Republicans Drowning America: Wisconsin and Iowa Edition

I have already discussed at some length the dismal and DELIBERATE Republican failures to maintain America's infrastructure. The Republican Party has a stated policy of "Drowning American in a Bathtub," essentially reducing government to nothing. This is how Republican guru Grover Norquist put it:

"Cutting the government in half in one generation is both an ambitious and reasonable goal," Norquist stated in May 2000. "If we work hard we will accomplish this and more by 2025. Then the conservative movement can set a new goal. I have a recommendation: To cut government in half again by 2050"

We saw the direct and tragic result of that Republican "Drown America" policy in Louisiana and Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina, in closed and collapsed bridges in Minnesota (which I just discussed last week), and now...floods in Iowa and Wisconsin this very month.

An embankment holding back a man-made lake in Wisconsin has broken, flooding yet another Midwest town: (from Salon.com)

The swollen Kickapoo River engulfed nearly the entire town Monday morning, forcing about 150 people to evacuate. By evening, the village was a grid of canals with cars submerged up to their windows and parking lots looking like lakes, just as it was in August...

An engineer assessment team from the Wisconsin National Guard was headed to Lake Delton on Tuesday to determine what would be needed to begin repairs on an embankment along the man-made lake that gave way, releasing a powerful current.

The 267-acre lake emptied into the nearby Wisconsin River on Monday, washing out part of a highway, sweeping away three homes and tearing apart two others...

Lake Delton, a key part of the Wisconsin Dells tourism area, was nearly dry by Monday afternoon. The 20 resorts that line the lake already are reporting cancellations by people who had planned summer vacations in the area...

"I can't believe this is happening again," said Liz Klekamp, 23, who said she grabbed her cat and fled Monday morning when water poured into her house. "It's really, truly sad."

So once again levees neglected by the Republicans have broken under predictable conditions, flooding the homes of Americans. The same thing is happening in Iowa as well. From Daily Kos (original article and the photos from Iowa can be found here):

I am in Mason City. Our levees broke Sunday morning. Flood stage is 7 foot and waters are now at 19 feet. Hundreds of homes and businesses are underwater. The City's water plant was flooded and the entire city of 30,000 is without potable water. A couple of hours ago the main electric substation flooded and failed and much of the city is without power. People remain in flooded homes. Early tonight I saw people wandering the streets not knowing where to go. There are entrie areas of the city with NO emergency personnel on hand.

NOBODY from the outside has come to help. Our local first responders are exhausted and overwhelmed. Small rural towns downstream tonight are being devasted. Levees everywhere are failing. Calls for help in these small towns have been unmet. Portions of our local guard are in Iraq.

The homeland has been left unprotected and people are suffering horribly.

More:

I have seen no evidence of any kind of effort to check houses and check on persons welfare. The only emergency people here are the local authorities. NOBODY from outside has come to help.

While walking around near the downtown area I came across a young guy around 20 years old carrying several bags and packs. He approached me telling me that he was told to evacuate and they had given him only one days worth of meds. He obviously was mentally ill and probably taking psychotropic medications. He told me a bus was supposed to get him but he didn't know where it was. Nearby was a mental residential care facility that was partially surrounded by water. I asked him if that was where he lived. He told me yes and I took him back. I left him with another resident. There were no responsible parties or emergency people anywhere in the vicinity. It angers me that whatever person that runs/owns that facility wasn't better taking care of these people. I know its a private care facility.

You would think our government would have learned after Katrina. Where in the hell is FEMA? There are 30,000 people here without water. There are still people in flooded homes. People are wandering the streets not knowing what to do and where to go.

12:30 am update - An hour ago the main electrical power substation serving downtown Mason City was flooded and has failed. The entire central part of the city is in the dark where the flooding is the worst. More then 2,000 homes are now without power. There are no expectations that power will be restored until sometime tomorrow.

Sound familiar? Remember "Great job, Brownie" after Katrina? Seems Bush LIKES the Drown America philosophy of the Republican Party. Republican Policy is destroying Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa.

And let's remember that many Wisconsin and Iowa National Guard units are deployed overseas or preparing to leave for Iraq, leaving the local guard at half strength. This leaves the Midwest itself less able to cope with these floods. A similar situation happened several years ago in Montana where Montana was unable to deal effectively with its wildfire season because most of its National Guard manpower and equipment had been sent to Iraq. And why are we in Iraq again? Personally I still don't know.

By the way, for all Iowa readers affected by the floods, Iowa State Representative Eleshsa Gayman informs me that:

Iowans with household incomes of up to 130 percent of federal poverty guidelines may apply for a grant of up to $3,300 to help recover from damages. Applicants must include receipts when applying for help as this is a reimbursement program.

The program is administered by the Iowa Department of Human Services. Applicants can call 1-877-937-3663 or access more information on the DHS website: Http://www.dhs.state.ia.us/Consumers/Assistance_Programs/CashAssistance/DisasterAssistance/StormHelp.html.

I hope all my Iowa and Wisconsin readers are doing well. Interestingly, everyone in my lab except me and one other person are currently in Wisconsin for a conference. Hopefully the storms haven't affected them either.

But what are the Republicans doing about this? NOTHING! They have been noticably slow to respond, much like their poor response to every crisis since Bush took office, from 9/11 to Katrina to now.

Let's review:

Iowa :



New Orleans after Katrina:



Bush and McCain:



Iowa:



New Orleans:



Bush and McCain:



Bush and McCain: These are the faces of Republican failure. Louisiana and Mississippi deserved better. Minnesota deserves better. Iowa and Wisconsin deserve better. America deserves better!

Barack Obama: Our Nominee

Here is our nominee:



Time to get involved. Please go here to see what you can do, from helping Hillary Clinton to retire her campaign debt to local organizing to online organizing and phonebanking. Get involved.

The Business Model: The Real American Idol

Last week Joy and I attended an education forum co-sponsored by one of our local Democratic clubs, Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats (CBID), and NY State Sentaor Eric Adams. This is the second forum CBID has put on this year that I atteneded and both were excellent. The first was essentially a chance for members of the community to confront our Congresscritters in Brooklyn on the Iraq War. This one was a chance for community members to discuss mayoral control of our school system. Speakers included Hon. Eric Adams, Member, State Senate of New York, 20th District, Major R. Owens, retired Congressman, former Chair - House Committee on Select Education, Tom Sobol, former Commissioner of Education, New York State, Nzhingha Nkrumah, Youth Researchers for a New Education System, Cecilia Blewer, Member, Independent Commission for Public Education (iCOPE), and Chris Owens, President of CBID and former President, Community School Board 13. I was only able to hear some of the speakers since Joy and I traded off walking Jacob around the building to keep him amused. But I was impressed with the overall discussion and came away with increased disdain for Bloomberg's mayoral control. Although this initially focuses on NYC, it is of considerable importance nationwide as our education system and healthcare system continue to be misrun using the so-called "business model," a model that not only is inappropriate for these services, but is often used with pure faith that it will work ignoring all facts to the contrary. People around the country should take note of the failures of the business model in NYC schools and nationally in our healthcare system.

First, my bias from when I first moved to NYC in 1998 is that of all the cities I have lived in, I have never seen a city with such a dictatorial mayor's office and comparatively ineffectual city council as what I see in NYC. So mayoral control struck me as just one more power grab by an already excessively powerful mayor with inadequate checks and balances. Supposedly the city council and the Public Advocate's office are checks and balances on the mayor. Well, so far I have not been impressed with the performance of either in this regard.

Joy and I then got to experience the early iterations of Bloomberg's ever reorganized education system. The excessive testing and the insane Middle School application process were what I found most flawed with his system. I am not against testing. In fact I see it as critical, unlike many of my progressive colleagues. But there is a such thing as TOO much testing because then education fails to teach thinking and analytical skills and only teaches the material needed for the next test, an ineffective education technique. This was the situation we saw for our daughter through 6th grade. We also got to experience a Middle School applications process that does little except cause massive anxiety among students and parents, requires so much commitment during business hours by parents that working class parents are unable to effectively navigate the system, and which requires preteens to shuttle all over the city just to get to school. My daughter eventually tested into Hunter High School, so we are now shielded from the mayor's control of her education and what apparently is even MORE testing: once every six weeks I now hear.

Joy and I realize that the system wasn't great before. But what Bloomberg has done is to make it almost impossible for education itself to take a front seat. Administration and testing are by far the main focus of his system, with education low on the priority list. You cannot have a functioning democracy or a high tech economy with an inadequate education system.

It seems to me there are two fundamental reasons why Bloomberg's mayoral control is wrong. Others at the forum had many more reasons, but this is what I see wrong. Both stem from the fact that Bloomberg is using a business model as the basis for his education reform. The first problem is that his reforms so far fail even as a business model since any business run the way he has run the education system would be out of business in no time. Second, the business model is completely inappropriate for critical social services like education and healthcare and essentially fails when compared with more, yes, I'll say it, socialized systems.

First off, mayor Bloomberg's reorganization of the schools would fail the business model even if a business model would work. Among the issues brought up at the forum and brought up by teachers we know as well as our daughter are: textbooks that are out dated and not available in an adequate supply; testing of students as a way to evaluate the school's performance every six weeks; insufficient numbers of desks and chairs; schools where bathrooms are locked all day; exclusion of teachers, students and parents from the decision making process. That's just to name the ones that struck me the most. Let me ask you this: do you think a business that adopted this plan for success would last? Of course not. What is described by participants within the New York school system is a "business" where the facilities are inadequate and poorly maintained, workers (teachers) and customers (parents and teachers) are treated poorly, three reorganizations to date since inception, workers have performance evaluations every six weeks, and raw materials (textbooks) are in inadequate supply. Furthermore, the acceptable performance rating is low. No business could run that way. None. Even a sweatshop can't treat its customers badly, reorganize practically every year, and have inadequate supplies of raw materials! The most successful businesses would look at Bloomberg's performance as CEO of the school system and throw his resume in the trash.

Bloomberg is a failed CEO if the school system is to be judged based on the business model. But let's consider whether the business model is even appropriate.

The business model assumes competition among rival entities with some that will fail and some that will succeed. Those that succeed are rewarded by the "market" and those that fail are weeded out.

How can either a healthcare or an education system be based on a theory wherein failure is a necessary part of the evolution of the system. We are assuming that some of our kids will receive an inadequate education and fail out...ok well. Maybe we can then weed out the bad schools and do better next generation. Ummm, hello! What happened to the idea that a quality education needs to be available to all citizens in order for a democracy to survive? And consider applying that same concept to healthcare. Litterally death of the patient due to inadequate parts of the system are part of the system. Uncle Fritz died because he wasn't given the right diagnostic analysis? Oh well, maybe we can close down that hospital and do better on a another patient.

It is absurd!

But we don't have to stick with theory. Let's actually look at how the American business model for healthcare measures up to the more socialized systems. I have written about this before and I admit my figures are still from 2005. But here is how we measure up using some standard measures of national health (more details in the linked article):

The US ranks 29th for healthy life expectancy. That is right between Slovenia and Portugal. Keep in mind, America is a far wealthier nation than EITHER Slovenia or Portugal, yet our healthy life expectancy is only 69.3 years. Slovenia beats us slightly with 69.5. UK, with a more socialized system, ranks 24th. Netherlands with a more socialized system ranks 18th. Canada, the system Republicans most like to denigrate when nationalized health care is suggested, ranks 11th. Sweden, which is almost synonymous with socialized health care, ranks 3rd with 73.3 years. We are beaten by nations with much lower levels of wealth (like Slovenia and Italy and Greece).

How about the probability of not reaching 60 years old? In the US there is a 12.8% chance of not reaching 60 years old. That is slightly better than Portugal and slightly worse than Albania. Again, we are far wealthier than Portugal or, for god's sake, Albania, but that is where we rank. In "socialist" Sweden, a person has only an 8% chance of not reaching 60 years of age. Canada, the UK and the Netherlands all rank better than us on this measure as well.

How about the probability dying before 5 years old (female): United States: 8 per 1000 people. Interestingly, that is identical to the rate for Cuba. Sweden again out does us, with 3 per 1000 people. Canada is in between with 5 per 1000 people.

How about Respiratory disease child death rate: we are at 40.43...similar to Syria, the Philippines, Armenia, North Korea, and Khazakstan. Canada is at 0.62, Japan at 1.52, Netherlands at 0.88, Sweden at 1.03 and United Kingdom at 1.78.

Intestinal diseases death rate: United States is at 7.35%, right between Tunisia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Canada is at 0.3%, Netherlands at 0.28%, Sweden at 0.39%...interestingly Poland and Greece do best. Not sure why, but we still are not getting our money's worth!

It goes on. I am not saying our health care is the worst in the world. Far from it. But when our peers for healthcare are Bosnia, Albania, North Korea and Cuba, perhaps it is time America start to emulate those at the top: Canada, Sweden, Netherlands etc.

Also keep in mind that Americans SPEND more on health care than most of the nations mentioned that outperform us. We pay more for a worse outcome. That is, by any business model definition, failure. Is that how we want to approach education as well? And I haven't even addressed the inequities in our system, another major flaw.

The business model has never proven itself to be an appropriate model for healthcare or education. Bloomberg not only fails as CEO of our schools, but he is also dead wrong is even WANTING to be the CEO of our schools. We do not need a CEO. We need textbooks, teachers and class space.

I have watched two schools systems go through many changes and there is only one constant that I have seen. When schools get lots of money, they excel. When school budgets are cut, the schools decline. Money is by no means the only factor. But nothing else works UNLESS the schools are well funded. Amply funded. The worst that can happen if you overfund schools is you wind up with the best schools around, as long as you aren't doing anything blatantly stupid in other ways like teaching creationism or not testing at all. Testing is a necessary part of evaluating education. But money is by far the most important factor. Money for teachers, money for textbooks, money for desks, money for field trips, money for after school and pre-K programs. You want a healthy democracy and a competitive high tech economy? Put the damned money into the schools and ditch the failed business model for something more appropriate. The business model is for banking and selling shoes, not teaching our kids or healing our sick.

WISCONSIN FOCUS: Blogs, Progressive Candidates, Alternative Energy, Sustainable Agriculture, Groups and Events

Blogging Wisconsin: Blogging Blue covers progressive issues in Wisconsin.

Milwaukee Rising covers local issues in Milwaukee

Watchdog Milwaukee is another local Milwaukee blog of note

Badger Blues is a local Madison blog.

And here is an article I came across on Urban Farming in Milwaukee, an idea whose time has come. And once again Wisconsin is ahead of the pack.


WISCONSIN ACT BLUE SITE: Wisconsin is a critical state this year both because it is always a Presidential swing state, and because there are some important local elections. You can give through my Act Blue site to help win Wisconsin big this year. Within this list are two women I would particularly like to call your attention to. Justine Kozanoglu is running for the Wisconsin 21st State Assembly seat against a right wing fanatic who voted against emergency contraception for rape victims, and against hearing aids for hearing impaired children under 5 years old. She is an educator, involved with the Head Start program and is a member of National Association for the Education of Young Children and the Midwest Renewable Energy Association, indicating her focus on both energy issues and education. Tara Johnson is running for the Wisconsin 32nd State Senate seat against a right wing fanatic incumbent who voted against a bipartisan bill in the Wisconsin legislature ensuring compassion for rape victims. Tara Johnson was recruited to the Progressive Majority Farm Team in the fall of 2007. She is currently serving her fifth term on the La Crosse County Board. Tara is the former executive director of United Way. On the La Crosse County Board, she is the chair of Health and Human Services Committee and Second Vice-Chair of the board. Tara is well respected and admired for her ability to fight for progressive values while building consensus among her peers. This is an important seat to pick up on the state level. Please, if you are in either district, volunteer. If you aren't, please donate $10 or more to help out.

And here are some other candidates endorsed by Progressive Majority: (Progressive Majority candidates win about 50% of the time in Wisconsin elections...so these people have a good shot)

Jessica King
Candidate for Wisconsin State Senate - District 18 (Challenger)
Oshkosh, East Winnebago County



Progressive Majority in Wisconsin helped Jessica win election to the Oshkosh City Council in 2007, where she ran an aggressive race that unseated an incumbent. During that race she impressed us with her work ethic; she raised over $11,000 for her race and knocked thousands of doors. Jessica is now looking to move up and challenge Carol Roessler, a conservative member of the State Senate. This seat is one of our top targets for 2008 because an additional victory will bolster the one-seat majority in the State Senate. Jessica has attended Planned Parenthood and It's Up to Us training and is a recent graduate of Emerge - an intense, eight month leadership development program for Democratic women. Jessica is a practicing attorney and is active on numerous community boards including the Grand Opera House Foundation, the City Energy and Environment Committee, Transit Committee, and United Way.

Click here to support and learn more about Jessica.

Sandy Pasch
Candidate for Wisconsin State House - District 22 (Open Seat)
Fox Point, River Hills, Glendale, Whitefish Bay, Shorewood



Sandy Pasch is running in an open seat vacated by Democrat Sheldon Wasserman, who is running for the State Senate to challenge conservative Alberta Darling. The 22nd is a seat that Democrats must protect. Sandy Pasch entered the race early and has been campaigning aggressively. Sandy has attended Camp Wellstone and secured the endorsement of the Inspector of the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department, the Milwaukee District Attorney, and many prominent progressive activists. Sandy is a registered nurse and 21-year resident of the 22nd district. She is married and has rasied three grown children. As a second job, Sandy teaches ethics, mental health, and community nursing at Columbia School of Nursing. She also serves on numerous community boards and works with the Milwaukee Police Department conducting training on how to effectively deal with people living with mental illness.

Click here to support and learn more about Sandy.

Paul Tubbs
Candidate for Wisconsin State House - District 34 (Challenger)
Oneida and Vilas Counties



Paul Tubbs is running for State Assembly in Wisconsin's 34th District. This will be Paul's second run for the 34th Assembly District. As latecomer to the 2006 election, despite having a small budget, he out-performed all other Democratic challengers who had run for this seat since 2000. This cycle we recruited Paul to run again. Paul is currently a member of the Rhinelander School Board, has worked as a school counselor for 34 years, is a member of Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC), and is a 30-year resident of his district. Paul owns a small business that has sold recreational equipment since 1988. His wife Cheryl is a teacher and they have three children.

Kristen Dexter
Candidate for Wisconsin State House - District 68 (Challenger)
Altoona, Eau Claire, Fall Creek



Kristen is running for the State Assembly in the 68th District, a top target for us in 2008. Kristen has lived in this district for 14 years and was elected to the Altoona School Board in 2002. She serves on the Regional Steering Committee for Health Literacy Wisconsin. She owned a small business working as a metalsmith for several years. She has been married for 15 years to David Dexter, a neurologist at Luther Midelfort/Mayo, and she is a mother of 3 children. Kristen was a star campaign volunteer for Pat Krietlow, a Progressive Majority candidate elected to the State Senate in 2006.

Dale Klemme
Candidate for Wisconsin State House - District 96 (Challenger)
Prairie du Chien, Gays Mills, Viroqua, Hillsboro



Dale Klemme is running for the 96th Assembly District seat - a top target for us in 2008. We identified and recruited Dale to run in the Spring of 2007. Dale is working to unseat Lee Nerison, a conservative Assembly member who has consistently voted along party lines. Dale is a community development planner who has lived in the district for 30 years, and his wife is the Mayor of Prarie du Chien. He is an active member of the Praire du Chien community, participating in the Praire du Chien Chamber and School Board. He is also a Vietnam veteran.

Click here to support and learn more about Dale.


Here are some Wisconsin Democracy for America Groups:

Democracy for Wisconsin - Madison
Meets first Wed. of each month, 7 PM, Madison, WI

Join us in building a brighter and more progressive future for our country.

For more information (including where) email: russwallac_at_aol.com or go here.

DFA Northeast Wisconsin
DFA - Northeast Wisconsin (DFA-NEW) meets the first Wednesday of each month to discuss issues, promote progressive candidates and actively work to bring democracy to the political process locally, regionally and nationally. Sign up here to get information on their meetings.

Democracy for America-Greater Milwaukee
Sign up here for information on this group.

Democracy for SE Wisconsin
Join this Yahoo Group to get information on this group.

Democracy for Stevens Point:
A group of progressive, concerned citizens in the Stevens Point, WI area who are interested in political change as described in Democracy for America, and organization originally begun by Governor Howard Dean.

Join this Yahoo Group for more info on this group.


Here are some other Wisconsin Groups and Events:

Ozaukee First Friday Forum
First Friday Forums - public affairs breakfast forums co-sponsored by MATC-Mequon, UW-Extension and the Ozaukee County Board.

Held on the first Friday of every other month from 730am to 900 am at MATC-Mequon. $5 registration fee per session.
Additional information: Sandra Webster 262-238-2205/ websters@matc.edu

2008 Small Wind Conference
June 17-18, 2008 in Stevens Point, Wisconsin

Mark your calendars for the 2008 Small Wind Power Conference: June 17 & 18, 2008 in Stevens Point, WIsconsin at the Holiday Inn Convention Center. The Conference will be held just prior to the Midwest Renewable Energy Association's Energy Fair (June 20-22, 2008).

Register here.

TOPICS INCLUDE: - Updates from manufacturers and importers - Test results and updates on turbines and equipment under development - The real costs of system installations - Successfully navigating your way through insurance, zoning and the permitting process - Problem solving in the field - Innovations in the Industry - Input from dealers and installers - Update on NABCEP installer certification - Much, much more!

CONFERENCE COST: $150 per person

CONFERENCE INCLUDES: Light breakfasts, lunches, evening receptions and materials

ACCOMMODATIONS: Discounted hotel rooms are almost sold out! Please reserve your room as soon as possible.

Single/Double: $94 per night Suite: $149 per night 2-Room Suite: $189 Call the Holiday Inn & Convention Center to reserve your room today (715) 344-0200! Mention the Midwest Renewable Energy Association for the discounted rate.

Go here for more info.

The Small Wind Power Conference is hosted by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association.

Midwest Renewable Energy Association's Annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair
Jun 20 – 22 2008
Stevens Point, Wisconsin

The Midwest Renewable Energy Association's annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Fair is the nation's largest gathering of renewable energy supporters, vendors and presenters.

Join us for the 19th annual Energy Fair June 20-22, 2008. The Fair will be held at the ReNew the Earth Institute. The ReNew the Earth Institute is located at 7558 Deer Road in Custer, WI. See the Travel and Accommodations page for mapquest details and other information.

General Energy Fair Information:
Since its inception in 1990, the Energy Fair has shown 190,000 fairgoers how to change the world while having fun. Each summer the Fair transforms rural Custer, Wisconsin into the global hot spot for renewable energy education. The Energy Fair is the world’s largest renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable living educational event of its kind. Please join us this year!

The Energy Fair features hundreds of workshops and exhibits all emphasizing clean energy & sustainable living and is fun for the whole family. In 2007, the Energy Fair hosted over 19,500 attendees. We hope to see you in 2008!

More info here: www.the-mrea.org

Milwaukee County Democratic Club:
We meet on the fourth Monday of most months (third Monday in May), 7 PM in the Hall of Fame Room of the Pettit National Ice Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park. We look forward to seeing you there!

Petitt National Ice Center
500 S. 84th St
Milwaukee, WI, 53214

For the bicycilists in Madison, here's Critical Mass Madison:

Critical Mass is a movement (not an organization) that advocates for better transportation alternatives. Meets 5:30 PM, the last Friday of Every Month, no matter the weather. Gather where West Washington meets Capitol Square. Where the ride goes after that is decided by whoever shows up.


And for those who like to combine social events with politics, here are the Drinking Liberally Groups in Wisconsin:

Fitchburg, Wisconsin
* Second Thursday of each month, 5:30-7:00 pm
* Kelly's Grill, 2685 Research Park Dr
* Hosted by Alice Jenson and John Mosman, fitchburg (at) drinkingliberally.org

Sister Bay, Wisconsin
* Every Tuesday, 7:00 pm onward
* Shipwrecked Restaurant & Brewery, 7791 Egg Harbor Rd (Hwy 42), Egg Harbor (village center on Hwy 42)
* ALERT! We are currently on seasonal hiatus with our next gathering in May of 2008.
* Hosted by Dick Kaiser, sisterbay (at) drinkingliberally.org

MICHIGAN FOCUS: Blogs, Alternative Energy, Mark Schauer, Gary Peters, Groups and Events

WINNING MICHIGAN: Please donate to win some hotly contested House seats as well as local races in Michigan.

BLOGGING MICHIGAN: I notice that Michigan has a particularly good round up of blogs.

Michigan Liberal is an excellent source of news, events and politics in Michigan.

Blogging for Michigan is another excellent source of news, events and politics in Michigan.

Mid-Michigan DFA is a good way to stay connected with fellow progressives in the Lansing area.

The Michigan Coalition for Progress is an independent progressive voice for the people of Michigan dedicated to holding elected political leaders accountable and moving Michigan forward.


MICHIGAN HOUSE RACES:

MI-07 is a Congressional District that we have a very good shot at taking this year. It is one of the top battleground districts in the country. Mark Schauer is the Democrat running for the MI-07 House seat. Here is a video of Mark Schauer giving a keynote address at a climate conference:



If you live in the district, please volunteer to help Mark out.

MI-09 is the other one is Michigan house seat we can flip to blue. Gary Peters is running for this seat and is raising a good deal of money to mount a strong challenge to a Bush Republican. Peters has been endorsed by the League of Conservation Voters, the Michigan AFL-CIO and the Veterans Alliance for Security and Democracy, among many others. Gary is in favor of bringing out troops home and giving our Veterans the benefits and healthcare they deserve. The Repub he is challenging has consistently voted AGAINST expanding veterans benefits.

If you live in MI-09 district, please volunteer for Gary and help flip another House seat to blue.


ALTERNATIVE ENERGY EVENTS IN MICHIGAN:

3rd Annual Michigan Energy Fair
June 27th – 29th, 2008
Manistee County Fairgrounds
In Onekama, MI

Click here for more info.

06/24/2008 - 06/25/2008: Embracing a Green Future – a conference for manufacturers
Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan- GVSU Eberhard Center
Cost: $445

Embracing a Green Future will teach manufacturers sustainable business practices to help them achieve triple bottom line results like these:
· A 50% reduction in energy costs - Rapid-Line, Inc.
· A 10% reduction in operating costs-H&L Advantage
· A 16-million-gallon reduction in water use, saving more than $30,000 each year-Metalworks
· A 35% reduction in metal scrap-Whirlpool, Corp.

More info here. Register for this event by Friday June 13, 2008. Please contact Natalia Powers at 616-771-0327 if you have additional questions.

08/21/2008 - 08/23/2008: Great Lakes Green 2008: Residential Green Building Conference

Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan- Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
Cost: $65.00 and up

Great Lakes Green is a partnership between Green Built Michigan, Inc. and the Michigan Association of Home Builders (MAHB). Great Lakes Green is intended to be an educational show that will generate greater awareness (among the building industry and the general public) about residential green building programs and technologies. More info here.


Here are some events and groups in Michigan:

Monthly Berkley Democratic Club Meeting:
Generally meets on Thursdays from 7pm to 8:30pm and all club meetings are open to the public. Bring your topics, ideas, and opinions to share and interact with other like-minded individuals!

All meetings are held at Anderson Middle School, 3205 Catalpa, Berkley, Michigan in the Media Center. We welcome you to join us!

Contact: http://www.berkleydems.org or info_at_berkleydems.org

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

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

IOWA ACT BLUE SITE: donate to help elect Democrats in Iowa.

BLOGGING IOWA:

Bleeding Heartland is a community blog for Democrats and progressives in the state of Iowa.

Blog for Iowa is a progressive source of information in Iowa.

The Deprogrammer is an antidote to the misinformation of mainstream media, based in the Quad Cities.

Let me introduce you to a candidate running for Conrgess in Iowa. Becky Greenwald is running against Tom Latham (R) in the IA-04 district.

Let me quote from her website:

"In Tom Latham, we have a congressman who has continually opposed women’s reproductive rights and has given a green light and a blank check to George Bush’s war in Iraq.

Together, we will make a difference for those struggling to get by on the minimum wage.

We will make a difference for those who cannot afford access to quality healthcare.

We will make a difference for those brave men and women returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and facing life with an injury and the scars of war.

We will make a difference when we repeal the unfunded mandate known as No Child Left Behind.

We will make a difference when we invest in homegrown energy alternatives which lessen our dependence on foreign oil, clean up our environment, and put Iowans to work at high-paying jobs which can’t be outsourced and can be unionized. "

You can help out Becky either by donating through my Act Blue Site or by volunteering for her campaign if you live in her area.


Here are some Alternative Energy and Sustainable Agriculture Events:

Recycle/renew/reuse event at Prairiewoods
Jun 20 – 22 2008
Prairiewoods, Hiawatha, Iowa
Friday 4-9, Saturday 8-8, Sunday 8-noon http://www.prairiewoods.org/


Peace Vigils:

Weekly Anti-War Vigil at Nollen Plaza
Every Thursday
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Nollen Plaza, 3rd and Locust Des Moines, IA
Contact: Wendy Vasquez
Please join us for this weekly witness against the war.
For more information, contact Wendy Vasquez at 515-771-8656.

Women for Peace Knitters
Supporting the peaceful arts of knitting and crocheting. This group meets monthly on the 2nd Tuesday, 9:30-11:30 am at Prairiewoods, 120 E Boyson Rd, Hiawatha. (Group also meets fourth Tuesdays each month at Marion Public Library, 7-8:30 pm., Marion.) For more information call 377-3252.

Cedar Rapids Peace Vigil
Women for Peace, Iowa, meet each Saturday at noon at the corner of 1st Avenue and Collins Road.


And for those who are focused on combining fun and politics, here are the local Drinking Liberally groups in Iowa:

Ames, Iowa
* Every Friday, 5:00 pm onward
* Legends American Grill, 200 Stanton Ave, 7th Floor (in Campustown)
* 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)
* Hosted by Amanda Mittlestadt, Tricia Kell, Cassie Samspon and Matt Jesson, desmoines (at) drinkingliberally.org

West Des Moines
* Third Friday of each month, 5:00-7:00 pm
* Tonic, 5535 George M Mills Civic Pky (within West Glen Towncenter)
* Hosted by Cassie Sampson, Mikael Brown and Jenny Irlmeier, wdsm (at) drinkingliberally.org

Eating Liberally
* Second Monday of each month, 6:00-7:30 pm
* Continental Wine Bar, 428 E Locust St
* Hosted by Marcus Walsh and Tricia Kell, desmoines (at) eatingliberally.org

Iowa City, Iowa
* Every Thursday, 8:00 pm onward
* The Mill Restaurant, 120 E Burlington St

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS: Blogs, Progressive Candidates, Impeachment, Peace Vigils, Groups and Events

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

NEW YORK BLOGGING:
The Albany Project gives excellent coverage of New York State politics.

The Daily Gotham covers both New York City (with a slight emphasis on Brooklyn) and New York State politics.


A major focus for NY State right now is the attempt to finally pass the Health Teens Act (S1342). You can read about it here and here, including ways to help.


Let me highlight some excellent candidates running in New York State.

Steve Harrison is running for Congress in the NY-13 race against Vito Fossella, the Republican who recently was arrested for drunk driving and revealed he had a secret love-child. Steve Harrison is a leading advocate for withdrawal from Iraq and has been endorsed by American Heritage Democratic Organization, Kelvin Alexander (Co-Founderof 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement), Gary Lane (Chairman of IBEW Local 3), Gloria Steinem, Democracy for New York City, the Democratic Organization of Richmond County, John Strika (President of IUPAT Local 806), former Assemblyman Frank Barbaro, among others. Steve is the progressive in the race while his primary opponent is a "Democrat" who is also seeking the Conservative Party endorsement and has told the Conservative Party that he opposes gay marriage and is in favor of continued occupation of Iraq. Steve, by contrast, is in favor of marriage equality and withdrawal from Iraq. You can read more about him in his own words on Daily Gotham. You cand donate to his campaign through my Act Blue site. If you live in the NY-13 district, please volunteer for Steve's campaign.

Here are some events where you can meet Steve Harrison:

Thu., Jun. 19, 2008
House Party
Hosted by: Greg Collett, Amy Jones and Heidi Kraus.
Location: 55 West 8th Street, Apt. 9
When: 7:30 PM

Sat., Jun. 21, 2008
Relay for Life
Location: Fort Hamilton, Brooklyn
When: 2:00 PM

Sat., Jun. 28, 2008
Thrill on the Grill BBQ
Suggested Donation: $75
RSVP: 718-781-4443
Hosted by: Richie Marini & David Hernandez
Location: 40 Stonecrest Court, Staten Island
When: 5:00 PM

Norm Siegel for Public Advocate
For those of you who live in NYC, let me introduce you to Norman Siegel, one of America's top Civil Rights Lawyers, is running for New York Public Advocate. Here's a Youtube video of him:



Here are some events where youu can meet and help Norm Siegel:

Weds, June 18th
W. 79th Street Boat Basin Big Splash!
from 6:00 - 8:30 PM
Rain date: Sunday, June 22
The folks at the boat basin are throwing another House Boat fundraiser for Norman. This will be a reprise of one of our most popular events in 2005! There are still tickets for you landlubbers out there, but they won't last, so please reserve now for the Rock the Boat event at the W. 79th Street Boat Basin! Call the campaign office at 212-448-6271 for reservations for the $50+ tickets, or go to www.normansiegel.com/node/19

Thurs, June 26th .......
Lawyers for Norman Siegel Kick off Event!
From 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.
We invite all lawyers to join the Lawyers for Norman Siegel Committee and to attend a cocktail & hors d’oeuvres party at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, 4 Times Square.
Special Guest: The Hon. George Bundy Smith, retired New York Court of Appeals Judge, with a long and abiding commitment to civil rights and justice for all, will introduce Norman. You must RSVP to be on the door list! Call 212-448-6271 or email to RSVP@normansiegel.com

Mon, June 30th
Please join us for the Hudson River View House Party on Riverside Drive, at the home of Daniele Gerard & Dan Woods, from 6:30 to 8:30 PM.
Host Committee: Jonathan Tasini, Kenny Schaeffer, Daniele Gerard & Dan Woods. Norma Ramos, Rick Gilberg, Gene Carroll, Elliot Schnapp.
Suggested contribution: $75 and up……
Please call for more details and to RSVP: 212-448-6271

Friday, July the Fourth!
Reading of the Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence! at Strawberry Fields...Entrance at 72nd St. and Central Park West 12 noon
This year will mark the 40th anniversary of Norman reading the above documents in Central Park. He will be accompanied by the Granny Peace Brigade again this year!
Feel free to bring a picnic to the park and join the celebration of our civil liberties.


And a friend of ours, Devin Cohen, is running for a Brooklyn judicial seat. You can read more about his race here. If you can spare some time to help Devin, please let me know and I can let him know.


Let me also highlight a fundraiser for Mark Begich, running for Alaska Senate, here in NYC on June 17th. Worth clicking on the above link just to see one of the most stunning invitations I have seen in politics.


Some issues and actions you can take around NY State:

Call Governor Patterson for this easy way to express your opinion on marriage equality.

A rundown of Congressional races throughout NY State

Join Steve Harrison's new Blog about issues concerning the NY-13 Congressional district.


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

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

NEW JERSEY FOCUS: Blogs, Blue Jersey Radio, Impeachment, Groups and Events

NEW JERSEY ACT BLUE SITE: Turning New Jersey BLUER!

NEW JERSEY BLOGGING: Blue Jersey is a great source for the latest in New Jersey politics.

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

GEORGIA FOCUS: Obama, Veterans For Peace, NAACP, Groups and Events

With Bob Barr in the race for President as a Libertarian, Georgia could actually be in play for Obama. As part of the Dean/Obama 50 state strategy, I urge a strong effort in Georgia this year. With that in mind I give you the Georgia for Obama Group. Join and participate! Register voters, give your time, make the effort.

In particular, here are some upcoming events: (more events here)

Food & Vendor Extravaganza - Block Party
Saturday, June 21 at 10:00 AM
Providence Point Sub-Division (Lithonia, GA)
7853 Mohansic Park Lane
Lithonia, GA 30058

The Mohansic Park Lane Block Pary Committee will have it's 5th annual Block Party. We are having a pre-block pary fundraiser selling/serving food and providing various small business vendors to sell their products and services.

We are planning to do a Voter's Registration and will provide Barack Obama T-shirts, Buttons, Bumper stickers, Hats, etc.


Here are some other groups and events in Georgia:

Veterans for Peace, Atlanta has several vigils and rallies around Atlanta. Here is their weekly schedule. I urge you to join them if you can to show your support:

Tuesdays 12:45-1 pm
Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at Emory University , in front of Woodruff Library. For more information e-mail: thee.smith@emory. edu.

Thursdays 5:00-6:00pm
Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at CNN, Marietta and Centennial Olympic Park. For more information e-mail John.Zientowski@ turner.com

Fridays 12:00-1:00 pm
Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at Colony Square , corner of Peachtree and 14th Street . For more information, e-mail bobbiepaul@rp.cbeyond.com

Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at Marietta Square ( Cobb Court House). For more information e-mail cobbpeace@comcast.net

Saturdays
12:00-1:00
Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at Dekalb Farmers Market At 3000 Ponce de Leon Avenue , Decatur For more information, Fro more information e-mail John.Zientowski@ turner.com

Sundays
12:15-1:00 pm
Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at the corner of MLK Drive and Washington Street (across from the state capitol). For more information, e-mail elogan@gsu.edu or peggyhendrix2000@yahoo.com.

12:00-12:30 pm
Weekly "Stand for Peace" vigil at 910 Ponce De Leon Ave NE ,Open Door Community. For more information contact Lauren Cogswell at lauren_cogswell@yahoo.com, 404-874-9652


Next let me highlight some NAACP groups and events:

COBB COUNTY NAACP Juneteenth Celebration
Downtown Marietta Square
Saturday, June 21, 2008 - 11:00 am to 4:00 pm
Click Here for Vendor Application (PDF)

The Cobb County NAACP monthly meetings are the first Monday of the month at the branch office at 6:30 p.m.

General membership meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, mostly at the office location but varies based on programs. Members are encouraged to attend these meetings. Join a committee today. Elections of officers are held in even years.

For more info contact the branch office: 605 B. Roswell St Marietta, GA 30061 770.425.5757 info_at_cobbnaacp.org

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP, is the oldest, largest and strongest civil rights organization in the United States. The principal objective of the NAACP is to ensure the political, educational, social and economic equality of minority group citizens of the United States.

The NAACP is committed to achievement through non-violence and relies upon the press, the petition, the ballot and the courts, and is persistent in the use of legal and moral persuasion even in the face of overt and violent racial hostility.

I also want to highlight a another NAACP chapter in Georgia:

Fayette County NAACP Branch General Membership Meeting:
2nd Saturday Each Month - 4:00 PM, Flat Rock AME Church

And if you want contact info for other NAACP branches in Georgia (mainly addresses), please go here.


Here are more groups and events in Georgia:

Lowndes County Democratic Party Annual BBQ
Start Time:
Jul 7 2008 - 6:00pm
Knights of Columbus Hall
306 N. St. Augustine Road
Valdosta, GA, 31601
United States

Lowndes County Democratic Party Annual Barbecue draws hundreds of Democratic activists from across south Georgia. Lowndes County Democratic Party headquarters is located at 1008 Slater Street, Valdosta, GA 31601. For more information, call LCDP HQ at 229-241-1694 or email lowndesdems_at_bellsouth.net or visit our website at http://campaignwindow.com/lowndescountydemocraticcommittee

Cobb County Young Democrats
Monthly Happy Hours on the first Fridays of every month and monthly Business Meetings on the third Tuesdays of every month. Both are great opportunities to meet fellow Cobb County Young Democrats and learn about the 2008 heated races taking place in Cobb County.

Happy Hours: BLACKBIRD, 114 W Hancock St, Milledgeville, GA, 31061 US
Contact: Christin Ivey, Christin_ivey@ecats.gcsu.edu,

Business Mettings: Little Azio Pizza and Pasta 1675 Cumberland Pkwy, Ivywalk Unit #415, Smyrna, GA, 30080 US
Contact: Alexandra O'Callaghan, alli@georgiayds.org,

Cherokee County Democratic Party Meeting
Third Monday of Every Month, 7 PM
Hot Springs Community Center
100 Hickory Circle
Holly Springs, GA
More info here.


Here are a couple of Democracy for America meetings in Georgia:

Decatur Meeting: First Wed. of every month, 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM, Location: ChocoLate Coffee, 2094 North Decatur Rd, Decatur, GA, 30033 US Contact: Susan Keith susan_at_georgiafordemocracy.org

The North Fulton/East Cobb Democracy for America: Second Tuesday of every month, 7:00 PM, sign up here to find out where and more details.

You can also sign up here to help organize a Georgia for Democracy group in your area.


Drinking Liberally is a grassroots social organizations for people who like to meet fellow liberals over a good beer. Here are the Drinking Liberally chapters in Georgia:

Atlanta, Georgia
* Every Thursday, 8:00 pm onward
* Thinking Man's Tavern, 537 W Howard Ave, Decatur
* Hosted by Erin Abrahams, atlanta (at) drinkingliberally.org

Dunwoody
* First and third Wednesday of each month (next meeting January 2), 7:00 pm onward
* Ye Olde Dunwoody Tavern, 5488 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd (map)
* Hosted by Hillary Meister, dunwoody (at) drinkingliberally.org

Augusta, Georgia
* Second and fourth Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Helga's Lounge, 2015 Central Ave
* Hosted by Margie Hobbins, augusta (at) drinkingliberally.org

Savannah, Georgia
* First and third Thursday of each month, 7:30 pm onward
* Crystal Beer Parlor, 301 W Jones St (corner of west jones and jefferson)
* lots of parking
* Hosted by John Mattingly, Victor Fishman and McKay Schwalbach, savannah (at) drinkingliberally.org

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

BLOGGING CALIFORNIA: Here are some blogs covering California Politics

Calitics is an open source news organization for California

The California Progress Report is published by Frank D. Russo, a longtime observer of and participant in California politics.

The Liberal OC covers politics in Orange County.

Conejo Valley Democrat discusses expanding the Democratic majority in the Conejo Valley.


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.

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 an alternative energy event in Pacific Grove, California:

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:
Lt. Col. Charlie Brown was a rescue helicopter pilot based in Thailand at the end of the Vietnam War and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. His service record continued up to coordinating surveillance flights over Iraq’s “No Fly Zones.” Since retiring from the Air Force, he has been Vice President of the Roseville Police Association, and has been a tireless advocate for veterans rights, seniors, middle class families, and the environment. Brown nearly won this seat in 2008. Now he's back for a second shot and has a very good chance of winning. You can help by attending one of these house parties, meeting Charlie Brown, and finding out more about how you can help.

And here are some house parties where you can meet Charlie Brown:

Wednesday 06/18/2008
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Auburn House Party

Tuesday 07/08/2008
6:00pm - 8:00pm
El Dorado Hills House Party

San Ramon Valley Democrats Meetings
We are a group of dedicated Democrats living in the San Ramon Valley who have come together to support and promote the progressive social and political principles that always have been fundamental to the Democratic Party. The San Ramon Valley is comprised of Alamo, Blackhawk, Diablo, Danville, San Ramon, and southern Walnut Creek, and members of our club come from each of those communities. We meet once a month for an educational program at Mudd's Restaurant in San Ramon, alternating between lunch on the second Tuesday, and appetizers (no-host bar) on the evening of the fourth Thursday (6:30 PM). We register people to vote, walk precincts to arouse voters, raise money for candidates, and enjoy the opportunity to socialize with people of common interests. Go here for more info.

Our meetings are lively and our programs are focused on issues of concern to Democrats, locally, statewide, and nationally. Our speakers are chosen for their astute insight into the problems before us as citizens and as voters. We socialize before and after the formal meetings, and enter into animated discussions about the topic of the day. In the process we become fast friends.

Mudds Restaurant
$22 per person (meal included)

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.

Peace Vigils in Tri-Valley Area:
(Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton)

Grandparents for Peace Weekly Vigil - Fridays from 3:30 to 4:30 in front of Rite-Aid Corner of Tice Valley Blvd and Rossmoor Parkway on the way to Rossmoor.

Weekly Vigil at Oakland Federal Building Tuesdays at Noon, 1301 Clay Street (2 blocks west of 12th St. BART station). This vigil began in the Spring of 1998, when Madeline Albright tried to gain support for a war against Iraq. The focus has changed over time, and is now calling for an end to the Iraq War and the occupation.

Martinez Peace Vigil - Sundays from 5:00 to 5:30 PM in front of Martinez City Hall. For iinfo: Barbara (925) 372-4152

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


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