Progressive Democrat Issue 106: THOUGHTS

I continue to feel good about the Democratic Congress. So far they have been keeping their promises and THAT is a good thing. I already discussed the House Democrats, aided by a handful of moderate Republicans, who passed a minimum wage increase, voted to roll back oil company subsidies, voted to reduce the interest on student loans, and voted to implement the 9/11 Commission Recommendations. But I have been wondering how our Senators would do.

Now we are getting our first glimpse. The latest great thing done by the new Democratic majority is to sharply snub Bush's insane "surge" idea for digging us deeper into the Iraq quagmire. And, yet again, the Democrats have managed to do it with some bipartisan support showing that the Democratic majority has allowed more moderate Republicans to finally assert their independence from the far right wing branch of their party.

From Citizens for Legitimate Government: (complete with their editorializing)

Senate Panel Votes Against Bush on Iraq 24 Jan 2007 The Democratic-controlled Senate Foreign Relations Committee dismissed President [sic] Bush's plans to increase troops strength in Iraq on Wednesday as "not in the national interest," an unusual wartime repudiation of the commander-in-chief [thief].

'There is no strategy.' Senators start rebuke of Iraq strategy 24 Jan 2007 Democrats took the first step toward a wartime repudiation of President [sic] George W. Bush today, convening a Senate committee to endorse legislation declaring that the deployment of additional troops to Iraq is "not in the national interest." Sen. Chuck Hagel, of Nebraska, is the only Republican on the committee to announce support for the measure. "There is no strategy," said Hagel of the Bush regime’s war management. "This is a Ping-Pong game with American lives... And we better be damn sure we know what we’re doing, all of us, before we put 22,000 more Americans into that grinder."

Senate panel debates rejection of troop increase 24 Jan 2007 Brushing aside President [sic] George W. Bush's plea to give his new war strategy a chance, Republicans and Democrats in the U.S. Senate moved ahead on Wednesday with a resolution opposing his plan to send more troops to Iraq.

Minimum wage increase (now being blocked by Senate Republicans despite it being supported by some House Republicans), scaling back oil company subsidies, implementing the recommendations of the independent, bipartisan 9/11 Commission, promoting stem cell research, cutting interest rates for college loans...shit, I am pretty damned happy with the Congressional Democrats now that they are being given a chance to do something. It will be tougher in the Senate because we have not only a tighter split between the parties, but also the Lieberman effect, which may work to our advantage for some issues, but not for issues related to the war. But if nothing else we are showing that Democrats do support working Americans while Republicans, at least in the Senate and White House, are opposing help for working Americans. So much for "compassionate" conservativism.

Next we get a pretty bold statement from Harry Reid. Here is the statement Senator Harry Reid has made regarding Bush's insane "surge" plan:

In his State of the Union address, George Bush once again said that he intends to escalate our involvement in Iraq's civil war by sending 21,500 more troops to the region.

Congress will vote soon on the president's plan, but my position is clear: No Escalation -- No Way...

On Election Day, America spoke with one voice about its desire to end the war in Iraq. I know that's one of the primary messages you were sending when you worked so hard to get Jon Tester elected to the Senate in Montana.

In the weeks and months since the election, I and other members of Congress from both parties have urged President Bush to heed the will of our nation and propose real change. Regrettably, the president has chosen to ignore the will of the American people. Concern about the president's escalation strategy is non-partisan. It is opposed by Democrats, it is opposed by Republicans, it is opposed by top military leaders, and it is opposed by an overwhelming majority of the American people.

Adding additional troops has already been tried and it has already failed. In fact, it seems as though every year president Bush announces a major strategic shift that is nothing more than a repetition of the same failed tactics all over again, shrouded in new packaging for the media. America doesn't need another White House P.R. campaign -- we need a real change of course in Iraq.

Democrats, Republicans and the bipartisan Iraq Study Group have all offered President Bush a roadmap to turn Iraq over to the Iraqis, begin the phased redeployment of American troops and end our open-ended commitment.

While the president continues to ignore the will of the country, Congress will not ignore this president's failed policy. Congress will soon hold an up or down vote on the president's plan, but my position is clear: No Escalation -- No Way...

Congress will do nothing to jeopardize the safety of our troops, but we will exercise our Constitutional authority to hold the president accountable for a change of course that turns Iraq over to the Iraqis and allows for our troops to begin coming home. The time for more troops in Iraq has passed.

They and their families have served our nation courageously and sacrificed enough.

Hold him to it. Remember this statement and remind him of it anytime the subject of the surge comes up. But most importantly, write the media and express your support of Reid's stand against the "surge."

Now, this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

RECOVERING FROM KATRINA

2008 PRESIDENTIAL RACE: Some thoughts

THE BUSH VIEW (humor)

FLORIDA FOCUS: A Message from CFO Alex Sink

OHIO FOCUS: Election Fraud Convictions

NY STATE FOCUS: Two Special Elections, Two More Chances to Win

NYC GROUPS AND EVENTS

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Looking Forward to Darwin Day

CALIFORNIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

VIRGINIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

NEW JERSEY FOCUS: Democrats 2000

NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

IOWA FOCUS: Minimum Wage Increase

MIDWEST GROUPS AND EVENTS

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: RECOVERING FROM KATRINA

Many months after Katrina hit America's Gulf Coast, exposing the racist incompetence of the Bush Administration as they left thousands of poor, black American citizens to die, I talked to a former co-worker of mine from Mississippi whose parents lost a great deal in Katrina. She talked of her mother's post-traumatic syndrome and the way inadequate insurance payments were made and inadequate help came from the government and many people simply couldn't afford recovery and so had to sell cheap to real estate developers who were aiming to build luxury hotels. Her story, which I cannot do justice, was a pretty damned good summary of much of what is wrong with America under Bush and the extreme right wing branch of the Republican Party...the one that promised to reduce government until it could be drowned in a bathtub. Seemingly they didn't care that thousands of Americans would drown in the process.

Even as Katrina refugees are being faced with eviction from their trailers by a government that STILL doesn't give a shit about them, one tiny hopeful milestone has been reached...and we can help expand that tiny glimmer of hope. From Habitat for Humanity:

Habitat for Humanity reaches a milestone in the hurricane-recovery effort with the construction of its 500th hurricane-recovery home along the Gulf Coast.

Just months ago, Habitat for Humanity and the Operation Home Delivery program marked the anniversaries of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, a commemoration that acknowledged the historic storms’ destruction and looked ahead with hope to continued progress along the Gulf Coast. Now, Habitat has reached a significant construction milestone in that recovery effort: This week, the walls were raised on Habitat’s 500th hurricane-recovery home, just outside Mobile, Ala.

Hard-hit Mobile County serves as a fitting location for such a celebration of the rebuilding effort, says Mobile County Habitat for Humanity executive director Brenda Carson-Lawless. “Since the storm,” she explains, “we’ve more than tripled our construction capacity. We’re on track to build 60 homes this year and 60 in 2007.”

Many Gulf-area affiliates have seen this kind of exponential growth in the last year, thanks to overwhelming financial and volunteer support. By mid-summer 2007, Habitat plans to have built 1,000 houses all along the Gulf Coast. To emphasize that point, nine additional homes were started this week in other coastal communities.

Operation Home Delivery continues to move forward. “The job’s not done yet,” says Veronica Taylor, OHD senior director. “In many ways, it’s just beginning. ...There is a new sense of energy as we embark on building the next 500 homes.”

Habitat for Humanity is doing its best to make up for the complete lack of compassion shown by Bush-style conservatives. Please help them. That's about all I can say: please help.

I always look beyond the immediate problem to long term issues. So I will also add that global warming and loss of wetlands make our coastlines even more vulnerable. America is destroying our wetlands and that is just plain stupid. Wetlands provide a buffer between storm surges and populated areas. Help preserve American wetlands. Donations to Habitat for Humanity help the recovery from past storms. Donating to Ducks Unlimited helps limit the damage from future storms which we KNOW will happen.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: 2008 PRESIDENTIAL RACE

Once again, I want to emphasize that I don't want to spend too much time on discussing the Presidential hopefuls. But sometimes you just can't escape thinking about it. I am going to quote Markos of Daily Kos, giving his analysis. Why? Because I like the fact that he is saying good and bad about each of the main candidates and sums up by saying he's support any of them. I may not agree with every detail of what he wrote, but I like the gist. So, here is Markos on 2008: (with my notes added)

Bill Richardson

I'm eager for a serious Latino candidate. It's time my people rose to the top of the political heap. He's bilingual. I dig his resume. Rather than talk about Darfur, he got his ass over there and brokered a cease fire, and that's on top of high-profile diplomatic missions all over the world, including places like North Korea. His resume is the strongest of any of the candidates. He had a strong reign at the top of the Democratic Governor's Association last year.

Then again, Democrats lost New Mexico in 2004 under his watch (after winning it in 2000), and they lost the state's marquee House race in 2006. A lack of coattails is a serious demerit in my book. Richardson could stand to lose some weight. Appearances matter. And his private life is the subject of -- how should I delicately put it? -- Clintonian rumors.

[I should note that Democratic Presidents generally have sex surrounding them: from FDR's mistress through the exploits of Kennedy and LBJ to Carter's Playboy interview and Clinton's affairs, the Democrats who win seem to be the ones that fool around. And more recently it has been the boyish attractiveness that seems to win. So we shouldn't discount the sexiness (literally!) of our candidates if we want to win.

I feel Richardson would be a good addition as either President or VP because he would bring the West more into play and, now that the Republicans have completely ruined their chances with the Latino vote thanks to their xenophobia, it really is time for Democrats to give Latinos a reason to vote Dem. Richardson could attract a lot of voters who might sit it out otherwise. Also, it almost seems a requirement that a candidate is a Governor to win...]

John Edwards

The sharpest voice in the race, he also has the best developed philosophical narrative for his run (the Two Americas). He is also shaping up as the most aggressive voice this cycle, not just targeting Republicans (the "McCain Doctrine"), but also in targeting meek Democrats who act as if there's little they could do to put the brakes on Bush's escalation. He proved in 2004 that he could run a smart race. He's already won a statewide campaign in a tough red state. He's good looking.

Then again, that "experience" thing hovers over him. I wonder if he'd been better served running for governor (NC has an open seat in 2008), setting himself up for that presidential bid with a bit more heft in his resume. I also like my politicians a little on the raw side (e.g. Dean, Tester, and Webb), and Edwards is very polished. Edwards also fails the "coattails" test. His Senate seat was taken by a Republican. And the Kerry/Edwards ticket failed to carry North Carolina (or any southern state, for that matter).

[Right now I am hearing the most enthusiasm for Edwards. He's got the boyish sexiness that wins for Democrats (Republicans can be old prunes, Democrats can't). And his message resonates well with a wide range of Americans who are feeling very uncertain in the Bush economy. If Edwards can tap into the blue collar vote, the voters that I wrote about Hank Sheinkopf saying we most need in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Missouri and Michigan, then he may be our best hope. Add Richardson to that ticket, and you may be appealing exactly to those voters Sheinkopf thinks we most need (he narrows it down to 500,000 white, blue collar, male Catholics)...though ironically he backs Hillary Clinton who I don't think reaches those voters. A ticket that can reach those 500,000 Sheinkof-targeted voters AND that can reach Latino voters is worth considering. Hence some pairing of Edwards/Richardson may be strategically good. But both have flaws and I don't want to say I have chosen to support either yet!]

Barack Obama

The best orator in the field, he can craft gorgeous speeches. There is palpable excitement that Obama can't just make history, but he can radically change it. And given how desperate Republicans have been to break the color barrier (witness efforts to draft Rice and Powell), it'd be nice for us to get there first. Obama has proven he can win crowded Democratic primaries. The media loves him (in the same way they love McCain -- bordering on the irrational). He's got powerful friends like Oprah (and yes, that matters).

Then again, he's also thin on the "experience" thing (though he bests Edwards with an extra six-year term as a state senator). He failed the "coattail" test in his home state, with Democrats losing both serious challenges to Republican districts -- the Dan Seals and Tammy Duckworth races. Duckworth, in particular, was an Obama project. Like I said, he's the best orator in the field, but his stuff is strangely unsatisfying. It sounds great when you hear it, but an hour later, you wonder what the heck it was he was talking about. He's never had to run a competitive general election. And no, Alan Keyes doesn't count.

But my biggest knock on Obama is that he's yet to take a high-profile leadership role on a controversial issue. It's a political advantage to be a cipher, and it should serve him well in a potential general election matchup, but it won't get me excited and eager to jump on his bandwagon during the primary.

[Obama is something of a superstar of the moment. He has gotten lots of press and lots of attention and that's all good. He is the most serious black candidate to date, since Colin Powell clearly didn't have the stomach for it. I like the fact that we have an election year where an Obama vs. Rice or Clinton vs. Rice line up is just possible. Should either of those shape up, what a historic year it would be.

That aside, I have yet to warm to Obama. Actually I have the same problem with both Edwards and Obama: there is something too smooth about them. But that's me, not the average voter. As far as actual speaking style, Obama appeals to me more than Edwards. But both leave me with a sense of not being quite satisfied with what they offer. Then again, so did Bill Clinton.]

Hillary Clinton

By all measures she's been a great Senator. She's got a great "story", and has taken more shit from the Right than any other Democrat in existence (besting husband Bill by a longshot). She's a tough one. And really, while Republicans may talk about swiftboating her, is there anything left for them to hurl at her? Unlike what some naysayers say, she can absolutely win the general election. And it's well past time for this country to join the 20th century, much less the current one, and start feeling more comfortable electing women to the top offices.

Then again, Hillary would be a drag on races lower on the ballot. In fact, her potential nomination is already creating all sorts of headaches for Senate and House recruitment efforts in tough states and districts. This is a dynamic not at play with any of the other serious candidates. She is also the DLC candidate, literally. From Harold Ford's memo accepting the DLC chairmanship: "I assume there will be an effort to help Senator Clinton's campaign, and I would support such an effort."

At least Vilsack can say that he was sacked by the DLC. Hillary is the DLC's last chance at some measure of relevancy. She loses, they've got nothing left.

And Clinton didn't exhibit the sort of coattails that should've netted us several more House seats in New York. In fact, I'm bitter that more of her millions (and those of Spitzer, for that matter) didn't make their way into more down-ballot races at both the state and federal levels.

-----

Bottom line? I like these guys just fine. They would all win a general election in 2008. But there's little to motivate me to support one above any of the others. And thats why I'm neutral on the primary race.

[Well, Hillary is my Senator. And I have not really been happy with her. Don't get me wrong. I voted for her and didn't regret that she won over the Republican candidate. One reader put it that she seems almost exactly 2 years behind John Kerry, developing a war stand now that Kerry developed 2 years ago, for example. And as that reader said, maybe that means she will be just right in 2 years. Hillary is the person everyone loves to hate, both on the left and the right. That's a problem. I think she has too much baggage. The biggest problem is she is the most insider of insiders, except she isn't male, putting her at a disadvantage of the "old boy's network" that is politics. Americans like the outsider image and Hillary just could never pull that off. Of course how Bush pulled it off is beyond me, but Hillary is everyone's definition of an insider.

Now, Hank Sheinkopf pointed out something that many ignore. Hillary did just fine in upstate New York. The demographics of upstate NY isn't all that different than Pennsylvania and Ohio. Sheinkof thinks she could appeal to those 500,000 blue collar white male Catholics he thinks we need to win. I don't think he's right. I think they dispise her. But he is right that she did win upstate and so has practice with that demographic.]

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: LOOKING AT IT FROM THE OTHER SIDE (humor)

This is from American Progress:




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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: FLORIDA FOCUS

Here is the latest info from Florida CFO Alex Sink:

CFO SINK ANNOUNCES NEW ONLINE SEARCH FOR CONTRACTORS PARTICIPATING IN THE MY SAFE FLORIDA HOME PROGRAM

Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink Wednesday announced the launch of a new online search tool that will help Florida homeowners participating in the My Safe Florida Home program find approved contractors. By visiting www.mysafefloridahome.com, homeowners will be able to search by county or type of work performed from a universe of nearly 150 contractors approved to participate with the program.

“Today we are giving Florida homeowners the tools to make informed choices about the professionals they hire to help them improve their homes,” said CFO Sink, who oversees the Department of Financial Services. “Floridians looking to harden their homes can turn to the My Safe Florida Home website and know that the contractors who participate with us are properly trained to perform essential hurricane mitigation improvements.”

Nearly 14,000 Florida homeowners have received a free home inspection and are currently in the process of receiving their completed inspection reports with recommended home improvements. To be eligible for matching grants of up to $5,000, homeowners choosing to make one or more of the recommended mitigation techniques must use a participating contractor.

To become a participating contractor with the My Safe Florida Home program, all contractors must be licensed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation or by a local authority for the work that they are performing through the program. All participating contractors must also complete or already have completed a four-hour course on residential wind-resistance retrofit improvements. As additional contractors qualify, the website will be updated regularly to reflect the current approved list of approved contractors.

Upon submitting their applications to partner with the My Safe Florida Home program, all contractors are screened to ensure that they have workers’ compensation insurance coverage. CFO Sink further urges all homeowners who choose a contractor from the website to verify that they have current workers’ compensation insurance coverage and licensure before entering into a contract.

Free four-hour courses for contractors on the standards and techniques of wind-resistance retrofit improvements are now available. For more information on these courses, contractors should log on to http://www.mysafefloridahome.com/forretrofitpros.asp.

The program, funded with $250 million by the Florida Legislature, was created to better protect Floridians by strengthening their homes against hurricanes and to reduce the state’s exposure to hurricane damage.


SPANISH-SPEAKING FLORIDIANS ARE ENCOURAGED TO TUNE IN TO TELEMUNDO TAX INFORMATION PROGRAM

TALLAHASSEE —Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink is encouraging Florida’s Spanish-speaking residents to tune in to the national television network Telemundo this Sunday, January 28, for a special one-hour tax program with the Internal Revenue Service. The program, “Los Impuestos y Usted” (“Taxes and You”), will air at 3:30 p.m. Eastern and Pacific Time and 2:30 p.m. Central and Mountain Time.

“Los Impuestos y Usted” will focus on a variety of tax issues, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for low-income taxpayers, electronic filing (IRS e-file), Free File and tips on how to choose a tax preparer. IRS experts also will discuss taxpayers’ rights and how to obtain help with tax questions.

“I appreciate Telemundo sharing this timely information with viewers,” CFO Sink said. “I encourage residents to tune in and take notes so they can be sure that they are paying no more than their fair share.”

For more information in Spanish about the IRS, log on to http://www.irs.gov/espanol or toll-free by telephone at 1-800-829-1040, extension 8.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: OHIO FOCUS: Election Fraud Convictions

When I hear people say "get over it" regarding the dubious elections of 2000, 2002 (Georgia) and 2004, it makes me wonder what they think a democracy is all about. The civil rights of voters were probably infringed upon with some regularity in those elections by a variety of methods possibly leading to stolen elections. THAT is un-American and un-democratic, and election fraud is NOT something I intend to "get over."

I want to make it clear that I don't know if any of those elections were outright "stolen." And that is the problem. If we don't have confidence in our own election system, then we have a big problem, and buying overpriced, unreliable, hackable machines to privatize our elections is NOT the solution.

So here is the latest piece of the puzzle of Ohio's very messed up election in 2004. From the San Diego Union-Tribune: (note: San Diego is another place where elections are suspicious, according to former mayor of San Diego Roger Hedgecock)

CLEVELAND – Two election workers were convicted Wednesday of rigging a recount of the 2004 presidential election to avoid a more thorough review in Ohio's most populous county.

Jacqueline Maiden, elections coordinator of the Cuyahoga County Elections Board, and ballot manager Kathleen Dreamer each were convicted of a felony count of negligent misconduct of an elections employee. They also were convicted of one misdemeanor count each of failure of elections employees to perform their duty.

Prosecutors accused Maiden and Dreamer of secretly reviewing preselected ballots before a public recount on Dec. 16, 2004. They worked behind closed doors for three days to pick ballots they knew would not cause discrepancies when checked by hand, prosecutors said...

Maiden and Dreamer, who still work for the elections board, face a possible sentence of six to 18 months for the felony conviction. Sentencing is on Feb. 26.

There is no single way in which our elections are being tampered with. There is documented voter intimidation by Republican thugs, there is documented unreliability in some of the voting machines, there has been refusal on the part of Republican secretaries of state to follow court orders or standard procedures for recounts, etc. The vast majority of suspicious problems have occurred in predominantly Democratic districts, so have almost invariably helped Republicans and have most often happened where Republicans are secretary of state and/or where there are partisan election boards.

It is time to get rid of partisan election boards! The Carter Center, recognized the world over as an impartial and fair organization for monitoring elections, refused to monitor Florida's vote in 2004 because Florida did not meet their minimum requirement for a fair election. The reason for being rejected was because they had a partisan election board.

It is time to reject DRE machines because they privatize elections, are not secure and make recounts impossible. These problems have led the National Institute of Standards and Technology to recommend decertification of DRE machines.

And we need to elect fair and honorable secretaries of state. Ohio is going to be different now because we no longer have the same corrupt secretary of state we had in 2004. Now we have Democracy for America endorsed Jennifer Brunner as Ohio's Sec. of State. I strongly support the Secretary of State Project, which works to elect fair and honorable secretaries of state to help ensure fair elections.

Please support the Secretary of State Project, and please write the media to oppose partisan election boards and DRE machines and to support election reform that will improve our elections, not make them worse.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: NEW YORK STATE FOCUS: Two special elections

There are two special elections that will be decided by a very small number of voters. One is the 7th State Senate Seat in Nassau County, and the other is the 51st City Council race on Staten Island. If we can get some grassroots enthusiasm behind the good candidates, we could really tip the balance.

Special Election to Take Back the State Senate (Just Outside NYC) (partly taken from Democracy for NYC):

On February 6th, voters in the 7th Senatorial District will vote in a special election to replace Republican Michael Balboni, who was recetnly appointed to serve as Governor Eliot Spitzer’s Director of Homeland Security. Nassau County Legislator Craig Johnson has been selected as the Democratic candidate.

I have not met Mr. Johnson, but people I respect such as State Senator Velmanette Montgomery and Assembly woman Joan Millman, speak highly of him. He strikes me as a Suozzi Democrat: a tad too conservative for my tastes, but good, solid and reasonable.

Here's how you can help:

NARAL Phonebanks

Two phonebanks have been set up so far, one at NARAL (midtown) and the other at CWA (downtown). If you are interested in volunteering for one of the weekday evening phone banks, please email Keith Powers at TakeThe7th-at-gmail.org (replace -at- with @) with the dates they are available and which location is preferred, or call Sid Tickoo at 978-761-1109. Phones will be set up at various locations in Midtown and Lower Manhattan.

NARAL Phonebanks - 470 Park Avenue South, 7th Floor (between 31st & 32nd)
Beginning Thursday, January 19th, 2007 Monday - Thursday 6PM - 9PM
20 Phones

CWA Phonebanks - 80 Pine Street, 37th Floor
Beginning Tuesday, January 16th, 2007
Monday - Thursday 6PM - 9 PM
12 Phones

ACT NOW

Phonebanking
Monday through Thursday, now until Feb. 6th
6:00 to 8:30 each night
At NARAL, 470 Park Avenue (btw. 31/32), 7th Floor

RSVP at www.actnowny.org or e-mail actnewyork-at-gmail.com (replace -at- with @) or call 212-714-7125.

If you live outside NYC, contact Craig Johnson's campaign to see how you can help.

Just an hour from you could make a huge difference in an election that will have a very low turnout.


51st City Council District:

This race will probably be decided by even fewer voters and so can really be worth a little of your time. The Democratic Candidate is Manny Innamorato. Here is some info on him from his website:

As Deputy Director of Management Information Systems for the City of Yonkers, Manny has learned from the ground up how a city is effectively managed on a “day-to-day” basis. He managed innovative technology projects that have enhanced the effectiveness and efficiency of the City of Yonkers including their Police and Fire Departments.

Closer to home, Manny held management positions in a variety of New York City agencies such as the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services, the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, the NYC Department of Probation, and the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President. His depth and breadth of experience in these various agencies provides a solid foundation for him in his quest to be Staten Island’s new City Councilman in District 51.

In his service to the people of the City of New York, Manny was responsible for streamlining government services so municipal agencies are more responsive to the families who need their help. Manny also played a pivotal role in improving the process in which the city decides land-use matters, leading to smart growth and reasonable development in our boroughs. Over his professional career, no one has devoted more time and energy to improving the quality of life of all New Yorkers.

Manny has been a committed, active union member throughout his career, beginning when he joined the UFCW Local 1500 at the age of 19. As an employee off the City of New York, Manny was a member of SSEU371 and Local 2627 of DC37. In Yonkers, Manny is the Vice President of AFSCME Council 66 Local 1897 and has served on contract negotiation teams.

Manny’s commitment to public service is not only exhibited in his professional life. His wife Deidre is a registered nurse and a member of the New York State Nurses’ Association. Both Manny and his wife are actively involved in their children’s live, serving on the PTAs of their children’s schools. Manny is also the Assistant Director of The St. John Neumann Soccer Club and devotes his time and energy in coaching youth soccer teams.

I have heard of no organized outside help being offered to Manny, though I suspect there is some. If you want to help, contact his campaign.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: 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:

Raise New York | A fundraiser for Craig Johnson
Please join the New York grassroots, the New York State Democratic Committee and the New York State Democratic Senate Campaign Committee for an evening in support of Craig Johnson. Ticket prices range from $50 to $8,500; Governor Eliot Spitzer and Lieutenant Governor David Paterson are expected to attend.

Prey NYC
February 1st, 2007, 6 PM to 9 PM
4 West 22nd Street
New York, NY 10011

To purchase tickets/make a donation, please click here.

If you can't make the physical event, fear not; it will be liveblogged here, on Daily Kos, and The Albany Project.

Help us elect a good, solid Democrat instead of an anti-choice extremist pledged to supporting Joe Bruno's tottering régime. Plus, you get to hang with the coolest guy in politics, Eliot Spitzer; we'll see you there.
Location:
Prey NYC
Sponsor:
The New York grassroots, the NYSDC, the NYSDSCC

NYC DARWIN DAY EVENTS: Darwin Day is February 12th. All over the world people mark the day with events that celebrate science and humanity. Here are a few NYC area events:

Title: Reading & Signing - Living With Darwin ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-12 18:00:00
Event Website: http://columbia.bkstore.com
Activities:
In honor of Darwin Day - The Columbia University Bookstore is delighted to welcome faculty author, Philip Kitcher as he discusses and signs copies of his enlightening new book, "Living With Darwin"
Address:
2929 Broadway, Lerner Hall
New York, NY UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Columbia Bookstore
Contact: Nick Frayn, Bkstore707@bncollege.com, 212.854.4131

Title: New York Hall of Science Darwin Celebration ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-10 12:30:00
Event Website: http://www.nyscience.org
Activities:
Celebrate the life of Charles Darwin with activity carts that delve into the world of Darwin:
Cool Craniums – Compare a number of skulls and try to unlock the secrets of a mystery skull.
Life Under a Magnifying Glass – Find the young Darwin in you and observe live insects using magnifying lenses.
Camo-flies – Become an insect investigator as you uncover the keys to survival in the wild.
Homologous Structures – Learn how different species have many similar features.
Finch Beaks – Choose the bird to survive the varied weather conditions of the Galapagos Islands.
"Flock of Dodos" film screening - 4 pm on
Saturday, February 10 and Sunday, February 11; 3 pm on Monday, February 12
Address:
47-01 111th Street,
Queens, NY UNITED STATES
Sponsor:
Contact: Marcos Stafne, mstafne@nyscience.org, 718 699-0005, #343


BROOKLYN GROUPS AND EVENTS:

The latest bruising Democratic Primary is the race to replace Yvetter Clarke for City Council District 40 in Brooklyn. There are about 500 candidates running and the rhetoric has already gone nasty. I have only met three of the candidates, Jesse Hamilton and Zenobia McNally (read about my impressions of them here) and Mohammed Razvi (read about my impressions of him here).

So, for those who want to hear all the candidates, there is a candidates forum coming up:

Candidate Forum for Council Dist. 40 (Flatbush, Crown Heights, Midwood) Jan 30th

DFNYC is joining with Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats ("CBID"), Stonewall Democratic Club and other groups for a candidate forum in Brooklyn. On February 20th, there will be a Special Election in Council District 40. The seat is vacant now because Yvette Clarke, who previously represented District 40 in the City Council, has been elected to Congress.

When: Tuesday, January 30, 7-9:30pm

Where: Flatbush-Tompkins Congregational Church, 424 East 19th Street at Ditmas Avenue.

Directions: Take the Q train to Cortelyou Road. You can also take the B train, which is express, to Church Avenue and then switch at Church to the Q for the last 2 stops to Cortelyou.

More Info: http://www.dfnyc.org/cms/node/87817



Documentary Screening: Brooklyn Matters, A Film by Isabel Hill:

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:


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 106: CALIFORNIA DARWIN DAY (Feb. 12th) EVENTS

February 12th is Darwin Day and it's coming up. People around the world mark the day with celebrations of science and humanity. For other states there aren't so many Darwin Day events, but California is big. So rather than clutter up the Events section, I am putting a list of Darwin Day events for California in this separate section.

Title: Darwin Day Bagel Brunch ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-11 10:12:00
Event Website: http://www.kolhadash.org
Activities:
Join our Bagel Brunch to celebrate Darwin Day with a talk given by Glenn Branch, Deputy Director of the NCSE--National Center for Science Education. He'll address the present day challenges to evolution by the Creationists and "Intelligent Design" crowd. Suggested Donation: $5
Address:
Albany Community Center, 1249 Marin Avenue
Albany, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Kol Hadash, (S.F. Bay Area) Community for Humanistic Judaism
Contact: Basha Goddard or Bernie Rosen, programs@kolhadash.org, 510-848-6137

Title: Darwin Day at Cal ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-10 09:00:00
Event Website: http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/museum/events/shortcourse2007/index
Activities:
Saturday symposium: "The Implications of Evolution: Evidence & Applications". A series of presentations and discussions covering research in evolutionary biology, including behavior and defense, primate evolution, and coevolution and its impact on biodiversity; followed by Eugenie Scott discussing current antievolution strategies, the intelligent design movement, and recent legal decisions concerning the teaching of evolution.

Sunday: Flock of Dodos starting at 2:00 pm hosted by the Lawrence Hall of Science, UC Berkeley
Address:
2050 Valley Life Sciences Building,
Berkeley, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: University of California Museum of Paleontology
Contact: Judy Scotchmoor, jscotch@berkeley.edu, 510-642-1821

Title: Evolve! Darwin Day at Revolution Books ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-13 19:00:00
Event Website: http://www.revolutionbooks.org
Activities:
Celebrating the momentous breakthrough of Darwin’s theory of evolution.
Discussion of the attacks on Evolution today, featuring the book "Science of Evolution and The Myth of Creationism" by Ardea Skybreak.
Talks - movie clips - discussion.
This FREE event is wheelchair accessible.
Address:
2425 Channing Way in Berkeley, ½ block west of Telegraph, under the Sather Gate P-lot
Berkeley, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Revolution Books
Contact: Reiko Redmonde, revbooks_event@yahoo.com, 510-848-1196

Title: "Sacramento's Darwin Day Educational Gala" ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-11 14:00:00
Event Website: http://
Activities:
Presentation, literature tables, exhibitors, camaraderie, cake (Happy Birthday, Charlie!)and refreshments -- Tickets $10 (students $5).

Main Presentation: "How Evolution Shapes History: Shells as a Window on an Evolving World".

Guest speaker: Geerat Vermeij, Professor of Marine Ecology & Paleoecology at University of California-Davis, formerly editor of EVOLUTION journal and a MacArthur Fellow . You can read Dr. Vermeij's bio at http://www.pbs.org/kcet/shapeoflife/explorations/bio_vermeij.html
Address:
La Sierra Community Center (John Smith Hall), 5325 Engle Road
Carmichael, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Several community orgs. (educational, civic, & freethought)
Contact: Mynga Futrell, ckprofessional@aol.com, 916-447-3589

Title: Darwin Birthday at UCSD School of Medicine ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-10 19:30:00
Event Website: www.scientificgospel.com
Activities:
In a series of festive songs, Dr. Stephen Baird and the Opossums of Truth will perform a tribute to Darwin, evolution and rational thought, but because of the upcoming Valentine’s Day, scientific love songs will complement the evening concert.
Address:
UCSD School of Medicine - Liebow Auditorium, 2nd floor, Gilman Drive
La Jolla, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Scientific Gospel Productions
Contact: Carol Baird, carol@scientificgospel.com, 858-481-0765

Title: Edward Humes discusses Monkey Girl ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-23 19:00:00
Event Website: http://www.duttonsbrentwood.com
Activities:
Bestselling author and Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Edward Humes will discuss his new book, Monkey Girl: Education, Evolution and the Battle for America’s Soul. In Monkey Girl, Edward Humes tells the Science vs. Faith dispute through the eyes of characters on both sides of the conflict. There are Bryan and Christy Rehm, teachers and parents who sued the Dover, PA school district for bringing religion into the classroom, becoming outcasts in the process. There is Bill Buckingham, the school board member whose faith and inner demons compelled him to launch this crusade, and fellow board member Casey Brown, whose opposition led the board president to warn that she would be going to hell. There is Richard Thompson, the head of a law firm that bills itself “the sword and shield for people of faith,” who promised the school board he would use a newly reconfigured Supreme Court to “bring God back into the public square.” And, finally, there are the scientists and theorists who trooped to Pennsylvania to represent both sides of this epic and fascinating battle, from “Dr. Dino,” aka Kent Hovind, the former high school biology teacher and creationist who preaches to packed audiences that dinosaurs and man lived together in Eden, and that Charles Darwin was worse than Adolf Hitler to world-renown Berkeley paleontologist Kevin Padian (“Dinosaurs didn’t disappear,” he says, “we just call them birds now”).
Address:
Dutton's Brentwood Books, 11975 San Vicente Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Dutton's Brentwood Books
Contact: Lise Friedman, duttons@earthlink.net, (310) 476-6263

Title: Dodos Darwin Day: Screenings of "Flock of Dodos" ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-12 19:00:00
Event Website: http://www.flockofdodos.com/darwinday.htm
Activities:
Screenings and panel discussions of the documentary feature film, "Flock of Dodos: the evolution-intelligent design circus," directed by Dr. Randy Olson at museums across the U.S.
Address:
See website for on-going list of locations,
Los Angeles, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Prairie Starfish Productions
Contact: Tyler Carlisle, Producer, info@flockofdodos.com, 323-960-4517

Title: UC Merced Darwin Day Celebration ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-16 10:00:00
Event Website: http://
Activities:
DARWIN DAY DISTINGUISHED SEMINAR:
"The Enigma of Disappearing Amphibians: A Global Biodiversity Crisis"
David B. Wake, UC Berkeley

Address:
University of California Merced, Classroom Building 116
Merced, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: University of California Merced
Contact: Mónica Medina, mmedina@ucmerced.edu, 209-228-7863

Title: Darwin Day at Humanist Hall ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-10 13:00:00
Event Website: http://www.HumanistHall.net
Activities:
Humanist Hall Tea House opens at 12:00 pm with organic snacks.

David Seaborg, renown evolutionary biologist, speaks about "The Principles and Controversies of Evolution" at 1:00 pm.

He will illuminate the principles of evolutionary biology and the controversies surrounding them. He will explain what natural selection -- the mechanism of evolution -- is and how it works; how new species originate; why some types of species evolve very rapidly, while others do not change for eons; why there are so many species of some types, such as insects, and less of others; which ecosystems (such as rain forests) have high species diversity and why; how much of evolution is due to natural selection and how much to random factors; how sex evolved and why this is so important to evolution; sexual selection and sociobiology; the evolution of co-operation and altruism as opposed to selfishness; the evolution of color patterns; and the meaning of variation in evolution. All in one fantastic -- and funny -- lecture!

Sterling Bunnell will contribute to the discussions of David Seaborg's lecture.

The Humanist Tea House resumes all afternoon.
Address:
390 27th Street, between Telegraph and Broadway, below Pill Hill
Oakland, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Fellowship of Humanity
Contact: Florence, HumanistHall@Yahoo.com, 510-393-5685

Title: The History of Life on Earth ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-11 11:00:00
Event Website: http://www.humanists.org
Activities:
Evolutionary biologist David Seaborg (dressed as Charles Darwin in honor of Darwin Day) presents a summary of the evolution and history of life on earth, including principles of evolution that guided it. He will discuss possible origins of life on earth, the evolution of bacteria, the Cambrian explosion, the evolution of invertebrates, the rise of fish, the invasion of land by amphibians, the age of dinosaurs, the evolution of reptiles, birds, and mammals, mass extinctions, and the evolution of humans and our future from an evolutionary point of view.
Address:
Mitchell Park Community Center, 3800 Middlefield Road
Palo Alto, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Humanist Community in Silicon Valley
Contact: Paul Gilbert, paulpalo@yahoo.com, 650-964-7576

Title: Celebate Darwin's Birthday with The Opossums of Truth ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-03 19:30:00
Event Website: http://www.firstuusandiego.org/
Activities:
Come hear the band perform the Darwin birthday concert favorites that you have come to know well enough to sing along with the band. The Opossums will focus on the problems caused by Intelligent Design proponents. To fill out the program, the band will again sing Humanistic folk songs and perhaps throw in a political song or two.
Address:
4190 Front St., 202 Meeting House
San Diego, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego
Contact: Vicky Newman, vinewman@ucsd.edu, (619) 298-9978

Title: Evolutionpalooza 2007 ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-09 19:30:00
Event Website: http://sfatheists.com
Activities:
6th annual Evolutionpalooza 2007 in San Francisco!
Time & Place TBA (But will be sometime during the weekend of Feb 9-11th, in San Francisco)
Volunteers needed!
For more info see sfatheists.com or e-mail Dave Fitzgerald at Fitz@sfatheists.com
Address:
TBD,
San Francisco, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor:
Contact: David Fitzgerald, fitz@sfatheists.com, 415.939.3043

Title: The Gospel According To Darwin ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-06 19:00:00
Event Website: https://northcoastrep.org
Activities:
The Opossums of Truth will continue their concert series with a tribute to Charles Darwin and evolution as they perform humorous songs about science and rationality. Included in this concert will be a series of songs harkening back to the days on the 1950’s and 1960’s when social consciousness was very important to songwriters and political satire was the food of stand-up comedians. Think: Tom Lehrer waxes scientific and Mort Sahl meets Mark Russell or the Weavers.
Address:
987 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Suite D
Solana Beach, CA UNITED STATES
Sponsor: North Coast Repertory Theater
Contact: Karen Begin, karen@northcoastrep.org, (888)776-6278 x 10

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: 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 106: VIRGINIA 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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Progressive Democrat Issue 106: NEW JERSEY FOCUS: ReLaunch of Democrats2000

For awhile it looked like one of my New Jersey sources of info, Democrats 2000, was going defunct. They hadn't updated in a long time. Looks like they were revamping their image, something they did need to do.

So, for my New Jersey readers, I want to re-introduce you to Democrats2000.com! With a nice, shiny new website, they are ready to get back into the fray. Here is what they have to say for themselves:

For 15 years, Democrats 2000 has been educating young professionals across New Jersey on the issues and providing opportunities for New Jersey residents under 40 to participate in the political process. By bringing elected officials right to young voters in social settings such as bars, baseball games and bowling alleys; supporting the campaigns of more than 100 candidates under the age of 40 at every level of elected office; and encouraging young professionals to get into the habit of making low dollar political contributions; we have made sure that our generation is not ignored.

Our group’s founders believed that ‘politics is generational’ and that by offering young people an opportunity to play a meaningful role in the political apparatus of their municipalities, counties and the state, they could create a structure whereby Democrats 2000 members would play increasingly large roles within the Party. As time has gone on, they have been proven right. Among those that were active in the early years of Democrats 2000 are a County Chairman, several elected officials, and quite a few of our Party’s most respected strategists and decision makers.

Since taking over in 2002, the new generation of Democrats 2000, with the constant support of those that have come before us, have grown the organization to one that has enlisted more than 1,200 members, raised more than $200,000 and created the first truly statewide organization for young professional Democrats.

We are committed to growing the Democrats Party, giving our generation a real voice on issues that matter to us, and offering our members increased opportunities to build relationships that will last throughout their careers.

One particularly valuable thing they have is a calendar of events. Check it out from time to time to see what's going on in your area.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

First let me highlight a local events:

January 29, 2007
Passaic County Democrats Victory Celebration
The Brownstone House, 351 West Broadway
Paterson, NJ 07522
Contact Rita Pascrell at 973-279-4647

February 07, 2007
Middle Twp. Democratic Club Meeting
Sam DiVico Senior Center
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
Join the Democrats of Middle Township for our monthly meeting the first Wednesday of every month at 7:00pm. Meetings are held at the Samuel DiVico Senior Center located at 23 Romney Place in Cape May Court House.

For more information, please contact Mary Durkin at 609-465-4170.

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

February 10, 2007
Lacey Township Democrat's Hoagie Night
Community Hall (Corner of Rt9 & Lacey Road)
Forked River, NJ 08731
Welcome to the Lacey Democratic Club's Annual "Hoagie Night". Choice of Italian, Turkey, Ham & Cheese, or Roast Beef Hoagie.
Price of $6.50 includes sandwich, salads, soda, coffee, desert and good company!

Contact Dominick at (609) 971-7570 for more information and to reserve your Hoagie.
Rahway Mayor Jim Kennedy's 5th Inaugural Gala
515 U.S. Highway 1, South
Iselin, NJ 08830
Rahway Mayor James Kennedy's
5th Inaugural Gala To Benefit
The Arts Guild of Rahway

Saturday, February 10, 2007
Cocktail hour/Open Bar 6:30 to 7:30PM
Dinner & Dancing/Cash Bar 7:30 to 11:30PM

Sheraton at Woodbridge Place
515 U.S. Highway 1, South
Iselin, NJ 08830

Suggested Donation $100
Table for 10: $1,000

Make checks payable to:
Rahway Democratic Committee
P.O. Box 87
Rahway, NJ 07065-0087
732.574.1301
Black Tie Optional

February 22, 2007
7MI Beach Democratic Club Meeting
Avalon Senior Center
Avalon, NJ 08202
Join Us for a meeting of the Democrats of Avalon and Stone Harbor. The meeting begins at 7:30pm and is located at the Avalon Senior Center.

www.7Milebeachdemocrats.com

For more information, please contact:
Terry Strobaugh, President
tstrobaugh@juno.com

February 25, 2007
Jackson Democratic Club Annual Brunch
Eagle Ridge Golf Club, 2 Augusta Blvd
Lakewood, NJ 08701
RSVP to Mike Kafton at 732-905-7898

February 26, 2007
FEDERATION OF DEMOCRATIC WOMEN & FRIENDS
Willingboro Public Library
Willingboro, NJ 08046
Regular Burlington County monthly meeting to constuctively develop plans to help our Democratic candidates get elected thoughout the state, county and local municipalities. All Democrats are welcome.
Beatrice Holley
Vice-President
609-386-4651


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.

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: IOWA FOCUS: Minimum Wage Increase Enacted

Iowa has done what the US Congress has yet to do: get a minimum wage increase completely enacted. Federally, the Democrats in the House fulfilled their pledge of enacting a minimum wage increase within the first hundred hours. But Senate Republicans have been holding it up.

In Iowa, though, a minimum wage increase has been enacted by both houses and signed in by the new, Democratic Governor. Once again this long overdue help to America's working poor was done by Democrats who have gained a new position of strength in Iowa.

From State Representative Elesha Gayman's newsletter:

MINIMUM WAGE HIKE SIGNED INTO LAW

Governor Culver is expected to sign the first bill produced by the new Democratic majority, a hike in the minimum wage. The bipartisan-supported bill passed the House on Tuesday, the Senate on Wednesday, and is expected to be signed by Governor Culver on Thursday.

The increase will be in two steps, from $5.15 to $6.20 on April 1, 2007, and to $7.25 on January 1, 2008. This is a total increase of $2.10. The minimum wage has not been increased since September 1, 1997, almost ten years ago.

This is just the first step in the Democrat’s “Plan for Prosperity,” which seeks to balance the interests of workers and businesses. Other goals to reward hard work include: 1) expanding job training opportunities for high-tech workers of the future, 2) allowing small business to pool their workforces so they can obtain cheaper health insurance, and 3) reducing commercial property taxes.

How about writing the Iowa media and expressing your appreciation for what Iowa's Democrats have done for working class Americans.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 106: 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:

WISCONSIN DARWIN DAY EVENTS: February 12th is Darwin Day and people around the world mark the day by celebrating science and humanity. Here are some Wisconsin Darwin Day events coming up Feb. 12th.

Title: Evolution Matters ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-10 09:00:00
Event Website: http://www.geology.wisc.edu
Activities:
A morning session with three talks ("Irreducible complexity and the human eye"; "DNA and human evolution"; "An introduction to Evolutionary Medicine". Afternoon of interactive displays that explore the importance of evolution to medicine and agriculture, sexual selection, convergent evolution, why flowers are beautiful, farming and pharmacy in ants, evolutionary trees, transitional fossils, biogeography, human evolution, and the age of the earth.
Address:
University of Wisconsin campus,
Madison, WI UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Department of Geology and Geophysics, College of Letters and Sci
Contact: Dana Geary, dana@geology.wisc.edu, (608) 263-7754

Title: UWM Darwin Day Celebration ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-11 14:00:00
Event Website: http://ww.uwm.edu/~ajpetto/D_Day2007
Activities:
Science Bag Presentation: Monkey in the Mirror.
Poster Session: Evolution Matters (contributions of evolutionary research to everyday life).
Screening: A Flock of Dodos
Address:
137 Physics Building (Monkey in the Mirror), 1900 E Kenwood Ave, 185 and N101 Lapham Hall, 3209 N Maryland Ave
Milwaukee, Wisconsin UNITED STATES
Sponsor: UWM Biology Club, UWM Biology Faculty & Grad Students, SWiFT
Contact: Andrew Petto, ajpetto@uwm.edu, 414.229.6784

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:

INDIANA DARWIN DAY EVENTS: February 12th is Darwin Day and people around the world mark the day by celebrating science and humanity. Here are some Indiana Darwin Day events coming up Feb. 12th.

Title: Ninth Annual IUN Darwin Day ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-12 12:00:00
Event Website: http://www.iun.edu/~anthronw/cal/2007/02-12-07.htm
Activities:
An International Celebration of Science and the Humanities
Featuring talks by

Rev Roger Brewin;
Spencer Cortwright, Biology;
Adrienne Kochman, Fine Arts;
Larry Ciupik, Astronomy
Address:
IUN Library Conference Center 105AB, 134 west 35th Ave
Gary, IN UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Anthropology Club
Contact: Bob Mucci, rmucci@iun.edu, 219-980-6607

Title: Darwin Day Conference ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-03-03 08:00:00
Event Website: http://www.centerforinquiry.net/indy
Activities:
Interview with Darwin
Evolution and Medical Science
Does God Belong in Science?
Teaching Evolution to Middle School and High School Students
Teaching Evolution to PreSchool and Elementary Students
Address:
IUPUI Campus,
Indianapolis, IN UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Center for Inquiry Community of Indiana
Contact: Reba Boyd Wooden, cfiindy@insightbb.com, 317-885-1612

Title: DARWIN DAY CONFERENCE ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-03-03 08:00:00
Event Website: http:/www.centerforinquiry.net/indy
Activities:
Lectures and workshops plus interview with Darwin
Address:
325 University Boulevard,
Indianapolis, IN UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Center for Inquiry Community of Indiana
Contact: Reba Boyd Wooden, cfiindy@insightbb.com, 317-885-1612

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:

MICHIGAN DARWIN DAY EVENTS: February 12th is Darwin Day and people around the world mark the day by celebrating science and humanity. Here are some Michigan Darwin Day events coming up Feb. 12th.

Title: DARWIN DAY CELEBRATION ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-18 14:30:00
Event Website: http://WWW.MICHIGANATHEISTS.ORG
Activities:
TOUR CRANBROOK SCIENCE MUSEUM AND VISIT THEIR PLANETARIUM FOLLOWED BY A DINNER GATHERING, PLACE TO BE ANNOUNCED
Address:
39221 Woodward Avenue,
Bloomfield Hills, MI UNITED STATES
Sponsor: MICHIGAN ATHEISTS
Contact: ARLENE-MARIE, AMARIE@ATHEISTS.ORG, (313)388-9594

Title: Darwin Discovery Day ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-11 13:00:00
Event Website: http://museum.msu.edu/Events/NaturalHistoryIDDay/
Activities:
"Beetlemania" is this year's theme--focusing on Darwin's love of beetle collecting when he was a young man. Featured activites include a beetle sorting and taxonomy experience for young naturalists and specimens from MSU's entomology collection for older naturalists. Also offered: tours of the museum's Hall of Evolution, as well as behind-the-scenes tours of the Museum's of vertebrate natural history collections. Visitors are also invited to bring in fossils, bones, and other natural curiosities for specialists from the MSU Museum and College of Natural Science to identify. (The museum cannot provide estimates of the commercial value of any specimens, nor offer expertise on any human-made artifacts.)

Also featured is a special lecture, "Dogma, Doctrine and Deduction: Darwin's Life of Discovery," by Dr. Greg Forbes of Grand Rapids Community College and 2005's Michigan College and University Science Teacher of the Year. Darwin Discovery Day at the MSU Museum is presented free of charge, and birthday cake will be served in the lobby.
Address:
Michigan State University Museum, West Circle Drive
East Lansing, MI UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Michigan State University Museum
Contact: Danita Brandt, brandt@msu.edu, 517 355-6595

Title: Darwin Day — "Mate Choice & Sex; Getting into Someone’s Genes" ( Public )
Start Date and Time: 2007-02-14 19:00:00
Event Website: http://www.freethoughtassociation.org
Activities:
"Mate Choice & Sex; Getting into Someone’s Genes"
Presented by Greg Forbes, Professor of Biological Sciences at GVSU, Director of its Science Education Center, Educational Director for the Michigan Evolution Education Initiative and Evolution Education Institute, and Board member of the Skeptics Society and the Freethought Association
Address:
Women's City Club, 254 E. Fulton Street
Grand Rapids, MI UNITED STATES
Sponsor: Freethought Association
Contact: Jeff Seaver, info@freethoughtassociation.org, 616-892-9300

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


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