Bad 3 Bad 4 Libraries

Think about it: moving beyond Colorado's ballot issue battles

2010-11-08T16:24:00.001-07:00

The Denver Post editorial is here.

Many are wondering if something like the Bad 3 will return to haunt Colorado. I think you can count it. If you enjoyed the piece above, you might be interested in ColoradosFuture.org.

Yippee! (and, and it's gonna be the future soon.)

2010-11-03T06:03:00.013-06:00

“Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret Mead

Here's to all the people across Colorado who got out the word about the Bad 3. And here's to a pro-public service Colorado!

I don't doubt that we will face similar challenges in the future, but I also don't doubt our ability to mobilize for libraries and our communities. I look forward to a long and bright future for libraries. It's not enough to simply remain relevant, we can excel and shine and continue to help people transform their lives in fabulous ways. I can't wait!

A few of the remarks I made at my Internet Librarian preso last week seem fitting today:

- No single super hero can save the day. We’ve all got to be superheroes now. Be your own superhero. Surround yourself with heroes. Share your knowledge and encourage new and veteran superheroes. As always, the time is now to gather and nurture our tribe of library superheroes, and activate our crew of library supporters and advocates. Together, we can continue to spread messages of library support and funding, change perceptions about libraries, and secure a stellar future for libraries.

- Focus your efforts on your super supporters, evangelists,heroes and early adapters. These passionate advocates will help you reach out to, and convince the folks who are sitting on the fence when it comes to library support or advocacy. These undecideds are the people who might be swayed by your messaging. Sometimes they are even advocates in the making. So focus your efforts on the convinceables and probable supporters as well. When you get a pointed and well‐crafted advocacy movement rolling –and join forces with other library lovers‐ the positive momentum is irresistible and rewarding.

- It’s so tempting to argue with the naysayers. They may tell you libraries are obsolete, or that they have enough money and don’t need the library. Maybe they never bother to vote. Maybe they like to tell you can’t make a difference, or that they didn’t go to library school for this, or that it’s someone else’s job. Don’t waste your time. These folks will only drag you down and sap your superhero energy. And you’re not likely to get their vote or change their mind anyhoo. Move along.

Remember the Four Points from Colorado's Big, Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG):

1. Libraries change lives. We are agents of transformation and increased quality of life.
2. Libraries mean business. We help small business owners succeed, draw traffic into local businesses, assist workers with job searches and skillbuilding, and boost property value.
3. Libraries build community. We are an essential part of the community, we bring people together and bring our community to the world.
4. Libraries are a smart investment. For every $1 I spend on Douglas County Libraries, I receive $5 in goods and services. Why buy when you can borrow for less?

So What’s Next?!
I think we all want to be part of a bright future for libraries. We’ve got to play a long‐game of support‐building, and continue to expand and work in concert with our league of library champions. We’ve also got to be the promise of the four points. It’s not enough to talk about how great libraries are, we have to prove it. From Awareness to Funding asks us to demonstrate that libraries are all about the future, and we can’t do this if we cling to the past. Libraries of all kinds need to band together not only to build support, we need to work together to ensure there’s a spot for libraries (libraryrenewal.org!) on the playing field of the digital age.

Why Support Libraries? from Aspen Walker on Vimeo.

Thank you, voters!

2010-11-02T21:58:00.001-06:00

The bad three died well deserved political deaths. Here's hoping they don't come back as zombies in 2012!

And thank you to Aspen Walker who did a great job creating and maintaining the bad3 bad4 libraries blog, and thanks to all the other contributors. I know dozens of library employees who worked hard to defeat these destructive measure - Kudos to you all!

Way to go, COLORADO!

TIME TO VOTE!

2010-11-01T15:56:00.001-06:00

Your Taxes: Unintended tax consequences of 60, 61, 101

2010-10-27T17:30:00.000-06:00

Have you heard about the impact on unemployment insurance in Colorado if the Bad 3 pass? Check out this article in the Summit Daily News for more information.

ADVOCACY ACTION #4: TO SUPPORT LIBRARIES

2010-10-27T17:26:00.001-06:00

"Take one big step outside your comfort zone!

It’s not easy to discuss politics with acquaintances whose beliefs are unknown to us. It’s important to do so, however, because we’re down to the wire on the fall election.

There’s still time to talk to contacts about the enormous potential negative impacts of issues 60, 61, and 101, the “Bad 3.” These ballot measures have attracted an unusually broad and bipartisan opposition, including Republican and Democratic legislative leaders and business, labor and civic organizations.

Your message needn’t be confrontational. You can acknowledge the desire of most people to have the best state possible, while helping the residents of Colorado. Convey your position as rational information, along with a story about the importance of libraries to you personally.

Take time to call or email one person you’re not sure knows the facts about these issues or who you assume has different political beliefs from yours. You may be surprised to find once that the negative impacts you present are convincing to him or her.

Parents and older folks tend to vote in large numbers, so you may want to select someone from these groups. Polls show decreasing support for the “Bad 3,” but we can’t rely on chance."

See more

Farmers Against the Bad 3

2010-10-27T12:23:00.001-06:00

Rocky Mtn. Farmers Union President Kent Peppler on 60/61/101 (as quoted in the Berthoud Recorder): "These three initiatives are a deadly combination. Amendment 60 strips the state of revenue, Amendment 61 forbids it from incurring debt, and Proposition 101 returns our auto license fees to 1919 levels. We need to send the corporate, out-of-state funders attempting to destroy our state a message: 'This is OUR state and we aren't going back to 1919!."

I voted NO on 60/61/101

2010-10-26T13:00:00.000-06:00

Get your badge for FaceBook, Twitter, or your site here.

Poll: Colorado voters coming out against Bad 3

2010-10-25T11:28:00.001-06:00

Poll: Colorado voters coming out against tax-slashing measures - The Denver Post

But be wary and remember the adage- don't count your chickens until they hatch... It is isn't November 3 today.

I might be coming to live with you. No, seriously.

2010-10-20T18:50:00.000-06:00

I absolutely had to share this letter about the dangers of 60/61/101 from the ever-eloquent Erica Olivier. She graciously agreed to share this apt and poignant piece with the lot of us. (Thank you, Erica!)

Coloradans for Responsible Reform files complaint with Secretary of State

2010-10-19T19:05:00.000-06:00

Coloradans for Responsible Reform (CFRR) has filed a campaign finance complaint with the Colorado Secretary of State against Active Citizens Together (ACT), a 501(c)(3) organization.

The complaint alleges that ACT, a tax-exempt non-profit organization, was a Colorado issue committee that failed to disclose its contributions and expenditures. The complaint alleges that checks from the ACT bank account funded the petition drive that placed Amendments 60 and 61 and Proposition 101 on the ballot and that the checks were signed by Douglas Bruce. The complaint also alleges that ACT continues to fund the “yes” campaign paying for campaign materials such as signs and mailings.

Colorado law requires that an organization engaged in such activities must file as an issue committee and report its contributors and expenditures, which ACT has not done.

Read more.

Volunteer with ProgressNow Colorado

2010-10-19T18:42:00.000-06:00

Block walks & phone banks. ProgressNow Colorado is spreading the word "vote no on all the number" issues on the ballot, including 60/61/101.

ADVOCACY ACTION #3: TO SUPPORT LIBRARIES

2010-10-18T21:17:00.003-06:00

"Buzz right out of your hive."

Ballots have gone out in the mail. You probably talk about the election to friends and acquaintances in your normal rounds or circles. If you were a bee, they’d be called your “hive.”

But it’s imperative to build the buzz to reach all voters, particularly ones that may not be in your day-to-day contacts. Try these simple techniques to make your voice heard.
· Add a sentence under your email signature about your position on issues 60, 61, and 101, the “Bad 3.”
· Send email messages directly to friends and acquaintances with your position.
· Challenge yourself to communicate with several people a day until the election.
· Network: ask others to forward short emails or mail cards to their contacts if they agree with you.
· Keep cards or flyers handy to distribute as needed.
The Bell Policy Institute has compiled a list of tools for evaluating the statewide amendments and propositions. The ballot guide has a summary of all amendments and propositions. A video on the “Bad 3” is available in English and Spanish.

This notice is from Library People—Friends of Colorado Libraries,"

All three Advocacy Actions letters are here.

ADVOCACY ACTION #2: TO SUPPORT LIBRARIES

2010-10-16T09:38:00.002-06:00

Elections are changing. Change with them.

Elections are changing Regardless of how many paid television and radio ads are blasting out, person-to-person and word-of-mouth advocacy are key in these times of mail-in ballots and drop-by voting locations. In regard to ballot issues 60, 61, and 101, try these simple techniques to make others aware of the potential impact on libraries and other agencies.
· Write postcards to your friends and acquaintances with a SHORT message.
· Ask if you can speak briefly about the issue at meetings you attend.
· Copy and bring a stack of flyers to meetings or other suitable locations.
· Add a few words about your position to the recorded message on your telephone.

IN THE NEWS: Colorado Independent article "Officials say tax-slashing measures would devastate libraries. SEE

"The battle has begun." That's how Channel 9's Education Reporter Nelson Garcia summed up the on air story he filed after visiting both the Great Education Colorado Action office and the "YES on 60, 61 & 101" campaign. Information on this story

Background on the issues at Bad3Bad4Libraries and Don't Hurt Colorado

This notice is from Library People—Friends of Colorado Libraries, www.librarypeople.org, librarypeoplecolorado@yahoo.com

All three Advocacy Actions letters are here.

Nonpfofits against bad 3 - toolkit and resolution

2010-10-15T09:16:00.001-06:00

The Colorado Nonprofit Association has come out with a a strong resolution against the bad 3 as well as a tool kit to help defeat these measures. Check it out here

Bruce e-mail describes his efforts to pass anti-tax measures

2010-10-14T18:00:00.002-06:00

The Denver Post article.

Larimer County Board of Health Against Bad3

2010-10-14T10:54:00.001-06:00

The board has determined that, if passed, these amendments will severely damage the ability of state and local governments and special districts to protect the well-being of Larimer County residents. These amendments constitute a clear threat to the health of our community.

Read more

Coalition Against 60, 61, 101 Tops 600 Members

2010-10-13T10:37:00.001-06:00

PRESS RELEASES

For Immediate Release:
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Contact: Dan Hopkins, Coloradans for Responsible Reform 303-829-4679
***

From AARP to the Yampa Valley Medical Center and the Colorado High School Activities Association to the Dumb Friends League, groups representing nearly every walk of life and concern from throughout Colorado have joined the coalition to defeat Amendments 60 and 61 and Proposition 101.

Coloradans for Responsible Reform (CFRR) announced today that over 600 organizations now officially oppose the “Ugly Three.”

The campaign against the “Ugly Three” also has gained momentum on Facebook, attracting nearly 15,000 fans. And over the past few weeks, more than 50,000 yard signs have been posted throughout the state.

“This is truly a grassroots campaign,” said Sheila MacDonald, coalition director for CFRR. “As people learn more about the staggering consequences of 60, 61 and 101, they are becoming even more energized in their determination to defeat them.”

Facebook friends are engaging in their own campaigns to defeat the measures. Jennifer posted, “I’ve sent 251 emails and spread the word.” Ann “emailed 100 with more going out.” Rebekah posted that she has sent 460 emails while Dawn said she sent 231 emails and is “going to PTO to discuss how we can get the word out to everyone.”

Rural Colorado is speaking out against the measures through the major farm and ranch groups. The Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Colorado Corn Growers Association, Colorado Dairy Farmers, Colorado Farm Bureau and Rocky Mountain Farmers Union have all passed resolutions in opposition.

Colorado Cattlemen’s Association president Robbie LeValley states that the measures “take away local voter decisions about tax issues, severely impact local fire, ambulance and ditch districts, and reduce funding to local school and road and bridge funds which impact rural Colorado most.”

More than a dozen water providers are opposed including the Colorado River District, Colorado Water Congress, Denver Board of Water Commissioners, Lower Arkansas Water Conservancy District, the Pikes Peak Regional Water Authority and the Pueblo Board of Water Works.

In its resolution, the Colorado River District states the measures would “significantly damage” the ability of water districts throughout the state to fund “their most basic level of services related to safety, water and sanitation.”

Over 50 health providers are opposed, including hospitals, air ambulance services, EMTs, and family, mental and rural health centers.

“These measures are truly hazardous to Colorado’s health. They will force cuts to Medicaid and the Children’s Basic Health Plan. Many rural hospitals won’t be able to fund needed improvements or even lease critical medical equipment,” said Mimi Roberson, President and CEO of Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center.

The education community – at the K-12 and college levels – also has mobilized against the measures. Groups ranging from the Charter School Institute to Great Education Colorado are on the same page.

Districts large and small are in opposition with the Wiggins School District saying it may have to eliminate sports, school buses and food service. The Jefferson County Education Association states that more than 800 Jeffco teachers will lose their jobs. Statewide, CFRR estimates that about 8,000 K-12 teachers would be let go.

Business and civic organizations opposed include Club 20 on the Western Slope, Progressive 15 in northeastern Colorado and Action 22 in the southern half. Combined, these groups cover nearly all of Colorado’s counties. Other major business groups on the list include the Colorado Association of Commerce and Industry, Colorado Association of Homebuilders and the Denver Visitor and Convention Bureau.

“Virtually every business group in the state has taken a stand against the ‘Ugly Three.’ Businesses understand that these measures won’t lead to economic development but instead to economic disaster,” said Kelly Brough, president of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.

A list of all of the organizations in opposition may be found at the CFRR website – www.donthurtcolorado.com. The Facebook page is Vote No On 60, 61, 101.

# # #

Contacts:

Dan Hopkins, CFRR, 303-829-4679
Kate Horle, Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, 303-620-8040
Sheila MacDonald, CFRR, 303-956-3605
Amy Brader, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, 303-431-6422

Paid for by Coloradans for Responsible Reform

Colorado conservatives split over tax measures

2010-10-12T09:00:00.000-06:00

In recent weeks, Natalie Menten, spokeswoman for Colorado Tax Reform, and Gregory Golyansky, vice president of the long-established Colorado Union of Taxpayers, have questioned each other's credentials even as they both lobby for Amendments 60 and 61 and Proposition 101.

http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9IPNVMG0.htm

Editorial Information

2010-10-06T08:56:00.001-06:00

The Colorado Center on Law & Policy has gathered together editorial resources from around Colorado on the impact of 60, 61 and 101. Check it out.

Hopeful News: Voters Down on the Bad 3

2010-10-05T20:36:00.002-06:00

The Oct. 4 front page article is here. The Post/9News conducted a poll with heartening results:

"10 percent of likely voters supported Amendment 60, which would cut property taxes, while 48 percent opposed the measure and 42 percent said they were not certain.

Similarly, 10 percent supported Amendment 61, which would bar state borrowing and limit local debt, while 49 percent opposed the initiative and 40 percent said they were unsure.

Meanwhile, 12 percent of poll respondents said they were supporting Proposition 101, which would cut income taxes and vehicle and phone fees, while 44 percent opposed it and 44 percent were unsure."

But as Don't Hurt Colorado points out, now is not the time to grow complacent or smug. After all, we've got all of those undecided voters to worry about. And remember, the results of Ciruli's September polltarget="_blank" were much dimmer. Pre-election polls are merely a snapshot of voter opinion-- they may provide a glimpse of the possible future, but our future is really an unknown until Election Day...

Oct. 5 Rally at the Capitol

2010-10-05T20:21:00.000-06:00

Channel 4 Coverage

Best Graphic against the Bad 3

2010-10-04T15:45:00.002-06:00

Best Graphic against the Bad 3. The Three Headed Monster on the Ballot.

Jeff Donlan's article in the Salida Citizen

2010-10-04T10:25:00.002-06:00

Analysis puts a price on Prop 101

2010-10-04T09:37:00.001-06:00

The Pueblo Chieftain, 10/3/10

"The Bell Policy Center quantified the impact to Colorado communities if Proposition 101 passes in November, cutting property taxes and vehicle and telecommunication fees.

When fully implemented, Proposition 101 would eliminate $1.7 billion a year in state revenue for road maintenance, emergency medical services, colleges and services to low-income and disabled citizens. Local governments would be deprived of funds for schools, road and bridge maintenance and libraries, it said."

Front Page Editorial

2010-10-03T20:04:00.001-06:00

Reject 60, 61 and 101 from the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel

"Today, we knowingly violate the rule relegating editorials to the editorial page because we hope to shout from the highest point our opposition to Amendments 60, 61 and Proposition 101. We have chosen this unorthodox approach in order to underscore for our readers the tectonic effect passage of these measures would have on our state. We don’t violate journalism tradition lightly; the stakes here demand it."

GOP Leaders: Vote No on 60, 61 and 10

2010-10-03T20:00:00.000-06:00

Key Republicans send letter to Colorado voters against Ugly 3

Read more

#bad3 Rally at the State Capitol!!!

2010-10-02T13:05:00.001-06:00

Tuesday, October 5 · 3:30-4pm
West Steps of the Colorado State Capitol - 200 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO

A non-partisan rally on the steps of the Colorado State Capitol to urge Coloradoans to oppose the three ballot initiatives– Amendments 60 & 61, and Proposition 101 –that if pass, will have devastating implications for schools, families and Colorado’s economy.

This rally is about Colorado’s child-serving community standing together in opposition to 60, 61 and 101 due to their devastating implications for Colorado children, families and communities.

Please join us on the Capitol steps, and invite everyone you can; if passed, these initiatives will affect us all.

FaceBook Event Listing

Prop. 101 backer: Shut libraries, sell light rail

2010-10-02T12:35:00.000-06:00

CO Spgs Gazette article

CO Board of Education Declares Opposition To Amendment 60, Amendment 61 And Proposition 101

2010-10-02T12:27:00.003-06:00

How Would You Divvy Out CO's Budget?

2010-10-02T12:19:00.000-06:00

Play Backseat Budgeter here.

NY Times: Tax Cuts on Colorado Ballot Stir Alarm

2010-10-02T12:09:00.000-06:00

Check it out.

CO business leaders warn of massive job losses from 3 ballot measures

2010-10-02T12:03:00.000-06:00

Denver Business Journal Article

Business Leaders Illustrate Loss of 73,000 Jobs at Mile High Press Conference: CBS Footage

CO Freedom of Information Council Adopts Resolution in Support of Access to Libraries

2010-10-02T11:53:00.000-06:00

CO Spgs Gazette: Say 'no' to 60, 61 & 101 (& vote in their poll)

2010-10-02T11:50:00.000-06:00

Library People: Advocacy Action Now!

2010-10-02T11:45:00.000-06:00

ADVOCACY ACTION #1: TO SUPPORT LIBRARIES

Letters, We’ve Got Letters!

Many libraries and library organizations have passed resolutions opposing ballot proposals 60, 61, and 101.

This is the time for individuals to let folks know about the impact of ballot proposals 60,61, and 101. Mail-in ballots will be out in mid-October, so voters need information in advance.

WHAT YOU CAN DO: WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR OF YOUR LOCAL PAPER, RADIO, TV.
Letter sample (adapt to your locale). Remember, it often takes two to four weeks to get a letter published, so start now.

WHAT YOU CAN DO: WRITE A LETTER TO FRIENDS, COLLEAGUES AND MEMBERS OF ORGANIZATIONS.
Give them the facts. Ask them to inform their contacts. Tell them why it is important to defeat the Bad Three. Urge them to send letters as well. Don't Hurt Colorado resources/toolkit.

Or, print & share this postcard. Print on a regular-size sheet of light card stock, cut in quarters, sign your name and mail with a 28¢ stamp.

WHAT YOU CAN DO: EMAIL A MESSAGE TO FRIENDS, COLLEAGUES AND MEMBERS OF ORGANIZATIONS.

E-mail is an effective way to reach all of your associates. Write your letter or copy the postcard message. Send it to your e-mail list. To keep the Don't Hurt Colorado campaign informed, you can e-mail a copy of your letter to Sheila @ Solutions-West.com

___

This notice is from Library People—Friends of Colorado Libraries, www.librarypeople.org, librarypeoplecolorado @ yahoo.com

Election 2010: Voter Registration Ends Monday, October 4!!!

2010-10-02T11:35:00.000-06:00

Colorado Independent: Officials say tax-slashing measures would devastate libraries

2010-10-02T11:21:00.000-06:00

Check out the story here.

Great Education Colorado: How You Can Help

2010-10-02T11:19:00.000-06:00

Attend or host a postcard party -- where you can join with others to write personalized postcards to targeted voters, asking them to join you in voting NO.

Adopt a few targeted voters with a small contribution! $1.00 contacts a voter three times. $28.00 enables us to send 100 postcards!

Visit the "one-stop shop" where you can pledge to vote no, offer to volunteer, and then spread the word.

9 News Story

2010-10-02T11:16:00.001-06:00

Republicans Speak Out Against the Bad 3

2010-10-02T11:12:00.000-06:00

Think opposition to 60/61/101 is a liberal thing? Think again. In fact, it's largely a non-partisan effort. Folks from the red, blue, independent and miscellaneous camps agree that these ballot measures too extreme, and will gut Colorado's economy and quality of life.
Recent News from the Republicans:

Key Republicans send letter to Colorado voters against Ugly 3

Former Gov. Bill Owens in The Post-- 60, 61 and 101: Too good to be true? Yes, the effect is disaster

Blue Book available online

2010-09-28T08:28:00.004-06:00

Thanks to the Talking Book Library, you can read the Colorado Legislative Council's Blue Book online.

Join bipartisan effort, oppose ballot issues

2010-09-26T10:06:00.000-06:00

"Colorado's governmental entities are already struggling under the TABOR and Gallagher amendments. Now 60, 61 and 101 are ready to attack the viability of Colorado. Remember, amendments change the constitution, make it harder for government entities to react quickly to changing conditions, and take away local control." Letter to the Editor from Margie Caswell, Red Feather Lakes
http://www.coloradoan.com/article/20100926/OPINION03/9260330/1014/OPINION/Join+bipartisan+effort++oppose+ballot+issues

Want to help?

2010-09-20T13:42:00.000-06:00

Write a letter to the editor.

Find your local paper here.

News & Links

2010-09-20T13:35:00.001-06:00

Congressional candidates add their names to letter opposing the Bad 3

Ballot measures would hurt spending on other programs

Measures target state, local governments

Red Feather Mountain Library District Friends and Board Oppose Amendments
Red Feather Resolution

Don't Hurt Colorado Radio Ads

2010-09-20T12:33:00.000-06:00

Listen here.

Colorado Republicans come out against tax-slashing measures - The Denver Post

2010-09-20T12:28:00.000-06:00

Denver Post Article

Colorado Association of Libraries Updates

2010-09-20T12:08:00.003-06:00

The September/October CAL newsletter article on 60/61/101 is available here.

CAL's Resolution in Opposition to 60/61/101.

CALCON10 (Oct. 7-9) is a primo opportunity to learn more about these initiatives, and connect with other opponents.

Campaign consultant Rick Ridder, will provide an up-to-the-minute analysis of these ballot issues and their potential impact during lunch hour on Friday.
Check out our October 7 pre-conference...
Sustaining Libraries: Advocacy in 2010 & What's Next?!
Colorado libraries face shrinking budgets and three anti-public service initiatives (60/61/101). Dire times call for a big, hairy, audacious goal (BHAG”) and YOU. Plug in to the BHAG advocacy & social media movement, the campaign to preserve Colorado’s public services, the Library People advocacy group, and the What’s Next?! support marketing campaign. With Valerie Horton, Jamie LaRue, Debbi MacLeod, Bonnie McCune, Sharon Morris, Claudine Perrault, and Aspen Walker. Sign up here.

The Ciruli Poll: A Mixed Bag, with Many Undecided Folks Left to Convince

2010-09-20T11:44:00.001-06:00

http://www.cml.org/pdf_files/ballot_poll.pdf

Pueblo Chieftain: Charter school leaders oppose tax-cutting measures

2010-09-18T12:48:00.001-06:00

From Thursday's Chieftain ...

"The Charter School Institute Board of Directors is the latest education board to approve a resolution opposing Amendments 60 and 61 and Proposition 101, which are on the November ballot.

"We believe Proposition 101, and Amendments 60 and 61 are not in the best interest of Colorado students and citizens," said Wayne Eckering, chairman of the CSI board. "Individually and collectively, these three measures are irresponsible. They would cut funding even further to school districts as well as charter schools and limit the ability of schools to make improvements to its facilities.

"These measures have the potential to ruin the ability of all schools to make plans and improvements for the future and to provide parents and students with the quality school options they have come to expect and deserve," Eckering said."

Doom and gloom (seriously)

2010-09-15T21:32:00.001-06:00

"60, 61 and 101 are radical policies in the service of radical ends. Instead of merely rolling back the Ritter administration and legislature's property tax "freeze" that amounted to an illegal tax hike, for example, they would slash school district mill levies in half while ordering the state to backfill the loss with non-existent revenue."

Read more from Vincent Carroll, a conservative commentator for the Denver Post

Save Your Library meeting

2010-09-15T21:24:00.001-06:00

"Please join us to hear from one of the library industry's foremost advocacy experts and former American Library Association President, Dr.
Camila Alire

Dr. Alire will help us rally together and give us the practical tools we need to talk to our family and friends about defeating 60, 61 and 101.
Arm yourself with the tools you need to convince others to vote against these ballot issues that will seriously hurt our libraries and public entities statewide.

This event will take place on Thursday, Sept. 23. A reception with refreshments will take place at 6:30 p.m. on the 4th floor lobby of the Rawlings Library, 100 E. Abriendo in Pueblo. This will be followed by Dr. Alire's program at 7 p.m. This event is sponsored by Save Your Library. The program is free and open to the public.

It's hard to believe there are only a few weeks before ballots are mailed out and voting begins. We have to get the word out NOW! Keep talking to everyone you know about how devastating The Bad 3 are for our community. Let's do everything we can to stop these Douglas Bruce initiatives that will ruin Colorado!"

Take care,
Midori Clark
Save Your Library

Bad news on polling

2010-09-13T19:57:00.001-06:00

Proposition 101 cuts income, telecommunication and auto taxes and fees. The bad news is that
51% in a recent poll plan to vote for this bad idea. Encourage everyone you know to vote this year AND TO VOTE NO ON THE BAD 3!

What does the AARP and Broncos have in common?

2010-09-13T19:54:00.004-06:00

Both organizations oppose the Bad 3!

PICK UP YARD SIGNS - SEPT 18

2010-09-13T19:50:00.002-06:00

No on 60, 61 and 101 yard sign pick up at the following locations statewide

2010-09-13T08:50:00.004-06:00

YARD SIGN DISTRIBUTION INFORMATION

via donthurtcolorado.com

Ugly 3 yard signs. Our coalition members are helping with distribution, but the distributing organization varies from region to region. To find out where you can get a sign, call Alexis or Matt at 303-830-3938 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 303-830-3938 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.

CAL opposes the Bad 3

2010-09-12T13:48:00.000-06:00

The Colorado Association of Libraries' Board voted on a resolution opposing the Bad 3!

Video about the Bad 3

2010-09-10T20:21:00.001-06:00

The Bad Three in Plain English - a simple video to share with your friends and family - a nice plug for libraries is included!

60 + 61 + 101 equals futures destroyed

2010-09-09T08:22:00.002-06:00

Fort Collins Coloradoan Column Thursday, September 9th, 2010
"Amendment 61 is just plain anti-capitalism. One doesn't need to be a businessperson to understand that big initiatives that bear fruit for decades require long-term debt. Proponents would argue that localities can still find a way to invest in the future using 10-year loans. How many of you are in a position to pay off your home loan in 10 years?"

LaRue's Views Against the Bad 3

2010-09-06T14:24:00.002-06:00

Jamie LaRue's Views

Sept 6 column - "Old Days Not So Good"
Sept 9 column - "Amendment 61 reduces debt - and construction"
Sept 2 column - "Amendment 60 kills jobs"

Arapahoe meeting on the bad 3

2010-09-06T14:06:00.001-06:00

Arapahoe County League of Women Voters will sponsor a public forum on 60, 61, and 101 on 9/27 @ 7pm @ Koelbel Library

The Dos and Don'ts of fighting the Bad 3 as a library employee

2010-09-06T13:55:00.001-06:00

From the Colorado Association of libraries

The Dos and Don'ts of fighting the Bad 3 as a library employee

Add a Bad 3 Bad 4 Libraries Twibbon to your FaceBook/Twitter Avatar

2010-09-06T11:24:00.001-06:00

http://twibbon.com/join/Bad-3-Bad-4-Libraries-2

2010 Colorado Ballot Workshops

2010-09-06T09:18:00.002-06:00

http://thewhitehouseproject.org/voterunlead/govote/COBallotTour2010.php

Denver Post: Blue Book Biased?

2010-09-06T09:11:00.000-06:00

Proponents of tax-slashing ballot measures claim Blue Book biased - The Denver Post

Here are a few of the organizations opposing the Bad 3

2010-09-05T20:34:00.002-06:00

Colorado Contractors Association
Colorado Hospital Association
Colorado Nonprofit Association
Colorado Senior Lobby
County Sheriff's of Colorado
Denver Broncos Football Club
Dolores School District RE-4A
El Paso County Commissioners
Emergency Medical Services Association Colorado
Lutheran Advocacy Ministry - Colorado
Pueblo Rural Fire Fighters, I.A.F.F. Local 3319
Rifle Area Chamber of Commerce
San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center
See more

Conservatives Oppose the Bad 3

2010-09-05T20:21:00.001-06:00

Greeley's Tribune Opinion: ‘Ugly 3' too extreme for Colorado

"We believe the three amendments on this fall's election ballot will kill economic growth in Colorado, cripple services provided by state and local government, and doom education funding at a time when it already is dismally low.

We don't have the space here to spell out everything that's wrong with the Ugly 3, as some are calling them. But it's interesting to us that some of the most conservative Republicans in Colorado are opposing the measures."

Bad 3 leaves Colorado in "Ruins"

2010-09-04T18:31:00.003-06:00

Excerpt from the Denver Post regarding Tancredo's support for the Bad 3, and Maes' support for one of them.

"If that's the kind of state budget Tancredo wants to oversee, we can't imagine what he hopes to accomplish other than preside over the ruins

....

And Tancredo and Maes need to spend the next several weeks explaining how they plan to govern a state with no money and what programs they want to eliminate."

The Bad 3 make even MEDIOCRE education impossible!

2010-09-04T08:16:00.001-06:00

Great Education Colorado

“Your One-Stop Shop to Help Defeat 60, 61 & 101

Great futures start with a great education. But even mediocre education will be impossible, if Amendments 60 & 61, and/or Proposition 101 pass this November. These initiatives will result in increased class size, deep cuts to schools and colleges, layoffs, closures, shorter school years and lost educational opportunity for all Colorado's kids.”

Colorado Librarians, Many Others Fear Anti-Tax Ballot Measures Would Devastate Government

2010-09-03T15:16:00.000-06:00

Library Journal: Colorado Librarians, Many Others Fear Anti-Tax Ballot Measures Would Devastate Government

A must read article for all Colorado library employees

2010-09-03T08:26:00.001-06:00

Colorado Librarians, Many Others Fear Anti-Tax Ballot Measures Would Devastate Government

Library Journal By Norman Oder Sep 2, 2010

"Flamethrowers to remove a wart"

2010-08-31T15:30:00.001-06:00

QUOTE OF THE DAY: In a debate sponsored by the Greeley Gazette, GOP State House candidate Bob Boswell was asked his position on 60/61/101. His response: " He said while he understood the frustration of people who were upset that government was using fees as taxes the proposals were like using a flamethrower to remove a wart."

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Vote-No-On-60-61-101/116165431757444

The Time is Now

2010-08-27T23:57:00.004-06:00

Head's up! The Bad 3 are currently polling to win. Our fears could become reality.

Many voters may opt for the short-sighted relief promised by the initiatives, without understanding the long-term economic impact of voting for 60/61/101.

Truth is, the Bad 3 will carry Colorado into a far deeper recession than we are currently experiencing. If they pass, we can count on at least 70,000 lost jobs statewide, battered local business, pillaged public amenities, and severely diminished library service. People are flocking to libraries in these hard times, and we won't be able to sustain the demand. We live to serve, and we'll be hobbled.

Mail-in ballots hit homes October 12, and many Coloradoans vote by mail. Now is the time to take action. If you love libraries, please spread the word about the dire and factual impact Colorado faces. No single hero can rescue Colorado. We need a vast crew. We need YOU.

A glimpse of what we face... The campaign for Amendments 60 and 61 and Prop 101 sounds bad, but it may just work (CO Springs Independent).

Are Colorado Property Taxes High?

2010-08-27T23:53:00.000-06:00

“The business-supported Tax Foundation lists Colorado 6th best for business among all 50 states in its 2010 Business Property Tax Index. (Factoring in all taxes, Colorado ranked 13th best in the Tax Foundation’s overall Business Tax Climate Index.) Residential property taxes in Colorado are low. According to the Tax Foundation the property tax levied on the average Denver home is 0.53% of home value. In comparison Los Angeles is 0.50%, Cheyenne 0.65%, Miami 0.90%, Bergen County, New Jersey 1.63% and Dallas 2.12%. Colorado homeowners enjoy low property tax rates."

Source: Colorado Municipal League