Progressive Democrat Issue 103: THOUGHTS

BIG week. I missed my second chance to be on BBC radio, but the main thing is my blogging is getting noticed! I also am being asked to be a Managing Editor for the international blog Culture Kitchen. I invite everyone to visit Culture Kitchen, read what we offer and maybe comment a bit. The site is evolving rapidly these days and now is a good time to start participating. Politics and feminism are a major part of what we focus on, but other aspects of "culture" are also covered. So join in!

Last weekend we reached 3000 US soldiers dead in the quagmire of Iraq. For what? What have we gained? In light of last weekend's media circus in Bagdhad surrounding the execution of a man who was once favored by the US, I just want to remind people of something.

As Fox News is piddling over itself ecstatically about Saddam Hussein's execution, I just want to ONCE AGAIN remind America that THIS MAN (shaking hands with Donald Rumsfeld):



Had NOTHING to do with THIS EVENT (which I experienced first hand):



So all Americans need to ask THIS MAN:



when we will catch THIS MAN:




Write the media to express your opinion on Bush's failure to fight terrorism. Three thousand soldiers dead in Iraq and for what? Osama bin Laden and al-Qaeda are alive and well and we look like fools.


TABLE OF CONTENTS:

POSSIBLY THE BEST INAUGURAL PARTY OF THE YEAR

PREPARING FOR 2008: Jumpstarting the Midwest!

DUMB REPUBLICAN QUOTES

CHANGING COURSE IN IRAQ (humor)

NYC FOCUS: Voting Machines

NYC GROUPS AND EVENTS

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Clean Elections in San Diego

CALIFORNIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

NEW JERSEY FOCUS: Clean Water

NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

IOWA FOCUS: A New Legislative Agenda

MICHIGAN FOCUS: Internships with the Democratic Party

MIDWEST GROUPS AND EVENTS

VIRGINIA FOCUS: Democratic Training Conference

VIRGINIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

Progressive Democrat Issue 103: THE INAUGURAL PARTY I AM MOST PROUD TO BE INVITED TO

This year I have been invited to dozens of inaugural parties all over the country. If we could have made it to DC we could have party hoppped and really enjoyed the enthusiasm of all the newly elected Dems. But there is one inaugural party I am most proud to be invited to. For all who remember the Republican corruption in Ohio and the possibly stolen election in Ohio in 2004, THIS is really sweet:



Too bad we can't be there! Best of luck to Mark Dann and Jennifer Brunner. I am proud to have sent them some publicity and some donations.

If YOU want to go to their party, you can talk to the Ohio Democratic Party.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: JUMPSTARTING THE MIDWEST

We saw a huge shift in 2006, with Democrats throughtout the nation doing far better than expected. But we can't assume that we will hold this poistion of power. Republicans will be working like hell to win back what they lost. I want to focus on what we can and should do to not only hold on to the gains we made, but build on them by highlighting groups and campaigns that we need to nurture and build NOW so that they will be strong when it comes to the next fight.

I am calling this my Jumpstart Program and I am first focusing on the Midwest. What I am doing is in no way intended to be comprehensive. But I am trying to build on what we did in 2006 while also eyeing what we need to do in 2008 and balance the two. Each group or campaign I list could use your time (if you live nearby) or your money (even just $5-10). Pick one and help out a little bit now so our progressive infrastructure will be powerful by 2008.


1. Jumpstart Indiana:
In 2006 Democrats did amazingly well in Indiana, a state once considered solid red and the home state of Republican Dan Quayle, one of the few Republicans that make Bush look smart. I propose we push to continue the trend to return Indiana to its traditional progressive roots. My Progressive Indiana Act Blue Page highlights groups that promote traditional progressive American values in Indiana. On it you will find:

a. The Democratic Women’s Caucus: aiming to inspire, recruit, train, support, and fund progressive women to increase the numbers of women in the electoral process and in elected and appointed positions in Indiana.

b. Indiana Progressives PAC: Inspired by Howard Dean, Indiana Progressives believe to win nationally we must first win locally. Our message is positive, practical and progressive! Be a part of Indiana Progressives by registering with them or donating to them today.

c. Other groups like Indiana Young Democrats and a more local DFA affiliate.


2. Jumpstart Michigan:
Henry Sheinkopf, a political strategist who helped engineer Bill Clinton’s re-election campaignin 1996, has highlighted Michigan as one of four MUST WIN states for the Democrats in 2008 and, pretty much, in any year. Michigan IS working-class America and is the constituency that the Democrats should be most dedicated to.

This Act Blue page aims to build the working class grassroots in Michigan to help the Democrats, help Michigan and help America. My Progressive Michigan Act Blue Page highlights groups that promote traditional progressive American values in Michigan. On it you will find:

a. Mid-Michigan DFA PAC: A local Democracy for America affiliate continuing the work of Howard Dean to empower the average American, Mid-Michigan DFA PAC focuses on the Lansing, MI area. If you live in the area, JOIN THEM! And I urge everyone to support them financially if you can. Bring traditional progressive values back to America!

b. Michigan State Democratic Committee - Federal Account: Working to elect Democrats throughout Michigan and the key to Michigan in 2008.

c. Michigan Senator Carl Levin's 2008 re-election campaign.


3. Jumpstart Iowa:
Iowa is considered a microcosm of America. And it is very much a purple state. Traditional progressive values dominate the Iowa political scene, and as long as Democrats fight for these traditional progressive values, we will win. This webpage is dedicated to taking and holding the heart of America’s heartland: Iowa. My Progressive Iowa Act Blue Page highlights groups and candidates that promote traditional progressive American values in Iowa. On it you will find:

a. The Iowa State Democratic Party, Iowa House Truman Fund and Iowa Senate Majority Fund, all fighting AT THE STATE LEVEL to elect Democrats and support Iowa's farmers, alternative energy industry and push Democratic values throughout Iowa.

b. Senator Tom Harkin, who has been targeted by Republicans every chance they get and who will be up for re-election in 2008. As one of our best Senators, I suggest a small donation well in advance to head off Republican attacks.


4. Jumpstart Wisconsin: Wisconsin mixes college towns and farming in a mix that is very open to traditional progressive, American values. My Progressive Wisonsin Act Blue Page highlights groups and candidates that promote traditional progressive American values in Wisconsin. On it you will find:

a. Democratic Party of Milwaukee

b. Waupaca Waushara United Democratic Party (WI): Working to elect Democrats in rural Wisconsin

c. Wisconsin State Democratic Committee - Federal Account: Helping to elect Democrats throughout Wisconsin.


Help get things started in the Midwest. Starting now will make us unbeatable in 2008. If we wait too long they will get the jump on us.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: DUMB REPUBLICAN QUOTES

In honor of the New Year, here is a list of the 20 dumbest quotes from Republicans from Daily Kos:

(NOTE: The author of the list put a 2-quote limit for Dan Quayle and Bush or they would have dominated the list)

TOP 20 ALL-TIME STUPID REPUBLICAN QUOTES

20. The implication that there was something wrong with the war plan is amusing." --Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, on criticism of his management of the Iraq war

19. If you’ve seen one city slum, you’ve seen them all.-- Spiro Agnew

18. A good many things creep around in the dark besides Santa Claus.--" Herbert Hoover, US President

17."I like the color red because it's a fire. And I see myself as always being on fire." --California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger

16. Capital punishment is our way of demonstrating the sanctity of life."-- Orrin Hatch

15. It’s like the neighborhood I would have grown up in, I think, if I had have grown up here." --Alan Keyes, on the Chicago neighborhood he chose to rent in after moving to the state to run for the U.S. Senate

14. If you think the United States has stood still, who would have built the largest shopping center in the world?-- Richard M. Nixon

13. It may come as a shock to you who live out in the real world, but occasionally we do something up here. Not often, I admit, but sometimes. For example, I think the House has passed National Peach Month so far this year and we expect to act on it soon." --Senate Majority Leader (and Presidential candidate) Robert Dole of Kansas in 1982

12."If Lincoln were alive today, he'd be turning over in his grave.—Gerald Ford (on Nixon and Watergate)

11.The Democrats just want to ram it down my ear with a victory---George Herbert Walker Bush

10. Any lady who is first lady likes being first lady. They may say they don’t like but from my experience I know they like it.-- Richard Nixon

9. Isn't that the ultimate homeland security, standing up and defending marriage?" --Sen. Rick Santorum

8.These are not bad people. All they are concerned about is to see that their sweet little girls are not required to sit in school alongside some big overgrown Negroes. President Eisenhower commenting on racial segregationalists after the Brown vs. Board of Ed decision.

7. "For every fatal shooting, there were roughly three nonfatal shootings. And, folks, this is unacceptable in America. It's just unacceptable, and we're going to do something about it" --President George W. Bush

6. The Holocaust was an obscene period in our nation's history. I mean in this century's history. But I didn't live in this century." Vice President Dan Quayle

5. "President Washington, President Lincoln, President Wilson, President Roosevelt have all authorized electronic surveillance on a far broader scale."--Attorney General Alberto Gonzalez, testifying before Congress
(Quick! Somebody phone Al Gonzalez and tell him there were no phones or electricity during the Washington and Lincoln administrations)

4. I feel the best way to ensure Americans' freedom is to tighten restrictions on that freedom in any way possible. Only through wiretaps, illegal searches and seizures, unfettered government intrusion, a controlled media and a complete crackdown on free speech can we ensure the liberties of all people." -- Attorney General John Ashcroft

3. I think gay marriage is something that should be between a man and a woman" -- Arnold Schwarzenegger

2. "What a terrible thing to have lost one's mind. Or not to have a mind at all. How true that is."- Vice President Dan Quayle

1. Hmmm, uhh, hah -- ummm -- I, the answer is -- I haven't really thought of it that way, heh, heh. Heh. Here's how I think of it. Ummm -- heh heh. First I've heard of that, by the way, I, ah -- uhh -- the, uhh -- I, I guess I'm more of a practical fella. Uhh. I vowed after September the 11th that I would do everything I could to protect the American people. And, uhh -- my attitude, of course, was affected by the attacks.ha ha ...ummm Let me see... I knew we were at a war. I knew that the enemy, obviously, had to be sophisticated, and lethal, to fly hijacked airplanes, uhh, into -- facilities that would, we would, killing thousands of people, innocent people, doin' nothing, just sittin' there goin' to work."--President George W Bush, after being asked if the war in Iraq and the rise of terrorism are signs of the apocalypse


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: CHANGING COURSE IN IRAQ? (humor)

This is from American Progress:




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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: NYC FOCUS: Voting Machines

We continue to fight the good fight against DRE machines. I have written about this enough that I doubt I have to go into too much detail. You can read some of my earlier stuff if you want more on it. Or see the DFNYC site's discussion of the issue. For me the lack of a legal recount and the fact that the National Institute of Standards and Technology is warning against DRE machines is good enough to fight them.

But here are some upcoming events in NYC where you can try out machines or testify to the Board of Elections about them:

On January 11, 2007, at 5 PM, the New York City Board of Elections will host a public demonstration of the proposed new voting machines at Fordham University, Pope Auditorium (60th Street and Columbus Avenue).

A large turnout by individual citizens and public officials will show that the public is watching! Join us in viewing the machines currently under consideration by our County Commissioners.

On January 23, 2007, at 4 PM, the NYC Board of Elections will conduct a hearing at the Board offices at 42 Broadway, 6th floor, and the public is invited to attend and comment to the Board Commissioners on the proposed new voting machines.

If you want to testify, you can contact me and I can hook you up with people organizing testimony. We need you to show up!


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: NYC GROUPS AND EVENTS

Local involvement is really what wins elections. Please get involved. I have made friends, met many of my elected officials who now (sometimes!) actually listen to me, and have really felt like I am making a difference. From time to time I will also post events going on, but mostly this is a list of organizations in your area. If I have missed any, please let me know.

BROOKLYN GROUPS AND EVENTS:

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.


Brooklyn Democrats for Change: covering Bay Ridge, Fort Hamilton, Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst, and Bath Beach; Meets the 1st Thursday of the month at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Muller Conference Room, 7420 4th Avenue Bay Ridge.


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! Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of every month at 7 PM at the Park Slope United Methodist Church, 6th Ave. & 8th Street in the basement (enter through the garden gate on 6th Ave).


Independent Neighborhood Democrats (IND): I usually work with this club. They cover the 52nd Assembly district, covering Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, Carroll Gardens and Cobble Hill. Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of every month at 7 PM (yes...same time as CBID above because they are sort of rival groups!) at their clubhouse 489 Court St. in Carroll Gardens.


New Democratic Majority in Brooklyn: Originally an outgrowth of the Dean campaign, NDM is one of the more active progressive organizations around. This is the Brooklyn branch of that organization and we are still building our membership. 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: Another outgrowth of the Dean Campaign, this is another excellent local progressive organization. Usually meets the first Wed. of every month at various locations. CLICK HERE to find your closest monthly meeting.

Park Slope/Brooklyn, Ozzie's, 249 5th Ave, with host Josh Skaller

Williamsburg/Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Boulevard Tavern, 579 Meeker Ave. (btwn. N. Henry and Monitor St.) There will be no official DFNYC Linkup host here this month, but Harold at Boulevard is a DFNYC member and encourages everyone to stop in. Harold will have DFNYC info about the upcoming elections.

Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, Wycoff-Bennette Homestead, 1669 East 22nd. St. (between Quentin & Kings Highway), with hosts Annette Mott a& Estelle Glasser


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 other 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.


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MANHATTAN GROUPS AND EVENTS:


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: Another outgrowth of the Dean Campaign, this is another excellent local progressive organization. Usually meets the first Wed. of every month at various locations. CLICK HERE to find your closest monthly meeting.

Upper West Side, Cosi (downstairs) 2160 Broadway @76th Street, with host Merle McEldowney

Upper East Side, location TBD, with hosts Lewis Cohen & David Kogelman

West Village, Kettle of Fish, 59 Christopher St. (near 7th Ave.), with hosts Dana Northcraft & Judith Ren-Lay

East Village, Cinema Classics/Rafiffi, 332 East 11th Street (btwn. 1st & 2nd), with host Heather Woodfield


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


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


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QUEENS GROUPS AND EVENTS:

Democracy for America Meetings: Another outgrowth of the Dean Campaign, this is another excellent local progressive organization. Usually meets the first Wed. of every month at various locations. CLICK HERE to find your closest monthly meeting.

Sunnyside, Queens, The Grind, 39-24 Queens Blvd., with host Dan Jacoby

Bayside, Queens, The First Edition, 41-08 Bell Blvd, right near the LIRR stop, with host Steve Behar of Democrats for New Politics


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: Last Wednesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward. Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11102. Hosted by Donald Graff, queens (at) drinkingliberally.org

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


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STATEN ISLAND GROUPS AND EVENTS:

THERE ARE CURRENTLY NO STATEN ISLAND DEMOCRACY FOR NYC CHAPTERS! You can start one by emailing linkup -at- dfnyc.org (replace -at- with @). These groups are great for keeping in touch and for candiates to introduce themselves and beg you for support.

Young Democrats of Staten Island: The future of the Democratic Party in Staten Island!

Staten Island African American Political Association: For more information, contact deb2badd –at- aol.com (replace –at- with @)

THERE ARE NO DRINKING LIBERALLY GROUPS IN STATEN ISLAND!!! You can start one by clicking here. It is a fun, social way to grow the grassroots and patronize a local watering hole as well.

For more Democratic Clubs in Staten Island, CLICK HERE.

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BRONX GROUPS AND EVENTS:

THERE ARE CURRENTLY NO BRONX DEMOCRACY FOR NYC CHAPTERS! You can start one by emailing linkup -at- dfnyc.org (replace -at- with @). These groups are great for keeping in touch and for candiates to introduce themselves and beg you for support.


WEST BRONX 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. There is currently only one Bronx Drinking Liberally group:

West Bronx: First and third Friday of each month, 7:30 pm onward at An Beal Bocht, 445 W 238th St (between Waldo and Greystone). Hosted by Jamin Sewell and Scott Kennedy, westbronx (at) drinkingliberally.org


Find your closest Bronx Democratic Club by CLICKING HERE.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Clean Elections in San Diego

San Diego has had a couple of fairly dubious elections recently, going the route of Florida and Ohio. Even former mayor of San Diego and right wing talk show host Roger Hedgecock is sounding the alarm. A new organization has formed called the San Diego Alliance for Clean Elections. Here's what they have to say about themselves:

We are a nonpartisan grassroots organization whose members are citizens from diverse backgrounds seeking to reform our ailing electoral system and restore the power to the public by reducing the undue influence of money over the candidates and political parties under the current system. We aim to provide an alternative form of campaign funding that would compete with traditionally funded candidates for the citizens’ votes. We believe this form of campaign funding will draw a more diverse and better pool of candidates and will offer incumbents an alternative to traditional fundraising. We believe this is the reform that enables all other necessary reforms and puts the government in control of the People.

I focus considerably on the issue of voting machines. But there are other reforms that are needed as well. This organization is doing what it should to try and get clean elections. Please check them out and support them.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: CALIFORNIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

Next to New York, California has become where I have the most readers. So, I need to start focusing a little bit more on California to accomodate all of you! Of course California is pretty big, so mostly what I will do is list the resources you can use to find out what's going on in your area. If you know of a group, send me info!

California for Democracy: This is the California branch of Howard Dean's Democracy for America movement. There are local meetings all over the state (listed on the left hand side of the state website). I participate in my local group and this is one of the ways I get to meet lots of interesting politicians, all of whom are trying to get our support. If you only do one kind of political activism, it should be this! If you join, tell them I sent you...it can't hurt for them to know I'm helping them out! There are also events listed as well as blogs for discussion. This is the ultimate in progressive grassroots! If there isn't a group near you, start one by emailing: steering (at) californiafordemocracy.com


California Democratic Party: To find your local Democratic Party organization, GO HERE. For a Calendar of events GO HERE. To get active in the California Democratic Party by volunteering GO HERE.


DRINKING LIBERALLY: An informal, inclusive progressive social group. Raise your spirits while you raise your glass, and share ideas while you share a pitcher. Drinking Liberally gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don't need to be a policy expert and this isn't a book club - just come and learn from peers, trade jokes, vent frustration and hang out in an environment where it's not taboo to talk politics. This is one of the more fun ways to be involved as a liberal. There are MANY groups in California. If there isn't one in your area, get a few friends together and START ONE! Don't drink alcohol? Then start one in a coffee house, tea lounge or juice bar! The format is flexible. Here's a list of them as of Dec. 2006.


Hollywood
* Second Wednesday of each month 7:00-11:00 PM
* Molly Malone's Irish Pub, 575 South Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles 90036 (near corner of 6th avenue)
* Hosted by Vincent Jones, Cecilia Cabello, Christine Frogozo, Jim Kennedy and Joe Zefran, la (at) drinkingliberally.org

Pasadena
* Every Tuesday, 7:30-10:00 pm
* Madeleine's Wine Bistro, 1030 E Green St (between Wilson and Catalina)
* We try to meet on the patio when no other event is scheduled there. Otherwise, look for us in the wine bar.
* Hosted by Asa Hopkins, pasadena (at) drinkingliberally.org

Monterey
* First Thursday of each month 7:00 pm onward
* Peter B's Brewery, 2 Portola Plz
* Hosted by Annie Ho and Helen Davis, monterey (at) drinkingliberally.org

Orange County
* Every Thursday, 8:30 pm onward
* Memphis Bar, 201 N Broadway, Santa Ana (Artists Village)
* Hosted by Mike Lawson, orangecounty (at) drinkingliberally.org

Sacramento
* First Thursday of each month 7:00 pm onward
* Streets of London Pub, 1804 J St (Midtown)
* Hosted by Leslie Simmons, sacramento (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Diego
* Every other Tuesday 7:30 pm onward
* Nunu's Cocktail Lounge, 3537 5th Ave (Between Brookes and Ivy Ln)
* Hosted by Jesse Rubin and Jason Miller, sandiego (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Francisco
* Every Monday, 7:00-9:00 pm
* Doc's Clock, 2575 Mission St (between 21st and 22nd) (Look for our red, white and blue striped bottle!)
* Hosted by Susan Harrison, sf (at) drinkingliberally.org

Oakland
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month 6:00 - 8:00 PM
* Luka's Taproom & Lounge, 2221 Broadway
* Hosted by Cyril Allen and Philip Combs, oakland (at) drinkingliberally.org

Palo Alto
* Second Thursday of each month 7:00 pm onward
* Antonio's Nut House, 321 S California Ave (At the corner of Birch and California)
* Hosted by Tom Allen, Leilani Iwaishi and Esther Hardwick, paloalto (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Jose
* Every other Thursday 6:30 pm onward
* Trials Pub, 265 N 1st St
* We're usually in the wingbacks by the front door. The bartenders know who we are.
* Hosted by Andy Oliveria and Adam Gulkis, sanjose (at) drinkingliberally.org


Santa Barbara
* Every Wednesday, 8 pm - 10 pm
* Elsie's Bar, 117 W de la Guerra St (behind Paseo Nuveo Mall)
* Elsie's is 21+ and cash only
* Hosted by Daryl Chrisman and Bart Woolery, santabarbara (at) drinkingliberally.org

Stockton
* Third Friday of each month 7:00 pm onward
* Micheal's New York Pizza, 2300 W Alpine Ave #A
* Hosted by Teresa Frison, stockton (at) drinkingliberally.org



SOME REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: These are more specific to particular reagions

LOS ANGELES AREA:

Progressive Los Angeles Network (PLAN): The Progressive Los Angeles Network (PLAN) was formally launched in December 1999. PLAN was founded and built on the success of the 1998 Progressive L.A. Conference which was co-sponsored by a number of local and national institutions and organizations including Occidental College, The Nation Institute, Liberty Hill Foundation, LA Weekly and the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor. The Progressive LA Conference was an overwhelming success and gave participants a sense that the growth of a wide variety of progressive social movements had reached an important threshold. As a result, attendees and others within the progressive movement in Los Angeles expressed a desire to participate in further discussion about how to develop a common agenda that is community based, inclusive and brings together the wealth of experience and knowledge of organizers, activists, and researchers. To get involved, GO HERE.


ORANGE COUNTY AREA:

Orange County Peace Coalition: An organization that advocates the peaceful resolution of international conflicts and that this ideal become a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. To see a calendar of events, CLICK HERE. To get involved, CLICK HERE.


NORTHERN CALIFORNIA:

Grassrootswest was founded in 2004 as a way to unite Northbay Democrats, Greens, Independents, and even Republicans in getting George Bush out of office. After the stolen election of 2004 it became clear that there still was a need to bridge the divide between the various progressive organizations in the San Francisco North Bay. So their work of bypassing the corporate media, and building alliances of progressives continues to this day. Check them out.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: NEW JERSEY FOCUS: Environment

This comes from the NJ Environmental Federation:

DEFEND CLEAN WATER

THE PROBLEM!

NJ continues to face severe and unaddressed problems resulting from sprawl. Our waterways and air are too polluted, our roads too congested, and our lands too laden with toxic waste. Governor Corzine committed during the campaign to strengthen rules to address these problems. But not nearly enough progress has been made to date. Consider the following:

* The state's 10 year funding stream for open space, "The Garden State Preservation Trust" or "Green Acres", will run out of money this year, 2 years early.
* The Highlands Regional Master Plan continues to be delayed and faces enormous political pressure to allow too much development that would degrade the quality and quantity of half the state's drinking water.
* Over the past 15 years, the state's hazardous waste laws have been weakened to let polluters write their own clean-up plans; promote partial clean-ups and industrial standards even on residential, school, and daycare sites; and prevent the state from having enough cops on the beat to hold polluters accountable.

THE SOLUTION!

NJEF is urging Governor Corzine to:

* support quick adoption of a strong plan to protect the Highlands and a temporary freeze on major development until that plan is implemented;
* renew and strengthen the Garden State Preservation Trust to save, maintain and operate NJ's last great places; and ; and
* fix the state's toxic waste clean-up rules.

Click here to take action, or, better yet, CONTACT CORZINE DIRECTLY VIA PHONE OR MAIL AT:
Governor Corzine, PO Box 001, Trenton, NJ 08625
Phone: 609-292-6000; Fax: 609-292-3454


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

Let me first highlight an upcoming event:

Barbara McMorrow's swearing in as Monmouth County Freeholder January 04, 2007
Hall of Records, Main Street
Freehold Borough, NJ 07728
For more info, contact Monmouth Democrats: 732-922-2700

Come Watch Barbara McMorrow get sworn in as Monmouth County's first Democratic Freeholder in over twenty years! That is an event worth showing up for! Wish I could be there.


Here is how you can find your local Dem clubs. Go to HERE and click on your county. You can also click on their Calendar to find out Democratic Party events throughout the state.


New Jersey for Democracy: Possibly even more important than finding your local Democratic club, I strongly urge you to find your closest Democracy for America group. This organization, started by Howard Dean, is the future of the progressive grassroots in America. If there isn't a group near you, start one. It is a great way to get started in the political process. Here in NYC we get to meet all sorts of politicians who want our endorsement.


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.

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


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: IOWA FOCUS: The Legislative Agenda

This comes from the Democratic Party of Iowa outlining the planned legislative agenda in the new year:

Iowa democrats: teacher pay, health care will lead agenda
Thursday, January 4, 2007

(Quad City Times)Democrats who will lead the Iowa Legislature said they will push for key election priorities in the upcoming session, but they also pledged during a Wednesday stop in the Quad-Cities to work across the aisle with Republicans.

Incoming House Speaker Pat Murphy, D-Dubuque, and Senate President Mike Gronstal, D-Council Bluffs, said they will seek to boost teacher pay and expand renewable energy and health care in the state.

At the same time, the two men indicated they will push for an increase in cigarette taxes, a key issue for border areas such as the Quad-Cities.

Gov.-elect Chet Culver has already said he is likely to propose an increase as part of his budget.

“I think it’s exceedingly likely there will be a cigarette tax increase this year,” Gronstal said.
...

Gov. Tom Vilsack has proposed an increase in cigarette taxes to Republican-led legislatures, but he always was rebuffed. He has said an increase in the tax — which is below the Illinois figure — would cut back on the number of young smokers and pay for health related programs.

Flanked by local Democratic legislators, who are, for the first time in years, the majority in the Quad-City area delegation, Gronstal and Murphy also said they would move aggressively to boost teacher pay so the state achieves a rank of 25th in the nation.

Iowa currently ranks 40th.

...

Among the legislators attending a news conference at the Davenport RiverCenter were Rep. Cindy Winckler, D-Davenport, and Sen. Frank Wood, D-Eldridge, who have been appointed to key funding panels tied to education.

Rep. Jim Lykam, D-Davenport, and Rep.-elect Elesha Gayman, D-Davenport, also were on hand.

Sounds great to me! Let's encourage this excellent, pro-American agenda by writing the media and telling them you support the Democrats in their goals to boost teacher pay, healthcare, renewable energy and raise the cigarette tax (or any combination of these you support!)


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: MICHIGAN FOCUS: Internships

I want to highlight the Democratic Party of Michigan's Internship program, a way to help the first state party to adopt the Blue Tiger Democrat program to reconnect the Democratic Party with local communities. This is a great program for getting started in politics. From the Michigan Dems website:

An Internship with the Michigan Democratic Party offers:

* Excellent entry-level experience in politics.
* Valuable contacts with elected officials, candidates and Party activists.
* Sources for references

Interns work in the following areas:

* POLITICAL ORGANIZING - working with local Party organizations, elected officials, candidates and constituencies of the Party to elect Democrats; training of Party members; voter registration and education; issues conferences, and many other activities.
* COMMUNICATIONS - working to get the Democratic message out to members and to the public through radio, TV, print media, phone, fax, computer networks and other means, as well as doing issue research.
* FUNDRAISING - working to raise money for the Party by events, direct mail, telemarketing, membership, large donor programs, and other means.

Qualifications:
A commitment to the goals and ideas of the Democratic Party is a prerequisite. Must be organized, responsible, have good oral and written communication skills, and be able to work with others in a political environment. Computer literacy required.

Hours are flexible and can be tailored to the student's schedule. All work is voluntary and transportation is not provided to the work site, which is the Hart-Kennedy House in downtown Lansing. By arrangement with a school, academic credit may be available.

To apply, please email your resume to:

Ann Glaspie
Michigan Democratic Party
606 Townsend
Lansing, MI 48933
517.371.5410
email: glaspiea@dnc.org


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: MIDWEST PROGRESSIVE GROUPS (IA, IN, WI, MI)

I apologize for lumping such diverse states together under "Midwest," but to date I don't have enough readers in any one Midwestern state to give any of them their own attention the way I do with Virginia, NYC and California. Get me more readers in YOUR state and I will happily put more effort into writing about that state. Until then, these are the four Midwestern region states that I get some readership from regularly.

IOWA GROUPS:

January 9th EVENT: 10 am - 4 pm, First Floor Rotunda of the State Capitol in Des Moines: Join Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement on Tuesday, Jan. 9 at the State Capitol for CCI's Rally and Lobby Day and help Reclaim Democracy! Be there to tell legislators and other state leaders that we want action on local control, clean air and water, Voter-Owned Clean Elections and home owner protections. For more info, go here.


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.


Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement: ICCI has helped ordinary Iowans get to work on a variety of social, economic and environmental justice issues they care deeply about. Whether the issue is factory farms, housing or improving neighborhoods, ICCI is there organizing people to make a difference. Find out what you can do for Iowa here. For a calendar of events, go here. This organization is all about COMMUNITY.


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.


WISCONSIN FAIR TRADE COALITION: The Wisconsin Fair Trade Coalition is a statewide collaboration of labor, environmental, consumer, family farm and interfaith groups founded in 1994 during the fight over the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). They are united in a common belief that international trade and investment are not ends unto themselves, but instead must be viewed as a means for achieving other societal goals including economic justice, human rights, healthy communities and a sound environment. The economy exists to help people, not the other way around.

WFTC is the leading state advocacy vehicle to fight for trade policy that is not tilted in favor of multinational corporations and against the interests of Wisconsin ’s -- and the world's -- working people. If you want to join the coalition, sign up for the newsletter or find out more, contact them at 608.237.1659; Fax 608.442.1439;
Postal Address: 3129 Hermina Street , Madison WI 53714.


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, 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. This is exactly the kind of organization we need in Indiana to deliver a populist progressive message right to the voters.


Evolution Education Institute (EEI) is a national professional development program that had it's origins in the Michigan Scientific Evolution Education Initiative (MSEEI). The MSEEI was administered by the Michigan Science Teacher's Association and was funded by an Eisenhower Higher Education Competitive Grant through the Michigan Department of Education (MDOE) from 1999-2002. The mission of the MSEEI was to provide Michigan teachers and pre-service teacher education students with the necessary content, pedagogy and support system to effectively teach scientific evolution. The Evolution Education Institute expands upon the MSEEI model and brings it to a national audience. he mission of the Evolution Education Institute (EEI) is to promote the understanding of evolution and natural selection theory within the educational community and society at-large and to advocate for its inclusion in science curricula in a manner commensurate with its importance to modern scientific thought. This issue is particularly important to me (I'm a biologist myself!). So please, help out EEI.


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). I should note that means Indiana has more than some much larger states like Virginia. Makes Indiana sound like fun! 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


MICHIGAN GROUPS:

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


Michigan Young Democrats: The next generation of Democrats in Michigan. For information on how to get involved at the local level, please contact Jody Weissler at jweissler@mi-democrats or (517) 371-5410. To get involved with the MYD Executive Board, please contact our President Isaac Robinson at williamisaacrobinson@yahoo.com.


Drinking Liberally in Michigan: Promoting democracy one pint at a time! Drinking liberally is a social organization with chapters nationwide. There are three Michigan 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 Michigan groups:

Ann Arbor, Michigan
* First and third Thursday of each month 8pm
* Leopold Bros., 523 S Main St
* Hosted by John Redmond and Jenay Karlson, annarbor (at) drinkingliberally.org

Detroit, Michigan
* Every Tuesday, 7:00 pm onward
* Honest? John's, 488 Selden St (at 2nd (lighted, secure parking))
* Hosted by Pete Coseo, detroit (at) drinkingliberally.org

Oakland County, Michigan
* Every other Thursday 7:00 pm onward
* Bo's Brewery & Bistro, 51 N Saginaw St, Pontiac (Corner of Huron and Saginaw inside the Woodward Loop)
* We need co-hosts in Oakland County south, east and west for our Road Trips, please contact me for details.
* Hosted by Ron Wasczenski, oaklandcounty (at) drinkingliberally.org


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: VIRGINIA FOCUS: Democratic Party of Virginia Training Conference

2007 Democratic Party of Virginia Training Conference

Starts: 1/12/2007 7:00 pm
Ends: 1/13/2007 5:00 pm
Contact: Levar Stoney
Location: Holiday Inn – Central
3207 North Boulevard
Richmond, VA 23230
Phone: 804.644.1966 x225

The Democratic Party of Virginia Training Conference will be held on January 12 – 13, 2007 at the Holiday Inn – Central in Richmond. The training will begin with a social welcome at 7:00 PM on the evening of January 12th, while seminars will take place all day Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The training will feature two tracks, one for local Democratic committee leadership teams (local party officers) and one for potential 2007 candidates.

We encourage all local party leadership teams to attend this event. In addition, we highly recommend and encourage any potential candidates to attend this event. There is no cost to attend. To RSVP for the conference please email Training@vademocrats.org to request a registration form. This form must be completed to attend.

Lodging:

The Holiday Inn – Central is conveniently located off I-95 & I-64 in the heart of our State Capitol. A block of rooms have been reserved at the Holiday Inn – Central for participants who will be staying overnight in Richmond for the evening of Friday, January 12th. The block of rooms will be held until Wednesday, January 3rd. Please go ahead and make your reservation by phone ASAP.

Hotel Rate: $79/night
Holiday Inn – Central
To make reservations, please call (804) 359-9441.

**Mention that you are with the Democratic Party of Virginia when reserving your room.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 103: VIRGINIA/DC AREA GROUPS AND EVENTS

2007 Jefferson-Jackson Dinner: Special speaker U.S. Senator Barack Obama, Saturday, February 17th, 2007, 6:00 p.m. Greater Richmond Convention Center. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on January 17, 2007. Visit the Virginia Democratic Party website for updates.

Democracy for America: One of the best ways to get active! If you only do one thing that is political, join your local DFA group! FIND YOUR LOCAL DFA MEETUP AND GET INVOLVED! The statewide site seems to not be active, but it has MANY great links on the right hand side, including links to some local Virginia DFA groups. And for Washington, DC, your local DFA group can be found here.


Virginia Organizing Project:
The Virginia Organizing Project (VOP) is a statewide grassroots organization dedicated to challenging injustice by empowering people in local communities to address issues that affect the quality of their lives. VOP especially encourages the participation of those who have traditionally had little or no voice in our society. By building relationships with individuals and groups throughout the state, VOP strives to get them to work together, democratically and non-violently, for change. Here's a calendar of events.


Virginia Young Democrats: The next generation of Democrats in Virginia! Their stated goals are:

# To support and elect Democratic candidates for public office
# To widen and increase the interest and knowledge of young people in government and the political process
# To train and develop young people for positions of leadership
# To increase the role of under-represented people in our Party, government, and society
# To serve those in need in our community

Join in or, if you are no longer young enough to be a "Young Democrat," give them a little support.


The Democratic Party: Here are links to some of your local Dem clubs. This is another very important way to be active. You can also find a calendar of events for Democratic Party activities in Virginia here.

Washington DC Democratic Party

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
* Every Tuesday, 8:30 pm onward
* Biltmore Grill, 16 Elliewood Ave
* Hosted by Michael Snook, Justin Villegas, TJ Bateman and Bridget Moriarty, charlottesville (at) drinkingliberally.org

Norfolk, Virginia
* Third Thursday of each month 5:00-7:00 pm
* The New Belmont, 2117 Colonial Ave (upstairs at the bar)
* Hosted by Megan Feeley and Steve Earnhart, norfolk (at) drinkingliberally.org

Virginia Beach, Virginia
* Second Tuesday of each month 6:00 pm onward
* Jewish Mother, 3108 Pacific Ave
* Hosted by Chris Jaramillo and Eileen Levandoski, vabeach (at) drinkingliberally.org

And two Washington, DC groups:

Capitol Hill
* Every Wednesday, 7:00-9:00 pm
* The 18th Amendment, 613 Pennsylvania Ave SE (~2 Blocks NW of Eastern Market Metro Stop)
* Hosted by Micha Rieser, dcwed (at) drinkingliberally.org


Dupont Circle
* Every Thursday, 6:30-8:30 pm
* Timberlake's, 1726 Connecticut Ave NW
* Metro: Dupont Circle (red line)
* Hosted by Kim Davis and Keith Ivey, dcthu (at) drinkingliberally.org


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