Progressive Democrat Issue 92: THOUGHTS

Sometimes it is just too hard to resist being superficial. A fellow NYC blogger and fellow contributing editor to Daily Gotham, Michael Bouldin, reported last week on an article in the Washington Post describing how Democratic candidates tend to be much better looking than Republican candidates. Michael put together an excellent visual aid showing this and I just can't help but include it here. For your consideration, the face of the Demcrats (Scott Kleeb, running in Nebraska) and the face of the Republicans (Dennis Hastert):



This may be a good visual for an issue covering the deeper ugliness of the Republican Party. So, this issue will focus to a large degree on Republican corruption. For those who want more coverage of Republican corruption (including these articles) can go to my Target the Corrupt Republican blog.

Also, in the past week, my blog surpassed 10,000 hits. I only get about 20-30 hits a day (only about 15 per day for my Target the Corrupt Republican Blog). Small potatoes, but still it's something.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: CORRUPT REPUBLICANS, a look back

I started my "Target the Corrupt Republican" blog in July 2005. Among my earliest targets were Tom DeLay (Texas), now indicted, and Bob Ney (Ohio) and Randy Cunningham (California), both of whom pled guilty. Many other corrupt Republicans I have targeted are in the battle of their carreers because of corruption. This includes Conrad Burns (Montana), likely to be defeated by Democrat Jon Tester (populist and organic farmer), Steve Pombo (California) is locked in a dead heat with Jerry McNerney for Congress, and Katherine Harris (Florida), ready to go down in flames trying to run for Senate while her Congressional seat may well be lost to Democrat Christine Jennings (though she needs our help to win!).

More than a year ago I predicted that corruption was going to be one of the top issues in 2006...and that has come true largely because Democrats have refused to let the Republicans duck the issue.

In this issue I want to highlight some of my more recent articles about Republican corruption. By hammering away at this issue over the past 18 months we have prevented Republicans from carrying on as usual and have got them on the run. Let's keep pushing the issue.

In addition, I want to remind people that some of this corruption will never be prosectued as long as the descision is up to Republican Attorneys General. So, in addition to my push to get people helping out Democrats running for secretaries of state, I am encouraging people to help Democrats running for attorney general. So please go to my Sec. of State/Attorney General Act Blue site and help out. These may be the most important races of the year because they will determine the integrity of future elections and investigations into Republican corruption, yet they are neglected races. Please help.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: BUSH CAMPAIGNS IN SUPPORT OF ABUSING WOMEN AND RACISM

In Pennsylvania, Republican Congressman Don Sherwood was caught in a very public scandal where it was discovered he had a mistress for 5 years. In itself that isn't much other than hypocritical in a stick-up-the-butt "more moral than thou" Republican. But the way it was discovered is key. It was discovered because Sherwood tried to strangle his mistress, she locked herself in his bathroom and called 911. After being rescued from the abusive Republican Congressman, she sued him, furthering the scandal.

In Virginia Republican George Allen has been publically filmed using racial slurs and apparantly has been using them since at least college. He is also thought to have past connections with white supremicists.

These are the two people George Bush has gone out of his way to campaign for. From Salon.com last week:

Bush will make separate appearances Thursday for Rep. Don Sherwood, R-Pa., and Sen. George Allen, R-Va.

Sherwood had been considered to have a safe seat for re-election until a woman filed suit against him and alleged that he had choked her during an altercation at his Capitol Hill apartment. He admitted to having an affair with the woman, 35 years his junior, but denied hurting her. They settled the case out of court.

"Mr. Sherwood has certainly admitted to what is going on," [White House press secretary Tony] Snow said. "And the president also believes that we're all sinners, we all seek forgiveness and, in this particular case, he's supporting Don Sherwood's candidacy."

Allen has spent weeks rebutting accusations he used racist language and liked Confederate symbols. The furor began Aug. 11, when the senator called a volunteer for his opponent "macaca," considered by some to be a racial slur, during a political rally.

This further proves my point that when faced with sleaze, corruption and racism within their ranks, Republicans always close ranks and protects their worst members. Whether it is campaigning for racists, supporting men who strangle their mistresses, or covering up for sexual predator, Mark Foley, or trying to weaken ethics rules to (unsuccessfully) protect the corrupt Tom DeLay, Republicans WALLOW in corruption and sleaze. Now Bush is solidly siding with racism and violence against women. Just disgusting. I suggest writing the media and tell them what you think about Republican racism and abuse of women.

Also, I suggest helping to defeat Racsit Allen by supporting Democrat Jim Webb (former Navy secretary under President Reagan) and helping to defeat Woman Abuser Sherwood by supporting Democrat Chris Carney (Lieutenant Commander in the United States Naval Reserve, served multiple tours overseas and was activated for operations Enduring Freedom and Noble Eagle and he has served as Senior Terrorism and Intelligence Advisor at the Pentagon). We have two TERRIBLE Republicans running against two excellent Democrats. Let's show Bush what we think of his racist and abusive candidates.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: THE FOLEY SCANDAL: DEBUNKING RIGHT WING MYTHS

I used this for one of my "National Actions" a couple of weeks ago, but given the desperate attempts by the Republicans to lie their way out of taking responsibility for the Foley sleaze scandal and the subsequent coverup, I think it is worth repeating.

This comes from Media Matters.com:

Special Report: Top Foley Scandal Myths and Falsehoods

Media Matters for America: Republicans/Conservatives Continue to Float Baseless Assertions Throughout Media, Go Largely Unchallenged

Washington, DC – Today, Media Matters for America released a special report chronicling the growing wave of misinformation floating throughout the media since the Foley scandal broke almost two weeks ago. The report provides the top myths, falsehoods and baseless assertions surrounding the controversy, touching on everything from the media’s failure to challenge the Republican House leadership’s excuses to the media uncritically reporting on Hastert’s ever-changing story.

“Despite the complete saturation of coverage on this scandal there is still an enormous amount of misinformation floating throughout the media,” said David Brock, President and CEO of Media Matters for America. “Time and again these assertions have been proven inaccurate yet the media has failed to effectively challenge those who insist on spreading these falsehoods. As a result the American people remain uninformed when it comes to the true facts of this case. This report sheds light on the more persistent examples of conservative misinformation surrounding this story so the media and those who rely on the media http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifto report the facts can see the truth for themselves.”

To View the Full Report

REPORT SUMMARY

The scandal surrounding the sexually explicit electronic communications then-Rep. Mark Foley (R-FL) allegedly sent to underage former congressional pages -- and the House Republican leadership’s alleged cover-up of Foley’s behavior -- have produced a wave of misinformation. To aid members of the media in covering the scandal, Media Matters for America has compiled a list of the top myths, falsehoods, and baseless assertions surrounding the controversy.

The following is a brief summary of what the report entails:

Democrats and Their Allies Orchestrated the Foley Scandal as a Political Dirty Trick

Many media outlets, without any basis whatsoever, have repeated the charge by House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-IL) and others that Democrats or liberals are behind the Foley scandal. But these various charges, including claiming that Democrats or their allies knew about the emails and instant messages long ago and, purposefully and in a coordinated fashion, released them to the media in a way designed for maximum political advantage, have no basis. In fact, several media reports have contradicted such charges.

Hastert Didn’t Learn About Foley’s Behavior Until September 29

Several media accounts have reported, without challenge, Hastert’s initial claim that he learned of the concerns regarding Foley’s behavior only on September 29, the day that Foley resigned. But, Hastert later said he would not dispute the contention by Rep. Thomas Reynolds (R-NY) that Reynolds had brought the issue to his attention in the spring of 2006 (though he claimed not to remember the discussion), and conceded that his aides had learned of it in late 2005. Further, several outlets entirely ignored House Majority Leader John Boehner's (R-OH) conflicting statements regarding whether he discussed the problem with Hastert.

Emails which House GOP Had Were Merely “Over-Friendly”

Many media reports have uncritically repeated Hastert’s characterization of alleged emails between Foley and the former congressional page as “overly friendly,” in order to justify the House Republican leadership’s failure to investigate Foley's behavior when it was first informed of the alleged emails. However, The Los Angeles Times reported that experts in psychiatry and sexual misconduct have suggested that Foley's alleged emails go well beyond “overly friendly”; for example, one psychiatry expert told the Times that “they do in fact raise a red flag.” In one of the emails, Foley allegedly wrote of an underage male page: “[H]es [sic] in really great shape.”

Foley Scandal Hasn’t Affected Voters or Congressional Races

Some media outlets, such as CNN, the The New York Times, and The Washington Post, have recently reported without challenge Republican claims that the Foley scandal has not affected voters or congressional races. In fact, several public opinion polls indicate that the Foley scandal could be hurting Republicans. The AP/Ipsos poll conducted October 2-4 found that 66 percent of respondents said that the “recent disclosures of corruption and scandal in Congress” would be at least “moderately important” to their “vote in November,” with 48 percent indicating it would be “very” or “extremely” important. The AP poll had a margin of error of +/- 2.8 percent.

Hastert and the GOP Leadership Forced Foley to Resign

Several media figures have falsely claimed or uncritically reported that Hastert and the GOP leadership forced Foley to resign from Congress after they heard of his alleged sexually explicit instant messages with underage pages. For example, in an October 3 entry on the National Review Online's weblog The Corner, National Review White House correspondent Byron York uncritically noted that Hastert, while discussing the Foley scandal during the October 3 broadcast of the nationally syndicated The Rush Limbaugh Show, claimed that “[w]e took care of Mr. Foley” and that “[w]e ... asked him to resign.” But when asked in a press conference the day before taking credit for Foley’s resignation “whether the leadership asked Foley to resign,” Hastert had responded: “I think Foley resigned almost immediately upon the outbreak of this information, and so we really didn't have a chance to ask him to resign.”

Gay Men are More Likely Than Heterosexual Men to Sexually Abuse Children

During his appearance on MSNBC’s Hardball, Family Research Council president Tony Perkins used the Foley scandal to promote a falsehood about gay men--that they are more likely than straight men to sexually abuse children--based on the claim that gay men are overrepresented in child sex abuse cases. In fact, a 1995 study released by the American Psychological Association found that “gay men are no more likely than heterosexual men to perpetrate child sexual abuse.


Fordham’s Claim That Hastert’s Office Was Told About Foley Before ‘05 is Uncorroborated

Recently, former Foley chief of staff Kirk Fordham asserted that he told Hastert of Foley’s behavior long before 2005, an accusation denied by Hastert chief of staff Scott Palmer. Some media reports have presented Fordham’s accusation and Palmer’s denial as a “he said, she said,” such as an October 16 article in Time magazine. But an unnamed current Republican congressional staffer recently came forth to corroborate Fordham's account according to October 7 reports by various news outlets, including The Washington Post and The New York Times.

Speaker Hastert “Took Responsibility” for the Foley Scandal

Numerous media outlets have reported that, at his October 5 press conference, Hastert “took responsibility” for the Foley scandal even though, Hastert also stated at the same press conference that “I haven't done anything wrong, obviously.”


Conservative Evangelical Voters are Particularly Outraged by the Foley Scandal.

Many media reports have suggested that conservative Christians are likely to be particularly outraged by the Foley scandal. This suggestion is based on a dubious assumption: that conservative Christian voters—so-called “family values” voters—are more concerned than others with protecting children, and therefore, they will condemn more harshly than others allegations of a cover-up of alleged predatory behavior toward children. Even veteran Republican pollster Matthew Dowd has stated that “[i]t's not just the voters who care about ‘family values’ who might be driven away” by the Foley scandal.

Upon Learning of Foley’s Emails, House Republican Leadership and Rep. Shimkus told Him to End All Contact with Pages

Media reports have also falsely claimed that House Republicans privately told Foley in the spring of 2006 to stop all contact with congressional pages. For example, Wall Street Journal OpinionJournal.com assistant editor Brendan Miniter falsely asserted in his October 3 column that upon “look[ing] at the few emails” Foley had written to one page, Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL), chairman of the House Page Board, decided “to confront Mr. Foley and tell him to cut off all direct contact with underage pages.” Shimkus limited his warning to Foley only to the specific page in question, telling Foley “to cease all contact with this former House Page,” according to a statement published on Shimkus's website.


CREW Withheld Emails and Other Information from FBI Investigators and Congressional Leaders

Citizens Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), a non-partisan and non-profit organization, was recently accused of withholding information from the FBI in order to preserve the scandal until closer to the midterm elections. The accusation arose out of reports that CREW sent copies of the alleged Foley emails to the FBI in July. Anonymous Justice Department sources claimed that the copies of the emails CREW sent to the FBI were incomplete and heavily redacted; that CREW refused to comply with requests for further information; and that the FBI did investigate the emails, but determined that there was not enough evidence suggesting a criminal act. The FBI has contradicted itself on these allegations, claiming that it did not pursue the Foley case after receiving the emails because CREW refused to provide enough information. However, the FBI also claimed that it did investigate the emails and found that they did not indicate that a crime had been committed.


A “Velvet Mafia” on Capitol Hill Knew of Foley’s Behavior and Protected Him from Public Exposure

Media accounts have also suggested that a cadre of gay congressional staffers protected Foley from exposure. For example, writing in the October 16 issue of Time Magazine, national political correspondent Karen Tumulty uncritically reported that according to “a whisper campaign [that] has been launched in Washington,” former Foley chief of staff Kirk Fordham may have been one of the “gay staff members” belonging to “a ‘velvet mafia’ at the upper levels of G.O.P. leadership” which sought to protect Foley. But, Fordham has claimed that, at least three years ago, he sought to alert Hastert's office to Foley's behavior, and an unnamed current Republican congressional staffer recently came forth to corroborate Fordham's account.

To View the Full Report CLICK HERE

Please write your local media and tell them what YOU think about the Foley sleaze scandal and the subsequent coverup. They need to hear from you.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: REPUBLICAN CORRUPTION IN PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania Republican, Curt Weldon, doesn't have to go far to find a lobbyist for mutual back-scratching. Weldon's daughter is a lobbyist. And together, it seems their corruption has gained the attention of the FBI.

Here's Salon.com's coverage:

The FBI is investigating whether Rep. Curt Weldon, R-Pa., used his influence to secure lobbying and consulting contracts for his daughter, two people familiar with the inquiry said Saturday.

The inquiry focuses on lobbying contracts worth $1 million that Weldon's daughter, Karen Weldon, obtained from foreign clients and whether they were assisted by the congressman, they said. They spoke on condition of anonymity because of the confidentiality of the criminal investigation...

Two people familiar with the investigation told the AP on Saturday that the inquiry was being handled by agents from the FBI's field offices in Washington and Philadelphia and was being coordinated by the Justice Department's Public Integrity Section. Spokesmen for the Justice Department and the FBI declined comment Saturday.

Those two people familiar with the investigation confirmed that federal agents were examining Weldon's work between 2004 and 2004 to help two Russian companies and two Serbian brothers connected to former Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic. They had hired Solutions North America Inc., a company operated by Karen Weldon and Charles Sexton, a Republican ally of the congressman.

And somewhat more detail from Truthout.org:

The FBI, which opened an investigation in recent months, has formally referred the matter to the department's Public Integrity Section for additional scrutiny. At issue are Weldon's efforts between 2002 and 2004 to aid two Russian companies and two Serbian brothers with ties to strongman Slobodan Milosevic, a federal law enforcement official said.

The Russian companies and a Serbian foundation run by the brothers' family each hired a firm co-owned by Weldon's daughter, Karen, for fees totaling nearly $1 million a year, public records show.

Karen Weldon was 28 and lacked consulting experience when she and Charles Sexton, a Weldon ally and longtime Republican leader in Delaware County, Pa., created the firm of Solutions North America Inc. in 2002. Both are registered with the Justice Department as representatives of foreign clients...

But McClatchy Newspapers' sources said the FBI only over the last few months obtained evidence suggesting that the congressman may have broken the law. One of the sources, a federal law enforcement official, said that Weldon had not yet been told about the inquiry.

The official said that the FBI recently sought the assistance of federal prosecutors in pressuring an unidentified person to provide evidence about the 59-year-old congressman. The attempt to "squeeze" this individual appeared to be an early step, the two sources said.

Weldon originally was in denial...he and his campaign claimed there WAS NO investigation. But it seems that there is.

Not only does it sound like favors for money going on here, but working for people linked to Milosevic? I mean, why not work for people linked to Hitler or Stalin? What's a little genocide among friends?

Curt Weldon is just one more example of the Republican culture of corruption and their eagerness to profit even off genocide.

This comes at a bad time for Weldon because he already is in danger of losing his seat even before this came out. What should have been a shoo-in 10-term incumbent Republican cake walk had already turned into a tossup because the Democrat, Joe Sestack, is a 3-star general who is actually out raising the Republican. Weldon, not surprisingly, made some nasty attacks on Sestack, but this backfired because it was seen as disrespectful to the military in the district. Now the FBI is investigating Weldon, adding to his woes. This is a prime pick up shot!

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: ABRAMOFF'S GHOST

Republican corruption is becoming so blatant that even Congressional Republicans are deciding not to block an investigation of it. Jack Abramoff may be in jail, but the Republican scandals surrounding his empire of sleaze continue to grow.

From Salon.com:

Senate Questions Nonprofits' Tax Status

- - - - - - - - - - - -

By JOHN HEILPRIN Associated Press Writer

October 12,2006 | WASHINGTON -- Five nonprofit groups, including one of President Bush's biggest supporters, may have broken tax laws and put their tax-exempt status at risk by helping convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff, a Senate Finance Committee report concludes.

The 600-page report issued Thursday was prepared by the committee's Democratic staff. Majority Republicans, however, had agreed to its release and joined with Democrats in issuing subpoenas for documents and e-mails cited in the report.

It has become HIGHLY unusual for the Republicans to allow this kind of honest investigation of corruption. They have generally used their domination of both houses of Congress to block all Congressional investigation of Republicans. And, more often than not, they have covered up for their cronies like they did for six years after finding out about Foley's solicitation of sex from minors. So this is a real change for Republicans and shows that even they can't stop the public from knowning what is going on within their own ranks.

Among the groups named as possibly taking money from Abramoff clients and funneling it into his lobbying efforts on their behalf were Americans for Tax Reform, Citizens Against Government Waste and the Council of Republicans for Environmental Advocacy.

Tax-exempt groups are barred by law from being paid to lobby or do public relations.

Americans for Tax Reform is headed by Grover Norquist, a key ally of Bush and a longtime associate of Karl Rove, the president's chief political adviser.

The report said Norquist's group accepted $1.5 million from the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, one of Abramoff's clients. More than two-thirds of that money was then passed to Christian Coalition founder Ralph Reed as part of Abramoff's lobbying efforts to block a rival tribe's proposed casino in Alabama...

Sen. Max Baucus of Montana, the Senate Finance Committee's senior Democrat, said his staff turned up evidence showing the groups "may have improved a lobbyist's power and profits" by unlawfully exploiting their tax-exempt status, possibly even lobbying the White House...

The report also questioned the tax-exempt status of other groups, based on their association with Abramoff. It found that:

--The Council of Republicans for Environmental Advocacy, co-founded by Italia Federici, Norquist and former interior secretary Gale Norton, received at least $250,000 from Abramoff clients to lobby the Interior Department.

--The National Center for Public Policy Research used money from Abramoff's clients to sponsor golf trips in 2000 and 2003 to Scotland for members of Congress.

--Toward Tradition, a religion-centered group once chaired by Abramoff, took money for help with generating news articles for Abramoff and his clients.

Republicans and Right Wing Fanatics: Corrupt to the Core. Let's face it folks. Bill Clinton getting a blow job and lying about it is NOTHING compared with the current levels of Republican corruption. Hell, even Nixon would be impressed! Watergate was minor compared with the layers upon layers of corruption in the Republican Party today.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: NYC FOCUS

Awhile back, Bloomberg and the NYPD, in their continuing assault on the civil rights of New Yorkers, tried to introduce a requirement for "parade permits" that was nothing short of dumb, pretty much calling any gathering over a few people or bicyclists a "parade" requiring a permit. Sanity prevailed and the proposed new rules were quickly abandoned.

But now Bloomberg and the NYPD are proposing a "compromise" which, though far better than the original proposal, is still an attack on our civil liberties and, more specifically, is aimed directly at Critical Mass, the disorganized, worldwide, supposedly leaderless movement of bicyclists who gather once a month in major cities around the world to ride through the streets advocating better transportation alternatives. Critical Mass has been around for years and rode undisturbed once a month in Manhattan on the last Friday of every month starting 7 PM at Union Square. Then came the protests surrounding the Republican National Convention. Critical Mass had a presence at those protests and since then Bloomberg has declared a jihad on Critical Mass. They still ride on the last Friday of every month starting at 7 PM at Union Square, but now Bloomberg does his best to harrass them, arrest them (almost all cases have been thrown out of court), confiscate their bicycles, and even to harrass and arrest people who just happen to be passing through during a Critical Mass event.

From the Daily Gotham is a short piece on the new rules, proposed by Bloomberg and the NYPD with the clear intention of further harrassing Critical Mass. From the Daily Gotham:

Mayor Bloomberg and Police Commissioner Kelly have brought back a rule (defeated over the summer) to restrict gatherings, protests and recreation by requiring difficult-to-impossible to obtain parade permits. The proposed rule, less Draconian than its previous incarnation, announced in a tiny squib in Wednesday's New York Times would define a parade to mean a group of 30 or more bicyclists. Permits would be required of such a group of riders even if they obeyed all other traffic rules

The rule, clearly aimed aiding NYPD's failed crusade to crush the Critical Mass monthly bicycle rides, would also effectively outlaw outings of the Five Borough Bicycle Club which, from time to time, have more than 30 riders. It appears that Council Speaker Christine Quinn has okayed the proposed rule in advance. Streetsblog quotes her as "pleased" that the NYPD has addressed her concerns. Considering the causual disregard with which Mayor Bloomberg and Commissioner Kelly have treated the civil liberties of protestors, it is disappointing that Ms. Quinn would agree to such a power grab by the police -- especially without serious prior public debate. I, personally, have begun to regret campaigning for her years ago. While I have great hope that NYCLU (led by cyclist Donna Lieberman) will work to defeat this irrational rule, it would be far better if it were never adopted. Consider calling or writing Ms. Quinn. Also, please contact your own city council person. And, of course, contact the media giving your opinion on the subject. The public hearing for this turkey of a rule is set now for the Holidays: Nov. 27, 2006.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: BROOKLYN FOCUS

LAST MINUTE REMINDER: Develop Don’t Destroy Brooklyn's "Walk Don't Destroy" Walkathon Fundraiser is tomorrow, Saturday Oct. 21

Last night was their Restaurant Night, where local restaurants contribute some of their profits to DDDB's legal fund. I used this as an opportunity to try one of the participating restaurants that I had been eyeing for months: Bogota on 5th Ave in Park Slope. Great Columbian food and great service. I particularly recommend the plantain encrusted chicken and the cilantro mashed potatoes. But that was last night. Tomorrow is the big event. Joy and I will be there!

DDDB's Press Release:

Walk in Prospect Park to Raise Funds for Looming Legal Battles Against Ratner’s Atlantic Yards Proposal

BROOKLYN, NY— As the legal battles against Forest City Ratner’s proposed “Atlantic Yards” mega-project loom, Develop Don’t Destroy Brooklyn (DDDB) will hold a major fundraising event followed by a free concert.

On Saturday, October 21st, DDDB’s Second Annual Walk Don’t Destroy Walkathon Fundraiser kicks off at 1pm from the Prospect Park Bandshell in Brooklyn. Funds raised by walkers from their sponsors will go towards the legal fight against eminent domain abuse, environmental degradation, and a deeply flawed development process.

“The Walkathon is going to be a wonderful, Brooklyn community fundraising event, as we continue to build our war chest in preparation for our vigorous legal challenges to Ratner’s eminent domain-abusing, boondoggle mega-project,” said DDDB spokesman Daniel Goldstein

The walk, a little less than two miles, will start from the Prospect Park Bandshell, go to Grand Army Plaza and back to the Bandshell. The Rude Mechanical Orchestra marching band will accompany the walkers along the route. At the end of the walk, at 2:30, there will be a free concert at the Bandshell featuring musician/author John Wesley Harding, and three bands: The States, Sixth Sense, and NuComme.

There will be numerous children’s activities at the Walkathon including face-painting and large murals for children to hand color.

WHAT:
DDDB’s Second Annual Walk Don’t Destroy Walkathon Fundraiser and Free Concert

WHEN:
Saturday, October 21. Walk Kicks off at 1pm, Registration starts at 12 noon.
Walk ends at 2:30 followed immediately after by the concert.

WHERE:
Prospect Park Bandshell (Enter Park at 9th St. and Prospect Park West, F-Train to 7th Avenue and 9th St.)

Walkathon Route Map here

WHO:
Develop Don’t Destroy Brooklyn, John Wesley Harding, walkers raising funds for the legal fight against “Atlantic Yards,” Rude Mechanical Orchestra Marching Band

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: BROOKLYN/QUEENS GROUPS AND EVENTS

ALL NYC EVENTS:

Will Your Vote Count? CFD & DFNYC Forum at Ethical Culture, Oct. 25, 7pm
- Don't let NY become the next Ohio - Show your support for verified voting!

Join Community Free Democrats and Democracy for NYC for an important public forum on Wednesday, October 25th. Learn what voting machines may soon be chosen for you, and what you can do to encourage selection of the most secure, reliable and cost-effective voting machines for NYC.

When: October 25th, 7pm-9pm

Where: New York Society for Ethical Culture on 64th Street at Central Park West in Manhattan.

Panelists: Adam Cohen, Member of the NY Times Editorial Board, will moderate a panel which will include Douglas Kellner, Co-Chair, New York State Board of Elections; David Kogelman, HAVA Committee Chair, NY Democratic Lawyers Council; Bo Lipari, Executive Director, New Yorkers for Verified Voting; Mark Crispin Miller, New York University Professor and Author; Jerrold Nadler, Member, U.S. Congress; and John Ravitz, Executive Director, New York City Board of Elections.

Sponsoring Groups: The forum is being sponsored by the New York Society for Ethical Culture and the Sierra Club—NYC Group. Co-sponsors include: Ansonia Independent Democrats, Broadway Democrats, Park River Independent Democrats, Three Parks Independent Democrats, Vincent F. Albano Republican Club.

For information, call 212-252-4918 or visit this link: http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif


New Democratic Majority Fundraiser for Jimmy Dahroug: Wednesday - October 25 - Katra

Wednesday, October 25 and join NDM, Capitol (D), Democrats for New Politics, David Paterson, Tom Duane, Diane Savino, Liz Krueger, Eric Schneiderman and a host of other elected officials, together with Norman Siegel, grassroots groups and activists from around the City at Katra, for a fundraiser for Jimmy Dahroug.

Things are beginning to snowball for Jimmy and this is one of your last chances to help make sure the resources are there to turn out the vote on election day. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres from 6-9 p.m.

The suggested donation is $100, but there is a special grassroots donation of $50 for those who are really beginning to feel the “pinch” of the late fundraising season. Katra is located at 217 Bowery, between Prince and Spring Streets, just a block and a half south of East Houston Street.

You can get there by taking th R or W train to Prince Street, the 6 train to Spring Street or the F or V train to 2nd Avenue.

For more details or to R.S.V.P. call 631 218-7510.

We hope to see you there.


Get Out the Disability Vote: Now - Election Day

From DFNYC:

About 65% of People With Disabilities do not vote - they typically get about 30-35% turnout. Roughly 20% of all voting age Americans have a disability. Most of the non-voting people with disabilities are Democrats.

This big bloc of voters can help put a candidate over the line.

Disabilities drain energy; being paralyzed, for example, is physically exhausting for anyone who tries to live an active life.

You can help a friend or family member with a disability make their voices heard on Nov. 7th.

Here are three ways you can help them cast their votes.

1. Help register or request an absentee ballot.
About three-fourths of the disability community lacks Internet access. Take your laptop and help them register or get an absentee ballot online. Info on voter registration and absentee ballots is on the New York State Board of Elections Absentee Ballot voting page.

You can always call the NYS Board of Elections Voter Information unit at Voter Info. 1-800-458-3453 or (518) 473-5086. The main number in Albany is (518) 474-6220, with TDD 1-800-533-8683. Here's the link to the Voter Information page.

2. Help find a ride to the polls. Contact a disability group in your area and ask about rides to the polls on Nov. 7th.

3. Encourage your friend to vote. A little encouragement may be needed to take on the challenge of voting. You can do it.

Thanks, and let's GOTV, together!


BROOKLYN EVENTS:

JOIN MOVEON.ORG's BROOKLYN PHONEBANK: targeting the 30 top House races in the nation, this phone bank is working hard. The organizer we are hosting works from 8 AM to 10 or 11 PM every day! They need your help. They are located in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn and will be operating every day from now until the election. If you can put in some time, please contact me at mole333_at_gmail_dot_com

Brooklyn Critical Mass:
Critical Mass is a monthly celebration of bicycles and other nonpolluting means of transportation, exercising our right to the road. Critical Mass is a movement, not an organization; no two riders participate for exactly the same reason. Brooklyn Critical Mass started rolling in 2004.

Brooklyn rides are the Second Friday of every month, 7:00 p.m., meeting at Grand Army Plaza. Come out and join Critical Mass in Brooklyn. Celebrate cycling, and assert your right to the road -- Brooklyn style!

For more events and bike workshops, check out their calendar.


Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats (CBID) (mostly covers Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, and Kensington). http://www.cbidems.org/ My wife, Joy, is now on the executive board of this club. This club is very grassroots and worked very hard for progressive candidates in the recent primary. They need more people if we want to strengthen the grassroots. If you are not yet a member, please come to the next meeting and join. Membership is cheap! Next meeting is 7 PM on Thursday, November 16th, at the Park Slope United Methodist Church, 6th Ave. & 8th Street in the basement (enter through the garden gate on 6th Ave).


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. You can contact me (mole333@gmail.com) for more info.


Democracy for America Meetings: CLICK HERE!

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 92: MANHATTAN GROUPS AND EVENTS

Will Your Vote Count? CFD & DFNYC Forum at Ethical Culture, Oct. 25, 7pm
- Don't let NY become the next Ohio - Show your support for verified voting!

Join Community Free Democrats and Democracy for NYC for an important public forum on Wednesday, October 25th. Learn what voting machines may soon be chosen for you, and what you can do to encourage selection of the most secure, reliable and cost-effective voting machines for NYC.

When: October 25th, 7pm-9pm

Where: New York Society for Ethical Culture on 64th Street at Central Park West in Manhattan.

Panelists: Adam Cohen, Member of the NY Times Editorial Board, will moderate a panel which will include Douglas Kellner, Co-Chair, New York State Board of Elections; David Kogelman, HAVA Committee Chair, NY Democratic Lawyers Council; Bo Lipari, Executive Director, New Yorkers for Verified Voting; Mark Crispin Miller, New York University Professor and Author; Jerrold Nadler, Member, U.S. Congress; and John Ravitz, Executive Director, New York City Board of Elections.

Sponsoring Groups: The forum is being sponsored by the New York Society for Ethical Culture and the Sierra Club—NYC Group. Co-sponsors include: Ansonia Independent Democrats, Broadway Democrats, Park River Independent Democrats, Three Parks Independent Democrats, Vincent F. Albano Republican Club.

For information, call 212-252-4918 or visit this link: http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif


New Democratic Majority Fundraiser for Jimmy Dahroug: Wednesday - October 25 - Katra

Wednesday, October 25 and join NDM, Capitol (D), Democrats for New Politics, David Paterson, Tom Duane, Diane Savino, Liz Krueger, Eric Schneiderman and a host of other elected officials, together with Norman Siegel, grassroots groups and activists from around the City at Katra, for a fundraiser for Jimmy Dahroug.

Things are beginning to snowball for Jimmy and this is one of your last chances to help make sure the resources are there to turn out the vote on election day. There will be an open bar and hors d'oeuvres from 6-9 p.m.

The suggested donation is $100, but there is a special grassroots donation of $50 for those who are really beginning to feel the “pinch” of the late fundraising season. Katra is located at 217 Bowery, between Prince and Spring Streets, just a block and a half south of East Houston Street.

You can get there by taking th R or W train to Prince Street, the 6 train to Spring Street or the F or V train to 2nd Avenue.

For more details or to R.S.V.P. call 631 218-7510.

We hope to see you there.


Get Out the Disability Vote: Now - Election Day

From DFNYC:

About 65% of People With Disabilities do not vote - they typically get about 30-35% turnout. Roughly 20% of all voting age Americans have a disability. Most of the non-voting people with disabilities are Democrats.

This big bloc of voters can help put a candidate over the line.

Disabilities drain energy; being paralyzed, for example, is physically exhausting for anyone who tries to live an active life.

You can help a friend or family member with a disability make their voices heard on Nov. 7th.

Here are three ways you can help them cast their votes.

1. Help register or request an absentee ballot.
About three-fourths of the disability community lacks Internet access. Take your laptop and help them register or get an absentee ballot online. Info on voter registration and absentee ballots is on the New York State Board of Elections Absentee Ballot voting page.

You can always call the NYS Board of Elections Voter Information unit at Voter Info. 1-800-458-3453 or (518) 473-5086. The main number in Albany is (518) 474-6220, with TDD 1-800-533-8683. Here's the link to the Voter Information page.

2. Help find a ride to the polls. Contact a disability group in your area and ask about rides to the polls on Nov. 7th.

3. Encourage your friend to vote. A little encouragement may be needed to take on the challenge of voting. You can do it.

Thanks, and let's GOTV, together!


DFNYC Fundraiser for Eric Massa
Lewis Cohen, Morris Pearl and Democracy for NYC invite you to attend a fundraiser to benefit DFNYC endorsed Congressional candidate Eric Massa (NY - 29) with special guest speaker Nancy Pelosi - Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

The event will take place on Monday evening, October 23 from 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM at "Shop Studios", 442 West 49th Street (between 9th and 10th Avenues), Manhattan. Contribution levels will be $1,000.00 for a Sponsor, $500.00 for a Supporter and $100.00 for a Friend. All proceeds of the event will go to the "Massa for Congress" campaign.

New York's 29th Congressional District is located in the central part of the state, including Corning. Massa is running against one term Republican incumbent John "Randy" Kuhl.

Please RSVP for the event to Miriam at mimmimac@aol.com.


Take Back Congress - Landline Phone Banking Every Tuesday and Thursday:
ACT NOW is hosting regular Tuesday and Thursday evening landline phone banking from Chelsea. This is traditional phone banking - no predictive dialing, no computer skills needed.

On Tuesdays, the calls are to targeted voters in Pennsylvania's 6th District, to help DFA-endorsed Lois Murphy dislodge Bush Rubberstamp House incumbent Jim Gerlach.

On Thursdays, we're targeting voters in Connecticut's 4th District, to help top-notch Democratic challenger Diane Farrell defeat long-time Republican D.C.-insider and Iraq War apologist Chris Shays. (And, boost turnout for Ned Lamont at the same time.)

These two races are among the most important to win.

More info and RSVP at: www.actnowny.org


Seize our State Senate - ACT NOW Landline Phone Banking Now Three Nights per Week:

ACT NOW continues phone banks on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from Midtown East to take back our State Senate!

What will we be doing? We're going to be using landlines to do low-pressure Voter ID and/or Volunteer Recruitment calling -- not undecided voter persuasion -- 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.

More info and RSVP at: www.actnowny.org


NYC Critical Mass The last Friday of the month, every month, 7:00 p.m., starting at Union Square Park North. Come along for the ride! Critical Mass is a monthly celebration of bicycles and other nonpolluting means of transportation, exercising our right to the road. Critical Mass is a movement, not an organization; no two riders participate for exactly the same reason. New York City's first Critical Mass was in 1993.


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 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 92: NEW JERSEY FOCUS: Republican Corruption in NJ

I have been describing the Ohio, Missouri and Kentucky Republican parties as the most corrupt in the nation. I still think that is true, but I am finding that the Republican Party of New Jersey is up there, too. Or at least parts of it.

Oddly, I had to get this one from a CONSERVATIVE website.

http://unbillablehours.typepad.com/unbillablehours/2006/09/the_culture_of_.html

Many of you may well be more familiar with this than I am, but I found few links to it on the web. The U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, in an operation called “Operation Bid Rig,” investigated corruption by Republican politicians. This operation led to the arrest in 2005 of at least 11 New Jersey Republicans, including Middletown Republican Raymond O'Grady. For the so-called “moral party,” this seems like quite an embarrassment. Not at the level of Abramoff or coingate or Foley’s sleaze scandal, but something that should be talked about and should be the subject of letters to the editor.

http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif
From the

The FBI's first sweep in its Operation Bid Rig probe led to the arrest of 11 officials in Monmouth County on Feb. 22, 2005. Their status:

Paul Zambrano, 50, former West Long Branch mayor and brother of Long Branch Councilman John Zambrano, who pleaded guilty Thursday to one charge of accepting a bribe: Pleaded guilty to accepting $15,000 in bribes.

Thomas Broderick, 61, former Monmouth County assistant highway supervisor: Pleaded guilty to money laundering that netted him $15,000 in profits.

Joseph "Joey Buses" McCurnin, 65, former Monmouth County transportation operations manager: Pleaded guilty to aiding in the extortion of a $1,000 bribe.

Joseph DeLisa, 50, former West Long Branch councilman: Awaiting trial on bribery and extortion charges.

Paul Coughlin, 42, former Hazlet mayor: Pleaded guilty to accepting a $3,000 bribe.

Patsy Townsend, 59, former Monmouth County deputy fire marshal and Neptune code enforcement officer: Pleaded guilty to extorting a $1,000 bribe.

John J. Hamilton Jr., 56, former Asbury Park councilman: Awaiting trial on charges of extortion, accepting a bribe in the form of a $5,000 driveway, attempted witness tampering and making a false statement.

Raymond O'Grady, 56, former Middletown Township committeeman: Convicted of extorting and accepting $8,000 in bribes.

Richard Iadanza, 51, former Neptune committeeman: Pleaded guilty to taking $3,000 in bribes.

John J. Merla, 44, Keyport mayor: Awaiting trial on eight counts of extortion and bribery charges.

An 11th defendant, Robert L. Hyer, a former Keyport councilman, died before trial. He was charged with extorting a $5,000 bribe…

All of these, from what I can tell, are Republicans. Perhaps it is time to bring up in the media that Republican corruption has been going on for some time and it affects New Jersey as well.

Since I found very few links to this example of New Jersey Republican corruption, I would appreciate any further information my New Jersey readers can provide.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

Brick Democratic Club Annual Breakfast
October 29, 2006
Crystal Point Yacht Club
Point Pleasant, NJ 08742
For more information, please contact Mike Blandina at 732-477-6507


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.


Middle Twp. Democratic Club General Meeting
Wednesday, November 1, 2006
Sam DiVico Senior Center, 23 Romney Pl.
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
For more information please call mary Durkin at 609-465-4170


Campaign Rally for Al DiCicco
LaCosta Lounge
Sea Isle City, NJ 08243
Come show your support for Al DiCicco at LaCosta Lounge.

Wednesday, November 1, 2006
7:00pm

For more information, please call 609-390-2288


FREE Breakfast Honoring Middle Township Candidate Steve Barry
November 04, 2006
Atkinson's Tavern
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
Come out and support Steve Barry! FREE breakfast at Atkinsons Tavern honoring our candidate for Middle Township Committee

8:00am-11:00am
Atkinsons Tavern
1010 Route 9 South
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

For more information, please call Suzanne Pasley at 609-465-4666


Monmouth County Democrats PreVictory Breakfast
November 05, 2006
Battleground Country Club, Millhurst Road
Tennent, NJ 07763
$60.00 per person

Rahway Democratic Club Pre Election Night Rally
November 06, 2006
Knights of Columbus/Crnr of Inman & Jaques Aves.
Rahway, NJ 07065
Rahway Democratic Club Pre Election Night Rally.
Refeshments served.

Bob Bresenhan, Jr.
Director of Public Relations
Rahway Democratic Club
908.327.2040


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

Toms River, New Jersey
* First Tuesday of each month (next meeting October 3), 8:00 pm onward
* Joshua Huddy Brew Pub, 1250 Hooper Ave (across from Ocean County Mall) (map)
* Hosted by Robin Kinlin and Ian Valentine, tomsriver (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 92: VIRGINIA FOCUS: Republican Corruption in Virginia

The Republican culture of corruption is coming back to bite the so-called "moral party" in the behind. I have particularly written about how the Ohio, Missouri and Kentucky Republican parties are among the most corrupt state parties in the nation. Virginia does not appear to have corruption at the level of Ohio's Taft and Ney, Missouri's father and son team of corruption, the Blunts, or Kentucky's spoils system governor. But just year ago revalations about the Virginia Republican party brought the Abramoff scandal right to Virginia.


In a November 4th, 2005 article in The Nation, the following revalations were highlighted regarding key Virginia Republicans.

Virginia Republican gubernatorial candidate Jerry Kilgore, fear mongering with the "immigration issue," accepted financial support from US Immigration Reform PAC, an anti-immigrant group with racist ties. But he also took massive contributions from companies known for exploiting illegal immigrants. US Immigration Reform PAC is linked to John Tanton, who is connected with the Pioneer Fund, an organization that advocates eugenics, and which promoted Nazi propaganda films during the 1930s. US Immigration Reform PAC hired Peter Gemma, a Holocaust denier who has spoken alongside David Duke, as a consultant. Gemma also was the media director for the National Policy Institute, a white nationalist think tank. THESE are the people who support Virginia Republicans.

But Kilgore played both sides. While receiving money from white supremicists who liked his anti-immigration stand, Kilgore also too money from Smithfield Foods, a company that loves to hire undocumented workers then threatens to report them to the IRS if they supported a union. In 2000 Smithfield committed thirty-six labor violations during its union-busting fight in the 1990s. Kilgore got money from anti-labor companies that violate American labor and immigration companies. And this man was the standard bearer for Virginia Republicans just last year.

Then there is Virginia Republican 2005 Attorney General candidate Bob McDonnell. A graduate of Pat Robertson's Regent University, McDonnell was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates thanks to the support of Ralph Reed's Christian Coalition. This self-rightous man financed his campaign through a possibly illegal slush fund set up by the Republican State Leadership Committee. Through this slush fund McDonnell got nearly $1 million from anonymous donors. One reason this was an issue was the fact that there was concern that McDonnell was tied to gambling interests through his connections with Abramoff. McDonnell hired three former associates of Jack Abramoff. One of those Abramoff associates was McDonnell's campaign manager for awhile but ultimately ended up in prison for soliciting sex with a young boy. I wonder if he hung out with Foley as well. To quote directly from The Nation:

Two of McDonnell's top consultants and his former campaign manager used a Virginia-based Christian-right organization, the Faith and Family Alliance, to launder casino lobbyist Jack Abramoff's money. The Alliance was founded by two former business partners of Ralph Reed, Tim Phillips and Phil Cox, and was directed by Robin Vanderwall. In 2000, Vanderwall was instructed by Reed to deposit a $150,000 check sent by conservative antitax activist Grover Norquist, then write a new check for the same amount and send it back to Reed's consulting firm, Century Strategies. Both Norquist and Reed were being paid by Abramoff to lobby against a congressional antigambling bill on behalf of his client, e-Lottery.

"I was operating as a shell," Vanderwall told the Washington Post of his role in Abramoff's operation. "I regret having anything to do with it."

Vanderwall is a longtime associate of McDonnell. They attended Regent University together, and in 1999 Vanderwall managed McDonnell's campaign for Virginia's House of Delegates. Today, while McDonnell campaigns for draconian penalties against sex offenders, Vanderwall serves a seven-year sentence in state prison for soliciting sex with a 13-year-old boy who turned out to be an undercover cop.

These people make claims to morality even as they money launder, solicit sex from minors, and make friends with union busters and white supremicists. These are big wigs in the Republican Party in Virginia. But lets also look at the comparisons between Virginia corruption and the corruption in the National Republican Party: both involve close ties with Jack Abramoff (now in prison) and both include solicitation of sex with minors. There is a pattern here. I suggest writing some letters to the editor discussing these scandals within the Virginia Republican Party.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: VIRGINIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

Virginia Blue Barbecue & Democratic Rally, Chesapeake Democratic Committee
Starts: 10/22/2006 3:00pm
Ends: 10/22/2006 6:00pm
Contact: Angela Haywood
Location: Deep Creek Ruritan Club
200 Luray Street
Chesapeake, Virginia 23323
Phone: (757)434-3879

The Chesapeake Democratic Committee will host the Virginia Blue Barbecue & Democratic Rally on Sunday, October 22, 2006 from 3:00-6:00pm at the Deep Creek Ruritan Club, 200 Luray St. Chesapeake VA 23323
Invited Guests include
Jim Webb, U.S. Senate Candidate
Bobby Scott, Congressman, 3rd District
Elected State & Local Officials
The cost is $20 per person
$35 per couple
$10 children
And five & under free.
R.S.V.P by October 16th, to dem4life40@aol.com, or by calling (757)436-4623
Checks may be made payable to the Chesapeake Democratic Committee, PO Box 16088 Chesapeake, VA 23328


Friday, October 27, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m The Virginia Organizing Project’s 3rd Annual Social Justice Bowl at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 190 Rugby Road, in Charlottesville. Please join us for a soup and bread supper, a participatory social justice quiz bowl and singing. Then take your bowl, donated by a local potter, home. More information about ticket sales later, but each ticket will cost $25. Please call Sally for more information at 434-984-4655 x229.

Part of the beauty of VOP is that VOP encourages the participation of those who have traditionally had little voice in our society, and builds relationships with diverse individuals and groups. The Social Justice Bowl is a community building event as well as a fundraiser, but many who would like to attend cannot afford the $25. Please consider becoming a SPONSOR by donating an extra $25-200, so one to eight others can attend the Social Justice Bowl.

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. If there isn't one near you, it is easy to start your own!

Alexandria, Virginia
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
* Shenandoah Brewing Company, 652 S Pickett St (Look for us upstairs)
* "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world" - Margaret Mead
* Hosted by David Swim and Quinn Jones, alexandria (at) drinkingliberally.org

Danville, Virginia
* Every other Wednesday, 7:00 pm onward
* The Purple Onion, 215 Main St
* Hosted by Meryl Ibis, danville (at) drinkingliberally.org

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 92: MIDWEST FOCUS: Iowa

Iowa Republicans are using some of the same dirty tricks that the national Republicans are. Sleazy tactics of smearing and lying that they have been using at least since Nixon. This report comes from the Iowa Democratic Party:

Letter from IDP Chair Pederson About Yet Another Republican Attack Group "Iowans for Agriculture"

Friends,

Just when you thought it was safe to go back to your television, along comes yet another unaccountable special interest group spreading misleading negative political attacks against Democrats.

This time it isn’t “Swift Boat Veterans for Truth” or the “Economic Freedom Fund.” They are called “Iowans for Agriculture,” and the more real Iowans know about this unregulated 527 group, the fewer will fall victim to their attempt to buy this election.

Their TV ads start airing Monday, October 23rd. Please forward this email to everyone who might vote in November, so that they know “Iowans for Agriculture” is just another secretive group trying to mislead them into voting for Republicans.

What do we know about “Iowans for Agriculture?” 527s are so unregulated that we know almost nothing.

We don’t know who they are.

We don’t know how many corporations or wealthy individuals contributed tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars to them.

We don’t know what their real agenda is.

In short, we don’t know much, but we know they are coming- and Iowans deserve to be prepared.

Please send this email to everyone you know. Write a letter to your local newspaper. Tell Iowans that a group claiming to be “Iowans for Agriculture” is really just another unaccountable, unregulated 527 group trying to buy this election, just like Republicans have bought so much else.

Don’t let them do it.

Sincerely,

Iowa Democratic Party Chair Sally Pederson


For more information about Republican smear tactics in Iowa, please visit www.stopgopsmear.com.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: MIDWEST PROGRESSIVE GROUPS

I don't yet have enough Midwest readers to do an extensive Groups and Meetings page like I do for NYC, Virginia and New Jersey. But I can at least highlight a few groups and encourage readers to set up their own local groups.

IOWA GROUPS:

First I naturally will highlight Iowa's local Democracy for America group, Blog for Iowa. Joining this blog will help you connect with fellow progressives in Iowa and help establish a progressive infrastructure in Iowa.

Drinking Liberally in Iowa: Promoting democracy one pint at a time! Drinking liberally is a social organization with chapters nationwide. There are four Iowa Drinking Liberally groups (see below). If there isn't one near you, you can set one up at the Drinking Liberally website. If you don't like bars, I have always thought non-drinkers could set up their own drinking liberally groups in coffee houses. Here are the current Iowa groups:

Davenport:
* Meets second and fourth Friday of each month, 6:00 pm onward
* Pat McQuire's Bar & Grill, 3333 N Harrison St (Set back form Harrison - Next door to the Citgo on the corner of 32nd and Harrison)
* We will also drink liberally in the AM on the 1st Saturday at 9:30am at Mojo's (corner of Main and 2nd St - downtown Davenport)
* Hosted by Alta Price and Caroline Vernon, quadcities (at) drinkingliberally.org

Ames:
* Every Friday, 5:00 pm onward
* Legends American Grill, 200 Stanton Ave, 7th Floor (in Campustown) (map)
* 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) (map)
* Hosted by Amanda Mittlestadt, Tricia Kell, Dan Chibnall, Cassie Samspon and Matt Jesson, desmoines (at) drinkingliberally.org

Iowa City:
* Every Thursday, 8:00 pm onward
* The Mill Restaurant, 120 E Burlington St (map)
* Hosted by Nicholas Bergin, iowacity (at) drinkingliberally.org


WISCONSIN GROUPS:

First I naturally will highlight Winsconsin's local Democracy for America group, Democracy for Wisconsin. Democracy for Wisconsin grew from the seeds planted by Howard Dean's presidential campaign. We believe that strong values and grassroots participation are the key to successfully promoting progressive policies and rebuilding the Democratic Party. Please help us take our country back! Local chapters are listed on their website.

Drinking Liberally in Wisconsin: Promoting democracy one pint at a time! Drinking liberally is a social organization with chapters nationwide. There are surprisingly few Wisconsin drinking liberally groups! There are currently only two Wisconsin Drinking Liberally groups (see below). If there isn't one near you, you can set one up at the Drinking Liberally website. If you don't like bars, I have always thought non-drinkers could set up their own drinking liberally groups in coffee houses. Here are the current Wisconsin groups:

Madison, Wisconsin
* First and third Tuesday of each month (next meeting October 3), 7:00 pm onward
* Genna's, 105 W Main St
* Hosted by Brian Cadwell, madison (at) drinkingliberally.org

Milwaukee, Wisconsin
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month (next meeting October 11), 7:00 pm onward
* Club Garibaldi, 2501 S Superior St
* Hosted by Stacie Rosenzweig, Scott Feldstein and Jason Haas, milwaukee (at) drinkingliberally.org


INDIANA GROUPS:

First, I will highlight the very important Indiana Progressives PAC. Indiana Progressives believe to win nationally we must first win locally. Their message is positive, practical and progressive! And hopefully will be popular as well! Be a part of Indiana Progressives by registering with their site today.

Drinking Liberally in Indiana: Promoting democracy one pint at a time! Drinking liberally is a social organization with chapters nationwide. There are six Indiana Drinking Liberally groups (see below). If there isn't one near you, you can set one up at the Drinking Liberally website. If you don't like bars, I have always thought non-drinkers could set up their own drinking liberally groups in coffee houses. Here are the current Indiana groups:

Bloomington
* Every Tuesday, 7:00 pm onward
* Upland Brewery, 350 W 11th St (map)
* Hosted by Eric Foster and Chris Herlihy, bloomington (at) drinkingliberally.org

Indianapolis
* Every Thursday, 7:00-10:00 pm
* Spencer's Stadium Tavern, 802 S West St (SW corner of West & McCarty streets)
* map: http://tinyurl.com/ann6t
* Hosted by Jason Borneman, indianapolis (at) drinkingliberally.org

Noblesville
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Ram Brewery, 12750 Parkside Dr (near the corner of 126th St and Hwy 37)
* Hosted by Keith Clock and Molly Martin, noblesville (at) drinkingliberally.org

Lafayette
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Lafayette Brewing Company - UPSTAIRS, 622 Main St
* Hosted by Amy Clinton-Corbett, Mary Nauman, Curtis Parker, Jon Neal, Susan Schechter and Gavin Steiger, lafayette (at) drinkingliberally.org

New Albany:
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* "The Red Room" of Rich-O's Public House, 3312 Plaza Dr (Near the Kroger on Grant Line Rd; and next to Sportstime Pizza)
* Rich-Os is 21+ and "The Red Room" is in the smoking section, though we are able to meet in alternative areas of the Rich-O's/Sportstime Pizza complex to accomodate under-age attendants and those who are sensitive to cigarette smoke.
* We will now be meeting on THURSDAYS instead of Wednesdays to accomodate the academic work week.
* Hosted by Lacy Davis, newalbany (at) drinkingliberally.org

South Bend
* First and third Thursday of each month (next meeting October 5), 7:00 pm onward
* Oaken Bucket, 1212 S Ironwood Dr (map)
* Hosted by Chris Wilson, Thomas Winegar and Ben Runkle, southbend (at) drinkingliberally.org

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: NATIONAL ACTION: Barbara Boxer's Challenge

The Republicans recently conceded that they will lose many Senate seats and decided to entrench, or as they called it, build a fire wall at three states: Missouri, Tennessee, and Virginia. Barbara Boxer, the excellent Senator from California, is challenging all Democrats to help break through that Republican firewall. Here is her challenge, including some good info on the three Senate races.

The Republicans have drawn their line in the sand and are making their last stand in 3 "firewall" states to desperately try to hold on to their narrow Senate majority. This Republican firewall is the only thing left standing between us and a Democratic Senate -- and we've got 18 days to break through.

Contribute to the 3 Senate races that will ensure a Democratic victory -- break down the Republican firewall now!

Yes, there is an almost unanimous view (with that pillar of integrity Karl Rove dissenting) that the House and the Senate are poised to swing to the Democrats this November.

So now the Republicans have started to circle the wagons around their most threatened Senate seats. They have admitted pulling money out of other states where they are trailing badly to try to build a firewall around these three seats: Tennessee, where Bill Frist is retiring; Virginia, where George Allen has been imploding; and Missouri, where Jim Talent has consistently rubber stamped President Bush's extreme right-wing agenda.

This Republican firewall strategy is an admission that they are giving up on other seats where you and our PAC for a Change community have been involved -- a last ditch effort to fend off the strong challenges from 3 tremendous Democratic candidates who are on the brink of winning "safe" Republican seats in "red states."

We can't let the Republicans win these three critical seats.

Let's break down this 3-state Republican firewall -- contribute to our strong Democratic candidates today!

Here are the 3 Democratic Senate candidates who need our help to break down the Republican firewall:

* Congressman Harold Ford in Tennessee. Despite the most negative attacks against Harold's family and despite the fact that George Bush and Dick Cheney have campaigned heavily again him, Harold is currently leading Republican Bob Corker by a few points in recent polls.

If Congressman Ford wins this race, America will celebrate indeed. Not only will we have a new young star in the Senate, but Harold will be the first African American elected to the Senate from the South since Reconstruction. I spoke to Harold earlier this week, and he wants you to know he is working his heart out and that his TV buy literally depends on what we raise for him.

* State Auditor Claire McCaskill in Missouri. Claire tells me that her TV ad spending is also "hand to mouth," so she, too, is counting on fundraising over these last few weeks to keep pace with the vast infusion of right-wing money that is coming in against her. And when she says "keep pace" she doesn't mean dollar for dollar. She has been vastly outspent, but as long as she can match them one dollar for three of their dollars, she can hold on.

Claire's opponent, Senator Jim Talent, has voted with George Bush 94% of the time. No wonder there is no limit to what Republicans will do to keep his rubber stamp stamping! Now, in a sign of desperation, the Republicans are attacking Claire's family as well. Clearly, there is nothing they won't do to hold on to power. If you saw Claire go up against Talent recently on Meet the Press, you know that she is tough and smart -- and that Claire is the one with the real talent.

* Former Navy Secretary Jim Webb in Virginia. Jim has run an amazing grassroots-powered campaign, roaring back from being 14 points down to now running neck-and-neck with George Allen. Jim will not allow Allen and his right-wing pals to "swiftboat" him as he expresses his strong opposition to the war in Iraq.

George Allen thought he would be a shoe-in for re-election, but these rubber stamp Senators are all in trouble because the American people are fed up with the status quo. Jim Webb is a smart, experienced leader and would be an incredible addition to the Senate.

Help Harold Ford, Claire McCaskill, and Jim Webb break through the Republican firewall -- contribute to their campaigns today!

Political analyst Charlie Cook is characterizing this year as a "once- or twice-in-a-generation election." So the time to act is now. We won't always have a chance like this to reshape the political landscape for decades to come -- and we don't want to wake up on November 8th asking why we didn't send that extra $25 or $50.

You and I have worked so hard and done so much to get to this point. Thanks to your help, our PAC for a Change community has already contributed more than $903,000 to candidates across America. We can't stop now.

Please contribute to the strong Democratic candidates who must break through the Republican firewall -- and make me proud to call and tell them how our PAC for a Change community is coming to their rescue.

My best always to you and yours for a better America -- for a great America.

Let's do it folks. Time is running out and these days I am hearing more premature victory speeches from Democrats than I am actual donations and activism. So please give a little bit. You will be VERY glad you did.

Progressive Democrat Issue 92: GETTING ACTIVE THROUGHOUT 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.