Sara Gelser's victory in House District 16, by more than a 2-1 margin, was the highlight of the 2006 election in Benton County, but there were many other victories to celebrate, and a few we can term "moral" victories.

Diana Simpson overcame nearly a year of personal attacks to win a 4-year term as Benton County Sheriff, Linda Modrell was returned as County Commissioner, and Charlie Tomlinson will serve as Corvallis Mayor for the next two years. In a squeaker, the Corvallis schools option was passed, which will bring a measure of assistance to the district.

Locally, the HD15, HD23 and SD8 didn't end the way we hoped, but Sam Sappington, Jason Brown and Mario E Magana all ran races we can be proud of. The great news, of course, is that Rep Gelser is in the majority party in Salem — Democrats now control the Oregon Legislature, a great victory for good government — and Peter DeFazio and Darlene Hooley enjoy that same status in Washington, DC. This is the best election for Democrats, locally and nationally, in nearly 20 years.

Earl Blumenauer seems to have found some extra money, and he wants Oregon voters to help him decide which candidates to give it to. Go immediately to http://www.earlblumenauer.com/cgi-bin/housedems.cgi
and cast your vote!

August 9, Wednesday, noon: DEMOFORUM: Merry Demarest speaks on "Parental Notification and the November Ballot" and the implications of Ballot Measure 43 for the health and safety of young women. In 1990, Oregonians defeated a similar measure, with Benton County voting 56% against it, the largest margin in the state. Merry will also discuss how a "No On" campaign works. (Related fact: prior to 1968 it was illegal in 28 states for married couples to use contraceptives.) Upstairs, Majestic Theater (the Community Room), 115 SW 2nd, Corvallis.

Hopefully by now you've heard of the Bus Project. I became involved only recently, and have already been on four Bus canvasses: in Portland for Rick Metsger (SD 26), Salem for Brian Clem (HD 21), Lincoln City for Jean Cowan (HD 10), and North Bend (HD 9) for Arnie Roblan. Of all the ways to get involved in politics and help enact change, boots on the ground canvassing is one of the most effective, which is why I have become involved with the Bus Project. The Bus Project was begun in 2002, and has helped elect many progressive candidates. One candidate supported by the bus won by 40 votes! Canvassing does make a difference!