The Media Machine and Politics
Posted By: Liz Goodrich
Date Posted: 9/9/2004
Deschutes Public Library welcomes local activist and author Harry Lonsdale for a program titled “Politics, Power and The Press,” in the Brooks Room of the Bend Public Library on Saturday, September 18 at 2:00 p.m. This program is free and open to the public.
Lonsdale was raised on a family owned chicken ranch in New Jersey. He received his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Rutgers University and earned a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Penn State. Following two years as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force he moved to California and worked as a scientist, first for General Atomics CO. and then for Alza Corp. In 1975 he moved to Bend and founded Bend Research, Inc.
In 1990 Lonsdale left Bend Research to run for the U.S. Senate. He lost a close election, by a mere 7%, to incumbent Mark Hatfield. He ran again in 1992 and lost in the primary election to Les AuCoin by 0.1%. His third bid for the Senate in 1996 was also unsuccessful. Lonsdale is far from bitter about his losing track record. “People I met during the campaigns have remained steadfast friends,” says Lonsdale. He recalls fondly the many people who donated time and money to fuel his campaign efforts. “When a woman on a fixed income gives $5 towards your campaign, and it may be her last $5, you feel humbled, honored and obligated.”
Lonsdale remains active on the local political scene. He is dedicated to campaign finance reform and rebuilding a more democratic America. “Idealism motivates me,” says Lonsdale. “I believe in America.” Lonsdale’s first book, titled Running: Politics, Power, and the Press, is available through 1st Books Library at www.1stbooks.com. Books will be available for sale following the program.
For more information about this or other library programs, please call 312-1032.
Page Last Modified Wednesday, March 8, 2023