The Progressive Democrat Newsletter grew out of the frustration of the 2004 election. Originally intended for New York City progressives, its readership is now national. For anyone who wants to be alerted by email whenever this newsletter is updated (usually weekly), please send your email address and let me know what state you live in (so I can keep track of my readership).
It's all about healthcare this week. I try to highlight in the local focus pages any healthcare rallies and town halls I can. You can also find out more about what you can do to fight for healthcare reform by going here. In particular, go here to find town hall meetings near you. I can't emphasize enough how important this is. I have focused on contacting and lobbying several congressional reps. I either know or spent some real effort to help get elected.
I also return to my previous focus on Burma and their main American enablers, Chevron/Texaco, and I return to my discussion of why Bank of America sucks. And although I don't have a page on the Glenn Beck advertiser boycott, it is still on. I recommend contacting Clorox this week and urge them to stop advertising on the Glenn Beck show because of Beck's racist comments. I found them receptive but I am not sure they have followed through. Be polite but follow up when they respond. I think they are going to do the right thing and their response sounded like they could be open to boycotting most Fox News shows. If Clorox is as receptive as they seem, and they follow through, I could see favoring their products when I go shopping.
And for my NYC readers I continue to focus on the upcoming Democratic primaries. In particular I want to emphasize there are some fantasitc candidates running. I am staying neutral for several reasons in the mayoral primary. For Comptroller John Liu and David Weprin are the only competant candidates. The other two candidates, Melinda Katz and David Yassky (who is my City Councilman and I can tell you he is lousy), have no financial experience and are nothing but shills for developers. A recent Q poll showed John Liu leads followed by Melinda Katz, then David Yassky and David Weprin last. I recommend voting for the candidate who both HAS financial experience AND is the frontrunner: John Liu. For Public Advocate, two candidates seem to be relatively dedicated to advocating for the public: Mark Green and Norman Siegel. Of those two, Norman Siegel is by far the better advocate and his honesty is absolutely rock solid. The other two, Eric Gioia and Bill de Blasio have little actual interest in the Public Advocate position but merely see it as a stepping stone to the mayors office. I know enough about Gioia and de Blasio not to trust them. A recent Q poll shows that Mark Green is in the lead followed by Norman Siegel then Bill de Blasio with Eric Gioia lagging. I recommend Norman Siegel as by far the candidate with the most integrity. Finally, for City Council I have many recommendations, but in particular I recommend Yetta Kurland in Manhattan (3rd district), Josh Skaller and Jo Anne Simon in Brooklyn (39th and 33rd districts) and Steve Behar and Mel Gargarin in Queens (19th and 29th districts). Go to my endorsement list to see more, but I highlight these candidates because they are excellent and seem to have a real chance to win. Other candidates I highlight I have less of an idea how well they are doing.
This comes from the National Jewish Democratic Council:
Forty-seven million Americans are already without health insurance, and everyday 14,000 more lose their coverage. In the last 10 years, premiums have doubled, out-of-pocket costs have increased by a third, and deductibles have continued to rise.
As American Jews, we strive to pursue justice – and as leaders in our community, our rabbis lead the way in pursuing justice. Yet it is not a just society when families are forced to choose between paying their mortgages or paying for prescription drugs. It is not a just society when small businesses must choose between being profitable or providing coverage to their employees. It is not a just society when people are denied health insurance because they have a pre-existing condition for which they need medical care. Equal access to safe and affordable healthcare is an essential social justice issue of our time.
We can do better than this – we must do better than this.
As you know, Congress is working on health insurance reform. Presidents since Teddy Roosevelt have tried and failed to reform our system, because they’ve been caught up in political point scoring or derailed by special interests who want nothing more than to maintain the status quo. It is time for the rabbis throughout our community – our leaders from generation to generation – to speak up and take action.
The National Jewish Democratic Council (NJDC) is bringing together rabbis from across the country to stand up for comprehensive health insurance reform, and we need your help and your voice – whether you are a rabbi or not.
If you are a rabbi, join other rabbis at RabbisForHealthCare.org and let Congress know that rabbis support health insurance reform to ensure that affordable health care is available for all Americans. If you’re not a rabbi, please encourage your rabbi get involved in this vital issue of social justice and ask them and go to RabbisForHealthCare.org today!
Let me remind you of the basic fact that Americans pay more for healthcare than pretty much any other nation but get medical outcomes similar to nations like Portugal, Albania, Slovakia and Cuba. I go into detail about this in a previous article.
Myanmar's military junta extended Nobel Peace laureate and pro-democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi's imprisonment by 18 months today after finding her guilty of violating the terms of her house arrest.
Critics of Myanmar's military regime condemned the outcome of the 3-month sham trial,1 calling it a pretext to keep Suu Kyi out of the running during next year's presidential elections.2
The junta — which currently detains more than 2,100 political prisoners — commuted Suu Kyi's sentence from three years hard labor in prison to an 18-month extension to her house arrest in the hopes that the international community will view the reduced sentence as an act of leniency.
But Suu Kyi should have never been imprisoned in the first place.
Suu Kyi's deplorable imprisonment has been denounced by everyone from heads of state worldwide to nine of Suu Kyi's fellow Nobel laureates. Join the court of world opinion in condemning Daw Ang San Suu Kyi's sham trial. Tell the leader of Myanmar's military junta that Suu Kyi shouldn't serve another minute of her sentence.
We know that the odds of success may seem stacked against us any time we appeal to authoritarian rulers. But the recent release of two U.S. journalists from North Korea is proof that even totalitarian regimes are vulnerable to relentless international pressure.
The fact that Myanmar's government reduced Suu Kyi's sentence is also a sign that the military regime is susceptible to the world community's criticisms.3
We've proven time after time that even military dictatorships and other repressive regimes are no match for Amnesty's millions-strong global movement. Just last year, Ma Khin Khin Leh, another prisoner of conscience in Myanmar, obtained her release after Amnesty activists sent tens of thousands of letters to Myanmar's leaders on her behalf.
Bank of America Seems to Like Pissing off Americans
I am reprising this article because it is still appropriate. Bottom line is Bank of America is one of the WORST banks in America when it comes to predatory lending, opposing progressive reforms, and basic customer service. Many people, on the left and right, are boycotting Bank of America these days. And this article covers the reasons why:
This led me to decide to not bank at Bank of America and to stop using my credit cards from them. Funny how they love corporate welfare but oppose anything that helps working class and middle class Americans.
Bank of America is the second largest US bank and operates more than 5,700 branch locations.
• Bank of America has been sued by the New York State Attorney General for multiple instances of improper mutual fund trading, including the most costly trading scandal to date, which the company settled for $675 million.
• Bank of America claims to enrich communities with its nationwide reach, but its acquisition of MBNA, the country's third-largest credit card company, has raised concerns about continued predatory lending and soaring interest rates due to stifled competition.
• Bank of America is one of the largest investors in coal and coal fired power, which is responsible for nearly a third of the nation's CO2 emissions, and also funds surface coal mining.
According to Responsible Shopper, Wachovia, Wells Fargo and Suntrust are nominally the best of the big banks, though consolidations and buyouts may be shifting all this. But it is clear that as long as Bank of America's money grubbing CEO, Ken Lewis, is running the show, Bank of America will remain one of the worst financial institutions in America. Personally I am finding USAA and TD Bank among the best out there in terms of customer service and lower fees.
But back to Bank of America. Seems Bank of America is pissing off lots of people with their treatment of customers as well. Grabbing taxpayer money then stabbing the taxpayer in the back is pretty low. But treating your customers poorly goes even beyond that to outright poor business practices. Here are two examples of some pretty pissed off customers.
First, there is a gentle man named Robert G. Seketa, who runs two websites: Boycott Bank of America and Stop Bank Abuse. Both are dedicated to trying and stop the predatory lending practices that LED to the need for a bank bailout in the first place. Check out his websites to see more about Bank of America's lending practices and their poor treatment of customers. But there is one thing I want to post from his site: a breakdown of which banks get the most complaints from customers according to the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency:
Bank of America: 7,230 complaints (25.5% of total) J.P. Morgan Chase: 4,890 complaints (17.3%) Citigroup: 3,742 complaints (13.2%) Wells Fargo: 2,695 complaints (9.5%) HSBC North America: 1,963 complaints (6.9%) Wachovia: 1,265 complaints (4.5%) U.S. Bancorp: 1,027 complaints (3.6%) National City: 586 complaints (2.1%) The Royal Bank of Scotland Group: 537 complaints (1.9 %) Key Corp: 343 complaints (1.2 %)
Total Top 10 complaints: 24,278 complaints (85.7%) Total complaints: 28,316 complaints (100%)
Note that Bank of America and Citicorp (the two worst financial institutions according to Responsible Shopper) also are among the three companies that get the most customer complaints filed. Chase is the other one. So by two different, independent measures, Bank of America and Citicorp pretty much suck. I should note that the chart doesn't give a time frame, so I don't know if it is for a certain year or cumulative. It also would be interesting to break it down per customer, since some of these companies are much bigger than others.
Next we come to another pissed off Bank of America customer who is taking it to the web. From Times Square Gossip we get this complaint:
am calling for everyone that reads Times Square Gossip to boycott The Bank Of America. I have had it with their underhanded business practices. If you have their credit cards or have a account in their bank, cancel it. I never look at credit card bills, I just pay them online every month. I never look at the interest rates, I just always assume that they are the same as always. Well yesterday I just happened to look for once and was I shocked. They raised my rates from 17 percent to almost 26 percent. I could not believe it. I always pay on time, I always pay 2 or three times the minimum due and I have had this card for years. My credit score is 702 which is considered excellent. I was outraged. I called them up today, and they told me they had sent me a notice last March (One year I didn't notice the higher rate) and that I had the option of not using the card and still pay the low rate or if I used the card, the higher rate prevailed. I said, why would I care about a cheaper rate on a card if I couldn't use it and if I did I would pay the higher rate. I asked them why my rate was raised in the first place. They said they reviewed my account and I was now considered a higher risk. A higher risk? I pay on time, I always pay more than minimum, and I have a high credit score. They said that's what they decided but since I was unhappy, he could give me a rate of 23 point something. So I said let me get this straight, " I pay on time on the credit card for years, I pay more than minimum, I have a excellent history and score and this is the way you treat a customer for many years?" I told him to cancel my credit card. I don't want to deal with a sleazy bank like Bank Of America." I am paying off the credit card in full when the final bill arrives ( Besides it's only 15 hundred owed anyway) and next week I am canceling my checking and savings accounts with them too. They charge higher rates than the Mafia. This is also just one horror story on The Bank Of America. I have so many more on what they have done over the years to my checking accounts. I never switched because I have several direct deposits and didn't want to go through the task of finding another bank and calling all my direct deposits and switching them. But now I will find a new bank this week and The Bank Of America can go FU*K themselves. I have millions of readers, and I urge anyone that has accounts with them to close them. If you also have horror stories on them, please tell them below by clicking comment or e-mail them to me and I will post. I will also be posting this story on all our sister websites. I will be posting more horror stories every couple of weeks, so stay tuned.
Okay, so a gossip column is not my usual source. But consider this: progressive activist mole333, a NYC gossip columnist, and blue-collar type Robert Seketa all are pissed at Bank of America at the same time. If three such different people can agree Bank of America sucks, it is no wonder they lead in numbers of complaints filed against them.
1. poor customer service (based on number of complaints filed against them)
2. poor business practices (leading to their needing a bailout)
3. Betrayal of the very taxpayers that bailed them out by lobbying against the Employee Free Choice Act
4. A discrimination lawsuit
5. Investment in polluting coal power plants
6. sued by the New York State Attorney General for a massive mutual fund trading scandal
Seems like there are a lot of reasons to not like Bank of America. Again I am personally switching to TD Bank and USAA. I my readers also look for alternatives to these big banks who screw us over, use OUR tax money to bail themselves out, then screw us over again. Boycott Bank of America (and Chase and Citibank). Your own finances will probably be better off in the long run, and you will be supporting working class Americans as well.
I am rather disappointed in this. Although I endorsed Jo Anne Simon in this race, I had high hopes for Biviano in future elections. But it looks like he is going to ruin his chances even for future political success. Hopefully he will come to his senses before it is too late.
Josh Skaller (39th City Council Candidate) on Paterson's Comments on the Superfund
Josh Skaller, candidate for the 39th City Council district, was one of the leaders in supporting Obama's EPA and Superfund status to finally clean up the Gowanus Canal. Josh's campaign has issued this statement regarding Governor Paterson's recent comments on the Gowanus Canal:
Statement from City Council Candidate Josh Skaller (D-39th District) Regarding Governor Paterson's Remarks on the Proposed EPA Superfund Designation of the Gowanus Canal
"The Gowanus Canal has been polluted for as long as anyone can remember. At long last, it looked like we might be headed toward a solution through an EPA Superfund designation - but now our governor, like so many other would-be leaders, has buckled under pressure from a developer-loving mayor. I'm disappointed to see such indecisiveness when it appears we may be finally on the cusp of achieving what everyone wants: a clean Gowanus Canal.
"Governor Paterson has not knocked on thousands of doors in Carroll Gardens, but I have - and it is clear the community supports Superfund status. A Superfund designation is a call for real action after years of broken promises. It is not a perfect solution, but it's the best way to make sure the Canal gets the clean-up needed before we can build along its banks.
"New York owes the people who live along the Canal -- and New York owes their children and grandchildren. We owe them a clean Canal. If we wait for the City to finally act, people may get sick, just like with Love Canal, and I can't stand on the sideline while that happens. I am the only candidate in this race to come out early in support of the Superfund designation. As a City Council Member, I won't back down in the face of politicians more concerned with developer contributions than good policy."
Paterson, one of the most unpopular governors in the US, seems out of touch with the issue. Let me list the organizations and individuals who support Superfund status for the Canal (list from SUPERFUND GOWANUS):
* United States Environmental Protection Agency * New York State Department of Environmental Conservation * The Army Corps of Engineers * New York State Senator Daniel Squadron * New York State Senator Velmanette Montgomery * Assemblywoman Joan L. Millman * Riverkeeper * The Sierra Club * Columbia University’s Urban Design Lab * Friends of Greater Gowanus (FROGG) * Carroll Gardens Coalition for Respectful Development (CG CORD) * Friends of Bond * Park Slope Civic Council * Park Slope Neighbors * The Urban Divers Estuary Conservancy * The Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats * Democracy for NYC
To me that is a very, very impressive list. Army Corps of Engineers, Sierra Club and Columbia University's Urban Design Lab all agree with Josh on this. Governor Paterson is opposing the experts, our local elected representatives, and the community. No wonder he is so unpopular!
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.
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! Here is a video of Tish at a Rally for Democracy NYC:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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 Focus: Democracy for America, Candidates and Drinking Liberally
QUEENS BOROUGH PRESIDENT: Marc Leavitt qualifies for matching funds; Helen Marshall doesn't.
In an amazing surprise, challenger Marc Leavitt looks to be beating incumbent Helen Marshall. Details can be found at Daily Gotham.
Steve Behar exposes opponent Iannece’s lack of vision and political posturing
In the District 19 race it is becoming clear that Behar is establishing himself as the candidate of aspirations, following in the footsteps of incumbent Tony Avella, who has in turn endorsed Behar. Iannece on the other hand, is clearly more interested politics as usual, and only aspiring what he sees as easily “doable.”
Meanwhile, most of the race’s candidates are continuing to target fellow council hopeful Paul Vallone for his developer connections and campaign contributions, an issue which was bluntly raised at the Station Road debate and which Vallone refused to issue any response to...more here.
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.
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:
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.
Some reminders about Slasher Monserrate, one of the traitors who stopped reform in Albany:
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
Bronx, NY Focus: Green Collar Jobs, Food Co-ops, City Council Candidate
Yetta Kurland to be Keynote Speaker at Bronx Pride. Statement from Yetta Kurland's campaign:
Today will mark the fourth annual celebration of Pride in the Bronx. Yetta Kurland, a candidate for City Council in the 3rd District, a district known for having a large LGBT population, will be the keynote speaker at the event.
"This is a year for change, hope and opportunity, and it is an honor to be a part of the 4th annual Bronx celebration of Pride. The LGBT community in the Bronx is finding its voice, and I am proud as a member of the LGBT community to be here to show support."
Kurland is running a campaign that many say is overtaking incumbent Christine Quinn's efforts to stay in office for a 3rd term, running on a platform of restoring the voice of her community.
This year's day long event includes musical performances and starts at 12pm in Barretto Point Park. The theme of the Pride is "We Matter".
Some Reminders about Traitor Espada: Espada is among the sleaziest people in Albany...and that is saying A LOT. Some examples:
Hello, My name is Jerome Rice, I am running to be your next City Councilman for District 12. I am a family man and resident, that attends church in the Bronx, where I serve as both Trustee and Co-chair to Public Safety. I have a Master Degree in Business Administration from Monroe College. I have served 22 years in the New York Army National Guard, before retiring with the rank of First Sergeant. I have a total of 21 years in the NYC Department of Correction, holding the rank of Captain. I have spent the last 13 years in a Civil Rights organization known as 100 Blacks In Law Enforcement Who Care, where I serve as its Director.
I fought against: Wrongful Police Shooting & Policies such as Stop & Frisk, Operation Lucky Bag, Disparate Treatment against Blacks & Hispanic being arrested for lower crime, Privatizing and Re-Zoing of Harlem. Both your Civil Rights and the Bronx are not for sale.
I have been fighting and will continue to fight for those who can't.
Here are some of the concerns, I will address: Affordable Homes: Why are we allowing homes to be built in our community, that we can't afford? Homes ranging from $350,000-$400,000 and the average income is only $40,000 - $60,000 a year. Lets make homes affordable. Also I will increase inspections and penalties on Landlord that refuse to provide you a comfortable living envirnoment.
Education: I have both created and facilitated informative survival workshops on issues affecting our community such as: What to do, when stopped by the police What to do, when you go to court "Because its Just-Us" Gangs "Our community domestic terrorist' Disaster awareness "Are you ready" and Hunting Season "No where to run, No where to hide"
Our Youth should learn in a comfortable learning envirnoment, by ensuring that each school has enough School Safety Officers to patrol our school ground. I will also ensure that each school has Up-To-Date programs to prepare our youth for the REAL WORLD.
Economic Development: Bring in New Business and support existing business. Open more centers for both our senior citizens and youth.
Public Safety- I will call for increase in Police Patrol, in areas that are seriously impacted with crime. I will introduce new programs to educate our youth and senior citizens on issues regarding crime and health.
Here is State Senator Eric Adams' endorsement of Jerome Rice:
The City of New York is still moving forward with their plans for a jail in the South Bronx. We’ve been hearing these rumors and plans for a while, but have recently been alerted that the approval proceedings are moving forward. This has to stop. At a time when folks are losing their jobs and prisons are shutting down, why would we still invest over half a billion dollars on a jail that stands to only result in the continuation of limited opportunity. To these ends, we have launched our Green Jobs Not Jails campaign on Facebook. Already we’ve collected over 600 signatures against the proposal. Please join the cause today and sign our online petition. Help us tell the City of New York that communities deserve green jobs, real alternatives to incarceration, not developments that limit our community’s future opportunities. Stay tuned for additional events for our Green Jobs Not Jails campaign.
As we continue to face the challenges affecting our communities, we should all give thought to the types of sustainable communities we can create. Communities filled with green jobs, clean tech businesses, green roofs, solar panels, healthy children, healthy food, clean air, healthy homes and trees. As our new president inspires us to face some of our country's greatest challenges, SSBx will continue to serve the South Bronx Community and share our work across the globe. We ask that you help us, work with us, support us, and join us.
La Familia Verde is a coalition of community gardens in the Crotona, East Tremont, and West Farms neighborhoods in the Bronx. Formed in 1998, our mission is to sustain the environment and culture of our neighborhood through education, community service, and horticulture.
La Familia Verde is part of a community gardening tradition in New York City that dates back over 25 years, when city residents first began taking control of abandoned lots left by the economic and social devastation of the inner cities. Since that time, community gardens have played an important role in helping revitalize some of the city’s poorest neighborhoods. The gardens are not only pleasing to look at; they serve as educational, cultural, and social resource centers in traditionally underserved communities.
Today, La Familia Verde is comprised of more than ten community-operated gardens and various community based organizations. The gardens and community organizations help foster community pride, partnership, and activism.
South Bronx residents have far less open space and waterfront access than other parts of NYC.
The South Bronx Greenway Project (SBG) is a community led plan for a bicycle/pedestrian greenway along the South Bronx waterfront, which will provide much needed open space, waterfront access and opportunities for mixed used economic development.
Majora Carter wrote a $1.25 M federal transportation planning grant to conduct a feasibility study for the Greenway to include the NYC Economic Development Corporation as the government sponsor, SSBx and The Point, CDC as the community partners, and landscape architects Mathews Nielsen. The study provided a unique opportunity for our community to impact design and policy. To date, nearly $30 million is secured for greenway related projects.
The South Bronx Greenway will create bike & pedestrian paths around the Hunts Point and Port Morris waterfront, as well as on-street connections including Hunts Point Riverside Park, the Bazzini Piers, Tiffany St. Pier, and Barretto Point Park, and a connection to Randall's Island Sports Complex.
One reason people struggle with obesity in the South Bronx is the lack of opportunity to exercise safely outdoors. SSBx is developing the South Bronx Greenway to provide safe public space, and create better transportation policy. Integrating traffic calming measures and truck routes that keep trucks away from the residential areas will help integrate physical activity into daily life.
Until the Greenway is built, we are getting people active now!
The South Bronx Active Living Campaign is funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Active Living by Design Program. "Active Living" is a public health term which means incorporating physical activity into your daily life. SSBx is developing walking clubs for local residents, including one geared towards parents at PS 48 and one open to any resident who wants to explore Hunts Point history. We are working with local doctors and nurses to create Action Action Plans, similar to Asthma Action Plans that will include advice and information that our local doctors can share with residents about physical activity resources in the neighborhood.
Mathews Nielsen Landscape Architects have collected background information on land ownership and site conditions, and conducted surveys and interviews with property and business owners. The City has approved over $10 million to be designated for the Greenway as part of the work of the Hunts Point Task Force, bringing the total of funding for greenway-related projects in the South Bronx to $28.5M over the next few years. SSBx looks forward to moving into the construction phases of the project. First phase projects will include intensive streetscape and bicycle path improvements on Hunts Point Avenue and Lafayette Avenue, two major thoroughfares in Hunts Point; a bridge connecting Randall’s Island and Port Morris under the Hell Gate span; and a new waterfront park adjacent to the new Fulton Fish Market in Hunts Point.
Office: 1231 Lafayette Avenue, 4th Floor • The Bronx, NY 10474 Mailing: 890 Garrison Avenue, 4th Floor • The Bronx, NY 10474 Phone: 646•400•5430 • Fax: 718•617•5228
The South Bronx Food Cooperative (SBxFC) is a green shopping alternative to the profit-oriented commercial food markets found in the Bronx. Founded and operated by committed residents, the SBxFC is dedicated to making a difference in the community by working together to provide healthy and affordable food to all who want it.
The South Bronx Food cooperative carries a wide variety of products, including local, organic and conventionally grown produce; pasture-raised, grass-fed and free-range meats and poultry; bulk grains, sugars, spices and pastas; fair-trade coffees and chocolate; environmentally safe cleaning supplies, and much more. All of this plus a selection of standard supermarket items makes the SBxFC a one-stop shopping destination. Sales are brisk at the SBxFC and inventory is replenished often ensuring that the products we sell are as fresh as possible..
As a member of the SBxFC you share ownership of the coop with fellow members. Members have a voice in the decision-making process and participate in directing the organization's future. Equally important, as a shopper you will know where your food choices come from. By becoming a member you and your family not only have access to fresh foods at reasonable prices, you will learn about our local farmers, organizations and vendors.
In addition to providing green/local products and democratic operations (common at most cooperatives), the SBxFC provides various health and nutrition services including workshops, cooking classes and education seminars. Our community education programs are designed and administered by local medical professionals and nutrition specialist. The goal of the SBxFC is to correct the various health disparities faced by Bronxites including diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure.
They seem to even have an online shopping option (members only).
Hours: 11:00 am – 8pm, Thursday – Monday CLOSED Tuesday & Wednesday (Additional hours and days of operation will be added in the very near future)
Website: http://www.sbxfc.org/
Location: 3103 Third Avenue Bronx NY 10451 (The corner of 158th St)
Rochester Solar Technologies Solar and wind power for Rochester, NY
Rochester Solar Technologies is a Rochester New York based solar and wind renewable energy company. As a division of O'Connell Electric Company Inc. one of the largest electrical companies in New York, we are growing and expanding the renewable energy sector to meet our customer’s needs. Rochester Solar Technologies and O'Connell Electric are members of NECA and the IBEW. We have also been in the electrical industry since 1911.
We specialize in solar electric installations and service. We also offer consultation for on-grid and off-grid applications in New York State. As an international resource for sustainable energy products, we are making the connections between green power USA, and the renewable energy market in Canada.
Abundance Cooperative Market 62 Marshall Street Rochester, New York 14607 Phone: (585) 454-2667 FAX: (585) 454-0343 info@abundance.coop http://www.abundance.coop/
Open to the public 7 days a week, Abundance Cooperative Market is Rochester, New York’s only community-owned natural grocery store. We are located at 62 Marshall Street off Monroe Avenue, just 2 blocks from Strong Children’s Museum, with convenient access to I-490, the Inner Loop, and Downtown. Free WI-FI too!
Abundance product selection promotes healthy and sustainable food practices. We offer a wide selection of grocery items (with many vegan & gluten free options) including; bulk goods, fresh organic produce, housewares, health and nutritional supplements, natural body care products, books, gifts, and our own fresh and organic, eat-in deli.
Here is a Democracy for America Group in Rochester, NY:
DFA Rochester is an organization founded upon the grassroots spirit born in Howard Dean’s campaign to take back our country. We have a year-long history as Rochester For Dean—the local group who concentrated on putting Howard Dean in the White House. While we are mainly Democrats, we welcome everyone.
DFA Rochester is an organization of grassroots leaders who strive to take back our country—one issue at a time…one neighborhood at a time. We work hard to support progressive, honest candidates. We perform community-enriching service through DFA Corps events. We are taking up residence on our town committees. Most important we are both individual voices and a strong collective of voices. Our voices are being heard!
Quite simply we are wherever you are. DFA Rochester serves the greater Rochester area which includes our very active Livingston County, NY group. We are also linked to groups statewide. At present our meetings take place monthly in Rochester and Geneseo. We encourage you to join us and plan meetings in your local area!
Want to get involved?
DFA Rochester is always looking to welcome new members.
Email us today at: dfarochester_at_gmail.com
Green Drinks - Rochester Chapter Every Fourth Thursday, 6:00pm – 7:30pm Where: Tap & Mallet.at 381 Gregory St. Rochester, NY 585.473.0503
DescriptionGreen Drinks - Rochester Chapter Every month people who work in green business meet up for libations at informal sessions known as Green Drinks. We have a lively mixture of people from academia, government and business. It's a great way of catching up with people you know and also for making new contacts. Everyone invites someone else along, so there’s always a different crowd, making Green Drinks an organic, self-organising network. Every Fourth Thursday, 6:00-7:30 PM. Tap & Mallet at 381 Gregory St. Rochester, NY 585.473.0503 In association with US Green Building Council. The event is FREE, with no need to register. http://www.ceinfo.org/ugbn/events.php
Progressive Democrats of Genesee Valley
Join us in forming a progressive coalition within the Democratic Party. Serving the 28th and 29th Congressional Districts of New York, Progressive Democrats of Genesee Valley is working to expand the Democratic Party by promoting progressive ideals and creating a voice for progressive solutions within the Party. As an activist network in the Greater Rochester, New York area for progressive causes, we are dedicated to reaching out to progressives within and without the Party to promote:
* Government that works for people * Sustainable policies * Campaign reform * Peaceful solutions
We want a Democratic Party that stands for peace, fair trade, universal health care, clean elections, a clean environment and economic justice.
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.
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
Potluck for Progressives Rochester:
Join us for a community dinner. Everyone is welcome. Bring a dish to pass & your own place setting. Enjoy the bounty that others bring as well.
Downtown United Presbyterian Church 121 North Fitzhugh Street @ 5:30pm Across from Rochester City Hall. Free parking in the City Hall parking lot.
At each Potluck we highlight a different Progressive organization and/or activist, talk about our successes, exchange ideas, help each other overcome challenges and/or plan actions together.
The Potluck for Progressives, founded by members of the Rochester chapter of the Alliance for Democracy, has been bringing committed activists together to break bread & coordinate action on a regular basis for the past several years with the goal of building a large progressive coalition in Rochester.
Activists who have a wide range of experience & who's concerns span the entire spectrum from environmental issues to social & economic justice find common ground in the dream of building a powerful local coalition here in our community. Every time we meet together we take another step towards our goal.
To get involved, email here: info@RochesterAlliance.org
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.
La Jolla Democratic Club Meeting Date: August 23, 2009, 5:00:00 PM
Pot luck followed by a question and answer session with the 50th Congressional democratic nominees, Francine Busby amd Tracy Emblem. $10/per person with dish, $20 without
At the home of Derek and Nancy Casady, 8412 Sugarman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92037. Contact: Derek Casady at (858) 457-0246
The First National Touring Company of WICKED presents Defying Inequality Date: August 24, 2009, 6:00:00 PM
An evening of cabaret performances promoting equality and civil rights. Tickets: $35 Discount, $50 General, $100 including VIP Cocktail Reception, $150 including VIP Reception and special seating.
At the Birch North Park Theatre, 2891 University Ave., San Diego. Website: www.eqca.org/defyinginequality
San Diego Democratic Club Meeting Date: August 27, 2009, 6:30:00 PM
The SDDC's Women's Caucus Honors Women's Equality Day with a Panel of Prominent Feminists including Patty Bellasalma, Alex Rooker, and Assemblymember Lori Saldana. Refreshments.
At the Joyce Beers Community Center, 1220 Cleveland, Uptown Shopping Center. Contact: (619) 200-8194 Email: jmockbee@san.rr.org
2nd Annual Suffrage Parade and Ball Date: August 29, 2009, 4:00:00 PM - 9:00:00 PM
Dress as suffragists, bring your banners and signs or just watch the fun! Vintage cars welcome! Honorary Parade Marshal: Congresswoman, Susan Davis, along with Judy "The Beauty" Forman and Gracia Molina de Pick. 6:00 - 9:00 pm dinner and dance at the Balboa Park Club Ballroom. "Journey to the 1930's" with the Sue Palmer Orchestra - Marathon Dance and Costume Contests Historical Reenactments - Vintage Cars - Cuisine and Music. $25 to $30 tickets available NOW!
At the Kate Sessions Statue and Parade across the Laurel Street Bridge in Balboa Park Contact: Women's History Museum at (619) 233-7963
Celebrating 30 Years of Service-Congressman Bob Filner's Birthday Party Date: August 30, 2009, 12:00:00 PM - 2:00:00 PM
At the Will T. Hyde Friendship Park in Chula Vista - behind the Chula Vista Public Library at 4th Avenue and F Street.
Contact: Kim Piker at (619) 425-1998 Email: info@bobfilnerforcongress.com Website: www.completecampaigns.com/public.asp?name=Filner&page=2
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.
Candidate Recruitfest Date: September 13, 2009, 1:30:00 PM
Learn about elective office opportunities at this event, hosted by the Democratic Party.
At the Rancho San Diego Library, 11155 Via Rancho San Diego, El Cajon, 92019. Contact: (619) 447-3246 Email: www.ecdcweb.org
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 Democracy for America Meetup Date: October 7, 2009, 7:00:00 PM - 8:45:00 PM
At Giovanni's Restaurant, 9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, SD 92123 (Corner of Clairemont Mesa Blvd and Ruffin Rd. across from Registrar of Voters). Contact: Carol at (858) 459-7044 Email: cchangus@san.rr.com
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.
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.
Aug 23 Sunday 7pm, Irvine: Vigil in Support of Health Care Reform with a Public Option
There is still more to be done if we want to see universal health care become a reality in our country. We need to call the White House (202-456-1111 or 1414) and our Senators and Congresspeople (202-225-3121), send Obama our own personal suggestions regarding health care reform at www.whitehouse.gov and COME TO OUR NEXT VIGIL ON SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, SAME TIME, SAME CORNER!!!! (7pm, Alton & Culver)
Please pass the word on to your friends and family, so our next event is even bigger than the first! I'll send a notice around that you can distribute in the next day or two. In the meantime, here are some great photos and a wonderful article courtesy of one of last night's attendees. (Thanks, Reggie!)
Again, thank you to everyone who took the time and energy to rally in favor of REAL reform. Let's keep up the struggle! Peace, Felicity Figueroa
Aug 25 (4th Tuesday 6:30pm, Anaheim: Green Energy and Healthcare Meet & Greet (& flyering & honk & wave) Anaheim Plaza's Outdoor Food Court 514 N. Euclid (in the food court) Anaheim, CA 92801 Join us every 4th Tues. of the month for a regular meet and greet of our North O.C. MoveOn Council. Everybody is welcome. We'll eat, chat and throw our ideas around. This month, I'll bring flyers, (encouraging people to call Senators about Public Option and strengthening the Green Energy Bill) and after the fun, we'll pass them out at the plaza and/or hold signs for a honk and wave on busy Euclid St. Sign up below and you will have access to printable signs. http://pol.moveon.org/event/heatupcongress/96341
Sep 1 Tuesday, 5:30-7pm and Saturday September 5, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., Huntington Beach: Huntington Beach chapter of Organizing for America is planning pro-health care, public option rallys at the Huntington Beach Pier on Tuesday September 1, 5:30 to 7 p.m. and Saturday September 5, 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Please pass the word.
Sep 2 Wednesday 7pm, Irvine: Public Option NOW! Vigil Alton/Culver - Northeast side We cannot afford to wait! Let's make a difference on 2 September. Up and down California and across the nation, MoveOn members will make sure that representatives go back to D.C. with a clear message--we want affordable, decent health care coverage for ALL of us! Join us on the corner of Alton and Culver for a vigil. We will have candles (bring some if you can to share) and signs to underscore our message on health care. pol.moveon.org/event/publicoptionnow/97005
Sep 26 Saturday 9:30am-noon, Orange: Health care in California and on the national level. Sisters of St Joseph conference center library, 480 Batavia Street. Joe Dunn, CEO of the California Medical Association and former state Senator, will speak on health care in California and on the national level. The cost is $10.00 in advance, or $12.00 at the door. Please call Christine Moore at 714-508-2563 for reservations, or mail your check to: COCA League of Women Voters, P.O. Box 704, Orange, CA 92856.
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
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
Aug 25 (4th Tuesday 6:30pm, Anaheim: Green Energy and Healthcare Meet & Greet (& flyering & honk & wave) Anaheim Plaza's Outdoor Food Court 514 N. Euclid (in the food court) Anaheim, CA 92801 Join us every 4th Tues. of the month for a regular meet and greet of our North O.C. MoveOn Council. Everybody is welcome. We'll eat, chat and throw our ideas around. This month, I'll bring flyers, (encouraging people to call Senators about Public Option and strengthening the Green Energy Bill) and after the fun, we'll pass them out at the plaza and/or hold signs for a honk and wave on busy Euclid St. Sign up below and you will have access to printable signs. http://pol.moveon.org/event/heatupcongress/96341
Aug 25 Tuesday 7pm, Santa Ana: Equality Across America OC Denny's 2314 E 17th Street Santa Ana, CA 92705 We will be discussing our upcoming fundraiser at Metro Q, the cross-country caravan to DC, representation by OC lgbt people and more. We need your input and creativity. Please join us! mailto:equalitycampaign@yahoo.com
Aug 25 Tuesday 7pm, Orange: Amnesty International, Group 141 meeting St Joseph Library. 480 S Batavia St., Orange, CA 92868-3907 aiusaoc.org/orange/join.html
Aug 26 Wednesday 4:30-6:30pm, Laguna Woods: Coffee and Conversation with Beth Krom You are invited to the home of Wendy Levin for an opportunity to meet Irvine City Councilmember and Congressional Candidate Beth Krom for coffee and conversation. Please join us to learn more about Beth Krom and the issues concerning the 48th Congressional District. 5556 Rayo Del Sol A, Laguna Woods, CA, 92637 Contact Me: nick@bethkrom.com, (562)713-2468
Aug 27 Thursday 7:30pm, Irvine: Amnesty International, Group 178 meeting Irvine United Congregational Church, 4915 Alton Parkway, Irvine, California 92604 aiusaoc.org/irvine/meetings.html
Aug 29 Saturday 4:45-9:00pm, Newport Coast: Human Rights Campaign: Orange County Long Beach Garden Party - keynote speaker Gavin Newsom Please join us for a very special Orange County Long Beach Garden Party! There has never been a better time to support the fight for the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community and to continue the battle to win back the civil right to marry in California! Gavin Newsom San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom Marty Rouse HRC Field Director Marty Rouse Ross Matthews The Tonight Show's Ross Mathews Meet our special guests and speakers, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom, Ross "The Intern" Mathews of the Tonight Show and hear from HRC Political Field Director Marty Rouse! Orange County Long Beach Garden Party at the lovely Newport Coast home of Jim Bohm 2 Coral Cay, Newport Coast, CA VIP reception and Silent Auction: 4:45 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. General reception and Silent Auction: 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Event Co Host - $275 (Admits two, including VIP reception, and helps underwrite event. Includes invitation and poster recognition.) Federal Club and Federal Club Council - $50 (admits one) Non Federal Club - $75 (admits one) Admission includes open bar and dinner. Please purchase tickets or become an event-co-host in advance! hrcactioncenter.org/site/Calendar?view=Detail&id=100421
Sep 1 Tuesday, 1pm, Laguna Woods Village: Erwin Chemerinsky: Obama, Sotomayor, and the Impact of the Supreme Court Erwin Chemerinsky returns! When he spoke to us last August, a large crowd enthusiastically received his presentation! Dean Chemerinsky is a constitutional scholar, lawyer, writer, teacher and civic leader. He was named by Legal Affairs as one of "the top 20 legal thinkers in America." Prior to coming to UCI to head its new law school in 2008, he was a professor of law and political science at Duke University. He has authored and co-authored numerous books and over 100 law review articles, and he frequently argues appellate cases, including in the United States Supreme Court and the United States Courts of Appeals.
Sep 2 (1st Wednesday) 7pm, Costa Mesa: Democracy for America - Orange County September General Meeting Karl Strauss Brewery, 901 S Coast Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 We will NOT meet in August. We will resume monthly meetings on September 2 and we hope to see you there. If you have any questions, please contact Susan Kopicki at sckopicki@yahoo.com
Sep 5 Saturday and ongoing, Irvine: Join the Voter Registration Drive to turn Orange County Blue. The first target is the City of Irvine with only 4,404 registrations needed to turn it "Blue". What a gem to win from the Republicans! The campaign kicks off Labor Day Weekend with numerous tabling locations to be staffed. This project is being organized and supported by Steve Young, Director of Region 18 of the CA Democratic Party and several OC Democratic Clubs. If you can't help Labor Day weekend, call and schedule for the following weekend. This will be ongoing with a goal of 5,000 registrations before the June 2010 Primary. YES WE CAN TURN OC BLUE! Call Marion Pack at 949-640-4400 to volunteer to staff a location.
Sep 5 Saturday 8-10am, Bolsa Chica: Cogstone Caravan Bolsa Chica Wetlands Tour Warner Ave & Bolsa Chica St, Huntington Beach, CA 92649 naturalist-for-you.org
Sep 5 (1st Saturday) 10am-1pm, Huntington Beach: Help support Native American land rights at the corner of Bolsa Chica Street and Warner Ave. in the city of Huntington Beach, CA. We will be protesting the destruction of the cogged stone site CA-ORA 83.
Sep 5 Saturday 10am-3pm, Santa Ana: Orange County Labor Day Celebration Santa Ana Zoo Amphitheatre Park Area, 1801 E. Chestnut Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705 Come and join the Orange County Labor Federation as we celebrate Labor Day! Bring your friends and family! There will be many games and activities for your enjoyment. Food and beverages will also be available! Hope to see you on September 5th! FUN AND GAMES: 10AM-3PM LUNCH AND SPECIAL GUESTS: 12 PM-1:30 PM Free Admission to the Santa Ana Zoo from 10 AM- 4:00PM courtesy of the Labor Federation. Pick up your free admission at the picnic area. Go to link below for flyer oclabor.org/images/docs/LABOR_DAY.pdf
Sep 10 Saturday 7:30-11:30pm, Huntington Beach: Bollywood Night at Metro Q for National Equality March Metro Q Bar & Grill, 19092 Beach Blvd, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Join us for an amazing night Bollywood style at the fabulous Metro Q in Huntington Beach. There will be fun, fundraising, and prizes...so be sure to dress the part. Metro Q is an inclusive establishment open to all ages. To purchase a ticket, go to: bollywoodnight.eventbrite.com Bring your ticket with you for a chance to win door prizes. Tickets will NOT be sold at the door. Proceeds from this event will be used for the Orange County efforts with Equality Across America and the National Equality March. Equality Across America is a network of decentralized organizers in every one of the 435 Congressional districts. These organizers form Congressional District Action Teams (CDATs) that will do the work on the ground in their own communities to achieve full equality.
Sep 11 Friday 7pm, Irvine: The DPOC Environmental Committee will be showing a newly released documentary "The Great Squeeze", which was selected at 11 film festivals around the world and won an award for best documentary After the film, we'll have some time for people to talk about the film, and to talk to those in the Environmental Committee for the DPOC. You're all invited, so we hope to see you there, and bring your friends. Duck Club, 5 Riparian View, Irvine.
Sep 12 Saturday 4pm, San Juan Capistrano: Green Feast at The Ecology Center 32701 Alipaz St. San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Please join us for a communal celebration of local food. Upon arriving at The Ecology Center gardens, you'll be given a glass of wine and tempted with appetizers prepared in our alfresco kitchen. Tours of the gardens and farm will be begin at 4:15 and will last approximately thirty minutes. Following the garden and farm tours, Chef Richard Mead of Orange County's renowned Sage Restaurants will curate our meal, consisting of local seafood, free-range meats, organic produce, artisan cheeses, and wines. Guests will enjoy family-style dining in the intimate, outdoor setting. For each course, the local producer or artisan will share the story of how each item journeyed to the table. Reflecting the Center's green philosophy, guests are asked to bring their own plates. You can purchase tickets via our website at theecologycenter.org/greenfeast or by phone by calling (949)443-4223. Seating is limited, and we ask that all reservations be made by August 31. Learn more here: meetup.com/goinggreenorangecounty/calendar/11097282
Sep 13 Sunday 5pm, Newport Beach: Orange County Interfaith Committee to Aid Farm Worker Fundraiser-Dinner at St. Mark Presbyterian Church, 2200 San Joaquin Hills Rd, Newport Beach. our speaker will be the Rev. Noelle Damico of the Presbyterian Hunger Program To make a reservation, please make your checks out to the National Farm Worker Ministry and mail them to Suzanne Darweesh, 2104 Hilltop Ct, Fullerton, CA 92831. For more information please contact her at 714-738-1785 or sdarweesh@aol.com. Donations are requested at $20 in advance, $25 at the door.
Sep 19 Saturday 2pm, Irvine: Americans United for Separation of Church and State - The future of LGBT rights in a "post Prop 8 California" including Marriage Equality and Don't Ask Don't Tell with Katherine Darmer, Chapman University Law Professor and Chair of the Legal Committee of the Orange County Equality Coalition. Professor Darmer is deeply committed to separation of church and state. Her grandfather, Joseph Dawson, was an early proponent of church/state separation and a member of the original group that became "Americans United." Professor Darmer will be speaking about the future of LGBT rights in a "post Prop 8 California," including Marriage Equality and Don't Ask Don't Tell. Admission is free, and refreshments will be served. Irvine Ranch Water District (Multipurpose Room) 15600 Sand Canyon Ave. (at Waterworks) Irvine, CA 92618 Admission is free and refreshments will be served. For information contact: Steph Campbell, (714) 299-4551, or e-mail orangecountyau@yahoo.com
Sep 23 Wednesday 6:30pm, Fountain Valley: Democratic Club Of West Orange County - presents Sandra Robbie, Emmy award winning film maker. Meeting includes a screening of the documentary "Mendez vs. Westminster School District". Sandra has spoken across the country about the Mendez case including at the Smithsonian Institute, Harvard School of Law, Stanford University and PS 114 in the Bronx, NY. In 2004, Sandra saw one of her dreams come true when she was with the Mendez family at the White House when they were honored by the President for their contribution to American civil rights. Sandra is now working with Chapman University to create a permanent home for the study and celebration of Mendez v. Westminster with the goal of bring students and scholars from across the country to learn about the amazing civil rights history that happened here that helped to change our nation. Meeting is at Green Valley Community Center, 17250 Los Jardines West, Fountain Valley. For more information see dcwoc.org or call Jo Anne at (714) 846-5201 or email jennin1944@yahoo.com
Sep 26 Saturday 10am-4pm, Huntington Beach: Huntington Beach Green Expo Sponsored by the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and ?the City of Huntington Beach Economic Development Department. This was an excellent green expo in 2008 with a respectable amount of vendor booths and speakers throughout the day. Interested in being a vendor at this expo? Visit hbchamber.org for more information. HB Central Library 7111 Talbert Ave Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Sep 26 Saturday 6-9:30pm, Costa Mesa: Orange County Labor Federation 9th Annual Solidarity Leadership Awards Dinner -Honoring- Lifetime Achievement Award AFL-CIO President John J. Sweeney César Chávez Leadership Award Ron Herrera Teamsters Local 396 Organizing Union Award UniteHERE Local 11 Delegate of the Year Doug Mangione IBEW 441 Phillip Burton Award Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez Model Corporate Partner Award Anderson and Howard Electric -Business/Dinner Attire- Go to link below for Sponsorships, Tickets, and Ad Rates. oclabor.org/images/docs/RESERVATION.psf.pdf Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa, 3050 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 priscilla@oclabor.org
Sep 26/27 Saturday/Sunday, San Diego: California Democratic Council Grassroots Convention Convention at San Diego's Historic Naval Training Center Promenade Leadership Dinner at the Hilton Harbor Island Hotel Join Democratic activists, volunteers, club members, Party leaders, and friends for the first-ever joint Convention of the San Diego County Democratic Party and the California Democratic Council. * Build knowledge and skills in your choice of workshops and forums * Hear from Democrats running for statewide office in 2010 * Meet new friends, form alliances, and get inspired by our Party's grassroots strength! actblue.com/page/convention09
Oct 10 (2nd Saturday) 6:30-8:30pm, Irvine: ReclaimDemocracy.org Orange County: Screening of "Flow: For the Love of Water" (The film that will change the way you think about water.) ReclaimDemocracyOC.org Irvine Ranch Water District Headquarter, 15600 Sand Canyon Ave., Irvine, CA
Oct 13 Tuesday 6:30pm, Newport Beach: Movie - Dwindling Drops in the Sand 1601 16th Street, Newport Beach. a documentary filmed by Sama Wareh - one of our very own Nature Camp teachers! Travel with Sama on a journey to investigate Syria's water crisis - and gain insight into global water issues that are affecting us right here in California. The documentary begins with an intro to Syria, its history, why Sama is there, and the dangers involved in filming the documentary. Learn about the causes of the water crisis, why it is so significant, and what positive steps folks are taking to remedy the problem. Bring friends and family to enjoy awesome cinematography, adventure, and Sama's famous humor and wit! The documentary is intended for all audiences. For more information, visit www.warehart.com. Organic popcorn will be served! Bring your own re-useable bowl and beverage container. Call 949-645-8489 to RSVP. Suggested donation: $5. Space is limited.
Oct 13 Tuesday 6:30pm, Newport Beach: Environmental Nature Center Green Building Tour 1601 16th Street Newport Beach, CA 92663 Join us for a tour of the ENC's new "Green Building" - the first Platinum LEED Building in Orange County! The tour will begin with a short presentation describing the green building techniques that went into development of the ENC's new building and the reasons behind the incorporation of each green feature. Participants will learn about ways to make their homes and businesses more environmentally friendly and how they can incorporate renewable energy. Enjoy a "behind the scenes" tour of the ENC's new green building - inside and out - to see the sustainable features and materials. Call 949-645-8489 to RSVP. Suggested donation: $5. Space is limited. meetup.com/goinggreenorangecounty/calendar/10988302
Oct 21 Tuesday 6:30pm, Newport Beach: Movie - Dwindling Drops in the Sand 1601 16th Street, Newport Beach. a documentary filmed by Sama Wareh - one of our very own Nature Camp teachers! Travel with Sama on a journey to investigate Syria's water crisis - and gain insight into global water issues that are affecting us right here in California. The documentary begins with an intro to Syria, its history, why Sama is there, and the dangers involved in filming the documentary. Learn about the causes of the water crisis, why it is so significant, and what positive steps folks are taking to remedy the problem. Bring friends and family to enjoy awesome cinematography, adventure, and Sama's famous humor and wit! The documentary is intended for all audiences. For more information, visit www.warehart.com. Organic popcorn will be served! Bring your own re-useable bowl and beverage container. Call 949-645-8489 to RSVP. Suggested donation: $5. Space is limited.
Oct 24 Saturday 9am-3:30pm, Orange: International Day of Climate Action Run, Walk, Bike, or Carpool (in your alternative fuel vehicle) to the Outdoor Education Center (located adjacent to Irvine Regional Park) 2 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA For more information, to download the printable registration form, or to register on-line, please visit the registration website at WWW.OCICE.ORG Enter the 5K Walk, hosted by the UNA-USA, Orange County Chapter? Join in the hike, beginning at Irvine Regional Park, hosted by the Sierra Club Join an OC bike club on a ride (from various locations throughout OC) to the Outdoor Education Center Participate in the tree planting at the Outdoor Education Center Participate in the aerial photo of the number - 350 that will be uploaded to the 350.org website Houses of Worship - Ring your bells 350 times! Play on the Zip Line Guest Speakers include: OC Clergy who have signed the Creation Protection Agreement Local Politicians that are working to reduce their cities CO2 emissions Keynote address: Chris Prelitz, sustainable architecture, author, and activist Eco-Friendly exhibits- This rally is a coordinated effort by the following organizations: www.350.org www.earthresource.org www.ocice.org www.unausa.org www.outdooreducationcenter.org www.sierraclub.com
