Progressive Democrat Issue 112: THOUGHTS

LOTS going on this week. If you watched Fox you would know that Libby was found not guilty. Of course, if you are in touch with reality you would have ALSO heard that he was found GUILTY of four charges. The one charge that never was leveled at him that SHOULD be was treason. Imagine if the chief of staff of Al Gore had done the equivalent during Clinton's administration. The Republicans would have gone berserk and screamed "treason!"

Meanwhile, Bush travels to Latin America and is greeted by this: (from BBC News)




In Brazil, more than 10,000 protesters (according to BBC news) turned out in the capital of Sao Paulo to protest the arrival of America's appointed President, Georgoe Bush. I wonder if our good friend, Francis Holland, is participating :-)

This is a time when world opinion is solidly against America. This is dramatically show by a recent poll that showed that people view America as marginally MORE destabilizing a force than North Korea and only slightly less destabilizing than Iran. To the world, America is part of the Axis of Evil.

This is played out in Latin America as well. In Venezuela, Bolivia and Ecuador, strongly anti-American, socialist presidents have been elected by democratic vote and are extremely popular. Throughout Latin America, including in Brazil, Peru and Chile, leftist governments have been voted into office. In Nicaragua Daniel Ortega, the boogie man of the Reagan era, has been elected President.

We are not popular in the world, not even in our own backyard. Brazil President Lula's own party is protesting Bush's arrival!

But I am not so worried about this trip. Sure people hate us in Latin America thanks to Bush's stupid and insane foreign policy. But at least he isn't visiting Chile. The president of Chile is a women. And we know what kind of creepy groping Bush is known for when meeting a woman head of state:



At least we are spared a similar groping incident in Chile, at least on this trip.

Meanwhile, related to the same embarassing Bush trip, there's a great story on dKos about Mayan priests in Guatamala who plan to purify a sacred Mayan site after President Bush visits and are calling his visit an "offense for the Mayan people and their culture."

What deep revulsion Bush invokes worldwide!

Here's this week's newsletter. Don't forget to visit an advertiser or two to get me a few more cents income. And if you want more political and cultural commentary, visit Culture Kitchen, my other main blog.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

MEDIA ACTION: Taking on Ann Coulter's Hate Speech

NATIONAL ACTION TO GET US OUT OF IRAQ

IMPEACHMENT!

NY STATE FOCUS: Getting us out of Iraq!


NYC GROUPS AND EVENTS

IOWA FOCUS

MICHIGAN FOCUS

MIDWEST GROUPS AND EVENTS

NEW JERSEY FOCUS

NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS


VIRGINIA FOCUS: Getting us out of Iraq!

VIRGINIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Gettingus out of Iraq!

CALIFORNIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

Progressive Democrat Issue 112: MEDIA ACTION: Ann Coulter and Fox News

This also comes from Daily Kos. We are in the middle of what seems to be a successful campaign to convince advertisers that they should not be advertising with Ann Coulter because of her advocacy of terrorism, incitement to violence, and her use of hate speech. Already more than 20 advertisers, including Verizon, AT&T/Cingular, Gulf Shores.com/Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau, and Netbank, are removing their ads from Ann Coulter's website and this has gotten the attention of the mainstream media which has reported on the Daily Kos effort.

Remember, Ann Coulter has publicly advocated bombing the NY Times building, poisoning a Supreme Court justice, beating up American citizens she disagrees with, and has expressed hatred of 9/11 widows. Some advertisers, once made aware of the kind of things she says, do pull their ads.

So we are keeping up the pressure and need your help. The Daily Kos Story has an extensive list of advertisers and I strongly urge you to take a look and contact a few. I will highlight a handful here, but this is only a fraction of the targeted advertisers. Go to the Daily Kos Story for a full list.

USA Today: Marketing/Advertising email contact page is here.

Dish Network: Media/Public Relations email is press@echostar.com.

Hertz Rent-A-Car: 800-654-4173 (remind them that Dollar rentals has already pulled their ads and that makes you feel more favorable towards them because they are responsive to customers)

Best Western Hotels: 1-800-780-7234

Please take a moment to contact these advertisers.

I also want to emphasize that one place Ann Coulter is a favorite is Fox Propoganda. And they are trying to host one of the Democratic Primary debates. So I want to append my last week's action alert regarding MoveOn.org's fight against Fox. But I also want to add that Edwards has announced that he would boycott a debate hosted by Fox. This makes me like Edwards more! But he probably can't follow through if he is the only candidate who does this. So please contact the other candidates to tell them to boycott Fox:

Barack Obama:
campaign phone number (866) 675-200

Hillary Clinton:
campaign phone number (202) 263-0180

Bill Richardson:
campaign phone number (505) 982-2291

Chris Dodd:
campaign phone number (202) 737-3633

Joe Biden:
campaign phone number (202) 547-2221

It is even better if you contacat whichever candidate you support, if you have decided yet. But now the repeat of last week's MoveOn.org action and related info:

MoveOn.org, the organization that may well have done the decisive get out the vote efforts for the November 2006 elections, is now turning its attention to the Fox Propoganda Machine. Here's the latest MoveOn.org campaign:

The Democratic Party of Nevada just announced plans to let Fox News host a presidential primary debate.1 But Fox isn't a legitimate news channel. It's a right-wing mouthpiece like Rush Limbaugh and the Drudge Report—repeating false Republican talking points to smear Democrats.

Fox has already tried to skew the '08 race by accusing Senator Barack Obama of attending a terrorist school. CNN immediately exposed the charge as false,2 and Obama hit back by refusing to appear on Fox—sending them scrambling.3 Democrats can force Fox to be fair and balanced by fighting back hard.

Can you sign this petition asking the Democratic Party of Nevada to drop Fox as its partner for the presidential primary debate?

The full text of the petition is: "Fox is a mouthpiece for the Republican Party, not a legitimate news channel. The Democratic Party of Nevada should drop Fox as its partner for the presidential primary debate."

Clicking here will add your name to the petition.

It's very important to also invite our friends to sign this petition. If ever there was a battle where we could beat Fox, this is it—since Democrats will make the ultimate decision, not Fox executives. But to be convinced, Democratic leaders need to see a growing public backlash.

We'll deliver the petition signatures to the Democratic Party of Nevada and let petition signers know what next steps they can take to make a difference.

When you click the petition link, you'll see a great new YouTube video from filmmaker Robert Greenwald called "Fox Attacks: Obama." It exposes Fox's numerous attacks on Senator Obama—saying he attended a terrorist school, belittling his race, and implying that his name sounds like that of a terrorist.

Fox has also spread false smears about Hillary Clinton this year.4 Plus, when Democrats trusted Fox to host a presidential debate in 2003, Fox undermined Democrats with on-screen headlines like "Democratic Candidates Offer Grim View of America."5

We can fight back. The Washington Post reported that "the Obama camp has 'frozen out' Fox News reporters and producers in the wake of the network's major screw-up in running with the erroneous Obama-the-jihadist story." "'I'm still in the freezer,' one Fox journalist said." Fox News CEO Roger Ailes has personally called Obama twice to smooth relations.3

As the 2008 cycle begins, we need to show Fox there will be serious repercussions for being part of right-wing smear jobs—and we need to show voters they cannot trust Fox for news.

Can you sign this petition asking the Democratic Party of Nevada not to partner with Fox for a presidential primary debate?

The full text of the petition is: "Fox is a mouthpiece for the Republican Party, not a legitimate news channel. The Democratic Party of Nevada should drop Fox as its partner for the presidential primary debate."

Clicking here will add your name to the petition.

Thank you for all you do.

–Noah, Adam G., Marika, Wes, and the MoveOn.org Civic Action Team
Thursday, February 22nd, 2007

Sources:

1. "FNC Hosts Democratic Debate," Mediabistro.com, February 16, 2007

2. "CNN Debunks False Obama 'Madrassa' Smear," ThinkProgress.org, January 22, 2007

3. "Obama's Grudge Factor," Washingtonpost.com, January 30, 2007

4. "O'Reilly and Miller recycled false attack on Clinton's attendance at 9-11 memorials," Media Matters, February 15, 2007

"Right-wing media figures claim Clinton behind Obama/Muslim smears," Media Matters, January 19, 2007


5. "Nevada Dems getting outfoxed?" Lasvegasgleaner.com, February 20, 2007

If the Nevada Dems do the right thing here, I'd send them a donation to thank them. I suggest you make a similar offer.

For those who want to take things a bit further, here are some sites you can get more information on the extremist right wing lies and propoganda that Fox spews at us:

http://www.outfoxed.org/

http://mediamatters.org/

Also, there are ongoing boycotts of Fox Progoganda Channel advertisers. Check out the following sites, pick an advertiser or two, and start writing them as often as you want complaining about their advertising on a channel that spreads lies, advocates terrorist attacks on America and anti-Semitism. Here are some sites you might be interested in if you want to take on Fox Lies:

http://foxattacks.com/

http://skinthefox.com/boycott_001.htm

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Progressive Democrat Issue 112: GETTING OUT OF IRAQ

Two of the latest examples of a Democratic circular firing squad have been many progressives who complain that Congress is doing nothing to get us out of Iraq, and some Hillary supporters who claim progressives in general, and Daily Kos in particular, are a bunch of atheist, anti-religion nut jobs.

Both accusations are untrue and here is one item that counters BOTH. This comes from a DAILY KOS diary by someone with the screen name PROGRESSIVE CHRISTIAN who is pushing progressives (and Christians, we can assume) to support HR 455, one of SEVERAL bills in Congress designed to block the McCain/Bush/Lieberman escalation and to bring our soldiers home from the Iraq quagmire. I sure hope those who have been denegrating congress for not acting to end the war and those who accuse progressives of being anti-religion will take note and help Progressive Christian in getting HR 455 passed.

On January 12, my congressman, Jerrold Nadler (NY-8), introduced H.R. 455, the Protect the Troops and Bring Them Home Act of 2007, a simple bill that limits the use of funding in Iraq for force protection, troop withdrawal and Iraq reconstruction. We spoke with Congressman Nadler's office last week and verified that he is still quite actively promoting this legislation.

Although the bill is not currently the most well-known of the numerous congressional war proposals, H.R. 455 has a number of attributes that make it a distinctive and politically viable option for bringing the Iraq conflict to a reasonable conclusion...

# H.R. 455 is tied to war funding. It would be attached to the appropriations bill so, if it is not removed in conference, the Senate would have to pass it and the President would have to sign it in order to continue funding for the war. Funding is "the only real way to force a change of direction in Iraq."

# Because it maintains funding for the troops (albeit for their removal) it cannot be tarred with the Republican talking point that it "cuts off funding for the troops."

# Because it maintains funding for Iraqi reconstruction, it avoids the argument that we are abandoning the Iraqi people in the same way Congress supposedly "abandoned" the people of South Vietnam.

# The bill establishes a firm and reasonable deadline for troop withdrawal (12/31/07) that will provide an incentive for the Iraqi government to take control of their own political and military destiny. The deadline is well after the "Friedman Unit" that General Petreaus has specified as critical for establishing security.

...DFNYC (the local coalition group of DFA) is soliciting the help of individuals and groups around the country to put grassroots pressure on their congressional representatives to support and cosponsor H.R. 455. Even if H.R. 455 is not their preferred bill, they may be more likely to respond to a focused request rather than the amorphous anti-war sentiments that have resulted in nothing more than nonbinding resolutions. And even if this effort is unsuccessful in getting H.R. 455 passed, it helps build "momentum" that will encourage support of other legislation that will directly keep the President from sending more brave soldiers to die in an unnecessary conflict that will be even harder for his successor to end.

Please contact your congressperson by phone or e-mail and urge them to cosponsor H.R. 455. You can get contact info for your congressperson (and/or find out who he/she is) at http://www.house.gov/...

And I would add that we all should contact the media regarding this. Help Jerrold Nadler get Congress doing the right thing and help build momentum to get us out of the illegal and stupid war in Iraq.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 112: IMPEACHMENT

Some have commented to me that they think impeachment won't happen...or even be attempted. What is really needed is a.) support from the public and b.) support from a few Republicans. This would really get the ball rolling. Well, Seems conservative Republican Chuck Hegel may be considering impeachment as a possibility. From Esquire Magazine:

"The president says, 'I don't care.' He's not accountable anymore," Hagel says, measuring his words by the syllable and his syllables almost by the letter. "He's not accountable anymore, which isn't totally true. You can impeach him, and before this is over, you might see calls for his impeachment. I don't know. It depends how this goes."

The conversation beaches itself for a moment on that word -- impeachment -- spoken by a conservative Republican from a safe Senate seat in a reddish state. It's barely even whispered among the serious set in Washington, and it rings like a gong in the middle of the sentence, even though it flowed quite naturally out of the conversation he was having about how everybody had abandoned their responsibility to the country, and now there was a war going bad because of it.

I am sick of people watching the President blatantly trample the Constitution, the LAW OF THE LAND, and even brag about it, with barely a whimper of protest. There are impeachable offenses that have been committed that deserve AT LEAST an investigation. If an investigation doesn't uncover enough to impeach, fine. But to dismiss the idea without trying it, when Chuck Hegel is thinking impeachment might happen, is just plain wrong.

Come on! It won't happen unless we push. Push BOTH Democrats and Republicans AND the media. Contact your Congress Critters. And Contact the media. Quote Hegel. Use the arguements from Liz Holtzman I discussed before. But speak out.

And focus on the local level. Impeach for Change is bringing together people Congressional district by Congressional district to push for impeachment. Find or found a group in your district.

This is not like the Clinton impeachment foolishness. This is about the law, the Constitution, checks and balances and the very foundations of Democracy.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 112: NEW YORK STATE FOCUS

Getting us out of this insane, illegal, immoral war is one of the biggest priorities of the progressive movement. Many leftists simply say, GET US OUT, and are frustrated that Democrats, in the limited time they have been in control of Congress, haven't taken solid steps to get us out. But it isn't so easy. We need to frame it in a way that is hardest for the right wing dominated media to tear down and is easy for even timid politicians to support. And, ideally, we need to do it in a way that will attract support from some Republicans.

I believe that New York Congressman Jerry Nadler has hit on the right balance between getting our soldiers out and keeping them financially supported at every step of the way. Other proposed bills are also good. But I think Nadler's HR 455 is the best. And Democracy for NYC agrees. Here is their statement:

Anti-war advocates have been stating for years that to end the war our elected officials are going to have to stop funding it.

Congressman Jerrold Nadler has introduced H.R. 455 “Protect the Troops and Bring Them Home Act of 2007”

This bill uses the power of the purse to enable troop withdrawal on a timetable (starting within 30 days of enactment and ending no later than Dec. 31, 2007). Funding would be limited to protecting the troops while withdrawing, as well as for diplomacy, without allowing for an increase in troops. The bill is critical because it was written so that it can be an amendment to the next Supplemental Appropriations Bill to limit how the funds can be used.

Call Congressman Nadler and tell him you are supporting this bill. (Washington Office: 202-225-5635 Manhattan Office: 212-367-7350) Tell other congressmembers to sign on to H.R.455.

Right now there are only 13 cosponsors of this bill.

What astonishes me is the lack of support it is getting from OUR NEW YORK CONGRESSIONAL CONTINGENT. Only four New York State Congressional reps have signed on to Nadler's bill to date. That is embarassing! Where is Rangel? Where is Clarke, my newly elected Rep? Where is Wiener? Why are they not supporting this EXCELLENT bill proposed by one of their fellow New Yorkers and endorsed by Democracy for NYC?

Contact your Congressional Rep. and ask them to support Jerry Nadler's bill, to stand behind our fellow New Yorker and to make NY UNITED behind HR 455. I think that is the first step towards getting our troops OUT of Iraq. Also contact the media and express your support for HR 455 as the best way to protect our troops while getting our troops OUT of Bush's quagmire.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 112: 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:

PBOS takes a step forward -- rally at City Hall
Wed, 03/14/2007 - 1:00pm

The City Council is set to pass Resolution 131, calling for precinct-based, optical scan voting machines. Prior to the stated meeting at which the vote will happen, there will be a rally on the steps of City Hall.

Come early -- and wear something that goes with red tote bags! (You want to know why red tote bags? Come to the rally and find out.)


NYC March to End the War - March 18th
Sun, 03/18/2007 - 1:00pm

Join United for Peace and Juctice, Progressive Democrtats of America New York and other coalition partners in a NYC March to End the War

Sunday, March 18, 2007
Assemble East of 6th Avenue on 35th-39th Street
Assemble at 1:00 pm, March at 2:00 pm

On January 27, 500,000 people from every corner of the country, completely surrounded the Capitol, maybe for the first time in history. On March 18, we are marching again—this time to mark the devastating anniversary of 4 years of war and occupation. And this time, we are marching in our city.

End the War on Iraq! No Military Attacks on Iran!


BROOKLYN GROUPS AND EVENTS:

NEW BROOKLYN POLITICAL CLUB: Shirley Chisholm Political Collective; founded by some of my good friends including Chris Owens, Bill Batson and Raul Rothblatt. Joy and I plan on checking this one out, so please join us. First meeting Saturday March 10th, 4-6PM, Duryea Presbytarian Church, Sterling Pl. and Underhill Ave., Prospect Heights, Brooklyn.

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). My wife, Joy, is now on the executive board and is the corresponding secretary of this club. This club is very grassroots and worked very hard for progressive candidates in the recent primary. They need more people if we want to strengthen the grassroots. If you are not yet a member, please come to the next meeting and join. Membership is cheap! Meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of every month at 7 PM at the Park Slope United Methodist Church, 6th Ave. & 8th Street in the basement (enter through the garden gate on 6th Ave).


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


New Democratic Majority in Brooklyn: Originally an outgrowth of the Dean campaign, NDM is one of the more active progressive organizations around. This is the Brooklyn branch of that organization and we are still building our membership. I will be a co-host of this meeting. We meet the 4th Thursday of every month at the 5th Ave. Ozzie’s in Park Slope, 249 5th Ave (intersection of 5th and Garfield) at 7 PM. You can contact me (mole333@gmail.com) for more info.


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

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

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

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


Lambda Independent Democrats (Brooklyn’s gay and lesbian organization) for meeting info contact LID@LIDBrooklyn.org.

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

Park Slope: First Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward, Commonwealth, 497 5th Ave (at 12th Street). Hosted by Emily Farris and Peter Wohlsen, parkslope (at) drinkingliberally.org

Williamsburg: Every other Tuesday, 8:00 pm onward the Levee, 212 Berry St. (corner of N. 3rd). Hosted by Elana Levin and Michael Freedman-Schnapp, williamsburg (at) drinkingliberally.org


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


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MANHATTAN GROUPS AND EVENTS:


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


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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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


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


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QUEENS GROUPS AND EVENTS:

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

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

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


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

Queens County Young Democrats: for information CLICK HERE.

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

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

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


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STATEN ISLAND GROUPS AND EVENTS:

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

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

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

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

For more Democratic Clubs in Staten Island, CLICK HERE.

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BRONX GROUPS AND EVENTS:

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


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

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


Find your closest Bronx Democratic Club by CLICKING HERE.


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Progressive Democrat Issue 112: IOWA FOCUS

Iowa is doing good things. They beat the US Congress in approving a minimum wage increase. Freshman Congressman Dave Loebsack was one of the first of the new Congressmen to visit our troops in Iraq. And now they are progressing on an Energy Independence bill which aims to have Iowa independent of foreign oil by 2025. From Iowa State Representative Elesha Gayman's newsletter:

ENERGY INDEPENDENCE ACT

The House Commerce Committee passed House File 498, which sets a goal for Iowa to become energy independent by 2025. The bill creates an Iowa Energy Independence Office with an advisory council of persons with expertise in energy related fields to assist the office in carrying out its duties, including the following:

• Develop a comprehensive plan to achieve state independence from foreign energy sources by 2025.

• Coordinate all state funded energy related programs.

• Assist all Iowans to increase energy efficiency and use of alternative and renewable energy.

House File 438 also establishes an Iowa Power Fund administered by the Department of Economic Development in coordination with the director of the Iowa Energy Independence Office. The Iowa Power Fund will invest in alternative and renewable energy development and production, energy efficiency research and technological innovation, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 112: MICHIGAN FOCUS: Stopping the War

Michigan is a case where every single Congressional Democrat opposes the McCain/Bush/Lieberman escalation of the Iraq war and want our soldiers OUT of that quagmire with no obvious purpose or exit strategy while every single Congressional Republican supports Bush's war. Here is the statement from the Michigan Democratic Party:

MIGOP Representatives Vote for Iraq War Escalation

Entire MI Democratic Congressional delegation vote no confidence in Bush’s plans to escalate Iraq war

LANSING – Following the passage of the House resolution against President Bush’s plans to escalate the Iraq war, Michigan Democratic Party Chair Mark Brewer condemned the eight Michigan Republican Members of Congress who voted against it. Representatives Dave Camp, Vern Ehlers, Pete Hoekstra, Joe Knollenberg, Thad McCotter, Candice Miller, Mike Rogers and Tim Walberg all voted against the resolution. The entire Michigan Democratic Congressional delegation, which includes Representatives John Conyers, John Dingell, Dale Kildee, Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, Sandy Levin and Bart Stupak, voted for the resolution. The House passed the resolution 246-182. http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2007/roll099.xml

“Michigan Republicans continue to rubber-stamp President Bush’s failed Iraq policies despite the lack of results and the massive cost to our soldiers,” Brewer said. “They were given a chance to stand united with the American people and stop the escalation of the tragedy that has been the Iraq war. Unfortunately, Michigan Republicans chose to put even more American lives at risk with no end in sight.”

Just yesterday, the Detroit Free Press reported that three top auditors overseeing contract work in Iraq told a House committee that waste and fraud in Iraq war has cost taxpayers over $10 billion.

The Iraq war effort has now stretched out longer than World War II and has cost this country nearly $400 billion and over 120 Michigan soldiers have been killed in Iraq since the war began.

A vast majority of American and Michigan citizens disagree with the President's plan to escalate the war in Iraq, and foreign policy experts and military leaders including General George Casey and Colin Powell have criticized the plan.

Getting us out of Iraq really is going to depend on supporting these Democrats who oppose the McCain/Bush/Lieberman escalation and who recognize that we have no reason to be in Iraq now other than to ensure Halliburton's war profiteering.

A small donation to the Michigan Democrats will help one of the state parties that is most responsive to the community and is most opposed to the Iraq war and most supportive of American workers. Please help the Michigan Democratic Party.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 112: 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 want to highlight some events going on in Iowa of interest to progressives:

# Henry County 2007 Off Year Democratic Caucus
Where: Masonic Temple - Mt. Pleasant
When: Mar 10 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
The Off-Year Henry County Democratic Caucus will be conducted as follows.
All precincts/wards will meet at this single location.
A Central Committee Meeting will follow the caucus.
Candidates and/or Representatives will speak as they arrive.
All Central Committee Members and interested Democrats should attend!
Coffee, Juice, Breakfast Pastries will be served

Contact Dave Helman, County Chair at 319-258-1469 or cdhelman@iowatelecom.net

# Mar 31, 2007 Howard County Off-Year Caucus The Howard County Democrats will hold their 2007 Off-Year Caucus on Saturday, March 31, in Lime Springs, Ia. beginning at 9:30 am. It will be held at the new Community Center at 201 Center St. Representatives from all presidential campaigns have been invited. A spokesman from "Iowans for Sensible Priorities" and Dr. Selden Spencer, former 4TH Congressional District candidate will also speak. A brief Central Committee meeting will be combined with the caucus. Refreshments and rolls will be served.

Where:Community Center, 201 Center St, Lime Springs
When: Mar 31 starts at 9:30 am

# Aug 19, 2007 ABC News/Iowa Democratic Party Debate The Iowa Democratic Party will co-sponsor a forum for presidential candidates with ABC News and ABC5/WOI-TV. The forum will be held on Sunday, August 19, 2007 in Des Moines, Iowa and televised live on This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

Where: Des Moines

When: August 19, 2007
The Iowa Democratic Party will co-sponsor a forum for presidential candidates with ABC News and ABC5/WOI-TV. The forum will be held on Sunday, August 19, 2007 in Des Moines, Iowa and televised live on This Week with George Stephanopoulos.

Detailed information on the time, location and format of the forum will be forthcoming.


I naturally want to 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 qis all about COMMUNITY.


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

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

Ames:
* Every Friday, 5:00 pm onward
* Legends American Grill, 200 Stanton Ave, 7th Floor (in Campustown) (map)
* The group will meet in the large accessible party room left of the elevators unless it is booked by a larger group. We will then be in the Sky Box. Ask a waiter for our location.
* Hosted by Jan Bauer and Brent Wynja, ames (at) drinkingliberally.org

Des Moines:
* Every Thursday, 8:00 p.m. onward
* The Lift, 222 4th St (between Court Ave and Walnut) (map)
* Hosted by Amanda Mittlestadt, Tricia Kell, Dan Chibnall, Cassie Samspon and Matt Jesson, desmoines (at) drinkingliberally.org

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


WISCONSIN GROUPS:

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


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

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


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

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

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


INDIANA GROUPS:

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


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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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


MICHIGAN GROUPS:

Here are some events in Michigan that might interest progressives:

Tuesday, 3-13-07
State Senator Mike Prusi is hosting a "St. Urho's Day Reception" Fundraiser at the Governor's Room, Karoub Building, 121 W. Allegan, Lansing, MI. Paid for by and please make checks payable to: Friends of Mike Prusi, 75 North Shore Drive, Ishpeming, MI 49849.
TIME: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
DONATION: $150.00 per person (Please, no corporate checks)

Wednesday, 3-14-07
State Senator John J. Gleason is hosting his "Annual St. Patrick's Day 'Hooligans' Party" Fundraiser at the Governor's Room, Karoub Building, 121 W. Allegan, Lansing, MI. Serving Irish Stew and Soda Bread!
TIME: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
DONATION: $175.00 per person
CONTACT: Please RSVP to 517/882-2420 (Ext. 4)

State Rep. Lee Gonzales is hosting a Fundraiser at the Governor's Room, Karoub Building, 121 W. Allegan, Lansing, MI. Please make checks payable to: Lee Gonzales Team.
TIME: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
DONATION: $150.00 per person
CONTACT: Vicki, 517/402-5742 for additional information

Saturday, 3-17-07
John Edwards for President St.Patrick’s Day Breakfasts
Coco’s Coney Island 79 North Main Street, Mt. Clemens MI 48043 (586)493-9956
Coco’s Coney Island 940 Joslyn, Pontiac MI 48340 (248)745-3866
Dimo’s Restaurant 2030 West Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI (734) 662-7944
Zef’s Coney Island 1249 Washington Blvd, Detroit, MI (Corner of Grand River & Washington Blvd. in the Book Building Lobby) (313)963-4113
Choose from any Breakfast Special at all 4 locations$30 per person
Make Checks Payable to: Edwards for President
For More Information or Directions Call (586)468-5512

Tuesday, 3-20-07
The Senate Democratic Caucus is hosting their annual "March Madness" Fundraiser at the Nut House Sports Grill, 420 E. Michigan, Lansing, MI. Paid for by and please make checks payable to: Senate Democratic Fund, P.O. Box 1111, Lansing, MI 48901.
TIME: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
DONATION: Sponsorships
$10,000 Champion (Name posted at event and 20 tickets)
$ 5,000 Final Four VIP's (Name posted at event and 10 tickets)
$ 2,500 Elite Eight Winners (Name posted at event and 5 tickets)
$ 1,000 Tournament Team (Name posted at event and 2 tickets)
$ 500 Supporter (1 ticket)

CONTACT: Lisa Williams, 517/763-8609
"Global warming - an inconvenient truth" presentation by Dr. Kathryn Savoie, one of Al Gore's personally trained ambassadors. Novi Souvlaki Restaurant, Novi Rd & 14 Mile Rd, Novi 48377, 7 PM. Free. This is a regular meeting of Democrats of West Oakland County. For info contact Chairman Jim Gualdoni, 248-624-7228, gualdoni23@aol.com.

Wednesday, 3-21-07
State Senator Raymond E. Basham is hosting a "Spring Luncheon" Fundraiser at the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association, 1933 Room, 332 Townsend, Lansing, MI.
TIME: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
DONATION: $150.00 per person
CONTACT: Please RSVP to 734/946-5202

State Senator Deb Cherry is hosting an "Evening Reception" Fundraiser at the Governor's Room, Karoub Building, 121 W. Allegan, Lansing, MI.
TIME: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
DONATION: $150.00 per person
CONTACT: 810/701-2492 or pjanderson64@hotmail.com for additional information.

State Senator Gretchen Whitmer is hosting a "Spring Fling Luncheon" Fundraiser at the Governor's Room, Karoub Building, 121 W. Allegan, Lansing, MI. Paid for by and please make checks payable to: Committee to Elect Gretchen Whitmer, P.O. Box 11063, Lansing, MI 48901.
TIME: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
DONATION: $150.00 per person (Please, no corporate checks)

Wednesday, 3-28-07
State Rep. Marie Donigan is hosting a "Lunch Reception" Fundraiser at the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, 110 W. Michigan Avenue, 12th Floor Conference Room, Lansing, MI.
TIME: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
DONATION: $150.00 per person
CONTACT: Christine Riley, 248/819-1449


Now 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 112: NEW JERSEY FOCUS

While the Bush administration ignores global warming in a horribly stupid act of denial, some states are taking the initiative. California, New York, Iowa and several others are taking real steps to face up to global warming. New Jersey may be next in line.

This comes from New Jersey Assemblywoman Linda Stender:

Assembly Panel Advances Stender's Global Warming Response Act

Legislation sponsored by Assemblywoman Linda Stender that would direct the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop a greenhouse gas emissions monitoring and reduction program was released by the Assembly Environment and Solid Waste committee last week by a vote of 7 to 0.

In light of the mounting scientific evidence that global warming not only is real, but is accelerating, we need to ramp up all efforts to curtail rising levels of carbon dioxide and other dangerous greenhouse gases in the state. We have reached a critical junction regarding global warming. We must take immediate action to protect public health and our environment. If we continue to drag our feet and do nothing, future generations will pay the untimate price for our failure to act now.

A-3301, the "Global Warming Response Act," will make a significant impact globally. Consider the fact that if New Jersey were an individual nation, we would rank 23rd in the world for greenhouse gas emissions if it were its own nation. Our efforts to reduce global warming now will leave a healtier world for future generations.

The legislation would direct the DEP to conduct an emissions inventory during the first year A-3301 becomes law, By the end of the second year, DEP must adopt a greenhouse gas emission monitoring and reduction program to stabilize New Jersey's greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.

If enacted, New Jersey could become the second state in the country to require by law significant reductions in the levels of greenhouse gasses produced by human activities, commerce, transportation, and industries like power plants and oil refineries. Only one other state, California, signed similar legislation into law in September 2006.

The measure now heads to the Assembly Speaker, who decides if and when to post it for a floor vote.

Contact the NJ media and your state reps to give your opinion.

And for those who want to do yet more about global warming, Linda Stender has a great invitation for anyone who wants to go from New Jersey to Washington, D.C. to rally in front of the United States Capitol for action on Global Warming. Here's her invitation:

Please join me on Tuesday, March 20th as I bring New Jersey's effort to combat Global Warming to Washington!

I invite you to ride along with me on a bus to Washington, DC where I will be joining the thousands of concerned citizens from around the nation for a rally at the United States Capitol. Your voice will add strength to our message-Global Warming is Real and the Time to Act is Now!

I am proud to be the leader of New Jersey's effort to combat Global Warming by sponsoring "The Global Warming Response Act." This legislation will make New Jersey one of the first states in the nation to establish mandatory reductions on green house gas emissions. I am equally proud to have the opportunity to address the crowd in Washington to tell them about our efforts.

After the rally, you will be provided with a unique opportunity to meet with your Representative in Congress. This is our chance to make sure reversing climate change with a responsible energy agenda is at the top of their To-Do list.

New Jersey has set an example for the nation to follow. Please join me on the 20th and lend your support to this most important cause.

WHEN: March 20, 2007, the bus to Washington will be leaving from the Short Hills Mall at 6 am. The rally begins at 11 am and ends at 1 pm. You will then have the opportunity to meet with your Congressman and then depart from DC around 4 pm.

WHO: Anyone interested in Marching on Washington to tackle Global Warming head on! Bring your family, friends, and colleagues along! Lunch will be provided to anyone joining us for the ride.

To reserve a seat for you and your guest, PLEASE RSVP to Heather at 732-340-1005 or LindaStender@gmail.com no later than March 16th!

We have a tremendous opportunity to lobby Congress for cleaner, smarter energy standards today! We cannot afford to let the clock tick and longer. I look forward to seeing you there!

I hope some of my New Jersey readers can join her.


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

Progressive Democrat Issue 112: NEW JERSEY GROUPS AND EVENTS

First let me highlight a local events:

March 20, 2007
Wanaque Democratic Club Meeting
American Legion Hall, 1109 Ringwood Avenue
Haskell, NJ 07420
Please join us at our next regular meeting.
You will be able to meet your local Democratic leaders and discuss Borough issues that are important to you.

Refreshments will be served.

For more information email dave@wanaquedemocrats.com or call Sandy at 973-248-9788

March 21, 2007
Lower Township Democratic Club Meeting
324 Breakwater Rd.
Cape May, NJ 08204
Join the Democrats of Lower Township for their monthly dinner meeting at the Knights of Columbus Hall located at 324 Breakwater Rd., Erma, NJ 08204. Meetings start at 5:30pm.

For more information, please contact:

Bob Hartman
609-898-8167

March 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


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 112: VIRGINIA FOCUS

Getting us out of this insane, illegal, immoral war is one of the biggest priorities of the progressive movement. Many leftists simply say, GET US OUT, and are frustrated that Democrats, in the limited time they have been in control of Congress, haven't taken solid steps to get us out. But it isn't so easy. We need to frame it in a way that is hardest for the right wing dominated media to tear down and is easy for even timid politicians to support. And, ideally, we need to do it in a way that will attract support from some Republicans.

I believe that New York Congressman Jerry Nadler has hit on the right balance between getting our soldiers out and keeping them financially supported at every step of the way. Other proposed bills are also good. But I think Nadler's HR 455 is the best. And Democracy for NYC agrees. Here is their statement:

Anti-war advocates have been stating for years that to end the war our elected officials are going to have to stop funding it.

Congressman Jerrold Nadler has introduced H.R. 455 “Protect the Troops and Bring Them Home Act of 2007”

This bill uses the power of the purse to enable troop withdrawal on a timetable (starting within 30 days of enactment and ending no later than Dec. 31, 2007). Funding would be limited to protecting the troops while withdrawing, as well as for diplomacy, without allowing for an increase in troops. The bill is critical because it was written so that it can be an amendment to the next Supplemental Appropriations Bill to limit how the funds can be used.

Call Congressman Nadler and tell him you are supporting this bill. (Washington Office: 202-225-5635 Manhattan Office: 212-367-7350) Tell other congressmembers to sign on to H.R.455.

Right now there are only 13 cosponsors of this bill.

This bill is our best way of getting out of Bush's mess. I am hoping to stir up support nationally. Support for this bill coming from Virginia would particularly be helpful.

Contact your Congressional Rep. and ask them to support Jerry Nadler's bill, to stand behind a Congressman who represents the city that was attacked on 9/11. I think that is the first step towards getting our troops OUT of Iraq. Also contact the media and express your support for HR 455 as the best way to protect our troops while getting our troops OUT of Bush's quagmire.

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

Progressive Democrat Issue 112: VIRGINIA GROUPS AND EVENTS

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 103: CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Get us out of Iraq

Getting us out of this insane, illegal, immoral war is one of the biggest priorities of the progressive movement. Many leftists simply say, GET US OUT, and are frustrated that Democrats, in the limited time they have been in control of Congress, haven't taken solid steps to get us out. But it isn't so easy. We need to frame it in a way that is hardest for the right wing dominated media to tear down and is easy for even timid politicians to support. And, ideally, we need to do it in a way that will attract support from some Republicans.

I believe that New York Congressman Jerry Nadler has hit on the right balance between getting our soldiers out and keeping them financially supported at every step of the way. Other proposed bills are also good. But I think Nadler's HR 455 is the best. And Democracy for NYC agrees. Here is their statement:

Anti-war advocates have been stating for years that to end the war our elected officials are going to have to stop funding it.

Congressman Jerrold Nadler has introduced H.R. 455 “Protect the Troops and Bring Them Home Act of 2007”

This bill uses the power of the purse to enable troop withdrawal on a timetable (starting within 30 days of enactment and ending no later than Dec. 31, 2007). Funding would be limited to protecting the troops while withdrawing, as well as for diplomacy, without allowing for an increase in troops. The bill is critical because it was written so that it can be an amendment to the next Supplemental Appropriations Bill to limit how the funds can be used.

Call Congressman Nadler and tell him you are supporting this bill. (Washington Office: 202-225-5635 Manhattan Office: 212-367-7350) Tell other congressmembers to sign on to H.R.455.

Right now there are only 13 cosponsors of this bill.

This bill is our best way of getting out of Bush's mess. I am hoping to stir up support nationally. Next to New York, California is the most supportive state for this bill. If we can get the bulk of both the NY and CA Congressional contingents behind this bill, it would be a good start towards passing it. This is where I need your help.

Contact your Congressional Rep. and ask them to support Jerry Nadler's bill, to stand behind a Congressman who represents the city that was attacked on 9/11. I think that is the first step towards getting our troops OUT of Iraq. Also contact the media and express your support for HR 455 as the best way to protect our troops while getting our troops OUT of Bush's quagmire.

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Progressive Democrat Issue 112: 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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