ALASKA FOCUS: Blogs, Diane Benson, Mark Begich, Obama, Veterans for Peace, Groups and Events

BLOGGING ALASKA:
Progressive Alaska: Spreading the word about the growing presence of progressive Alaskans and their powerful ideas on the web

Recycling & Renewables Rap: This is the place for those who want to walk the talk on green living. Interested in the latest news on curbside recycling? Have a suggestion or idea about how to make Anchorage a greener community? Look no further than this recycling blog.

The Fairbanks Pedestrian is a discussion of community-building, social capital, downtowns, neighborhood culture, city planning, domestic and civic architecture, public and private transportation, and the pleasures and difficulties of city living in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Far North Science: News, research and natural acts from Alaska


Here are some stories of interest:

ALASKA SENATOR TED STEVENS INDICTED for making false statements (that means lying, folks). THIS is what Republicans mean by "values?" Greed, corruption and lying.

Here's a very nice piece about Alaska Congressional Candidate Diane Benson.

Palingate?

Palingate and the Alaska House race

ALASKA ACT BLUE SITE: Donate to turn Alaska Blue. We have very competitive House and Senate races in Alaska right now and a really good chance to win both. I believe if we want to win the Senate and end the war, these two races are critical.

You can help win by joining Diane Benson's volunteer brigades. Diane is one of the best candidates running anywhere in the country this year.

Here is a video of Diane Benson:



And here is Diane addressing the recent FISA fiasco:



You can donate to Diane's campaign here. Or volunteer here.


Alaska also has a Senate fight that Dems have a good chance of winning. Let me introduce you to Mark Begich, who is running for Senate against probably the most corrupt politician in America today, Ted Stevens.

Here is video from Mark's website outlining Mark's energy plan:



Again, you can help win Alaska this year (Benson for House, Begich for Senate, Obama for President) through my Alaska Act Blue site.


Here are some Obama Groups in Alaska:

Alaskan Chicks for Obama: Statewide

Alaskans for Obama: Juneau

Anchorage for Obama: Anchorage

Interior Alaskans For Obama: Fairbanks


Here are some other events around Alaska:

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.

Women in Black - Peace Vigil
Every Saturday, 1pm – 2pm
Wherecorner of 10th & I.
Dressing in black is preferable. No political signs, only "peace." Some signs provided.

Alaskans for Peace and Justice
Every Tuesday, 7pm – 9pm
Immanuel Presbyterian Church Anchorage
Alaskans 4 Peace and Justice is commited to nonviolence and creative ways to achieve social justice. We sponsor and organize peace rallies and Documentary films. Our roots go back to shortly after 9/11 when we organized to oppose the growing use of tragedy to excuse aggression and injustice. Our meetings are open to all who share this ideal.

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

Weekly Juneau Peace Vigil
Peace Park, noon every Thursday
Support local Juneau Veterans for Peace vigil. New location during the legislative session - 3rd and Seward Street at the "Peace Park"


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

OREGON FOCUS: Blogs, Jeff Merkley, Neighborhood Leaders, Groups and Events

You can help win both the Presidency and the Senate by donating through my Oregon Act Blue Site.

BLOGGING OREGON:
BlueOregon is a place for progressive Oregonians to gather 'round the water cooler and share news, commentary, and gossip.

Loaded Orygun: Progressive Oregon

Blog for Oregon: DFA in Oregon


Here are some stories of interest:

Jeff Merkley calls attention to the Bush Administration's plans to institute new rules that would move funding for reproductive health services and pregnancy prevention over to pregnancy crisis centers. Read more here. And go here for the Action Alert from the Oregon Democratic Party.


OREGON SENATE:

Oregon is one of our pick-up opportunities for 2008. The Democratic candidate for Oregon's Senate seat is Jeff Merkley. Merkley has MAJOR union support as well as the support of the Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood, 21st Century Democrats, and Council for a Livable World, among MANY others. You can read Merkley's stands on the issues here.

Jeff Merkley recently unveiled his proposals for rural towns. You can read about it here.

Here is a video from the Merkley campaign: Senator Ron Wyden endorses Jeff Merkley



Go here to volunteer to help Merkley win.

Even more importantly, you can become a Neighborhood Leader for the Oregon Democratic Party and be a major part of Victory 2008.


Here are progressive events and groups in Oregon:

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.

Deschutes County Dems Monthly Meetings:
Second Thursday of every month
7 to 9 p.m. (6:30 social) at Bend's Community Center, 1036 NE 5th Street

Umatilla County Democratic Women These Dems meets on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm, generally alternating between Pendleton and Hermiston. The Chair is ElRae Wells Ph. 276-7943 (call for more info).

Umatilla County Dems now meet at 6pm on 2nd Thursdays at Pendleton's BMCC Sci-Tech Bldg in Rm 204


Here is a Democracy for America Group 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

MISSISSIPPI FOCUS: Blogs, Ronnie Musgrove, Obama, NAACP, Drinking Liberally

I have found my Georgia, Florida and Virginia pages are fairly popular. So I am adding a Mississippi page, partly because it is a Senate swing state, partly because Mississippi was a big pick up in a recent special election, partly because I have a good friend from there, and partly because I know how hard they got hit by Katrina. I have never thought the Democrats should abandon the South. There have been too many damned good Democrats from the South to do that, from Christine Jennings to Ann Richardson, to Al Gore, to Jimmy Carter.


BLOGGING MISSISSIPPI:

Cotton Mouth: Life, Politics, and Mississippi.

Black Political Analysis: Race, Class and Ethnicity in Mississippi

The Natchez Blog: A place of discussion for people who love Natchez

Mississippi Headlines and Political Notes


Next let me introduce Ronnie Musgrove, running for Senate in Mississippi and doing a damned good job of worrying the Republicans:



If you can volunteer for Ronnie, please go here.


Here are some Obama groups in Mississippi:

Mississippi for Obama: Statewide

Mississippi Gulf Coast Obama Supporters: Ocean Springs

Ole Miss for Obama: Oxford

Southern Miss for Obama: Hattiesburg

Northern Mississippi for Obama 2008

Mississippi State University for Obama


Mississippi NAACP: Here are local branches of the NAACP

University of Southern Mississippi Branch
Address: 118 College Drive Box 8827, Hattiesburg, MS 39406-8827
Web Site: www.usm.edu/naacp
All general meetings are scheduled at 7:00 pm Wednesday nights in the Union. For detailed schedule of meeting dates and locations e-mail us at naacp_at_usm.edu.

Forrest County Branch
Address: P.O. Box 1011, Hattiesburg, MS 39403

Jackson-Hinds Youth Council Branch
Phone: (601)899-8976
Address: 5706 Gladewood Drive, Jackson, MS 39211

Leake County Mississippi Branch
Phone: (601)267-9639
Address: 3830 Hwy. 35, North Carthage, MS 39051


For those who like mixing their politics with mixed drinks, here's Drinking Liberally in Mississippi:

Hattiesburg
o Second Thursday of each month, 5:30 pm
o Keg & Barrel, 1315 Hardy Street
o Hosted by Niki Pace | Ryan Schilling | Richlain Robinson

Jackson
o Last Wednesday of each month, 6:00 pm
o Hal and Mals, 200 Commerce St
o Hosted by Drew McDowell

Natchez
o Second Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm
o Bobby J's, 727 Franklin St
o Hosted by Casey Ann Hughes

MINNESOTA FOCUS: Blogs, Al Franken, Progressive Candidates, The Minnesota Project, Drinking Liberally

Blogging Minnesota:

Minnesota Campaign Report: Updates on campaigns in Minnesota

MN Blue: Turning Minnesota Bluer


Al Franken, is running for Senate in Minnesota and is one of the key progressives we have to elect. Here's Al's recent ad:



Here is Al Franken speaking on energy policy:



You can go here to learn more about Al Franken for Senate.


Here are some excellent progressive candidates in Minnesota (all endorsed by Progressive Majority):

Kevin Staunton
Candidate for State Representative - District 41A (Challenger)
Edina in Hennepin County

Kevin Staunton is the city attorney for Excelsior and a progressive leader running for the State House in District 41A. We recruited Kevin with the help of the local DFL party unit specifically to run for this seat. District 41A is one of the top pick-up targets in the state. In 2004, John Kerry became the first Democrat to win the district in two generations with 51.5% of the vote. Kevin's Republican opponent is unclear at this time. The nine-term moderate incumbent, Ron Erhardt, lost the GOP endorsement last month to an ultra-conservative challenger. It is unclear whether Erhardt will run in the Republican primary or whether he will run as an Independent. Kevin has been a leading advocate of progressive reforms in Minnesota, particularly through greater investment in our public schools and transportation infrastructure.

Click here to support and learn more about Kevin.

Gail Kulick Jackson
Candidate for State Representative - District 16A (Challenger)
Sherburne, Mille Lacs, Benton and Morrison Counties, including St. Cloud and Little Falls

Gail Kulick Jackson is an attorney in Milaca, running for the Minnesota State House in District 16A. Although Gail has been a candidate for the state House twice before (in 2004 and 2006), we actively recruited Gail to run again because of her strong progressive leadership in her community. The Republican is a six-term incumbent and is one of the most conservative members of the Minnesota House. Gail has been a progressive champion, and if elected, will work to protect civil rights and expand vital investments in the state.

Click here to support and learn more about Gail.

Jim Godfrey
Candidate for State Representative - District 17A (Challenger)
Isanti and Chisago Counties, including Cambridge and North Blanco

Jim Godfrey is a teacher and Education Minnesota member from Cambridge running for the state House in District 17A. We recruited Jim with the help of Education Minnesota leaders. Jim's Republican opponent is four-term incumbent Rob Eastlund, who presents himself as a moderate but has a very conservative voting record. Several neighboring Republican incumbents have lost since 2004, and Eastlund is vulnerable as the district shifts. Jim is running to restore representation for average working Minnesotans, focusing on improving our health care affordability, ensuring high quality public schools, and protecting our environment. If elected, Jim will bring common sense and a strong union background to St. Paul.

Click here to support and learn more about Jim.

Grace Baltich
Candidate for State Representative - District 32A (Challenger)
Dayton, Maple Grove and Rogers in Hennepin County

Grace Baltich is an accomplished social worker and AFSCME Council 65 member running for the state House in District 32A. Grace ran unsuccessfully in 2006. We have been working with Grace to help her create a campaign plan, a fundraising strategy and a message that will allow her to stress her strong progressive vision. Grace is committed to running a progressive campaign focused on building a strong, socially-just community for all children and families.

Click here to support and learn more about Grace.

Mike Obermueller
Candidate for State Representative - District 38B (Challenger)
Farmington and Hastings in Dakota County

Mike Obermueller is an attorney from Eagan, running for the Minnesota House of Representatives in District 38B. Although Mike ran in 2006 (and lost by just 163 votes), we actively recruited him to run again, this time emphasizing his core, progressive values. We have worked with him to develop a comprehensive campaign plan, a detailed financial strategy, and a progressive message. Eagan is the home of Republican Governor Tim Pawlenty, and has been trending Democratic over the past three election cycles. The Republican three-term incumbent is increasingly vulnerable as his voting record diverges from the needs of the District, especially on education and transportation. Mike is running to help rebuild the Minnesota miracle, to ensure the economic, educational, and civic success of our state.

Click here to support and learn more about Mike.

Jerry Pitzrick
Candidate for State Representative - District 42B (Challenger)
Eden Prairie in Hennepin County

Jerry Pitzrick is a civil engineer from Eden Prairie running for in District 42B. We recruited Jerry based on his active role (with his wife Deb) in the local DFL and his commitment to progressive values. With seven-term incumbent Erik Paulson running for U.S. House this year, the seat has recently become an open seat. There are two Republican challengers, neither of whom has held elective office. If elected, Jerry will be a leading voice for infrastructure investments and a progressive tax system. Fielding a candidate in this race continues our work in Eden Prairie - we successfully ran Kim Ross in 2007, who is now a leading member of the Eden Prairie School Board.

Click here to support and learn more about Jerry.

Ted Butler
Candidate for State Representative - District 49A (Open Seat)
Andover and Ham Lake in Anoka County

Ted Butler works at the University of Minnesota managing the finances of its self-insured employee health plan, and is running for the open seat in District 49A. During the buildup of his campaign, the Republican incumbent decided not to run for re-election, creating an open seat. The Republican candidate to succeed the incumbent is ultra-conservative Peggy Scott, who is running as a self-described tax watchdog. Ted has already been debating her for several years - they both serve on the Andover Parks Commission. Ted will be a champion for progressive values, working to ensure that all families are treated fairly and that the time tax caused by failing roads and bridges is properly mitigated.

Click here to support and learn more about Ted.

Danna Elling-Schultz
Candidate for Hastings City Council - Ward 4 (Incumbent)

Danna Elling-Schultz is a DFL researcher in the Minnesota Senate and a candidate for re-election to the City Council of Hastings. Danna has been a long-standing champion for public education funding and smart investment in suburban communities. If re-elected, she will continue to work against unfettered development and ensure fair and equal treatment of families in Hastings.

And here is another site that discusses candidates in Minnesota (I do not necessarily endorse all their candidates, but urge you to take a look).


The Minnesota Project is a nonprofit organization that connects people with policy to nurture collaborations that build strong local economies, vibrant communities and a healthy environment.

Our programs are focused on clean renewable energy and efficient use of energy; farm practice and policy that promote profitable farms that protect the environment; and the production and consumption of local and sustainably-produced foods.

The Minnesota Project works in ways that emphasize collaboration, community building, and capacity building. For over twenty-five years we have fostered local empowerment, bridged diverse interests, encouraged shared values, and initiated working dialogues that create positive action and policy.

Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agricultre Newsletter: A Partnership between the University of Minnesota and the Sustainer's Coalition.

Alternative Energy Resources in Minnesota: a short summary of alternative energy resources for Minnesota. For more information on each technology, visit the State Energy Alternatives Technology Options page.


And for those who like mixing fun and politics, here are a couple of Drinking Liberally groups in Minnesota:

Minneapolis
Every Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm
331 Club, 331 13th Ave NE (13th and University in Northeast Minneapolis)
Hosted by Robin Marty

Morris
First and Third Thursday of each month, 8:00 pm
Old #1, 412 Atlantic Avenue
Hosted by Jeff Lamberty

FLORIDA FOCUS: Blogs, Obama, Christine Jennings, Joe Garcia, Voter Registration, Groups and Events

BLOGGING FLORIDA: FLA Politics covers the Florida Netroots and Florida politics.

The Florida Progressive Coalition coverse progressive politics in Florida.

Here are some stories of interest:

Nearly 300 poor North Florida children denied health coverage. Which of course reminds me of how our so-called "business model" for healthcare is among the worst in he developed world.

A run down of amendments on the ballot for November. Read this to be informed about how to vote on November's amendments. Summary: 2, 5, 7, and 9 are the measures to vote "no" on.

Fake Green Party Candidates filing for Florida ballot.


Alternative Energy in Florida:

Alternative Energy Resources in Florida: a short summary of alternative energy resources for Florida. For more information on each technology, visit the State Energy Alternatives Technology Options page.

Alternative Fuels & Vehicles Conference + Expo
Apr 19, 2009 - Apr 22, 2009

Orlando, Florida - The Alternative Fuel Vehicle Institute (AFVi) presents the 15th annual AF&V Conference + Expo April 19-22, 2009 in Orlando, Florida. Alternative fuels, vehicles and advanced technologies for public and private fleet applications are the focal points of this fuel and technology neutral conference. As the largest conference and tradeshow of its kind, AF&V 2009 is the place to educate, demonstrate and sell. More info here.


Here's an Obama event in Florida:

Register (Voter Registration Drive)

South St. Petersburg Florida needs to get people registered and excited about the process. Florida will be a crucial state in the general.

Time: Friday, August 15 at 6:00 PM
Location:
Coquina Key Shopping Plaza (Saint Petersburg, FL)
6th St South and 43rd Ave South
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705


Next I want to continue to present information on some good candidates in Florida.

I heard Christine Jennings speak in 2006 and was very impressed. She may well have one in 2006 but thousands of votes from Democratic districts went missing. That election remains in dispute, but she is also running again this year. The latest endorsements she has picked up are Clean Water Action and the Sierra Club. She has already been endorsed by the AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers, Democracy for America, the International Union of Police Associations AFL-CIO, National Education Association, Planned Parenthood Action Fund, United Auto Workers and many others.

Volunteer for Christine Jennings here.


And from Joe Garcia's campaign for Congress (25th District) comes a video of Joe at the July 4th parade:



y un video en espanol:



Here is another video of Joe Garcia discussing our Troops:



If you can help out, please visit Joe Garcia's website.


Here are some Florida groups, events and chances to help out some good candidates:

Miami-Dade Democratic Black Caucus Regularly Scheduled Meeting
Second Saturday of every month at 10 AM
Event Location: El-Portal City Hall 500 NE 87 Street, The Village of El-Portal.

We welcome new membership, please join us, free continental breakfast served! Honorable Joyce A. Davis, President 305-754-0934

Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Miami-Dade
Fourth Wednesday of every month, 7:00PM
Hoja Nueva Restaurant at the Westin Colonade
Please attend the monthly meeting for the Miami Dade Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Florida. For more info: 305 632-0036

Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club
Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club Breakfast Meeting
Event Location: “Versailles” restaurant located at 3555 SW 8 ST Miami, FL 33135 Fourth Saturday of each month, 9:00 a.m. (If this is the same Versailles Cuban restaurant that I know in California, the food is fantastic! Particularly the roast chicken and rost pork).

The Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club invites you to its next breakfast meeting at “Versailles” restaurant located at 3555 SW 8 St
Cost: $15 per person.

For more info contact: Hector Caraballo (President, Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club) at hector_at_miamicubandems.org

MIAMI-DADE YOUNG DEMS MONTHLY MEETING
Fourth Tuesday of every month, 7pm
Location:
Gordon Biersch
1201 Biscayne Ave. Miami, FL 33131
For info: 786-425-1130

Peace Vigil West New Haven 5:00PM - 6:30PM
First Wednesday of the month at the "Peace Corner" 1700 West New Haven (just west of the Melbourne Square Mall). Signs provided or bring your own. Please bring nonperishable food items for "Food Not Bombs". Food is distributed to local families in need.

More info 321-720-3520 or vimpoco@cfl.rr.com
Organization: Patriots For Peace

Weekly Peace Vigil in Homosassa
Every Tuesday, 4:00 PM
Meet at Hardee's at Route 19 & Hall's River Road - Homosassa

Call Ed Murphy 382-0876 for more info

Weekly Peace Vigil in Inverness
Every Thursday, 5:00 PM
Old Citrus Courthouse

Call Beverly at 400-4174 for more info

Planned Parenthood Mixer
Join us at On Tapp Lounge for our monthly mixer with Planned Parenthood. On Tapp is located on New Haven Haven just before you go over the Melbourne Causeway on the left side.

We meet at 5:30 pm the 4th Tuesday of every month. Brevard NOW and Planned Parenthood will celebrate the 35th anniversary of Roe v Wade and discuss the 2008 plans for both our organization. For more info, please call Michele Paccione/President at 480-9295 or e-mail at shellymk1@aol.com
Organization: Brevard NOW
Event link: www.myspace.com/brevardnow

Sumter County Democratic Club
P.O. Box 1066 Wildwood, FL 34785
General Meeting at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of every month Sumterville Community Center

Tri-County Women's Democratic Club
General Meeting at 9:30 a.m. on the 1st Monday of every month at the Sumter County Sheriff's Annex on Highway 466 @ Morse Boulevard.

Charlotte County Democrats meeting
The Charlotte County Democratic Club meets on the second Saturday of every month. Please join us at 9:30 AM for coffee and snacks. The meeting starts at 10 AM. Location is the upstairs meeting room at the Public Library on Aaron Street in Port Charlotte. Call 743-5560 for directions or more info.


And for those interested in a more fun way to be liberal, here are Florida's Drinking Liberal groups:

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Island Jack's Patio Bar and Grille, 5425 W Atlantic Blvd, Margate (just East of 441)
* Hosted by Jacqueline Hope Derby and Dave Pfeffer, ftlauderdale (at) drinkingliberally.org

Orlando, Florida
* Every Wednesday, 6:00 pm onward
* Johnny's Fillin' Station, 2706 S Ferncreek Ave (NE corner of Michigan and Fern Creek)
* Hosted by Dan Hill, orlando (at) drinkingliberally.or

Pensacola, Florida
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Intermission, 214 S Palafox St
* Hosted by Terry Welch, pensacola (at) drinkingliberally.org

Tallahassee, Florida
* Third Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm onward
* Gill's Tavern, 2545 North Monroe Street
* Hosted by Sharon Collins, tallahassee (at) drinkingliberally.org

South Tampa
* First Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* MacDintons Irish Pub, 405 S Howard Ave, Tampa (map)
* Hosted by Shadia Alame and Kirk Sander, southtampa (at) drinkingliberally.org

St. Petersburg
* Last Thursday of each month, 8:30 pm onward
* Limey's Pub, 1492 4th St N
* Hosted by Connor Davis and Dave Lee, stpetersburg (at) drinkingliberally.org

Brandon
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Old Chicago, 2042 Badlands Dr (Outside patio)
* Hosted by Joe Litton and Shirley Litton, brandon (at) drinkingliberally.org

Land O Lakes
* Second Tuesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm
* Rapscallions, 4422 Land O Lakes Blvd (US-41)
* Hosted by Brian Reach and Michael Greenman, landolakes (at) drinkingliberally.org

MICHIGAN FOCUS: Blogs, Obama, 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 (you can read more about these races below).

Here are some Obama events in Michigan:

Lawn Chair Film Festival (Voter Registration Drive)

Get out the vote and voter registration on Sunday August 3rd just prior to the showing of the movie "Once" at the lawn chair film festival. Meeting place to be determined. I maybe able to do other sunday nights before the film, just contact me.

Time: Sunday, August 3 at 8:00 PM
Location:
Old town saginaw (Saginaw, MI)
300 N. Hamilton Street
Saginaw, MI 48602

Bridgman Library Voter Registration (Voter Registration Drive)
Looking for volunteers to help man a table at the Bridgman MI Library.

We will have a voter registration table set up from 11 am - 3 PM. Please indicate what time you are available when you RSVP!
Time: Saturday, August 16 at 11:00 AM
Location:
Bridgman Public Library (Bridgman, MI)
4460 Lake St
Bridgman, MI 49106

City Wide Meet and Greet Obama 2008 (Phone Bank)

The Community Residents of Detroit will have an opportunity to gather in unity and support the new President Barack Obama before he takes office. Also, this early on collaboration effort will empower us to connect with each other and to assist with getting voters to the poll on time. Program motivational materials, voter registration. The works! This networking phase is indeed critical to reach new voters and to engage others as well.

Time: Friday, September 12 at 10:00 AM
Contact Phone: 313 974-0049
Location:
Carstens Elementary (Detroit, MI)
2592 Coplin
Detroit, MI 48215


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.


Here are Some Stories of Interest:

The cheapest and best way to cut carbon emissions...and save money.

Michigan Legislature's Scorecard

Michigan's social safety net still full of holes.


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.

Peters is running against Joe Knollenberg, who has run into a bit of a problem with underreporting the value of his Washington, DC townhouse by hundreds of thousands of dollars in his personal financial disclosure forms, a probable violation of House rules. Knollenberg's excuse is, apparently, that he is incompetent. He claims it was a "clerical error," year after year. Look, if you or I make such mistakes we get penalized. Knollenberg is either a crook or incompetent. Which is it, Joe?

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


ALTERNATIVE ENERGY EVENT IN MICHIGAN:

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
* Dominick's, 812 Monroe St. (Behind and across the street from the Law Quad)
* 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: Blogs, Obama, Energy and Agriculture, Groups and Events

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

Here's an important event I want to highlight:

Veterans & Military Families for Obama Potluck BBQ!

Announcing the Veterans & Military Families for Obama Potluck BBQ on Sunday, August 3, at 3:00 pm at Mt Trashmore park in Virginia Beach. Kids are welcome!

Please bring a side dish or dessert!

Glenn Nye & Delegate Joe Bouchard will be attending as will Veterans from throughout Hampton Roads!

Please pass along the event information to any Veterans, Military Service Members, and Military Families that may be interested in attending!

To Mapquest this event, the address is 300 Edwin Drive. We will be in picnic shelter 2 (on the lake side. The picnic area and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.

Please RSVP by using this link

You can also join our group on barackobama.com to get news, events, and local campaign updates for Veterans & Military Families for Obama!


BLOGGING VIRGINIA:

The Virginia Organizing Project is a statewide, multi-issue citizens' organization committed to challenging injustice by empowering people in local communities to address issues that affect the quality of their lives.

Virginia Poverty Law Center (VPLC) is a not-for-profit organization concentrating in the areas of law that affect low-income families. Established in 1978 to advocate on behalf of low-income Virginians on poverty issues of statewide importance, VPLC is the only state-wide organization providing training to local legal aid program staff, private bar attorneys, and low-income clients, relating exclusively to the legal rights of Virginia's poor. VPLC also assists low-income Virginians and Legal Aid Programs with legislative and administrative proposals affecting the poor in Virginia as well as providing technical assistance, training and publications to Virginia's Legal Aid Programs in the following substantive areas: Consumer, Elder Rights, Family, Health Care, Housing & Public Benefits.

The Virginia Young Democrats blog has links to local Young Democrat groups and college clubs, and has information of interest to young voters in Virginia. This is Virginia's political future!

Raising Kaine: a community forum to discuss political issues of interest to Virginians.


Some stories of interest:

Seems Republicans are so scared of losing Virginia, they are using scare tactics to try and limit voter registration efforts. Really pitiful! Let me be clear. Voter registration and identity theft are NOT related issues and the REpublican attempt to link them is even less credible than their trying to link Iraq and al Qaeda. You don't have to give anything to someone registering voters. You can either fill out the form and submit it yourself, OR you can leave it with the canvasser and get a receipt.

Navy Opposes VA Offshore Drilling. Period. End of Debate.

Tom Perriello, the Democratic nominee for Virginia's Fifth Congressional District, launches his seven-point Economic REVIVAL Plan

Voter Mobilization Training in Virginia!-Center for Progressive Leadership: This will be absolutely key to winning in November. Please join in if you can.

Healthcare for America NOW Kicks Off. Which reminds me of something I wrote before about how our current so-called "business model" for healthcare really, really doesn't work.


Here are some Obama groups in Virginia:

Virginia for Obama: Richmond

Arlingtonians for Obama: Arlington

Alexandria 4 Obama: Alexandria

Northern Virginia for Obama!: Fairfax

Greater Richmond for Obama: Richmond

Hampton Roads for Obama: Hampton Roads

Loudoun County for Obama: Loudoun

Tidewater Virginia for Obama: peninsula area

Roanokers for Obama: Roanoke

Charlottesville For Obama: Charlottesville


Here are some Obama events in Virginia:

Combo-Vote for Change Voter Registration/Tabling
Please join us as we register new voters and spread Sen. Obama's message of hope.

Time: Saturday, August 16 at 9:00 AM
Location:
Giant Shopping Center (Stafford, VA)
Hopefully under two shady trees
Stafford, VA 22554

Combo-Vote for Change Voter Registration/Tabling (Voter Registration Drive)
Please join us after church as we register new voters and spread Sen. Obama's message of hope.
Time: Sunday, August 17 at 11:00 AM
Location:
Giant Parking Lot (Stafford, VA)
Associated Groups: Stafford County for Obama
Directions: Rt. 610 across from IHOP

Barack The Vote (Voter Registration Drive)

I want to set up a voter registration drive on the campus of St. Paul's Coolege in Lawrenceville, Virginia. It is a small private HBCU that is affiliated with the Episcopal Church. I want to get students registered to vote in teh upcoming fall election as well as to inform the citizens of Brunswick County about the benefits of an Obama presidency.

Time: Monday, August 25 at 12:00 PM
Location:
John E. Thommason student Center (Lawrenceville, VA)
1 Athletic Field Drive
Lawrenceville, VA 23868


Alternative Energy and Sustainable Agriculture in Virginia:

Alternative Energy Resources in Virginia: a short summary of alternative energy resources for Virginia. For more information on each technology, visit the State Energy Alternatives Technology Options page.

Virginia Sustainable Agriculture Organizations and Publications: Whether you're a beginning farmer, or an experienced agricultural producer interested in transitioning to more sustainable practices, you may want to start by learning more about the principles of sustainable agriculture and some of the "systems" approaches associated with it.


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

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS: Blogs, Kay Hagan, Larry Kissell, Veterans for Peace, Peace Vigils, Groups and Events

NORTH CAROLINA BLOGGING: BlueNC is a community-driven website that promotes progressive values and policies in North Carolina.

Some Stories of Interest:

Presidential Race Close in North Carolina: Yet another polls shows it.

Elizabeth Dole's Residency Problem: Just what connection does Liz Dole have with North Carolina?



North Carolina is a Senate battleground this year. We have a pretty good shot at winning. Dole has shown a pretty dismal record if you look carefully, as this person does. Here is Kay Hagan, the Democratic candidate for Senate in North Carolina, discussing energy policy and jobs:



I notice Hagan's campaign seems extremely well organized, which will really increase her chances of winning. You can help in many ways by signing up here. Even if you aren't in North Carolina you can help by phone banking from home (a strategy that worked extremely well in a NY State Congressional race in 2006!)

Next let me highlight Larry Kissell, running for Congress. Larry almost certainly won in 2006, but voter fraud that lost thousands of votes, probably stealing the election. Kissell is runnig again and is very likely to win. He was a Textile Worker for 27 years and is now a teacher at East Montgomery High School. Sounds like an ideal Democrat! And Larry Kissell seems to be doing excellently in fundraising.

You can find out more about Larry Kissell and help out here.


Here are Obama Groups in North Carolina:

NC for Obama: Statewide efforts for Obama and Hagan

North Carolina Students for Barack Obama: Statewide

Triangle for Obama: Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill

Charlotte for Barack: Charlotte

Western NC For Obama: Asheville and Western North Carolina

Tarheels for Obama: UNC and Chapel Hill

Triad For Obama: Piedmont Triad

Winston-Salem area is voting for Obama!: Winston-Salem

Here's a big Obama event in North Carolina:

Barack The Vote Celebration

Come one, come all and help us celebrate Barack's democratic nomination victory! There will be food, live music including The Watercolors and The Future Kings of Nowhere, storytellers, games, face painting...you name it! It will be great for all the volunteers and their families to come together and show that we're "fired up" for the last critical weeks of the campaign that will lead to the White House! We hope that you will join us in this celebration to show your love and support for Barack Obama. Please RSVP so we know how many are coming for food, etc. Questions? Contact: Kate (fellto_at_hotmail.com) or Tammy (tbhayes95_at_yahoo.com)

Time: Sunday, September 14 at 4:00 PM
Location:
Durham Central Park (Durham, NC)
534 Foster Street
Durham, NC 27701


Alternative Energy and Sustainable Agriculture in North Carolina:

Here is a mini-documentary on Wind Power in Appalachia:



Governors Debate Biofuels (and a reminder of my own view on biofuels). Seems to me oil and coal producing states are pushing to stop biofuels, corn and soy producing states want biofuels based on corn and soy, and wood producing states want biofuels based on wood. No surprise there. But we really do need a smart policy here.

Alternative Energy Resources in North Carolina: a short summary of alternative energy resources for North Carolina. For more information on each technology, visit the State Energy Alternatives Technology Options page.

North Carolina Sustainable Agriculture Organizations and Publications: Whether you're a beginning farmer, or an experienced agricultural producer interested in transitioning to more sustainable practices, you may want to start by learning more about the principles of sustainable agriculture and some of the "systems" approaches associated with it.


Here are events and groups in North Carolina:

Weekly Veterans for Peace Vigil in Asheville
Every Tuesday 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
At the Vance Memorial
Pack Square
Asheville, NC 28801

Weekly Women in Black Anti-War Vigil in Asheville
Every Friday 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Vance Monument - Pack Square
Asheville, NC

The Women In Black stand in silence against war, each Friday from 5 to 6 PM. All others are welcome to stand with them.

Democratic Women of Union County hold their monthly meeting the second Monday of every month at the Hilltop Restaurant Hwy 74 and 601 South. Seating for "Dutch Dinner" at 5:30PM, Program & Business at 6:00PM

Cabarrus County Senior Democrats have their monthly meeting the second Tuesday of every month at Troutman's BBQ restaurant, 1388 US-601-BYP S, Concord, NC. They start at 6.30 pm and for $7 you can enjoy a delicious BBQ buffet.

Mecklenburg County Democratic Women meet on the second Wednesday of each month, usually at a local library. Meet and greet from 6:30 p.m. to 7:00. Meeting begins at 7:00 p.m.
Contact: Joan Belk, 704-578-4227

Mecklenburg County Senior Democrats
meet on the second Friday of each month at Walls AME Zion Church, 2722 Bancroft St. Bring a bag lunch if desired. Meeting time is Noon.
Contact Sam Brown, 704-553-9061 or sambev_at_bellsouth.net

The Young Democrats of Mecklenburg County meet on the second Sunday of each month at 7:00 pm. Locations will vary and will be announced in advance of each meeting. Contact Becky Gomer, 704-200-8801 or president_at_meckyoungdems.org

"Third Thursday Group", a North Carolina Democratic "think tank", meets every third Thursday at Restaurant Costello's from 6.30 to 8.30 pm. 970 Branchview Dr NE, Concord, NC. Join us again to express your views and help to shape the party's agenda as we move into the future!

African-American Caucus of Mecklenburg County
Takes place the third Thursday of each Month, at 7:00 pm, at the Texas Land & Cattle Co., 517 University Center Blvd. Contact Michael Lawson 704-458-8150 or mamlawson_at_carolina.rr.com

Cabarrus County Democratic Women will have their monthly meeting the fourth Thursday of every month at the Stowe A-Way fish restaurant, starting at 6.30 pm. 455 Corban Ave Se, Concord, NC. All Democrats are encouraged to attend.


And for those who want to combine social events with politics, here are the Drinking Liberally Groups in North Carolina:

Asheville, North Carolina
* Every Thursday, 7:00-10:00 pm
* Asheville Brewing Company, 77 Coxe Ave (Downtown, 1/2 block north of Hilliard Ave.)
* Hosted by Aric Vance and Susan Lee, asheville (at) drinkingliberally.org

Charlotte, North Carolina
* First Monday and Third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* First Monday of the month Location: Brixx Uptown, 225 E 6th St (we usually gather at the bar, on the LEFT side)
* Be sure to bring in your parking pass for validation, and to tell the parking attendant you are going to Brixx so they don't charge you $5!
* Third Wednesday of the month Location: Dolce Vita, 3205 N Davidson St 1/2 priced wines by the glass on Wednesday
* Hosted by Marcus Williams, Andy Graves and Mark Campbell, charlotte (at) drinkingliberally.org

Charlotte Eating Liberally
* Second Saturday of each month, 10:00 am
* Matthews Community Farmers' Market, 105 N Trade St, Matthews (We meet at the tables just outside of the Community House Coffee Shop)
* Come by after collecting your week's bounty & join us for a cup of coffee from the community house and a freshly baked pastery from one of the vendors!
* Bring your favorite organic/local/sustainable related books or recipes.
* Hosted by Laura Paynter and Heather Taylor, charlotte (at) eatingliberally.org

Concord, North Carolina
* Second Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Sweet Pea Cafe, 16 Union St S (1/2 block south of Cabarrus & Union)
* Hosted by Mark Ortiz, concordnc (at) drinkingliberally.org

Greensboro, North Carolina
* Every Thursday, 7:00-9:00 pm
* The Green Bean, 341 S Elm St
* Hosted by Richard Rozzelle, greensboro (at) drinkingliberally.org

Raleigh, North Carolina
* Every Tuesday, 6:00-9:00 pm
* Players Retreat, 105 Oberlin Rd (right near Hillsborough Street)
* Look for us in the room across from the bar, thru the doorway.
* Hosted by Wallace Pankow and Dave Carden, raleigh (at) drinkingliberally.org

Wilmington, North Carolina
* First and third Tuesday of each month, 7:30 pm onward
* Orton's, 131 N Front St
* Hosted by Tom Schutte and Jimmy Cartrette, wilmingtonnc (at) drinkingliberally.org

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

With Bob Barr in the race for President as a Libertarian, Georgia is actually in play for Obama. Obama and McCain are currently neck and neck in the polls with Bob Barr getting 6%. 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.

Here's a great picture from Georgia Women Vote:




BLOGGING GEORGIA:

For Local Georgia News and Events, go to Lefty Blogs Georgia for the latest.

GEORGIA WOMEN VOTE: Georgia politics from a woman's perspective

Tondee's Tavern: "A Practical and Useful Blog for the benefit of PROGRESSIVES in GEORGIA."


Here are some stories of interest:

Republican Senator Chambliss Votes Against Jobs, Energy, Families, and Disaster Relief Act. And this comes soon after Saxby Chambliss voted against Child Predator Legislation

Hall County GOP corruption

Obama Has 20 Paid Georgia Staffers; McCain, None


Here are some Obama groups in Georgia:

Georgia Students for Barack Obama: Statewide, click on link to find the contact at your university

Georgians for Obama: Atlanta

GeorgiansforObama.com: Lithonia

Professional Black Women for Change: Atlanta

ATL BLACK PROFESSIONALS FOR OBAMA!: Atlanta

Emory for Obama: Emory University

University of Georgia for Obama: Athens

Women for Obama-Atlanta: Atlanta

Decatur Georgia for Obama: Dacatur

East Cobb/N.Fulton/N. Georgia Obama '08: Marietta

Southeast Georgia for Obama: Southeastern Georgia/Kings Bay

Brunswick, GA Citizens for Obama: Brunswick

To find Obama events in Georgia, click here.


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:

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.

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 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.


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.


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

OHIO FOCUS: Blogs, Progressive Candidates, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

ACTION ALERTS:

Don't forget to do your part to revive the economy: Buy your Made in USA "McCain=Bush" T-shirt.

Speak out with Progress Ohio: Through Progress Ohio you can write your local papers on various issues. Make your voice heard.

BLOGGING OHIO:

Ohio Daily Blog: a community forum for news and commentary about Ohio politics and public affairs.

Progress Ohio is an excellent source of Ohio news and politics

Buckeye State Blog is another source of Ohio news and politics

Stubborn Liberal: These are the rants and raves of a stubborn-headed midwestern liberal. My goals are to speak my mind and educate others about some of the events in our world.

Ohio Clean Energy News: recent stories on alternative energy in Ohio


Some Stories of Interest:

Secretary Of State Brunner Issues Statewide Ohio Voting Security Directives

Franklin County BOE to Hold Public Hearing On Preliminary 2008 General Election Voting Machine Allocation Report

AFL-CIO Ohio Mailing Debuncts Obama Smears

Republican Feud in Ohio: Jeez...these fools are just SO mature. My three year old behaves better than these Ohio Republicans.

State's Largest group of solar-powered homes takes shape in Fayette County

Developer Looking to Harness Lake's Wind, Bring Jobs to Lorain


Here are some Obama Groups in Ohio:

Ohioans For Obama: Wooster

Columbus for Obama: Columbus

Northeast Ohio for Obama: Euclid

Grandview for Obama: Columbus

Mansfield Ohio Area for Obama: Mansfield

Cincinnati Obama 2008: Cincinnati

Southwest Ohio for Obama: Cincinnati, Dayton, Middletown and Hamilton

Central Ohioans for Obama: Columbus and surrounding area

Buckeyes for Obama (SFBO): OSU

Northeast Ohio for Obama: Lake County and surrounding areas


Progressive Majority Endorsed Candidates in Ohio:

Jennifer Brady
Candidate for State Representative - District 16 (Incumbent)
Bay Village, Rocky River, North Olmstead, Fairview Park



Jennifer Brady is the Representative from the 16th Ohio House District. Progressive Majority endorsed Jennifer in 2006 because of her commitment to progressive values, activism in the community, strategic mindset and strong work ethic. In 2006, Progressive Majority was one of very few organizations to support Jennifer after the House Democratic Caucus wrote off her race. Since then, we have been working closely with her on strategy, field organization and fundraising. According to the Ohio Republican Party Chairman Bob Bennett, ''The 16th District is the number-one Republican target for 2008.'' It is a must-keep if democrats are to take over the House. Traditionally, the 16th has been known as the most Republican district in Cuyahoga County, which made Jennifer's 2006 victory the pleasant surprise of the cycle for Progressives. The Republicans have recruited Nan Baker, a conservative member of the Westlake city council colloquially known as the ''Republican Jennifer Brady.'' Jennifer has been a progressive champion in the Assembly who refuses to vote against her values, thus displaying the courage and conviction that helped her win in 2006.

Click here to support and learn more about Jennifer.

Matt Patten
Candidate for State Representative - District 18 (Open Seat)
Olmsted Falls, Olmsted Township, Berea, Strongsville, and North Royalton



Matt Patten is the Democratic candidate for the 18th Ohio State House District. Matt has a long history of activism and labor organizing and is currently a Regional Labor-Management Field Coordinator. The performance of the district is expected to improve even further as the popular Republican incumbent is jumping to the state Senate and his successor, Robert Spada, is considered far too conservative for this democratic-trending district. As a professional community organizer, Matt is a fearless champion for improving economic opportunity, education, and universal access to healthcare. He has the endorsements of local and statewide labor. This seat is a top-tier pickup in the quest for the four seats we need for a democratic majority in the Ohio House of Representatives.


Here are some Drinking Liberally Groups in Ohio:

Cincinnati
* Every Tuesday, 7:30 pm onward
* Odd Tuesdays: Fries Cafe, 3247 Jefferson Ave
* Even Tuesdays: The Pub at Rookwood Mews, 2692 Madison Rd
* Hosted by Adam Bartel and Cheryl Crowe, cincinnati (at) drinkingliberally.org

Cleveland
* Every Sunday, 6:00 pm
* Sullivans Irish Pub, 13368 Madison Ave, Lakewood (Great food and lots of irish brews on tap)
* Visit www.sullivansirishpub.net for more info on the venue
* Hosted by Judy Novak, cleveland (at) drinkingliberally.org

Columbus
* First Thursday of each month, 6:30 pm
* Byrnes Pub, 1248 W 3rd Ave
* Hosted by Jocelyn Krosky and Roger Denick, columbus (at) drinkingliberally.org

Dayton
* Second Wednesday of each month, 7:30 pm
* The Oregon Express, 336 E 5th St
* Hosted by Cari Kimmel, dayton (at) drinkingliberally.org

Toledo
* Every Wednesday, 7:30 pm
* Manhattan's, 1516 Adams St (Downtown Toledo; on Adams across the street from Adams Laundry)
* Come and drink like a libreral at Manhattan's. We'll be talking politics, drowning our sorrows,
* and making alchohol-fueled plans for America's future.
* Hosted by Rebecca Golden, toledo (at) drinkingliberally.org

Maumee
* Every other Wednesday, 8:00 pm
* The Village Idiot, 309 Conant St
* Hosted by Lori Wampler, Ken Stout and Leanne Kulzac, maumee (at) drinkingliberally.org

PENNSYLVANIA FOCUS: Blogs, Progressive Candidates, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

Here are some Obama groups in Pennsylvania:

Pennsylvania Women For Obama: Statewide

Pennsylvanians for Obama: Statewide

Pittsburgh for Obama: Pittsburgh

Philadelphia for Obama: Philly

Bucks County for Obama: Bucks County area

Lehigh Valley For Barack Obama: Lehigh Valley area

Penn Staters for Obama: Penn State students and alumni

Western Pennsylvania for Obama: Western Pennsylvania

Harrisburg PA for Obama: Harrisburg

To find Obama events in Pennsylvania, click here.


BLOGGING PENNSYLVANIA:

The Pennsylvania Progressive, brining you Pennsylvania News and Politics from a...well, PROGRESSIVE view.

Progress Pittsburgh is building a broad coalition of progressives to transform the governance of our city. Decades of mismanagement by directionless leadership and regressive machine politics have put our city at the brink of collapse. We need a transformation: new vision, new blood, and a new democratic process. We are working to make this transformation happen.

Young Philly Politics: Progressive, Young, Philadelphia Politics, from Small to Big.

Keystone Politics: Politics around Pennsylvania


Some Stories of Interest:

Renewable Energy is the Only Way Out of this Mess

Pennsylvania Legislature Sucks: Apparently the PA legislature has a reputation as being dysfunctional...well, I sympathize becuase the NY State legislature is considered the MOST dysfunctional in the nation. This is why you and I need to be active!

State Contract Database is Online

A new blockwatch network called Pittsburgh Safe Neighborhoods Network has kicked off and started a blog where materials are available and they’re encouraging block watch folks to share information.

Casey & Altmire Meeting KBR About Troop Electrocutions: The Democrats continue to try to get to the bottom of the killing of our troops by the incompetence of Republican-linked, Halliburton affiliate KBR.


Alternative Energy and Sustainable Agriculture in Pennsylvania:

Alternative Energy Resources in Pennsylvania: a short summary of alternative energy resources for Pennsylvania. For more information on each technology, visit the State Energy Alternatives Technology Options page.

Pennsylvania Association for Sustainable Agriculture (PASA) is a nonprofit organization working to improve the economic and social prosperity of Pennsylvania food and agriculture. We work with the farmers that grow our food, the consumers that eat the food, and those concerned with the ecological well-being of our environment and natural resources.

Here is an alternative energy event coming up:

Pennsylvania Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living Festival
Fri., Sat. & Sun. - Sept. 19, 20, & 21, 2008
at the Kempton Community Center, Kempton, PA

A three-day festival about renewable energy, natural building construction, sustainable agriculture, land-use planning, forestry and healthy living practices in general. Featuring dynamic speakers, national exhibitors, workshops, hands-on demonstrations, vendors, live music and entertainment, children's activities, food and more.

For more info go here.
Vendors go here for more info about reserving a booth (pdf).


Here are some Progressive candidates running in Pennsylvania who deserve your support (all are endorsed by Progressive Majority):

Barbara McIlvaine Smith
Candidate for State Representative - District 156 (Incumbent)
West Chester, East and West Goshen and two southern precincts in East Bradford



Barbara McIlvaine Smith is seeking re-election to the 156th Legislative District, Chester County. Barbara is a lifelong resident of Chester County whose family roots date back to 1683. Barbara is an enrolled member of the federally recognized Sac and Fox Nation of Oklahoma. In 2001, she was elected to the West Chester Borough Council and served as the vice president from 2004-2006. Barbara is a member of American Association of University Women; Sierra Club; League of Women Voters; National Association for the Advancement of Colored People; National Organization for Women; and The National Women's Political Caucus. Barbara is the first Democrat in 30 years to hold the 156th legislative seat, and we know she can build on her historic 2006 win.

Click here to support and learn more about Barbara.

Tom Quinn
Candidate for State Representative - District 165 (Challenger)
The Borough of Morton, almost all of Springfield and 14 of 21 precincts in Marple, 7 of 15 precincts in Radnor



Tom Quinn is running for the 165th Legislative District, Delaware County. The 165th Legislative District in Delaware County includes the municipalities of Springfield, Morton, and parts of Maple and Radnor. Tom was the Pennsylvania State Education Association Representative for Central Bucks East High School from 1998-2002 and currently teaches at Philadelphia University. Tom currently holds a Democratic Committee seat to which he was elected in 2005, and has been extremely active in the party. A playwright, Tom was commissioned by the Walnut Street Theater to research and write three civil rights-themed plays. Tom is determined to beat a conservative incumbent and help change the General Assembly to a more progressive body.

Click here to support and learn more about Tom.

Tony Payton, Jr.
Candidate for State Representative - District 179 (Incumbent)
Philadelphia neighborhoods of Frankford, Hunting Park; Parts of Olney, Feltonville and Oxford Circle



Tony Payton Jr. is running for reelection in the 179th Legislative District, representing Philadelphia County. The 179th District is one of the poorest in the state, and African Americans and Latinos make up a majority population. Since his election to the General Assembly in 2006, Tony has been at the forefront of education reform in Pennsylvania. He introduced legislation to create the Pennsylvania Youth Commission and authored the REACH scholarship initiative. The REACH Scholarship would provide free tuition and fees to students in the State University System who maintain a 3.0 grade point average and a 90 percent attendance record. In 2007, Tony received the Philadelphia Tribune Leadership Award as one of the city's most influential African-Americans. Tony will once again face opposition from the powerful City Democratic Committee, which has been determined to put a party machine-picked person in the seat since the retirement of a long-time incumbent.

Click here to support and learn more about Tony.

Babette Josephs
Candidate for State Representative - District 182 (Incumbent)
Philadelphia neighborhoods of Center City, Logan Square; Parts of Bellavista and Grays Ferry



Babette Josephs is seeking re-election to the 182nd Legislative District, Philadelphia County. She is a senior Democratic legislator and serves as the Chair of the House State Government Committee, which will oversee re-districting in 2010. Babette is dedicated to civil liberties and is responsible for a number of laws and pieces of legislation, including hate crimes protection for against crimes based on sexual orientation. Babette authored the law that guarantees confidentiality of HIV records. She also helped pass a law providing for automatic recounts in close state election races, and has been at the forefront fighting against those who seek to limit first amendment rights. Her current efforts are aimed at increasing state funding for public libraries and the arts. Babette is working to secure adequate and permanent funding for public transit, improved access to health care for low income working adults, increase the minimum wage and to end discrimination against gay, lesbian and transgendered individuals in health care, housing, and employment. Babette's primary opponent is a conservative former Republican who changed his party affiliation to run against one of the few progressive women in the Assembly. In 2006, Babette defeated him by 237 votes.

Kevin Lee
Candidate for State Representative - District 163 (Challenger)



Kevin Lee is running for the State House District 163 seat to represent Delaware County. Kevin has been a member of the Lansdowne Borough Council since 2004. In 2005, he authored and spearheaded passage of a resolution to include employees' domestic partners and domestic partners' children in the borough employee insurance plan (a first in Delaware County). Kevin has worked on environmental issues for the borough including leading a movement to reduce the borough's waste disposal amounts by revamping the town's recycling program (recycling has increased by 50% since introduction of single stream recycling). Kevin is a registered nurse and would bring a much needed healthcare perspective to the General Assembly. If elected, according to the Victory Fund, he will be the first openly-gay legislator to serve in the Pennsylvania State Assembly. Kevin is hard working, has an excellent campaign plan and is a formidable challenger.

Tom Houghton
Candidate for State Representative - District 13 (Open Seat)
Atglen, East and West Nottingham, Elk, Franklin



Tom Houghton is an attorney running for the 13th Legislative District, representing Chester County. Tom was elected to serve on the London Grove Board of Supervisors in 2001 and became chair in 2004. As chair, Tom has lowered property taxes by nearly 9%, preserved farmland, and passed an ordinance to obtain impact fees from developers to fund parkland. He also allowed for the expansion of Yeatman's Mother Earth Organic Mushrooms and Gourmet's Delight, a group that instituted industry best practices and eliminated harmful air byproducts. In 2006, Tom ran against the incumbent, now retiring, and received 47% of the vote. That year, Tom raised $200,000 for the race, which was more than any Democrat had ever raised in the district.

Click here to support and learn more about Tom.


Here are some important progressive events in Pennsylvania:

Critical Mass
Monthly at 5:30 PM on the fourth Friday
Where: Dinosaur, Carnegie Library, 4400 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Description: Critical Mass is a celebration of bicycling as a pollution-free mode of transportation. Critical Mass is not an organization nor it is affiliated with any organization, it's an unorganized coincidence. It's a movement ... of bicycles, in the streets.

Pittsburgh Green Drinks
3rd Friday of every month
Check the website for locations & guest speakers:
http://www.biothinking.com/greendrinks/index.php?country=USA&city=Pittsburgh

Steel-City Stonewall Democrats Happy Hour
Monthly at 17:15 on the fourth Tuesday
Where: Images 965 Liberty Avenue downtown

Peace Vigil Every Saturday, 10:30 AM
Intersection of Lincoln Hgwy & Oxford Valley Roads
Business Route 1 & Oxford Valley Road at the Closed Transmission Station
Langhorne, PA
Organized by Lower Bucks for Democracy


Here are a few Democracy for America groups in Pennsylvania:

Gettysburg Area DFA Meetup: will be held at the Lutheran Theological Seminary on Seminary Ridge in Gettysburg the first Wednesday of each month. We gather at 6:30 pm to chat and enjoy refreshments. Our meeting begins at 7:00 PM at the Seminary's Valentine Hall, Room 206 -- across from the Seminary Library. There is parking both in front of Valentine Hall (off Springs Ave) and in the Seminary lot next to the Library. Contact Elaine Jones for more information: elainelynchjones_at_gmail.com

Western PA DFA Monthly Meeting: second Thursday of each month, 6:00 PM, Rudy & Son Restaurant, 1641 Mercer - Grove City Rd

Philly for Change Meeting: first Wednesday of the month at 7pm. Find out more about the group at www.phillyforchange.com


Next, here are some Drinking Liberally chapters in Pennsylvania: second Thursday of each month,

Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
* Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* The Orchards Restaurant, 1580 Orchard Dr
* Ask for the Drinking Liberally group and you'll find us.
* Hosted by Alice Elia, chambersburg (at) drinkingliberally.org

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
* Second Thursday of each month (next meeting December 13), 6:00 pm onward
* O'Rorke's Eatery & Spirits, 44 Steinwehr Avenue (second floor)
* New Location
* additional parking in National Park Service Visitor Center lot behind restaurant
* Hosted by Eileen H. Potemra, gettysburg (at) drinkingliberally.org

Lancaster, Pennsylvania
* Every Tuesday, 7:30 pm onward
* Lancaster Brewing Company, 302 N Plum St (corner of Walnut and Plum)
* Hosted by Jeff Fulmer, Monz Wenner and Cher Rineer, lancaster (at) drinkingliberally.org

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Center City
* Every Tuesday, 6:00-9:00 pm
* Tangier, 1801 Lombard St (at 18th St)
* Hosted by Brendan Skwire, philadelphia (at) drinkingliberally.org

Mount Airy
* Every Thursday, 6:30-9:00 pm
* Mermaid Inn, 7673 Germantown Ave
* Hosted by Adam Zion, mtairy (at) drinkingliberally.org

Reading, Pennsylvania
* Second and fourth Thursday of each month, 6pm onward
* Canal Street Restaurant & Pub, 535 Canal St (a few blocks past RACC along the riverfront)
* NEW LOCATION!!! Great local beer from Legacy Brewing Co. & a large selection of wines by the glass.
* NO Thanksgiving meeting, obviously. Enjoy your holiday and all those awkward political conversations with ornery family members!
* Hosted by Kim Stahler and Dan Sauder, reading (at) drinkingliberally.org

State College, Pennsylvania
* First and third Tuesday of each month, 5:30 pm onward
* Hi-Way Pizza, 428 Westerly Pky
* Hosted by Nancy Crane, statecollege (at) drinkingliberally.org

West Chester, Pennsylvania
* First Thursday of each month, 8:00 pm onward
* Ryan's Pub, 124 W Gay St (On Gay St. between Church & Darlington)
* We are still on the once a month format and we have changed the venue to Ryan's. We'll be meeting up on the 2nd floor near the bar.
* Remember, no need to feed the meters in town after 5pm- save that cash for drinks!
* Hosted by Jonathan Long, Daniel Tyman and Jamie Manos, westchester (at) drinkingliberally.org

York, Pennsylvania
* Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* The First Capital Dispensing Company, 57 N Pershing Ave (We usually secure a large table or two in the back room.)
* Hosted by Phyllis Wise, Roland Rode and Craig Thomas, york (at) drinkingliberally.org