Want to stay ahead in the Pikes Peak region's dynamic landscape? Tune in as we uncover the pivotal events shaping our community, from the election buzz to Veterans Day tributes. Join me, Adam Gillard, as I navigate through the next week's events. Starting with Rep Jason Crow's stopping by to GOTV! Tune in for more events!

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CO Veterans and Military Families for Harris Walz Get Out the Vote

https://www.mobilize.us/2024covictory/event/732517/

Join Adam Gillard and Dick Wilkinson for their first ever Veterans' Voices segment. Dick posed the question, what do you hope to see with a Harris/Walz administration? Tune in to hear the insights of local vets.

Also, Simon Tafoya stopped by to talk about a Veteran Based Harriz/Walz event here in Colorado Springs. Click the link above to RSVP for details.

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Is the American political landscape teetering on the edge of unprecedented transformation? Join us for an insightful episode of Left Face as we dissect recent events that have left the nation on tenterhooks. We kick off with a curious incident from a Donald Trump rally where a dance session led by the former president bewildered many. However, beneath the entertainment lies a chilling narrative: Trump's alarming rhetoric about the "enemy within" and the potential implications for military engagement with civilians. Our conversation explores the fine line between maintaining military neutrality and the dangers of its politicization, underscoring the critical importance of lawful orders in preserving democracy.

The shadow of Donald Trump's influence continues to cast a long reach over state governors, despite his absence from official power. This episode examines how Trump's enduring impact reshapes political dynamics and could challenge democratic norms if his voter base remains strong, even in the face of Electoral College defeat. We unpack the strategic deployment of National Guard troops during his tenure, questioning the implications of such maneuvers. Through a careful analysis, we highlight the crucial role veterans and citizens play in safeguarding political stability by active civic engagement and participation in the democratic process.

Within the Republican Party, the landscape is shifting, and figures like Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger find themselves navigating treacherous waters due to their opposition to Trump. As these political loyalties unfold, we reflect on the historical parallels to past events like Kent State, warning against unchecked power and authoritarian tendencies. The episode is a clarion call for listeners to vote with intention and awareness, urging a proactive stance against misinformation and heightened rhetoric. In this ever-evolving political climate, staying informed and active in democracy is not just a choice—it's a necessity.

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Are political leaders truly serving their communities, or are they prioritizing personal agendas? Join us as we navigate the murky waters of partisanship and disaster response with a provocative question in mind. We dissect the complexities of the upcoming election season, the political maneuvering during hurricanes like Milton and Helene, and the challenges of emergency management amid shifting weather patterns. This episode isn't just about storms; it's about the political storms that follow, and the leaders who attempt to steer them.

Our discussion stretches from North Carolina veterans caught between rhetoric and reality to the broader implications of misinformation in political discourse. Why do emotional appeals often overpower facts, and how can individuals reconcile their personal beliefs with a duty to serve impartially?

Curious about the evolving landscape of the labor force and its political ramifications? We explore the diverse dynamics of today's workforce and the hurdles unions face in advocating for better conditions. From the cultural melting pot that globalization has created to legislative constraints like the Taft-Hartley Act, we reveal the political disconnect contributing to the struggle for labor rights. The conversation extends to the fear-mongering tactics surrounding cannabis in Colorado Springs, illustrating the power of biased media and emotional manipulation. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the intersection of politics, community, and labor, all while challenging conventional wisdom.

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Liz Rosenbaum, a dynamic force in political activism and a candidate for House District 21, joins us to share her journey from history teacher to community organizer. Through her insightful narratives, Liz illustrates how she has harnessed the power of civic engagement to connect individuals and confront injustices. In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked challenges veterans face when entering political discussions and the critical role mentorship plays in political activism. By sharing personal stories and experiences, Liz and co-host Dick Wilkinson demonstrate how proactive involvement and community building can transform political landscapes.

As we navigate the intricacies of local governance, Liz guides us through the impact that elected officials have on education and daily life, particularly in Colorado's House District 21. Her personal reflections on the aftermath of the 2009 budget crisis reveal the struggles faced by local governments in resource allocation, especially in education. Liz's transition from teaching to politics, spurred by experiences in civic leadership, underscores the importance of understanding governmental influence on local communities and the need for accountability and transparency in public office.

The conversation also spotlights the hurdles and victories of running against an absent incumbent, with Liz emphasizing the significance of being present and accountable to constituents. Her grassroots efforts focus on modernizing infrastructure, advocating for fair healthcare policies, and addressing environmental issues like PFAS contamination. Through compelling anecdotes, Liz shares her commitment to introducing legislation that protects rural populations from unfair billing practices and highlights the need for inclusive healthcare policies. The episode concludes with a strong call for community engagement and the importance of grassroots activism in effecting real change.

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Discover how Syracuse University is making a difference for veterans as Adam and  Dick share their journeys through the Veterans Program for Politics and Civic Engagement. With insights from a non-partisan curriculum and a diverse lineup of guest speakers, Adam brings to light the unique benefits and accessibility of these programs. This episode also uncovers the contrasting fundraising strategies between Democratic grassroots movements and the more centralized Republican tactics, providing a nuanced look at how these approaches influence political engagement and outreach.

We then shift focus to the financial machinery driving today's political campaigns, dissecting the transparent, decentralized funding of Democratic efforts versus the opaque, centralized support for Donald Trump. The episode scrutinizes recent legislative changes in states like Georgia and Montana, delving into their potential impact on election integrity and the broader implications for democracy. The critical analysis extends to the timing and execution of these reforms amidst ongoing election cycles, raising important questions about the future of political processes.

Lastly, we confront the pressing issue of America's failing infrastructure, using recent train car leaks in Ohio as a lens to explore broader systemic challenges. This segment draws parallels to the New Deal era, emphasizing the necessity of significant investment in infrastructure and the obstacles posed by privatized systems. We delve into the complex interplay of government policy, corporate responsibility, and public safety, calling for strategic governance and long-term planning. This episode serves as a compelling call to action for greater awareness and advocacy in tackling these urgent national issues.

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What does it take to challenge the status quo in local politics? Today, we sit down with Kat Gayle, a candidate for the Colorado House in District 14, who has been making waves in Colorado Springs. Growing up in Loveland with a strong conservation ethic, Kat's career has spanned law and human rights work across various countries. Her journey back to Colorado Springs, spurred by a contentious amphitheater project, highlights the power of grassroots activism in addressing community concerns and shaping local governance.

Kat shares eye-opening insights on the financial and legal challenges faced by citizens contesting local government decisions, particularly in development projects. She emphasizes the critical need for fair representation and justice in our communities. We discuss the broader implications of uncoordinated development on local infrastructure, safety, and public services. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the dynamics of local governance and the balance of power between developers and citizens.

We also delve into the preservation of open spaces and the challenges of urban development in Colorado Springs. Kat voices her concerns over the commercialization of parks and the impact of infill development on wildlife habitats. We tackle the pressing issue of affordable housing, critiquing the shift towards "attainable housing" and the lack of necessary infrastructure to support increased density. Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the need for responsible growth to ensure a sustainable future for Colorado's residents.

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What happens when formal debate techniques meet the fiery realm of political discourse? Join us on Left Face as we navigate the nuanced landscape of competitive public speaking and political debate. We begin by dissecting the recent Presidential debate, where we spotlight Vice President Harris's compelling performance and the subtle yet powerful influence of media bias. Dick draws from his extensive experience in high school and college debates, offering a behind-the-scenes look at formats like Lincoln-Douglas and team debates, and explaining why debaters must be agile enough to argue both sides of a topic.

We then shift our focus to the emotional tug-of-war that political candidates engage in during televised debates. Learn how trust-building tactics and emotional appeals have evolved from precise technical discussions to captivating narratives. We speculate on the possibility of another debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, examining the strategic calculations each might make. We also touch on Trump’s rocky relationships with his vice presidents and cabinet members, and delve into the paradoxical support he garners from veterans despite his publicized clashes with military leaders.

Closing on a heartfelt note, we recount a moving memorial ceremony, complete with touching speeches, a dramatic flyover, and the haunting strains of a bagpipe tribute. We also celebrate veteran entrepreneurship in Colorado Springs, discussing the challenges and resources available to veteran business owners. Finally, stay connected with our community as we preview upcoming Veterans Day events and provide details on how to participate. Tune in for an episode brimming with insights, heartfelt moments, and invaluable information for veterans and military enthusiasts alike!

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What does it take for a veteran to transition from military service to the political arena? Today, we are thrilled to be joined by Mike Pierson, a seasoned veteran who's running for House District 22 in Colorado. Mike sheds light on his unique journey, sharing his rich background in political science, journalism, and public affairs during his Air Force career. We also delve into the inner workings of the Colorado House of Representatives, revealing their session schedules and legislative processes. 

Feeling the squeeze on Powers Boulevard? You're not alone. Our conversation takes a critical turn as we discuss the urgent need for infrastructure improvements on this key arterial road. Mike passionately advocates for prioritizing enhancements beyond current projects to alleviate severe congestion. On a broader scale, we tackle the pressing issue of housing affordability, arguing for simplified state regulations that could ease the bureaucratic burden on residents and businesses. This is your chance to understand the intricacies of local development and why it matters to you.

Ever thought about how urban planning and transportation intersect with affordable housing? As Colorado Springs evolves, Mike discusses the necessity of economic incentives for builders to create affordable homes for essential workers like teachers and truck drivers. He emphasizes the importance of efficient public transit systems and higher density in urban planning, drawing insightful comparisons to cities like Washington DC and Frankfurt, Germany. We wrap up by reflecting on patriotism and public service, sharing Mike's military experiences and his vision for a safer, more inclusive world. Don't miss his heartfelt thoughts on upcoming Memorial Day and September 11th Memorial Park events.

https://pierson4co.com/

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What if your city banned something that had overwhelming public support? Join us as we unpack our recent experiences and delve into the heated debate over recreational cannabis legalization in Colorado Springs. Despite huge public backing, the city counsel is trying to ban recreational sales in the city charter. Drawing from Dick Wilkinson's firsthand experiences in New Mexico, we explore the complexities and resistance local governments face when shifting from medical to recreational cannabis. We challenge the conservative push to revert to old norms and advocate for the persistent need for cannabis access.

Veterans face a unique set of hurdles when it comes to cannabis use, from VA benefits to privacy concerns within the medical system. This episode tackles the stigma head-on, emphasizing the importance of open, honest communication with healthcare providers, especially regarding cannabis use before medical procedures. We discuss the compassionate need for recreational cannabis access, particularly for those hesitant to seek traditional medical help. Moreover, we highlight the positive impact of cannabis legalization in Albuquerque, noting a reduction in cartel activities and no significant rise in crime.

Finally, we shift our conversation towards the power of voter mobilization and responsible discussions on sensitive topics like politics, cannabis, and the trans community. With high voter turnout expected in the upcoming presidential cycle, we detail strategies employed by the Responsible Rec community to engage and mobilize voters, such as literature campaigns and word-of-mouth efforts. We also provide updates on exciting events like the Dem Gala and Veterans Day breakfast. Stay informed and connected by signing up for our newsletter. Tune in for an episode rich with insights and critical updates!

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