Progressive Democrat Issue 184

Coming down to the wire. Things are looking good now, but the Republicans are bound to pull out all stops from here on out. And there are already reports of election fraud and election problems all over the country. So we have to make sure we do everything we can to win this one.

This week has shown a massive surge for Obama in the polls

Electoral-Vote.com projects Obama winning with 286 electoral votes

The openly Republican biased election projection projects Obama winning with 273 electoral votes

Newsmax's Dick Morris is a real outlier projecting an Obama landslide with 355 electoral votes

TIME/CNN Battleground Polls:

FLORIDA: Obama 51, McCain 47
MINNESOTA: Obama 54, McCain 43
MISSOURI: Obama 49, McCain 48
NEVADA: Obama 51, McCain 47
VIRGINIA: Obama 53, McCain 44

Quinnipiac University Polls 9/27-29. Likely voters. MoE 3.4%:

FLORIDA
Obama (D) 51
McCain (R) 43

OHIO
Obama (D) 50
McCain (R) 42

PENNSYLVANIA
Obama (D) 54
McCain (R) 39

Finally, from Pollster.com:

Florida 9/28-30, 770 LV, 3.5%
Obama 51, McCain 47
Obama 51, McCain 43, Nader 3, Barr 1, McKinney 1

Minnesota 9/28-30, 849 LV, 3.5%
Obama 54, McCain 43
Obama 53, McCain 41, Nader 2, Barr 1, McKinney 0

Missouri 9/28-30, 744 LV, 3.5%
Obama 49, McCain 48
Obama 47, McCain 46, Nader 2, Barr 2

Nevada 9/28-30, 684 LV, 4%
Obama 51, McCain 47
Obama 49, McCain 44, Nader 4, Barr 1, McKinney 0

Virginia 9/28-30, 684 LV, 4%
Obama 53, McCain 44
Obama 52, McCain 42, Nader 2, Barr 2, McKinney 0

Looking good, though I predict it will tighten up by the end. But this is a great place to be just one month before the election.

Once again, I want to keep presenting things you can do to help win not just the presidency, but some House and Senate races as well. The Obama campaign has a Neighbor to Neighbor virtual phone banking effort, though this is intedned for you to reach out to voters in your local area. Call your neighbors and urge them to vote for Obama/Biden.

Once again I am going to continue to push a few ideas from recent weeks with some additions. First off, on Daily Kos there is an effort to do virtual phone banks to voters in North Carolina on behalf of the Obama campaign. Virtual phone banking can be done by anyone in any place from their own home and was an extremely successful strategy in winning Congressional races in 2006. This strategy basically brings Americans together one-on-one by phone. To join in, please email kim (dot) yaman (at) gmail (dot) com and ask how. You can also read about it here.

Next, I want to urge my readers to take some time and help our friends in North Carolina elect Kay Hagen to the US Senate right from your home. This is the kind of project that won big in 2006. Let's repeat the same success in 2008. Winning North Carolina is important in four ways. There is a close House race (Larry Kissell), a close and ever-tightening Senate race (Kay Hagen), a close governor's race (Bev Perdue), and there is a shot at Obama winning the state. Some effort now could have huge results in November. This race is now officially a toss up.

Another way you can help is virtual phone banking for Jill Derby for Congress in Nevada:

You call the voter and read the easy-to-follow phone script, record the responses of the voter and click ENTER. The information is automatically recorded in the
campaign’s database. If you reach an answering machine or voice mail, you can leave a short message for the voter. Make as many calls as you can and if you finish them all, you can sign up for more.

Questions? Want to organize your friends as a team to call for Jill? Call Derby for Congress Field Director Julie Wedge at 775-770-2008.

Finally, from Marjorie I get the following:

MORE OBAMA VOLUNTEERING

You'll need to apply for an Absentee Ballot if you want to work the battleground states.
http://www.elections.state.ny.us/NYSBOE/download/voting/absentee.pdf

PENNSYLVANIA: The campaign would like our part of the state to concentrate on Pennsylvania. The voter registration deadline is 10/6. Sign up using this link: http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/PAborder For other questions, contact Paige Gebhardt, Border States Director at pgebhardt@paforchange.com

OHIO: Contact Rosie Goldensohn, Out of State Director. Long-term volunteers should call her directly at 614-743-4365. rgoldensohn@ohioforchange.com or volunteerohio@ohioforchange.com

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Contact Mike Cassel, Out of State Coordinator in the Manchester office. Tel: 603-668-2008 or email: mcassel_at_nhforchange.com

If you are a Woman for Obama traveling to NH and need housing, please contact Ann Greer by email The_Greers_at_mns.com Her mobile number is 603 860-2092.

Pennsylvania, Ohio, New Hampshire, Nevada and North Carolina are critical swing states, so all of these efforts are important. Do whatever you can, even if it's just for a day or only a couple of hours of phone banking.

Get out there and win this thing.

This week I cover the view of Sarah Palin from the Iowa Independent. Small town Iowa found Palin's fake folksiness pretty much insulting. Meanwhile, Troopergate continues to haunt Palin and continues to raise the specter of Republican Corruption that so disgusted voters in 2006...and is likely to continue to hurt the Republican Party as long as they embrace the likes of Ted Stevens, Don Young and Sarah Palin, all from the corrupt Alaska Republican Party. Finally, Planned Parenthood sent out an email SLAMMING Palin for her many polices that hurt women and further victimized rape victims.

Finally I cover a right wing terrorist attack against a mosque in Ohio, and I ask my readers to help us in a local fight in Brooklyn...and honor my son's fourth birthday.


Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

IOWA INDEPENDENT: Sarah Palin "actually talked down to us"

Problem Palin Implicated in Troopergate

Planned Parenthood to Sarah Palin: You are NOT our Candidate

Right Wing Terrorist Attack in Ohio

Celebrating Jacob's Birthday and Preserving Brooklyn

NEVADA FOCUS (new)

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS

OREGON FOCUS

COLORADO FOCUS

MINNESOTA FOCUS

OHIO FOCUS

NEW JERSEY FOCUS

CALIFORNIA FOCUS

NEW YORK FOCUS

WASHINGTON FOCUS

PENNSYLVANIA FOCUS

FLORIDA FOCUS

WISCONSIN FOCUS

IOWA FOCUS

ARIZONA FOCUS

MICHIGAN FOCUS

VIRGINIA FOCUS

GEORGIA FOCUS

MISSISSIPPI FOCUS

ILLINOIS FOCUS

ALASKA FOCUS

TEXAS FOCUS

Iowa Independent: Sarah Palin "actually talked down to us"

The Iowa Independent hit the nail on the head when it comes to the Biden/Palin debate:

Palin’s forced folksiness falls flat in VP debate
By Douglas Burns 10/3/08 12:53 AM

For her part, GOP vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin – speaking with the programmed cadence of a GPS navigation system — used forced folksiness to deliver crammed material in the manner of a high schooler looking to score a good grade on a Spanish test. The kid may escape with a B-minus, but he wouldn’t be able to order a cup of coffee in Spain a week later...

With weird winks and homespunisms, Palin worked in several “you betchas” and “darn rights” and even a “shout out” to family in an effort to appeal to just folks.

As a small-town Iowan I didn’t find it genuine at all. She actually talked down to us, figuring that references to hockey moms and the hacknayed phrase “Joe Six Pack” and her self-application of the word “maverick” would hold more sway with than a discussion of the issues...

Remarkably, Biden, thought to be the coldblooded product of two many years in the U.S. Senate, had the most genuine moment of humanity in the debate when he briefly choked up about car accident three decades ago that claimed his first wife and a daughter and left his sons injured.

“The notion that somehow, because I’m a man, I don’t know what it’s like to raise two kids alone, I don’t know what it’s like to have a child you’re not sure is going to — is going to make it — I understand,” Biden said.

Forced, condescending "folksiness" vs. genuine, honest, caring intelligence. That was the core of the debate from the eyes of the Iowa Independent.

Problem Palin Implicated in Troopergate

The Alaska Republican Party is quite probably the most corrupt state party around today, though I will say that it has competition from the Missouri, Kentucky and Ohio Republican parties. From the VECO scandal to Troopergate, almost the entire Alaska Republican Party is under investigation, indicted or, for some State level Republicans, in jail. One of the Republican Senators and Alaska's House Rep are part of this culture of corruption.

Now it seems to be Sarah Palin's turn.

When I was first told that John McCain picked Sarah Palin as his VP, my response was "is he crazy?" To pick someone who is ACTIVELY under investigation and who is a member of the most corrupt state party in the country seemed insane given the fact that Republican corruption was the number one issue in 2006...and one that led to a major Democratic victory. For McCain, himself linked to the old Savings and Loan scandal, to pick someone actively under investigation seemed to be among the dumbest things he could have done.

Now is when it will start to hurt him, as the Troopergate investigation goes into full swing.

From The Public Record:

An Alaska woman who owns a company that processes workers’ compensation claims in the state has told an independent investigator that she was urged by the office of Gov. Sarah Palin to deny a benefits claim for Palin’s ex brother-in-law, a state trooper who was involved in an ugly divorce and child custody dispute with Palin’s sister, despite evidence that the claim appeared to be legitimate, according to state officials who were briefed about the conversation.

Murlene Wilkes, the proprietor of Harbor Adjusting Services in Anchorage, had originally denied that she was pressured by Gov. Palin’s office to deny state trooper Mike Wooten’s claim for workers compensation benefits.

But Wilkes changed her story two weeks ago when she was subpoenaed by Steven Branchflower, the former federal prosecutor who was appointed in July to probe allegations Gov. Palin, Republican presidential candidate John McCain’s running mate, abused her office by abruptly ousting Public Safety Commissioner Walt Monegan, state officials knowledgeable about her conversation with Branchflower said.

Monegan has said he felt pressured by Gov. Palin, her husband, Todd, and several of her aides to fire Wooten. Branchflower’s investigation centers on whether Palin fired Monegan because he refused to fire Wooten...

Wilkes has a $1.2 million contract with the state to handle workers compensation claims....
Wilkes told Branchflower she believed it was impressed upon her from Palin's office that she would lose the contract if she did not deny the claim, state officials knowledgeable about her testimony said.

Abuse of power...disregard for the law...mean-spiritied vendettas...Yep, Problem Palin is a typical corrupt Republican.

Planned Parenthood to Sarah Palin: You are NOT our Candidate

Planned Parenthood has sent out an email specifically outlining why Sarah Palin is NOT the choice for women. Here is the text:

Dear Sarah Palin,

You are not our candidate.

You are not our candidate because you required women in Wasilla to pay for their own medical examinations after being raped.

You are not our candidate because you do not support a woman's right to choose, even in the case of rape or incest.

You are not our candidate because you've cut funding for teen moms and comprehensive sex education, while promoting failed abstinence-only programs.

You are not our candidate because, as vice president — a heartbeat away from the presidency — you would jeopardize health care for women everywhere.

We are teachers, doctors, athletes, programmers, artists, lawyers, secretaries, CEOs, students, designers, nurses, factory workers, mothers, and fathers. We are conservatives and liberals, Democrats and Republicans, country and city people. We are women and men. We are voters. We are the Planned Parenthood Action Fund.

We believe in a woman's right to choose and the right of every person to have access to complete reproductive health care. We are hundreds of thousands strong, and we are doing everything we can to make sure you are not elected.

You are not our candidate.

There has been some talk of Sarah Palin drawing women voters away from Obama and closing the gender gap between the parties. I don't believe this will happen to any substantial degree. Why would any woman who isn't already a right wing idealogue vote for people like McCain-Palin who want to take away her rights, oppose equal pay for equal work, oppose choice, and even punish rape victims? Answer: they WON'T.

Read the official Planned Parenthood endorsement of Obama-Biden here.

Read the National Organization for Women endorsement of Obama-Biden here.

Read NARAL-Pro-Choice America's endorsement of Obama here.

Right Wing Terrorist Attack in Ohio

Right wing terrorism is alive and well in America and being ignored. On 9/11/2006 there was a terrorist attack on a woman's health center in Davenport, Iowa. There was the Delaware Pogrom where Jewish and Muslim families were driven out of a small town for not being Christian. The list goes on. And mostly it is just ignored by the media, but Homeland Security...by everyone.

The latest attack is a chemical attack on children in a mosque in Ohio. From Daily Kos:

On Friday, September 26, the end of a week in which thousands of copies of Obsession: Radical Islam's War Against the West -- the fear-mongering, anti-Muslim documentary being distributed by the millions in swing states via DVDs inserted in major newspapers and through the U.S. mail -- were distributed by mail in Ohio, a "chemical irritant" was sprayed through a window of the Islamic Society of Greater Dayton, where 300 people were gathered for a Ramadan prayer service. The room that the chemical was sprayed into was the room where babies and children were being kept while their mothers were engaged in prayers. This, apparently, is what the scare tactic political campaigning of John McCain's supporters has led to -- Americans perpetrating a terrorist attack against innocent children on American soil.

That diary goes on to quote an email from someone who knows some of the victims of this attack:

"She told me that the gas was sprayed into the room where the babies and children were being kept while their mothers prayed together their Ramadan prayers. Panicked mothers ran for their babies, crying for their children so they could flee from the gas that was burning their eyes and throats and lungs. She grabbed her youngest in her arms and grabbed the hand of her other daughter, moving with the others to exit the building and the irritating substance there...

"This didn't happen in some far away place -- but right here in Dayton, and to my friends. Many of the Iraqi refugees were praying together at the Mosque Friday evening. People that I know and love...

"She tells me that her daughters slept with her last night, the little one in her arms and sobbing throughout the night. She tells me she is afraid, and will never return to the mosque, and I wonder what kind of country is this where people have to fear attending their place of worship?

"The children come into the room, and tell me they want to leave America and return to Syria, where they had fled to from Iraq. They say they like me, ... , and other American friends -- but they are too afraid and want to leave. Should a 6 and 7 year old even have to contemplate the safety of their living situation?

"Did the anti-Muslim video circulating in the area have something to do with this incident, or is that just a bizarre coincidence? Who attacks women and children?"

A can of pepper spray was found outside the mosque.

The Interfaith Alliance has issued a statement condemning the attack:

“‘God, help us!’ I prayed as I read the headline: ‘Chemical irritant empties Islamic Society of Greater Dayton's mosque,’” said Rev. Gaddy. “Has it come to this—an assault on innocent children? Scapegoating Muslims as well as denouncing them verbally and attacking them physically has become all too common in this post 9/11 world.”

This attack comes just days after the distribution of the film Obsession- Radical Islam’s War against the West, in Ohio newspapers. News reports state that two unidentified men sprayed chemicals into a room full of children and infants as their mothers gathered together for their Ramadan prayers.

Rev Gaddy went on to say, “Did the distribution of an anti-Muslim film encourage the Islamaphobia that may have caused the attack? No one can say except the perpetrators, but the fear card is being played in the media, on the Internet and, now, in newspaper inserts across the United States..”

Rev. Gaddy concluded by saying, “Interfaith Alliance calls on its members and friends, and all Americans who believe in religious freedom and all those who value religious liberty and equality to send a strong, unified message that we will not tolerate bias motivated violence of any kind. We need to let the Muslim community of Dayton, and across America, know that we stand with them against terrorism and that we condemn this senseless act of violence and the propaganda that helped to fuel it.”

Republicans and right wing talk show hosts, including Bill O'Reilly, Michael Savage, and Anne Coulter, advocate racism, intolerance, and violence every day. So we shouldn't be surprised when racism, anti-Semitism, intolerance and violence increase in our society. There is a long list of Republican intolerance and racism.

The terrorists who attacked this mosque, like the terrorists in Delaware and in Iowa, are cowards. They are about as un-American as you can get and deserve our condemnation. The Republican politicians and right wing media that encourages this kind of violence are also un-American cowards who deserve our condemnation.

Celebrating Jacob's Birthday and Preserving Brooklyn

Four years ago Joy, Jacob and I participated in the first Walkathon supporting Develop, Don't Destroy Brooklyn's campaign to protect Brooklyn from one of the worst development projects I have ever heard of. Jacob was a newborn the first time we walked for Brooklyn. Now, for the fourth annual Walkathon, and for Jacob's fourth birthday I am once again forming a Progressive Democrat team. For my New York City readers, come join Joy, Jacob and as walkers. For my non-New York readers, please consider becoming a donor in honor of Jacob's birthday for this year's walkathon. There is also a party afterwards which will be free to all who have donated or willl be $20 at the door.

Info for those who want to walk/party with us:

October 18, 2008
A Candlelight Walk to Shine Light on the Abuses of the Atlantic Yards
Project Raise Funds for the Legal Fight Against the Stalled Project

The walk will feature hundreds of walkers and start in front of Bob Law's Seafood Cafe (637 Vanderbilt Ave -- between St. Marks and Prospect Place) and finish with a community party [including free food and live music!] at the Brooklyn Lyceum (227 4th Avenue at Union Street).

The walk route extends about 1.25 miles.

5:15 pm -- 6 pm: SIGN IN:
Visit our tables at Bob Law's Seafood Cafe (Near Vanderbilt and St. Marks) to pick up your registration (or to register if you haven't already done so).

6 pm -- 7:30 pm:
Join the Grand Marshall to walk to the Brooklyn Lyceum.

8:00 -- 11:00 pm:
Community party at the Brooklyn Lyceum.

Here is the team page:
http://dddb.kintera.org/wdd4/progressivecabal

Hope to see you there! And thanks to anyone who makes a donation in honor of Jacob's birthday.

NEVADA FOCUS: Blogs, Obama, Progressive Candidates, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

Nevada was a focus of mine in 2004 and 2006. I want to get back to giving Nevada some attention.

Blogging Nevada: My Silver State: Where Progressive Nevadans Unite


Here are some Barack Obama groups in Nevada:

Reno Barack Obama Meetup Group Meets weekly. Sign up for more info.

Henderson Barack Obama Meetup Group. Sign up for more info.

Reno Barack Obama Meetup Group. Working for real change in Reno. Sign up for more info.


Here are two candidates endorsed by the Indigenous Democratic Network in Nevada:

Assemblyman John Oceguera
Candidate for Nevada State Assembly, Assembly District 16
Enrolled Member of the Walker River Paiute Tribe

Assemblyman John Oceguera is seeking re-election to the Nevada State Legislature for District 16 in Southeast Las Vegas. He currently serves as the Assembly Majority Leader, and while not in session, is the Assistant Fire Chief in the North Las Vegas Fire Department. He is a member of the Walker River Paiute Tribe...

Assemblyman Oceguera began college at UNLV, but relocated to San Antonio to open a new airline branch for America West. He continued his education at Cogswell College, receiving his Bachelors in Fire Administration in 1995, and his Masters in Public Administration in 1998 from UNLV. He received his Juris Doctorate in Law from the William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV in 2003.

Oceguera wanted to be a firefighter his entire life. He has worked for the NAS Fallon Fire Department, and as a firefighter, paramedic, engineer, Captain and Assistant Fire Chief at the North Las Vegas Fire Department. He holds an impressive amount of fire, safety, medical and rescue certifications from the State of Nevada, American Red Cross, Department of the Navy, and the National Fire Academy.

In 2000, he was elected to the state legislature. During his time in the assembly, he has chaired both the Transportation Committee and the Committee on Commerce and Labor. He has also served as the Assistant Majority Leader, and in 2003 he was appointed to a Toll Fellowship, a bipartisan organization which trains new legislators nationwide.

During the last session, Assemblyman Oceguera sponsored new laws to strengthen consumer protection, to prevent violence against children and the elderly, and laws against graffiti and terrorism. He is a strong advocate for working families and labor, and he has been endorsed by the Nevada State AFL-CIO, SEIU, Southern Nevada Central Labor Council and AFSCME Local 4041.

Celana Wasson
Candidate for Washoe County School Board A, Washoe County, Nevada
Enrolled Member of Walker River Paiute Tribe

Celana Wasson is an enrolled member of the Walker River Paiute Tribe and taught school in the Washoe County School District for 30 years. She is running for Washoe County School Board, and she has the experience and knowledge necessary to truly make a difference for the students there.

Wasson was born in Schurz, Nevada, on the Walker River Paiute Indian Reservation. She received her B.S. in Elementary Education, her Masters in Education (Curriculum and Instruction), and her Professional Special License in K-12 Administration all from the University of Nevada in Reno. She and her husband, James, have two children, Callie and Jim. Both of her children attended and graduated from Washoe County Schools.

She has a lifetime commitment to education – when she stated teaching 8th grade in the Washoe County School District, she was 23. Her first students are now 44 years old.


Democratic Meetups in Nevada:

Las Vegas Democratic Party Meetup Group A large and active group organizing Las vegas.


Here are some Democracy for America groups in Nevada for those who want People Powered Politics:

Las Vegas Democracy For America: Las Vegas Democracy For America is working to build our membership, register new voters, work to see our votes are protected and help elect Progressive Democrats at every level.

Our goal is to create a vibrant, unified Democratic Party in our counties and state. In addition work with other states to promote unity and take back our country in 2008. Sign up here to help.

DFA Reno/Democracy for Nevada: We are the Northern Nevada non-campus DFA affiliate Sign up here for more info.

Henderson NV Democracy For America: Henderson NV & Las Vegas Democracy For America are working to build our membership, register new voters, work to see our votes are protected and help elect Progressive Democrats at every level. Sign up here for more info.


Alternative Energy in Nevada:

Las Vegas Alternative Energy Group: Whether you want to inform yourself or are a Pro, Discuss various forms of energy procuration, why it makes sense for the community, the world and, of course, your pocket book!

A Greener Las Vegas: Green Home, Housing, Home Remodeling, New Urbanism & Sustainable Development

Las Vegas Permaculture:


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

Boulder City, Nevada
* Last Friday of each month, 6:00 pm onward
* Boulder Dam Brewing, 453 Nevada Hwy
* Hosted by Valerie McNay, Lynn Goya, Dave Kreamer and Matt Di Teresa, bouldercity (at) drinkingliberally.org

Fernley, Nevada
* Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Truck Inn, (upper level of restaurant)
* Hosted by Joe Slabbinck and Robert Gleason, fernley (at) drinkingliberally.org

Northwest Las Vegas
* Every Thursday, 6:30 pm onward
* Tenaya Creek Restaurant & Brewery, 3101 N. Tenaya Way
* Hosted by Betsy Meinhold, lasvegas (at) drinkingliberally.org

Southeast/Henderson
* Every Tuesday, 7:00 pm onward
* The Gin Mill, 2561 Windmill Parkway (SE corner Windmill Parkway & Pecos)
* Hosted by David Black-Downes and Karen Kostoff, henderson (at) drinkingliberally.org

Reno
* Second Wednesday of each month, 6:00 pm
* Sage Creek Grill, 5851 S Virginia St (next to Wild Oats)
* Hosted by Kevin and Allison Edwards

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS: Blogs, Kay Hagan, Larry Kissell, Roy Carter, Alternative Energy, Veterans for Peace, 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:

Fourteen North Carolina Mayors Endorse Democrat Beverly Perdue for Governor

NASCAR LEGEND JUNIOR JOHNSON PRAISES ROY CARTER, SLAMS FOXX: A big endorsement for Democrat Roy Carter running for the NC-5 seat.

Republican Inaction Leads to Crisis in North Carolina. Once again, the lessons of Katrina were not learned. Even as natural disasters are predicted and tracked with greater accuracy than ever, the Bush administration refuses to prevent these crises.

Yet More Republican Racism

Race and Voter Preference

Take Action on Blackwater: Blackwater is and has been a national disgrace. And out tax money is funding it! Enough is enough.

Health Insurance and NC's Insurance Commissioner

Become a virtual North Carolina phone banker for Obama/Biden

Charlotte, NC paper's blasts Palin and misogyny

Dole’s irresponsible votes have left American soldiers vulnerable and unprepared


North Carolina is a Senate battleground this year and we have a pretty good shot at winning. Dole has shown a pretty dismal record if you look carefully, as this person does.

Kay Hagen has recently been running consistently ahead of Dole, even if it just by a few points. I think we can win this one! From Hagen's website:



Here is Kay Hagan discussing energy policy and jobs:



You can also read about Kay Hagen's farm policy here.

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. What is most disturbing is that most of those votes that were "lost" were military voters. 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!

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


Now let me highlight Roy Carter, running for the NC-5 Congressional seat. From Roy's website:

Roy Carter has dedicated his life thus far to educating young people, motivating them to achieve their goals and being a positive, affirming influence in their lives. Throughout his career as Educator, Football Coach and Athletic Director, Roy has always considered community involvement crucial to student success. Leading by example, he has consistently volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, working to build homes for hard working families. Through his leadership and innovation several student and community programs were created to combat drop-out rates, drug and alcohol abuse, and illiteracy. In 1997, one such program was instrumental in Andrews High School naming Roy as its Teacher of the Year. Roy has been a member of the North Carolina Coaches Association for over thirty years, being chosen as Conference Coach of the Year in 1993 and Coach for the annual East / West All-Star game in 1998. Additionally, Roy has been actively involved in the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, and was elected to the North Carolina High School Association Re-Alignment Committee in 1999, receiving the Merit Award and receiving the Award of Achievement in 1995.

After many years as a science teacher, Roy transitioned into teaching agricultural science and woodworking. In-between the various family, religious, and community activities, Carter maintains a crop of 4,000 Fraser Firs.

Carter's opponent, Virginia Foxx, is one of the infamous Katrina 11, Republicans who vote for no-bid contracts for the corrupt Halliburtion but opposed aid to the victims of Katrina. I have been targeting the Katrina 11 ever since their infamous opposition to helping Katrina victims. Not only is Foxx one of only 11 Republicans who opposed helping Katrina victims, she also is one of only 33 Republicans who opposed extension of the Voting Rights Act in July 2006. He biggest contribution to American law making was to introduce an act to praise the Christmas Tree industry. So she loves Christmas trees but hates black people and refuses to help Americans in need.

If you live in the district, please volunteer to help Roy Carter for Congress. And if you don't live in the district, please help out with a contribution through my Katrina 11 Act Blue Site.


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


Alternative Energy and Sustainable Agriculture in North Carolina:

Here are a couple of biodiesel cooperatives in North Carolina. If you drive a diesel car or truck, please check them out.

Burlington Biodiesel Coop
Burlington, NC
Check out their website

Piedmont Biofuels
The most successful biodiesel cooperative in America
Pittsboro, NC
Check out their website


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



Here are some other alternative energy groups in North Carolina:

Greensboro Sustainable Living Meetup Group:
Meet others in your town interested in various Environmental issues on global and/or a local level.

This is a forum for people to get together and discuss issues and share ideas on sustainable living. Let's share ideas about organic and locally grown food, reducing toxins in our environment, reducing our use of resources, the carbon issue, raising healthy children, etc.

People who should join include those with expertise to share, those wanting to learn more, and anyone interested in building community through environmental initiatives. For more info, go here.

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

The Hillsborough Democracy for America Meetup
Progressive meetup, meeting others to learn more about local strategies and Democracy For America. This Meetup is officially brought to you by Democracy for America. I am Paul Aaron and have volunteered to lead. In 2005, I became the MoveOn local coordinator. After the 2006 election, the chairmanship of a local Democratic precinct became available. Should a Progressive be with MoveOn or inside the Democratic Party? This is the question I asked. My friend, Jo-Anne, a national Progressive worker, said we could use a Progressive inside the Party. For more info, go here.

"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

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

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

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

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:

Gordon Smith - gambling with Social Security in Oregon

Anti-immigrant Gordon Smith Regularly Hires Illegal Immigrants. Wow...yet another example of blatant Republican hypocricy.

Why should we care what is happening along the Gulf Coast?

Gordon Smith Supports Bush's Failed Economy Policy. As the economy crumbles, don't you think it is time to stop making the same Republican mistakes that have nearly ruined our country? Gordon Smith apparently thinks we should keep ruining our economy. Of course so do other Republicans.

Portland Tribune: “Voters Souring on GOP”

In the race for State Treasurer, it seems that Republican Allen Alley's anemic fundraising ($45,000 cash on hand) has left him stuck in the mud -- with his only option trying to fling some at his opponent, Ben Westlund. (also h/t to Blue Oregon)

Gordon Smith: Bought by big oil. Here's the video:



Oregon's Ballot Measures: Here's a rundown on Oregon's ballot measures


OREGON SECRETARY OF STATE:

The Florida 2000, Georgia 2002 and Ohio 2004 elections have taught us that partisan, corrupt secretaries of state can help steal an election. Or at least can prevent a proper recount. So from 2006 on the Secretary of State Project (SoS) has focused on electing fair, honest secretaries of states around the country...and they did well in 2006, electing Jennifer Brunner in Ohio, for example.

Building on their 2006 success, the SoS Project is strategically focusing on a handful of key races this year, including county-level races, to ensure fair, clean elections in 2008 and beyond. Oregon is one state where they are active in 2008. In Oregon, Democrat Kate Brown is running against GOP nominee Rick Dancer.

From Kate's website:

Senator Kate Brown began her career in public service over sixteen years ago. First elected to the Oregon House of Representatives in 1991, Kate served two successful terms in the House before being elected to the Oregon State Senate in 1996. In 1998, Senator Brown was elected Democratic Leader, where she successfully led the Senate Democratic Caucus from a 10-20 Minority to an 18-12 Majority.

With Democrats squarely in the majority, Kate Brown was elected by her caucus to serve as the Oregon’s first woman Senate Majority Leader in 2004...

Senator Brown has served as Chair of the Senate Rules and Elections Committees for years, stewarding landmark initiative reform legislation and moving Oregon to the forefront of transparent campaign finance reporting.

In 2001, the Republican controlled Legislature passed redistricting plans for legislative and congressional districts that Governor Kitzhaber vetoed. As Democratic Leader, Kate Brown took charge of offering an alternative plan for our Congressional districts – one that the Oregon courts adopted in its entirety.

In the 2005 legislative session, Brown led successful efforts to make Oregon’s state government open and accessible by taking legislative committee meetings to communities around the state, ensuring funding for a comprehensive review of Oregon’s ethics laws, and spearheading legislation creating a searchable online database of campaign contributions and expenditures, which The Oregonian called the best campaign finance disclosure law in the country.

Additionally, Brown led the Senate Democrats in their efforts to reduce the skyrocketing costs of health care, ensure that Oregon’s education dollars reach the classroom, and protect Oregon’s uniquely livable communities.
With her strong record of public service, integrity and fairness, Kate Brown has been the recipient many awards and distinctions including:


* National Public and Community Service Award from the American Mental Health Counselors Association

* Elected Chair of the Council of State Governments West.

* “Profiles in Courage" Award from Basic Rights Oregon

* Legislature of the Year Award from the Oregon Psychological Association

* Award for Outstanding Achievement by the Oregon Family Support Network

* Woman of Achievement Award from the Oregon Commission for Women.

Kate Brown has been endorsed by Barbara Roberts (Former Governor and Secretary of State), Working Families Party, SEIU Locals 503 and 49, Oregon Small Business for Responsible Leadership, Carpenters Local 1065, and many, many others. Visit her website and learn more about her. And volunteer if you can. The secretary of state race is one we should be focused on in each and every state of the Union!


OREGON SENATE:

Oregon is one of our pick-up opportunities for 2008. Jeff Merkley has come up from behind and now is the frontrunner in this race by some 4 points. 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: Gordon Smith supports Bailout for Big Business...Jeff Merkley supports helping middle class and working class Americans



Go here to volunteer to help Merkley win.


Alternative Energy in Oregon:

Here are some biodiesel cooperatives in Oregon. If you own a diesel truck or car, please check them out.

Corvallis Biodiesel Cooperative
Corvallis, OR
Check out their website.

GoBiodiesel Cooperative
Portland, OR
email: outreach_at_gobiodiesel.org
Or check out their website

Grease Works! Biodiesel Cooperative
Corvallis, OR
email: info@greaseworks.org
Or check out their website

Here are some other alternative energy resources in Oregon:

OREGON ALTERNATIVE ENERGY: Keep updated on what is going on with alternative energy and transportation in Oregon

The Portland Alternative Energy & Global Warming MeetupGroup
Meet other local individuals interested in exploring all forms of Alternative Energy as well as talking about Global Warming, where are we and where are we going and what can we do. We'll talk about what solutions are available as well as the different things we can do to mitigate Global Warming. Discuss ways to preserve the world's resources and protect the environment. Join us to meet new people and make new friends. Everyone is welcome. Go here for more info.

GreenPDX: Portland Green Home & Green Building Meetup Group
Whether you are interested in building, buying, or renovating, this group aims to educate themselves about techniques for making and keeping Portland the leader of high efficiency building and eco-friendly lifestyles. Go here for more info.

NORTHWEST SOLAR EXPO:
April 28 - May 3, 2009
Oregon Convention Center, Portland

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

Join us at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland and check out the latest clean energy options for your home or business.
The Professional Solar Training Conference
will feature training for those already established and those looking to join the solar industry. Many of the Professional Courses are approved for NABCEP continuing education credits.

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

Expo Includes Professional Solar Training April 28 - May 1, 2009.
Pre-registration required. Followed by Public Expo open to all May 1-3, 2009. All residential workshops included with $12 admission

Go here for more info.


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

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

ORGANIZING IN COLORADO:

Democracy for Colorado is taking Think Precinct on the road in 2008
Do you want to increase Democratic voter turnout in your county?

Attend a Think Precinct Training already scheduled by your county Democrats, or help us organize one in your area.

We have created an energetic and engaging one-hour event that is based on
Think Precinct®, The Grassroots Organizing Guide for a Progressive America. Click here to download the Guide.

The Plan: Develop trained and active leadership in every Colorado precinct
The Goal: Democratic victories in 2008

Click here to see the trainings already scheduled.

To sign up for one of these free trainings or to inquire about setting up your own, contact:

* Democracy for Colorado
gro (at) democracyforcolorado (dot) com

* Robin Van Ausdall
Northeast Regional Field Coordinator
Cheyenne, Crowley, Elbert, Kiowa, Kit Carson, Larimer, Lincoln, Logan, Morgan, Otero, Phillips, Prowers, Sedgwick, Washington, Weld and Yuma counties
rvanausdall (at) coloradodems (dot) org

* Daryl Grant
Southwest Regional Field Coordinator
Alamosa, Archuleta, Chaffee, Conejos, Costilla, Custer, Dolores, Fremont, Gunnison, Hinsdale, LaPlata, Mineral, Montezuma, Ouray, Park, Rio Grande, Saguache, San Juan, San Miguel and Teller counties.
dclaygrant (at) coloradodems (dot) org

* Kim Phillips
Northwest Regional Field Coordinator
Clear Creek, Delta, Eagle, Garfield, Gilpin, Grand, Jackson, Lake, Mesa, Moffat, Montrose, Pitkin, Routt and Summit counties.
kphillips (at) coloradodems (dot) org

* Sal Pace
Southeast Regional Field Coordinator
Baca, Bent, Huerfano, Las Animas, Prowers and Pueblo counties.
sal_pace (at) hotmail (dot) com or paces (at) dnc (dot) org


COLORADO VETERANS FOR PEACE:
Chapter 120 Boulder
Chapter 079 Denver

Meetings:

Join us for our regular potluck social and business meeting at 6:00 PM on the first Sunday of every month, at the Arborwood Condominums’ Club House, 3250 O'Neal Circle, in Boulder, Colorado.

Denver meetings 3rd Wed. of evrey month at 7:00 PM at the AFSC office, 901 W. 14th Street

For further information call:
George Newell - 303-440-0942
Frank Bessinger - 720-939-5057

Or Email info_at_covfp.org to ask to be added to our mailing list.


BLOGGING COLORADO: Square State, The Progressive Political Blog for Colorado

Colorado Independent

Colorado MediaMatters: Colorado Media Matters is a Web-based, not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) progressive research and information center dedicated to comprehensively monitoring, analyzing, and correcting conservative misinformation in the Colorado media. Colorado Media Matters is managed and staffed by Coloradans trained in the rigorous editorial policies and research methods developed by Media Matters for America.

Some stories of interest:

FIGHT COLORADO VOTER SUPPRESSION

Yet More Republican Racism.

Schaffer: Criminal and/or Incompetent?

Palin feeds Colorado her favorite lie.

Colorado Amendment 49 - Eliminate Public Employee Unions

Colorado Amendment 48 - Outlaw Abortion

Colorado Ballot - A-46 Eliminate Affirmative Action


Here is a candidate endorsed by the Indigenous Democratic Network (INDN List):

Senator Suzanne Williams
Candidate for Colorado State Senate, District 28
Enrolled Member of Comanche Nation

Senator Suzanne Williams is seeking re-election in Colorado’s State Senate District 28. She is a citizen of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma and the only enrolled tribal member in the Colorado state legislature.

Senator Williams’ 12 year tenure in Colorado’s State Legislature is marked by bills that benefit all Colorado citizens. In 2008, the legislation she sponsored promoted a second chance program for minors with felonies who did not commit or assist in committing the act, a dual enrollment program for Native American students in Colorado, and a bill that would establish a two-year pilot program to improve the efficiency of Colorado’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Moreover, Senator Williams has sponsored bills in previous sessions of Colorado legislature that included anti-graffiti (1987) and Child Care Professionals Loan Forgiveness Program (2001).

She has held many leadership positions in the state legislature. She was elected the Assistant Caucus Chair for the Senate Majority Caucus (2007), the Vice Chair of the Transportation Committee (present), the Legislative Chair for the Early Childhood Commission, and is a member of the Education Committee.

Her community involvement makes Senator Williams a valuable resource to her district on a local level. She has been a member of many diverse boards, including D.A.R.E Colorado, United Cerebral Palsy Association, Colorado Special Education Advisory Board, Aurora Sister Cities President, and Co-chair of the Early Childcare and Education Commission. Senator Williams’ accolades include being chosen by the Aurora Chamber of Commerce as “Aurora Woman of the Year” in 2007.


Here are some great candidates running for office in Colorado (all are endorsed by Progressive Majority):

Joe Neguse
Candidate for University of Colorado Regent - District 2 (Open Seat)



Joe Neguse is a first-time candidate running for the University of Colorado Board of Regents to represent Congressional District 2. Joe is a young, African American law student at the University of Colorado. He was appointed by the Boulder City Council as a Commissioner on the Boulder Housing Authority, and is a co-founder and former Board Chair of New Era, Colorado, an organization that engages young people around voter registration and mobilization. Congressional District 2 encompasses Boulder, the northern Denver suburbs and about four counties on the western slope. Joe's election will bring a more progressive, diverse voice to the board. Joe got top line at the Congressional Assembly and kept his primary opponent off the ballot. He has been endorsed by numerous elected officials at all levels of government, labor groups and prominent community members.

Click here to support and learn more about Joe.

AJ Clemmons
Candidate for University of Colorado Regent - District 6 (Open Seat)



AJ Clemmons is running for the first time for the CU Board of Regents in Congressional District 6. AJ is a Colorado native and has been an active board member for the Colorado Women's Agenda. She currently works for the city of Denver as a community liaison for the Denver Police Department, where she co-developed an award-winning program for successful citizen-police mediation. Congressional District 6 sits in southeast Denver and includes Arapahoe, southern Jefferson, Douglas, and Elbert counties. AJ's election to the CU Board of Regents, alongside a Democratic victory in Joe Neguse's regent race in district 2, would create a power shift on the CU Board of Regents. AJ's election to the Board of Regents would also further representation of people of color on the Board. Incumbent Paul Schaur recently dropped out of the Republican primary in part due to 527-group attack mail that was sent out against him. This clearly changed the dynamic in this race, as now AJ is running against Jim Geddes - an extremely conservative doctor.

Click here to support and learn more about AJ.

Dan Gibbs
Candidate for State Senate - District 16 (Incumbent)
Eagle, Summit & Lake counties



Dan Gibbs was appointed to Senate District 16 when Senate President Joan Fitz-Gerald resigned her seat to run for congress. This is an important seat for the senate to protect. Senate District 16 is a large district which encompasses both sides of the continental divide and goes from Jefferson/Boulder counties to Summit County. Progressive Majority successfully fielded Dan in 2006 when he ran for the House of Representatives. Dan is a 32 year-old former congressional staffer and forest firefighter. He is a champion on environmental issues around both renewable energies and the bark beetle. Dan is running against a businessman, who is relatively unknown, but will push a very pro-business agenda. Despite his solid 2006 win and impressive legislative session, this race will be competitive.

Pam Berry
Candidate for El Paso County Commissioner - District 3 (Challenger)



Pam Berry is running for the El Paso County Commission in District 3, representing Western Colorado Springs. Pam is a Colorado Springs native who has spent the last 30 years working for the Colorado Springs, D-11 School District as an administrator and teacher. Pam grew up in a military family. She has been an active member of the African American community in Colorado Springs her entire life. Pam is a first-time candidate and a current member of AFSCME. Progressive Majority first recruited Pam to run for office at the 2007 Color Colorado Conference. Her opponent is incumbent Commissioner Sallie Clark. El Paso County is going through tough economic times and will need to make some cuts in the county budget. This commission needs progressive leaders like Pam making these decisions.

Click here to support and learn more about Pam.

Evie Hudak
Candidate for State Senate - District 19 (Open Seat)
Arvada, Westminster



Evie Hudak is running for Senate District 19. She is a retired educator who has spent the last 20 years working to build a stronger early education program in Colorado. She has twice been elected to the State Board of Education. District 19 is currently held by term-limited progressive Senator Sue Windels, who is running for Jefferson County Commissioner. Her opponent is Libby Szabo, a right-wing conservative. Evie is strong voice for children and will lead on educational issues. This is an important race for the State Senate and will generate quite a bit of attention and resources from both candidates and their supporters.

Click here to support and learn more about Evie.

Joe Whitcomb
Candidate for State Senate - District 23 (Challenger)
Broomfield, Frederick, Firestone



Joe Whitcomb is a first-time candidate running for State Senate District 23. Joe is a 38-year-old Iraq veteran and recent law school graduate who has served his community by working with the Denver Area Youth Services Center as a mentor for at-risk young men. Joe came to Progressive Majority nearly two years ago when he first considered running. Progressive Majority trained Joe on campaign fundamentals, primarily stump speech and messaging. He is running against ultra-conservative incumbent Shawn Mitchell, who has a history of extreme right-wing bills and votes in the Senate, although he represents a relatively moderate district. Joe is a passionate, committed candidate, and will be a leader on progressive issues.

Click here to support and learn more about Joe.

Joe Miklosi
Candidate for State Representative - District 9 (Open Seat)
Southeast Denver



Joe Miklosi, former Progressive Majority Colorado State Director, is running for State House District 9. The incumbent Democrat is a term-limited moderate who is running for higher office - State Senate. The district is located in Southeast Denver and is comprised of older, stable neighborhoods with a large Jewish population. Joe will bring passion, dedication and a progressive voice to all House District 9 residents. He secured the top line on the ballot through the caucus process, and is out walking and talking to primary voters every day.

Click here to support and learn more about Joe.

Dennis Apuan
Candidate for State Representative - District 17 (Open Seat)
Western El Paso County

Dennis Apuan is a first-time candidate running for House District 17 in Western El Paso County. A member of the Asian-Pacific Islander community, he has a strong background in community organizing and brings a base of grass-roots support. His top issues are economic justice, development of renewable energy sources and affordable healthcare. District 17 is a unique district in that it encompasses a large military base. There is a Republican primary, so Dennis won't know his opponent until mid-August. Dennis is a strong progressive and will be another voice for progressive issues in the Statehouse.

Camille Ryckman
Candidate for State Representative - District 22 (Challenger)
Lakewood, Littleton, Conifer



Camille Ryckman is running for State House in District 22. Camille is a native of Jefferson County and has been active in the community for years. As a teacher, volunteer, and mother of two, she has the experience and passion to be the next representative. A former teacher, Camille was active in her union and is currently involved with the PTA. House District 22 is an area where Progressive Majority-endorsed Kathy Hartman won in her 2006 County Commissioner race. Camille's primary opponent is a New Democrat who changed his party affiliation in the last few years. In the general election, she will face conservative incumbent Ken Summers.

Click here to support and learn more about Camille.

Dianne Primavera
Candidate for State Representative - District 33 (Incumbent)
Broomfield, Louisville, Erie, Superior, Westminster



Representative Dianne Primavera is running for re-election to the state House in District 33. Dianne is a progressive leader on healthcare issues and needs to return to the Capitol to finish the job she started. She received the Colorado Legislator Award from the CO Women's Chamber of Commerce and Denver Women's Commission. This year her opponent is Nick Kleibenstein, a graduate of the Leadership of the Rockies, a very conservative leadership training group in Colorado. Rep. Primavera represents a key county in the state and one where Progressive Majority has worked on both state and city races. Dianne is a passionate, dedicated and hard working progressive legislator.

Click here to support and learn more about Dianne.

Su Ryden
Candidate for State Representative - District 36 (Open Seat)
Araphoe County

Su Ryden is a first-time candidate running for House District 36 in Arapahoe County. Su is a business owner and community activist involved in the arts and historic preservation. House District 36 has had progressive representation for the last four years with Morgan Carroll, who is now running for Senate. Morgan is a strong progressive leader and Su's election will provide that continued progressive leadership. Su is a champion of economic opportunity, healthcare and transportation. She has been endorsed by several federal, state and local elected officials as well as by AFSCME, UTU, CEA and the AFL-CIO.

Diana Holland
Candidate for State Representative - District 37 (Challenger)
Littleton, Englewood



Diana Holland is running for State House District 37. Diana has served two terms on the Littleton School Board and is well-respected in the education community. She is a board member of the Southeast Englewood Water District. Her opponent is the extreme conservative Representative Spencer Swalm, who was nearly beaten by Angela Engel, a Progressive Majority candidate in 2006. With her high name recognition and two previous wins in the district, Diana has a strong base. She has created a training geared specifically for progressive School Board candidates. Once elected, Diana will be a strong leader on many issues, including education.

Click here to support and learn more about Diana.

Mollie Cullom
Candidate for State Representative - District 39 (Challenger)
Centennial



Mollie Cullom is running a third time for State House District 39. She is a school social worker and a former Broadway actress. Mollie first approached Progressive Majority for support and help with her campaign plan nearly three years ago, when she decided to run for the seat in 2006. In 2006, Mollie lost to right-wing incumbent David Balmer by a margin of just 500 votes. Mollie has an impressive campaign structure and volunteer base. She is a promising candidate who, once elected, will be a great advocate for progressives.

Click here to support and learn more about Mollie.

Sue Windels
Candidate for Jefferson County Commissioner - District 1 (Open Seat)



Term-limited state Senator Sue Windels is running for Jefferson County Commissioner. Sue has served as a strong progressive in the state Legislature since 1998 - one term in the state House before her 2000 election to the state Senate - representing northern Jefferson County. Sue is a retired teacher and long-time community volunteer. Her work includes service in the Peace Corps and as legislative chair for the state PTA board. Sue has previously won three elections to the state Legislature. In her run for County Commissioner, she will be competing in a district ten times the size of her Senate seat. Jefferson County (immediately west of Denver) will also be a major target for Democrats running statewide campaigns in 2008. Sue's election to the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners would bring a power shift to the Board of Commissioners in the fourth largest (and long-time bellwether) county in Colorado. Sue is running against current Jefferson County Treasurer Faye Griffith, who will have substantial Republican support.

Click here to support and learn more about Sue.

Jason Bane
Candidate for Jefferson County Commissioner - District 2 (Challenger)



Jason is running for Jefferson County Commissioner. Jason is a communications staff member for SEIU International. He is 30 years old and a third generation Jefferson County native. He is a member of the Rotary Club, serves on the boards of Denver SCORES, a nonprofit after-school program and the Jefferson County PTA. Jason's opponent is an incumbent who has recently come under attack for rumored involvement with another commissioner to use county funds to privately investigate county workers. Jason is a champion of economic justice, responsible growth and education. He has received the endorsement of Congressman Ed Perlmutter and many labor organizations. Jason is a strong progressive candidate whose leadership is needed on the Jefferson County Commission.

Peter Tregillus
Candidate for La Plata County Commissioner - District 1 (Challenger)



Elected! Too Close To Call This is a Hot Race This Candidate is part of the Racial Justice CampaignPeter Tregillus is running for La Plata County Commissioner in District 1. Peter is a long-time community activist and program developer for Southern Ute Community Action Programs. Over the last 35 years, Peter has worked to improve La Plata County, from serving on the Durango Planning Commission to directing an affordable housing program. Progressive Majority recruited Peter to run for office at a Road Show in 2005. A successful campaign would sweep the La Plata County Commission in 2008. With La Plata County facing major oil, gas and growth issues, this race will be extremely competitive.

Click here to support and learn more about Peter.

Wally White
Candidate for La Plata County Commissioner - District 3 (Incumbent)



Commissioner Wally White is running for re-election to the La Plata County Commission. Wally is a long-time community activist and a llama farmer. Over the last 20 years he has served the La Plata County communities on a number of local planning commissions and boards. La Plata County is a largely rural county in southwest Colorado that includes the city of Durango. Wally is a champion of planning, water and oil and gas regulations issues, all of which are top priority in this rural county. He has been endorsed by numerous community leaders. La Plata County has been a priority area for Progressive Majority, in 2006 we successfully fielded Joelle Riddle for La Plata County Commission. Wally's continued leadership is important in this corner of the state.

Debbie Pilch
Candidate for Weld County Commissioner - At Large (Challenger)



Debbie Pilch is running for Weld County Commissioner at-large. Debbie has served two terms on the Greeley City Council, and has been a progressive voice there for the last eight years. Before her election to City Council, Debbie served on the Greeley Airport Authority and on a number of other local planning and community service boards and commissions. Debbie approached Progressive Majority in January of 2008 for help with her campaign. Debbie's election to the Weld County Commission will help put us in a position to take the majority in future years on a board that is currently entirely Republican and in the pocket of big developers. Weld County is a largely rural county that starts about 30 minutes north of Denver and continues to the Wyoming border. There is widespread discontent throughout the county with the current commissioners, and Democratic Governor Bill Ritter also won Weld County in the 2006 gubernatorial election. Debbie's opponent is yet to be determined as there is a two-way Republican primary between Sean Conway (Sen. Wayne Allard's chief of staff) and Mike Freeman.

Click here to support and learn more about Debbie.

Tom Pettit
Candidate for Weld County Commissioner - District 3 (Challenger)



Tom Pettit is running for Weld County Commissioner in District 3, representing east-central Weld County. Tom is a fifth generation Weld County native with a long history of leadership in the county. He has served as Mayor Pro-Temp on the Kersey Town Board, and was elected at-large to the Weld County Council. Progressive Majority recruited Tom to run for Weld County Commission in 2007 after he attended a Progressive Majority Road Show and Camp Wellstone. Tom's election to the Weld County Commission would put us in the position to gain a majority in future years on the Commission, which is currently comprised entirely of development-oriented conservatives.

Click here to support and learn more about Tom.


ALTERNATIVE ENERGY:

Here are a couple of biodiesel cooperatives in Colorado. If you drive a diesel car or truck, please check them out.

Boulder Biodiesel Cooperative
Boulder, CO
Phone: 303-449-3277
Check out their website (site was down when I checked it but hopefully will be up again)

Roaring Fork Biodiesel Coop
Roaring Fork, CO
Check out their website

Here are some other alternative energy groups in Colorado:

Alliance for Sustainable Colorado: The mission of Alliance for Sustainable Colorado is to catalyze the shift to a truly sustainable world by fostering collaboration among nonprofits, businesses, governments, and academia. We are working to advance economic, environmental, and social sustainability in Colorado by building cross-sector alliances and networks.

Colorado Green Tech Group, Boulder
A gathering of people involved and/or interested in Green Tech including Energy generation, transportation, construction, and efficiency technologies.
We meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at (NEW TIME) 7:00PM (6:00 for networking).

Sign up here to find out where they meet.

Boulder Sustainable Energy Group
We welcome anyone looking for an interesting, informative, and social forum for the exchange of ideas that will help each of us reduce our 'personal' consumption of fossil fuels and emission of greenhouse gasses, and make greener consumer choices in general. Sign up here to find out when and where they meet.

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

Colorado Alternative Energy: Alternative energy news for Colorado

Colorado Reewable Energy Society: The Colorado Renewable Energy Society (CRES) is a nonprofit membership organization that works for the sensible adoption of cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies by Colorado businesses and consumers. Check out their website for local events and chapters.


Here are some other groups and events in Colorado:

Colorado Young Democrats Chapters: Find your local Young Democrats chapter and contact them to find out what you can do to organize your community.

Adams County Young Dems
Edward Casso, Representative
edwardcasso_at_hotmail.com
720.495.3861

Adams State University Undergraduate College Dems
Ryan Crick
ChefCO_at_gmail.com

Arapahoe County Young Dems
Derek Dye, President
derekodye_at_hotmail.com
303.921.1685

Boulder Young Dems
Sara Lu Hanley, President
saraluhanley_at_google.com
303.501.2575

Broomfield Young Dems
Samara Kapich, President
samarajbrown_at_yahoo.com
720.231.2072

College Democrats of Colorado
Jay Hazen, jay_at_coloradoyoungdems.com
303.884.7083
http://www.cocollegedems.com/

Colorado School of Mines College Dems
LB Williams, President
csmdemocrats_at_gmail.com

CSU Graduate School
Sunshine Swetnam, President
970.482.2025

Denver Young Dems
http://www.denveryoungdems.org/

Jefferson County Young Dems
Kyle Anderson, President
kylea1979_at_gmail.com
303.971.0370

School of Mines College Dems
LB Williams
MinesDemocrats_at_Gmail.com

Steamboat Springs Young Dems
Harris Reitman-Swiss, President
904.742.8061

University of Colorado at Boulder College Dems
Daniel Ramos
Daniel.Ramos_at_Colorado.edu

University of Denver College Dems
Jeff Graves
Jgraves2_at_du.edu

University of Denver Law School College Dems
Kelley Rider
KRider09_at_law.du.edu

Denver Democracy for America Meetup
Meet others to learn more about Democracy For America and discuss local strategies. Get the latest news at your Democracy for America Meetups! This Meetup is officially brought to you by Democracy for America. Join here to find out more.

The Denver Barack Obama Meetup
We want -and need - Barack Obama as the next President of the United States. With Colorado being a swing state, we have to work our hardest to be sure our 9 electoral votes go to the man from Illinois. Go here to find out more.


And for those who like to combine social and political activities, here are the Drinking Liberally groups in Colorado:

Avon
o Fourth Wednesday of each month, 5:30 pm
o Loaded Joe's, 82 East Beaver Creek Blvd Suite 104
o Hosted by Cheryl Bottomley

North Boulder
o First and Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm
o Murphy's Grill, 2731 Iris Ave (By the bar in back)
o Hosted by Richard Bateman | Marc Sobel

Downtown Boulder
o Second Tuesday of each month, 7:00 pm
o Pearl Street Pub, 1108 Pearl St
o Hosted by Carrie Jackson

Cañon City
o First and Third Wednesday of each month, 5:30 pm
o McClellan's Grill & Brewing Company, 413 Main St
o Hosted by Alain Chamot | Brandy Johnson

Colorado Springs
o First and Third Tuesday of each month, 7:30 pm
o he Coffee Exchange, 526 S Tejon St (In between McCabe's and Southside Johnny's)
o Hosted by Jeff and Amanda Courtright

North Colorado Springs
o Second Tuesday of each month, 7:30 pm
o Old Chicago, 7115 Commerce Center Dr
o Hosted by Lucy Wolboldt | Jan Hejtmanek

Denver
o Every Wednesday of each month, 7:30 pm
o Skylark Lounge, 140 S. Broadway
o Hosted by Kathy Brandon | John E. | Sarah Fong

South Metro Denver
o Second Thursday of each month, 8:00 pm
o Lansdowne Arms Bistro & Bar, 9352 Dorchester St (Near HR Tattered Cover)
o Hosted by Rick Munoz

Lakewood
o First Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm
o Dino's, 10040 W Colfax Ave (SW Corner of Colfax and Kipling)
o Hosted by Bill Simpson

Durango
o Third Wednesday of each month, 6:00 pm
o Joel's, 119 W 8th St
o Hosted by Brandon Donohue

Fort Collins
o Second and Fourth Thursday of each month, 5:00 pm
o The Crown Pub, 144 S College Ave (between Oak and Mountain)
o Hosted by Anne Wilseck

Frisco
o Second Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm
o The Boatyard, 3rd and Main
o Hosted by Heather Christie | Karin Mitchell

Grand Junction
o First Wednesday of each month, 5:00 pm
o Kannah Creek Brewing Company, 1960 N 12th St

Greeley
o Second and Fourth Tuesday of each month, 6:30 pm
o Island Grill, 809 9th Street ((look for our table in the resturant area))
o Hosted by Ed Craig | Judy Craig

Longmont
o First and Third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm
o RedZone, 540 S Main St
o Hosted by Andi Hill