Progressive Democrat Issue 82: THOUGHTS

As bombs explode in Iraq, Afghanistan and India, and as the Middle East sees yet more escalation of conflicts, what do we get from the Republicans? More and more corruption and more and more intolerance towards Americans. This week I continue to focus on the Republican culture of intolerance and its link to the Delaware Pogrom, and the Republican culture of corruption.

One update on the Delaware Pogrom. The Anti-Defamation League got back to me confirming the story. They are not saying anything publicly about the pogrom, but they are helping the families with their law suits. If you want to express your opinions regarding the Delaware Pogrom, either to tell them to make a more public stand or even to express the connection between the pogrom and the rhetoric of right wing hate mongers like Ann Coulter and Bill O'Reilly, please contact them. They may be sensitive to the intolerance of the right wing right now since they are accusing Bob Novak (who threatened national security when he outed the identity of CIA agent Valerie Plame at the behest of Cheney and Rove) of claiming Israel persecutes Christians.

And, speaking of Plame, she has filed a civil suit againts Scooter Libby, Dick Cheney, and Karl Rove. I bet Cheney is reaching for his shotgun right about now.

Progressive Democrat Issue 82: THE REPUBLICAN CULTURE OF INTOLERANCE

This covers some of the same ground as last issue. But again our values our society and, increasingly, our lives are on the line. The Delaware Pogrom in some ways makes everything that much more critical.

We often talk about the Republican Culture of Corruption, the excessive cronyism that exists between current Halliburton Republicans and the military-industrial complex. In today’s Republican party, there is the ultimate fulfillment of what President Eisenhower warned the nation against. But bad though the widespread Republican Culture of Corruption is, there is an even worse side to the modern right wing: the Culture of Intolerance and Violence.

One of the worst examples of this was the Delaware Pogrom.

Hate Crimes have been on the rise in America since 9/11, and, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center, hate groups in America have increased by 33% in the past five years. A peak in attacks on Muslims after 9/11 was rapidly followed by an increase in anti-Semitism in the US and worldwide. There was a slight decline in anti-Semetic incidents in 2005, but incidents are still at disturbingly high levels.

Back in February I reported an incident that, while not a hate crime, was certainly a frightening trend. In Indiana, a prominent politician told a group of Jews that their opinion on the recitation of Christian prayers at legislative sessions didn't matter because they only made up 2% of the population. This is a further sign of the rise of Republican, Christian Taliban in the US.

But now it is pogroms. I use that word carefully. In Delaware, two families, one Jewish the other as yet anonymous, were forced to flee the town due to threatened violence by right wing Christian fanatics who were pushing Christian prayer in school.

We should not be surprised at the Delaware Pogrom, because it is nothing more or less than what right wing “pundits” advocate frequently on mainstream media outlets. These right wing hate mongers are the darlings of the Republican propaganda machine and have the ear and admiration of most elected Republicans. Yet it is their rhetoric that stirs up incidents like the Delaware Pogrom.

There are many right wing extremist windbags who haunt the airwaves of the mainstream media. But two in particular actually advocate violence and intolerance to a degree that is unacceptable. And I think we have to face the fact that in America today, their irresponsible advocacy of terrorism against Americans is inspiring actual violence and threats of violence.

It is now time to hold these two windbags accountable for their advocacy of terrorism against Americans.

Ann Coulter is possibly the nastiest the Conservative propagandists. As I plugged last week, Media Matters has a good round up of Ann Coulter’s stupid and un-American statements.

Included are suggesting Timothy McVeigh should bomb the NY Times building, suggesting people attack liberals with baseball bats, and suggesting that someone poison a Supreme Court Justice. She has expressed outright hatred for the 9/11 widows and has advocated the murder of Congressman Murtha. In one case, it is quite possible that someone took her advocacy of violence seriously. Soon after Coulter advocated "talking to liberals with a baseball bat" someone in Kansas physically attacked a professor who had spoken out against Christian fundamentalists. There is no clear link between her advocacy of violence and this incident, but the latter followed closely after the former and it is an action in line with what she advocates to her audience.

The threats of violence in Delaware are also right in line with what Ann Coulter routinely advocates. Ann Coulter is telling her listeners to use violence and to be intolerant and increasingly right wing extremists in America are using violence and intolerance as a weapon against Americans and American values.

Bill O'Reilly also advocates intolerance and terrorism. He advocated bombing Coit Tower in San Francisco. He also told a Jewish caller to "go to Israel" if he felt uncomfortable with government displays of Christianity. His advocacy of America as a Christian nation and his telling Jews to get out if they don't like it are exactly the kind of inspiration that drives the right wing extremists behind the Delaware pogrom.

Ann Coulter and Bill O'Reilly are in part responsible for this increase in violence and intolerance in America and we need to hold them accountable. The Delaware Pogrom was the natural consequence of their rhetoric.

To many current Republican politicians, corruption, hatred, intolerance and threats of violence are acceptable parts of American Culture. Right wing extremists advocate terrorism on talk shows in the mainstream media even as those same extremists schmooze with Republican politicians and advocate for the Republican far righta agenda.

I am not saying traditional conservative ideology is detestable. I am a liberal, but I have respect for old style conservative ideology where fiscal responsibility and law and order are paramount. But the modern Republican party, led by Bush, Cheney, Rove, DeLay and their corrupt compatriots, have abandoned traditional conservative ideology in favor of corruption, greed and intolerance. The Republican party has become something Eisenhower would have detested and, quite honestly, all Americans should detest. In fact, I have a couple of Republican friends who have come to hate the current Republican Party.

It is time to hold the right wing hate mongers and the Republican Party responsible for the consequences of their actions. The Delaware Pogrom was a direct result of the modern Republican Culture of Intolerance. Right wing talk show hosts advocate exactly this kind of pogrom against anyone who is different in America, anyone who doesn’t conform to the extremist ideology of the modern Halliburton Republicans.

Republican politicians are close with Ann Coulter and Bill O'Reilly, despite their advocacy of violence and terrorism. So the question is, does the Republican party support the kind of terrorist actions that Ann Coulter and Bill O'Reilly advocate and which people in Kansas and Delaware have carried out. Essentially, does the Republican party support terrorist attacks on Americans, from regular citizens like you and me all the way up to Supreme Court Justices and Congressmen.

Write them and ask them. Hold the Republican Party accountable for terrorist advocacy by right wing windbags who they schmooze with. It is time to ask the question of Republican politicians if they agree with Ann Coulter and Bill O'Reilly’s advocating bombing American buildings, poisoning Supreme Court Justices and attacking Americans with baseball bats. Call on the Republican Party to REJECT Ann Coulter and Bill O'Reilly’s advocacy of violence and to demand that the mainstream media stops paying terrorist advocates. Tell them that Coulter and O'Reilly's rhetoric is the exact kind of rhetoric that will inspire more pogroms like the one in Delaware.

New Democratic Majority has initiated this campaign to hold the Republican Party accountable. You can see what they have to say here (scroll down)

If you are represented by a Republican on ANY level of government, go here, and look on the left column to contact your state, local and Federal politicians and contact them to demand they call for a stop to Ann Coulter’s advocacy of terrorism.

And in particular, hold Delaware’s Republican Congressman responsible. Contact this man regarding the Delaware Pogrom: Representative Michael Castle (R-DE At-Large).

And by all means write to the media calling for Republicans to renounce Ann Coulter and Bill O'Reilly’s terrorist advocacy campaign and directly link it to the Delaware pogrom.

I should note, since Republicans have started to be confronted with Coulter's advocacy of violence, they have started quietly distancing themselves from her. A fundraiser for a Colorado politician that featured Ann Coulter raised a grand total of...nothing! I think we really need to continue this campaign because I think Republicans are finall statring to realize that Coulter and O'Reilly are not people they are comfortable with. Let us make them even more uncomfortable with intolerance and violence advocacy.

Progressive Democrat Issue 82: MORE REPUBLICAN CORRUPTION IN CALIFORNIA: John Doolittle

Corruption already brought down California Republican Randy Cunningham, now shamed, convicted and jailed. But Republican corruption is alive and well in the family of another California Republican: Congressman John Doolittle (CA-4). From the Washington Post:

n the past two years, campaign and political action committees controlled by Rep. John T. Doolittle (R-Calif.) paid ever-larger commissions to his wife's one-person company and spent tens of thousands of dollars on gifts at stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co. and a Ritz-Carlton day spa.

The use of such committees, especially "leadership" PACs, for purposes other than electing politicians to Congress is a common and growing phenomenon, but campaign finance watchdogs say Doolittle has taken it to new heights...

"I don't know if there's anything comparable," said Fred Wertheimer, president of Democracy 21, a watchdog group that called last month for an investigation of Doolittle by the House ethics committee. "If this is okay, it is a road map for how to convert substantial sums of campaign money to personal use..."

And John Doolittle's committees have been generous with the money they have raised. The campaign committee has reported gifts to volunteers, staff members and supporters totaling $55,679 since 2001. Flower expenses were $2,983. Purchases of See's Candies, a California favorite, were $10,737. Dues for the Capitol Hill Club, the Lincoln Club of Sacramento Valley, the Sutter Club of Sacramento and other membership organizations have totaled $12,275.

Wow...new heights of Republican corruption. Way to go Congressman Doolittle. But Doolittle is not alone by any means. The article mentions a couple of other Republicans who are doing the same trick of misusing such "leadership funds."

The leadership PAC of Rep. Richard W. Pombo (R-Calif.) lists $22,896 in hotel expenditures for donors and $320 worth of baseball tickets. Sen. Rick Santorum (R-Pa.) received attention in February when the news media reported leadership PAC expenses at a Starbucks near his Virginia home that totaled $558 since 2001, as well as payments to Wal-Mart, Burger King bills totaling $50 and 11 meals at Arby's worth $118.

Just how do these corrupt bastards manage to convince voters to vote for them? Well, we have a Fighting Dem running against Corrupt Doolittle. Lt. Col. Charlie Brown is on a roll aiming to defeat Doolittle in November. Your a good man, Charlie Brown! Please help him out with a donation or some time. Jerry McNerney is the Democrat running against Corrupt Pombo, and, of course Bob Casey is well on his way to defeating Corrupt Santorum.

Progressive Democrat Issue 82: THIS YEAR'S TOP RACES ACCORDING TO SALON.COM

Some of you may have followed my various analyses and Act Blue pages covering several key states in 2006. My goal has been to not only target close races, but also to generate momentum to actually SWEEP some states, or at least come close. My personal favorites to focus on have been NY and NV, but today Salon.com is telling us what their picks are for top races of 2006. I want to use their analysis and build on it to discuss what some of our really important fights are. I leave out primaries because I do not focus on primary races in this newsletter.

This is adapted from the Salon.com analysis with additions and comments of my own.

1. Iowa House races: Iowa, where my father was born and where the Kunkel Sporting Goods store in Davenport, co-founded by my great-grandfather, still stands today. One of the most up-for-grabs seats in the nation is the open Repub-held seat IA-1. Then Leonard Boswell in Des Moines, who always faces a daunting reelection fight in a district that split 50-50 in the 2004 presidential race, is considered the Democratic Party's "most vulnerable incumbent." Iowa is considered one of the "purplest" of states and this year is a chance to shift it much more solidly blue. Finally add a race for Sec. of State and Elesha Gayman, a Democracy for America rising star, and you have many races well deserving of our attention. I urge you to help turn Iowa solid blue, defending one of our most vulnerable seats and targeting an open seat now held by a Repub. Help me turn my father's state blue.

2. Missouri: this is a particularly important Senate race where stem-cell research and massive Republican corruption are two of the critical issues. I am asking you to help us defeat the corrupt Repub senator Jim (no) Talent. We have a real shot at this seat and we shouldn't squander the chance. BBC also has this race as one of the ones to watch this year and we need to make sure we win it. We also have the chance to defeat Roy Blunt (MO-7), one of the nation's absolutely most corrupt politicians. Please help defeat corrupt Halliburton Republicans in Missouri.

3. Montana: This Senate race is a dKos favorite. We need to kick corrupt Conrad Burns' ass and since we have a kick ass candidate in Jon Tester, I think we can succeed. We can also aim to take MT-1 House seat, really turning Montana blue. Remember, 2004 waqs a turning point in Montana. Let's make 2006 a solid follow up to the Montana phenomenon of 2004. Help take Montana.

4. New Mexico: Another one of America's purplest states, this is our chance to turn NM solid blue. The Iraq war in particular is giving us a chance to take NM-1. Thanks to the war, the Repub incumbent is in trouble big time. And Patricia Madrid, the Dem challenger, is considered one of the rising stars in politics today. NM-1 is one of our hottest races this year. Let's win this one!

5. Ohio: I was sick of Ohio, but let's face facts. Ohio is and will continue to be one of America's battlegrounds. Corruption and election integrity are two top issues. Republican Governor Taft is one of America's most corrupt and least popular governors. Add to this some vulnerable Halliburton Republican Congressmen and some very nasty Republican corruption, and Ohio may be a wide-open opportunity for Democrats. This could be the year we turn the tide in Ohio on all levels. Targeting Jean Schmidt, Mike Oxley and Bob Ney are high priorities as well as capturing the Attorney General and Secretary of State positions. Let's win big in Ohio, defeat Republican corruption in Ohio and help reform Ohio's elections. All of that is at stake this year in Ohio.

6. Pennsylvania's House races: Two Pennsylvania House races are considered two of our top pick up opportunities, PA-6 and PA-8. We have two great candidates running for these seats, both named Murphy. Lois Murphy is running in PA-6 and fighting Dem Patrick Murphy is running in PA-8. Both have excellent chances. Let me also take this opportunity of suggesting donating to all of the top-ten Dem pick up opportunities this year. Winning back the House probably depends on winning these 10 races.

7. Virginia Senate: Last year Democrats won big in Virginia. In some ways the surprise wins in Montana in 2004 were followed up with surprisingly strong wins in Virginia in 2005. Let's follow it up further with a win for Jim Webb for Senate in Virginia.

Please do your best for these races. There are some really big time chances this year and I hope we show the determination to win them.

Progressive Democrat Issue 82: NY FOCUS

Here are events covering a variety of efforts for NY State and surrounding areas. Your participation in these events could help ENORMOUSLY in winning in November. Even an hour or two of your time can make a huge difference.

Target PA -- Sack Santorum
Sunday, July 16th AND Sunday, July 23rd, 3:00 - 8:00 PM
Central Park Cell Phone Banking
Southwest corner of Sheep Meadow (east of 66th and Central Park West)

We'll be making Voter ID and Education calls using high quality campaign lists. We're helping lay the groundwork for the defeat of Senator Rick Santorum, one of the nastiest and most politically vulnerable senators of the extreme right. At the same time, we'll be working to defeat Republican Congressman Jim Gerlach, who took $30,000 from Tom DeLay's political action committee. Gerlach is considered to have one of the nation's most competitive challengers in Democrat Lois Murphy, who lost her 2004 race against Gerlach by just 2%. We're going to do our best to help Lois win.

Please bring a fully charged cell phone if you can. If you don't have one, let us know so that we can have extras handy.

If bad weather looks likely the morning of the event, we'll post an alternative indoor location on this page, and on our voicemail line, 212-714-7125.


Seize the State Senate
Wednesday, July 19th AND Wednesday, July 26th, 6:15 - 8:45 PM
Landline Phone Banking
420 Lexington Ave (at 43rd St), Suite 360
Bring photo ID to sign in at front desk.
Please arrive on time for orientation.

What will we be doing? We're going to be using landlines to do low-pressure Voter ID calls to dramatically increase Democratic voter turnout in the most competitive State Senate races. This is a great way for first-time callers to get started.

Why care about the State Senate? If you care about fair elections, education, transportation, the environment, healthcare, security, and other major issues in New York, you should care a lot about winning back the New York State Senate. Now that reformer Eliot Spitzer is likely to be New York's next governor, it's even more important to have a Democratic legislature in place.

Can we win? Yes, we can. We’re just four seats from Democratic control for the first time since the mid 1960s. No, that’s not a typo: the 60’s. We need to take full advantage of popular outcry this year and overwhelm them with volunteer turnout.

Progressive Democrat Issue 82: BROOKLYN/QUEENS GROUPS AND EVENTS

ALL NYC:

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 are the last Friday of every month starting in Union Sq. Park North, 7PM! At a DFNYC meeting attended by Norm Seigel, Norm used Critical Mass as an example of the kind of activism that NYC needs most and the way Bloomberg is trying to squelch our rights and our voices. Critical Mass deserves our help. According to Bloomberg, my inclusion of this in my newsletter is probably illegal. Well, I refuse to let Bloomberg tell me what I can and cannot write in my Newsletter.

And see their worldwide calendar for Bike Workshops and other locations.

There is more you can do to support Critical Mass. This comes from a reader in Manhattan:

To help keep people involved in Critical Mass, people who might be sacred off because of renewed aggressiveness by the police, I have started a pledge drive that sponsors arrestees. This is a great way for people to stay involved in Critical Mass, stay on top of the issue, and use the NYPD and Bloomberg's tactics to work for us not against us. I am pledging $2 per arrestee, and the money will go to the Legal Aid Society. Pledges are made on the honor system. The more bicyclists the cops arrest the more money for defending civil rights is raised.


BROOKLYN EVENTS:

Giant Rally for Brooklyn!
Sunday, July 16th, 2 PM at Grand Army Plaza (Union and Prospect Park West).

Entertainment, fun and rabble rousing for your community.

Come join Reverend Billy, the Stop Shopping Gospel Choir, Lava and Circus Amok and many more in a Rally to support a community-based vision for Brooklyn and against overdevelopment.

Invited speakers include Councilwoman Letitia James, Assembly members Joan Millman and James Brennan, State Senator Velmanette Montgomery and candidates from Congressional, Assembly, State Senate and Attorney General races.

Event co-sponsored by Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn, Art Without Walls, Atlantic Avenue Betterment Assn, Bears Garden, Brooklyn Vision, Dean St. Block Assn, East Pacific Block Assn, Fifth Ave. Committee, Fort Greene Assn, Harlem Tenants Coincil, Park Slope Neighbors, Sierra Club--NYC Group and many others. A REAL coalition of community groups uniting to preserve the soul of NYC.


Prospect Heights Democratic Candidates Forum
11th Congressional & 57th Assembly Districts

Thursday July 20
7:00-9:00 pm
Doors open at 6:45 pm

Duryea Presbyterian Church
Sterling Place & Underhill Avenue, Brooklyn

Hosted by Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council

Candidates for Congress:
Carl Andrews
Yvette Clarke
Chris Owens
David Yassky

Candidates for Assembly:
Bill Batson
Freddie Hamilton
Hakeem Jeffries

The member organizations of the Prospect Heights Neighborhood Development Council (PHNDC) include:
The Carlton Avenue Association, The Prospect Heights Association, The Park Place/Underhill Avenue Block Association, The Prospect Place Block Association, The Prospect Heights Parents Association, The Eastern Parkway Cultural Row Neighborhood Association, The Dean Street Block Association, The Vanderbilt Avenue Merchants District.


New Democratic Majority in Brooklyn:
I will be a co-host of this meeting. We meet the 4th Thursday of every month at the 5th Ave. Ozzie’s in Park Slope, 249 5th Ave (intersection of 5th and Garfield) at 7 PM.


Democracy for America Meetings: CLICK HERE!

Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats (CBID) (mostly covers Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, and Kensington). http://www.cbidems.org/

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!

To help Dmeocracy for NYC petition to get candidates on the ballot, please go here: http://www.dfnyc.org/cms/node/86993


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 82: MANHATTAN GROUPS AND EVENTS

Caucus of Color Women's Brunch: Sunday, July 16, 2006
The NY YOUNG DEMOCRATS CAUCUS OF COLOR cordially invites you and young women to attend a dialogue on sister power

Educate. Include. Empower.

A Conversation with Sisters of Color about Leadership and Politics in the 21st Century with

Ms. Leecia R. Eve
Former candidate for NY Lieutenant Governor

When: Sunday, July 16 at 12pm

Where: 140 West 121st Street
(btwn Lenox and St Nicholas Aves)
Harlem, NYC

Cost: $25 ADMISSION
RSVP online.

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 are the last Friday of every month starting in Union Sq. Park North, 7PM! At a DFNYC meeting attended by Norm Seigel, Norm used Critical Mass as an example of the kind of activism that NYC needs most and the way Bloomberg is trying to squelch our rights and our voices. Critical Mass deserves our help. According to Bloomberg, my inclusion of this in my newsletter is probably illegal. Well, I refuse to let Bloomberg tell me what I can and cannot write in my Newsletter.

And see their worldwide calendar for Bike Workshops and other locations.

There is more you can do to support Critical Mass. This comes from a reader in Manhattan:

To help keep people involved in Critical Mass, people who might be sacred off because of renewed aggressiveness by the police, I have started a pledge drive that sponsors arrestees. This is a great way for people to stay involved in Critical Mass, stay on top of the issue, and use the NYPD and Bloomberg's tactics to work for us not against us. I am pledging $2 per arrestee, and the money will go to the Legal Aid Society. Pledges are made on the honor system. The more bicyclists the cops arrest the more money for defending civil rights is raised.


Democracy for America Meetings: CLICK HERE!

To help Dmeocracy for NYC petition to get candidates on the ballot, please go 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 drinking, 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 82: NEW JERSEY FOCUS

This is a repeat from 2 weeks ago: Please get involved in these and/or your local races.

Bob Menendez is your candidate for US Senate. Democrat won big in 2005 in NJ. Time to do even better. Sign up to help Bob Menendez win in 2006!

I also want to highlight a Democracy for America endorsed candidate in New Jersey that I strongly urge you to help with money and time.

Linda Stender for New Jersey's 7th Congressional District. If we're going to take control of Congress, we're going to have to defeat some incumbents. In New Jersey, Linda Stender is running against a Rubberstamp Republican who needs to go. Linda's already racked up endorsements from Emily's List and New Jersey for Democracy. Now, she's got DFA on her side too. Grassroots activists from across New Jersey have been flooding the 7th Congressional District for months. And Assemblywoman Stender has done a terrific job raising money and building momentum. Please do you your part and help her today.

Push hard for Menendez and Stender this year.

Progressive Democrat Issue 82: NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

A Rally for Our Democratic Candidates
Saturday, July 22nd
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Where: 26 Larkspur Ln, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648

Featuring:
Sen. Bob Menendez
Rep. Rush Holt
Mercer County Freeholders Ann Cannon, Pat Colavita, and
Elizabeth Muoio
Mercer County Surrogate Diane Gerofsky
and
CD-4 Democratic Candidate Carol Gay


free food, refreshments and music by
Jerry Rife & The Rhythym Kings

Directions:
From Rt 1 or I-295N/95S: Take I95 South to Philadelphia. Take Exit 5B (Federal City Rd North). At the first stop light turn Left onto Denow Rd. At the first street (Spring Beauty) turn right. The rally is at the intersection of Larkspur and Spring Beauty on the right hand side.

From I-95 in Pennsylvania: Take Exit 4 (Rt 31 Ewing/Pennington). At the stop light proceed straight across Rt 31 to enter Bull Run Pkwy. Follow to the end. Turn Left onto Federal City Rd North. At the next stop light turn Left onto Denow Rd. At the first street (Spring Beauty) turn right. The rally is at the intersection of Larkspur and Spring Beauty on the right hand side.

Join us as we kick off the season with a rally for our Democratic candidates. Show your support and get involved! This is a great way to find out what you can do to ensure that your voice is heard in Washington, Trenton, and Mercer County. The rally is free and all are welcome.

For more information call Nat at (609)651-2013 or email : colavitacampaign@yahoo.com


Fundraiser for Congressman Rush HoltJuly 30, 2006
Home of Debbie D'Arcangelo and Ed Dippold
Trenton, NJ 08608
For more information, contact Alison Zayas at alison@rushholt.com or 609-278-0800.


Town Hall Meeting with Rep. Rush HoltJuly 30, 2006
Municipal Building, 2207 Lawrence Rd.
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
Contact: Lauren LaRusso, Office of Congressman Rush Holt, 609-750-9365 or via e-mail at lauren.larusso@mail.house.gov



Diane Gerofsky Meet and Greet, July 18, 2006
Private Home
Hamilton, NJ 08619
Email Diane merctysurr@aol.com for more information

Democrats 2000 Happy HourJuly 19, 2006
Dublin House
Red Bank, NJ 07701
For more information contact democrats2000@aol.com

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.

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.

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

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: (and thanks to the people in NJ who keep me updated on the changes...I appreciate it!)

New Brunswick, 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of every month, 7:00 PM @ Doll's Place, 101 Paterson St. New Brunswick, NJ

Hoboken, New Jersey, Fourth Wednesday of each month, 8:00-10:00 pm, Mulligan's, 159 1st Street (between Bloomfield and Garden), Hosted by Leigh Wolinsky, David Alpert and Morgan Baden, hoboken (at) drinkingliberally.org

Princeton, Princeton, First Thursday Each Month 7:00 PM @ Sotto Ristorante and Lounge (formerly the Annex) 128 1/2 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ. princeton@drinkingliberally.org or http://princeton.drinkingliberally.org/

Montclair Every other Wednesday, 6:30 pm onward, Egan & Sons, 118 Walnut St. Hosted by Jon Hershberg, montclair (at) drinkingliberally.org

Morristown, Third Thursday of each month (next meeting April 20), 7:00 pm onward; The Famished Frog, 18 Washington St. Hosted by Jim Long, Tracy Kurland, Rob Gregory and Dave Cochran, morristown (at) 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 82: VIRGINIA FOCUS ON THE MEDIA

National Media Impact Training Events

On Tuesday, July 18th, in house parties all over the country, activists will gather to learn the fundamental tools they need to generate earned media coverage for their events, as well as connect to organizers in their communities and across the country.

Click here to host an event.

Click here to find an event near you.

Through an innovative combination of a video training, live conference call with a national expert, and small group interactives, the National Media Impact Training will provide participants with the tools for implementing successful earned media events.

The Center for Progressive Leadership Action Network, Democracu for NYC, MoveOn.org, America Votes, People for the American Way, Latinos for Democracy and others are helping progressives gain the skills to shape media coverage of important issues in their communities, including:

* Working with a national organization to reinforce a larger message
* Successfully planning and implementing an event
* Targeting and attracting local media coverage
* Following up and expanding coverage
* Tips for developing long-term relationships with reporters

Each house party is designed for 10 to 25 people. This is a great opportunity for progressives across the country to learn how we can work together to take back the media.

Progressive Democrat Issue 82: VIRGINIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

Tuesday, June 27th, March To Overcome Poverty! Hundreds of faith leaders (including Rev. Jim Wallis), community leaders, and religious activists from around the country will be marching to elevate the commitment to overcome poverty to the top of the political agenda, and launch A Covenant for a New America, a solutions-based anti-poverty platform.

* 11 a.m. - Assemble at National City Christian Church (5 Thomas Circle NW - map) march to the Upper Senate Park just north of the Capitol.
* Noon - Gather with us at the Upper Senate Park (Between New Jersey Ave NW and Delaware Ave NE just north of the Capitol - map) near to launch A Covenant for a New America, our major anti-poverty initiative.

Friday, June 23rd, Noon-1pm, Hang Up on Verizon Wireless Leaflet at one of three Verizon Wireless stores in DC:

* -1314 F St. NW (near Metro Center) -1744 L St. NW (near Farragut Square)
* -Union Station (40 Massachusetts Ave NE)

Help educate customers about Verizon Wireless' abuse of workers' rights! To volunteer, e-mail mjones@dclabor.org with your name, phone number and preferred location!


Saturday June 24, 2:00pm, Democratic Party Unity Rally! Lee Park in Charlottesville (Located one block north of the Downtown Mall) Democrats unite behind Jim Webb U.S. Senate Candidate and our slate of
Democratic Congressional Candidates. This exciting event also features Harris Miller. For more information, or to volunteer at the event, please call 804-644-1966

Sunday, June 25 from 7 to 9 p.m.: Virginia Marriage Amendment Teach-In It's not just about marriage. Panel discussion of the far-reaching implications of the proposed amendment to Virginia's constitution on the November ballot and ways to oppose it. Participants include State Senator Janet Howell; Claire Guthrie Gastañaga of the Commonwealth Coalition; a Virginia legal expert; and a UCC pastor. Sponsored by the Social Action Board of Rock Spring Congregational UCC, 5010 Little Falls Road, Arlington, VA 22207. RSVPs appreciated but not required. Contact Susan Johnson at johnson1966@cox.net or Rock Spring at 703-538-4886.

10th CD Democratic Committee Family Picnic Fundraiser

Starts: 7/30/2006 12 Noon
Ends: 7/30/2006 5 PM
Contact: Rich Galecki, Secretary, 10th CDDC
Location: J.R.'s Festival Lakes
42830 Ft. Evans Rd.
Leesburg, VA 20176
Phone: (540) 347-5550

Enjoy fishing, a golf driving range, volleyball, paddle boats, swimming, badminton, a kids' play area, softball and horseshoes. Food will be served 1 PM – 3 PM. Ticket prices are: Children 12 and over and Adults are $35, Children 5 to 11 are $25, and Children under 5 are free. Non-alcoholic beverages are included; beer and wine tickets will be available for sale.

6th Annual Wine & Cheese Hosted by the Manassas City, Brentsville, and Gainesville Dem. Committee

Starts: 7/28/2009 7:00 pm
Ends: 7/28/2009 7:00 pm
Contact: Clara Meagher
Location: 9293 Bayberry Avenue
Manassas, VA
Phone: (703) 361-3220

Join Democrats from Manassas, Manassas Park, Prince William County, and Northern Virginia to sip fine Virginia wines, talk politics, and get ready to turn Virginia blue this fall. Our keynote speakers are Pierce Homer and Aneesch Chopra. Also speaking will be our Congressional candidates in th e 10th District, Judy Feder, the 11 th District, Andy Hurst, and Jeanette Rishell, our candidate for the House of Delegates, District 50. Tickets $30 per person/ $50 per couple, available at the door.


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

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 are only two Drinking Liberally groups in all of 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

Richmond, Virginia Drinking Liberally: Every Thursday, 7:30 pm onward Commercial Taphouse, 111 N Robinson St. Hosted by Scott Goode, richmond (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 82: NATIONAL ACTION

National Media Impact Training Events

On Tuesday, July 18th, in house parties all over the country, activists will gather to learn the fundamental tools they need to generate earned media coverage for their events, as well as connect to organizers in their communities and across the country.

Click here to host an event.

Click here to find an event near you.

Through an innovative combination of a video training, live conference call with a national expert, and small group interactives, the National Media Impact Training will provide participants with the tools for implementing successful earned media events.

The Center for Progressive Leadership Action Network, Democracu for NYC, MoveOn.org, America Votes, People for the American Way, Latinos for Democracy and others are helping progressives gain the skills to shape media coverage of important issues in their communities, including:

* Working with a national organization to reinforce a larger message
* Successfully planning and implementing an event
* Targeting and attracting local media coverage
* Following up and expanding coverage
* Tips for developing long-term relationships with reporters

Each house party is designed for 10 to 25 people. This is a great opportunity for progressives across the country to learn how we can work together to take back the media.

Progressive Democrat Issue 82: GETTING LOCAL AROUND THE NATION

This is how our coalition will be built: through out local action. Our success depends on you and your activism. 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 2006 and beyond. Joy and I are currently involved in a few 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.


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.


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).


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.