Progressive Democrat Issue 222

What a difference it makes having Obama as President. From Daily Kos, here is a list of US favorability ratings from around the world (Pew Poll's survey of 25 countries):

2007 2009
US 80 88
Canada 55 68

Britain 51 69
France 39 75
Germany 30 64
Spain 34 58

Poland 61 67
Russia 41 44

Turkey 9 14
Egypt 21 27
Jordan 20 25
Lebanon 47 55
Palestine 13 15
Israel 78 71

China 34 47
India 59 76
Indonesia 29 63
Japan 61 59
Pakistan 15 16
S. Korea 58 78

Argentina 16 38
Brazil 44 61
Mexico 56 69

Kenya 87 90
Nigeria 70 79

Every nation polled shows either about the same or much higher US popularity...even among Americans (+8 among Americans)! Note also that many of our key allies in the war against al-Qaeda (France, Germany and Spain) have massive increases in popular support for the US. That is something we really need.

Another article from Daily Kos I want to call your attention to goes along with my recent emphasis on how individuals and local communities can reduce their carbon footprint. In An American's Experience With Spain's Energy Policy a Kossack discusses how it is done in Spain and how he adapted to a less wasteful lifestyle. I have at times highlighted how Denmark is making the switch to offshore wind power and how it is amazing that Denmark has the gumption to make such a switch but America hasn't yet. (I also like to point out that although Denmark has higher taxes, they also have a healthcare system that beats the pants off America's and they have been ranked the "happiest place in the industrial world" this year...maybe America needs to emulate the tax policies, healthcare system and energy policies of Denmark...). One thing I somewhat disagree with the Daily Kos article about is how there are few ways in America to make the necessary changes to lower one's carbon footprint. He is right that it is harder. Most places have no alternatives to driving, for example. But there ARE incentives to install solar (my building is considering it looking at a 3-5 year break even period followed by some 12-17 years of almost free electricity) and there ARE ways you can also switch to alternative energy as your source for electricity through your existing energy company in most states, as I pointed out last week. But the article is correct in pointing out that many industrial democracies around the world are governing better in terms of energy policy, and I would add healthcare and education. The reason? We sacrifice health, education and the environment for tax breaks for the wealthy. Most industrial democracies are willing to pay higher taxes for better healthcare (at an overall cheaper price, I might add), better education and a better energy policy (reducing pollution as well). And by most measures people are HAPPIER in those nations. We need to learn from those nations.

Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

My Message to the Democratic Party: Get off your Asses on Healthcare Reform

MSNBC's Donnie Deutsch Calls for Glenn Beck Advertiser Boycott

Congressman Anthony Weiner on Healthcare

Dr. Howard Dean on Healthcare and Sotomayor

Brooklyn, NY Focus

Queens, NY Focus

Bronx, NY Focus

Rochester, NY Focus

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS

Silicon Valley, CA Focus

San Diego, CA Focus

Orange County, CA Focus

CALIFORNIA FOCUS

Dallas County, TX Focus

Austin/Travis County, TX Focus

Houston/Harris County, TX. Events

TEXAS FOCUS

Sussex County, NJ Focus

Warren County, NJ Focus

Passaic County, NJ Focus

NEW JERSEY FOCUS

Georgia Democrats Work

Georgia Action for Health Care

Coweta County, GA Focus

GEORGIA FOCUS

Virginia Congressman Target of Right Wing Forgery Attempt

VIRGINIA FOCUS

COLORADO FOCUS

WASHINGTON FOCUS

Florida Fire Fighters Endorse Alex Sink for Governor

Jacksonville, FL Campaign Training

FLORIDA FOCUS

ILLINOIS FOCUS

WISCONSIN FOCUS

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS

Arizona Focus: Uranium Contamination on Navajo Land

Maricopa County, AZ Focus: Blood on Sheriff Arpaio's Hands

ARIZONA FOCUS

Nevada Focus: Stop Blackstone Coal

NEVADA FOCUS

MICHIGAN FOCUS

MINNESOTA FOCUS

IOWA FOCUS

My Message to the Democratic Party: Get off your Asses on Healthcare Reform

Now is the time for Congress to act on Healthcare Reform. There is no reason for them to wait. And I want to send a clear message to those who I have supported in the past who seem to be hesitating: particularly Congresswoman Nydia Velasquez, Congresswoman Linda Sanchez and Congressman Zach Space, all of whom I have strongly supported in the past. But I also have a message to the Democratic leadership: my active support of the Democratic Party in general (as opposed to simply supporting individual progressive candidates) depends for now on Healthcare reform.

I was among the first to sign up for Howard Dean's Democracy Bond program. Since July 2005 I have given $20 per month to the DNC. That is four solid years of monthly contributions. Now that isn't by any means the only donations I have made to Democrats, but it felt good to be part of Dean's 50 state strategy that did so well in 2006 and 2008.

I cancelled that monthly contribution recently because I cannot believe that the Democrats I have been supporting for so long now want to go on vacation rather than actually enact precisely what America needs to begin fixing our very broken healthcare system. In essence, I will not contribute to people who think their vacation is more valuable than our health. I am also backing off on other donations that go to the Democratic Party (local, state or national) rather than individual candidates or progressive organizations.

Back when Democrats were giving in to Bush on Iraq even after it had become clear Bush had lied to get us into the war, I got fed up with House and Senate Democrats being so wimpy that I stopped donating to the DSCC and DCCC and every single phone call I got from either (about one a month) I told them I was fed up with the wimpiness of Congressional Democrats so I wasn't giving. Before that I had given hundreds of dollars a year to each. So though I wasn't a large donor, they did realize that I was a dedicated Democrat. And some callers were very understanding of my view and assured me they'd pass my concerns on to their suprevisors. But nothing ever seemed to come of it, so my donations to the DSCC and DCCC ended.

Instead, I donated to individual Democrats all around the country and to progressive organizations. Later, I focused on DFA, Progressive Majority, Wellstone Action, National Jewish Democratic Council, INDN Network and the Secretary of State Project...and Democracy Bonds when Dean introduced them.

And although I used to focus extensively on the DSCC and DCCC, I have not donated to them since the Democratic capitulaton on Bush's Iraq war. If I ever saw Congress really go gangbusters in enacting good progressive legislation, I would happily donate to the DSCC and DCCC again. That has yet to happen even with a Democratic President. And the Congressional Democrats still disappoint on key issues, though I still feel far better with Dems in control than with Repubs looting our country.

So now I am backing off from Democracy Bonds as well.

Right here, right now we have a perfect chance to get healthcare right. And if it is messed up it will be the DEMOCRATS who mess it up. And many of the Democrats who are threatening to mess it up are ones I spent a great deal of time and money electing.

Let's first consider our healthcare system. America has possibly the MOST expensive healthcare system in the world. This means you and I pay more for our healthcare than almost anyone in the world, when we take into account both our personal payments and our taxes.

But we do NOT get the best outcomes from our healthcare. The best outcomes are in places like Scandinavia, UK, Canada and the Netherlands. And they pay less than we do even when their taxes are taken into account. America's health outcomes do not macth up with these nations. Depending on the measure you look at, we measure up to places like Slovenia, Portugal, Albania, Khazakstan...and Cuba and North Korea. Here are the details:

Let's actually look at how the American business model for healthcare measures up to the more socialized systems. I have written about this before and I admit my figures are still from 2005. But here is how we measure up using some standard measures of national health (more details in the linked article):

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

How about the probability of not reaching 60 years old? In the US there is a 12.8% chance of not reaching 60 years old. That is slightly better than Portugal and slightly worse than Albania. Again, we are far wealthier than Portugal or, for god's sake, Albania, but that is where we rank. I have a co-worker from Bulgaria (actually just moving on to a post-doc from being an excellent grad student). His stories as a Bulgarian who once visited Albania make Albania sound pretty damned awful. Yet that is where we rank with our healthcare system. In "socialist" Sweden, a person has only an 8% chance of not reaching 60 years of age. Canada, the UK and the Netherlands all rank better than us on this measure as well.

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

How about respiratory disease child death rate: we are at 40.43...similar to Syria, the Philippines, Armenia, North Korea (yes, NORTH Korea), and Khazakstan. Canada is at 0.62, Japan at 1.52, Netherlands at 0.88, Sweden at 1.03 and United Kingdom at 1.78. Yeah, our children are about 40 times MORE likely to die from respiratory diseas than kids from Sweden, Netherlands, etc. And almost 80 times more likely to die from respiratory diesease than Canadian kids. Yet we pay more for healthcare than ANY of these nations.

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

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

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

Now this is the CURRENT situation: high costs for mediocre outcomes. The time for a change came long ago. But Republicans and the wimpier Democrats have fought against the change we need and instead prefer to continue our system of HIGHEST costs for MEDIOCRE outcomes. It is stupid that we continue this situation.

I expect that kind of stupidity from Republicans whose stupidity has become legendary. But I expect better from Democrats.

Right now Republicans are irrelavent in the debate about reform of healthcare. They are so unpopular they should not be a factor in our calculations. So right now it is key DEMOCRATS who are blocking healthcare reform that would change our current highly expensive, mediocre system into a slighly less but still expensive, but far better system.

And some of those obstructionist Democrats would rather go on vacation than fix this problem. I cannot give blanket donations to a party that thinks their vacations are more important than healthcare.

Don't get me wrong...I will still more or less donate the same amount of money. But it will not be to the DNC or DSCC or DCCC but rather to Democratic organizations or candidates who SPECIFICALLY are fighting for what I believe in. I have been supporting Democrats in a more general way for more than a decade now. And if we still get this vacation BULLSHIT, I think my strategy has been misguided. And maybe I have to focus not on the PARTY, but on specific candidates and specific organizations that I know are doing the right thing.

I am not and never have been a purist. I even like some Blue Dogs (the Sanchez sisters for example). But sometimes I just want a return on my investment. And donating to the party in general is not getting me that return. So, like any investment, I have to reconsider my strategy. And my hope is that the Congressional Democrats will eventually reconsider THEIR strategy and recognize that progressive reforms are what will win elections. But until then, I will be reallocating my resources from the national party to far more specific efforts.

MSNBC's Donnie Deutsch Calls for Glenn Beck Advertiser Boycott

Every now and then I highlight a Fox News advertiser boycott. People often question the usefulness of boycotts. Well, boycotts are a very old tool for protest, used by right and left. These days the right tends to be more tenacious about boycotts than the left, so they tend to get their way more often. The trick to a boycott is to be persistent. It helped during the grape boycott. It helped during the anti-apartheid boycotts. And it helped change the outward, at least, poilcies of Coors. So I push boycotts whenever it seems they are worth it. The Exxon/Mobil and Chevron/Texaco boycotts are the ones I am most persistent about. But pressuring advertisers on their sponsorship of Fox News is another effort I like to push. Remember, Fox News is not doing as well as they used to financially. Advertiser boycotts can be even more effective now than ever. [NOTE: Some advertisers are already backing away from Beck...but they still need to hear from you].

This boycott comes from MSNBC via Daily Kos:

MSNBC's Donnie Deutsch just called (on air!) for advertisers to boycott Glenn Beck for his "Obama is a racist" screed on Fox (faux) News, after Fox News refused to take responsibility for Beck on their station (they said he was entitled to his opinion...).

From Deutsch:

"He called this president a 'racist' and a 'hatred of white people', okay? This has to stop. Here's the only way this stops. The reason this man does this, this Glenn Beck does this, is because it attracts viewers, it creates controversy."

He then calls for a boycott of sponsors of Glenn Beck:

"If you're an African-American or white American who's tired of this kind of talk, write to the CEO's of those companies and say: 'you know what, put it somewhere else on Fox News, I'm not saying take it [your advertising] off of Fox News, take it off this man's show."

And here is a list of advertisers to contact:

Contact information (current as of last wikianswers update):

The Procter & Gamble Company (I found them open to my comments...Please contact them as well)
Chairman: Alan G. (A.G.) Lafley
President, CEO, and Director: Robert A. (Bob) McDonald
CFO: Jon R. Moeller
1 Procter & Gamble Plaza
Cincinnati, OH 45202
OH Tel. 513-983-1100
Fax 513-983-9369
http://www.pg.com/
Contact form: http://pg.custhelp.com/...

General Motors:
Chairman: Edward E. (Ed) Whitacre Jr.
President, CEO, and Director: Frederick A. (Fritz) Henderson
EVP and CFO: Ray G. Young
300 Renaissance Center
Detroit, MI 48265-3000
Contact Media Relations at 888-436-6687 (h/t sueroegge)
MI Tel. 313-556-5000
Contact form: http://www.gm.com/...

Campbell Soup:
Chairman: Harvey Golub
President, CEO, and Director: Douglas R. Conant
SVP, CFO, and Chief Administrative Officer: B. Craig Owens
Campbell Soup Company
1 Campbell Place
Camden, NJ 08103-1799
NJ Tel. 856-342-4800
Toll Free 800-257-8443
Fax 856-342-3878
http://www.campbellsoupcompany.com
Contact form: http://www.campbellsoupcompany.com/...

Chrysler Group LLC:
Chairman: C. Robert (Bob) Kidder
CEO and Director: Sergio Marchionne
SVP and CFO: Ronald E. Kolka
1000 Chrysler Dr.
Auburn Hills, MI 48326-2766
MI Tel. 248-576-5741
Toll Free 800-992-1997
http://www.chryslerllc.com
Contact form: https://www.chryslergroupllc.com/...

Pfizer Inc.
Chairman and CEO: Jeffrey B. (Jeff) Kindler
Chairman Emeritus: William C. Steere Jr.
Chairman Emeritus: M. Anthony Burns
235 E. 42nd St.
New York, NY 10017-5755
NY Tel. 212-573-2323
http://www.pfizer.com
Contact page: http://www.pfizer.com/...

Kellogg Company
Chairman: James M. (Jim) Jenness
President, CEO, and Director: A. D. David Mackay
EVP, COO, and CFO: John A. Bryant
1 Kellogg Sq.
Battle Creek, MI 49016-3599
Contact media at 800-323-0768 (h/t sueroegge)
MI Tel. 269-961-2000
Toll Free 800-962-1413
Fax 269-961-2871
http://www.kelloggcompany.com
Media email: media.hotline@kellogg.com

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Chairman: S. Robson (Rob) Walton
President, CEO, and Director: Michael T. (Mike) Duke
EVP and COO: William S. (Bill) Simon
702 SW 8th St.
Bentonville, AR 72716
AR Tel. 479-273-4000
Fax 479-277-1830
http://www.walmartstores.com
Contact form: http://walmartstores.com/...

Kraft Foods Inc.
Chairman and CEO: Irene B. Rosenfeld
EVP Operations and Business Services: David A. (Dave) Brearton
EVP and CFO: Timothy R. (Tim) McLevish
3 Lakes Dr.
Northfield, IL 60093
Contact #: 1 800 323 0768
IL Tel. 847-646-2000
Fax 847-646-6005
http://www.kraft.com
Contact form: http://www.kraftfoodscompany.com/...

Nestlé USA, Inc.
Chairman and CEO: Brad Alford
SVP and CFO: Dan Stroud
GLOBE Executive and CIO: Kimberly (Kim) Lund
800 N. Brand Blvd.
Glendale, CA 91203
CA Tel. 818-549-6000
Toll Free 800-225-2270
Fax 818-549-6952
http://www.nestleusa.com
Contact form: http://www.nestleusa.com/...

I want to emphasize that Glenn Beck has a Cosntitutional right to say the crap he says. But we also have a Constitutional right to boycott his sponsors. In both cases it is freedom of expression.

Find out more about Glenn Beck's race-baiting, hate speech and lies at Media Matters.

Congressman Anthony Weiner on Healthcare

I know Anthony Weiner. I generally agree with him on issues and disagree with him on local politics. But when he is on the national stage he rocks. Here are two clips (h/t to Daily Kos) where he hits the nail right on the head:

Dr. Howard Dean on Healthcare and Sotomayor

This is footage of Howard Dean's recent visit to NYC (from Culture Kitchen)



And maybe I should mention that the last time Howard Dean visited NYC he did so specifically to endorse a friend of mine, Josh Skaller, for City Council:

BROOKLYN, NY: Clubs, Candidates and Co-ops

Brooklyn has some GREAT candidates running this year that really deserve your support. We also have several excellent political organizations that need your help fighting the deep-rooted corruption that we find in Brooklyn. And, for those who want high quality, excellent food at cheap prices, at the bottom of this page I list three local food co-ops: Park Slope, Flatbush and the new Bay Ridge Food Co-ops.

(NOTE: Eugene Myrick, who I endorsed for Brooklyn Borough President, did not make the ballot, having filed inadequate petitions, including many blank pages).


CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES IN BROOKLYN:

Josh Skaller for City Council.

Josh Skaller is a good friend and a brilliant individual. His integrity and honesty are unmatched, and that is something Brooklyn politics desperately needs. He would be an excellent addition to the City Council.

"Josh has always fought for fiscal responsibility and the progressive solutions needed to reform city government"

--Jim Dean
Chair of Democracy For America (DFA)

Video of Howard Dean (Jim Dean's brother) endorsing Josh Skaller:



Josh has also been endorsed by Assemblyman Jim Brennan, State Senator Eric Adams, Civil Rights attorney (and Public Advocate candidate) Norman Siegel, Joint Council 16, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Teamsters Locals 111, 202, 237, 295, 851 and 854, New York Metro Area Postal Union, APWU, AFL-CIO, SEIU, Special Officers and Guards, Local 177SEIU, Special Officers and Guards, Local 177, Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats, Democracy for New York City, Democracy for America, The New York Community Council, Carroll Gardens Coalition for Respectful Development, and Friends and Residents of Greater Gowanus.

Josh has been a strong voice against Ratner's plan for Atlantic Yards, as well as other unchecked and unwise development projects, believing environmental sustainability is the key to our prosperity. He advocates a stronger community voice in development decisions and making affordable housing a priority in its own right rather than as simply a bone developers throw the city in exchange for massive subsidies and tax breaks.

Josh was the first of the candidates running in this district to take the position of cleaning up Brooklyn’s toxic Gowanus Canal before development progresses. Most other candidates followed his lead with varying degrees of reluctance. You can read a bit more about this issue here (complete with some disgusting pictures my wife took of the canal).

Here's Josh Skaller Speaking Up for Giving REAL Power to the Parents


33rd City Council District: Jo Anne Simon. You can read my detailed rundown of this race here. Jo Anne has been endorsed by Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats, 504 Democrats, and Lambda Independent Democrats. Her main opponent is a lackey of party boss Vito Lopez and is anti-reform. Here is an interesting article on Jo Anne Simon and Judge Sotomayor

Jo Anne Simon has been endorsed by many people and organizations I respect, including Congresswoman Nydia Velasquez, State Senators Eric Adams and Velmanette Montgomery, City Councilmember Letitia James, Assembly members Joan Millman and Jim Brennan, Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats, LAMBDA Independent Democrats, NYC Community Council and 504 Democrats.

35th City Council District: Letitia James wholeheartedly. An amazing woman! She has two mediocre challengers, but no one can stop this excellent woman!

36th City Council District: There are two candidates I have heard good things about. Saquan Jones and Mark Winston Griffith. I am not endorsing in this race, but I do recommend people check out both of these two gentleman and give the one you prefer some support.

40th City Council District: Rock Hackshaw. He is a fellow blogger and his knowledge of Brooklyn politics is amazing. I differ with this guy on some issues. But I know him and his honesty and integrity are exceptional and I think he would be an excellent City Councilman. Since he is running against a guy who lies about being a doctor and is as strange and squirrely as you can get, Rock would be a very welcome change. Rock Hackshaw is one of the best people running this year and I strongly urge people to support him. If you want honesty in government, THIS GUY is the number one person to deliver honesty.

45th City Council District: Two candidates I like. First Terry Hinds. I have three people giving very good recommendations for this guy. But I also think Rod Daley is good and represents a chance to get another educator on the city council.


PLASTIC RECYCLING IN BROOKLYN:

Recycling of plastics not accepted in the city recycling can be done at the Park Slope Food Co-op at 782 Union Street (between 6th and 7th Avenues)

Bring clean, dry plastic to the Coop's sidewalk during monthly recycling hours. We close up promptly. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the collection end time to allow for inspection and sorting of your plastic:

2nd Sat., 10 AM-2 PM
3rd Thur., 7 PM-9 PM
Last Sun., 10 AM-2 PM.

As of 2/16/09 and until further notice, we collect....

* #1 and #6 transparent plastics (Labels OK. Mouth is wide or wider than the body, meaning NOT bottles.)
* #5 plastic tubs, cups & specifically marked lids and caps. Must be especially clean and dry. (Discard any with paper labels, or cut the labels off.)
* Plastic film and bubble wrap. 100% transparent only -- must be able to see through the plastic. No colored or opaque. No paper labels. Minimal writing OK.

All the above must be brought to the Coop CLEAN AND DRY.

Note: We are no longer accepting #2 or #4 type plastics.

These changes result from a significant decline in the worldwide market for recyclable materials that has affected recycling programs everywhere. Please be patient and cooperate with us as we adjust to these changes, as well as to any further changes that may be necessary.

We are currently updating our literature and will make new fliers available as soon as possible. Or, contact us at plasticrecycling@foodcoop.com.

And on a related note, you can help increase the demand for recycled plastic products by shopping through these companies that specialize in recycled plastic products (including lumber!!).


Friends & Residents of Greater Gowanus (FROGG)

We are a community based grass-roots organization advocating for environmentally sound community planning for the Gowanus Canal neighborhoods.

The Gowanus Canal is a very unique resource for our community and all of New York. It has long historal significant as a pre-industrial and industrial transportation waterway in addition to playing a significant roll in the Battle of Brooklyn. This natural tidal estuary connects our urban world to the waters that surround us and opens our city to the natural habitat it was built upon. Even today, it provides an open sky, early industrial/estuary landscape that can not be matched anywhere in our city.

With extensive urban Brownfields and an Aquatic Brownfield standing, we work to see this water way brought back to life with water quality standards that sincerely meet state standards for fishable and contact use; not only for the community but also for local wildlife.

For more information: FROGGcommunity@earthlink.net


BROOKLYN REFORM DEMOCRATIC ORGANIZATIONS:

Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats is a community-based Democratic club. CBID has fought for reform and progressive causes since 1968. As a Brooklyn-based Club, we have been instrumental in the election of many candidates for public office. Much of this success was a result of our question-and-answer forums with prospective candidates as well as our extensive on-the-street contact with our constituents.

Staunchly opposed to political corruption, we are proud of our independence and our commitment to progressive reform in city, state and national politics. We are a vehicle for citizen empowerment and making government more accountable to our neighborhoods.

We meet monthly, usually the fourth Thursday evening of the month in the basement of the Park Slope United Methodist Church, on the corner of 6th ave and 8th street, at 7:30pm. All are welcome.

New Kings Democrats (”NKD”) is a new, grassroots organization in Kings County (Brooklyn), New York whose primary mission is to recruit and prepare individuals to run for Kings County Democratic Committee. NKD hopes to achieve the goal of an inclusionary and participatory democracy by making it easy for individuals to run for local, elected office. NKD will serve as a training ground for individuals seeking higher office, and hopes to build and nurture a new group of Brooklyn Democratic leaders.

Democracy for NYC in Brooklyn:

Democracy for New York City (DFNYC) is a volunteer-driven non-profit politicalaction committee. We are part of a national coalition of local groups committed to the ideals espoused by Democracy for America, the organization founded by Howard Dean.

We work both locally and nationally to ensure that fiscally-responsible and socially-progressive candidates win elections at all levels of government. We develop innovative ways to advocate for the issues that matter to our members and promote legislation which has a positive effect in our communities. We engage people in the political process and give them the tools to organize, communicate, mobilize, and enact change on the local, state, and national level.

Currently there is only one Brooklyn chapter:

Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn - Meets First Wednesday of every month. 7:00pm, Wyckoff-Bennett Homestead 1669 E. 22nd St. with host Annette Mont and Estelle Glasser.


DRINKING LIBERALLY IN BROOKLYN:

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

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


FOOD CO-OPS IN BROOKLYN:

New Food Co-op Coming to Brooklyn: (info sent to me by a reader)

They are not active yet, but their website is: http://www.foodcoopbayridge.com

They are recruiting new members and looking to open summer/fall 2010.

For more info, and if you want to get in at the start, you can email ( fcbrmembership@gmail.com ), call ( 347-247-8172 ) or follow them on Twitter (twitter.com/thefoodcoop) or on Facebook.

Park Slope Food Co-op
782 Union Street
Brooklyn, New York 11215
Phone: (718) 622-0560
FAX: (718) 622-5685
linda_wheeler@psfc.coop
http://www.foodcoop.com/

This is the largest Food Co-op in America. Joy and I are members (as are City Council Candidates Ken Baer and Josh Skaller). Low prices and high quality even if it can be a bit inconvenient at times.

Flatbush Food Cooperative
1318 Cortelyou Road
Brooklyn, New York 11226
Phone: (718) 284-9717
FAX: (718) 284-9719
info@flatbushfoodcoop.com
http://www.flatbushfoodcoop.com/

Established in 1976, and located on Cortelyou Road in the heart of Victorian Flatbush since 1985, Flatbush Food Coop is a community-owned, full-service natural foods store specializing in organic products. We are committed to serving the diverse community in which we are situated, and beyond, by providing goods and services that promote personal and environmental well-being. Like the 300 food coops across the nation with which we are affiliated, we are open to all—it is not necessary to be a member to shop. By joining the Coop, however, you become a joint owner of our business and are able to take additional savings on your purchases. There are opportunities for varying degrees of involvement in the coop, and our member-owners are able to influence the direction of our organization. We are particularly proud that the dozens of ethnic groups in Brooklyn’s most diverse neighborhood are reflected in our staff, our close to 3,000 members, and countless shoppers.

QUEENS, NY: Democracy for America, Candidates and Drinking Liberally

Some reminders about Slasher Monserrate, one of the traitors who stopped reform in Albany:

Constituents of dissident Dems are angry, confused...really bad idea to piss off your constituents

The Facts on Hiram Monserrate

Marty Golden: Monserrate should resign

Hiram Monserrate: Queens City Douchebag

Hiram Monster Rat


CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES IN QUEENS:

19th City Council District: Steve Behar. I have met Steve at several Democracy for NYC events. Great guy who has worked tirelessly for progressives in NYC and throughout the state.

Here's Steve discussing Small Business:



Steve Behar has been endorsed by the current City Councilman (and mayoral candidate) Tony Avella as well as by Democracy for NYC, Democracy for America, Queens County Progressive Democratic Club, The New York Community Council, Democrats for New Politics, and 3-decade Civil Rights champion (and Public Advocate candidate) Norman Siegel.

Meanwhile, Steve Behar's opponent, Paul Vallone, has been endorsed by...REPUBLICANS! And Vallone has sought the Conservative Party line. This is a prime reason to elect Behar. We do NOT need a DINO elected to City Council in NYC. Vallone also seems confused about what district he votes in.


Marquez Claxton for City Council: A former NYC Police Officer and co-founder of 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care, Marq Claxton is running for the City Council District 31 seat in Queens. He is currently the chair of the Public Safety Committee for Community Board 13. He has been endorsed by Eric Adams (who I know and respect) and is being considered by the Working Families Party as a candidate. While Claxton's opponent, James Saunders, has received a FAILING score from the NY League of Conservation Voters, Marq Claxton has picked up an amazing range of endorsements (see, for example, these recent endorsements from both establishment and reform groups).

Here is State Senator Eric Adam's endorsement statement:



MARQUEZ CLAXTON ON ROCKAWAY RADIO


Daniel Dromm for City Council: a public school teacher running for the City Council District 25 seat in Queens. He was a founder of the Lesbian and Gay Democratic Club of Queens and chapter leader of United Federation of Teachers, PS 199Q. He has been endorsed by the United Federation of Teachers, Mark Green, and others. WFP seem to be considering him as well. Dromm received the "Community Service Impact Award" from the Times Ledger Newspapers (2006), the "Outstanding Teacher of the Year" PS 199Q Principal's Award (2006), and the "Citation of Honor" from the Queens Borough President (1995). Seems like exactly the experience we need on the City Council.

Here is a video of Daniel Dromm at Pride '09:




Mel Gagarin: 29th City Council District

This guys sounds pretty exciting given his experience. From his website:

Melquiades Gagarin was born in Elmhurst, Queens to a diverse family background. Mel was raised by his grandmother and mother, a nurse, who emphasized the value of hard work and service to others. Mel carries these values with him into his campaign to represent the 29th Council District.

Mel is a graduate of Archbishop Molloy High School, in Jamaica and received his degree in Political Science from the American University in Washington D.C. After graduation Mel worked for the National Foundation for Women Legislators, a non-profit organization that assists female state legislators develop leadership skills.

In the fall of 2005, Mel and his future wife Aleda returned to New York and moved to Kew Gardens where they would start their family. Mel served as the Communications Liaison to New York State Senator José Serrano before being hired by Congressman Anthony Weiner as his Community Representative. As the Congressman’s Community Representative Mel was dedicated to assisting constituents and working to solve their problems.

Mel now serves as the Media Manager for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, where he is responsible for spreading the organization’s message of equality and justice for all Americans. He lives in Kew Gardens with his wife Aleda, son Micah, and daughter Zoe Frances.

And a video from his website:



24th City Council District: Jim Gennaro. Excellent environmental advocate pushing for more biodiesel in NYC to reduce pollution, and a strong advocate for preserving the safety of our drinking water. No campaign website that I can find, but he is a good guy.


Lesbian & Gay Democratic Club of Queens

The Lesbian & Gay Democratic Club of Queens (LGDCQ) is the only lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender independent Democratic club in the Borough of Queens.

The LGDCQ was founded eleven years ago to increase the visibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities in the political arena of Queens, New York City, New York State and the nation.

To receive the monthly newsletter or to be put on the Club's mailing list contact;
Democratic District Leader Daniel Dromm at
Write "LGDCQ Newsletter" in subject title.


Democracy for NYC in Queens:

Democracy for New York City (DFNYC) is a volunteer-driven non-profit political action committee. We are part of a national coalition of local groups committed to the ideals espoused by Democracy for America, the organization founded by Howard Dean.

We work both locally and nationally to ensure that fiscally-responsible and socially-progressive candidates win elections at all levels of government. We develop innovative ways to advocate for the issues that matter to our members and promote legislation which has a positive effect in our communities. We engage people in the political process and give them the tools to organize, communicate, mobilize, and enact change on the local, state, and national level.

Currently there are three Brooklyn chapters: Each meets the First Wednesday of every month.

Astoria, Queens - 7:30pm, - Ommonia Cafe 32-20 Broadway, with host Jeremiah Frei-Pearson and Costa Constantinides.

Sunnyside, Queens - 7:30pm, Bliss Street Station restaurant, 47-02 Greenpoint Ave., with host Dan Jacoby.

Bayside, Queens - 7:00pm, The First Edition, 41-08 Bell Blvd, right near the LIRR stop, with host Steve Behar of Democrats for New Politics.


DRINKING LIBERALLY IN QUEENS:

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

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

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS: Blogs, 2009 Candidates, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

New York's Congressional Reps and Healthcare:

Some of our state's Reps need to hear from us to get healthcare reform passed. Here are some articles/open letters to NY State Congressional Reps. If these are your Reps, please contact them!

5 NY Democrats are blocking healthcare: fight back!

An Open Letter To Rep Scott Murphy On Health Care Reform

Nydia Velazquez: Please Support a Strong Public Option

If you want healthcare reform, contact these Congressional reps now!


NEW YORK BLOGGING:

The Albany Project gives excellent coverage of New York State politics.

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

Reform NY is the blog of the Brennan Center for Justice at NYU School of Law

No Land Grab: News from the point of view of Brooklyn opposition to overdevelopment

True News from ChangeNYC.Org: ChangeNYC.Org is an organization unifying our City’s Democratic Party by welcoming all New Yorkers back into the political process. We are a coalition of real, everyday New Yorkers – young voters, progressives, neighborhood leaders, community bloggers, good government groups, and even conservatives – who believe that in cooperation we can bring the change to our City that together we have begun to bring to our nation.


Let me highlight some excellent candidates running in New York in 2009: (also see my borough specific sections where I also discuss candidates)

Norm Siegel for Public Advocate
Norman Siegel would be, without any doubt, the best Public Advocate possible for NYC. He has 40 years experience as a civil rights lawyer and already takes on the causes of 9/11 widows, firefighters, bloggers, and just about anyone who needs help defending their rights and liberties. He has so far been endorsed by Democracy for NYC, Room 8 Blogger Rock Hackshaw, State Senator Eric Adams, New York Metro Area Postal Union, Three Parks Independent Democrats, Broadway Democrats, Village Independent Democrats, Village Reform Democratic Club, Park River Independent Democrats, New York Community Council, the Audubon Reform Democratic Club, Brooklyn Democrats for Change, and the Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats.

The only poll so far done on this race shows Norm Siegel in second place, just ahead of the much better funded, establishment and pro-developer candidate Bill DeBlasio. This is an excellent showing for Norm, and if he can hold that position he can make it to a runoff.

Go here to read Norman Siegel's statement on declaring the Gowanus canal a superfund site to clean it up.

Here's a link to Norm Siegel on NY1.

And here is Youtube footage of Norm Siegel and the NYC Coalition To Preserve Term Limits Press Conference:



John Liu For Comptroller

The race for comptroller includes four candidates. Only two of those candidates have financial experience: David Weprin and John Liu. Of the two, I find Liu the more progressive and more appealing, though both are qualified. I also like Liu because he is a science nerd turned politician (he got his degree in mathematical physics). That endears him to Joy and myself.

I was among the first (John says I WAS the first) to endorse Liu. In a recent poll, John Liu is the clear leader...though there are still more than 50% undecided. This means this is a race we can most affect because so few people have paid attention to it.

I should note that my son has taken a particular liking to John Liu, and he has had a pretty good sense of who's a good person. John Liu has also been endorsed by 504 Democratic Club (disabled rights), American Heritage Democratic Club (Bay Ridge, Brooklyn), Barack Obama Democratic Club of Upper Manhattan, Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats (the club Joy is an officer of), Democratic Organization of Richmond County, East Harlem United Democrats, El Nuevo Caribe Democratic Club of El Barrio/East Harlem, Gramercy Stuyvesant Independent Democrats, Councilwoman Letitia James, Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, Jim Owles Liberal Democratic Club, Lambda Independent Democratic Club, Lambda Independent Democrats, Lesbian and Gay Democratic Club of Queens, Martin Luther King Democrats, Rosa Parks Democrats, Staten Island Democratic Association, Stonewall Democrats of New York City...whew, and MANY more. But I was first!

You can read more abuot John here.


More Races: Here is my updated list of races I am targeting. There are lots of important races I highlight all over the city. If we want change locally, this list is a good start.


Alternative Energy in NY State:

Here are some stats from Repower America:

* A $2 billion investment by Spanish energy company, Iberdrola, will double New York's 1,000-megawatt wind capacity to 2,000-megawatts - providing enough electricity for nearly 600,000 homes.

* New York's energy efficiency programs save enough electricity to power almost 115,000 homes for a whole year, save almost $140 million in energy costs, and prevent the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking over 60,000 cars off the road. Although great progress, the state still has much more potential to increase its energy efficiency.

* The state has a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) that requires all public utilities to generate 24% of their electricity from renewable energy resources by 2013.

What you can do for Clean Energy:

For pennies per month more than you currently pay for energy you can buy 100% green energy from Con-Ed. Joy and I have been doing it for years, seriously reducing our carbon footprint and giving NY State cleaner air. Here's how it works:

Clean Energy for Residential & Small Business Customers ConEdison Solutions is leading the way in promoting pollution-free electricity by offering WIND and GREEN Power - clean, 100% renewable power. Instead of drawing on traditional power sources, such as nuclear power and fossil fuel sources, GREEN Power is generated from regional wind and low-impact hydropower sources. GREEN Power is composed of 65% run-of-the-river hydro and 35% wind power. See content label WIND Power is composed of electricity exclusively generated from 100% wind power. The benefit of clean energy is that it produces none of the detrimental environmental effects associated with electricity production that results in air emissions.

ConEdison Solutions is committed to making a difference in the environment and together we have the opportunity to help make a powerful impact. The cost for renewable energy has fallen dramatically in recent years and is only a fraction higher than electricity generated from traditional power sources. ConEdison Solutions' GREEN Power costs only an additional one cent per kilowatt-hour (kWh) more than our standard offer and WIND Power is an additional 2.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) more than our standard offer. Upgrading to renewable energy makes a difference and is a very affordable way to show that you care about the future of our environment.

To sign up GO HERE. Or call: 1-888-320-8991. You won't regret switching.


Here are a handful of Organizations worth checking out:

The Environmental Business Association is the not-for-profit trade association dedicated to supporting the growth of the environmental industry in New York State. Specifically, we help to promote and serve serving the industry sectors of Climate Change, Greening Communities, Energy and WALCE (Water-Agriculture-Land Use-Conservation-Environmental). News here. Events list here (not recently updated).

NY Citizens for Clean Elections: We are committed to passage of Clean Money Clean Election legislation in NYS that provides a non-partisan approach for full public funding of campaigns for all qualified candidates who refuse private money and abide by spending limits. We want to ensure that all Americans, regardless of wealth, have an equal voice in the political system and that qualified candidates are not discouraged from running because they do not have access to the money needed for a competitive campaign.

The Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats is a community-based Democratic club. CBID has fought for reform and progressive causes since 1968. As a Brooklyn-based Club, we have been instrumental in the election of many candidates for public office. Much of this success was a result of our question-and-answer forums with prospective candidates as well as our extensive on-the-street contact with our constituents.

Staunchly opposed to political corruption, we are proud of our independence and our commitment to progressive reform in city, state and national politics. We are a vehicle for citizen empowerment and making government more accountable to our neighborhoods.

We meet monthly, usually the fourth Thursday evening of the month in the basement of the Park Slope United Methodist Church, on the corner of 6th ave and 8th street, at 7:30pm. All are welcome.

New Kings Democrats (”NKD”) is a new, grassroots organization in Kings County (Brooklyn), New York whose primary mission is to recruit and prepare individuals to run for Kings County Democratic Committee. NKD hopes to achieve the goal of an inclusionary and participatory democracy by making it easy for individuals to run for local, elected office. NKD will serve as a training ground for individuals seeking higher office, and hopes to build and nurture a new group of Brooklyn Democratic leaders.

Stonewall Democrats of Western New York is the GLBT Democratic voice in WNY. Our mission is to advocate for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) community within the Democratic Party and to encourage GLBT participation within the Democratic Party. Our membership includes representatives from State, County, and City government, and several Democratic committee members amongst the various County Committees in WNY.


DEMOCRACY FOR AMERICA MEETINGS IN NY STATE:

Democracy For The Southern Adirondack/Tricounty Area. You can also check out their website here.

Democracy For The Greater Glens Falls Area

dfaROCHESTER. And you can check out their website here.

Democracy for the Hudson-Mohawk Region. And you can join their Yahoo group here.

Capital District of NY/GenDFA

Democracy for the Hudson Valley

Mid-Hudson Progressive Alliance

Democracy For Westchester

Democracy for Long Island. You can also join their Yahoo group here.

North Country Democracy for America

Central New York DFA

Eastern Long Island Democracy for America

Democracy For Saratoga Springs

Kingston Democracy for America

Democracy for Otsego and Delaware Counties

Philipstown for Democracy

DFA: Greene County

Livingston County for Democracy


DEMOCRACY FOR NYC MEETINGS:
First Wednesday of every month.

Upper West Side - 7:00 pm, The Parlour (back room) - 250 West 86th Street (btwn B'way and West End Ave.), with hosts Bernadette Evangelist and Sally Swisher.

West Village - 7:00pm, Kettle of Fish, 59 Christopher St. (near 7th Ave.) with host Tracey Keij-Denton.

Astoria, Queens - 7:30pm, - Ommonia Cafe 32-20 Broadway, with host Jeremiah Frei-Pearson and Costa Constantinides.

Sunnyside, Queens - 7:30 pm, Bliss Street Station restaurant, 47-02 Greenpoint Ave., with host Dan Jacoby.

Bayside, Queens - 7:00 pm, The First Edition, 41-08 Bell Blvd, right near the LIRR stop, with host Steve Behar of Democrats for New Politics.

Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn - 7:00pm, Wyckoff-Bennett Homestead 1669 E. 22nd St. with host Annette Mont and Estelle Glasser.


DRINKING LIBERALLY MEETINGS IN NY STATE:

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

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


New York City, New York:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Silicon Valley Area, CA Biodiesel, Groups, Events and Food Co-ops

I want to cover some Biodiesel stations, events, Democratic Clubs, and Co-ops in the greater Silicon Valley area.

Biodiesel: Biodiesel is an American produced fuel that is cleaner than traditional diesel. Up to B20 (a 20% blend of biodiesel and traditional diesel) any diesel engine, car or truck, can run on it. Above B20, some older engines may have problems but newer diesel engines should be ok. Here are some gas stations in the Silicon Valley area that offer biodiesel:

Rotten Robbie: 310 N Whisman Rd, Mountain View, CA 94043, 650-965-2609. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine). Open 6AM-10PM

Rotten Robbie: 1304 Piedmont Rd, San Jose, CA 95132, 408-259-5535. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine). Open 6AM-11PM.

Bay Area Biofuel: email biodieselperformance@gmail.com for info and an appt

Western States Oil Company: 1790 S 10th St, San Jose, CA 95112, 408-292-1041. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open 7AM-5PM M-F.

The Green Station: 136 Gilman Ave, Campbell, CA 95008, 831-425-9100. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open TUES, THURS, FRI 4-7.

Autopia Biofuels: 1025 S Railroad Ave, San Mateo, CA 94402, 650-571-1863. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open M-F 8AM-7PM (CLOSED WEDS/SUNS) SA 1PM-4PM.

Mountain Feed and Farm Supply: 9550 Highway 9, Ben Lomond, CA 95005, 831-336-8876. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open M-S 9AM-6PM SUN 10-2

SF Oakland Truck Stop: 8255 San Leandro Street, Oakland, CA 94621, 510-569-1624. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open M-F, 4AM-11PM; SAT. 6AM-10PM; SUN. 7AM-10PM

The Green Station: 433 Ocean Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95061, 831-425-9100. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel engines, may not be good in some older engines). Open 10-6 DAILY

USA Grown Fuels: 2680 Soquel Ave. Santa Cruz, CA 95062, 831-476-3653. Offers B5 (good for any diesel engine). Open 24 HOURS A DAY / 7 DAYS A WEEK; MUST BE MEMBER


Here are some events (from the Silicon Valley Democracy for America calendar and the Santa Clara County Democrats calendar):


"Dean club" get-together
Event Date: Aug 5, 2009
Event Time: 7:00 PM PDT (10:00 PM EDT)
City: Palo Alto or Los Altos, usually
State: CA
Phone: 650-380-4112

Regular first-Wednesday meeting of the Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley. We usually meet in a private home in Palo Alto or Los Altos.

Sign up here for more info.

Santa Clara County Democratic Central Committee
08/06/2009 7:00pm
County Building Cafeteria, 70 W. Hedding St., Central San Jose

Monthly meeting of the Santa Clara County Democratic Party. The meeting agenda can be viewed at http://sccdp.org/sccdcc.php

Zoe Lofgren's Annual BBQ
08/09/2009 1:00pm
History Park, 1650 Senter Road, Central San Jose

Join Zoe Lofgren for her annual BBQ fundraiser, from 1-4 pm on the first Sunday in August. For more information: www.lofgrenforcongress.com/upcomingevents

PDC Potluck Picnic
08/22/2009 5:00pm
Shoup Park, 400 University Avenue, Los Altos, North County

The Peninsula Democratic Coalition (PDC) Potluck Picnic is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, from 5 to 8 p.m. Expected guests include elected officials and candidates. The picnic features good food, brief speeches, and silent auctions. We will also have children's activities, so bring the children! The picnic is a POTLUCK with enough food to make a meal. We request a $5 contribution at the door (free for the children). Hot dogs, wine, beer and soft drinks will be available; you are asked to bring a potluck dish to share (appetizer, main dish, salad, or desert – your choice). No reservations or RSVP required.

DFA first-Wednesday get-together
Event Date: Sep 2, 2009
Event Time: 7:00 PM PDT (10:00 PM EDT)
City: Palo Alto or Los Altos, usually
State: CA
Phone: 650-380-4112

Sign up here for more info.


SILICON VALLEY DEMOCRATIC CLUBS: This list comes from the Santa Clara County Democratic Club website:

Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley. The Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley is an alliance in Silicon Valley, California dedicated to the issues brought forth by Gov. Howard Dean, M.D., his cause and his message of progressive, positive change. dfasv.org, www.dfalink.com/siliconvalley, Co-Chairs; Spandan Chakrabarti, Alice Smith. Contact deanclub_at_sccdp.org

Obama Democratic Club of Silicon Valley. A club of volunteers from the 2008 Barack Obama campaign and local arm of Organizing for America. Members of this club will continue to promote Obama's policies and priorities. Peter Allen, President, obama_at_sccdp.org. sites.google.com/site/obamadcsv/

Silicon Valley Asian Pacific American Democratic Club. SVAPADC was founded in 1996 to foster member participation at all levels of the Democratic Party. Our goals are to unify and empower the Asian Pacific American (APA) communities; ensure fair representation of the APA's interests; and educate and promote political participation. Contact Buu Thai at apa_at_sccdp.org. The club's homepage is svapadc.org.

Silicon Valley Democratic Club. Formerly known as the Moorpark Democratic, the Silicon Valley Democratic club prides itself in developing a growing and diverse community with an organized and unifying voice in the political arena. The Club provides a forum for its members to focus, discuss, prioritize positions and promote important issues to our diverse community. Working together, our members help to elect Democratic candidates in local, state, and national elections. Clarence Madrilejos, moorpark_at_sccdp.org. www.moorparkdems.org

Silicon Valley Latino Democratic Forum. A venue for local Latinos to become active in the Democratic Party. Javier Gonzalez, svldf_at_sccdp.org.

Silicon Valley LGBT Democratic Club. Dedicated to providing a grassroots channel for the political participation of like-minded lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered Democrats. President: David Parker, lgbt_at_sccdp.org. Visit the club on the web at http://www.lgbtdems.org.

Silicon Valley Young Democrats. SVYD serves Democrats under 36 years old from throughout the Silicon Valley. We provide networking, social, and personal growth opportunities for young people dedicated to progressive ideals. President: Julie Lind, svyd_at_sccdp.org. Visit the club's website at svyd.org.


SILICON VALLEY AREA FOOD CO-OPS: These are the only ones I could find near Silicon Valley, though they are all somewhat peripheral

Kresge Food Co-op
600 Kresge CT, Kresge College UCSC
Santa Cruz, California 95064
Phone: (831) 426-1506
coop@dv8.org
http://k9.dv8.org/~coop/

The Kresge Food Coop is a student-run cooperative health food store located at Kresge College on the University of California, Santa Cruz campus. We currently consist of twelve Core Collective Members who own the coop and are responsible for its daily operations and for any number of working members. This page has been created in order to better serve our community. Through this page you can email the coop, learn about our Core Collective Members, sign up to be a working member, make suggestions, check sales, read and reread our newsletter, and browse our links to other coops and health food stores.

The Cooperative Grocery (The CoG)
1450 67th Street
Emeryville, California 95616
Phone: (510) 868-2883
FAX: (510) 868-2893
info@thecog.org
http://www.thecog.org/

The Cooperative Grocery—The CoG—is a non-profit, working members cooperative that offers high-quality groceries at an affordable price to individuals and families in our community.

Members of The CoG work 2 1/2 hours every 4 weeks, performing jobs like stocking shelves, building orders and providing member services. By providing much of the labor for the store, our members keep our operating costs to a minimum. We then pass the savings onto our members in the form of lower prices. Our model is based on the successful Park Slope Food Co-Op in Brooklyn, NY, which serves 13,000 members.

To further control costs and grow our co-op in a responsible manner, we launched the CoG as an online store that is served from a warehouse located in Emeryville, with easy access to communities in Berkeley and Oakland. Our long term plan is to build a retail business as finances allow.

Bolinas Peoples Store
P. O. Box 808
Bolinas, California 94924
Phone: (415) 868-1433
FAX: (415) 868-1219

Rainbow Grocery Co-op
1745 Folsom
San Francisco, California 94103
Phone: (415) 863-0620
FAX: (415) 863-8955
comments@rainbowgrocery.coop
http://www.rainbow.coop/

We have been in San Francisco's Mission District since 1975. We strive to offer resources, education and a forum for informational exchange for many local communities and organizations.

Rainbow Grocery is open every day from 9AM to 9PM

We are located in San Francisco's Mission District at 1745 Folsom Street. Our cross street is 13th Street (also known as Duboce), which runs directly under the central freeway. Use the map below for directions by car. Click here for Public Transit directions. Click here for bicycling directions.

Other Avenues Community Food Store
3930 Judah Street
San Francisco, California 94122
Phone: (415) 661-7475
FAX: (415) 661-0835
info@otheravenues.org
http://www.otheravenues.org/

San Diego, CA Events

Biodiesel is one of the alternatives I have been pushing for some time. It can be used in any diesel engine, is less polluting and has a smaller carbon footprint than regular diesel.

Here are some gas stations that offer biodiesel in the San Diego area:

Carr's Car Center: 3940 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA 92054, 760-433-2166. Offers B5 (5% biodiesel, good for any diesel engine). Open M-SAT 6AM-6PM.

Soco Group: 145 Vernon Way, El Cajon, CA 92020, 858-627-0440. Offers B20 (20% biodiesel, good for any diesel engine). Open 7 AM - 5PM M-F.

Pearson Ford/RTC Fuels: 4067 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92105, 619-243-0456. Offers B99 (99% biodiesel, good for new engines, some old engines not ok). Open 7AM-10PM.


Here is a great calendar of events for San Deigo, California, thanks to the San Diego County Democrats:

San Diego Democracy For America Meetup (SD DFA) meeting. Wednesday, August 5th, social at 6:00, meeting at 7:00 pm, social at 6:00, meeting at 7:00 pm. Giovanni's Restaurant, 9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. 92123 (Corner of Clairemont Mesa Blvd and Ruffin Rd. across from Registrar of Voters). Info: Carol (858) 459-7044. or cchangus@san.rr.com.

East County Caucus For The San Diego County Democratic Party Central Committee meeting. Saturday, August 8th, 9:30 to 11:00 am. At CWA Local 9400 Union Hall, 566 E. Main Street, El Cajon 92020. Info: Christopher Pearson chrispearson11@hotmail.com

Mesa Democratic Club's Annual Pot Luck. Saturday, August, 8th, noon to 4:00 pm. Members, friends, electeds and candidates welcome. Newt & Laura will share their lovely home at 3829 Sioux Ave in Clairemont. Bring your favorite dish. Info: president@mesa.sddem.org

The Escondido Democratic Club meeting. Thursday, August 13th, 7:00 pm. The topic will be wastewater disposal, with guest speakers from the City of Escondido and the Escondido Creek Conservancy. At the Joslyn Senior Center, 210 Park Ave. in Escondido. Light refreshments. Info: Rick Moore at communications@escondidodems.org or 760-740-8595.

Council of Clubs meeting. Saturday, August 15th, 10:00 am. Monthly meeting of Democratic Club leadership at SDCDP Headquarters, 8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Ste. 108. Info: clubs@sddemocrats.org

Democratic Club of Carlsbad-Oceanside Summer Fundraiser. Sunday, August 16th, 1 - 5 PM. Catered buffet from Tuscany Restaurant-Carlsbad. Many excellent auction items. Featured speaker: Ferial Masry from Ventura County, a writer, educator, and mother of an Iraqi soldier. Ms. Masry is hoping to be the first Saudi-American woman elected to the California State Assembly, running for the 37th A.D. in next year's elections. At the Carlsbad Woman's Club, 3320 Monroe St., Carlsbad (4 blocks east of Freeway off Carlsbad Village Dr., in the Carlsbad High School area.). Info: Kathi Carbone, 760-521-2286, kcfc@cox.net.

Naturalization Ceremony Voter Registration. Wednesday, August 19th, from 10:10 am to noon. Volunteers are needed to help register newly naturalized citizens on Join the other volunteers at Golden Hall, Corner of 3rd and B Street. Parking at Horton Plaza. RSVP to Greg Bolan at sdvoter@gmail.com. Note: The San Diego Voter Registration team uses Google Groups to send out volunteer emails. To receive these emails click HERE, and then click on "Join This Group."

San Diego Democracy For America Meetup (SD DFA) meeting. Wednesday, September 2nd, 7:00 - 8:45 pm (social at 6:00 pm). Councilmember Donna Frye will discuss issues before the SD City Council. At Giovanni's Restaurant, 9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, SD 92123 (Corner of Clairemont Mesa Blvd and Ruffin Rd. across from Registrar of Voters). Info: Carol (858) 459-7044. or cchangus@san.rr.com.

San Diego County Democratic Central Committee meeting. Tuesday, September 15th, at 7:00 pm. In the Basement Conference Room of the State of California Building, 1350 Front St. (Corner of Ash and Front Streets). Note: Use Union Street entrance. MAP. Our meetings are open to the public and you are welcome to attend! Info.: 858.277.3367 or info@sddemocrats.org.

Council of Clubs meeting. Saturday, September 19th, 10:00 am. Monthly meeting of Democratic Club leadership at SDCDP Headquarters, 8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Ste. 108. Info: clubs@sddemocrats.org

Naturalization Ceremony Voter Registration. Wednesday, September 23rd, from 10:10 am to noon. Volunteers are needed to help register newly naturalized citizens on Join the other volunteers at Golden Hall, Corner of 3rd and B Street. Parking at Horton Plaza. RSVP to Greg Bolan at sdvoter@gmail.com. Note: The San Diego Voter Registration team uses Google Groups to send out volunteer emails. To receive these emails click HERE, and then click on "Join This Group."

San Diego County Democratic Convention. Saturday, September 26th. In what promises to be San Diego's largest Democratic campaign event of the year, the daylong County Convention will feature workshops, policy forums, networking opportunities, and appearances by candidates for statewide and local office. For the first time, the San Diego County Democratic Party will be holding our convention jointly with the California Democratic Council, the statewide association of Democratic clubs and county committees. At the historic Naval Training Center Promenade in Point Loma. Online registration for the Convention will open in July. For more information contact the County Democratic Party at (858) 277-3367 or info@sddemocrats.org.


SAN DIEGO FOOD CO-OPS:

Ocean Beach People's Organic Food Co-op
4765 Voltaire St.
San Diego, California 92107
Phone: (619) 224-1387
FAX: (619) 224-5089
editor@oceanbeachpeoples.com
http://www.obpeoplesfood.coop

Ocean Beach People's Organic Food Market is a member-owned vegetarian consumer co-op that has been serving the community since 1971. Originally a worker's collective, the cooperative has grown to include 6000 feet of retail space and more than 8000 member/owners. The Co-op offers an extensive selection of organic produce, grocery, dairy, and bulk foods and herbs, as well as vitamins and homeopathics, cruelty-free bodycare, and aromatherapy products. Enjoy a full service sit-down deli featuring a delicious selection of home-style vegetarian and vegan entrees, salads, sandwiches, freshly prepared baked goods, desserts, and more! At People's, San Diego's only community owned grocery store, we specialize in products that are organic, wholesome, minimally processed, cruelty-free, and environmentally safe.

They also have a good community events calendar.

The UCSD Food Coop
0323F Student Cooperative Center,
San Diego, California 92093
Phone: (619) 546-8339
foodcoop@burn.ucsd.edu

I used to shop at this one way, way back when I went to UCSD. It was great then!

Since its introduction to the campus in 1978, the Food Co-op has committed itself to providing the UCSD community with a natural food alternative, as well as a resource for environmentally conscious products and information.

The Food Co-op carries a variety of food and non-food products ranging from baked goods, juices, sandwiches, fresh organic produce, macro-biotic and ethnic foods to cruelty-free cosmetics and environmentally safe cleaning agents. Many foods are stocked in bulk to reduce the price to the customer and the waste of packaging (please bring bags when buying!). Special orders can be made at discount prices (good for items not necessarily carried in the store, as well!).

Come in to shop, get informed, and/or volunteer as a general member of our store. For more information, call (858) 546-8339.

I will also point out some other UCSD co-ops that I liked when I was a student there.

The Ché Café

The Ché Café Collective is dedicated to providing cheap, healthy vegetarian food, all-ages entertainment, and alternative education. We have All-We-Can-Eat dinners every Thursday from 5 pm to 7 pm. Entertainment at the Ché ranges from poetry readings and plays to forums, or shows of local bands.

The Ché Café is surrounded by a grove of old eucalyptus trees and is next to the beautiful garden of the Farm Co-op. Tables and chairs inside and outside of the Ché and its close proximity to the Farm Co-op make it an inviting place to eat, study, or just hang out.

The Ché Café is open to having people come by and help out. The Café provides a great opportunity for people to get involved in the process of cooking, running a restaurant and/or putting on events at any level they feel comfortable at. Stop by or call us at (858) 534-2311.

(The Ché Café is located on the Revelle campus behind the Undergraduate library and down the hill from Stonehenge. We're the building with all the murals on it.) Read more about the Che Cafe Collective at its very own website: http://checafe.ucsd.edu/.

General Store

The General Store Co-op is a student-run store which was founded in 1980 to offer students a less expensive alternative to the high Price Center. [EDITOR'S NOTE: This is not quite right...the Price Center didn't even exist when the General Store was founded and greatly appreciated by students like myself.] As a student cooperative, we try to provide the University community with the best quality merchandise at the lowest prices. And we succeed! The General Store Co-op carries items such as selected essential school and office supplies, household and personal items, stationery and gift wrap, clothing (including UCSD logos), craft-center jewelry, and some food and snack items -- all of which range from 5-25% less than anywhere else on campus.

Students are generally most interested in the fact that we sell textbooks, which are guaranteed to cost less than at the UCSD bookstore. We also try to carry as many used texts as possible. Also, we buy back current editions year round. Stop by to check which classes' books we're carrying.

We encourage everyone to visit the General Store Co-op for our low prices and friendly service. Additionally, anyone is invited to come in and volunteer anytime as volunteers are the backbone of our organization. For further information or friendly help please feel free to call us at (858) 534-3932.

Orange County, CA Events

Loretta Sanchez comes out for Public Option: I know some consider her too conservative, but I have always liked Loretta Sanchez. Not only did she defeat (twice!) one of the most insane right wing nuts ever (Bob Dornan) but she has a sense of style all her own. Here's the video:



CA-48: An analysis


Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County: The Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County are dedicated to the mission of electing LGBT and Pro-Equality Democrats in California and throughout the country.

The Harvey Milk Stonewall Democrats of Orange County typically meet on the last Sunday of the month:

Local 50 Union Hall
527 S Harbor Blvd
Anaheim, CA 92805

Click here to join.


Orange County Biodiesel Cooperative: Working together to increase availability of biodiesel in the Orange County region. Biodiesel is better for the environment because it is made from renewable resources and has lower emissions compared to petroleum diesel. It is less toxic than table salt and biodegrades as fast as sugar. Since it is made in the USA from renewable resources such as soybeans, its use decreases our dependence on foreign oil and contributes to our own economy. Go to their website to sign up for more info.

And here are some other biodiesel stations in/near Orange County, CA:

Extreme Biodiesel: 1560 N Maple St, Corona, CA 92880, 888-998-7223. Offers B99.9 (nearly 100% biodiesel, good for newer diesel engines, some old engines not ok). MEMBERSHIP REQD

Nickey Petroleum: 925 S Lakeview Ave, Placentia,, CA 92870, 714-547-4123. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine), B99 (ok for newer diesel engines). CALL AHEAD

Socal Biofuel: 1006 E South St, Anaheim, CA 92805, 888-888-4121. Offers B99 (good for newer diesel enginns, some old engines not ok). Open 8-4:30 M-F


I found this amazing round up of events in Orange County, California, thanks to Orange County Democracy for America:

Aug 4 Tuesday 8am-9:30am, Newport Beach: Breakfast with Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez! Balboa Bay Club 1221 West Coast Hwy., Newport Beach
Special Guests: Members of Congress to be announced! Suggested contribution: Individual Tickets $100 Table of 8 $1000 Individual Sponsor $2400 PAC Sponsor $5000 Please RSVP to Kelly Martinez at 714-832-4431 or kmartinez@loretta.org

Aug 5 Wednesday: DFA-OC normally meets the first Wednesday of the month. However, we will NOT meet in August. Meetings will resume monthly on Sept. 2, 7 pm, Karl Strauss Brewery, 901 South Coast Drive, Costa Mesa. Contact: Susan Kopicki @ sckopicki@yahoo.com

Aug 6 Thursday 6:30pm, Anaheim: Hooray! Arianna Huffington is coming to the OC! It is our honor to invite you to join us for a very special evening with author, syndicated columnist and Huffington Post founder, Arianna Huffington.
Individual Ticket Levels: $75 for General Admission $60 for Sustaining Members FREE for Members of the Progressive Council of Orange County
Sheraton Park Hotel, 1855 S. Harbor Blvd., Anaheim, CA 92802 Click here to RSVP and get your tickets today! If you prefer to pay by check or have any questions, please contact Melahat Rafiei at 714-835-5158 or Melahat@OCDemocrats.org.

Aug 15 Saturday noon-4pm, Irvine: OC LGBT Pride Festival: Picnic in the Park with Pride 2009 William R. Mason Regional Park, on University Drive in Irvine The Festival will be centered at Shelter 6 in Mason Park Sponsored by the Orange County Equality Coalition Bring a picnic lunch. Admission is free to all. Families are welcome. Dogs are permitted. (But no alcohol please.) Carpooling is encouraged, as parking is limited and OC Parks charge for parking.
The After Party Steelhead Brewery at 4175 Campus Drive in Irvine welcomes the OC LGBT Pride After-Party from 4-8 pm Contact us at oclgbtpride@gmail.com or visit sites.google.com/site/oclgbtpride

Aug 22 Saturday 11am-2pm, Irvine: Women For: Orange County, Twenty-Ninth Annual Suffrage Day Celebration! University Club at UCI, 801 E. Peltason Dr., 11:00am to 2:00pm. This year's honorees are: Elaine Booth, Women For and OC progressive activist; Pam Allison, Project Hope; Chay Peterson, OC environmental and humanitarian activist, and Debbie Cook, Post Carbon Institute and former Mayor, Huntington Beach. The Suffrage Day Luncheon is open to all. Reservations with payment of $45 are due August 8th. Please make check payable to Women For: Orange County, and mail to: "Suffrage Day", 19192 Sierra Isabelle, Irvine, CA 92603. (To request a vegan meal, please write "VEG" in the memo line on your check.) Registration begins at 11:00am. Lunch will be served at noon in the Dining Room. Information 949.276.7298, womenforoc.org