Albany Banner Brigade |
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In Albany, more than 40
protest attack on Venezuela
| Susan Leonard was hoping for a day off to put away her Christmas decorations. “But with this guy in the White House, there’s never a day off,” said the Linn County Democrat, who was among more than 40 people who turned out Saturday, Jan. 3, for an “emergency” Honk & Wave protest in downtown Albany in response to the U.S. military strike on Venezuela to oust the country's authoritarian ruler, Nicolas Mudaro. “Now we’re not just defending what happens in our country.” Leonard said. “Now we have to defend international law — which he (Donald Trump) has broken — which we know has stood since World War II. So there’s no excuse. We all need to be in the streets; this (resistance) has to win. Impeach. Convict. Remove.” The two-hour afternoon protest at Fourth Avenue and Ellsworth Street was organized by Albany Region Indivisible. |  |
'Day without an Immigrant' observances planned
The "Day without an Immigrant) is being organized by PCUN to stand with Immigrant workers:
"Immigrant workers are the backbone some of Oregon's most important sectors. We came here following the American dream, and to build a better life for our families.
We work the jobs nobody else will do. Backbreaking. Low paid. Dangerous labor. We helped make this country one of the richest countries in the world. We're not criminals, we're families, workers, PEOPLE!
We have seen an overwhelming increase in ICE and Border Patrol in our communities, terrorizing our children, destabilizing our local business, harming our community. As farmworkers, one of our most powerful messages is that we're the workers that feed America. Without us America doesn't eat. It will be important that we start to own that power, and gain commitments from immigrants and allies alike to deny economic participation. No work. No shopping. No school. Join our cause!"
"Immigrant workers are the backbone some of Oregon's most important sectors. We came here following the American dream, and to build a better life for our families.
We work the jobs nobody else will do. Backbreaking. Low paid. Dangerous labor. We helped make this country one of the richest countries in the world. We're not criminals, we're families, workers, PEOPLE!
We have seen an overwhelming increase in ICE and Border Patrol in our communities, terrorizing our children, destabilizing our local business, harming our community. As farmworkers, one of our most powerful messages is that we're the workers that feed America. Without us America doesn't eat. It will be important that we start to own that power, and gain commitments from immigrants and allies alike to deny economic participation. No work. No shopping. No school. Join our cause!"
- Jan. 19 — MLK Day
- Feb. 16, 2026
- March 16, 2026
- April 1, 2026
- May 1, 2026 — International Workers Day
| | 'Signs of Fascism' on displayAlbany Region Indivisible was joined at the weekly Honk & Wave on Dec. 12 by Salem Region Indivisible who brought their "Signs of Fascism." It was an effective way of pointing out to drivers the road they're on to fascism. |
Albany Banner Brigade holds ninth banner drop
The Albany Banner Brigade held its holiday edition banner drop Dec. 6 over I-5 from both sides of the Santiam Highway overpass. Organized by Albany Region Indivisible, tt was the brigade's ninth banner drop since Aug; 30. Fifteen people participated.
#albanyorindivisible #VisibilityBrigade
#albanyorindivisible #VisibilityBrigade
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Linn Dems Chair Ben Watts, far right, listens as Susan Leonard announces coming events during the Dec 4 Central Committee Meeting and Holiday Party at Santiam Place Wedding & Event Hall in Lebanon.
Linn Dems ring in the holidays
| The Linn County Democrats, in what has become a December tradition, held our Central Committee meeting and holiday party Dec. 4 at festive Santiam Place Wedding & Event Hall in Lebanon. People brought more than 100 food and care items and a $20 cash donation for Fish of Lebanon. A big thank you to Elaine Wilder for coordinating the food drive and delivering the items to Fish on Dec. 5. Bids for three holiday gift baskets brought in $250 for the Linn Dems. The evening included tasty holiday treats and a. variety of hot chocolate. Thanks to Nichole Case, Jackie Montague and Cindy Bethell for organizing the event. |  Jackie Montague and Nichole Case |  Susan and Mark Leonard |
Oregon Democrats strongly endorse
Gov. Kotek's reelection bid
 |  Gov Tina Kotek |
Linn Dems urge senators, reps to strongly oppose
any new Oregon ICE detention facilities
Ben Watts Dec. 11, 2025
Dear Senator Merkley, Senator Wyden, Congresswoman Bynum and Congresswoman Hoyle,
On behalf of the Linn County Democrats, I am writing to urge you to strongly and immediately oppose the placement of any new ICE detention facility anywhere along the coast or anywhere else in Oregon.
As you know, there is a complete lack of transparency from the Department of Homeland Security on their facility planning for ICE agents and detainees. We appreciate the effort from our elected leaders in response to the news about a potential ICE facility at the Newport Airport. We support your continued efforts as we learn more about new potential sites they seek to use to lodge those seized under the guise of immigration enforcement.
It is disturbing that there is no transparency about the plan for a detention center and no opportunity for our local leaders, let alone the public, to be informed or have input. It only underscores that the location and operation of ICE detention camps in Oregon will further jeopardize the safety and well-being of our families, friends, neighbors, and co-workers.
The prospect of an increased ICE presence in our communities is deeply disturbing. Here in Oregon and across the country, anonymous masked “agents” have already taken moms, dads, and even children from their homes, places of work, and off of sidewalks while on their way to school.
News about current facilities has included reports of overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and lack of food, water, or medical care. People have been unable to communicate with family or have access to legal counsel. There seems to be virtually no accountability for what goes on in these camps or for the way people are treated. There is no indication that any new camps in Oregon would operate any differently. It is unthinkable that we would tolerate additional such facilities to further inflict these things on our community members, friends and neighbors.
The just administration of the use of force on behalf of the people requires that those who have that delegated authority are accountable to the people. Anonymity, deceit, and opposition to collaboration with local leadership and institutions directly oppose this principle, and the individual’s right to due process is being ignored. Such actions contradict our American values and are a grave threat to our way of life.
Thank you for the work you continue to do on behalf of Oregonians.
Sincerely,
Ben Watts
Chair, Linn County Democrats
Dear Senator Merkley, Senator Wyden, Congresswoman Bynum and Congresswoman Hoyle,
On behalf of the Linn County Democrats, I am writing to urge you to strongly and immediately oppose the placement of any new ICE detention facility anywhere along the coast or anywhere else in Oregon.
As you know, there is a complete lack of transparency from the Department of Homeland Security on their facility planning for ICE agents and detainees. We appreciate the effort from our elected leaders in response to the news about a potential ICE facility at the Newport Airport. We support your continued efforts as we learn more about new potential sites they seek to use to lodge those seized under the guise of immigration enforcement.
It is disturbing that there is no transparency about the plan for a detention center and no opportunity for our local leaders, let alone the public, to be informed or have input. It only underscores that the location and operation of ICE detention camps in Oregon will further jeopardize the safety and well-being of our families, friends, neighbors, and co-workers.
The prospect of an increased ICE presence in our communities is deeply disturbing. Here in Oregon and across the country, anonymous masked “agents” have already taken moms, dads, and even children from their homes, places of work, and off of sidewalks while on their way to school.
News about current facilities has included reports of overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and lack of food, water, or medical care. People have been unable to communicate with family or have access to legal counsel. There seems to be virtually no accountability for what goes on in these camps or for the way people are treated. There is no indication that any new camps in Oregon would operate any differently. It is unthinkable that we would tolerate additional such facilities to further inflict these things on our community members, friends and neighbors.
The just administration of the use of force on behalf of the people requires that those who have that delegated authority are accountable to the people. Anonymity, deceit, and opposition to collaboration with local leadership and institutions directly oppose this principle, and the individual’s right to due process is being ignored. Such actions contradict our American values and are a grave threat to our way of life.
Thank you for the work you continue to do on behalf of Oregonians.
Sincerely,
Ben Watts
Chair, Linn County Democrats
Linn Dems to ring in the holidays
Dec. 4 at Santiam Place and on Zoom
Please join us Thursday, Dec. 4, for holiday cheer and our monthly Central Committee meeting at Santiam Place Wedding & Event Hall, 139 N. Main St., Lebanon, and on Zoom.
We will have a silent auction, a hot cocoa bar (plus coffee and tea), and snacks. Word on the street is that we have some fantastic baskets, including a coffee basket, for our silent auction!
The evening's agenda includes committee reports, Campaign 101 recap, ICE related discussions, SCC Resolution update and more.
We will accept food donations to support Lebanon food pantries. (Thank you, Elaine, for coordinating drop-off!). So please bring nonperishable food and toiletries. Thank you for checking your expiration dates.
We can just smell the peppermint! See you there!
We will have a silent auction, a hot cocoa bar (plus coffee and tea), and snacks. Word on the street is that we have some fantastic baskets, including a coffee basket, for our silent auction!
The evening's agenda includes committee reports, Campaign 101 recap, ICE related discussions, SCC Resolution update and more.
We will accept food donations to support Lebanon food pantries. (Thank you, Elaine, for coordinating drop-off!). So please bring nonperishable food and toiletries. Thank you for checking your expiration dates.
We can just smell the peppermint! See you there!
A Thanksgiving message
Ben Watts Nov 27, 2025
Today we celebrate family, community, and the joy of gathering around the table in the spirit of gratitude. As we come together with friends and loved ones, let’s remember the origins of this holiday.
In the spring of 1621, the starving and beleaguered English immigrants known as the Pilgrims were establishing the settlement of Plymouth, when they were surprised to be contacted in English by a Native American man named Tisquantum, also known as Squanto. He had been kidnapped by an English captain and sold into slavery in London, where he spent several years and learned the language before escaping and returning home. Despite the harm he had suffered at the hands of the English, Tisquantum chose to help these strangers in need. He taught the Pilgrims how to fish, cultivate corn, and build an alliance with the Wampanoag tribe.
That November, after a successful corn harvest, the Wampanoag people and the Pilgrims gathered to give thanks for cooperation across cultures, and the bounty of food after a year of hunger. That spirit of sharing food and welcoming neighbors, no matter where they come from, has carried forward through generations.
As we celebrate today by opening our tables and extending kindness, let’s honor the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Let’s aspire to the example set by Tisquantum and the Wampanoag people, kindness toward immigrants and helping neighbors in need.
And to the many people reading this who are already striving to provide for their neighbors, choosing to help strangers in need: Thank You.
From our family to yours, may your Thanksgiving be filled with warmth, inclusion, and the joy of community.
With gratitude,
Ben Watts
Chair, Linn County Democrats
P.S. If you would like to help people in our community who are struggling with food insecurity, or you yourself are struggling, see the list below of food pantries and meal sites in Linn County.
Today we celebrate family, community, and the joy of gathering around the table in the spirit of gratitude. As we come together with friends and loved ones, let’s remember the origins of this holiday.
In the spring of 1621, the starving and beleaguered English immigrants known as the Pilgrims were establishing the settlement of Plymouth, when they were surprised to be contacted in English by a Native American man named Tisquantum, also known as Squanto. He had been kidnapped by an English captain and sold into slavery in London, where he spent several years and learned the language before escaping and returning home. Despite the harm he had suffered at the hands of the English, Tisquantum chose to help these strangers in need. He taught the Pilgrims how to fish, cultivate corn, and build an alliance with the Wampanoag tribe.
That November, after a successful corn harvest, the Wampanoag people and the Pilgrims gathered to give thanks for cooperation across cultures, and the bounty of food after a year of hunger. That spirit of sharing food and welcoming neighbors, no matter where they come from, has carried forward through generations.
As we celebrate today by opening our tables and extending kindness, let’s honor the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Let’s aspire to the example set by Tisquantum and the Wampanoag people, kindness toward immigrants and helping neighbors in need.
And to the many people reading this who are already striving to provide for their neighbors, choosing to help strangers in need: Thank You.
From our family to yours, may your Thanksgiving be filled with warmth, inclusion, and the joy of community.
With gratitude,
Ben Watts
Chair, Linn County Democrats
P.S. If you would like to help people in our community who are struggling with food insecurity, or you yourself are struggling, see the list below of food pantries and meal sites in Linn County.
Food pantries and meal sites in Linn Co.
| YOUTH 1. #The LBL Youth Advisory Council (on behalf of Youth Era) is joining other community partners in providing Food Boxes youth 14-25 years old in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties. These boxes are completely free of cost, and contain pre-packaged, non-perishable food items coordinated and assembled by young people, for young people (consists of a variety of snacks and easy-to-prepare food items). If you are a community partner serving young people, a parent looking for food assistance for their youth, or if you are a youth yourself, you are in the right place. Please complete a brief form to be added to the delivery queue by clicking here. ALBANY 1. FISH of Albany Address: 1035 2nd Ave, S.E. Albany Phone: (541) 928-4460 Hours: Call or come in between 9:00 AM. and 2:50 p.m. weekdays to order a food box. Food boxes can be picked up starting at 3:00 PM. the same day. 2. CHANCE Address: 231 Lyon St SE, Albany Phone: (541) 791-3411 Meals: Mon–Fri, 9:00–9:30 AM and 12:00–12:30 PM 3. Second CHANCE Shelter Address: 1100 Jackson St SE, Albany Phone: (541) 928-6347 Meals: Daily; call for times 4. First Christian Church Address: 432 Ferry St SW, Albany Phone: (541) 926-8606 Meals: Community Meal; Thursdays 5:00-6:00 PM 5. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Address: 1910 34th St. S.E. Phone: 541-926-4875 Meals: Drive-through Community Dinner; Wednesdays 5:00-6:00 PM. Dinners must be reserved by calling the church by noon Tuesday. 6. Strong Albany Schools × Albany Student Advocacy Project What it is: Launched Emergency Food Pantries in our Title 1 elementary schools in GAPS How to help: • Donate via Amazon • Donate Walmart Sparks • Make a financial contribution: https://bit.ly/47qkEkx BROWNSVILLE 1. Sharing Hands Address:107 W. Bishop Way Phone: 541-541-466-3003 Hours: Wed and Fri, 10:30 AM–3:00 PM HARRISBURG 1. God’s Storehouse Address: 180 Smith St., Harrisburg Phone: 541-359-5529 Hours: Tue, Thu, 9:30 AM–Noon and 1:00-4:30 PM LEBANON Donation drop-off sites 1. Lebanon Fire Department Address: 1050 Oak St. Phone: 541-451-1901 Hours: Mon—Thu, 7 AM—5 PM 2. Summit Ace Home & Garde Address:1055 Tangent St. Phone: 541-258-7107 Hours: Mon—Fri, 7:30 AM—6 PM, Sat, 8 AM—5 PM 3 Gillott Home Team KW Address: 266 E. Grant St. Phone: 541-451-2211 Hours: Sat, 10 AM—2 p.m. 4 Valley Life Church Office Address: 80 E. Vine St. Phone: 541-258-5315 Hours: Mon—Thu, 8 AM—4 p.m. | 5 The River Center Address: 3000 S. Santiam Highway Phone: 541-451-1271 Food Pickup and Meal Site Locations
Address: Lebanon First Christian Church, 170 E. Grant. St. Phone: 451-7667 Meals: Mon, Wed, Fri 4:30–5:30 PM 3. The Lord’s Storehouse Address: Lebanon Assembly of God, 726 SW Oak St, Lebanon Phone: (541) 259-1464 Hours: Mon & Thu, 10:00 AM–1:30 PM for food pickup Notes: Linn County families welcome Phone: 541-451-1271 Hours: Sun, 9 AM—1 PM 4. The River Center Address: 300 S. Santiam Highway Phone: 541-451-1271 Hours Mon, 2:30—5:30 PM for food pickup 5. St. Vincent de Paul Address: St. Edward Catholic Church, 100 S. Main St. Hours: Wed, 11:30 AM—3 PM for food pickup Phone: 541-258-5333 6. The Compassion Pantry (Neighborhood Pantry) Location: On the property of St. Martins Church, 257 Milton (side yard on Grove St) Hours: Open 7 days a week Notes: Please be respectful MILL CITY 1. Santiam Outreach Community Center Address: 280 S.E. Santiam Blvd. Phone: 971-332-5676 Hours: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, with a 24-hour food pantry onsite SWEET HOME 1. Sweet Home Emergency Ministries (SHEM) Address: 1115 Long St, Sweet Home Phone: (541) 367-6504 Hours: Wed & Sat, 9:00–11:30 AM (call first) 2. SHEM Soup Kitchen Location: Operated by Sweet Home Emergency Ministries. How to help: Donations welcome to support neighbors in need Phone: (541) 367-6504 OTHER RESOURCES
Address: 1305 Hill St SE, Albany, OR 97322 Phone: (541) 967-6580 Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM (office) What it is: Nonprofit supporting families with young children; and help connecting to basics (diapers, food, clothing, referrals).
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