The Progressive Democrat Newsletter grew out of the frustration of the 2004 election. Originally intended for New York City progressives, its readership is now national. For anyone who wants to be alerted by email whenever this newsletter is updated (usually weekly), please send your email address and let me know what state you live in (so I can keep track of my readership).
About Me
Name: mole333
Location: Brooklyn, New York, United States
I am a research biologist in NYC. Married with two kids and one cat, living in Brooklyn.
The right wing is getting crazier and crazier. Glenn Beck is showing he doesn't believe in American democracy and is calling for revolution. Followers of Sarah Palin are threatening Jews with being stuffed into ovens. Teabaggers are threatening assassinations. All of this is disgusting, un-American bigotry and proves once again that the right wing extremists in America really at heart hate everything America stands for. I have never seen such a bunch of whiny, hysterical, stupid fools as modern day right wing Republicans. Of course one of the main things driving them to new heights of hysterical fear (aside from a simlpe polite bow by our President to the Emperor of Japan) is healthcare reform. Speaking of which, let's keep in mind why we need healthcare reform:
Starting this issue I am going to try to introduce a few more local pages focusing on particular counties or congressional districts in Texas, California and New York. These are focused on some swing districts that I think are worth concentrating on where I think I have readers. So keep an eye open for some new info on some local districts in these three states. My intention is to compile some info which I won't necessarily update regularly, but will still be a good resource for people in those areas. This week I start with two Congressional districts in Texas that I want to start chipping away at with the intention of turning them blue. My motivation is that these are potential swing districts with Republicans who are abandoning the needs of their constituents on healthcare.
This week I add two Congressional districts in Texas that are worth targeting.
And let me leave you with a good idea for the holidays. If you are looking for the kind of gift that encourages true values and not materialism (and I am not completely against materialism!), you might want to check out Alternative Gift and GoodGiftShop.org (UK site, but takes US orders...just remember to convert currencies). They have some really cool stuff that make good gifts for the less materialistic minded people on your list. Other people have been making it a tradition to give Kiva gift certificates for gifts.
I have in the past analyzed the actual health outcomes we get for the amount we pay for our healthcare in the US, and it doesn't add up. I recently came across a site that allows me to do this analysis again, and to analyze the details of expenditure on healthcare. Herein I am comparing the US with several other nations, comparing how much we spend both per capita and as a % of GDP, what percentage of this expenditure is public spending, the availability of care (hospital beds, nurses and physicians per capita), and various health outcomes (healthy life expectancy, maternal mortality, chance of living to 65, etc.). Here are the numbers: (playing with http://www.nationmaster.com )
Total (private and public) Expenditure per capita (in US $):
Bottom line: we spend the most, counting both public and private money, of ANY NATION IN THE WORLD on healthcare. Nations like Canada, UK, Japan, Finland and Israel spend about half of what we spend. So when you look at what is outlined below, consider whether we are getting twice as much as nations like Canada, UK, Japan, Finland and Israel are getting.
Total expenditure (public and private) on health as % of GDP 1 United States: 14.6%
4 Switzerland: 11.2%
15 Canada: 9.6% 15 Norway: 9.6%
23 Sweden: 9.2%
25 Israel: 9.1%
30 Netherlands: 8.8%
43 Japan: 7.9%
47 United Kingdom: 7.7%
53 Cuba: 7.5%
56 Finland: 7.3%
79 Luxembourg: 6.2%
Bottom line: we also spend the most of any nation as a percentage of GDP on healthcare. We spend more than Switzerland. The UK, Finland, Luxembourg, and Japan spend about half what we spend as a percentage of GDP. Again, consider whether we are getting our money's worth in comparison with these nations that spend about half of what we do.
Public Spending as % of total healthcare costs: (some nations I am looking aren't mentioned in regards to this figure) 3 Luxembourg: 85.4% 4 Norway: 85.3% 4 Sweden: 85.3%
7 United Kingdom: 83.4%
12 Finland: 75.7%
20 Canada: 69.9%
22 Switzerland: 57.9%
24 United States: 44.9%
Bottom line: we spend about half of the public money compared with nations like Luxembourg, Norway, Sweden and the UK. Keep in mind that we also spend twice as much total as many of these nations (as a percentage of GDP), so that means we are each PRIVATELY paying out of pocket the difference.
Next I want to consider some measures of whether we are getting comparable care in terms of things like available hospital beds, nurses and physicians per capita. Given that we are paying the top price for our care, do we have the healthcare providers available for the money we pay.
Hospital beds per 1000 people:
4 Japan: 14.3 per 1,000 people
21 Finland: 7.2 per 1,000 people
33 Israel: 6.1 per 1,000 people
36 Luxembourg: 6 per 1,000 people 36 Switzerland: 6 per 1,000 people
50 Cuba: 4.9 per 1,000 people
55 Netherlands: 4.7 per 1,000 people
62 United Kingdom: 4.2 per 1,000 people
69 Norway: 3.8 per 1,000 people
71 Canada: 3.7 per 1,000 people 72 Sweden: 3.6 per 1,000 people
81. US 3.3 per 1,000 people
Bottom line: we fall short when it comes to available hospital beds. It is true that Sweden, Canada and Noway are comparable, but they also spend far less than we do on healthcare. Other nations, also spending less than we are, have far more hospital beds per capita available. You want to know why hospital care tends to be inferior and rationed in America? It is because the money we spend on healthcare is NOT going to providing enough hospital space to meet our needs. Even Cuba does better by this measure than we do, and Israel, Finland and Japan have about twice as many hospital beds available than we do.
Nurses per capita: (Cuba and Israel not reporting??) 1. Finland: 14.7 per 1,000 people
3 Netherlands: 13.4 per 1,000 people 4 Switzerland: 10.7 per 1,000 people
6 Norway: 10.3 per 1,000 people 7 Canada: 9.9 per 1,000 people
12 Sweden: 8.8 per 1,000 people 12 United Kingdom: 8.8 per 1,000 people
14 United States: 8.1 per 1,000 people 15 Japan: 7.8 per 1,000 people
Bottom line: once again we fall below. We are NOT getting the care we are paying for.
Physicians per capita
2 Cuba: 5.91 per 1,000 people
13 Israel: 3.82 per 1,000 people
26 Sweden: 3.3 per 1,000 people
34 Norway: 3.1 per 1,000 people 2003 34 Netherlands: 3.1 per 1,000 people
43 Luxembourg: 2.7 per 1,000 people
46 Finland: 2.6 per 1,000 people
52 United States: 2.3 per 1,000 people
55 United Kingdom: 2.2 per 1,000 people
58 Canada: 2.1 per 1,000 people
64 Japan: 2 per 1,000 people
Here we fall short, but Canada, Japan, UK, Finland and Luxembourg are comparable. All of these pay less than we do. So by this measure America pays more money for similar service.
So the next thing to look at is whether the money we pay actually delivers good health in the end. I want to look at a series of very bottom line measures of health to see how we rank. Again, we pay the most, so we should be ranking the best in most of these measures if we are getting our money's worth. The fact that we rank mediocre on available hospital beds, nurses and physicians per capita already suggests we aren't getting what we pay for. But what about health out comes?
Healthy Life Expectancy: (Cuba and Israel not reporting??) 1 Japan: 73.6 years 2 Switzerland: 72.8 years 3 Sweden: 71.8 years
10 Norway: 70.8 years 11 Luxembourg: 70.6 years
15 Finland: 70.1 years
17 Canada: 69.9 years 17 Netherlands: 69.9 years
20 United Kingdom: 69.6 years
22 United States: 67.6 years
Bottom line: we do relatively poorly here. Nations that pay half what we do, but using a higher percentage of public money to cover it, do comparably or better than we do.
Maternal Mortality: (Luxemburg and Canada not reporting??)
95 Cuba: 33 per 100,000
116 Japan: 8 per 100,000 116 United States: 8 per 100,000
121 United Kingdom: 7 per 100,000 121 Netherlands: 7 per 100,000
124 Norway: 6 per 100,000 124 Finland: 6 per 100,000
130 Switzerland: 5 per 100,000 130 Sweden: 5 per 100,000 130 Israel: 5 per 100,000
One thing to note here is that this statistic is one measure where Cuba does poorly, though compared to other third world nations they do well. They pay about 1/30th we do for healthcare, but in this case they aren't faring well enough, I'd say. However, we do poorly compared with many of the nations that spend half what we do. So although we beat Cuba, I don't think that is something to be proud of.
% of life lived in ill health (female) (Cuba and Israel not reporting??)
6 United States: 13.5%
8 Canada: 12.6% 9 Netherlands: 11.9%
15 Norway: 11.4%
18 United Kingdom: 11.3%
21 Sweden: 11.1% 22 Luxembourg: 11%
26 Finland: 10.8%
28 Japan: 10.6% 29 Switzerland: 10.2%
We do pretty comparably here with the other nations I am comparing us to. But I think again it is critical to realize we are not beating nations that spend half what we do on healthcare.
Probability of reaching 65 (Male) 1 Israel: 85.1% 2 Sweden: 84.8%
Bottom Line: Well we are comparable with Cuba here, even though we spend 30 times what Cubans pay for healthcare.
The take home message: The American healthcare system is way too expensive, gives mediocre outcomes and puts the burden excessively on individuals and businesses. Nations that spend half as much but fund it more through public finances (yes...that means taxes) have far better out comes.
This is the same as what I saw last time I did this kind of analysis a couple of years ago. Last time I looked at a wider range of health outcomes and focused on the fact that we ranked with nations like Albania, Slovenia, and Croatia while the nations that ranked best were nations like Sweden, Japan, UK and Canada, nations with a far more "socialized" healthcare system. So I focused on the fact that socialized systems did better, and I took on faith that they also spent less.
Well, this analysis covers fewer healthcare outcomes (enough to confirm my previous analysis that we get mediocre outcomes) but includes data that shows we really do spend the most by any measure, put the burden more on businesses and individuals rather than using public funding, have worse coverage (meaning less actual healthcare services), AND have mediocre outcomes.
Folks, we are doing it wrong. It doesn't even make capitalist sense because we are spending more for less. That is BAD BUSINESS! Hell, even Switzerland spends less, puts in more public funding, and gets better outcomes. We have a failed system and we need to pay attention to how the nations with the best outcomes with half the cost do it. Those nations are Sweden, Cananda, Finland, Israel, the UK and Japan. They do it better by all measures. Why shouldn't we learn from them?
GENERAL JOSEPH HOAR, USMC (RET.) GENERAL CHARLES KRULAK, USMC (RET.) GENERAL DAVID M. MADDOX, USA (RET.) GENERAL MERRILL A. MCPEAK, USAF (RET.) LIEUTENANT GENERAL RONALD E. ADAMS, USA (RET.) LIEUTENANT GENERAL ROBERT G. GARD JR., USA (RET.) VICE ADMIRAL LEE F. GUNN, USN (RET.) LIEUTENANT GENERAL CLAUDIA J. KENNEDY, USA (RET.) VICE ADMIRAL ALBERT H. KONETZNI JR., USN (RET.) LIEUTENANT GENERAL CHARLES OTSTOTT, USA (RET.) VICE ADMIRAL JACK SHANAHAN, USN (RET.) LIEUTENANT GENERAL HARRY E. SOYSTER, USA (RET.) LIEUTENANT GENERAL PAUL K. VAN RIPER, USMC (RET.) MAJOR GENERAL PAUL D. EATON, USA (RET.) MAJOR GENERAL EUGENE FOX, USA (RET.) MAJOR GENERAL JOHN FUGH, USA (RET.) REAR ADMIRAL DON GUTER, JAGC, USN (RET.) MAJOR GENERAL FRED E. HAYNES, USMC (RET.) REAR ADMIRAL JOHN D. HUTSON, JAGC, USN (RET.) MAJOR GENERAL MELVYN S. MONTANO, ANG (RET.) MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM L. NASH, USA (RET.) MAJOR GENERAL WALTER L. STEWART, JR., USA (RET.) MAJOR GENERAL FRANK TERRELL, USAR, (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL DAVID M. BRAHMS, USMC (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES P. CULLEN, USA (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL EVELYN P. FOOTE, USA (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL LEIF HENDRICKSON, USMC (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL DAVID R. IRVINE, USA (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL RICHARD O’MEARA, USA (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL MURRAY G. SAGSVEEN, USA (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL ANTHONY VERRENGIA, USAF (RET.) BRIGADIER GENERAL STEPHEN N. XENAKIS, USA (RET.)
And here is what these top military leaders of all branches of our military have to say:
Dear Senator/Representative:
As retired generals and admirals of the U.S. Armed Forces, we write to express our profound concern about the continued use of the Guantanamo Bay detention facility to imprison terrorism suspects. We welcomed the Executive Orders signed by President Obama on January 22nd mandating the facility’s closure, ending torture and other abusive interrogation techniques, and returning to a policy of adherence to the Geneva Conventions. We strongly support the prompt closure of the Guantanamo Bay prison as a necessary and important step toward rebuilding the reputation of the United States as a nation committed to the rule of law. Closing the facility should be an urgent priority, and we urge you to do all you can to accomplish it.
Whatever the current detention conditions there, past violations of the Geneva Conventions at Guantanamo have marked it around the globe as a symbol of injustice and of a great nation setting aside its laws and values for the sake of expediency. Continued detention of prisoners at Guantanamo provides our enemies with a powerful propaganda weapon which they are using to recruit forces against us, undermining vital counterinsurgency efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq and impairing our ability to secure the goodwill of people in the Middle East and our allies around the world whose cooperation is necessary for the achievement of our military goals. Serving U.S. flag-rank officers have maintained that, because of its effectiveness in recruiting insurgent fighters into combat, Guantanamo is a key contributing factor to U.S. combat deaths in Iraq. Depriving the enemy of this weapon is important for our own security interests and will do much to demonstrate that the United States values adherence to the rule of law and humane treatment of enemy prisoners in our custody.
The U.S. military has a strong interest in ensuring that all prisoners in U.S. custody are treated humanely and that our nation can lead the world in promoting adherence to the Geneva Conventions. When our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines go into battle, we owe them the assurance that, should they be captured by the enemy, the United States will be in a position to aggressively assert their rights to humane treatment. The importance of maintaining this fundamental norm has led many current and retired will be in a position to aggressively assert their rights to human military leaders, including General Petraeus, to speak out publicly over the last several years, warning against the abuse of prisoners in U.S. custody. Fortunately, there has been significant progress toward restoring U.S. policy to ensure compliance with these standards. Closing Guantanamo will send a strong signal to the rest of the world that the U.S. does not tolerate torture.
We have watched with disappointment efforts to engender fear among the American people about the prospect of bringing suspected terrorists to the United States for trial. Our federal justice system has a proven track record of successfully prosecuting terrorists and incarcerating them safely in our prisons. Our courts have convicted 195 terrorists since 9/11. Meanwhile, there have been only three successful prosecutions of terrorists by military commissions over that same period; two of those found guilty were released in less than a year. Those convicted in our federal courts, including many al Qaeda terrorists, are serving long sentences in federal prisons. The highly respected American Correctional Association, the nation’s largest corrections organization, in a recently passed resolution assured the American public they “would be safe from harm and free from danger should any detainees be transferred to a facility or facilities within the United States.” Our prisons currently house more than 150 convicted terrorists and none has ever escaped.
The American people can have confidence that our judicial and penal institutions are strong and that our military, law enforcement and corrections professionals are second to none. Closing the Guantanamo prison facility will make Americans more secure, both on our own soil and on the battlefields where our service members fight valiantly on our behalf.
We urge you to do all you can to ensure that Guantanamo is closed promptly by sending detainees to their home countries or other nations willing to accept them, and by bringing those who have committed crimes against the United States here to face justice.
So when do you think the Republicans will FINALLY start supporting our troops and stop their fear mongering and bellyaching?
Last month a coalition of 18 Scientific organizations (and these are big ones...some of the biggest in the world) issued this statement (PDF) to the Senate:
Dear Senator:
As you consider climate change legislation, we, as leaders of scientific organizations, write to state the consensus scientific view.
Observations throughout the world make it clear that climate change is occurring, and rigorous scientific research demonstrates that the greenhouse gases emitted by human activities are the primary driver.
These conclusions are based on multiple independent lines of evidence, and contrary assertions are inconsistent with an objective assessment of the vast body of peer-reviewed science. Moreover, there is strong evidence that ongoing climate change will have broad impacts on society, including the global economy and on the environment. For the United States, climate change impacts include sea level rise for coastal states, greater threats of extreme weather events, and increased risk of regional water scarcity, urban heat waves, western wildfires, and the disturbance of biological systems throughout the country. The severity of climate change impacts is expected to increase substantially in the coming decades. [See Footnote #1 below]
If we are to avoid the most severe impacts of climate change, emissions of greenhouse gases must be dramatically reduced. In addition, adaptation will be necessary to address those impacts that are already unavoidable. Adaptation efforts include improved infrastructure design, more sustainable management of water and other natural resources, modified agricultural practices, and improved emergency responses to storms, floods, fires and heat waves.
We in the scientific community offer our assistance to inform your deliberations as you seek to address the impacts of climate change.
1 The conclusions in this paragraph reflect the scientific consensus represented by, for example, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and U.S. Global Change Research Program. Many scientific societies have endorsed these findings in their own statements, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science, American Chemical Society, American Geophysical Union, American Meteorological Society, and American Statistical Association.
The following societies signed this statement:
* American Association for the Advancement of Science * American Chemical Society * American Geophysical Union * American Institute of Biological Sciences * American Meteorological Society * American Society of Agronomy * American Society of Plant Biologists * American Statistical Association * Association of Ecosystem Research Centers * Botanical Society of America * Crop Science Society of America * Ecological Society of America * Natural Science Collections * Alliance Organization of Biological Field Stations * Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics * Society of Systematic Biologists * Soil Science Society of America * University Corporation for Atmospheric Research
The scientific consensus regarding global warming is overwhelming. It is time for the denial lobby to shut up. I recommend all my readers forward the above statement to their Congress critters.
I want to cover some Biodiesel stations, events, Democratic Clubs, and Co-ops in the greater Silicon Valley area.
Biodiesel: Biodiesel is an American produced fuel that is cleaner than traditional diesel. Up to B20 (a 20% blend of biodiesel and traditional diesel) any diesel engine, car or truck, can run on it. Above B20, some older engines may have problems but newer diesel engines should be ok. Here are some gas stations in the Silicon Valley area that offer biodiesel:
Rotten Robbie: 310 N Whisman Rd, Mountain View, CA 94043, 650-965-2609. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine). Open 6AM-10PM
Rotten Robbie: 1304 Piedmont Rd, San Jose, CA 95132, 408-259-5535. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine). Open 6AM-11PM.
Bay Area Biofuel: email biodieselperformance@gmail.com for info and an appt
Western States Oil Company: 1790 S 10th St, San Jose, CA 95112, 408-292-1041. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open 7AM-5PM M-F.
The Green Station: 136 Gilman Ave, Campbell, CA 95008, 831-425-9100. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open TUES, THURS, FRI 4-7.
Autopia Biofuels: 1025 S Railroad Ave, San Mateo, CA 94402, 650-571-1863. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open M-F 8AM-7PM (CLOSED WEDS/SUNS) SA 1PM-4PM.
Mountain Feed and Farm Supply: 9550 Highway 9, Ben Lomond, CA 95005, 831-336-8876. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open M-S 9AM-6PM SUN 10-2
SF Oakland Truck Stop: 8255 San Leandro Street, Oakland, CA 94621, 510-569-1624. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open M-F, 4AM-11PM; SAT. 6AM-10PM; SUN. 7AM-10PM
The Green Station: 433 Ocean Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95061, 831-425-9100. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open 10-6 DAILY
USA Grown Fuels: 2680 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95062, 831-476-3653. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HOURS A DAY / 7 DAYS A WEEK; MUST BE MEMBER
MARRIAGE EQUALITY SILICON VALLEY is a grassroots effort, organized by volunteers in the Silicon Valley/San Jose/South Bay area, to educate, unite and mobilize all communities for equality.
Each month, on a Sunday, which might vary depending on other events, the Outreach to Religious and Youth Communities Group holds a potluck evening. We meet at 6 pm in someone's home for a shared meal. At 6:30 pm, we view an inspiring film which focuses on LGBT issues. After the movie, we discuss current and future actions to promote education and support for marriage equality. Open to everyone. For more information, contact Ray Hixson at (650) 346-7557 or Joanne Loomba at (408) 921-0041.
Democracy for America Link Monthly Meeting Wednesday, 02 December, 2009 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Ralph & Jackie Wheeler's house 3956 Nelson Ct. Palo Alto, CA 94306-4521
Hosted by the Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley Annual potluck & 2010 goals brainstorming
Event Contact Info Ralph Wheeler Email: rwheeler@inreach.com Phone: 650 493-2652
Silcion Valley Young Democrats Monthly meeting Monday, 21 December, 2009 07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
UFCW Local 5 Hall 240 S Market St San Jose, CA 95113
The Silicon Valley Young Democrats seeks to embody the spirit of forward thinking that has made our home world renowned. We believe that ideas and ideals can transform the society. Our motto, “Innovation in Politics”, reflects our deeply held convictions that an idea holds immense power. We believe in the Silicon Valley spirit of possibility and the democratic ideals of civil and just society.
Voting Membership: Young Democrats (14-35)
Associate Memberships: Seasoned Democrats who want to support Young Democrats, includes special privileges. (Ask a Club officer for more details)
Jordan Eldridge Email: eldridgejordan@yahoo.com Phone: 408-991-2908
Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley. The Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley is an alliance in Silicon Valley, California dedicated to the issues brought forth by Gov. Howard Dean, M.D., his cause and his message of progressive, positive change. dfasv.org, www.dfalink.com/siliconvalley, Co-Chairs; Spandan Chakrabarti, Alice Smith. Contact deanclub_at_sccdp.org
Obama Democratic Club of Silicon Valley. A club of volunteers from the 2008 Barack Obama campaign and local arm of Organizing for America. Members of this club will continue to promote Obama's policies and priorities. Peter Allen, President, obama_at_sccdp.org. sites.google.com/site/obamadcsv/
Silicon Valley Asian Pacific American Democratic Club. SVAPADC was founded in 1996 to foster member participation at all levels of the Democratic Party. Our goals are to unify and empower the Asian Pacific American (APA) communities; ensure fair representation of the APA's interests; and educate and promote political participation. Contact Buu Thai at apa_at_sccdp.org. The club's homepage is svapadc.org.
Silicon Valley Democratic Club. Formerly known as the Moorpark Democratic, the Silicon Valley Democratic club prides itself in developing a growing and diverse community with an organized and unifying voice in the political arena. The Club provides a forum for its members to focus, discuss, prioritize positions and promote important issues to our diverse community. Working together, our members help to elect Democratic candidates in local, state, and national elections. Clarence Madrilejos, moorpark_at_sccdp.org. www.moorparkdems.org
Silicon Valley Latino Democratic Forum. A venue for local Latinos to become active in the Democratic Party. Javier Gonzalez, svldf_at_sccdp.org.
Silicon Valley LGBT Democratic Club. Dedicated to providing a grassroots channel for the political participation of like-minded lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered Democrats. President: David Parker, lgbt_at_sccdp.org. Visit the club on the web at http://www.lgbtdems.org.
Silicon Valley Young Democrats. SVYD serves Democrats under 36 years old from throughout the Silicon Valley. We provide networking, social, and personal growth opportunities for young people dedicated to progressive ideals. President: Julie Lind, svyd_at_sccdp.org. Visit the club's website at svyd.org.
SILICON VALLEY AREA FOOD CO-OPS: These are the only ones I could find near Silicon Valley, though they are all somewhat peripheral
Kresge Food Co-op 600 Kresge CT, Kresge College UCSC Santa Cruz, California 95064 Phone: (831) 426-1506 coop@dv8.org http://k9.dv8.org/~coop/
The Kresge Food Coop is a student-run cooperative health food store located at Kresge College on the University of California, Santa Cruz campus. We currently consist of twelve Core Collective Members who own the coop and are responsible for its daily operations and for any number of working members. This page has been created in order to better serve our community. Through this page you can email the coop, learn about our Core Collective Members, sign up to be a working member, make suggestions, check sales, read and reread our newsletter, and browse our links to other coops and health food stores.
The Cooperative Grocery (The CoG) 1450 67th Street Emeryville, California 95616 Phone: (510) 868-2883 FAX: (510) 868-2893 info@thecog.org http://www.thecog.org/
The Cooperative Grocery—The CoG—is a non-profit, working members cooperative that offers high-quality groceries at an affordable price to individuals and families in our community.
Members of The CoG work 2 1/2 hours every 4 weeks, performing jobs like stocking shelves, building orders and providing member services. By providing much of the labor for the store, our members keep our operating costs to a minimum. We then pass the savings onto our members in the form of lower prices. Our model is based on the successful Park Slope Food Co-Op in Brooklyn, NY, which serves 13,000 members.
To further control costs and grow our co-op in a responsible manner, we launched the CoG as an online store that is served from a warehouse located in Emeryville, with easy access to communities in Berkeley and Oakland. Our long term plan is to build a retail business as finances allow.
Bolinas Peoples Store P. O. Box 808 Bolinas, California 94924 Phone: (415) 868-1433 FAX: (415) 868-1219
Rainbow Grocery Co-op 1745 Folsom San Francisco, California 94103 Phone: (415) 863-0620 FAX: (415) 863-8955 comments@rainbowgrocery.coop http://www.rainbow.coop/
We have been in San Francisco's Mission District since 1975. We strive to offer resources, education and a forum for informational exchange for many local communities and organizations.
Rainbow Grocery is open every day from 9AM to 9PM
We are located in San Francisco's Mission District at 1745 Folsom Street. Our cross street is 13th Street (also known as Duboce), which runs directly under the central freeway. Use the map below for directions by car. Click here for Public Transit directions. Click here for bicycling directions.
Other Avenues Community Food Store 3930 Judah Street San Francisco, California 94122 Phone: (415) 661-7475 FAX: (415) 661-0835 info@otheravenues.org http://www.otheravenues.org/
Five Orange County Congressmen are Hypocrites on House Health Care Bill...Yet again Loretta Sanchez Rocks!!! Probably not too many people remember who she replaced, but I am eternally thankful for Loretta Sanchez. She brought considerable sanity to Orange County at a time when it was leaning extremist and also going bankrupt.
Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County: The Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County are dedicated to the mission of electing LGBT and Pro-Equality Democrats in California and throughout the country.
The Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County typically meet on the last Sunday of the month:
Local 50 Union Hall 527 S Harbor Blvd Anaheim, CA 92805
Orange County Biodiesel Cooperative: Working together to increase availability of biodiesel in the Orange County region. Biodiesel is better for the environment because it is made from renewable resources and has lower emissions compared to petroleum diesel. It is less toxic than table salt and biodegrades as fast as sugar. Since it is made in the USA from renewable resources such as soybeans, its use decreases our dependence on foreign oil and contributes to our own economy. Go to their website to sign up for more info.
And here are some other biodiesel stations in/near Orange County, CA:
Extreme Biodiesel: 1560 N Maple St, Corona, CA 92880, 888-998-7223. Offers B99.9 (nearly 100% biodiesel, good for newer diesel engines, some old engines not ok). MEMBERSHIP REQD
Nickey Petroleum: 925 S Lakeview Ave, Placentia,, CA 92870, 714-547-4123. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine), B99 (ok for newer diesel engines). CALL AHEAD
Socal Biofuel: 1006 E South St, Anaheim, CA 92805, 888-888-4121. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel enginns, some old engines not ok). Open 8-4:30 M-F
Nov 27 Friday 10-6pm: BUY NOTHING DAY-Black Friday We are honoring Buy Nothing Day at our store on Friday Nov 27th. Our store will be a site for trade barter only, no cash or cards, bring something to trade and trade with others. Our back lot will have items for trade only. We will be hosting beverages, and snacks. The Road Less Traveled Store, 2204 N. Main Street, 92706 roadlesstraveledstore.com
Dec 1 Tues 6:30pm, Huntington Beach: Holiday Pot Luck Party, 68th Democratic Assembly District PAC and 67th Democratic Area Wide Alliance. Speakers include State Senator Lou Correa, Coast Community College Board President Jim Moreno, City Councilmember Jill Hardy, OC Central Committee Carina Franci-Pantone. Opportunity drawing, silent auction and opportunity to meet candidates, VIPs and elected Democrats. MC is Ray Cordova. Co-chairs are Jim Benson and Mohammad Amin. Requested donation is $10. Location: International Association of Machinists Hall, 5402 Bolsa Ave., Huntington Beach. Mail your name, address, city, state, zip, number attending and dish you are bringing to 68th Assembly Democratic PAC, c/o Jim Benson, 11382 Trask Ave., Garden Grove, CA 92843.
Dec 4 Fri 6pm, Irvine: 15th Annual Harry S Truman Awards Dinner This year, our special key note address will be given by Speaker Nancy Pelosi! This year's award recipients are: Harry S Truman Award honoree will be Assemblymember Jose Solorio. Samuel Gompers Award honoree will be Florice Hoffman. Lifetime Achievement Award honoree will be Marti Schrank. Irvine Airport Hilton, 18800 MacArthur Blvd. Irvine, CA General Admission: $150 per person Sustaining Member Rate: $125 per person actblue.com/page/2009truman
Dec 5 Sat 8pm, Newport Beach: Evergreen OC Holiday Party It's a party with a purpose! evergreenoc.com On Saturday, December 5, take part in this year's biggest green holiday party in Orange County at a hip, waterfront venue in Newport Beach. More than 350 attendees are expected at the first annual Evergreen Holiday Party, a collaborative effort of more than twelve sustainability-focused organizations Cash proceeds will benefit The Eli Home, a shelter for abused children and their mothers in Anaheim (www.elihome.org). In-kind donations will benefit Laura's House, a shelter for victims of domestic violence in Ladera Ranch (www.laurashouse.org). To get into the party, just bring one lightly-used children's gift and pay $20 in advance ($30 at the door). Once inside, you'll get two free drinks, and all the free appetizers and desserts you can eat. This will be a Zero Waste event - using reusables, food scrap composting, and other green measures. Have fun while doing good - click the link above to purchase tickets. GreenGo Enterprises, 2122 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663
Biodiesel is one of the alternatives I have been pushing for some time. It can be used in any diesel engine, is less polluting and has a smaller carbon footprint than regular diesel.
Here are some gas stations that offer biodiesel in the San Diego area:
Carr's Car Center: 3940 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA 92054, 760-433-2166. Offers B5 (5% biodiesel, good for any diesel engine). Open M-SAT 6AM-6PM.
Soco Group: 145 Vernon Way, El Cajon, CA 92020, 858-627-0440. Offers B20 (20% biodiesel, good for any diesel engine). Open 7 AM - 5PM M-F.
Pearson Ford/RTC Fuels: 4067 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92105, 619-243-0456. Offers B99 (99% biodiesel, good for new engines, some old engines not ok). Open 7AM-10PM.
South Bay Democratic Club meeting Date(s): Saturday, November 21, 2009 Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Location: 140 W 16th St., National City, 91950 Contact: Mona Rios at (619) 994-0884 Email: monarios@gmail.com
Chula Vista Democratic Club Meeting Date(s): Sunday, November 22, 2009 Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Description: We are holding our first meeting and all are welcome to attend and partifipate. The meeting will mainly consist of club business - the "nuts and bolts" of the organization that still need to be addressed and ironed out. We hope to be an active group of Democrats that will help foster party ideals and encourage and support individuals running for office in Chula Vista. Looking forward to working with all of you.
Location: The Brew House at Eastlake Contact: Ed Valerio Email: president.cvdc@gmail.com
San Diego Democracy for America Meetup Date(s): Wednesday, December 2, 2009 Time: 7:00 PM Location: At Giovanni's Restaurant, 9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, SD 92123 (Corner of Clairemont Mesa Blvd and Ruffin Rd. across from Registrar of Voters). Contact: Carol at (858) 459-7044 Email: cchangus@san.rr.com
Oceanside City Recall Election Date(s): Tuesday, December 8, 2009 Time: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Description: Last day to register for this City Recall election is November 23rd. Last day to request mail in ballot is December 1. Be sure and vote! Location: City of Oceanside
East County Caucus for the San Diego Democratic Central Committee Meeting Date(s): Saturday, December 12, 2009 Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM Location: At CWA Local 9400 Union Hall, 566 E. Main Street, El Cajon 92020. Contact: Christopher Pearson Email: chrispearson11@hotmail.com
Naturalization Ceremony Voter Registration Date(s): Wednesday, December 16, 2009 Time: 10:10 AM - 12:00 PM Location: At Golden Hall, Corner of 3rd and B Street. Parking at Horton Plaza. Contact: Greg Bolan. Note: The San Diego Voter Registration team uses Google Groups to send out volunteer emails. Email: sdvoter@gmail.com
Mesa Democratic Club Monthly Meeting Date(s): Monday, January 11, 2010 Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Description: We will be kicking of 2010 will elections of officers. While we do have a slate, we welcome others candidates who would like to play a leadership role. Speaker is not yet scheduled. Remember, club dues are due in January. Location: Party Headquarters 8340 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Suite 105 (Turn into Industrial Park Driveway at lights) Website: www.mesa.sddem.org
SDCDP Central Area Meeting Date(s): Tuesday, January 12, 2010 Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Description: Central Area members of SDCDP are encouraged to attend, especially members of the SD County Central Committee. Location: 8340 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Suite 105, San Diego CA 92111 (Go North on Industrial Park Driveway) Contact: (858) 277-3367 Email: CentralVC@sddemocrats.org
SAN DIEGO FOOD CO-OPS:
Ocean Beach People's Organic Food Co-op 4765 Voltaire St. San Diego, California 92107 Phone: (619) 224-1387 FAX: (619) 224-5089 editor@oceanbeachpeoples.com http://www.obpeoplesfood.coop
Ocean Beach People's Organic Food Market is a member-owned vegetarian consumer co-op that has been serving the community since 1971. Originally a worker's collective, the cooperative has grown to include 6000 feet of retail space and more than 8000 member/owners. The Co-op offers an extensive selection of organic produce, grocery, dairy, and bulk foods and herbs, as well as vitamins and homeopathics, cruelty-free bodycare, and aromatherapy products. Enjoy a full service sit-down deli featuring a delicious selection of home-style vegetarian and vegan entrees, salads, sandwiches, freshly prepared baked goods, desserts, and more! At People's, San Diego's only community owned grocery store, we specialize in products that are organic, wholesome, minimally processed, cruelty-free, and environmentally safe.
The UCSD Food Coop 0323F Student Cooperative Center, San Diego, California 92093 Phone: (619) 546-8339 foodcoop@burn.ucsd.edu
I used to shop at this one way, way back when I went to UCSD. It was great then!
Since its introduction to the campus in 1978, the Food Co-op has committed itself to providing the UCSD community with a natural food alternative, as well as a resource for environmentally conscious products and information.
The Food Co-op carries a variety of food and non-food products ranging from baked goods, juices, sandwiches, fresh organic produce, macro-biotic and ethnic foods to cruelty-free cosmetics and environmentally safe cleaning agents. Many foods are stocked in bulk to reduce the price to the customer and the waste of packaging (please bring bags when buying!). Special orders can be made at discount prices (good for items not necessarily carried in the store, as well!).
Come in to shop, get informed, and/or volunteer as a general member of our store. For more information, call (858) 546-8339.
I will also point out some other UCSD co-ops that I liked when I was a student there.
The Ché Café
The Ché Café Collective is dedicated to providing cheap, healthy vegetarian food, all-ages entertainment, and alternative education. We have All-We-Can-Eat dinners every Thursday from 5 pm to 7 pm. Entertainment at the Ché ranges from poetry readings and plays to forums, or shows of local bands.
The Ché Café is surrounded by a grove of old eucalyptus trees and is next to the beautiful garden of the Farm Co-op. Tables and chairs inside and outside of the Ché and its close proximity to the Farm Co-op make it an inviting place to eat, study, or just hang out.
The Ché Café is open to having people come by and help out. The Café provides a great opportunity for people to get involved in the process of cooking, running a restaurant and/or putting on events at any level they feel comfortable at. Stop by or call us at (858) 534-2311.
(The Ché Café is located on the Revelle campus behind the Undergraduate library and down the hill from Stonehenge. We're the building with all the murals on it.) Read more about the Che Cafe Collective at its very own website: http://checafe.ucsd.edu/.
General Store
The General Store Co-op is a student-run store which was founded in 1980 to offer students a less expensive alternative to the high Price Center. [EDITOR'S NOTE: This is not quite right...the Price Center didn't even exist when the General Store was founded and greatly appreciated by students like myself.] As a student cooperative, we try to provide the University community with the best quality merchandise at the lowest prices. And we succeed! The General Store Co-op carries items such as selected essential school and office supplies, household and personal items, stationery and gift wrap, clothing (including UCSD logos), craft-center jewelry, and some food and snack items -- all of which range from 5-25% less than anywhere else on campus.
Students are generally most interested in the fact that we sell textbooks, which are guaranteed to cost less than at the UCSD bookstore. We also try to carry as many used texts as possible. Also, we buy back current editions year round. Stop by to check which classes' books we're carrying.
We encourage everyone to visit the General Store Co-op for our low prices and friendly service. Additionally, anyone is invited to come in and volunteer anytime as volunteers are the backbone of our organization. For further information or friendly help please feel free to call us at (858) 534-3932.
CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Blogs, Stonewall Democrats, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events
CALIFORNIA 2010: I now have my California 2010 Act Blue Page up. Act Blue is a way for many small political contributions to add up to some serious political impact. For 2010 I am highlighting several local Young Democrats organizations (supporting the future of the Democratic Party), Stonewall Democrats (pushing back against homophobia), Latina Sol PAC (fighting for the rights of Latino working families), and highlighting several Congressional races. Those races include three conservative Republican seats that are considered ripe for a Democratic take over (CA-3, CA-4 and CA-44), and two solid progressive Democrats who need some support in the face of Republican attacks (CA-11 and CA-13). I particularly want to see Democrats do better in California because in genral I have found California Democrats to be among the best in the country and because we have to fight to make California a LEADER in LGBT rights rather than a reactionary force. Give a donation or two to keep momentum going.
If you want to know where this stupid anti-gay crap leads: Rhode Island Gov. Denies Same Sex Funerals...this is just disgusting. Deliberately hurting those already grieving is a sin...and that is a word I do not use lightly.
Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County: The Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County are dedicated to the mission of electing LGBT and Pro-Equality Democrats in California and throughout the country.
The Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County typically meet on the last Sunday of the month:
Local 50 Union Hall 527 S Harbor Blvd Anaheim, CA 92805
Stonewall Democrats of Ventura County Meetings: First Thursday of the Month, 7:15 PM Ventura County Rainbow Alliance (VCRA) 4567 Telephone Rd., Suite 100 Ventura, CA 93003
Stonewall Alliance of Chico: The Stonewall Alliance Center offers a range of services to help connect people to their community. Volunteers staffing the Center provide information on activities and events and offer referrals for services. Our Education & Outreach give community members access to the Harlan Adams Memorial Library, Out Education classes, we deliver speaker’s panels to local colleges and presenters to area organizations and groups.
Beginning July 15th, Connecting Circles of Care (CCOC) will be collaborating with Stonewall Alliance Youth (SAY) to offer a weekly drop-in group for Gay, Lesbian, Two-Spirit, Bisexual, Transgender, or Questioning Youth age 14-18. The group will focus on education and providing an environment where youth are valued and respected. Drop-in times are 3:30-5:00pm at the Stonewall Alliance Center, 2289 Cohasset Rd Suite 5 Chico. CCOC will be providing pizza at the first meeting on July 15 and some type of snack at each group thereafter.
# California is ranked 3rd in the nation for its 2,517-megwatts of installed wind capacity. The state’s 60 wind farms are in 5 major wind resource areas and 4 new projects are underway.
# Southern California Edison and Florida Power & Light are operating the largest single source of solar energy in the world at 310-megawatts in the Mojave Desert.
# Solel and Pacific Gas & Electric will begin operating a 553-megawatt solar plant in 2011. When completed, the 6,000-acre solar field will bring power to 400,000 PG&E homes in northern California.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in California, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Here are some Biodiesel Cooperatives in California. If you have a diesel truck or car, joining one of these co-ops can help you drive more green.
The Berkeley Biodiesel Collecctive Berkeley, CA email: berkeleybiodiesel_at_yahoo.com. Or check out their website.
The Biofuels Research Cooperative Sebastopol, CA email: veggieoilcoop_at_yahoo.com.
I also want to highlight Conserv Fuels in Los Angeles, which offers a selection of alternative fuels (biodiesel and ethanol included) as well as pretty cheap regular gasoline. Joy and I buy our fuel (whatever we need) when we are in Los Angeles.
And Propel Fuels have several stations around California that offer biodiesel (and, according to a reader, they also offer E85 ethanol blend): (I discovered them when I saw they did carbon offsets)
* Rocklin 6700 Five Star Blvd Sacramento, California 95677
* Citrus Heights 7741 Auburn Blvd Citrus Heights, California 95610
* Sacramento, Folsom Blvd. 8090 Folsom Blvd. Sacramento, California 95826
* Sacramento, Norwood Ave. 4200 Norwood Ave Sacramento, California 95838
* Sacramento, Florin Road 8062 Florin Road Sacramento, California 95828
* Elk Grove 9190 E Stockton Blvd Elk Grove, California 95624
* Roseville 999 Sunrise Ave Roseville, California 95661
* Placerville 151 Main St Placerville, California 95667
Here are other alternative energy resources for Califorina:
San Francisco Community Power pilots innovative programs that improve our neighborhoods' environmental and economic conditions. We help small businesses and low-income families lower their expenses and reduce their ecological footprint. Our work provides policy makers with demonstrative ways to solve complex resource allocation issues.
California for Democracy: Here are some local Democracy for America groups (click on the link for more info)
Here are some local political meetings in California:
San Fernando Valley Young Democrats: San Fernando Valley Young Democrats shall endeavor to stimulate in young people an active interest in governmental affairs, increase the efficiency of our government, maintain the viability of our free institutions, and contribute to the growth and influence of the ideals and philosophy of the Democratic Party. Check their calendar of events here.
Pasadena Young Democrats: PYD welcomes students and young adults from throughout the region to join us. The mission of PYD is to encourage young people to participate in the political process, support progressive ideals and Democratic candidates and have a lot fun in the process!
If you are actively looking to find out about the local scene, get involved with a campaign, or even if you are just looking for some fun progressive people aged 14-35 to hang out with, we encourage you to join PYD and attend one of our meetings or events. Check out their calendar here.
Orange County Young Democrats: We are young workers, young families, college and high school students--ages 14-35--who are commited to the Democratic values that make America strong and provide opportunity for all. As the official voice for young people in the Democratic Party of Orange County, OCYD is a network of Young Democrat activists around the county that are helping to provide a Democratic presence around Orange County and around college and high school campuses. Check out their calendar here.
San Ramon Valley Democrats Meetings We are a group of dedicated Democrats living in the San Ramon Valley who have come together to support and promote the progressive social and political principles that always have been fundamental to the Democratic Party. The San Ramon Valley is comprised of Alamo, Blackhawk, Diablo, Danville, San Ramon, and southern Walnut Creek, and members of our club come from each of those communities. We meet once a month for an educational program at Mudd's Restaurant in San Ramon, alternating between lunch on the second Tuesday, and appetizers (no-host bar) on the evening of the fourth Thursday (6:30 PM). We register people to vote, walk precincts to arouse voters, raise money for candidates, and enjoy the opportunity to socialize with people of common interests. Go here for more info.
Our meetings are lively and our programs are focused on issues of concern to Democrats, locally, statewide, and nationally. Our speakers are chosen for their astute insight into the problems before us as citizens and as voters. We socialize before and after the formal meetings, and enter into animated discussions about the topic of the day. In the process we become fast friends.
Mudds Restaurant $22 per person (meal included)
Democrats of North Orange County Bill Daly, President 714-990-6767 Bruce Sandercock, Vice-President 714-871-5244 P. O. Box 6597 Fullerton, CA 92834 Monthly meeting: First Thursday, Sizzler Restaurant, 1401 N. Harbor, Fullerton; 6 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. meeting
Santa Clara County (San Jose) Democratic Party Meetup We meet at 7:30pm on the second Tuesday of each month at the Dem Party Office, 2102 Almaden Road, Suite 114, San Jose, 95125. Feel free to bring snacks to share.
Brought to you by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (http://www.sccdp.org).... Please join us to learn ways to help elect Democrats in Santa Clara County and beyond.
~~Together, America Can Do Better!~~
On Almaden ROAD (not Expwy), between Curtner and Canoas Garden. It's OK to park in the big lot, despite posted warnings.
Internet directions usually suggest taking Almaden Expressway, which is sometimes backed up. A lower stress route is to take Bird Avenue west from 280 and follow it all the way until it dead-ends at Malone. Left on Malone, Right on Almaden Road and 2102 is on the first corner on your left.
We meet in Suite 114, first door on your left as you enter the glass doors marked Main Entrance.
Drinking Liberally:
For those who like a more social, and beer focused, environment, there's Drinking Liberally. Here are the Drinking Liberally groups in California:
San Jose * Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 and on * Trials Pub in downtown San Jose, 265 N 1st St (main cross streets: W St James and W Julian) * September is our first meeting with our new host! I'm looking for a co-host, so let me know if you are interested * Hosted by Mia White, sanjose (at) drinkingliberally.org
Downtown Los Angeles * Third Wednesday of each month, 6:00-8:00 pm * The Edison, 108 West 2nd St * We'll be in the area past the bar, known as the "Generator Lounge" (the entrance to the bar is through the alley off of 2nd street) * Hosted by Vincent Jones, Cecilia Cabello, Becca Doten, Roxi Reeves and Jim Kennedy, downtownla (at) drinkingliberally.org
Hollywood * Second Wednesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 PM * Molly Malone's Irish Pub, 575 South Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles 90036 (near corner of 6th avenue) * http://www.mollymalonesla.com/ * Hosted by Vincent Jones, Jim Kennedy and Mary Jack, la (at) drinkingliberally.org
Pasadena * Every Tuesday, 7:30-10:00 pm * Madeleine's Wine Bistro, 1030 E Green St (between Wilson and Catalina) * We'll start out in the wine bar, then move out to the front patio. * Hosted by Asa Hopkins, pasadena (at) drinkingliberally.org
San Fernando Valley * First and third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * The White Harte Pub, 22456 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills (Two blocks west of Shoup Ave.) * Hosted by Andy Beaton and Jon Hytowitz, sfv (at) drinkingliberally.org
Westside * Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm * Trip Bar in Santa Monica, 2101 Lincoln Blvd * Contact: westsidela (at) drinkingliberally.org
Monterey, California * First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 pm onward * Ol' Factory Cafe, 1725 Contra Costa St (In Sand City, off of Del Monte Blvd) * http://www.olfactorycafe.com/ * Please note that The Ol' Factory Cafe currently only takes cash and local checks. * Hosted by Annie Ho, monterey (at) drinkingliberally.org
Santa Ana * Every Thursday, 8:30 pm onward * Memphis Bar, 201 N Broadway (Artists Village) * Hosted by Mike Lawson, orangecounty (at) drinkingliberally.org
Rancho Santa Margarita * Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward * Canyon Fireside Grille, 22312 El Paseo * Hosted by Gary Kephart, rsm (at) drinkingliberally.org
Huntington Beach * First and third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Oggi's Pizza & Brewing Co. - Out Back On The Patio, 19461 Main St * Next Meeting will be on Thursday November 15th * Hosted by Scott McKown and Louise Stewardson, huntingtonbeach (at) drinkingliberally.org
Sacramento, California * Second Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * BJs Restaurant and Brewery, 3531 N Freeway Blvd (Natomas) * Come check out our new venue and meet some new people! * Hosted by Leslie Simmons, sacramento (at) drinkingliberally.org
San Diego, California * Every other Tuesday, 7:30 pm onward * Nunu's Cocktail Lounge, 3537 5th Ave (Between Brookes and Ivy Ln) * We will also be meeting periodically at Firehouse in Pacific Beach for special editions of Drinking Liberally. 722 Grand Avenue Pacific Beach, CA 92109 * Hosted by Jesse Rubin and Jason Miller, sandiego (at) drinkingliberally.org
San Francisco * Every Monday, 7:00-9:00 pm * Nickie's, 466 Haight Street (between Fillmore & Webster) (Look for our red, white and blue striped bottle!) * Hosted by Susan Harrison, sf (at) drinkingliberally.org
Oakland * Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 6:00 - 9:00 PM * Luka's Taproom & Lounge, 2221 Broadway * Join us for the Eating Liberally Oakland Brunch at Luka's * Hosted by Cyril Allen and Philip Combs, oakland (at) drinkingliberally.org
Napa * First and third Monday of each month, 5:00-6:30 pm * Compadre's, 505 Lincoln Ave * Hosted by Mick Winter and Lauren Coodley, napa (at) drinkingliberally.org
San Luis Obispo, California * First and third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * The Graduate, 990 Industrial Way * Hosted by Lorrie Toles and Sergio Monge, slo (at) drinkingliberally.org
Santa Barbara, California * Every Wednesday, 8 pm - 10 pm * Elsie's Bar, 117 W de la Guerra St (behind Paseo Nuveo Mall) * Elsie's is 21+ and cash only * Hosted by Daryl Chrisman and Bart Woolery, santabarbara (at) drinkingliberally.org
Santa Clarita, California * Second Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Mulligans, 25848 Tournament Rd (Near Cal Arts) * Hosted by Michael Cruz, Bill Bailey and Minerva Williams, santaclarita (at) drinkingliberally.org
Santa Cruz, California * First Tuesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward * Cafe Pergolesi, 418 Cedar St (In the orange room to the right and back) * Hosted by Brandon Smith and Natalie Rojas, santacruz (at) drinkingliberally.org
Stockton, California * Third Friday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Stockton Grand Hotel, 2323 Grand Canal Blvd (Front of Bar) * Grand Hotel tel. 209-957-9090 * Joel's Cell: 209-351-3397 * Hosted by Joel Carignan, stockton (at) drinkingliberally.org
Ventura, California * Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 8:00 pm * JJ Brewsky's, now and forever, 2344 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo (in the heart of Old Town Camarillo) * Join us every second and fourth Wednesdays at 8:00 PM for a pint and some politics! * Heather, Marie, Mark and Brian * Hosted by Heather Schmidt, Marie Davis, Mark Eggertsen and Brian Mack, ventura (at) drinkingliberally.org
This comes from one of my district leaders, Jo Anne Simon:
Brooklyn Community Organizations and Elected Officials Announce Filing of a Lawsuit against the Empire State Development Corporation (ESCD) and Forest City Ratner Corporation (FCRC); Seeking to Reverse ESDC’s Approval of Atlantic Yards’ Modified General Project Plan...
The suit contends that the plan was approved without sufficient study of the impacts of its extended construction schedule and completion risks. It also alleges that the ESDC has illegally delegated to FCRC much of its governmental power to determine the future content and configuration of the Project. Groups and elected officials filing suit include the Atlantic Avenue LDC, the Brooklyn Heights Association, the Boerum Hill Association, the Fifth Avenue Committee, the Park Slope Civic Council, the Pratt Area Community Council, the Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council and State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, Assemblyman Jim Brennan and City Councilmember Letitia James. Attorney Albert K. Butzel of the Urban Environmental Law Center is representing the plaintiffs.
As sponsors of the BrooklynSpeaks initiative, the organizations have tried for three years to engage the ESDC regarding impacts of the Atlantic Yards project on the surrounding communities. This includes putting forth a thoughtful proposal for the governance of the project which proposed a strong advisory role for local elected officials and community residents currently excluded from any meaningful participation.
“Given the agency’s inability to follow through on commitments to provide transparency and oversight to the largest single-source development project in the City’s history, we have found no alternative than to bring suit in order to require a realistic assessment of the long-term impacts of Atlantic Yards before further irreversible action is taken,” says Jo Anne Simon of the Boerum Hill Association.
News from Brooklyn:
Eminent Domain Ruling Expected Soon...What Will it Mean?...personally I think the fight will have to continue no matter what. I am not convinced losing a single lawsuit will stop Ratner. He has more tricks (which translates to tame politicians) up his sleeve. And Brooklyn isn't going to give up to Ratner without a fight no matter what. But the decision will be a major one, one way or the other.
Brooklyn has fallen out of love with Bloomberg...about time! For some time now just about everyone I know involved in education (parents and teachers in particular) are sick and tired of Tsar Bloomberg and his inefficient privatization of our schools.
We are a community based grass-roots organization advocating for environmentally sound community planning for the Gowanus Canal neighborhoods.
The Gowanus Canal is a very unique resource for our community and all of New York. It has long historal significant as a pre-industrial and industrial transportation waterway in addition to playing a significant roll in the Battle of Brooklyn. This natural tidal estuary connects our urban world to the waters that surround us and opens our city to the natural habitat it was built upon. Even today, it provides an open sky, early industrial/estuary landscape that can not be matched anywhere in our city.
With extensive urban Brownfields and an Aquatic Brownfield standing, we work to see this water way brought back to life with water quality standards that sincerely meet state standards for fishable and contact use; not only for the community but also for local wildlife.
For more information: FROGGcommunity@earthlink.net
PLASTIC RECYCLING IN BROOKLYN:
Recycling of plastics not accepted in the city recycling can be done at the Park Slope Food Co-op at 782 Union Street (between 6th and 7th Avenues)
Bring clean, dry plastic to the Coop's sidewalk during monthly recycling hours. We close up promptly. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the collection end time to allow for inspection and sorting of your plastic:
As of 2/16/09 and until further notice, we collect....
* #1 and #6 transparent plastics (Labels OK. Mouth is wide or wider than the body, meaning NOT bottles.) * #5 plastic tubs, cups & specifically marked lids and caps. Must be especially clean and dry. (Discard any with paper labels, or cut the labels off.) * Plastic film and bubble wrap. 100% transparent only -- must be able to see through the plastic. No colored or opaque. No paper labels. Minimal writing OK.
All the above must be brought to the Coop CLEAN AND DRY.
These changes result from a significant decline in the worldwide market for recyclable materials that has affected recycling programs everywhere. Please be patient and cooperate with us as we adjust to these changes, as well as to any further changes that may be necessary.
We are currently updating our literature and will make new fliers available as soon as possible. Or, contact us at plasticrecycling@foodcoop.com.
Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats is a community-based Democratic club. CBID has fought for reform and progressive causes since 1968. As a Brooklyn-based Club, we have been instrumental in the election of many candidates for public office. Much of this success was a result of our question-and-answer forums with prospective candidates as well as our extensive on-the-street contact with our constituents.
Staunchly opposed to political corruption, we are proud of our independence and our commitment to progressive reform in city, state and national politics. We are a vehicle for citizen empowerment and making government more accountable to our neighborhoods.
We meet monthly, usually the fourth Thursday evening of the month in the basement of the Park Slope United Methodist Church, on the corner of 6th ave and 8th street, at 7:30pm. All are welcome.
New Kings Democrats (”NKD”) is a new, grassroots organization in Kings County (Brooklyn), New York whose primary mission is to recruit and prepare individuals to run for Kings County Democratic Committee. NKD hopes to achieve the goal of an inclusionary and participatory democracy by making it easy for individuals to run for local, elected office. NKD will serve as a training ground for individuals seeking higher office, and hopes to build and nurture a new group of Brooklyn Democratic leaders.
Democracy for NYC in Brooklyn:
Democracy for New York City (DFNYC) is a volunteer-driven non-profit politicalaction committee. We are part of a national coalition of local groups committed to the ideals espoused by Democracy for America, the organization founded by Howard Dean.
We work both locally and nationally to ensure that fiscally-responsible and socially-progressive candidates win elections at all levels of government. We develop innovative ways to advocate for the issues that matter to our members and promote legislation which has a positive effect in our communities. We engage people in the political process and give them the tools to organize, communicate, mobilize, and enact change on the local, state, and national level.
Currently there is only one Brooklyn chapter:
Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn - Meets First Wednesday of every month. 7:00pm, Wyckoff-Bennett Homestead 1669 E. 22nd St. with host Annette Mont and Estelle Glasser.
DRINKING LIBERALLY IN BROOKLYN:
An informal, inclusive progressive social group. Raise your spirits while you raise your glass, and share ideas while you share a pitcher. Drinking Liberally gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don't need to be a policy expert and this isn't a book club - just come and learn from peers, trade jokes, vent frustration and hang out in an environment where it's not taboo to talk politics.
Park Slope * Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30-10:00 pm * Commonwealth, 497 5th Ave (at 12th Street) * Hosted by Anthony Accurso, Emilie Harkin and Emily Farris, parkslope (at) drinkingliberally.org
FOOD CO-OPS IN BROOKLYN:
New Food Co-op Coming to Brooklyn: (info sent to me by a reader)
They are not active yet, but their website is: http://www.foodcoopbayridge.com
They are recruiting new members and looking to open summer/fall 2010.
For more info, and if you want to get in at the start, you can email ( fcbrmembership@gmail.com ), call ( 347-247-8172 ) or follow them on Twitter (twitter.com/thefoodcoop) or on Facebook.
Park Slope Food Co-op 782 Union Street Brooklyn, New York 11215 Phone: (718) 622-0560 FAX: (718) 622-5685 linda_wheeler@psfc.coop http://www.foodcoop.com/
This is the largest Food Co-op in America. Joy and I are members. Low prices and high quality even if it can be a bit inconvenient at times.
Flatbush Food Cooperative 1318 Cortelyou Road Brooklyn, New York 11226 Phone: (718) 284-9717 FAX: (718) 284-9719 info@flatbushfoodcoop.com http://www.flatbushfoodcoop.com/
Established in 1976, and located on Cortelyou Road in the heart of Victorian Flatbush since 1985, Flatbush Food Coop is a community-owned, full-service natural foods store specializing in organic products. We are committed to serving the diverse community in which we are situated, and beyond, by providing goods and services that promote personal and environmental well-being. Like the 300 food coops across the nation with which we are affiliated, we are open to all—it is not necessary to be a member to shop. By joining the Coop, however, you become a joint owner of our business and are able to take additional savings on your purchases. There are opportunities for varying degrees of involvement in the coop, and our member-owners are able to influence the direction of our organization. We are particularly proud that the dozens of ethnic groups in Brooklyn’s most diverse neighborhood are reflected in our staff, our close to 3,000 members, and countless shoppers.
Queens Harvest Food Co-op in LIC, NY seeks core members & volunteers: seems people are trying to start a Food Co-op in Queens. Which is a GREAT idea. For more info, go here: http://www.queensharvestcoop.com/
Some reminders about Slasher Monserrate, one of the traitors who stopped reform in Albany:
Here is video of Monserrate dragging his girlfriend outside after the slashing he claims was accidental. Is this how you would treat YOUR loved one after accidentally slashing her? From Albany Project:
The Lesbian & Gay Democratic Club of Queens (LGDCQ) is the only lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender independent Democratic club in the Borough of Queens.
The LGDCQ was founded eleven years ago to increase the visibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities in the political arena of Queens, New York City, New York State and the nation.
To receive the monthly newsletter or to be put on the Club's mailing list contact; Democratic District Leader Daniel Dromm at Write "LGDCQ Newsletter" in subject title.
Democracy for NYC in Queens:
Democracy for New York City (DFNYC) is a volunteer-driven non-profit political action committee. We are part of a national coalition of local groups committed to the ideals espoused by Democracy for America, the organization founded by Howard Dean.
We work both locally and nationally to ensure that fiscally-responsible and socially-progressive candidates win elections at all levels of government. We develop innovative ways to advocate for the issues that matter to our members and promote legislation which has a positive effect in our communities. We engage people in the political process and give them the tools to organize, communicate, mobilize, and enact change on the local, state, and national level.
Currently there are three Brooklyn chapters: Each meets the First Wednesday of every month.
Astoria, Queens - 7:30pm, - Ommonia Cafe 32-20 Broadway, with host Jeremiah Frei-Pearson and Costa Constantinides.
Sunnyside, Queens - 7:30pm, Bliss Street Station restaurant, 47-02 Greenpoint Ave., with host Dan Jacoby.
Bayside, Queens - 7:00pm, The First Edition, 41-08 Bell Blvd, right near the LIRR stop, with host Steve Behar of Democrats for New Politics.
DRINKING LIBERALLY IN QUEENS:
An informal, inclusive progressive social group. Raise your spirits while you raise your glass, and share ideas while you share a pitcher. Drinking Liberally gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don't need to be a policy expert and this isn't a book club - just come and learn from peers, trade jokes, vent frustration and hang out in an environment where it's not taboo to talk politics.
Queens * Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward * Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11102 (group of young liberals taking up one lane) * Hosted by Donald Graff, queens (at) drinkingliberally.org
In this prestigious 6-week internship, open to high school Juniors and Seniors, LIFT participants learn, through a combination of in classroom and hands-on field work, all the ins and outs of field organizing and a powerful environmental justice perspective. LIFT participants also learn an invaluable set of skills such as messaging, public speaking, strategic thinking and community organizing. For more information, contact Marta Rodriquez at 646.400.5431 or email: mrodriguez@ssbx.org.
GREEN JOBS, NOT JAILS
This also comes from Sustainable South Bronx.
The City of New York is still moving forward with their plans for a jail in the South Bronx. We’ve been hearing these rumors and plans for a while, but have recently been alerted that the approval proceedings are moving forward. This has to stop. At a time when folks are losing their jobs and prisons are shutting down, why would we still invest over half a billion dollars on a jail that stands to only result in the continuation of limited opportunity. To these ends, we have launched our Green Jobs Not Jails campaign on Facebook. Already we’ve collected over 600 signatures against the proposal. Please join the cause today and sign our online petition. Help us tell the City of New York that communities deserve green jobs, real alternatives to incarceration, not developments that limit our community’s future opportunities. Stay tuned for additional events for our Green Jobs Not Jails campaign.
As we continue to face the challenges affecting our communities, we should all give thought to the types of sustainable communities we can create. Communities filled with green jobs, clean tech businesses, green roofs, solar panels, healthy children, healthy food, clean air, healthy homes and trees. As our new president inspires us to face some of our country's greatest challenges, SSBx will continue to serve the South Bronx Community and share our work across the globe. We ask that you help us, work with us, support us, and join us.
La Familia Verde is a coalition of community gardens in the Crotona, East Tremont, and West Farms neighborhoods in the Bronx. Formed in 1998, our mission is to sustain the environment and culture of our neighborhood through education, community service, and horticulture.
La Familia Verde is part of a community gardening tradition in New York City that dates back over 25 years, when city residents first began taking control of abandoned lots left by the economic and social devastation of the inner cities. Since that time, community gardens have played an important role in helping revitalize some of the city’s poorest neighborhoods. The gardens are not only pleasing to look at; they serve as educational, cultural, and social resource centers in traditionally underserved communities.
Today, La Familia Verde is comprised of more than ten community-operated gardens and various community based organizations. The gardens and community organizations help foster community pride, partnership, and activism.
The South Bronx Food Cooperative (SBxFC) is a green shopping alternative to the profit-oriented commercial food markets found in the Bronx. Founded and operated by committed residents, the SBxFC is dedicated to making a difference in the community by working together to provide healthy and affordable food to all who want it.
The South Bronx Food cooperative carries a wide variety of products, including local, organic and conventionally grown produce; pasture-raised, grass-fed and free-range meats and poultry; bulk grains, sugars, spices and pastas; fair-trade coffees and chocolate; environmentally safe cleaning supplies, and much more. All of this plus a selection of standard supermarket items makes the SBxFC a one-stop shopping destination. Sales are brisk at the SBxFC and inventory is replenished often ensuring that the products we sell are as fresh as possible..
As a member of the SBxFC you share ownership of the coop with fellow members. Members have a voice in the decision-making process and participate in directing the organization's future. Equally important, as a shopper you will know where your food choices come from. By becoming a member you and your family not only have access to fresh foods at reasonable prices, you will learn about our local farmers, organizations and vendors.
In addition to providing green/local products and democratic operations (common at most cooperatives), the SBxFC provides various health and nutrition services including workshops, cooking classes and education seminars. Our community education programs are designed and administered by local medical professionals and nutrition specialist. The goal of the SBxFC is to correct the various health disparities faced by Bronxites including diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure.
They seem to even have an online shopping option (members only).
Hours: 11:00 am – 8pm, Thursday – Monday CLOSED Tuesday & Wednesday (Additional hours and days of operation will be added in the very near future)
Website: http://www.sbxfc.org/
Location: 3103 Third Avenue Bronx NY 10451 (The corner of 158th St)
Asked to predict what sort of working relationship he’d have with Michael Bloomberg over the next four years, the incoming city comptroller talked about physics.
“An electromagnetic force,” he said, “it’s unlike gravity. Gravitational force is only one direction, it’s an attractive force. Electromagnetic forces can be attractive or repulsive.”
Why McMahon Voted No on Health Care Bill...sadly McMahon seems to be speaking Republican talking points, many of which have been debunked. He has either been duped or he is showing his DINO side. I should note I have been more than willing to express appreciation for McMahon when he did the right thing. This time I think he failed miserably.
Some of our state's Reps need to hear from us to get healthcare reform passed. Here are some articles/open letters to NY State Congressional Reps. If these are your Reps, please contact them!
The Daily Gotham covers both New York City (with a slight emphasis on Brooklyn) and New York State politics.
Reform NY is the blog of the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law
No Land Grab: News from the point of view of Brooklyn opposition to overdevelopment
True News from ChangeNYC.Org: ChangeNYC.Org is an organization unifying our City’s Democratic Party by welcoming all New Yorkers back into the political process. We are a coalition of real, everyday New Yorkers – young voters, progressives, neighborhood leaders, community bloggers, good government groups, and even conservatives – who believe that in cooperation we can bring the change to our City that together we have begun to bring to our nation.
* A $2 billion investment by Spanish energy company, Iberdrola, will double New York's 1,000-megawatt wind capacity to 2,000-megawatts - providing enough electricity for nearly 600,000 homes.
* New York's energy efficiency programs save enough electricity to power almost 115,000 homes for a whole year, save almost $140 million in energy costs, and prevent the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking over 60,000 cars off the road. Although great progress, the state still has much more potential to increase its energy efficiency.
* The state has a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) that requires all public utilities to generate 24% of their electricity from renewable energy resources by 2013.
What you can do for Clean Energy:
For pennies per month more than you currently pay for energy you can buy 100% green energy from Con-Ed. Joy and I have been doing it for years, seriously reducing our carbon footprint and giving NY State cleaner air. Here's how it works:
Clean Energy for Residential & Small Business Customers ConEdison Solutions is leading the way in promoting pollution-free electricity by offering WIND and GREEN Power - clean, 100% renewable power. Instead of drawing on traditional power sources, such as nuclear power and fossil fuel sources, GREEN Power is generated from regional wind and low-impact hydropower sources. GREEN Power is composed of 65% run-of-the-river hydro and 35% wind power. See content label WIND Power is composed of electricity exclusively generated from 100% wind power. The benefit of clean energy is that it produces none of the detrimental environmental effects associated with electricity production that results in air emissions.
ConEdison Solutions is committed to making a difference in the environment and together we have the opportunity to help make a powerful impact. The cost for renewable energy has fallen dramatically in recent years and is only a fraction higher than electricity generated from traditional power sources. ConEdison Solutions' GREEN Power costs only an additional one cent per kilowatt-hour (kWh) more than our standard offer and WIND Power is an additional 2.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) more than our standard offer. Upgrading to renewable energy makes a difference and is a very affordable way to show that you care about the future of our environment.
Here are a handful of Organizations worth checking out:
The Environmental Business Association is the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to supporting the growth of the environmental industry in New York State. Specifically, we help to promote and serve serving the industry sectors of Climate Change, Greening Communities, Energy and WALCE (Water-Agriculture-Land Use-Conservation-Environmental). News here. Events list here (not recently updated).
NY Citizens for Clean Elections: We are committed to passage of Clean Money Clean Election legislation in NYS that provides a non-partisan approach for full public funding of campaigns for all qualified candidates who refuse private money and abide by spending limits. We want to ensure that all Americans, regardless of wealth, have an equal voice in the political system and that qualified candidates are not discouraged from running because they do not have access to the money needed for a competitive campaign.
The Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats is a community-based Democratic club. CBID has fought for reform and progressive causes since 1968. As a Brooklyn-based Club, we have been instrumental in the election of many candidates for public office. Much of this success was a result of our question-and-answer forums with prospective candidates as well as our extensive on-the-street contact with our constituents.
Staunchly opposed to political corruption, we are proud of our independence and our commitment to progressive reform in city, state and national politics. We are a vehicle for citizen empowerment and making government more accountable to our neighborhoods.
We meet monthly, usually the fourth Thursday evening of the month in the basement of the Park Slope United Methodist Church, on the corner of 6th ave and 8th street, at 7:30pm. All are welcome.
New Kings Democrats (”NKD”) is a new, grassroots organization in Kings County (Brooklyn), New York whose primary mission is to recruit and prepare individuals to run for Kings County Democratic Committee. NKD hopes to achieve the goal of an inclusionary and participatory democracy by making it easy for individuals to run for local, elected office. NKD will serve as a training ground for individuals seeking higher office, and hopes to build and nurture a new group of Brooklyn Democratic leaders.
Stonewall Democrats of Western New York is the GLBT Democratic voice in WNY. Our mission is to advocate for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) community within the Democratic Party and to encourage GLBT participation within the Democratic Party. Our membership includes representatives from State, County, and City government, and several Democratic committee members amongst the various County Committees in WNY.
DEMOCRACY FOR NYC MEETINGS: First Wednesday of every month.
Upper West Side - 7:00 pm, The Parlour (back room) - 250 West 86th Street (btwn B'way and West End Ave.), with hosts Bernadette Evangelist and Sally Swisher.
West Village - 7:00pm, Kettle of Fish, 59 Christopher St. (near 7th Ave.) with host Tracey Keij-Denton.
Astoria, Queens - 7:30pm, - Ommonia Cafe 32-20 Broadway, with host Jeremiah Frei-Pearson and Costa Constantinides.
Sunnyside, Queens - 7:30 pm, Bliss Street Station restaurant, 47-02 Greenpoint Ave., with host Dan Jacoby.
Bayside, Queens - 7:00 pm, The First Edition, 41-08 Bell Blvd, right near the LIRR stop, with host Steve Behar of Democrats for New Politics.
Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn - 7:00pm, Wyckoff-Bennett Homestead 1669 E. 22nd St. with host Annette Mont and Estelle Glasser.
DRINKING LIBERALLY MEETINGS IN NY STATE:
Clifton Park, New York * First Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Old Dublin Inn, 130 Meyer Rd (Google maps is wrong, please contact me for directions.) * Hosted by Chris Selkirk, cliftonpark (at) drinkingliberally.org
Ithaca, New York * Every Wednesday, 6:30 pm onward * Felicia's Atomic Lounge, 508 W State St * Hosted by Joseph Cannon Murtagh, ithaca (at) drinkingliberally.org
New York City, New York:
The Original Drinking Liberally * Every Thursday, 7:30 pm onward * Rudy's, 627 9th Ave (between 44th and 45th) * In the backyard, weather permitting * Hosted by Justin Krebs, Matthew O'Neill and Katrina Baker, nyc (at) drinkingliberally.org
Drinking Liberally Steps Out * Third Tuesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm * XES Lounge, 157 W 24th St (@ 7th Avenue) * In conjunction with the Stonewall Democrats of New York City www.sdnyc.org. * Hosted by Matthew Carlin and Greg Rae, outnyc (at) drinkingliberally.org
Harlem * Second Wednesday of each month), 6:30 pm onward * Soundz Lounge, 3155 Broadway (between 123rd and 124th) * Hosted by Yolanda (Shoshi) Shoshana, harlem (at) drinkingliberally.org
Park Slope * Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30-10:00 pm * Commonwealth, 497 5th Ave (at 12th Street) * Hosted by Anthony Accurso, Emilie Harkin and Emily Farris, parkslope (at) drinkingliberally.org
Queens * Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward * Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11102 (group of young liberals taking up one lane) * Hosted by Donald Graff, queens (at) drinkingliberally.org
Upper East Side * Last Tuesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward * Doc Watson's, 1490 2nd Ave (at 77th) * Hosted by Matthew Bachiochi, ues (at) drinkingliberally.org
West Bronx * First and third Friday of each month, 7:30 pm onward * An Beal Bocht, 445 W 238th St (between Waldo and Greystone) * 1 to 238th, turn left, straight on 238th, just past the top of the stairs * Hosted by Jamin Sewell and Scott Kennedy, westbronx (at) drinkingliberally.org
Rochester, New York * Every Thursday, 8:00-10:00 pm * Monty's Korner, 355 East Ave * Hosted by Tom Tucker and Tracy Logan, rochester (at) drinkingliberally.org
And then we have: Shooting Liberally Tuesday, Feb 19 From your friends at Drinking Liberally comes the SHOOTING LIBERALLY...
For the First Amendment enthusiast ready to move on to the Second. A social evening at the gun range including training & weapon rental.
For more info and to reserve your spot, contact: Stanley Sherman - maskarts (at) worldnet.att.net
Here are some biodiesel stations near Austin, TX. Biodiesel is less polluting and has a smaller carbon footprint than regular diesel, and is produced right here in the USA. Biodiesel can be used in almost any diesel engine. Up to B20 (a 20 percent blend) any diesel engine, whether car or 18 wheeler or whatever, can use it. Above B20 some older engines may have problems, but newer engines should be ok.
DieselGreen Fuels: 5217 Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702, 512-247-3835. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine) and B100 (OK for newer diesel engines). Open 9-5.
El Sol Logistics: 1114 Regal Row, Austin, TX 78748, 512-563-8142. Offers B100 (OK for newer diesel engines). Open 9-5 M-F
Oaxacan Tamaleo: 1634 Hwy 71, Cedar Creek, TX 78612, 512-289-9262. Offers B100 (OK for newer diesel engines). CLOSED MONDAYS
Ecowise: 110 W. Elizabeth St. Austin, TX 78704, 512-326-4474. Offers B100 (OK for newer diesel engines). Open M-SU 10-7PM.
Northeast Travis County Democrats TIME/DATE: November 24, 2009. 6:30pm Meet and Greet, 7:00pm Meeting starts PLACE: Travis County Community Center, 15822 Foothill Farms Loop, Pflugerville CONTACT: Dave Taylor at 844-1300 or mrdave9735@aol.com
You are invited to join Northeast Travis County Democrats for their monthly meeting the last Tuesday of the month. The Community Center is located across FM 1825 from the Springhill Restaurant and behind the Lamb's Auto.
Capital Area Asian American Democrats DATE: Tuesday, December 1, 2009 TIME: 6:30pm Social 7:00pm Program begins LOCATION: First Chinese BBQ Restaurant, 10901 N Lamar
Capital Area Progressive Democrats DATE: Tuesday, December 1, 2009 TIME: 5:30pm LOCATION: AFL/CIO 1106 Lavaca
Stonewall Democrats Meeting DATE: Tuesday, December 1, 2009 TIME: 7:30pm LOCATION: The Red House, 1917 Manor Rd CONTACT: Rich Bailey at Rich@stonewallaustin.com
Stonewall Democrats meet the first Tuesday of every month.The meeting location has moved to The Red House at 1917 Manor Rd.
Capital City Young Democrats DATE: Wednesday, December 2, TIME: 6:00 p.m. LOCATION: Carver Library, 1161 Angelina CONTACT: Ben Simnacher, 576-1679 or bsimnacher@gmail.com
Our meetings are the the first Wednesday of every month.
University of Texas UDems Meeting When: Wednesday, December 2 at 8PM Where: UT Campus JGB 2.324
South Austin Democrats Meeting DATE: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 TIME: 5:30 PM LOCATION: Casa Garcia's Restaurant, 1000 S. Lamar CONTACT: Richard Arriola at 775-4154 or richard.arriola@sbcglobal.net
You're invited to join the South Austin Democrats for their monthly meeting at Casa Garcia's Restaurant. 5:30 to eat and socialize, meeting begins at 6 PM.
Lake Travis Democrats Meeting DATE: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 TIME: 6:30 PM LOCATION: Lakeway Activity Center, 105 Cross Creek Rd. CONTACT: Judy Donohue at 531-9804 or jdonohue@austin.rr.com
You are invited to join the Lake Travis Democrats for their monthly meeting at the Lakeway Activity Center.
http://laketravisdemocrats.org
Austin Women's Political Caucus' Holiday Party When: Wednesday December 9, 2009 (5:30-8 pm) Where: TBD For more information, contact 577-9493.
University of Texas UDems Meeting When: Wednesday, December 9 at 8PM Where: UT Campus JGB 2.324
Capital Area Democratic Women DATE: Thursday, December 10, 2009 TIME: 11:30 AM LOCATION: Nuevo Leon Restaurant, 1501 E. 6th St CONTACT: Jean Warneke at 217-4814 or cadw@cadw.org
You are invited to join Capital Area Democratic Women at their monthly meeting at Nuevo Leon Restaurant. Networking at 11:30 AM and lunch at noon.
Texans for Obama Holiday Party Event: Texans for Obama Meeting" Host: Texans for Obama Time: Tuesday, December 15th, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Where: Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd
The Holiday Party will feature Reps. Valinda Bolton, Donna Howard & Diana Maldonado.
Texas Environmental Democrats DATE: Tuesday, December 15, 2009 TIME: 7:00pm LOCATION: Vinny's Italian Cafe, 1003 Barton Springs Rd
Southwest Austin Democrats DATE: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 TIME: 6:30-8:30PM LOCATION:Will Hampton Public Library, 5125 Convict Hill CONTACT: Albert Gonzales at 280-4900 or at email4swad@yahoo.com
There has been a change in meeting day. All SWAD meetings will be on the third Wednesday of the month. Membership is open to all in Travis and Hays Counties.
Central Austin Democrats DATE: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 TIME: 6:15 PM LOCATION: New World Deli, 4101 Guadalupe #100 CONTACT: Matt Curtis at 983-5347 or matt.curtis.austin@gmail.com
Please join the Central Austin Democrats for their monthly meeting at New World Deli.
Black Austin Democrats DATE: Thursday, December 17, 2009 TIME: 6:00 p.m. LOCATION: 1104 E 11th St, Victory Grill CONTACT: Natomi Austin at president@blackaustindemocrats.net
Join the Black Austin Democrats at the Victory Grill for their monthly meeting
Northeast Travis County Democrats TIME/DATE: December 29, 2009. 6:30pm Meet and Greet, 7:00pm Meeting starts PLACE: Travis County Community Center, 15822 Foothill Farms Loop, Pflugerville CONTACT: Dave Taylor at 844-1300 or mrdave9735@aol.com
You are invited to join Northeast Travis County Democrats for their monthly meeting the last Tuesday of the month. The Community Center is located across FM 1825 from the Springhill Restaurant and behind the Lamb's Auto.
Biodiesel is an American produced fuel that is cleaner than traditional diesel. Up to B20 (a 20% blend of biodiesel and traditional diesel) any diesel engine, car or truck, can run on it. Above B20, some older engines may have problems but newer diesel engines should be ok. Here are some gas stations selling biodiesel near Dallas/Ft. Worth:
Loves: 1501 W Highway 287, Midlothian, TX 76065, 972-775-2820. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
Green Spot Market and Fuels: 702 N Buckner Blvd, Dallas, TX 75218, 214-319-7768 Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine) and B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open 6AM-9PM.
Texas Biotech Inc. 614 111th Street, Arlington, TX 76011, 817-633-3139 Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine) and B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open 7AM-5PM M-F ; 9A,-3PM SATURDAY; CLOSED SUNDAY
Carls Corner Truck Stop: I35E and FM 2959, Hillsboro, TX 76645, 254-582-8433. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine).
Loves Store #299: 715 S Central Expressway, Anna, TX 75409, 972-924-3683. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
DFW Biodiesel: 2561 E Long Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76137, 817-875-5147. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine) and B100 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open 24 HOURS.
Drivers Truckstop/Valero: 3201 N Freeway, Fort Worth, TX 76106, 817-624-3975. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS
Find out about the Dallas County DA Office, one of the more advanced DA's office in the nation and the reason I became inspired to focus on Dallas County. They have championed a program to confirm the guilt of convicted felons to ensure that the REAL criminals are taken off the street. Their efforts have been extremely successful. And find out about careers with the Dallas DA Department.
Grace United Methodist Church, 4104 Junius St at Haskell
Dallas Democrats Meetup 11/24/2009 - 7:00pm - 8:30pm Come talk about all the issues that have come up both in D.C. and in our local politics! Healthcare, the environment, the governor race, the ever-closer and important March, 2010, primary.
Join others who want to learn what's going on and share opinions about the issues of our time. Bring your own concerns, causes and ideas and find how to connect with the network of Democratic and progressive groups in the Dallas area.
East Dallas Democrats 11/25/2009 - 7:00pm - 9:00pm We meet at Martinez Restaurant on 901 Gross Rd, Mesquite, TX. This club serves SE Dallas (Pleasant Grove and Kleberg/Rylie), Mesquite, Seagoville, and Balch Springs.
Denton Stonewall Democrats 11/26/2009 - 7:00pm - 8:30pm Monthly meeting of LGBT and allied Democrats in Denton County www.stonewalldemocratsofdentoncounty.org
Landmark Grill, 1297 FM 407 (Justin Rd), Lewisville TX
23rd Senate District Democratic Organization 11/28/2009 - 9:00am - 11:00am Meetings on the last Saturday of each month. University of North Texas, Hampton Road, Room 242
Park Cities / Central Dallas Democrats 12/05/2009 - 10:30am - 12:00pm Usually meets the 1st Saturday of each month.
Dallas Public Oak Lawn 4100 Cedar Springs Rd, Dallas, TX (214) 670-1359
Happy Hour--North Oak Cliff Democrats 12/08/2009 - 6:00pm - 8:00pm Monthly happy hour with Democrats in the north part of Oak Cliff. http://northoakcliffdems.bravehost.com/ Beckley Brewhouse, 1111 N. Beckley Ave at Zang
Dallas County Young Democrats 12/08/2009 - 6:30pm - 8:00pm Zubar 2012 Greenville Ave. Dallas, TX 75206
Happy Hour begins at 6:30 Meeting starts at 7:00
For more information please visit www.dallasyoungdemocrats.org
Garland Democratic Women's Club 12/16/2009 - 11:30am - 1:00pm Siciliano's Taste of Italy 2210 W. Buckingham Garland, TX at 11:30 a.m. the third Wednesday of each month
Drinking Liberally Addison 12/17/2009 - 6:00pm - 8:00pm Promote democracy one pint at a time with like minded liberals at one of Addison's best bars. We typically meet every 3rd Thursday. Join our email list to stay up to date.
6pm to 8pm at The Quarter, 15201 Addison Rd, Addison TX
Far North Dallas Democrats 12/17/2009 - 6:45pm - 8:30pm Far North Dallas Democrats is an activist group primarily located in the Far North Dallas area.
www.farnorthdallasdemocrats.org
Our November 19 meeting features State Representative Rafael Anchia.
Beth Villarreal Campaign Toy Drive 12/18/2009 - 7:00pm Beth Villarreal, Candidate for Constable, Pct 5, Campaign Toy Drive Old Red Courthouse - 100 S Houston St, Dallas, TX - (214) 745-1100 Friday, December 18, 2009 @ 7:00 p.m. Contact the campaign website for more info - Bethvillarreal.com
North Oak Cliff Democrats 12/19/2009 - 9:00am - 10:00am 3rd Saturday Monthly breakfast at Norma's Cafe in the east room (that requires a right turn when you walk in the door....sorry). Come by for a casual breakfast with Democrats of North Oak Cliff. No agenda, no minutes, just a relaxed social opportunity. Meet your neighbors and local candidates.
Most folks show up around 9 or so. Some of us at 8:30. Stay until 10 or so. Don't waffle around, we eggspect your support!
Lake Highlands White Rock Democrats 12/19/2009 - 10:00am - 12:00pm 3rd Saturday of every month Dancemasters, 10675 E. Northwest Hwy, Dallas. Dance Masters is a dance studio. It is in the Kroger shopping center located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Northwest Highway and Plano Road. It is upstairs on the west side of the parking lot. The stairs and elevator for the upper level are in the middle of the west wing. (Plano Road changes names at this intersection. It is Plano to the north of this intersection and Lake Highlands Drive to the south!)
Coffee, Doughnuts, and Orange Juice
Southwest Democrats 12/19/2009 - 10:00am - 12:00pm Southwest Democrats Submitted by DCDP Webmaster on Thu, 07/16/2009 - 10:26am
Meet the Third Saturday each month, 10 AM next meeting June 20th
Ranch Steakhouse 1435 N HWY 67, Ste 200 Cedar Hill, Texas 75104 (Wintergreen Exit)
North Texas Asian Democrats 12/21/2009 - 7:30pm - 8:30pm Every 3rd Monday of each Month From 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Hunan Dynasty 8150 N Macarthur Blvd Irving, TX 75063
Richardson North Dallas Democrats 12/22/2009 - 7:00pm - 9:00pm The Richardson/North Dallas Democrats meet on the 4th Tuesday of each month. 7989 Belt Line Rd Dallas, TX 75248
Dallas Democrats Meetup 12/22/2009 - 7:00pm - 8:30pm Come talk about all the issues that have come up both in D.C. and in our local politics! Healthcare, the environment, the governor race, the ever-closer and important March, 2010, primary.
Join others who want to learn what's going on and share opinions about the issues of our time. Bring your own concerns, causes and ideas and find how to connect with the network of Democratic and progressive groups in the Dallas area.
North Dallas Texas Democratic Women 12/24/2009 - 6:45pm - 9:00pm We are a lively group dedicated to increased political activity of Democratic women in Texas politics and government.
Northaven United Methodist ChurchAddress: 11211 Preston Rd Dallas, TX 75230-3457
23rd Senate District Democratic Organization 12/26/2009 - 9:00am - 11:00am Meetings on the last Saturday of each month.
University of North Texas, Hampton Road, Room 242
Old East Dallas Democrats 12/28/2009 - 7:00pm - 9:00pm Hear about the “state” of our county party and the 2010 primary. There will be time to ask questions. We will also discuss the 11 constitutional amendments on the Nov. 3 ballot. Between 7 and 7:30 - meet 2010 candidates!
East Dallas Democrats 12/30/2009 - 7:00pm - 9:00pm We meet at Martinez Restaurant on 901 Gross Rd, Mesquite, TX. This club serves SE Dallas (Pleasant Grove and Kleberg/Rylie), Mesquite, Seagoville, and Balch Springs.
DALLAS COUNTY DEMOCRATIC ORGANIZATIONS:
Dallas County Young Democrats URL: http://www.dallasyoungdemocrats.org For Dallas Area Democrats between the agaes of 14 and 36. Renee Hartley, President Email: president@dallasyoungdemocrats.org
Democracy for America Dallas URL: http://www.dfalink.com/dallas Contact Name: Michael Thomas Phone: 214-403-8657 NW Dallas; NE Dallas; SW Dallas; SE Dallas; Central Dallas
Progressive Populist Caucus of Texas URL: http://www.texaspopulists.com
Texas Coalition of Black Democrats Contact Name: T. Nobles Email: tcbddallas@yahoo.com Phone: 214-264-8483 P. O. Box 764726, Dallas, Texas 75376 News Group-Meetup: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TCBDDallasChapter
One in three adults in Harris County lacked health insurance in 2008 while Texas continued to have the highest rate of uninsured residents in the nation, the Census Bureau reported Monday. Harris County's overall uninsured rate of 26.9 percent was the seventh-highest among Texas' 50 most populous counties, according to data from the American Community Survey.
Sounds like Harris County desperately needs healthcare reform!
BIODIESEL IN HARRIS COUNTY:
Biodiesel is an American produced fuel that is cleaner than traditional diesel. Up to B20 (a 20% blend of biodiesel and traditional diesel) any diesel engine, car or truck, can run on it. Above B20, some older engines may have problems but newer diesel engines should be ok. Here are some gas stations selling biodiesel near Houston:
ORourke Petroleum: 223 McCarty Street, Houston, TX 77029, 713-672-4500. Offers B20 (good in any diesel engine). CFN CARDLOCK ONLY
hyperfuels.com: 12969 W Hardy Frontage Toll Rd, Houston, TX 77037, 877-447-7207. Offers B100 (good in newer diesel engines, older engines may have problems). Open 9 AM - 5 PM.
Peachleaf Bio: 1611 Peachleaf St, Houston, TX 77039, 281-449-9500. Offers B99 (good in newer diesel engines, older engines may have problems). COOP SIGNUP NEEDED. Call for details. Open M-F 8-5.
Houston Biodiesel: 723 N Drennan Street, Houston, TX 77003, 713-222-0832. Offers B100 (good in newer diesel engines, older engines may have problems). Open 9:30-6 M-F; WEEKENDS CALL
American Greenfuels: 6421 Eppes St, Houston, TX 77087, 713-634-0033. Offers B99 (good in newer diesel engines, older engines may have problems). CALL FOR AVAILABILITY
Harris County Young Democrats General Meeting Date: Tuesday November 24, 2009 Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Repeat: This event repeats every month on the last Tuesday. Location: Bohemeos, 708 Telephone Rd., Houston TX 77023 A group of young progressives (ages 14-40) from all walks of life who are unified in dedication to social justice. We meet monthly to discuss political issues and elections, as well as to volunteer for local campaigns and fundraise for local charities.
Harris County Democratic Party Evening Brown Bag: Issues and Answers Date: Tuesday November 24, 2009 Time: 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Repeat: This event repeats every month on the last Tuesday. Location: HCDP 1445 N Loop W, Ste 110, Houston 77008 The Harris County Democratic Party continues its new Evening Brown Bag: Issues and Answers Series. Party Headquarters, 1445 N Loop West, Ste. 110 Houston, Texas 77008. For more information, please contact martha@hcdp.org or 713-802-0085.
Texas Democratic Women of Fort Bend County Meeting Date: Wednesday November 25, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Repeat: This event repeats every month on the last Wednesday. Location: First Colony Branch Library, 2121 Austin Parkway, Sugarland, TX We meet the last Wednesday of each month. For more information e-mail Monica Garcia: TDWFB@aol.com.
TGIF Coffee Break at Harris County Democratic Party Date: Friday November 27, 2009 Time: 9:30 am - 11:00 am Repeat: This event repeats every week. Location: HCDP HQ 1445 N Loop W, ste 110, Houston 77008 Stop by for coffee and conversation at the HCDP office on Friday from 9:30 to 11 am. Email martha@hcdp.org for more information.
Harris County Young Democrats Happy Hour Date: Friday November 27, 2009 Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Repeat: This event repeats every month on the last Friday. Location: Ernie's on Banks, 1010 Banks St. @ Montrose, Houston, TX Come and meet fellow Young Democrats at our monthly Happy Hour Social. Be sure to bring a friend, or two, or three even! For more info, please contact Conrad at hcyd.webmaster@gmail.com.
Democracy for Houston Monthly Meeting Date: Wednesday December 2, 2009 Time: 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm Repeat: This event repeats every month on the first Wednesday. Location: HCDP HQ, 1445 North Loop West, Ste. 110, Houston, TX 6:30 pm social; 7:00 pm meeting at 1445 N Loop West, Ste. 110, Houston, Texas 77008.
For more info contact Phillip McNutt at mgrnutt@yahoo.com.
Houston Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus Date: Wednesday December 2, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Repeat: This event repeats every month on the first Wednesday. Location: Havens Center, 1827 W. Alabama (near Woodhead) Street: Houston Gay and Lesbian Political Caucus City/State/Zip: POB 66664, Houston Tx 77266-6664 Phone: 713 521 1000 Monthly club meeting.
Please note the new location for the monthly meetings is Havens Center, located near Alabama & Woodhead, 713-528-6665 Visit our web site: www.thecaucus.org
TGIF Coffee Break at Harris County Democratic Party Date: Friday December 4, 2009 Time: 9:30 am - 11:00 am Repeat: This event repeats every week. Location: HCDP HQ 1445 N Loop W, ste 110, Houston 77008 Stop by for coffee and conversation at the HCDP office on Friday from 9:30 to 11 am. Email martha@hcdp.org for more information.
First day candidates may file to run for office Date: Saturday December 5, 2009 Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Location: HCDP headquarters, 1445 North Loop West, Suite 110, Houston, TX 77008 Candidates may file for a place on the 2010 Harris County Democratic Primary ballot between only between Dec. 5, 2009, and Jan. 4, 2010. Please contact HCDP for more information. Call HCDP at 713-802-0085 or email martha@hcdp.org
In honor of Republican Michael McCaul's (TX-10) "no" vote on healthcare reform, despite the desperate need of his constituents have for healthcare reform (over 1/5 uninsured in the TX-10 district, including many children and veterans), I have decided to focus a bit on the TX-10 district (outside of Travis and Harris counties which I cover on their own). You can donate to defeat Michael McCaul and to turn TX-10 blue through ActBlue. More importantly, if you live in the area, join up with one of the following local groups.
Blinn College Young Democrats meet on Thursdays at 12:15pm in the Blinn Student Center Room 4.
Executive Committee meeting the last Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m at headquarters 105 E. Main st., Brenham. Room 200 B
The Democratic Party Headquarters of Washington County washingtoncodemocrats@stratosurf.net P.O. Box 903, Brenham, TX. 77834-0903
Waller County Democrats: The Waller County Democratic Party is committed to creating positive change and electing progressive leadership, from the Courthouse to the White House. On this site, you can find announcements about upcoming Democratic events in our area, as well as information about Democratic candidates and your Waller County elected officials.
TO VOLUNTEER or for more info: Please contact Rosa Harris, County Chair, at rosapatlan@aol.com or 936-372-5422 / (281) 217-9016 Please leave a message if there is no answer.
Burleson County Democrats: Contact County Chair Linda Autrey: tel. 979.596.3855, email: paullindaa@netzero.net
Austin County Democratic Party: For more info contact: Helen Thompson, President ~ 979.478.6130 or e-mail: tabori43@aol.com
Lee County Democrats: contact County Chair Kay Sweat: tel. 979.773.3109, email: sweatfmly@hotmail.com
BIODIESEL IN TX-10: Let me also highlight some Biodiesel stations along this corridor between Houston and Austin.
Johnson Oil Company 1512 Central Commerce Circle Pflugerville, TX 78660
Offers B20 fuel (good for any diesel engine)
7am-5pm Mon-Fri 7am-Noon Sat 18 wheeler access
Shoppers Mart # 29 2925 F.M. 1825 Pflugerville, TX 78660
Republican Lamar Smith is another Republican who is ignoring the uninsured citizens in his district by opposing much needed healthcare reform. Democrat Lainey Melnick is currently running against Lamar Smith in 2010 and has been doing some good fundraising on ActBlue.
To help turn TX-21 blue, I am highlighting some Democratic groups in the district.
Our monthly meeting is at 6:15 pm, the 3rd Tuesday of each month usually at the Santo Coyote Cafe, next to the Best Western on Sidney Baker (aka Hwy 16) near Interstate 10. For more information call Brenda Harrison, PhD, County Chair 830.257.2611, or email brenda4179@gmail.com
Texas Democratic Women, Kerr Cty Chapter, meet the first Tuesday of the month, Sept-May, at the Mount Wesley Conference Ctr, 610 Methodist Encampment Rd. For more information about TDW, call Stephanie Ertel, President, 830.895.9827
Tuesday morning breakfast: 7:00 am at Inn of the HIlls (1001 Junction Hwy near the intersection of Hwy 27 and Harper Rd.)
Friday Luncheon at El Compadre at the Ingram Dam Center, 11:00 am every Friday. This is a casual gathering for great Mexican food and great political discussion.
Dallas Progress: "Named a "Best of Big D" New Media Star by D Magazine, I write about politics, development, and whatever else comes to mind."
The Lubbock County Progressives are committed to advancing the needs of all citizens. Our organization welcomes diversity and new ideas from all citizens and we respect that all have a voice. The freedoms that form the foundation of our country are still important to us. We understand that agreement is not always possible but we strive to present positions that respect the person and advocate a free exchange of ideas.
* Texas' wind energy accounts for close to one-third of the nation's total installed wind capacity.
* If Texas' solar potential was fully realized, the state could generate up to 40% of its electricity from rooftop applications, as well as 70% from solar thermal systems.
* The state's energy efficiency programs save enough electricity to power almost 30,000 homes for a whole year, save more than $51 million in energy costs, and prevent the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking over 46,000 cars off the road. Although great progress, the state still has much more potential to increase its energy efficiency.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Texas, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Texas Solar Energy Society: The TXSES mission is : To increase awareness of the potential of solar energy and other renewable energy applications and to promote the wise use of sustainable and non-polluting resources. Find local chapters here. Check out their calendar for upcoming events.
The Dallas Progressive Alternative Energy Meetup Group Want to know when and where this meeting is? Sign up for this Meetup.
The foremost purpose of The Dallas Alternative Energy Meetup Group is to bring together individuals seeking better, cleaner, more economical energy methods and technical experts working in the field of solar, wind, water, geothermal and other renewable sources to gain knowlege and how to use that knowledge. Any individual that has family or friends who live and breath air, those who live in a home, apartment, condo or townhouse as well as those who own automobiles or any other energy powered machinery would be well served to visit our monthly meetups.
This group is to discuss the role of wind power in Texas. Who should attend?
-citizens interested in learning about wind -homeowners and landowners -wind industry professionals -wind industry job-seekers -investors -anyone who feels they can contribute to the group
It took nearly 7 years living within a few blocks of one of the biggest food co-ops in America before Joy and I joined it. We were definitely reluctant. But, in the end the lack of good produce and the decline of our local supermarkets led to us joining. And the result is a slighly more inconvenient shopping trip each week, but much healthier, higher quality and cheaper food. I recommend joining a co-op if there is one nearby. You will save money and eat healthier. Here are a few co-ops I could find in Texas:
The purpose of Wheatsville is to create a self-reliant, self-empowering community of people that will grow and promote a transformation of society toward cooperation, justice, and nonexploitation.
Wheatsville's mission is to serve a broad range of people by providing them goods and services and by using efficient methods which avoid exploitation of the producer and the environment.
The Sustainable Food Center/Austin Community Gardens Not a food co-op per se, but related.
1106 Clayton Lane Suite 480W Austin, Texas 78723
Phone (512) 236-0074 Fax (512) 236-0098
http://www.sustainablefoodcenter.org/
From seed to table, SFC creates opportunities for individuals to make healthy food choices and to participate in a vibrant local food system. Through organic food gardening, relationships with area farmers, interactive cooking classes and nutrition education, children and adults have increased access to locally grown food and are empowered to improve the long-term health of Central Texans and our environment.
Sustainable Food Center works to create a food secure community by improving access to local, healthy and affordable food for children and adults in Central Texas. Our community and youth gardens, Farmer's Market Initiative, and cooking and nutrition education classes benefit an estimated 20,000 Central Texans annually.
The focus of this mission is to supply high-quality food and nondoctrinaire information about food to the people in Austin, Texas.
"Best of the Blessed" Healthy Food Co-op 2900 Mistywood Lane Denton, Texas 76209 Phone: (940) 380-0787 hardiehome@netscape.com
Central City Co-op 2115 Taft Houston, Texas 77006 Phone: (713) 524-9408 FAX: (713) 520-9813 yaya@wt.net http://www.centralcityco-op.org/
Imagine communities of people coming together each week in different parts of the city to purchase high quality, organic food at reasonable prices. This was the dream of Jennifer Georgantas and Patricia Greer in September 2001 as the idea for Central City Co-op was born. With the help of numerous volunteers both then and now, the dream has become a reality.
We believe that everyone has a divine right to organic food and that organic food should be available at reasonable prices--that one day there will be co-ops throughout the city that provide locally grown, high quality, organic produce to people on a weekly basis. We offer as much produce as possible from local sources that embrace the practice of compassionate and chemical free growing.
Central City Co-op offers a space--if only for a moment--where people come together as a community. Join us!
Keller Texas Produce Co-op 1401 Briar Meadow Dr. Keller, Texas 76248 Phone: (817) 284-2433 Monic@yourhealthsource.org
And here are some groups and meetings:
The Texas Fair Trade Coalition (TFTC) is a diverse, nonpartisan, coalition of unions, environmental advocacy groups, consumer groups, family farmers, religious organizations, women's advocacy groups, low-income and immigrant advocacy groups, professors, students, public interest and fair trade groups. TFTC promotes democratic control over fiscal and social policies, social justice, workers' rights and livable wages, and sustainable development in trade policy, in Texas and worldwide.
Monthly Colleyville, Grapevine, Southlake Democrats Meeting The CGS Democrats meet the second Thursday of each month at different locations around our three cities. Arrive at 6:30pm to socialize and eat dinner or at 7:00pm to meet.
Central Market (Southlake, TX) Hwy 1709 Southlake, TX 76092
Meet with other local Democrats, listen to special guests speakers, and learn how to participate in the poltical process. We have a lot of fun networking and learning how to activate our voters.
Meeting agendas are posted at the club Website one week in advance of the meeting date at http://www.cgsdemocrats.com
Look for us in the community room of the Central Market store. It is a nice meeting room and works out nicely. Call if you need directions: (817)939-5671
Lake Area Democratic Club (Social) A gathering of Democrats and anyone interested in the democratic process. Location: Seven Points Dairy Queen (Seven Points, TX) Directions: On hwy 85 just west of hwy 274
We meet at the Seven Points Dairy Queen at 6PM 3rd Tuesday of each month. Come join us and dine at the Queen and have fun while we work to get our county, state, and country back in shape.
Call 214-683-2811 for more information.
Stonewall Democrats is an organization of politically active individuals working for the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender community. Here are some local chapters in Texas:
Here are the Texas Drinking Liberally groups for those who like to socialize with fellow Liberals:
Austin, Texas * Every Tuesday, 6:30 pm onward * The Dog and Duck Pub, 406 W 17th St (at Guadalupe) * Hosted by Ben Andrews, austin (at) drinkingliberally.org
Corpus Christi, Texas * Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Cassidy's Irish Pub, 601 N Water St * Hosted by Teresa Klein and Jim Klein, corpuschristi (at) drinkingliberally.org
Dallas * Second Friday of each month, 6:00 pm onward * The Stoneleigh P, 2926 Maple Ave (at Wolf across from the historic Stoneleigh Hotel) * Check out our blog for announcements of Eating Liberally, Screening Liberally, Drinking Coffee Liberally and other nonsmoker-friendly gatherings. Also, please "friend" us at MySpace.com/DallasDrinkingLiberally. * Hosted by Melissa Morgan, dallas (at) drinkingliberally.org
Addison * Third Thursday of each month, 6pm until 8pm * The Quarter, 15201 Addison Rd (next to Sambuca) * http://www.myspace.com/addisondl * There is road construction! However, Addison Rd is now re-opened in both directions for the time being. * Hosted by John McClelland and Erica Stockbridge, addison (at) drinkingliberally.org
Mid-Cities * First and third Wednesday of each month, 6:30 pm onward * Esparza's Tequila Factory and Grill, 3314 Harwood Rd, Bedford * Hosted by Kathleen Thompson and Todd Hill, midcities (at) drinkingliberally.org
El Paso, Texas * Third Tuesday of each month, 6:00 pm to 8:00pm * Hemmingways, 214 Cincinnati Ave * Hosted by Michael Apodaca and Lily Ruiz, elpaso (at) drinkingliberally.org
Houston, Texas * First Thursday of each month, 7 PM onward * Dog House Tavern, 2517 Bagby St * TRYING SOMETHING NEW. GOING TO MEET 1ST THURS FOR A FEW MONTHS. * Visit or post on the Houston forum: http://drinkingliberally.org/forum/viewforum.php?f=6 * Hosted by David Robertson, houston (at) drinkingliberally.org
New Braunfels, Texas * Third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * The Black Whale, On the Plaza in Downtown New Braunfels * Hosted by Steve Woolbert and Greg Woodall, newbraunfels (at) drinkingliberally.org
San Antonio, Texas * Second and fourth Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm onward * The Cove, 606 W Cypress St (The Cove is located just west of San Pedro, where Cypress runs into Fredericksburg.) * Hosted by Bill Livermore, Livi Bogrand and Ned Allen, sanantonio (at) drinkingliberally.org
Waxahachie, Texas * Every Thursday, 6:30 pm * Library Lounge, downstairs in the Rogers Hotel, 100 E Main St (Take the elevator or stairs from lobby) * Location changes from time to time. Be on the email for updates! * Food available; no smoking. Conversation-friendly environment! * Hosted by Nathalie Guyol, waxahachie (at) drinkingliberally.org
Proctor Creek Cleanup, Saturday, December 5 from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m
Hosts: UCR, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance, and Community Improvement Association Location: Proctor Creek – 533 and 539 Lindsey Street, Atlanta GA. 30318 (West Atlanta) Parking: Lindsey Street Baptist Church, across the street from the site Directions: From Bankhead Highway - Travel south on Joseph E. Lowery Blvd and turn Left on North Avenue. Lindsey Street will be the next right. RSVP TO: tbates@ucriverkeeper.org or 404.352.9828 x12 All participants are required to sign a Liability Waiver prior to participation.
What to Expect: One source of Proctor Creek originates within the Vine City/English Avenue Community. Nonpoint source pollution abounds in this area which has suffered from blight and environmental injustice for far too long. Proctor Creek is also one of the most environmentally impaired creeks in the metro Atlanta. We will be picking up trash out of the creek, and also in surrounding abandoned homes and empty lots areas.
What to Wear: Wear clothes that you don't mind getting very dirty. Wear old sneakers or boots (NO sandals) and bring work gloves if you’ve got them. We encourage you to wear long pants as some of the trash we pick up is broken glass and sharp/jagged materials. You might want to bring clean clothes and shoes to change into for your journey home.
Child/Youth Participation: We welcome children, but they must be supervised at all times by their parent/guardian. Minimum 10 years of age.
Here is info on biodiesel, food co-ops and organizations in Atlanta, GA.
Young Democrats of Atlanta: Young Democrats of Atlanta is the official Fulton County chapter of Young Democrats of Georgia, and as such includes membership from all of Fulton County, not just those inside the Atlanta city limits. However, as the Young Democrats chapter at the center of the greater Atlanta area, we encourage the participation of local Young Democrats from any other county in our neighborhood.
Meetings first Wed. of each month, Manuel's Tavern 602 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, GA
New Member Orientation: 6:30pm Mix and Mingle: 7pm Business meeting: 7:30pm
Atlanta Branch of the NAACP contact info: Atlanta Branch location: 2034 Metropolitan Pkwy mail: PO Box 310067 Atlanta, GA 30314
FCDP Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month (except December), at 7:00pm at the Communications Workers of America (Local 3204) Hall at 307 Logan Street SE Atlanta, GA 30312.
Mid-Fulton Democrats are a diverse group of people who strive to create a large, dynamic community of concerned citizens charged with communicating to the people of Atlanta the need to get educated about political issues affecting our lives. Get Engaged. It is important to learn about the issues, but civil society requires more: active participation in discussion and debate. We provide the opportunity for you to meet local elected officials and candidates running for local office and to express your concerns to them. A democracy depends upon the active participation of its citizens. Join us and make sure the issues you care about are heard.
We meet on third Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm at Manuel's Tavern 602 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, GA
BIODIESEL IN ATLANTA:
Here are some biodiesel stations in Atlanta, GA. Biodiesel is less polluting and has a smaller carbon footprint than regular diesel, and is produced right here in the USA. Biodiesel can be used in almost any diesel engine. Up to B20 (a 20 percent blend) any diesel engine, whether car or 18 wheeler or whatever, can use it. Above B20 some older engines may have problems, but newer engines should be ok.
Refuel Biodiesel 250 Arizona Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30307-2251 (404) 219-9709 website: www.refuelbiodiesel.org
Current hours of operation: 24 Hours a day / 7 days a week - Self-Service Fuel type: Currently we have B20 available, however we will be adding a B100 nozzle in the near future.
Methods of payment accepted: VISA, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover Card The unit will run debit cards that bear a VISA or Mastercard logo as credit.
Atlanta, GA Food Co-op: Sevananda Natural Foods Market Everyone Can Shop, Anyone Can Join!
We are one of the Southeast‘s largest consumer-owned cooperatives providing fresh, local and organic produce, natural foods, vitamins and supplements, a large selection of bulk herbs and spices, earth-friendly household and pet products and freshly prepared foods including nutritious baked goods, soups, sandwiches, entrees and salads.
Located in Little 5 Points, near Downtown Atlanta, we offer shoppers and member/owners a variety of health and nutrition classes for healthy living.
467 Moreland Avenue NE Atlanta, GA 30307 (404) 681-2831
Fayette County Branch, NAACP Title: Executive Committee Mtg, Olivet Church Date: 12/03/2009 Time: 7:00pm for 2 hours email: info@fcnaacp.org
Fayette County Branch, NAACP Title: General Meeting Rock AME Church 120 Old Chapel Ln. Date: 12/12/2009 Time: 4:00pm for 1 hour 30 mins email: info@fcnaacp.org
The Coweta County, Georgia Democratic Party's regular monthly meeting is the first Saturday of every month at 10:00 am (come at 9:30 for breakfast) at the Westside Restaurant on Temple Avenue in downtown Newnan.
December 2, 2009 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM - Business Meeting: Monthly Business Meeting Location: Manuel's Tavern 602 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, GA, US Contact: Mijha Butcher email: president@atlantayoungdems.org New Member Orientation: 6:30pm Mix and Mingle: 7pm Business meeting: 7:30pm
Solar Energy in Coweta County:
You can search for a solar installer in your area of Coweta County by clicking here.
All graphs I see for locations in Coweta County indicate that Coweta County is suitable for solar energy based on the amount of sunshine received during the year. For example, for Sharpsburg, GA here is the graph of sunshine received on a month-by-month basis compared with the national average:
This information can be useful to help determine if Sharpsburg will do well with solar photovoltaic panels (for solar electricity generation), solar water heating systems, solar pv, solar heat, solar pool heating, etc. The closer the dark green line is to the light blue line (or the higher it is above it), the better. Sharpsburg matches the light blue line pretty well, going above (better) some months, and below (worse) some months. The rest of Coweta County, GA shows a pattern similar to that of Sharpsburg. To be sure your property is suitable, click on the link above, find your town and then zip code, then fill in the form to get a detailed analysis and quote. On average for the nation, you break even on your investment in solar energy within 3-5 years and after that you get many years of essentially free energy (warranties on solar panels range from 20-25 years...so that is 15-20 years of nearly free energy from your solar panels).
Georgia Bank Failures...continuing fallout from the economic mismanagement during the Bush years. It will take possibly another year for this to play out.
State Budget revenues hit record low under Perdue and the GOP. The Republicans seem to bankrupt whatever they run. I remember when Orange County, CA was one of the most conservative counties in the country...and they had to declare bankrupcy under Republican leadership. And Bush ran up the largest deficits in American history even though he was handed a surplus by Clinton. Now Georgia is being run into the ground by Republicans.
BIODIESEL IN GEORGIA (and Georgia has a great network of biodiesel stations!)
Here are some biodiesel stations in Georgia. Biodiesel is less polluting and has a smaller carbon footprint than regular diesel, and is produced right here in the USA. Biodiesel can be used in almost any diesel engine. Up to B20 (a 20 percent blend) any diesel engine, whether car or 18 wheeler or whatever, can use it. Above B20 some older engines may have problems, but newer engines should be ok.
Citgo Food Mart: 174 North Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30004, 770-475-7071. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 24 HRS
ReFuel Bio: 250 Arizona Ave, Atlanta, GA 30307, 404-219-9709. Offers B100 (not ok for some older engines). Open 24 HRS.
SA White Oil: 590 Atlanta Street SE, Marietta, GA 30060, 770-427-1387. Offers B20 (ok for all engines) and B100 (not ok for some older engines). Open 7AM-6PM M-F; SAT 7AM-2PM.
Down to Earth Energy: 941 Monroe Jersey Road, Monroe, GA 30655, 770-267-7891. Offers B20 (ok for all engines) and B100 (not ok for some older engines). Open 8AM-7PM.
Enterprise Oil Co. 651 Joe Frank Harris Pkwy SE, Cartersville, GA 30120, 770-382-4804. Offers B100 (not ok for some older engines). Open 6AM-5PM M-F.
Apex Express: 205 Hawthorne Ave. Athens, GA 30606, 706-549-7535. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 6AM-11PM M-F.
Merryman Biodiesel: 288 Bowdoin LN SW, Adairsville, GA 30103, 706-602-9160. Offers variety of biodiesel blends. Open M-F 9-5.
Rock-It BP: 145 Highway 411 SE, Rome, GA 30161, 706-234-1838. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 24 HRS.
Soymet 101: 5680 Alabama Hwy NW, Rome, GA 30165, 706-802-1110. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 24 HRS.
Walthall Oil Company #401: 4433 Forsyth Road, Macon, GA 31210, 478-405-8218. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 24 HRS. NO TRACTOR/TRAILER ACCESS
Mini Food Stores: 3224 Vineville Ave, Macon, GA 31204, 478-742-2023. Offers B10 (ok for all engines). Open 24 HRS.
Davis Oil Company: Gunn Rd and Eagle Pkwy, Centerville, GA 31093, 478-953-1437. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 24 HRS.
Fillers #21: 2601 Moody Rd, Warner Robins, GA 31088, 478-328-3755. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 6AM-MIDNIGHT.
Fast Break: 200 South State Street, Lyons, GA 30436, 912-526-6591. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 24 HRS.
Fastbreak - BP: 142 South State Street, Lyons, GA 30436, 912-526-6591. Offers B20 (ok for all engines). Open 24 HRS.
Tondee's Tavern: "A Practical and Useful Blog for the benefit of PROGRESSIVES in GEORGIA."
Atlanta Progressive News: Also on Every Thursday on 89.3 FM WRFG 12pm "Current Events" Show with Adam Shapiro. And for more on Radio Free Georgia, go here.
Georgia Justice Project is an unlikely mix of lawyers, social workers and a landscape company. We defend people accused of crimes and, win or lose, we stand with our clients while they rebuild their lives.
* According to the Georgia State Wind Map and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, there is over 10,000-megawatts of wind potential off the state’s coast. That's enough to replace 10 large coal-fired power plants!
* There are 2,027-megawatts of clean hydroelectric power in Georgia, which accounts for nearly all of the state's renewable energy generation today.
* Suniva, Inc. is building the first solar manufacturing plant in Georgia. The company will begin production at its 32-megawatt, high-efficiency solar cell facility in Gwinnet County, initially creating 100 new jobs.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Georgia, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Saving the Economy and Environment with Clean Energy!
Solar, Wind, Energy Efficiency, and Energy Conservation all have the power to meet our current and projected energy demand more cheaply then fossil fuels (read: Fools), all while providing more local jobs then traditional coal, nuclear, or natural gas plants! Join here for more details. Or go here: www.cleanpower4georgians.com
Atlanta Beyond Oil We are interested in peak oil, global warming, relocalization, sustainable communities, alternative energy, permaculture, and more. We are beginning to network with other Metro Atlanta groups and to have events that educate people about our concerns. We offer support, information, and opportunities to contribute to the solution. We'd love to have you join us! Go here for more details.
The Atlanta Green Living Meetup Group We will meet to share ideas, listen to speakers, review new products, and organize in the community to promote the preservation of Atlanta's natural environment. The group focuses on easy, accessible options that everyone can take to reduce their footprint. Join here for more info.
Next let me highlight some NAACP groups:
The Cobb County NAACP monthly meetings are the first Monday of the month at the branch office at 6:30 p.m.
General membership meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, mostly at the office location but varies based on programs. Members are encouraged to attend these meetings. Join a committee today. Elections of officers are held in even years.
For more info contact the branch office: 605 B. Roswell St Marietta, GA 30061 770.425.5757 info_at_cobbnaacp.org
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP, is the oldest, largest and strongest civil rights organization in the United States. The principal objective of the NAACP is to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of minority group citizens of the United States.
The NAACP is committed to achievement through non-violence and relies upon the press, the petition, the ballot and the courts, and is persistent in the use of legal and moral persuasion even in the face of overt and violent racial hostility.
Fayette County NAACP Branch General Membership Meeting: 2nd Saturday Each Month - 4:00 PM, Flat Rock AME Church
And if you want contact info for other NAACP branches in Georgia (mainly street addresses), please go here.
Here are a couple of Democracy for America meetings in Georgia:
Decatur Meeting: First Wed. of every month, 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM, Location: ChocoLate Coffee, 2094 North Decatur Rd, Decatur, GA, 30033 US Contact: Susan Keith susan_at_georgiafordemocracy.org
The North Fulton/East Cobb Democracy for America: Second Tuesday of every month, 7:00 PM, sign up here to find out where and more details.
Veterans for Peace, Atlanta has several vigils and rallies around Atlanta. Here is their weekly schedule. I urge you to join them if you can to show your support:
Tuesdays 12:45-1 pm Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at Emory University , in front of Woodruff Library. For more information e-mail: thee.smith@emory. edu.
Thursdays 5:00-6:00pm Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at CNN, Marietta and Centennial Olympic Park. For more information e-mail John.Zientowski@ turner.com
Fridays 12:00-1:00 pm Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at Colony Square , corner of Peachtree and 14th Street . For more information, e-mail bobbiepaul@rp.cbeyond.com
Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at Marietta Square ( Cobb Court House). For more information e-mail cobbpeace@comcast.net
Saturdays 12:00-1:00 Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at Dekalb Farmers Market At 3000 Ponce de Leon Avenue , Decatur For more information, Fro more information e-mail John.Zientowski@ turner.com
Sundays 12:15-1:00 pm Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at the corner of MLK Drive and Washington Street (across from the state capitol). For more information, e-mail elogan@gsu.edu or peggyhendrix2000@yahoo.com.
12:00-12:30 pm Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at 910 Ponce De Leon Ave NE ,Open Door Community. For more information contact Lauren Cogswell at lauren_cogswell@yahoo.com, 404-874-9652
Here are more organizations, groups and events in Georgia:
Atlanta Area Democrats Meetup Group: Grassroots Democrats upset with the direction the Republicans are taking our country and our state - we're taking action! Sign up for more information.
Cobb County Young Democrats Monthly Happy Hours on the first Fridays of every month and monthly Business Meetings on the third Tuesdays of every month. Both are great opportunities to meet fellow Cobb County Young Democrats and learn about the 2008 heated races taking place in Cobb County.
Happy Hours: BLACKBIRD, 114 W Hancock St, Milledgeville, GA, 31061 US Contact: Christin Ivey, Christin_ivey@ecats.gcsu.edu,
Business Mettings: Little Azio Pizza and Pasta 1675 Cumberland Pkwy, Ivywalk Unit #415, Smyrna, GA, 30080 US Contact: Alexandra O'Callaghan, alli@georgiayds.org,
Cherokee County Democratic Party Meeting Third Monday of Every Month, 7 PM Hot Springs Community Center 100 Hickory Circle Holly Springs, GA More info here.
Georgia Equality is the political advocacy voice of Georgia's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender citizens and their allies. Founded in Atlanta in 1995, it has grown into a true statewide organization and is known nationally as one of the leaders among state and local LGBT groups.
Atlanta Amnesty International Chapter 75: Meet others in your local area interested in Amnesty International USA, a worldwide movement of people who campaign for internationally recognized human rights. Sign up to find out when and where.
Drinking Liberally is a grassroots social organizations for people who like to meet fellow liberals over a good beer. Here are the Drinking Liberally chapters in Georgia:
Atlanta, Georgia * Every Thursday, 8:00 pm onward * Thinking Man's Tavern, 537 W Howard Ave, Decatur * Hosted by Erin Abrahams, atlanta (at) drinkingliberally.org
Dunwoody * First and third Wednesday of each month (next meeting January 2), 7:00 pm onward * Ye Olde Dunwoody Tavern, 5488 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd (map) * Hosted by Hillary Meister, dunwoody (at) drinkingliberally.org
Augusta, Georgia * Second and fourth Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Helga's Lounge, 2015 Central Ave * Hosted by Margie Hobbins, augusta (at) drinkingliberally.org
Savannah, Georgia * First and third Thursday of each month, 7:30 pm onward * Crystal Beer Parlor, 301 W Jones St (corner of west jones and jefferson) * lots of parking * Hosted by John Mattingly, Victor Fishman and McKay Schwalbach, savannah (at) drinkingliberally.org
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
NEW JERSEY BLOGGING: Blue Jersey is a great source for the latest in New Jersey politics.
LatinosNJ.com – a website designed for and about New Jersey Latinos who number almost 1.5 million – provides the latest news and issues, and features blogs and columns from Latino leaders and experts in various fields such as health, education, business, and immigration.
Green Jersey is an environmental news blog that’s based in, and all about, New Jersey. Its blogger-editor is Jennifer Weiss, a New Jersey-based journalist.
Every Wednesday Evening: Blue Jersey Radio Wednesday nights at 8pm with hosts Jeff Gardner and Jason Springer. Listen live or download podcasts at anytime.
New Jersey for Democracy: Howard Dean started the strategy that won big in 2006 and 2008. Let's continue to the tradition. Here are the local Democracy for America groups in New Jersey:
North Jersey -
Bergen County meets at the Ethical Culture Society 687 Larch Ave Teaneck, NJ 07666 RSVP at www.dfalink.com/bergen
Essex County Cryan's Beef & Ale House 24 First Street South Orange, NJ 07079 RSVP at www.dfalink.com/essex
Hudson County The Hard Grove Cafe 319 Grove St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 201-451-1853 RSVP at www.dfalink.com/hudson (First Wednesday of the Month, 7:30pm)
Morris County Morris County Democratic Headquarters 11 Washington St Morristown, NJ 07960 RSVP at www.dfalink.com/morris
Passaic County Puzo's Restaurant (Upstairs) 4 Garfield Ave. Hawthorne, NJ 07506 RSVP at www.dfalink.com/passaic (First Thursday of the Month)
Union County Rockin Joe Cafe 20 Prospect Street Westfield, NJ 07090 908-232-1660 RSVP at Union Meetup
Warren County MS Health Software Corp 605 Grand Ave. Hackettstown, NJ RSVP at www.dfalink.com/nwnj
Central Jersey -
Hunterdon County Friendly Grounds Coffee 36 Mine St. Flemington, NJ 908-788-8983 RSVP at www.dfalink.com/hunterdon
Mercer County Carl A Fields Center 86 Olden Street (Corner of Olden St and Prospect Ave on Princeton Univ campus) Princeton, NJ RSVP at www.dfalink.com/mercercounty (please check DFA-Link for schedule)
Middlesex County Panera Bread 1551 Route 1 South Edison, NJ 08837 (732) 516-1611 RSVP at www.dfalink.com/middlesexNJ
Monmouth County Racioppi's Kitchen 107 Oakland St. (at the train station at Bridge Ave.) Red Bank, NJ (917) 863-2408 RSVP at www.dfalink.com/monmouth
Somerset County Somerset County Complex 40 North Bridge St. (off of High) Somerville, NJ RSVP at Somerset Meetup (Second or Third Tuesday of the Month)
South Jersey -
Camden County Haddon Township Library 15 MacArthur Blvd Westmont, NJ 08108 856-854-2752 RSVP at Progressive Democracy South Jersey 4th Tues. of month
Gloucester County RSVP at Democracy for Gloucester County (Please check DFA-Link for date & location)
Ocean County Joshua Huddy Brew Pub and Grill 1250 Hooper Ave. Toms River RSVP at www.dfalink.com/oceancounty (First Tuesday of the Month)
NEW JERSEY FOOD CO-OPS
It took nearly 7 years living within a few blocks of one of the biggest food co-ops in America before Joy and I joined it. We were definitely reluctant. But, in the end the lack of good produce and the decline of our local supermarkets led to us joining. And the result is a slighly more inconvenient shopping trip each week, but much healthier, higher quality and cheaper food. I recommend joining a co-op if there is one nearby. You will save money and eat healthier. So I will list some local food co-ops in New Jersey:
Purple Dragon Co-op 289 Washington Street Glen Ridge, New Jersey 07028 Phone: (973) 429-0391 FAX: (732) 247-0103 http://www.purpledragon.com/
Purple Dragon Co-op was formed in 1987 to bring natural foods into our area at prices closer to wholesale. In 1989, we began working to improve the availability of exquisitely fresh organic produce for our members. Janit London, a songwriter and veteran of many food co-ops, with 20 years’ experience in the Natural Foods business, designed Purple Dragon’s unique format, i.e., a new low-labor co-op model that works for today’s busy families.
Purple Dragon originated the idea of a mixed produce variety basket that has been copied all over our area and has become a national trend. We buy from many local organic and some ecological farmers and work closely with them to support their efforts to grow food in an ecologically sound manner in our own community.
We also shop up and down the East Coast, eastern Canada, the rest of the US, Europe, New Zealand, Israel and buy from certain farms in Central and South America and the Caribbean. When in doubt about a grower’s authenticity, we double check certifications with reliable sources in the industry. We work to provide you with the finest and most interesting variety of organic produce available.
We work constantly to refine and improve our service. We welcome your suggestions. We are also different in that we are the only group that is really a co-op. Our members actually work (see “How much do I have to work?”) This allows lower prices, better quality produce, and we get to meet people with similar interests in our area. It is also a chance to be closer to nature by handling the beautiful fruits and vegetables soon after they arrive from local farms.
Another difference is that we stand up for what we believe. We recycle all office paper, use only recycled paper, return crates to farmers and support environmental and organic farming associations, including the Organic Trade Association, CAFF, Sierra Club, NYCAP, NCAP, NOFA, American Farmland Trust, and the NJ Organic Farming Association.
George Street Co-op 89 Morris Street New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901 Phone: (732) 247-8280 FAX: (732) 247-0103 gscoop@georgestreetcoop.com http://www.georgestreetcoop.com/
The George Street Co-op is a non-profit natural foods store owned and run by its members. We sell vegetarian foods with the greatest nutritional value possible, and only minimal processing, additives or toxins. Everyone is welcome to shop at the Co-op and choose from our excellent selection of fresh organic produce, bulk foods, vitamins & herbs, body care and earth-friendly products, gifts, and more.
The Co-op serves the community by supporting local farms, community groups, events and gardens. We host a variety of outreach programs and informational seminars and produce a free, informative publication, Food for Thought.
We are also committed to bringing jobs and wellness into the area as a conscientious employer providing a safe, healthy work environment and offering benefits and competitive wages to our employees.
Sussex County Food Co-op
See Sussex County Page
In Good Taste 1301 N Delsea Drive Vineland, New Jersey 08360 Phone: (609) 794-4856 FAX: (856) 794-4856 igt@snit.net
Alternative energy and Sustainable Agriculture in New Jersey:
* New Jersey has approved a 350-megawatt, offshore wind farm at least 16 miles out to sea. If completed in 2013 as scheduled, it will be the first offshore wind farm in the US.
* The state's energy efficiency programs save enough electricity to power over 25,000 homes for a whole year, save more than $29.2 million in energy costs, and prevent the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking over 20,000 cars off the road. Although great progress, the state still has much more potential to increase its energy efficiency.
* New Jersey has a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) that requires all public utilities to generate 22.5% of their electricity from renewable energy resources by 2021.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in New Jersey, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
The Newark Alternative Energy Meetup Group Meet other local individuals interested in exploring all forms of Alternative Energy. Discuss ways to preserve the world's resources and protect the environment!
In Addition, you will receive informative newsletters that are chock full of Alternative Energy news from around the country. For more info go here.
Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey is a twenty two year-old, membership based educational nonprofit organization. We are a unique collaboration among the stakeholders in our food system; our members and our governing board include farmers, consumers, retailers, processors, educators and researchers. We serve as a catalyst in the development of a sustainable organic agricultural system; provide assistance to both organic and progressive conventional farmers to help build and maintain sustainable operations; educate diverse audiences about the significance and meaning of organic practices for food and the environment; and provide independent, third-party certification to organic farms and processors.
Groups and Events:
Cape May County Federation of Democratic Women Meeting Sam DiVico Senior Center Cape May Court House, NJ 08210 Join the Cape May County Federation of Democratic Women to discuss important local, state and federal issues. All are encouraged to join!
2nd Thursday of every month. 7:00pm Sam DiVico Senior Center Romney Place Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
For more information, please contact: Virginia Hesel 609-884-5848
PFLAG of North Jersey: Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays of North Jersey is a group of people who meet regularly in the South Orange area and are dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people, their families and their friends. Meetings are 2nd Sunday of Every Month. Our regular meeting is from 2:30 to approximately 4:15. Newcomer's meet from 1:30 to 2:30 in a smaller, more informal setting. For more info contact: Helpline: 973-267-8414 or pflagwaver_at_aol.com
Drinking Liberally:
For the more social and fun-oriented (and booze oriented), there's Drinking Liberally. Here are the New Jersey Drinking Liberally Chapters:
Hillsborough, New Jersey * Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward * Petrock's Bar and Grill, 419 Amwell Rd (at Amwell and 206) * Hosted by Matthew Dawson, hillsborough (at) drinkingliberally.org
Montclair, New Jersey * Second Thursday of each month, 7:30 pm onward * Just Jake's, 30 Park Street (b/t Bloomfield & Claremont) * We meet in the REAR DINING ROOM. Turn left after entering, go past the juke box, bar and W.C. * Ample parking in municipal lot next to Just Jake's (free after 7 pm) * ** Mtclair DL ON THE ROAD, TUES, NOV 13, from 8PM at PAUL'S BAR & BOWLING, 377 CROOKS AVE, PATERSON, NJ (973) 278-1982 http://local.yahoo.com/details?id=10780514 **THIS IS AN ADDITIONAL MEETING, WE STILL HAVE OUR USUAL 2nd THURSDAY * Hosted by Kevin Kelly and Dan Evans Farkas, montclair (at) drinkingliberally.org
Morristown * Third Thursday of each month, 8:00 pm onwards * Hennessey's Tavern, 140 Morris St (Corner of Elm & Morris, next to the train station) * There's plenty of public parking behind train station or on Elm Street. * Come on by & raise a pint with other fun loving local progressive's! Hope to see you there... * Hosted by Jim Long, Chip Robinson, David Cochran and Linda Humphries, morristown (at) drinkingliberally.org
Dover * First Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * The Hop, 14 N Morris St * Hosted by Jim Long, Chip Robinson, Dave Cochran and Linda Humphries, dovernj (at) drinkingliberally.org
New Brunswick, New Jersey * Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Doll's Place, 101 Paterson St (corner of Paterson & Joyce Kilmer) * Hosted by Bob Scardapane and Chris Swasey, newbrunswick (at) drinkingliberally.org
Pennsauken, New Jersey * First and third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Kings Row Sports Bar and Billiards, 6030 S Crescent Blvd (Route 130 N) * Hosted by Art Williams and Denise Williams, pennsauken (at) drinkingliberally.org
Toms River, New Jersey * First Tuesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward * Joshua Huddy Brew Pub, 1250 Hooper Ave (across from Ocean County Mall) * Hosted by Robin Kinlin and Ian Valentine, tomsriver (at) drinkingliberally.org
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
Blue Commonwealth is a community forum for the discussion of political issues of interest to Virginians.
LeftyBlogs Virginia is the place to find out what's happening in the progressive blogosphere across Virginia.
The Virginia Public Access Project is a non profit group that demonstrates how technology can improve public understanding of money's role in Virginia politics. This is one of the best resources to use to find out who takes money from whom in Virginia politics.
The Virginia Organizing Project is a statewide, multi-issue citizens' organization committed to challenging injustice by empowering people in local communities to address issues that affect the quality of their lives.
Virginia Poverty Law Center (VPLC) is a not-for-profit organization concentrating in the areas of law that affect low-income families.
The Virginia Young Democrats blog has links to local Young Democrat groups and college clubs, and has information of interest to young voters in Virginia. This is Virginia's political future!
Virginia Coalition for Open Government: formed to promote expanded access to government records, meetings and other proceedings at the state and local level. Our efforts are focused solely on local/state information access. While we do some lobbying (within limits imposed by IRS rules), our primary work is educational. The Coalition was formed in 1996, after a year-long organizing effort. Our 23-member board of directors represents the state's access activists and friends of open government, including Virginia's librarians, genealogists, broadcasters, newspapers and the public at large. Also check out their blog for recent news.
Veterans For Peace is a national organization founded in 1985. It is structured around a national office in Saint Louis, MO and comprised of members across the country organized in chapters or as at-large members. There is an annual convention each year attended by our members, families and supporters from across the nation.
We, having dutifully served our nation, do hereby affirm our greater responsibility to serve the cause of world peace. To this end we will work, with others to:
1. Increase public awareness of the full costs of war.
2. Restrain our government from intervening, overtly or covertly, in the internal affairs of other nations.
3. End the arms race and to reduce and eventually eliminate nuclear weapons.
4. Seek justice for veterans and victims of war.
5. Abolish war as an instrument of national policy.
It took nearly 7 years living within a few blocks of one of the biggest food co-ops in America before Joy and I joined it. We were definitely reluctant. But, in the end the lack of good produce and the decline of our local supermarkets led to us joining. And the result is a slighly more inconvenient shopping trip each week, but much healthier, higher quality and cheaper food. I recommend joining a co-op if there is one nearby. You will save money and eat healthier. So I will list some local food co-ops in Virginia:
Eats Natural Foods Co-op 708 North Main Street in Blacksburg (new location) Phone: (540) 552-2279 info@eatsnaturalfoods.com http://www.eatsnaturalfoods.com/
(email doesn't work? If anyone has any info on this co-op, let me know)
Crozet Natural Foods PO Box 634 Crozet, Virginia 22932 Phone: (434) 823-5583 keptfreeinhim@yahoo.com
Healthy Foods Co-op 110 W Washington Street Lexington, Virginia 24450 Phone: (540) 463-6954 FAX: (540) 463-7213 hfoods@rockbridge.net http://healthyfoodscoop.org/
(email doesn't work?)
We are a community-based cooperative, dedicated to offering products, services and leadership which reflects our membership's commitment to healthy living, nutritional awareness and environmental responsibility.
Healthy Foods Market is a cooperative business, meaning that we are owned and democratically controlled by our members. We are proud of our experienced and knowledgeable staff that can assist you with your regular purchases, as well as with special inquires and needs.
They also have a cafe, something I wish my local food co-op would do.
Fare Share Cooperative 2132 W. Main Street Richmond, Virginia 23220 Phone: (804) 355-5919
Incorporated in 1975, Roanoke Natural Foods Co-op– or the Co-op as it is more commonly known – provides our community with nutritious food choices and earth-friendly products. Operating from cooperative principles, we support sustainable environmental practices, local organic farmers, local businesses, and our community.
We are the largest cooperatively owned natural foods grocery store in Virginia, and though we're member owned, ownership is not required to shop. Our products are many, our selection diverse, and our promise unwavering – that you will find quality items for sale in our store with no artificial colorants, preservatives, or additives.
In addition to providing families with high-quality organic and natural products, the Co-op supports local efforts to preserve the integrity and health of our natural resources and community.
Valley Market PO Box 23 Staunton, Virginia 24402-0023 http://www.valleymarket.org
Valley Market is a food co-op currently forming in Staunton, VA. It is our vision to open a cooperatively run, retail grocery store-front in the Staunton area.
Valley Market is a community-owned and democratically run business. We are an excited group of volunteers who are interested in making a difference in the health and well being of our community. Though we are in the development stages, our vision is to open a retail natural food co-op emphasizing locally grown and produced food and products.
We are presently in the planning, organizing and fundraising stages of our development.
This gives you a chance to be in on the beginning of a tradition. To get involved, go here.
Alternative Energy and Sustainable Agriculture in Virginia:
* The recently passed Virginia Energy Plan will aim to reduce Virginia’s greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2025 through energy efficiency education and investment in state renewable energy projects.
* A 39-megawatt wind farm recently gained approval in Highland County and is expected to power 15,000 homes with clean energy
* Virginia's renewable portfolio standard (RPS) enourages public utilities to generate 12% of their electricity sales from renewable energy sources by 2022.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Virginia, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Living Green DC/MD/VA: LIVING GREEN DC/MD/VA works to send a message to the community and influence small changes in everyday actions that can have a big impact on our world. As a group we look for ways to make small changes in the way we live, enjoying the support and friendship of other like-minded people. This meetup can only grow if lots of members become Assistant Organizers and provide fun and creative ways to socialize, learn, spread the word, volunteer, network, do fun things. Suggestions are seeing films with environmental themes, dining where organic and locally purchased produce is promoted, visiting farmers markets and socializing afterwards, volunteering for Earth Day activities, meeting in cafes to discuss books and articles, etc.. Whether it's a movie screening or eating a meal with freinds at an environmentally friendly restaurant, you are sure to make an impact, so join the group and volunteer. Go here for more information.
Virginia Sustainable Agriculture Organizations and Publications: Whether you're a beginning farmer, or an experienced agricultural producer interested in transitioning to more sustainable practices, you may want to start by learning more about the principles of sustainable agriculture and some of the "systems" approaches associated with it.
Arlington Democrats Meetup Group Meet other local Dems! Sponsored by the Arlington Democratic Committee, about 60 attendees meet to discuss local/national politics, listen to guest speakers and receive news on getting involved. Email jamesemcb_at_yahoo.com to join the ACDC listserv or sign up at www.arlingtonyoungdems.org.
Monthly Charlottesville Democratic Breakfast This gathering takes place on the third Saturday of each month at 9:30a.m. and is usually held at the JABA building on Hillsdale Drive. Pay what you can.
Virginia Beach Democratic Committee Monthly Meeting Held the First Wednesday of every month, 7 PM, at the Virginia Beach Central Library.
Monthly Interfaith Pray for Peace Gathering Final Thursday of evern month, 7:15pm
Location: Sojourners UCC Church, 1017 Elliott Ave, Charlottesville Sponser: Interfaith Cooperation Circle of Central Virginia-URI; Gesher Center; Unity Church
Description: On the final Thursday of every month, the Interfaith Pray for Peace Gathering welcomes people of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs to an inspired and inspiring flow of prayers, meditations and songs for peace.
Equality Loudoun has been working since 2003 to make Loudoun County, Virginia a welcoming place for all its residents - gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and straight.
Vienna Hispanic Democrats: Meet with local Hispanic Democrats. To learn more, join here.
Blue Mondays With the Stafford County Democrats Every Monday evening at 5 PM King Street Blues Restaurant Casual get-together of like minded Democratic Activist For more info contact: jac_at_j2power.com
Drinking Liberally: For the more social and fun-oriented (and booze oriented), there's Drinking Liberally. Here are the Virginia Drinking Liberally Chapters:
Alexandria/Springfield, Virginia * Second Thursday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm * King Street Blues, 5810 Kingstowne Center Drive, Alexandria (Corner of Kingstowne Blvd and Van Dorn Street) * Hosted by Brian Murray and Mike Sizemore, alexandria (at) drinkingliberally.org
Arlington, Virginia * Every Thursday, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm * Capitol City Brewing Company, 2700 S Quincy St * We're usually in the back room at Cap City; check with the host station if you don't see us there! * "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world" - Margaret Mead * Hosted by David Swim, Quinn Jones, Michelle Elliott and Bev Wright, arlington (at) drinkingliberally.org
Charlottesville, Virginia * Every Thursday, 6:00 pm onward * South Street Brewery, 106 W South St * Hosted by Chris Dumler and Clare Wuerker, charlottesville (at) drinkingliberally.org
Lorton, Virginia * First and third Friday of each month, 6pm to 8 or 9 * Glory Days Grill, 9459 Lorton Market St * First hour of the gathering is part of happy hour * Hosted by Alan Salisbury and Chris Ambrose, lorton (at) drinkingliberally.org
Norfolk, Virginia * Third Thursday of each month, 5:00-7:00 pm * The New Belmont, 2117 Colonial Ave (upstairs at the bar) * Hosted by Tom Mitchell and Vivian Paige, norfolk (at) drinkingliberally.org
Richmond, Virginia * Every other Wednesday, 7:00 pm onward * Chiocca's Downstairs, 425 N Belmont Ave (Museum District - corner of Kensington & Belmont) * Come join us for brews & news! * Hosted by Morgan Bailey and John Manall, richmond (at) drinkingliberally.org
Virginia Beach, Virginia * First Friday of each month, 7:00 PM * Studio For The Healing Arts, 1611 Colley Ave # D, Norfolk, VA, Norfolk (One block from the Naro theater) * Zeitgeist the Movie, DVD Door Prize * http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Virginia9-11Truth/ http://vbdems.org * One block from the Naro theater in Ghent * Hosted by Chris Jaramillo and Eileen Levandoski, vabeach (at) drinkingliberally.org
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
SeattleActivism.org is a new website and project that provides information on upcoming events, actions, and meetings as well as links to organizations and resources in the Seattle area related to progressive activist issues.
* Two wind power farms in Washington - Hopkins Ridge and Wild Horse - produce enough renewable energy to meet the needs of approximately 100,000 homes
* Washington's energy efficiency programs save enough electricity to power almost 50,000 homes for a whole year, save more than $43 million in energy costs, and prevent the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking over 48,000 cars off the road. Although great progress, the state still has much more potential to increase its energy efficiency.
* Washington has a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) that requires all public utilities to generate 15% of their electricity from renewable energy resources by 2020.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Washington State, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Here are a biodiesel cooperatives in Washington State. If you drive a diesel car or truck, check it out.
Tacoma Biodiesel Tacoma, WA
Biodiesel is an alternative to petroleum diesel made from vegetable oil that can be used in any diesel engine. Now this clean, renewable, domestically-produced fuel is available right here in Tacoma, and you can be a part of it! The Tacoma Biodiesel Cooperative is a grassroots group of Tacoma-area citizens who have chosen to support this alternative fuel through advocacy and use in our personal vehicles.
And here are Propel Fuel Stations around Washington State that offer biofuels: (I came across them through their carbon offset program)
* Seattle, South Lake Union Flagship 609 Westlake Avenue North Seattle, Washington 98109
* Bellevue/Factoria 3204 129th Pl SE Bellevue, Washington 98005
* Seattle, Ballard Neighborhood 4420 Leary Way NW Seattle, Washington 98107
* Kenmore 8002 NE Bothell Way Kenmore, Washington 98028
* West Seattle 3500 SW Barton Street Seattle, Washington 98136
* Mount Vernon 2120 East College Way Mount Vernon, Washington 98273
Here are some other alternative energy resources in Washington State:
Our Wind Co-op is a unique cooperative of small-scale wind turbines on farms, ranches and public and private facilities across the Northwest. Through this collaborative effort, 10-kW turbines were installed at numerous rural sites serviced by publicly-owned utilities. To find out more or ask about participation, Contact:
Northwest SEED 1402 Third Ave #901 Seattle, WA 98101 info_at_nwseed.org (206) 328-2441
Climate Solutions 219 Legion Way SW #201 Olympia, WA 98501 info_at_harvestcleanenergy.org (360) 352-1763
Seattle Advocates of Renewable Energy: a group of interested citizens who want to learn more about Renewable Energy and Sustainability. Our goal is to foster discussion, networking, and action on these important issues. We meet on the fourth Thursday of every month from 7 to 9 pm at the First Seattle Presbyterian Church.
Seattle Peak Oil Awareness (www.seattleoil.com) has been active for 2 1/2 years (it actually started out life as a Meetup.com group)!
Seattle Peak Oil Awareness is a local citizens action network offering information and practical ideas for living in a time of reduced energy availability. Working in small, focused groups we advocate healthy, sustainable living choices for all interested residents in the Puget Sound region. Read more here.
And for those who want to mix social and political fun, here are Drinking Liberally groups in Washington:
Bellingham Second and Fourth Tuesday of each month, 7:00 pm Horseshoe Cafe, Ranch Room, 113 E Holly St Hosted by Dave Willingham
Burien Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm Mick Kelly's Irish Pub, 435 SW 152nd St Hosted by Cherisse Luxa | Joe Fitzgibbon
Olympia First and Third Monday of each month, 7:00 pm Urban Onion in Downtown Olympia -- In the Bar, 116 Legion Way SE (In the Bar--enter on Legion) Hosted by Bruce Lund | Barry Piercy
Seattle Every Tuesday of each month, 8:00 pm Montlake Ale House, 2307 24th Ave E Hosted by Nicholas Beaudrot | Chris Mitchell
Seattle Eastside First and Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm Angelo's Restaurant, 1830 130th Ave NE Hosted by Norman Furlong | Doug Hightower | Rich Erwin
Newport Hills First Monday of each month, 7:30 pm Mustard Seed Grill and Pub, 5608 119th Ave SE Hosted by Robert Sargent
Shelton Third Monday of each month, 7:00 pm El Serape Restaurant, 2503 Olympic Hwy N Hosted by Mike Mosbarger | Drew Noble
Spokane Every Tuesday of each month, 7:00 pm Working Class Heroes Bar & Grill, 1914 North Monroe Street - (509) 327-0448 Hosted by Andrew Brewer
Tacoma Every Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm Hub Restaurant, 203 Tacoma Ave S (in the bar area) Hosted by Melissa Thompson | Traci Kelly
Tri-Cities Every Tuesday of each month, 7:00 pm O'Callahans - Shilo Inn, 50 Comstock Richland Washington Hosted by Jim McCabe | Kendall Miller
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
For those that don't know, Kossack Lois Herr is running for Congress here in PA-16 against Joe "Pitts is the" Pitts- co-author of the infamous Stupak-Pitts ammendment...please consider supporting Lois financially at my act blue page for Lois...consider joining the $16 for the 16th district club! And if you are on twitter you can sign up for their new act blue twitter express...go to act blue website and activite the new express...then go to twitter and tweet the following:
donate $16 @herr2010 via Act Blue spedwybabs sent me!
Progress Pittsburgh is building a broad coalition of progressives to transform the governance of our city. Decades of mismanagement by directionless leadership and regressive machine politics have put our city at the brink of collapse. We need a transformation: new vision, new blood, and a new democratic process. We are working to make this transformation happen.
The Pennsylvania Progressive, brining you Pennsylvania News and Politics from a...well, PROGRESSIVE view.
THE HUDDLER: A Pittsburgh blog, political rag, cyber tabloid, and place to hear the word on the street, from the outside looking in.
Alternative Energy and Sustainable Agriculture in Pennsylvania:
* The Pennsylvania Solar Park, a 10.6-megawatt array of 50,000 photovoltaic solar panels in Nesquehonig, Carbon County, will be the nation's second largest solar PV farm to date.
* The 34.5-megawatt Casselman Wind Power Project near Garrett, PA will generate enough clean, renewable wind energy to sustain 10,000 homes in the tri-state area of southern Pennslyvania, northern West Virginia and western Maryland
* Pennsylvania has an alternative energy portfolio standard that requires all public utilities to generate 18% of their electricity from alternative energy resources by 2021, with at least 8% from renewable energy and 0.5% from solar.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Pennsylvania, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Biodiesel of Pennsylvania We believe alternative energy is the way of the future! Biodiesel is AMERICAN made fuel that helps keep our air clean and helps out farmers...not Saudi billionaires.
Biodiesel of Pennsylvania, Inc. 61 Cat Drive White Deer, PA 17887 570 538 1041 office Email: kalin_at_biodieselpa.com
We are located one mile off the Route 80 / Route 15 intersection: Coming off Route 80 (major East/West highway) go North on Route 15; drive about one mile. Take the White Deer exit. At bottom of ramp, make a RIGHT. Go about 200 meters. On the RIGHT you will see our Biodiesel of Pennsylvania sign with pretty fir tree landscaping. Our large modern facility is right there on Cat Drive.
Please contact us if you are: * A fleet manager and would like more information about adding Biodiesel to your fleet. * A municipality looking to comply with upcoming changes mandating use of biodiesel. * A heating and oil firm looking to satisfy customers who demand biodiesel. * A biodiesel marketer looking for fuel.
Pennsylvania's Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard (AEPS), created by S.B. 1030 on November 30, 2004, requires each electric distribution company (EDC) and electric generation supplier (EGS) to retail electric customers in Pennsylvania to supply 18% of its electricity using alternative-energy resources by 2020.* Pennsylvania's standard provides for a solar set-aside, mandating a certain percentage of electricity generated by photovoltaics (PV). Pennsylvania's AEPS also includes demand-side management, waste coal, coal-mine methane and coal gasification as eligible technologies.
H.B. 1203 (2007) provided a more detailed solar schedule, clarified the force majeure clause, confirmed REC property rights for generators, added solar thermal to Tier I, clarified that AEPS RECs cannot have been retired for other purposes, and expanded the definition of customer-generator. Revised rules addressing these changes and other necessary clarifications became effective in November 2008.
Eligible Renewable/Other Technologies: Solar Water Heat, Solar Space Heat, Solar Thermal Electric, Solar Thermal Process Heat, Photovoltaics, Landfill Gas, Wind, Biomass, Hydroelectric, Geothermal Electric, Fuel Cells, Municipal Solid Waste, CHP/Cogeneration, Waste Coal, Coal Mine Methane, Coal Gasification, Anaerobic Digestion, Other Distributed Generation Technologies
Applicable Sectors: Investor-Owned Utility, Retail Supplier Standard: 18% during compliance year 2020-2021 (8% Tier I and 10% Tier II) Technology Minimum: Solar PV set-aside of 0.5% for June 1, 2020 and thereafter Credit Trading: Yes Website:http://www.puc.state.pa.us/electric/electric_alt_energy.aspx
Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA) is a nonprofit organization working to improve the economic and social prosperity of Pennsylvania food and agriculture. We work with the farmers that grow our food, the consumers that eat the food, and those concerned with the ecological well-being of our environment and natural resources.
Here are some important progressive groups and events in Pennsylvania:
Progressive Majority Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania is the quintessential battleground state — it has been a swing state in every presidential election for more than 70 years. And it is a state where deep political work must be done to reverse the stranglehold conservatives have on the government, build a durable political infrastructure, and tip the state for progressives once and for all.
Pennsylvania is the slowest-growing of any major state in the nation. Since few new people move in, progressives must build lasting political relationships that address people's core needs and take into account their core values. Pennsylvania is a conflicted state — voters hold conflicting views on economic and social issues in different parts of the state. In short, a "one size fits all" political strategy will not work here.
That's why Progressive Majority's long-term, state-based approach to candidate recruitment and development is so well-suited to meet this challenge. Our work to identify community leaders and activists, authentic candidates who care about what's best for people and who will lead on a local agenda, is what's needed here.
Critical Mass Monthly at 5:30 PM on the fourth Friday Where: Dinosaur, Carnegie Library, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213 Description: Critical Mass is a celebration of bicycling as a pollution-free mode of transportation. Critical Mass is not an organization nor it is affiliated with any organization, it's an unorganized coincidence. It's a movement ... of bicycles, in the streets.
Steel-City Stonewall Democrats Happy Hour Monthly at 17:15 on the fourth Tuesday Where: Images 965 Liberty Avenue downtown
Liberty City Stonewall Democrats
Peace Vigil Every Saturday, 10:30 AM Intersection of Lincoln Hgwy & Oxford Valley Roads Business Route 1 & Oxford Valley Road at the Closed Transmission Station Langhorne, PA Organized by Lower Bucks for Democracy
Here are a few Democracy for America groups in Pennsylvania:
Gettysburg Area DFA Meetup: will be held at the Lutheran Theological Seminary on Seminary Ridge in Gettysburg the first Wednesday of each month. We gather at 6:30 pm to chat and enjoy refreshments. Our meeting begins at 7:00 PM at the Seminary's Valentine Hall, Room 206 -- across from the Seminary Library. There is parking both in front of Valentine Hall (off Springs Ave) and in the Seminary lot next to the Library. Contact Elaine Jones for more information: elainelynchjones_at_gmail.com
Western PA DFA Monthly Meeting: second Thursday of each month, 6:00 PM, Rudy & Son Restaurant, 1641 Mercer - Grove City Rd
Philly for Change Meeting: first Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Find out more about the group at www.phillyforchange.com
Next, here are some Drinking Liberally chapters in Pennsylvania: second Thursday of each month,
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania * Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * The Orchards Restaurant, 1580 Orchard Dr * Ask for the Drinking Liberally group and you'll find us. * Hosted by Alice Elia, chambersburg (at) drinkingliberally.org
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania * Second Thursday of each month (next meeting December 13), 6:00 pm onward * O'Rorke's Eatery & Spirits, 44 Steinwehr Avenue (second floor) * New Location * additional parking in National Park Service Visitor Center lot behind restaurant * Hosted by Eileen H. Potemra, gettysburg (at) drinkingliberally.org
Lancaster, Pennsylvania * Every Tuesday, 7:30 pm onward * Lancaster Brewing Company, 302 N Plum St (corner of Walnut and Plum) * Hosted by Jeff Fulmer, Monz Wenner and Cher Rineer, lancaster (at) drinkingliberally.org
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Center City * Every Tuesday, 6:00-9:00 pm * Tangier, 1801 Lombard St (at 18th St) * Hosted by Brendan Skwire, philadelphia (at) drinkingliberally.org
Mount Airy * Every Thursday, 6:30-9:00 pm * Mermaid Inn, 7673 Germantown Ave * Hosted by Adam Zion, mtairy (at) drinkingliberally.org
Reading, Pennsylvania * Second and fourth Thursday of each month, 6pm onward * Canal Street Restaurant & Pub, 535 Canal St (a few blocks past RACC along the riverfront) * NEW LOCATION!!! Great local beer from Legacy Brewing Co. & a large selection of wines by the glass. * NO Thanksgiving meeting, obviously. Enjoy your holiday and all those awkward political conversations with ornery family members! * Hosted by Kim Stahler and Dan Sauder, reading (at) drinkingliberally.org
State College, Pennsylvania * First and third Tuesday of each month, 5:30 pm onward * Hi-Way Pizza, 428 Westerly Pky * Hosted by Nancy Crane, statecollege (at) drinkingliberally.org
West Chester, Pennsylvania * First Thursday of each month, 8:00 pm onward * Ryan's Pub, 124 W Gay St (On Gay St. between Church & Darlington) * We are still on the once a month format and we have changed the venue to Ryan's. We'll be meeting up on the 2nd floor near the bar. * Remember, no need to feed the meters in town after 5pm- save that cash for drinks! * Hosted by Jonathan Long, Daniel Tyman and Jamie Manos, westchester (at) drinkingliberally.org
York, Pennsylvania * Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * The First Capital Dispensing Company, 57 N Pershing Ave (We usually secure a large table or two in the back room.) * Hosted by Phyllis Wise, Roland Rode and Craig Thomas, york (at) drinkingliberally.org
Florida Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink is running for Governor of Florida. The latest polls indicate the race is a dead heat. And Alex Sink has so far maintained a fundraising lead over right wing extremist Republican Bill McCollum.
Here is the latest video from Alex Sink's campaign:
Alex Sink has been endorsed by the Florida Professional Firefighters:
"Florida's firefighters are proud to endorse Alex Sink as Florida's next governor," said FPF President Bob Carver. "Alex Sink has worked with firefighters to make Florida a safer place to work and live. She understands what law enforcement needs to keep the people of Florida safe, and she is the leader we need to face our current challenges...
"It takes courage to answer the call to be a firefighter, and it has been an honor to work with these heroes," said Alex Sink. "These brave men and women selflessly put their lives at risk every day to protect Floridians around the state, and I'm proud and humbled to have earned their support."
Alex Sink has been endorsed by the Florida AFL-CIO:
“Today I have the incredible honor of endorsing Alex Sink in her campaign to serve the people of Florida as our next governor following the unanimous vote of our endorsing committee made up of representatives from all facets of Florida’s labor movement. As a businesswoman with three decades of experience and as a working mother, Alex Sink understands the struggles facing Florida’s working families. Our working families, who I am privileged to represent, are desperate for real change in Tallahassee and they are firmly convinced that Alex Sink has the strength, intelligence, experience and compassion to be the agent of that change. The responses of our legislative leaders to Florida’s current economic crisis make it abundantly clear that the people of Florida can no longer rely on Tallahassee’s entrenched power brokers to provide the real leadership we need to safely navigate these troubled times. When they intentionally give-up a half a billion federal dollars to help our unemployed workers and their families put food on the table, it is clear that we need a change. When party leaders abuse the public trust and use the people’s legislature for their own enrichment, it is clear that we need a change. We can’t look at our current financial woes as simply the result of markets that act like forces of nature, out of our control. Florida’s social service infrastructure is falling apart due to ten years of bad policies, policies that can be changed if we elect leaders with the foresight and courage to stand up to the special interests and do what is right for all of Florida’s residents. We have watched Alex Sink prove herself to be such a leader during her tenure as the Chief Financial Officer and we are prepared to do everything in our power to ensure that she can continue her excellent work on behalf of the people of Florida as our next Governor. Over the next 17 months, Alex will be able to count on tens of thousands of dedicated union members from all walks of life to carry her powerful message of change throughout all of Florida’s communities as we embark on what promises to be our most vigorous and best organized state wide campaign in recent memory.”
Former Florida Governor and US Senator Bob Graham has endorsed Alex Sink:
For far too long now, we have had to tolerate a state government that puts politics ahead of the real needs of Floridians and their families. In her short time in state government, it is evident that Alex knows that such a government cannot put the best interests of everyday Floridians first.
In just a short period of time, Alex has already cut wasteful spending, cracked down on financial fraud and scams, reformed government contracting and provided our state with a fresh approach to solving problems and restoring Florida’s economy.
During these unique and challenging times, there is no doubt in my mind that Florida needs new and different leadership. With her impeccable integrity, strong character, outstanding leadership skills, and years of hard work and business experience, I can think of no one better prepared to lead Florida than Alex Sink.
The Florida Education Association has endorsed Alex Sink:
FEA President Andy Ford said that Sink, the current chief financial officer for the state, has the background, expertise and passion to lead Florida through this period of economic challenges.
“Alex Sink understands the toll the faltering economy is taking on Florida’s families and on its public schools,” Ford said. “She has been a terrific mom to two children who attended public schools. She has been a successful business leader and community champion. She understands that financially bolstering our public schools, colleges and universities is a wise investment in the future of this state and, more importantly, in our children...
"Alex Sink has worked on behalf of children and public education for decades, including her service on Governor Chiles’ Commission on Education, the Hillsborough Education Foundation board of directors and as chair of Take Stock in Children," Ford said.
"We are truly lucky to have a professional of Alex Sink's caliber willing to serve the people of Florida. We need more than just another politician in these challenging times," Ford said.
FLORIDA FOCUS: Blogs, Healthcare Reform, Equality, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events
FLORIDA 2010: I now have my Florida 2010 Act Blue page up to support Democratic efforts to turn Florida bluer. Florida has been the supposed "must win" state for Democrats since 2000. I am not sure I buy that, but I do think it is well worth trying. And I think we could win it. If we do, then we almost certainly will win the Presidency. So it is well worth focusing on Florida.
Florida could be the hottest election in 2010. Republicans are in the midst of a civil war with teabaggers attacking their fellow Republicans. However Democrats have not yet gotten their act together to put up a good fight. So it will come down to which party can get their act together better. At stake is Florida's Senate seat, Governorship and at least two House races, FL-8 where we need to defend Alan Grayson's seat and FL-10 where we have an excellent chance to take a Republican seat. So lets get OUR act together and win big in Florida in 2010.
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
Tea Party registered as FL political party...the first step in Republican self-destruction in Florida? The Republican party seems to be extremist vs. ultra-extremists these days.
The Netroots Coalition was created to help bring together bloggers and Netroots activists who support the Democratic Party. The mission of the organization is to contribute to the growth and influence of the Democratic Party, to establish and maintain a Democratic online community, and to promote the party and all party candidates for Democratic leadership throughout the state and nation. We also seek to assist and encourage Florida Democrats, including clubs, county, and grassroots organizations to get online and establish a communication network and promote online participation among Democrats. Go here to join.
Florida Democratic Party Small County Coalition
The SCC is made up of the counties in Florida that have less than 35,000 registered Democrats, which includes more than half of the counties in Florida. The mobilization and organization of small counties through the SCC is an important asset to Florida Democrats. As one of the finest examples of what cooperation within the Party can achieve, the SCC, Florida's largest Democratic voting block, gives Democrats from smaller counties a chance to deliver our message in underrepresented areas of Florida.
Mark your calendars for the next Smal County Coalition Convention on June 20-22 in Nassau County. Learn more here: http://www.doug2008.net/scc2008.html
* NextEra Energy began construction on three solar energy facilities that will prevent the release of nearly 3.5 million tons of greenhouse gases – or the equivalent of removing 25,000 cars from the road per year!
* Florida Power & Light claims to be the nation's No.1 utility for energy conservation. FPL's programs have helped the company avoid the need to build 12 medium-sized power plants since 1980.
* Governor Crist’s Action Team on Energy and Climate Change adopted a fifty-policy climate plan that, when fully implemented, will provide a net cost savings of more than $28 billion and reduce GHG emissions by 64% by 2025.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Florida, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Here is a biodiesel cooperative in Florida. If you drive a diesel truck or car, check them out.
Brevard BioDiesel Brevard County
Brevard Biodiesel seeks to promote the availability and use of clean-burning, renewable biodiesel fuel as a replacement for petroleum by raising public awareness of its environmental, economic, and national security benefits.
Here are some other alternative energy groups in Florida:
SolarCity Gainesville is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of solar and renewable energy in Gainesville and Alachua County. Go here for more info.
Jacksonville's Sustainable Future: Jacksonville's Sustainable Future is a resource for those who are concerned about Global Climate Change and want to do something, as well as a resource for those who want to learn more.
Our focus is on creating a better world for future generations.
Join us to discuss citizen awareness projects, personal endeavors, and other plans for a better future for Jacksonville, Orange Park, the Beaches, St. Augustine, Fernandina, and the other areas that make up Greater Jacksonville. Go here for more info.
We are working on a number of projects related to energy conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.
Please join us if you want to work towards a greener, cleaner, and healthier future for our community.
The Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA) is chartered to fulfill the following objectives:
1. To provide a forum for public transit service providers and affiliated organizations to exchange experiences, studies and to engage in meaningful discussion of mutual problems, concerns and issues. 2. To foster the improvement of public transportation in the state by promoting the beneficial use of research and factual study. 3. To act as a collective voice in promoting the recognition, use, expansion and enhancement of public transportation in the state. 4. To elicit cooperation efforts among member agencies, their employees, agents and customers, along with the general public to pursue and achieve common interests. 5. To represent the interests of member agencies, individually or collectively, in forums appropriate for the prosecution, enforcement or defense of issues of interest to those members. 6. To receive and apply funds for the achievement and furtherance of organizational purposes and objectives, including levying, assessing, charging and collecting dues from the membership of the Association. 7. To acquire, hold and own land, facilities, equipment and furnishings and do all things necessary and incident to carrying out the organizational purposes and objectives.
Miami-Dade Democratic Black Caucus Regularly Scheduled Meeting Second Saturday of every month at 10 AM Event Location: El-Portal City Hall 500 NE 87 Street, The Village of El-Portal.
We welcome new membership, please join us, free continental breakfast served! Honorable Joyce A. Davis, President 305-754-0934
Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Miami-Dade Fourth Wednesday of every month, 7:00PM Hoja Nueva Restaurant at the Westin Colonade Please attend the monthly meeting for the Miami Dade Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Florida. For more info: 305 632-0036
Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club Breakfast Meeting Event Location: “Versailles” restaurant located at 3555 SW 8 ST Miami, FL 33135 Fourth Saturday of each month, 9:00 a.m. (If this is the same Versailles Cuban restaurant that I know in California, the food is fantastic! Particularly the roast chicken and rost pork).
The Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club invites you to its next breakfast meeting at “Versailles” restaurant located at 3555 SW 8 St Cost: $15 per person.
For more info contact: Hector Caraballo (President, Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club) at hector_at_miamicubandems.org
MIAMI-DADE YOUNG DEMS MONTHLY MEETING Fourth Tuesday of every month, 7pm Location: Gordon Biersch 1201 Biscayne Ave. Miami, FL 33131 For info: 786-425-1130
Sumter County Democratic Club P.O. Box 1066 Wildwood, FL 34785 General Meeting at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of every month Sumterville Community Center
Tri-County Women's Democratic Club General Meeting at 9:30 a.m. on the 1st Monday of every month at the Sumter County Sheriff's Annex on Highway 466 @ Morse Boulevard.
Charlotte County Democrats meeting The Charlotte County Democratic Club meets on the second Saturday of every month. Please join us at 9:30 AM for coffee and snacks. The meeting starts at 10 AM. Location is the upstairs meeting room at the Public Library on Aaron Street in Port Charlotte. Call 743-5560 for directions or more info.
And for those interested in a more fun way to be liberal, here are Florida's Drinking Liberal groups:
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida * Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward * Island Jack's Patio Bar and Grille, 5425 W Atlantic Blvd, Margate (just East of 441) * Hosted by Jacqueline Hope Derby and Dave Pfeffer, ftlauderdale (at) drinkingliberally.org
Orlando, Florida * Every Wednesday, 6:00 pm onward * Johnny's Fillin' Station, 2706 S Ferncreek Ave (NE corner of Michigan and Fern Creek) * Hosted by Dan Hill, orlando (at) drinkingliberally.or
Pensacola, Florida * Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward * Intermission, 214 S Palafox St * Hosted by Terry Welch, pensacola (at) drinkingliberally.org
Tallahassee, Florida * Third Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm onward * Gill's Tavern, 2545 North Monroe Street * Hosted by Sharon Collins, tallahassee (at) drinkingliberally.org
South TampaUPDATED * Every Wednesday, 7:00 pm onward (used to only be first Thursday) * Rock-N-Sports, 1600 E 8th Ave, #E200 (Above Starbucks, Across from Muvico, Next to Adobe Guilas) * Hosted by Tim Heberlein, southtampa (at) drinkingliberally.org * http://livingliberally.org/drinking/chapters/FL/southtampa
St. Petersburg * Last Thursday of each month, 8:30 pm onward * Limey's Pub, 1492 4th St N * Hosted by Connor Davis and Dave Lee, stpetersburg (at) drinkingliberally.org
Brandon * Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward * Giordano's, 11310 Causeway Blvd, Brandon FL 33511 (Outside patio) (NEW location) * Hosted by Joe Litton and Shirley Litton, brandon (at) drinkingliberally.org * http://livingliberally.org/drinking/chapters/FL/brandon
Land O Lakes * Second Tuesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm * Rapscallions, 4422 Land O Lakes Blvd (US-41) * Hosted by Brian Reach and Michael Greenman, landolakes (at) drinkingliberally.orgFight for Healthcare reform in Florida:sign up here to volunteer for the Health Care for America Now campaign in Florida. About Health Care for America Now:
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
Library funding in jeopardy...I love how we always have money for tax breaks for the rich and for helping out rich developers, but when it comes to funding libraries, schools and museums (the hallmarks of civilization), well, we just don't have the money.
The Netroots Coalition was created to help bring together bloggers and Netroots activists who support the Democratic Party. The mission of the organization is to contribute to the growth and influence of the Democratic Party, to establish and maintain a Democratic online community, and to promote the party and all party candidates for Democratic leadership throughout the state and nation. We also seek to assist and encourage Florida Democrats, including clubs, county, and grassroots organizations to get online and establish a communication network and promote online participation among Democrats. Go here to join.
Florida Democratic Party Small County Coalition
The SCC is made up of the counties in Florida that have less than 35,000 registered Democrats, which includes more than half of the counties in Florida. The mobilization and organization of small counties through the SCC is an important asset to Florida Democrats. As one of the finest examples of what cooperation within the Party can achieve, the SCC, Florida's largest Democratic voting block, gives Democrats from smaller counties a chance to deliver our message in underrepresented areas of Florida.
Mark your calendars for the next Smal County Coalition Convention on June 20-22 in Nassau County. Learn more here: http://www.doug2008.net/scc2008.html
* NextEra Energy began construction on three solar energy facilities that will prevent the release of nearly 3.5 million tons of greenhouse gases – or the equivalent of removing 25,000 cars from the road per year!
* Florida Power & Light claims to be the nation's No.1 utility for energy conservation. FPL's programs have helped the company avoid the need to build 12 medium-sized power plants since 1980.
* Governor Crist’s Action Team on Energy and Climate Change adopted a fifty-policy climate plan that, when fully implemented, will provide a net cost savings of more than $28 billion and reduce GHG emissions by 64% by 2025.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Florida, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Here is a biodiesel cooperative in Florida. If you drive a diesel truck or car, check them out.
Brevard BioDiesel Brevard County
Brevard Biodiesel seeks to promote the availability and use of clean-burning, renewable biodiesel fuel as a replacement for petroleum by raising public awareness of its environmental, economic, and national security benefits.
Here are some other alternative energy groups in Florida:
SolarCity Gainesville is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of solar and renewable energy in Gainesville and Alachua County. Go here for more info.
Jacksonville's Sustainable Future: Jacksonville's Sustainable Future is a resource for those who are concerned about Global Climate Change and want to do something, as well as a resource for those who want to learn more.
Our focus is on creating a better world for future generations.
Join us to discuss citizen awareness projects, personal endeavors, and other plans for a better future for Jacksonville, Orange Park, the Beaches, St. Augustine, Fernandina, and the other areas that make up Greater Jacksonville. Go here for more info.
We are working on a number of projects related to energy conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.
Please join us if you want to work towards a greener, cleaner, and healthier future for our community.
The Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA) is chartered to fulfill the following objectives:
1. To provide a forum for public transit service providers and affiliated organizations to exchange experiences, studies and to engage in meaningful discussion of mutual problems, concerns and issues. 2. To foster the improvement of public transportation in the state by promoting the beneficial use of research and factual study. 3. To act as a collective voice in promoting the recognition, use, expansion and enhancement of public transportation in the state. 4. To elicit cooperation efforts among member agencies, their employees, agents and customers, along with the general public to pursue and achieve common interests. 5. To represent the interests of member agencies, individually or collectively, in forums appropriate for the prosecution, enforcement or defense of issues of interest to those members. 6. To receive and apply funds for the achievement and furtherance of organizational purposes and objectives, including levying, assessing, charging and collecting dues from the membership of the Association. 7. To acquire, hold and own land, facilities, equipment and furnishings and do all things necessary and incident to carrying out the organizational purposes and objectives.
Miami-Dade Democratic Black Caucus Regularly Scheduled Meeting Second Saturday of every month at 10 AM Event Location: El-Portal City Hall 500 NE 87 Street, The Village of El-Portal.
We welcome new membership, please join us, free continental breakfast served! Honorable Joyce A. Davis, President 305-754-0934
Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Miami-Dade Fourth Wednesday of every month, 7:00PM Hoja Nueva Restaurant at the Westin Colonade Please attend the monthly meeting for the Miami Dade Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Florida. For more info: 305 632-0036
Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club Breakfast Meeting Event Location: “Versailles” restaurant located at 3555 SW 8 ST Miami, FL 33135 Fourth Saturday of each month, 9:00 a.m. (If this is the same Versailles Cuban restaurant that I know in California, the food is fantastic! Particularly the roast chicken and rost pork).
The Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club invites you to its next breakfast meeting at “Versailles” restaurant located at 3555 SW 8 St Cost: $15 per person.
For more info contact: Hector Caraballo (President, Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club) at hector_at_miamicubandems.org
MIAMI-DADE YOUNG DEMS MONTHLY MEETING Fourth Tuesday of every month, 7pm Location: Gordon Biersch 1201 Biscayne Ave. Miami, FL 33131 For info: 786-425-1130
Sumter County Democratic Club P.O. Box 1066 Wildwood, FL 34785 General Meeting at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of every month Sumterville Community Center
Tri-County Women's Democratic Club General Meeting at 9:30 a.m. on the 1st Monday of every month at the Sumter County Sheriff's Annex on Highway 466 @ Morse Boulevard.
Charlotte County Democrats meeting The Charlotte County Democratic Club meets on the second Saturday of every month. Please join us at 9:30 AM for coffee and snacks. The meeting starts at 10 AM. Location is the upstairs meeting room at the Public Library on Aaron Street in Port Charlotte. Call 743-5560 for directions or more info.
And for those interested in a more fun way to be liberal, here are Florida's Drinking Liberal groups:
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida * Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward * Island Jack's Patio Bar and Grille, 5425 W Atlantic Blvd, Margate (just East of 441) * Hosted by Jacqueline Hope Derby and Dave Pfeffer, ftlauderdale (at) drinkingliberally.org
Orlando, Florida * Every Wednesday, 6:00 pm onward * Johnny's Fillin' Station, 2706 S Ferncreek Ave (NE corner of Michigan and Fern Creek) * Hosted by Dan Hill, orlando (at) drinkingliberally.or
Pensacola, Florida * Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward * Intermission, 214 S Palafox St * Hosted by Terry Welch, pensacola (at) drinkingliberally.org
Tallahassee, Florida * Third Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm onward * Gill's Tavern, 2545 North Monroe Street * Hosted by Sharon Collins, tallahassee (at) drinkingliberally.org
South TampaUPDATED * Every Wednesday, 7:00 pm onward (used to only be first Thursday) * Rock-N-Sports, 1600 E 8th Ave, #E200 (Above Starbucks, Across from Muvico, Next to Adobe Guilas) * Hosted by Tim Heberlein, southtampa (at) drinkingliberally.org * http://livingliberally.org/drinking/chapters/FL/southtampa
St. Petersburg * Last Thursday of each month, 8:30 pm onward * Limey's Pub, 1492 4th St N * Hosted by Connor Davis and Dave Lee, stpetersburg (at) drinkingliberally.org
Brandon * Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward * Giordano's, 11310 Causeway Blvd, Brandon FL 33511 (Outside patio) (NEW location) * Hosted by Joe Litton and Shirley Litton, brandon (at) drinkingliberally.org * http://livingliberally.org/drinking/chapters/FL/brandon
Land O Lakes * Second Tuesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm * Rapscallions, 4422 Land O Lakes Blvd (US-41) * Hosted by Brian Reach and Michael Greenman, landolakes (at) drinkingliberally.org
MINNESOTA FOCUS: Blogs, Healthcare Reform, The Minnesota Project, Drinking Liberally
MINNESOTA 2010: I now have my Minnesota 2010 Act Blue Page up. Act Blue is a way for many small political contributions to add up to some serious political impact. For 2010 I am highlighting several Minnesota Democratic Party organizations, and highlighting the Minnesota secretary of state (to prevent election fraud!), as well as several potentially close House races, including some we need to defend (MN-1 and MN-5) as well as two very possible Dem pickups from absolutely horrible right wing extremist Republicans (MN-3 and MN-6). I particularly want to see Democrats do well in Minnesota because, in genral, I have found Minnesota Democrats (like Al Franken!) to be among the best in the country and Minnesota actually tends to be among the most progressive states when push comes to shove. Give a donation or two to keep momentum going.
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
Minnesota Progressive Project. : Updates on campaigns in Minnesota. The combined efforts of the Minnesota Campaign Report and MN Blue.
MNDem.com brings commonsense, family-oriented, and slightly left leaning observations to Minnesota voters. "The future will belong to those who have passion and are willing to work hard to make our country better." -- Paul Wellstone
The Minnesota Project is a nonprofit organization that connects people with policy to nurture collaborations that build strong local economies, vibrant communities and a healthy environment.
Our programs are focused on clean renewable energy and efficient use of energy; farm practice and policy that promote profitable farms that protect the environment; and the production and consumption of local and sustainably-produced foods.
The Minnesota Project works in ways that emphasize collaboration, community building, and capacity building. For over twenty-five years we have fostered local empowerment, bridged diverse interests, encouraged shared values, and initiated working dialogues that create positive action and policy.
WISCONSIN FOCUS: Blogs, Healthcare Reform, Biodiesel, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events
WISCONSIN 2010: I now have my Wisconsin 2010 Act Blue Page up. Act Blue is a way for many small political contributions to add up to some serious political impact. For 2010 I am highlighting several local (county-level) Democratic Party organizations in key districts, and highlighting the Wisconsin secretary of state (to prevent election fraud!), WI-8 and 2010 Senate races. These are all defensive races we need to fight to keep reform going. I particularly want to see Democrats do well in Wisconsin because, in genral, I have found Wisconsin Democrats (like Russ Feingold!) to be among the best in the country and Wisconsin actually tends to be among the most progressive states when push comes to shove. Give a donation or two to keep momentum going.
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
LeftyBlogs Wisconsin is the place to find out what's happening in the progressive blogosphere across Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Energy Connection: On the blog you’ll find podcast interviews with professionals in the industry. They’ll share a lot of in-depth information with you about their company and their perspective on the sector. You’ll also find job listings for Wisconsin. These can help you keep an eye on developments with other companies, and perhaps launch a new facet in your career. If you hear of a job opening, please send me an email at greg_at_wisconsinenergyconnection.com.
Urban Milwaukee: seeks to provide a informative and open dialogue on the issues, events, and people affecting Milwaukee’s most urban neighborhoods, and to promote urbanism within the city of Milwaukee.
Blogging Blue covers progressive issues in Wisconsin.
Biodiesel in Wisconsin:
Biodiesel is an American produced fuel that is cleaner than traditional diesel. Up to B20 (a 20% blend of biodiesel and traditional diesel) any diesel engine, car or truck, can run on it. Above B20, some older engines may have problems but newer diesel engines should be ok. Here are some Biofuels co-ops...below that I list regular gas stations that carry biodiesel.
PrairieFire BioFuels: a member-owned cooperative creating access and building infrastructure to support vegetable oil-based fuels sources and usage.
1894 East Washington Avenue Madison, WI 53704
Co-op and non-profit: (608) 441-5454
Shop: (608) 441-9566
Business Office and Diesel Repair Shop hours: Monday - Friday 8am-5pm
The Wisconsin Biodiesel Association (WBA) is a membership trade organization that promotes the commercial development, production, marketing, distribution, and utilization of biodiesel and other renewable biofuels.
It is the vision of WBA that Wisconsin biodiesel producers, marketers and distributors will provide, through a network of readily accessible retail outlets, biodiesel fuel that consistently meets recognized quality standards so that all Wisconsin citizens benefit from the economic returns, improved air quality and energy independence achieved through use of renewable biodiesel fuels.
For a list of biodiesel stations around Wisconsin, go here (PDF). Remember, ANY diesel engine can use up to B20 biodiesel, so most of these stations can fuel any diesel truck or car. Here is a partial list:
Meffert Oil: 300 S Division St, Waunakee, WI 53597, 608-849-8010. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
PrairieFire Biofuels: 2231 S Stoughton Rd, Madison, WI 53704, 608-441-5454. Offers B100 (good in newer engines, not good for some older engines). Open 8-5 M-F (see also above)
Cenex: 203 W. Cottage Grove Road, Cottage Grove, WI 53527, 608-839-8222. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
Smart Station: 1637 4th Avenue, West Monroe, WI 53566, 608-329-3900. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
Lyndon Station BP: 470 N Wisconsin St, Lyndon Station, WI 53944, 608-666-3771. Offers B10 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
Cenex Supply Company: 401 Elm Street, Boscobel, WI 53805, 608-375-4801. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
New Horizons Supply Cooperative: 770 Lincoln Ave. Fennimore, WI 53809, 608-822-3217. Offers B2 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
E.H. Wolf and Sons, Inc.: 414 Kettle Moraine Drive, S. Slinger, WI 53086, 262-644-5030. Offers B2 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
New Horizons COOP: 728 State Highway 131, Gays Mills, WI 54631, 608-735-4308. Offers B2 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
Zzip Stop: 217 W Main St, La Farge, WI 54639, 608-625-2203. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
New Horizons COOP: 12143 State Highway 35, Patch Grove, WI 53817, 608-994-2756. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
Camp Douglas BP Travel Center: 215 US Highway 12, Camp Douglas, WI 54618, 608-427-3365. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HRS.
* The Glacier Hills Wind Park, a 207-megawatt wind farm with the potential to power 45,000 homes, is in the approval stages. The proposed wind park would be located 45 miles northeast of Madison.
* Governor Doyle's recent directive to purchase 92,000-megawatts of clean power from solar, wind, and landfill gas systems for government buildings will take the state halfway to meeting his goal of powering the state government with 20% renewable energy sources by 2011.
* Wisconsin's energy efficiency programs save enough electricity to power over 40,000 homes for a whole year, save more than $36.1 million in energy costs, and prevent the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking over 52,000 cars off the road. Although great progress, the state still has much more potential to increase its energy efficiency.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Wisconsin, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
RENEW Wisconsin is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Madison, promotes clean energy strategies for powering the state's economy in an environmentally responsible manner.
Madison Peak Oil Group meets on the first Thursday of every month for a brown bag lunch from noon to 1:00 p.m. in the lower level conference room at 222 S. Hamilton Street.
THE MadiSUN PROGRAM: The City of Madison was recently awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Energy through the Solar America Cities Program. MadiSUN’s goal is to double to number of solar electric and hot water solar installations in the city. The City of Madison, along with Madison Gas and Electric, Focus on Energy and UW Extension will be working on this project for the next two years. A major component of the grant is to provide the community with a consultant who can help interested residents and businesses install a solar system. The consultant is on board to provide technical expertise and to answer questions regarding design, permitting and rebate programs. Contact (608) 243-0586 or solar_at_cityofmadison.com
Here are some Wisconsin Democracy for America Groups:
Democracy for Wisconsin - Madison Meets first Wed. of each month, 7 PM, Madison, WI
Join us in building a brighter and more progressive future for our country.
For more information (including where) email: russwallac_at_aol.com or go here.
DFA Northeast Wisconsin DFA - Northeast Wisconsin (DFA-NEW) meets the first Wednesday of each month to discuss issues, promote progressive candidates and actively work to bring democracy to the political process locally, regionally and nationally. Sign up here to get information on their meetings.
Democracy for Stevens Point: A group of progressive, concerned citizens in the Stevens Point, WI area who are interested in political change as described in Democracy for America, and organization originally begun by Governor Howard Dean.
Progressive Majority Wisconsin: Over the years, Wisconsin has proved to be the ultimate swing state. It is a battleground state that must be protected as a progressive stronghold because of its history as a "laboratory of reform," which has historically tested new public policies and set examples for the nation.
Wisconsin is a state with progressive urban areas and politically diverse rural areas. Progressive Majority's state-based approach to candidate recruitment and development is well-suited to adapting to unique political environments such as this.
Progressive Majority Wisconsin believes values-centered campaigns are winning campaigns. That's how Progressive Majority succeeded in flipping control of the state senate in 2006. Kathleen Vinehout won because she thinks everyone deserves affordable health care. Jim Sullivan took a suburban Milwaukee district on the strength of his commitment to good public schools. John Lehman wants a government that cares about people instead of corporations - Racine agrees. Pat Kreitlow knows that people want and deserve a healthy environment. And Kim Hixson squeaked out a win, by focusing on the hopes of local voters. We will continue nurturing local candidates to build a deeply-rooted progressive coalition in the state. In addition, Wisconsin staff will focus on incumbent protection efforts for progressive candidates that will face tough re-election bids in 2008.
Ozaukee First Friday Forum First Friday Forums - public affairs breakfast forums co-sponsored by MATC-Mequon, UW-Extension and the Ozaukee County Board.
Held on the first Friday of every other month from 730am to 900 am at MATC-Mequon. $5 registration fee per session. Additional information: Sandra Webster 262-238-2205/ websters@matc.edu
Milwaukee County Democratic Club: We meet on the fourth Monday of most months, 7 PM in the Hall of Fame Room of the Pettit National Ice Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park. We look forward to seeing you there!
Petitt National Ice Center 500 S. 84th St Milwaukee, WI, 53214
For the bicycilists in Madison, here's Critical Mass Madison:
Critical Mass is a movement (not an organization) that advocates for better transportation alternatives. Meets 5:30 PM, the last Friday of Every Month, no matter the weather. Gather where West Washington meets Capitol Square. Where the ride goes after that is decided by whoever shows up.
And for those who like to combine social events with politics, here are the Drinking Liberally Groups in Wisconsin:
Fitchburg, Wisconsin * Second Thursday of each month, 5:30-7:00 pm * Kelly's Grill, 2685 Research Park Dr * Hosted by Alice Jenson and John Mosman, fitchburg (at) drinkingliberally.org
Sister Bay, Wisconsin * Every Tuesday, 7:00 pm onward * Shipwrecked Restaurant & Brewery, 7791 Egg Harbor Rd (Hwy 42), Egg Harbor (village center on Hwy 42) * ALERT! We are currently on seasonal hiatus with our next gathering in May of 2008. * Hosted by Dick Kaiser, sisterbay (at) drinkingliberally.org
Republican Senator Chuck Grassley has a 2010 challenger. Here is an announcement from Iowa:
Together, I know we can take on the Washington special interests and fight for a voice that gives relief to Main Street, not Wall Street. Help small business grow, instead of shipping jobs overseas.
We have the most educated, skilled workforce right here in Iowa, ready to get this economy back on track -- preserving the jobs we have while also creating new ones with a renewable energy revolution.
It's an uphill battle, but with your support and help, I know we can do it -- together!
Please visit our website, www.roxanneforiowa.com, to watch our campaign launch video and feel free share it with your friends and family.
I am going to need your help in order to take our fight to Washington and represent the voice of Iowans. You can visit our website for volunteer opportunities and to make contributions to the campaign.
To contribute, go here. Or donate to the IA Senate general fund which will support which ever Democrat becomes the candidate. (NOTE: there may be a primary and this diary is not intended to be an endorsement of one Democrat over any other.)
IOWA FOCUS: Blogs, Healthcare Reform, Food Co-ops, Alternative Energy, Sustainable Agriculture, Groups and Events
IOWA 2010: I now have my Iowa 2010 Act Blue Page up. Act Blue is a way for many small political contributions to add up to some serious political impact. For 2010 I am highlighting the College and Young Democrats of Iowa PAC (supporting the future of the Democratic Party), several local (county-level) Democratic Party organizations in key districts, and highlighting the IA-5 and 2010 Senate races. Both IA-5 and the Iowa Senate Seat will be tough races, but well worth fighting. Both are currently held by extreme right wing Republicans and Iowa has been tending bluer and bluer, so I think we can take them if we try hard. I also highlight Citizens for our Land, Water and Future because our heartland needs a sound Land and Water policy and we need elected officials who recognize that. I particularly want to see Democrats do well in Iowa because in genral I have found Iowa Democrats (like Tom Harkin and Dave Loebsack) to be among the best in the country and Iowa actually tends to be among the most progressive states when push comes to shove (even more progressive than California on LGBT issues!). Give a donation or two to keep momentum going.
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
It took nearly 7 years living within a few blocks of one of the biggest food co-ops in America before Joy and I joined it. We were definitely reluctant. But, in the end the lack of good produce and the decline of our local supermarkets led to us joining. And the result is a slighly more inconvenient shopping trip each week, but much healthier, higher quality and cheaper food. I recommend joining a co-op if there is one nearby. You will save money and eat healthier. So I will list some local food co-ops in Iowa:
Our mission is to serve our members, employees, and the Central Iowa community by offering the highest quality local, natural and certified organic foods, related products and services in ways that best promote the health of the individual, the community, and the earth while honoring the cooperative tradition.
New Pioneer Bakehouse and New Pioneer Co-op 498 1st Avenue Coralville, Iowa 52241 Phone: (319) 358-5513 FAX: (319) 358-5514 newpi@inav.net http://www.newpi.com/
22 South Van Buren Street Iowa City, Iowa 52240 Phone: (319) 338-9441 FAX: (319) 338-0635 jangerer@newpi.com http://www.newpi.com/
New Pioneer is a member-owned grocery specializing in natural foods, local foods, and other healthy products for your active lifestyle. Come to the Co-op to hang out with your friends and get to know your neighbors, to learn more about your food from our friendly, expert staff, and to pick up hard-to-find gourmet items.
Explore New Pi to find the area’s best locally-grown produce, artisanal cheeses and breads, hand-selected wines, and mouthwatering cakes and pastries, just for starters. Everyone is welcome to shop the Co-op and become a part of our shared vision of a cleaner, healthier world. Eat smart and have fun doing it when you shop your Co-op!
# Iowa surpassed California in 2008 to become the No.2 state for wind power with its 2,790-megawatts of wind power generation. Combined, these wind developments produce enough electricity to power over 720,000 average homes!
# The state's energy efficiency programs save enough electricity to power over 30,000 homes for a whole year, save more than $30 million in energy costs, and prevent the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking over 47,000 cars off the road. Although great progress, the state still has much more potential to increase its energy efficiency.
# Iowa has one of the fastest growing wind industries, up 198% from the state's mere 936-megawatts in 2006.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Iowa, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
The Leopold Center is a research and education center with statewide programs to develop sustainable agricultural practices that are both profitable and conserve natural resources. It was established under the Groundwater Protection Act of 1987 with a three-fold mission:
*to conduct research into the negative impacts of agricultural practices; *to assist in developing alternative practices; and *to work with ISU Extension to inform the public of Leopold Center findings.
In 2002, a vision statement was adopted: The Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture explores and cultivates alternatives that secure healthier people and landscapes in Iowa and the nation.
Soil and Water Conservation Society (SWCS) is a nonprofit scientific and educational organization -- founded in 1943 -- that serves as an advocate for conservation professionals and for science-based conservation practice, programs, and policy. SWCS has over 5,000 members around the world. They include researchers, administrators, planners, policymakers, technical advisors, teachers, students, farmers, and ranchers. Our members come from nearly every academic discipline and many different public, private, and nonprofit institutions
And for those who are focused on combining fun and politics, here are the local Drinking Liberally groups in Iowa:
Ames, Iowa * Every Friday, 5:00 pm onward * Legends American Grill, 200 Stanton Ave, 7th Floor (in Campustown) * The group will meet in the large accessible party room left of the elevators unless it is booked by a larger group. We will then be in the Sky Box. Ask a waiter for our location. * Hosted by Jan Bauer and Brent Wynja, ames (at) drinkingliberally.org
Des Moines * Every Thursday, 8:00 p.m. onward * The Lift, 222 4th St (between Court Ave and Walnut) * Hosted by Amanda Mittlestadt, Tricia Kell, Cassie Samspon and Matt Jesson, desmoines (at) drinkingliberally.org
West Des Moines * Third Friday of each month, 5:00-7:00 pm * Tonic, 5535 George M Mills Civic Pky (within West Glen Towncenter) * Hosted by Cassie Sampson, Mikael Brown and Jenny Irlmeier, wdsm (at) drinkingliberally.org
Eating Liberally * Second Monday of each month, 6:00-7:30 pm * Continental Wine Bar, 428 E Locust St * Hosted by Marcus Walsh and Tricia Kell, desmoines (at) eatingliberally.org
Iowa City, Iowa * Every Thursday, 8:00 pm onward * The Mill Restaurant, 120 E Burlington StBlg
NEVADA FOCUS: Blogs, Healthcare Reform, Food Co-op, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events
NEVADA 2010: I now have my Nevada 2010 Act Blue page up to support Democratic efforts to turn Nevada bluer. Dina Titus (NV-3) is one of our top seats to defend in 2010, particularly given her vote in support of Obama's Healthcare reform and the right wing attacks against her. I am also targeting NV-2 to take over from the Republicans (a long shot, but so was NV-3 in 2008!) and supporting the Nevada Democratic Party as well. Give a little bit to solidify our gains in Nevada.
Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.
We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.
Humboldt County, NV Democrats Soup Kitchen: Every Fourth Sunday (and sometimes fifth Sunday), 5pm – 7pm 138 Winnemucca Blvd. Methodist Church back door We are serving a dinner to less fortunate people in our community. You can find out when the next one is by checking out the Humboldt County Dems calendar.
It took nearly 7 years living within a few blocks of one of the biggest food co-ops in America before Joy and I joined it. We were definitely reluctant. But, in the end the lack of good produce and the decline of our local supermarkets led to us joining. And the result is a slighly more inconvenient shopping trip each week, but much healthier, higher quality and cheaper food. I recommend joining a co-op if there is one nearby. You will save money and eat healthier. I find only one food co-op in Nevada to highlight...if you know of others, let me know:
Great Basin Community Food Coop 271 Wonder Street Reno, Nevada 89502 Phone: (775) 324-6133 info@greatbasinfood.coop http://greatbasinfood.coop
Great Basin Community Food Cooperative welcomes all who choose to participate in a community that promotes more equitable and ecologically sustainable ways of living, shares resources, and creates economic opportunity in an atmosphere of respect and reverence for humanity and the earth.
# We will maintain an uncompromising commitment to organic, local, and sustainable enterprise and products to the fullest extent possible.
# We will respect the diverse needs of our community at all cultural and economic levels, especially delivering the lowest prices possible consistent with a sound business plan.
# We will provide resources and tools to help our community empower themselves by hosting educational workshops and creating a knowledgeable and accommodating staff. Great Basin Community Food Cooperative, above all, exists to reflect the values of its members.
The co-op is preparing to move at the end of March 2009 to 542 1/2 Plumas
We are excited to announce that we will be open to the public and accepting food stamps at our new location. The new site is also a great community access point for wholesome, local food-- located within two blocks of three major bus lines!! It has 34 parking spaces and enough storage space to accomodate bi-weekly orders from our largest organic distributor and daily deliveries from our local farmers and crafters!!
* Boulder City’s ‘Solar One’ is the third largest solar thermal plant in the world with a 64-megawatt capacity. Potentially, the site could generate 2,000 megawatts, or enough power for about a half-million people.
* Nevada has sixteen operating geothermal plants with a total of 300-megawatts installed capacity – producing enough electricity for over 200,000 homes! There are an additional 300-megawatts of geothermal power under development.
* The state has a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) that requires all public utilities to generate 20% of their electricity from renewable energy resources by 2015, with at least 5% from solar energy.
Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in Nevada, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.
Bently Biofuels: Producing and Selling AMERICAN Fuels in Nevada
Bently Biofuels Company is dedicated to the research, development, production, and distribution of renewable fuels in order to preserve the environment and free our nation from the problems of imported energy. We feel this is the right thing to do for ourselves and for future generations.
Retail Station Now Open The Bently Biofuels Outpost, our first retail store opened to the public on Tuesday September 30th 2008. The station is located at 1350 Buckeye Road in Minden, Nevada (location map) a short distance from our biofuel plant and is open for fueling 24/7. The station sells various blends of biodiesel and ethanol for all vehicles along with an assortment of healthy foods and eco-friendly products. For store hours and additional information visit Bently Biofuels Outpost.
Bulk Fuel Sales Bently Biofuels Company produces biodiesel from a variety of recycled and non-food sources of vegetable oil. Bulk fuel blends are available for purchase at our plant by appointment or for delivery to your job site or business.
Fleet Solutions Our retail station accepts ProFleet, our fleet card solution for local businesses wanting to green their transportation fleet. A fleet card application and additional information is available at PCS4fuel.
For information on our products and services click here. You may contact us by leaving a message at 775-783-0123 or by emailing us.
Sunrise has worked for over ten years to educate and advocate for a sustainable future. As we have seen the adoption of so many sustainable concepts over the last few years, it becomes important that we not loose site of the real sustainable future – one where all 6.7 billion people on earth can have their needs met without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Our Mission: The Sunrise mission is to empower Nevadans to use resources responsibly through education, advocacy and community development.
Our Affiliations: Sunrise is a member of the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada and is a chapter of the American Solar Energy Society.
Las Vegas Alternative Energy Group: Whether you want to inform yourself or are a Pro, Discuss various forms of energy procuration, why it makes sense for the community, the world and, of course, your pocket book!
A Greener Las Vegas: Green Home, Housing, Home Remodeling, New Urbanism & Sustainable Development
Groups and Events in Nevada:
The Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada (PLAN) is a non-profit organization formed in 1994 to bring people and organizations together to build a better Nevada. We are more than two-dozen groups dedicated to working for social, economic, and environmental justice. Our member groups include anti-poverty activists, people of color, children’s advocates, disabled persons, environmentalists, lesbians and gay men, and labor unions.
Southern Nevada Stonewall Democratic Club P O Box 72858 Las Vegas, Nevada 89170-2858 702 250-2070 www.stonewalllv.org
Stonewall Democrats of Northern Nevada serves the greater Reno/Sparks/Carson City area of Northern Nevada, meetings seem to be first Monday of each month. For more info: 775-787-0890, StonewallDemNN_at_yahoo.com
Here are some Democracy for America groups in Nevada for those who want People Powered Politics:
Las Vegas Democracy For America: Las Vegas Democracy For America is working to build our membership, register new voters, work to see our votes are protected and help elect Progressive Democrats at every level.
Our goal is to create a vibrant, unified Democratic Party in our counties and state. In addition work with other states to promote unity and take back our country in 2008. Sign up here to help.
Henderson NV Democracy For America: Henderson NV & Las Vegas Democracy For America are working to build our membership, register new voters, work to see our votes are protected and help elect Progressive Democrats at every level. Sign up here for more info.
And for those who like to combine social events with politics, here are the Drinking Liberally groups in Nevada:
Boulder City, Nevada * Last Friday of each month, 6:00 pm onward * Boulder Dam Brewing, 453 Nevada Hwy * Hosted by Valerie McNay, Lynn Goya, Dave Kreamer and Matt Di Teresa, bouldercity (at) drinkingliberally.org
Fernley, Nevada * Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward * Truck Inn, (upper level of restaurant) * Hosted by Joe Slabbinck and Robert Gleason, fernley (at) drinkingliberally.org
Northwest Las Vegas * Every Thursday, 6:30 pm onward * Tenaya Creek Restaurant & Brewery, 3101 N. Tenaya Way * Hosted by Betsy Meinhold, lasvegas (at) drinkingliberally.org
Southeast/Henderson * Every Tuesday, 7:00 pm onward * The Gin Mill, 2561 Windmill Parkway (SE corner Windmill Parkway & Pecos) * Hosted by David Black-Downes and Karen Kostoff, henderson (at) drinkingliberally.org
Reno * Second Wednesday of each month, 6:00 pm * Sage Creek Grill, 5851 S Virginia St (next to Wild Oats) * Hosted by Kevin and Allison Edwards
Well we have a Health Care bill from the House...it isn't ideal, but it is certainly progress. Now we have to get our Senators to do THEIR jobs. I continue the healthcare reform focus in many of the local sections of the newsletter. Get involved and make sure that the final bill that comes out of Congress has a good Public Option and DOESN'T have the anti-abortion BS that Stupak (a Dem, no less!) put in.
Over at Daily Kos there was a wonderful photo diary showing President Obama's spontaneous walk through the section of Arlington National Cemetery where the Iraq and Afghanistan war dead are being buried. Seeing the photos of a clearly serious, thoughtful man I felt such relief that our country is free of that horrible smirk that ran our country for 8 years (really ran it into the ground).
MA: 8 districts (many around or below 5%!!) PA: 7 districts MN: 4 districts NJ: 4 districts WI: 3 districts HI: 2 districts NY: 2 districts MO: 1 district CA: 1 district IL: 1 district IA: 1 district WA: 1 district CT: 1 district
Texas should be at the forefront of healthcare reform with Florida coming in second. Massachussetts already has its own excellent healthcare system and Pennsylvania doesn't seem to be doing so badly, but most of the rest of us really need healthcare reform.
Sometimes it seems like Americans are forgetting that we had elections from 2000-2004 where fraud and uncertainly clouded the results and it is very likely that the wrong person won. This included Florida and Ohio in Presidential elections, Georgia elections, etc. This is one reason why I push the Secretary of State Project so heavily since a good sec of state can help avoid such "irregularities." There is considerable documentation of such irregularities including from Republicans who have found fraudulent actions from their own party (see here for the tip of the iceberg).
The push for electronic voting machines after the 2000 election fiasco picked up considerable momentum for awhile...until states who purchased them found out how lousy they were. The technology broke down easily, was easily hacked and open to fraud, and just plain didn't work well. Many states started ABANDONING their electronic voting systems in favor of somewhat less problematic optical scan machines (though these also gave problems in Ohio in 2004...which requires a good secretary of state to fix!).
But there was a fundamental problem with the eVOTE machines: the companies that made them were insisting on a proprietary code. That meant no one in the public, no one in the press could know how the votes were tabulated. This built into the system a way that fraud could be committed without being detected. In fact, it rendered a recount meaningless since no one could legally know how the votes were tabulated. This is clearly counter to a properly running democracy where every aspect of an election MUST be transparent.
Well, this problem is changing. From an email from the Secretary of State Project:
We have big news. Sequoia Voting Systems have announced their first transparent, public source voting system that will be available for public download as early this month!
This is a bold move for Sequoia, who has previously resisted this kind of public examination of their source code, and it will go far to increase transparency in our elections process.1
Our campaign isn't about revealing trade secrets as ES&S would have you think. It's about ensuring that voters have the most accurate and trustworthy voting technology when we go to the polls on election day.
That's the direction Sequoia has just taken with their new public source optical-scan voting system. In their own words:
"...security through obfuscation and secrecy is not security...Fully disclosed source code is the path to true transparency and confidence in the voting process for all involved."2
Diebold and ES&S have done nothing to restore that same confidence. In fact, California announced another investigation to determine if there are larger malfunctions with the Diebold machines that dropped hundreds of votes last November.3
Now that ES&S owns those same Diebold machines, not to mention 70% of the voting machines in the country, it's time for them to step up and do what's right.
[1] - "In Industry First, Voting Machine Company to Publish Source Code," Wired Magazine, October 27, 2009, http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2009/10/sequoia/
[2] - "Sequoia Voting Systems Announces the First Transparent Election System with Fully Disclosed, Freely Available Source Code and Open Architecture Developed to Meet Federal Voting System Guidelines," October 27, 2009, http://www.sequoiavote.com/press.php?ID=85
[3] - "California Investigating Problems With Voting-Machine Audit Logs," Wired Magazine, October 22, 2009, http://www.wired.com/threatlevel/2009/10/audit-log/
I should note that this does not solve all the problems with eVOTE machines, but it is a step in the right direction. We STILL need good secretaries of state and oversight and a formalized, reliable way to conduct recounts. But eliminating the idea that proprietary codes are okay for conducting elections is a big step.
The House Healthcare vote focuses attention on two groups of Democrats: those who, despite representing conservative districts, voted against the anti-choice Stupak amendment and for healthcare reform (the healthcare champions), and those who voted for the Stupak amendment, thus putting women's right to choose at risk.
First I want to highlight the first bunch, 20 Democrats, both progressive and Blue Dog, who did the right thing by voting for a woman's right to choose and for healthcare reform despite being threatened with a right wing backlash in their district. There was an excellent Daily Kos article on this group, including a link to an ActBlue page where you can thank these Democrats by donating to their re-election campaign. From that article:
... who were the House Dems in R-leaning districts who voted for the House health care reform bill and against the pro-life Stupak-Pitts amendment?
These courageous Democrats:
AZ-01 Kirkpatrick, Ann R+6 AZ-05 Mitchell, Harry R+5 AZ-08 Giffords, Gabby R+4 KS-03 Moore, Dennis R+3 NY-19 Hall, John R+3 FL-08 Grayson, Alan R+2 MI-07 Schauer, Mark R+2 NY-24 Arcuri, Mike R+2 WI-08 Kagen, Steve R+2 CA-11 McNerney, Jerry R+1 IL-08 Bean, Melissa R+1 IL-11 Halvorson, Debbie R+1 IL-14 Foster, Bill R+1 MN-01 Walz, Tim R+1 NY-23 Owens, Bill R+1 NH-01 Shea-Porter, Carol R+0 NY-01 Bishop, Timothy R+0
Some of them, to be sure, have frustrated us on more than one occasion. Still, when they do the right thing -- when they do the progressive thing -- we ought to encourage them, to show that when Democrats act courageously, progressives will have their backs and support them. (Who knows? It might encourage them to do this more often.)
So please, visit my new WE'VE GOT YOUR BACK ActBlue page and spread some sugar around today -- $3 each? $5? $10, $20 or more? That's up to you.
But if politicians in tough districts don’t get any support when they do the right thing on a big vote -- and there be no bigger than Saturday night's between now and November 2010 -- they will have no incentive to do it the next time.
Updated: I've added Dina Titus (NV-03, D+2), Mary Jo Kilroy (OH-15, D+1) and Kurt Schrader (OR-05, D+1) to the page. They're in incredibly vulnerable districts as well, and are additionally worthy of your support.
It is SO important to make sure these folks get a real boost for what they did. So even if it is just a small amount, please give. In particular, Alan Grayson, Tim Bishop, John Hall and Jerry McNerney are good progressives in Republican-leaning districts and need our support. Carol Shea-Porter and Bill Foster are also good people who we want to keep in Congress even if they lean more conservative than I tend to.
But now I want to turn to some disappointing Democrats...the ones who voted for the Stupak amendment. Although I will take an anti-choice Democrat over an anti-choice Republican any day, I have to say that the 64 Democrats who voted for the anti-choice Stupak-Pitts Amendment are a serious disappointment. Some are expected. Some I really hoped for better and I can safely say I am unlikely to support them in the future.
“Planned Parenthood condemns the adoption of the Stupak/Pitts amendment in HR 3962 this evening. This amendment is an unacceptable addition to the health care reform bill that, if enacted, would result in women losing health benefits they have today. Simply put, the Stupak/Pitts amendment would restrict women’s access to abortion coverage in the private health insurance market, undermining the ability of women to purchase private health plans that cover abortion, even if they pay for most of the premiums with their own money. This amendment reaches much further than the Hyde Amendment, which has prohibited public funding of abortion in most instances since 1977.
“Planned Parenthood serves three million women every year through its more than 850 affiliate health centers across the country and has worked tirelessly on behalf of those patients for affordable, quality health care. On behalf of the millions of women Planned Parenthood health centers serve, the Planned Parenthood Federation of America has no choice but to oppose HR 3962. The bill includes the Stupak/Pitts amendment that would leave women worse off after health care reform than they are today, violating President Obama’s promise to the American people that no one would be forced to lose her or his present coverage under health reform.
“The Stupak/Pitts amendment violates the spirit of health care reform, which is meant to guarantee quality, affordable health care coverage for all. In fact, this amendment would create a two-tiered system that would punish women, particularly those with low and middle incomes, the very people this bill is intended to assist. The majority of private health insurance plans currently offer abortion coverage, and the Stupak/Pitts amendment would result in the elimination of private abortion coverage in the ‘exchange,’ the new insurance market created under health care reform, as well as in the public option, if one is created.
“The Stupak/Pitts amendment would purportedly allow women who want comprehensive reproductive health care coverage to purchase a separate, single-service rider to cover abortion. But such abortion riders do not exist because women do not plan to have unintended pregnancies or medically complicated pregnancies that require ending the pregnancy. These so-called ‘abortion riders,’ which would be the only insurance policy through which abortion care could be covered in the ‘exchange,’ are discriminatory and illogical. Proposing a separate ‘abortion rider’ or ‘single-service plan’ is tantamount to banning abortion coverage since no insurance company would offer such a policy.
“It is extremely unfortunate that the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and anti-choice opponents were able to hijack the health care reform bill in their dedicated attempt to ban all legal abortion In the United States. Most telling is the fact that the vast majority of members of the House who supported the Stupak/Pitts amendment in today’s vote do not support HR 3962, revealing their true motive, which is to kill the health care reform bill. These single-issue advocates simply used health care reform to advance their extreme, ideological agenda at the expense of tens of millions of women.
“Planned Parenthood applauds the members of Congress who stood up for women’s health and voted to oppose the Stupak/Pitts amendment. We will work with those members to rectify this travesty.
“As a health care provider, Planned Parenthood is committed to passing health care reform that will guarantee affordable, quality health care coverage for all, including access to comprehensive reproductive health care. In the coming weeks, Planned Parenthood will work with its allies in the Senate to ensure that the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and those who oppose abortion do not once again hijack the legislative process in their ongoing campaign to make abortion illegal. Planned Parenthood will join forces with women and their families and health providers to ensure that health care reform does not take away benefits that most women with private health coverage have today. Together, women and their allies are going to make their voices heard, so that they do not become second-class citizens in a newly reformed health care system in the United States.”
Here are the names of the 64 anti-choice Democrats who voted for the Stupak-Pitts amendment:
I am particularly disappointed in Zach Space and Tom Perriello, both of whom I supported early in their runs for Congress and was proud to have helped win. This may be the moment I find I can no longer support them. Perriello has done some good things since taking office, but this vote makes it hard for me to support him. I will say that he and Zach Space both voted for the healthcare bill in the end, which may be something of a saving grace.
Five Orange County Congressmen are Hypocrites on House Health Care Bill...Yet again Loretta Sanchez Rocks!!! Probably not too many people remember who she replaced, but I am eternally thankful for Loretta Sanchez. She brought considerable sanity to Orange County at a time when it was leaning extremist and also going bankrupt.
Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County: The Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County are dedicated to the mission of electing LGBT and Pro-Equality Democrats in California and throughout the country.
The Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County typically meet on the last Sunday of the month:
Local 50 Union Hall 527 S Harbor Blvd Anaheim, CA 92805
