Progressive Democrat Issue 230

I am still not in the full swing of things in regards to the newsletter since I am preparing for a conference next week and Jacob's birthday was this last week. I will say that in the NYC runoffs, the candidate I expected to win (John Liu) did win, and the candidate I hoped would win but didn't expect to win (Mark Green) lost. I will have endorsements for November soon. We sure have a lot of ground to cover in NYC elections, don't we?

Despite my lack of time, I am still keeping things fairly up to date here, complete with calenders, news articles, highlights of progressive candidates, etc. in many areas I cover. So keep reading and keep up the activism. It may not always seem this way, but things have been moving (slowly) in the right direction.

Here is Obama's latest on healthcare reform:



Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Rob Miller (SC-2) Ready to Mount a Challenge Against Joe "You Lie" Wilson

Max Baucus: Whose side are you on?

NYC FOCUS: Working Families Party Scam

Brooklyn, NY Focus

Queens, NY Focus

Bronx, NY Focus

NEW YORK STATE

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Re-elect Secretary of State Debra Bowen

Silicon Valley Area, CA Focus

Orange County, CA Focus

San Diego, CA Focus

CALIFORNIA FOCUS

Texas Focus: Bill White for US Senate

Dallas County, TX Focus

Austin/Travis County, TX Focus

Houston/Harris County, TX. Focus

TEXAS FOCUS

Coweta County, GA Focus

GEORGIA FOCUS

Sussex County, NJ Focus

Warren County, NJ Focus

Passaic County, NJ Focus

NEW JERSEY FOCUS

Virginia Organizing Project Supports Healthcare Reform

Virginia Congressman Tom Perriello: Clean Energy Champion

VIRGINIA FOCUS

Progressive Majority Candidates in Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA FOCUS

Progressive Majority in Washington State

WASHINGTON STATE FOCUS

FLORIDA FOCUS

ARIZONA FOCUS

Colorado Senator Bennet On Healthcare Reform

COLORADO FOCUS

Wisconsin for Healthcare Reform: Facts and Actions

WISCONSIN FOCUS

North Carolina Justice Center: Myths About Health Reform

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS

IOWA FOCUS

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

ILLINOIS FOCUS

Nevada: Public Option Model that SAVES Money

NEVADA FOCUS

Progressive Majority Canidates in Minnesota

MINNESOTA FOCUS

MICHIGAN FOCUS

Rob Miller (SC-2) Ready to Mount a Challenge Against Joe "You Lie" Wilson

Joe Wilson, the Republican Congressman from South Carolina who (inaccurately) yelled "You Lie" during President Obama's healthcare reform speech to a joint session of Congress is probably regretting his unseemly outburst. Keep in mind that such an outburst is unprecedented in modern Congressional history. In response to his attack on Obama, more than $750,000 was raised in about 24 hours from across the country for Wilson's Democratic opponent, Rob Miller. Here is Miller's first campaign video, paid for by the money we raised in protest of Wilson's outburst:



Maybe we can make a real race of this. Prior to Wilson's outburst, I don't think this race was on anyone's radar. With a sudden influx of, by now, nearly a million dollars, Rob Miller, if he has the brains and balls to run a hard campaign, could just pull this off.

Max Baucus: Whose side are you on?

Sometimes I wonder about some of my fellow Democrats. Overall I'd say the Dems are a good party. The vast majority of Democrats I have personally known are good, solid progressives, pro-labor, pro-working class, pro-middle class. But there are some so-called Dems out there that...well, you just wonder whether they really are for the people or not. Take Max Baucus of Montana. Now Montana is conservative, but they have given us some good Dems. Overall I have liked Jon Tester and Brian Schweitzer, though I may not agree with them on all issues. But Max Baucus doesn't seem on the right side. This comes from Democracy for America:

NYC FOCUS: Working Families Party Scam

Got attacked for this piece over the last week by anonymous WFP supporters, so I am repeating the article to remind people of it. In the attacks I was accused of repeating slander from the NY Post and Glenn Beck and such. Since I specifically quote City Hall News and Room 8, I am not sure what the WFP fools are talking about. The City Hall News articles in particular are detailed and precisely accurate and spend a great deal of time interviewing the candidates involved in the scandal as well as WFP leaders and lawyers. So if somehow those articles are showing the WFP in a bad light, the WFP has only themselves to blame. For more on the issue, read the City Hall Articles I cite and you can read this article from yet another blogger on Room 8. The WFP doesn't want this story to get out there and they are using the same tactics the right wing does when faced with a scandal hitting the press: they attack the messanger. The WFP is attacking those who are exposing the "irregularities" rather than cleaning up their act. Corrupton is disgusting no matter what political party is responsible.

And I should add, that since I wrote the below article, yet ANOTHER candidate has been implicated in the scandal...the candidate who will probably be my own City Councilman, Steve Levin.

An article in City Hall News covers this developing scandal in considerable detail. Here is the breakdown they give of the scandal:

A complicated web of coordinated activities, shared resources and staff, and quiet money transfers between the Working Families Party, a secretive private company called Data and Field Services and at least six current Council campaigns, as well as Bill de Blasio’s campaign for public advocate, appears to have found several ways around the strict city campaign finance laws. Upwards of a million dollars, and possibly more, are involved, with over $1.7 million in matching funds comprised of taxpayer dollars already disbursed and more are potentially at stake.

There have long been assumptions and rumors of the collaboration between the Working Families Party (WFP) and its favored candidates, but never before has the scope of or intricate processes behind its joint activity been exposed to the degree made possible by an extensive review of public documents and close to 50 interviews with a range of key players conducted by City Hall over the last few days.

The article goes on in great detail and is well worth reading.

Another City Hall News article basically has the lawyer who helped set up the whole scheme admitting that WFP is indeed sidestepping transparency and quite possibly the actual rules by not adequately separating the political party (WFP) from its for-profit spinoff (DFS). It is kind of amazing that WFP thinks this is okay, whether or not it winds up being strictly legal. Strikes me as precisely the kind of BS reform Democrats are trying to stop. But then again, I have come to realize WFP is NOT about reform, which is why they can buddy up with corrupt Brooklyn Party boss Vito Lopez and his aide Steve Levin.

Yet another City Hall News article takes the scandal further, showing that Working Families Party may well be violating further election finance laws but either not properly reporting or not properly paying rent on some of their offices:

A review of the Party’s expenditures in public documents filed with the state Board of Elections over the last decade which were reported as rent shows an erratic pattern of payments made to several different landlords, and none marked as going directly to Flatbush Fulton Realty Associates, the owner of its current space at 2 Nevins Street in Brooklyn. Some years, the WFP appears to have paid no rent at all, based on the data filed with the Board of Elections.

Political parties are required to pay rent, in order to ensure that no party is getting an unfair monetary advantage over others, and the parties are required to report all money paid out for expenditures.

“The committee needs to account for any expenditures they have, and if they receive any in-kind contributions, then the value of those as well,” said Bob Brehm, a spokesman for the state Board of Elections.

Furthermore, it seems no one can get a straight answer from WFP regarding the rent scandal:

In an email sent Tuesday night, Levitan offered an explanation for why rent had spiked in recent months, arguing that the money paid so far in 2009 went to “rent and overhead to pay for our main office, office space in Buffalo and Albany, and spillover offices in Brooklyn. The increase in rent reflects the higher price of our new office space on 2 Nevins Street.”

No payments show up as going to Buffalo, and except for those which went to the Association of Black, Puerto Rican and Asian Legislators PO box in 2007, none show up as having gone to Albany either.

You'd think they'd check if their excuses even made sense before they gave them publicly. You can't explain sudden spikes in rent payments using numbers that are, effectively, zero. Of course why they are zero is another part of the mystery. This is all at best sloppy record keeping of numbers that are critical for campaign finance regulations to work. At worst it is further evidence of outright corruption within Working Families Party.

So WFP may be bending or breaking laws regarding how they help out endorsed candidates and regarding how they pay (or don't pay) their rent. All of which makes a mockery of attempts to make campaign finance both more transparent and fair.

The candidates who are potentially caught up in this scandal are Bill de Blasio (running for, ironically, Public Advocate), and several city council candidates: Brad Lander, Debi Rose, Daniel Dromm, Lynn Schulman, Jumaane Williams, S.J. Jung, Jimmy Van Bramer. The first City Hall News article I link to above outlines in huge detail how each of these candidates are using WFP personnel and/or resources in a way that may well either violate or at least dodge existing campaign finance laws. NOT something that makes them look like reform-minded candidates.

I should note that I have endorsed one of the candidates caught up in this scandal, Daniel Dromm. I don't know if I consider involvement in this scandal a deal breaker, but Dromm definitely is on thin ice with his WFP connections and involvement in this scandal is one strike for a candidate in my book. I like everything else about Dromm, but his ties to WFP do raise an eyebrow in light of this scandal. Interestingly, another candidate that WFP and I agree on, John Liu (running for Comptroller) has conspicuoulsy NOT been mentioned in this WFP scandal, so perhaps he followed the rules in his connections with the WFP. I find this encouraging about Liu. The imnpression I get was that he knew how to do things right and has played by the rules in ways that these other WFP candidats have not.

In other cases I should note I have endorsed candidates opposing the WFP candidates involved in this scandal. Brad Lander is running against my friend Josh Skaller (whose personal endorsement by Howard Dean I wrote about on DK). Lynn Schulman is running against my endorsed candidate Mel Gagarin. And I also have endorsed Brent O'Leary over Jamie Van Bramer.

It is unclear whether any of these WFP-endorsed candidates themselves have violated the law (intent or letter) or were merely unwittingly caught up in a WFP scandal. Either way, it makes WFP look pretty bad and makes their endorsement seem about equivalent to that of corrupt Party Boss Vito Lopez, who happens this year to be a political ally of WFP. Corruption seems to be gathering together in NYC this year in a way I haven't seen before.

My friend, Josh Skaller, running to replace Bill de Blasio in the City Council, has this to say about his opponent Brad Lander's role in the scandal:

"Once again, we are disappointed to learn that a candidate has engaged in slush fund politics at the public's expense -- this time it's Brad Lander. Lander has allowed his Council campaign to be propped up by unethical and possibly illegal under-the-table funds, and the public might be awarding him taxpayer-generated matching funds regardless of this scandal.

"Recent media reports confirm the intent of New York City's Campaign Finance Law has been violated through the creation of a for-profit company named Data and Field Services (DFS). DFS was created by the Working Families Party and an unknown amount of money has flowed through the Working Families Party and DFS to certain campaigns, including Brad Lander's.

"My entire campaign I've been talking about real reform. I am proud to say that Democrats -- and all New Yorkers -- can track each of our contributions and expenditures to the penny through our filings with the Campaign Finance Board. But you can't do that with Lander's funds because his real expenditures -- and the real level of contributions from the Working Families Party -- are laundered through DFS. Lander has abused the public's trust and the evidence of an unholy relationship with the Working Families Party is quite plentiful.

"Brad Lander talks about his reform credentials. Yet he has failed a critical test of leadership when it comes to his Council campaign. We cannot stop typical Democratic Party politics in Brooklyn if we have elected officials without the judgment and the guts to do the right thing. We cannot stop slush fund politics in the City Council if we have candidates like Lander who utilize slushy money to fuel their campaigns. If it's good enough during the campaign, we will see more dirty money when the new Council takes office.

"It was my call to end slush funds that helped to put the City Council and a disgraced former elected official on the spot and stop the outrage. [EDITOR'S NOTE: Presumably a reference to the DiBrienza scandal that brought down one city council candidate (in fact also the former City Councilman for the district) and is linked to neighboring City Councilman David Yassky (running for Comptroller against John Liu) and happened right next door to Bill de Blasio's own office)] No other Council candidate in the 39th District joined me in making that call -- I stood alone. Then, it was my refusal to accept any contributions from developers that led other candidates to make the same pledge -- I was again the leader on this critical issue. Brad Lander got around to returning developer money he had already accepted.

"Now, I am calling for the New York City Campaign Finance Board to rescind any funds provided to the Lander campaign until and unless a full accounting of the Lander finances has been provided both to the Board and to the public. New Yorkers deserve to know the truth. If violations are determined to have taken place, then appropriate action must be taken.

"We don't need four more years of corruption in the City Council. We need independent Democrats who understand what democracy is supposed to look like. On September 15, Brooklynites can choose more of the same, or they can choose reform. A vote for me is a vote for real change."

Of course I want to give credit where credit is due. This story was first mentioned in the NYC blog Room 8 where another blogger (whose identity or identities have been much discussed) has already written about supposed corrupt behavior by WFP, targeting Brad Lander in particular. And one particular accusation, made in May, is of note because it presages the current scandal. From Hildy Johnson's article:

These transactions are hidden behind a wall of corporate secrecy.

Yes, corporate: To run its canvassing operations, the WFP has created an in-house, for-profit corporation called Data & Field Services. The party publicly discloses only the five-figure lump sums it occasionally "pays" the company. (Some individual candidates also disclose payments to DFS.)

This practice apparently violates state campaign-finance regulations. Board of Elections officials insist that party committees are required to itemize exactly who gets the money they dispense, even if it's paid through an "outside" vendor. While the public can sometimes see where the WFP's money comes from, it knows very little about where it goes. In the Working Families Party, ACORN has created a conglomerate that is one part campaign machine, one part commercial enterprise and one part lobbying-clearinghouse for special-interest money and muscle -- a conglomerate that is shored up by its privileges as a state-registered political party and shielded from scrutiny by a corporate subsidiary.

Of course this is precisely the scandal that is now hitting the papers, brought up months before by a Room 8 blogger. Perhaps this lends credibility to some of the other accusations made in that article...

But one thing I want to emphasize is that Brad Lander is not the only candidate involved, even though the Room 8 blogger and (not surprisingly) Skaller both focus on Lander's involvement. I think Bill de Blasio deserves even more scrutiny than Lander. And even some people I have considered good candidates seem involved. I think this shows how widespread scandal is in our local government, whether it is the slush fund scandals that involve as much as 3/4 of the current City Council (including, I should add, Bill de Blasio near the top of the list of dubious slush fund transactions), or the WFP scandals described here, these scandals cross party lines and really call for massive reform in NYC. When I blog about national issues it is usually Republican corruption I target. In NYC it seeems to be Democratic corruption and now WFP corruption. And to think I naively believed WFP could be an effective counter to the corruption of Vito Lopez's machine.

Brad Lander, Bill de Blasio and the other candidates named in the WFP scandal (even Daniel Dromm who I endorsed) should be carefully investigated. It also might be nice if they would show some backbone and condemn corruption even in groups that endorsed them. A condemnation of WFP's dubious practices might go a long way to reassuring voters that candidates like Lander, de Blasio and Dromm aren't part of this corruption.

I believe most of the candidates I endorse (perhaps with some exceptions who I may have to reconsider) are the ones MOST dedicated to reform of this corrupt system. And I think in particular this shows how the likes of Bill de Blasio (involved in both slush fund and WFP scandals) should NOT be Public Advocate. The two frontrunners in the Public Advocate race are Norman Siegel and Mark Green. I think without a doubt Norman Siegel is the most honest candidate in NYC and his integrity is unquestioned. I really think we need a man like Norman Siegel as our advocate these days. But we certainly do NOT need someone like Bill de Blasio.

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.


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

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Re-elect Secretary of State Debra Bowen

I was proud to have helped Debra Bowen become Secretary of State for California. I supported her through the excellent (and I would say VERY NECESSARY) Secretary of State Project. Debra Bowen is up for re-election in 2010 and the Republicans are seriously targeting her. Here is what they have to say on the Secretary of State Project website:

Debra Bowen is one of the most progressive Secretaries of State in the nation. Shortly taking office she ordered a “top to bottom” review of the California’s electronic voting machines which resulted in the decertification of Diebold and two other voting system manufacturers. As a result of her progressive accomplishments as Secretary of State, she was awarded a Profile in Courage Award by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in 2008.

And this comes from Debra Bowen's campaign:

With summer transitioning to fall, I wanted to write you a quick update — and ask for your help.

I'm so proud of the work our office has done to ensure the voting systems we use in California are secure, accurate, reliable, and accessible. We have increased transparency in our elections, and record numbers of Californians are participating in the democratic process. I believe that California voters are more confident than ever that their votes count — and will be counted.

There's so much more to do, which is why I'm running for a second term as Secretary of State — will you help our campaign today?

Please click here to contribute $25, $50, $100 or more to my re-election campaign today!

In 2006, you elected me to restore confidence in California's electoral systems, and that's been my top priority from day one. I conducted a comprehensive review of the state's voting standards, which led to several insecure voting machine systems being decertified for use in California. I also imposed significant security and auditing requirements to strengthen public confidence in our elections — confidence that is a critical component of our democracy.

In 2008, I was honored to receive a John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage award for these efforts. And I will always fight to ensure that voting systems certified for use in California are secure, accurate, reliable, and accessible.

I promise you that I'll continue working to make our state a model for the rest of the country as California's Secretary of State. But I can't do it without your help.

Please click here to contribute $25, $50, $100 or more to my re-election campaign today!

While the election may seem far away, already a Republican opponent has thrown her hat in the ring. Conservative Assemblywoman Audra Strickland is part of the husband & wife political team that has been investigated by the Ventura County District Attorney's Office for misusing campaign funds — so we have every reason to believe that this will be a hard fought race.

As you know, campaigns for statewide office in California are expensive. Fortunately, I know that I can count on my most valuable resources: generous friends and grassroots supporters like you!

Please click here to contribute $25, $50, $100 or more to my re-election campaign today!

Your support is invaluable and I can't return for a second four-year term without you. Your commitment will keep the California Secretary of State's office in the hands of someone who is consistently working to ensure ALL Californians can have confidence that their vote is recorded as it was cast.

Thank you for your support,

Debra Bowen
Secretary of State

CALIFORNIA FOCUS: Blogs, Stonewall Democrats, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

News from the blogs:

Budget Cuts Put Us in Fire Danger

Thousands protest fees (45% tuition hike), layoffs at UC campuses...more here: Solidarity shown during UC walkout...and more here: Students, Faculty, and Workers Across the State Protest UC Fee Hikes and Furloughs

More Republican Corruption: Former Rep. John Doolittle (R, CA-04) named co-conspirator

Kevin Johnson and the city government set to sell out Sacramento's water future to Nestlé

The Big Lie On Fiscal Conservatism

Garamendi Calls for Oil Severance Tax Instead of 30% Student Fee Increase

The Latest Republican Corruption in California: David Dreier (R-CA) Caught Up In Ethics Scandal...more here.

Has the Federal Stimulus Helped YOU? Congressman Pete Stark (CA-13) has put together a tagged Google map indicating each appropriation to the district approved through the federal stimulus package.


BLOGGING CALIFORNIA: Here are some blogs covering California Politics

Calitics is an open source news organization for California.

The Liberal OC covers politics in Orange County.

LeftyBlogs California is the place to find out what's happening in the progressive blogosphere across California.

The California Progress Report is published by Frank D. Russo, a longtime observer of and participant in California politics.


STONEWALL DEMOCRATS and related organizations in California:

Stonewall Democrats of Los Angeles. Look for upcoming events here.

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.

Central Valley Stonewall Democratic Club
Stockton, CA

Fresno Stonewall Democrats
Fresno, CA

Stonewall Democrats of Ventura County
Meetings: First Thursday of the Month, 7:15 PM
Ventura County Rainbow Alliance (VCRA)
4567 Telephone Rd., Suite 100
Ventura, CA 93003

Stonewall Alliance of Chico: The Stonewall Alliance Center offers a range of services to help connect people to their community. Volunteers staffing the Center provide information on activities and events and offer referrals for services. Our Education & Outreach give community members access to the Harlan Adams Memorial Library, Out Education classes, we deliver speaker’s panels to local colleges and presenters to area organizations and groups.

Beginning July 15th, Connecting Circles of Care (CCOC) will be collaborating with Stonewall Alliance Youth (SAY) to offer a weekly drop-in group for Gay, Lesbian, Two-Spirit, Bisexual, Transgender, or Questioning Youth age 14-18. The group will focus on education and providing an environment where youth are valued and respected. Drop-in times are 3:30-5:00pm at the Stonewall Alliance Center, 2289 Cohasset Rd Suite 5 Chico. CCOC will be providing pizza at the first meeting on July 15 and some type of snack at each group thereafter.


Alternative Energy in California:

Some statistics from Repower America:

# California is ranked 3rd in the nation for its 2,517-megwatts of installed wind capacity. The state’s 60 wind farms are in 5 major wind resource areas and 4 new projects are underway.

# Southern California Edison and Florida Power & Light are operating the largest single source of solar energy in the world at 310-megawatts in the Mojave Desert.

# Solel and Pacific Gas & Electric will begin operating a 553-megawatt solar plant in 2011. When completed, the 6,000-acre solar field will bring power to 400,000 PG&E homes in northern California.

Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in California, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.

Here are some Biodiesel Cooperatives in California. If you have a diesel truck or car, joining one of these co-ops can help you drive more green.

The Berkeley Biodiesel Collecctive
Berkeley, CA
email: berkeleybiodiesel_at_yahoo.com. Or check out their website.

The Biofuels Research Cooperative
Sebastopol, CA
email: veggieoilcoop_at_yahoo.com.

I also want to highlight Conserv Fuels in Los Angeles, which offers a selection of alternative fuels (biodiesel and ethanol included) as well as pretty cheap regular gasoline. Joy and I buy our fuel (whatever we need) when we are in Los Angeles.

And Propel Fuels have several stations around California that offer biodiesel (and, according to a reader, they also offer E85 ethanol blend): (I discovered them when I saw they did carbon offsets)

* Rocklin
6700 Five Star Blvd
Sacramento, California 95677

* Citrus Heights
7741 Auburn Blvd
Citrus Heights, California 95610

* Sacramento, Folsom Blvd.
8090 Folsom Blvd.
Sacramento, California 95826

* Sacramento, Norwood Ave.
4200 Norwood Ave
Sacramento, California 95838

* Sacramento, Florin Road
8062 Florin Road
Sacramento, California 95828

* Elk Grove
9190 E Stockton Blvd
Elk Grove, California 95624

* Roseville
999 Sunrise Ave
Roseville, California 95661

* Placerville
151 Main St
Placerville, California 95667


Here are other alternative energy resources for Califorina:

San Francisco Community Power pilots innovative programs that improve our neighborhoods' environmental and economic conditions. We help small businesses and low-income families lower their expenses and reduce their ecological footprint. Our work provides policy makers with demonstrative ways to solve complex resource allocation issues.


California for Democracy:
Here are some local Democracy for America groups (click on the link for more info)

DFA Marin

Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley

Democratic Club of Coarsegold

DFA - Central Coast

DFA-CFD of Fresno & Madera Counties

DFA-CFD of Mariposa and Tuolumne Counties

Democracy for Monterey County

DFA-Orange County

East Bay for Democracy

Sacramento for Democracy

San Diego for Democracy

(San Fernando) Valley Grassroots for Democracy

San Francisco for Democracy

San Mateo County Democracy for America

Santa Barbara Progressive Coalition

Sonoma County DFA


Here are some local political meetings in California:

San Fernando Valley Young Democrats: San Fernando Valley Young Democrats shall endeavor to stimulate in young people an active interest in governmental affairs, increase the efficiency of our government, maintain the viability of our free institutions, and contribute to the growth and influence of the ideals and philosophy of the Democratic Party. Check their calendar of events here.

Pasadena Young Democrats:
PYD welcomes students and young adults from throughout the region to join us. The mission of PYD is to encourage young people to participate in the political process, support progressive ideals and Democratic candidates and have a lot fun in the process!

If you are actively looking to find out about the local scene, get involved with a campaign, or even if you are just looking for some fun progressive people aged 14-35 to hang out with, we encourage you to join PYD and attend one of our meetings or events. Check out their calendar here.

Orange County Young Democrats: We are young workers, young families, college and high school students--ages 14-35--who are commited to the Democratic values that make America strong and provide opportunity for all. As the official voice for young people in the Democratic Party of Orange County, OCYD is a network of Young Democrat activists around the county that are helping to provide a Democratic presence around Orange County and around college and high school campuses. Check out their calendar here.

San Ramon Valley Democrats Meetings
We are a group of dedicated Democrats living in the San Ramon Valley who have come together to support and promote the progressive social and political principles that always have been fundamental to the Democratic Party. The San Ramon Valley is comprised of Alamo, Blackhawk, Diablo, Danville, San Ramon, and southern Walnut Creek, and members of our club come from each of those communities. We meet once a month for an educational program at Mudd's Restaurant in San Ramon, alternating between lunch on the second Tuesday, and appetizers (no-host bar) on the evening of the fourth Thursday (6:30 PM). We register people to vote, walk precincts to arouse voters, raise money for candidates, and enjoy the opportunity to socialize with people of common interests. Go here for more info.

Our meetings are lively and our programs are focused on issues of concern to Democrats, locally, statewide, and nationally. Our speakers are chosen for their astute insight into the problems before us as citizens and as voters. We socialize before and after the formal meetings, and enter into animated discussions about the topic of the day. In the process we become fast friends.

Mudds Restaurant
$22 per person (meal included)

Democrats of North Orange County
Bill Daly, President
714-990-6767
Bruce Sandercock, Vice-President
714-871-5244
P. O. Box 6597
Fullerton, CA 92834
Monthly meeting: First Thursday, Sizzler Restaurant,
1401 N. Harbor, Fullerton; 6 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. meeting

Santa Clara County (San Jose) Democratic Party Meetup
We meet at 7:30pm on the second Tuesday of each month at the Dem Party Office, 2102 Almaden Road, Suite 114, San Jose, 95125. Feel free to bring snacks to share.

Brought to you by the Santa Clara County Democratic Party (http://www.sccdp.org).... Please join us to learn ways to help elect Democrats in Santa Clara County and beyond.

~~Together, America Can Do Better!~~

On Almaden ROAD (not Expwy), between Curtner and Canoas Garden. It's OK to park in the big lot, despite posted warnings.

Internet directions usually suggest taking Almaden Expressway, which is sometimes backed up. A lower stress route is to take Bird Avenue west from 280 and follow it all the way until it dead-ends at Malone. Left on Malone, Right on Almaden Road and 2102 is on the first corner on your left.

We meet in Suite 114, first door on your left as you enter the glass doors marked Main Entrance.


Drinking Liberally:

For those who like a more social, and beer focused, environment, there's Drinking Liberally. Here are the Drinking Liberally groups in California:

San Jose
* Second Thursday of each month, 6:30 and on
* Trials Pub in downtown San Jose, 265 N 1st St (main cross streets: W St James and W Julian)
* September is our first meeting with our new host! I'm looking for a co-host, so let me know if you are interested
* Hosted by Mia White, sanjose (at) drinkingliberally.org

Downtown Los Angeles
* Third Wednesday of each month, 6:00-8:00 pm
* The Edison, 108 West 2nd St
* We'll be in the area past the bar, known as the "Generator Lounge" (the entrance to the bar is through the alley off of 2nd street)
* Hosted by Vincent Jones, Cecilia Cabello, Becca Doten, Roxi Reeves and Jim Kennedy, downtownla (at) drinkingliberally.org

Hollywood
* Second Wednesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 PM
* Molly Malone's Irish Pub, 575 South Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles 90036 (near corner of 6th avenue)
* http://www.mollymalonesla.com/
* Hosted by Vincent Jones, Jim Kennedy and Mary Jack, la (at) drinkingliberally.org

Pasadena
* Every Tuesday, 7:30-10:00 pm
* Madeleine's Wine Bistro, 1030 E Green St (between Wilson and Catalina)
* We'll start out in the wine bar, then move out to the front patio.
* Hosted by Asa Hopkins, pasadena (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Fernando Valley
* First and third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* The White Harte Pub, 22456 Ventura Blvd, Woodland Hills (Two blocks west of Shoup Ave.)
* Hosted by Andy Beaton and Jon Hytowitz, sfv (at) drinkingliberally.org

Westside
* Fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm
* Trip Bar in Santa Monica, 2101 Lincoln Blvd
* Contact: westsidela (at) drinkingliberally.org

Monterey, California
* First Wednesday of each month, 6:30 pm onward
* Ol' Factory Cafe, 1725 Contra Costa St (In Sand City, off of Del Monte Blvd)
* http://www.olfactorycafe.com/
* Please note that The Ol' Factory Cafe currently only takes cash and local checks.
* Hosted by Annie Ho, monterey (at) drinkingliberally.org

Santa Ana
* Every Thursday, 8:30 pm onward
* Memphis Bar, 201 N Broadway (Artists Village)
* Hosted by Mike Lawson, orangecounty (at) drinkingliberally.org

Rancho Santa Margarita
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Canyon Fireside Grille, 22312 El Paseo
* Hosted by Gary Kephart, rsm (at) drinkingliberally.org

Huntington Beach
* First and third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Oggi's Pizza & Brewing Co. - Out Back On The Patio, 19461 Main St
* Next Meeting will be on Thursday November 15th
* Hosted by Scott McKown and Louise Stewardson, huntingtonbeach (at) drinkingliberally.org

Sacramento, California
* Second Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* BJs Restaurant and Brewery, 3531 N Freeway Blvd (Natomas)
* Come check out our new venue and meet some new people!
* Hosted by Leslie Simmons, sacramento (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Diego, California
* Every other Tuesday, 7:30 pm onward
* Nunu's Cocktail Lounge, 3537 5th Ave (Between Brookes and Ivy Ln)
* We will also be meeting periodically at Firehouse in Pacific Beach for special editions of Drinking Liberally. 722 Grand Avenue Pacific Beach, CA 92109
* Hosted by Jesse Rubin and Jason Miller, sandiego (at) drinkingliberally.org

San Francisco
* Every Monday, 7:00-9:00 pm
* Nickie's, 466 Haight Street (between Fillmore & Webster) (Look for our red, white and blue striped bottle!)
* Hosted by Susan Harrison, sf (at) drinkingliberally.org

Oakland
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 6:00 - 9:00 PM
* Luka's Taproom & Lounge, 2221 Broadway
* Join us for the Eating Liberally Oakland Brunch at Luka's
* Hosted by Cyril Allen and Philip Combs, oakland (at) drinkingliberally.org

Napa
* First and third Monday of each month, 5:00-6:30 pm
* Compadre's, 505 Lincoln Ave
* Hosted by Mick Winter and Lauren Coodley, napa (at) drinkingliberally.org


San Luis Obispo, California
* First and third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* The Graduate, 990 Industrial Way
* Hosted by Lorrie Toles and Sergio Monge, slo (at) drinkingliberally.org

Santa Barbara, California
* Every Wednesday, 8 pm - 10 pm
* Elsie's Bar, 117 W de la Guerra St (behind Paseo Nuveo Mall)
* Elsie's is 21+ and cash only
* Hosted by Daryl Chrisman and Bart Woolery, santabarbara (at) drinkingliberally.org

Santa Clarita, California
* Second Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Mulligans, 25848 Tournament Rd (Near Cal Arts)
* Hosted by Michael Cruz, Bill Bailey and Minerva Williams, santaclarita (at) drinkingliberally.org

Santa Cruz, California
* First Tuesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward
* Cafe Pergolesi, 418 Cedar St (In the orange room to the right and back)
* Hosted by Brandon Smith and Natalie Rojas, santacruz (at) drinkingliberally.org

Stockton, California
* Third Friday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Stockton Grand Hotel, 2323 Grand Canal Blvd (Front of Bar)
* Grand Hotel tel. 209-957-9090
* Joel's Cell: 209-351-3397
* Hosted by Joel Carignan, stockton (at) drinkingliberally.org

Ventura, California
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 8:00 pm
* JJ Brewsky's, now and forever, 2344 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo (in the heart of Old Town Camarillo)
* Join us every second and fourth Wednesdays at 8:00 PM for a pint and some politics!
* Heather, Marie, Mark and Brian
* Hosted by Heather Schmidt, Marie Davis, Mark Eggertsen and Brian Mack, ventura (at) drinkingliberally.org

Texas Focus: Bill White for US Senate

As Texas Senator Kay Baily Hutcheson is ready to retire, Texans are gearing up for a special election for her replacement. Bill White, the HUGELY popular mayor of Houston has thrown his hat into the ring:




Bill White has won re-election as mayor of Houston by overwhelming margins: 90% and 86% of the vote in 2005 and 2007, respectively, showing that he must be attracting not just Democratic voters, but a substantial number of independents and even Republicans. From Daily Kos is this rundown of Bill White's record:

# Responsible for re-locating tens of thousands of Hurricane Katrina survivors to Houston
# Led light rail efforts in Houston
# Former Chair of the Democratic Party in Texas
# Served as Deputy Secretary of Energy in the Clinton administration
# Presented with the JFK Profile in Courage Award in 2007

Additionally (from Bill White's website):

[Bill White] was also recently honored by the Houston Military Affairs Council for his work in spearheading a regional Returning Veterans Initiative designed to give returning veterans the welcome they deserve with coordinated social services, reductions in red tape, and employment opportunities. The Department of the Army has recognized this initiative as one of the finest in the country and Houston has been named one of the most military friendly cities to live and work.

He is also one of the strongest advocates for alternative energy from Texas. Admittedly he also advocates using domestic fossil fuel resources, which is not something I agree with given the pollution and global warming problems we face, but he also recognizes the value of energy efficiency, which most politicians ignore when considering energy solutions.

Sounds like a promising candidate for Senate. Too conservative for where I'm from, but suits Texas.

Austin/Travis County, TX Focus

Here are some biodiesel stations near Austin, TX. Biodiesel is less polluting and has a smaller carbon footprint than regular diesel, and is produced right here in the USA. Biodiesel can be used in almost any diesel engine. Up to B20 (a 20 percent blend) any diesel engine, whether car or 18 wheeler or whatever, can use it. Above B20 some older engines may have problems, but newer engines should be ok.

DieselGreen Fuels: 5217 Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702, 512-247-3835. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine) and B100 (OK for newer diesel engines). Open 9-5.

El Sol Logistics: 1114 Regal Row, Austin, TX 78748, 512-563-8142. Offers B100 (OK for newer diesel engines). Open 9-5 M-F

Oaxacan Tamaleo: 1634 Hwy 71, Cedar Creek, TX 78612, 512-289-9262. Offers B100 (OK for newer diesel engines). CLOSED MONDAYS

Ecowise: 110 W. Elizabeth St. Austin, TX 78704, 512-326-4474. Offers B100 (OK for newer diesel engines). Open M-SU 10-7PM.


EVENTS:

This comes from the Travis County Democratic Party:

Last Day to Register to Vote
What: Last day to register for voting in the November 3rd election
When: Monday, October 5, 2009

Capital Area Asian American Democrats
DATE: Tuesday, October 6, 2009
TIME: 6:30pm Social 7:00pm Program begins
LOCATION: First Chinese BBQ Restaurant, 10901 N Lamar
The Capital Area Asian American Democrats

Capital Area Progressive Democrats
DATE: Tuesday, October 6, 2009
TIME: 5:30pm
LOCATION: AFL/CIO 1106 Lavaca
Capital Area Progressive Democrats

Capital City Young Democrats
DATE: Wednesday, October 7, 2009
TIME: 6:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Carver Library, 1161 Angelina
CONTACT: Ben Simnacher, 576-1679 or bsimnacher@gmail.com
Our meetings are the the first Wednesday of every month.

Capital Area Democratic Women Celebration of Champions
DATE: Wednesday, October 7, 2009
TIME: 6:00pm -8:00pm
LOCATION: Mercury Hall, 615 Cardinal Lane
INFO: CADW Honors Jane Hedepath, Becky Moeller and Crystal Viagran at the Celebrations of Champions Fundraiser.
Sponsorships and Tickets are available. Pledges received prior to August 28th will be listed on the invitation. Contact cadw@cadw.com for Information

South Austin Democrats Meeting
DATE: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
TIME: 5:30 PM
LOCATION: Casa Garcia's Restaurant, 1000 S. Lamar
CONTACT: Richard Arriola at 775-4154 or richard.arriola@sbcglobal.net
You're invited to join the South Austin Democrats for their monthly meeting at Casa Garcia's Restaurant. 5:30 to eat and socialize, meeting begins at 6 PM.

Lake Travis Democrats Meeting
DATE: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
TIME: 6:30 PM
LOCATION: Lakeway Activity Center, 105 Cross Creek Rd.
CONTACT: Judy Donohue at 531-9804 or jdonohue@austin.rr.com
You are invited to join the Lake Travis Democrats for their monthly meeting at the Lakeway Activity Center.

http://laketravisdemocrats.org

Black Austin Democrats
DATE: Thursday, October 15, 2009
TIME: 6:00 p.m.
LOCATION: 1104 E 11th St, Victory Grill
CONTACT: Natomi Austin at president@blackaustindemocrats.net
Join the Black Austin Democrats at the Victory Grill for their monthly meeting

Aids Walk Austin

Chair Andy Brown would like to invite you to join him at the annual “AIDS Walk Austin” on Sunday, October 18th as we try to raise funds for prevention outreach and direct care for Central Texas citizens living with HIV or AIDS.

Register to join the TCDP for the walk or donate to help our team raise funds for this great cause! There is no contribution requirement and please feel free to invite your friends and family to walk or donate to our team.

Where: Austin City Hall Plaza
301 W. Cesar Chavez Street (Between Guadalupe and Lavaca)
Map: http://www.asaustin.org/site/PageNavigator/walk/walk_map
When: Sunday, October 18
Sign-In starts at 12:30 pm, and the opening ceremonies begin at 1:30 pm.
Distance: The walk is almost 5k and should take under an hour to complete.

Thank you for considering joining us for this worthy cause, please do not hesitate to contact our office at (512) 477-7500 or you can contact Laura Hernandez by e-mail at Laura@traviscountydemocrats.org.

Monday, October 19: Early Voting Begins
What: Early voting begins for the November 3rd election.

Texans for Obama Meeting
Event: Texans for Obama Meeting"
Host: Texans for Obama
Time: Tuesday, October 20, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Where: Scholz Garten, 1607 San Jacinto Blvd
2010 Texas Governor Democratic Candidate Tom Schieffer will be the featured speaker.

Texas Environmental Democrats
DATE: Tuesday, October 20, 2009
TIME: 7:00pm
LOCATION: Vinny's Italian Cafe, 1003 Barton Springs Rd

Southwest Austin Democrats
DATE:Wednesday, October 21, 2009
TIME:6:30-8:30PM
LOCATION:Will Hampton Public Library, 5125 Convict Hill
CONTACT: email4swad@yahoo.com

There has been a change in meeting day. All SWAD meetings will be on the third Wednesday of the month. Membership is open to all in Travis and Hays Counties.

Central Austin Democrats
DATE: Wednesday, October 21, 2009
TIME: 6:15 PM
LOCATION: New World Deli, 4101 Guadalupe #100
CONTACT: Matt Curtis at 983-5347 or matt.curtis.austin@gmail.com

Please join the Central Austin Democrats for their monthly meeting at New World Deli.

Northeast Travis County Democrats
TIME/DATE: October 27, 2009. 6:30pm Meet and Greet, 7:00pm Meeting starts
PLACE: Travis County Community Center, 15822 Foothill Farms Loop, Pflugerville
CONTACT: Dave Taylor at 844-1300 or mrdave9735@aol.com

You are invited to join Northeast Travis County Democrats for their monthly meeting the last Tuesday of the month. The Community Center is located across FM 1825 from the Springhill Restaurant and behind the Lamb's Auto.

October 27, 2009: Final Day to Apply for Ballot (by mail)
What: Final day to apply for ballot by mail. (Received, not postmarked)
For more information: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/index.shtml

October 30, 2009: Final Day of Early Voting
What: Final day of early voting.
For more information: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/index.shtml

Coweta County, GA Focus

COWETA COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY

The Coweta County, Georgia Democratic Party's regular monthly meeting is the first Saturday of every month at 10:00 am (come at 9:30 for breakfast) at the Westside Restaurant on Temple Avenue in downtown Newnan.

Upcoming events from the Coweta County Democratic Party Calendar:

October 5, 2009
Volunteering: YDAtl Volunteer Night at Amir Farokhi's Campaign HQ
Location: Amir Farokhi Campaign Headquarters 1074 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta, GA, 30308 US
Contact: Mijha Butcher

Every Monday and Wednesday night from Sept. 9 until the election on Nov. 3, YDAtl will gather at the campaign headquarters of Amir Farokhi to help propel to him to the Citywide Post 2 seat on Atlanta City Council.

This is a young vibrant campaign with lots of opportunities to get immersed in Atlanta politics. Come for as much or as little time as you can spare. You’ll be able to meet fellow Atlantans who are actively involved in advancing Atlanta on a progressive path and you’ll gain invaluable campaign experience.

Bring your cell phones for phone banking.

You can park on the street, in the parking lot for the church across the street from the HQ, or in the lot for the Urban Outfitters, also located across the street from HQ.

For directions and to learn more about Amir and his campaign, check out his webpage: http://www.amirfarokhi.com/index.php/amir/home/

October 5, 2009
05:30 PM - 06:30 PM - Meeting: Young Dems Weekly Meeting
Location: Student Activites Center, room Maple A 231 W. Hancock St. , Milledgeville, GA, 31061
Contact: Lauren Lawson
706-280-8630

October 7, 2009
06:30 PM - 08:30 PM - Business Meeting: Monthly Business Meeting
Location: Manuel's Tavern 602 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, GA, US
Contact: Mijha Butcher: president@atlantayoungdems.org
New Member Orientation: 6:30pm
Mix and Mingle: 7pm
Business meeting: 7:30pm

October 12, 2009
Volunteering: YDAtl Volunteer Night at Amir Farokhi's Campaign HQ
Location: Amir Farokhi Campaign Headquarters 1074 Ponce de Leon Ave., Atlanta, GA, 30308 US
Contact: Mijha Butcher

Every Monday and Wednesday night from Sept. 9 until the election on Nov. 3, YDAtl will gather at the campaign headquarters of Amir Farokhi to help propel to him to the Citywide Post 2 seat on Atlanta City Council.

This is a young vibrant campaign with lots of opportunities to get immersed in Atlanta politics. Come for as much or as little time as you can spare. You’ll be able to meet fellow Atlantans who are actively involved in advancing Atlanta on a progressive path and you’ll gain invaluable campaign experience.

Bring your cell phones for phone banking.

You can park on the street, in the parking lot for the church across the street from the HQ, or in the lot for the Urban Outfitters, also located across the street from HQ.

For directions and to learn more about Amir and his campaign, check out his webpage: http://www.amirfarokhi.com/index.php/amir/home/

October 12, 2009
Young Dems Weekly Meeting
Location: Student Activites Center, room Maple A 231 W. Hancock St. , Milledgeville, GA, 31061
Contact: Lauren Lawson
706-280-8630

November 4, 2009
06:30 PM - 08:30 PM - Business Meeting: Monthly Business Meeting
Location: Manuel's Tavern 602 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, GA, US
Contact: Mijha Butcher
email: president@atlantayoungdems.org
New Member Orientation: 6:30pm
Mix and Mingle: 7pm
Business meeting: 7:30pm

December 2, 2009
06:30 PM - 08:30 PM - Business Meeting: Monthly Business Meeting
Location: Manuel's Tavern 602 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta, GA, US
Contact: Mijha Butcher
email: president@atlantayoungdems.org
New Member Orientation: 6:30pm
Mix and Mingle: 7pm
Business meeting: 7:30pm

Solar Energy in Coweta County:

You can search for a solar installer in your area of Coweta County by clicking here.

All graphs I see for locations in Coweta County indicate that Coweta County is suitable for solar energy based on the amount of sunshine received during the year. For example, for Sharpsburg, GA here is the graph of sunshine received on a month-by-month basis compared with the national average:



This information can be useful to help determine if Sharpsburg will do well with solar photovoltaic panels (for solar electricity generation), solar water heating systems, solar pv, solar heat, solar pool heating, etc. The closer the dark green line is to the light blue line (or the higher it is above it), the better. Sharpsburg matches the light blue line pretty well, going above (better) some months, and below (worse) some months. The rest of Coweta County, GA shows a pattern similar to that of Sharpsburg. To be sure your property is suitable, click on the link above, find your town and then zip code, then fill in the form to get a detailed analysis and quote. On average for the nation, you break even on your investment in solar energy within 3-5 years and after that you get many years of essentially free energy (warranties on solar panels range from 20-25 years...so that is 15-20 years of nearly free energy from your solar panels).

NEW JERSEY FOCUS: Blogs, Food Co-ops, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

Governor Corzine for our Future:



News from New Jersey:

As transit ridership reaches record high, advocates call for more investment

More Christie Corruption: Christie held stock in a company he was investigating as US Attorney...that's a big no-no!

NJ was one of five states to see real median household income increase from '07-08


NEW JERSEY BLOGGING: Blue Jersey is a great source for the latest in New Jersey politics.

LatinosNJ.com – a website designed for and about New Jersey Latinos who number almost 1.5 million – provides the latest news and issues, and features blogs and columns from Latino leaders and experts in various fields such as health, education, business, and immigration.

Green Jersey is an environmental news blog that’s based in, and all about, New Jersey. Its blogger-editor is Jennifer Weiss, a New Jersey-based journalist.

Every Wednesday Evening: Blue Jersey Radio
Wednesday nights at 8pm with hosts Jeff Gardner and Jason Springer. Listen live or download podcasts at anytime.


Click here to listen!


New Jersey for Democracy:
Howard Dean started the strategy that won big in 2006 and 2008. Let's continue to the tradition. Here are the local Democracy for America groups in New Jersey:

North Jersey -

Bergen County
meets at the Ethical Culture Society
687 Larch Ave
Teaneck, NJ 07666
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/bergen

Essex County
Cryan's Beef & Ale House
24 First Street
South Orange, NJ 07079
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/essex

Hudson County
The Hard Grove Cafe
319 Grove St.
Jersey City, NJ 07302
201-451-1853
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/hudson
(First Wednesday of the Month, 7:30pm)

Morris County
Morris County Democratic Headquarters
11 Washington St
Morristown, NJ 07960
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/morris

Passaic County
Puzo's Restaurant (Upstairs)
4 Garfield Ave.
Hawthorne, NJ 07506
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/passaic
(First Thursday of the Month)

Union County
Rockin Joe Cafe
20 Prospect Street
Westfield, NJ 07090
908-232-1660
RSVP at Union Meetup

Warren County
MS Health Software Corp
605 Grand Ave.
Hackettstown, NJ
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/nwnj

Central Jersey -

Hunterdon County
Friendly Grounds Coffee
36 Mine St.
Flemington, NJ
908-788-8983
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/hunterdon

Mercer County
Carl A Fields Center
86 Olden Street
(Corner of Olden St and Prospect Ave on Princeton Univ campus)
Princeton, NJ
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/mercercounty
(please check DFA-Link for schedule)

Middlesex County
Panera Bread
1551 Route 1 South
Edison, NJ 08837
(732) 516-1611
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/middlesexNJ

Monmouth County
Racioppi's Kitchen
107 Oakland St. (at the train station at Bridge Ave.)
Red Bank, NJ
(917) 863-2408
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/monmouth

Somerset County
Somerset County Complex
40 North Bridge St. (off of High)
Somerville, NJ
RSVP at Somerset Meetup
(Second or Third Tuesday of the Month)

South Jersey -

Camden County
Haddon Township Library
15 MacArthur Blvd
Westmont, NJ 08108
856-854-2752
RSVP at Progressive Democracy South Jersey
4th Tues. of month

Gloucester County
RSVP at Democracy for Gloucester County
(Please check DFA-Link for date & location)

Ocean County
Joshua Huddy Brew Pub and Grill
1250 Hooper Ave.
Toms River
RSVP at www.dfalink.com/oceancounty
(First Tuesday of the Month)


NEW JERSEY FOOD CO-OPS

It took nearly 7 years living within a few blocks of one of the biggest food co-ops in America before Joy and I joined it. We were definitely reluctant. But, in the end the lack of good produce and the decline of our local supermarkets led to us joining. And the result is a slighly more inconvenient shopping trip each week, but much healthier, higher quality and cheaper food. I recommend joining a co-op if there is one nearby. You will save money and eat healthier. So I will list some local food co-ops in New Jersey:

Purple Dragon Co-op
289 Washington Street
Glen Ridge, New Jersey 07028
Phone: (973) 429-0391
FAX: (732) 247-0103
http://www.purpledragon.com/

Purple Dragon Co-op was formed in 1987 to bring natural foods into our area at prices closer to wholesale. In 1989, we began working to improve the availability of exquisitely fresh organic produce for our members. Janit London, a songwriter and veteran of many food co-ops, with 20 years’ experience in the Natural Foods business, designed Purple Dragon’s unique format, i.e., a new low-labor co-op model that works for today’s busy families.

Purple Dragon originated the idea of a mixed produce variety basket that has been copied all over our area and has become a national trend. We buy from many local organic and some ecological farmers and work closely with them to support their efforts to grow food in an ecologically sound manner in our own community.

We also shop up and down the East Coast, eastern Canada, the rest of the US, Europe, New Zealand, Israel and buy from certain farms in Central and South America and the Caribbean. When in doubt about a grower’s authenticity, we double check certifications with reliable sources in the industry. We work to provide you with the finest and most interesting variety of organic produce available.

We work constantly to refine and improve our service. We welcome your suggestions. We are also different in that we are the only group that is really a co-op. Our members actually work (see “How much do I have to work?”) This allows lower prices, better quality produce, and we get to meet people with similar interests in our area. It is also a chance to be closer to nature by handling the beautiful fruits and vegetables soon after they arrive from local farms.

Another difference is that we stand up for what we believe. We recycle all office paper, use only recycled paper, return crates to farmers and support environmental and organic farming associations, including the Organic Trade Association, CAFF, Sierra Club, NYCAP, NCAP, NOFA, American Farmland Trust, and the NJ Organic Farming Association.

George Street Co-op
89 Morris Street
New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
Phone: (732) 247-8280
FAX: (732) 247-0103
gscoop@georgestreetcoop.com
http://www.georgestreetcoop.com/

The George Street Co-op is a non-profit natural foods store owned and run by its members. We sell vegetarian foods with the greatest nutritional value possible, and only minimal processing, additives or toxins. Everyone is welcome to shop at the Co-op and choose from our excellent selection of fresh organic produce, bulk foods, vitamins & herbs, body care and earth-friendly products, gifts, and more.

The Co-op serves the community by supporting local farms, community groups, events and gardens. We host a variety of outreach programs and informational seminars and produce a free, informative publication, Food for Thought.

We are also committed to bringing jobs and wellness into the area as a conscientious employer providing a safe, healthy work environment and offering benefits and competitive wages to our employees.

Sussex County Food Co-op

See Sussex County Page


In Good Taste
1301 N Delsea Drive
Vineland, New Jersey 08360
Phone: (609) 794-4856
FAX: (856) 794-4856
igt@snit.net


Alternative energy and Sustainable Agriculture in New Jersey:

Some stats from Repower America:

* New Jersey has approved a 350-megawatt, offshore wind farm at least 16 miles out to sea. If completed in 2013 as scheduled, it will be the first offshore wind farm in the US.

* The state's energy efficiency programs save enough electricity to power over 25,000 homes for a whole year, save more than $29.2 million in energy costs, and prevent the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to taking over 20,000 cars off the road. Although great progress, the state still has much more potential to increase its energy efficiency.

* New Jersey has a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) that requires all public utilities to generate 22.5% of their electricity from renewable energy resources by 2021.

Alternative energy and YOUR energy bill: YOU can be part of the solution for America by signing up to purchase your energy through a Green Power Provider. My wife and I have been doing this in NYC for years. All our energy usage is provided through wind energy generation on American farms. So we use clean energy AND help American farmers. It costs us three cents per kilowatt-hour more per month, but we feel great about it. Although our actual energy may come from anywhere, we are paying to purchase wind energy for the energy grid. Each state has different programs available, usually through yuor existing energy provider right on your existing energy bill. To find such options in New Jersey, go here and pick your energy provider from the list. If you need help, you can email me and tell me who you get your bill from (don't give me any other info!) and I can tell you who to contact to go green through that energy provider. Or you can do the same thing using Renewable Energy Certificates through an organization that works with utility companies, though in this case it is a separate bill. One off the cheapest (.4-1 cent per kilowatt-hour), but still e-Green certified, ways to do this is through Good Energy. Or, for about half a cent per kilowatt-hour you can purchase renewable energy certificates through Carbonfund.org. ANY of these ways you do it, you are helping the environment, helping America, and helping cut carbon emissions.


The Newark Alternative Energy Meetup Group
Meet other local individuals interested in exploring all forms of Alternative Energy. Discuss ways to preserve the world's resources and protect the environment!

In Addition, you will receive informative newsletters that are chock full of Alternative Energy news from around the country. For more info go here.

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

Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey is a twenty two year-old, membership based educational nonprofit organization. We are a unique collaboration among the stakeholders in our food system; our members and our governing board include farmers, consumers, retailers, processors, educators and researchers. We serve as a catalyst in the development of a sustainable organic agricultural system; provide assistance to both organic and progressive conventional farmers to help build and maintain sustainable operations; educate diverse audiences about the significance and meaning of organic practices for food and the environment; and provide independent, third-party certification to organic farms and processors.


Groups and Events:

Cape May County Federation of Democratic Women Meeting
Sam DiVico Senior Center
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
Join the Cape May County Federation of Democratic Women to discuss important local, state and federal issues. All are encouraged to join!

2nd Thursday of every month.
7:00pm
Sam DiVico Senior Center
Romney Place
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

For more information, please contact:
Virginia Hesel
609-884-5848

PFLAG of North Jersey: Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays of North Jersey is a group of people who meet regularly in the South Orange area and are dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered people, their families and their friends. Meetings are 2nd Sunday of Every Month. Our regular meeting is from 2:30 to approximately 4:15. Newcomer's meet from 1:30 to 2:30 in a smaller, more informal setting. For more info contact: Helpline: 973-267-8414 or
pflagwaver_at_aol.com


Drinking Liberally:

For the more social and fun-oriented (and booze oriented), there's Drinking Liberally. Here are the New Jersey Drinking Liberally Chapters:

Hillsborough, New Jersey
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward
* Petrock's Bar and Grill, 419 Amwell Rd (at Amwell and 206)
* Hosted by Matthew Dawson, hillsborough (at) drinkingliberally.org

Montclair, New Jersey
* Second Thursday of each month, 7:30 pm onward
* Just Jake's, 30 Park Street (b/t Bloomfield & Claremont)
* We meet in the REAR DINING ROOM. Turn left after entering, go past the juke box, bar and W.C.
* Ample parking in municipal lot next to Just Jake's (free after 7 pm)
* ** Mtclair DL ON THE ROAD, TUES, NOV 13, from 8PM at PAUL'S BAR & BOWLING, 377 CROOKS AVE, PATERSON, NJ (973) 278-1982 http://local.yahoo.com/details?id=10780514 **THIS IS AN ADDITIONAL MEETING, WE STILL HAVE OUR USUAL 2nd THURSDAY
* Hosted by Kevin Kelly and Dan Evans Farkas, montclair (at) drinkingliberally.org

Morristown
* Third Thursday of each month, 8:00 pm onwards
* Hennessey's Tavern, 140 Morris St (Corner of Elm & Morris, next to the train station)
* There's plenty of public parking behind train station or on Elm Street.
* Come on by & raise a pint with other fun loving local progressive's! Hope to see you there...
* Hosted by Jim Long, Chip Robinson, David Cochran and Linda Humphries, morristown (at) drinkingliberally.org


Dover
* First Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* The Hop, 14 N Morris St
* Hosted by Jim Long, Chip Robinson, Dave Cochran and Linda Humphries, dovernj (at) drinkingliberally.org

New Brunswick, New Jersey
* Second and fourth Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Doll's Place, 101 Paterson St (corner of Paterson & Joyce Kilmer)
* Hosted by Bob Scardapane and Chris Swasey, newbrunswick (at) drinkingliberally.org

Pennsauken, New Jersey
* First and third Wednesday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Kings Row Sports Bar and Billiards, 6030 S Crescent Blvd (Route 130 N)
* Hosted by Art Williams and Denise Williams, pennsauken (at) drinkingliberally.org

Toms River, New Jersey
* First Tuesday of each month, 8:00 pm onward
* Joshua Huddy Brew Pub, 1250 Hooper Ave (across from Ocean County Mall)
* Hosted by Robin Kinlin and Ian Valentine, tomsriver (at) drinkingliberally.org