Progressive Democrat Issue 35: THOUGHTS

THOUGHTS:

A note to those who were expecting an email version of my newsletter: Our computer is messed up and refusing to open MS Word, so I am unable to put together the full email version of the newsletter. Best I can do is cut and paste the raw HTML that I started with to make the blog version. When we can fix MS Word I will return to sending out the full email version. Sorry!

This week has been quite full: Rove's treason trial, Mr. Roberts' neighborhood, Iraq burning, London explosions, the suddenly great shot Dems have to take the OH-2 special election in August, etc. Problem is I am overwhelmed right now. Job hunting, family, blog maintenance and newsletter are all demanding my attention. So needless to say, I can't do justice to all these issues.

I want to begin with a daily kos diary that shows that the tide is turning. This is one person's description of his path from Bush supporter to Bush opponent. It shows that Bush's appeal has always been based on lies and that those lies are losing their power. Here is his story:

Several years ago, I would have considered myself a neo-con. Though I dug Clinton, I was also quite fond intitially of the Wolfowitz faction - secure liberty by any means necessary, show China who runs the show, and ensure that the 21st century is controlled by American democracy and not foreign dictatorship. I believed that the Bush Administration, with the foolish Bush Jr. as its figurehead, would be up to the task.

During the run-up to the Iraq War, many liberals claimed that the Bush regime was simply engaging in a cynical plan to take over Arab oil reserves and filter them through Halliburton and associated organizations. I considered this to be laughable.

Many of these same liberals claimed that there were no WMDs in Iraq, and that the administration knew it. I considered this to be even more laughable.

It wasn't until late 2003 that I suddenly stopped laughing.

In the same way that a recovering alcoholic must go around making amends to the people he's wronged, I've tried to do my best to redeem myself by working for the liberal cause. I write a weekly political humor column that's decidedly progressive, pretty much everything I write for National Lampoon or anyone else contains some sort of pointed discrepancy between Bush's words and his actions, and I spent several long months convincing friends and family members to vote Kerry - in Texas, no less.

I understand that conspiracy theories with no evidence have no place in the realm of serious discussion, but I'd like to remind everyone who hasn't already been reminded that (a) we know Bush is willing to cause the deaths of thousands based on lies and (b) that the term "conspiracy theory" was first used by J. Edgar Hoover to describe all those nuts who believed that there was something called a "Mafia."

I don't think that the London bombings were carried out by anyone other than Al Qaeda agents. But if someone shows me evidence to the contrary, I'll take a look. I consider it my duty as an American to listen to those whom I consider to be nuts.

Back in 2002, I failed to do that, and ended up supporting a war that was itself based on a conspiracy.

The author wishes me to include his main website, evote.com.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: TARGET THE CORRUPT REPUBLICAN: Kentucky Focus

TARGET THE CORRUPT REPUBLICAN CAMPAIGN: Kentucky focus

For those who want to see past actions, please see my, Target the Corrupt Republican Blog.

This week I want to focus on a new target: the Kentucky Republican Party. So far the Ohio and Missouri Republicans were looking to be the most corrupt state parties in the nation, but looks like the Kentucky Republicans are giving them a run for their money. This is partly drawn from a Daily Kos diary from a while back.

Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher's (R) administration is facing a slew of indictments for corruption. Fletcher's administration, which took office in January 2004, is suspected of violating the state's merit system laws and using politics as the basis for hiring or firing government employees. The state GOP's response has been to cry "political witch-hunt"! But the truth is the spoils system of political appointments is back in place in Kentucky.

From the Louisville Courier-Journal:

The state Transportation Cabinet kept a "hit list" of "politically motivated merit job actions," according to affidavits for search warrants filed in court yesterday.

The affidavits include a Feb. 16 e-mail message between two administration officials stating: "Sadie asked for a list today."

It was not immediately clear which list was being sought. But as part of its investigation into allegations of political favoritism in civil-service hiring, the attorney general's office filed with the affidavits two alleged hit lists. One of the purported hit lists remained under seal yesterday.

Gov. Ernie Fletcher confirmed yesterday that he had opened a personal e-mail account under the name "Sadie" in his office. Sadie is the name of his deceased golden retriever. Fletcher said he was unaware of a "hit list," and e-mail messages filed in support of the affidavits include denials by two administration officials that such a list existed.

This scandal is now reaching the Kentucky Republican Party chairman and two state officials. From a Salon.com article:

A grand jury indicted Kentucky's Republican Party chairman and two state officials Monday on charges alleging they conspired to violate state personnel laws.

The allegations revolve around the state's Merit System jobs and whether a few Republican officials conspired to hire and fire employees based on their political views. Merit System rules prohibit such actions.

All three men indicted Monday have close ties to Gov. Ernie Fletcher.

Basil Turbyfill is in charge of filling political positions for Fletcher, and Bob Wilson is part of the governor's Personnel Cabinet. GOP Chairman Darrell Brock was director of local government in Fletcher's office before he took the party job this year.

Let's remember something here. The "spoils system" was once the way our nation did politics. This was ended on the Federal level by the Civil Service Act of 1883 which made it illegal to fill various federal offices by the spoils system. Kentucky also has a law, the Merit Law, that makes the spoils system illegal. Sadly, the Kentucky Republicans seem to feel we need to go back to an earlier, more corrupt form of government.

Here's the important part. Please write a letter to the editor to as many newspapers as you can (national, your local papers and, if you like, Kentucky papers) complaining about the pattern of corruption in the Republican party, from Tom DeLay to Ohio's Coingate to Kentucky's devolution to the corrupt spoils system of government. Remember, it is due to grassroots anger that Tom DeLay, Randy Cunningham and the corrupt Republicans in Ohio are on the run. LetÕs make it clear that this pattern of Republican corruption is nationwide and discredits the entire party as long as they refuse to clean house.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: GIVING VOICE TO OUR VETS

TURNING OHIO BLUE: (Giving voice to our soldiers, continued)

Speaking of Ohio, there is a special election ON AUGUST 2nd (!!!) to fill an open seat that had originally looked like a certain Republican retention. Well, guess what. Things are looking like they are turning around. Three things are working in favor of the Democratic candidate. First, as I discuss in Issue 32 the Democratic candidate, Paul Hackett, in this race is one of only two Iraq war vets running for Congress (both running as Democrats). Second, the "Coingate" scandal in Ohio is starting to discredit the Ohio Republican Party. Finally, and related to the scandals that are bringing down the Ohio Repub Party, is the fact that Ohio Gov. Taft (Repub) has the lowest rating of all among US state governors--ranked 50th out of 50. So the Republican party is running at low ebb right about now.

So what does this mean for Iraq War Veteran Paul Hackett? It means that, suddenly, he is out-raising his opponent, though she is still ahead overall. Much of the sudden surge in money comes from Hackett's inclusion on the Democracy for America A-list and to a big fundraising push in the blogsphere.

Suddenly we have a shot at this seat! I ask you to please donate some money if you possibly can to the effort to retake Ohio. Keep in mind, if we win this, not only do we send the first Iraq War Veteran to Congress, but we also will pick up a previously Republican seat. Let's do this!

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: NATIONAL SECURITY

KARL ROVE'S TREASON:

Karl Rove is a traitor to America. How else can we view this? He leaked the name of an undercover CIA operative who was working to protect America from terrorism. By doing so, Rove has ENDANGERED AMERICAN LIVES! This is the man that the Republicans are standing behind. Karl Rove must stand trial for treason. Here are the main petitions to sign (the easiest action):

http://www.johnkerry.com/petition/rove.php
http://www.moveonpac.org/firerove/
http://www.petitiononline.com/fireturd/petition.html

Please at least sign these. But really, treason calls for more. I am very serious in saying that Karl Rove's outing of Plame was a blow to the war on terrorism. He put our lives on the line out of sheer pettiness! MoveOn.org also has a letter writing campaign to the media urging them to get back on Karl Rove's case. PLEASE participate. We need to push this one very, very hard. We have to send a message to the Republicans that we do not appreciate them endangering our national security for their own petty partisan gains.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: SUPREME COURT

The big news of the week is the nomination of John Roberts for Supreme Court. For this issue I will direct you to People for the American Way for information, actions and such. There is no better site out there for finding out about and fighting Bush's judicial nominees. There are just two things I want to emphasize about Roberts:

-He was on Bush's legal team during the Florida 2000 election legal cases

-He was deputy Investigator under Ken Starr

Is THIS someone we want appointed for life to the Supreme Court? Some are saying that we shouldn't fight him because he will probably make it through. But the truth is there is no reason we can't fight. Draw the lines! They may win but each time we put up a good fight, we take one more step towards dominating the debate and retaking our nation. Give 'em Hell!

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: NYC FOCUS

Ongoing action from Democracy for NYC.

Emergency Contraception -Call Pataki

Under heavy pressure from the Senate Democrats and pro-choice organizations, the Republican leadership of the New York State Senate allowed a vote last week on a bill to expand access to emergency contraception (EC). The bill passed by a vote of 34 to 27. The Assembly passed the bill in January, but the Senate Republicans had resisted voting on their bill in their house until last week.

The bill allows pharmacists to dispense EC from behind the counter without a patient-specific prescription. This will save women from having to wait to get a doctors appointment, and improve the chances of preventing unintended pregnancies.

EC is most effective when taken within 24 hours. State action was required because the FDA has blocked over-the-counter status for EC, despite the recommendations of two expert advisory panels saying that EC is safe and effective and should be available over the counter. “It’s the political fix in Washington that is forcing the state of New York to act because the federal government has abandoned the field,” State Senator Schneiderman said. “I am proud that in the absence of federal action, New York State is leading the way and preventing thousands unintended pregnancies in our state.

Opponents of the bill ignore science by claiming that EC induces abortion, which it does not. The New York State Catholic Conference already has vowed to prevent the bill from becoming law by mobilizing its state-wide network to contact the Governor to veto the bill.

Call or write Governor Pataki TODAY and tell him to sign the Unplanned Pregnancy Prevention Act!

Governor George E. Pataki
The Executive Chamber
State Capitol
Albany, NY 12224
Phone: 518-474-8390

Or visit this website to send the governor an email.

Tell him to do the right thing and sign this legislation. Tell him New York women and men strongly support this legislation, which will prevent thousands of unwanted pregnancies. EC is safe and effective and should be available without a prescription.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: BROOKLYN/QUEENS GROUPS AND EVENTS

ALL NYC:

Dick Cheney is coming to Staten Island to help Vito Fossella raise money. This is our chance to show Dick what we think of him. Come protest in front of Vito Fossella's office. A Very Special Welcome Celebration (with a special treat)
WHEN: Monday, July 25, 12:00 p.m.
WHERE: In front of Vito Fossella's office, 4434 Amboy Road

DFNYC presents Optical Scan Advocacy Training w/ Bo Lipari – Mon., July 25, 6pm

-People for the American Way offices, 149 5th Ave. @ 21st St., 7th Floor

Visit http://www.dfnyc.org/cms/node/87084 to RSVP or call Stephanie Low at 718-594-6652 (space is limited).

Democracy for NYC is hosting a special training headed by Bo Lipari, computer expert and voting activist of New Yorkers for Verified Voting (www.nyvv.org). The session is designed to fill in the gaps on what you know about Paper Ballot/Optical Scan vs DRE voting systems. (PBOS is the system the New York Times, Howard Dean and the DNC have strongly endorsed.)

The goal of this training is to develop lobbying tactics, so we can take this issue to the NY City Council members and make sure all five boroughs opt for PBOS. New York City has the power to guarantee that about 38% of the voting machines are PBOS. And if NYC mandates PBOS, we may pick up added support in other parts of the state for this transparent, reliable, easy to use, and most cost effective system.

Visit http://www.nyccouncil.info/constituent/member_list.cfm to find the name of your council member and bring it with you to the training.

Contributions to DFNYC to cover costs will be gratefully accepted.

CRITCAL MASS BICYCLE MOVEMENT! Critical Mass is a bicyclist movement (NOT an organized group!) that holds weekly protests all over the world to protest pollution. Rides every Friday starting in Union Sq. Park North, 7PM! And see their NYC calendar for Bike Workshops and other rides (including ones in other Boroughs).


First DFNYC Monthly Mixer –Tues., July 26, 7pm-?

-Pioneer Bar, 218 Bowery at Rivington

Mark your calendars for an exciting DFNYC social event. A social event is a lot like a data entry party, but without the typing. Mingle with your fellow DFNYCers and meet new people.

Admission is $7 (includes a drink ticket) or $10 for two people. The proceeds from the door will benefit Democracy for NYC. It’s a good cause and a good time, so bring a friend! RSVP


BROOKLYN EVENTS:

Democracy for America Meetings: CLICK HERE!

Independent Neighborhood Democrats: Contact me or Devin Cohen: devincohen@msn.com if you are interested.

MARJORIE'S OZZIE’S MEETUP: July 28, at 249 5th Ave, at Garfield, Park Slope, 7:00 PM, best by R subway to Union & 4th. Walk east one block and down three. This month’s guest: Gifford Miller. I also recommend getting Marjorie’s very informative newsletter which you can get by contacting her at: johnkerry57@covad.net

Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats (CBID) (mostly covers Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, and Kensington.


Lambda Independent Democrats (Brooklyn’s gay and lesbian organization) for meeting info contact LID@LIDBrooklyn.org.

DRINKING LIBERALLY: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. 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. Here are our local Brooklyn groups:

Park Slope: First Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward, Commonwealth, 497 5th Ave (at 12th Street). Hosted by Emily Farris and Peter Wohlsen, parkslope (at) drinkingliberally.org

Williamsburg: Every Tuesday, 8:00 pm onward the Levee, 212 Berry St. (corner of N. 3rd). Hosted by Elana Levin and Michael Freedman-Schnapp, williamsburg (at) drinkingliberally.org

To find your nearest Brooklyn Democratic club, please CLICK HERE.

QUEENS:

Democracy for America Meetings: CLICK HERE!

Queens Jefferson Democratic Club: Our meetings are normally held the first Thursday of every month, @ 8:00 p.m. (the doors open @ 7:30 P.M.) except for July, August, and months in which a holiday falls on the First Thursday. Meetings are held at the Auburndale American Legion Hall, 198-09 33rd Ave Flushing, New York 11358 (just off Francis Lewis Blvd. near 33rd Avenue).

Queens County Young Democrats: for information CLICK HERE.

DRINKING LIBERALLY: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. 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. Here are our local Queens groups:

ASTORIA: Third Wednesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward. Cassidy's, 34-16 Broadway (at 35th Street). Hosted by Bob Chamerda, astoria (at) drinkingliberally.org

To find your nearest Queens Democratic club, please CLICK HERE.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: MANHATTAN GROUPS AND EVENTS

Dick Cheney is coming to Staten Island to help Vito Fossella raise money. This is our chance to show Dick what we think of him. Come protest in front of Vito Fossella's office. A Very Special Welcome Celebration (with a special treat)
WHEN: Monday, July 25, 12:00 p.m.
WHERE: In front of Vito Fossella's office, 4434 Amboy Road

DFNYC presents Optical Scan Advocacy Training w/ Bo Lipari – Mon., July 25, 6pm

-People for the American Way offices, 149 5th Ave. @ 21st St., 7th Floor

Visit http://www.dfnyc.org/cms/node/87084 to RSVP or call Stephanie Low at 718-594-6652 (space is limited).

Democracy for NYC is hosting a special training headed by Bo Lipari, computer expert and voting activist of New Yorkers for Verified Voting (www.nyvv.org). The session is designed to fill in the gaps on what you know about Paper Ballot/Optical Scan vs DRE voting systems. (PBOS is the system the New York Times, Howard Dean and the DNC have strongly endorsed.)

The goal of this training is to develop lobbying tactics, so we can take this issue to the NY City Council members and make sure all five boroughs opt for PBOS. New York City has the power to guarantee that about 38% of the voting machines are PBOS. And if NYC mandates PBOS, we may pick up added support in other parts of the state for this transparent, reliable, easy to use, and most cost effective system.

Visit http://www.nyccouncil.info/constituent/member_list.cfm to find the name of your council member and bring it with you to the training.

Contributions to DFNYC to cover costs will be gratefully accepted.

CRITCAL MASS BICYCLE MOVEMENT! Critical Mass is a bicyclist movement (NOT an organized group!) that holds weekly protests all over the world to protest pollution. Rides every Friday starting in Union Sq. Park North, 7PM! And see their NYC calendar for Bike Workshops and other rides (including ones in other Boroughs).

First DFNYC Monthly Mixer –Tues., July 26, 7pm-?

-Pioneer Bar, 218 Bowery at Rivington

Mark your calendars for an exciting DFNYC social event. A social event is a lot like a data entry party, but without the typing. Mingle with your fellow DFNYCers and meet new people.

Admission is $7 (includes a drink ticket) or $10 for two people. The proceeds from the door will benefit Democracy for NYC. It’s a good cause and a good time, so bring a friend! RSVP

Democracy for America Meetings: CLICK HERE!

DRINKING LIBERALLY: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. 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. Here are our local Manhattan groups:

Upper East Side Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm onward, Doc Watson's, 1490 2nd Avenue (at 77th). In the backyard, weather permitting. Hosted by Matthew Bachiochi, ues (at) drinkingliberally.org

In Manhattan: Thursday, 7:30 pm onward, Rudy's, 627 9th Avenue (between 44th & 45th Streets). Hosted by Justin Krebs and Matthew O'Neill, nyc (at) drinkingliberally.org

Bar Hopping Manhattan: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:00-9:00 pm
A monthly Democratic drinking club at different gay bars around Manhattan. Join the mailing list to receive updates of future venues. Hosted by Dirk McCall, outnyc (at) drinkingliberally.org

East Village: Last Wednesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward, Grassroots Tavern, 20 Saint Mark's Place (between 2nd and 3rd). Hosted by Quinn Raymond, Elena Morin and Abby Cook-Mack, eastvillage (at) drinkingliberally.org

For those who prefer running to biking, you can join RUNNING FOR CHANGE: Building a progressive America through organized runs and other grassroots activities.

To find your nearest Manhattan Democratic club, please CLICK HERE.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: VIRGINIA FOCUS

Taken from a Daily Kos diary:

The race is starting to heat up as national politicians get involved and more issues arise. On Wednesday Barack Obama came to Arlington in a large rally (1,000 people) and small dollar fundraiser. At the same time John Kerry sent out emails asking for donations to Tim Kaine. Of course the republicans jumped on this one saying Kaine was Kerry "with a richmond address". Yesterday in my town, Bush came to a $2 million dollar "intimate" dinner fundraiser with 100 corporate fatcats who gave at least $15,000 each. Having Kilgore was bad enough but Bush created massive backups. More below.

The July 15th fundraising reports came in and Kaine has an overall edge in money though Kilgore closed much of the gap thanks to the fundraiser mentioned above. Kilgore also continues to be reluctant to debate Kaine on TV or basically anywhere else.

Then yesterday the state reported a $544 million dollar surplus. You see, the surplus was a result of a tax raise supported by Warner, Kaine, and a bunch of moderate republicans. Kilgore is claiming that the tax raise was unnessecary because of the economy. Kaine pointed out some taxes were cut and we had to save our services and state credit. He is also using fiscal responsbility as a theme and using the budget to prove it. The tax issue may work in our favor as people were not angered by it (except for the Club for Growth people) and it did save the state from a budget deficit.

Another issue that came up was abortion. At last saturday's debate, Kaine said he would support ways to reduce abortion while not criminalzing it. Kilgore, who in the past supported banning abortion except in cases or rape or incest (and only if it was done in 7 days of pregnancy) refused to say whether he would criminalize it or not. His rationale was that the case was "hypothetical" and that we didn't know who Bush was going to appoint. Well we found out that Bush would appoint Roberts who would likely vote to overturn Roe V. Wade. So now Kilgore is refusing to say anything and the anti-choice people want him to speak. Kaine and the democrats are pressing him to speak and the press is questioning him. This could also work in our favor.

The main unpredictable factor is Russ Potts. He is a rockefeller republican type who is pro-choice but fairly conservative elsewhere. Potts could attract pro-choice women who would otherwise vote for Kaine or he could attract moderate republicans disenchanted with the party. No one really knows what he will do or say. So far he has raised about $450,000 dollars and has attracted at least 3% support. However Kaine has said that Potts takes away 2 votes from Kilgore for every vote taken from himself.

The race will be hard fought and most likely very close. However we have Warner, a surplus, and a good economy on our side.

I keep saying this: Virginia is one of the key races this year. Please give this race your attention!

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: VIRGINIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

Democracy for America: One of the best ways to get active! FIND YOUR LOCAL DFA MEETUP AND GET INVOLVED!

***Verified Voting Hearings in Richmond: Virginia is holding hearings to consider requiring voter-verified paper audit trails for voting equipment. Many Virginia jurisdictions have purchased paperless electronic voting machines, and others are considering doing so. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THESE HEARINGS. Your future vote may depend on it!

Digital voting machines that lack a voter-verified paper trail are subject to programming errors and possible fraud, with no ability for meaningful audits or recounts.

Attend the hearings and show support for voter-verified audit trails by wearing orange shirts or ribbons. A large audience will show that Virginians care about the integrity of our elections, and that we demand transparent and reliable elections.
Joint Subcommittee Studying Voting Equipment, General Assembly Building, Richmond
· Monday, August 22, 2005, at 12:30 p.m. in House Room C
· Monday, November 21, 2005, at 1:00 p.m. in House Room C
More information can be found at http://www.vavv.org and http://www.verifiedvoting.org.

Sunday, July 24, 7 PM. Seminar on the politicization of US intelligence by Ray McGovern, a 27 year former analyst for the CIA. Ray McGovern recently testified before Congressman John Conyers public hearings on the implications of the Downing Street Memo. He is a nationally known speaker and is author of a forthcoming book on how the integrity of the US intelligence community has been undermined by political influence. The title of one of the chapters illustrates the process. Sham Dunk; Cooking Intelligence for the President. To be held at Masonic Temple, 411 Little Falls Street, Falls Church, VA. Tel. 703-795-8628


Sunday July 31st, 3:00pm WMD: Weapons of Mass Deception. The VGC Media group hosts a screening at the George Mason Regional Library, 7001 Little River Turnpike in Annandale, VA. "Weapons of Mass Deception" reveals: How the Iraq war was sold to the American public through professional P.R. strategies. Contact media@vagrassroots.org for more.

August 12th-14th Dismantling Racism Workshop, Virginia Organizing Project will sponsor a weekend Dismantling Racism workshop August 12-14, 2005 at the Richmond Hill Retreat Center, 2209 East Grace Street, in Richmond. The session begins at 4:00 p.m. Friday, August 12 and ends at noon Sunday, August 14. Contact Laura Ramirez at 434.984.4655 or lramirez@virginia-organizing.org


The Democratic Party: Here are links to some of your local Dem clubs. This is another very important way to be active.

Albemarle County Democratic Committee, Albemarle County, VA

Arlington County Democrats, Arlington VA. Contact Name: Elizabeth Weitzman mewsician1@msn.com (703) 528-8588

Arlington Young Democrats, Arlington VA. Contact Name: Jaime Mulligan publicity@arlingtonyoungdems.org 571-334-7626

Democratic Party of Fluvanna County, Virginia, Bremo Bluff, Virginia VA

Hanover Democrats, Ashland VA

Loudoun County Democratic Committee, Leesburg, VA. Contact Name: Steve Deak chairman@lcdems.com

Norfolk Democratic Party Meetup, Norfolk VA. Contact Name: Alma D. Kesling akesling@yahoo.com 757 333-8694

Rappahannock County Democrats, Rappahannock VA.

Stafford County Democrats, Fredericksburg VA:

Virginia Beach Democrats, VA

Virginia Young Democrats, Richmond, VA. Contact Name: Justin Wilson justin@justin.net


Drinking Liberally: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. 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. Find your local drinking liberally group or start your own with a few buddies. Currently there is only one Drinking Liberally group in VA (see below). But it is easy to start your own!

Charlottesville, Virginia Drinking Liberally: Every Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Mellow Mushroom, 1320 West Main Street, Hosted by Jared Jenkins, charlottesville (at) drinkingliberally.org


RUNNING FOR CHANGE: And if you want a healthier alternative to Drinking Liberally (or want to do some running after your drinking), you can RUN for progressive causes. Building a progressive America through organized runs and other grassroots activities. To find your local Running for Change events, CLICK HERE.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: NEW JERSEY FOCUS

(from the Democrats 2000 website): This is continued from last week. I think it is well worth another week of action.

NEWSFLASH TO NJ COLLEGE REPUBLICANS:
SUPPORT OF YOUNG VOTERS IS NOT FOR SALE!

Jamesburg , N.J. – Shocked and appalled by the overtures made by the New Jersey College Republicans, Democrats 2000 today denounced unsavory tactics used to shakedown Party and campaign officials in exchange for the support of younger GOP voters.

“It is unfortunate that the Republican Party has instilled in its youngest members the notion that the support and votes of our generation is for sale,” said Steven Lenox, president of Democrats 2000. “What kind of message does that send to young voters who are already disenfranchised?

“For more than a decade, our organization has strived to support young candidates without any hint of impropriety. It is a shame that there is no comparable organization within the state's Republican Party to help us engage young voters on both sides of the aisle,” Lenox added.

In e-mails obtained by politicsnj.com , the now-former NJ College Republican chairman, Steven Damion, demanded money in return for the organization's support. Damion wrote: “If there is a 3,000 dollar check waiting for me I am coming running and the campaign will have total access to our resources at all times, no problem.”
“This exchange between the College Republican leader and Republican Party and campaign officials is startling. Young voters should be encouraged to participate in the democratic process and support candidates based upon their merits and their support of issues affecting our generation and our families,” Lenox added.
Established in 1992, Democrats 2000 has become the largest and most active organization for younger generation Democrats in New Jersey . Through grassroots fundraising, the organization has become a vehicle for younger generation Democrats to get involved in New Jersey 's political process and helps them establish relationships that will last throughout their careers.

Please write a letter to the editor expressing your disgust at the behavior of the NJ Young Republicans.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

Democracy for America Meetups: DFA is one of the best hopes we have of retaking America. I strongly urge you to get involved with your local group. New Jersey for Democracy Meetups take place on the first Wednesday of every month @ 7pm. There are many meetups around the state: North, Central and South Jersey.

Democrats 2000 TRIPLE HEADER! Democrats 2000 will be taking a road trip to three of New Jersey 's minor league parks in June and July. Tickets are $35 each which includes game and contribution to Democrats 2000. Come to all three games for just $75!

Sponsorships for all three games are available.

July 26 - Newark Bears vs. Camden Riversharks
Bears and Eagles Riverfront Park
Newark
7:05 p.m.

Common Cause: Common Cause is a major force in Progressive Politics. It was founded in 1970 (by a Republican, mind you!) to counter the influence of special interests in Washington. Today they work on many of the same issues I am trying to highlight. Check out the NJ Common Cause website.

New Jersey Democratic Veterans Caucus present A HERO'S RALLY with special guests former Senator Max Cleland and Senator Jon Corzine
WHEN: Thursday, July 28, 2005
TIME: Doors open at 7pm
WHERE: Nottingham Firehouse
RSVP to (732) 729-9940 x116 or veterans@njdems.org

Here is how you can find your local Dem clubs. Go to HERE and click on your county.

The Democratic Club of Long Beach Island will host its FIRST annual fundraiser at the Foundation of Arts and Sciences , Loveladies NJ. Date August 27th 2005, 5:30 - 7:30, contribution is $40.00 per person, hot and cold hors d'oevres , wine, beer, soda. Democratic dignitaries as guest speakers, Silent Auction. Contact : Barbara Truncellito, Director PR, Democratic Club LBI, truncellito@comcast.net

North Brunswick Democratic Club 2nd Annual "Babbage BBQ Blast" July 29th, 2005 Location: Babbage Park Pavilion Address: , Time: 6:00pm to 8:00pm Price FREE Contact David Sirna at 732-236-790 for more information

Edgewater Park Democrats Crab Fest 2005 July 30th, 2005 Location: Riverfront Home of Ralph and Adrienne Franciosi Time: 3:00pm to 8:00pm Price $35 per person. Contact the organizer at 609-871-7886 or 609-386-4651 for more information


Drinking Liberally: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. 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. Find your local drinking liberally group or start your own with a few buddies: Currently there is only one group in New Jersey:

Hoboken, New Jersey, Second Tuesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward, Mulligan's, 159 1st Street (between Bloomfield and Garden), Hosted by David Alpert and Ali Savino, hoboken (at) drinkingliberally.org

COMING SOON: Princeton, first meeting: Thursday Sept 15 at 7pm, Annex Restaurant at 128 Nassau St., Princeton. princeton@drinkingliberally.org

RUNNING FOR CHANGE: For those who prefer running to biking, you can join RUNNING FOR CHANGE: Building a progressive America through organized runs and other grassroots activities.

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: NATIONAL ACTION (Women's rights)

From Wellstone Action

Our voices are making a difference!

Wellstone Action members have sent over 8,000 faxes to Congress asking members to support and co-sponsor the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), a landmark piece of legislation that changed the way our communities respond to domestic and sexual violence. If Congress doesn't act, VAWA will expire on September 30th, 2005.

Paul and Sheila Wellstone were driving forces behind VAWA, and Wellstone Action is proud to carry on their work. Thanks to activists like you, VAWA is moving forward!
Progress made so far:

* A grassroots coalition of more than 250 organizations has come together to work on VAWA
* VAWA legislation was introduced in both the House [H.2876] and Senate [S.1197]
* 66 co-sponsors in the House
* 40 co-sponsors in the Senate
* Senate hearings on VAWA Reauthorization took place this week

Pressure needed:

This week, the Senate started hearings on the Violence Against Women Act. Next the House and Senate will vote on versions of VAWA. Then the House and Senate must craft a bill that both chambers can pass and be signed into law.

All of this needs to happen before September 30th, when VAWA expires!
What you can do to help:

You can take action today to help us pass VAWA 2005!

* FAX your member of Congress and ask them to support VAWA

* Become a VAWA organizer – download our tool kit

Thank you for helping us make this VAWA campaign a success. We'll keep you updated on VAWA's progress this fall.
Thanks,
Wellstone Action
www.wellstone.org

Progressive Democrat Issue 35: GETTING LOCAL AROUND THE NATION

There are many ways you can get active. Below I try to provide a good variety of options and urge you all to find a couple that suit you. These groups below are the way we can get our country back. If we don’t get involved we won’t win in 2005, 2006 and beyond. Joy and I are currently involved in two groups plus our own organizing efforts bringing different groups together and we are finding it a good boost to our social life. We are meeting cool people and it makes us get out a couple of times a month more than we would otherwise.

Finding your local groups:

Democracy for America: Founded by Howard Dean, now run by his brother Jim Dean, this group is very effective at the local grass roots. Many think this is the future of the Democratic Party. I think this is partly true, though the neighborhood Dem party clubs will continue to be vital to our efforts as well. This is a group that you really should be active in either by joining a local meetup or starting one of your own.


The Democratic Party: Now that Howard Dean is in the driver’s seat I am hoping the Democrats will become more effective on the local level. One of the main complaints against the DNC in the past couple of elections is that they didn’t help the local parties in most parts of the nation. If you go to the DNC website and find the “Get Local” pull down menu on the left, you can find your local Dem groups. I strongly urge you to get involved with your local Dem club since it is often these groups that actually do much of the footwork to win each district.

Critical Mass: Critical Mass is a bicyclist movement (NOT an organized group!) that holds weekly protests all over the world to protest pollution. Go here to find the closest Critical Mass action in your area (site covers ALL of North America).


Drinking Liberally: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. 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. Find your local drinking liberally group or start your own with a few buddies.

Wellstone Action: Paul Wellstone started something in Minnesota and his death hasn’t stopped it. Wellstone’s family is continuing his work and expanding it throughout the nation. Wellstone Action trains activists and grassroots candidates and they did very well in the last election. I urge you to look into any nearby Wellstone Action events.


Common Cause: Common Cause is a major force in Progressive Politics. It was founded in 1970 (by a Republican, mind you!) to counter the influence of special interests in Washington. Today they work on many of the same issues I am trying to highlight. Look for your state’s Common Cause organization.

To find the League of Conservation Voters branch in your state, CLICK HERE. This is the group you should be involved with if the environment is your thing.

To find the NARAL branch in your state, CLICK HERE. This is the group you should be involved with if choice is your thing.

Finally I suggest Americans for Democratic Action. ADA is a progressive branch of the Democratic Party. Email: adaction@ix.netcom.com for info on local groups.