.
Most of the time, those services — especially meals — allow us to build relationships, that's why Life Changes Here.
So while each $2.33 you give will provide a meal. it will also do more. That meal makes it possible for us to develop relationships, share the love of Jesus Christ with our hurting neighbors, and help them begin living new lives!
Without support from friends like you, the Mission can't keep its doors open — let alone provide thousands of Thanksgiving meals or nights of safe shelter. If you can help, please rush a gift today.
Thanksgiving is our busiest time of the year, which means it's our biggest opportunity to reach the most people.
GIVE THANKSGIVING MEALS!
Give quickly, safely and easily at: ugmportland.org/here
Heart of Hope Partner
WANT TO MAKE AN EVEN BIGGER IMPACT?
Become a Monthly Heart of Hope Partner
When you sign up to give monthly, you'll know you're changing lives every day while saving postage and administrative costs and making sure that vital Mission programs keep running.
To sign up or find out more, call [phone number redacted] or visit ugmportland.org/heart-of-hope
Through the transformative power of Jesus Christ, we open life-changing pathways to people experiencing homelessness, hunger, addiction, and abuse.
LIFECHANGE LETTER
A PUBLICATION OF UNION GOSPEL MISSION
And so, I made a one-time donation to Union Gospel Mission in order to "GIVE THANKSGIVING MEALS," which is why I donated "[$7.00] to provide as many meals as possible." –Paul Whiting (written November 13th, 2023 and revised November 14th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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November 13th, 2023 Update No. 6, Written On November 14th, 2023: I received an email from Planned Parenthood Federation of America yesterday, November 13th, 2023, with the subject line, "It's Transgender Awareness Week", which stated the following:
Paul,
It's Transgender Awareness Week! At Planned Parenthood, we celebrate our trans and nonbinary family and friends every day. Everyone deserves to feel worthy and to exist in the world as their most authentic selves. And we know the gender‑affirming health services, which are provided by many Planned Parenthood health centers, are essential, lifesaving care.
We also know that educating ourselves is an important step toward understanding and inclusion.
Here are four things you should know about gender identity and health care, as well as some helpful resources for you or a loved one who might have questions.
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity
What is gender identity?
Gender identity describes how a person experiences their own gender — whether they feel like a man, woman, genderqueer, agender, nonbinary, or another identity. Remember: There's no right or wrong way to express gender identity — no single way to look or act like a woman, man, or nonbinary person. Learn more about transgender and non‑binary identities »
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity/transgender
What is gender‑affirming care?
The short answer is: It's different for everyone. Gender‑affirming care is patient-centered and individual as a way to align outward, physical traits with someone's gender identity. It can include anything from hormone treatment to voice therapy, surgery to social support. And not all trans and nonbinary people need or want the same care. More information about transitioning can be found here »
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity/transgender/what-do-i-need-know-about-trans-health-care
Why is gender‑affirming care essential health care?
All major medical associations agree that age-appropriate, gender affirming care for transgender and nonbinary people is evidence‑based and medically necessary. Studies have shown that trans and nonbinary people who have access to gender‑affirming care experience significantly lower rates of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Learn more about trans and non‑binary health care »
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity/transgender/what-do-i-need-know-about-trans-health-care
Why is it hard for trans and nonbinary people to get care?
Some lawmakers want to control the lives and decisions of LGBTQ+ people; like abortion, many states and organizations are actively working to ban transgender and nonbinary people from getting the gender‑affirming care they need. While some states are trying to expand access to gender‑affirming care, it's not enough to meet the needs of trans and nonbinary people right now.
So far in 2023 alone, politicians in nearly 40 states have introduced anti-trans health care legislation.
What is Planned Parenthood doing to support trans and nonbinary people?
All Planned Parenthood health centers proudly serve people of all genders and gender expressions. They also provide STI testing and treatment, birth control, wellness exams, and other sexual and reproductive health services. Nearly 70% of Planned Parenthood health centers also offer gender‑affirming hormone treatment. Planned Parenthood is here to help and support you on your journey. Find your nearest Planned Parenthood health center »
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-center
More questions? Here are some additional resources:
[✓] What are the differences between sex, gender, and gender identity?
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity
[✓] How can you support a loved one who is trans?
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/parents/identity
[✓] Does birth control affect HRT [hormone replacement therapy] treatment?
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/blog/im-trans-does-birth-control-affect-hrt-treatment
Trans, nonbinary, and gender-nonconforming people deserve access to safe, inclusive health care, always.
Planned Parenthood is working each day to be a place where people of all genders can receive the care and education they deserve: high‑quality, compassionate, and affirming. Trans and nonbinary people are Planned Parenthood patients, staff, and supporters, and we are proud to be here — providing care and education, and showing up for our trans and nonbinary family and friends.
Your support for Planned Parenthood helps make gender‑affirming care happen. Thank you.
Sincerely,
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
So, I wanted to share this email from Planned Parenthood Federation of America in celebration of Transgender Awareness Week! –Paul Whiting (written November 14th, 2023, revised November 17th, 2023, revised January 9th, 2024 and revised March 4th, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, I used to make one-time donations to the organization that is the subject of these 'updates' each time that I took an action as requested by that organization; however, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am greatly reducing the number of times that I donate for the same organization per month down to once—or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis." (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.) Thus, because I have already donated to Planned Parenthood Federation of America on November 4th, 2023 (please see my 'November 4th, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above) that is the one-time donation which I made to Planned Parenthood Federation of America for November 2023.
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November 14th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these campaign donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations that I make virtually every time that I make a campaign donation—within which I usually include the text from each political campaign's requesting email, or text message, along with some of each campaign's donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign (which is usually $3.00 per campaign), plus how much I tipped ActBlue (which is usually $0.11 per donation)—however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of campaign donation requests!
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign donation 'updates' and combine every campaign donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for campaign donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political campaign communication that I responded to was a text message today, November 14th, 2023, from the Biden Victory Fund, which stated the following:
Paul, it’s Joe Biden. My team tells me that you’re an active supporter of ours, so it makes this announcement extra special:
We’re offering you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to grab coffee with Kamala and me – we’ll even cover your flights and hotel! 🛩️ 🏙️ That’s right… you’d get to say you had a cup of joe ☕ with Joe and Kamala.
Donate what you can, and you’ll be automatically entered into an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, DC:***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Biden Victory Fund
Want to have a cup of coffee with Joe and Kamala? Donate now to support our campaign and Democrats nationwide!
By donating today, you could win a chance to have a cup of coffee with President Biden and Vice President Harris! This offer won't last long, so chip in today.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Biden Victory Fund.
[ ] $46 →
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[ ] Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip [For some reason, I couldn't leave a tip!*]
*P.S.: I usually leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, for some reason, I couldn't leave a custom tip—like I usually do—with this donation! So, in order to compensate for my inability to add a custom tip, I went to the ActBlue website and made a $1.00 contribution directly to ActBlue:
Contribute Now to Support ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit organization that builds tools Democrats count on to run their own small-dollar fundraising programs. Small-dollar donors are giving in record numbers in 2020, and we’re only expecting things to get busier.
Will you chip in with a contribution to support our work? Your donation will go directly to ActBlue to help us support this nationwide grassroots movement. If you are looking to donate to a candidate or cause, please see our directory.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit ActBlue.
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $1.00
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Biden Victory Fund (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to enter for a chance to win a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to grab coffee ... with Joe and Kamala!"
---------------------------------------------
The second political campaign communication that I responded to was an email from the Aaron Ford for Attorney General (Aaron Ford for Nevada) campaign today, November 14th, 2023, with the subject line, "Team Ford is back!", which stated the following:
Aaron Ford for Attorney General
Hey Paul,
We haven’t written to you in a couple of months, but Team Ford hasn’t gone anywhere.
First, on behalf of the Attorney General and our whole team, we want to express how deeply we appreciate your support and dedication to last year’s campaign. Indeed, it’s thanks to you that AG Ford secured a historic victory in 2022 – winning more votes than any other statewide candidate ever in a Nevada midterm election.
AG Ford likes to say he spent the first day after his victory celebrating. But then he got right back to work delivering tangible results for our Silver State.
Since his reelection, the General has:
[✓] Protected Nevadans from fraudsters and scammers, winning over $100M from those who cheated Nevadans.
[✓] Helped families who lost loved ones to opioids, winning over $1B from companies that knowingly promoted opioids to Nevadans.
[✓] Led the fight to protect women‘s health care, supporting legislation that affirms abortion rights and protects anyone who comes to Nevada seeking reproductive care.
[✓] Continues to defend Nevadans‘ right to vote and ensure every legal vote is counted by successfully fighting all baseless lawsuits about voter fraud and improving the efficiency and transparency of our elections.
This last bullet point [check mark] is especially important, Paul. If next November is anything like that of 2020, there will be Republican candidates on the ballot who perpetuate the Big Lie, who even participated in the January 6 coup attempt, and who view themselves as beholden to the extremes of their party instead of our Constitution and the will of the people. In the face of these anti-democratic threats, we need your help amplifying the values that AG Ford fights for every single day.
Can we count on you to contribute $25 or more today to General Ford's campaign committee? Your support will enable him to continue the honorable work he was elected to accomplish.
If you've saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:
[ ] Chip in $8 now >>
[ ] Chip in $15 now >>
[ ] Chip in $25 now >>
[ ] Chip in $50 now >>
[ ] Chip in $75 now >>
[ ] Chip in $100 now >>
[ ] Chip in $250 now >>
[✓] Chip in another amount***
AG Ford doesn’t just talk about a plan, Paul. He’s a man of action and delivery – and that’s why we need to push with everything we have to support him in his capacity as Nevada’s top law enforcement officer. We can’t do it without your help.
Thank you,
Team Ford
P.S. Your continued support fuels the engine of positive change in Nevada. Every contribution, big or small, makes a significant impact. Thank you for being a crucial part of Team Ford!
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Aaron Ford for Attorney General
Donate to Aaron Ford for Nevada
As Attorney General, Aaron Ford is fighting hard for a future that lives up to our promise of liberty, equality, and justice for all.
Your support will enable him to continue the honorable work he was elected to accomplish.
DONATE IMMEDIATELY:
Your contribution will benefit Aaron Ford.
[ ] DONATE $8 →
[ ] DONATE $15 →
[ ] DONATE $25 →
[ ] DONATE $50 →
[ ] DONATE $75 →
[ ] DONATE $100 →
[ ] DONATE $250 →
[✓] OTHER AMOUNT $3.00
PLEASE LEAVE US A TIP TODAY
ActBlue Technical Services is a nonprofit that builds the fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[ ] Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip [For some reason, I couldn't leave a tip!*]
*P.S.: I usually leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, for some reason, I couldn't leave a custom tip—like I usually do—with this donation! So, in order to compensate for my inability to add a custom tip, I went to the ActBlue website and made a $1.00 contribution directly to ActBlue:
Contribute Now to Support ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit organization that builds tools Democrats count on to run their own small-dollar fundraising programs. Small-dollar donors are giving in record numbers in 2020, and we’re only expecting things to get busier.
Will you chip in with a contribution to support our work? Your donation will go directly to ActBlue to help us support this nationwide grassroots movement. If you are looking to donate to a candidate or cause, please see our directory.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit ActBlue.
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $1.00
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Aaron Ford for Attorney General campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "if next November [2024] is anything like that of 2020, there will be Republican candidates on the ballot who perpetuate the Big Lie, who even participated in the January 6 coup attempt, and who view themselves as beholden to the extremes of their party instead of our Constitution and the will of the people." That is why, "in the face of these anti-democratic threats, [Aaron Ford for Attorney General needs my] help amplifying the values that AG Ford fights for every single day."
Thus, these two campaigns—Biden Victory Fund, as well as Aaron Ford for Attorney General—are the political campaigns that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 14th, 2023 and revised January 7th, 2024)
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November 14th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from United Farm Workers (UFW) today, November 14th, 2023, with the subject line, "Comments needed for critical NEW Department of Homeland Security regs [regulations]", which stated the following:
United Farm Workers
Si, Se Puede! UFW
URGENT: New comments needed for critical new Department of Homeland Security regulations
ACT NOW***
We wrote to you asking you to comment in support of new DOL H-2A regulations. That comment period ended today. Now we need to ask you to comment on complementary, but separate proposed regulations by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The deadline for commenting on these regulations is November 20th.
These new DHS regulations would make vital changes for the men and women who harvest our food by offering stronger protections against exploitation for H-2A farm workers and H-2B workers, including:
[✓] Easing H-2 workers' ability to seek new H-2 employment, including a 60-day grace period to allow H-2 workers to seek new jobs and retain their H-2 status when leaving an abusive employer;
[✓] Strengthening prohibitions and enforcement against retaliation, mistreatment, and recruiter fees, including making it more difficult for abusive employers to hire H-2 workers in the future;
[✓] Protecting workers who apply for permanent residency (or “green card”) by allowing them to keep their H-2 status.
The public comment period will close on November 20th. Please help us do all we can to make sure these changed regulations go into effect by posting your comment today. Our new tool allows you to easily post directly to the government's web page from our simple take action page – and bypass navigating through the more complex government public comment website. Please add your public comment here.
PLEASE NOTE: The more personalized your comments are, the greater the impact.
ACT NOW***
PS: After you take action you can also share this campaign on Facebook & Twitter.*
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below—and that text is mostly the same information which is contained in the email above, with additional information:
Comments needed for critical NEW Department of Homeland Security regs
We wrote to you asking you to comment in support of new DOL H-2A regulations. That comment period ended today. Now we need to ask you to comment on complementary, but separate proposed regulations by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The deadline for commenting on these regulations is November 20th.
These new DHS regulations would make vital changes for the men and women who harvest our food by offering stronger protections against exploitation for H-2A farm workers and H-2B workers, including:
[✓] Easing H-2 workers' ability to seek new H-2 employment, including a 60-day grace period to allow H-2 workers to seek new jobs and retain their H-2 status when leaving an abusive employer;
[✓] Strengthening prohibitions and enforcement against retaliation, mistreatment, and recruiter fees, including making it more difficult for abusive employers to hire H-2 workers in the future;
[✓] Protecting workers who apply for permanent residency (or “green card”) by allowing them to keep their H-2 status.
The public comment period will close on November 20th. Please help us do all we can to make sure these changed regulations go into effect by posting your comment today. Our new tool allows you to easily post directly to the government's web page from our simple take action page – and bypass navigating through the more complex government public comment website. Please add your public comment below.
PLEASE NOTE: There is already a draft in the text box. Please edit the draft to personalize the message. The more personalized your comments are, the greater the impact.
Contact Information:
Prefix: Mr.
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Street Address: [redacted]
Postal Code: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Email: [redacted]
Home Phone (Optional): [redacted]
Personalize your comment
I am writing this comment in support of our nation's farm workers, who are the backbone of our agriculture industry. Their dedication ensures that we have a stable food supply. These proposed H-2A regulatory changes are a critical step towards addressing the long-standing issues of abuse, exploitation, and trafficking of farm workers in the H-2A program. In particular, the Department of Homeland Security changes would make it easier for H-2A workers to leave an abusive employer in search of a better employment opportunity, enhancing enforcement against retaliation, and protecting visa status for those who apply to become a permanent resident. By improving the H-2A program, we are not only protecting the rights and well-being of guest workers but also enhancing the conditions for domestic farm workers.
These new DHS regulations would make vital changes for the men and women who harvest our food by offering stronger protections against exploitation for H-2A farm workers and H-2B workers, including:
✓ Easing H-2 workers' ability to seek new H-2 employment, including a 60-day grace period to allow H-2 workers to seek new jobs and retain their H-2 status when leaving an abusive employer;
✓ Strengthening prohibitions and enforcement against retaliation, mistreatment, and recruiter fees, including making it more difficult for abusive employers to hire H-2 workers in the future;
✓ Protecting workers who apply for permanent residency (or “green card”) by allowing them to keep their H-2 status.
I urge the Department of Homeland Security to finalize these proposed rules. This will not only protect the rights and dignity of farm workers but also contribute to the welfare and security of our nation's agricultural workforce.
Sincerely,
[Your information here]
*I selected the "Share on Twitter" option (by the way, I only have a Twitter account so I can read tweets which are included in some online articles that I read) in order for me to provide you, my readers, with the text and hyperlink below:
Comment period now open on proposed NEW @DHSgov regulations. The regs will enhance prohibitions & enforcement against retaliation, mistreatment & recruiter fees–including making it harder for abusive employers to hire H-2 workers in the future.
https://act.seiu.org/a/dhs_h2aregs2023?ms=email&ceid=442257&snw=2&ref=203bb849-c9e9-4ade-b92c-94390d81c72e#!
And so, I sent the comments above to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), via the SEIU.org (Service Employees International Union) website. Then, I made a one-time donation to United Farm Workers in order to support the "new DHS regulations would make vital changes for the men and women who harvest our food by offering stronger protections against exploitation for H-2A farm workers and H-2B workers," because "these proposed H-2A regulatory changes are a critical step towards addressing the long-standing issues of abuse, exploitation, and trafficking of farm workers in the H-2A program." –Paul Whiting (written November 14th, 2023 and revised November 17th, 2023)
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November 14th, 2023 Update No. 3—Which Also Discusses November 13th, 2023: This 'update' that I am writing today, November 14th, 2023, is regarding both my usual reading of Time Magazine articles, as well as from my oftentimes daily news searches on Google.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news for about five or six days, as of today, November 14th, 2023, because of how much blogging I have been doing. So, the last time that I checked the current news could either be considered for late November 8th, 2023, or early November 9th, 2023, depending upon how you look at it, since I actually didn't check the news for November 8th, 2023 until shortly before midnight PST (Pacific Standard Time)!
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day. Then, I usually check each day's news via a Google search under several news topics sometime after I check my email, as well as after I check my previous day's cellular data usage, which I track very carefully.
Thus, I usually check on what is happening in the news via various Google searches that I do on an oftentimes daily basis under the following topics:
American News
United States News
USA News
President Biden News
Joe Biden News
Democrats News
Republicans News
Political News
World News
Global Warming News
Workers On Strike News
Portland Oregon News
Then, I read the news articles that I feel are the most important for me to read from those Time Magazine emails and/or from those Google news searches; but, lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news!
And so, I have been trying to only document the news articles that I still need to read, but haven't got around to reading yet! Therefore, due to this recent volume of news, which started around September 14th, 2023 (please see my 'September 20th, 2023 Update—Continued, Which Also Discusses September 14th, 2023 Through September 19th, 2023' that can be found above), I have been writing these current news 'updates' where I list all of the articles that I am planning to read once I get around to reading them. Thus, this list is rather extensive: as of the last time I checked the news, I currently have 746 news articles left to catch up on reading! (Technically, it’s 711 articles, 2 interviews, 1 press release, 1 transcript, 1 'cartoon carousel,' as well as 27 videos, and 3 podcasts that I have left to catch up on.)
Besides that, since I started documenting these recent news articles (that I am planning to read in the future), I have only been able to catch up on reading the articles through September 26th, 2023 (please see my 'September 26th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above) starting from the first 'update' that I wrote regarding this sudden inundation of news, which was on September 20th, 2023, as noted above.
In other words, since I first wrote my 'September 20th, 2023 Update—Continued, Which Also Discusses September 14th, 2023 Through September 19th, 2023,' I have only been able to catch up on reading 124 articles, watching 2 videos, and listening to 2 podcasts! Therefore, this new system of listing the current news articles that I am planning to catch up on reading sometime in the future isn't sustainable.
Not only that, all of the time I have been spending listing these current news articles (that I am planning to read in the future) has been making it so that I only have time to list the articles, since these most recent news 'updates'—that are simply listing the articles that I am planning to read in future—take about one to two hours to create, or longer. And they also take around 0.20 to 0.25 of a GB, or more, in cellular data to create—simply to search for the articles under the above-mentioned news topics, open each article's webpage, copy the link to each article, and create these current news 'updates.' And I only have about 0.65 of a GB per day, on average, to use in data, since my cell phones data plan is about 20 GBs per month! (By the way, it takes about 0.15 to 0.30 of a GB to read the Time Magazine articles that I receive on a daily basis.)
And all of this prefacing is meant to explain that I am no longer planning to write these current news 'updates' where I list the articles that I am planning to read in the future! Period.
However, I am still planning to highlight some news articles as 'updates' if I feel that those particular articles are important for me to highlight—which is what I used to do—and that why I started writing these current news 'updates' in the first place. (I hope that makes sense!)
Now, I can usually manage to keep up with reading the Time Magazine articles that I receive on a daily basis, but that is just about all that I can do these days. Speaking of which, lately I have only been reading those Time Magazine articles about every two days, which is about all that I can manage.
And I used to provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which used to include the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article. However, I recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 14th, 2023, as well as that I received yesterday, November 13th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 13th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "New ‘Joint Employer’ Rule Could Make It Easier for Millions of Workers to Unionize":
https://time.com/6334326/new-joint-employer-rule-workers-unionize
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The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Netanyahu Discusses Hamas Assault, Gaza’s Future, and Potential Hostage Deal on Meet the Press":
https://time.com/6334179/netanyahu-israel-hamas-war-tv-interview
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The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "A New Political Fundraising Platform Wants to Help Grassroots Donors Give More Efficiently":
https://time.com/6333967/oath-online-fundraising-politics
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "The Collapse of Global Arms Control":
https://time.com/6334258/putin-nuclear-arms-control
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The following are the articles which I received today, November 14th, 2023:
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "The Surprising Political Evolution of American Polyamory":
https://time.com/6331379/polyamory-history
---------------------------------------------
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "When Jews are Threatened, Why Can’t Americans Condemn Antisemitism?":
https://time.com/6334279/rising-antisemitism-october-7-attack-essay
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Is What’s Happening in Gaza a Genocide? Experts Weigh In":
https://time.com/6334409/is-whats-happening-gaza-genocide-experts
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 14th, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023 and revised April 26th, 2024)
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November 15th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, November 15th, 2023, with the subject line, "ACLU's hot seat: Our lawyers on voting rights", which stated the following:
ACLU Pop Quiz: Voting Rights Edition
PLAY VIDEO:
https://www.aclu.org/news/voting-rights/aclu-pop-quiz-voting-rights
Hey Paul, do you know your voting rights?
Join our ACLU experts as they take the hot seat to answer important facts about voting rights – including everything you need to know when it comes to defending against voter suppression and protecting your own rights whenever you take to the polls. Check it out now. >>>
https://www.aclu.org/news/voting-rights/aclu-pop-quiz-voting-rights
Right now, our lawyers are taking states to court – all the way to the Supreme Court in South Carolina's case – to fight against gerrymandering and unequal voter power. While we do that, stay informed and stay in the fight for voting rights by checking out this video now.
– The ACLU Team
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, which can be found below:
ACLU NEWS & COMMENTARY
ACLU POP QUIZ: ACLU Pop Quiz Voting Rights Addition
We Quizzed ACLU Experts on Voting Rights. Can You Beat Them?
November 15, 2023
Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy and the right that empowers us to enact change and hold elected officials accountable. It is also key to achieving systemic equality, particularly given our country’s long history of limiting access to the ballot for communities of color, especially Black voters, which persists today. Discriminatory policies and legislation continue to prevent voters of color from exercising this right easily, if at all.
As another presidential election year draws near, the ACLU continues to protect the right to vote and push back against attempts to suppress our voices at the ballot box. The ACLU voting rights team is working to expand and protect voting rights around the country. So we decided to put their expertise to the test with some rapid-fire voting rights questions. Watch their answers below, or take a shot at answering some of the questions yourself.
[Video: "ACLU Pop Quiz: Voting Rights Edition" from YouTube]
This embed will serve content from www.youtube.com.
[Blogger's Note: I decided to take this quiz before I watched the YouTube video titled, "ACLU Pop Quiz: Voting Rights Edition" to see how many answers I got correct!]
1. What constitutional amendment grants the right to vote?
[✓] The 10th Amendment
[ ] The First Amendment
[ ] The 15th Amendment
[ ] The Second Amendment
[Blogger's Note: I got this one wrong! It was the 15th Amendment.]
2. What year did some women, but not all, receive the right to vote?
[✓] 1910
[ ] 1930
[ ] 1920
[ ] 1975
[I got this one wrong! It was 1920.]
3. What year did Black Americans receive the right to vote?
[✓] 1965
[ ] 1812
[ ] 1920
[ ] 1875
[Blogger's Note: I got this one right! I only knew that because of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.]
4. Which day does Election Day fall on?
[ ] The last week of the year
[ ] The first Monday in May
[✓] The first Tuesday following the first Monday November
The first week of January
[Blogger's Note: I got this one right! But, I forgot that Election Day is the first Tuesday after the first Monday. I thought that it was simply the first Tuesday in November...
...Then, after I took the aforementioned quiz, I watched the YouTube video above, which is fun, educational and thought-provoking!]
Learn more about the ACLU’s work toward racial equity below:
Systemic Equality: Equal Access, Better Futures
https://www.aclu.org/campaigns/systemic-equality-addressing-americas-legacy-of-racism-and-systemic-discrimination
And, after I read the ACLU News & Commentary webpage above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage regarding "Systemic Equality: Equal Access, Better Futures," a brief introduction to which can be found below:
ACLU CAMPAIGNS › Systemic Equality: Equal Access, Better Futures
Are you ready to take action for Systemic Equality?
Yes, sign me up to learn about actions I can take to ensure every person can achieve their highest potential, unhampered by structural and institutional racism.
All fields are required unless labeled optional.
First name: Paul
Last name: Whiting
Email: [redacted]
ZIP code: [redacted]
Sign up
[Blogger's Note: I signed up to take action for Systemic Equality!]
Systemic Equality is A Racial Justice Agenda
Since our nation’s founding, discriminatory policies and laws have created an unequal system in which Black communities have had their civil rights and liberties denied and have been systematically locked out of opportunities in education, housing, employment and more.
Through our Systemic Equality agenda, the ACLU will use nationwide litigation, advocacy, and public education to advance laws and policies rooted in racial equity and end discriminatory policies, laws, and practices that have an outsized impact on Black communities.
The ACLU will also continue to evolve our own culture, systems, and processes to drive progress toward our internal racial justice commitments, including by committing sustained recruitment and hiring efforts to recruit more diverse talent pools, developing initiatives to promote and retain Black leadership, engaging Black-owned and Black-led businesses, and more.
When we have full and equal access to education, jobs, housing, voting rights, and more, better futures are possible. ...
https://www.aclu.org/campaigns/systemic-equality-addressing-americas-legacy-of-racism-and-systemic-discrimination
[Blogger's Note: I read the ACLU's News & Commentary webpage titled, "Systemic Equality: Equal Access, Better Futures," including all of the webpage text, as well as all of the full articles, and I watched all of the videos.]
So, I wanted to share this email from the ACLU in order to show my support for the "ACLU Pop Quiz: Voting Rights Edition!" –Paul Whiting (November 15th, 2023)
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November 16th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these campaign donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations that I make virtually every time that I make a campaign donation—within which I usually include the text from each political campaign's requesting email, or text message, along with some of each campaign's donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign (which is usually $3.00 per campaign), plus how much I tipped ActBlue (which is usually $0.11 per donation)—however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of campaign donation requests!
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign donation 'updates' and combine every campaign donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for campaign donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political campaign communication that I responded to was a text message today, November 16th, 2023, from the Eugene Vindman for Congress (Vindman for Congress) campaign, which stated the following:
Eugene Vindman here -- letting you know I am running for Congress and humbly asking you to support my campaign with a donation today.
On July 25, 2019, my brother Alexander Vindman listened as President Trump attempted to extort our ally Ukraine, a country at war, by withholding military aid unless President Zelenskyy investigated his political rival.
At the time, I was serving as the senior ethics official at the National Security Council in the White House. After Alex reported the call to me, we both blew the whistle on Trump.
The end result was Trump's impeachment.
The decision to blow the whistle on Donald Trump cost my brother and me our military careers after the former-president retaliated against us, but I am not done serving.
I am running for Congress in a swing-district in Virginia, and I need your help.
Please, become a Founding Donor to my campaign today:***
Thank you. - Eugene
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Vindman for Congress
Stand with Eugene Vindman
Become a Founding Donor to Eugene Vindman's campaign for Congress today.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Eugene Vindman.
[ ] Donate $5 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip [I pressed this button by mistake!*]
*P.S.: I usually leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, I accidentally pressed the "Leave no tip" button, rather than pressing the "Add custom amount" button—like I usually do—with this donation! So, in order to compensate for my mistake, I went to the ActBlue website and made a $1.00 contribution directly to ActBlue:
Contribute Now to Support ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit organization that builds tools Democrats count on to run their own small-dollar fundraising programs. Small-dollar donors are giving in record numbers in 2020, and we’re only expecting things to get busier.
Will you chip in with a contribution to support our work? Your donation will go directly to ActBlue to help us support this nationwide grassroots movement. If you are looking to donate to a candidate or cause, please see our directory.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit ActBlue.
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $1.00
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Eugene Vindman for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "become a Founding Donor to [the Eugene Vindman for Congress] campaign."
---------------------------------------------
The second political campaign communication that I responded to was a text message today, November 16th, 2023, from the Katie Porter for Senate campaign, which stated the following:
Paul, it’s Katie Porter, the progressive Democrat running to be California’s next US Senator. As a grassroots funded campaign with an average donation of $25, we just got handed a BIG disadvantage in this race. Let me explain…
A technicality in CA’s election law means that contribution limits have DOUBLED. Politico analysis found that one of our opponents can easily raise another $3 MILLION from his big donors.
On top of that, a super PAC just launched a million dollar ad buy for ANOTHER of our opponents.
Recent polls show us only a point or two behind the leader, but with money like this flooding the race, we have ground to make up.
I rely on folks like you to power this campaign, so if you’re able, please join our team and chip in $10 or even $20 today:***
Thank you!
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Katie Porter for Senate
Donate to help send Katie to the U.S. Senate:
Katie doesn’t take a cent from federal lobbyists or corporate PACs.
She doesn't want their money; Katie is running to stand up to special interests and big corporations to make life better for California families. Chip in before midnight tonight to help us reach our critical $50,000 goal.
DONATE IMMEDIATELY:
Your contribution will benefit Katie Porter.
[ ] Donate $5 →
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $30 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip [I pressed this button by mistake!*]
*P.S.: I usually leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, I accidentally pressed the "Leave no tip" button, rather than pressing the "Add custom amount" button—like I usually do—with this donation! So, in order to compensate for my mistake, I went to the ActBlue website and made a $1.00 contribution directly to ActBlue:
Contribute Now to Support ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit organization that builds tools Democrats count on to run their own small-dollar fundraising programs. Small-dollar donors are giving in record numbers in 2020, and we’re only expecting things to get busier.
Will you chip in with a contribution to support our work? Your donation will go directly to ActBlue to help us support this nationwide grassroots movement. If you are looking to donate to a candidate or cause, please see our directory.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit ActBlue.
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $1.00
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Katie Porter for Senate campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "Katie doesn’t take a cent from federal lobbyists or corporate PACs," however, "as a grassroots funded campaign with an average donation of $25, [Katie Porter for Senate] just got handed a BIG disadvantage in this race," since "Politico analysis found that one of [Katie Porter's] opponents can easily raise another $3 MILLION from his big donors" due to "a technicality in CA’s election law [which] means that contribution limits have DOUBLED." Plus, "on top of that, a super PAC just launched a million dollar ad buy for ANOTHER of [Katie Porter's] opponents." The good news is "recent polls show [Katie Porter for Senate] only a point or two behind the leader, but with money like this flooding the race, [Katie Porter's campaign for Senate has] ground to make up.
Thus, these two campaigns—Eugene Vindman for Congress, as well as Katie Porter for Senate—are the political campaigns that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (November 16th, 2023)
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November 16th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from the American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon (ACLU of Oregon) today, November 16th, 2023, with the subject line, "Real solutions to drug addiction", which stated the following:
SOLUTIONS
FOR SAFE AND JUST
COMMUNITIES
LEARN MORE:
https://www.aclu-or.org/en/campaigns/solutions-safe-and-just-communities
Paul –
Although you know me as the [title redacted] of the ACLU of Oregon, to my loved ones, I am also a mom, daughter, spouse, sister, and friend. In my personal life and through my loved ones, I have direct experiences with poverty, addiction, and physical and mental disabilities.
Like many Oregonians, I'm deeply concerned about drug addiction and increases in overdoses across our state and country, including amongst unsheltered people whose private suffering is in public view.
It is incredibly frustrating to see how decades of underinvestment in critical services has resulted in insufficient access to affordable housing, health care, and addiction treatment across our state – and resulted in very visible suffering on our streets and in our communities.
This is why the ACLU of Oregon team has urged lawmakers to address pressing societal issues holistically – to address root causes instead of offering false promises. We've pressed for real solutions even as some deep-pocketed interest groups, in and outside Oregon, have manipulated the media, lawmakers, and everyday Oregonians with scare tactics because they want addiction, homelessness, and mental illness funneled through police and jails.
The data from 50 years of the failed "War-on-Drugs" makes this clear: Access to addiction treatment and affordable housing are the solution to the drug addiction epidemic. NOT more police, jail, and criminal records.
We know that you want to keep informed, so we created a hub on our website to help you answer important questions, including:
[✓] What does the research show us about how to best address the addiction crisis?
[✓] How does the overdose rate in Oregon compare to other states?
[✓] What can be done to quickly help people get into housing or get the mental health care services they need?
You'll also be hearing more from us on these topics in the coming weeks via email. And, as always, please stay in touch by following us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
As frustrated as I feel, I know that Oregon can do better. Working together, we can create a state where all people are treated with inherent value and dignity and have access to basic human rights, including health care, addiction treatment, and housing.
Oregon is what we make it. As a mom, daughter, spouse, sister, and friend – and as an Oregonian too – I choose to make an Oregon with thriving communities, not more jails and prisons. Please join me.
With hope and in partnership,
[Name redacted]
Pronouns: She, her, hers
[Title redacted], ACLU of Oregon
DONATE NOW
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, regarding the Solutions For Safe And Just Communities information hub. A brief introduction to the webpage can be found below:
SOLUTIONS FOR SAFE AND JUST COMMUNITIES
Oregonians deserve real solutions.
We all have deep frustrations and concerns about the homelessness, drug addiction, and mental health crises in Oregon and across the nation. We must choose real solutions, not scare tactics.
The data is clear: Access to drug treatment and housing -- not harsher criminal penalties -- are the solution to the epidemic of drug addiction.
This is what Oregonians are demanding from local and state lawmakers.
It's plain common sense. We cannot arrest our way out of homelessness, drug use or poverty.
The ACLU urges lawmakers to support evidence-based solutions that prevent crime by addressing the root causes, like affordable housing, mental health and addiction services, and economic growth. ...
[Blogger's Note: I read the ACLU of Oregon's webpage titled, "SOLUTIONS FOR SAFE AND JUST COMMUNITIES."]
Please see the hyperlink below for the webpage:
https://www.aclu-or.org/en/campaigns/solutions-safe-and-just-communities
Plus, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to the ACLU of Oregon in order to show my support for the Solutions For Safe And Just Communities information webpage. –Paul Whiting (November 16th, 2023)
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November 16th, 2023 Update No. 3: I received an email from PlantBasedTreaty.org today, November 16th, 2023, with the subject line, "Ask Portland to sign the Plant Based Treaty 🌱", which stated the following:
Ask Portland to sign the Plant Based Treaty
Email your councilmembers:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/usa-campaigns
Dear Friend,
More than 20 towns and cities worldwide, including Los Angeles, Boynton Beach and the Scottish capital, Edinburgh have officially endorsed the Plant Based Treaty. By taking action together today, we can spread Plant Based Treaty across the United States, leading to revamped Climate Action Plans and plant-based food policies implemented at city halls, schools, care homes and more.
"This landmark resolution marks a vital cultural shift as Americans prioritize both combating climate change and improving their health. As over 2,200 municipalities did with climate emergency declarations, I invite other cities to join us and endorse the Plant Based Treaty.” - Councilmember [name redacted], who introduced the Plant Based Treaty Resolution with Councilmember [name redacted] in Los Angeles.
Take Action
Inviting your councilmembers to sign the Plant Based Treaty helps us identify climate champions who can introduce resolutions and motions to City Hall. If your councillor responds to your email, please forward it to [email redacted] so we can follow up.
1. Write to your councilmembers and ask them to sign the Plant Based Treaty.
Email your councillors:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/usa-campaigns
2. Become a Plant Based Treaty advocate where you live. We hold Welcome Calls every Friday at 10 am and 2 pm EST.
Register now
Did you know?
Councillor [name redacted] in Edinburgh introduced a Plant Based Treaty motion following emails from residents. As a result, the city of Edinburgh endorsed the Plant Based Treaty and is now working on a city-wide action plan to implement plant-based food policies. People power really works! Cities across the United States can take a leadership role in addressing food emissions too.
If you’d like to join our brand new USA Whatsapp chat to connect with Plant Based Treaty advocates near you, use this link or reply to this email with your phone number and we can add you.
Join Whatsapp chat
Thank you for helping build a kinder plant-based world for everyone and future generations to come.
[Name redacted] & [Name redacted]
Plant Based Treaty USA
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced website, regarding "Ask[ing] Portland to sign the Plant Based Treaty," the relevant text of which can be found below:
Plant Based Treaty
USA City Campaigns
Alabama
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/alabama-email-action
Alaska
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/alaska-email-action
Arizona
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/arizona-email-action
Arkansas
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/arkansas-email-action
Berkeley
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/berkeley-email
California
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/california-email
Colorado
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/colorado-email-action
Connecticut
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/connecticut-email-action
Delaware, OH
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/delaware-ohio
Florida
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/florida-email-action
Georgia
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/georgia-email-action
Hawaii
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/hawaii-email-action
Idaho
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/idaho-email-action
Illinois
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/illinois-email-action
Indiana
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/indiana-email-action
Iowa
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/iowa-email-action
Kansas
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/kansas-email-action
Kentucky
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/kentucky-email-action
Louisiana
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/louisiana-email-action
Maine
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/maine-email-action
Maryland
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/maryland-email-action
Massachusetts
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/massachusetts-email-action
Michigan
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/michigan-email-action
Minnesota
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/minnesota-email-action
Mississippi
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/mississippi-email-action
Missouri
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/missouri-email-action
Montana
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/montana-email-action
Nebraska
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/nebraska-email-action
Nevada
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/nevada-email-action
New Hampshire
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/new-hampshire-email-action
New Jersey
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/new-jersey-email-action
New Mexico
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/new-mexico-email-action
New York State
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/nyc
North Carolina
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/north-carolina-email-action
North Dakota
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/north-dakota-email-action
Ohio
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/ohio-email-action
Oklahoma
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/oklahoma-email-action
Oregon
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/oregon-email
Pennsylvania
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/pennsylvania-email-action
Rhode Island
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/rhode-island-email-action
South Carolina
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/south-carolina-email-action
South Dakota
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/south-dakota-email-action
San Diego
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/san-diego
Tennessee
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/tennessee-email-action
Texas
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/texas-email-action
Utah
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/utah-email-action
Vermont
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/vermont-email-action
Virginia
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/virginia-email-action
Washington
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/washington-email-action
West Virginia
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/west-virginia-email-action
Wisconsin
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/wisconsin-email-action
Wyoming
Take action:
https://plantbasedtreaty.org/wyoming-email-action
Plant Based Treaty 2023
And, after I read the website above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, regarding "Ask[ing] Cities in Oregon to Endorse the Plant Based Treaty," the relevant text of which can be found below:
Email your local councillors today and ask them to sign the Plant Based Treaty.
We’d love to know if your councillor responds. Please forward any replies you receive to [email redacted].
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Email Address: [redacted]
Street Address: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
ZIP code: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
We'll notify your representative[s].
Dear council member
[recipient name will go here],
In September 2021, Boynton Beach, Florida became the first city to endorse the Plant Based Treaty. This was later followed by Los Angeles passing a resolution to endorse the Plant Based Treaty in October 2022.
A coalition of more than 3000 groups and businesses, including Social Compassion in Legislation, Ocean Preservation Society, Better Food Foundation, In Defense of Animals and Reimagine Agriculture, is urging council members across the state of Florida to support sustainable diets by signing the Plant Based Treaty initiative.
The UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ described the release of the IPCC sixth assessment as a 'code red' for humanity and our last chance to avoid catastrophic climate breakdown.
Greenhouse gases must be cut in a rapid and sustained manner to avoid temperatures rising above 1.5C. According to the 2021 UN Global Methane Assessment, methane, of which a third comes from animal agriculture, must be cut by 45% by 2030.
The Plant Based Treaty is designed to put food systems at the forefront of combating the climate crisis. Modeled on the popular Fossil Fuel Treaty, the treaty aims to halt the widespread degradation of critical ecosystems caused by animal farming and promote a shift towards healthier, sustainable plant-based diets.
More than 750 politicians back the treaty, along with IPCC scientists Dr. Peter Carter and Professor Julia Steinberger, and Nobel Laureates, including Klaus Hasselmann and Roger D. Kornberg.
Boynton Beach City’s Sustainability Coordinator, Rebecca Harvey said, “Food choices are one of the most powerful ways that individuals can help solve the climate crisis. Plant-based foods have a much lower carbon footprint than red meat and dairy.”
Councilmember Paul Koretz, who introduced the resolution with Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson in Los Angeles said, “This landmark resolution marks a vital cultural shift as Americans prioritize both combating climate change and improving their health. As over 2,200 municipalities did with climate emergency declarations, I invite other cities to join us and endorse the Plant Based Treaty.”
Please visit www.plantbasedtreaty.org, where you can sign your name to endorse the Plant Based Treaty or consider putting forward a motion for your city to endorse. You can email [email redacted] for a sample motion.
Thank you for taking climate action today to secure a future for all.
Sincerely,
[your name will go here]
[your email address will go here]
[your location will go here]
Plant Based Treaty Supporter
Add You Voice
And, after I sent the letter above to my city councilmembers in Portland, Oregon, I made a one-time donation to Plant Based Treaty in order to show my support for this campaign to "write to your councilmembers and ask them to sign the Plant Based Treaty." –Paul Whiting (November 16th, 2023)
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November 16th, 2023 Update No. 4: Giving Tuesday is twelve days away from today, November 16th, 2023! And so, I decided to make one-time donations to organizations that provide humanitarian aid and disaster relief for my 'early' Giving Tuesday donations: these include some organizations that provide emergency and disaster relief [the American Red Cross (ARC), the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)], one organization that provides global medical care (Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders); as well as some organizations that provide humanitarian aid [the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (USA for UNHCR), United Nations Population Fund (USA for UNFPA), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF USA) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP USA)].
And I was inspired to make these donations by emails that I received today from two of the above-mentioned organizations, including one email from an international organization that "provides emergency aid and medical care around the globe," as well as one email from an organization that "helps to save, protect and rebuild the lives of millions of refugees."
–Paul Whiting (written November 16th, 2023, revised November 17th, 2023, revised November 20th, 2023 and revised November 21st, 2023)
P.S.: By the way, I don't make all of my charitable donations on Giving Tuesday of each year! I only donate to those organizations that I have not already donated to sometime during the year (at least, organizations that I have not necessarily already donated to). You see, I donate to various charitable and progressive organizations throughout the year, where I make some donations on a monthly basis (depending upon the organization), in addition to some donations that I only make once per year based upon certain types of 'theme days,' if you will (again, depending upon the organization).
Please let me explain: I donate to various charitable organizations during the year on particular 'theme days,' so to speak, which I feel correspond directly to particular charitable causes, because it helps me to remember to donate to those particular causes during the year that I feel have a corresponding 'theme day.'
That way, I am spreading the charitable love throughout the entire year—and not simply having a year's worth of charitable giving 'bunch up,' so to speak, on Giving Tuesday. So then, whichever charitable organizations don't have an obvious corresponding 'theme day,' I can donate to those charitable organizations during Giving Tuesday, since I haven't already given to those particular organizations sometime during the year!
For example, I usually make donations to various environmental organizations on April 22nd of each year—as a way to celebrate Earth Day—and as a way to support the environmental organizations to which I choose to donate on Earth Day, which is the day that I feel thematically corresponds directly to the causes that those particular organizations represent.
That is why I coordinate some of my charitable giving during the year with a particular 'theme day' that some charitable causes correspond to—such as the above-mentioned environmental organizations whose causes I feel directly correspond to the 'theme day' of Earth Day, which is simply one example of this type of 'theme day' charitable giving that I do throughout the year!
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November 17th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon (Planned Parenthood Political Action Committee of Oregon) today, November 17th, 2023, with the subject line, "When abortion rights are on the line, we win every time.", which stated the following:
Did you know? You can make a gift to Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon at no cost to you. Oregon’s Political Tax Credit allows individuals to claim up to $50, and couples filing jointly to claim up to $100 of a political contribution on their taxes. Make a difference by donating your Political Tax Credit to PP PAC of Oregon
Dear Paul,
We say this every year, because it’s true: When abortion and reproductive health access are on the ballot, we win.
In Ohio, Kentucky, Vermont, Montana, Michigan, California, and Kansas voters took control at the ballot box and delivered wins for bodily autonomy and reproductive rights this year, proving what we already know - the majority of voters want reproductive freedom.
When you invest in Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon, you invest in our future of abortion access. 2024 is fast approaching and next year, abortion rights will be on the ballot in Oregon all the way down the ticket. Contributing to our PAC empowers us to educate voters and elect abortion rights champions all across the state.
MAKE A GIFT TODAY***
Oregon is not immune to the attacks on abortion access and sex education we are seeing across the country, and the 2024 election cycle will be no exception. Despite a walkout by state Republican Senators during this year’s legislative session, we achieved an historic win for abortion access and reproductive rights with the passage of HB 2002, which established critical protections for providers and patients, closed gaps in healthcare access, and established a fundamental right to the full spectrum of sexual and reproductive healthcare.
We couldn’t have done that without legislative champions and pro-abortion majorities in Oregon’s House and Senate. Your contribution to Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon today will help us defend our legislative majorities, educate voters, and light the path for future movement leaders.
Sincerely,
[Name redacted], [Title redacted] Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon
DONATE NOW***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon, since "Oregon is not immune to the attacks on abortion access and sex education we are seeing across the country, and the 2024 election cycle will be no exception." That is why "when [I] invest in Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon, [I] invest in our future of abortion access," because "in Ohio, Kentucky, Vermont, Montana, Michigan, California, and Kansas voters took control at the ballot box and delivered wins for bodily autonomy and reproductive rights this year, proving what we already know - the majority of voters want reproductive freedom." –Paul Whiting (written November 17th, 2023 and revised December 13th, 2023)
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November 17th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from United Farm Workers (UFW) today, November 17th, 2023, with the subject line, "We can’t do Thanksgiving without farm workers", which stated the following:
United Farm Workers
Si, Se Puede! UFW
We can’t do Thanksgiving without farm workers
As Thanksgiving approaches, many look forward to celebrating the season of sharing with a special meal. As we sit down for the traditional Thanksgiving dinner, we're thankful for the bounty of fresh food we enjoy on Thanksgiving and every day of the year. Let's give thanks to the farm workers who do the labor that brings this food to our tables.
Farm workers have simple hopes and desires -- a safe job, paid holidays, adequate wages, decent housing, and food on the table. Unfortunately, many farm workers have a long way to go to achieve these basic necessities. Workers are organizing to improve conditions, but it's an uphill battle. That's why I'm asking you to help give a better workplace and a better life to more of these truly essential workers – by sending a holiday gift to the UFW today.
[Name redacted] ties grapevines in Greenfield CA for minimum wage with no benefits. She shares the injustices on the job are many. “I have to pay for my tools. In hot weather it gets super hot between grape plants. Several times [the supervisor] scolded me for going out to drink water or go to the bathroom. He told me that that was what the breaks are for...The bathrooms are very dirty...They do not have water to wash my hands or soap.”
The difference between what non-union workers like [redacted] endure and what union workers experience is huge. [Name redacted] has worked under a UFW contract in Washington State for the last 23 years with benefits such as paid holidays, vacation and a pension plan. “The company provides all the tools needed to do my job. I do not have to buy anything...I also have really good benefits with my contract. I have family health insurance, medical and dental coverage...The most important benefit I have is job security and they respect my seniority. I am very happy with my contract...I am not afraid or fearful."
This is the power of the union. It's the power of workers joining together fighting -- and your donation can help make this happen. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, would you make a gift to the UFW to help continue our efforts to give a better life to more farm workers all year round? You'll give the very best holiday gift to those whose hard work provides your food and drink at Thanksgiving … and throughout the year!
DONATE***
PS: After you take action you can also share this campaign on Facebook & Twitter.*
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
*I selected the "Share on Twitter" option (by the way, I only have a Twitter account so I can read tweets which are included in some online articles that I read) in order for me to provide you, my readers, with the text and hyperlink below:
We can’t do #Thanksgiving without farm workers: Make a donation during this season of thanks and giving and help fund change all year long.
https://act.seiu.org/a/thanksgiving1123?am=25.00&ms=email&ceid=442257#!
And so, I made a one-time donation to United Farm Workers because "we can’t do Thanksgiving without farm workers." That is why I made "a gift to the UFW to help continue [their] efforts to give a better life to more farm workers all year round." And I hope that you, my readers, will also consider making "a donation during this season of thanks and giving and help fund change all year long," since "you'll give the very best holiday gift to those whose hard work provides your food and drink at Thanksgiving … and throughout the year!" –Paul Whiting (November 17th, 2023)
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November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these campaign donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations that I make virtually every time that I make a campaign donation—within which I usually include the text from each political campaign's requesting email, or text message, along with some of each campaign's donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign (which is usually $3.00 per campaign), plus how much I tipped ActBlue (which is usually $0.11 per donation)—however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of campaign donation requests!
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign donation 'updates' and combine every campaign donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for campaign donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political campaign communication that I responded to was an email from the Jamie Raskin for Congress campaign today, November 17th, 2023, with the subject line, "From impossible to inevitable", which stated the following:
Dear Paul:
The most important political epiphany I ever had was on the day I announced my first run for public office—the Maryland State Senate, nearly two decades ago.
I made a speech setting forth everything I wanted to accomplish: abolish the death penalty in our state, increase the minimum wage, decriminalize marijuana, ban the sale of military-style assault weapons, launch the National Popular Vote interstate compact, and pass marriage equality for our besieged LGBTQ community.
A woman came up to me and said: “Great speech, Jamie, but one thing—take out everything you have in there about gay marriage. It's not going to happen and even gay candidates don’t talk about it. It makes you sound really extreme, like you’re not in the political center.”
I paused because I didn’t want to offend her, but my kids were with me watching, and so I said this:
“I really appreciate your telling me that because it makes me realize that it is not my ambition to be in the political center, which blows around with the wind. It is my ambition to be in the moral center. That’s why I’m a Democrat and that's why I’m a progressive.”
“It is our job to move public opinion so we can bring the political center to the moral center.”
I was running against a 32-year incumbent who was president pro tem of the Maryland Senate and chair of the Montgomery County Senate delegation. A pundit told a local newspaper that my chances of victory were considered “impossible.”
But nine months later, after building a grassroots campaign that educated and mobilized thousands of people, we won 67 percent of the vote. On Election night, the Washington Post quoted a pundit who declared that my victory was “inevitable.”
We went from impossible to inevitable in nine months.
Paul—I teach the young people in our Democracy Summer project that, in politics, nothing is impossible and nothing is inevitable. Change is only possible through the democratic arts of educating people and organizing towards real change.
I’m proud of what we accomplished in the State Senate, and now I’m in Congress working every day to defend strong democracy and freedom all across America. From leading the 2021 impeachment trial of Donald Trump for inciting insurrection, which resulted in a 57-43 Senate vote in favor of conviction, to referring Donald Trump for prosecution for four crimes through my service on the January 6 Select Committee, I am working in the center of the fight in the people’s House to defeat right-wing authoritarianism, racism and extremism, and to defend our democracy and freedom.
Will you support my work by making a generous donation of $10 or more today?
CONTRIBUTE***
Together we’re organizing with thousands of young people across America in our Democracy Summer project for landslide Democratic victory in 2024 and beyond! I’m grateful for your friendship and solidarity, and I am sending love and strength for the battles ahead.
With gratitude and nothing but high hopes for America,
Jamie Raskin
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Donate to Defend Democracy!
I have one overriding political imperative in the next year: to resoundingly win back the House from the MAGA extremists and to hold the U.S. Senate.
Will you make a donation to our campaign for landslide Democratic victory in 2024 and beyond?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Jamie Raskin.
[ ] Donate $5 →
[ ] Donate $15 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] Add $1 tip
[✓] Add custom amount $0.75*
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Jamie Raskin for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) since it is "not [Jamie Raskin's] ambition to be in the political center, which blows around with the wind ... It is [his] ambition to be in the moral center. That’s why [he's] a Democrat and that's why [he's] a progressive." And that is why I donated to his campaign, because "[Jamie Raskin is] working in the center of the fight in the people’s House to defeat right-wing authoritarianism, racism and extremism, and to defend our democracy and freedom."
Thus, this one campaign—Jamie Raskin for Congress—is the political campaign that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 17th, 2023, revised November 19th, 2023 and revised November 26th, 2023)
*P.S.: I usually leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with this donation! So, I am going to run the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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November 17th, 2023 Update No. 4—Which Also Discusses November 16th, 2023 And November 15th, 2023: [CONTENT WARNING: THIS UPDATE CONTAINS ARTICLES WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!] This 'update' that I am writing today, November 17th, 2023, is regarding both my usual reading of Time Magazine articles, as well as from my oftentimes daily news searches on Google.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news for about three days, as of today, November 17th, 2023, because of how much blogging I have been doing. So, the last time that I checked the current news was on November 14th, 2023!
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day. Then, I usually check each day's news via a Google search under several news topics sometime after I check my email, as well as after I check my previous day's cellular data usage, which I track very carefully.
Thus, I usually check on what is happening in the news via various Google searches that I do on an oftentimes daily basis under the following topics:
American News
United States News
USA News
President Biden News
Joe Biden News
Democrats News
Republicans News
Political News
World News
Global Warming News
Workers On Strike News
Portland Oregon News
Then, I read the news articles that I feel are the most important for me to read from those Time Magazine emails and/or from those Google news searches; but, lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news!
And so, I have been trying to only document the news articles that I still need to read, but haven't got around to reading yet! Therefore, due to this recent volume of news, which started around September 14th, 2023 (please see my 'September 20th, 2023 Update—Continued, Which Also Discusses September 14th, 2023 Through September 19th, 2023' that can be found above), I have been writing these current news 'updates' where I list all of the articles that I am planning to read once I get around to reading them. Thus, this list is rather extensive: as of the last time I checked the news, I currently have 746 news articles left to catch up on reading! (Technically, it’s 711 articles, 2 interviews, 1 press release, 1 transcript, 1 'cartoon carousel,' as well as 27 videos, and 3 podcasts that I have left to catch up on.)
Besides that, since I started documenting these recent news articles (that I am planning to read in the future), I have only been able to catch up on reading the articles through September 26th, 2023 (please see my 'September 26th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above) starting from the first 'update' that I wrote regarding this sudden inundation of news, which was on September 20th, 2023, as noted above.
In other words, since I first wrote my 'September 20th, 2023 Update—Continued, Which Also Discusses September 14th, 2023 Through September 19th, 2023,' I have only been able to catch up on reading 124 articles, watching 2 videos, and listening to 2 podcasts! Therefore, this new system of listing the current news articles that I am planning to catch up on reading sometime in the future isn't sustainable.
Not only that, all of the time I have been spending listing these current news articles (that I am planning to read in the future) has been making it so that I only have time to list the articles, since these most recent news 'updates'—that are simply listing the articles that I am planning to read in future—take about one to two hours to create, or longer. And they also take around 0.20 to 0.25 of a GB, or more, in cellular data to create—simply to search for the articles under the above-mentioned news topics, open each article's webpage, copy the link to each article, and create these current news 'updates.' And I only have about 0.65 of a GB per day, on average, to use in data, since my cell phones data plan is about 20 GBs per month! (By the way, it takes about 0.15 to 0.30 of a GB to read the Time Magazine articles that I receive on a daily basis.)
And all of this prefacing is meant to explain that I am no longer planning to write these current news 'updates' where I list the articles that I am planning to read in the future! Period.
However, I am still planning to highlight some news articles as 'updates' if I feel that those particular articles are important for me to highlight—which is what I used to do—and that why I started writing these current news 'updates' in the first place. (I hope that makes sense!)
Now, I can usually manage to keep up with reading the Time Magazine articles that I receive on a daily basis, but that is just about all that I can do these days. Speaking of which, lately I have only been reading those Time Magazine articles about every two or three days, which is about all that I can manage.
And I used to provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which used to include the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article. However, I recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 17th, 2023, and that I received yesterday, November 16th, 2023, as well as that I received the day before yesterday, November 15th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received two days ago, November 15th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "How Christianity Influenced America’s Notions of Equality":
https://time.com/6334872/christian-influence-american-equality-essay
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The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Johnson’s Plan to Avert a Government Shutdown Passes—but Angers Some Republicans":
https://time.com/6335266/mike-johnson-republicans-cr-govenrment-shutdown-passes
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The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Israel’s Military Raids Gaza’s Largest Hospital":
https://time.com/6335300/israel-operation-al-shifa-hospital-gaza
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The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Lawmakers Almost Came to Physical Blows at the Capitol. Twice":
https://time.com/6334994/burchett-mccarthy-altercation-mullin-obrien
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The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "How Racism Affects the Mental Health of Black Youth":
https://time.com/6331945/anti-black-racism-mental-health-crisis-essay
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 16th, 2023:
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Why Starbucks Workers Are on Strike Today":
https://time.com/6335712/starbucks-workers-strike-red-cup-day
By the way, I also watched the video accompanying the article above that is titled the same as the article.
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received today, November 17th, 2023:
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "How Netanyahu Is Undermining Biden’s Gaza Strategy":
https://time.com/6336245/benjamin-netanyahu-undermining-bidens-gaza-strategy
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The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Why Osama bin Laden’s ‘Letter to America’ Went Viral on TikTok":
https://time.com/6336280/osama-bin-laden-letter-to-america-tiktok
---------------------------------------------
The ninth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "While Dodging a Shutdown, Congress May Have Just Given Some Jan. 6 Rioters a Break":
https://time.com/6336404/government-shutdown-republicans-january-6-cases
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The tenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "The Devastating Mental Health Effects of Islamophobia": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT DISCRIMINATION TOWARD, AND VIOLENCE AGAINST, PALESTINIANS WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6335453/islamophobia-mental-health-effects-essay
---------------------------------------------
The eleventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Why Black Friday Deals Are Starting Earlier Than Ever":
https://time.com/6336474/black-friday-deals-early-economy
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 17th, 2023, revised November 18th, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023 and revised April 26th, 2024)
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November 18th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from Planned Parenthood Action Fund today, November 18th, 2023, with the subject line, "We have a story to tell you", which stated the following:
Paul,
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott knows the baseless $1.8 billion lawsuit brought by an anonymous anti-abortion radical and backed by Texas politicians could shut down Planned Parenthood health centers and harm patients.
That's why this isn't just another legal fight: It's a politically motivated move that will affect real people — their lives, their health, their futures. If this meritless lawsuit shuts down Planned Parenthood, many of the thousands of Texans who rely on high-quality, affordable care at Planned Parenthood health centers would have nowhere to go.
Learn how patients like [name redacted] have experienced the lifesaving services Planned Parenthood health centers provide:
"A male doctor I was seeing for pap smears told me that receiving an abnormal pap is typical and that I should not be alarmed. After talking with other women, I reached out to Planned Parenthood. I received a pap at Planned Parenthood and when it came back abnormal, a biopsy was done, and it was detected that I had pre-cancerous cells. A freezing procedure was performed, and, for two years, I went back to Planned Parenthood every three to six months for cancer screenings. Planned Parenthood is the reason why I am alive today.
Planned Parenthood is not just about abortion, it's about women getting their personal needs met. It's education for young people. They are not taking away rights from parents, I was open with my parents and have always told my daughter she can always call on Planned Parenthood. They know the resources we need.
I'm glad Planned Parenthood is there for people who need it, for financial reasons or anything else. In all my years working with young women's groups, I mention this story so that other women who are in college can gain the support and education that PP offers. If this resource is taken away, what happens to our women? If it wasn't for Planned Parenthood, the last 50 years of my life may have been very different or I may not be alive today.
This nearly two billion dollar lawsuit is a smear campaign. It is horrible. It's a shame that things that are benefitting women are being attacked.
Taking away Planned Parenthood takes away the opportunity for people to make their own decisions. I believe in opportunity for everyone, regardless of color or gender. You have a right to have the opportunity to do the things you want to do in life."
While Gov. Abbott and his allies are busy playing politics with people's lives, we'll continue fighting for patients like [name redacted] — and we need you with us. Add your name and say: "I'm For Planned Parenthood."
https://www.weareplannedparenthood.org/lu_MutDNwkybpJ8nsMyzFQ2
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
Planned Parenthood Action Fund
By the way, I already took this action to "Add your name: I'm For Planned Parenthood" on November 4th, 2023 (please see my 'November 4th, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above); however, I wanted to share this petition with you, my readers, in order to for you to consider signing it too!
Therefore, I am doing my part as a blogger in order to help Planned Parenthood because, "while Gov. Abbott and his allies are busy playing politics with people's lives, [Planned Parenthood will] continue fighting for patients like [name redacted] — and [they] need you with [them]."
Thank you for adding your name!
–Paul Whiting (November 18th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, I used to make one-time donations to the organization that is the subject of these 'updates' each time that I took an action as requested by that organization; however, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am greatly reducing the number of times that I donate for the same organization per month down to once—or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis." (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.) Thus, because I have already donated to Planned Parenthood Action Fund on November 3rd, 2023 (please see my 'November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above) that is the one-time donation which I made to Planned Parenthood Action Fund for November 2023.
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November 18th, 2023 Update No. 2: Giving Tuesday is ten days away from today, November 18th, 2023! And so, I decided to make one-time donations to several charities as a continuation of my 'early' Giving Tuesday donations, which include the following: 'a charity assessment organization that evaluates hundreds of thousands of charitable organizations based in the United States' (Charity Navigator); an organization 'that fights all forms of antisemitism and bias' (Anti-Defamation League); an organization that is 'an international federation of Jewish communities and organizations' (World Jewish Congress, American Section); a local 'trusted community resource offering counseling, food, clothing, and more to thousands of individuals and families in Portland' (William Temple House); a local organization that provides 'support to individuals at all stages of their journey from homelessness to permanent housing' (Transition Projects); and a 'homeless advocacy group and a weekly alternative newspaper that covers homeless issues' (Street Roots).
And I was inspired to make these donations by mailers that I received yesterday November 17th, 2023, from the above-mentioned organizations, including the following: one mailer from "the world's largest, most trusted nonprofit evaluator"; one mailer from "the leading anti-hate organization in the world"; one mailer from "the leading international organization connecting and protecting Jewish communities globally"; one mailer from a local organization that "provides food, counseling, clothing, and household items to Portland-area neighbors"; one mailer from a local organization that "has delivered life-saving and life-changing assistance to some of Portland's most vulnerable residents"; and a local organization "that publishes a weekly social justice newspaper sold by people experiencing homelessness and poverty to earn an income."
–Paul Whiting (written November 18th, 2023, revised November 19th, 2023, revised November 20th, 2023, revised November 21st, 2023, revised December 15th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
P.S.: Please see my detailed descriptions—immediately after this 'update'—of the following Giving Tuesday donations for which I received the above-mentioned mailers!
Charity Navigator: 'November 18th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023' that can be found below.
Anti-Defamation League (ADL): 'November 18th, 2023 Update No. 4, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023' that can be found below.
World Jewish Congress, American Section: 'November 18th, 2023 Update No. 5, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023' that can be found below.
William Temple House: 'November 18th, 2023 Update No. 6, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023' that can be found below.
Transition Projects: 'November 18th, 2023 Update No. 7, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023' that can be found below.
Street Roots: 'November 18th, 2023 Update No. 8, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023' that can be found below.
P.P.S.: By the way, I don't make all of my charitable donations on Giving Tuesday of each year! I only donate to those organizations that I have not already donated to sometime during the year (at least, organizations that I have not necessarily already donated to). You see, I donate to various charitable and progressive organizations throughout the year, where I make some donations on a monthly basis (depending upon the organization), in addition to some donations that I only make once per year based upon certain types of 'theme days,' if you will (again, depending upon the organization).
Please let me explain: I donate to various charitable organizations during the year on particular 'theme days,' so to speak, which I feel correspond directly to particular charitable causes, because it helps me to remember to donate to those particular causes during the year that I feel have a corresponding 'theme day.'
That way, I am spreading the charitable love throughout the entire year—and not simply having a year's worth of charitable giving 'bunch up,' so to speak, on Giving Tuesday. So then, whichever charitable organizations don't have an obvious corresponding 'theme day,' I can donate to those charitable organizations during Giving Tuesday, since I haven't already given to those particular organizations sometime during the year!
For example, I usually make donations to various veterans’ charities on November 11th of each year—as a way to honor Veterans Day—and as a way to support the veterans’ organizations to which I choose to donate on Veterans Day, which is the day that I feel thematically corresponds directly to the causes that those particular organizations represent.
That is why I coordinate some of my charitable giving during the year with a particular 'theme day' that some charitable causes correspond to, such as the above-mentioned veterans’ organizations whose causes I feel directly correspond to the 'theme day' of Veterans Day, which is simply one example of this type of 'theme day' charitable giving that I do throughout the year!
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November 18th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023: I received a mailer from Charity Navigator two days ago on November 17th, 2023, which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
Charity Navigator
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Paul [Middle Initial] Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Dear Paul,
Thank you so much for being a Charity Navigator supporter and entrusting us to help guide your giving. It's an enormous honor to serve you and over 11 million big-hearted donors like you each year.
I'm reaching out today with an important question: How can you feel confident that your donations make a powerful impact on the causes you care about?
Many of the charities you support work to solve complicated issues, and, at times, it's difficult to know how much of a difference your donations are making. That's why the Charity Navigator team developed the Impact & Results beacon as a part of our ratings.
I humbly ask that you step forward today and reaffirm your support to Charity Navigator with a tax-deductible gift. It would really help us reach our big goal of increasing the number of charities with Impact & Results scores from 2,000 to 3,000.
Generating Impact & Results scores is a complex process. We have to develop a sophisticated methodology for each program type, gather detailed data from charities, and analyze and score the data.
Your support will lead to greater giving to more effective organizations, which means more children receiving proper nutrition, more dogs and cats finding loving homes, more housing stability for vulnerable populations, more trees being planted, and so much more.
Can I count on you to make a new tax-deductible gift to Charity Navigator today?
I'm confident we'll reach our goal because of extraordinary people like you. Thank you in advance for your renewed support today!
[Name redacted]
Chief Relationship Officer
If you prefer to donate online, simply charitynavigator.org/donate or scan the QR code under my signature.
You can also donate using stock, donor-advised funds, individual retirement account (ICR), and more!
---------------------------------------------
THANK YOU!
Paul [Middle Initial] Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Your support helps us provide donors with the tools and resources to make informed, impactful decisions.
My gift
[ ] $25
[ ] $50 Your gift of this amount or more would really help!
[ ] $75
[✓] Other $7.00
[ ] I've enclosed my check, made payable to Charity Navigator.
[ ] Please charge my credit card (see reverse).
[ ] I'd like to give on a recurring (e.g. monthly or annual) basis (credit card only).
Charity Navigator
Donate online at charitynavigator.org/donate.
Kindly confirm your information so we can stay in touch with you. or email [email redacted] to update.
Email: [email redacted]
Phone: ________________________
Our pledge: Charity Navigator will never sell or share your information with another entity. Learn more at charitynavigator.org/privacy.
Charity Navigator
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And, after I read the letter above, I entered the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Support Charity Navigator and make impactful giving easier for all.
Every year, millions of Americans rely on Charity Navigator's ratings and resources to guide their giving. Like the nonprofits we rate, we're a nonprofit that depends on your generosity.
Your tax-deductible gift to Charity Navigator today will help us increase the depth and breadth of our ratings, equipping donors with tools and information to make informed, impactful philanthropic choices.
Thank you in advance for your generosity.
And so, I made a one-time donation to Charity Navigator yesterday, November 18th, 2023, in order to "help [Charity Navigator] reach [their] big goal of increasing the number of charities with Impact & Results scores from 2,000 to 3,000." –Paul Whiting (written November 19th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 18th, 2023 Update No. 4, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023: I received a mailer from the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) two days ago on November 17th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "Your 2023 Impact Report: A Year of Incredible Action Thanks to You: Matching Gift Challenge", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
ADL
FIGHTING HATE FOR GOOD
Your 2023 Impact Report
A Year of Incredible Action Thanks to You
MATCHING GIFT CHALLENGE
Paul, help fight hate for good in the coming year with a gift that DOUBLES in impact. Respond by November 30!
Dear Paul,
It's an honor to present your 2023 Impact Report, which describes the work you made possible fighting antisemitism, extremism, racism and all forms of hate this past year.
It's an act of courage to speak up against extremists in our communities and actively support efforts to combat the alarming rise of antisemitism and hate. So, I want to thank you for your generosity and for being courageous during these troubling times.
Since your first gift in 2023, you've helped support our efforts to fight against the defamation of the Jewish people and secure justice and fair treatment for all.
Paul, your generosity — and tenacity — are needed more than ever in the fight against the escalating threats today of antisemitism, hate and extremism.
Your year-end support today will empower ADL's fight against domestic terrorists and antisemitic extremists. Plus, right now, you can have 2X the impact ... because a group of generous donors has agreed to match any gift you make before November 30, dollar for dollar, up to our year-end goal of $250,000.
That means your tax-deductible gift of $25 will DOUBLE to $50 to track and stop antisemitism before it turns deadly.
Your donation of $50 during our 2023 Matching Gift Challenge will become $100 and go TWICE AS FAR to stop online hate and harassment.
Your gift of $75 DOUBLED becomes $150 to implement ADL's education initiatives to ensure students learn about and understand the history of the Holocaust.
Any amount you send, even a generous gift of $100, will DOUBLE to be used where it is most needed in the fight against antisemitism, hate and extremism.
Here are just a few highlights of the incredible work your generosity makes possible.
YOU Assisted ADL in Tracking Antisemitism and Extremism
Antisemitism and extremism are surging. Worse, we are at a dangerous point in history where public figures have mainstreamed antisemitic hate into American culture.
That's why it's so important that your ongoing support helps ADL track and report antisemitism in our communities through ADL's Audit of Antisemitic Incidents.
ADL
AUDIT OF ANTISEMITIC INCIDENTS 2022:
In the most recent report, ADL recorded a startling total of 3,697 antisemitic incidents across the U.S. That's a 36% increase from the previous year, and it's the highest number ever recorded by ADL since tracking began in 1979:
[✴] Antisemitic vandalism increased by 51%.
[✴] Harassment swelled 29%.
[✴] Physical assaults shot up 26%.
I realize this increase in antisemitism and hate can feel terrifying.
But with your ongoing support, ADL is working tirelessly to secure the safety of Jewish communities and other marginalized groups. This includes playing a significant role in the creation of a national strategy to fight antisemitism.
Supporters Like YOU Helped Create the First-Ever U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism
For Jewish people and other marginalized groups, the mainstreaming of hate, combined with disinformation, conspiracy theories and misinformation, has made the world increasingly more hostile, violent and dangerous.
Fortunately — because of the support of people like you — ADL succeeded in actively shaping the creation of the first-ever National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism.
Your generosity and your voice helped urge the White House to develop and release this strategy — which incorporates more than 30 policy recommendations from ADL — to fight antisemitism on both the far-right and far-left across the government and society.
Your gift will go 2X as far to help ensure this strategy is funded and implemented so our communities, workplaces, classrooms and online activities are safe for everyone.
YOUR Gifts Fight Hate and Harassment Online
Online hate and harassment are rampant — and what happens online doesn't stay there.
According to our latest ADL survey, online hate and harassment surged in 2023 by nearly every measure and across almost every group.
Over half of all Americans have experienced online hate and harassment in their lifetimes — including more than 1 in 3 Jews who reported severe harassment. And in just one year, 51% of teenagers reported being harassed online.
Corrosive hate in social media spaces combined with an increased number of people harboring extensive prejudice against Jews is a recipe for severe online and offline harm against Jews and other marginalized groups. It's no wonder people like you and I are on edge.
Your gift today will go twice as far in combating online hate and its harm to our families and communities. You'll help ADL work with lawmakers at every level and hold online platforms accountable so we can push hate back into the dark corners of society.
YOUR Support Means Students #LearnToNeverForget
As you can see [from the graph below], we are witnessing a level of anti-Jewish attitudes and antisemitic incidents not seen in decades. At the same time, memory of the Holocaust is fading.
ADL research reveals that people who learned about the Holocaust in school display the fewest antisemitic attitudes. Helping students learn to never forget is vital in the fight against hate.
Your gift today will double to support ADL's education programs like Echoes & Reflections, which teaches students about the Holocaust and its ongoing relevance today.
Together, we can work toward a world where today's learners become the key to preventing tomorrow's tragedies.
[START OF GRAPH]
Average Number of Anti-Jewish Tropes Endorsed Based on Where People Learned About the Holocaust
→ → → 3.8
School taught specifically about the Holocaust, including reading books and reviewing materials
→ → → → 4.6
From social media, movies, TV, friends or family
→ → → → 4.7
School mentioned the Holocaust but did not go into detail
→ → → → → 5.2
From somewhere else
[END OF GRAPH]
YOUR Gift Goes Twice as Far
The painful truth is that antisemitism is in all of our communities. And no one is safe until everyone is safe.
Each of us must do whatever we can to stop extremism and all forms of hate.
Any gift you send before November 30 will go twice as far to allow ADL to keep working with communities and law enforcement to track extremists so they can be stopped before the next person is harmed.
You'll also assist in ADL efforts to advocate for stronger hate crime legislation, as well as partner with schools to educate students and teachers to identify hate and root it out before it spreads.
Paul, that's why I hope you'll accept this challenge to make a tax-deductible donation before November 30.
When you do, your gift of $25 will DOUBLE to $50 ... $50 becomes $100 ... $75 becomes $150.
And an especially generous gift of $100 DOUBLES to $200 to make the world a safer place for us all.
Together, thanks to your profound generosity and courage, we can continue working to repair the world we all share.
Sincerely,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
P.S. You have a chance today to make 2X the impact in the fight against antisemitism and hate. A group of your fellow generous donors has challenged you to make a donation before November 30 — of $25, $50, $75, $100 or more — and they will double your gift. Thank you for sending your gift now, while my letter is still in your hands.
P.P.S. You can also go to adl.org/Match23 to make an immediate impact in the fight against antisemitism and hate.
Go to adl.org/Match23 to make an immediate impact.
---------------------------------------------
ADL
FIGHTING HATE FOR GOOD
Please DOUBLE my gift to help fight hate in 2024
I want to fight antisemitism, extremism and hate of all kinds.
Please accept my gift of:
[ ] $25 becomes $50
[ ] $50 becomes $100
[ ] $75 becomes $150
[✓] DOUBLE my best gift of $7.00
[ ] I'd like to make mine a monthly gift.
[ ] Check made payable to ADL.
[ ] I would like to give by credit card. (Please see back of this form.)
Donate online at adl.org/Match23
You can also make a donation through your Donor-Advised Fund. To learn more, visit our website, adl.org
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
ADL
FIGHTING HATE FOR GOOD
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) yesterday, November 18th, 2023, in order to "DOUBLE my gift to help fight hate in 2024." –Paul Whiting (written November 19th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 18th, 2023 Update No. 5, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023: I received a mailer from the World Jewish Congress, American Section, two days ago on November 17th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "2023 PORTLAND JEWISH COMMUNITY DRIVE: RENEW YOUR COMMITMENT TO PROTECTING WORLD JEWRY!", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WORLD JEWISH CONGRESS
AMERICAN SECTION
Dear Paul,
Political, social, and economic challenges continue to inflame the world's oldest hatred—antisemitism—and the Jewish people will need the support of the World Jewish Congress more than ever.
That is why I am writing to you in Portland on behalf of the World Jewish Congress, American Section.
Today, many Jewish communities are facing a shocking surge of anti-Jewish and anti-Israel hatred, ranging from physical attacks on city streets; evil lies and propaganda spreading across the internet and social media; vandalism directed against synagogues, cemeteries, and communal institutions; and rising levels of Holocaust denial and distortion. This disturbing list goes on and on.
It is in times of crisis and turmoil that we need to stand united and prepared to identify and confront the real and frightening challenges before us.
At this critical moment in world history, I urge you to please renew your commitment to safeguarding world Jewry by supporting the World Jewish Congress today.
As you read this letter, Jewish communities around the world, not so different from the ones in Portland, are fearful of the threats to their safety and security—the ones they face today and the ones they know they will have to confront in the months ahead.
As someone who cares deeply about Jews everywhere, we know you pay close attention to what is happening at home and abroad. Please help the WJC stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Jewish people in our tireless fight against the wave of virulent antisemitism we are experiencing, including on college and university campuses, at United Nations agencies, and in international governments, courthouses, and legislatures.
And we know you understand that if one Jew is in danger, all Jews are imperiled. But you have the power to shape a better future for Jews everywhere.
Please join your neighbors in the Portland Jewish community by giving today to help the World Jewish Congress protect and defend our Jewish family in more than 100 countries across six continents.
Your gift of $18, $36, $72, or more to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, will enable all the WJC's vital diplomacy, advocacy, and activism that confront and combat antisemitism in all its vile forms.
And to thank you, a generous longtime donor will match, dollar-for-dollar, every gift we receive from you and your neighbors in the Portland Jewish community. This means every $1 you give will automatically become $2 and have TWICE the impact.
As the diplomatic arm of the Jewish people, the WJC is the most influential global advocacy body for Jewish communities worldwide. That is why we have earned the trust and respect of presidents, prime ministers, and popes. But it is the support and commitment of people like you that empower our voice and outreach and give us the strength we need to achieve our goals.
The WJC is always on the ground where and when we are needed the most. At the same time, the diplomatic power of the WJC stands up for Israel ... fights back against far-right and far-left extremist groups wherever they seek to threaten Jews and other minorities ... works to ensure Holocaust education and remembrance ... and protects the religious freedoms of Jewish communities large and small.
By giving today, you remain on the forefront of our enduring efforts to defend Jews everywhere, and you claim your place in history as someone who stood up to make a difference when our global Jewish family truly needed you.
Thank you for your devotion to our shared mission.
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
World Jewish Congress, North America
P.S. Your gift of $18, $36, $72, or more today will go twice as far to help the WJC protect and defend our communities—on city streets, sacred sites and gathering places, internet and social media platforms, halls of government, and in global bodies like the United Nations.
P.P.S. Donate online at wjc.org/give and put your matched gift to work even faster for the Jewish people. Thank you.
---------------------------------------------
WORLD JEWISH CONGRESS
AMERICAN SECTION
2023 PORTLAND JEWISH COMMUNITY DRIVE
[✓] Yes, I will join with others in the Portland Jewish community by accepting the Certificate of Gratitude and making making a commitment to the Jewish people everywhere. Please DOUBLE the value of my enclosed tax-deductible gift to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, to support all the WJC's critical efforts to protect and defend global Jewry.
Your $18 will be matched to become $36
Your $36 will be matched to become $72*
Your $72 will be matched to become $144
[✓] Other $7.00 will be doubled
*Paul, others in the Portland Jewish community are choosing to give this much. We hope you will too.
To give online, please go to: wjc.org/give
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Please make your check payable to the WJC, American Section, return your contribution in the envelope provided or mail to WJC, American Section.
[Address, City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
See reverse side to make your contribution by credit card.
---------------------------------------------
WORLD JEWISH CONGRESSAMERICAN SECTIONCertificate of GratitudeThe World Jewish Congress acknowledges thatPaul Whitinghas demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the safety of Jewish communities around the world and is hereby recognized as aDedicated Supporter of the World Jewish Congress in the Year 2023[Name redacted][Title redacted]World Jewish Congress[Name redacted][Title redacted]World Jewish Congress, North America
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WE ARE ONE WITH ISRAEL
On Simchat Torah,* Israel was invaded by Hamas terrorists from the Gaza Strip. This unprovoked attack had just one goal: to barbarically and systematically slaughter as many Jews as possible, civilians and military alike. No one was spared. Babies, children, women, men, the elderly and disabled all fell victim to this savage and bloodthirsty rampage. The number of murdered, injured, and kidnapped is staggering.
At this tragic and painful time, our hearts are heavy. Our Jewish family in Israel needs our love, prayers, and all the support we can give them.
Please donate to the World Jewish Congress, American Section. All funds will be used by WJC, as needs dictate, on behalf of the people and State of Israel.
Am Yisrael Chai! [Israel Lives!]
For information about how the WJC is helping, please visit wjc.org/IsraelUpdate
WORLD JEWISH CONGRESS
AMERICAN SECTION
And so, I made a one-time donation to the World Jewish Congress, American Section yesterday, November 18th, 2023, in order to "DOUBLE the value of my enclosed tax-deductible gift to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, to support all the WJC's critical efforts to protect and defend global Jewry." –Paul Whiting (written November 19th, 2023, revised November 28th, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023, revised December 6th, 2023, revised January 9th, 2024 and revised August 31st, 2025)
*"Simchat Torah" from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia—which is funded primarily through donations from millions of individuals around the world, including this blogger (I make a totally affordable one-time donation if they are requesting donations when I am on their website):
Simchat Torah or Simhat Torah (שִׂמְחַת תּוֹרָה, lit., "Rejoicing with/of the Torah", Ashkenazi: Simchas Torah) is a Jewish holiday that celebrates and marks the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings, and the beginning of a new cycle. Simchat Torah is a component of the Biblical Jewish holiday of Shemini Atzeret ("Eighth Day of Assembly"), which follows immediately after the festival of Sukkot in the month of Tishrei (occurring in September or October on the Gregorian calendar).
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simchat_Torah
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November 18th, 2023 Update No. 6, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023: I received a mailer from William Temple House two days ago on November 17th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "RALLY for REAL CHANGE", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
William Temple House
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
November 2023
Dear Paul:
Nearly everyone agrees that our city is in a crisis.
In Oregon, over 43% of adults with a severe mental illness go untreated. The situation is even worse for those with mild to moderate symptoms. In Portland, homelessness, hunger and addiction are all on the rise. For every person visibly struggling with housing insecurity and mental illness, there are countless others struggling invisibly, a few steps away from crisis. Many Portlanders seem to have given up hope that things will change for the better. But we do have solutions. We are changing lives every day.
Together, we can turn the tide of crisis. The time to Rally for Real Change is now.
Since joining William Temple House as [title redacted] in May, I have witnessed our dedicated team's efforts to provide crucial support and meet our community's evolving needs:
[✓] Each year, we provide free or low-cost mental health counseling to over 350 people in collaboration with deeply motivated graduate interns from Portland State, Lewis & Clark, and other respected local universities.
[✓] 94% of our counseling interns continue working in Oregon to address Oregonians' mental health needs.
[✓] This past August, our Food Pantry provided free groceries to an average of 104 households per pantry day-nearly 40% more than a year ago.
For us, real change means providing the interconnected, compassionate services that keep people from falling into crisis. Every pantry day and counseling session is an investment in our community's future.
Today, you have the opportunity to turn your caring into action. Will you consider making a meaningful gift to help us continue making real change in our clients' lives?
This year, your generous donation will help us:
[✓] Provide free or low-cost individual, family, relationship, and group counseling to over 400 people who otherwise might not access mental health care.
[✓] Train 22+ Master's-level counseling interns.
[✓] Feed over 11,000 households with healthy food from our pantry.
[✓] Connect hundreds of people to utility assistance, SNAP benefits and other external resources.
William Temple House has been serving Portland since 1965. But now our city needs our services more than ever. Your generosity makes a difference. Join us in creating transformative change for Portlanders.
To help us Rally for Real Change, please visit our website at williamtemple.org/rally or complete the enclosed donation form and return it in the enclosed self-addressed stamped envelope. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email redacted] or [phone number redacted].
Thank you for your past commitment to William Temple House and the neighbors we serve.
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
"I have been able to function better. I've gotten confidence to find a part-time job and have confidence to get through more of my life situations. I don't know if I could have gotten through them without some good, helpful counseling."
—WTH (William Temple House) Counseling Client
"Having two major surgeries in the next four months leaves me no money for food. I can't tell you how much it means to have the security of knowing I don't have to worry about food."
—WTH (William Temple House) Social Services Client
---------------------------------------------
RALLY for REAL CHANGE
What does real change in our community mean to you?
As a self-designated 'Poet, Artist and Philosopher,' I truly feel that to RALLY for REAL CHANGE means to increase the availability of affordable housing, in addition to the wonderful kind of work that William Temple House is doing to provide food for those in need, as well as to also offer free, or low-cost, mental health counseling—thereby addressing the root causes of homelessness, hunger and addiction. –Paul Whiting
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Responses may be used anonymously on our website or social media as part of our Rally for Real Change campaign.
Donate online at williamtemple.org
"The therapy I get is life changing and my life would be much different without it. It shows me how to be and act stable, and enabled me to feel safe again." —COUNSELING CLIENT
Donor Name: Paul Whiting
Mailing Address: [Street Address and Apt. No., City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Yes, I want to be part of real change by supporting William Temple House!
I would like to donate by...
[✓] Website at williamtemple.org/rally
[ ] Check payable to William Temple House (envelope enclosed)
[ ] Credit card:
ONE-TIME DONATION of
[ ] $50
[ ] $75
[ ] $150
[ ] $500
[✓] Other $7.00
[ ] or a MONTHLY GIFT to sustain William Temple House all year.
[ ] Amount $_______
Thank you for your support!
And so, I made a one-time donation to William Temple House yesterday, November 18th, 2023, because, "together, we can turn the tide of crisis," since "the time to Rally for Real Change is now." –Paul Whiting (written November 19th, 2023, revised November 20th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 18th, 2023 Update No. 7, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023: I received a mailer from Transition Projects two days ago on November 17th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "from homelessness to housing", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
Transition Projects
November 15, 2023
Dear Paul,
As another year comes to a close, it gives us a pause to reflect on the important work that we've done this year and to celebrate our victories, large and small. While the work around homelessness is challenging, our team is excited and proud of our accomplishments and remains deeply committed to our core mission: working to help people transition from homelessness to housing. Our efforts continue in our three key pillars of work:
[✓] Outreach — Our teams meet people in camps and on the street, working to build trust, and hope, and to help people begin their journey home.
[✓] Shelter — On any given night in Portland, 600 people (plus pets!) have a safe place to sleep, connect to services, and work towards their housing.
[✓] Housing — Our team works year-round to find permanent solutions for people who are experiencing homelessness, or on the brink of being unhoused.
This year we will work with more than 9,000 people. Each one of the people we serve has a unique story, just like [name redacted]:
[Title redacted] became homeless at the age of 15 years old. For years, they lived on the street, in cars, or couch surfing with friends. This was until [name redacted] met a case manager at Transition Projects, who provided them with the resources and a plan to get them off the streets. But more importantly, [name redacted] shared with us, "Transition Projects connected me with something greater: someone who believed in me."
[Name redacted] has been off the streets ever since and is now a [title redacted] at Transition Projects, guiding case managers just like the one who helped them. "Transition Projects made the difference," [name redacted] shared, "and I'm in a better place in life because of the help I found here."
As we enter the holiday season, we hope you will consider joining us once again just as [names redacted] are. They are offering a $25,000 match, dollar for dollar, when you make a donation. Your financial gift will help us to support more people on their journeys from homelessness to housing.
Thank you for your partnership, and we are looking forward to what we will do next, together.
Warmly,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
[Email redacted] | tprojects.org
PS: We are thrilled to once again participate in Willamette Week's Give Guide! Make a gift at giveguide.org and get perks from our generous partners at Columbia Sportswear and Crisp Salads.
---------------------------------------------
"MY TRANSITION PROJECTS CASE MANAGER GAVE ME SOMETHING I HADN'T HAD FOR YEARS, SOMEONE WHO BELIEVED IN ME."
[Name redacted] is now a [title redacted] at Transition Projects guiding case managers just like the one who helped them.
Transition Projects
---------------------------------------------
[✓] YES, I want to help people move from homelessness to housing.
[ ] MONTHLY CREDIT CARD PLEDGE
[ ] Amount $_______
[✓] SINGLE GIFT
[✓] My gift is enclosed*
[ ] Bill to my credit card
[✓] Amount $7.00
*I donated online!
PLEASE VISIT WWW.TPROJECTS.ORG TO DONATE ONLINE
And so, I made a one-time donation to Transition Projects yesterday, November 18th, 2023, because "I want to help people move from homelessness to housing." –Paul Whiting (written November 19th, 2023, revised November 20th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 18th, 2023 Update No. 8, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023: I received a mailer from Street Roots two days ago on November 17th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the flyer that read, "Street Roots", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
STREET ROOTS
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Street Roots
Like Portland's bridges are the connective tissue of the city, Street Roots connects individuals to each other and broader communities. You are a part of the Street Roots story and the movement we build together.
Street Roots supports vendors like [name redacted] with programs and low-barrier income opportunities that work in tandem to empower individuals and communities.
When you buy a newspaper from a Street Roots vendor, three important things happen:
1. You're putting income directly into someone's pocket
2. You're supporting local, investigative journalism
3. You're engaging with someone in a way that holds the power to shift hearts and minds
When you support Street Roots and our vendors today, you are saying yes! to:
✴ Advancing equity
✴ Defending dignity
✴ And building a city where everyone can flourish and thrive
When we come together, we can make an impact in Portland and beyond!
---------------------------------------------
Street Roots
It takes all of us.
ONE TIME DONATIONS
[ ] $1000: Prints one week of your local newspaper
[ ] $500: Coordinates two weeks of outreach to unhoused folks through our Ambassador program
[ ] $250: Supports vendor stipends for our Vendor Enhancement Initiatives
[ ] $100: Keeps our vendor supply station stocked with essentials like socks, gloves, hats, water bottles, hand warmers and more
[ ] $50: Distributes the Rose City Resource to every corner of the metro region and beyond
[ ] $25: Sets 10 vendors up for success after orientation by providing them with 10 free newspapers each
[✓] $7.00: A gift at any level makes a difference*
*I donated online!
Street Roots creates income opportunities for people experiencing homelessness and poverty by producing a newspaper and other media that are catalysts for individual and social change.
www.streetroots.org
And so, I made a one-time donation to Street Roots yesterday, November 18th, 2023, because "Street Roots creates income opportunities for people experiencing homelessness and poverty by producing a newspaper and other media that are catalysts for individual and social change." –Paul Whiting (written November 19th, 2023, revised November 20th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 19th, 2023 Update No. 1—Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication that I responded to today was an email that I forwarded today, November 19th, 2023, from my previous email account (that I no longer use, but I still frequently check) from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) that I received two days ago, November 17th, 2023, with the subject line, "Please confirm, Paul…", which stated the following:
From: Biden Alert <[email redacted]>
Sent: Friday, November 17, 2023 4:46 PM
To: Paul Whiting <[email redacted]>
Subject: Please confirm, Paul… -
JOIN THE TEAM
Paul -- Elizabeth Warren, Chuck Schumer, Cory Booker, and Democrats across the country are proudly supporting Team Biden-Harris in 2024, but we don't know whether YOU are with them!
We need to lock in our supporter list before MIDNIGHT, but we're falling short of our 50,000 signature goal! So please, Paul, time is running out to join our Democratic leaders:
Add your name now to confirm you’re on Team Biden-Harris! >>
JOIN THE TEAM***
Thanks,
Team DSCC
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DSCC
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Biden-Harris Supporter Survey
Secure Survey ID: #[redacted] | Please lock in your response below and answer all of the following questions.
Please confirm: Are you on Team Biden-Harris?
[✓] Yes, I’m proudly supporting President Biden and Vice President Harris!
[ ] No.
The Biden-Harris administration has already accomplished so much! Which successes are you most proud of? (Select all that apply.)
[✓] Nominating and confirming Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court.
[✓] Creating nearly 14 MILLION good- paying jobs.
[✓] Signing the most significant gun safety reforms in nearly 30 years.
[✓] Combating inflation to lower everyday costs for ALL Americans.
[✓] Capping life-saving insulin at $35/month for millions of Americans.
[✓] Investing trillions of dollars into American infrastructure, manufacturing, and fighting climate change.
[✓] Other: Improving U.S. relations with China!
President Biden and Vice President Harris were only able to accomplish so much because of the support of our Democratic Senate majority. But if Mitch McConnell takes control of the Senate in 2024, he'll stonewall ALL the progress we still need to make!
How important is it to you to keep McConnell out of power?
[✓] Extremely important
[ ] Somewhat important
[ ] A little important
[ ] Not at all important
We're leading the fight to defend and expand our Democratic Senate majority, but we're not on track to hit our daily $50,000 goal. With right-wing groups raising millions to put Mitch McConnell back in charge, we can't afford to come up short.
Will you chip in $25 or more to make sure Democrats defend President Biden's Senate majority and keep McConnell out of power?
[ ] Yes, I'll give $25.
[ ] Yes, I'll give $50.
[ ] Yes, I'll give $100.
[✓] Yes, but I'd like to choose a different amount to give.
---------------------------------------------
DSCC
Donate now to SUPERCHARGE our Senate majority!
CNN says multiple GOP seats could flip blue next year -- but with Mitch McConnell’s megadonors already playing defense, it’s going to take all hands on deck to win!
Please, will you chip in now to protect our historic progress by supercharging our Democratic majority?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DSCC.
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $500 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] Add $1 tip
[✓] Add custom amount $0.37 (7.4%**)
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DSCC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to show that "I'm on Team Biden-Harris!"
Thus, this one organization—the DSCC—is the political organization that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 19th, 2023, revised November 22nd, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 5th, 2023, revised December 12th, 2023 and revised June 29th, 2024)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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November 20th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from the American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon (ACLU of Oregon) today, November 20th, 2023, with the subject line, "Public Safety Reflection Guide", which stated the following:
SOLUTIONS
FOR SAFE AND JUST
COMMUNITIES
READ THE GUIDE:
https://www.aclu-or.org/en/food-thought-public-safety-reflection-guide
Paul –
Earlier this month, I traveled to Ohio with our [title redacted], [name redacted], and ACLU colleagues from around the country to support the ACLU of Ohio in successfully passing a ballot measure that now enshrines abortion and reproductive rights in the Ohio Constitution. I was inspired by Ohioans' energy and commitment to respect people's rights to make their own health care decisions and protect access to abortion in their state. I'm looking forward to working towards a similar victory in Oregon. We'll be sharing more on that in 2024.
When [name redacted] and I canvassed in Cleveland, we knocked on hundreds of doors in Little Italy, Asia Town, and in a historically Black neighborhood, and we spoke to people with varying experiences and from different backgrounds. Some of these conversations were challenging. Many of these conversations reinforced the importance of connecting with people around shared values, even in moments of opposition.
As the year-end holidays approach, many of us will gather with family and friends. Amidst your celebrations, the issues of drug addiction and unsheltered homelessness may come up, as they are top of mind in Oregon and in many areas across the country. Here in Oregon, lack of access to addiction treatment and lack of affordable housing have led to very visible suffering on our streets and in our communities. It is heartbreaking and impossible to ignore.
To encourage leaning into these conversations, your ACLU of Oregon team and partners have created a reflection guide (https://www.aclu-or.org/en/food-thought-public-safety-reflection-guide) for you. This guide includes prompts to help you explore your hopes and vision for our communities, and if you'd like to invite loved ones to join you, we included ideas about how to encourage meaningful conversations instead of disagreements.
This guide is meant to be a starting point to facilitate reflection and connecting around shared values. This is not a manual for debate or fact-checking.
If you engage in these conversations, we hope that you name what you're seeing and experiencing, and instead of debating, share what you envision for our communities. We hope that in these conversations, you find common ground and shared values. Also, please set boundaries, listen to your body, and care for your well-being during these conversations, which can, at times, feel difficult, intense, and emotional.
If you are interested in getting more information about these issues and real solutions, please check out our webpage, Solutions for Safe and Just Communities.
https://www.aclu-or.org/en/campaigns/solutions-safe-and-just-communities
[Blogger's Note: I already read the ACLU of Oregon's webpage titled, "SOLUTIONS FOR SAFE AND JUST COMMUNITIES" on November 16th, 2023 (please see my 'November 16th, 2023 Update No. 2,' which can be found above).]
Thank you for your ongoing support of our work and commitment to creating an Oregon that is just, equitable, and caring – where all our communities are safe and thrive.
I hope you have many moments of gratitude and joy with your loved ones this season.
In solidarity,
[Name redacted]
Pronouns: She, her, hers
[Title redacted], ACLU of Oregon
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, regarding the FOOD FOR THOUGHT: A PUBLIC SAFETY REFLECTION GUIDE webpage. A brief introduction to the webpage can be found below:
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: A PUBLIC SAFETY REFLECTION GUIDE
Your ACLU of Oregon team and partners are excited to share this reflection guide with you. This guide includes prompts to help you explore your hopes and vision for our communities, and if you’d like to invite loved ones to join you, we included ideas about how to encourage meaningful conversations instead of disagreements.
This guide is meant to be a starting point, to facilitate reflection and connecting around shared values. This is not a manual for debate or fact checking.
If you engage in these conversations, we hope that you name what you’re seeing and experiencing, and instead of debating, share what you envision for our communities. We hope that in these conversations, you find common ground and shared values. Also, please set boundaries, listen to your body, and care for your well-being during these conversations which can, at times, feel difficult, intense, and emotional.
You can also find a sharable version of this guide on our Instagram and other social media channels.
If you are interested in getting more information about these issues and real solutions, please check out our webpage Solutions for Safe and Just Communities.
Thank you for your ongoing support of our work and commitment to creating an Oregon that is just, equitable, and caring – where all our communities are safe and thrive. ...
[Blogger's Note: I read the ACLU of Oregon's webpage titled, "FOOD FOR THOUGHT: A PUBLIC SAFETY REFLECTION GUIDE," as well as the downloadable PDF.]
Please see the hyperlink below for the webpage:
https://www.aclu-or.org/en/food-thought-public-safety-reflection-guide
So, I wanted to share this email from the ACLU of Oregon in order to show my support for the Food For Thought: A Public Safety Reflection Guide webpage and the downloadable PDF. –Paul Whiting (November 20th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, I used to make one-time donations to the organization that is the subject of these 'updates' each time that I took an action as requested by that organization; however, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am greatly reducing the number of times that I donate for the same organization per month down to once—or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis." (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.) Thus, because I have already donated to the ACLU of Oregon on November 16th, 2023 (please see my 'November 16th, 2023 Update No. 2,' which can be found above) that is the one-time donation which I made to the ACLU of Oregon for November 2023.
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November 21st, 2023 Update No. 1—Which Also Discusses November 19th, 2023 And November 17th, 2023: Giving Tuesday is seven days away from today, November 21st, 2023! And so, I decided to make one-time donations to several charities, as a furtherance of my 'early' Giving Tuesday donations, which include the following:
Brady: United Against Gun Violence (the sister organization of which is Brady Political Action Committee, or Brady PAC);
No Kid Hungry;
Blanchet House of Hospitality;
[Blogger's Note: I recently donated to Blanchet House & Farm (which is a 62-acre farm that is a residential program for men) on November 13th, 2023 (please see my 'November 13th, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above), however, I had not donated to Blanchet House of Hospitality (that is a social services organization, which includes a meal program, a clothing program, as well as a residential program for men) until today, November 21st, 2023.]
Sisters of the Road;
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to Sisters of the Road on November 13th, 2023 (please see my 'November 13th, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above), however, I did not donate for Giving Tuesday!]
Song for Charlie;
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to Song for Charlie on October 23rd, 2023 for Giving Tuesday (please see my 'October 23rd, 2023 Update—Continued,' which can be found above), but that was last month, so this is my one-time donation to Song for Charlie for November 2023.]
United Nations Population Fund (USA for UNFPA);
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to USA for UNFPA on November 16th, 2023 for Giving Tuesday (please see my 'November 16th, 2023 Update No. 4,' which can be found above), but I received an emergency appeal due to the fact that "the health care system in Gaza has officially collapsed," since "all hospital in northern Gaza are out of service," so this is my second one-time donation to United Nations Population Fund for November 2023.]
Planned Parenthood Federation of America.
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to Planned Parenthood Federation of America on November 4th, 2023 (please see my 'November 4th, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above), however, I did not donate for Giving Tuesday! And I received a "2X MATCH for Giving Tuesday" offer, so this is my second one-time donation to Planned Parenthood Federation of America for November 2023.]
And I was inspired to make these donations by the following: a text message that I received today, November 21st, 2023, from "one of America's oldest and boldest gun violence prevention groups, [whose] history of success goes back decades"; by a promotional email that I received on November 19th, 2023, from an organization that is "working to end child hunger in America today by ensuring that all children get the healthy food they need every day to thrive"; by the realization that I already donated to Blanchet House & Farm, but I had yet to donate to Blanchet House of Hospitality; by a newsletter that I received on November 17th, 2023, from an organization that "exists to support low-income and houseless individuals through charitable and educational programs, including providing affordable, healthy, and delicious meals in a space that welcomes all to come dine with dignity"; by an email that I received today, November 21st, 2023, from "a national family-run nonprofit charity dedicated to raising awareness about 'fentapills' — fake pills made of fentanyl"; by a text message that I received today, November 21st, 2023, from a global organization whose "mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled"; and by an email that I received today, November 21st, 2023, from a "nonprofit organization that provides reproductive and sexual healthcare, and sexual education in the United States and globally."
–Paul Whiting (written November 21st, 2023, revised November 22nd, 2023, revised November 23rd, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023, revised December 2nd, 2023, revised December 15th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
P.S.: Please see my detailed descriptions—immediately after this 'update'—of the following Giving Tuesday donations for which I received the above-mentioned communications!
Brady: United Against Gun Violence: 'November 21st, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On November 22nd, 2023,' which can be found below.
No Kid Hungry: 'November 21st, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On November 22nd, 2023,' which can be found below.
Sisters of the Road: 'November 21st, 2023 Update No. 4, Written On November 22nd, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023' that can be found below.
Song for Charlie: 'November 21st, 2023 Update No. 5, Written On November 22nd, 2023,' which can be found below.
United Nations Population Fund (USA for UNFPA): 'November 21st, 2023 Update No. 6, Written On November 22nd, 2023,' which can be found below.
Planned Parenthood Federation of America: 'November 21st, 2023 Update No. 7, Written On November 22nd, 2023,' which can be found below.
P.P.S.: By the way, I don't make all of my charitable donations on Giving Tuesday of each year! I only donate to those organizations that I have not already donated to sometime during the year (at least, organizations that I have not necessarily already donated to). You see, I donate to various charitable and progressive organizations throughout the year, where I make some donations on a monthly basis (depending upon the organization), in addition to some donations that I only make once per year based upon certain types of 'theme days,' if you will (again, depending upon the organization).
Please let me explain: I donate to various charitable organizations during the year on particular 'theme days,' so to speak, which I feel correspond directly to particular charitable causes, because it helps me to remember to donate to those particular causes during the year that I feel have a corresponding 'theme day.'
That way, I am spreading the charitable love throughout the entire year—and not simply having a year's worth of charitable giving 'bunch up,' so to speak, on Giving Tuesday. So then, whichever charitable organizations don't have an obvious corresponding 'theme day,' I can donate to those charitable organizations during Giving Tuesday, since I haven't already given to those particular organizations sometime during the year!
For example, I usually make donations to various charities who are helping those in need during the Thanksgiving holiday—as a way to celebrate Thanksgiving Day—and as a way to support the charitable organizations to which I choose to donate on Thanksgiving, which is the day that I feel thematically corresponds directly to the causes that those particular organizations represent.
That is why I coordinate some of my charitable giving during the year with a particular 'theme day' that some charitable causes correspond to, such as the above-mentioned charities who are helping those in need whose causes I feel directly correspond to the 'theme day' of Thanksgiving Day, which is simply one example of this type of 'theme day' charitable giving that I do throughout the year!
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November 21st, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On November 22nd, 2023: I received a text message yesterday, November 21st, 2023, from Brady: United Against Gun Violence, which stated the following:
Hi, Paul, it's Coach [name redacted]. Giving Tuesday is still a few days away, but a generous group of donors has agreed to activate an exclusive Early Bird Match up to Brady's $400,000 goal. I know you're dedicated to this movement and I need your help to get us there.
Don't waste a moment: Donate now to help Brady defeat the gun lobby:***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Brady
United Against Gun Violence
$400,000 Giving Tuesday MATCH: Donate now and DOUBLE your impact!
Brady is on the cusp of passing historic gun safety reform, defeating the NRA once and for all, and taking action to prevent gun violence and save lives. But we can't do any of that if we don't hit our critical $400,000 Giving Tuesday match goal.
Will you donate in honor of Giving Tuesday and double your impact to help Brady take common-sense action to save lives?
And so, I made a one-time donation to Brady: United Against Gun Violence (the sister organization of which is Brady Political Action Committee, or Brady PAC) yesterday, November 21st, 2023, in order to "donate in honor of Giving Tuesday and double your impact to help Brady take common-sense action to save lives." –Paul Whiting (written November 22nd, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 21st, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On November 22nd, 2023: I received an email in my 'Promotions' folder from No Kid Hungry three days ago on November 19th, 2023, with the subject line, "Millions Raised For Food Banks", which stated the following:
Millions Raised For Food Banks
$50 can provide up to 500 meals.
Learn more:
https://secure.nokidhungry.org/site/Donation2
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
NO KID HUNGRY
Hunger Hurts Kids Every Day
Your Donation Helps Feed Them
[✓] ONE TIME
[ ] MONTHLY
[ ] $35
[ ] $50
[ ] $100
[ ] $250
[✓] OTHER: $5.00
BILLING INFORMATION
FIRST NAME: Paul
LAST NAME: Whiting
BILLING STREET 1: [redacted]
BILLING STREET 2: [redacted]
CITY: [redacted]
STATE: [redacted]
ZIP: [redacted]
EMAIL: [redacted]
PHONE: [redacted]
DONATE $5
And, after I made the donation above, I survey window appeared, which stated the following:
NO KID HUNGRY
Is this your first donation to No Kid Hungry?
[ ] Yes
[✓] No
How would you rate the donation process?
[✓] Very Easy
[ ] Easy
[ ] So-So
[ ] Difficult
[ ] Very Difficult
On a scale from 0 to 10, please indicate how much you agree with each statement:
I am a committed No Kid Hungry supporter
[ ] 0 Strongly Disagree
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[ ] 5
[ ] 6
[ ] 7
[ ] 8
[ ] 9
[✓] 10 Strongly Agree
I feel a sense of loyalty to No Kid Hungry
[ ] 0 Strongly Disagree
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[ ] 5
[ ] 6
[ ] 7
[ ] 8
[ ] 9
[✓] 10 Strongly Agree
No Kid Hungry is my favorite charitable organization
[ ] 0 Strongly Disagree
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[ ] 5
[ ] 6
[✓] 7
[ ] 8
[ ] 9
[ ] 10 Strongly Agree
[Blogger's Note: I don't really have a "favorite charitable organization," however, No Kid Hungry is one of my favorite charities!]
Are you a parent or grandparent?
[ ] Parent
[ ] Grandparent
[✓] Neither
Is there anything else you'd like to share with No Kid Hungry today?
I first donated to No Kid Hungry last year (2022) after I saw one of your advertisements on YouTube (as I recall) regarding the meals that you provide school children. And I was so impressed with the work that you are doing that I donated to your organization as part of my Giving Tuesday donations last year. So, that is why I am giving to you again this year!
Submit
And so, I made a one-time donation to No Kid Hungry yesterday, November 21st, 2023, because "hunger hurts kids every day [and my] donation helps feed them." –Paul Whiting (written November 22nd, 2023, revised November 27th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 21st, 2023 Update No. 4, Written On November 22nd, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023: I received a newsletter from Sisters of the Road five days ago on November 17th, 2023, which stated, in part, the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
Sisters' Voice
Sisters of the Road Winter 2023
To Build Tomorrow, We Must Start Today
By [Name redacted], [Title redacted]
Before we dive into the deep end, I want to say thank you for your continued support of Sisters. We wouldn't be celebrating our 44th anniversary this year without our community behind us. We appreciate you!
That being said, I need you to hear a crucial message, especially those of you who are worried or unhappy about our extended closure.
We are in a pivotal time in Sisters history. Our cafe is temporarily closed as we work to renovate and reopen in the new building, which puts a strain on everyone. We are unable to meet with our community daily, and our customers are missing Sisters' safe space to enjoy a meal and discuss the hurdles of day-to-day survival. This is a huge sacrifice for everyone, but we believe with our whole hearts that it will be worth it when we reopen.
The other grave consequence is that we are receiving fewer donations during our fundraisers. Some people even think we have closed for good. The deep end reality is the devastating possibility that we won't receive the funding we need to get through this period. All of us can agree that we prefer Sisters' cafe to be open. We want that too, and we need your help to get there.
Successfully running Sisters of the Road over the next year and a half means supporting the staff who are still working diligently behind the scenes. General operations funding is notoriously less compelling for many supporters. People love to see heartwarming pictures and to hear stories about what their money is going towards. Most people are not enthralled by administrative action items, however, supporting general operations is crucial for non-profits.
Furthermore, remember that we are working to our capacity to stay connected to our community while the cafe is closed. We continuously take action to address the issues of the moment; we are developing know your rights training in response to the camping ban, we are working with PSU and our unhoused neighbors to discover barriers to affordable housing and collaborate to find realistic solutions, rallying support for strategies that work, such as the Portland Street Response, and advocating against wasteful and harmful practices such as gunshot surveillance technology.
Your support is going towards important strategies to improve the lives of those facing the violence of poverty, and it will be the bridge that will get us from Sisters' legacy to its next chapter. In order to open a bigger and better Sisters, we are going to have to increase the number of staff, and therefore, the funds that support the employment of that staff over the next 2 years. We can't wait until we are open to hire a cafe director.
We also need to pay our employees, current and future, wages that will keep them housed. What kind of hypocrites would we be if we paid our employees a wage that rendered them homeless or unable to feed themselves nourishing meals?
If you have the capacity to support us right now, please do. We need you. We are challenging our donors to increase their donation if they can. Another great way to support, especially if you are someone who cannot donate a large amount, is to give a recurring donation. For example, you could donate the same amount you would spend on eating out once a month.
If you don't support us now, there will be no cafe to reopen.
We have not lost our drive to reopen Sisters to the public; don't you lose it either.
---------------------------------------------
XX Sisters of the Road
X
"There are no strangers, just friends we've never met."
www.sistersoftheroad.org
And, after I read the newsletter above, I entered the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Sowing Solidarity
Winter 2023 Fundraiser
DONATE
https://donate.sistersoftheroad.org/campaign/sowing-solidarity/c527561
Sowing Solidarity: Anyone Can Make an Impact at Sisters
November marks the launch of our end of year fundraising drive. Learn more about all the ways to support us during the giving season.
---------------------------------------------
Sowing Solidarity
Sowing Solidarity has raised $6,713 out of their goal of $115K
$6,713 Raised → → → → → $115K Goal
DONATE NOW
https://donate.sistersoftheroad.org/give/527561/#!/donation/checkout
About the Campaign
The narrative surrounding homelessness is shrouded in fear and misinformation. Sisters is profoundly about love, serving as a natural counterforce to fear. We’re also about nurturing authentic relationships with one another.
It's time to unite in solidarity with both our sheltered and unsheltered neighbors. The process of ending oppression is a collective journey. We invite all of you to embark on this path alongside us. With your support, we aspire to grow into a more robust organization, offering living wages and meeting our community's growing needs We will serve, once again, as a central hub for engagement and advocacy. ...
... Campaign Activity
See who supports your cause and what they have to say about it!
Paul Whiting donated $44.00
I am donating in response to your Sister's Voice Winter 2023 newsletter! Happy 44th Birthday!
18 hours ago
And so, I made a one-time donation of $44.00 to Sisters of the Road yesterday, November 21st, 2023, in celebration of their 44th birthday (which is explained on Sisters' "It’s our birthday!" webpage at https://www.sistersoftheroad.org/news/sisters-44-birthday that is highlighted just below the webpage "Sowing Solidarity: Anyone Can Make an Impact at Sisters" on the main Sisters website) because I am accepting Sisters' challenge to increase my Thanksgiving Day donation (please see my 'November 13th, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above) in order to "open a bigger and better Sisters" in their new building, which is the iconic House of Louie in Old Town Chinatown! –Paul Whiting (written November 22nd, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
P.S.: I just realized—while I was editing this 'update'—that I spelled Sisters' Voice Winter 2023 newsletter incorrectly in my donation comment on their website! I accidentally spelled it as "Sister's Voice," rather than "Sisters' Voice."
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November 21st, 2023 Update No. 5, Written On November 22nd, 2023: I received an email from Song for Charlie yesterday, November 21st, 2023, with the subject line, "SFC [Song for Charlie]: November Newsletter", which stated the following:
Song for Charlie Monthly Newsletter: November 2023
Season of Gratitude
On Thanksgiving, our family takes turns sharing something we are thankful for. This year, [names redacted] are thankful for:
[✓] The love and encouragement of friends and family
[✓] Our kinship with our fellow bereaved families (#TeamHope)
[✓] SFC’s life-saving mission that channels our grief into purpose
[✓] Rock Star partners and colleagues that elevate our work
[✓] The faith and trust that our many supporters place in us
We hope you get a chance to pause and count your blessings this Thanksgiving. In the meantime, we have some exciting updates to share.
Community Film Screenings
SFC team went on a Northern California roadshow in early November to premier our educational film, Drugs in the Age of Fentanyl (https://songforcharlie.org/the-new-drug-talk). We are grateful to [name redacted], the Marin County Office of Education and OD [Overdose] Free Marin for hosting a community screening and panel discussion. [Name redacted] and [name redacted], [title redacted] of Indian Springs Resort, hosted a similar event in Calistoga.
Frequent Flyer
[Name redacted] was busy traveling coast to coast sharing SFC's work and The New Drug Talk: Connect to Protect (https://songforcharlie.org/the-new-drug-talk). She presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics in Washington DC, discussing how pediatricians can use SFC resources in their practices. She then presented to bereaved family members and DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) agents at the Miami Field Division Family Summit, speaking in support of the collaborative efforts that are key to addressing the fentanyl crisis.
Oregon
[Name redacted] was a presenter at the November 8 conference addressing Oregon’s fentanyl crisis, hosted by [title and name redacted]. The event brought together medical, harm reduction, recovery, prevention, and law enforcement experts from across the state to discuss the fentanyl’s epidemic on Oregon and share ideas for action. [Name redacted] educated the audience about the impact of fentanyl on youth and the need for an education focused component to the state’s response.
ONDCP [Office of National Drug Control Policy]
Song For Charlie was invited by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy to attend the Bipartisan Youth Substance Use Prevention Summit. Awards were given to Drug-Free Community Coalitions across the country for their outstanding work to prevent youth substance use. As a follow-up to the summit, the Biden Administration also sent a letter urging all schools to keep opioid overdose reversal drug on hand.
Song for Charlie: Champions
[Names redacted] and [names redacted] hosted a very special evening with Song for Charlie in Sonoma. They invited friends and leaders from their community to learn about our mission and bring awareness of our resources to the area. We are grateful [names redacted] opened their home to make this evening possible. Both couples’ efforts ensured the evening was a great success!
[Fraternity redacted] held their second annual “Wheeler Bowl” in honor of their fraternity brother, Matthew Wheeler, who passed away from fentanyl poisoning on September 30, 2021. He was a junior in college at Northeastern University in Boston. [Name redacted] shared “The second annual Wheeler Bowl was put together in honor Matt’s life and love of football. Together we continue to raise money and awareness of the dangers of fentanyl to make sure no one’s life ends the way his did.”
Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday is right around the corner, on November 28. We hope you will join us on this day of global generosity and make a donation to Song for Charlie. Together we can continue to expand our free resources to ensure every teen, family and community has the knowledge and tools to keep their loved ones safe.
MAKE A GIFT:
https://arzdzlpu.donorsupport.co/page/GivingTuesday2023
Join Us SFC is 100% donor-funded. That means our mission is only possible because of generous individuals, corporations and foundations ensuring a sustainable pipeline funding our work through their donations.
Every dollar raised helps us reach, educate and empower millions of teens and families across the country. Together we are multiplying our impact to save lives.
Please consider hosting your own fundraiser, sharing our information on social media and activating your workplace. Let us know about an event you are planning or reach out to learn more: [email redacted]
Gratefully,
[Names redacted]
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to Song for Charlie yesterday, November 21st, 2023, in order to support their "national family-run, nonprofit charity dedicated to raising awareness about 'fentapills' — fake pills made of fentanyl" and to make a November 28th, 2023 #GivingTuesday gift. –Paul Whiting (written November 22nd, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 21st, 2023 Update No. 6, Written On November 22nd, 2023: I received a text message yesterday, November 21st, 2023, from USA for UNFPA (formerly known as the 'United Nations Fund for Population Activities' that is now called the 'United Nations Population Fund'), which stated the following:
UPDATE: *All* hospitals in northern Gaza are out of service.
The health care system in Gaza has officially collapsed. Patients lie on the floor and in hallways. Surgeons are operating without anesthesia. Since the start of hostilities, the vast majority of hospitals and clinics have shut down due to damage or lack of fuel, including, now, *all* hospitals in northern Gaza.
UNFPA condemns the violence in Israel and Gaza and echoes the UN Secretary-General’s call for a humanitarian ceasefire, for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages by Hamas, and for the delivery of sustained humanitarian relief at a scale that meets the needs of the people of Gaza.
We are on the ground providing care, but we remain concerned for pregnant women and newborns.
Thanks to your previous support, we’ve delivered lifesaving supplies and medicines, including UNFPA Emergency Birth Kits, to Gaza in the few humanitarian convoys that have made it across the border. In the West Bank, we have dispatched midwives to support the tens of thousands of pregnant women there.
But we urgently need to scale support for women and girls. That’s why we’ve activated our Giving Tuesday 2X-match *early*. That means every gift you rush right now will be matched by a generous donor for twice the impact. Will you make an emergency gift now?***
Please, Paul Whiting, every second counts during a crisis.
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, I made a one-time donation to USA for UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) yesterday, November 21st, 2023, in order to make "an emergency gift now," because "every gift [I] rush right now will be matched by a generous donor for twice the impact" for the United Nations Population Fund's "Giving Tuesday 2X-match." –Paul Whiting (written November 22nd, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 21st, 2023 Update No. 7, Written On November 22nd, 2023: I received an email from Planned Parenthood Federation of America yesterday, November 21st, 2023, with the subject line, "Early bird offer for Paul", which stated the following:
Name: Paul Whiting
Profile ID: [redacted]
Match: OFFER UNCLAIMED
Deadline: GIVING TUESDAY
PLANNED PARENTHOOD
Bigger. Stronger. Bolder.
Our movement grows every day, Paul. We see that when abortion wins at the ballot box and when people like you help expand access to care all across the country. Yet, every single day, at every level of government, new attacks on abortion and reproductive rights threaten access to care.
We're building a future where reproductive rights are enshrined in the United States. We must act boldly now, even in the face of the challenges we're up against, to build that future so everyone has access to the care they need.
That's why we are opening a special early-bird offer for you one week ahead of Giving Tuesday, Paul: From now until November 28, all gifts to Planned Parenthood will be DOUBLED, thanks to a generous donor who is matching all gifts. Your matched donation will go twice as far to protect, preserve, and expand access to abortion and reproductive health and rights.
A Special Invite For You:
2X MATCH
for Giving Tuesday***
Every day, patients count on people like you. Planned Parenthood health centers provide care to over two million people each year — and it's because you've supported this movement. Despite the threats. Despite the challenges. Because of you.
But far too many patients face legal barriers and outrageous burdens just to access reproductive health care. They face the threat of delaying care, the expense and anxiety of being forced to travel hundreds of miles for an out-of-state abortion. The threats to their care — to all of our rights — keep growing, state by state and at every level of government.
The time to act is now — and our special offer is open to you, one week before Giving Tuesday. Renew your support to Planned Parenthood with a gift that will be MATCHED, dollar-for-dollar, up to a total of $100,000. Every gift matters, and this is a unique opportunity to double your support.
It takes all of us, Paul. It will take every single ounce of effort we have to come together and work toward a future where reproductive freedom is a reality for everyone.
Thank you for being here with us,
— Planned Parenthood
MATCH MY GIFT***
P.S. We need your generosity more than ever — the future of our reproductive freedom depends on it. But if you aren't in a place to give this year or already made your year‑end gift, we understand that.
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, I made a one-time donation to Planned Parenthood Federation of America yesterday, November 21st, 2023, since "[Planned Parenthood's] special offer is open to [me], one week before Giving Tuesday," because "all gifts to Planned Parenthood will be DOUBLED, thanks to a generous donor who is matching all gifts." That is why I donated so that "[my] matched donation will go twice as far to protect, preserve, and expand access to abortion and reproductive health and rights." –Paul Whiting (written November 22nd, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 22nd, 2023 Update No. 1—Which Also Discusses November 21st, 2023: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication that I responded to today was an email that I forwarded today, November 22nd, 2023, from my previous email account (that I no longer use, but I still frequently check) from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) that I received yesterday, November 21st, 2023, with the subject line, "ALERT: President Biden jumps ahead of Trump! >>", which stated the following:
From: Poll Alert <[email redacted]>
Sent: Tuesday, November 21, 2023 7:18 AM
To: Paul Whiting <[email redacted]>
Subject: ALERT: President Biden jumps ahead of Trump! >> -
ALERT: Polls had President Biden trailing Donald Trump, but now the president has surged into the lead!
Breaking via FiveThirtyEight: '2024 will be another close election' | President Biden surges ahead!
Please confirm before MIDNIGHT, Paul:
Do you approve of President Biden?
[✓] YES
[ ] NO
Exciting news, Paul: President Biden was polling just behind Donald Trump, but now the president has jumped into the lead!
This could be a HUGE sign that voters are rallying behind the president and rejecting Donald Trump -- but we still need to confirm Democrats like you in Oregon are standing with President Biden!
Please, answer immediately to make your voice heard before the Live Poll closes at MIDNIGHT:
Do you approve of President Biden?
[✓] YES
[ ] NO
Thank you,
Team DSCC
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DSCC
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Democratic survey in progress:
Please confirm: Do you approve of President Biden?
[✓] Approve
[ ] Disapprove
Why do you support President Biden? (Select all that apply.)
[✓] President Biden leads with integrity.
[✓] President Biden tells the truth and takes responsibility.
[✓] President Biden shares my positions on health care, climate change, and more.
[✓] President Biden cares about people like me.
[✓] President Biden represents America well around the globe.
[ ] Other
Which issues do you want the Biden administration and Democrats to prioritize? (Select your three top priorities.)
[ ] Foreign Relations
[ ] The Economy
[ ] Health Care
[✓] Reproductive Rights
[ ] Climate Change
[✓] Gun Safety
[ ] Education
[ ] Immigration Reform
[✓] Voting Rights
[ ] Criminal Justice
[ ] Job Creation
[ ] Higher Education
[ ] Other
President Biden's agenda hinges on Democrats keeping Mitch McConnell out of power. What's most important for Democrats to focus on leading up to the next Senate elections?
[ ] Defending our majority -- We must work to defend every Democratic seat.
[ ] Expanding our majority -- We must build the infrastructure to flip the Senate seats held by Republicans, including some of Trump's worst enablers.
[✓] Both!
We're leading the fight to defend our Democratic Senate and urgently need your help. Our fundraising deadline is TONIGHT and we're still a few donations short in your area!
Please, will you chip in $25 or more so Democrats can compete against McConnell's megadonors, defend the Senate, and continue helping President Biden make progress?
Please use the links below to start a monthly donation through ActBlue:
[ ] I'll give $25.
[ ] I'll give $50.
[ ] I'll give $75.
[✓] I'd like to choose a different amount to give.*
*[Blogger's Note: I selected this option—although I made a one-time donation, rather than a monthly donation—because it's an option that got me to the donation webpage!]
---------------------------------------------
DSCC
Donate now to SUPERCHARGE our Senate majority!
CNN says multiple GOP seats could flip blue next year - but with Mitch McConnell's megadonors already playing defense, it's going to take all hands on deck to win!
Please, will you chip in now to protect our historic progress by supercharging our Democratic majority? Donate immediately:
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DSCC.
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $500 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $ 5.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] Add $1 tip
[ ] Leave no tip
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%**)
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DSCC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to show that I definitely "approve of President Biden!"
Thus, this one organization—the DSCC—is the political organization that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 22nd, 2023, revised November 23rd, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 5th, 2023, revised December 12th, 2023, revised March 10th, 2024 and revised June 29th, 2024)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
For my "November 23rd, 2023 Update No. 1"—since this 'update' is a part of my ⋆USO⋆ donations—please see my blog post titled, "My Point Of View On...Giving Charity And Accepting Charity," which can be found on both of my "Paul Whiting — Math Magician" and "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blogs. An introduction to the 'update' can be found below:
November 23rd, 2023 Update No. 1: Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! In celebration of Thanksgiving Day, I made a one-time donation to the USO (United Service Organizations) after I read a really interesting article today, November 23rd, 2023, on the USO website titled, "President Biden, Dr. Biden and the USO Share 'Friendsgiving' Dinner with Service Members and Their Families at Naval Station Norfolk." An extended introduction to the article can be found below, along with additional information from the USO webpage containing the aforementioned article: ...
Please see the hyperlinks below for the post, within which you can do a find-in-page search for the 'update' labeled, "November 23rd, 2023 Update No. 1":
https://paulwhitingmath.blogspot.com/2015/05/my-point-of-view-on-charity.html
https://paulwhitingwriting.blogspot.com/2022/07/my-point-of-view-on-part-16-giving-to.html
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 24th, 2023 Update No. 1: Native American Heritage Day is today, November 24th, 2023, because it is observed yearly (annually) on the day after Thanksgiving! And so, I decided to make one-time donations to organizations that support Native American (American Indian) causes, including American Indian College Fund and Native American Rights Fund (NARF).
And I was inspired to make these donations by the following sources:
Source No. 1: An 'update' that I wrote last year (2022) labeled, 'November 25th, 2022 Update,' regarding a mailer that I received from the American Indian College Fund, a copy of which can be found below from my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was" that is on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog. Plus, this copy of the aforementioned 'update' is also from my blog post titled, "My Point Of View On...Giving Charity And Accepting Charity" that is on both of my "Paul Whiting — Math Magician" and "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blogs:
November 25th, 2022 Update: Native American Heritage Day is today, November 25th, 2022, because it is observed yearly (annually) on the day after Thanksgiving! And I recently received a mailer from American Indian College Fund, which stated the following (by the way, I hand-typed the text below on my smartphone from the mailer's main letter):
Dear Mr. Whiting,
For many of us a college education is something we pursue so we can be more successful, make more money, or even just learn about something that's interesting to us.
For Native scholars, education means so much more. It means solving difficult challenges affecting their communities such as food shortages, insufficient healthcare, housing insecurity, and unemployment – all exacerbated by the COVID pandemic.
American Indian College Fund scholars understand the responsibility and power that comes with an education, but they are embracing it gratefully and enthusiastically so they can build stronger, healthier communities. There is just one thing standing in their way—financial need.
This year more than 3,200 students received scholarship support from the American Indian College Fund, but 6,135 did not.
That means fewer Native American graduates working to solve the persistent challenges Native communities face. But you can help change that, Mr. Whiting, with a generous gift of $50, $75, $100, or more today.
With your help, every new degree obtained means one more Native college graduate who is prepared and motivated to use their knowledge, power, and confidence to not only change, but save, lives.
Please make a difference for a student who is committed to addressing urgent needs, solving community-wide problems, and preserving the languages, traditions, and lands that will ensure a safe and healthy future for all Native people.
I hope to hear from you soon!
Wounspe gluha blihihunkic'iyapi [We strengthen ourselves with knowledge.]
Best regards,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
P.S. Since 1989, we have supported the educational needs of American Indian scholars, providing nearly 147,000 scholarships and $259.7 million to support American Indian communities. But the need is still great. Please make a generous gift today and provide the hope that only education can bring. Thank you!
And so, I made a one-time donation to the American Indian College Fund in order to show my support for Native American graduates who are striving to educate themselves so that they can contribute to their entire community—and so that they can contribute the entire country. –Paul Whiting (written November 25th, 2022, revised December 18th, 2022, revised December 30th, 2022, revised April 28th, 2023, revised May 17th, 2023 and revised November 24th, 2023)
Source No. 2: I received an email from Native American Rights Fund (NARF) two days ago on November 22nd, 2023, with the subject line, "We Give Thanks", which stated the following:
Dear Paul,
Let Us Give Thanks.
As we celebrate this harvest season, let us be thankful for our friends, relatives, the food we have, and the roofs over our heads. Let us give thanks every day as we greet the morning star in the eastern sky. Let us give thanks, for our families, our ancestors, and our survival.
Let us not forget those in need.
As we give thanks for all that we have, let us not forget those who are in need. Let us stand strong with them to make sure that their voices are heard, their needs are met, and that promises made to them are upheld. We cannot change our history, but we look to a future with a hope for something better.
We are thankful for you.
We are so grateful for your support of the Native American Rights Fund. You are part of the change, for now and generations to come. Thank you.
NARF
Native American Rights Fund
Thus, these two donations are to show my support for "Native American graduates who are striving to educate themselves so that they can contribute to their entire community—and so that they can contribute the entire country," as well as to show my support for standing strong "with [those who are in need] to make sure that their voices are heard, their needs are met, and that promises made to them are upheld ... as we give thanks for all that we have." –Paul Whiting (November 24th, 2023)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 24th, 2023 Update No. 2: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication that I responded to was an email from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) today, November 24th, 2023, with the subject line, "Claim your free sticker today, Paul!", which stated the following:
BLACK FRIDAY OFFER: Claim your FREE sticker before 11:59 P.M.!
[Image of the 'VOTE' Sticker, which is a dark blue rectangle with a white image of the United States of America, including Alaska and Hawaii, that has "Vote." in dark blue letters written across the continental U.S.A.]
This is a limited-time offer, Paul:
To make sure Democrats have a supercharged Senate majority to continue making incredible progress, the DSCC is launching an ultra-rare Black Friday deal -- a FREE sticker for everyone who signs up before midnight!
Time is running out to claim yours before the deal expires! So please, don’t miss out on this exclusive offer, Paul:
Click here to claim your FREE "VOTE" sticker before Black Friday is over and help supercharge our Senate majority! >>
CLAIM MY STICKER:***
Thank you for taking action -- we can't wait to send you your sticker!
Team DSCC
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Claim your FREE "VOTE" sticker!
[Image of the 'VOTE' Sticker, which is a dark blue rectangle with a white image of the United States of America, including Alaska and Hawaii, that has "Vote." in dark blue letters written across the continental U.S.A.]
Please submit your mailing information below to reserve your limited-edition sticker and prove you're standing with Democrats!
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City redacted]
[State redacted]
[ZIP Code redacted]
[Email redacted]
[Phone number redacted]
SUBMIT
---------------------------------------------
DSCC
Thank you, you've claimed your sticker! Make a donation now to help cover costs and SUPERCHARGE our Senate majority: CNN says multiple GOP seats could flip blue next year -- but with Mitch McConnell’s megadonors already playing defense, it’s going to take all hands on deck to win!
Please, will you help us cover the stickers' postage and support our other efforts to fight for a Democratic Senate majority?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DSCC.
[ ] $10 →
[ ] $5 →
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $50 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DSCC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order "to claim [my] FREE "VOTE" sticker before Black Friday is over and help supercharge our Senate majority!"
Thus, this one organization—the DSCC—is the political organization that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 24th, 2023, revised November 25th, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 5th, 2023 and revised December 12th, 2023)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 25th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication that I responded to was a text message today, November 25th, 2023, from the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State (DASS), which stated the following:
Paul,
Facebook and Instagram just announced they’re going to allow anyone to run ads that question the outcome of the 2020 election.
Every crocked-up QAnon conspiracy and Trump-amplified lie that ultimately led to the Jan. 6 insurrection now has the green light to be run as an ad.
With the election just a year away, our democracy can’t afford to have voters swayed by lies that undermine the integrity of our electoral process.
We’re launching an urgent petition calling on Meta to STOP election misinformation in political ads, but we still need [147] signatures from OR. Will you add your name now?***
Thank you,
Team DASS
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Democratic Association of Secretaries of State
SIGN NOW!
Email: [redacted]
Will you sign the petition calling on Meta to STOP election misinformation in political ads?
[✓] Yes! Add my name!
[FOLLOW UP] Do you plan to vote-by-mail next year?
[ ] Yes
[✓] No
[ ] Unsure
[ ] Prefer not to say
How concerned are you that MAGA Republicans running for Secretary of State have pledged to END Vote-by-Mail?
[✓] Very concerned
[ ] Somewhat concerned
[ ] Not concerned
Did you know that Secretaries of State are responsible for upholding election laws, overseeing elections, and counting ballots?
[✓] Yes, I knew that!
[ ] No, but I do now!
The Democratic Association of Secretaries of State is the largest and most powerful organization leading the movement to stop election-denying extremists at the ballot box. Will you join our grassroots operation?
[✓] YES!
Can we please count on you to chip in to elect Democrats who will fight for our democracy?
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $3 >>
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $15 >>
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $35 >>
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $50 >>
[✓] Yes, I'll chip in a custom amount >>
SUBMIT
---------------------------------------------
Democratic Association of Secretaries of State
When federal action stalls, state laws decide the future of our republic. We can't let those laws fall into the hands of partisan, conspiracy-loving GOP legislatures.
Our Democratic Secretaries protect our elections — even when Congress is deadlocked. They're the last line of defense for your rights, and they need your help this year more than ever. Rush a donation now and defend our Secretaries of State!
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DASS PAC.
[ ] Donate $15 →
[ ] Donate $35 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[✓] $5.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DASS (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to sign the petition "calling on Meta to STOP election misinformation in political ads," as well as because "the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State is the largest and most powerful organization leading the movement to stop election-denying extremists at the ballot box."
Thus, this one organization—the DASS—is the political organization that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 25th, 2023, revised November 26th, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 5th, 2023, revised December 12th, 2023 and revised June 28th, 2024)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 26th, 2023 Update No. 1—Which Also Discusses November 18th, 2023 Through November 25th, 2023: This 'update' that I am writing today, November 26th, 2023, is regarding both my usual reading of Time Magazine articles, as well as from my oftentimes daily news searches on Google.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news for about nine days, as of today, November 26th, 2023, because of how much blogging I have been doing. So, the last time that I checked the current news was on November 17th, 2023!
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day. Then, I usually check each day's news via a Google search under several news topics sometime after I check my email, as well as after I check my previous day's cellular data usage, which I track very carefully.
Thus, I usually check on what is happening in the news via various Google searches that I do on an oftentimes daily basis under the following topics:
American News
United States News
USA News
President Biden News
Joe Biden News
Democrats News
Republicans News
Political News
World News
Global Warming News
Workers On Strike News
Portland Oregon News
Then, I read the news articles that I feel are the most important for me to read from those Time Magazine emails and/or from those Google news searches; but, lately there has suddenly been an enormous amount of news!
And so, I have been trying to only document the news articles that I still need to read, but haven't got around to reading yet! Therefore, due to this recent volume of news, which started around September 14th, 2023 (please see my 'September 20th, 2023 Update—Continued, Which Also Discusses September 14th, 2023 Through September 19th, 2023' that can be found above), I have been writing these current news 'updates' where I list all of the articles that I am planning to read once I get around to reading them. Thus, this list is rather extensive: as of the last time I checked the news, I currently have 746 news articles left to catch up on reading! (Technically, it’s 711 articles, 2 interviews, 1 press release, 1 transcript, 1 'cartoon carousel,' as well as 27 videos, and 3 podcasts that I have left to catch up on.)
Besides that, since I started documenting these recent news articles (that I am planning to read in the future), I have only been able to catch up on reading the articles through September 26th, 2023 (please see my 'September 26th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above) starting from the first 'update' that I wrote regarding this sudden inundation of news, which was on September 20th, 2023, as noted above.
In other words, since I first wrote my 'September 20th, 2023 Update—Continued, Which Also Discusses September 14th, 2023 Through September 19th, 2023,' I have only been able to catch up on reading 124 articles, watching 2 videos, and listening to 2 podcasts! Therefore, this new system of listing the current news articles that I am planning to catch up on reading sometime in the future isn't sustainable.
Not only that, all of the time I have been spending listing these current news articles (that I am planning to read in the future) has been making it so that I only have time to list the articles, since these most recent news 'updates'—that are simply listing the articles that I am planning to read in future—take about one to two hours to create, or longer. And they also take around 0.20 to 0.25 of a GB, or more, in cellular data to create—simply to search for the articles under the above-mentioned news topics, open each article's webpage, copy the link to each article, and create these current news 'updates.' And I only have about 0.65 of a GB per day, on average, to use in data, since my cell phones data plan is about 20 GBs per month! (By the way, it takes about 0.15 to 0.30 of a GB to read the Time Magazine articles that I receive on a daily basis.)
And all of this prefacing is meant to explain that I am no longer planning to write these current news 'updates' where I list the articles that I am planning to read in the future! Period.
However, I am still planning to highlight some news articles as 'updates' if I feel that those particular articles are important for me to highlight—which is what I used to do—and that why I started writing these current news 'updates' in the first place. (I hope that makes sense!)
Now, I can usually manage to keep up with reading the Time Magazine articles that I receive on a daily basis, but that is just about all that I can do these days. Speaking of which, lately I have only been reading those Time Magazine articles about once every nine days (so just over a week), which is about all that I can manage.
And I used to provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which used to include the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article. However, I recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received today, November 26th, 2023, as well as that I received from the time period of November 18th, 2023 through November 25th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received eight days ago, November 18th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eight days ago) is titled, "How U.S. Failures in the 1970s Contributed to the Israel-Hamas War":
https://time.com/6336602/israel-palestinian-peace-carter-history
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eight days ago) is titled, "Everything in the George Santos Report—Even the Botox—Makes the Case For His Expulsion":
https://time.com/6336786/george-santos-expulsion-botox
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received seven days ago, November 19th, 2023:
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received seven days ago) is titled, "How Drug Makers Manipulate Patents to Keep Insulin Prices High":
https://time.com/6336840/patent-manipulation-insulin-prices
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received seven days ago) is titled, "Peace is Possible for Israel and Gaza—If Their Leaders Want It":
https://time.com/6334832/peace-plan-israel-gaza
---------------------------------------------
The following is the article which I received six days ago, November 20th, 2023:
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received six days ago) is titled, "Why Ukraine’s Stalemate Will Likely Last Another Year":
https://time.com/6335084/ukraine-stalemate-ian-bremmer-essay
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received five days ago, November 21st, 2023:
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "Doctors in the U.S. Can’t Be Silent in the Face of What’s Happening in Gaza":
https://time.com/6337606/doctors-in-the-u-s-silent-gaza
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "From Lawsuits to Protests, Pro-Palestinian Americans Are Pushing Biden to Pivot":
https://time.com/6337911/biden-israel-policy-palestine-pressure
---------------------------------------------
The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "Hamas Chief Says ‘Truce’ Is Close, in Rare Public Comments, as Hostage Talks Progress":
https://time.com/6338200/hamas-truce-israel-hostage-talks
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received four days ago, November 22nd, 2023:
The ninth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received four days ago) is titled, "How Israel-South Africa Relations Fell Apart Over Gaza":
https://time.com/6338391/israel-south-africa-relations-gaza
---------------------------------------------
The tenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received four days ago) is titled, "Exclusive: Palestinian Leader Mohammed Dahlan on Israel, Hamas, and the Prospect of Peace":
https://time.com/6337833/mohammed-dahlan-exclusive-palestine-israel
---------------------------------------------
The eleventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received four days ago) is titled, "Israel and Hamas Set Hostage-Release and Ceasefire Deal in Motion":
https://time.com/6338641/israel-hamas-hostages-ceasefire-deal
---------------------------------------------
The twelfth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received four days ago) is titled, "How Solar Sales Bros Threaten the Green Energy Transition":
https://time.com/6337766/solar-sales-bros-door-to-door
---------------------------------------------
The following is the article which I received three days ago, November 23rd, 2023:
The thirteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received three days ago) is titled, "Imprisoned Nobel Winner Narges Mohammadi Tells Angelina Jolie Iran’s People Will Prevail":
https://time.com/6338333/angelina-jolie-narges-mohammadi-nobel-peace-prize
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received two days ago, November 24th, 2023:
The fourteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Their Kibbutz Was Attacked on Oct. 7. They’re Determined to Rebuild":
https://time.com/6337685/kfar-aza-survivors-hamas-attack-rebuilding
---------------------------------------------
The fifteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Pro-Palestinian Protesters Demonstrate at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade":
https://time.com/6339319/pro-palestinian-protesters-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade
---------------------------------------------
The sixteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Why the Palestinian Prisoners Are Central to the Israel-Hamas Hostage Deal":
https://time.com/6339277/palestinian-prisoners-israel-hamas-hostage-deal
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, November 24th, 2023:
The seventeenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "New Data Shows a Global Surge in Searches Related to ‘Climate Anxiety’":
https://time.com/6338759/climate-change-anxiety-google-search-trend
---------------------------------------------
The eighteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "For University Leaders, Silence on the Israel-Hamas War is Not Golden":
https://time.com/6339107/university-leaders-voices-israel-hamas-war
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received today, November 26th, 2023:
The nineteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "George Santos Says He Expects to Be Kicked Out of Congress as Expulsion Vote Looms":
https://time.com/6339652/george-santos-congress-expulsion-vote-looms
---------------------------------------------
The twentieth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received today) is titled, "Women Hold the Key to a Livable World":
https://time.com/6337893/women-hold-the-key-to-a-livable-world
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers who, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written November 26th, 2023, revised November 27th, 2023 and revised April 26th, 2024)
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November 27th, 2023 Update No. 1—Which Also Discusses November 25th, 2023: Giving Tuesday is one day away from today, November 27th, 2023! And so, I decided to make one-time donations to a couple of charities, as the conclusion of my 'early' Giving Tuesday donations, which include the following:
The ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union);
[I already donated to the ACLU on November 3rd, 2023 and November 7th, 2023, as well as November 8th, 2023 (please see my 'November 3rd, 2023 Update No. 2' and my 'November 7th, 2023 Update No. 1,' as well as my 'November 8th, 2023 Update No. 2,' all of which can be found above), however, I did not donate for Giving Tuesday!]
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
And I was inspired to make these two donations by the following: an email that I received today, November 27th, 2023, from an organization that is "our nation’s guardian of liberty, working in courts, legislatures, and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties that the Constitution and the laws of the United States guarantee everyone in this country"; and by a promotional email that I received on November 25th, 2023, from an organization whose goal "is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment," where, "consistent with the vision of [their] founder Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family's ability to pay."
–Paul Whiting (written November 27th, 2023, revised November 29th, 2023, revised November 30th, 2023 and revised December 15th, 2023)
P.S.: Please see my detailed descriptions—immediately after this 'update'—of the following Giving Tuesday donations for which I received the above-mentioned communications!
The ACLU: 'November 27th, 2023 Update No. 2,' which can be found below.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital: 'November 27th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found below.
P.P.S.: By the way, I don't make all of my charitable donations on Giving Tuesday of each year! I only donate to those organizations that I have not already donated to sometime during the year (at least, organizations that I have not necessarily already donated to). You see, I donate to various charitable and progressive organizations throughout the year, where I make some donations on a monthly basis (depending upon the organization), in addition to some donations that I only make once per year based upon certain types of 'theme days,' if you will (again, depending upon the organization).
Please let me explain: I donate to various charitable organizations during the year on particular 'theme days,' so to speak, which I feel correspond directly to particular charitable causes, because it helps me to remember to donate to those particular causes during the year that I feel have a corresponding 'theme day.'
That way, I am spreading the charitable love throughout the entire year—and not simply having a year's worth of charitable giving 'bunch up,' so to speak, on Giving Tuesday. So then, whichever charitable organizations don't have an obvious corresponding 'theme day,' I can donate to those charitable organizations during Giving Tuesday, since I haven't already given to those particular organizations sometime during the year!
For example, I usually make donations to organizations that support Native American (American Indian) causes during Native American Heritage Day, which is observed yearly (annually) on the day after Thanksgiving—as a way to respect Native American Heritage Day—and as a way to support the Native American (American Indian) organizations to which I choose to donate on Native American Heritage Day, which is the day that I feel thematically corresponds directly to the causes that those particular organizations represent.
That is why I coordinate some of my charitable giving during the year with a particular 'theme day' that some charitable causes correspond to, such as the above-mentioned organizations who are supporting Native American (American Indian) causes that I feel directly correspond to the 'theme day' of Native American Heritage Day, which is simply one example of this type of 'theme day' charitable giving that I do throughout the year!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 27th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, November 27th, 2023, with the subject line, "Exclusive early access for top supporters", which stated the following:
ACLU EARLY ACCESS:
GIVING TUESDAY 2X MATCH
DEADLINE: 11/28 MIDNIGHT
Paul, it's the [title redacted] of the ACLU. I'm reaching out to supporters because tomorrow is Giving Tuesday – one of the biggest fundraising days of the year for a nonprofit like us, and we need your help.
Our team set a goal to raise $1 million before tomorrow at midnight. It's ambitious, but that's what it's going to take to defend all of our rights – from abortion access to voting rights to free speech.
While so much is uncertain in our country right now, we know one thing for sure: Our rights can't wait. That's why a generous donor offered to start our 2X match opportunity a day early. And that's also why I'm turning to you today: Will you make an early Giving Tuesday donation now and double your impact on our mission to defend the rights of all people nationwide?
MATCH MY GIFT:
https://action.aclu.org/give/giving-tuesday-2x-match
Paul, by making a donation ahead of our Giving Tuesday deadline, your contribution will help ACLU lawyers, advocates, and organizers in the fight for our rights, including:
[✓] Supporting doctors and patients in the 21 states where abortion is restricted or banned by connecting those who are facing abortion-related charges with legal support.
[✓] Organizing to defeat the 322 voter suppression bills that have been introduced in state legislatures that threaten to further shut out marginalized people from our democratic process.
[✓] Taking school districts and elected officials to court over their censorship policies, in an effort to curtail the 40% increase in book bans that we saw in 2022 as compared to the year before.
With so much on the line, falling short of our Giving Tuesday goal isn't an option. Our rights can't wait – and we need funding now to show up strong every time our freedoms are violated.
That's why I'm counting on dedicated ACLU supporters like you to make an early 2X matched donation today: Will you give now, Paul?
MATCH MY GIFT:
https://action.aclu.org/give/giving-tuesday-2x-match
Thank you for believing in the ACLU's mission. If we work together, I know we can build a more perfect union.
Sincerely,
[Name redacted]
Pronouns: He, him, his
[Title redacted], ACLU
Fund The Fight For Our Rights.
Making a Giving Tuesday donation today is the best way to defend abortion access, voting rights, and free speech.
MATCH MY GIFT
https://action.aclu.org/give/giving-tuesday-2x-match
Donate before midnight 11/28 and your gift will be DOUBLED
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to the ACLU in order to "make an early Giving Tuesday donation now and double [my] impact on [the ACLU's] mission to defend the rights of all people nationwide." –Paul Whiting (November 27th, 2023)
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November 27th, 2023 Update No. 3—Which Also Discusses November 25th, 2023: I received an email in my 'Promotions' folder from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital two days ago on November 25th, 2023, with the subject line, "Share a tax-deductible gift on Nov 28", which stated the following:
Share a tax-deductible gift on Nov 28
Your Giving Tuesday support saves lives.
Visit site:
https://www.stjude.org/promotion/1t/because-of-your-support.html
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Thanks to you, families never receive a bill from St. Jude.
Make your donation (USD)
[ ] Monthly
[✓] One-time
[ ] $50
[ ] $100
[ ] $500
[✓] Other: $10.00
Your information
Country: [redacted]
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Phone number: [redacted]
Email: [redacted]
Billing address: [redacted]
ZIP: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Donate $10.00
And, after I made the donation above, I survey window appeared, which stated, in part, the following:
Thank you for donating to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Let us know how we did by answering a few questions.
How easy was it to donate online?
[✓] Very easy
[ ] Somewhat easy
[ ] Neither easy nor difficult
[ ] Somewhat difficult
[ ] Very difficult
How satisfied are you with our online donation process?
[✓] Very satisfied
[ ] Somewhat satisfied
[ ] Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied
[ ] Somewhat dissatisfied
[ ] Very dissatisfied
How likely are you to donate to St. Jude again?
[✓] Very likely
[ ] Somewhat likely
[ ] Neither likely nor unlikely
[ ] Somewhat unlikely
[ ] Very unlikely
Which of the following ways are you likely to use if you make a future donation to St. Jude? Select all that apply.
[✓] Making one or more one-time donation(s) online
[ ] Becoming or remaining a monthly donor online
[ ] Sending in a donation by mail
[ ] Purchasing a ticket to a St. Jude event
[ ] Organizing a fundraiser myself
[ ] Donating to someone else's fundraiser
[ ] Purchasing a Dream Home Giveaway ticket
[ ] Purchasing St. Jude branded merchandise
[ ] Participating in workplace giving
[ ] Giving through my will or a bequest
[ ] Setting up an IRA charitable contribution, donor-advised gift, and/or establishing a charitable gift annuity
[ ] Other
On a scale of 0 to 10, please indicate how much you agree with each statement, with "0" being "strongly disagree" and "10" being "strongly agree".
I am a committed St. Jude donor.
[ ] 0 Strongly disagree
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[ ] 5
[ ] 6
[ ] 7
[ ] 8
[ ] 9
[✓] 10 Strongly agree
St. Jude is my favorite charitable organization.
[ ] 0 Strongly disagree
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[ ] 5
[ ] 6
[✓] 7
[ ] 8
[ ] 9
[ ] 10 Strongly agree
[Blogger's Note: I don't really have a "favorite charitable organization," however, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is one of my favorite charities!]
I feel a sense of loyalty to St. Jude.
[ ] 0 Strongly disagree
[ ] 1
[ ] 2
[ ] 3
[ ] 4
[ ] 5
[ ] 6
[ ] 7
[ ] 8
[ ] 9
[✓] 10 Strongly agree
Please share your thoughts on what St. Jude Children's Research Hospital means to you.
What St. Jude Children's Research Hospital means to me can be summarized by the following statement: "families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food."
And so, I made a one-time donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital because "families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food." –Paul Whiting (November 27th, 2023)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 1, Written On November 30th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 29th, 2023 And November 27th, 2023: Giving Tuesday is November 28th, 2023 this year, since Giving Tuesday is observed yearly (annually) on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving Day!
And I am writing this Giving Tuesday 'update' on November 30th, 2023, because it was a very busy day for me on Giving Tuesday while I was donating to the many charitable organizations that I have not already donated to sometime during the year (at least, organizations that I have not necessarily already donated to).
It was so busy, as a matter of fact, that I basically took the entire day off from writing any 'updates' on Giving Tuesday—like I usually write on the day that I make donations—and that's why I waited to write my Giving Tuesday 'update' two days later!
Anyway, I decided to make one-time donations to a considerable number of charities for my final Giving Tuesday donations, which include the following:
World Jewish Congress, American Section
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, on November 9th, 2023, as well as on November 18th, 2023 (please see my 'November 9th, 2023 Update No. 1,' as well as my 'November 18th, 2023 Update No. 5, Written On November 19th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 17th, 2023,' both of which can be found above), so this is my third one-time donation to World Jewish Congress, American Section for November 2023.]
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA);
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to the IAVA on November 6th, 2023, as well as on November 11th, 2023, for Veterans Day (please see my 'November 6th, 2023 Update No. 1,' as well as my 'November 11th, 2023 Update No. 1,' both of which can be found above), so this is my third one-time donation to Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America for November 2023.]
United Nations Population Fund (USA for UNFPA);
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to USA for UNFPA on November 16th, 2023, as well as on November 21st, 2023, for Giving Tuesday (please see my 'November 16th, 2023 Update No. 4,' as well as my 'November 21st, 2023 Update No. 6, Written On November 22nd, 2023,' both of which can be found above), but "humanitarian crises in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, Sudan, Ukraine, Somalia, the Congo, and elsewhere threaten the health, safety, and lives of women and girls every day," so this is my third one-time donation to United Nations Population Fund for November 2023.]
Brady: United Against Gun Violence (the sister organization of which is Brady Political Action Committee, or Brady PAC);
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to Brady: United Against Gun Violence on November 21st, 2023 for Giving Tuesday (please see my 'November 21st, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On November 22nd, 2023,' which can be found above), so this is my second one-time donation to Brady: United Against Gun Violence for November 2023.]
Willamette Week's Give!Guide (Willamette Week is a local news publication here in Portland, Oregon—and I am a monthly contributor to the Willamette Week);
Jane Fonda Climate PAC (Jane Fonda Climate Political Action Committee);
Urban League of Portland (whose "mission is to empower African-Americans and others to achieve equality in education, employment, health, economic security and quality of life.");
USA for UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees);
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to USA for UNHCR on November 16th, 2023 for Giving Tuesday (please see my 'November 16th, 2023 Update No. 4,' which can be found above), but I received a match offer on November 27th, 2023, due to the fact that USA for UNHCR's "Giving Tuesday goal is to send 2,400 winter survival kits to 2,400 refugee families in need — and every dollar [I] give will be MATCHED by the USA for UNHCR Board of Directors," so this is my second one-time donation to USA for UNHCR for November 2023.]
Brady: United Against Gun Violence (I donated once more on November 29th, 2023, as noted below);
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America (via the Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund);
[Blogger's Note: I already donated to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund on November 8th, 2023 (please see my 'November 8th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above), so this is my second one-time donation to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund for November 2023.]
And I was inspired to make this considerable number of donations by the following: an email that I received on November 28th, 2023, from "the leading international organization connecting and protecting Jewish communities globally"; by an email that I received on November 28th, 2023, from an organization whose "mission is to connect, unite, and empower post-9/11 veterans"; by an email that I received on November 28th, 2023, from a global organization whose "mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled"; by text messages that I received on November 28th, 2023, as well as on November 29th, 2023, from "one of America's oldest and boldest gun violence prevention groups, [whose] history of success goes back decades"; by an email that I received on November 28th, 2023, from a Portland, Oregon website that offers a way to donate to "250 local nonprofits deserve—and need—your support"; by a a text message that I received on November 28th, 2023, from a Political Action Committee (PAC) "which is laser-focused on one goal: Do what it takes to defeat fossil fuel supporters and elect climate champions at all levels of government"; by the realization that the Urban League of Portland, which I donated to last year, was no longer listed on Willamette Week's Give!Guide; by an email that I received on November 27th, 2023, from an organization that "helps to save, protect and rebuild the lives of millions of refugees"; and by an email that I received on November 28th, 2023, from "a grassroots movement of Americans fighting for public safety measures that can protect people from gun violence."
–Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023, revised December 2nd, 2023, revised December 15th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
P.S.: Please see my detailed descriptions—immediately after this 'update'—of the following Giving Tuesday donations for which I received the above-mentioned communications!
World Jewish Congress, American Section: 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On November 30th, 2023,' which can be found below.
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA): 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On November 30th, 2023,' which can be found below.
United Nations Population Fund (USA for UNFPA): 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 4, Written On November 30th, 2023,' which can be found below.
Brady: United Against Gun Violence: 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 5, Written On November 30th, 2023,' which can be found below.
Willamette Week's Give!Guide: 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 6, Written On November 30th, 2023,' which can be found below.
Jane Fonda Climate PAC: 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 7, Written On November 30th, 2023,' which can be found below.
USA for UNHCR: 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 8, Written On November 30th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 29th, 2023 And November 27th, 2023,' which can be found below.
Brady: United Against Gun Violence (once more): 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 9, Written On November 30th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 29th, 2023,' which can be found below.
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America: 'November 28th, 2023 Update No. 10, Written On November 30th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 29th, 2023,' which can be found below.
P.P.S.: By the way, I don't make all of my charitable donations on Giving Tuesday of each year! I only donate to those organizations that I have not already donated to sometime during the year (at least, organizations that I have not necessarily already donated to). You see, I donate to various charitable and progressive organizations throughout the year, where I make some donations on a monthly basis (depending upon the organization), in addition to some donations that I only make once per year based upon certain types of 'theme days,' if you will (again, depending upon the organization).
Please let me explain: I donate to various charitable organizations during the year on particular 'theme days,' so to speak, which I feel correspond directly to particular charitable causes, because it helps me to remember to donate to those particular causes during the year that I feel have a corresponding 'theme day.'
That way, I am spreading the charitable love throughout the entire year—and not simply having a year's worth of charitable giving 'bunch up,' so to speak, on Giving Tuesday. So then, whichever charitable organizations don't have an obvious corresponding 'theme day,' I can donate to those charitable organizations during Giving Tuesday, since I haven't already given to those particular organizations sometime during the year!
For example, I usually make donations to various charities who are helping those in need during the Christmas holiday—as a way to celebrate Christmas Day—and as a way to support the charitable organizations to which I choose to donate on Christmas, which is the day that I feel thematically corresponds directly to the causes that those particular organizations represent.
That is why I coordinate some of my charitable giving during the year with a particular 'theme day' that some charitable causes correspond to, such as the above-mentioned charities who are helping those in need whose causes I feel directly correspond to the 'theme day' of Christmas Day, which is simply one example of this type of 'theme day' charitable giving that I do throughout the year!
-------------------------------------------------------------------
November 28th, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On November 30th, 2023: I received an email from the World Jewish Congress, American Section, two days ago on November 28th, 2023, with the subject line, "Giving Tuesday is here, Paul", which stated the following:
World Jewish Congress
American Section
TRIPLE YOUR GIFT
TO DEFEND GLOBAL
JEWRY THIS
#GIVINGTUESDAY
GIVE NOW:
https://support.worldjewishcongress.org/page/59832/donate/1
Good morning Paul,
Before I ask for you to make a gift on this global day of generosity, please allow me to explain why your support is so important.
In the wake of the devastating atrocities that took place in Israel on October 7, and the astronomical surge in antisemitism that has followed, your Giving Tuesday contribution to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, is so much more than a generous financial gift. As Jews the world over mourn those lost, hold the injured in our hearts, call for the immediate return of those abducted, and pray for the brave IDF soldiers who are defending our eternal homeland, we know that it is our unity, collective strength, and resilience that will see us through to better days. Together, we will persevere.
Your donation today is a statement of solidarity and hope for a future where Jews are free to live and worship without fear. It is a deep investment in our shared values and our tireless work to fight anti-Israel and anti-Jewish hatred wherever they exist. It is a powerful act of support for our Israeli brothers and sisters and with Jews around the world during this defining moment in history.
But today is the last chance for you to triple your gift on behalf of Israel and all our Jewish communities and help WJC reach our critical $100,000 Giving Tuesday goal, so please:
Paul, will you make a #GivingTuesday gift to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, to support the WJC’s critical mission to protect and defend Jewish people around the world? Until midnight tonight, every dollar will be triple-matched for THREE TIMES the power!
GOAL: $100,000
DEADLINE: MIDNIGHT
ALL GIFTS TRIPLED!
https://support.worldjewishcongress.org/page/59832/donate/1
Every dollar will truly make a difference. These are just a few ways your support can make an impact at this critical moment …
… Your gift will go three times as far to fight the antisemitic violence and hatred that is rising dramatically and endangering Jews on city streets and college campuses …
… Your gift will automatically triple to help the WJC stand in solidarity with Israel as it fights valiantly for its very existence …
… And your gift will instantly be triple-matched allowing WJC to continue fighting disinformation and misinformation in traditional media, social media, and on the internet.
But this Giving Tuesday offer only lasts until midnight tonight — and we are counting on your support to reach our $100,000 goal. So please do not wait: Make a donation to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, now to have it triple-matched to empower the work of the World Jewish Congress as we work to support our Jewish communities around the world.
Thank you for your continued commitment to our shared values, our homeland, and our Jewish family everywhere.
World Jewish Congress
TRIPLE YOUR IMPACT
https://support.worldjewishcongress.org/page/59832/donate/1
The World Jewish Congress, American Section, supports the vital work and projects of the World Jewish Congress. For more information on the World Jewish Congress, visit worldjewishcongress.org.
And so, I made a one-time donation to the World Jewish Congress, American Section, on November 28th, 2023, because my donation "is a statement of solidarity and hope for a future where Jews are free to live and worship without fear," which is why I made "a gift on this global day of generosity." –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On November 30th, 2023: I received an email from Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) two days ago on November 28th, 2023, with the subject line "Veteran leadership…right when we need it", which stated the following:
Paul — IAVA has the backs of the post-9/11 generation of veterans — so much so that we’re investing in some of the best among us as a part of our work.
Don’t believe us? Hear it straight from the mouth of one of our Leadership Fellows:
Screenshot of video of IAVA Leadership Fellow [name redacted] | Click here to watch and donate to IAVA:
https://donate.iava.org/give/542166/#!/donation/checkout
“This fellowship experience has been amazing. It’s helped train me to be a better leader for our veteran community and for our nation in general. I just want to thank you for your donations and I hope you’ll continue to support these programs, so we can educate and train more veterans to have the opportunity like I did.”
— [Name redacted], 2023 IAVA Leadership Fellow
Paul, we can’t do the critical work necessary to connect, unite and empower our fellow veterans without your help.
That means we need you to step up now. To join us. And to stand shoulder to shoulder with us in our work.
Before Giving Tuesday ends, please consider investing in IAVA’s work to get the backs of the more than 3 million post-9/11 generation veterans. Every dollar makes a huge impact.
DONATE:
https://donate.iava.org/give/542166/#!/donation/checkout
Onward!
Team IAVA
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) on November 28th, 2023, in order to "stand shoulder to shoulder with [IAVA] in [their] work," because "IAVA has the backs of the post-9/11 generation of veterans." –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023, revised December 2nd, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 4, Written On November 30th, 2023: I received a text message two days ago on November 28th, 2023, from USA for UNFPA (formerly known as the 'United Nations Fund for Population Activities' that is now called the 'United Nations Population Fund'), which stated the following:
📢LAST CHANCE: Your gift to women and girls DOUBLED – but only until midnight!
It’s Giving Tuesday, Paul, and, until midnight tonight, every dollar you give will go TWICE as far, thanks to a generous 2X-matching commitment from a group of global health champions.
Your support is more critical now than ever. Humanitarian crises in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, Sudan, Ukraine, Somalia, the Congo, and elsewhere threaten the health, safety, and lives of women and girls every day. And even while their world is turned upside-down, women and girls continue to become pregnant, give birth, and menstruate – all without the vital care they need.
We are 72% toward our $150,000 Giving Tuesday goal, but if we fall short before the match expires at midnight, we’re leaving crucial funding for women and girls on the table.
This Giving Tuesday, will you stand up for women and girls by providing lifesaving sexual and reproductive health care? If you give before the midnight match deadline, your contribution will be doubled to deliver twice the care, save 2X as many lives, and empower women and girls everywhere to reach their fullest potential.
You can donate securely here:
foreverywomanandgirl.us/GivingTuesday?t=pSagb
Thank you for being there for women and girls at this pivotal moment, Paul.
USA FOR UNFPA
And so, I made a one-time donation to USA for UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) on, November 28th, 2023, because "[my] support is more critical now than ever," since "humanitarian crises in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, Sudan, Ukraine, Somalia, the Congo, and elsewhere threaten the health, safety, and lives of women and girls every day." –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 5, Written On November 30th, 2023: I received a text message two days ago on November 28th, 2023, from Brady: United Against Gun Violence, which stated the following:
Hi, it's Coach [redacted]. Sorry to double text, but did you see my message from earlier? Brady is still $176,243 short of our Giving Tuesday goal - and you're running out of time to double your gift!
Please, donate now to defeat the gun lobby in 2024: txt.brady.org/6NxgezGpZksF
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Brady
United Against Gun Violence
$400,000 Giving Tuesday MATCH: Donate now and DOUBLE your impact!
Brady is on the cusp of passing historic gun safety reform, defeating the NRA once and for all, and taking action to prevent gun violence and save lives. But we can't do any of that if we don't hit our critical $400,000 Giving Tuesday match goal.
Will you donate in honor of Giving Tuesday and double your impact to help Brady take common-sense action to save lives?
And so, I made a one-time donation to Brady: United Against Gun Violence (the sister organization of which is Brady Political Action Committee, or Brady PAC) on November 28th, 2023, in order to "donate in honor of Giving Tuesday and double your impact to help Brady take common-sense action to save lives." –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 6, Written On November 30th, 2023: I received an email from Friends of Willamette Week (FOWW) [Willamette Week is a local news publication here in Portland, Oregon—and I am a monthly contributor to the Willamette Week] two days ago on November 28th, 2023, with the subject line, "Do Portland good. Give today!", which stated, in part, the following:
A note from WW Give!Guide [title redacted], [name redacted]
Dear Paul,
Two decades ago, Willamette Week undertook an experiment: Give!Guide.
Back then, we knew Portland had a vibrant — but under-appreciated and under-supported — nonprofit community. And we knew younger Portlanders needed encouragement to support those great nonprofits. We hoped our experiment would help change those trajectories.
Never in our wildest dreams did we think Give!Guide would grow to what it has become today.
Nor did we imagine Willamette Week would come to need the same kind of community support. Faced with a shaky media economy, social media giants, and a pandemic that tore into our usual revenue streams, we started Friends of Willamette Week. Over the past four years, our Friends have generously supported the writers in our newsroom. In turn, those writers today are producing some of the most consequential journalism in Oregon.
All of this at a time when other media outlets, particularly here in Portland, have dramatically shrunk their footprints — as well as their ability to help readers gain a deeper understanding of our community and foster positive change.
Thus, this special request: Please take a serious look at all 250 nonprofits in this year’s Give!Guide (https://giveguide.org). When you do, please consider giving some of your support to Friends of Willamette Week (https://giveguide.org/nonprofits/foww?utm_source=newsletter_five_foww_2023&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=foww_gg_2023). It’ll do Portland a world of good.
Thank you,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted], WW’s Give!Guide
And so, I made a couple of dozen one-time donations through Willamette Week's "Give!Guide" on November 28th, 2023, to 25 separate (and might I say, totally worthy) local charities, as well as to Friends of Willamette Week, for which I earned the following highly coveted tweet:
I was donor number 7558 on the Willamette Week Give!Guide! https://giveguide.org #pdxgivesback via @giveguide
–Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023, revised December 2nd, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 7, Written On November 30th, 2023: I received a text message two days ago on November 28th, 2023, from the Jane Fonda Climate PAC (Jane Fonda Climate Political Action Committee), which stated the following:
It's Giving Tuesday!
Hi, it's Jane Fonda. On this Giving Tuesday, I am reaching out to say thank you for your ongoing support for the Jane Fonda Climate PAC.
I hope you know how impactful your support truly is. Because of you, millions of people in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and California now have representatives, senators, councilmembers, executives, and supervisors who will fight for a livable future for all their communities.
Today, on Giving Tuesday, will you contribute $10 to continue your impact with the Jane Fonda Climate PAC? Here's your secure link to give: janepac.com/give
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Jane Fonda Climate PAC on November 28th, 2023, in order to "contribute [$5] to continue [my] impact with the Jane Fonda Climate PAC," since "millions of people in Virginia, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and California now have representatives, senators, councilmembers, executives, and supervisors who will fight for a livable future for all their communities."
And if you are interested in learning more about the Jane Fonda Climate PAC, here is a description from their "About" webpage, along with a hyperlink:
Jane Fonda
Climate PAC
ABOUT
"I’ve spent my life fighting for what I believe in. When I was 32, President Nixon had me arrested. 50 years later I was arrested five times for protesting the government’s inaction on climate change. It’s no secret that I have a history of ruffling feathers in Washington.
Today, support for climate action is unprecedented. The public is voting with the climate in mind, but the people we elect are not. This has led me to reflect on what we need to do to secure meaningful action on climate. Our planet is on fire and our leaders are failing us, so if we can’t change the minds of the people in power, we need to change the people in power.
It is for that reason that I started Jane Fonda Climate PAC, which is laser-focused on one goal: Do what it takes to defeat fossil fuel supporters and elect climate champions at all levels of government.
I believe this is the most important thing I will do in my lifetime." —Jane Fonda
https://janepac.com
By the way, I added the quotation marks to the statement above by Ms. Fonda, as well as her name at the end of the statement, since I thought it would make more sense, because the "About Page" opening statement is clearly written from her perspective. –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 8, Written On November 30th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 29th, 2023 And November 27th, 2023: I received an email from USA for UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) three days ago on November 27th, 2023, with the subject line, "The best gift you can buy today", which stated the following:
USA for UNHCR
[Image of a man holding his young son outside in Sabzi, Bamyan province during a harsh winter]
YOUR GENEROUS GIFT MATCHED NOW!
https://give.unrefugees.org/231108give_givetue_d_3000
Life doesn't stop when a child becomes displaced, Friend.
They still want to attend school with their friends, eat a nutritious meal and drink safe, clean water. They still want to get tucked into a warm bed at night. They still want to play in the freshly fallen snow until their fingers grow cold.
Now imagine what winter would be like without the warmth of a safe place to stay. Imagine if you didn't have that cozy coat, mittens or knit hat — that's the reality for most displaced children around the world.
The young boy pictured above, [name redacted], is just one of the young children your support can help. He snuggles with his dad against the fierce winds in the highest regions of Afghanistan. Instead of playing with his friends, he's been sick and their home doesn't have any heat. The greatest gift you can give a child is the chance to simply be a child.
If your email is anything like mine, you have hundreds of Cyber Monday promotions. And if you're anything like me, you've saved some money on those sales. Today, you can pass on your savings and support refugees by making an early Giving Tuesday gift.
A better future for children around the globe starts today with your gift. Our Giving Tuesday goal is to send 2,400 winter survival kits to 2,400 refugee families in need — and every dollar you give will be MATCHED by the USA for UNHCR Board of Directors to help us achieve this goal.
GOAL: 2,400 WINTER SURVIVAL KITS | DEADLINE: NOV. 28
SEND TWICE THE WARMTH →
https://give.unrefugees.org/231108give_givetue_d_3000
You're providing the comfort of a warm embrace, feeding the hungry, caring for the sick and building safe shelters. That's what your generosity will provide refugees this winter — and right now it will support twice as many people.
I can't tell you how much it means to a refugee family to know that compassionate people like you are willing to lend a hand. With more displaced families relying on our support each and every day, we cannot afford to miss this vital goal of sending lifesaving winter survival kits to families in need.
So please, don't wait until Giving Tuesday to make the most of your impact. Make your first donation of $143 now and have your gift doubled →
https://give.unrefugees.org/231108give_givetue_d_3000
In partnership,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
USA for UNHCR
And so, I made a one-time donation to USA for UNHCR on November 29th, 2023 (which was the day after Giving Tuesday, since this email got lost in the shuffle all of the other Giving Tuesday emails that I received!), because USA for UNHCR's "Giving Tuesday goal is to send 2,400 winter survival kits to 2,400 refugee families in need — and every dollar [I] give will be MATCHED by the USA for UNHCR Board of Directors to help [them] achieve this goal." –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 9, Written On November 30th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 29th, 2023: I received a text message yesterday on November 29th, 2023, from Brady: United Against Gun Violence, which stated the following:
Hi Paul, it's [name redacted] from Brady. This isn't the news I wanted to share, but we fell just short of our $400K Giving Tuesday goal yesterday.
Giving Tuesday is the most important day of the year for Brady. What we raise now will determine if we can take on the NRA and overcome gun lobby obstruction & more in 2024.
That's why I reached out to our donors & asked them to EXTEND this rare match opportunity - but only until midnight. Paul, we can't afford to fall short again - lives depend on us. Please rush a matched gift now to help us end gun violence: txt.brady.org/6SJRC59ymkD4 - [Name redacted]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Brady
United Against Gun Violence
$400,000 Giving Tuesday MATCH: Donate now and DOUBLE your impact!
Brady is on the cusp of passing historic gun safety reform, defeating the NRA once and for all, and taking action to prevent gun violence and save lives. But we can't do any of that if we don't hit our critical $400,000 Giving Tuesday match goal.
Will you donate in honor of Giving Tuesday and double your impact to help Brady take common-sense action to save lives?
And so, I made a one-time donation to Brady: United Against Gun Violence (the sister organization of which is Brady Political Action Committee, or Brady PAC) on November 29th, 2023 (which was the day after Giving Tuesday) in order to "donate in honor of Giving Tuesday and double your impact to help Brady take common-sense action to save lives." –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 28th, 2023 Update No. 10, Written On November 30th, 2023, Which Also Discusses November 29th, 2023: I received an email from Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America yesterday, November 29th, 2023, with the subject line, "more determined than ever", which stated the following:
Double your impact! Make your gift to end gun violence and [name redacted] will MATCH your donation today through December 3rd. Donate now >>
https://secure.actblue.com/donate/giving-tuesday-match-2023
Paul,
Ever since I first joined Everytown for Gun Safety in 2019, I've witnessed the immense power of what Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers can accomplish.
Earlier this year, I was thrilled to be named the first-ever [title redacted] of Moms Demand Action. In my new role, I've had the opportunity to travel all over the country to meet and work alongside gun violence survivors, who inspire me to keep going with their grace, courage and resilience. And if one thing has been made clear to me, it's that our movement is unstoppable.
Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers show up year-round to advocate for life-saving gun safety policies and programs at school board meetings, statehouses, and U.S. Congress. They're organizing and educating in their communities and college campuses, and they never stop fighting for stronger, lifesaving gun safety laws.
Hundreds of our volunteers have even taken the next, bold step in their advocacy by running for local, state, and federal office. Just this year, 162 of our amazing volunteers ran for office. In Virginia, Moms Demand Action volunteers running and winning helped to sweep a gun sense majority to victory in both chambers of the General Assembly, handing the NRA a major defeat on what it used to consider its home turf. Now, there are NINE volunteers-turned-lawmakers waiting to be sworn into the Virginia House of Delegates alone—nearly 10% of the entire chamber!
Never have I been more excited about the power of our volunteers who are changing the course of gun safety in this country.
As we look to 2024, we're more determined than ever to forge ahead in our work to pass stronger gun safety laws, break the cycle of violence, and end this country's gun violence crisis.
Paul, we couldn't do it without supporters like you: That's why from now through December 3rd, [name redacted] will match your gift to the Everytown Action Fund to DOUBLE your impact on our work to end gun violence. Please, don't wait—make your matched donation today >>
DONATE: ALL GIFTS MATCHED
https://secure.actblue.com/donate/giving-tuesday-match-2023
We know that taking on the gun lobby and fighting for change won't be easy, but we've never backed down from the hard work and dedication it will take to end gun violence. With your support, we are stronger than ever.
Thank you,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted] of Moms Demand Action
She/her/hers
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America is a grassroots volunteer network of Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund. As a movement of Americans fighting for common-sense gun policies, we depend on contributions from supporters like you to fund important work to reduce gun violence.
Contributions to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund are not tax-deductible as a charitable contribution or as a business expense under IRC Section 162(e).
DONATE
And so, I made a one-time donation to Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America (via the Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund) on November 29th, 2023 (which was the day after Giving Tuesday) because "from now through December 3rd, [name redacted] will match [my] gift to the Everytown Action Fund to DOUBLE [my] impact on [Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America's] work to end gun violence." –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 30th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication that I responded to was an email from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) yesterday, November 29th, 2023, with the subject line, "I know we will regret it.", which stated the following:
Paul, I need you to see the latest:
House Republicans reported their fundraising numbers…
…and they’ve raked in $75.1 MILLION to defeat us.
MAGA Republicans know this kind of cash could harm our Democrats’ chances of taking back the Majority.
But we can’t let Republicans outraise our Democrats -- not while the latest polls show us virtually tied with the Republicans.
That’s why I’m personally asking 6,054 Democrats to step up before my End-of-Month Deadline and help me outraise MAGA Republicans. Will you help put the House firmly back in Democratic hands with a donation to the DCCC? >>
END OF MONTH DEADLINE: 11/30
NAME: Paul Whiting
Suggested Support: $60
Let me be clear:
Taking back the House is critical to stopping Republicans from forcing their anti-Democracy agenda on the American people.
And if we lose because we didn’t meet our budget goals, I know we will regret it.
I’m calling on 6,054 strong Democrats to step up before my End-of-Month Deadline. Can I count on your $60 to the DCCC?
If you’ve saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:
[ ] Chip in $60 immediately >>
[ ] Chip in $80 immediately >>
[ ] Chip in $120 immediately >>
[ ] Chip in $200 immediately >>
[ ] Chip in $480 immediately >>
[✓] Or donate another amount >>***
Thank you,
Nancy
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DCCC
Chip in now to FLIP the House and DEFEND President Biden’s legacy!
Republicans are blocking President Biden’s agenda at every turn -- and he’s counting on this grassroots team to STOP them.
SO QUICKLY: Will you rush in a donation to elect a WAVE of Democrats and FLIP the House?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DCCC.
[ ] $15 →
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $500 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[✓] $35.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $3 tip?
[ ] $3
[ ] $5
[ ] $7
[✓] Add custom amount $2.46 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DCCC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "help put the House firmly back in Democratic hands with a donation to the DCCC," because "taking back the House is critical to stopping Republicans from forcing their anti-Democracy agenda on the American people."
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication that I responded to was an email from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) today, November 30th, 2023, with the subject line, "Your impact", which stated the following:
Hi Paul, it's [name redacted], [title redacted] of the DNC.
We are just hours away from our end-of-month deadline. I wanted to reach out to you personally about how important it is that we reach our November fundraising goal, and in a minute I’m going to ask if you can donate to the DNC today.
But first, let’s catch up a little. Can you believe how fast November has flown by? I certainly can’t!
Just a few weeks ago, voters in Kentucky, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio turned out again to reject the Trump-backed MAGA agenda and the Republicans who were running on it, resulting in big wins up and down the ballot. These wins follow a very successful midterm election for Democrats, when the “red wave” Republicans predicted never materialized, and we won seats across the country, while defending our Senate majority.
Democrats showed up and showed out on Election Day this year, but that didn’t happen by accident. I want to say not only thank you, but congratulations, because it's your support that makes wins like these possible. This year’s victories belong to all of us.
This is just one recent example of why our fundraising goals matter -- every time we reach them, it helps ensure we have the resources to invest in state parties, reach voters across the country, and affect key outcomes.
2024 is set to be a monumental year. MAGA Republicans are going to throw everything they have at winning seats in the House and Senate, and of course, the Oval Office. We won't let them succeed. With a massive effort from members of this grassroots team like you, Paul, we can -- and will -- prevent MAGA extremists from taking control of our government and dragging our country backward.
So as we look ahead to next year’s fights, I have to ask: Can you pitch in $20 now to help us reach our end-of-month goal before our midnight deadline and support the DNC’s work heading into 2024? Your contribution goes toward winning the White House and electing Democrats up and down the ballot.
If you've saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $20
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $40
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $70
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $100
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $200
[✓] Donate another amount***
Your gift makes a real difference, Paul. Our work here at the DNC is fueled by donations from our grassroots team, and we can’t do this without you. Every dollar helps keep a Republican out of office, protect our basic rights, provide life-changing services for everyday people, protect and defend the values of this nation we hold dear, and much, much more --if just a dollar can do all that, imagine the impact of $20 today.
So, will you make an impact right now and chip in $20 today before November ends to help us prepare for next year’s fights?
Thanks for all you’re doing,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
Democratic National Committee
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Democratic National Committee (DNC)
Before our end-of-month deadline, donate to the DNC and help elect Democrats nationwide!
The Democratic Party is counting on your support to hold the GOP accountable and elect more Democrats up and down the ballot.
Donate to the DNC and invest in the resources our candidates rely on to compete and win year after year.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Democratic National Committee (DNC).
[ ] $20 →
[ ] $10 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other 35.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $3 tip?
[ ] $3
[ ] $5
[ ] $7
[✓] Add custom amount $2.46 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DNC (with a tip to ActBlue), because "with a massive effort from members of this grassroots team like [me], we can -- and will -- prevent MAGA extremists from taking control of our government and dragging our country backward."
---------------------------------------------
The third political communication that I responded to was a text message today, November 30th, 2023, from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), which stated, in part, the following:
It's Senator Schumer. This is going to be a long message, but because of how much is at stake, you need to know it all.
𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐜𝐚𝐧'𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐧𝐨𝐰, 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞'𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭: This is a critical election cycle, and Mitch McConnell and the GOP are on the brink of taking back the Senate. I wish I was exaggerating, but I'm not. I'll explain more in a minute, but first, will you chip in $30 (becomes $120!) before our end-of-month deadline at midnight to defend our Democratic Senate majority? >>***
Here are the two most important things you need to know:
𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐓𝐒 𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐊 𝐌𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐏𝐋𝐄 𝐃𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐂𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐂 𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐒𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐒 𝐀𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐕𝐔𝐋𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒.
Paul, if McConnell flips just TWO seats, he'll take back Senate control, and right now he's targeting our most vulnerable incumbents. And it gets worse:
𝐒𝐄𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐑𝐄𝐏𝐔𝐁𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐀𝐖 𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐑𝐃-𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐅𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐓 𝐂𝐘𝐂𝐋𝐄.
...Senate Republicans have outraised us numerous times. That means they have the resources to blanket America in television ads, pack thousands into MAGA rallies, and bankroll campaigns to take back the Senate. We still have time to fight back, but we need to act with urgency.
That's why I'm asking you directly: Can you give $30 (becomes $120!) before tonight's critical deadline to save our Senate majority? The best link is right here:***
Thank you for reading.
- Chuck
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DSCC
Triple-Match Activated! MAXIMIZE your impact to help SUPERCHARGE our Senate majority! CNN says multiple GOP seats could flip blue next year -- but with Mitch McConnell’s megadonors already playing defense, it’s going to take all hands on deck to win!
Please, will you chip in now to protect our historic progress by supercharging our Democratic majority? Your donation will be TRIPLE-MATCHED!
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DSCC.
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $5 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $3 tip?
[ ] $3
[ ] $5
[ ] $7
[✓] Add custom amount $2.46 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DSCC (with a tip to ActBlue), because "if [Mitch] McConnell flips just TWO seats, he'll take back Senate control, and right now he's targeting our most vulnerable incumbents." Plus, "it gets worse ... Senate Republicans have outraised [the DSCC] numerous times." And that is why I gave "[$35] (becomes [$140]!) before tonight's critical deadline to save our Senate majority."
Thus, these three organizations—the DCCC, and the DNC, as well as the DSCC—are the political organizations that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written November 30th, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 5th, 2023, revised December 12th, 2023 and revised January 7th, 2024)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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November 30th, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On December 1st, 2023 [August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 4, Written On December 1st, 2023 About November 2023]: This update is a follow-up to the following:
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 1, Written On August 31st, 2023
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 2, Written On October 1st, 2023 About September 2023
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 3, Written On November 1st, 2023 About October 2023
My 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above, is where I explain that I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
"...I am no longer donating to political, progressive and charitable organizations in the same way that I was due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations—as outlined below—starting with January of 2023.
January 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 15%
February 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 19%
March 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 12%
April 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 17%
May 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 21%
June 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 20%
July 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 17%
August 2023:
Month-to-date percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 17% [through August 19th, 2023]
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through July 2023 (without including August, since this month is not over yet), it comes out to an average of 17% of my monthly income..."
And my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 1, Written On August 31st, 2023,' which can be found above, is where I continued to explain what the total percentage of my monthly income is that I spent for the month of August 2023 on donations, as well as monthly interest and credit card purchases! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
"...Now that today is the last day of August 2023, I wanted to provide you with this month's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
August 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 23%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through August 2023, it comes out to an average of 18% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] Joe Biden for President: 2%
[02] Planned Parenthood: 2%
[03] Non-Categorized Charity: 7%
[04] Everytown for Gun Safety: 1%
[05] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 5%
[06] Red Cross (Maui Fires): 1%
[07] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 1%
[08] Non-Categorized Political: 4%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Donations Spent for August 2023: 23%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[09] Monthly Interest: 6%
[10] Credit Card Purchases: 23%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases for August 2023: 29%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for August 2023: 52%"
And my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 2, Written On October 1st, 2023 About September 2023,' which can be found above, is where I continued to explain what the total percentage of my monthly income is that I spent for the month of September 2023 on donations, as well as monthly interest and credit card purchases! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
"...And now that yesterday, September 30th, 2023, was the last day of September 2023, I wanted to provide you with September's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
September 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 20%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through September 2023, it comes out to an average of 18% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] Everytown for Gun Safety: 1%
-------Please see [02] below-------
[03] Disaster Relief: 6%
[04] Non-Categorized Charity: 3%
[05] Non-Categorized Political: 5%
[06] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 3%
[07] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 1%
[08] Planned Parenthood: 1%
-------Please see [09] below-------
[10] News Organizations: 0.33311125916%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Donations Spent: 20%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[02] Credit Card Purchases: 17%
[09] Monthly Interest: 5%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases: 22%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for September 2023: 42%"
And my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 3, Written On November 1st, 2023 About October 2023,' which can be found above, is where I continued to explain what the total percentage of my monthly income is that I spent for the month of October 2023 on donations, as well as monthly interest and credit card purchases! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
"...And now that yesterday, October 31st, 2023, was the last day of October 2023, I wanted to provide you with October's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
October 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 31%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through October 2023, it comes out to an average of 0.20% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 2%
[02] Non-Categorized Political: 7%
[03] Planned Parenthood: 2%
[04] Everytown for Gun Safety: 1%
[05] Non-Categorized Charity: 4%
[06] World Jewish Congress: 1%
-------Please see [07] below-------
[08] Disaster Relief: 2%
[09] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 10%
-------Please see [10] below-------
[11] Brady PAC: 2%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Donations Spent: 31%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[07] Credit Card Purchases: 74%
[10] Monthly Interest: 3%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases: 77%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for October 2023: 108%"
And now that yesterday, November 30th, 2023, was the last day of November 2023, I wanted to provide you with November's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
November 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 71%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through November 2023, it comes out to an average of 24% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] Non-Categorized Political: 16%
[02] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 17%
[03] USHMM (U.S. Holocaust Memor. Mus.): 7%
[04] PPAF (Plan. Parent. Act. Fund): 2%
[05] PPFA (Plan. Parent. Feder. of Amer.): 2%
[06] News Organizations: 0.33311125916%
[07] Brady PAC: 0.46635576282%
[08] IAVA (Iraq & Afghan. Vet. of Amer.): 0.33311125916%
[09] Non-Categorized Charity: 0.33311125916%
[10] Everytown for Gun Safety: 0.33311125916%
[11] World Jewish Congress: 0.33311125916%
-------Please see [12] below-------
[13] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 3%
[14] Veterans Day: 2%
[15] NARF (Nativ. Amer. Rights Fund): 0.46635576282%
[16] Thanksgiving: 3%
-------Purchase refund [17]-------
[18] UFW (Unite. Farm Work.): 2%
[19] Plant Based Treaty: 0.33977348434%
[20] Giving Tuesday: 39%
[21] Plan. Parent. PAC of Ore.: 0.33311125916%
-------Please see [22] below-------
[23] Native American Heritage Day: 2%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Donations Spent: 71%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[12] Credit Card Purchases: 53%
[22] Monthly Interest: 5%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases: 58%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for November 2023: 129%
Now, this is where I usually say something like the following on these donation 'updates' that I write each month:
Obviously, I continue needing to greatly reduce the percentage of my monthly income that I am spending on political, progressive and charitable organizations, so that is why I decided to reduce "the number of times that I donate for the same organization per month down to once—or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis," as well as to reduce "the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers."
However, I am going to follow my own words of advice from my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' wherein I stated the following:
I may eventually find out that making these reduced numbers of donations, and/or these reduced amounts for donations, still isn't enough to compensate for this considerable increase in my monthly minimum payments for my credit card, at which time I will reevaluate my financial situation and make adjustments to my political, progressive and charitable donations as needed.
Because, as you can see, I am doing way, way worse than I did last month, where my total percentage from donations spent for October 2023 was 31%, and my total percentage from interest and purchases for October 2023 was 77%, for a grand total percentage of monthly income for October 2023 of 108%!
Thus, I spend 40% more on donations for November 2023, but most of that had to do with Giving Tuesday! And I spent about 5% on disaster relief this month, which you cannot see as its own category, because I included the "disaster relief" donations that I made with my series of Giving Tuesday donations. And I spent 2% more on monthly interest this month, because I increased my credit card balance by a considerable amount!
However, I did spend 21% less on credit card purchases for November 2023 than I did last month; but, at the same time, I spent 21% more compared to last month on the grand total percentage of my monthly income for October 2023 at 108%. (I made regular purchases on my credit card over the allotted "Budgeted Expenses" amount in my monthly budget; although, I was buying some items that were on sale!)
So, now, I am really "tightening my belt," so to speak, with regard to all of the donations that I am making on my credit card each month!
My plan is to only donate to political, progressive and charitable organizations if they specifically ask for donations—and not just for the sake of donating to them at least once per month, or even when I have been taking some sort of action, such as signing a petition, or sending a letter, etc. Thus, I am trying to greatly reduce the number of donations that I make to simply once in a while, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis!
You see, there are a lot of organizations that I literally donate to only once per year—such as for Giving Tuesday—which is all that I ever donate to them. And that is basically what I am striving for, so that I am still donating to political, progressive and charitable organizations, but the bare minimum that I can donate, since that's all I can really afford.
Therefore, the reason that I am explaining all of this donating and budgeting is because I spent A LOT last year, since I was "doing everything in my power to help Democrats win in the 2022 Midterm Elections!" So, I ended up with a rather considerable credit card balance...
...And I am still paying off how much I spent in 2022 on the Midterm Elections while, at the same time, I am trying to be an "Online Activist" and to 'put my money where my mouth is' regarding my activism. That is why I blog about which political, progressive and charitable organizations I am supporting with regard to the causes that are the most important to me! –Paul Whiting (written December 1st, 2023, revised December 2nd, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 19th, 2023, revised January 1st, 2024 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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For my "November 30th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On December 3rd, 2023"—since this 'update' is a part of my ⋆USO⋆ donations—please see my blog post titled, "My Point Of View On...Giving Charity And Accepting Charity," which can be found on both of my "Paul Whiting — Math Magician" and "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blogs. An introduction to the 'update' can be found below:
November 30th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On December 3rd, 2023: I received an email from the USO (United Service Organizations) today, December 3rd, 2023, with the subject line, "Military Supporters Update: November 2023", with regard to the USO's newsletter "YOUR USO AT WORK," Issue 118 / November 2023, which stated, in part, the following:
YOUR USO AT WORK
Issue 118 / November 2023
DONATE NOW »
https://secure.uso.org
With the holiday season upon us, it's more important than ever to remember and honor our troops who will spend this special time away from home and their loved ones, sacrificing so much to protect us and our nation. ...
And the following highlights from the USO's newsletter, which I selected to post, are regarding "Is the USO a Nonprofit? Yes!" and "USO Helps Service Members Celebrate Thanksgiving All Over the World," as well as "Highlights: USO Care Package Events by Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, Coca-Cola and Wawa":
USO FRONT LINES
Is the USO a Nonprofit? Yes!
The USO is a military support nonprofit, built from civilian charities. We work with — but are not a part of — the Department of Defense to understand our troops and what they need. We’re powered by a dedicated team of 18,000+ USO volunteers, whose efforts are fueled by generous supporters, like you, who give donations big and small!
Read more about the USO's work as a nonprofit organization.
https://www.uso.org/stories/2405-is-the-uso-a-nonprofit
---------------------------------------------
GET INSPIRED
USO Helps Service Members Celebrate Thanksgiving All Over the World
Last month, USO Osan hosted a Thanksgiving Lunch prepared by staff and volunteers. The Thanksgiving Lunch included all the Thanksgiving classics and facilitated mission delivery by helping service members and their families connect to American holiday traditions while serving overseas. This meal will likely be the only formal Thanksgiving meal for many service members due to mission requirements. At USO Grafenwoehr, U.S. troops and family members received Thanksgiving turkeys and meals from senior leaders during the USO-hosted Thanks for Thanksgiving event.
---------------------------------------------
CORPORATE PARTNERS
Highlights: USO Care Package Events by Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, Coca-Cola and Wawa
USO partner Mutual of Omaha Mortgage, along with Keller Williams and the Military Agent Resource Network, assembled 10,000 Holiday Care Packages for service members last month. Coca-Cola also had its annual USO Care Package event, where 200 employee volunteers stuffed 10,000 packages for service members in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Wawa also teamed up with the USO, with Wawa associates and Pennsylvania National Guard members assembling more than 10,000 USO Care Packages for service members stationed abroad.
---------------------------------------------
...From all of us at the USO, thank you for being a dedicated and proud military supporter!
And so, I made a one-time donation on the USO.org website in order to support the USO's following statement: "For more than 80 years, the USO has stood by America's military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country. But we're not a government agency, and rely on individual supporters like you to fund the programs that make the biggest difference for our service members." And I also donated to show my support for the USO's newsletter, as well as to show my support for the USO in supporting our men and women in uniform.
In addition to that, I already make a recurring monthly donation to the USO in order to show my support for our U.S. Military Personnel! You see, I usually make one-time donations to the USO each month—as often as I can manage when they request a donation via email or text message. Therefore, I am planning to continue making one-time donations to the USO in the future, as often as I can manage to make donations, in addition to making the aforementioned recurring monthly donation. ...
Please see the hyperlinks below for the post, within which you can do a find-in-page search for the 'update' labeled, "November 30th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On December 3rd, 2023":
https://paulwhitingmath.blogspot.com/2015/05/my-point-of-view-on-charity.html
https://paulwhitingwriting.blogspot.com/2022/07/my-point-of-view-on-part-16-giving-to.html
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YEAR 2023 UPDATES FOR DECEMBER:
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December 3rd, 2023 Update No. 1, Which Also Discusses December 1st, 2023: I received an email from the American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon (ACLU of Oregon) two days ago on December 1st, 2023, with the subject line, "Real solutions to drug addiction", which stated the following:
SOLUTIONS
FOR SAFE AND JUST
COMMUNITIES
TAKE ACTION NOW:
https://action.aclu.org/send-message/or-solutions-not-punishment
Paul –
We need your help. Oregon is at risk of returning to the failed war on drugs.
On Monday, December 4, state lawmakers will hear and receive testimony on the addiction crisis in Oregon. We need lawmakers to hear from you.
Do any or all of the steps below:
1. Fill out our action alert to lawmakers, which takes only a couple of minutes.
2. Submit written testimony.
3. Sign up to provide verbal testimony, remotely or in-person, at the State Capitol in Salem.
Data and research prove that drug treatment, not jail time, is the real solution to Oregon's addiction epidemic. This is why Oregonians voted overwhelmingly to pass Measure 110 in 2020, pushing our state to invest our limited tax dollars into treatment resources instead of the criminal system.
Despite this, interest groups with deep pockets and links to the prison system are pressuring Oregon lawmakers to go back to the cruel, ineffective, and expensive tactics of police, jails, and prisons.
We need your help to ensure Oregon moves forward, not backward. Take action right now and make your voice heard. The hearing is first-to-register, first-to-testify, so please register now if you want to testify verbally.
Our lawmakers need to hear from you. They need to know that you expect them to lead with evidence-based health solutions and Oregon values – NOT fear and stigma.
We need elected leaders to stop making false promises that will worsen the drug addiction crisis and make it more difficult and expensive to solve. We need them to focus on solutions like increasing access to voluntary treatment and funding trash clean-up and neighborhood revitalization efforts – NOT policing vulnerable people.
In solidarity,
[Name redacted]
Pronouns: She, her, hers
[Title redacted], ACLU of Oregon
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, regarding the Solutions For Safe And Just Communities information hub. A brief introduction to the webpage can be found below:
ACLU of Oregon
TAKE ACTION: TELL YOUR LAWMAKERS TO FOCUS ON REAL SOLUTIONS TO ADDICTION
Act Now
ACLU OF OREGON CALL TO ACTION: Oregon leaders know the war on drugs has failed. YOU can hold them accountable to make sure they focus on real solutions, not false ones. Send a message to your lawmakers and urge them to stay focused on healing over punishment and addiction treatment over arrests!
We can’t arrest our way out of the drug addiction crisis. But for too long, our country failed to prevent and address drug addiction because the government focused almost exclusively on policing, jail time, and criminal penalties.
Rather than helping people struggling with addiction, this focus on policing made it harder for people to access the support they need, like addiction treatment. The war on drugs approach also led to disproportionately harmful policing of people of color and low-income people — and fueled mass incarceration, which costs us hundreds of billions of dollars in taxes every year.
We need immediate solutions that address the root causes of the drug addiction crisis — not false promises from politicians that make problems worse and more expensive to solve while disproportionately harming communities of color and low-income communities.
Oregonians know the war on drugs was a complete failure. That’s why we voted overwhelmingly for Measure 110: to address drug addiction as a health issue by focusing on addiction treatment instead of punishing people for being addicted. However, interest groups with deep pockets and ties to the prison system are threatening the progress of health-based approaches to addiction and spreading fear rather than solutions.
We are all frustrated with the current addiction crisis in Oregon. But we cannot afford to go backward and abandon effective, health-based solutions.
Now more than ever, we must invest in the evidence-based health policies supported by nurses, doctors, and treatment providers that address the root causes of drug addiction and help our communities heal.
You can help make sure people facing addiction are provided with support and real solutions, NOT arrests, jail time, and criminal records.
Send a message to your lawmakers now and urge them to stay focused on community healing over punishment and addiction treatment over arrests.
YOUR MESSAGE
Use the form to send a message to your lawmakers.
Subject: We need healing, not a repeat of the destructive war on drugs.
Dear Oregon Lawmakers,
Oregonians were clear when we voted overwhelmingly for Measure 110 in 2020. Addiction must be addressed with treatment and support, not punishment and jail.
We need lawmakers to continue building the drug treatment system Oregonians need, rather than revert to harmful strategies that do not make us safer or address the root causes of addiction, crime, and homelessness.
Policies that include forced treatment and arresting people with addictions haven't worked in the past and won’t start working now. Instead, they deepen stigmas and isolate Oregonians who most need our help. Jail and prison time typically worsen drug use and overdoses, and criminal records create additional barriers to housing, education, and jobs.
The war on drugs especially devastated communities of color and low-income communities, inflicting generational poverty and trauma on families and furthering the drug addiction crisis.
As one of your constituents, I am counting on you to lead with evidence-based health policies and Oregon values, not fear and stigma. Oregonians do not want false promises from our elected leaders that worsen the drug addiction crisis in our communities and make it more difficult and expensive to solve.
Please focus on strengthening Measure 110, increasing access to voluntary treatment, and funding trash clean-up and neighborhood revitalization efforts.
Sincerely,
[First Name] [Last Name]
YOUR INFORMATION
Salutation (required by some officials): Mr.
First name: Paul
Last name: Whiting
E-mail address: [redacted]
Address: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Zip Code: [redacted]
Phone: [redacted]
---------------------------------------------
Subject: Please do not criminalize homelessness and poverty
From: Paul Whiting • [email redacted]
To: [email redacted]
Date: Dec 3, 2023, 4:23 PM
Dear [names redacted and titles redacted],
As one of your constituents, I am writing to call for real solutions, real safety, real healing. Leaders need to do more — and fast — to address the crisis in our community. They need to finally provide the housing, drug treatment, and mental health care that people need and voters have overwhelmingly supported. We also need to move beyond scare tactics and fear mongering. Controversial and divisive proposals to repeal Measure 110 are not the answer.
We shouldn’t expect the police to solve social problems like mental illness, homelessness, or addiction — and we cannot arrest our way out of these problems. It's time for solutions that let mental health and drug treatment professionals help people who need and want treatment, reducing waiting lists and lines for detox services and not returning to the harmful war on drugs that disproportionately impacted Black and Brown Oregonians.
We know the real solution is to expand access to treatment services and I urge the committee to focus on helping and healing our communities. Thank you for the thoughtful approach you are taking in addressing the addiction crisis in our state, looking at the entire system and the dire needs in our community.
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
(he/him/his)
And so, I submitted testimony to Oregon Lawmakers, via the ACLU of Oregon's website, in order to explain that "we need lawmakers to continue building the drug treatment system Oregonians need, rather than revert to harmful strategies that do not make us safer or address the root causes of addiction, crime, and homelessness," because "policies that include forced treatment and arresting people with addictions haven't worked in the past and won’t start working now," since "jail and prison time typically worsen drug use and overdoses, and criminal records create additional barriers to housing, education, and jobs." Besides that, I sent testimony to Oregon Lawmakers through an email in which I explained, in part, that "we know the real solution is to expand access to treatment services and I urge the committee to focus on helping and healing our communities," and also to say, "thank you for the thoughtful approach you are taking in addressing the addiction crisis in our state, looking at the entire system and the dire needs in our community." –Paul Whiting (written December 3rd, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 19th, 2023, revised January 1st, 2024, revised January 9th, 2024 and revised February 21st, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, I used to make one-time donations to the organization that is the subject of these 'updates' each time that I took an action as requested by that organization; however, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am really 'tightening my belt,' so to speak, with regard to all of the donations that I am making on my credit card each month! My plan is to only donate to political, progressive and charitable organizations if they specifically ask for donations—and not just for the sake of donating to them at least once per month, or even when I have been taking some sort of action, such as signing a petition, or sending a letter, etc. Thus, I am trying to greatly reduce the number of donations that I make to simply once in a while, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis! You see, there are a lot of organizations that I literally donate to only once per year—such as for Giving Tuesday—which is all that I ever donate to them. And that is basically what I am striving for, so that I am still donating to political, progressive and charitable organizations, but the bare minimum that I can donate, since that's all I can really afford." [Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 4, Written On December 1st, 2023 About November 2023' (that also appears as 'November 30th, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On December 1st, 2023' on some of my blogs), which can be found above.]
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December 3rd, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from Planned Parenthood Action Fund today, November 11th, 2023, with the subject line, "More than a few lies from anti-abortion politicians", which stated the following:
Planned Parenthood Action Fund Update
Action Fund Update is the monthly newsletter for members of the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. As an associate member of the Action Fund, you'll receive timely, insider information on our legislative, advocacy, and electoral work.
Member News
Paul,
Anti-abortion rights politicians have spent decades shamelessly trying to control our bodies — but suddenly they’re backtracking and lying about it. Wonder why…
Is it because they might suddenly feel ashamed? Ashamed because they are voting to restrict sexual and reproductive health care for people who need it; ashamed because they are undermining the will of the majority of voters who want abortion rights; and ashamed that they are now trying to distance themselves from their decades-long effort to control our bodies and lives because they know it isn’t popular.
"We support access to birth control," they say. Lie.
"We don't want to restrict medication abortion." Lie.
"We support health care for our communities." Lie, lie, lie.
If anti-abortion politicians are determined to put their own agendas above the health and well-being of their constituents, the least they could do is be honest about what they’re doing — and why they’re doing it.
But we aren't falling for it. Thank you for fighting with us in 2023 (and winning big!) — let's get ready for an even bigger fight in 2024.
Sincerely,
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
Planned Parenthood Action Fund
P.S. Based on our records, it looks like your Associate Membership is going to expire soon. Don't miss out on timely, insider information on Planned Parenthood Action Fund's advocacy, legislative work, and electoral endorsements, as well as volunteer opportunities in your area. Click here to renew your membership.*
Take Action
Share a Note of Thanks to Planned Parenthood Health Center Staff
Every year, Planned Parenthood health centers serve more than 2 million people, providing high-quality, affordable care. Planned Parenthood health center staff show up every day to provide care and compassion — but since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and the constitutional right to abortion a year and a half ago, it's become so much harder for them to do the work of caring for our communities.
One in four people in the U.S. has relied on a Planned Parenthood health center for care — and if you're one of those people, if you value the work that Planned Parenthood health center staff do every day, or you know how important Planned Parenthood health centers are to their communities: Send a note of thanks.***
State Spotlight: Idaho
The state of Idaho, represented by Alliance Defending Freedom (the same organization that is trying to end FDA approval of mifepristone and the former employer of House Speaker Mike Johnson), has officially asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene to enforce the state's total abortion ban — despite that ban conflicting with a federal law that requires doctors provide care in emergency situations.
"Anti-abortion politicians have already banned abortion in the state of Idaho. And now it’s being taken a step further by taking away people's ability to access emergency care when they need it the most. We're dedicated to prioritizing our patients' health and well-being - even if our state won’t. Because beyond the right to have an abortion, people deserve to have their doctors make decisions with their health and well-being in mind every time. That shouldn't be a radical stance." — Planned Parenthood Great Northwest, Hawai'i, Alaska, Indiana, Kentucky [Title redacted] [Name redacted]
Read more >>
https://www.cnn.com/2023/11/27/politics/idaho-abortion-supreme-court-appeal/index.html
Around the Web
Montana Free Press: Abortion rights group proposes constitutional amendment to protect access
https://montanafreepress.org/2023/11/22/montana-group-proposes-constitutional-amendment-to-protect-abortion-rights
[New York Magazine's] The Cut: Abortion Rights Swept the 2023 Elections
https://www.thecut.com/2023/11/2023-election-results-abortion-rights.html
Associated Press: Ohio voters just passed abortion protections. When and how they take effect is before the courts
https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ohio-constitutional-amendment-republicans-courts-fb1762537585350caeee589d68fe5a0d
Visit plannedparenthoodaction.org
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
By the way, I read all of the articles referenced in the email above including the article referenced about how 'the state of Idaho ... has officially asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene to enforce the state's total abortion ban — despite that ban conflicting with a federal law that requires doctors provide care in emergency situations,' which is titled, "Idaho asks Supreme Court to let abortion law that penalizes doctors to take full effect." I also read all of the articles listed under the 'State Spotlight' and the 'Around the Web' sections above,** which is what I always do when I receive these monthly newsletters from Planned Parenthood Action Fund—in addition to taking any requested action from the newsletter, if I haven't already taken that same requested action (or, those same requested actions), as noted from previous 'updates.'
**I did not read the article titled, "Abortion Rights Swept the 2023 Elections," because a paywall popup on the Cut website said, "YOU'VE REACHED YOUR MONTHLY ARTICLE LIMIT."
*And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, regarding renewing my Associate Membership for the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, which can be found below:
Become a Planned Parenthood Action Fund Associate Member.
By submitting this form, I affirm that I want to become an associate member of the Planned Parenthood Action Fund.
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Postal Code: [redacted]
Email: [redacted]
Mobile Phone (Optional): [redacted]
SUBMIT
And, after submitting the form above, I received a confirmation email today, December 3rd, 2023, from the Planned Parenthood Action Fund with the subject line, "Thank you for your Associate Membership!", which stated the following:
Dear Paul,
Thank you for standing with us as an Associate Member of Planned Parenthood Action Fund!
Membership is free and allows you full access to timely Action Fund updates, including information about our grassroots organizing, legislative and regulatory advocacy, electoral endorsements, and volunteer opportunities in your area — and gives you an opportunity to vote for a member of the Action Fund Board of Directors.
You can also follow Planned Parenthood Action Fund on Facebook and Twitter.
We are so glad to have you with us!
Planned Parenthood Action Fund
Plus, after I renewed my Associate Membership for the Planned Parenthood Action Fund, I made a one-time donation to Planned Parenthood Action Fund to show my support for the Action Fund Update monthly newsletter, as well as for my "Associate Membership of Planned Parenthood Action Fund."
In addition to that, I "share[d] a note of thanks to Planned Parenthood health center staff."
And, after sending the note above, I received a confirmation email today, December 3rd, 2023, from the Planned Parenthood Federation of America with the subject line, "Thanks for sending a message of gratitude", which stated the following:
PLANNED PARENTHOOD
Thank you so much for joining supporters across the country in sending a note to Planned Parenthood health center staff.
Your message of gratitude and encouragement will be added to a special Gratitude Wall (https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/rightfully-ours/for-planned-parenthood/say-thanks). It means so much to know how many people like you truly value the work that doctors, nurses, and other Planned Parenthood health center staff do every day.
Check out the Gratitude Wall (https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/rightfully-ours/for-planned-parenthood/say-thanks) notes from other supporters and share it with everyone you know who would also like to send a note of thanks to dedicated Planned Parenthood health center staff.
You can help make an even bigger difference by showing your support for Planned Parenthood and asking your friends and family to join you.
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
You can also help out by making a tax-deductible gift to Planned Parenthood Federation of America. Your support will help us stand strong in the face of continued attacks on reproductive health and rights, and support Planned Parenthood health centers in providing vital care like birth control, cancer screenings, abortion services and more.
Together we can make a difference in protecting reproductive health and rights — thanks for taking action and pitching in when it counts.
— Planned Parenthood Federation of America
So, I selected the "Share on Twitter" option (by the way, I only have a Twitter account so I can read tweets which are included in some online articles that I read) in order for me to provide you, my readers, with the text and hyperlink below:
Check out the Gratitude Wall notes from other supporters and share it with everyone you know who would also like to send a note of thanks to dedicated Planned Parenthood health center staff.
https://weareplannedparenthood.org/onlineactions/JUdxcQkgKEKg8dyQmDx8jg2?snw=2&ref=798d13f7-9f15-439b-a698-34a743338496
–Paul Whiting (written December 3rd, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 19th, 2023, revised January 1st, 2024, revised January 9th, 2024, revised January 13th, 2024, revised February 17th, 2024 and revised March 16th, 2024)
[I feel like I need to clarify why there are so many 'revised dates' on this 'update,' just like there are often times so many 'revised dates' on other 'updates' similar to this one! You see, I really try to keep my writing consistent as possible across all of my blogs. Therefore, as I am writing, I try to use the same phraseology wherever possible with regard to similar types of my writing so that, when I am editing my writing, I can change all of the similar writing at the same time and in the same way! Thus, a lot of the revisions indicated above, after my name (–Paul Whiting), and shown right after the original 'written date,' are often times due to these aforementioned consistent-writing revisions.]
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December 3rd, 2023 Update No. 3: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication that I responded to was a text message today, December 3rd, 2023, from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), which stated the following:
Paul, it's Senator Schumer. I urgently need you to sign our petition to protect voting rights. Republicans are attacking millions of Americans' right to vote, and we can't let them get away with it. Please add your name now to defend this sacred right:***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
[Democratic Survey | Voting Rights
While we process your signature, we need you to answer the following questions about what's at stake. Your responses will help us develop a strategy to maintain our Senate majority.
The GOP has introduced hundreds of bills across the country since the 2020 elections to restrict voting rights.
Do you agree that the government should make every effort to increase voter turnout?
[✓] Agree - I want voting rights to be expanded
[ ] Disagree - I want voting rights to be limited
How did you vote in the 2020 presidential election?
[ ] In person
[✓] By mail or drop box
[ ] Not eligible or did not vote
[ ] Prefer not to say
Which of the following proposals to strengthen voting rights do you support? (Select all that apply.)
[✓] Expanded early voting
[✓] No-excuse absentee voting
[✓] Increased penalties for voter intimidation
[✓] Making Election Day a national holiday
[✓] Automatic voter registration Ban on partisan gerrymandering
Which of the following Democratic politicians do you consider to be strong defenders of voting rights? (Select all that apply.)
[✓] Joe Biden
[✓] Kamala Harris
[✓] Stacey Abrams
[✓] Barack Obama
[✓] Chuck Schumer
Experts at Five ThirtyEight suggest Republicans could win control of the Senate next year. If they do, Mitch McConnell will be able to block President Biden's agenda.
How important to you is it that Democrats beat the odds and not only defend the Senate but expand our majority?
[✓] Extremely important
[ ] Somewhat important
[ ] Not important at all
We have one final question: McConnell and Trump are teaming up to defeat our Democratic majority and we're running short of today's $25,000 fundraising goal to fight back and win the Senate.
Please, will you chip in any amount today to defend and expand President Biden's Senate majority?
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $30.
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $60.
[ ] Yes, I'll chip in $90.
[✓] Yes, I'll chip in another amount.
---------------------------------------------
DSCC
Donate now to SUPERCHARGE our Senate majority! CNN says multiple GOP seats could flip blue next year -- but with Mitch McConnell’s megadonors already playing defense, it’s going to take all hands on deck to win!
Please, will you chip in now to protect our historic progress by supercharging our Democratic majority?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DSCC.
[ ] $120 →
[ ] $60 →
[ ] $300 →
[ ] $600 →
[ ] $1,200 →
[ ] $2,400 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DSCC campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "sign [the DSCC's] petition to protect voting rights," because "Republicans are attacking millions of Americans' right to vote, and we can't let them get away with it." That is why I added "[my] name now to defend this sacred right."
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication that I responded to was a text message today, December 3rd, 2023, from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), which stated the following:
We're over the moon! Nancy Pelosi & Hakeem Jeffries are teaming up to hand Trump's GOP a MASSIVE defeat. We're calling on EVERY Democrat to join our leaders in the fight by rushing $15 to the DCCC to help flip 5 seats blue. Will you answer the call?***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Chip in now to FLIP the House and DEFEND President Biden's legacy!
Republicans are blocking President Biden's agenda at every turn and he's counting on this grassroots team to STOP them.
SO QUICKLY: Will you rush in a donation to elect a WAVE of Democrats and FLIP the House?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DCCC.
[ ] Donate $15 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $ 5.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DCCC (with a tip to ActBlue) because "Nancy Pelosi & Hakeem Jeffries are teaming up to hand Trump's GOP a MASSIVE defeat," so "[the DCCC is] calling on EVERY Democrat to join our leaders in the fight by rushing $15 to the DCCC to help flip 5 seats blue." That is why I "answer[ed] the call" with $5!
Thus, these two organizations—the DSCC, as well as the DCCC—are the political organizations that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 3rd, 2023, revised December 4th, 2023, revised December 5th, 2023 and revised December 12th, 2023)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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December 4th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication that I responded to was an email from the Democratic National Committee today, December 4th, 2023, with the subject line, "The design you chose: Our Official 2024 Member Card design is in!", which stated the following:
It's time we made this official, Paul.
You all voted, and after tallying your responses, the time has finally come -- presenting the winning design for our 2024 Official Member Cards!
[Image of the "Let's go, Joe!" Official 2024 Democratic National Committee Member Card]
If you haven’t already, chip in to reserve your card TODAY, and get it delivered right to your door.
We're so happy to have you on this grassroots team!
Thank you,
The Democrats
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Claim your Official 2024 Democratic Member Card today!
[Image of the "Let's go, Joe!" Official 2024 Democratic National Committee Member Card]
The Democratic Party is counting on your support to fight for the Biden-Harris agenda, hold the GOP accountable, and elect more Democrats nationwide.
This is your chance to renew your Democratic membership and receive your very own, personalized Member Card in the mail.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Democratic National Committee (DNC).
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $10 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DNC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "renew [my] Democratic membership and receive [my] very own, personalized Member Card in the mail."
Thus, this one organization—the DNC—is the political organization that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 4th, 2023, revised December 5th, 2023 and revised December 12th, 2023)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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December 7th, 2023 Update No. 1, Which Also Discusses December 6th, 2023: I received an email from United Farm Workers (UFW) yesterday, December 6th, 2023, with the subject line, "Pro-union H2A workers will be hung out to dry if the DOL [Department of Labor] doesn’t immediately step in", which stated the following:
United Farm Workers
Si, Se Puede! UFW
Pro-union H2A workers will be hung out to dry if the DOL doesn’t immediately step in
Four years ago, in New York, workers won a law to help them organize. In the last year, workers organized and won union representation at five farms and have just filed at another farm. However, now due to a grower lawsuit, the NY Attorney General effectively froze the enforcement mechanism of farm worker law and left vulnerable H-2A workers who've spoken out unprotected and victimized. The US Department of Labor (DOL) can step in and change this, as they have jurisdiction over the guest worker visa program.
Sign the petition today and ask the DOL, how they are going to protect these workers?
Background: Basically, NY growers decided they didn't like bargaining fairly for a union contract. After they lost their arguments to the state agency, they judge-shopped and took the same arguments to a federal district court where they filed a lawsuit asking to overturn the law. The New York Attorney General's office then made a decision to put everything on hold until the lawsuit is heard, without even asking the UFW how that would affect the workers.
The repercussions are being felt. Worker leaders had thought they were protected when they spoke out for the union. Now the growers know who they are and are retaliating. At one of the companies, Cahoon Farms, as employees boarded the bus for the trip back to Jamaica, around half of the H-2A workers were told they wouldn't be recalled in 2024 -- including a large number of union supporters. Unsurprisingly, this included four out of the five union committee members.
The reason was they supposedly didn't reach the production quota. However, according to more than a dozen workers, it was impossible to reach the quota, as there were not enough apples of the correct size to pick. [Name redacted] shared, "For most of the 2023 harvest season, our crew was assigned to spot pick in fields that did not have sufficiently sized apples to meet the minimum productivity requirement … We were sent to these fields numerous times, which I believe was intentional so that we would be set up to fail."
Sign the petition today. Ask the DOL to immediately step in and remedy this situation. Growers are retaliating against workers for protected union activity. Without the DOL's intervention, these H-2A workers will be hung out to dry.
PS: After you take action you can also share this campaign on Facebook & Twitter.*
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below—and that text is mostly the same information which is contained in the email above, with additional information:
Pro-union H2A workers will be hung out to dry if DOL doesn’t step in
Four years ago, in New York, workers won a law to help them organize. In the last year, workers organized and won union representation at five farms and have just filed at another farm. However, now due to a grower lawsuit, the NY Attorney General effectively froze the enforcement mechanism of farm worker law and left vulnerable H-2A workers who've spoken out unprotected and victimized. The US Department of Labor (DOL) can step in and change this, as they have jurisdiction over the guest worker visa program.
Background: Basically, NY growers decided they didn't like bargaining fairly for a union contract. After they lost their arguments to the state agency, they judge-shopped and took the same arguments to a federal district court where they filed a lawsuit asking to overturn the law. The New York Attorney General's office then made a decision to put everything on hold until the lawsuit is heard, without even asking the UFW how that would affect the workers.
The repercussions are being felt. Worker leaders had thought they were protected when they spoke out for the union. Now the growers know who they are and are retaliating. At one of the companies, Cahoon Farms, as employees boarded the bus for the trip back to Jamaica, around half of the H-2A workers were told they wouldn't be recalled in 2024 -- including a large number of union supporters. Unsurprisingly, this included four out of the five union committee members.
The reason was they supposedly didn't reach the production quota. However, according to more than a dozen workers, it was impossible to reach the quota, as there were not enough apples of the correct size to pick. [Name redacted] shared, "For most of the 2023 harvest season, our crew was assigned to spot pick in fields that did not have sufficiently sized apples to meet the minimum productivity requirement … We were sent to these fields numerous times, which I believe was intentional so that we would be set up to fail."
Sign the petition today. Ask the DOL to immediately step in and remedy this situation. Growers are retaliating against workers for protected union activity. Without the DOL's intervention, these H-2A workers will be hung out to dry.
Contact Information
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Postal Code (Optional): [redacted]
Email: [redacted]
Petition to DOL: Step in to prevent pro-union H-2A workers from being hung out to dry
Please step in and act. Four years ago, in New York, workers won a law to help them organize. This year, H-2A workers organized and won union representation at five farms already and have just filed at another farm. However, now due to a grower lawsuit - on an issue they have argued and lost multiple times before - the NY Attorney General effectively froze the enforcement mechanism of farm worker law and left vulnerable H-2A workers who've spoken out unprotected and victimized.
Worker leaders had thought they were protected when they spoke out for the union. Now the growers know who they are and are retaliating. At one of the companies, Cahoon Farms, as employees boarded the bus for the trip back to Jamaica, more than half of the H-2A workers were told they wouldn't be recalled in 2024. Unsurprisingly this included four out of the five union committee members and most had chosen to be represented by the UFW.
Your agency can change this, as you have jurisdiction over the guest worker visa program. What is happening is wrong. Worker union activity is protected under the law. Please step in and act to defend these vulnerable workers.
*I selected the "Share on Twitter" option (by the way, I only have a Twitter account so I can read tweets which are included in some online articles that I read) in order for me to provide you, my readers, with the text and hyperlink below:
TAKE ACTION: Pro-union NY [New York] H-2A apple workers will be hung out to dry if the @USDOL doesn’t immediately step in!
https://act.seiu.org/a/dolnyh2a?ms=tellafriend_tw&ceid=442257&snw=2&ref=4e93388d-d2d6-4c95-9ed1-7c63823c289b#!
And, after I sent the email above to the Department of Labor, via the SEIU.org (Service Employees International Union) website, I made a one-time donation to United Farm Workers because "pro-union NY H-2A workers will be hung out to dry if the DOL doesn’t immediately step in," since "due to a grower lawsuit, the NY Attorney General effectively froze the enforcement mechanism of farm worker law and left vulnerable H-2A workers who've spoken out unprotected and victimized." –Paul Whiting (written December 7th, 2023 and revised December 28th, 2023)
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December 7th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received a text message today December 7th, 2023, from Brady: United Against Gun Violence, which stated the following:
LAST CALL 📣
Today is the last day to submit a comment in support of the Biden-Harris rule that would address the gun show + internet sale loopholes, creating 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝟑𝟎 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐠𝐨.
The gun lobby has submitted thousands of comments against this lifesaving rule and we only have hours to show our support:
𝐀𝐝𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐍𝐎𝐖 👉 txt.brady.org/5m5GX3TSrnG
-Team Brady
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Support the Biden-Harris Administration Rule to Expand Background Checks!
Proposed rule seeking to clarify what it means to be “engaged in the business” of selling firearms would bring America as close as possible to universal background checks without the urgently needed Congressional action.
The Biden-Harris Administration's proposed rule would ensure that individuals who intend to profit from the sale of firearms are licensed to do so, that they complete background checks before transferring firearms, and maintain records of their transactions. The rule also ensures that firearms dealers who have lost their license cannot continue to sell firearms to the public.
Use the form below to submit a public comment in support of this proposed rule.
Note: If you have a few extra seconds, please personalize your message to the DOJ. We know that unique messages will be the most effective and more likely to be given strong consideration.
Contact Information
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Postal Code: [redacted]
City (Optional): [redacted]
State (Optional): [redacted]
Email: [redacted]
Mobile Phone (Optional): [redacted]
Subject: I Strongly Support the Proposed “Engaged in the Business” Rule
Dear Attorney General Garland & the Department of Justice,
I strongly support the proposed Biden-Harris Administration rule to ensure that individuals who are “engaged in the business” of selling firearms are licensed, thus requiring them to complete background checks for all firearm sales and maintain records of those transactions, and that dealers who have lost their licenses may no longer sell firearms to the public. A recent study found that more than 1 in 5 gun sales in the U.S. are conducted without a background check, amounting to millions of off-the-books gun transfers annually; many of these transactions are facilitated by individuals who profit from the repetitive sale of firearms yet avoid the necessary oversight required of licensed dealers.
This is a public health and safety issue, and I urge the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to finalize the rule in order to prevent firearm transfers to prohibited purchasers and ensure that individuals who are selling guns for profit are licensed, regulated, and engage in responsible business practices.
Sincerely,
[Your information here]
And, after I sent the letter above to the Department of Justice, via the EveryAction Brady Campaign website, I made a one-time donation to Brady: United Against Gun Violence because "I strongly support the proposed Biden-Harris Administration rule to ensure that individuals who are 'engaged in the business' of selling firearms are licensed, thus requiring them to complete background checks for all firearm sales and maintain records of those transactions, and that dealers who have lost their licenses may no longer sell firearms to the public." –Paul Whiting (December 7th, 2023)
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December 7th, 2023 Update No. 3: I received a text message today December 7th, 2023, from USA for UNFPA (formerly known as the 'United Nations Fund for Population Activities' that is now called the 'United Nations Population Fund'), which stated the following:
❗ ❗ 𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐓: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐮𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐚𝐳𝐚 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝, 𝐩𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧, 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐬.
The pause gave UNFPA a brief opportunity to deliver sustained humanitarian aid into Gaza and address the urgent public health catastrophe. But now, fuel and critical supplies are running low. Our teams on the ground have reported women undergoing cesarean sections without anesthesia. Without clean water, communicable diseases are spreading rampantly, putting the lives of pregnant women, new mothers, and their babies on the line. Continued electricity outages are a death sentence for premature babies.
RUSH A LIFESAVING GIFT NOW:***
Thanks to your support, UNFPA has already distributed thousands of Dignity Kits, Emergency Birth Kits, Mama Kits, and doses of critical medicines to ensure safe births. We are working hard to deliver more aid, but we desperately need your support to continue scaling our work to meet the needs of women and girls in Gaza.
Your donation today will be 2X-matched until December 31 to deliver twice the lifesaving care to women and girls surviving the crisis in Gaza and wherever care is needed most. Double your impact by making a tax-deductible gift before the match expires.
You can give securely here:***
Thank you for being there.
Humanitarian Response Team @ USA FOR UNFPA
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, I made a one-time donation to USA for UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) because "[my] donation today will be 2X-matched until December 31 to deliver twice the lifesaving care to women and girls surviving the crisis in Gaza and wherever care is needed most." –Paul Whiting (December 7th, 2023)
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December 7th, 2023 Update No. 4: I received an email from USA for UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) today December 7th, 2023, with the subject line, "Petition: Sign today to demand action and protection", which stated the following:
When I emailed you this fall, we had a few months before the Global Refugee Forum. But now, there's only a matter of days to make your voice heard, Paul.
We are very close to our signature goal but we are missing yours! I know that you believe everyone has the right to seek asylum and be protected from war, violence and persecution. But for people in many parts of the world, this right is under attack.
As leaders gather for the Global Refugee Forum on December 13th, we need everyone in this powerful, compassionate community to stand with refugees and demand that they receive the support and dignity that they deserve.
We have to submit all the signatures by midnight tomorrow and I don't want you to miss out. Don't hesitate. Stand up for displaced families today. Sign the petition to stand with people who are forced to flee and show them they are not alone. Demand action and protection for the most vulnerable.***
Thanks,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
USA for UNHCR
------ Forwarded Message ------
From: [Name redacted]
Date: Weds, Oct 11, 2023
Subject: Paul's signature is missing
USA for UNHCR - The UN Refugee Agency
Paul,
Wherever they come from, and for whatever reason they flee, refugees have a right to safety and deserve to be treated with dignity.
But for many people around the world, these rights are under threat. Solidarity with all refugees everywhere is needed more than ever to defend and uphold these rights.
This December, we have a chance to advocate for change as government, private sector, NGO and refugee leaders gather at the Global Refugee Forum in Switzerland to find solutions to address the many pressing needs and challenges facing refugees around the world.
Sign the petition to stand with people who are forced to flee, and take action to safeguard their rights and to give them hope and protection. We're counting on 10,000 signatures by 11:59 p.m. tonight.
SIGN THE PETITION***
We call on world leaders to help ensure people seeking asylum from war, violence or persecution can do so without discrimination.
Your support of refugees will be heard at the Global Refugee Forum and will show that compassion and humanity are stronger than fear and suspicion.
This is a chance for all of society to show solidarity and urge leaders to uphold their legal and moral obligations to all people forced to flee. Act now and sign our petition today.
With your voice and your solidarity, change is possible.
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
USA for UNHCR
P.S. Take your support even further with a compassionate gift. It will make a lifesaving difference for refugees seeking safety around the world. From food to shelter and medicine, these essentials will provide displaced families with what they need to build brighter futures.
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Join UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to protect the rights of people fleeing war, violence and persecution.
Everyone has the right to seek asylum and be protected from war, violence and persecution. But for many people in many parts of the world, this right is under threat. Solidarity with all refugees everywhere is needed more than ever to defend and uphold this right.
Stand with people who are forced to flee, and take action to safeguard their rights and to give them hope and protection.
This December we have a chance to advocate for change as world leaders gather at the Global Refugee Forum in Switzerland to find solutions for refugees and people forcibly displaced from their homes. This is a chance for all of society — and you, our supporters — to show your solidarity and urge leaders to uphold their legal and moral obligations to all people forced to flee their homes. We call on world leaders to help ensure people seeking asylum from war, violence or persecution can do so without discrimination. We call on world leaders to share responsibility so that countries hosting the vast majority of the world's refugees are supported in fulfilling their longstanding commitments to protect, help and include refugees.
Act now and sign the petition. We will take your message to world leaders at the Global Refugee Forum and show them that compassion and humanity are stronger than fear and suspicion. With your voice and your solidarity, change is possible.
Sign the petition
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Email: [redacted]
Mobile Phone: [redacted]
Zip Code: [redacted]
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I signed the petition above, I made a one-time donation to USA for UNHCR in order to show my support for "the petition to stand with people who are forced to flee, and take action to safeguard their rights and to give them hope and protection ... as world leaders gather at the Global Refugee Forum in Switzerland to find solutions for refugees and people forcibly displaced from their homes." –Paul Whiting (written December 7th, 2023 and revised December 9th, 2023)
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December 7th, 2023 Update No. 5: I received a text message today, December 7th, 2023, from the the World Jewish Congress, American Section, which stated the following:
Chag Sameach! [Happy Festival!] This Chanukah [Hanukkah], will you bring much-needed light and hope to Israel and all our Jewish communities by making a gift to the World Jewish Congress, American Section? Every dollar will be triple-matched to support the WJC's global work to secure a safer and brighter Jewish future.***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, I made a one-time donation to the World Jewish Congress, American Section in order to "bring much-needed light and hope to Israel and all our Jewish communities by making a gift to the World Jewish Congress, American Section." –Paul Whiting (December 7th, 2023)
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December 7th, 2023 Update No. 6: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication that I responded to was a text message today, December 7th, 2023, from the Janelle Bynum for Congress campaign, which stated the following:
Hi Paul – it’s Democrat Janelle Bynum.
I’m a State Representative, small business owner, and mother of four – and this summer, I launched my campaign to unseat extreme Republican Rep. Lori Chavez-Deremer in Oregon’s 5th Congressional District.
OR-05 has been deemed a pure TOSS UP and called one of the most flippable seats in the entire country.
Democrats only need to flip five seats to take back the House Majority from the anti-abortion, anti-democracy Republican extremists – and we’re one of them.
Look, I know we’ll have what it takes to win next November, but only if we work together.
So please, if you’re able, will you donate $3 to my campaign to help me flip OR-05 blue, restore the Democratic House Majority, and deliver for working families across the country? Every single dollar goes a long way on a grassroots campaign like ours.***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
JANELLE BYNUM FOR CONGRESS
Donate to Janelle Bynum
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Janelle Bynum.
[ ] DONATE $10 →
[ ] DONATE $25 →
[ ] DONATE $50 →
[ ] DONATE $75 →
[ ] DONATE $100 →
[ ] DONATE $250 →
[ ] DONATE $500 →
[✓] OTHER AMOUNT $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Janelle Bynum for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to contribute "$3 to [Janelle Bynum's] campaign [for Congress] to help [her] flip OR-05 blue, restore the Democratic House Majority, and deliver for working families across the country."
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication that I responded to was a text message today, December 7th, 2023, from the Mary Peltola for Alaska campaign, which stated the following:
Paul, the far right has been all too comfortable lying about my record, so with the stakes ramping up every day, I wanted to remind you of the facts:
FACT: I now have TWO anti-choice opponents.
FACT: The NRCC just launched targeted ads to Alaskans, lying about my record.
FACT: Special interests are willing to spend whatever it takes to defeat me and replace me with someone who doesn’t have Alaskans’ best interests in mind.
But guess what, Paul? These special interests can’t compete with our army of grassroots support.
I have NO doubt that if you stand with me right now, we can out-raise and out-organize these external forces trying to make me a one term member of Congress. But if you sit this one out, they could defeat me.
Can you give $25 right now to keep me fighting for Alaska in DC? >>***
-Mary Peltola
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
MARY PELTOLA FOR ALASKA
Rush your donation now!
$16,156.57 Raised of $25,000 GOAL
MIDNIGHT DEADLINE
In 2022, we made history when we defeated Sarah Palin and flipped Alaska's Congressional seat.
But now, my race for reelection is a total tossup, and national Republicans are plotting as we speak to flood Alaska with millions of dollars to defeat me and send an extremist to Congress.
Paul, we made history in 2022, and I'm ready to keep fighting for Alaska in Congress... but we're up against special interests and dark money, and this will be a tough fight. Please, chip in to help me win my reelection campaign! >>
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Mary Peltola.
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[ ] Donate $3,300 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Mary Peltola for Alaska campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "special interests are willing to spend whatever it takes to defeat [Mary Peltola] and replace [her] with someone who doesn’t have Alaskans’ best interests in mind," but "these special interests can’t compete with [Mary Peltola for Alaska's] army of grassroots support."
Thus, these two campaigns—Janelle Bynum for Congress, as well as Mary Peltola for Alaska—are the political campaigns that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 7th, 2023 and revised December 12th, 2023)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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December 8th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, December 8th, 2023, with the subject line, "Could you let us know your priorities for 2024?", which stated the following:
Paul's input needed:
2024 Civil Liberties Priorities Survey
TAKE THE SURVEY***
Paul –
It's too easy to lose track of progress, but we need you to know we accomplished so much together in 2023.
Anti-democratic politicians have come after our most cherished, fundamental rights. They came after abortion. They tried to censor teachers and what students learn. They discriminated against the LGBTQ community, particularly trans youth. They tried to enact unfair voter maps to shut out Black voters from the ballot box.
But each and every time, with the support of this community, we fought back and secured important wins across the nation.
With the new year upon us, our work will not slow down. And because you're an engaged supporter of the ACLU, we're eager to know what issues matter to you most as we close out 2023 and begin the new year. We've put together a super quick (it's only 2 questions) priorities survey for this very reason and are hoping to get 1,000 responses – including yours – before 12/11 at 11:59 p.m.
Please, spare just 2 minutes to take our short survey to let the ACLU know what rights and liberties are most important to you as we head into 2024. It will greatly help inform our work in the coming year.
TAKE THE SURVEY***
Thank you,
The ACLU Team
DONATE NOW
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
ACLU 2024 CIVIL LIBERTIES PRIORITIES SURVEY
By sharing your feedback on the most crucial issues, you can have a direct impact on our work to protect people's rights.
Survey
1. Compared to past national election years, how concerned are you about the state of fundamental rights and liberties in America heading into next year?
[✓] Extremely concerned
[ ] Very concerned
[ ] Somewhat concerned
[ ] Not at all concerned
2. What three issue areas do you think the ACLU should ramp up its efforts towards most in 2024?
[ ] Capital Punishment
[ ] Criminal Law Reform
[ ] Free Speech
[ ] Immigrant Rights
[ ] LGBTQ Rights
[ ] National Security
[ ] Prisoners' Rights
[✓] Racial Justice
[ ] Religious Liberty
[✓] Reproductive Freedom
[✓] Voting Rights
[ ] Women's Rights
Your contact information
First name (optional): Paul
Last name (optional): Whiting
ZIP Code: [redacted]
E-mail: [redacted]
Phone number (optional): [redacted]
Submit
[Blogger's Note: The reason I selected 'Racial Justice,' 'Reproductive Freedom' and 'Voting Rights' as the "three issue areas [that I] think the ACLU should ramp up its efforts towards most in 2024" is because the Republicans seem to be attacking those issues the most in their ongoing culture wars against "The United States of 'Woke' America."]
Plus, after I completed the survey above, I made a one-time donation to the ACLU because the "three issue areas [that I] think the ACLU should ramp up its efforts towards most in 2024" are 'Racial Justice,' 'Reproductive Freedom' and 'Voting Rights.' –Paul Whiting (written December 8th, 2023 and revised December 11th, 2023)
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December 8th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from Mother Jones magazine today, December 8th, 2023, with the subject line, "Great advice from a reader", which stated the following:
Paul,
I didn’t plan on sending you this Friday afternoon email, but our December fundraising drive got off to a concerningly slow start, and I need to try righting the ship before next week rolls around.
I have just the story, a big package of stories, and some advice from a reader that I think might do the trick.
Because this is about journalism—clearly demonstrating the value of Mother Jones’ journalism so we can raise the $350,000 in donations we need this month. It’s unfathomably hard in the news business right now, and hitting that number isn’t just some “wouldn’t it be nice to have” goal for us—our threadbare budget relies on it come January.
But I’m going to follow the advice of a reader who recently told us about how we can better go about asking you to support our work, which seems apt right now: “The cause is righteous and does not need sky-is-falling rhetoric. You folks do great work. Let the work stand on its own.”
I’ll also let [name redacted], a rising-star digital producer on the editorial team (and fantastic human—just look at the video he did for us last year!) show you the work. Well, after an earnest ask from me to consider supporting Mother Jones with a year-end gift if there’s any way you can right now. We need it.
On Tuesday, we published an ambitious reporting project (https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2023/12/america-promises-equality-for-disabled-students-its-failing) that was months in the making, consisting of several deeply reported stories all looking at one, often overlooked, issue: How the US education system chronically fails students with disabilities. Here’s [name redacted] summarizing it in a post that caught my attention and seemed worth sharing (slightly edited to work here):
It's been nearly 50 years since the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) passed, guaranteeing “free appropriate public education” to disabled students. But that promise remains unfulfilled—and the result has been an education system for disabled students steeped in neglect, failure, and abuse.
Did you know that over one-third of these students don’t graduate high school? Or that the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights has more than 2,500 open investigations into complaints from parents of children with disabilities—some being unresolved for over a decade?
This collection of stories examines these issues and points to solutions that are within reach. You can find them all in our introductory essay. But I am also going to detail them below.
1: How did we end up with a system that teachers, students, parents, and state and federal governments have declared to be broken? It turns out public dollars are flowing to private companies that turn a hefty profit while failing and even abusing students.
2: Meet [name redacted], who is fighting for her son in the country's largest school system while navigating a language barrier.
3: As a former teacher himself, [name redacted] has had a frontline look at how programs designed to help kids can instead facilitate the segregation of Black students, especially boys.
4: Hawaii is the only state in the country that operates as a single school district. And over the last few years, Hawaii has harnessed this advantage.
5: Amid skyrocketing autism rates, a nationwide shortage of mental health professionals who specialize in autism, and the lingering effects of pandemic isolation, [names redacted] are among a growing number of parents eager to try out robot-assisted therapy or instruction. Does it work?
6: Lastly, we asked YOU about your experiences with the system. In particular, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
If this was unfamiliar, I hope you learned something new. If it's all too familiar, I hope this arms you with information and hope. But most of all, I hope you engage and share this amazing project. My colleagues put their hearts and souls into every bit of it, and as you can see, it's quite an impressive collection. If you made it this far, thank you, as always, for choosing to be a part of our work and mission.
That’s so great. And I hope the reader who told us to let the work stand on its own when asking for the donations we need was onto something because after a lackluster start to this fundraising push, I need to know it’s not going to become a trend that could mean coming up way short on our goal. Please help this afternoon or weekend if you can.
Of course, in-depth reporting like the education package we just published costs money. Of course, spending months on something that’s not dominating the headlines isn’t incentivized in today’s media landscape. Of course, this is a story that needs to be told because doing so can improve people’s lives. Of course, the only way we can tackle ambitious projects like this is because we’re funded primarily by a community of readers.
And I’ll end with the sentence I loved most from [name redacted's] write-up: “If this was unfamiliar, I hope you learned something new. If it's all too familiar, I hope this arms you with information and hope.”
That’s such a great way to think about our work, and I sincerely hope you’ll pitch in with a year-end gift if you can afford to right now. We really need to see a strong response from this one.
If you can’t give right now, which I know is the case for many of you, you can help out by sharing our education reporting package per [name redacted's] heartfelt request.
Onward, and here’s to a restful and strong fundraising weekend.
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
Mother Jones
Donate***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to Mother Jones magazine "because this is about journalism—clearly demonstrating the value of Mother Jones’ journalism so [they] can raise the $350,000 in donations [they] need this month." –Paul Whiting (written December 8th, 2023, revised December 9th, 2023 and revised December 14th, 2023)
P.S.: Here is the statement that appears after the above-mentioned articles regarding "how the US education system chronically fails students with disabilities" from the Mother Jones website:
THE FACTS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES.
At least we hope they will, because that’s our approach to raising the $350,000 in online donations we need right now—during our high-stakes December fundraising push.
It’s the most important month of the year for our fundraising, with upward of 15 percent of our annual online total coming in during the final week—and there’s a lot to say about why Mother Jones’ journalism, and thus hitting that big number, matters tremendously right now.
But you told us fundraising is annoying—with the gimmicks, overwrought tone, manipulative language, and sheer volume of urgent URGENT URGENT!!! content we’re all bombarded with. It sure can be.
So we’re going to try making this as un-annoying as possible. In “Let the Facts Speak for Themselves” we give it our best shot, answering three questions that most any fundraising should try to speak to: Why us, why now, why does it matter?
The upshot? Mother Jones does journalism you don’t find elsewhere: in-depth, time-intensive, ahead-of-the-curve reporting on underreported beats. We operate on razor-thin margins in an unfathomably hard news business, and can’t afford to come up short on these online goals. And given everything, reporting like ours is vital right now.
If you can afford to part with a few bucks, please support the reporting you get from Mother Jones with a much-needed year-end donation. And please do it now, while you’re thinking about it—with fewer people paying attention to the news like you are, we need everyone with us to get there.
Donate:
https://secure.motherjones.com/flex/mj/key/7LIGHTB/src/7EGP007%7cPEGP007
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December 10th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication that I responded to was an email from the Pat Ryan for Congress campaign today, December 10th, 2023, with the subject line, "Winning in New York", which stated the following:
Paul,
My name is Pat Ryan, and I have the tremendous honor of representing New York’s Hudson Valley in Congress. I was born and raised in Upstate New York and attended West Point, where I learned the values of duty, honor, and country. It was here that I first swore an oath to defend this country from all enemies — foreign and domestic. I take that oath as seriously now as I did nearly 20 years ago. It’s the foundation of my values and ultimately why I chose to run for office. Our country is facing new and increased threats to our security and our way of life. I fought to protect freedom abroad, now, I am fighting every day to protect it at home.
For me, freedom isn’t a political bargaining chip or a cheap slogan. It’s the guiding principle of our nation and a set of ideals I risked my life to defend.
[✓] Freedom is a woman’s right to control her own body without government interference.
[✓] Freedom is a child’s right to go to school without the fear of being hit by a stray bullet.
[✓] Freedom is every American’s right to breathe clean air and drink clean water.
[✓] Freedom is a small town, main street business operating on the same level playing field as mega-corporations.
[✓] Freedom is the right to marry who you love.
[✓] Freedom is the security of a living wage, a paycheck that feeds your family, and the ability to join a union.
I hope you’ll take a moment to read this note all the way through, but I have to ask: Will you chip in $5 or whatever you can spare to help us hold this toss-up seat in the future?
DONATE***
Last year, we proved pundits and pollsters wrong by winning a competitive special election in August that few thought a Democrat could win. Then, we proved them wrong again by winning a toss-up race in November. We did it because we [didn't hold back], we met voters where they were, and we spoke plainly about the issues that matter. We spoke about freedom.
Although we had some big wins in 2022, New York Democrats underperformed in several competitive races. There’s a lot we can do between now and the 2024 elections to make sure that doesn’t happen again.
I’m going to keep up a strong messaging operation, reaching people across New York through ads, phone conversations, canvassing, events, and more. My campaign isn’t a short-term operation, because if we only show up for voters during election seasons, we’re letting them down. My team and I are going to work day and night to hold this seat and take back lost ground. We know that the path to flipping the house must include serious investment in New York. I am committed to being part of the solution.
Your support now will set us up for success for years to come. Building a sustainable, high-performing campaign in New York and beyond takes a lot of resources, and early investment is important. That’s why I’m asking:
Paul, can I count on you to pitch and keep up the good fight for freedom, for New York, and for our country?
In my first months as a representative in Congress, I have kept my promise to fight for fundamental rights and freedoms – to give hardworking families and communities the economic relief we desperately need.
I’ll never back down in the face of a challenge. From protecting abortion access and holding utility companies accountable to safeguarding programs like Social Security and Medicare, I know there are steep challenges ahead. I will continue to be focused on our mission to fight inflation, curb rising gun violence, and improve the quality of life for our veterans. The stakes are simply too high right now. We must come together as patriots to govern.
I believe we are in an existential fight for our democracy and we need all hands on deck. Will you pitch in to help keep me fighting for a better future for all?
Yours in service,
Pat Ryan
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
PAT RYAN FOR CONGRESS
Support Pat Ryan and help flip the House blue!
Democrats only need to flip 5 seats to win back the House majority, and Pat is hard at work to score big wins in New York and across the country.
Chip in any amount to help fuel Pat's work to flip the House today!
DONATE IMMEDIATELY:
Your contribution will benefit Pat Ryan.
[ ] Donate $5 →
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Pat Ryan for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "pitch in to help keep [Pat Ryan] fighting for a better future for all," because "Democrats only need to flip 5 seats to win back the House majority, and Pat is hard at work to score big wins in New York and across the country."
Thus, this one campaign—Pat Ryan for Congress—is the political campaign that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 10th, 2023 and revised December 12th, 2023)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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December 11th, 2023 Update No. 1: Christmas Day is fourteen days away from today, December 11th, 2023! And so, I decided to make one-time donations to charities who are helping the less fortunate, including a national hunger-relief organization and a local food bank who are helping hungry folks [1][2], your favorite holiday Red Kettle "bell ringers" and mine, who are well-known for collecting donations during the holiday season [3], as well as charities who are helping children in need during "The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" [4][5][6], in addition to the "2023 Portland Area Christmas Secret Santa Project for America's Catastrophically Disabled War on Terror Veterans and their Children." [7]
And I was inspired to make these donations by the following sources:
1. A "Christmas Donation" mailer that I received on November 24th, 2023, from Feeding America, which is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States who partners "with food banks, food pantries, and local food programs to bring food to people facing hunger."
2. And because I donated to Feeding America, which is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States, I also donated locally to the Oregon Food Bank, whose mission includes the following statement: "...We distribute food equitably across the region and work on policies and programs to address the root causes of hunger."
3. A "Christmas Donation" mailer that I received on December 1st, 2023, from The Salvation Army regarding their Annual Red Kettle Campaign (the "bell ringers" whom you can see collecting donations outside of some retail stores at Christmas) which truly symbolizes this charitable organization's mission of True Christian Salvation during the holiday season—and all year long!
4. A donation that I also made last year (2022) based upon an advertisement that I saw last year on YouTube for Operation Smile, which is a charity that provides surgery for children with cleft conditions and also provides the children with "cleft care needs throughout their childhood and adolescence so that they can realize happier and healthier futures."
5. An email that I received last year on December 10th, 2022, from Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon & SW Washington, which is "a nonprofit family & children's charity dedicated to supporting families with sick children in their time of need" regarding its annual holiday toy drive.
6. A well-known holiday toy drive organization, Marine Toys for Tots, which I was reminded of by a round token that I received from Toys for Tots a few years ago, which states, in part, 'Every Child Deserves A Little Christmas.' And this particular charity began "as the brain child of Marine Corps Reserve Major Bill Hendricks [and] his wife, Diane, who was the real inspiration. She had a few handcrafted dolls and asked Bill to deliver them to an agency that supports children in need. When Bill reported back to his wife that he could not find such an organization, she instructed him to 'start one!'" And the rest is (holiday toy drive) history.
7. A "Christmas Donation" mailer that I received today, December 11th, 2023, from the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes (CSAH) regarding their '2023 Christmas Secret Santa Project,' the goal of which is to "Give each of our nation's disabled War on Terror veterans on our list a surprise $500 Secret Santa check so they can provide their children with Christmas presents and have enough money left over to pay past due bills."
–Paul Whiting (written December 11th, 2023, revised December 12th, 2023 and revised December 15th, 2023)
P.S.: Please see my detailed descriptions—immediately after this 'update'—of the following donations that I made fourteen days before Christmas for which I received the above-mentioned communications!
Feeding America: 'December 11th, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On December 12th, 2023,' which can be found below.
The Salvation Army: 'December 11th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On December 12th, 2023,' which can be found below.
Coalition to Salute America's Heroes (CSAH): 'December 11th, 2023 Update No. 4, Written On December 12th, 2023,' which can be found below.
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December 11th, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On December 12th, 2023: I received a mailer from Feeding America eighteen days ago on November 24th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "21st Annual Biggest HOLIDAY Food Campaign EVER", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
FEEDING AMERICA
Paul Whiting, will you give $20 this holiday season to help families facing hunger?
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
November 3, 2023
Dear Paul Whiting,
The holidays can be a difficult time for families at risk of hunger. This year, household budgets have been hit hard by the high cost of groceries and everyday necessities—and this holiday season will be especially challenging. Everyone, including people like [name redacted], deserve to come together with loved ones and share a special meal.
[Name redacted] has always been a hard worker. Right now, he's working 60 hours every week at a restaurant in his lowa hometown. [Name redacted] picks up any shift he can get nights and weekends included. He's also engaged and hoping to save up for a wedding. But money continues to be tight for [name redacted], especially this time of year.
Even though [name redacted] wants to celebrate the holidays, affording the food for a special meal isn't easy. "I'm living paycheck to paycheck right now," he says.
Paul Whiting, I'm writing to ask for your help today so we can get more meals to neighbors like [name redacted] during the holidays. Too many people in Oregon and across America are finding themselves in a similar situation right now. Feeding America has just kicked off our 21st Annual Biggest Holiday Food Campaign Ever, and the need this year is huge.
Normally, every $1 you give helps provide at least 10 meals for people at risk of hunger. But now, your gift can have DOUBLE the impact for people like [name redacted], thanks to an exciting challenge match of up to $250,000 from [business redacted]. That means every $1 you give today can help provide at least 20 meals for neighbors facing hunger through the Feeding America network.
Simply use one of the three enclosed holiday food vouchers and you can have TWICE the impact:
[✓] Your contribution of $15 can help provide at least 300 meals.
[✓] Your donation of $20 can help provide at least 400 meals.
[✓] And your extra-special gift of $25 can help provide at least 500 meals.
With your contribution to Feeding America, you'll help neighbors like [name redacted] get the nutritious food they need.
When [name redacted] needed a little extra help to get the essentials for a special meal, he visited a local holiday food distribution center where he received a ham and traditional sides.
[Name redacted] was able to get together with friends and family to enjoy a nourishing meal. "We're going to be celebrating this food," he explains. "It means we get to eat. It's a time to feel all together, for everyone to be treated the same."
Paul Whiting, will you please give a generous donation today to help people like [name redacted]?
Remember, your contribution can have DOUBLE the impact with the [business redacted] challenge match. That means your gift can help even more neighbors get the food they need for the holidays!
Please use one of the enclosed holiday food vouchers to send your donation today, while it can have TWICE the impact for families at risk of hunger. I hope you have a wonderful holiday season.
Sincerely,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted], Feeding America
P.S. Thanks to the challenge match from [business redacted], your gift today can have DOUBLE the impact to help people facing hunger this time of year. To put your contribution to work faster, give online at www.SupportFeedingAmerica.org/Match
---------------------------------------------
CHALLENGE MATCH HOLIDAY FOOD VOUCHER
Please use my gift to help provide TWICE as many meals through the Feeding America network this holiday season. My enclosed donation of:
[ ] $15 can help provide at least 300 meals.
[✓] $7.00 can help provide as many meals as possible.
[ ] I'm giving by credit card. (Please see section on back)
[ ] I want to make an even bigger impact by giving monthly! (Please see section on back)
Give online: www.SupportFeedingAmerica.org/Match
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
21st Annual Biggest HOLIDAY Food Campaign –EVER–
[Business redacted] | FEEDING AMERICA
And so, I made a one-time donation to Feeding America yesterday, December 11th, 2023, in order to support their "CHALLENGE MATCH HOLIDAY FOOD VOUCHER," because "$7.00 can help provide as many meals as possible." –Paul Whiting (December 12th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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December 11th, 2023 Update No. 3, Written On December 12th, 2023: I received a mailer from The Salvation Army Portland Metro seventeen days ago on December 1st, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "ANNUAL RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN: Your Gift Can DOUBLE! $1 = $2!", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
The Salvation Army
DOING THE MOST GOOD
ANNUAL RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN
Matching Gift Can DOUBLE Your Impact!
Every $1 = $2!
But only until December 31, 2023!
Dear Mr. Whiting,
As someone with great compassion for others, you'll be happy to hear this wonderful news!
A group of generous supporters has just stepped forward with a matching gift that can double every dollar given — up to $11,215 — to help people who are struggling in the Portland Metro area!
That means your gift today to our Annual Red Kettle Campaign can go TWICE as far. Please make your gift by December 31, 2023, to be eligible for any applicable tax deductions and so that every dollar you give can be DOUBLED.
→This is so important. Here's why:
The Salvation Army's resources are being stretched while requests for help from families here in the Portland Metro area continue to pour in. This year, many of our neighbors are counting on our help as they struggle to afford the basics and keep their families going in these difficult times. Your gift today can go TWICE as far to help struggling families make ends meet this season.
Will you please send your Red Kettle gift to be doubled, Mr. Whiting? The enclosed Matching Gift Checks make it easy:
1. Simply choose the check that's right for you.
2. Return the check, along with your gift of the same amount, and that gift can be DOUBLED:
✓ Your gift of $10, sent today, can be worth $20.
✓ Your donation of $20 can do the work of $40.
✓ And your extra-generous gift of $30 can be matched for a total of $60!
✓ Your gift in any amount can double, up to the total amount of the matching gift!
Mr. Whiting, whatever you donate today can be DOUBLED - but only until the December 31 deadline.
You'll offer twice the help for our sick and elderly neighbors who may be forced to choose between filling a prescription and paying their rent.
You'll provide twice the food and other assistance to moms and dads who find themselves out of work and can't feed their families.
And you'll bring twice the compassion to less fortunate children in the Portland Metro area who rely on The Salvation Army's programs for a safe place to go after school.
You'll make sure that families across the Portland Metro area receive the critical services they need. You'll show neighbors who are hurting love beyond the crises they are facing right now.
That's why I'm reaching out to you, Mr. Whiting, and asking for your help today.
Please hurry. Don't miss the opportunity to take advantage of this matching gift during our Red Kettle Campaign. Make the greatest gift you can right now by filling in and returning one of the enclosed Matching Gift Checks.
Be sure to choose the amount of your donation so it can be DOUBLED right away.
And please act soon! Remember, this matching gift offer will only last until December 31!
Mr. Whiting, thank you for caring, and may God bless you for your compassion!
Most gratefully yours,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
P.S. Right now, you can turn every $1 you give into $2 of help for people in need here in the Portland Metro area! This is so important, especially with so many of our neighbors overwhelmed by inflation and other hardships. Send back one of the enclosed Matching Gift Checks so your gift during our Annual Red Kettle Campaign can be DOUBLED. Don't miss out — please respond by December 31, 2023. Thank you!
GIVE ONLINE! IT'S SECURE AND EASY. GO TO: SalArmy-Cascade.org
[Blogger's Note: For The Salvation Army USA website, at which there's a local donation page for you to make a donation to The Salvation Army in your area, please visit https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn where you will see the "Donate Local" button at the top right-hand corner of their website! And thank you for considering making a donation to The Salvation Army this holiday season!]
---------------------------------------------
The Salvation Army
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
MATCHING GIFT CHECK
Your gift CAN DOUBLE!
Pay To The Order Of: The Salvation Army of the Portland Metro area
Fill in the amount you want to double DOLLARS →$7.00
Your gift will be used locally.
From: Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
To: The Salvation Army
Portland Metro Donation Processing Center
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, I made a one-time donation to The Salvation Army Cascade Division yesterday, December 11th, 2023, in order to support The Salvation Army's ANNUAL RED KETTLE CAMPAIGN for 2023, because my "Matching Gift Can DOUBLE [My] Impact!" –Paul Whiting (December 12th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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December 11th, 2023 Update No. 4, Written On December 12th, 2023: I received a mailer from the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes (CSAH) yesterday, December 11th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "CHECK ENCLOSED - DO NOT TAMPER", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
From the Desk of Staff Sgt. [Name redacted], U.S. Army (Ret.) . . .
2023 Portland Area Christmas Secret Santa Project
For America's Catastrophically Disabled War on Terror Veterans and their Children
Dear Mr. Whiting,
I'm retired Army Staff Sgt. [name redacted]. I have taken the unusual step of sending you a $2.19 check because I wanted to make sure you would not miss my letter.
The global War on Terror has resulted in many of my fellow servicemen and women returning home burned, blinded, brain-damaged, having lost limbs, or suffering from other severe wounds.
While this Christmas you and I will enjoy getting together with family and friends, many post 9/11 severely disabled veterans in Oregon and across the country will be struggling just to put food on the table for their families and will certainly not be able to buy presents for their children.
Before I explain why this is, Mr. Whiting, you may be wondering about the amount of the attached check. You see, the numbers 2 1 9 mean a lot to me. I am a severely disabled veteran from the War on Terror. I was seriously injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq on 2/19 (February 19, 2007). You will find enclosed a photo of me before and after that bomb exploded.
You can cash the check below if you want, but I hope you won't. We need every dollar we can raise to provide emergency aid and other support services for our catastrophically wounded heroes — who are unable to even afford to buy groceries. I am taking a leap of faith you'll make a Christmas donation to help my fellow disabled veterans.
The Coalition to Salute America's Heroes has launched its 2023 Christmas Secret Santa Project. The goal: Give each of our nation's disabled War on Terror veterans on our list a surprise $500 Secret Santa check so they can provide their children with Christmas presents and have enough money left over to pay past due bills.
Mr. Whiting, I have also included a Christmas THANK YOU and GET WELL card that I hope you will sign and return, along with a check of your own. Your signed card will be delivered to a severely disabled or hospitalized veteran. Many (probably most) of these wounded warriors believe America has forgotten them, and your card can help show America's support and appreciation for their sacrifices, and maybe even help in their healing.
Unfortunately, the global War on Terror isn't over. Today, we have over 165,000 troops around the globe. And the fact is tens of thousands of our brave servicemen and women will be in harm's way for the foreseeable future, and some will return home with severe injuries.
It will shock you to know that it takes several months on average, and often over a year, for a wounded hero to receive his or her first government disability check. Plus, government bureaucrats try to minimize the injuries our wounded heroes have sustained to shortchange them out of their disability pay that they have more than earned.
In addition, many of my fellow combat-wounded veterans require a fulltime caregiver. Often the caregiver is the spouse of the veteran, who must quit their job or work part time hours.
As a result, the family income plummets. And with the skyrocketing cost of groceries, gas, and everyday essentials, many are now in need of help to feed their families, keep a roof over their head, and avoid financial disaster.
That's why we have created the Christmas Secret Santa Project. Over the past handful of years, through the generosity of patriotic Americans like you the Coalition has distributed thousands of surprise $500 Secret Santa checks to help our nation's severely disabled War on Terror veterans provide their children with presents on Christmas.
I am sure you agree, America's disabled veterans have sacrificed so much, and they should not have to choose between feeding their families, paying their utility bills, paying their rent or mortgage, or buying Christmas presents for their children.
Your generous tax-deductible gift of $8, $15, $25, $50 or more will be combined with donations from other patriotic supporters and allow us to send a surprise $500 Secret Santa check to every disabled veteran on our list.
Please do what you can to help. Thank you, God Bless you, and Merry Christmas!
Sincerely,
Staff Sgt. [Name redacted], U.S. Army (Ret.)
[Title redacted] for the Coalition
"QR code message": Scan to learn more and to donate right away!
https://saluteheroes.org
P.S. I am only sending these $2.19 checks to Americans (like you) who care deeply about our nation's catastrophically wounded heroes, so I trust you won't cash this check. Instead, I hope you'll make a generous tax-deductible gift to the Coalition's 2023 Christmas Secret Santa Project, today.
America's disabled heroes are suffering, and most have nowhere else to turn to for help. So please do your part to help them with a tax-deductible donation to the Coalition. And please return your signed Christmas "THANK YOU and GET WELL" card for a wounded warrior.
If you would like to know more about my injury, please scan the QR code shown above with your smart phone and it will take you to the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes secure website. There you can also learn more about our mission to provide emergency aid and other support services to America's post 9/11 combat- wounded veterans from the global War on Terror.
---------------------------------------------
2023 Christmas Secret Santa Project
Important Donation Reply to Staff Sgt. [Name redacted]
Dear [Name redacted],
I will void the $2.19 check you sent me to make sure I would not overlook your important letter, and I'm enclosing my signed "Thank You" card for you to deliver to a catastrophically wounded hero.
To help provide a $500 Christmas Secret Santa check or other emergency aid to a severely disabled War on Terror Veteran, here is my gift of:
[ ] $8
[ ] $15
If everyone just sends this average amount [of $15], we can provide $500 checks and other and to thousands of wounded heroes this Christmas!
[ ] $25
[ ] $50
[✓] My best gift of $7.00
Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Donation Requested By: 7 Days From Receipt
[✓] I have enclosed my signed THANK YOU and GET WELL card for a wounded hero (or other military veteran) who needs to know their sacrifice has not been forgotten.
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes yesterday, December 11th, 2023, in order to support their 2023 Christmas Secret Santa Project! Plus, "I [voided] the $2.19 check [the Coalition] sent me to make sure I would not overlook [their] important letter," in addition to mailing back "my signed 'Thank You' card for [the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes] to deliver to a catastrophically wounded hero." –Paul Whiting (December 12th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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December 11th, 2023 Update No. 5: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication that I responded to was an email from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) today, December 11th, 2023, with the subject line, "BREAKING via The Hill: 'Biden's approval rating increased'!", which stated the following:
BREAKING via The Hill: "Biden's approval rating increased," but we still haven't heard from you!
Do you approve of President Biden?
WE'RE MISSING YOUR RESPONSE, PAUL:
Do you approve of President Biden?
[✓] YES
[ ] NO
This is great news, Paul: President Biden's approval rating continues to increase as polls show him statistically tied with Donald Trump!
President Biden is moving the country in the right direction by strengthening our economy, creating 14 MILLION jobs, and reducing inflation -- and Americans are taking notice.
But to defend our incredible progress under the Biden-Harris administration, we need to confirm that Democrats are supporting President Biden and REJECTING a Trump comeback! So please, let us know your response before the midnight deadline:
Supporter: Paul Whiting
Response: Missing!
Deadline: 11:59 P.M.
Do you approve of President Biden?
[✓] YES
[ ] NO
Thank you,
Team DSCC
Chip in $5 monthly to defend the Senate***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DSCC
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Democratic survey in progress:
Please confirm: Do you approve of President Biden?
[✓] Approve
[ ] Disapprove
Why do you support President Biden? (Select all that apply.)
[✓] President Biden leads with integrity.
[✓] President Biden tells the truth and takes responsibility.
[✓] President Biden shares my positions on health care, climate change, and more.
[✓] President Biden cares about people like me.
[✓] President Biden represents America well around the globe.
[ ] Other
Which issues do you want the Biden administration and Democrats to prioritize? (Select your three top priorities.)
[ ] Foreign Relations
[ ] The Economy
[ ] Health Care
[✓] Reproductive Rights
[ ] Climate Change
[✓] Gun Safety
[ ] Education
[ ] Immigration Reform
[✓] Voting Rights
[ ] Criminal Justice
[ ] Job Creation
[ ] Higher Education
[ ] Other
[Blogger's Note: The reason I selected 'Reproductive Rights,' 'Gun Safety' and 'Voting Rights' as the "issues [that I] want the Biden administration and Democrats to prioritize" is because the Republicans seem to be attacking those issues the most in their ongoing culture wars against "The United States of 'Woke' America."]
President Biden's agenda hinges on Democrats keeping Mitch McConnell out of power. What's most important for Democrats to focus on leading up to the next Senate elections?
[ ] Defending our majority -- We must work to defend every Democratic seat.
[ ] Expanding our majority -- We must build the infrastructure to flip the Senate seats held by Republicans, including some of Trump's worst enablers.
[✓] Both!
We're leading the fight to defend our Democratic Senate and urgently need your help. Our fundraising deadline is TONIGHT and we're still a few donations short in your area!
Please, will you chip in $55 or more so Democrats can compete against McConnell's megadonors, defend the Senate, and continue helping President Biden make progress?
Please use the links below to start a monthly donation through ActBlue:
[ ] I'll give $55.
[ ] I'll give $110.
[ ] I'll give $165.
[✓] I'd like to choose a different amount to give.*
*[Blogger's Note: I selected this option—although I made a one-time donation, rather than a monthly donation—because it's an option that got me to the donation webpage!]
---------------------------------------------
DSCC
Donate now to SUPERCHARGE our Senate majority!
CNN says multiple GOP seats could flip blue next year -- but with Mitch McConnell's megadonors already playing offense, it's going to take all hands on deck to win!
Please, will you chip in now to protect our historic progress by supercharging our Democratic majority?
Make it monthly!
To defend abortion access, stop gun violence and more, we must elect Democrats. Will you make your donation monthly to fight for the Senate?
[ ] Yes, count me in!
[✓] No, donate once
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DSCC.
[ ] $220 →
[ ] $110 →
[ ] $550 →
[ ] $1,100 →
[ ] $2,200 →
[ ] $2,700 →
[✓] Other $1.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[ ] Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DSCC (without a tip to ActBlue) in order to confirm that I approve of, and support, President Biden!
P.S.: The reason that I only donated $1.00 to the DSCC is because I already donated $5.00 (with a $0.35 tip to ActBlue) on December 3rd, 2023 (please see my 'December 3rd, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above) and that is all I can afford this month; however, I did want to respond to this survey, so that is why I made a donation in the amount that I did.
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication that I responded to was a text message today, December 11th, 2023, from the Vicente Gonzalez for U.S. Congress campaign, which stated, in part, the following:
Paul, It's Vicente Gonzalez, and I want to share my mother's words with you ... "He who has the desire to do more, does more."
This guided me throughout my life. From earning my GED to obtaining a JD degree, I've dedicated myself to our community of South Texas.
I want to continue fighting for our community, especially as the GOP pushes their extremist agenda in Texas to take away quality healthcare from those who need it most and give handouts to drug companies.
Paul, the challenges we face require a united front, especially as we try to counter right-wing Super PACs already looking to defeat me—can you become a Founding Donor and help me protect our rights in South Texas?***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
VICENTE GONZALEZ for U.S. CONGRESS
Donate to Vicente Gonzalez for U.S. Congress
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Vicente Gonzalez.
Donate $15 →
Donate $35 →
Donate $50 →
Donate $100 →
Donate $250 →
Donate $500 →
Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Vicente Gonzalez for U.S. Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "become a Founding Donor and help [Vicente Gonzalez] protect [their] rights in South Texas."
---------------------------------------------
The third political communication that I responded to was a text message today, December 11th, 2023, from the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State (DASS), which stated the following:
Hi Paul- Wisconsin [title redacted] [name redacted] here.
After the results of the 2020 election were tallied and it was clear President Biden won, ten Republicans in Wisconsin chose to ignore the will of the people. Instead, they posed as fake electors for President Trump.
The fake electors plot may have been foiled, but the danger from these anti-democracy extremists still lurks: one of these fake electors, [name redacted], currently serves on the Wisconsin [government organization redacted].
[Name redacted's] actions are all part of a larger, coordinated effort to overturn the will of the people – and they can’t go unchecked.
That’s why I’m calling for his immediate resignation from the Wisconsin [government organization redacted].
While we work to remove bad actors like [name redacted] who put our democracy at risk, Democrats are focused on the work of protecting free and fair elections in Wisconsin and beyond.
My friends at the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State are gearing up for the long fight ahead, but they need the support from grassroots Democrats like you.
That’s why I’m asking you to make a small $3.88 donation to the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State so they can elect democracy defenders across the nation***
Thank you,
[Name redacted]
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Democratic Association of Secretaries of State
When federal action stalls, state laws decide the future of our republic. We can't let those laws fall into the hands of partisan, conspiracy-loving GOP legislatures.
Our Democratic Secretaries protect our elections — even when Congress is deadlocked. They're the last line of defense for your rights, and they need your help this year more than ever. Rush a donation now and defend our Secretaries of State!
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DASS PAC.
[ ] Donate $15 →
[ ] Donate $35 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[✓] Other amount $5.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DASS campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to contribute "a small [$5.00] donation to the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State so they can elect democracy defenders across the nation."
---------------------------------------------
The fourth political communication that I responded to was an email from both the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and the Elizabeth Warren for Senate (Warren for Senate) campaign today, December 11th, 2023, with the subject line, "I’ll get straight to the point", which stated the following:
Hi Paul, it's Elizabeth Warren.
I’ll get straight to the point: We have so much work ahead of us to make our economy work for everyone, not just the rich and powerful. But none of that work will be possible if we don’t win in 2024. That’s why I’m asking: Can you split a donation between my reelection campaign and the DNC today?
We need change. We need structural change. Structural change that puts money and power in the pockets of working people.
And there’s plenty that needs fixing. Childcare costs are out of control. Our tax code is tilted toward the wealthy. Big banks pose systemic risks and squeeze consumers with junk fees.
So I’m working to enact my plan for quality, affordable childcare. I’m fighting to tax the ultra-wealthy so that they finally pay their fair share. I’m not afraid to hold big banks accountable for their misconduct – and I’m working to keep them from crashing and hurting more working people.
Paul, if you’re able, help Democrats continue pushing for progress by clicking here to split $35 -- or any amount -- between my campaign and the DNC. Your donation will help empower Democrats to keep fighting for hardworking Americans as we head into 2024.
If you've saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will be split evenly between Senator Elizabeth Warren's campaign and the DNC:
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $35
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $70
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $122
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $175
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $350
[✓] Donate another amount***
Thanks for being a part of this,
Elizabeth Warren
U.S. Senator, Massachusetts
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DNC CONGRESSIONAL SPLIT SERIES
Split a donation between Sen. Elizabeth Warren's campaign and the DNC as we head into 2024:
Democrats are counting on your grassroots support to prepare for elections up and down the ballot and drive progress.
Split a donation between Sen. Elizabeth Warren and the DNC to invest in the future of this country and the success of Democrats running up and down the ballot.
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Donate $4
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[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.28 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DNC and to the Elizabeth Warren for Senate (Warren for Senate) campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to split "a donation between Sen. Elizabeth Warren and the DNC to invest in the future of this country and the success of Democrats running up and down the ballot."
P.S.: The reason that I only donated $1.00 to the DCCC is because I already donated $5.00 (with a $0.35 tip to ActBlue) on December 3rd, 2023 (please see my 'December 3rd, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above) and that is all I can afford this month; however, I did want to respond to this split donation request, so that is why I made a donation in the amount that I did.
Thus, these three organizations—the DSCC, the DASS, as well as the DNC—in addition to these two campaigns—Vicente Gonzalez for U.S. Congress, as well as Elizabeth Warren for Senate (Warren for Senate)—are the political organizations, and the political campaigns, that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 11th, 2023, revised December 12th, 2023, revised December 16th, 2023, revised December 22nd, 2023, revised January 7th, 2024, revised January 22nd, 2024, revised February 9th, 2024 and revised June 28th, 2024)
**P.P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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December 12th, 2023 Update No. 1, Written On December 13th, 2023: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication that I responded to was a text message yesterday, December 12th, 2023, from the Biden Victory Fund, which stated the following:
Paul, it’s Joe Biden. I wanted to perk your day up with some exciting news: For just a short period of time, Kamala and I are giving one lucky supporter (and a guest of their choice) an all-expenses paid trip to grab some coffee with us. ☕
All you have to do is chip in any amount now, and you’ll be automatically entered to win. But this isn’t forever, Paul – we’re only doing this until 12/31, so pitch in now:***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Donate now for a cup of joe... with Joe and Kamala!
By donating today, you could win a chance to have a coffee with President Biden and Vice President Harris!
Your donation will make a world of difference in sustaining this campaign and supporting Democrats nationwide! This offer won't last long, so chip in today.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Biden Victory Fund.
[ ] $46 →
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $1.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[ ] Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Biden Victory Fund (without a tip to ActBlue) yesterday, December 12th, 2023, in order to enter for "a chance to have a coffee with President Biden and Vice President Harris!"
P.S.: The reason that I only donated $1.00 to the Biden Victory Fund is because I simply wanted to enter for this chance to win "an all-expenses paid trip to grab some coffee with [President Biden and Vice President Harris]. ☕", so that is why I made a donation in the amount that I did.
Thus, this one campaign—Biden Victory Fund—is the political campaign that I donated to yesterday! –Paul Whiting (written December 13th, 2023 and revised December 16th, 2023)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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December 12th, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On December 13th, 2023: I received an email from Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon (Planned Parenthood Political Action Committee of Oregon) yesterday, December 12th, 2023, with the subject line, "Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon needs you...", which stated the following:
Dear Paul,
The end of the year invites us into a season of reflection, rest, and recalibration. As our team reflects on the past year and prepares for the one ahead, we are incredibly proud of electing school board champions and fighting near-constant attacks on reproductive freedom and abortion access.
Support our work today by making a contribution to Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon.
This year we have seen unprecedented challenges to the fight for reproductive freedom. 21 states have banned or severely restricted abortion access, anti-abortion politicians are pushing to revoke access to mifepristone, and there’s even a push for a federal abortion ban in Congress.
As we wait for the coming light that approaches with the winter solstice, we are reminded of one thing that sustains us: hope. Hope that is rooted in our dedication to continue this fight, and in the knowledge that seeds germinate in the dark.
MAKE A GIFT TODAY***
We have exciting things in the works for the coming year. We are growing a movement that is rooted in the belief that all people deserve to have control over their bodies, to feel safe in their communities, and to have access to the reproductive and sexual healthcare they need.
But we can’t do this work without you. There is an important election cycle coming up in 2024, and in order to do this work we need to elect pro-abortion champions across the state who can help us achieve our goals.
If you have yet to use your Oregon Political Tax Credit, use it today to make a contribution to our PAC.
Sincerely,
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon
DONATE NOW***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon yesterday, December 12th, 2023, since "[Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon is] growing a movement that is rooted in the belief that all people deserve to have control over their bodies, to feel safe in their communities, and to have access to the reproductive and sexual healthcare they need," because "there is an important election cycle coming up in 2024, and in order to do this work we need to elect pro-abortion champions across the state who can help us achieve our goals." –Paul Whiting (December 13th, 2023)
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December 13th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have decided to consolidate the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I typically write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I make virtually every time that I make a political donation, however, lately there has suddenly been quite a number of donation requests! And within each 'update' I usually include the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, which is usually $3.00 per campaign or $5.00 per organization, plus how much I tipped ActBlue, which was previously $0.11 per campaign donation, but is now currently $0.21 per campaign—or 7% of my donation including to political organizations.**
Therefore, I have decided to forego my usual writing format for these type of political campaign, or political organization, donation 'updates' and combine every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing all of these individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
And I mean no disrespect to the individual political campaigns, or political organizations—each of which used to receive their very own 'update' on my blog—however, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a (hopefully realistic) goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. Plus, I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication that I responded to was a text message today, December 13th, 2023, from the Maxwell Frost for Congress (Maxwell Alejandro Frost for Congress) campaign, which stated the following:
Paul, it’s Rep. Maxwell Frost, Gen-Z Democrat representing FL-10 in Congress. [Name redacted's] fascist book bans are an assault on students’ rights in Florida. But we’re fighting back – and my bill is a huge step forward.
I just introduced the Fight Book Bans Act, a direct attack on [name redacted's] censorship in our schools, to provide school districts with funding to oppose these book bans.
Last year, 40% of all U.S book bans were in Florida, so we have to act. Our students and educators are on the frontlines. We owe it to them to make SURE Black, brown, Hispanic, and LGBTQ+ stories aren’t erased.
As long as I’m in Congress, I’ll never give up this fight. But I need your support to hold this seat against the fascists targeting our kids’ educations.
I got here because people like you stepped up with a first donation, so I hope I can count on you to join in.
I need to raise $9,842 today to keep up the work. Will you rush your first $27 donation today, so I can keep fighting censorship and fascism? >>***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
MAXWELL ALEJANDRO FROST FOR CONGRESS
Join our historic movement >>
$13,403.79 Raised of $15,000 GOAL
Chip in before midnight >>
Please chip in now to support Maxwell and join our movement. Our historic campaign proved how crucial it is to lay the groundwork early and fight for the future we deserve EVERY day. >>
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Maxwell Frost.
[ ] DONATE $15 →
[ ] DONATE $27 →
[ ] DONATE $50 →
[ ] DONATE $100 →
[ ] DONATE $500 →
[ ] DONATE $1,000 →
[ ] DONATE $3,300 →
[✓] OTHER AMOUNT $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Maxwell Frost for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "fascist book bans are an assault on students’ rights in Florida," but "[Representative Maxwell Frost is] fighting back – and [his Fight Book Bans Act] bill is a huge step forward." That is why I donated "now to support Maxwell and [joined his] movement," since "[Maxwell Frost's] historic campaign proved how crucial it is to lay the groundwork early and fight for the future [Floridians] deserve EVERY day."
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication that I responded to was a text message today, December 13th, 2023, from the Abigail Spanberger for Governor (Spanberger for Governor) campaign, which stated the following:
It's Abigail Spanberger, and I'm making it official! I am running for Governor of Virginia.
We're getting this campaign up and running, and I'd like to ask if you can contribute $10 or $20 as a Founding Donor.***
Your contribution will be one of the first! Every dollar now will have a significant impact on the success of my campaign. Thank you so much for helping my team and me get off to a great start.
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Abigail Spanberger for Governor
Support Abigail's Campaign for Governor of Virginia!
Our Commonwealth is at another crossroads do we continue moving backward with attacks on our rights, our kids' education, and our communities' sense of security — or do we move forward on a path of progress?
Abigail is running for Governor because she knows what she will bring to the job — a deep and abiding love for our Commonwealth, a relentless work ethic, and a focus on bringing people together to solve the real challenges facing Virginians. Abigail is working to build a strong foundation of support, and she needs your help.
Will you chip in to Abigail's campaign for Governor of Virginia and become a Founding Donor today?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Abigail Spanberger.
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Abigail Spanberger for Governor campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "contribute [$3] as a Founding Donor" to Abigail Spanberger's campaign for Governor of Virginia.
---------------------------------------------
The third political communication that I responded to was an email from the Biden for President campaign today, December 13th, 2023, with the subject line, "Dictator", which stated the following:
Biden-Harris 2024
Did you see Sean Hannity’s town hall with Donald Trump?
Hannity unsurprisingly asked Trump a few questions that should have been easy, like “You are promising America tonight -- you would never abuse power as retribution against anybody?”
In response, Trump said he’d be a dictator “on Day One.”
This is serious, Paul. When Donald Trump shows us who is, we should believe him.
Every $25 you can donate right now will help keep Donald Trump out of the White House. Pitch in here to help >>***
If you've saved payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:
[ ] $25 >>
[ ] $50 >>
[ ] $75 >>
[ ] $100 >>
[ ] $125 >>
[✓] Other >>***
President Biden has said time and time again that Donald Trump is a threat to the future of our democracy. And it couldn’t be more true.
➡️ FIRST: Donald Trump attempted to overturn a free and fair election to stay in power.
➡️ THEN: He tried to overthrow the democratic institutions that Joe, Kamala, and Americans across the country have worked so hard to protect.
➡️ NOW: He’s promising to be a dictator on “Day One” if he returns to power.
We cannot let Trump back in the White House. Make another donation to the Biden-Harris campaign today and forward this email to your friends and family to make sure they see Trump’s comments.
Thanks for all that you do to stay engaged and fight for our future. The stakes for our democracy are too high to give up now.
Team Biden-Harris
"Every generation has a moment where they have had to stand up for democracy. To stand up for their fundamental freedoms. I believe this is ours." -- Joe Biden
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Donate to the Biden-Harris campaign today to help push back against MAGA extremism:
When you pitch in, you help us show that we can and will defeat MAGA Republicans in 2024.
Will you donate to Joe Biden and Kamala Harris's reelection campaign to make sure they can keep fighting for progress?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Joe Biden.
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $10 →
[ ] $46 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%**)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Biden for President campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to make a contribution "to the Biden-Harris campaign today [as well to] forward this email to [my] friends and family to make sure they see Trump’s comments."
Thus, these three campaigns—Maxwell Frost for Congress, as well as Abigail Spanberger for Governor, in addition to Biden for President—are the political campaigns that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (December 13th, 2023)
**P.S.: I used to leave an $0.11 tip to ActBlue for my typical $3.00 donations to political campaigns; however, rather than tipping $0.11—like I usually do—I decided to try out a New & Improved "Add custom amount" tip of $0.75 with my political donation on November 17th, 2023 (please see my 'November 17th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above)! And, I ran the numbers on this new $0.75 tip amount (which is exactly 25% of $3.00) to see if it is "feasible for the foreseeable future" (say that three times fast!), or if I should revert back to the original $0.11 tip amount (which is exactly 3.6% of $3.00), or if I should still increase my political campaign donation tip amount to ActBlue—however, not by as much—to, say, $0.21 (which is exactly 7% of $3.00).
And so, my above-mentioned calculations are as follows: If I donate $3.00 per campaign and I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.75 (25% of $3.00), that means for every ten donations that I make—for example—it totals up to be $37.50! Now, if I make those same ten donations, but I add a tip to ActBlue of $0.21 (7% of $3.00), then it totals up to $32.10! Therefore, every ten donations that I make at the lower tip amount of $0.21 is a savings of $5.40! And, for me, $5.00 is usually the minimum amount that I donate for most all of my progressive and charitable donations. Thus, if you calculate that savings out for every one hundred donations—for example—that is a savings amount as follows:
If $3.75 per donation × 100 donations = $375.00 in total donations;
And if $3.21 per donation × 100 donations = $321.00 in total donations;
Then $375.00 in total donations at the higher tip amount - $321.00 in total donations at the lower tip amount = $54.00 in savings;
Therefore $54.00 in savings ÷ $5.00 which is my usual minimum donation amount = 10.8 progressive and charitable donations!
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December 14th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received a text message today, December 14th, 2023, from Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) [by the way, "Médecins Sans Frontières" is French for "Doctors Without Borders"], which stated the following:
MATCH ALERT: Our last match of 2023. Make a DOUBLED gift to Doctors Without Borders and be a lifeline for people in crisis worldwide:***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Be a Lifeline. Match your gift and save lives.
At Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), our teams provide a lifeline to millions of patients experiencing war and conflict, disease outbreaks, natural disasters, and more. We treat any patient, regardless of their race, religion, ethnicity, or politics—but only with the generous support of our donors.
Right now, we’re matching every dollar you give up to $1 million thanks to a group of generous donors—but only until midnight on December 31.
With your help, MSF can be a lifeline for people caught in crisis around the world. You can be confident your matched gift will make an impact: 83 percent of every tax-deductible dollar you give to MSF goes directly towards our humanitarian programs.
Hurry! Make your MATCHED year-end gift so MSF can be a lifeline to patients in crisis in more than 70 countries.
---
All gifts given, up to $1,000,000, will be doubled through 11:59 p.m. on December 31—thanks to a generous group of donors. Every dollar you give will be matched with $1. Gifts received after the match has been met will not be matched but will be used where needed most.
And so, I made a one-time donation to Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in order to "make [my] MATCHED year-end gift so MSF can be a lifeline to patients in crisis in more than 70 countries." –Paul Whiting (December 14th, 2023)
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December 14th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, December 14th, 2023, with the subject line, "We were made for moments like this", which stated the following:
48-HOUR FLASH FUND
Will you donate to help us keep up the fight for our civil liberties in the new year?
DONATE NOW***
Paul, with only a few weeks until the new year, we'll be honest: We're preparing for a tough 2024.
From expanding voting access before a major presidential election to protecting basic freedoms like abortion care, it's going to take a massive amount of resources to defend our civil liberties next year.
That's why our 48-Hour Flash Fund couldn't drop fast enough. So here's the deal: We're trying to raise $50,000 before 12/15 to ensure we can meet all the challenges for the year ahead. And our one question for you is: Can you help us get there in the next 48 hours with a gift today?
DONATE NOW***
Paul, with all that's happening in the news cycle right now, please rest assured that the ACLU was made for moments like these. We've been leading every major fight for civil liberties for over 100 years. And we know how to win. But we need your help for the long year ahead.
Your support today will help us take states to court over their racist voter suppression laws. It will help us connect people facing criminal abortion charges with legal defense. It will help us defend our First Amendment rights as book bans sweep the nation. And it will protect LGBTQ equality, immigrants' rights, and more.
Your contribution today is especially important because December is one of our biggest fundraising moments. If we fall short of our Flash Fund goal, we'll have to make difficult budget cuts in the year to come.
Paul donating in the final weeks of 2023 is the best way to secure real progress in 2024. So can we count on you to help us reach our goal and continue to defend our civil liberties?
Thank you,
The ACLU Team
DONATE NOW***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And so, I made a one-time donation to the ACLU because "[they're] trying to raise $50,000 before 12/15 to ensure [the ACLU] can meet all the challenges for the year ahead." So, "[their] one question for [me] is: Can [I] help [the ACLU] get there in the next 48 hours with a gift today?" And my answer is: Yes! They can "count on [me] to help [the ACLU] reach [their] goal and continue to defend our civil liberties." –Paul Whiting (December 14th, 2023)
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December 14th, 2023 Update No. 3: I received an email from Students Demand Action for Gun Sense in America today, December 14th, 2023, with the subject line, "Charlotte, Daniel, Olivia, Josephine, Dylan, Madeleine, Catherine, Chase, Jesse, Ana, James, Grace, Emilie, Jack, Noah, Caroline, Jessica, Avielle, Benjamin, Allison, Rachel, Dawn, Anne Marie, Lauren, Mary, Victoria", which stated the following:
STUDENTS DEMAND ACTION
For Gun Sense In America
Charlotte. Daniel. Olivia. Josephine. Dylan. Madeleine. Catherine. Chase. Jesse. Ana. James. Grace. Emilie. Jack. Noah. Caroline. Jessica. Avielle. Benjamin. Allison. Rachel. Dawn. Anne Marie. Lauren. Mary. Victoria.
Paul–
Eleven years ago, the lives of 26 families were irrevocably changed at Sandy Hook Elementary School when a man armed with an assault weapon took the lives of 20 children and 6 adult staff.
Today, we remember the 20 children who should still be here and the brave educators who shouldn't have had to put their lives on the line for their students.
"Charlotte loved having her hair tied in 'piggies' with ribbons, pink frilly dresses, animals big and small, her large collection of stuffed dogs, and eating shrimp and Big Y fried chicken. At home, she loved playing and caring for the family pets, 'helping' her mom garden by picking flowers before their time, being tickled by her daddy, and trying to imitate and annoy her big brother."
"We miss [Jack's] huge smile, his giggles, and the excitement he brought to our life each and every day. We miss the mischievous grin on his face when he was caught eating snacks before dinner and the laughter in his voice while having a football pass in the driveway. We miss him more than words can say."
"Ana Grace was widely known for her enthusiastic love of God, people, music, food and fun. She instituted the house rule of 'seconds'. Her favorite seconds included second breakfast, second dessert, and second hugs... And she could out-groove just about anyone. A budding little musician, Ana wanted to be a teacher, dancer, or pop star when she grew up."
Take a moment today to read the rest of the victims' stories at My Sandy Hook Family.
https://mysandyhookfamily.org
[Blogger's Note: I read all of the stories at My Sandy Hook Family.]
In the years since the shooting at Sandy Hook, we've seen countless other devastating acts of violence—at schools, at the grocery store, in movie theaters, and houses of worship.
This fight is hard: We're up against the gun industry and its callous political allies, who offer only thoughts and prayers when children are gunned down in their own classrooms.
When I feel hopeless, I look to the survivors, families, and students who have turned their unfathomable pain, anger, and grief into action.
Because of them and you, what first seemed like a lost cause has become a strong movement. Together we have shifted the culture in our country by electing gun sense champions, flipping statehouses, passing life-saving gun laws, and holding the gun industry accountable.
We've put our communities on the path to a future free from gun violence.
And our work continues: we will not stop calling for meaningful action when 8 out of the 10 deadliest mass shootings in our country involved the use of an assault weapon, including Sandy Hook. Send a message to your lawmaker today and tell them to honor victims by banning assault weapons!
SEND MY MESSAGE***
It's easy to feel despondent, but it's harder to channel that pain and anger into making our world better for future generations.
I'm inspired every day by the work of the brave student volunteers, and survivors who make up our movement and motivate me to keep going.
Thank you for being in this movement,
[Name redacted]
She/Her/Hers
[Title redacted]
Students Demand Action
Students Demand Action is a grassroots volunteer network of Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund. As a movement of Americans fighting for common-sense gun policies, we depend on contributions from supporters like you to fund important work to reduce gun violence.
Contributions to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund are not tax-deductible as a charitable contribution or as a business expense under IRC Section 162(e).
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, regarding signing a petition "telling Smith & Wesson to change its practices," which can be found below:
Tell Congress To Pass An Assault Weapons Ban Now
The cycle of gun violence is heartbreaking. We are left to remember countless lives that should still be here if it weren't for preventable acts of gun violence. And every time our country begins to heal from one avoidable mass shooting, we're faced with another horrific act of gun violence.
There's often a common thread in mass shootings: The shootings turned so deadly because of an assault weapon—a weapon invented for use on the battlefield, designed to kill as many people as possible as quickly as possible.
We shouldn't have to live like this—and we won't stand for inaction from our lawmakers any longer.
Send a message urging your U.S. Senators and Representative to pass an assault weapons ban now:
Dear Lawmaker,
I am writing to you as a constituent filled with grief, fear, and anger.
As we honor the victims of the countless acts of daily preventable gun violence in communities across the country, I am urging you to take action to ban assault weapons.
There's often a common thread in mass shootings: The shootings turned as deadly as they did because of an assault weapon—a weapon designed to kill as many people as possible as quickly as possible. We must pass an assault weapons ban.
Researchers estimate that if the federal law prohibiting assault weapons and high-capacity magazines had been in effect from 2005 through 2019, it would have prevented 30 mass shootings where four or more people were killed in a public location, ultimately resulting in 1,478 people being shot and killed or wounded.
Please, I'm urging you to prioritize public safety. Take action and save lives by passing an assault weapons ban now.
Complete the form to send your message now:
Prefix: Mr.
First name: Whiting
Last name: Paul
Email address: [redacted]
Street address: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
ZIP Code: [redacted]
Mobile phone: [redacted]
ARE YOU A STUDENT?
[ ] Yes
[✓] No
SEND MY MESSAGE
And so, I sent the message above to my U.S. Senators and Representative, via the Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund website, in order to "send a message to [my] lawmaker(s) today and tell them to honor victims by banning assault weapons!" Plus, I made a one-time donation to Students Demand Action for Gun Sense in America (via the Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund) because "eleven years ago, the lives of 26 families were irrevocably changed at Sandy Hook Elementary School when a man armed with an assault weapon took the lives of 20 children and 6 adult staff," so "today, we remember the 20 children who should still be here and the brave educators who shouldn't have had to put their lives on the line for their students." –Paul Whiting (December 14th, 2023)
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December 14th, 2023 Update No. 4: I received an email from Mother Jones magazine today, December 14th, 2023, with the subject line, "The biggest announcement we’ve ever made", which stated the following:
Paul,
Most of the news about the journalism business right now is grim.
Just this year, the United States has lost more than 2,600 journalism jobs, and more than 20,000 media jobs altogether; since the Great Recession in 2008, newsrooms have shrunk by at least half. It’s no coincidence that during this same time, disinformation and propaganda have come to dominate our politics, to the point where next year’s presidential election…well, honestly, we don’t need to tell you what’s at stake.
So it’s pretty urgent that we get some good news about holding the powerful and corrupt accountable. Today, we have some, and we wanted to be sure our community of readers hears it first: Mother Jones is growing!
We are joining forces with another storied nonprofit, The Center for Investigative Reporting (CIR), to become a stronger and more impactful newsroom that can deliver great, in-depth reporting on more platforms to millions more people.
You may well have encountered CIR through their terrific investigative radio show and podcast, Reveal, which is heard on 520 public radio stations nationwide. If you haven’t, you’re in for a treat—and for a sample, may we recommend the recent investigation (https://www.motherjones.com/criminal-justice/2023/10/universal-health-services-reveal-podcast-foster-kids-uhs) our two newsrooms released together, where Mother Jones reporter [name redacted] exposed how for-profit hospitals turn foster kids into cash cows. Being able to not only read what she found, but directly hear the former foster kids who bravely spoke up about these abuses, is incredibly compelling.
[Blogger's Note: I read the Mother Jones' overview titled, "Listen to Our Investigation Into Foster Kids at Psychiatric Hospitals," in addition to listening to Reveal's podcast titled, "Cashing in on Troubled Teens." (WARNING: THIS PODCAST HAS CONTENT THAT MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME LISTENERS. LISTENER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!) Plus, I also made a one-time donation to The Center for Investigative Journalism, as mentioned in the podcast on their website: RevealNews.org/PublicService]
The work that MoJo [Mother Jones] and CIR produce is somewhat different but highly complementary—they do radio and podcasting; we are great at digital and print publishing and social media. They do documentary films that appear on Netflix; we tell video stories on TikTok and Instagram. But we share the most important thing: our mission to do deep, investigative, and revelatory journalism that reaches audiences everywhere in the country, in every age and demographic group, so that those who abuse their power can’t get away with it.
And let’s be clear: Neither Mother Jones nor Reveal is going away.
We’re getting stronger. We’ll continue to publish Mother Jones magazine and its website and social channels that together reach up to 8 million each month. We’ll keep producing Reveal, which is heard by more than 1 million people each week over the air, and via nearly 1 million podcast downloads each month. These two great brands complement each other; by putting them together, we can do more reporting, with less overhead.
And that’s critical right now. The digital revolution has forever changed how news is created, delivered, and paid for, and investigative journalism is at greatest risk. The few commercial news organizations that can still afford to produce this kind of in-depth, investigative reporting are increasingly turning to paywalls to make ends meet—an important business model, but one that makes the news harder to access for many people. Meanwhile, disinformation is plentiful and free.
Combined, Mother Jones and Reveal directly reach a monthly audience of 10 million, and millions more through partnerships around the country. Our goal is to keep growing that number, and especially to reach audiences who have not always been served by the nation’s traditional media. Young people, communities of color, and lower-income people have often not been well served by the news business. Because we’re a nonprofit, accountable to our readers and supporters and not to corporate owners or advertisers, we can put public service front and center.
So what does this mean in practice?
We will merge our two newsrooms into one, which can then put out great journalism through multiple platforms. Mother Jones magazine stays Mother Jones magazine, and the Reveal podcast and radio show remain Reveal. We also hope to build on Mother Jones’ video capability and CIR’s track record of making powerful television and documentaries (their most recent one, Victim/Suspect [https://www.netflix.com/title/81288561], about how police often bully rape victims into retracting their charges, was the most watched documentary on Netflix when it launched last spring). Our expansive web and social media presence will bring it all to people no matter where they get their news.
[Blogger's Note: I also watched the preview of the Netflix documentary "Victim/Suspect" by The Center for Investigative Reporting (CIR) on YouTube. Here is the description from that video (with a hyperlink to the video below):
Victim/Suspect | Official Trailer | Netflix
Victim/Suspect chronicles journalist Rae de Leon’s investigation into a shocking nationwide pattern: Young women tell the police they’ve been sexually assaulted, but instead of finding justice, they’re charged with the crime of making a false report, arrested, and even imprisoned by the system they believed would protect them.
https://youtu.be/JoZaGvTpYTU?si=PRZGYgevOtvu6t-6]
Bottom line: We will continue doing journalism that you can’t find anywhere else—deep dives and investigations that are all too rare in today’s media landscape; coverage of underreported beats and overlooked stories; sharing unique perspectives and compelling voices that add something to the day’s news.
But we’re not just strengthening our own work.
Journalism everywhere is in crisis, especially as local news is collapsing, and a key part of our mission is to help other newsrooms build capacity for investigative reporting that can make a big impact. We will partner with local news organizations to help important stories get told, and share their work with a bigger audience.
It won’t be easy—nothing is in journalism! Over the last several months we have been poring over the numbers and working hard to raise the additional funds needed to make this transformation a reality. A lot of people and foundations stepped up, which gives us immense hope. And just like our journalistic strengths complement each other so well, so do our revenue models: With Mother Jones’ 50,000 donors and CIR’s long-standing support from foundations, it leads to more resilient and diverse funding.
It’s still going to be hard as hell to make it all work. But we are so excited, so grateful, so encouraged, and so ready to join forces with CIR, and with you, to strengthen journalism and democracy at this immensely consequential moment.
There will be much to keep you updated on as we go, but we wanted to be sure you heard the big news from us first. You can read more in our full post (https://www.motherjones.com/media/2023/12/mother-jones-reveal-center-investigative-reporting-merger-non-profit-newsroom), where you can also drop us a line with your thoughts, questions, or whatever’s on your mind—because none of this works without an engaged and awesome community of readers and listeners.
Thanks for reading, and for everything you do to make Mother Jones what it is—and what it’s becoming!
Onward,
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
[Name redacted], [Title redacted]
P.S. Help us celebrate the awesome news and kick-start a new chapter in journalism that isn’t dependent on shareholders or quarterly profits, but instead a community of supporters like you. Support Mother Jones and our new combined organization on the horizon with a much-needed year-end donation today.
Donate***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to Mother Jones magazine in order to "support Mother Jones and [their] new combined organization on the horizon with a much-needed year-end donation today." –Paul Whiting (December 14th, 2023)
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December 15th, 2023 Update No. 1, Written On December 16th, 2023: I have consolidated the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I used to write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I made virtually every time that I made a political donation. And within each 'update' I included the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, plus whether I included a tip to ActBlue and how much I tipped.
Therefore, I have combined every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
Plus, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. And I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication to which I responded yesterday, December 15th, 2023, was a text message from the Jane Fonda Climate PAC (Jane Fonda Climate Political Action Committee), which stated the following:
As we bid farewell to 2023, I want to express my deepest gratitude for your support of the Jane Fonda Climate PAC and share some reflections and key takeaways from this year with you.
We elected climate champions up and down the ballot in key states across the country, including in Virginia, where 13 of our 14 endorsed candidates won their State House and Senate Races.
I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all who contributed, volunteered, made phone calls, and invested their time to secure these victories.
We also helped organize the March to End Fossil Fuels, where more than 75,000 people took to the streets to demand our elected leaders make it a priority to transition away from fossil fuels.
This historic moment was only possible because of grassroots supporters like YOU.
Before the end of the year, will you contribute $10 to keep up our grassroots momentum and start 2024 off strong?***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
JANE FONDA CLIMATE PAC
Contribute to the Jane Fonda Climate PAC!
The Jane Fonda Climate PAC is driven by one mission: Do whatever it takes to defeat the political allies of the fossil fuel industry and save our planet.
Please invest in our work today! We rely on grassroots support to elect climate champions who will take a stand against the fossil fuel industry and work to reverse the harm they're inflicting on our planet.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Jane Fonda Climate PAC.
[ ] Donate $5 →
[ ] Donate $15 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $5,000 →
[✓] Other amount $5.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (4%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Jane Fonda Climate PAC (with a tip to ActBlue) yesterday, December 15th, 2023, in order to contribute "[$5] to keep up [their] grassroots momentum and start 2024 off strong," because "[in 2023 the Jane Fonda Climate PAC] elected climate champions up and down the ballot in key states across the country," and "[they] also helped organize the March to End Fossil Fuels, where more than 75,000 people took to the streets to demand our elected leaders make it a priority to transition away from fossil fuels."
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication to which I responded yesterday, December 15th, 2023, was an email from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) with the subject line, "Subject line", which stated the following:
DEMOCRATS
We're looking for ONE LUCKY SUPPORTER (AND A GUEST!) TO JOIN Team DNC in Chicago for the 2024 DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION!
By entering the sweepstakes, you could win:
🚃
Travel to and from the Windy City
🏨
Hotel accommodations for the length of the convention
🎟️🎟️
Two tickets to the 2024 Democratic National Convention
So, Paul, will we see you there?
CHIP IN TO ENTER***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DEMOCRATS
Donate for a chance to go to the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago!
The 2024 Democratic National Convention will be held in Chicago - and if you donate now, you (and a friend) can have a chance to go.
That means you could get:
✌️two convention tickets
🛫 fully-covered travel expenses
💙 free hotel stay
Chip in to not only support the DNC's programs to elect Democrats up and down the ballot -- but also to be automatically entered to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the 2024 Convention.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Democratic National Committee (DNC).
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $10 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $1.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[ ] Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DNC (without a tip to ActBlue) in order to enter for "a chance to go to the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago!"
P.S.: The reason that I only donated $1.00 to the DNC is because I simply wanted to enter for a chance "to win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the 2024 [Democratic National] Convention," so that is why I made a donation in the amount that I did.
Thus, these two organizations—the Jane Fonda Climate PAC, as well as the DNC—are the political organizations that I donated to yesterday! –Paul Whiting (written December 16th, 2023, revised December 17th, 2023 and revised April 17th, 2024)
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December 17th, 2023 Update No. 1, Which Also Discusses November 27th, 2023 Through December 1st, 2023: [CONTENT WARNING: THIS UPDATE CONTAINS ARTICLES WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!] This 'update' that I am writing today December 17th, 2023 is only from my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received via email for the time period of November 27th, 2023 through December 1st, 2023.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news for about twenty one days, as of today, December 17th, 2023, because of how much blogging I have been doing. So, the last time that I checked the current news was November 26th, 2023!
You see, I try to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which usually starts with me reading Time Magazine articles that I select from one (or more) of their emails that I receive each day. However, because I have been so busy lately with "Online Activism," and also with the editing of my five blogs, I have only been keeping up with the news just by reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails—until I can actually get around to reading the articles from those emails that I highlight in these 'updates.'
And I usually provide a longer introduction to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which usually includes the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article.
However, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received for the time period of November 27th, 2023 through December 1st, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received twenty days ago, November 27th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received twenty days ago) is titled, "AI and the Rise of Mediocrity":
https://time.com/6337835/ai-mediocrity-essay
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received twenty days ago) is titled, "‘Authentic’ Is Merriam-Webster’s Word of 2023. Here’s Why–and What Other Words Came Close":
https://time.com/6339850/authentic-merriam-webster-word-of-the-year-2023
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received twenty days ago) is titled, "Scenes of My People’s Painful Fight for Freedom in the West Bank": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6338555/photographer-images-palestine-gaza-israel
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received nineteen days ago, November 28th, 2023:
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nineteen days ago) is titled, "Meta Knowingly Designed Its Platforms to Hook Kids, Reports Say":
https://time.com/6340123/meta-court-child-online-harms
---------------------------------------------
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nineteen days ago) is titled, "State Lawmakers and Activists Start Hunger Strike for Ceasefire in Gaza":
https://time.com/6340016/lawmakers-activists-ceasefire-gaza-hunger-strike
---------------------------------------------
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nineteen days ago) is titled, "What I Learned Investigating George Santos":
https://time.com/6340175/george-santos-book
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received eighteen days ago, November 29th, 2023:
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eighteen days ago) is titled, "How the U.S.-China Rivalry Is Putting the Internet at Risk":
https://time.com/6338911/us-china-deep-sea-cables-war
---------------------------------------------
The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eighteen days ago) is titled, "Why I Defend Israel": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6339800/why-i-defend-israel
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received seventeen days ago, November 30th, 2023:
The ninth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received seventeen days ago) is titled, "Joe Biden Is Turning Out to Be America’s Most Pro-Israel President Ever":
https://time.com/6340511/biden-israel-history
---------------------------------------------
The tenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received seventeen days ago) is titled, "The Top 3 Issues Countries Will Tackle at COP28":
https://time.com/6340761/top-three-issues-at-cop28
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received sixteen days ago, December 1st, 2023:
The eleventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received sixteen days ago) is titled, "The Poster Child for AIDS Obscured as Much About the Crisis as He Revealed":
https://time.com/6340507/ryan-white-world-aids-day
---------------------------------------------
The twelfth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received sixteen days ago) is titled, "The COP28 Outcomes Business Leaders Are Watching For":
https://time.com/6341220/cop28-what-business-leaders-are-watching-for
---------------------------------------------
The thirteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received sixteen days ago) is titled, "Why the Major Drop in Veteran Homelessness Offers Hope for Others":
https://time.com/6341061/veteran-homelessness-hope
---------------------------------------------
The fourteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received sixteen days ago) is titled, "The Ocean Is Our Best Chance to Survive Climate Change":
https://time.com/6341040/ocean-climate-change-cop-28
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written December 17th, 2023, revised December 19th, 2023, revised January 10th, 2024 and revised April 6th, 2024)
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December 18th, 2023 Update No. 1: Christmas Day is seven days away from today, December 18th, 2023! And so, I decided to make one-time donations to charities who are helping the less fortunate, which includes local nonprofits who are helping homeless folks (Blanchet House of Hospitality, Portland Rescue Mission, Sisters of the Road and Union Gospel Mission), a nonprofit working to solve problems of hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world (No Kid Hungry), as well as a nonprofit that supports the mission of the United Nations World Food Programme to alleviate global hunger (United Nations World Food Program USA). –Paul Whiting (December 18th, 2023)
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December 19th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, December 19th, 2023, with the subject line, "8 victories in 2023", which stated the following:
8 Victories we celebrated in 2023 YouTube Video.
WATCH THE VIDEO
https://youtu.be/LVVa8iClWAQ?si=cgWT68TD-smmIZOr
Paul –
This year, the ACLU continued our mission – scoring big wins to defend our civil rights and liberties. This work takes months and sometimes years of effort in courtrooms, legislatures, and communities – and with your support, we were able to achieve some heartening wins in 2023.
Here's a rundown from our experts on a few of these victories that you made happen.
These wins across the country will strengthen protections for our communities and our democracy. From the state level to the Supreme Court, we attained wins for us all.
[✓] Like in states such as Ohio, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, where the ACLU helped secure critical wins for abortion rights at the ballot box.
[✓] Or in Arkansas, where we prevailed in a critical case for trans youth, overturning a gender-affirming care ban.
[✓] Or our legal challenge in Nebraska to defend an Indigenous student's right to wear tribal regalia at her graduation – and so much more.
Join our lawyers and the whole team as we lookback in our video today and thank you for all you did to make this year's progress happen.
Onward,
The ACLU Team
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced YouTube video. Here is the description from that video (with a hyperlink to the video below):
8 Victories We Celebrated in 2023
ACLU
This year, the ACLU continued our defense against challenges to our civil rights and liberties — but we also enjoyed some heartening victories. This advocacy is hard-fought and lasts months, if not years. But we persist in courts, legislatures, and communities, and this persistence pays off. Here are a few of the many wins we saw this year during our enduring fight for our rights.
https://youtu.be/LVVa8iClWAQ?si=cgWT68TD-smmIZOr
[Blogger's Note: I watched the ACLU's video on YouTube titled, "8 Victories We Celebrated in 2023."]
So, I wanted to share this email from the ACLU in order to show my support for the YouTube video "8 Victories We Celebrated in 2023." –Paul Whiting (written December 19th, 2023, revised January 1st, 2024 and revised January 9th, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, I used to make one-time donations to the organization that is the subject of these 'updates' each time that I took an action as requested by that organization; however, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am really 'tightening my belt,' so to speak, with regard to all of the donations that I am making on my credit card each month! My plan is to only donate to political, progressive and charitable organizations if they specifically ask for donations—and not just for the sake of donating to them at least once per month, or even when I have been taking some sort of action, such as signing a petition, or sending a letter, etc. Thus, I am trying to greatly reduce the number of donations that I make to simply once in a while, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis! You see, there are a lot of organizations that I literally donate to only once per year—such as for Giving Tuesday—which is all that I ever donate to them. And that is basically what I am striving for, so that I am still donating to political, progressive and charitable organizations, but the bare minimum that I can donate, since that's all I can really afford." [Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 4, Written On December 1st, 2023 About November 2023' (that also appears as 'November 30th, 2023 Update No. 2, Written On December 1st, 2023' on some of my blogs), which can be found above.]
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December 19th, 2023 Update No. 2, Which Also Discusses December 2nd, 2023 Through December 6th, 2023: [CONTENT WARNING: THIS UPDATE CONTAINS ARTICLES WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!] This 'update' that I am writing today December 19th, 2023 is only from my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received via email for the time period of December 2nd, 2023 through December 6th, 2023.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news through Google searches for quite a long time because of how much blogging I have been doing lately. So, the last time that I checked the current news via Google searches was November 26th, 2023!
You see, I used to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which used to start with me reading Time Magazine articles that I selected from one (or more) of their emails that I received each day. However, because I have been so busy lately with "Online Activism," and also with the editing of my five blogs, I have only been keeping up with the news just by reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails—until I can actually get around to reading the articles from those emails that I highlight in these 'updates.'
That is why I have decided to simply go with this trend of just reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails until I have the time to check the news via Google searches, like used to do!
Although, given the volume of news lately, I may decide to keep up with the news through email notifications only. To that end, I have recently signed up to receive email newsletters from the news organizations to which I subscribe in order for me to stay informed about what's happening in the world. Thus, I already receive these types of emails from Time Magazine—as mentioned above—but I am also checking the news just by reading the article titles from the other news organizations to which I subscribe in addition to Time Magazine. Therefore, if I highlight any of those articles, as well, I will let you know through 'updates' such as this one.
And I used to provide longer introductions to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which included the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article; but, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received for the time period of December 2nd, 2023 through December 6th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following is the article which I received sixteen days ago, December 2nd, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received sixteen days ago) is titled, "How Shabbat Brings Israel Together":
https://time.com/6334598/shabbat-brings-israel-together
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received fifteen days ago, December 3rd, 2023:
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received fifteen days ago) is titled, "The Vote to Expel George Santos Should Not Have Been That Close":
https://time.com/6341973/george-santos-who-voted-not-expel
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received fifteen days ago) is titled, "We Can’t Address the Climate Crisis Without Nature":
https://time.com/6340530/climate-change-nature
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received fifteen days ago) is titled, "AI Should Complement Humans at Work, Not Replace Them, TIME Panelists Say":
https://time.com/6338489/ai-work-jobs
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received fourteen days ago, December 4th, 2023:
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received fourteen days ago) is titled, "It’s Time to Scrap the Abraham Accords":
https://time.com/6339889/cancel-abraham-accords
---------------------------------------------
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received fourteen days ago) is titled, "AI’s Influence on Music Is Raising Some Difficult Questions":
https://time.com/6340294/ai-transform-music-2023
---------------------------------------------
The following is the article which I received thirteen days ago, December 5th, 2023:
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received thirteen days ago) is titled, "Slang Term ‘Rizz’ Is the Oxford University Press Word of the Year":
https://time.com/6342308/rizz-oxford-university-press-word-of-the-year
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received twelve days ago, December 6th, 2023:
The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received twelve days ago) is titled, "The Nation Builders": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6342831/israelis-palestinians-nation-builders
---------------------------------------------
The ninth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received twelve days ago) is titled, "There Are More Fossil Fuel Lobbyists Than Ever at COP28":
https://time.com/6342799/fossil-fuel-lobbyists-cop28
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written December 19th, 2023, revised December 20th, 2023, revised January 5th, 2024, revised January 10th, 2024 and revised April 6th, 2024)
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December 20th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have consolidated the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I used to write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I made virtually every time that I made a political donation. And within each 'update' I included the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, plus whether I included a tip to ActBlue and how much I tipped.
Therefore, I have combined every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
Plus, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. And I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 20th, 2023, from the Carl Marlinga for Congress (Marlinga for Congress) campaign, which stated the following:
Friend, I'm Carl Marlinga and I'm running for Congress in MI-10.
Last year, pundits called our race the third closest House race in the country. It was my first time running against rising MAGA star, John James, and they said I didn't stand a chance.
But folks, I came up short by only 1,600 votes and defied everyone's expectations with the help of a strong grassroots team. Now, they're predicting that this cycle will be just as close with my opponent being one of the most vulnerable Republicans up for re-election.
We set a big $20,000 end-of-year goal to flip this battleground district, and I'll need your help. Can you rush a $5 contribution to defeat John James and make sure we have the resources to take back MI-10?***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
CARL MARLINGA
DEMOCRAT FOR CONGRESS
DONATE TO CARL MARLINGA
Our race was the third closest House race in the country — and political pundits are already predicting this cycle could be just as close.
Democrats cannot take back the House majority without flipping MI-10 blue, and we know Carl will once again be a top target for national Republicans.
Will you chip in $25 or any amount to become a Founding Donor to our campaign?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Carl Marlinga.
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[ ] Donate $3,300 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Carl Marlinga for Congress (Marlinga for Congress) campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "become a Founding Donor to [Carl Marlinga's] campaign [for Congress]."
Thus, this one campaign—Carl Marlinga for Congress (Marlinga for Congress)—is the political campaign that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 20th, 2023 and revised April 17th, 2024)
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December 20th, 2023 Update No. 2, Which Also Discusses December 7th, 2023 Through December 11th, 2023: [CONTENT WARNING: THIS UPDATE CONTAINS ARTICLES WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!] This 'update' that I am writing today, December 20th, 2023, is only from my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received via email for the time period of December 7th, 2023 through December 11th, 2023.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news through Google searches for quite a long time because of how much blogging I have been doing lately. So, the last time that I checked the current news via Google searches was November 26th, 2023!
You see, I used to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which used to start with me reading Time Magazine articles that I selected from one (or more) of their emails that I received each day. However, because I have been so busy lately with "Online Activism," and also with the editing of my five blogs, I have only been keeping up with the news just by reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails—until I can actually get around to reading the articles from those emails that I highlight in these 'updates.'
That is why I have decided to simply go with this trend of just reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails until I have the time to check the news via Google searches, like used to do!
Although, given the volume of news lately, I may decide to keep up with the news through email notifications only. To that end, I have recently signed up to receive email newsletters from the news organizations to which I subscribe in order for me to stay informed about what's happening in the world. Thus, I already receive these types of emails from Time Magazine—as mentioned above—but I am also checking the news just by reading the article titles from the other news organizations to which I subscribe in addition to Time Magazine. Therefore, if I highlight any of those articles, as well, I will let you know through 'updates' such as this one.
And I used to provide longer introductions to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which included the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article; but, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received for the time period of December 7th, 2023 through December 11th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received thirteen days ago, December 7th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received thirteen days ago) is titled, "How Authoritarian Regimes Go After Journalists Beyond Their Borders":
https://time.com/6342534/transnational-repression-freedom-house
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received thirteen days ago) is titled, "What to Know About the Texas Woman Who Sued the State to Get an Abortion":
https://time.com/6343605/texas-woman-sues-state-abortion-what-to-know
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received thirteen days ago) is titled, "Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to Resign From Congress":
https://time.com/6343459/kevin-mccarthy-resigns-congress
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received thirteen days ago) is titled, "Gazans Have Nowhere Left to Flee":
https://time.com/6343516/southern-gaza-fleeing-safety-essay
---------------------------------------------
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received thirteen days ago) is titled, "These Are the Biggest Moments From the Fourth Republican Debate":
https://time.com/6343648/fourth-republican-debate-biggest-moments
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received twelve days ago, December 8th, 2023:
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received twelve days ago) is titled, "The 3 Myths Propping Up the Fossil Fuel Industry":
https://time.com/6343446/fossil-fuel-myths-cop28
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received twelve days ago) is titled, "America’s War on Drugs Has Always Been Bipartisan—and Unwinnable":
https://time.com/6340590/drug-war-politics-history
---------------------------------------------
The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received twelve days ago) is titled, "Palestinian Journalists Offer a Rare Glimpse Into Life in Gaza. But for How Long?": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6343715/israel-hamas-war-journalists-gaza
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received eleven days ago, December 9th, 2023:
The ninth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eleven days ago) is titled, "The White House’s Latest Move to Rein in Drug Prices":
https://time.com/6344274/the-white-house-plan-lower-drug-prices
---------------------------------------------
The tenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eleven days ago) is titled, "With the Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Over, Agony Continues for Hostage Families": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6342114/israel-hamas-war-ceasefire-hostages-families
---------------------------------------------
The eleventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eleven days ago) is titled, "Finding Common Ground Between Israelis and Palestinians": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6343572/common-ground-between-israelis-palestinians
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received ten days ago, December 10th, 2023:
The twelfth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received ten days ago) is titled, "COP28 Is a Business Bonanza. Should It Be?":
https://time.com/6344322/the-role-of-business-at-cop28
---------------------------------------------
The thirteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received ten days ago) is titled, "Hanukkah and the Miracle of Resistance":
https://time.com/6344171/hanukkah-miracle-resistance-essay
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received nine days ago, December 10th, 2023:
The fourteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nine days ago) is titled, "Bidenomics Is Real Economics":
https://time.com/6343967/bidenomics-is-real-economics
---------------------------------------------
The fifteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nine days ago) is titled, "From Barbie to the Israel-Hamas War, These Are the Top Google Searches of 2023":
https://time.com/6344637/these-are-the-top-google-searches-of-2023
---------------------------------------------
The sixteen Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nine days ago) is titled, "E.U. Reaches Deal on World’s First Comprehensive AI Rules":
https://time.com/6344628/eu-ai-rules-deal
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written December 20th, 2023, revised January 5th, 2024, revised January 10th, 2024 and revised April 6th, 2024)
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December 21st, 2023 Update No. 1: Christmas Day is four days away from today, December 21st, 2023! So, I decided to make one-time donations to various organizations for their year-end or matching-donations fundraising campaigns, including "a living memorial to the Holocaust, [which] inspires citizens and leaders worldwide to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity" (the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum), "a global organization dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees, forcibly displaced communities and stateless people" [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (USA for UNHCR)], "the lead United Nations sexual and reproductive health and rights agency" [USA for UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund)], and "a national family-run nonprofit charity dedicated to raising awareness about 'fentapills' — fake pills made of fentanyl" (Song for Charlie).
And I was inspired to make these donations by the following sources:
1. An email that I received from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum today, December 21st, 2023, which is asking me to "please make [my] year-end, tax-deductible donation to the Museum today."
2. An email that I received from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (USA for UNHCR) today, December 21st, 2023, which is letting me know that "for the next three days, [my] gift will go TWICE as far to help displaced families this winter."
3. A text message that I received today, December 21st, 2023, from USA for UNFPA (formerly known as the 'United Nations Fund for Population Activities' that is now called the 'United Nations Population Fund'), which is asking me to "please rush a donation before [their] Year-End deadline on December 31st."
4. An email that I received from Song for Charlie today, December 21st, 2023, which, in part, is letting me know that "Song for Charlie’s Board of Directors is matching dollar-for-dollar all donations made between now and December 31."
–Paul Whiting (December 21st, 2023)
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December 21st, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) today, December 21st, 2023, with the subject line, "5 top priorities in 2024", which stated the following:
In 2024, we're fighting for...voting rights, abortion access, trans justice, free speech, immigrant rights, all of our rights!
Paul, we've got a big year ahead of us.
From the election next November to the fight for abortion rights and trans justice, the ACLU is ready to keep showing up for all of our rights in the new year.
As we countdown to the new year, we're also counting the many crucial fights ahead. Here's a rundown on just five of our key priorities for the new year – and what you can expect as we keep up the fight to protect our civil liberties.
https://www.aclu.org/news/civil-liberties/looking-to-the-future-2024-at-the-aclu
5
With another election year just around the corner, our year-round work to protect voters is more crucial than ever.
Our lawyers are continuing to fight for fair maps in court – and in states like Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia, where we've already overturned unconstitutional and discriminatory maps, we'll be paying attention to make sure the new maps accurately represent us all.
Meanwhile, we'll continue pushing to expand voting access – countering voter suppression efforts in state legislatures across the country while advocating for federal voting rights legislation.
4
Just last week, the Supreme Court announced that it will hear a case that could have devastating effects on our ability to access medication abortion.
Anti-abortion groups are trying to use this case to take mifepristone off the shelves in all 50 states – even though over 5 million people have already safely used this medication in the over 20 years since the FDA first approved it.
We're keeping a close eye on this case while we continue our work challenging bans on abortion in states like Ohio and Georgia. And, in states where abortion could be on the ballot, we'll organize communities at the grassroots level to ensure every single person has the ability to make their own decisions about their body.
3
As state legislative sessions start up around the country, we're keeping a close eye on any attempts to restrict the rights of transgender people to access necessary health care and live their lives free of discrimination.
And while our policy team watchdogs state legislatures, our legal team is busy at work filing lawsuits to protect transgender students and ensure access to gender-affirming care for minors. We're waiting to hear from the Supreme Court on a case we filed in Tennessee and will continue to fight for trans rights at every level.
2
In November, we sued to stop the State University System of Florida from banning a Palestinian rights student group just for exercising its First Amendment rights.
Free speech is a foundational value in America that protects us from viewpoint-based censorship or discrimination. That includes advocacy for Palestine, Israel, or any population, movement, or cause. The work to protect this core right will always be a top priority at ACLU, and we will continue to push back against all forms of unconstitutional censorship.
1
We're countering harmful anti-immigration policies, like the recently passed Texas bill that allows state and local law enforcement to arrest and detain people over suspicions on immigration status. The bill would authorize judges to order people deported without due process, and opens the door to racial profiling, harassment, and unlawful discrimination.
We'll keep up the pressure to end these harmful, unconstitutional policies, and shut down any further attempts to threaten immigrants' rights.
Paul, again, these are only some of the many plans we have in store for 2024 (https://www.aclu.org/news/civil-liberties/looking-to-the-future-2024-at-the-aclu). We're so grateful to the lawyers, activists, organizers, and supporters like you who fuel this work in all 50 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico – and as we look to the new year, we continue our pledge to always show up to protect all our rights.
The change we're fighting for is major but necessary. In this fight for our civil liberties, we're glad to have you with us.
Thanks for all you do,
The ACLU Team
DONATE NOW
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, regarding the plans that the ACLU has in store for 2024, a brief introduction to which can be found below, which also includes some of the text from the ACLU's year-end fundraising goal donation request that appears at the top of the webpage:
Looking to the Future: 2024 at the ACLU
As 2023 draws to a close, we’re reflecting on crucial wins and our ongoing advocacy for civil liberties and civil rights. We’re also looking to the work ahead that will determine whether rights around the country are diminished or expanded. With the 2024 election on the horizon, we will see new challenges to reproductive freedom, trans rights, voting rights, and the many other constitutional freedoms we work so hard to protect. Our work has never felt more critical. Here are a few places we’ll be focusing our energy and expertise in the new year. ...
https://www.aclu.org/news/civil-liberties/looking-to-the-future-2024-at-the-aclu
[Blogger's Note: I read the ACLU's News & Commentary article titled, "Looking to the Future: 2024 at the ACLU."]
OUR RIGHTS CAN’T WAIT: $1 MILLION BY 12/31
As we head into 2024, our work in courts, legislatures, and communities can’t wait. Help reach our $1 million year-end fundraising goal with a gift that goes directly to the fight for voting rights, reproductive freedom, trans rights, and more.
Donations to the ACLU are not tax-deductible.
1. Amount
Select donation type
[✓] One-time
[ ] Monthly
A monthly gift helps us respond to urgent threats and plan ahead.
Enter an amount to give $5.00
[✓] Sign up for ACLU emails to stay informed and take action to protect people's rights.
Choose payment method
[✓] Credit Card
2. Contact
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Email: [redacted]
3. Billing
ZIP/Postal Code: [redacted]
Address: [redacted]
Address Line 2 (optional): [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State/Province: [redacted]
Country: [redacted]
And, after I read the article above, I made a one-time donation to the ACLU in order to help them reach their "$1 million year-end fundraising goal with a gift that goes directly to the fight for voting rights, reproductive freedom, trans rights, and more." –Paul Whiting (written December 21st, 2023 and revised December 22nd, 2023)
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December 21st, 2023 Update No. 3: I received an email from Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America today, December 21st, 2023, with the subject line, "Thank the volunteers who power our movement: What these change-makers are accomplishing is nothing short of life-saving.", which stated the following:
Paul,
In 2023, we made our movement even stronger.
This year marked my first year as [title redacted] of Moms Demand Action, and I'm proud that we've welcomed more volunteers and supporters to our movement than ever before. Our inclusive grassroots coalition of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers, survivors, community leaders, and supporters like you is now more than 10 million strong: an undeniable force for change in the fight against gun violence.
Our efforts are paying off. In statehouses across the country, we helped pass a record-breaking 130 gun safety policies while also blocking 95 percent of the gun lobby's dangerous agenda. We made gun safety a winning issue at the ballot box, and cheered on 162 Moms Demand Action volunteers who ran for office. The majority of volunteers who ran declared victory, and will soon be taking the next step in their advocacy, from fighting for stronger gun laws to writing them.
Students Demand Action volunteers are change-makers for a generation that is bearing the brunt of our gun violence crisis. Our young leaders inspire me with every action they take, from mobilizing after a school shooting to rallying outside the U.S. Supreme Court to starting gun industry divestment campaigns on their college campuses.
The work our volunteers do is nothing short of life-saving. And as we head into a crucial election year, it's important to make sure our Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers know how much their continued efforts matter. Let the volunteers who power this movement know why you're thankful for them: Send a thank you note today.
Send a Thank You Note***
Thanks to dedicated volunteers and supporters like you, our movement is now stronger than ever. And we're ready to take on the battles ahead together.
Thank you for being with us,
[Name redacted]
She/her/hers
[Title redacted]
Moms Demand Action
Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America is a grassroots volunteer network of Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund. As a movement of Americans fighting for common-sense gun policies, we depend on contributions from supporters like you to fund important work to reduce gun violence.
Contributions to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund are not tax-deductible as a charitable contribution or as a business expense under IRC Section 162(e).
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, which can be found below:
Send A Thank You Note To Our Volunteers
The work our volunteers have done throughout 2023 has been nothing short of life-saving. Our volunteers made gun safety a winning issue at the ballot box, ran for office themselves, flipped state legislatures, passed a record-breaking number of state laws promoting gun safety, and took on the gun lobby's extremist agenda.
And they're not stopping there: in the year ahead, Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers will fight to elect gun sense champions up and down the ballot. They will continue to call on lawmakers to close dangerous loopholes in gun laws, expand background checks, and ban assault weapons.
In this season of giving, we invite you to let our volunteers know how much we appreciate what they give to this movement. Tell our dedicated Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers why you're thankful for them: Send a thank you note today.
Complete the form to send your thank you note now:
First name: Paul Last name: Whiting Email address: [redacted] ZIP Code: [redacted] Mobile phone: [redacted]
Write your thank you note!
I truly appreciate how much time, energy and effort all of you are devoting to help end the gun violence epidemic in America. THANK YOU!
So, I wanted to share this email from Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America in order to "make sure [the] Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action volunteers know how much their continued efforts matter." –Paul Whiting (written December 21st, 2023, revised December 22nd, 2023 and revised January 1st, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, I used to make one-time donations to the organization that is the subject of these 'updates' each time that I took an action as requested by that organization; however, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am greatly reducing the number of times that I donate for the same organization per month down to once—or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis." (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.) Thus, because I have already donated to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund (for Students Demand Action for Gun Sense in America) on December 14th, 2023 (please see my 'December 14th, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above) that is the one-time donation which I made to Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund for December 2023.
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December 21st, 2023 Update No. 4: I have consolidated the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I used to write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I made virtually every time that I made a political donation. And within each 'update' I included the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, plus whether I included a tip to ActBlue and how much I tipped.
Therefore, I have combined every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
Plus, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. And I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication to which I responded was an email from the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) today, December 21st, 2023, with the subject line, "Ten days.", which stated the following:
ELECT STATE DEMS
A project of the DLCC
Paul, we’ve got ten days to raise $150,000. That’s ten days to raise the funds that will help…
📣Elevate our messaging
🗳️Mobilize voters
📋Train volunteers
💰Invest in competitive races
…and so much more.
We can’t afford to fall short. We have over a dozen special elections on the books and we need to be ready to compete in every race. The GOP is looking for any sign of weakness ahead of these all-important elections, and missing our fundraising goal would play right into their hands.
Will you rush a 7X-matched $50 gift right now to help hit our end-of-year fundraising goal to elect state Dems and show the GOP that we’re NOT backing down?
If you've stored your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will process immediately:
[ ] Chip in $50 ($350 impact!)
[ ] Chip in $100 ($700 impact!)
[ ] Chip in $250 ($1750 impact!)
[ ] Chip in $1000 ($7000 impact!)
[✓] Chip in another amount »***
If we fall short of our end-of-year goal, we may not have the resources in place to compete against our extreme opponents and win. So we’re calling on you:
Rush a 7X-impact gift of $50 right now to elect state Democrats and defeat extreme Republicans in state legislative races nationwide »
Let's do this.
Team DLCC
7X-MATCH: ACTIVE »***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DLCC
DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATIVE CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE
Match Active: Have 7X the impact!
Your grassroots donation will help provide state Democrats with the resources, staff, and technology to win elections at the state level but it all depends on your support. Give now to have SEVEN TIMES the impact!
Can you chip in today?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee.
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $5.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue Technical Services is a nonprofit that builds the fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
Will you chip in with a $1 tip?
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DLCC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "rush a 7X-impact gift of [$5] right now to elect state Democrats and defeat extreme Republicans in state legislative races nationwide."
Thus, this one organization—the DLCC—is the political organization that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 21st, 2023, revised January 7th, 2024 and revised April 17th, 2024)
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December 21st, 2023 Update No. 5, Which Also Discusses December 12th, 2023 Through December 16th, 2023: [CONTENT WARNING: THIS UPDATE CONTAINS ARTICLES WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!] This 'update' that I am writing today, December 21st, 2023, is only from my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received via email for the time period of December 12th, 2023 through December 16th, 2023.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news through Google searches for quite a long time because of how much blogging I have been doing lately. So, the last time that I checked the current news via Google searches was November 26th, 2023!
You see, I used to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which used to start with me reading Time Magazine articles that I selected from one (or more) of their emails that I received each day. However, because I have been so busy lately with "Online Activism," and also with the editing of my five blogs, I have only been keeping up with the news just by reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails—until I can actually get around to reading the articles from those emails that I highlight in these 'updates.'
That is why I have decided to simply go with this trend of just reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails until I have the time to check the news via Google searches, like used to do!
Although, given the volume of news lately, I may decide to keep up with the news through email notifications only. To that end, I have recently signed up to receive email newsletters from the news organizations to which I subscribe in order for me to stay informed about what's happening in the world. Thus, I already receive these types of emails from Time Magazine—as mentioned above—but I am also checking the news just by reading the article titles from the other news organizations to which I subscribe in addition to Time Magazine. Therefore, if I highlight any of those articles, as well, I will let you know through 'updates' such as this one.
And I used to provide longer introductions to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which included the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article; but, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received for the time period of December 12th, 2023 through December 16th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received nine days ago, December 12th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nine days ago) is titled, "Celebrating Hanukkah in the Face of Antisemitism":
https://time.com/6344704/celebrating-hanukkah-antisemitism-essay
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nine days ago) is titled, "Zelensky’s Hasty Visit Shows How MAGA Republicans Have Captured US Foreign Policy":
https://time.com/6345374/zelensky-ukraine-war-israel-congress
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received nine days ago) is titled, "Israel and U.S. Face Growing Isolation as Deadly War in Gaza Continues With No End in Sight": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6358201/israel-us-isolation-gaza-hamas-war-end
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received eight days ago, December 13th, 2023:
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eight days ago) is titled, "How the Endangered Species Act Saved America":
https://time.com/6358278/endangered-species-act-50-anniversary
---------------------------------------------
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eight days ago) is titled, "The Horrors I’ve Seen Treating Patients at Gaza’s Remaining Hospitals": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6358269/horrors-treating-patients-khan-younis-gaza
---------------------------------------------
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eight days ago) is titled, "Exclusive: Conversion Therapy Is Still Happening in Almost Every U.S. State":
https://time.com/6344824/how-common-is-conversion-therapy-united-states
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eight days ago) is titled, "COP28 Ends With Historic Deal to ‘Transition Away’ From Planet-Warming Fossil Fuels":
https://time.com/6417228/cop28-deal-transition-away-fossil-fuels
---------------------------------------------
The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eight days ago) is titled, "Biden Reaffirms Support for Ukraine, but Issues a Warning to Israel":
https://time.com/6384946/biden-netanyahu-zionist-zelensky
---------------------------------------------
The ninth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received eight days ago) is titled, "Why America Still Doesn’t Have Fast Trains":
https://time.com/6340931/america-high-speed-rail-history
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received seven days ago, December 14th, 2023:
The tenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received seven days ago) is titled, "The National Remorse That Follows Wartime Actions Against Civilians":
https://time.com/6342004/wartime-targeting-civilians-history
---------------------------------------------
The eleventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received seven days ago) is titled, "U.S. Is Called Out Over Voting Against Gaza Ceasefire During the U.N. General Assembly": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6452308/us-votes-against-un-gaza-ceasefire-reactions
---------------------------------------------
The twelfth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received seven days ago) is titled, "For Trafficking Victims Forced to Scam Others, the Nightmare Continues Even After Escape": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT HUMAN TRAFFICKING WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6344077/pig-butchering-scam-trafficking-victims-trauma
---------------------------------------------
The thirteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received seven days ago) is titled, "Was COP28 a Success or Flop? Depends Who You Ask":
https://time.com/6455646/was-cop28-a-success-or-flop
---------------------------------------------
The following is the article which I received six days ago, December 15th, 2023:
The fourteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received six days ago) is titled, "I Saw the Haunting Reality of Palestinian Child Prisoners": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT CHILD IMPRISONMENT WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6366734/palestinian-child-detainees
---------------------------------------------
The following is the article which I received five days ago, December 16th, 2023:
The fifteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "The Government Finally Did Something About Robocalls":
https://time.com/6513036/robocalls-government-action
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written December 21st, 2023, revised January 5th, 2024, revised January 10th, 2024 and revised April 6th, 2024)
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For my "December 22nd, 2023 Update No. 1"—since this 'update' is a part of my ⋆USO⋆ donations—please see my blog post titled, "My Point Of View On...Giving Charity And Accepting Charity," which can be found on both of my "Paul Whiting — Math Magician" and "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blogs. An introduction to the 'update' can be found below:
December 22nd, 2023 Update No. 1: Christmas Day is three days away from today, December 22nd, 2023! And I received an email from the USO (United Service Organizations) today, December 22nd, 2023, with the subject line, "Help our troops feel a touch of warmth this holiday season."
SIGN THE CARD
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Help our troops feel a touch of
warmth this holiday season
Show your support today!
Your Name Here:
https://action.uso.org/2312_Holiday_STC_B
SIGN THE CARD NOW
Paul: Right now, as we’re all preparing to embrace the warmth of the holiday season with our families, thousands of troops deployed around the world are facing another day away from their homes and loved ones.
We know that you don’t want them to feel forgotten this holiday season — so we hope you’ll also take the time to share some warmth with our service members by thanking them for the selfless sacrifices they make for us.
Please, Paul: Will you sign our holiday card for our troops now? We need you to add your name before midnight on Sunday to reach our goal of obtaining 100,000 signatures through emails and text messages to thank our troops for serving in some of the world’s harshest, most dangerous places this winter.
SIGN THE CARD
https://action.uso.org/2312_Holiday_STC_B
Thank you for standing with our troops this holiday season.
Team USO
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below: ...
Please see the hyperlinks below for the post, within which you can do a find-in-page search for the 'update' labeled, "December 22nd, 2023 Update No. 1":
https://paulwhitingmath.blogspot.com/2015/05/my-point-of-view-on-charity.html
https://paulwhitingwriting.blogspot.com/2022/07/my-point-of-view-on-part-16-giving-to.html
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December 22nd, 2023 Update No. 2: I have consolidated the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I used to write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I made virtually every time that I made a political donation. And within each 'update' I included the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, plus whether I included a tip to ActBlue and how much I tipped.
Therefore, I have combined every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
Plus, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. And I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication that I responded to today was an email that I forwarded today, December 22nd, 2023, from my previous email account (that I no longer use, but I still frequently check) from the Josh Harder for Congress campaign that I received yesterday, December 21st, 2023, with the subject line, "Introducing myself", which stated, in part, the following:
From: Josh Harder [email redacted]
Sent: Thursday, December 21, 2023 9:10 AM
To: Paul Whiting [email redacted]
Subject: Introducing myself
Josh Harder for Congress
Hi there,
My name is Josh Harder - I’m a husband, a new dad, and the democratic Congressman from California’s 9th district, one of the most competitive races in the country. ...
I wanted to reach out to introduce myself and tell you a bit why my race is so important for Democrats to win back the House from MAGA extremists. (If you want to chip in to help us win this critical race, I’ll leave a link here.)***
Here’s why you should care:
1. I was first elected in the Blue Wave when Democrats won SEVEN seats in California to take back the House. Today, there are only two of us running for re-election. We can win enough seats in California alone to take back the House, but we have to stop the GOP from making inroads.
2. Speaker Mike Johnson has put me at the top of his target list for 2024 because he knows my seat is going to determine the balance of power in Congress next year. It’s all going to come down to what happens in this race.
3. The GOP negative attacks have already started against me - on TV and online. Including one where they call me an “extreme” Democrat for voting to protect Social Security and Medicare. (The truth is, I’m fighting against extremists like Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene.)
4. Now, a GOP opponent has jumped into the race and it’s only a matter of time before corporate money starts flooding the airwaves. Meanwhile, I’m one of the few members of Congress who refuses corporate PAC money - because my vote is not for sale.
That’s why I’m reaching out to introduce myself and ask for your support today. Would you be able to chip in anything you can to help us win one of the most important races in the country and help me continue fighting for you in Congress?
If you’ve saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your payment will go through immediately:
[ ] DONATE $10 →
[ ] DONATE $25 →
[ ] DONATE $50 →
[ ] DONATE $100 →
[ ] DONATE $250 →
[✓] DONATE OTHER →***
This could be the most important election of our lifetimes, and I’m so incredibly thankful to welcome you to my team. We can do this!
- Josh
You are receiving this email because Congressman Josh Harder is one of our last lines of defense to protect our democracy against MAGA extremists like Donald Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Your early investment and support is critical so we can build the grassroots movement we need to win in 2024. Our race will be competitive and Josh doesn't take a dime of corporate PAC money, so please chip in now to our campaign.
DONATE
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
JOSH HARDER FOR CONGRESS
DONATE NOW TO JOSH'S FRONTLINE DEFENSE FUND!
Josh is facing a new GOP opponent! We have to defend this seat if we're going to have any chance to take back the House from MAGA extremists like Marjorie Taylor Greene next year.
So, will you please rush in a donation to help us defend Josh and keep this seat blue?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Josh Harder.
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[ ] Donate $3,300 →
[✓] Other Amount $3.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Josh Harder for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "the GOP negative attacks have already started against [Josh Harder] - on TV and online. Including one where they call [him] an “extreme” Democrat for voting to protect Social Security and Medicare." That is why I contributed to the Josh Harder for Congress campaign since "[Josh is] one of the few members of Congress who refuses corporate PAC money - because [his] vote is not for sale."
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication to which I responded was an email from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) today, December 22nd, 2023, with the subject line, "re: your 12/22/23 invitation...", which stated the following:
Hey Paul -- It's [name redacted], the [title redacted] here at the DSCC. I've got some BIG news: We've selected YOU to represent Oregon in a Democratic Strategy Interview for today, 12/22/23.
Only a select few of our most committed grassroots Democrats were chosen for this incredible opportunity, so you have a rare chance to help shape our vital 2024 Senate strategy and defeat Republicans next year!
Today's survey closes at 11:59 PM, and we won't have a complete dataset without your response! So please, click this personal link to enter your Democratic Strategy Interview by taking the survey now:***
START YOUR INTERVIEW
**NOTE: Please do not share this link with anyone, as it may corrupt our data**
Thank you for being a part of this team,
[Name redacted], DSCC
* If you've recently responded or done so with a different email address, thank you! Online records may not be up to date, but don't worry -- your responses have been recorded.
Chip in $5 monthly to defend the Senate
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DSCC
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Strategy Group | DO NOT SHARE
[Blogger's Note: I am sharing my responses to this survey, because the email above stated, "Please do not share this link with anyone..." (Emphasis mine.) Thus, I did not share the survey link, "as it may corrupt (the DSCC's) data."]
Congratulations, you're in! Now, please read each question carefully and take as much time as you need.
Which issues do you want the Biden administration and Democrats to prioritize? (Select your three top priorities.)
[ ] Foreign Relations
[ ] The Economy
[ ] Health Care
[✓] Reproductive Rights
[ ] Climate Change
[✓] Gun Safety
[ ] Education
[ ] Immigration Reform
[✓] Voting Rights
[ ] Criminal Justice
[ ] Job Creation
[ ] Higher Education
[ ] Other:
[Blogger's Note: The reason I selected 'Reproductive Rights,' 'Gun Safety' and 'Voting Rights' as the "issues [that I] want the Biden administration and Democrats to prioritize" is because the Republicans seem to be attacking those issues the most in their ongoing culture wars against "The United States of 'Woke' America."]
Which of President Biden and Democrats' accomplishments should Democrats make sure to highlight in the upcoming elections? (Select your top three choices.)
[ ] Passing a historic infrastructure bill
[ ] Investing billions in fighting climate change
[ ] Confirming a record number of federal judges, including Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson
[ ] Capping life-saving insulin for millions of seniors at $35/month
[✓] Creating millions of new jobs
[✓] Standing up to attacks on voting rights and reproductive freedom
[✓] Confronting global threats to peace and security
[ ] Other:
[Blogger's Note: The reason I selected 'Creating millions of new jobs,' 'Standing up to attacks on voting rights and reproductive freedom' and 'Confronting global threats to peace and security' as "President Biden and Democrats' accomplishments [that] Democrats [should] make sure to highlight in the upcoming elections" is because, under President Biden's leadership, the economy is strong, voting rights and reproductive freedom are both improving, and global threats to peace and security are under thoughtful and experienced control, as much as humanly possible under very difficult circumstances.]
Which of the GOP's dangerous plans do you think are most important for Democrats to highlight in the upcoming elections? (Select your top three choices.)
[ ] McConnell seeking to block President Biden's judicial nominees
[ ] Republicans trying to stop every piece of President Biden's agenda
[✓] A potential government shutdown caused by far-right, ultra-MAGA Republicans
[✓] A nationwide abortion ban
[ ] Massive cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid
[✓] Extreme voting restrictions, attacks on vote-by-mail, and election subversion
[ ] More book bans, disturbing anti- LGBTQ+ laws, and other right-wing policies
[ ] Other (please describe):
[Blogger's Note: The reason I selected 'A potential government shutdown caused by far-right, ultra-MAGA Republicans,' 'A nationwide abortion ban' and 'Extreme voting restrictions, attacks on vote-by-mail, and election subversion' as the "GOP's dangerous plans [that I] think are [the] most important for Democrats to highlight in the upcoming elections" is because the Republicans seem to be utilizing those issues as threats the most in their ongoing culture wars against "The United States of 'Woke' America."]
Now we need to hear from you in your own words. Please tell us why it's important to you that we stop Republicans from winning next year? (Feel free to write as much or as little as you'd like.)
[✓] Republicans are Radical Christian Terrorists!
[ ] No thanks. I'm ready to go to the next question.
Republicans are preparing to go all-in to flip the Senate red next year and turn back our progress. To stop them, it's essential that we have Democratic Strategy Group participants like you with us in this fight.
So tell us: How committed are you to ensuring Democrats hold the Senate?
[✓] Extremely committed!
[ ] Somewhat committed.
[ ] Not at all committed -- I don't care if Mitch McConnell takes back the Senate.
We're leading the fight to defend our Democratic Senate and urgently need your help. Our fundraising deadline is TONIGHT, and we're still a few donations short in Oregon!
Please, will you chip in $55 or more so Democrats can compete against McConnell's megadonors, defend the Senate, and continue helping President Biden make progress?
Please use the links below to start a monthly donation through ActBlue:
[ ] I'll give $55.
[ ] I'll give $110.
[ ] I'll give $165.
[✓] I'd like to choose a different amount to give.*
*[Blogger's Note: I selected this option—although I made a one-time donation, rather than a monthly donation—because it's an option that got me to the donation webpage!]
---------------------------------------------
DSCC
Donate now to SUPERCHARGE our Senate majority!
CNN says multiple GOP seats could flip blue next year -- but with Mitch McConnell's megadonors already playing offense, it's going to take all hands on deck to win!
Please, will you chip in now to protect our historic progress by supercharging our Democratic majority?
Make it monthly!
To defend abortion access, stop gun violence and more, we must elect Democrats. Will you make your donation monthly to fight for the Senate?
[ ] Yes, count me in!
[✓] No, donate once
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DSCC.
[ ] $220 →
[ ] $110 →
[ ] $550 →
[ ] $1,100 →
[ ] $2,200 →
[ ] $2,700 →
[✓] Other $1.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[ ] Add custom amount
[✓] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DSCC (without a tip to ActBlue) because the DSCC "selected [me] to represent Oregon in a Democratic Strategy Interview for today, 12/22/23."
P.S.: The reason that I only donated $1.00 to the DSCC is because I already donated $5.00 (with a $0.35 tip to ActBlue) on December 3rd, 2023 (please see my 'December 3rd, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above), plus I also donated $1.00 on December 11th, 2023 (without a tip to ActBlue) (please see my 'December 11th, 2023 Update No. 5,' which can be found above) and that is all I can afford this month; however, I did want to respond to this survey, so that is why I made a donation in the amount that I did.
Thus, this one campaign—Josh Harder for Congress—as well as this one organization—the DSCC—are the political campaign, and the political organization, that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 22nd, 2023, revised January 7th, 2024, revised January 22nd, 2024, revised February 9th, 2024, revised March 10th, 2024 and revised April 17th, 2024)
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December 22nd, 2023 Update No. 3—Which Also Discusses December 17th, 2023 Through December 21st, 2023: [CONTENT WARNING: THIS UPDATE CONTAINS ARTICLES WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!] This 'update' that I am writing today, December 22nd, 2023, is only from my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received via email for the time period of December 17th, 2023 through December 21st, 2023.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news through Google searches for quite a long time because of how much blogging I have been doing lately. So, the last time that I checked the current news via Google searches was November 26th, 2023!
You see, I used to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which used to start with me reading Time Magazine articles that I selected from one (or more) of their emails that I received each day. However, because I have been so busy lately with "Online Activism," and also with the editing of my five blogs, I have only been keeping up with the news just by reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails—until I can actually get around to reading the articles from those emails that I highlight in these 'updates.'
That is why I have decided to simply go with this trend of just reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails until I have the time to check the news via Google searches, like used to do!
Although, given the volume of news lately, I may decide to keep up with the news through email notifications only. To that end, I have recently signed up to receive email newsletters from the news organizations to which I subscribe in order for me to stay informed about what's happening in the world. Thus, I already receive these types of emails from Time Magazine—as mentioned above—but I am also checking the news just by reading the article titles from the other news organizations to which I subscribe in addition to Time Magazine. Therefore, if I highlight any of those articles, as well, I will let you know through 'updates' such as this one.
And I used to provide longer introductions to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which included the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article; but, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received for the time period of December 17th, 2023 through December 21st, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received five days ago, December 17th, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "The Quest for Racial Equality Has Always Been Different for Rural Americans":
https://time.com/6340527/black-land-loss
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "Waiting for Iron Man in Gaza": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6358280/letters-from-gaza-iron-man-essay
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "European Ministers Call For a ‘Sustainable Ceasefire’ in Gaza. Here’s What That Means":
https://time.com/6548504/sustainable-ceasefire-gaza-european-global-ministers
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "Calling Out Terrorism Shouldn’t Be an Issue of Free Speech":
https://time.com/6516866/terrorism-campus-free-speech-essay
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received four days ago, December 18th, 2023:
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received four days ago) is titled, "The Attacks From Yemen’s Houthi Rebels in the Red Sea Are Having a Significant Global Impact":
https://time.com/6548183/yemen-houthi-rebels-red-sea-attacks-impact
---------------------------------------------
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received four days ago) is titled, "What Palestinian Children Face in Israeli Prisons": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT CHILD IMPRISONMENT WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6548068/palestinian-children-israeli-prison-arrested
---------------------------------------------
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received four days ago) is titled, "As Israel Reckons With Killing of Hostages, Critics Worry About Routine Excessive Force Against Civilians": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6548632/israel-hamas-war-civilians-hostages-killed
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received three days ago, December 19th, 2023:
The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received three days ago) is titled, "How—and Why—Yemen’s Houthi Rebels Are Poised to Seriously Disrupt the Global Economy":
https://time.com/6548968/houthi-rebels-shipping-attacks-red-sea-disrupt-global-economy-costs
---------------------------------------------
The ninth Time Magazine article (that is essentially a ten minute video) that I read (and watched) today (which I received three days ago) is titled, "The Biggest Moments in U.S. Politics From 2023":
https://time.com/6548806/biggest-moments-politics-2023
---------------------------------------------
The tenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received three days ago) is titled, "The Conservative Case for Immigration":
https://time.com/6548602/conservative-case-for-immigration
---------------------------------------------
The eleventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received three days ago) is titled, "Ukraine-Border Security Deal Appears Unlikely Before the Holidays":
https://time.com/6548851/ukraine-border-security-deal-congress-unlikely
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received two days ago, December 20th, 2023:
The twelfth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "After My Parents Died, I Lost the Christmas Spirit. Now It’s Slowly Coming Back":
https://time.com/6514101/holidays-grief-christmas-without-parents
---------------------------------------------
The thirteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Why Gift-Giving Makes You Anxious":
https://time.com/6548757/gift-giving-anxiety-essay
---------------------------------------------
The fourteen Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Death Sentences Are Doled Out Based on Looks":
https://time.com/6548784/death-sentences-facial-bias
---------------------------------------------
The fifteen Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "What to Know About the U.S. Coalition Force in the Red Sea":
https://time.com/6549112/u-s-coalition-force-red-sea
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, December 21st, 2023:
The sixteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Why The World Must Set a Price on Carbon":
https://time.com/6549163/why-world-needs-a-carbon-price
---------------------------------------------
The seventeenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Gaza Is Being Made Unlivable": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6549448/gaza-shelter-unlivable
---------------------------------------------
The eighteenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "TIME’s Best Photos of 2023":
https://time.com/6548084/best-time-photographs-2023
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written December 22nd, 2023, revised January 5th, 2024, revised January 10th, 2024 and revised April 6th, 2024)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
December 23rd, 2023 Update No. 1: I have consolidated the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I used to write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I made virtually every time that I made a political donation. And within each 'update' I included the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, plus whether I included a tip to ActBlue and how much I tipped.
Therefore, I have combined every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
Plus, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. And I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The only political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 23rd, 2023, from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), which stated, in part, the following:
DCCC ALERT: Top Dems UNLOCKED the 300%-MATCH until midnight to DEFEAT the GOP & FLIP the House blue. Don't let this pass you by -- we don't know when it will come again.***
Rush a 3X-MATCHED $15 gift to elect House Dems:***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Chip in now to FLIP the House and DEFEND President Biden's legacy!
Republicans are blocking President Biden's agenda at every turn - and he's counting on this grassroots team to STOP them.
SO QUICKLY: Will you rush in a donation to elect a WAVE of Democrats and FLIP the House?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DCCC.
[ ] Donate $15 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $2.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.12 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DCCC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to help "FLIP the House and DEFEND President Biden's legacy!"
P.S.: The reason that I only donated $2.00 to the DCCC is because I already donated $5.00 (with a $0.35 tip to ActBlue) on December 3rd, 2023 (please see my 'December 3rd, 2023 Update No. 3,' which can be found above) and that is all I can afford this month; however, I did want to respond to this 3X-MATCH, so that is why I made a donation in the amount that I did.
Thus, this one organization—the DCCC—is the political organization that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 23rd, 2023, revised February 9th, 2024 and revised April 17th, 2024)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
December 25th, 2023 Update No. 1: Merry Christmas, everyone! I got all of my holiday donating done early this year, including fourteen days before Christmas Day (please see my 'December 11th, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above), seven days before Christmas Day (please see my 'December 18th, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above), four days before Christmas Day (please see my 'December 21st, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above), and three days before Christmas Day (please see my 'December 22nd, 2023 Update No. 1,' which can be found above). A summarization of these donations can be found below:
Fourteen days before Christmas: On December 11th, 2023, I made one-time donations to charities who are helping the less fortunate, including a national hunger-relief organization (Feeding America) and a local food bank (Oregon Food Bank) who are helping hungry folks, your favorite holiday Red Kettle "bell ringers" and mine, who are well-known for collecting donations during the holiday season (The Salvation Army), as well as charities who are helping children in need during "The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" (Operation Smile, and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon & SW Washington, as well as Marine Toys for Tots), in addition to the "2023 Portland Area Christmas Secret Santa Project for America's Catastrophically Disabled War on Terror Veterans and their Children" (the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes).
Seven days before Christmas: On December 18th, 2023, I made one-time donations to charities who are helping the less fortunate, which includes local nonprofits who are helping homeless folks (Blanchet House of Hospitality, Portland Rescue Mission, Sisters of the Road and Union Gospel Mission), a nonprofit working to solve problems of hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world (No Kid Hungry), as well as a nonprofit that supports the mission of the United Nations World Food Programme to alleviate global hunger (United Nations World Food Program USA).
Four days before Christmas: On December 21st, 2023, I made one-time donations to various organizations for their year-end or matching-donations fundraising campaigns, including "a living memorial to the Holocaust, [which] inspires citizens and leaders worldwide to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity" (the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum), "a global organization dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees, forcibly displaced communities and stateless people" [United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (USA for UNHCR)], "the lead United Nations sexual and reproductive health and rights agency" [USA for UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund)], and "a national family-run nonprofit charity dedicated to raising awareness about 'fentapills' — fake pills made of fentanyl" (Song for Charlie).
Three days before Christmas: On December 22nd, 2023, I received an email from the USO (United Service Organizations) with the subject line, "Help our troops feel a touch of warmth this holiday season." So, I signed the USO holiday 2023 card in order to "take the time to share some warmth with our service members by thanking them for the selfless sacrifices they make for us." Plus, after I signed the card, I made a one-time donation on the USO.org website to say to our troops, "Happy holidays! We are so grateful for your heroic service to keep us and our families safe during the holidays and all year round. Sending our best wishes this holiday season."
–Paul Whiting (December 25th, 2023)
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December 27th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have consolidated the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I used to write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I made virtually every time that I made a political donation. And within each 'update' I included the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, plus whether I included a tip to ActBlue and how much I tipped.
Therefore, I have combined every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
Plus, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. And I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 27th, 2023, from the Josh Stein for North Carolina campaign, which stated the following:
Hi there,
It’s Josh Stein. I’m running for Governor of North Carolina and today I’m ONLY asking for $10. I’ll give you 3 reasons why...
1️⃣ Unlike my multi-millionaire opponent, I rely on grassroots supporters to power this campaign.
2️⃣ Our race will be incredibly close – experts are calling it the most competitive gubernatorial race of 2024.
3️⃣ We’re rapidly approaching the final public filing deadline (12/31/23) of the year, and I’m worried we won’t make our digital fundraising goal. With the far-right targeting this race, we can’t afford to fall behind!
I know $10 may not sound like it can make a big impact, but if every person reading this text chips in just $10, together, we’ll hit our end-of-quarter deadline just in time.
Here’s a link to give $10:***
Thanks!
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
JOSH STEIN FOR GOVERNOR
Will you contribute to support Josh Stein for North Carolina?
This is the most important governor race of 2024, and we can't leave its outcome up to chance.
North Carolinians' rights and freedoms are on the line.
Either we elect Josh to keep fighting for a brighter future for all of us, or we let the GOP drag us back.
We need your help NOW to build our momentum. Pitch in $5, $25, or anything you can today to build our movement >>>
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Josh Stein.
[ ] DONATE $10 →
[ ] DONATE $25→
[ ] DONATE $50 →
[ ] DONATE $100 →
[ ] DONATE $250 →
[ ] DONATE $1,000 →
[ ] DONATE $6,400 →
[✓] OTHER AMOUNT $3.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Josh Stein for North Carolina campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "[Josh Stein is] running for Governor of North Carolina" since "this is the most important governor race of 2024, and we can't leave its outcome up to chance."
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 27th, 2023, from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), which stated the following:
In the last few months, extreme MAGA Republicans have called to destroy the Affordable Care Act, threatened reproductive freedom and worked to decimate Social Security and Medicare.
It has never been more important for Democrats to reclaim the House.
That's why I'm calling on grassroots Democrats to rush $15 before our end-of-year fundraising deadline to build the momentum we need to win.
Can I count on your $15 to the DCCC? >>***
Keep the faith,
Hakeem
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Chip in now to FLIP the House and DEFEND President Biden's legacy!
Republicans are blocking President Biden's agenda at every turn - and he's counting on this grassroots team to STOP them.
SO QUICKLY: Will you rush in a donation to elect a WAVE of Democrats and FLIP the House?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DCCC.
[ ] Donate $15 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $5.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DCCC (with a tip to ActBlue) because "it has never been more important for Democrats to reclaim the House," since "in the last few months, extreme MAGA Republicans have called to destroy the Affordable Care Act, threatened reproductive freedom and worked to decimate Social Security and Medicare."
---------------------------------------------
The third political communication to which I responded was an email from the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) today, December 27th, 2023, with the subject line, "These Dems need our help... >>", which stated the following:
Your gift tripled!
We must protect these 5 Democrats:
Amy Klobuchar, Jon Tester, Tammy Baldwin, Jacky Rosen, Sherrod Brown
...to stop Republicans' Senate takeover!
Donate now to triple your impact: DONATE NOW (We must fight for every seat!)
If you've saved payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will be processed immediately. The first $10,000 received from this email will be TRIPLED:
[ ] DONATE $55 (BECOMES $165)
[ ] DONATE $110 (BECOMES $330)
[ ] DONATE $220 (BECOMES $660)
[✓] RUSH ANOTHER AMOUNT***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DSCC
Match Activated! TRIPLE your impact to help SUPERCHARGE our Senate majority!
CNN says multiple GOP seats could flip blue next year -- but with Mitch McConnell's megadonors already playing offense, it's going to take all hands on deck to win!
Please, will you chip in now to protect our historic progress by supercharging our Democratic majority? The first $10,000 received before the end-of-year deadline will be TRIPLED!
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit DSCC.
[ ] $110 →
[ ] $55 →
[ ] $220 →
[ ] $550 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DSCC (with a tip to ActBlue) because "we must protect these 5 Democrats: Amy Klobuchar, Jon Tester, Tammy Baldwin, Jacky Rosen, Sherrod Brown...to stop Republicans' Senate takeover!"
---------------------------------------------
The fourth political communication to which I responded was an email from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) today, December 27th, 2023, with the subject line, "Can you take a quick break to read this?", which stated the following:
Paul,
I don’t want to pull you away from your holiday celebrations for too long, but I wanted to share that we’re kicking off our end-of-year fundraising push right now.
We still can't lose sight of the fact that we’re entering a huge election year in just a few days. If we ease up on our work for even a day, we risk MAGA Republicans having all the momentum heading into 2024.
Paul, we’re asking you and this grassroots team to help us finish this year off strong. Can you give $35 today to help us reach our year-end goal?
If you've saved your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will go through immediately:
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $35
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $70
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $175
[ ] EXPRESS DONATE: $350
[✓] Donate another amount***
Here’s why your contribution today is so important as we prepare for 2024:
Generous gifts like yours support the DNC’s critical investments in state party infrastructure, voter protection efforts, and counter-disinformation programming. Those investments are especially crucial as we prepare to reelect President Biden and Vice President Harris and elect Democratic candidates up and down the ballot, across the country.
We have our work cut out for us, Paul. Trump and his MAGA copycats are going to do everything in their power to win seats in the House and Senate, and of course, take back the Oval Office. In a time like this, every move we make is the difference between an America under Democrats moving toward progress or one under GOP extremists moving us backward, with our fundamental rights at risk.
We can’t afford to let MAGA Republicans gain the upper hand before 2024 even starts. Can you chip in $35 to the DNC right now to help us reach our year-end goal and ensure that Democrats up and down the ballot have the resources they need to win in 2024?
Thank you for your support,
[Name redacted]
[Title redacted]
Democratic National Committee
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DEMOCRATS
Donate to the DNC ahead of our end-of-year fundraising deadline and help elect Democrats nationwide:
The Democratic Party is counting on your support to hold the GOP accountable and elect more Democrats up and down the ballot.
Donate to the DNC and invest in the resources our candidates rely on to compete and win year after year.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Democratic National Committee (DNC).
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $10 →
[ ] $50 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DNC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to contribute "[$5] to the DNC right now to help [them] reach [their] year-end goal and ensure that Democrats up and down the ballot have the resources they need to win in 2024."
---------------------------------------------
The fifth political communication to which I responded was an email from the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) today, December 27th, 2023, with the subject line, "$50, $100, $250, or $1000 →", which stated the following:
ELECT STATE DEMS
A project of the DLCC
Paul, your involvement is essential to the progress of our movement. Every single grassroots supporter helps power our mission to elect state Democrats.
That's why we’re calling on you to heed this call to action:
"We need everyone to get involved and do their part to build a better and more inclusive democracy..." –Michelle Obama
Rush $50 ($350 impact!) →
Here are just a few ways your 7X-matched gift could help expand Democratic power in our statehouses:
1. A gift of $50 could buy 70 new clipboards for organizers
2. A gift of $100 could pay for 7,000 people to see our digital ads
3. A gift of $250 could fund our candidates' phone banks
4. And a gift of $1000 could make or break our chances of victory in special elections across the map
Every dollar you contribute fuels our efforts to elect state Democrats who will champion fundamental rights like abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, access to affordable health care, and more, paving the way for transformative change in our statehouses.
So please, will you chip in $50 (SEVEN TIMES the impact!) to ensure we have resources to strengthen our democracy and elect Democrats to state legislatures nationwide?
If you've stored your payment information with ActBlue Express, your donation will process immediately:
[ ] Chip in $50 now ($350 impact!)
[ ] Chip in $100 now ($700 impact!)
[ ] Chip in $250 now ($1750 impact!)
[ ] Chip in $1000 now ($7000 impact!)
[✓] Chip in another amount »***
Remember: The success of our movement depends on every person doing their part. Making a 7X-matched donation and getting involved today allows you to own a piece of this fight every step of the way.
Together we can build a better and more inclusive democracy.
Thank you,
Team DLCC
[✓] 7X-MATCH: ACTIVE »***
[ ] MAKE IT MONTHLY »
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
DLCC
DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATIVE CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE
Match Active: Have 7X the impact!
Your grassroots donation will help provide state Democrats with the resources, staff, and technology to win elections at the state level but it all depends on your support. Give now to have SEVEN TIMES the impact!
Can you chip in today?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee.
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $5.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the DLCC (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to contribute "[$5] (SEVEN TIMES the impact!) to ensure [the DLCC has] resources to strengthen our democracy and elect Democrats to state legislatures nationwide."
---------------------------------------------
The sixth political communication to which I responded was an email from the Biden for President campaign that I received eleven days ago on December 16th, 2023,** with the subject line, "This week’s dispatches from Joe and Kamala →", which stated the following:
BIDEN HARRIS
Paul --
We hope you had a great week! Team Biden-Harris is hard at work getting things done for the American people, and we're excited to share some of the latest updates with you.
But first, we have to ask: Our final fundraising deadline of the year is quickly approaching, and we need your help to put us in the strongest position possible ahead of 2024. Will you pitch in $25 today to help us power this movement to reelect Joe and Kamala and ensure we can finish the job?
DONATE***
We're so grateful for your support. Read on to learn more about what President Biden and Vice President Harris have been up to this week →
A COMMITMENT TO PROTECTING REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM
The Biden-Harris administration stands unequivocally with women across the country in the fight to protect reproductive freedom. No woman should be forced to go to court or flee her home state just to receive the fundamental health care she needs.
As a direct result of the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade, Republican lawmakers have been on a dangerous crusade, imposing extreme abortion bans that jeopardize women's health and threaten to criminalize doctors. To fight back, Vice President Kamala Harris will embark on a nationwide reproductive freedoms tour in early 2024 and hold a series of events that will bring together thousands of people to fight for the freedom of every American to make decisions about their own body.
Joe and Kamala are fighting to protect access to reproductive health care and have urged Congress to restore the protections of Roe v. Wade immediately.
LOWERING PRESCRIPTION DRUG COSTS FOR SENIORS
For far too long, Americans have been paying more than people in any other major economy for their prescription drugs. President Biden and Democrats took on Big Pharma to change that.
Joe and Kamala are building on the work of the Inflation Reduction Act to lower the costs of prescription drugs covered by Medicare. In addition, President Biden announced that dozens of pharmaceutical companies will be required to pay rebates to Medicare for outrageous price hikes on prescription drugs that over 750,000 seniors take per year.
This historic legislation is set to save the federal government and taxpayers $160 billion over the next 10 years. And it encompasses what Bidenomics is all about: lowering costs and giving folks a little more breathing room.
The Biden-Harris administration continues to crack down on price-gouging and put money back in the pockets of hardworking families.
THE INVESTMENTS WE ARE MAKING IN SMALL BUSINESSES
While President Biden has been working on historic investments to support small businesses, including Black-owned businesses, extreme Republicans in Congress have repeatedly tried to dismantle the President's small business agenda. Every single Republican opposed the American Rescue Plan, which helped small businesses stay afloat during the pandemic and spurred a record small business boom.
Meanwhile, Black small business ownership is growing at the fastest pace in over 30 years, and President Biden is announcing new investments to support underserved communities.
Investing in local, community-led economic development and small businesses is critical to President Biden's commitment to building the economy from the middle out and the bottom up, not the top down.
THE PERFECT CUP OF JOE
We're excited to share the latest addition to the Biden-Harris store: Dark Roast Coffee. This delicious blend is a perfect way to start your day off right and help vanquish Malarkey alongside President Biden with every sip.
Grab your American-roasted, union-served Dark Roast Coffee before it's gone! And the best part? Every purchase supports Joe and Kamala's reelection campaign ahead of 2024!
SHOP NOW:
https://shop.joebiden.com/dark-roast-arabica-coffee
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Donate before Sunday's end-of-year deadline to reelect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris!
It's going to take this full team to deliver four more years for Democrats in the White House to finish the job. Will you pitch in before Sunday's end-of-year fundraising deadline?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Joe Biden.
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $10 →
[ ] $46 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Please leave us a tip
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Biden for President campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to contribute "before Sunday's end-of-year deadline to reelect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris!"
**The reason that I responded to this email dated December 16th, 2023 from the Biden for President campaign—eleven days after I received it—is because I was saving it as part of my political donations for the Year-End 2023, which is on Sunday December 31st, 2023.
Thus, these two campaigns—Josh Stein for North Carolina, as well as Biden for President—in addition to these four organizations—the DCCC, the DSCC, the DNC, as well as the DLCC—are the political campaigns and the political organizations that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 27th, 2023, revised December 28th, 2023, revised January 7th, 2024 and revised April 17th, 2024)
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December 27th, 2023 Update No. 2, Which Also Discusses December 22nd, 2023 Through December 26th, 2023: [CONTENT WARNING: THIS UPDATE CONTAINS ARTICLES WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!] This 'update' that I am writing today, December 27th, 2023, is only from my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received via email for the time period of December 22nd, 2023 through December 26th, 2023.
To begin with, I feel like I need to explain that I have been busy with a lot of "Online Activism" lately that takes an enormous amount of time and energy to write about, which consists of various topics that each require their own 'updates!' Besides that, I have often been engaged in editing my five blogs—whenever I notice that any of my writing needs to be revised or corrected—which can take hours to complete depending upon how much editing I have to do!
Therefore, I have NOT checked the news through Google searches for quite a long time because of how much blogging I have been doing lately. So, the last time that I checked the current news via Google searches was November 26th, 2023!
You see, I used to keep up with the news virtually on a daily basis, because there is typically that much news every day, which used to start with me reading Time Magazine articles that I selected from one (or more) of their emails that I received each day. However, because I have been so busy lately with "Online Activism," and also with the editing of my five blogs, I have only been keeping up with the news just by reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails—until I can actually get around to reading the articles from those emails that I highlight in these 'updates.'
That is why I have decided to simply go with this trend of just reading the titles of the Time articles that I receive from their daily emails until I have the time to check the news via Google searches, like used to do!
Although, given the volume of news lately, I may decide to keep up with the news through email notifications only. To that end, I have recently signed up to receive email newsletters from the news organizations to which I subscribe in order for me to stay informed about what's happening in the world. Thus, I already receive these types of emails from Time Magazine—as mentioned above—but I am also checking the news just by reading the article titles from the other news organizations to which I subscribe in addition to Time Magazine. Therefore, if I highlight any of those articles, as well, I will let you know through 'updates' such as this one.
And I used to provide longer introductions to these Time Magazine articles that I highlight, which included the name(s) of the author(s), as well as the date of publication in addition to some of the text from the article; but, I have recently decided to forego my usual writing format for all the Time Magazine articles 'updates' and I simply provide the title of each article with a hyperlink.
So, without further ado, I was doing my usual reading of Time Magazine articles that I received for the time period of December 22nd, 2023 through December 26th, 2023, when I noticed the following Time.com articles! (By the way, I am a subscriber to Time INSIDER Digital Magazine.)
The following are the articles which I received five days ago, December 22nd, 2023:
The first Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "What We Left in the Burning City": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6549002/what-we-left-in-gaza-essay
---------------------------------------------
The second Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "The Year’s Most Spectacular Photos from the James Webb Telescope":
https://time.com/6513062/james-webb-telescope-best-photos-2023
---------------------------------------------
The third Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "United Nations Reports 1 in 4 Gazans Are Starving": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6550063/un-gaza-hunger-report-palestinians-israel-conflict
---------------------------------------------
The fourth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received five days ago) is titled, "Inside the Israel-Hamas Information War": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6549544/israel-and-hamas-the-media-war
---------------------------------------------
The following is the article which I received four days ago, December 23rd, 2023:
The fifth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received four days ago) is titled, "Why Finance Will Be Key to the Climate Story in 2024":
https://time.com/6549989/climate-finance-cop29
---------------------------------------------
The following is the article which I received three days ago, December 24th, 2023:
The sixth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received three days ago) is titled, "U.N. Criticized Over ‘Watered-Down’ Resolution That Fails to Call For a Gaza Ceasefire": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6550772/un-resolution-gaza-aid-vote-ceasefire-criticism
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received two days ago, December 25th, 2023:
The seventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Bethlehem Reverend Delivers ‘Christ in the Rubble’ Christmas Sermon Amid Gaza Conflict":
https://time.com/6550851/bethlehem-christmas-sermon-nativity-rubble
---------------------------------------------
The eighth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received two days ago) is titled, "Egypt Proposes Ceasefire Amid One of the Deadliest Israeli Airstrikes Yet to Hit Gaza Strip": [CONTENT WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS ABOUT WAR WHICH MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME READERS. VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!]
https://time.com/6550949/egypt-israel-hamas-ceasefire-proposal
---------------------------------------------
The following are the articles which I received yesterday, December 26th, 2023:
The ninth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "Ukrainians Celebrate Christmas on Dec. 25 For the First Time":
https://time.com/6550975/christmas-ukraine-orthodox-church
---------------------------------------------
The tenth Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "King Charles III’s Christmas Message Is a Call to Protect the Planet":
https://time.com/6550957/king-charles-christmas-message-climate-change
---------------------------------------------
The eleventh Time Magazine article that I read today (which I received yesterday) is titled, "13 Ways the World Got Better in 2023":
https://time.com/6550576/13-ways-the-world-got-better-in-2023
And I decided to highlight these articles from Time Magazine for you, my readers, to consider reading too!
–Paul Whiting (written December 27th, 2023, revised January 5th, 2024, revised January 10th, 2024 and revised April 6th, 2024)
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December 28th, 2023 Update No. 1: I received an email from Friends of Willamette Week (FOWW) [Willamette Week is a local news publication here in Portland, Oregon—and I am a monthly contributor to the Willamette Week] today, December 28th, 2023, with the subject line, "A paper powered by readers.", which stated, in part, the following:
Paul,
Four days to go until we close out our year-end giving campaign! We have 5% of our goal left to go. Help us finish strong. Support local journalism today.
$52,025 raised of $55,000 goal
567 donations
95% of Goal
And so, I made a one-time donation to Friends of Willamette Week through the Willamette Week's "Give!Guide" for which I earned the following highly coveted tweet:
I was donor number 7558 on the Willamette Week Give!Guide! https://giveguide.org #pdxgivesback via @giveguide
–Paul Whiting (December 28th, 2023)
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December 28th, 2023 Update No. 2: I received an email from Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) today, December 28th, 2023, with the subject line "Is there anything we can say?", which stated the following:
Paul, is there anything we can say to convince you to make a donation to help IAVA before our end-of-year deadline expires at midnight on Sunday?
The next twelve months are going to be crucial for America — and our community. But we can only ensure that post-9/11 veteran voices are front and center if we have the resources to do so.
Our work is powered by grassroots supporters just like you, and time is running out for us to hit our end-of-year fundraising goal. Can you help us ensure we’re able to get the back of the post-9/11 generation of veterans into next year?
We need your support now more than ever.
Please pitch in $10, $25, or whatever makes sense for your budget today to help IAVA continue fighting hard for vets in 2024.
DONATE***
Thanks so much for standing with us.
Onward!
IAVA HQ
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) in order to "help [IAVA] ensure [they're] able to get the back of the post-9/11 generation of veterans into next year," because "[IAVA] can only ensure that post-9/11 veteran voices are front and center if [they] have the resources to do so." –Paul Whiting (December 28th, 2023)
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December 28th, 2023 Update No. 3: I received an email from United Farm Workers (UFW) today, December 28th, 2023, with the subject line, "Download your FREE 2024 UFW Calendar", which stated the following:
United Farm Workers
Si, Se Puede! UFW
Download your FREE 2024 UFW Calendar
Dear Paul,
In appreciation of your support we want to offer our friends a FREE UFW downloadable 2024 calendar. Please click on the image below or on the text link to download.
Si Se Puede! Happy New Year!
[Name redacted]
UFW [Title redacted]
Please Make a New Year's Resolution to Help Farm Workers
The holiday season is when we share special memories and look forward to creating new ones in the coming year. We've accomplished a lot, but there is still more to do. You can help us bring justice to the fields by making a New Year's gift today, so we can continue to do the good work we do all year long.
And, after I read the email above, I made a one-time donation to United Farm Workers in order to "help [UFW] bring justice to the fields by making a New Year's gift today, so [they] can continue to do the good work [they] do all year long." –Paul Whiting (December 28th, 2023)
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December 28th, 2023 Update No. 4: I have consolidated the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I used to write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I made virtually every time that I made a political donation. And within each 'update' I included the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, plus whether I included a tip to ActBlue and how much I tipped.
Therefore, I have combined every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
Plus, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. And I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 28th, 2023, from the Susheela Jayapal for Congress campaign, which stated the following:
Paul, my name is Susheela Jayapal, and I'm the Democrat running in the OPEN blue seat in OR-03.
Growing up in India, my parents instilled in me the values of integrity, hard work, and independence. At 16, they used their savings to send me to the U.S. for college, and after earning my law degree from the University of Chicago, I found my home in Oregon, where I've spent the last 30 years.
In 2018, I was elected as a Multnomah County Commissioner, where I had the opportunity to tackle local issues, including fighting for living wages for our frontline workers. I've dedicated my life to amplifying the voices of our most vulnerable communities.
Now, I'm running for Congress to bring my proven progressive leadership to Washington D.C. I'm committed to fighting against MAGA extremism and focusing on what matters most to Oregonians - combatting the climate crisis, expanding healthcare accessibility, protecting abortion rights, and defending our democracy.
But I can only win with your support. So I'm personally reaching out today to ask: Will you make a donation of $27 or more now and become a Founding Donor to our campaign ahead of our very first FEC deadline?
After this deadline, all of our fundraising numbers from our first quarter will become public and we cannot afford to miss our goal.
Your contribution will make a real difference in our campaign.***
Thank you,
Susheela
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
SUSHEELA JAYAPAL FOR CONGRESS
Send Susheela to Congress!
I'm running for Congress to bring my proven progressive leadership to Washington D.C. I'm committed to fighting against MAGA extremism and focusing on what matters most to Oregonians - combatting the climate crisis, expanding healthcare accessibility, protecting abortion rights, and defending our democracy.
Will you make a donation of $27 or more now and become a Founding Donor to our campaign?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Susheela Jayapal.
[ ] Donate $27 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[ ] Donate $3,300 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Susheela Jayapal for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to "become a Founding Donor to [Susheela Jayapal's] campaign [for Congress]."
---------------------------------------------
The second political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 28th, 2023, from the Chris Coons for Delaware campaign, which stated the following:
Team Coons here – Republicans are one seat away from taking the Senate majority – risking all our progress under Joe Biden. Chris is working to defend the Senate majority in 2024, but he needs your support before the year-end deadline. Chip in before our end-of-year FEC deadline >>***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
CHRIS COONS
U.S. SENATOR FOR DELAWARE
Contribute to Chris Coons now
Chris is doing everything he can to make progress with the Senate majority, but he can't do it alone.
Will you rush a donation to help Chris keep fighting for you in the Senate?
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Chris Coons.
[ ] Donate $5 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Chris Coons for Delaware campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) because "Republicans are one seat away from taking the Senate majority – risking all our progress under Joe Biden" and "Chris is working to defend the Senate majority in 2024," in addition that, "Chris is doing everything he can to make progress with the Senate majority."
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The third political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 28th, 2023, from the Joe Vogel for Congress (Vogel for Congress) campaign, which stated the following:
Hi, it's Joe Vogel, a proud Gen Z community organizer turned state legislator running to represent our community in Congress.
My family immigrated to the United States as a toddler, but I didn't let that stop me from serving my community. In my first term as a state legislator, I wrote and passed legislation to make historic investments in mental health, combat the rise in hate crimes, and address the fentanyl crisis.
Now I'm running against a self-funding multi-millionaire who thinks they can buy this seat and Dan Cox, a MAGA extremist.
As far-right extremists work to undermine our democracy and rip away fundamental freedoms, it's never been more clear: either we elect leaders who will fight for our rights, or this could be our last fair election. That's why I need your help.
We have a crucial public fundraising deadline at the end of the year, and we still have a $50K budget gap to close before we have to report our numbers for all to see. The stakes are high, and we can't risk falling short.
Before 2024 begins, can you click the link below to chip in? With just months left until the election, our team needs at least 400 new donors to step up today to make sure our grassroots team is strong heading into 2024.***
Thanks,
Joe
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
VOGEL FOR CONGRESS
Support Joe Vogel for Congress!
We need a new generation of leaders in Washington who understand exactly what's at stake in this moment. We just can't wait to end gun violence, secure our rights, protect our democracy, and save our planet.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Joe Vogel.
[ ] Donate $5 →
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $25 →
[ ] Donate $50 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $250 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Joe Vogel for Congress (Vogel for Congress) campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to be one of the "new donors to step up today to make sure [Joe Vogel's] grassroots team is strong heading into 2024," because "we need a new generation of leaders in Washington who understand exactly what's at stake in this moment."
Thus, these three campaigns—Susheela Jayapal for Congress, as well as Chris Coons for Delaware, in addition to Joe Vogel for Congress (Vogel for Congress)—are the political campaigns (political organizations) that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 28th, 2023 and revised April 17th, 2024)
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December 28th, 2023 Update No. 5: I received a mailer from the Ron Wyden for Senate (Wyden for Senate) campaign today, December 28th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "Everything we care about is at risk in 2024! Can we count on you?", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
Ron Wyden
Different. Like Oregon.
Dear Paul,
Like you, I was astonished by the recent poll that showed Donald Trump leading President Biden in multiple swing states. It suggested that if the election were held today, Donald Trump would once again be president.
I find that unacceptable.
After witnessing four years of incompetence, self-dealing, and willful ignorance during Trump's time in office, we can't even consider giving him a second chance.
This is the man who is under indictment for trying to subvert a free and fair election, who illegally held onto documents containing some of America's most closely guarded secrets, and who incited a violent insurrection at our nation's Capitol in order to prevent the peaceful transfer of power.
Yet, he has a significant chance of once again becoming president, Paul.
Just as bad, we have a GOP-led House dominated by right-wing extremists who are more interested in staging political stunts for their most conservative base than doing the hard work of actually governing.
Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House who was finally chosen after the GOP's clown car series of votes, is a would-be theocrat perfectly prepared to burn our government down in pursuit of his extreme goals.
This is a man who wants a nationwide ban on abortion, believes homosexuality should be outlawed, and is closely aligned with right-wing Christian nationalists.
It is perfectly possible that if Trump is able to regain the White House, the GOP could hold onto the House. And chaos would be the order of the day.
And if that's not frightening enough, we could also lose our razor-thin Senate majority in 2024. We are defending more swing seats than the GOP, which means it's perfectly possible that Mitch McConnell could once again be Senate Majority Leader.
If there were ever an all-hands-on-deck moment for Democrats, this is it. Which is why I'm reaching out to you now.
It is essential that we hold onto the Senate in 2024 and beyond. The future of our democracy is on a knife's edge. And I urgently need your help.
Can I count on you for $50, $100 or even $150 so we can hold onto the Senate? You can use the enclosed postage-paid envelope or go to www.wydenforsenate.com/democracy and give online today.
Our goal is to raise $50,000 from this mailing in the next two weeks. But I'm hoping we can do better than that if activists like you step up.
The truth is, Senate races have become more and more expensive—particularly since 2010, when the Supreme Court unleashed unlimited campaign spending it its terrible Citizens United decision.
That decision equated corporations with people and money with free speech. And the result has been catastrophic for democracy.
Now billionaires and mega-corporations can funnel millions of dollars through false front organizations to upend elections in any state with massive spending on sleazy attack ads and disanformation campaigns.
There was a time when a Senate race was largely confined to the state in question. Candidates told voters what they stood for and what they believed in, and the voters responded by either supporting or opposing them.
Not anymore.
Now right-wing SuperPACs aligned with shadowy organizations flood states with outside cash in order to buy another vote for their regressive agenda.
I believe this kind of runaway outside spending pollutes our politics and cheapens our democracy.
It also means that competitive senate races like those in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Montana, and Nevada, are even more at risk and reliant on grassroots activism.
That's because the forces of the right are constantly working to increase their power, enforce their will, and tilt the playing field in favor of their billionaire backers.
We cannot rest for a moment.
We don't rely on billionaires on our side, but we do have you. And millions of others like you in our grassroots movement.
Your contribution of $50, $100 or even $150 will help us protect our democracy and our rights. You can use the enclosed form and postage-paid envelope or go to www.wydenforsenate.com/democracy and contribute online.
There have been some rays of light in these dark times. The victory of abortion rights activests in Ohio, for one. The takeover of the Virginia legislature by Democrats despite the best efforts of the GOP, for another.
And Democrat Andy Beshear winning reelection in deep red Kentucky is another positive sign.
But if Trump gets reelected and radical right-wing extremists continue to control the House, we absolutely must hold onto the Senate.
Thank you for any help you can give. I'm so proud to have you in my corner.
Sincerely,
Ron Wyden
U.S. Senator—Oregon
P.S. Please help us reach our goal of $50,000 at the next two weeks!
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RON WYDEN SUPPORTER FORM
We could lose it all in 2024 if we don't get to work now!
Please help us reach our goal of $50,000 in the next two weeks!
[ ] $50
[ ] $200
[ ] $100
[ ] $250
[ ] $150
[✓] Other $5.00
[ ] Check enclosed payable to Wyden for Senate.
[ ] I've completed the credit card information on the back of the form.
Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, after I read the letter above, I made a one-time donation to the Ron Wyden for Senate (Wyden for Senate) campaign because "[Ron Wyden can] count on [me] for [$5]," since "it is essential that we hold onto the Senate in 2024 and beyond." –Paul Whiting (December 28th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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December 28th, 2023 Update No. 6: I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, December 28th, 2023, which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS
Warriors like [name redacted] are counting on you for another year of support!
Dear Mr. Whiting,
[Name redacted] didn't plan to be a soldier. But something changed on 9/11 when our nation was attacked. "I knew I had to join the fight," he says.
He joined the U.S. Army and was deployed to Iraq. One day, he volunteered to fill in for a buddy who was feeling sick — and [name redacted] life was changed forever.
The convoy [name redacted] was riding in hit an Improvised explosive device (IED). And [name redacted] suffered catastrophic injuries.
Both [name redacted's] legs had to be amputated. And his invisible wounds were just as devastating. Shane experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affected his ability to read, write, and speak.
Here at Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP), we've made a promise to be there for warriors like [name redacted]. Not just while they're in the hospital, but year after year for as long as it takes!
Your annual support helps keep that promise. You're someone veterans con count on! That's why I recently sent you your 2024 WWP Member Card, and it's why I'm enclosing your custom WWP patch today — to thank you in advance for another year of strong support.
Please renew the annual commitment you've made by sending your gift of $15, $18, or even $21. Thank you!
Paul, I need to know your 2024 WWP Member Card has reached you because it's personalized with your name. And I urgently need to confirm that you will be standing by our warriors for another year.
Because what would heroes like [name redacted] do without people like you?
As you'll remember from my last letter, [name redacted's] injuries were so severe that he could no longer live independently. His mother, [name redacted], who had flown across the world to be by [name redacted's] side after the attack, became his full-time caregiver.
Being a caregiver for a veteran is a gesture of love. But that doesn't mean it's easy. Both veterans and their caregivers need our support!
And they both got it thanks to the WWP Independence Program. This program, which you help to fund through your annual giving, has allowed [name redacted] to recover more of his independence ... and gave [name redacted] time to meet her own needs.
[Name redacted's] life has changed in so many ways. He even met a wonderful, caring woman at a WWP event, got married, and had a son. Now his wife, [name redacted], is his caregiver, and [his mother's name redacted] is a powerful advocate for injured veterans. They're all in, as a fumily, for wounded warriors!
And so are you. You've shown that through your inspiring annual commitment. And [name redacted] is very grateful for all you've done. Today he says:
"You've helped me do things for myself and regain some of my independence."
You've been there for [name redacted] as he's healed. And I know you'll continue to be there for him.
In fact, if you've already responded to my previous letter with your annual renewal gift, thank you. Our letters have probably crossed in the mail. But if you haven't yet renewed, I urge you to do so right away.
Please stand with our veterans and their families for another year of hope. healing, and impact. Thank you!
Gratefully,
[Title redacted]
[Military rank and status redacted]
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project
P.S. Carry the card. Wear the special WWP patch I'm enclosing. And return your 2024 Member Confirmation Reply to me with the most generous renewal gift you're able to send. Thank you for your enduring commitment to our heroes!
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★ ★ ★ 2024 MEMBER CONFIRMATION REPLY ★ ★ ★
[✓] YES, my 2024 Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) Member Card arrived! I'm proud to renew my annual membership today and help more brave heroes like [name redacted] fight to rebuild their lives with my donation of:
[ ] $18
[ ] $21
[ ] $15
[ ] $24
[✓] My best gift of $14.00*
To donate online, go to: supportwwp.org/wwp
Please maks checks payable to Wounded Warrior Project. For credit card gifts, please see reverse.
Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT
Donor Care Center
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in order to complete the 2024 MEMBER CONFIRMATION REPLY! –Paul Whiting (written from December 28th, 2023 to December 29th, 2023)
*P.S.: The reason that I donated $14.00—rather than $7.00 like I usually do for donation mailers that I receive through the regular mail—is because I donated for the mailer above that I received today, December 28th, 2023, as well as for the mailer that I received on December 11th, 2023, which contained the WWP 2024 Member Card that I confirmed having received through the 2024 MEMBER CONFIRMATION REPLY, as mentioned above.
P.P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. (Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above.)
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December 29th, 2023 Update No. 1: I have consolidated the individual 'updates' that write regarding the political campaign, or political organization, donations that I make on a regular basis—which is usually several times per month—in order to save the number of 'updates' that I write about these political donations!
You see, I used to write one 'update' for each of the individual political campaign donations, or political organization donations, that I made virtually every time that I made a political donation. And within each 'update' I included the text from each political campaign's, or political organization's, requesting email or text message, along with some of each campaign's, or organization's, donation page text on the ActBlue website, as well as how much I donated to each campaign, or organization, plus whether I included a tip to ActBlue and how much I tipped.
Therefore, I have combined every campaign, or organization, donation request per day (via email and/or text message) into one 'update' for that day, so that I don't have to keep writing individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, donations! By the way, I still write individual 'updates' for political campaign, or political organization, mailers that I receive through the regular mail, because they are usually more elaborate political contribution requests, which is why I don't include them with these email and/or text message requests.
Plus, the 2024 election cycle is really starting to gear up and I have made a goal of donating only one $3.00 donation per campaign, or $5.00 per political organization, for the entire election cycle! And that means after I make that one donation per campaign, or per organization—regardless of whether I donated in 2023, or 2024—I am only donating once per campaign, or per organization, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis. And I am only donating once per PAC (Political Action Committee) for the entire election cycle, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis, because that is all that I can really afford for the 2024 Presidential Election. (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) I hope that makes sense!
So, without further ado...
The first political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 29th, 2023, from the Biden Victory Fund, which stated the following:
Biden HQ: Remember that feeling you felt the day after Donald Trump was elected president in 2016? Remember walking around in disbelief and fear of what was to come? And remember time and time again how those fears were realized over the next four years?
Paul, we can't go back.
It may be wild to think, but you have a role in making sure we win. The work we need to do is quite literally funded by people like you making the decision that we can't go back… we can only go forward.
We don't expect you to donate every day, but with President Biden and Democrats facing their last fundraising deadline of the year in just a few days, we need you to make today the day you donate:***
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
Chip in by 12/31 before our Last Deadline of the Year!
We're just days away from the final year-end deadline of this election. All eyes will be watching what we do, and every dollar we raise today is key to securing four more years in the White House and supporting Democrats nationwide.
There is still time to be an early campaign donor before 2024. Will you donate to help Joe, Kamala, and Democrats nationwide?
Pitch in what you can today to power us to victory.
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Biden Victory Fund.
[ ] $46 →
[ ] $25 →
[ ] $100 →
[ ] $250 →
[ ] $1,000 →
[ ] $2,000 →
[✓] Other $5.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.35 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Biden Victory Fund (with a tip to ActBlue) in order to contribute "by 12/31 before [Biden Victory Fund's] Last Deadline of the Year," because "the work [Biden Victory Fund needs] to do is quite literally funded by people like [me] making the decision that we can't go back… we can only go forward."
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The second political communication to which I responded was a text message today, December 29th, 2023, from the Eddy Morales for Congress campaign, which stated the following:
Hi, it's Eddy Morales - just reaching out with a status update on our very✨first✨end-of-quarter fundraising deadline since I announced my candidacy for Congress.
This is frankly, the most important fundraising deadline of my entire career because these numbers don't just determine what we can accomplish ahead of Election Day, but also signal the 'viability' of the campaign to voters, community organizations, and help drive important endorsements.
We only have a few more days before the deadline and are $13,165 away from hitting our goal. Since this seat just opened up, we launched this campaign late in the fundraising quarter, and must make up for lost time: will you chip in today and help demonstrate the strength of this grassroots movement?
***[I used to include hyperlinks contained within the email messages, or the text messages, to which I am referring in these "Activism Updates"; however, I could not figure out how to include the aforementioned hyperlinks, regarding some relevant action that I had taken—such as signing a petition, sending a letter or message to my representative(s) in Congress, signing a USO 'Thank You' card, and/or making a donation—without including my personal information.]
And, after I read the text message above, I clicked on the hyperlink to the referenced webpage, the relevant text of which can be found below:
EDDY MORALES FOR CONGRESS OR-3
Donate Before The End Of The Year
We can't let our momentum slow down now, because we've been building our movement of community-driven solutions for a long time. Every donation we receive goes towards fighting for this community and ensuring every Oregonian's voice is heard.
I would be honored to have your support before the end of the year because each dollar makes a difference. Together, we can bring our people- powered movement to Washington!
Chip in before 2024 and let's send Eddy to Washington, DC to fight for us!
Donate immediately:
Your contribution will benefit Eddy Morales.
[ ] Donate $10 →
[ ] Donate $100 →
[ ] Donate $500 →
[ ] Donate $1,000 →
[ ] Donate $3,300 →
[ ] Donate $6,600 →
[✓] Other amount $3.00
Leave a tip for ActBlue
ActBlue is a nonprofit fundraising platform that thousands of Democrats and millions of grassroots donors are counting on to help them power change in their communities.
[ ] $1
[ ] $2
[ ] $3
[✓] Add custom amount $0.21 (7%)
[ ] Leave no tip
And so, I made a one-time donation to the Eddy Morales for Congress campaign (with a tip to ActBlue) "since this seat just opened up, [Eddy Morales for Congress] launched this campaign late in the fundraising quarter, and must make up for lost time," so "every donation [Eddy Morales for Congress] receive goes towards fighting for this [Oregon] community and ensuring every Oregonian's voice is heard."
Thus, these two campaigns—Biden Victory Fund, as well as Eddy Morales for Congress—are the political campaigns that I donated to today! –Paul Whiting (written December 29th, 2023 and revised April 17th, 2024)
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December 31st, 2023 Update No. 5, Written On January 1st, 2024 [August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 5, Written On January 1st, 2024 About December 2023]: This update is a follow-up to the following:
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 1, Written On August 31st, 2023
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 2, Written On October 1st, 2023 About September 2023
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 3, Written On November 1st, 2023 About October 2023
▪ August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 4, Written On December 1st, 2023 About November 2023
My 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' which can be found above, is where I explain that I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
"...I am no longer donating to political, progressive and charitable organizations in the same way that I was due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations—as outlined below—starting with January of 2023.
January 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 15%
February 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 19%
March 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 12%
April 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 17%
May 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 21%
June 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 20%
July 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 17%
August 2023:
Month-to-date percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 17% [through August 19th, 2023]
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through July 2023 (without including August, since this month is not over yet), it comes out to an average of 17% of my monthly income..."
And my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 1, Written On August 31st, 2023,' which can be found above, is where I continued to explain what the total percentage of my monthly income is that I spent for the month of August 2023 on donations, as well as monthly interest and credit card purchases! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
"...Now that today is the last day of August 2023, I wanted to provide you with this month's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
August 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 23%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through August 2023, it comes out to an average of 18% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] Joe Biden for President: 2%
[02] Planned Parenthood: 2%
[03] Non-Categorized Charity: 7%
[04] Everytown for Gun Safety: 1%
[05] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 5%
[06] Red Cross (Maui Fires): 1%
[07] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 1%
[08] Non-Categorized Political: 4%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Donations Spent for August 2023: 23%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[09] Monthly Interest: 6%
[10] Credit Card Purchases: 23%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases for August 2023: 29%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for August 2023: 52%"
And my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 2, Written On October 1st, 2023 About September 2023,' which can be found above, is where I continued to explain what the total percentage of my monthly income is that I spent for the month of September 2023 on donations, as well as monthly interest and credit card purchases! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
"...And now that yesterday, September 30th, 2023, was the last day of September 2023, I wanted to provide you with September's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
September 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 20%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through September 2023, it comes out to an average of 18% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] Everytown for Gun Safety: 1%
-------Please see [02] below-------
[03] Disaster Relief: 6%
[04] Non-Categorized Charity: 3%
[05] Non-Categorized Political: 5%
[06] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 3%
[07] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 1%
[08] Planned Parenthood: 1%
-------Please see [09] below-------
[10] News Organizations: 0.33311125916%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Donations Spent: 20%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[02] Credit Card Purchases: 17%
[09] Monthly Interest: 5%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases: 22%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for September 2023: 42%"
And my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 3, Written On November 1st, 2023 About October 2023,' which can be found above, is where I continued to explain what the total percentage of my monthly income is that I spent for the month of October 2023 on donations, as well as monthly interest and credit card purchases! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
"...And now that yesterday, October 31st, 2023, was the last day of October 2023, I wanted to provide you with October's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
October 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 31%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through October 2023, it comes out to an average of 0.20% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 2%
[02] Non-Categorized Political: 7%
[03] Planned Parenthood: 2%
[04] Everytown for Gun Safety: 1%
[05] Non-Categorized Charity: 4%
[06] World Jewish Congress: 1%
-------Please see [07] below-------
[08] Disaster Relief: 2%
[09] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 10%
-------Please see [10] below-------
[11] Brady PAC: 2%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Donations Spent: 31%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[07] Credit Card Purchases: 74%
[10] Monthly Interest: 3%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases: 77%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for October 2023: 108%"
And my 'August 19th, 2023 Update—Follow-Up No. 4, Written On December 1st, 2023 About November 2023,' which can be found above, is where I continued to explain what the total percentage of my monthly income is that I spent for the month of November 2023 on donations, as well as monthly interest and credit card purchases! And in that 'update,' I explained, in part, the following:
And now that yesterday, November 30th, 2023, was the last day of November 2023, I wanted to provide you with November's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
November 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 71%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through November 2023, it comes out to an average of 24% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] Non-Categorized Political: 16%
[02] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 17%
[03] USHMM (U.S. Holocaust Memor. Mus.): 7%
[04] PPAF (Plan. Parent. Act. Fund): 2%
[05] PPFA (Plan. Parent. Feder. of Amer.): 2%
[06] News Organizations: 0.33311125916%
[07] Brady PAC: 0.46635576282%
[08] IAVA (Iraq & Afghan. Vet. of Amer.): 0.33311125916%
[09] Non-Categorized Charity: 0.33311125916%
[10] Everytown for Gun Safety: 0.33311125916%
[11] World Jewish Congress: 0.33311125916%
-------Please see [12] below-------
[13] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 3%
[14] Veterans Day: 2%
[15] NARF (Nativ. Amer. Rights Fund): 0.46635576282%
[16] Thanksgiving: 3%
-------Purchase refund [17]-------
[18] UFW (Unite. Farm Work.): 2%
[19] Plant Based Treaty: 0.33977348434%
[20] Giving Tuesday: 39%
[21] Plan. Parent. PAC of Ore.: 0.33311125916%
-------Please see [22] below-------
[23] Native American Heritage Day: 2%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Donations Spent: 71%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[12] Credit Card Purchases: 53%
[22] Monthly Interest: 5%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases: 58%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for November 2023: 129%
And now that yesterday, December 31st, 2023, was the last day of December 2023, I wanted to provide you with December's total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations:
December 2023:
Total percentage of my monthly income for political, progressive and charitable donations: 31%
Then, if I average out the total percentage that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations from January 2023 through December 2023, it comes out to an average of 25% of my monthly income! (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.)
And here are the percentages that I have spent on political, progressive and charitable organizations by category, as outlined within my monthly budget:
-------Please see [01] below-------
[02] USO (United Serv. Orgs.): 6%
[03] PPAF (Plan. Parent. Act. Fund): 1%
[04] DSCC (Dem. Senate. Cam. Comm.): 1%
[05] DCCC (Dem. Congress. Cam. Comm.): 1%
[06] DNC (Dem. Nation. Cam. Comm.): 1%
[07] USA for UNFPA: 0.33311125916%
[08] USA for UNHCR: 0.33311125916%
[09] Non-Categorized Political: 6%
[10] World Jewish Congress: 0.33311125916%
[11] UFW (Unite. Farm Work.): 1%
[12] Brady United: 0.33311125916%
[13] ACLU (Amer. Civ. Lib. Union): 1%
[14] Mother Jones: 1%
[15] DASS (Dem. Assoc. Secr. of State): 0.35642904730%
[16] Christmas Giving: 6%
[17] Joe Biden for President: 1%
[18] Plan. Parent. PAC of Ore.: 0.33311125916%
[19] Doctors w/o Borders: 0.33311125916%
[20] Everytown for Gun Safety: 0.33311125916%
[21] Reveal Podcast: 0.33311125916%
-------Please see [22] below-------
[23] DLCC (Dem. Legis. Cam. Comm.): 1%
[24] Friends of Willamette Week: 1%
[25] IAVA (Iraq & Afghan. Vet. of Amer.): 0.33311125916%
[26] WWP (Wounded Warrior Project): 1%
Plus, here are the percentages that I have spent on interest and credit card purchases, as outlined within my monthly budget:
[01] Credit Card Purchases: 19%
[22] Monthly Interest: 8%
Total Percentage of Monthly Income from Interest and Purchases: 27%
Grand Total Percentage of Monthly Income for December 2023: 58%
Now, this is where I usually say something like the following on these donation 'updates' that I write each month:
Obviously, I continue needing to greatly reduce the percentage of my monthly income that I am spending on political, progressive and charitable organizations, so that is why I decided to reduce "the number of times that I donate for the same organization per month down to once—or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis," as well as to reduce "the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers."
However, I am going to follow my own words of advice from my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' wherein I stated the following:
I may eventually find out that making these reduced numbers of donations, and/or these reduced amounts for donations, still isn't enough to compensate for this considerable increase in my monthly minimum payments for my credit card, at which time I will reevaluate my financial situation and make adjustments to my political, progressive and charitable donations as needed.
Although, as you can see, I am doing way, way better than I did last month, where my total percentage from donations spent for November 2023 was 71%, and my total percentage from interest and purchases for November 2023 was 58%, for a grand total percentage of monthly income for November 2023 of 129%!
Thus, I spend 40% less on donations for December 2023, but most of that had to do with me making a limited number of contributions for my Christmas donations! Plus, I spent less than 1% (0.33311125916%) on disaster relief this month, since I only donated to Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières. And I spent 3% more on monthly interest this month, because I increased my credit card balance by a considerable amount!
However, I did spend 34% less on credit card purchases for December 2023 than I did last month; and, at the same time, I spent 71% less compared to last month on the grand total percentage of my monthly income for November 2023 at 129%. (I made regular purchases on my credit card over the allotted "Budgeted Expenses" amount in my monthly budget; although, I was buying some items that were on sale!)
So, now, I am continuing to really "tightening my belt," so to speak, with regard to all of the donations that I am making on my credit card each month!
My plan is to only donate to political, progressive and charitable organizations if they specifically ask for donations—and not just for the sake of donating to them at least once per month, or even when I have been taking some sort of action, such as signing a petition, or sending a letter, etc. Thus, I am trying to greatly reduce the number of donations that I make to simply once in a while, or as determined by me on a case-by-case basis!
You see, there are a lot of organizations that I literally donate to only once per year—such as for Giving Tuesday—which is all that I ever donate to them. And that is basically what I am striving for, so that I am still donating to political, progressive and charitable organizations, but the bare minimum that I can donate, since that's all I can really afford.
Therefore, the reason that I am explaining all of this donating and budgeting is because I spent A LOT last year (in 2022), since I was "doing everything in my power to help Democrats win in the 2022 Midterm Elections!" So, I ended up with a rather considerable credit card balance...
...And I am still paying off how much I spent in 2022 on the Midterm Elections while, at the same time, I am trying to be an "Online Activist" and to 'put my money where my mouth is' regarding my activism. That is why I blog about which political, progressive and charitable organizations I am supporting with regard to the causes that are the most important to me!
By the way, this is the final follow-up that I am writing for my 'August 19th, 2023 Update,' because it's a new year as of today, January 1st, 2024, which is when I wrote this 'update.' And I am still planning to provide a similar outline for my January 2024 'update'—which I will probably write on February 1st, 2024—wherein I hope to report how gosh darn frugal I was with regard to political, progressive and charitable organizations I am supporting while I am on a really tight budget... –Paul Whiting (written January 1st, 2024, revised January 2nd, 2024, revised January 9th, 2024 and revised February 1st, 2024)
For my complete political, progressive and charitable donation updates—that include all of my current "Online Activism"—please see my original blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog.
Please see the hyperlink below for the post:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist.html
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This "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" Post No. 152 was edited on August 8th, 2026.
"Prose is using all of the words that are necessary in order to describe all that is necessary to describe." –Paul Whiting [June 1st, 2022]
"Poetry is using the fewest words possible in order to describe all that is possible to describe." –Paul Whiting [June 1st, 2022]
