Progressive Democrat Issue 107: THOUGHTS

Been sick and busy, so relatively short newsletter this week.

I will begin just by saying good bye to Milly Ivins. This is directly from Culture Kitchen:


The poor man who is currently our president has reached such a point of befuddlement that he thinks stem cell research is the same as taking human lives, but that 40,000 dead Iraqi civilians are progress toward democracy," from a July 2006 column urging commentator Bill Moyers to run for president.

And now this week's newsletter.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

ENERGY POLICY: Dublin Leading the Way?

AMERICA'S FAILURE TO FIGHT TERRORISM: Ethiopia Leading the Way?

JUMPSTARTING THE SOUTH

SUPPORT STEM CELL RESEARCH IN THE SENATE

FLORIDA STORMS

IOWA FOCUS: Governor Chet Culver and Congressman Dave Loebsack

MIDWEST PROGRESSIVE GROUPS

NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

CALIFORNIA DARWIN DAY EVENTS

CALIFORNIA GROUPS

URGENT NT STATE ACTION: Two special elections

NYC GROUPS AND EVENTS

VIRGINIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

Progressive Democrat Issue 107: ENERGY POLICY

I don't pay much attention to CNN these days because, well, they have sucked for awhile. Their news is generally too superficial and has gotten the messy blood spatter of right wing bias from Fox News's murder of good journalism.

But occasionally something catches my eye. My take on alternative energy is that we have to start somewhere and sometime and right here in America and right now is as good as any place to start. I make no claims as to how fast or completely we can switch to clean and safe alternatives to oil and coal. But the combination of a need for good manufacturaing jobs, the fact that wind turbines are proving to be a real boon to farmers, and the need to cut emissions of all sorts make a strong arguement to develop alternative energy, particularly wind since we have had the technology for more than 10 years to generate a fair amount of energy from wind in a cost effective manner. Essentially, wind power is cheaper than clean-burning coal.

But now I hear some are more ambitious than I am regarding alternative energy and are aiming to put their ambition into practice. Unfortunately the initiative and manufacturing isn't coming from America!From CNN Money.com:

Carbon dioxide makes up nearly 80 percent of all greenhouse gases. More than a quarter of that CO2 comes from electrical power plants. That's why replacing plants that run on fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas with renewable power sources, even nukes, has emerged as a major plank in the campaign against global warming.

The effort is heightened in Europe because the continent relies on fuel imports from Russia and the Middle East for 50 percent of its energy, and a recent projection shows that portion increasing to 70 percent by 2025...

In May, Dublin-based Airtricity, the world's fastest-growing wind developer, announced plans for a European supergrid - a network of 2,000 offshore wind turbines in the North Atlantic.

The grid would initially supply 10,000 megawatts to 8 million homes. Ultimately, Airtricity envisions a wind grid stretching from Spain to Sweden, with an output equal to that of 30 nuclear reactors. The supergrid wouldn't eliminate the CO2 thrown off by Europe's power plants, but it would reduce it by 60 million tons per year - the equivalent of taking 15 million cars off the road.

The payoff: Founded just seven years ago, Airtricity is on track to bring in $657 million in annual revenue by 2010. The company currently operates 16 wind farms in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, and its five-year project timeline will ramp it up to a potential 7,000 megawatts in capacity, equal to the output of 14 U.S. coal plants.

Good for Dublin. Now let's see if we can be as ambitious and imaginative right here in, say, Detroit or Pittsburgh or... I mean why isn't AMERICA taking the initiative? Have we slipped so far that we can't take the lead? Has Bush weakened our spirit so much we can let Dublin take the lead in wind energy? And for the record, the current lead is held by Denmark.

Write the media and your Congress Critters saying you want America to start taking the lead again by restarting our manufacturing base in our heartland to be the supplier to the world of alternative energy technology and that you want to see America, the nation with the most diverse energy resources in the world, to start becoming energy independent using LOCAL solutions that create LOCAL jobs.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 107: FAILING TO FIGHT TERRORISM

Current TV, Al Gore's innovative TV channel, has done some pretty amazing things. They got film crews into North Korea, into places in Iraq far from the Green Zone, and were the first journalists into a Somalia arms market before the Islamic Fundamentalists took Mogadishu. It is their willingness to go where most journalists don't have the balls to go that makes the network worth watching.

Back when they went in to film Mogadishu in chaos, with battling warlords and their factions making arms dealing a major industry, it was astonishing the constant aura of threat that permeated Mogadishu under the warlords. These are the people Clinton had nearly defeated, but lack of Congressional support led to a withdrawal that allowed a resurgence of chaos. And Bush sat back allowing that chaos to happen, making the Islamic Fundamentalists the ONLY option Somalis had for stability.

When I participated in a live radio broadcast some months back discussing the initial takeover by the Islamic Fundamentalists, most of the Somalis who participated considered the Islamic takeover a good thing for one reason: it promised stability. They expressed their appreciation for the American intervention and a sense of betrayal at the American withdrawal. In the absence of American influence, they saw the fundamentalists as the only way to end the chaos.

And so Mogadishu and the whole Southern half of Somalia fell to fundamentalists and Bush did nothing. By and large the Western Press did nothing but report from a distance. But CurrentTV went in to see what life was like under the Somali Taliban.

Throughout their segment it is clear that the CurrentTV crew were the only Westerners around, and so were constantly targets for the wrath of people angry at the US. Two things struck me about the CurrentTV film: first, that the stability that the fundamentalists had imposed seemed real, but very fragile. Everyone was still armed and danger threatened constantly. But the city was starting to run again, with a lovely beach being safe enough to swim in for the first time in a decade (with one of the CurrentTV crew eagerly diving in to body surf) and the first public prayer gathering in 15 years. People were hopeful that better things were ahead even if it meant a theocracy.

Chaos or theocratic dictatorship. After awhile, chaos gets pretty damned awful and even theocratic dictatorship looks good. Many Somalis were opting for that...but the choice wasn't really theirs.

With the US mired in the Iraq quagmire and eyeing another insane war in neighboring Iran, Bush did nothing to stem the expansion of Islamic Fundamentalists in Somalia. It fell to Ethiopia, with a small amount of air-support from the US, to drive out the fundamentalists who I refer to as the Somali Taliban.

And make no mistake, despite protestations of being moderates, the Islamic Fundamentalists who were driven out by Ethiopia after our long neglect of the area showed every indication of following the path of the Taliban. I have no reason to mourn the defeat of the Somali Taliban...but the Somalis who found them to be the only force that gave them even a vague stability may well miss their presence.

As Ethiopia withdraws its troops, violence once again escalates, and the old anarchy of libertarian/warlord rule with no central authority threatens to return. Meanwhile, Ethiopia's intervention against the Islamic Fundamentalists in Somalia threatens to re-ignite their long-standing war with Eritrea, which supports the fundamentalists.

So, with ongoing chaos in Somalia and threats of a wider, regional war, what will the US do? Will they finally turn their attention to this area the way Bill Clinton advised, helping to stabilize the area? Or will they once again sit back after a brief, violent intervention and let warlords and fundamentalists fight it out, once again leaving the people of Somalia with no choice but to seek stability with a Taliban-style regime? With Mr. Bush at the helm, it is doubtful that we will do anything meaningful to stabilize the area, thus ensuring that al-Qaeda can function in the Horn of Africa just as freely as it has throughout Bush's watch. So much for the war on terrorism. We're too busy picking fights with nations that had nothing to do with the 9/11 plot but have everything to do with oil profits. And so the Somali tragedy continues.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 107: JUMPSTARTING THE SOUTH

January I introduced my Jumpstart the Midwest Campaign, trying to look ahead to key states for 2008. My Midwest focus included Iowa, Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin and I was hoping to get some money raised to help these states get a jump on the next election. Michigan in particular is key for two reasons: it may well be one of the must-win states of 2008 and it is the first State Democratic Party to adopt the community-centered Blue Tiger Democrat model which I think is the next step beyond Dean's 50-state policy that has worked so well. So I would like to see Michigan's Democratic Party do well with this new model. In all my Jumpstart the Midwest plan picked up $50 for Michigan, $10 for Iowa and $25 for Indiana. Well, it's something! And hopefully I also inspired a few people to volunteer with a local organization in their area if they can't donate. Plus now those fundraising tools are out there if any of you want to use them. I will come back to asking people to focus on the Midwest. But for February I want to focus on the South.

I have said before that I am not one of those Progressives who dismisses the South. There are too many good people from there to write it off: Ann Richardson, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, Al Gore, Christine Jennings all came from the South. So let's focus on what we CAN do in the South.

Let's start with North Carolina. We have a Senate race that will be hard but we can win IF we start early. Republican Elizabeth Dole now holds this seat. If we want a good shot at taking it, we need to start early. Our chances of taking it will depend on which Democrats run, with Democratic Governor Mike Easley being a possible favorite to beat Dole. Let’s do to NC in 2008 what we did to Virginia in 2006: flip a Senate seat blue against all odds. Plus we have a House race, NC-8, that we came very close to winning in 2006 and our candidate, Larry Kissell, is already building up for a rematch. Larry Kissell is the Democratic Party in a nutshell: former textile worker, BA in Economics, and public school teacher, Larry Kissell nearly beat the Republican incumbent in this district in 2006 running a strictly grassroots/netroots campaign. The vote went into a recount and Kissell only lost by 329 votes out of 121,000 cast. He has already announced his intentions for a rematch and now is the time to back him up. If the slot for Kissell on my NC page is not available for donations through Act Blue, please click on his website. So with one Senate seat AND a House seat, NC is on my list for 2008. Please help!

Next let's look to Missouri. Missouri will be a big one because there is a Governor's race plus it, like Michigan in the Midwest, could be a key state for winning the Presidency. Laying the groundwork now in Missouri could pay off big time in election after election. And our big win for the Senate in 2006 means we are starting to get a good foothold in Missouri. Missouri’s Republican Party is among the most corrupt in the nation, which makes it vulnerable. So let’s build now to win big in Missouri. The Republicans have nothing but corruption and a message of fear. Democrats have a message of raising the minimum wage for working Americans, making education more affordable for working Americans, and making health care more affordable for working Americans. Let’s help the Democratic Party bring that message to the people of Missouri.

Let's turn now to Kentucky. Kentucky has a Senate election in 2008. This seat is currently held by Mitch McConnell (R). Plus we will definitely have a tough race to hold the KY-3 House seat. Newly elected Congressman Yarmouth is a progressive populist who won unexpectedly in 2006. You can be sure he will be heavily targeted by the Republican hate machine in 2008. Let’s give him a real shot at holding his seat with some early money. Like North Carolina, I am targeting Kentucky because it has an important Senate race AND an important House race. Help win these races in 2008.

Now we come to one of my favorite Southern States since I have been focusing on it through two years of solid surprise victories: Virginia where we won the Governor's race in 2005 and picked up a Senate seat in 2006. I want to build further on these wins. Virginia has a Senate race in 2008 and we need to start early if we want to win it. This seat is currently held by the horriible John Warner (R). John Warner gets a D+ on Veteran and defense issues by the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans Association, an 8/100 on seniors issues from Alilance for Retired Americas, a 14/100 on environment from LCV, 16/100 on labor issues from AFL-CIO and 21/100 on choice from Planned Parenthood. There may also be a rematch for the VA-5 House seat which we came closer than expected to winning, though still fell short. And who knows. At this rate, we just might be competitive in Virginia for their electoral votes for President. THAT would be great. Let's make it happen.

Finally, let's not forget Florida. Florida has been the supposed “must win” state for Democrats since 2000. I am not sure I buy that, but I do think it is well worth trying. And I think we could win it. If we do, then we almost certainly will win the Presidency. So it is well worth focusing on Florida. But there is another reason to focus on Florida. We probably had another stolen election in 2006, this time the FL-13 race where 18,000 votes for Congress were missing. And by all calculations most of those votes were Democratic, so Christine Jennings probably won. So we really need to focus on this race early and often to make sure the Republicans don’t keep that seat in 2008. So let's win Florida, like we should have in 2000 and again in FL-13 in 2006.

Please pick one of these States and give a little. Even $10 can make a difference!

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 107: SUPPORT STEM CELL RESEARCH IN THE SENATE

The House has already passed legislation to help life-saving stem cell research. Recent polls suggest that nearly three quarters of Americans support this research. This issue was considered one of the main factors that led to the defeat of an incumbent Missouri Republican in that state's 2006 Senate race. Those who oppose it do so largely based on false information, incorrectly equating stem cell research with abortion. For more background on this issue, please go here.

The next battle ground for stem cell research is in the Senate. Extracting from a Daily Kos diary, the following are the seven "swing" senators who we need to convince to support this important research. If you or someone you know has a condition like Parkinson's or nerve injury that can be helped through stem cell research, or if one of these Senators represents you, please contact the following Senators:

Lindsey Graham: South Carolina. Phone: (202) 224-5972 FAX: (202) 224-3808
Address: 290 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
http://lgraham.senate.gov/...

Johnny Isakson: Georgia. Phone: (202) 224-3643 FAX: (202) 228-0724
Address: 120 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
http://isakson.senate.gov/...

Bob Casey: Pennsylvania Phone: (202) 224-6324. FAX: (202) 228-0604
Address: B-40 Dirksen Senate Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
http://casey.senate.gov/...

Norm Coleman: Minnesota (202) 224-5641 FAX: (202) 224-1152
Address: 320 Senate Hart Office Building, Washington, D. C. 20510
http://coleman.senate.gov/...

John Sununu: New Hampshire Phone: (202) 224-2841 FAX: (202) 228-4131
Address: 111 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
http://www.sununu.senate.gov/...

Bob Corker: Tennessee Phone: (202) 224-3344 FAX: (202) 228-1264
Address: B-40A Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
http://www3.capwiz.com/...

Richard Shelby: Alabama. Phone: (202) 224-5744 FAX: (202) 224-3416
Address: 110 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510
senator@shelby.senate.gov

Remember, these are the people we can influence. Explain your views politely but firmly. Emphasize that this is NOT sacrificing one life for another. This simply is necessary for helping people with severe diseases and deserves their support.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 107: FLORIDA STORMS

Here is some info from Florda CFO Alex Sink regarding the recent storms in Florida. I hope this is helpful for anyone who has been affected or knows someone who has been affected.

CFO SINK, TOURING STORM-HIT AREA, PROVIDES UPDATE ON SEARCH EFFORTS, LOCATION OF CONSUMER ASSISTANCE SITES

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Alex Sink, who Friday afternoon toured the storm-ravaged Central Florida area with Governor Charlie Crist and Attorney General Bill McCollum, said search and rescue crews are reporting they have completed a primary search of impacted areas and are now conducting secondary searches.

CFO Sink also said that the Department of Financial Services, Division of Consumer Services, is now traveling into the area to set up mobile consumer assistance units in The Villages, Lady Lake, DeLand and Port Orange and expects to have those operating by 8 a.m. Saturday, and will be open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. The department’s storm hotline, 1-800-22-STORM (1-800-227-8676) will remain in operation on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“The damage is widespread and significant,” CFO Sink reported as she toured the area. “But our department is geared up to respond to this kind of devastation and we will be there for as long as it takes to make sure these storm victims get the help they need.”

The State Fire Marshal's office, which coordinates search and rescue and fire operations when the state’s Emergency Operations Center is activated, will continue to monitor recovery efforts and support local agencies, CFO Sink said. In the meantime, she said consumer service specialists have been cleared to move in and are en route to the area to set up mobile assistance units in the following locations:

Lowe’s
1751 Dunlawton Avenue
Port Orange

The Laurel Manor Recreation Center
Highway 466 and Buena Vista Boulevard
The Villages

Villages Elementary School
695 Rolling Acres Road
Lady Lake

Victoria Square
South Woodland Blvd.
State Road 17-92 and County Road 15A
DeLand

A Paisley site is expected to be located on Saturday.

Consumer specialists from the Department of Financial Services who will staff the mobile consumer assistance units will assist consumers with contacting their insurance companies and getting insurance claims filed. Citizens Property Insurance Corp. will have representatives at each site, and other insurance companies are expected to join.

CFO SINK ANNOUNCES STORM LINE ACTIVATED, DFS AND STATE FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE COORDINATING ASSISTANCE

Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink is urging Central Florida residents whose homes or businesses were damaged overnight by powerful storms to call the Department of Financial Services’ storm hotline at 1-800-22-STORM (1-800-227-8676) if they have questions regarding steps to take to immediately protect their homes or need help filing an insurance claim.

The storm line was activated early this morning after a powerful storm system suspected of spawning tornadoes struck Sumter, Lake, Volusia, and Seminole counties and parts of Flagler County. This is the second storm with tornadic winds to strike the area in two months.

“My heart is breaking for our citizens in those counties,” said CFO Sink, who also serves as State Fire Marshal. “We have resources available on the phone and on the ground and will do all we can to help these residents and communities get back on their feet quickly.

CFO Sink is urging all Floridians to stay tuned to weather announcements and heed any warnings or watches that may be issued.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is responsible for coordinating search and rescue and fire operations at the state’s Emergency Operations Center and has teams in those counties now. The Department of Financial Services, which CFO Sink oversees, later today will also announce locations for consumer assistance sites to be located in those counties. Sink recommends that property owners take the following actions if they suffered damage:

* Stay away from downed power lines.
* If safe, make emergency repairs to protect from further damage; document the damage and repairs in writing and with receipts and photos.
* Immediately report property damage to your insurance agent and company.
* Gather copies of your household inventory and other documentation, including photos. This will assist the adjuster in assessing the value of the destroyed property.
* If you must leave your home because of the damage, let your agent or insurance company know your temporary forwarding address and phone number.
* Beware of fly-by-night repair businesses. Hire licensed and reputable service people.
* If considering the assistance of a public insurance adjuster, verify that they are licensed by calling the department’s storm hotline.
* Be sure you understand how much a public insurance adjuster is charging and what services are included before signing any contract.
* Use generators in well-ventilated outside areas, never indoors or in a garage or carport.

CFO Sink also reminds residents that because of the declaration of emergency that has been issued, the maximum fee that public adjusters can charge for storm victims in counties named in the order is capped at 10 percent of the claim payment. Furthermore, public adjusters are prohibited from demanding or accepting any type of advance fees, retainers, or other compensation prior to any payment being made on the claim.

A new rule, which went into effect on September 3, 2006, triggers these consumer protections when the governor declares a state of emergency. Under the new rule, the fee cap will not expire for tornado victims regardless of when they may enter into a public adjuster contract for a claim related to damages sustained from the storm.

Public adjusters are not affiliated with any insurance company and are hired by the consumer for a fee which is usually stated as a percentage of the claim payment the public adjuster is responsible for recovering. Independent and company adjusters work for insurance companies and do not charge fees to consumers.

Consumers should make sure they are dealing with a licensed public adjuster by calling the storm hotline or by logging on to www.fldfs.com to verify licensure of any adjuster, and should also read and understand any contract before signing.

The department has activated its storm hotline, 1-800-22-STORM (1-800-227-8676), to help storm victims with questions or complaints they may have with filing an insurance claim.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 107: IOWA FOCUS

Here is an update on what's going on with the Iowa Democratic Party:

Culver proposes big bump for schools (Des Moines Register)

...The governor's proposal for more than $200 million in new spending for education programs would mean new college scholarships, more money for preschool programs, and higher salaries for teachers and college faculty.

"I am just totally thrilled by the governor's aggressive agenda," said Rep. Mary Mascher, a Democrat from Iowa City. "Education is definitely his number one. It's his focus. It's what he campaigned on."

With a Democratic majority in the Iowa General Assembly, "I think the chances are that about 99 percent of these things will become a reality," Mascher said...

One of Culver's priorities is to bring teacher pay from 40th in the nation to 25th. He said his proposed $70 million appropriation for salary increases in fiscal year 2008 would be the largest single increase in teacher pay ever made in the state...

Salaries for K-12 teachers in the 2007-08 school year would go up roughly $2,900 per teacher. "That's still about $5,000 below this year's national average," Schlapkohl said, "but it sure gets us closer..."

Highlights of Culver's plan for Iowa's schools:

PRESCHOOL: Place more certified teachers in the early childhood education classrooms and reduce waiting lists until all 4-year-olds have access to quality preschool. Proposed new spending: $20 million, with increases over four years.

TEACHER SALARIES: Boost teacher salaries to the national average. Proposed new spending: $70 million.

CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION: Improve the quality of classroom instruction. Proposed new spending: $95 million for the 2007-08 budget year, based on a 4 percent increase in per-pupil spending.

ADVANCED HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES: Offer more courses that are at the level of the first year of college. Called the Senior Year Plus program, it would allow every senior to earn up to a year of college credit, saving families future college tuition expenses. Now, only half have access to any college credit, Culver said. Proposed new spending: $300,000 in fiscal year 2008 and $3 million in fiscal year 2009.

COMMUNITY COLLEGES: Update them so they can train Iowa's work force for jobs in renewable energy, alternative fuels and other fields. Proposed new spending: $12.4 million.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR PUBLIC COLLEGES: As many as 5,000 high school graduates, based on financial need, would get up to $2,500 for up to two years at an Iowa community college or $5,000 for up to one year of college at Iowa State University, the University of Iowa or the University of Northern Iowa. It would be called the All-Iowa Oppotunity program. Proposed new spending: $5 million in fiscal year 2008 and then $25 million in fiscal year 2009.

HIGHER EDUCATION: More money for the three regents universities. Proposed new spending: $25 million.

STEM CELL RESEARCH CENTER: Create the Iowa Center for Regenerative Medicine at the University of Iowa. Proposed new spending: $12.5 million.Gov. Chet Culver, as anticipated, made a splash Tuesday with his proposals for revving up Iowa's renewable energy industry by seeking an immediate $25 million down payment on his proposed $100 million Iowa Power Fund.

$25 million sought to start energy plan (Des Moines Register)

Gov. Chet Culver, as anticipated, made a splash Tuesday with his proposals for revving up Iowa's renewable energy industry by seeking an immediate $25 million down payment on his proposed $100 million Iowa Power Fund...

The Democrat's renewable energy proposals include:

- Creating the $100 million Iowa Power Fund over four years to help energy businesses get started or expand. The first installment of $25 million would come in the current budget year as a supplemental appropriation from the Legislature.

- Overhauling utility regulations, including the adoption of higher renewable power standards aimed at giving market access to independent generators of electricity.

- Setting up an alternative fuel vehicle tax credit equal to 20 percent of the credit allowed on federal tax returns.

- Establishing the new post of director of renewable energy...

Culver encourages passenger rail efforts (Cedar Rapids Gazette)

..A proposal to revive passenger rail service over the CRANDIC route between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City has ‘‘incredible potential,’’ and Cedar Rapids could receive additional state aid to counter the loss of revenue if its transit system stops charging fares.

‘‘I don’t think that’s a crazy idea,’’ Culver said of the fare proposal during a meeting Thursday with The Gazette’s Editorial Board. ‘‘You were one of the first to move to biodiesel for your buses. Why not look at other ways you can stay out there and be a model?’’

Culver mentioned the CRANDIC plan as a potential way to get motorists out of their cars in the Interstate 380 corridor. A consultant estimated in December the restoration of downtown-to-downtown service would take $70 million..."

Education, alternative energy and transportation alternatives. Pretty cool!

And this is what Iowa's newest Congressman is up to:

OIL COMPANIES POST RECORD HIGH PROFITS, AS REP. LOEBSACK FIGHTS TO BRING RENEWABLE ENERGY TO THE MARKET PLACE

WASHINGTON, D.C. - At a time when our country's natural gas and oil companies are posting record breaking profits while hard working people are finding it increasingly difficult to fill up their gas tanks, Congressman Dave Loebsack (D-Mt. Vernon) believes we must work loosen the tight grip the oil industry has on our economy through increased exploration of renewable energy sources. Last month Congressman Loebsack voted for H.R. 6, the CLEAN Energy Act of 2007, which in addition to closing tax loopholes and rolling back tax breaks for oil companies, will foster job creation in Iowa through greater investment in renewable energy

"Hard working people in Iowa and across the country struggled to keep their gas tanks full this year because of record high gas prices at the pump, while oil giants like Exxon Mobil Corp. and ConocoPhillips posted record breaking profits this week, $39.5 billion and $15.5 billion respectively," said the Congressman. "The American people have been exploited by these companies, and I am proud to have supported legislation that will roll back tax breaks for these companies and close tax loopholes. Americans should not have to wait any longer for renewable energy technology to be introduced in to the mainstream market place. This is why I support increased federal investment in renewable energy sources."

Last Friday, Congressman Dave Loebsack (D-Mt. Vernon) toured the Big River Resources ethanol plant in West Burlington and the Tri-City Energy Biodiesel plant in Keokuk to gain greater insight on renewable energy plant operations. Iowa is a leader in the development of renewable energy resources, including corn ethanol, bio-diesel fuel, cellulosic ethanol and switchgrass. .."

We have to remember that biodiesel has some of its own problems and is not a cure-all for America's energy woes. But, it can be PART of the solution and one that Iowa has every reason to explore. Dave Loebsack had been written off by the DCCC for winning the election against an incumbent Republican. I think we are very lucky that the grassroots rallied behind him giving him an upset victory.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 107: 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.

Progressive Democrat Issue 107: 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 107: CALIFORNIA DARWIN DAY (Feb. 12th) EVENTS

I will continue to post this until it's over...

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 107: 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.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 107: URGENT NEW YORK STATE FOCUS: Two special elections

Continued from last week. These are two very important races. In the 7th State Senate race our candidate, Craig Johnson, just got a big boost from a HUGE fundraiser put on by the NY grassroots, including DFNYC, New Democratic Majority, etc. We can win this one, and THAT would be huge. Please take an hour or so to help!!

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.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 107: 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:

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:


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.


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MANHATTAN GROUPS AND EVENTS:


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


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

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

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

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

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


DRINKING LIBERALLY: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. Raise your spirits while you raise your glass, and share ideas while you share a pitcher. Drinking Liberally gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don't need to be a policy expert and this isn't a book club - just come and learn from peers, trade jokes, vent frustration and hang out in an environment where it's not taboo to talk politics. Here are our local Manhattan groups:

Upper East Side Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm onward, Doc Watson's, 1490 2nd Avenue (at 77th). In the backyard, weather permitting. Hosted by Matthew Bachiochi, ues (at) drinkingliberally.org

In Manhattan: Thursday, 7:30 pm onward, Rudy's, 627 9th Avenue (between 44th & 45th Streets). Hosted by Justin Krebs and Matthew O'Neill, nyc (at) drinkingliberally.org

Bar Hopping Manhattan: Second Tuesday of each month, 6:00-9:00 pm
A monthly Democratic drinking club at different gay bars around Manhattan. Join the mailing list to receive updates of future venues. Hosted by Dirk McCall, outnyc (at) drinkingliberally.org

East Village: Last Wednesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward, Grassroots Tavern, 20 Saint Mark's Place (between 2nd and 3rd). Hosted by Quinn Raymond, Elena Morin and Abby Cook-Mack, eastvillage (at) drinkingliberally.org


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


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QUEENS GROUPS AND EVENTS:

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

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

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


Queens Jefferson Democratic Club: Our meetings are normally held the first Thursday of every month, @ 8:00 p.m. (the doors open @ 7:30 P.M.) except for July, August, and months in which a holiday falls on the First Thursday. Meetings are held at the Auburndale American Legion Hall, 198-09 33rd Ave Flushing, New York 11358 (just off Francis Lewis Blvd. near 33rd Avenue).

Queens County Young Democrats: for information CLICK HERE.

DRINKING LIBERALLY: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. Raise your spirits while you raise your glass, and share ideas while you share a pitcher. Drinking Liberally gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don't need to be a policy expert and this isn't a book club - just come and learn from peers, trade jokes, vent frustration and hang out in an environment where it's not taboo to talk politics. Here are our local Queens groups:

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

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


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STATEN ISLAND GROUPS AND EVENTS:

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

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

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

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

For more Democratic Clubs in Staten Island, CLICK HERE.

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BRONX GROUPS AND EVENTS:

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


WEST BRONX DRINKING LIBERALLY: An informal, inclusive weekly Democratic drinking club. Raise your spirits while you raise your glass, and share ideas while you share a pitcher. Drinking Liberally gives like-minded, left-leaning individuals a place to talk politics. You don't need to be a policy expert and this isn't a book club - just come and learn from peers, trade jokes, vent frustration and hang out in an environment where it's not taboo to talk politics. There is currently only one Bronx Drinking Liberally group:

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


Find your closest Bronx Democratic Club by CLICKING HERE.


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