Sunday, August 30, 2009

Attention KBOO Members - Exercise your privilege and vote in the Board elections!

Some of you who know me may or may not know about the circumstances around my recent lay off from KBOO Community Radio. I've decided there's no reason to hash any of it out here (it's being well-hashed elsewhere and who knows, it may be fodder for a satirical short film someday). I'm still a proud member and active volunteer at the station.

And since I no longer work at KBOO, I can feel free to say how I feel about some of the folks who are currently running for KBOO's Board of Directors. If you are not a member of KBOO Community Radio then join now and support grassroots, locally crafted, non-commercial media. If you are, then you've probably received your official 2009 KBOO Voters' Guide and Ballot in the mail. Don't forget send in your completed ballot or deliver it to the KBOO Annual Membership Meeting on Saturday, September 26, by 2pm. The Annual Meeting takes place at Liberty Hall, 311 N. Ivy St.

Hell yeah!
The reason I'm endorsing the following folks is because I think they are all excellent people whose unique and thoughtful perspectives will help propel KBOO forward during a time of needed change, revolution and evolution. I'm also pleased to note that each of the candidates I'm endorsing are women of color. Where else in Portland you gonna get that kind of slate?

Keller Henry - I've worked some with Keller and can attest to the fact that she is a hard-worker, bright and energetic. Though she's only been with KBOO a short time, she's shown incredible commitment and enthusiasm. Her experience as an activist and perspective as a queer Haitian-American would be a valuable asset to KBOO and the Board.

Nia Lewis - I've worked with Nia a bunch and she kicks ass! She has been serving on the board over the past year in one of the appointed positions and has proven her worth as a committed and savvy board member. As a young African American woman she brings a much-needed perspective as KBOO continues to grow inclusive of diverse voices.

Paul Small - Paula is extremely savvy and exceptionally committed. In her short time at KBOO she's already taken on the role of Board Treasurer (she was appointed to the board at the last meeting after serving on the Finance Committee over the past few months). With her experience in accounting and non-profits, her enthusiasm and grounding energy she will continue to be a strong addition to the board.

Mimi Villarqui - Mimi is a talented and enthusiastic KBOO volunteer who's been doing KBOO events and serving on the Development Committee over the past year. Her interest in marketing/outreach combined with her commitment to community radio make her a huge asset to the KBOO board.

Please, no!
I implore you to please NOT vote for the following candidates:

Scott Forrester
and Michael Papadopoulos - They are in the process of suing KBOO. More of that story here.

Now you've got my $.02. Go forth and vote!

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