Progressive Democrat Issue 229

Things have been busy for Joy and me. Joy defended her dissertation and is now Doctor Joy Romanski. NYC elections were typically nasty and disappointing. On the sad side, our cat died last weekend. We knew it was coming, but we are still sad to see him go.

This week I have a lot for my NYC readers: a rundown of election results, reminders about David Yassky's corruption, and discussions of the Comptroller and Public Advocate runoffs. But I am also returning to my coverage of the rest of the country.

Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

American Corn Association Comes out for Healthcare Reform

Renewing America: Democrats Work

John Liu for NYC Comptroller

Mark Green for NYC Public Advocate

NYC Focus: A Reminder About David Yassky's Corrupt Connections

The NYC Working Families Party Scam

NYC Election Results: Corruption wins the day

Brooklyn, NY Focus

Queens, NY Focus

Bronx, NY Focus

Rochester, NY Focus

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS

Californians against Joe "The Jerk" Wilson

Silicon Valley Area, CA Focus

Orange County, CA Focus

San Diego, CA Focus

CALIFORNIA FOCUS

Dallas County, TX Focus

Austin/Travis County, TX Focus

Houston/Harris County, TX. Focus

TEXAS FOCUS

Sussex County, NJ Focus

Warren County, NJ Focus

Passaic County, NJ Focus

NEW JERSEY FOCUS

Coweta County, GA Focus

GEORGIA FOCUS

Virginia Organizing Project Supports Healthcare Reform

Virginia Congressman Tom Perriello: Clean Energy Champion

VIRGINIA FOCUS

Florida Focus: Columbian Drug Cartel for Charlie Crist?

FLORIDA FOCUS

Progressive Majority Candidates in Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA FOCUS

Progressive Majority in Washington State

WASHINGTON STATE FOCUS

Arizona Democrats for Rob Miller

Arizona Focus: Sheriff Joe Arpaio and the Neo-Nazis

ARIZONA FOCUS

Colorado Senator Bennet On Healthcare Reform

COLORADO FOCUS

Wisconsin Focus: Get the Facts on Health Care Reform

WISCONSIN FOCUS

MICHIGAN FOCUS

Illinois Democrats for Rob Miller

Illinois Focus: Melissa Bean and Bill Foster, Give Us Our Healthcare

ILLINOIS FOCUS

North Carolina Justice Center: Myths About Health Reform

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS

Iowans Against Idiocy

IOWA FOCUS

Nevada: Public Option Model that SAVES Money

NEVADA FOCUS

Progressive Majority Canidates in Minnesota

MINNESOTA FOCUS

American Corn Association Comes out for Healthcare Reform

This should be of interest to EVERY Congressional Representative of either party from Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and Minnesota, the main corn growing states. From Rural Wire via Daily Kos:

Keith Bolin, President of the American Corn Growers Association (ACGA) called upon the U.S. Congress to pass healthcare reform legislation this year.

"There are a multitude of reasons that ACGA supports healthcare reform, but I wish to focus on two key reasons that have yet to be discussed – international competitiveness and jobs," said Bolin.

"Because of dozens of bilateral and multilateral trade agreements ratified by Congress over the past quarter century, America’s farm and ranch families now compete in a global economy," explained Bolin. "We are constantly seeking to keep ‘a level playing field’ on which to compete in this global economy. But when we review issues that tilt that playing field of competition, healthcare must be addressed. Looking across the northern U.S. border to farm families in Canada, which come as close to U.S. farming practices as any of our other international competitors, we find that they have a sizable competitive advantage because of their national healthcare system. We must have better healthcare options if we are to successfully compete with the Canadians as well as the Europeans and farmers in all other countries with national healthcare programs."

"As for how healthcare impacts jobs in rural America, I can tell you that more times than not, a farm spouse must take a job in town just in order to acquire healthcare coverage for the farm household," added Bolin. "I can attest that there is always plenty for both spouses to do on the farm but more importantly the off-farm job taken by a farmer is a good job or it would not have healthcare benefits. Therefore, that farm spouse is taking a job from someone else just because of the healthcare benefits. When viable healthcare option is provided to farm households, those good off-farm jobs would be available to others in our rural communities."

Bolin’s request follows ACGA’s annual business meeting held last week in Sioux City, Iowa, where the Board of Directors passed a resolution supporting national healthcare reform, including a public option. ACGA’s resolution on the pending healthcare legislation states;

ACGA believes that it is of critical importance that Congress pass meaningful national health care reform in 2009. Such legislation should include a public option to provide real completion in the health insurance industry. The nation’s farmers and the United States as a whole can no longer avoid this issue from either a moral or international competitiveness perspective.

NYC Election Results: Corruption wins the day

Election Results from last night's primary. Most of my commentary will come when I have a chance to relax.

Mayor: Nothing to see here. Thompson trounces Avella. We all knew that would be the result.

Public Advocate: News Flash: CRIME DOES PAY! One of the few mild surprises was how well crime pays in NYC. Bill de Blasio, caught red handed violating campaign finance laws and one of the top slush fund culprits, not only makes it to the runoff but actually pushes Mark Green into second place. NYC does love its corrupt politicians! All it takes is a thousand mailings and some pretty ads and the voters (the ones who bother to vote, of course) forget the corruption. Mark Green will have a hard time here. Most of the developer and corporate money will be behind de Blasio because they want a Developer Advocate as Public Advocate, so they will push hard for de Blasio. Meanwhile, Mark Green, development friendly enough, will have to run on the strength of his personality and dedication to the public. Uh oh...Notice that the two who made it to the runoff are the two Atlantic Yards supporters. No coincidence that, I suspect. I endorse Mark Green of course, as the one who is basically pro-public and willing to go up against corruption on Wall Street while de Blasio will make Gotbaum seem good (at least she did nothing...I fear what Bill will do for his corporate cronies!).

Comptroller: Katz falls flatz. I had thought Katz would beat Yassky to the runoff with Liu. Her ads were good and she had even more developer money than Yassky or Liu. But being too obviously a shill for developers didn't do it for Katz. Yassky's weaseling, where he eagerly takes developer money, votes developers 90% of what they want, then presents the remaining 10% of concessions as some big victory to the voters, won over Katz's blatant shilling. Liu should be able to trounce Yassky. Liu is smarter, actually has financial experience (Yassky and Katz don't), is a much better campaigner an organizer, and isn't as blatantly corrupt as Yassky, whose slush fund participation rivals even Bill de Blasio's and included the infamous Steve DiBrienza pay-to-play scandal and an alliance with a Bruce Ratner front group. Now Liu has done his share of slush funding, but nothing as blatantly corrupt as Yassky's pay-to-play schemes. So Liu SHOULD be able to trounce Yassky. But Yassky will have Wall Street behind him (they want a Comptroller who recognizes the investment value of pay-to-play) and possibly most of the developer money. Both Yassky and Liu are developer funded, but Yassky more so. Since crime pays in NYC (see above) Yassky may have the edge. Liu needs better TV spots. The one I saw was boring and Liu is ANYTHING but boring. John Liu needs to connect directly to the public. Yassky needs to hide his basic sleaziness from the public.

Council District 1: Hey, I won one! Margaret Chin wins. I liked Chin on first glance, but never really got a second glance at the race. One thing I liked about Chin was some people were calling her "too liberal" and even, gasp, "socialist." These days I kind of like the idea of "too liberal" and "socialist" winning after so many years of America worshipping corporate corruption. But I have to say, I don't know enough about Margaret to really say if this was the best result.

Council District 3: Tsarina Quinn wins. See! Voters LOVE it when you screw them. Quinn has shown she cares nothing for voters, overturning term limits and making excuses for slush find corruption. And voters re-elect her. No surprise there. Yetta Kurland did well for an insurgent running against an incumbent. Yetta should be proud and should stay in politics. And voters? Well, maybe Quinn is just being hard to get. Keep re-electing her and maybe, just MAYBE, she will care about you.

Council District 4: I hadn't heard anything about this race before. Yesterday was the first time I saw a sign for Ashok Chandra (outside Curry in a Hurry). Guess something was going on here because Ashok won handily. This is one of the few Republican party primaries.

Council District 12: Another case of sleaze who cares nothing about voters wins big. Larry Seabrook won.

Council District 19: Well, although the most progressive candidate lost (Steve Behar...sorry, but not a surprise), the very worst candidates lost this one! Vallone running with Republican and conservative support and family name lost. Nasty Iannece lost. Kevin Kim won. I don't think either Gatemouth or I (both of whom do not want another DINO Vallone and thought Behar best position to block Vallone) saw that coming.

Council District 20: This also surprised me. I didn't follow this race closely, but I had thought Choe would do better. Chou won.

Council District 23: Mark Weprin won. The Vallone name failed, but the Weprin name still carries weight in Weprin's district...even if it meant nothing citywide. I suspect this is a reasonably good result.

Council District 25: Crime Pays Again...but that may be the best in this case. Daniel Dromm wins! I have mixed feelings about this one. I endorsed Daniel Dromm pretty much before anyone else...and I pushed him as one of my top choices. Until it turned out he was one of the six people involved in the WFP campaign finance law violations. I felt I had to back off from Dromm at that point. But I still felt he was a good guy. So crime paid off, but the crime was done by someone who otherwise is good.

Council District 26: Crime Pays Again...getting tedious, isn't it? James Van Bramer won. Seriously folks. This election makes a mockery of our campaign finance laws. The clearest message is you can break the law and still win. Well, Marrion Barry won after being convicted of drug charges, so what's a little election law crime among friends? In this race I am not sure who was the best, criminal conspiracy with WFP aside.

Council District 29: Karen Koslowitz won. The candidate I picked came in last. By the end I expected that. Gargarin didn't pick up many endorsements or support at all, so though he was a good candidate, he had little chance. Koslowitz picked up some good endorsements and seemed to have momentum, so I am not surprised. But I AM surprised that crime did NOT pay in this race. Lynn Schulman, another key figure in the WFP campaign finance scandal lost.

Council District 31: James Sanders wins...of course. Again, screwing voters is not a liability in NYC elections. I expected more of Marq Claxton. He was picking up some good endorsements. But he came in fourth in the race.

Council District 33: WAKE UP PARK SLOPE! VITO LOPEZ HAS CONQUERED YOU. You know, for all that this district loves to say they hate Vito Lopez, they sure seemed willing to vote for Vito Lopez's aide, Steve Levin. Had Levin lost, it would have been a considerable blow to Vito Lopez, particularly after his loss of both Surrogate judge races. Instead, Park Slope gives Vito's reign of corruption new life. This is about the best thing that has happened to Vito in years. Stupid bickering and vote splitting among the reformers combined with voter apathy and this year's Vito Lopez/WFP axis of corruption wound up making this an easy win for Levin. I had expected Jo Anne Simon to pull it off. With the endorsement of all reform clubs AND the NYT (the only race I know of where the NYT didn't endorse the most scandal ridden candidate) should have done it. But the fact that rival reformers spent most of their time attacking Jo Anne rather than Levin helped hand it to Levin. THANK YOU Ken Baer, Ken Diamondstone and Doug Whoever. Vito Lopez now loves you. Oh, and so does Bruce Ratner because now Ratner has a solidly pro-Atlantic Yards City Councilman in Park Slope (despite some slight lip service otherwise from Levin (lying???), the Lopez machine is so pro-Ratner that even Mayor Bloomberg balked at their giveaways to Ratner). That will make things easier for Ratner. And none of Jo Anne's reform rivals even came in third. That was left to conservative Isaac Abraham. Pathetic. I'll have more to say about this race in another post when I get around to it. Until then, this race is actually the biggest news of the day because it really does give the Vito Lopez machine a huge lift. Park Slope Saves the Vito Lopez Machine. THAT is news.

Council District 34: This one is one more example of the ONLY way reformers seem able to beat the Vito Lopez machine these days: when Vito and one of his minions have a falling out, we can back the minion. Vito Lopez has a history of betraying followers who don't toe the line enough. He then runs someone against them. Reformers then are stuck siding with a former machine politician over a current machine politician. And that is when we usually win. Diana Reyna, formerly a Vito Lopez favorite, became too independent. So Vito ran someone against her...and lost. Some reformers, myself included, sided with Reyna. Other reformers went for Gerald Esposito...who came in third. Thankfully, splitting the reform vote didn't hand the race to Vito Lopez the way it did in the 33rd, but the fact remains reformers can ONLY beat Lopez when they side with a former machine politician who has gone independent.

Council District 35: Easy win for Tish James. No surprise. So Bruce Ratner wasn't able to flip this district in his favor the way he helped flip the 33rd district. So now Park Slope, whether they want it or not, is pro-Ratner in the City Council and Prospect Heights is anti-Ratner.

Council District 36: I am shocked at how well Iglesias did. I only met him once and he seemed very earnest, but not very effective. He did still lose, but honestly did pretty well.

Council District 39: So South Slope now has a largely pro-Ratner, anti-Israel politician who like to make deals with homophobic reactionaries. And again, crime pays. Brad Lander, another participant in the WFP campaign finance scandal, won. Again, reform progressives split the vote and lost. But in this case I have to say that the reform progressives, though they split the vote, did not lose it by in-fighting the way they did in the 33rd. The reform progressives were the gentlemen in the race. The conservative (Heyer) and sleazy developer (Lander) candidates were the nasty ones in the end, their campaigns (supposedly without knowledge from the candidates) running virulently anti-gay ads in Boro Park. Heyer handily won the Boro Park competition, but Lander, in the end, didn't need it. So many liberal Park Slope voters seem to have forgiven him his anti-Israel beliefs (strongly held) and his anti-gay flirtations (contrary to his real beliefs but still something he will bargain with when it comes to votes). Had all the reformers united behind one candidate they may still have lost this one it seems. Corruption and sleaze beat out honest progressives in Park Slope even if the progressives aren't forming a circular firing squad as they did in the 33rd.

Council District 40: Another example of how honesty is NOT the best policy in NYC politics. The incumbent is a do nothing liar, but wins easily. Not surprisingly Rock Hackshaw, running on a campaign of pure, raw honesty, lost big. Voters want politicians to tell them sweet, sweet lies. Pity honesty is worth nothing in Brooklyn (and probably NYC as a whole).

Council District 49: One of the few good results. Debi Rose kicked butt. And well she should have. I kept out of this simply because I was overwhelmed with other races. But Debi Rose is one of the good people in NYC politics and North Shore recognizes that! To all those who put down Staten Island, I have to say SI did better in this race than most of the other boroughs did in their key races. Kudos to Staten Island!

Brooklyn, NY Focus

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


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.

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!!).


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

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

"Democratic" State Senator Hiram Monserrate (and one illustration of what is wrong with Democrats in NYC) is on trial for domestic violence. Basically he slashed his girlfriend's face. He claims it was an accident. Abusive people usually either claim it was an accident or blame the victim.

Here is video of Monserrate dragging his girlfriend outside after the slashing he claims was accidental. Is this how you would treat YOUR loved one after accidentally slashing her? From Albany Project:



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


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

Bronx, NY Focus

UPCOMING EVENT: The Greenway is Coming Block Party!
October 25th, 12pm to 4pm
Hunts Point Riverside Park and Lafayette Avenue (between Edgewater Road and Whittier Street)

Join Sustainable South Bronx and co-host The Point CDC for music, food, art, and other fun activities as we celebrate the South Bronx Greenway. With construction set to begin in spring 2009, this event will highlight all the fun uses of a greenway and answer all of your questions about construction details. For more information or to volunteer, contact Sheila at 646.400.5295 or email: ssomashekhar@ssbx.org.

Some Reminders about Traitor Espada: Espada is among the sleaziest people in Albany...and that is saying A LOT. Some examples:

Key Senate Coup Player Pedro Espada: Corrupt or Crazy or Both

Bronx DA and Andrew Cuomo Investigating State Senator Espada

Espada Never Seen in Bronx Residence...really lives in Westchester

Healthcare Funds Go to Espada Campaign, Not to Healthcare...and again

Espada's "nonprofits" rife with "administrative deficiencies and apparent misuse of funds"

And the REAL reason for Espada's coup may be that Democrats refused to play his game with the very groups Espada is under investigation for: Before Defecting, Espada Sought $2 Million for Bronx Groups


Leadership Intern Field Training (LIFT)

This also comes from Sustainable South Bronx.

In this prestigious 6-week internship, open to high school Juniors and Seniors, LIFT participants learn, through a combination of in classroom and hands-on field work, all the ins and outs of field organizing and a powerful environmental justice perspective. LIFT participants also learn an invaluable set of skills such as messaging, public speaking, strategic thinking and community organizing. For more information, contact Marta Rodriquez at 646.400.5431 or email: mrodriguez@ssbx.org.


GREEN JOBS, NOT JAILS

This also comes from Sustainable South Bronx.

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 Community Garden:

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.

You can read about their projects here.

La Familia Verde
2158 Mapes Avenue
Bronx, NY 10460
http://www.lafamiliaverde.org/


SOUTH BRONX FOOD CO-OP:

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)

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

Progressive Candidate in Rensselaer County: Taking the plunge - I am running for Rensselaer County Legislature. Best of luck, Linda! Find out more here: http://electlinda.blogspot.com/


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...and an update on her position: Congresswoman Nydia Velasquez on the 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.


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.

You can read more abuot John here.


Bill Thompson for Mayor. Here is Congressman Weiner's endorsement of Bill Thompson:




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 Focus

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


MARRIAGE EQUALITY SILICON VALLEY is a grassroots effort, organized by volunteers in the Silicon Valley/San Jose/South Bay area, to educate, unite and mobilize all communities for equality.

Each month, on a Sunday, which might vary depending on other events, the Outreach to Religious and Youth Communities Group holds a potluck evening. We meet at 6 pm in someone's home for a shared meal. At 6:30 pm, we view an inspiring film which focuses on LGBT issues. After the movie, we discuss current and future actions to promote education and support for marriage equality. Open to everyone. For more information, contact Ray Hixson at (650) 346-7557 or Joanne Loomba at (408) 921-0041.

Also coming up: October 3, 2009 – 1st Annual Gay Family Day at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 11 am–7 pm.


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

October 3, 2009 – 1st Annual Gay Family Day at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 11 am–7 pm.

Democracy for America Link Monthly Meeting
Wednesday, 07 October, 2009
07:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Hosted by the Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley

Probable topic: election reform? fair tax policy?

Alice Smith's house
4284 Los Palos Cir
Palo Alto, CA 94306 United States

Event Contact Info: Ralph Wheeler
Email: rwheeler@inreach.com
Phone: 650 493-2652

Silicon Valley Democratic Club Open Membership Brunch
Saturday, 10 October, 2009- 10:00 AM
$20 includes brunch & membership
Labor Temple (hall A)
2102 Almaden Rd.
San Jose, CA 95125 U.S

Event Contact Info
Judy Pipkin
Email: jypipkin@aol.com
Phone: (408)445-9500

Please join us for the Silicon Valley Democratic Club's Brunch with Congressman Mike Honda.

The Congressman will give his perspective on up coming crucial health care legislation proposed on Capital Hill. This topic is among the most important of all of President Obama's initiatives, so your participation is strongly encouraged.

Space is limited. So please RSVP by Thursday October 8.

Because Congressman Honda was targeted by Tea Baggers at his own town hall meetings, we will be making every effort to make sure this is an event that is attended by all Democrats that our interested in joining our club or just interested in hearing the Congressman speak on health care. Because of this, admission will be based on RSVP's so please do so quickly. The space will fill up fast.

Learn to Win 2010 Democratic Campaign Training
Saturday, 17 October, 2009, All day

Event Contact Info
Mollie Culver
Email: mollie@cadem.org

Calling All Democratic Activists. Meet new activists and get the tools and information you need for success. This is a two day training, being held October 17-18. Organized by the California Democratic Party. For more information, or to register, go to www.cadem.org/trainings.

Dean Democratic Club Working Meeting
Monday, 19 October, 2009
07:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Please come join us at our club's monthly business meeting. All are welcome, only members can vote, memberships are $15 per year, $10 for students and seniors.

IHOP Restaurant
5403 Stevens Creek Blvd
Santa Clara , CA 95051-7202 United States

Event Contact Info: Ralph Wheeler
Email: rwheeler@inreach.com
Phone: 650 493-2652

Silcion Valley Young Democrats Monthly meeting
Monday, 19 October, 2009
07:00 PM - 08:30 PM

UFCW Local 5 Hall
240 S Market St
San Jose, CA 95113

The Silicon Valley Young Democrats seeks to embody the spirit of forward thinking that has made our home world renowned. We believe that ideas and ideals can transform the society. Our motto, “Innovation in Politics”, reflects our deeply held convictions that an idea holds immense power. We believe in the Silicon Valley spirit of possibility and the democratic ideals of civil and just society.

Event Contact Info
Jordan Eldridge
Email: eldridgejordan@yahoo.com
Phone: 408-991-2908

Nov 4, 2009 DFA first-Wednesday get-together 7:00 PM PST (10:00 PM EST)
City: Palo Alto or Los Altos, usually
Phone: For more info call: 650-380-4112
Probably a discussion of the November 3 election


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/

Orange County, CA Focus

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:

Oct 1 Thursday 6-8pm, Santa Ana: Charles M. Treviño & special guest speakers cordially invite you to a fundraiser and special presentation Water Issues and Southern California Offices of Cordoba Corporation, 2677 N, Main Street, Suite 240, Santa Ana, CA 92705
RSVP by Friday, Sep 25: Misha Houser (714)317.8122 or misha_houser@earthlink.net

Oct 2 Friday 6:30-9pm, Orange: Friday Night Film Series: Iron Ladies of Liberia The Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange present films that raise awareness and encourage conversation about the dynamic, ever-changing, systemic and critical needs of our world.
St. Joseph Center, Mother Louis Room, 480 South Batavia St, Orange 92868. sistersofstjosephorange.org/calendar.php?ID=248 6:30 - 7:00 Gathering and Refreshments 7:00 - 8:00 Film Showing 8:00 - 9:00 Discussion Justice@csjorange.org

Oct 3 Saturday 7:30am-4:30pm, San Clemente to Long Beach: 13th Annual Ancestor Walk 13th Annual Pilgrimage of the Tongva and Acjachemen People As we carry prayers to honor the spirits of our ancestors Saturday, Oct. 3rd, 2009 The walk begins at Panhe to Puvungna at CSULB We will be joined by the California Bear Dancers and Musicians; Jon sherman, Gary lemos & Sarah Thomson and Robert Leon Carpooling is encouraged. Pot Luck prepared dishes appreciated. For more information: Jimi Castillo (951) 625-3344 or Rhonda Robles (562) 633-99014

Oct 3 Saturday 8:30-11:30am, Irvine: Walk For Unity It's that time of the year again and this year's Walk For Unity is proudly dedicated to the brave men and women of Iran and their courageous stance for freedom, human rights, and justice! It would be a pleasure having you there! Peace--Sunny
Host: Humanity Unites & Iran Supporters Network Bill Barber Park--4 Civic Center Plaza To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below: facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=115989163212&mid=f29f1cG23a1b811G2539094G7

Oct 3 Saturday 9am-2pm, Santa Ana: Volunteers Needed for Citizenship Workshop! Please join the Human Rights Campaign as we partner in a historic campaign to build strategic alliances with the Latino/a community! This is a great opportunity for civic engagement and to expand HRC's community and visibility. We need volunteers to assist Latino/a legal permanent residents - individuals and families - in completing their applications to become US citizens
Iglesia de Nuestra Señora Pilar. 1622 W 6th St. Santa Ana, CA 92703
Spanish fluency is helpful, but not necessary. Volunteers are required to attend a training session on a date TBD. Please RSVP to Carin Jacobs at carinjacobs@msn.com by Friday, September 25 to receive more information about the training and indicate: 1) Your name, email address, and cell phone number 2) Your t-shirt size 3) Your fluency in Spanish (helpful for providing interested applicants with information, but not required) oclbps.hrc.org

Oct 3 Saturday 10am-6pm, Irvine: Irvine Global Village Festival Bill Barber Park, 4 Civic Center Plaza More than 50 cultures will share their music, food, art and religion cityofirvine.org/globalvillage

Oct 3-4 Saturday 11pm-Sunday 5pm, Laguna Beach: Second Annual one earth | one dream EcoFest at the famed Lumberyard Mall, 384 Forest Avenue in downtown Laguna Beach.
For more information, call 949.497.5690, or visit 1e1d.org. The goal of one earth | one dream EcoFest is to increase awareness of our impact on the planet while exploring what each of us can do to sustain our only home. one earth | one dream EcoFest does this by connecting the arts, innovation and entertainment with the environment.
Event proceeds benefit Endangered Planet Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring the survival of the Earth through the arts, education, dialog, the dissemination of knowledge and the recognition that innovation can provide many of the answers which will lead to a sustainable future. For more information, visit endangeredplanet.org.

Oct 3 Saturday noon-2pm, Orange: The United Nations Association-Orange County Chapter invites you to have lunch with Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez at Chapman University in Orange. Following lunch, the Congresswoman will speak on "The United States, the United Nations, and the Importance of International Education." Advance tickets ($18) to cover the cost of lunch and a small donation to UNA-USA/OC may be reserved by sending a check by 9/18 to UNA-OC, PO Box 16067, Irvine, CA 92625. Tickets will not be available at the door. For further information see the UNA-USA/OC website at una-oc.org.

Oct 4 (1st Sunday) 8am-5pm, Huntington Beach: Arlington West Memorial vfpoc.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=2029
Please consider helping, or at least visiting, as we again setup our memorial on the sands of Huntington Beach to give thanks to and to honor those who have served our country and particularly those that made the ultimate sacrifice.We must continue to remind the public of this ongoing conflicts and their costs to our nation and its families, and also to continue to talk to, support and help the many Marines, Soldiers, Sailors, Veterans, family members and concerned others that come by.
Volunteers are needed and guests are always very much welcome. As usual we will be at 6th Street (north of pier and of Main Street) Huntington Beach on the beach. Display should be up from 8 to about 5PM. Please come visit and, if you can, PLEASE come to help with setup and/or breakdown. In addition to the moving display and great people and the beach itself, we will have a good selection of peace supplies for small (or large) donations. We often have many great people visiting and great conversations going on.

Volunteers: We usually need the most help and transport in the morning, though both morning and evening are critical. We meetup at the storage unit, Mini-U-Stor, at 7611 Talbert Ave. HB (that's n/west of Beach Blvd. between Beach and Gothard) at 7AM. We can use some additional transport help and lots of helping hands. We get to the beach around/after 7:30 and start the setup of the field of crosses and other items. Depending upon number of helpers this can take 40 minutes or over two hours. Take down goes much quicker than setup (at least for the beach portion). We are back to our regular schedule for breakdown, so should start breakdown about 5PM and hopefully have everything back in the storage unit by 6:30. Evening transport help going back to storage is also an area of need.
Hope to see you there, Wage Peace, Ken Arnold VFP Chapter 110, Orange County, CA

Oct 7 (1st Wednesday) 7pm, Costa Mesa: Democracy for America - Orange County General Meeting - Climate Change Karl Strauss Brewery, 901 S Coast Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Featuring! Bob Seibert, Sierra Club Climate Change - the current situation with our warming planet Special Announcements. . . Steve Carpenter, Rebuilding Together The group's goals and how DFA-OC can support it in the Spring. Lynda Hernandez, Harvest Club How we can build community support for feeding the hungry More agenda items and to be announced
If you have any questions, please contact Susan Kopicki at sckopicki@yahoo.com

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 14 (2nd Wednesday) 7pm, Laguna Woods: Laguna Woods Democratic Club Regular meeting; note different room - Clubhouse 3, Dining Room 2; Henry Vandermeir, DPOC Political Director guest speaker lw-dems.org

Oct 17 Saturday 1-6pm, Long Beach: 25th Latin American Encuentro Empire vs. Democracy: From Guatemala to Honduras, U.U. Church of Long Beach, 5450 Atherton Street, Long Beach, CA 90615
Speakers: Michael Parenti - Award-winning author and lecturer considered one of the nation' leading progressive political analysts; Breny Mendoza - CA State Univ Northridge topic - Hondurans Work from Inisde to Reverse Coup; Raul Hinojosa-Ojeda - Latino Studies, UCLA - The New Transnationalism Community Organization and Development. Registration beings at 12:30pm. Suggested donation is $20 with pre-registration and $25 at the door. Snacks provided. Display tables available. Students with ID free; no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Please bring your old eyeglasses for Nicaragua. For more information call Lucia Munoz at 714/915-3805. uusca.org/unit.htm

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: United Nations Day/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 http://www.una-oc.org/ www.outdooreducationcenter.org www.sierraclub.com

Oct 24 Saturday 5pm, Huntington Beach: Joe Shaw for Huntington Beach City Council fundraiser Hosted by HB Councilwoman Jill Hardy, Former HB Mayors Connie Boardman and Debbie Cook, Coast Community College District Trustee Lorraine Prinsky At the home of Debbie Cook. Time to be announced. Joe Shaw 714-858-0599 Joe Shaw for Huntington Beach City Council 2010

San Diego, CA Focus

SPECIAL EVENTS (see below for more events): I particularly want to emphasize the following important events

A Health Care Solution for California: An Educational Forum
Date: Saturday, October 10, 2009
Time: 8:30 AM - 12:15 PM
Description:
Introduction: Kathy Rallings, Health Care for All; CaliforniaOneCare DVD
Keynote Address by Prof: Gerald Kominski, Assoc. Director UCLA Center for Health Policy Research.
Overview of SB 810: Sara Rogers, Health Policy Consultant, Office of State Senator Mark Leno.
Health care for all as a moral issue: Rev. Gail Anne Benson, California Council of Churches.
BREAK
Panel on SB 810-California Single Payer Bill:
Moderator: Mary Crowley, R.N., Past President, League of Women Voters, NCSD - Gerald Kominski - Sara Rogers - JB Fenix, M.P.H., U.C. Irvine School of Medicine, Fellow, Physicians for a National Health Plan - Barbara Mannino, M.Ed, M.B.A., Ex Director, Vista Community Clinic.
Includes continental breakfast.
Location: Palomar Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
1600 Buena Vista Drive, Vista 92081
Contact: (760) 842-8534
Email: zolta@prodigy.net

Southwestern College Board Meeting
Date(s): Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Description:
Please join us at this meeting to fight the Blackwater agreement! ITEM WILL BE ON THE AGENDA!
Location: Southwestern Community College, 900 Otay Lakes Road, Rm 214 (6:30pm protest; 7pm meeting)
Contact: Ray Lutz at (619) 447-3246
Website: www.citizensoversight.org


BIODIESEL IN SAN DIEGO:

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:

Progressive Democrats of America - SD Metro Chapter Meeting
Date(s): Monday, September 28, 2009
Time: 6:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Description:
Progressive Democrats of America - Metro San Diego welcomes Caridad Sanchez, Sen Barbara Boxer's District Director for San Diego and Imperial Counties, to speak on her work for Sen. Boxer and issues ragarding Social & Economic Justice.
Location: 9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92123
Contact: (619) 665-9415
Email: california53@gmail.com
Website: www.pdamsd.org

Rancho Santa Fe Dem Club General Meeting
Date(s): Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Description:
Guest speaker: Dave Roberts, Councilman, Solana Beach - Topic: "The Status of Healthcare Reform" with focus on the current congressional proposals and what Organizing for America (OFA) is doing to help pass healthcare reform legislation." See website for more and a map.
Location: Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club
Price: $5.00 / Person
Contact: (760) 473-5474
Email: info@rsfdemclub.org
Website: www.rsfdemclub.org

A Bahamas Brunch in the Coronado Cays in Support of Francine Busby for Congress
Date(s): Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Time: 9:30 PM - 11:00 AM
Description:
Special guests include State Assemblymember Mary Salas, Coronado City Councilmember Carrie Downey, and Chula Vista City Councilmember Pamela Bensoussan. Hosted by Suzanne De La Vergne and Clarice Perkins. Co-Hosted by Elaine Graybill, Joan Huck, Andrew Sabey M.D., Marshall Saunders, Jean Seager and Joyce Shepard. Minimum suggested donation $50/person. RSVP
Location: Bahama Clubhouse, 43 1/2 Catspaw Cape, Coronado, 92118
Contact: Leigh at (760) 681-4108
Email: leigh@busbyforcongress.com
Website: www.busbyforcongress.com

Oktoberfest in La Mesa
Date(s): Friday, October 2, 2009 - Sunday, October 4, 2009
Time: 11:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Description:
Visit the Democratic Booth at the La Mesa Oktoberfest. We will be registering voters, distributing healthcare reform information, and much more! Look for our President Obama standee and have your picture taken! NOTE: Sunday the 4th is from noon-6pm
Location: Downtown La Mesa
Contact:(619) 741-1994
Email: designfreak@yahoo.com
Website: www.lamesafoothilldemocraticclub.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

Poway Democratic Club Monthly Meeting
Date(s): Thursday, October 8, 2009
Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Description:
Have you ever wondered how over 4.6 billion of San Diego County's property tax money is managed and distributed? Mr. Dan McAllister, San Diego County Treasurer - Tax Collector, will answer those questions and discuss how the current financial downturn will affect services. Meet and greet begins at 6:30 PM with the main program starting at 7:00 PM. The Meeting is free and open to the public.
Location: Twin Peaks Middle School Little Theater (room 608) located at 14640 Tierra Bonita Rd, in Poway
Contact: (858) 748-5330
Email: info@powaydemocraticclub.org
Website: www.PowayDemocraticClub.org

Escondido Democratic Club October Meetings
Date(s): Thursday, October 8, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Description:
The October Club meeting wraps up the discussion of growth and development in Escondido with a presentation by Jonathan Brindle, Director of Community Development for the city. Brindle will discuss the General Plan update that is now underway, and explain the guiding role the general plan plays in decisions about future development. The General Plan discussion continues two previous meetings where the Club received presentations on the availability of water (from the San Diego County Water Authority) and on the disposal of wastewater (from the Escondido Director of Utilities, Lori Vereker).
Location: Joslyn Senior Center
Contact: (760) 740-8595
Email: communications@escondidodems.org
Website: www.escondidodems.org

Progressive Democrats North San Diego County monthly meeting
Date(s): Sunday, October 11, 2009
Time: 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Description:
The September meeting will include a presentation by Jeeni Criscenzo del Rio on Economic Justice, entitled "A Creative, Workable Solution for the Homeless in San Diego." The club will hear prospective candidates for Representative for the 50th Congressional District, for the 74th Assembly District, for Oceanside City Council, and for the 5th Supervisor's District. After the presentations, the club will vote whether to endorse, and which candidate(s) to endorse. FREE
Location: Palomar Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
Contact: (760) 842-8534
Email: zolta@prodigy.net

Mesa Democratic Club Meeting
Date(s): Monday, October 12, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Description:
Both Howard Wayne and Steve Hadley are running for San Diego City Council District 6. They will introduce themselves and answer questions.
Location: North Clairemont Recreation Center, Room 2 at 4421 Bannock Ave, SD 92117
Email: president@mesa.sddem.org
Website: www.mesa.sddem.org

Black Mountain Democratic Club meeting
Date(s): Thursday, October 15, 2009
Time: 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Description:
Guest Speaker: Tracy Emblem, Candidate for the United States Congress in the 50th District. Please come and meet Tracy Emblem, who is running for the United States Congress in the 50th District. She is running to defeat incumbent Brian Bilbray. Ms. Emblem, an attorney, has been fighting to hold the government accountable for the past twenty years. She believes strongly in justice, fairness and due process for all. Ms. Emblem has served as a judge pro-tem and she has argued before the California Supreme Court. In 2004, Tracy Emblem appeared on CNN's Larry King Live for the pro bono work she did to free an innocent man. For that work, the Consumer Attorneys of San Diego honored her with their Outstanding Advocate Award.
Location: Mesa Village Rec Hall 1, 10550 Caminito Flores, San Diego 92126
Contact: (858) 245-8979
Email: jerryollinger@hotmail.com
Website: www.blacklmountaindemocrats.org

East County Democratic Club Meeting
Date(s): Thursday, October 15, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Description:
Come and enjoy dinner and drinks before the meeting. (6pm dinner, 7pm meeting) Topic to be determined.
(Please note change to Thursday evening!)
Location: Cocos Restaurant at 1025 Fletcher Pkwy, El Cajon, CA 92020
Contact: Ray Lutz at (619) 447-3246
Website: www.ecdcweb.org

SD Asian Film Festival
Date(s): Friday, October 16, 2009
Time: 5:45 PM - 7:15 PM
Description:
Patsy Mink: Ahead of the Majority - This film explores the remarkable political story of Patsy Matsu Takemoto Mink, who redefined American politics through her fight against racism and sexism. Congresswoman Mink was the first woman of color elected to the U.S. Congress. Meet the director, Kimberlee Bassford, from Hawaii, for a Q & A session right after the film. Join fellow Democrats for drinks (open cash bar) at the American Grill following this exciting event.
Location: Hazard Center Ultra Stars Cinemas, 7510 Hazard Center Dr., #100
Price: $10.00 / Person
Contact: (858) 486-8336
Email: Secretary@sddemocrats.org

South Bay Democratic Club meeting
Date(s): Saturday, October 17, 2009
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Location: 140 W 16th St., National City, 91950
Contact: Mona Rios at (619) 994-0884
Email: monarios@gmail.com

Naturalization Ceremony Voter Registration
Date(s): Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Time: 10:10 AM - 12:00 PM
Description: Volunteers are needed to help register newly naturalized citizens.
Location: At Golden Hall, Corner of 3rd and B Street. Parking at Horton Plaza.
Contact: Greg Bolan. Note: The San Diego Voter Registration team uses Google Groups to send out volunteer emails.
Email: sdvoter@gmail.com

San Diego Democratic Women's Club Meeting
Date(s): Saturday, October 24, 2009
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Description: Guest speaker will be Dan Mcallister, SD County Treasurer-Tax Collector
Location: City Heights Weingart Branch Library, 3795 Fairmount Ave., in the 2nd floor Community Room
Email: SDDEMWomen@aol.com

San Diego Democracy for America Meetup
Date(s): Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:45 PM
Description:
Speaker is Christine Kehoe, State Senator, 39th District, 3rd term. She will discuss California's state budget and other issues.
Location: 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

Mesa Democratic Club Meeting
Date(s): Monday, November 9, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Description:
This month both Francine Busby and Tracy Emblem will be our guest speakers. They are running for the 50th Congressional District against incumbent Republican Brian Bilbray. Join us with your questions.
Location: North Clairemont Recreation Center, Room 2, 4421 Bannock Avenue, SD 92117
Email: president@mesa.sddem.org
Website: www.mesa.sddem.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.