Progressive Democrat Issue 159

It has been an eventful week. The economy has shown signs of considerable collapse. One of the most stodgy and respected banks, Bear Stearns, collapsed from being worth some $130 a share to being bought out for a mere $2 a share. AND it needed bailing out by the government as well. Inflation and stagnation...what used to be called stagflation. That is what we are seeing. Back when we first saw this horrible combination, at least our Presidents admitted it. Ford's slogan was "WIN: Whip Inflation Now!" It was worthless, but at least it admitted the problem. Bush merely "reassures" us that there is nothing to worry about. He claims there is no recession, no inflation, no problem. "Don't worry, be happy." The mantra that worked so well for his father.

This week there has been much back and forth in the Democratic Primary, culminating in a very well received speech by Barack Obama (one poll indicated 70% of Americans approved of Obama's speech. It also led to Bill Richardson's endorsement of Obama. Hillary remains ahead in Pennsylvania, which increases the chances of a very confusing and possibly difficult convention. Whether we like it or not, the Superdelegates will decide the primary. But as things stand now (and they can change) I predict they will decisively swing it to Obama in the end. That is neither guaranteed nor was it as likely a month ago that is what they would do. But right now, Obama is likely to squeak by with a slim lead in pledged delegates, and enough Superdelegates either prefer Obama or want to avoid overturning the pledged delegates that I think they will eventually swing to Obama. Analyses I have seen of what the general election is likely to look like in November suggest that BOTH Obama AND Clinton would beat McCain. The electoral map would look very different depending on which is our nominee, but both would likely win. Obama looks slightly stronger right now in a general for two reasons. There are more states where he has a safe lead over McCain that Hillary is unlikely to win than visa versa, and he looks to get nominally more electoral votes total than Hillary. I will say, though, that ANY state by state analysis of this type done at this time is likely to be inacurate. It is a snapshot of what might happen now, and things will change. Hopefully for the better.

This week was the fifth anniversary of the War in Iraq, the war we were told would pay for itself and whose "Mission" was "Accomplished" (what mission is a question that has never been answered) in May of 2003. Remember that some 96% of casualties in the Iraq quagmire have happend after Bush's declaration of "Mission Accomplished." This issue of the newsletter mostly discusses aspects of the war, including discussing the very obvious lies that got us into this mess, discussing the true cost of this war in missed opportunities that the money we've wasted could have paid for, and once again pushing the candidacy of Diane Benson, an amazing mother whose son was seriously injured in Iraq and who is campaigning in Alaska primarily on the war.

I also continue to list excellent progressive candidates in California, Arizona, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Check them out, help them out. These are the leaders of the next generation.

Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

FIVE YEARS LATER: The Lies Become Clear

DIANE BENSON FOR CONGRESS: It's the WAR, Stupid!

THE COST OF WAR: How would you spend it?

HEALTH ACTION ALERT: Keeping Antibiotics Working

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS: Peace Vigils, Groups and Events

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Progressive Candidates, Alternative Energy, Peace Vigils, Groups and Events

OREGON FOCUS: Groups and Events

ALASKA FOCUS: Groups and Events

MICHIGAN FOCUS: Groups and Events

VIRGINIA FOCUS: Impeachment, Groups and Events

NEW JERSEY FOCUS: Blue Radio, Peace Rallies, Groups and Events

GEORGIA FOCUS: Veterans for Peace, Groups and Events

FLORIDA FOCUS: Peace Vigils, Groups and Events

ARIZONA FOCUS: Progressive Candidates, Groups and Events

IOWA FOCUS: Sustainable Agriculture, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

WISCONSIN FOCUS: Progressive Candidates, Groups and Events

TEXAS FOCUS: Alternative Energy, Rick Noriega, Groups and Events

PENNSYLVANIA FOCUS: Progressive Candidates, Groups and Events

ILLINOIS FOCUS: Peace Vigils, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS: Peace Vigils, Groups and Events

FIVE YEARS LATER: The Lies Become Clear

As we enter the sixth year of this war, let us remember what got us into the war: lies. Republican lies. Democrats fell for the lies too often and for too long. But the lies were engineered by the Republicans to cynically sell a war that has helped nobody but mercenaries and war profiteers.

The Iraq Blunder is one of the biggest blunders ever in American History...and yet the George Bush/John McCain/Joe Lieberman axis of blunders STILL thinks we should be occupying Iraq for eternity.

But the one, single question that no Republican has ever been able to answer is just why did we ever invade in the first place. Why did we invade, what are our goals, what is our exit strategy? No answer from Bush. No answer from McCain. No answer from Lieberman.

No answer because there IS no answer. Every single excuse they ever gave us for invading Iraq proved to be a lie. I was one of those who, at the time they were making their case to the world for invasion, was dead certain they were lying. My knowledge of history and politics, everything I knew about the Middle East and Islam told me their excuses were lies. Those of us who saw through their lies were proven right. This morning I was reminded of this, on the eve of the 5th year anniversary of the beginning of the Iraq Blunder, that I was right.

I get daily email updates from many sources. One of them is an Israeli news service. Although they come with a clear bias, I find their information useful. In today's update they report what I knew five years ago: that there NEVER was a link between Saddam Hussein and al-Qaeda and the Bush Administration LIED to the world to invade. To quote the email from Guysen International News:

USA: from the analysis of 600,000 documents a Pentagon report establishes that no link existed between Saddam Hussein and Al Qaeda. The rebuttal of the premise of the American attack in Iraq has embarrassed the American administration, which withdrew the report from circulation. The Iraqi dictator nevertheless supported and financed terrorist groups including the families of many Palestinian terrorists who carried out suicide bombings. (Guysen.International.News)

The same thing is being reported by Truthout.org (another one of my daily news sources).

The PENTAGON admits Bush lied...and Bush/McCain/Lieberman suppressed the report. Lies, a blundered invasion and a coverup. THAT is what Bush and McCain are all about. The link to suicide bombings in Palestine/Israel mentioned by the Isralei news source is quite likely...as is the link between our "ally" Saudi Arabia and suicide bombings in Palestine/Israel. Are we invading Saudi Arabia?

But the Pentagon report this Israeli news source is reporting on is by no means the only source of analysis that shows us that the Bush/McCain/Lieberman axis of blunders lied to us. As I reported recently, according to a study done by the Center for Public Integrity, the Bush adminsitration, including Bush himself, Colin Powell, Cheney and many of Bush's top advisors, made over 930 demonstrably false statements in the lead up to the invasion of Iraq. It is worth repeating that report side by side with the Israeli report on the Pentagon analysis as we are coming up on the 5th anniversary of the Big Bush Blunder.

From the survey:

President George W. Bush and seven of his administration's top officials, including Vice President Dick Cheney, National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice, and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, made at least 935 false statements in the two years following September 11, 2001, about the national security threat posed by Saddam Hussein's Iraq. Nearly five years after the U.S. invasion of Iraq, an exhaustive examination of the record shows that the statements were part of an orchestrated campaign that effectively galvanized public opinion and, in the process, led the nation to war under decidedly false pretenses.

On at least 532 separate occasions (in speeches, briefings, interviews, testimony, and the like), Bush and these three key officials, along with Secretary of State Colin Powell, Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz, and White House press secretaries Ari Fleischer and Scott McClellan, stated unequivocally that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction (or was trying to produce or obtain them), links to Al Qaeda, or both. This concerted effort was the underpinning of the Bush administration's case for war.

Here is the graph: (click to enlarge)



And here are a few highlights from the report:

* On August 26, 2002, in an address to the national convention of the Veteran of Foreign Wars, Cheney flatly declared: "Simply stated, there is no doubt that Saddam Hussein now has weapons of mass destruction. There is no doubt he is amassing them to use against our friends, against our allies, and against us." In fact, former CIA Director George Tenet later recalled, Cheney's assertions went well beyond his agency's assessments at the time. Another CIA official, referring to the same speech, told journalist Ron Suskind, "Our reaction was, 'Where is he getting this stuff from?' "

* In the closing days of September 2002, with a congressional vote fast approaching on authorizing the use of military force in Iraq, Bush told the nation in his weekly radio address: "The Iraqi regime possesses biological and chemical weapons, is rebuilding the facilities to make more and, according to the British government, could launch a biological or chemical attack in as little as 45 minutes after the order is given. . . . This regime is seeking a nuclear bomb, and with fissile material could build one within a year." A few days later, similar findings were also included in a much-hurried National Intelligence Estimate on Iraq's weapons of mass destruction — an analysis that hadn't been done in years, as the intelligence community had deemed it unnecessary and the White House hadn't requested it.

* In July 2002, Rumsfeld had a one-word answer for reporters who asked whether Iraq had relationships with Al Qaeda terrorists: "Sure." In fact, an assessment issued that same month by the Defense Intelligence Agency (and confirmed weeks later by CIA Director Tenet) found an absence of "compelling evidence demonstrating direct cooperation between the government of Iraq and Al Qaeda." What's more, an earlier DIA assessment said that "the nature of the regime's relationship with Al Qaeda is unclear."

* On May 29, 2003, in an interview with Polish TV, President Bush declared: "We found the weapons of mass destruction. We found biological laboratories." But as journalist Bob Woodward reported in State of Denial, days earlier a team of civilian experts dispatched to examine the two mobile labs found in Iraq had concluded in a field report that the labs were not for biological weapons. The team's final report, completed the following month, concluded that the labs had probably been used to manufacture hydrogen for weather balloons.

* On January 28, 2003, in his annual State of the Union address, Bush asserted: "The British government has learned that Saddam Hussein recently sought significant quantities of uranium from Africa. Our intelligence sources tell us that he has attempted to purchase high-strength aluminum tubes suitable for nuclear weapons production." Two weeks earlier, an analyst with the State Department's Bureau of Intelligence and Research sent an email to colleagues in the intelligence community laying out why he believed the uranium-purchase agreement "probably is a hoax."

* On February 5, 2003, in an address to the United Nations Security Council, Powell said: "What we're giving you are facts and conclusions based on solid intelligence. I will cite some examples, and these are from human sources." As it turned out, however, two of the main human sources to which Powell referred had provided false information. One was an Iraqi con artist, code-named "Curveball," whom American intelligence officials were dubious about and in fact had never even spoken to. The other was an Al Qaeda detainee, Ibn al-Sheikh al-Libi, who had reportedly been sent to Eqypt by the CIA and tortured and who later recanted the information he had provided. Libi told the CIA in January 2004 that he had "decided he would fabricate any information interrogators wanted in order to gain better treatment and avoid being handed over to [a foreign government]."

The conclusion is clear. They lied, blatantly and deliberately, to get us into a war that was NOT in our best interest, was NOT justified and which has turned into the greatest foreign policy and military blunder since the Vietnam war. And Osama bin Laden is STILL free. And John McCain supports Bush's Big Blunder. You hear far more from McCain about continuing the Iraq Quagmire for 100 more years, but very, very little about getting Osama bin Laden and stopping al-Qaeda. Remember: al-Qaeda attacked us. Iraq did not.

Diane Benson for Congress: It's the War, Stupid!

As we enter the 6th year of the Iraq Quagmire, and as the lies that got us into this mess become more and more apparent, the time has come to elect people who are genuinely against the war and who have first hand experience on the suffering this war causes. Diane Benson is someone I have already mentioned. You will be hearing a lot more about her because she is becoming the candidate I most want to see elected to Congress this year.



I met Diane Benson, Congressional Candidate in Alaska, about a month ago and was very impressed. But only got to hear her speak as a candidate tonight. Again I was impressed. Diane is a genuine American who has worked hard all her life to get an education and to better the life of her son. Often she and her son have worked hard for our country and for their community. She has the confidence of someone who worked their way through school driving trucks while raising her son. She has the confidence of a woman who worked in the male dominated workers camp on the Alaskan pipeline. She has the confidence of someone who has had to work for everything, being given nothing easily. The contrast with the spoiled brat who inhabits the White House is about as striking as you can get.

Among those who came out for Diane was as diverse a group of Democrats you can find. Avid Hillary supporters rubbing shoulders with avid Obama supporters, both writing checks for Diane and THANKING her for her running. Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney was among the strongest voices supporting Diane with both enthusiasm and a bit of awe. Also there were former US Attorney General Ramsey Clark, our next Public Advocate Norm Siegel, Captain Jon Soltz, Veteran of Kosovo and the Iraq War and founder of VoteVets.org, fellow Daily Gotham writer Dan Jacoby, and City Council Candidate Steve Behar (if I left anyone out, please let me know!). I also saw members of two Brooklyn Democratic clubs, IND and CBID, and the current CBID president, Chris Owens, was on the host committee. Quite an interesting collection of Democrats.

Captain Jon Soltz introduced Diane Benson. Soltz has an amazing story of his own, volunteering for military service as part of his dedication to both America and Israel, serving honorably and bravely, only to discover when he returned home that the very government that sent him to war treated him like dirt. His discovery of the lies that got us into Iraq and his realization that Bush ran away from the fight with al-Qaeda, the enemy that attacked us, and his witnessing the closing of VA hospitals by Bush inspired Soltz to found Vote Vets.org Jon Soltz summed up George Bush this way: "This guy [George Bush] is the worst commander-in-chief in the history of our armed forces."

Soltz's introduction of Diane Benson was about the most heartfelt and passionate endorsement I have heard. This is because Diane Benson is running for office precisely on the same issues that politicized Soltz: the blundered Iraq War, the failure to secure America, the neglect of our soldiers, the neglect of our veterans. There was a bond between the two that went beyond what any of us who have not experienced first hand the pain of this war can quite understand.

Jon Soltz, who is working hard for some 16 candidates right now, went so far last night as to suggest that people should donate to Diane before even considering contributing to anyone else's campaign on any level. His respect for her is that great.

Among the things that really stuck in my mind was the Republican neglect of our troops. Diane described having to buy her son military socks so he'd have some to wear. What, America can't afford to properly clothe our troops? Is THIS what Republicans mean by "supporting the troops." We know the Republican dominated government failed to provide adequate body armor and forced soldiers to pay their own way to visit home on leave (until people like Al Franken and Air America Radio embarassed them into changing their policy by raising frequent flyer miles to give to our troops). But they didn't even give our troops adequate socks??? And Jon Soltz reminded us about Bush closing VA hospitals, the series of events that led to Soltz becoming politicized and forming VoteVets.org. Diane has been dedicating herself to helping our troops, greeting them when they get home, visiting them in the hospital, helping them adapt back to life in the states...before they all too often get sent back. The lies surrounding the war, the failure of our leadership, the neglect of our soldiers, the neglect of our veterans...THESE are the reasons Diane Benson is running.

It's about the WAR, stupid. We are mired in a war that was based on lies, which has been full of blunders, STILL lacks an exit strategy and in which victory is not even defined. Diane Benson knows first hand the cost this war has had on our soldiers, our Veterans, and their families. Her son, Sgt Latseen Benson, served in Iraq. He volunteered after the 9/11 attacks, something that struck a chord with us New Yorkers because he chose to serve because of the attacks on our city. He was scheduled to come home when he was stop-lossed (yet another abuse our troops have to suffer at the hands of a callous, negligent government...also called the "backdoor draft"). Thirteen days after he should have come home, he was severely injured, filled with shrapnel and losing both his legs and part of a hand.

At the center of all the blunders in the Iraq war, at the center of all the neglect of our soldiers and veterans, is George W. Bush and his allies, John McCain and Don Young. And again, Diane Benson and her family saw first hand the callousness, the utter lack of any sense of empathy shown by George Bush. When her son was recovering from severe injuries while serving in Iraq, he was fitted with prosthetic legs to replace those that got blown off. While learning to use them, and while still recovering from his other injuries, he remained mostly in a wheelchair. George Bush came to visit the hospital where he was recovering. In an elaborate photo op where the wounded soldiers were practicly mere props, her son was lined up with the others, standing on prothetic limbs he wasn't yet used to. Bush came down the line, shaking hands with these soldiers he had sent to war with no logic, no reason, no plan...no body armor...Shaking hands with Sgt Latseen Benson, George Bush asked, "So how are those legs working out for you?"

Face to face with a brave soldier who had lost his legs serving in Bush's Big Blunder in Iraq, George Bush asks, "So how are those legs working out for you?"

Just in case you forgot, let's remember what Bush was doing at that age:



The fury Benson and her son felt at that insult from the Chickenhawk in Chief was quite obvious as Diane told the story.

THIS is why Diane Benson is running: because the Republicans who are sending our troops ill equipped into a war with no purpose or goal don't even care about those troops. They are pawns in a game about oil and props for photo ops and their injuries boil down to: So how are those prosthetic limbs that replace the legs you were born with and got blown off working for you?

Ending the war and holding our politicians accountable for the blunders are focal points of Diane's campaign. But her campaign is about even more than that. It is about values and service. She comes from a Native American tradition of strong family and community values, and the record of service Diane and her son have puts us all to shame. Latseen gave all he could serving in Iraq. Diane has served her community all her life, volunteering with senior citizens at Ketchikan Hospital at the age of 12, and although often homeless, worked a variety of social service oriented jobs with the underprivileged and the elderly until she took a position with the Fairbanks Native Association. She has worked to stop child abuse, was a proud member of Local 959 - Teamster Union, serves on Anchorage Chamber of Commerce’s Military Appreciation Committee, on the Healing Racism Steering Committee, was a two term President of the Alaska Native Sisterhood, Camp 87- Anchorage, and is an active member of the National Organization of Women.

I think simply put, Diane Benson is the ideal woman to send to Congress from any state...Alaska just happens to be lucky enough to have her running. By contrast, the Republican incumbent is a wealthy lawyer with no understanding of working class or middle class Americans, no record of support for our troops or Veterans, and is perhaps best known for a record of corruption as long as they get. So the choice Alaska has is between an out of touch lawyer best known for corruption, or Diane Benson, known for her genuine record of service to her community, to Alaksa, and to American's troops and Veterans. If you want to help elect Diane to Congress, you can donate at my Alaska Act Blue site. If you really want to shake up Congress, sending a tough, working class woman and mother of a disabled Iraq War Veteran is the way to do it. For those who haven't had a chance to meet her, let me introduce you:

The Cost of War: How Would You Spend It?

Healthcare is failing in America. Farmers are hurting. The poor are getting poorer. We can't fix our roads, levees and bridges. The deficit spirals out of control. And education is underfunded.

And the Iraq war is costing us $720 million per day. Wouldn't that money be spent on improving life here in America?

From the American Friends Service committee:

Health Action Alert: Keeping Antibiotics Working

An ongoing effort of mine is to fight the misuse of antibiotics. Misuse of antibiotics has been an increasing health hazard for people, leading to many strains of antibiotic resistant bacteria that infect, and sometimes kill, people, particularly children, the elderly and the immunocompromised. Last time I wrote about this I was able to report a victory in the fight to keep antibiotics effective. Today I want to introduce the latest fight.

First, for those who want more background, the Union of Concerned Scientists has an excellent rundown. An excerpt from their site:

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are on the rise. Patients once effectively treated for pneumonia, tuberculosis, or ear infections may now have to try three or more antibiotics before they find one that works. And as more bacterial strains develop resistance, more people will die because effective antibiotics are not identified quickly enough or because the bacteria causing the disease are resistant to all available antibiotics.

Why have bacterial strains become resistant? The short answer is overuse of antibiotics. Physicians and hospitals have overprescribed the drugs, and patients have demanded them—even for illnesses not caused by bacteria. Veterinarians, too, overprescribe drugs to treat sick animals.

It is livestock producers, however, who use the vast majority of antibiotics produced in the United States. An estimated 70 percent of antibiotics and related drugs produced in this country are used for nontherapeutic purposes such as accelerating animal growth and compensating for overcrowded and unsanitary conditions on large-scale confinement facilities known as "factory farms." This translates to about 25 million pounds of antibiotics and related drugs fed every year to livestock for nontherapeutic purposes—almost eight times the amount given to humans to treat disease.

Today I received an email from one of the frontline groups working to keep antibiotics effective, called, simply enough, Keep Antibiotics Working. Here is their email reporting the latest threat to our health:

Antibiotic resistance is a growing crisis in human medicine, and our health is put at unnecessary risk by the use of important human drugs in animal agriculture. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently considering an application by drug company Schering-Plough to allow an antibiotic called cefquinome to be used to treat cattle respiratory infections. Cefquinome is from the class of drugs known as “fourth-generation cephalosporins”—drugs that are highly valued in human medicine to treat life-threatening infections. Widespread use of cefquinome in cattle could drive human resistance to this critical class of drugs

Some animal drugs, such as cefquinome, are indiscriminately applied via injection to entire herds or flocks. Bacteria that are constantly exposed to antibiotics develop resistance to these drugs over time. When humans and animals get sick from resistant bacteria, the antibiotics prescribed will no longer work, resulting in life-threatening infections.

Keep Antibiotics Working is campaigning diligently to ensure that the FDA does not approve cefquinome. While FDA is dragging its feet, another way to stop this public health threat is for drug company Schering-Plough to pull its application for the approval of cefquinome. We need your help to urge Schering-Plough CEO Fred Hassan to pull its new animal drug application for cefquinome! Please sign our petition today!

You can also write or call Schering-Plough to voice your opinion:

Global Headquarters
Schering-Plough Corporation World Headquarters
2000 Galloping Hill Road
Kenilworth, N.J. 07033-0530
Telephone: (908) 298-4000

This is a very important issue and I hope you help us protect our health and the health of our children.

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS: Peace Vigils, Groups and Events

NEW YORK ACT BLUE SITE: Sweeping New York...our goal is in sight.

Here are events and groups in NY State:

Film Screening - Flow for the Love of Water
April 17, 2008

Screening of a new Sundance documentary
Flow for the Love of Water
The Linda at Quail and Central, Albany, NY
http://flowthefilm.com/

There will be panel discussion following the screening.

Global Marine Renewable Energy Conference
April 17th-18th

http://www.globalmarinerenewable.com

New York, New York
Millennium Broadway Hotel

The Global Marine Renewable Energy Conference will convene international and U.S.-based leaders and innovators to exchange the latest information on marine renewable energy. Speakers include experts from the IEA-OES, U.S. federal and state government leaders, and other recognized industry representatives on the cutting-edge of this growing business area.

Don't miss cutting-edge dialogue on:

- The performance results of marine renewable technology demonstrations
- Evolution of permitting (consent processes) and siting in various countries
- The most effective financing instruments and public subsidies
- Understanding and mitigating potential environmental risks and future studies

Explore and exchange knowledge on best practices from international experts, including our moderators and keynote speakers:

- Dr. Dan Arvizu, Director, U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Technology Laboratory
- Dr. Robert Thresher, Director, National Wind Technology Center, U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory
- Robert LaBelle, Director, Department of Interior’s Mineral Management Service
- Roger Bedard, Ocean Energy Leader, Electric Power Research Institute
- Gouri Bhuyan, Chairman of the IEA-OES and Principle Advisor, Alternative Energy, Powertech Labs Inc.
- Ed Feo, Millbank and Tweed
- Michael O’Connell, Stoel Rivers, LLP
- Matt Simmons, Chairman, Simmons & Company International

Panelists on our Executive Overview panel include:

- George Hagerman, Virginia Tech
- Keith Martin, Chadbourne & Park
- Carolyn Elefant, OREC
- Bonnie Ram, Energetics Incorporated

Visit our website for more information: www.globalmarinerenewable.com
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact: CS@energetics.com

Mountaintop to Tap Exhibit Reception at the Queens Museum of Art
Friday, May 16
Mountaintop to Tap exhibit reception at the Queens Museum of Art in Flushing Meadows Park: http://www.queensmuseum.org/
The exhibit will be in the space with the Panorama.

Riverkeeper Honors Patty Smyth McEnroe and John McEnroe
Tuesday, May 13th
Cocktails 6:30 PM
Dinner 7:30 PM

This year Riverkeeper proudly honors Patty Smyth McEnroe and John McEnroe at our Annual Dinner on the Hudson at Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers.

For more information, please contact Teresa Walsh at Riverkeeper
(914) 478-4501, ext. 243


Here is a list of weekly Peace Vigils around NY State:

Schenectady: Counter-recruitment leafleting of high school
"Truth in Recruitment"

On the second and forth Monday of every month 1:50pm to 2:20pm, counter-recruitment literature is handed-out to the students at Schenectady High School.

Location:
Schenectady High School
1445 The Plaza
Schenectady, NY 12308

Contact: Elizabeth at 518 374-2949 for confirmation or further directions.

Sponsored by: Schenectady Neighbors for Peace, a branch of Peace Action

Phillipstown for Democracy Demonstration against the War in Iraq
Every Saturday at the intersection of Route 9 and 9D from 12-2. For information contact Connie Hogart at conart1_at_optonline.netv

Cobleskill: Vigil for peace
Weekly vigil for peace, every Saturday 11:00am to 12:00pm.

Location:
Main and Union Streets
Cobleskill, NY 12043

Contact: 518-287-1771

Sponsored by: Peacemakers of Schoharie County

Marbletown: Peace vigil
A peace vigil held every Saturday from at least 11:00am to noon, held by an assortment of local people.

Location:
Southernmost intersection of Route 213 & Route 209 (the one with the stop light)
Marbletown/Stone Ridge, NY 12484

In the event that the community has another pre-arranged event scheduled for this intersection on a given Saturday, the vigil will move on that day to the front of the Stone Ridge Town Hall, south on route 209.

Contact: 845 687-9591

Saratoga Springs: Peace vigil
A peace vigil every Saturday 11:00am to 12:00pm. in front of the Post Office.

From the organizer: "Please keep the crosswalks clear and be the peace you want in the world. Many among us will be making signs with positive messages reflecting our hopes or our concerns for the future. Our goal is to: Support the United Nations in promoting peace; Encourage people to consider effective alternatives to war; Empower people to express their views to their elected officials."

Location:
outside the Post Office
Broadway and Church Street
Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

Contact: Jim at 518-583-7501.

Sponsored by: Saratoga Peace Alliance (SPA)

Saugerties: Vigil for Peace
A weekly peace vigil every Saturday 11:00am to 12:00pm. All are welcome.

From the organizers: "End the War. Bring the Troops Home Now. Fund Education, Healthcare, and Housing... Not War. Join us for an hour, or a few minutes. Bring a neighbor. Let our voices be heard."

Location:
Corner of Market and Main Streets
Saugerties, NY 12477

Contact: 845 246-3449.

Sponsored by: Saugerties Committee for Peace and Social Justice

Wappingers Falls: Weekly peace vigil
A long standing peace vigil happening every Saturday 11:00am to 12:00pm. Pete Seeger attends when he can [cool!!], and the group usually ends singing a song.

Location:
On the grassy knoll
Intersection of Routes 9 & 9D
(near the South Hills Mall)
Wappingers Falls, NY 12601

Contact: 845 838-1277.

New Paltz: Women in Black peace vigil
A peace vigil occurring every Saturday 12:30pm to 1:30pm.

From the organizers:
"Women in Black has been standing for an end to war and violence in all its forms for over 5 years. We wear black in resistance and mourning for all the senseless killing. We are silent because words cannot express the tragedy of war. Please join us. Men are welcome."

Location:
In front of the Elting Library
Corner of Main St and North Front Street
New Paltz, NY 12561

Sponsored by: Women in Black of New Paltz

Woodstock: Women in Black peace vigil
A silent vigil for peace every Sunday 1:00pm to 2:00pm, throughout the year.

The group seeks "non-violent solutions to world problems, and stands for peace and social justice.

It is suggest that participants wear black clothing if possible. Signs are available.

Men are welcome, as well.

Location:
Woodstock Village Green
Rt. 212 / Tinker St / Mill Hill Rd
Woodstock, NY 12498

Contact: Jane at 845 679-7502.

Sponsored by: Woodstock Women in Black

Delmar: Weekly peace vigil
Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace hold these weekly vigils every Monday 5:00pm to 6:00pm.

From the organizers:: "Please join us in taking a stand against the war! Even if you can only stop by for a few minutes, your presence helps make a difference. Those of us who regularly attend the vigil enjoy sharing news and community with each other, and the encouraging honks and support from many drivers. Among other purposes, this weekly vigil serves as a regular reminder to hundreds of people in our community (those driving or walking by) of our viewpoints, issues and information - something they rarely see in the media. Bring a sign or borrow one of our extras. Join us!"

Location:
Four Corners
Delaware Ave at Kenwood Ave
Delmar, NY 12054

Sponsored by: Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace.

Troy: Peace vigil
A vigil for peace, held on the first Monday of the month 5:00pm to 6:00pm.

Located on Hoosick St, one of the busiest corridors in the Capital District.

Location:
110 Hoosick St (at 10th St)
Troy, NY 12180

Contact: 518 272-1318.

Sponsored by: Troy Neighbors for Peace

Guilderland: Weekly peace vigil
A weekly Monday vigil 5:00pm to 6:00pm, with participants holding signs and making a peaceful presence known.

Attendees are asked to bring their own signs.

From the organizers: "A dedicated group of people have been meeting every Monday during rush hour at the corners of Route 20 (Western Avenue) and Route 155. The positive response from commuters has been tremendous! Several new members have joined as a result of passing by our vigil."

Location:
Routes 155 and 20, northeast corner
(New Karner Rd and Western Ave)
Guilderland, NY 12084

Contact: 518 464-6788.

Sponsored by: Guilderland Neighbors For Peace


DEMOCRACY FOR NYC MEETINGS:
First Wednesday of every month

Upper West Side, The Parlour, 250 West 86th(btwn Broadway & West End), with host Merle McEldowney,7pm

West Village, Kettle of Fish, 59 Christopher St. (near 7thAve.) with host Abhishek Mistry,7pm

Astoria, Queens, at Sanford Diner, 30-13 Broadway, with hosts Costa Constantinides and Jeremiah Frei-Pearson.Note: this Linkup will begin at 7:30.

Sunnyside, Queens, at The Grind, 39-24 Queens Blvd. in the back room, with host Dan Jacoby. Note: this Linkup will begin at 7:30.

Bayside, Queens, The First Edition, 41-08 Bell Blvd, right near the LIRR stop, with host Steve Behar of Democrats for New Politics, 7pm

Park Slope, Brooklyn, Ozzies, 249 Fifth Avenue with host Josh Skaller, 7pm

Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, Wycoff Bennett Homestead, 1669East 22nd Street, 7pm with host Annette Mont


DRINKING LIBERALLY MEETINGS IN NY STATE:

Clifton Park, New York
* First Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Old Dublin Inn, 130 Meyer Rd (Google maps is wrong, please contact me for directions.)
* Hosted by Chris Selkirk, cliftonpark (at) drinkingliberally.org

Ithaca, New York
* Every Wednesday, 6:30 pm onward
* Felicia's Atomic Lounge, 508 W State St
* Hosted by Joseph Cannon Murtagh, ithaca (at) drinkingliberally.org


New York City, New York:

The Original Drinking Liberally
* Every Thursday, 7:30 pm onward
* Rudy's, 627 9th Ave (between 44th and 45th)
* In the backyard, weather permitting
* Hosted by Justin Krebs, Matthew O'Neill and Katrina Baker, nyc (at) drinkingliberally.org

Drinking Liberally Steps Out
* Third Tuesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm
* XES Lounge, 157 W 24th St (@ 7th Avenue)
* In conjunction with the Stonewall Democrats of New York City www.sdnyc.org.
* Hosted by Matthew Carlin and Greg Rae, outnyc (at) drinkingliberally.org

Harlem
* Second Wednesday of each month), 6:30 pm onward
* Soundz Lounge, 3155 Broadway (between 123rd and 124th)
* Hosted by Yolanda (Shoshi) Shoshana, harlem (at) drinkingliberally.org

Park Slope
* Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30-10:00 pm
* Commonwealth, 497 5th Ave (at 12th Street)
* Hosted by Anthony Accurso, Emilie Harkin and Emily Farris, parkslope (at) drinkingliberally.org

Queens
* Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward
* Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden, 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11102 (group of young liberals taking up one lane)
* Hosted by Donald Graff, queens (at) drinkingliberally.org

Upper East Side
* Last Tuesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward
* Doc Watson's, 1490 2nd Ave (at 77th)
* Hosted by Matthew Bachiochi, ues (at) drinkingliberally.org

West Bronx
* First and third Friday of each month, 7:30 pm onward
* An Beal Bocht, 445 W 238th St (between Waldo and Greystone)
* 1 to 238th, turn left, straight on 238th, just past the top of the stairs
* Hosted by Jamin Sewell and Scott Kennedy, westbronx (at) drinkingliberally.org

Rochester, New York
* Every Thursday, 8:00-10:00 pm
* Monty's Korner, 355 East Ave
* Hosted by Tom Tucker and Tracy Logan, rochester (at) drinkingliberally.org

And then we have: Shooting Liberally
Tuesday, Feb 19
From your friends at Drinking Liberally comes the debut of SHOOTING LIBERALLY...

For the First Amendment enthusiast ready to move on to the Second. A social evening at the gun range including training & weapon rental.

For more info and to reserve your spot, contact: Stanley Sherman - maskarts (at) worldnet.att.net

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Progressive Candidates, Charlie Brown, Alternative Energy, Peace Events and Groups and Events

Here is a list of Progressive candidates running in California worth your support (all endorsed by Progressive Majority):

Marty Block
Candidate for State Assembly - District 78 (Open Seat)
San Diego County



Marty Block is a candidate for the 78th Assembly District. He is currently elected to the San Diego Community College District Board of Trustees, and previously served on the San Diego Board of Education. The 78th is currently held by a conservative, but she is term-limited out of office. This district has grown more Democratic over the years and is one of the best opportunities for a progressive victory this year. Marty would provide a strong platform for progressive issues in San Diego.

Click here to support and learn more about Marty.

Mark Ridley-Thomas
Candidate for Los Angeles County Supervisor - District 2 (Challenger)



California Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas is running for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, 2nd District, in the highest priority race for progressives in Los Angeles County. Mark is running against a formidable candidate, former chief of police and current Los Angeles City Councilman Bernard Parks. Although elected by a majority African American district, Parks has a conservative voting record when it comes to investing in communities. If Parks wins, Los Angeles County will be controlled by a conservative majority at a time when county hospitals and emergency services in communities of color are facing closure. Mark has been a staunch supporter of progressive issues such as the establishment of school health centers, consumer protection, community reinvestment, jobs and workforce development.

Click here to support and learn more about Mark.

Greg Pettis
Candidate for State Assembly - District 80 (Open Seat)
Riverside and Imperial Counties



Greg Pettis is a Cathedral City Councilman running for the open 80th Assembly District. Progressive Majority recruited Greg, who is openly gay, to run for this seat. The 80th is one of the two most important legislative targets in California this year, because the conservative incumbent is term-limited out of office. Demographically, the seat has been trending more and more Democratic and is ready for a progressive victory. In addition, all of the openly gay Assembly-members will be termed out in January 2009. If elected, Greg will keep a strong, openly gay voice in the lower chamber.

Click here to support and learn more about Greg.

Bob Blumenfield
Candidate for State Assembly - District 40 (Open Seat)
Los Angeles, Northridge, Van Nuys



Bob is running for the California Assembly, 40th District. For the past seven years Bob has been the District Director to Congressman Howard Berman. Bob is Chair of the Valley Anti-Defamation League, Vice Chair of the California Trust for Public Schools and a former board member of the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters. Bob is a strong proponent of progressive issues in such key areas as education, healthcare, the environment and economic justice. Bob has two formidable primary opponents who are conservative Democrats: Stuart Waldman is the former Chief of Staff to the current Assembly member, and Laurette Healey is a former Deputy State Controller. Bob has received the endorsement of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Congressmembers Howard Berman and Henry Waxman, California State Speaker Fabian Nunez, County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky and Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

Click here to support and learn more about Bob.

Richard Barrera
Candidate for San Diego Board of Education - Subdistrict D (Challenger)



Richard Barrera is a candidate for the San Diego School District in Nominating Subdistrict D. Richard is Latino and a union organizer with SEIU Local 399. Richard faces a difficult race in the general election against conservative incumbent Luis Acle, a former Reagan administration official who has openly expressed interest in higher office. A Barrera victory would create both a working progressive majority and a Democratic supermajority.

Click here to support and learn more about Richard.

Sherri Lightner
Candidate for San Diego City Council - District 1 (Open Seat)



Sherri Lightner is running for the 1st City Council District in San Diego. A community volunteer and leader, Sherri has served as president of both the La Jolla Town Council and the La Jolla Shores Association. An engineer by training, she is a recognized expert on land development law. Because of term limits, the 1st will be an open seat. Sherri represents an opportunity to elect a progressive woman to a historically moderate to conservative seat, allowing for a potential progressive majority.

Click here to support and learn more about Sherri.

Stephen Whitburn
Candidate for San Diego City Council - District 3 (Open Seat)



Stephen Whitburn is an openly gay candidate running for the open 3rd City Council District in San Diego. This seat is safely Democratic, but Stephen's election could mean the difference between a Democratic majority and a true progressive majority. In particular, he will fight for progressive values on housing issues, especially for renter's rights and against development that is forcing longtime residents (many elderly and people of color) out of what had been affordable housing. As a community activist, he has worked very closely with labor, walking picket lines and working to pass a living wage ordinance. Stephen is also a former union member with the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.

Click here to support and learn more about Stephen.

John Lee Evans
Candidate for San Diego Board of Education - Subdistrict A (Challenger)



John Lee Evans is a clinical psychologist and long-time progressive activist on education and social justice issues. He is running against an incumbent Republican, Mitz Lee. If elected, John will provide a strong progressive voice on the school board for local control and improved opportunity for children in low-income and immigrant communities. A win would create a progressive majority and a Democratic super majority.

Click here to support and learn more about John.


Here are some alternative energy events around California:

May 15-16, 2008 - California Climate Action Registry Sixth Annual Conference
San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina
San Diego, California

The California Climate Action Registry and Point Carbon invite you to join us in May for the 6th annual conference, Navigating the Carbon World. This two day event provides innovative insight into navigating climate programs across the globe. Participants will gain new perspectives to help chart their company's carbon-friendly course into the future.

This year for the first time, we are partnering with Point Carbon, a leading provider of independent news, analysis and consulting services for the global carbon market. Together we provide conference attendees with a unique perspective into understanding today’s carbon world.

This conference will sell out again, so REGISTER ONLINE TODAY to take advantage of these rates, available for a limited time.

For more information and registration, please go to:
www.climateregistry.org/EVENTS/Conference/

Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, Pacific Grove, CA
2008 ACEEE Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings
"Scaling Up: Building Tomorrow's Solutions"

August 17–22, 2008 • Asilomar Conference Center • Pacific Grove, California

Conference Co-Chairs:

Michael Baechler, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Rich Brown, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

The 2008 ACEEE Summer Study is the 14th biennial ACEEE conference on Energy Efficiency in Buildings and will be held August 17–22, 2008. A diverse group of energy efficiency professionals from around the world will gather at this pre-eminent meeting to discuss the technological basis for, and practical implementation of, reducing energy use in buildings. Presentations and discussions will relate to the theme, "Scaling Up: Building Tomorrow's Solutions." What started out at the Summer Study nearly three decades ago as a fringe activity is now mainstream: energy efficiency in buildings. Energy efficiency now represents our best hope to avoid the worst consequences of global warming and energy resource depletion. But to achieve this potential, the energy efficiency "engine" has to be greatly expanded. New programs, technologies, and financing sources need to be developed. A new generation of energy efficiency practitioners, researchers, and policymakers needs to be trained and deployed to solve the problems we face. Do you have ideas about how to make this happen? Come share your ideas and engage in dialogue about these issues at the 2008 Summer Study. Exchange ideas with some of the leading thinkers, visionaries, and luminaries in the field while experiencing the magnificent natural setting that is Asilomar.

The Early Bird Registration Fee for the full conference is $720; the Regular Registration Fee is $820 (both fees include a set of conference proceedings). The one-day fee is $350. All speakers must pay the registration fee.

The conference will be conducted in a casual atmosphere conducive to developing working relationships. Dress is also casual; jeans and shorts are appropriate attire.

For more information, go here.


Here are some progressive groups and events in California:

HOUSE PARTIES FOR CHARLIE BROWN FOR CONGRESS:

Tuesday 03/25/2008
6:00pm - 8:00pm Olympic Valley House Party (Squaw Valley Area)

Friday 04/04/2008
6:30pm - 8:30pm El Dorado Hills House Party

Sunday 04/06/2008
4:00pm - 6:00pm Auburn House Party

Wednesday 04/09/2008
6:30pm - 8:30pm Roseville House Party

Wednesday 04/16/2008
6:30pm - 8:30pm Rocklin House Party

Friday 04/25/2008
4:30pm - 6:30pm Nevada City Fundraising Event


Manteca Democratic Club Meeting
Date: Monday, March 24, 2008
Start Time: 7:00 pm End Time: 2:00 am

Manteca Democratic Club
Contact: Bill Perkins
(209) 239-7650 or perkinsbill@comcast.net
Meets: 7pm fourth Monday of each month
Location: St. Mary's Church, 1160 Cottage

Fight Hunger in San Francisco - Volunteer at the San Francisco Food Bank
When: Saturday, March 29th 2008, at 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Where: San Francisco Food Bank
900 Pennsylvania Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94107

Host: San Francisco Young Democrats and Democrats Work
Contact: info@democratswork.org
Info: Join Democrats Work and the San Francisco Young Democrats at the San Francisco Food Bank on Saturday, March 29th from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.. Our work will mean that thousands of pounds of food will be distributed at meal and pantry programs throughout the city.

Be sure to wear your Democrats Work t-shirts! Free t-shirts for the first 10 folks to RSVP.

Info and reservations: Joan Rust, 484-6601, joan@rusts.net

MONTHLY DEMONSTRATION: Seniors Against War Seal Beach
Last Saturday of every month from 10 to Noon
Contact: email: to2runners @ verizon.net
Details: Senior Patriots Against the War in Seal Beach

End the war-Bring the troops back home-Take care of them when they do come home.

Senior Patriots Against the War is tightly focused on the above agenda only. We ask that other demonstrators joining us not bring signs regarding other causes which may dilute our message.

Protest at Seal Beach Blvd
At the entrance to Leisure World right next to Boeing plant and not too far from the Naval Weapons Stations, Seal Beach exit off the 405. Parking is at the Seal Beach Market. People need to bring their own signs.

For more info: Tom Pontac at: to2runners@verizon.net
or Jackie Bunnell at jackie.bunnell@verizon.net

WEEKLY PEACE VIGIL IN HUNTINGTON BEACH: Every Sunday, 7 PM

It's hard for most people to imagine a world at peace. We are a very small group of people who believe that this is indeed possible and that peace will happen once enough people believe that it can. So we stand at the pier every Sunday night with a sign that says: "Visualize World Peace. It's up to you". We also believe in non-violence both physically and in our thoughts. We will discuss peace and non-violence with anyone who is rational and smile quietly at those who aren't. We hold this vigil in a spirit of dignity and respect for all as we try to build bridges with those who don't share our philosophy.

Please bring a candle or just help us hold up our banner (no signs please; we have our banner!)

Contact: mtheriault@socal.rr.com


California for Democracy:
Here are some local Democracy for America groups (click on the link for more info)

DFA Marin

Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley

Democratic Club of Coarsegold

DFA - Central Coast

DFA-CFD of Fresno & Madera Counties

DFA-CFD of Mariposa and Tuolumne Counties

Democracy for Monterey County

DFA-Orange County

East Bay for Democracy

Sacramento for Democracy

San Diego for Democracy

(San Fernando) Valley Grassroots for Democracy

San Francisco for Democracy

San Mateo County Democracy for America

Santa Barbara Progressive Coalition

Sonoma County DFA


Democrats of North Orange County
Bill Daly, President
714-990-6767
Bruce Sandercock, Vice-President
714-871-5244
P. O. Box 6597
Fullerton, CA 92834
Monthly meeting: First Thursday, Sizzler Restaurant,
1401 N. Harbor, Fullerton; 6 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. meeting

Santa Clara County (San Jose) Democratic Party Meetup
We meet at 7:30pm on the second Tuesday of each month at the Dem Party Office, 2102 Almaden Road, Suite 114, San Jose, 95125. Feel free to bring snacks to share.

Brought to you by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (http://www.sccdp.org).... Please join us to learn ways to help elect Democrats in Santa Clara County and beyond.

~~Together, America Can Do Better!~~

On Almaden ROAD (not Expwy), between Curtner and Canoas Garden. It's OK to park in the big lot, despite posted warnings.

Internet directions usually suggest taking Almaden Expressway, which is sometimes backed up. A lower stress route is to take Bird Avenue west from 280 and follow it all the way until it dead-ends at Malone. Left on Malone, Right on Almaden Road and 2102 is on the first corner on your left.

We meet in Suite 114, first door on your left as you enter the glass doors marked Main Entrance.


Drinking Liberally:

For those who like a more social, and beer focused, environment, there's Drinking Liberally. Here are the Drinking Liberally groups in California:

San Jose
* Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 and on
* Trials Pub in downtown San Jose, 265 N 1st St (main cross streets: W St James and W Julian)
* September is our first meeting with our new host! I'm looking for a co-host, so let me know if you are interested
* Hosted by Mia White, sanjose (at) drinkingliberally.org

Downtown Los Angeles
* Third Wednesday of each month, 6:00-8:00 pm
* The Edison, 108 West 2nd St
* We'll be in the area past the bar, known as the "Generator Lounge" (the entrance to the bar is through the alley off of 2nd street)
* Hosted by Vincent Jones, Cecilia Cabello, Becca Doten, Roxi Reeves and Jim Kennedy, downtownla (at) drinkingliberally.org

Hollywood
* Second Wednesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 PM
* Molly Malone's Irish Pub, 575 South Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles 90036 (near corner of 6th avenue)
* http://www.mollymalonesla.com/
* Hosted by Vincent Jones, Jim Kennedy and Mary Jack, 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'll start out in the wine bar, then move out to the front patio.
* Hosted by Asa Hopkins, pasadena (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Fernando Valley
* First and third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* The White Harte Pub, 22456 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills (Two blocks west of Shoup Ave.)
* Hosted by Andy Beaton and Jon Hytowitz, sfv (at) drinkingliberally.org

Westside
* Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm
* Cock and Bull Pub, 2947 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica
* Hosted by Vincent Jones, Mary Jack, Robert Coyner, Gisele Perez, Jeremy Bloom, Tami Reiss, Marc Saltzberg and Jim Kennedy, westsidela (at) drinkingliberally.org

Monterey, California
* First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 pm onward
* Ol' Factory Cafe, 1725 Contra Costa St (In Sand City, off of Del Monte Blvd)
* http://www.olfactorycafe.com/
* Please note that The Ol' Factory Cafe currently only takes cash and local checks.
* Hosted by Annie Ho, monterey (at) drinkingliberally.org

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

Rancho Santa Margarita
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Canyon Fireside Grille, 22312 El Paseo
* Hosted by Gary Kephart, rsm (at) drinkingliberally.org

Huntington Beach
* First and third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Oggi's Pizza & Brewing Co. - Out Back On The Patio, 19461 Main St
* Next Meeting will be on Thursday November 15th
* Hosted by Scott McKown and Louise Stewardson, huntingtonbeach (at) drinkingliberally.org

Sacramento, California
* Second Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* BJs Restaurant and Brewery, 3531 N Freeway Blvd (Natomas)
* Come check out our new venue and meet some new people!
* Hosted by Leslie Simmons, sacramento (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Diego, California
* Every other Tuesday, 7:30 pm onward
* Nunu's Cocktail Lounge, 3537 5th Ave (Between Brookes and Ivy Ln)
* We will also be meeting periodically at Firehouse in Pacific Beach for special editions of Drinking Liberally. 722 Grand Avenue Pacific Beach, CA 92109
* Hosted by Jesse Rubin and Jason Miller, sandiego (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Francisco
* Every Monday, 7:00-9:00 pm
* Nickie's, 466 Haight Street (between Fillmore & Webster) (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 - 9:00 PM
* Luka's Taproom & Lounge, 2221 Broadway
* Join us for the Eating Liberally Oakland Brunch at Luka's
* Hosted by Cyril Allen and Philip Combs, oakland (at) drinkingliberally.org

Napa
* First and third Monday of each month, 5:00-6:30 pm
* Compadre's, 505 Lincoln Ave
* Hosted by Mick Winter and Lauren Coodley, napa (at) drinkingliberally.org


San Luis Obispo, California
* First and third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* The Graduate, 990 Industrial Way
* Hosted by Lorrie Toles and Sergio Monge, slo (at) drinkingliberally.org

Santa Barbara, California
* 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

Santa Clarita, California
* Second Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Mulligans, 25848 Tournament Rd (Near Cal Arts)
* Hosted by Michael Cruz, Bill Bailey and Minerva Williams, santaclarita (at) drinkingliberally.org

Santa Cruz, California
* First Tuesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward
* Cafe Pergolesi, 418 Cedar St (In the orange room to the right and back)
* Hosted by Brandon Smith and Natalie Rojas, santacruz (at) drinkingliberally.org

Stockton, California
* Third Friday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Stockton Grand Hotel, 2323 Grand Canal Blvd (Front of Bar)
* Grand Hotel tel. 209-957-9090
* Joel's Cell: 209-351-3397
* Hosted by Joel Carignan, stockton (at) drinkingliberally.org

Ventura, California
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 8:00 pm
* JJ Brewsky's, now and forever, 2344 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo (in the heart of Old Town Camarillo)
* Join us every second and fourth Wednesdays at 8:00 PM for a pint and some politics!
* Heather, Marie, Mark and Brian
* Hosted by Heather Schmidt, Marie Davis, Mark Eggertsen and Brian Mack, ventura (at) drinkingliberally.org

OREGON FOCUS: Groups and Events

Here are progressive events and groups in Oregon:

Northwest Solar Expo
April 16-20, 2008
Oregon Convention Center, Portland
Wednesday, April 16: Professionals only, 8am-5pm
Thursday, April 17: Professionals only, 8am-5pm
Friday, April 18: Professionals only, 8am-5pm
Saturday, April 19: Open to public - $12, 10am-6pm
Sunday, April 20: Open to public - $12, 10am-4pm

No matter what your budget is there is a clean energy solution available today. From utility portfolio options, to energy efficiency, to generating your own clean energy, a solution within your budget exists today to respond to the energy concerns we are all facing.

Join us at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland and check out the latest clean energy options for your home or business.

The expo will offer workshops, Exhibitors, and seminars to homeowners and business owners interested in clean energy solutions for their homes and buildings.

Register here.

2008 Oregon Black Political Convention
Start: Apr 18 2008 - 1:00pm
End: Apr 20 2008 - 1:59pm

"Recognizing and using Black political action to make political change." For further info, contact oaba@peak.org. What is done at this convention to help Black Oregonians benefits all Oregonians. This non-partisan group is meeting at the Embassy Suites Hotel Portland, to discuss issues and conditions of the Oregon black community and to support candidates running for political office who are responsive to them. Actions and endorsements of this convention are not those of the OABA, Oregon Assembly for Black Affairs.

SolWest 2008 Conference
July 25, 26 and 27
Friday 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
For more info, go here.

Ecovillage and Permaculture Certificate Program - At Lost Valley
June 16, 2008 - August 8, 2008
Learn practical tools for self-reliant living and sustainable human habitats in this affordable 8-week program. Built around the permaculture design curriculum, this dynamic educational experience includes a full permaculture design course and provides a holistic introduction to ecovillages, int...
Location: Dexter, Oregon
Scope: International
Website: http://www.lostvalley.org/epcp

Harney County "Alternative Energy Club"
Third Thursdays, 7pm; Harney County Library, Burns OR. Contact Claire Larson 541-573-6680.

Wasco County Dems' Monthly Meeting
Second Tuesday of every month at The Dalles-Wasco County Library. Questions? Call 541.298.4700.

Every Thursday Vancouver For Peace Street Vigil
Bring your own signs or use one of ours. We stand of the corner of the Vancouver main library and express our desire to end the illegal occupation of Iraq (and other issues). This is a Vancouver for Peace event.
Event Date: Every Thursday
Event Time: 4:30 PM
Venue Name: Ft Vancouver Library
Address: 1007 E. Mill Plain Blvd
City: Vancouver


Here is a Democracy for America Groups in Oregon:

Tigard DFA
1st Wednesday of the month, 7:00 PM
Silver Palace
Tigard, OR
We are a motivated band of progressive activists who meet occasionally for political discussions and activism.
Phone Number: 503-620-3536


And for those who like to combine socializing and politics, here are Drinking Liberally groups in Oregon:

Corvallis, Oregon
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 5:00-7:00 pm
* Squirrels, 100 SW 2nd St (non-smoking, good food)

Portland, Oregon
* First and third Thursday of each month, 7:00 - 10:00 pm
* Madison's Grill, 1109 SE Madison St (Upstairs)
* Hosted by Nicole Vanderhoof, James Riddle and Bill Nothstine, portland (at) drinkingliberally.org

St. Helens, Oregon
* Second Wednesday of each month, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
* Red Line Sports Bar & Grill, 2098 Old Portland Rd (Back Room)
* Just drop in - all welcome
* Hosted by Julane Grant, sthelens (at) drinkingliberally.org

ALASKA FOCUS: Groups and Events

ALASKA ACT BLUE SITE: Donate to turn Alaska Blue.

VETERANS FOR PEACE Chapter 100, Juneau, Alaska
*Weekly Peace Vigil
3rd & Seward Streets
Thursdays 12-1 p.m.

Honor the dead and protest the Iraq War & Occupation.

*Juneau Veterans for Peace Meeting Second Thursday of Each Month
We meet on the second Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at Northern Light United Church, 400 11th Street, Juneau, AK. These meetings are usually over by 7:00 or 7:30 p.m.

*Juneau Veterans for Peace Meeting Third Saturday of Each Month
We also meet on the third Saturday of each month at 8:00 a.m. at The Back Room, silverbow Inn-Bakery, 120 2nd Street, Juneau, AK.
These meetings are usually over by 10:00 a.m.

Prospective members and guests are welcome to attend.

*Also Listen each month to "Peace Talk" Radio
every 3rd Monday
7 - 8 p.m. Alaska Time
KTOO NEWS 104.5 FM
www.ktoo.org

One hour of interviews & news on issues of war and peace, hosted by Phil Smith,
VFP Chapter 100 President

Interior Democrats Monthly Meeting
When: 4th Wednesday of every month, at 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: Interior Democrats Headquarters
507 Gaffney Street
Fairbanks, AK 99701

Host: Interior Democrats
Contact: davidwvalentine_at_yahoo.com
Info: Interior Democrats meet regularly at 6:30 pm on the 4th Wednesday of every month at our new headquarters at 507 Gaffney Street (the Stone Soup Community Center building).

All interested persons are invited.

Weekly Anchorage Peace Vigil
Every Friday, 12:00 – 13:00
Federal Building, Anchorage


For a more social environment, here are Drinking Liberally events in Alaska:

Anchorage, Alaska
* Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Inlet Tower, 1200 L St (Inside Mixx Grill)
* Hosted by Ruthie Kreuzer and Carly Horton, anchorage (at) drinkingliberally.org

Fairbanks, Alaska
* First and third Wednesday of each month, 6:30 pm onward
* We are now meeting Twice a month.
* First week of the month will be at varying restaurants around town and we'll meet at the PUB on UAF's campus every third Wed of the month
* Also, EVERY Sunday we meet for coffee at ACRC at 10:30am
* Hosted by Michael Wenstrup and David Valentine, fairbanks (at) drinkingliberally.org

MICHIGAN FOCUS: Groups and Events

Here are some events and groups in Michigan:

The Southwestern Wayne Democratic Club is hosting a "Chili Cook-Off" Fundraiser Tuesday, 3-25-08, at the Moose Lodge, 831 E. Huron River Drive, Belleville, MI. Hot Dogs – Chips – & Pop will also be available!
TIME: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
DONATION: $10.00 per person / $5.00 Children 6-12 years / Free Children 5 and under
CONTACT: John Herman, 734/697-7775 or Carl Pedersen, 734/218-0605.

The Allegan County Democratic Party is hosting a "Kennedy Reception" Fundraiser Thursday, 4-3-08, at Fenn Valley Winery, 6130-122 Avenue, Fennville, MI. Guest Speaker is Eric Baerren from the Michigan Liberal.com. Hors d'oeuvres – Cash Bar – Lots of great Democrats!
TIME: 7:00 p.m.
DONATION: $35.00 per person / $25.00 Student
CONTACT: Linda Reynolds, 269-694-6523 for tickets or additional information

The Huron County Democratic Party is hosting their annual "Spaghetti Feed" Fundraiser Sunday, 4-13-08, at the Pasta House, 337 Main Street, Kindle, MI. One of the Special Guests include: State Rep. Terry Brown, who will be addressing the group sometime between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. Enjoy a great buffet with us at one of the few Democrat-owned and operated restaurants in the Upper Thumb! - take-outs available too! A portion of the proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity - Upper Thumb Chapter. Please make checks payable to : Huron County Democratic Party and mail to : HCDP, P.O. Box 41, Bad Axe MI 48413 to be received by April 10, 2008 - donations also accepted at the door.
TIME: 1:00p.m.- 5:00p.m.
DONATION: $10.00 per person
CONTACT: David McDonald, "Spaghetti Feed" Chair, at (989)-269-7674 or davidamcd_at_sbcglobal.net

The Shiawassee County Party is hosting their "14th Annual Pasta & Politics" Fundraiser Friday, 4-18-08, at GiGi's House of Catering, 3144 E. M-21, Corunna, MI 48817. Speaker to be announced.
TIME: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
DONATION: $20.00 per person (2 for $35.00) / $15.00 Seniors & Students (2 for $25.00) $10.00 Children 10 and under
CONTACT: Carol Spaniola, 989/743-3293, 517 W. Corunna Ave., Corunna, MI 48817 or e-mail: cburger7_at_verizon.net

The Muskegon County Democratic Party is hosting their "Annual Ball" Fundraiser Saturday, 4-19-08, at the Oakridge Country Club, 513 Pontaluna Road, Muskegon, MI. This is a 'Black Tie Optional' event! A great opportunity to meet and greet some great Democrats.
TIME: 5:30 p.m., Reception / 7:00 p.m.(approximately), Dinner and Entertainment
DONATION: $40.00 per person
CONTACT: Gary Conrad, 231/722-2254 or 231/893-0191 for additional information

The Allegan and Ottawa County Democratic Parties are hosting a "Cinco de Mayo Fiesta" Fundraiser Saturday, 5-3-08, at Tres Lobos Grill & Bar, 381 Douglas Avenue, Holland, MI. A Silent Auction will be held to benefit both counties. Guest Speaker to be announced.
TIME: 6:00 p.m., Happy Hour with Cash Bar / 7:00 p.m., Dinner
DONATION: $30.00 per person / $15.00 per Student
CONTACT: Linda Reynolds, 269/694-6523, for tickets or additional information

The Gladwin County Democratic Party is hosting their "4th Annual Pig Roast" Fundraiser Saturday, 7-19-08, at the Ross Lake Park, Beaverton, MI—on M-18 just north of the bridge in Beaverton, MI. Our major fundraiser of the year featuring: Pulled Pork (barbequed on-site) – Live Music – Plenty of Great Company – Lots of Recreational Opportunities for families of all ages! We want to get out the message that only Democratic elected officials can change the political landscape in any positive and meaningful way.
DONATION: $10.00 Adults / $25.00 Family (1 or 2 Adults and all Minor Children)
$50.00 Gold Ticket. Same as the Family ticket except it is intended for people who want to make a bigger difference. As the ticket explains: I want to make an extra contribution to the Party.
As a Democrat, I know that my extra contribution brings extra satisfaction, not extra privileges.
CONTACT: Bob Frei, 989/435-3598

Democracy For America Training Academy in Lansing, MI
Saturday June 7th through Sunday June 8th
9am-6pm each day.

You have the power, now learn the skills! The Democracy for America Training Academy is coming to Lansing, MI for two days of exciting campaign training.

How many votes will it take to win in November? How do you find the perfect message and get it out to voters in your district? How will you raise enough money to pay for it all?

The DFA Training Academy will help you answer these questions and more.

At the DFA Training Academy, top campaign consultants with decades of experience give you the skills to run a winning campaign. Topics include: field planning, voter contact, fundraising, communications, volunteer recruitment and more.

Attendees will also get to hear directly from some of the most exciting 2008 candidates in their area and get a copy of the DFA Training Manual packed with over 180 pages of winning campaign info.

Refreshments will be provided throughout the day and a social event will be organized Saturday evening so you can mingle and network with other activists in your area.

The training will run from 9am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.

If you plan on attending this training and have specific questions, call our Training Department hotline at DFA at 802-651-3200 Ext. 191.

If you are a candidate running for office and plan on attending, please email us at training(at)democracyforamerica.com and let us know.

For more info on the DFA Training Academy visit: www.democracyforamerica.com/training

Monthly Flint, MI Progressive Caucus Meeting
2nd Tuesday of every month, 6:30:00 PM
Asbury United Methodist Church, Flint

Mid-Michigan DFA Monthly Meeting
First Wed of each month, 7:00 PM
SEIU Local
1026 E. Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
Phone Number: 517-482-1737

Farmington Hills Club Meeting
Farmington / Farmington Hills Democratic Club
Third Wednesday of Every Month
Starting at 7:30pm
Web: http://www.ffhdc.org
Phone: 248-615-9119
Location: Varies...call or check out website for more info.

Pontiac Democratic Club
Third Saturday of Every Month
Starting at 10:00am
Pontiac City Hall
47450 Woodward Ave., Pontiac
Phone: 248-338-7765
Location: Pontiac City Hall, 47450 Woodward Ave., Pontiac


And for those who want to combine socializing with politics, here are some Michigan Drinking Liberally groups:

Ann Arbor, Michigan
* Second and fourth Thursday of each month, 7pm
* Leopold Bros., 523 S Main St (between Packard and Madison by RR tracks)
* Hosted by Jenay Karlson, Leah Hanzlicek and Jeffrey Schultz, annarbor (at) drinkingliberally.org

Grand Rapids, Michigan
* Third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Graydon's Crossing, 1223 Plainfield Ave NE (just north of Leonard)
* This month, we're meeting on Tuesday, 4 March at 7:00 for a Primary Results Watch Party
* Hosted by Brent Geers and Phil Skaggs, grandrapids (at) drinkingliberally.org

Houghton, Michigan
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Keweenaw Brewing Company, 408 Shelden Ave (Downtown Houghton)
* http://drinkingliberally.wikispaces.com
* Hosted by Jeremy Sandrik and Jon Maxwell, houghton (at) drinkingliberally.org

Lansing, Michigan
* Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Reno's East, 1310 Abbott Rd, East Lansing (Corner of Abbott and Saginaw)
* Hosted by Julielyn Gibbons, lansing (at) drinkingliberally.org

Mount Pleasant, Michigan
* Second Tuesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward
* Mountain Town Brewing Company, 506 W Broadway St
* Hosted by Abhik Roy, Will Tomlinson, Scott Dunn and Brandon Mayer, mtpleasant (at) drinkingliberally.org

Oakland County, Michigan
* Third Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm onward
* Rochester Mills Beer Company, 410 Water St, Rochester (Downtown Rochester)
* Great food and some great brews, bring a hunger and a thirst for Democracy!
* Hosted by Ron Wasczenski, oaklandcounty (at) drinkingliberally.org

VIRGINIA FOCUS: Impeachment, Groups and Events

VIRGINIA ACT BLUE SITE: Help turn Virginia even more blue.

Let's start with a weekly impeachment related events:

Honk to Impeach Bush and Cheney to End the War Every Friday at noon in front of Rep. Bobby Scott's office building at the corner of E. Clay Street and N. 2nd Street-
Address:
501 N. 2nd Street
Richmond, VA 23219-1321
Come by and HONK LOUDLY!!!
http://www.myspace.com/rva4peace


Now some other groups and events:

Arlington Democrats Meetup Group
Meet other local Dems! Sponsored by the Arlington Democratic Committee, about 60 attendees meet to discuss local/national politics, listen to guest speakers and receive news on getting involved. Email jamesemcb_at_yahoo.com to join the ACDC listserv or sign up at www.arlingtonyoungdems.org.

Monthly Charlottesville Democratic Breakfast
This gathering takes place on the third Saturday of each month at 9:30a.m. and is usually held at the JABA building on Hillsdale Drive. Pay what you can.

Virginia Beach Democratic Committee Monthly Meeting
Held the First Wednesday of every month, 7 PM, at the Virginia Beach Central Library.

Monthly Interfaith Pray for Peace Gathering
Final Thursday of evern month, 7:15pm

Location: Sojourners UCC Church, 1017 Elliott Ave, Charlottesville
Sponser: Interfaith Cooperation Circle of Central Virginia-URI; Gesher Center; Unity Church

Description:
On the final Thursday of every month, the Interfaith Pray for Peace Gathering welcomes people of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs to an inspired and inspiring flow of prayers, meditations and songs for peace.

Contact Name: Heena Reiter
Contact email: gesher_at_mindspring.com
Contact Phone: 434-970-7836

Fauquier Democrats Monthly Meeting
Third Tuesday of Each Month, 7:30 pm
Warren Green Building
10 Hotel Street
Old Town, Warrenton

Blue Mondays With the Stafford County Democrats
Every Monday evening at 5 PM
King Street Blues Restaurant
Casual get-together of like minded Democratic Activist
For more info contact: jac_at_j2power.com

Democracy for Virginia:
Here are the local Democracy for America chapters in Virginia. Click on the link for more info:

* Arlington for Democracy (may be dormant...you can go here to contact the organizers and get more up to date info)

* Roanoke DFA

* Tidewater for Democracy

* Virginia Grassroots Coalition (may be dormant...you can contact them here for more info: info@vagrassroots.org)

Drinking Liberally:
For the more social and fun-oriented (and booze oriented), there's Drinking Liberally. Here are the Virginia Drinking Liberally Chapters:

Alexandria/Springfield, Virginia
* Second Thursday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm
* King Street Blues, 5810 Kingstowne Center Drive, Alexandria (Corner of Kingstowne Blvd and Van Dorn Street)
* Hosted by Brian Murray and Mike Sizemore, alexandria (at) drinkingliberally.org

Arlington, Virginia
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
* Capitol City Brewing Company, 2700 S Quincy St
* We're usually in the back room at Cap City; check with the host station if you don't see us there!
* "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world" - Margaret Mead
* Hosted by David Swim, Quinn Jones, Michelle Elliott and Bev Wright, arlington (at) drinkingliberally.org

Charlottesville, Virginia
* Every Thursday, 6:00 pm onward
* South Street Brewery, 106 W South St
* Hosted by Chris Dumler and Clare Wuerker, charlottesville (at) drinkingliberally.org

Lorton, Virginia
* First and third Friday of each month, 6pm to 8 or 9
* Glory Days Grill, 9459 Lorton Market St
* First hour of the gathering is part of happy hour
* Hosted by Alan Salisbury and Chris Ambrose, lorton (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 Tom Mitchell and Vivian Paige, norfolk (at) drinkingliberally.org

Richmond, Virginia
* Every other Wednesday, 7:00 pm onward
* Chiocca's Downstairs, 425 N Belmont Ave (Museum District - corner of Kensington & Belmont)
* Come join us for brews & news!
* Hosted by Morgan Bailey and John Manall, richmond (at) drinkingliberally.org

Virginia Beach, Virginia
* First Friday of each month, 7:00 PM
* Studio For The Healing Arts, 1611 Colley Ave # D, Norfolk, VA, Norfolk (One block from the Naro theater)
* Zeitgeist the Movie, DVD Door Prize
* http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Virginia9-11Truth/ http://vbdems.org
* One block from the Naro theater in Ghent
* Hosted by Chris Jaramillo and Eileen Levandoski, vabeach (at) drinkingliberally.org

NEW JERSEY FOCUS: Blue Radio, Peace Rallies, Impeachment, Groups and Events

NEW JERSEY ACT BLUE SITE: Turning New Jersey BLUER!

Every Saturday Morning: Blue Jersey Radio
Saturdays 10:30 - 11:00

Listen Live every Saturday morning from 10:30a-11:00a - or download the podcast anytime to listen to the latest hot topics, gossip and opinion on New Jersey politics with hosts Jeff Gardner and Jay Lassiter.

Click here to listen!

WEEKLY JERSEY CITY ANTI-WAR RALLY
Sundays 12noon-1pm
Jersey City Peace Movement is calling for an ANTI-WAR Vigil and Flyering from
12 noon till 1pm
at Journal Square's Fountain.

(Take PATH train from NYC to Journal Square)

Bring PEACE posters, buttons and a friend!
Bring flyers from YOUR peace and justice organization!

Spread the Word!

Weekly Impeachment Rally in Butler City:
Support your country 4:30-6:30 p.m. every Monday on Highway 23 North in Butler!
Bring your HONK 2 IMPEACH! signs and flags to the Butler footbridge that spans over Highway 23. We display our signs and flags from the footbridge and along the highway. Be sure to bring water and a sun hat! Directions are easy: click Intersection of Cascade Way & State Rte. 23 North, Butler, NJ 07405. When you approach driving northbound, there will be a traffic light with Cascade Way on the southbound side of the highway. Be in the right lane, go through the intersection and turn right immediately into a small parking area. There's a safe grassy place where we can stand along the highway, in addition to the footbridge where we hang our huge sign. We don't show when it rains. See YOU Monday afternoon! Contact Vigil Organizer


New Jersey for Democracy:
Here are the local Democracy for America groups in New Jersey:

North Jersey -

Bergen County
Ethical Culture Society
687 Larch Ave
Teaneck, NJ 07666
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/bergen

Essex County
Cryan's Beef & Ale House
24 First Street
South Orange, NJ 07079
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/essex

Hudson County
The Hard Grove Cafe
319 Grove St.
Jersey City, NJ 07302
201-451-1853
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/hudson
(First Wednesday of the Month, 7:30pm)

Morris County
Morris County Democratic Headquarters
11 Washington St
Morristown, NJ 07960
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/morris

Passaic County
Puzo's Restaurant (Upstairs)
4 Garfield Ave.
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/passaic
(First Thursday of the Month)

Union County
Rockin Joe Cafe
20 Prospect Street
Westfield, NJ 07090
908-232-1660
RSVP at Union Meetup

Warren County
MS Health Software Corp
605 Grand Ave.
Hackettstown, NJ
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/nwnj

Central Jersey -

Hunterdon County
Friendly Grounds Coffee
36 Mine St.
Flemington, NJ
908-788-8983
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/hunterdon

Mercer County
Carl A Fields Center
86 Olden Street
(Corner of Olden St and Prospect Ave on Princeton Univ campus)
Princeton, NJ
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/mercercounty
(please check DFA-Link for schedule)

Middlesex County
Panera Bread
1551 Route 1 South
Edison, NJ 08837
(732) 516-1611
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/middlesexNJ

Monmouth County
Racioppi's Kitchen
107 Oakland St. (at the train station at Bridge Ave.)
Red Bank, NJ
(917) 863-2408
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/monmouth

Somerset County
Somerset County Complex
40 North Bridge St. (off of High)
Somerville, NJ
RSVP at Somerset Meetup
(Second or Third Tuesday of the Month)

South Jersey -

Camden County
Haddon Township Library
15 MacArthur Blvd
Westmont, NJ 08108
856-854-2752
RSVP at Progressive Democracy South Jersey
4th Tues. of month

Gloucester County
RSVP at Democracy for Gloucester County
(Please check DFA-Link for date & location)

Ocean County
Joshua Huddy Brew Pub and Grill
1250 Hooper Ave.
Toms River
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/oceancounty
(First Tuesday of the Month)

Cape May County Federation of Democratic Women Meeting
Sam DiVico Senior Center
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
Join the Cape May County Federation of Democratic Women to discuss important local, state and federal issues. All are encouraged to join!

2nd Thursday of every month.
7:00pm
Sam DiVico Senior Center
Romney Place
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

For more information, please contact:
Virginia Hesel
609-884-5848


Drinking Liberally:

For the more social and fun-oriented (and booze oriented), there's Drinking Liberally. Here are the New Jersey Drinking Liberally Chapters:

Hillsborough, New Jersey
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward
* Petrock's Bar and Grill, 419 Amwell Rd (at Amwell and 206)
* Hosted by Matthew Dawson, hillsborough (at) drinkingliberally.org

Montclair, New Jersey
* Second Thursday of each month, 7:30 pm onward
* Just Jake's, 30 Park Street (b/t Bloomfield & Claremont)
* We meet in the REAR DINING ROOM. Turn left after entering, go past the juke box, bar and W.C.
* Ample parking in municipal lot next to Just Jake's (free after 7 pm)
* ** Mtclair DL ON THE ROAD, TUES, NOV 13, from 8PM at PAUL'S BAR & BOWLING, 377 CROOKS AVE, PATERSON, NJ (973) 278-1982 http://local.yahoo.com/details?id=10780514 **THIS IS AN ADDITIONAL MEETING, WE STILL HAVE OUR USUAL 2nd THURSDAY
* Hosted by Kevin Kelly and Dan Evans Farkas, montclair (at) drinkingliberally.org

Morristown
* Third Thursday of each month, 8:00 pm onwards
* Hennessey's Tavern, 140 Morris St (Corner of Elm & Morris, next to the train station)
* There's plenty of public parking behind train station or on Elm Street.
* Come on by & raise a pint with other fun loving local progressive's! Hope to see you there...
* Hosted by Jim Long, Chip Robinson, David Cochran and Linda Humphries, morristown (at) drinkingliberally.org


Dover
* First Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* The Hop, 14 N Morris St
* Hosted by Jim Long, Chip Robinson, Dave Cochran and Linda Humphries, dovernj (at) drinkingliberally.org

New Brunswick, New Jersey
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Doll's Place, 101 Paterson St (corner of Paterson & Joyce Kilmer)
* Hosted by Bob Scardapane and Chris Swasey, newbrunswick (at) drinkingliberally.org

Pennsauken, New Jersey
* First and third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Kings Row Sports Bar and Billiards, 6030 S Crescent Blvd (Route 130 N)
* Hosted by Art Williams and Denise Williams, pennsauken (at) drinkingliberally.org

Toms River, New Jersey
* First Tuesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward
* Joshua Huddy Brew Pub, 1250 Hooper Ave (across from Ocean County Mall)
* Hosted by Robin Kinlin and Ian Valentine, tomsriver (at) drinkingliberally.org