Progressive Democrat Issue 104: THOUGHTS

What a week! Within the first few days of taking control of Congress, House Democrats passed a minimum wage increase, adopted the recommendations of the 9/11 commission, and voted to support life-saving stem cell research.

Not bad for one short week! And I must say about time! The Republicans did NOTHING for all this time, and the Democrats get busy right away. And I DARE Bush to start vetoing! I think Americans will finally see him for the fool he is if he vetos more money for working Americans, support for keeping Americans more secure, and life saving scientific research.

I think we can say we are getting our return on the help we gave last year's House races. But these things still need to pass the Senate. It is always worth writing Congress and the media telling them what you think of these sweeping changes.

Even when it comes to Iraq there are hopeful signs despite Bush's plan to dig himself deeper into the quagmire. This last week I received statements from Howard Dean, John Edwards, Tom Vilsack and Russ Feingold all urging opposition to Bush's "surge" and advocating withholding money from any such surge. That is a dangerous political game, but I like the backbone Dems have finally formed. I have said before that I think Dems should start by demanding conditions on any more money: restoration of Veteran's benefits, a raise in combat pay, restoration of oversight of where the money is going in Iraq (watch out Halliburton!) and a clearly defined exit strategy.

Last weekend Joy and I went to a party held by a local Democratic club. Boy was it refershing. But to me the people who were most interesting to listen to were Congress members Nydia Velasquez and Anthony Weiner.

Weiner gave a brief speech, which almost sounded like a campaign speech, mentioning the need to remember our soldiers. But here's the key point he made: he mentioned the goal of having the troops by this time next year. Weiner gave, in my mind, a solid indication that Democrats aim to get us OUT OF IRAQ. It could have been mere rhetoric, but that wasn't how it felt. It felt like he KNEW the message he was giving and was essentially giving us local bulwarks of the party a taste of what House Democrats have in mind. Or so I hope.

But the best part of last night was talking to Nydia Velasquez, who now is the first woman in history to lead the Small Business committee in the House. Jacob (my 2 year old) had fun flirting with her. I got a great chance to talk to her and hear her take on what's coming up in Congress. Nydia was chomping at the bit to get going with this legislative season. She indicated that Democrats will give the public their money's worth, not like the Republicans who last year only had Congress in session about 72 days out of the whole year. Nydia told us it's going to be hard working hours. It seems like our Democratic Representatives are taking their cue from Bill Clinton, known as the hardest working of our modern Presidents, while Republicans took after George Bush, known as the President who has spent the most time on vacation, even during moments of crisis.

Nydia plans on bringing back the Small Business committee from the neglect of the Republicans. She also indicates that Pelosi is going to be extremely tough on the Republicans...as well as on Democrats who have their own agenda. She is uniting House Democrats into a solid front against the Republican mismanagement of America.

The best quote of the evening was Nydia's: "The Republicans AND the Democrats learned an important lesson [in 2006]: There is no such thing as absolute power." The PEOPLE have restored checks and balances to the government.

Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

JUMPSTARTING THE MIDWEST: start now folks! Invest time and money early and often for the 2008 elections.

THE 10 HOT HOUSE RACES IN 2008: We have a pretty good idea where we need to focus for the House in 2008. Let's get started now.

GOOD LUCK Mr. GATES (humor)

INDIANA FOCUS: a very important international labor action!

IOWA FOCUS: looking for a job?

MIDWEST PROGRESSIVE GROUPS

ELECTION INTEGRITY IN NY STATE

NYC GROUPS AND EVENTS

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Fighting hate radio

CALIFORNIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

VIRGINIA FOCUS: Celebrate MLK Day with the Virginia Young Democrats

VIRGINIA/DC AREA GROUPS AND EVENTS

NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

Want more? See what's going on at Culture Kitchen.

Progressive Democrat Issue 104: JUMPSTARTING THE MIDWEST

I am repeating this one because I think we really need to get a start and I think the Midwest may be one of our main must-win zones for Congress AND the Presidency.

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 104: LOOKING TO 2008: The Top 10 Most Vulnerable Freshmen

For those who like to look at elections strategically and well in advance, Daily Kos had an article a ways back discussing the ten House races with freshmen likely to be vulnerable in 2008. These are the most likely battlefields of 2008 and we need to be thinking IN ADVANCE about defending those that are Democratic held and taking those that are Republican held.

Here they are: (from the dKos article)

* Jerry McNerney (CA-11) - Pombo has yet to rule out running again. (It that respect, it will be interesting to see what the FEC says about his fundraising efforts in the January.) report.
* Vern Buchanan (FL-13) - Cizilla’s opinion is that Jennings is hurting the Dems chance to take it later by continuing to fight the result.
* Tim Mahoney (FL-16) - It was close, and the 2008 Republican will certainly have better circumstances than sleazeball Mark Foley’s last-minute replacement, Joe Negron.
* Jim Marshall (GA-8) - (Not even a Freshman, since he was first elected in 2002. Cillizza justified its inclusion because of Georgia’s mid-decade re-redistricting.)
* Kirsten Gillibrand (NY-20) - She’ll have a harder time against a fresh fighting recruit, especially given the large registration advantage in the district.
* Robin Hayes (NC-08) - Larry Kissell has already announced a rematch for 2008. Hayes only won by 329 votes this time.
* Jean Schmidt (OH-02) - Paul Hackett hasn’t ruled out running again, and has a decent shot at taking it. Victoria Wulsin might run again.
* Zack Space (OH-18) will have a harder time of it with a scandal free Republican opponent. (Though the Ohio Republican party probably won’t be purged of all its rancid decay even by 2008.)
* Chris Carney (PA-10) will have the same problem as Space in OH-18.
* Nick Lampson (TX-22) - Same as Space & Carney. (But perhaps less so. He’s served in the House before.) The Republican primary field is likely to be big, and rough.

I should note that FL-13 was probably won by Jennings, but is the clearest case to date of Republicans using eVote machines to steal an election. Of these, CA-11 and NY-20 will be ones we should be proud to defend because I have hopes for McNerney and Gillibrand in particular. FL-13 and NC-8 really should have been won this time around and we can win next time if we put our hearts in it. OH-2 will be harder. Note that FL and OH each have 2 target seats and so, in addition to being top Presidential battle grounds, will likely be top House battlegrounds.

We can wait for the Republicans to take the initiative in these races or we can take the initiative ourselves. Donate if you can through the above links or, if you live in those districts, please get active as soon as you can to keep the Democratic grassroots alive, well and active. The right wing fanatics in charge of the Republican party today got where they were by looking decades ahead. I am asking you to look a mere 2 years ahead.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 104: Good Luck Gates (humor)

This is from American Progress:




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Progressive Democrat Issue 104: INDIANA FOCUS

This comes from the forums on Indiana Progressive:

I work for the International Labor Rights Fund (ILRF) and we are working with a coalition of groups in Liberia and the US (including the NAACP, the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition, Friends of the Earth, the Institute for Policy Studies, TransAfrica Forum and others) to call attention to the Firestone company’s irresponsible behavior on its rubber plantation in Liberia. Firestone has very high rubber production quotas which force workers to bring children to work and the pay is very low. They also provide little safety equipment for workers and the houses for workers are extremely substandard shacks without working toilets. Schools in the area are in very bad condition and are often too far for young people to access. Additionally, the company dumps toxic chemicals used in production into a local river used by workers and their families for bathing and fishing. For more information, you can look at our website at www.stopfirestone.org or feel free to contact me. I am also including links to several articles, including a letter to the editor I had published in the Indianapolis Star, at the bottom of this e-mail. Here is a link to a radio interview I did yesterday with Roxanne Lawson from Friends of the Earth.

In order to encourage Firestone to change their policies in Liberia, the members of the Stop Firestone Coalition are calling for a Day of Action on January 24. We are hoping to have small events at Firestone locations around the world to call attention to the company’s abuses. I am currently finalizing a packet of information and resources which will cover all the materials needed to hold an action. Would anyone be interested in working to plan an event in Indianapolis? I would be happy to come meet with you in person in the beginning of January if that would be helpful. If you are interested and/or you know other groups or individuals in Indianapolis who would be interested in participating please contact me.

Timothy Newman
Campaigns Assistant
International Labor Rights Fund
2001 S St., NW Ste 420
Washington, DC 20009
202/347-4100

Check out the News and Press section of the ILRF website here.

I should note that anyone who has read the book King Leopold's Ghost will find this chilling. A major genocide was committed in Africa first in the name of ivory profits, but ultimately in the name of rubber. You can read a bit about this in a wider context here. But we really have to stop this kind of economic terrorism.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 104: IOWA FOCUS

Want to get involved? There are plenty of opportunities for you to work for bettering Iowa. Here are some opportunities.

This comes from Iowa State Representative Elesha Gayman:

Governor Elect Culver Calling for Commission and
Board Member

Governor-Elect Culver is asking for applications for statewide boards & commissions. There are approximately 350 appointments to be made in the upcoming year. Click on this link to browse the complete list of Iowa boards & commissions http://www.iowai.net/iowa/governor/boards/

I encourage everyone who has an interest in serving to take advantage of this window of opportunity to get your application in early. In addition, it is best if you cast your net wide - as many boards are competitive and constrained by demographic requirements (party, gender & geography). You may not get your first choice, but don't rule out any area of interest.

Go to the following website: http://www.govelect.iowa.gov/administration/boards/ download the application and mail it in. In the "interest in appointment" section, you may use me as a reference for applying by simply stating - "Applying
at the request of Representative Elesha Gayman."

And this comes from the Iowa Democratic Party for anyone looking for a job in politics in Iowa:

The Iowa Democratic Party is accepting applications for the position of Communications Director. The Communications Director’s job description should include the following staff functions:

* Overseeing and managing IDP communications office and staff
* Managing press strategy for the First in the Nation Iowa Precinct Caucus
* Editing and overseeing all IDP press related communications
* Provide briefing and staffing resources to Chair and Executive Director
* Overseeing IDP research programs
* Overseeing IDP Web site
* Producing, managing and implementing all press related aspects of strategic planning
* Coordinating press conferences and media events
* Participate in strategic planning as assigned

Application Requirements

* Extensive campaign, state party or political experience
* Exceptional written and verbal communications skills
* Experience in managing large press events
* Extensive travel across the state is required and some out-of-state travel may be necessary
* U.S. citizenship desirable
* Active voting status desirable

The Iowa Democratic Party provides a competitive salary and benefits package including health care, dental, vacation, sick leave.

For more information or to apply contact the Iowa Democratic Party at (515)244-7292 and ask for Mike Milligan, Executive Director. You may also email your resume to mmilligan@iowademocrats.org. Resumes must be received by COB Wednesday, January 24, 2007.

Field Organizer

The Iowa Democratic Party is accepting applications for the position of Field Organizer. The Field Organizer’s job description should include the following staff functions:

* Working with the Political and Field Director to develop and implement Field, Voter Contact, Outreach and Training programs
* Assisting the Political and Field Director with the planning and execution of the 2008 Caucus
* Coordinating Field, Voter Contact, Outreach, and Training activities with legislative caucuses, candidates and political committees
* Traveling throughout the state to meet with local party leaders and elected officials and attend local Central Committee Meetings
* Assist in development and implementation of strategic plans
* Represent the Iowa Democratic Party at community events and local Democratic meetings and trainings

Application Requirements

* Previous organizing experience with a campaign, state party, membership organization, or non-profit is desirable
* Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills required
* Computer skills required
* Extensive travel across the State of Iowa is required
* U.S. citizenship desirable
* Active voting status desirable

The Iowa Democratic Party provides a competitive salary and benefits package including health care, dental, vacation, sick leave.

For more information or to apply contact the Iowa Democratic Party at (515)244-7292 and ask for Norm Sterzenbach, Political Director. You may also email your resume to nsterzenbach@iowademocrats.org. Resumes must be received by COB Wednesday, January 24, 2007.

Caucus to Convention Director

The Iowa Democratic Party is accepting applications for the position of Caucus to Convention Director. The Caucus to Convention Director’s job description should include the following staff functions:

* Overseeing the planning and execution of the 2008 Iowa Democratic Party County, District and State Conventions, as well as planning of the IDP’s attendance at the Democratic National Convention
* Assisting the Political Director with the planning and execution of the 2008 Caucus.
* Serving as the primary point of contact for County Parties
* Serving as the primary point of contact for State Central Committee Members.
* Serving as the Executive Assistant to the State Chair.

Application Requirements

* Previous campaign, state party, or non-profit experience
* Strong written and verbal communications skills
* Strong analytical skills
* Experience working with web-based voter files
* Extensive travel across the state is required and some out-of-state travel may be necessary
* U.S. citizenship desirable
* Active voting status desirable

The Iowa Democratic Party provides a competitive salary and benefits package including health care, dental, vacation, sick leave.

For more information or to apply contact the Iowa Democratic Party at (515) 244-7292 and ask for Norm Sterzenbach, Political Director. You may also email your resume to nsterzenbach@iowademocrats.org. Resumes must be received by COB Wednesday, January 24, 2007.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 104: 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:


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 104: NY STATE and NYC FOCUS ON ELECTION INTEGRITY

The first part of this action alert is for all of NY State, the second part for NYC in particular.

New Yorkers for Verified Voting and the New York State League of Women Voters are conducting a campaign calling for election commissioners to provide a detailed accounting of their reasons for choosing a voting system to the citizens of the county prior to acquisition of the system. We need this kind of accountability to help protect the integrity of our vote and to make it clear that the Board of Elections is being watched by the public. There are four steps in this campaign and you can find out how you can help by going to this website.

And for NYC, the following is continued from last week because of its critical importance.

We continue to fight the good fight here in NYC 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.

There is still one upcoming events in NYC where you can testify to the Board of Elections about DRE machines:

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!

You can also write the media to try and keep the issue in public discussion.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 104: 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.

GENERAL INTEREST:

Judgment Days: Lyndon Baines Johnson, Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Laws That Changed America
Wednesday, January 17, 7 P.M.
Museum of Jewish Heritage
36 Battery Place • Battery Park City • New York, NY 10280

With author Nick Kotz; moderated by Sam Freedman, Columbia University School of Journalism

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nick Kotz draws on a wealth of newly available sources – from President Johnson’s telephone conversations to FBI wiretap logs – to provide the first definitive account of the relationship between these two great leaders.

Celebrate the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. Opposites in almost every way, suspicious of each other at first, President Johnson and Dr. King were thrust together in the aftermath of John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Both men sensed an opportunity and began a delicate dance of accommodation that moved them and the entire nation toward the historic Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

$5 all tickets, free for members


Evolution, Health and Disease: 20th Annual International Symposium
Center for Study of Gene Structure & Function
Hunter College, City University of New York

Friday, January 19th, 2007
Room 714 Hunter West Building,
68th Street & Lexington Avenue, New York City

Morning Session 9:00am*

Paul Ewald
University of Kansas
"Gene/Environment Interaction and the Causes of Atherosclerosis."

Christina Gutierrez
Pasteur Institute, France
“Parallel Origin and Diversity of TB Agents and Humans”

Steve Mack
Roche
“Using the Human Major Histocompatibility Complex to
Study Disease, Natural Selection and Human Evolution”

Holly Wichman
University of Idaho
“Experimental Evolution in a Virus Model System”

Afternoon Session 1:00pm*

Stephen Bezruchka
University of Washington
“Targeting Childhood Development to Make the Nation Healthy Again.”

Arata Kochi
Director, World Health Organization’s Global Malaria Program (WHO/GMP)
“Malaria control: why it has failed and how to fix it?
Public health approaches and international politics”

Stuart Levy
Tufts University
“The Ecology of Antibiotic Resistance”

Randolph Nesse
University of Michigan
"Darwinian Medicine: Why has Natural Selection Left Us So Vulnerable to Disease?"

Paul Sherman
Cornell University
“Allergies and Cancers: Are the Complex Relationships Comprehensible?”

*Names are in alphabetical order

This event is free and open to the public.
Hunter College, Room 714 Hunter West Building, 68th Street & Lexington Avenue, New York City

BROOKLYN GROUPS AND EVENTS:


Documentary Screening: Brooklyn Matters, A Film by Isabel Hill:
January 25th. 6-8pm
Pratt Institute Higgins Hall, 61 St. James Pl at Lafayette Ave. Brooklyn

and

February 8 (time to be announced)
Fifth Avenue Committee
621 Degraw Street

Focusing on the planned Atlantic Yards development in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, this spirited documentary film reviews how the project gained approval, its potential impact on Brooklyn, and the politics surrounding one of the largest development proposals in the city’s history. The documentary — featuring candid interviews, strong opinions and lively characters — is an insightful and sometimes startling view of how land-use decisions are made.


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.


Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.


MANHATTAN GROUPS AND EVENTS:


Documentary Screening: Brooklyn Matters, A Film by Isabel Hill Thursday, January 18, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., Municipal Arts Society, 457 Madison Ave, Manhattan

Focusing on the planned Atlantic Yards development in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn, this spirited documentary film reviews how the project gained approval, its potential impact on Brooklyn, and the politics surrounding one of the largest development proposals in the city’s history. The documentary — featuring candid interviews, strong opinions and lively characters — is an insightful and sometimes startling view of how land-use decisions are made. A discussion will follow.

Seating is limited and reservations are recommended. RSVP to rsvp@mas.org or 212-935-2075.


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.


Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.


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.


Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.


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.

Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.


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.


Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.

Progressive Democrat Issue 104: CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Fighting Hate Radio

Melanie Morgan is yet another one of these hate-mongering right wing nut cases like Ann Coulter and Bill O'Reilly. All of these people advocate hatred, violence and terrorism, yet are considered legitimate talk radio. This comes from the San Francisco for Democracy website:

This is considered acceptable on public airwaves these days?

"The day will come when unpleasant things are going to happen to a bunch of stupid liberals." Melanie Morgan, referring to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, claims to have "a bull's-eye painted on her big wide laughing eyes." Morgan also suggests that Rachel Carson, author of Silent Spring, should be dug up so that she could be killed again. Brian Sussman agrees with a caller that all mosques in Syria should be blown up by cruise missiles when they are most likely to be full of praying Muslims. Sussman also demands that a caller prove he’s not a Muslim by saying "Allah is a wh*re."

No, this is despicable, violence-inciting hate speech -- broadcast right here in San Francisco by KSFO. And we can do something about it. Advertisers, many of them local, support this station, and they're probably not aware of what's being said right before and after their advertisements. Why don't we let them know?

Let's all get in touch with Denny's. Or Match.com. Or the Jewelry Exchange. Or Best Buy. (More advertisers listed here.) Ask them:

"Are you aware that your ads are being aired on KSFO in San Francisco right before and after violent hate speech by Brian Sussman, Melanie Morgan and other KSFO radio personalities? And if so, does this mean you agree with their racist and violence-inciting viewpoints?"

I for one am sick of right wing nuts advocating intolerance and terrorism on public airwaves. Having recently watched Hotel Rwanda, I am reminded that sometimes people actually act out what these idiots advocate. Don't forget the Delaware Pogrom.

Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.

Progressive Democrat Issue 104: CALIFORNIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

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.


Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.

Progressive Democrat Issue 104: VIRGINIA FOCUS: MLK Day with Virginia Young Democrats

This comes from the Virginia Young Democrats:

The Virginia Young Democrats will be holding their Annual MLK Lobby Day on Monday, January 15th, 2007 in Richmond, Virginia.

Come see other Young Democrats from across Virginia as we lobby our elected officials on issues important to young people in Virginia. We will have issues, talking points and papers ready for you. Issues range from Del. Purkey's bill to garnish your wages if you don't have health care to Del. Marshall's restrictive choice bills.

So RSVP Today and join us on Monday!

Who: Virginia Young Democrats
What: Annual MLK Lobby Day
When: Monday, January, 15th, 2007 - 8:30 am to 12:30 pm
Where: Richmond, VA
Why: Because it is important that our elected officials hear from us!
Attire: Business

Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.

Progressive Democrat Issue 104: 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


Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.

Progressive Democrat Issue 104: NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

First let me highlight a few local events:

January 16, 2007
Wanaque Democratic Club Meeting
American Legion Hall, 1109 Ringwood Avenue
Haskell, NJ 07420
Please join us at our next regular meeting.
You will be able to meet your local democratic leaders and discuss Borough Issues that are important to you.
For more information please contact David DaSilva at 973-445-9071.

January 19, 2007
Burlington County Dems Reception
Wyndham Hotel, 1111 Route 73 North
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
Honoring Newly Elected Burlington County Democratic Officeholders.

February 09, 2007
43rd Annual Dinner Dance
Waterview Pavilion Route 35 South
Belmar, NJ 07719
Come Dance the night away with the Monmouth County Democrats! Also with a Wonderful Gift Auction. Win something special for your Valentine!
Contact MCD headquarters for more details
732-922-2700

Now let me give you some ideas how to find some local groups to be involved with:

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


Click here to go back to THOUGHTS section and Table of Contents for this issue.