Progressive Democrat Issue 234

November 3rd is election day. PLEASE VOTE!!!! I highlight candidates in several states like Minnesota, Washington State, NYC, and Pennsylvania. I also highlight the elections in Texas, Virginia and New Jersey. Voter turn out will be low so PLEASE read up on these elections, make your choices and vote. I should note that many more places have elections than I have been able to cover, so even if I am not covering your local elections, please vote.

For other states I continue highlighting the same facts and figures on healthcare reform that I have for weeks. I want to keep these handy for everyone until we have a bill passed. Keep up the pressure!

Some promising news from Central America is that the Honduran crisis seems headed for a resolution that would restore the Democratically elected president to power. In general I have supported President Zelaya over the military junta that ousted him, but I also caution the left wing of Honduras that blaming the Jews is just SO 19th Century. And is utter BS.

This week saw the best economic news to date as it really seems like the recession is STARTING to end. Well, officially it DID end this week, but we all know from the Bush years that the official end to a recession doesn't necessarily mean it will seem over to the average American. The economy still has a long way to go. But it is a step in the right direction, as President Obama enjoyed pointing out:



Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Why Do Republicans Hate America?

Jon Stewart takes on Fox News

Keep up the Pressure for Healthcare Reform...We have to keep pushing

And a reminder: Keith Olbermann on Healthcare Reform

Secretary of State Project

Carbon Neutral Products

Silicon Valley Area, CA Focus

Orange County, CA Focus

San Diego, CA Focus

CALIFORNIA FOCUS

New York City Focus: Updated Endorsements for November 3rd's Election

Brooklyn, NY Focus

Queens, NY Focus

Bronx, NY Focus

Rochester, NY Focus

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS

Atlanta, GA Focus

Fayette County, GA Focus

Coweta County, GA Focus

GEORGIA FOCUS

Texas Election: Overview of Texas Constitutional Amendments

Dallas County, TX Focus

Austin/Travis County, TX Focus

Houston/Harris County, TX. Focus

TEXAS FOCUS

Virginia Election: Creigh Deeds, Jody Wagner and Steve Shannon

Charlottesville/Albemarle County, VA Foucus

Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania County, VA Focus

Hanover County, VA Focus

VIRGINIA FOCUS

New Jersey Election: Governor Corzine for New Jersey

Passaic County, NJ Focus

Warren County, NJ Focus

Sussex County, NJ Focus

NEW JERSEY FOCUS

Progressive Majority Candidates in Washington State

WASHINGTON FOCUS

Progressive Majority Candidates in Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA FOCUS

Progressive Majority Canidates in Minnesota

MINNESOTA FOCUS

Florida Alliance for Retired Americans on Healthcare Reform

FLORIDA FOCUS

ARIZONA FOCUS

Illinois Focus: Melissa Bean and Bill Foster, Give Us Our Healthcare These two are definitely critical to reform efforts. Please keep writing them and get them to support a strong Public Option.

ILLINOIS FOCUS

IOWA ACTION: Help protect air quality in northwest Iowa

IOWA FOCUS

Wisconsin for Healthcare Reform: Facts and Actions

WISCONSIN FOCUS

Michigan Congressman John Conyers: Public Option Is Necessary

MICHIGAN FOCUS

Colorado Senator Bennet On Healthcare Reform

COLORADO FOCUS

Nevada: Public Option Model that SAVES Money

NEVADA FOCUS

North Carolina Justice Center: Myths About Health Reform

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS

Why Do Republicans Hate America?

Daily Kos had an article covering the 13 Republican Senators who oppose extending unemployment benefits. As usual, it is a study in Republican hypocrisy and Republican willingness to sacrifice the good of Americans to preserve their twisted ideology.

The first thing to note about the 13 anti-American Republicans is that they are voting against their own constituents. Daily Kos had a list of these 13 Republicans and the unemployment rates in their states. Clearly their own constituents are hurting during the ongoing Bush Recession, and their vote is hurting their own constituents:

Here are the Republicans who voted against cloture. with their state's official (U3) unemployment rates in brackets:

Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) [6.8%]
Sen. Christopher Bond (R-MO) [9.5%]
Sen. Jim Bunning (R-KY) [10.9%]
Sen. Thomas Coburn (R-OK) [6.7%]
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) [8.2%]
Sen. Jim DeMint (R-SC) [11.6%]
Sen. Michael Enzi (R-WY) [6.8%]
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) [11.6%]
Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-UT) [6.2%]
Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK)[6.7%]
Sen. Jefferson Sessions (R-AL) [10.7%]
Sen. David Vitter (R-LA) [7.4%]
Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) [9.2%]

It seems like these Republicans hate their own constituents. Or, at least, are willing to let them suffer in the name of some vague, long disproven conservative ideals. Republican extremism refuses to recognize the realities working Americans have to face. That is how Bush got us into this recession and these 13 Republican Senators seem to want to keep us in the Bush Recession as long as possible.

The second thing to note about these Senators is their blatant hypocrisy. They always say they oppose government programs, not matter how often government programs are proven effective. They go so far as to denegrate nations like Sweden for being too socialist, as if somehow Sweden is a bad place to live. Yet when any government program goes through, they are among the first to grab all they can. From the same Daily Kos article:

Sen. Byron Dorgan noted in today's cloture debate: "Some of the people who are stalling the unemployment extension benefits were the same ones who rushed to the starting line last fall to see if they couldn’t hand hundreds of billions of dollars to the banks that ran this country into a ditch."

Many of the states that complain the most about government actually receive the most subsidies from the government. Conversely, NYC, one of the most liberal cities in the country, pays far more in taxes than they get from the government. So one wonders why these conservative Republicans hate NYC so much when many of their states are being subsidised by our taxes. Republican hypocrisy again!

I will end with one more quote from the Daily Kos article, this one from Democratic Senator Carl Levin of Michigan:

As of October 16, more than 44,000 Michiganders have exhausted much-needed unemployment benefits and by the end of this year, this number will rise to almost 100,000 people. Since the beginning of this year, Michigan has been losing on average 27,000 jobs per month. Our people need help.

Every day, constituents call my offices with a simple request – please act so our benefits don’t run out. These people are eager, even desperate, for work. ...

Economists tell us that direct payments such as unemployment insurance are also the best, most efficient way to boost economic activity in a downturn – more efficient tha[n] tax cuts, for example. In fact, economists estimate that for every dollar we provide to Americans in extended unemployment benefits, we generate $1.64 in new economic activity.

Carl Levin is showing he has some real common sense and a good grasp of what middle class and working class Americans are actually going through. Too bad those 13 Republicans have no clue and are so willing to hurt their own states because they are so out of touch.

Jon Stewart takes on Fox News

As usual, Jon Stewart does it right.

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 round up of events in Orange County, California, thanks to Orange County Democracy
for America:

Nov 4 (1st Wednesday) 7pm, Costa Mesa: Democracy for America - Orange County General Meeting Karl Strauss Brewery, 901 S Coast Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Featuring! Gus Ayer on the Orange County Fairgrounds Sale issue, Steve Carpenter from Rebuilding Together and its upcoming volunteer project, Dave Sonneborn on Majority Rule for CA. Our Community Collection: In support of Women For: Orange County and the organizations's gift drive for women incarcerated in CA prisons, please bring any of these small items: soaps, shampoo, conidtioners, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, lip balm, stationery, candy and packets of coffee, tea and cocoa
If you have any questions, please contact Susan Kopicki at sckopicki@yahoo.com or call 949/872-0966.

Nov 5 Thursday 7-8pm, Irvine: Afghan women activist and politician Malalai Joya The Cross-Cultural Center in conjunction with Verizon Wireless presents
Rainbow Festival & Conference 2009 LEADING WOMEN OF THE WORLD - - MALALAI JOYA - - Crystal Cove Auditorium, Cross-Cultural Center, UC Irvine
Afghan activist Malalai Joya makes an urgent plea for the world to acknowledge the truths hidden in the corrupt, complex country of Afghanistan. Joya, who states emphatically that the Afghan people view the warlords as no better than the Taliban, made international headlines when she denounced them as criminals at a constitutional assembly in Kabul in 2003. Gaining an army of supporters and enemies simultaneously, Joya became the youngest-ever member of Afghan parliament. In her newly published political memoir, A Woman Among Warlords, Joya uses her personal experiences to outline the oppressive misrule of the past three decades in Afghanistan. A Women Among Warlords is a chilling, vital memoir that reveals hidden truths about Afghanistan and directly addresses the misguided policies of the United States. A book signing will follow her presentation.
~Sponsors: UCI Bookstore, The Center for Global Peace and Conflict Studies, The Afghan Development Project, The Afghan Women Mission, The Center for Persian Studies, The Office of the Dean of Students, and The Gender Education Initiative ~

Nov 5 Thursday 7:30pm, Irvine: General meeting Orange County Chapter ACLU The next general meeting of the Orange County Chapter of the Southern California ACLU will be on Thursday, November 5th at the Irvine Ranch Water District, 15600 Sand Canyon Avenue @ Waterworks Way, Irvine. Doors open at 7:00 pm and meeting starts at 7:30 Bring a friend!
Speakers will be Naui Huitzilopochtli & Sergio Vera speaking on community problems with Orange City PD, gang injunctions, day laborers, ICE raids, deportations and Orange County homeless.

Nov 6 Friday 6:30-9pm, Orange: Friday Night Film Series: A world without Water 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.
UK & International Documentary Films A World Without Water The world is running out of water All of us will face it soon, some of us are facing it now. truevisiontv.com/water
St. Joseph Center, Mother Louis Room, 480 South Batavia St, Orange 92868. sistersofstjosephorange.org/calendar.php?ID=249 6:30 - 7:00 Gathering and Refreshments 7:00 - 8:00 Film Showing 8:00 - 9:00 Discussion Justice@csjorange.org

Nov 7 Saturday 2-10pm, Santa Ana: 7th Annual Día de los Muertos Celebration Fiesta Marketplace (Corner of Bush and 3rd), Santa Ana, CA nochedealtares.org

Nov 7 Saturday 7-10pm, Garden Grove: Orange County Recruitment Awareness Project Benefit An Evening at Saint Anselm of Canterbury Episcopal Church 13091 Galway Street Garden Grove, CA. 92844 Phone 714 537-0604 info@SaintAnselmGG.org
Donation $30 Dinner & Entertainment
Endorsed: Military Families Speak Out, Veterans For Peace, Iraq Veterans Against the War, Orange County Peace Coalition, Long Beach Area Peace Network, PDA, Coalition Against Militarism, and The National Network Opposing Militarization of Youth.
For more information contact: Thu-Trang Tran (714)363-7869, Mark Giordano (949)701-3156, Electra Teodosiadis (562)431-2153

Nov 7 Saturday 6-9pm, Santa Ana: Orange County Hispanic Women Recognition Banquet & Awards Ebell Clubhouse, 625 N. French Street, Santa Ana 92701
The Awards Program seeks to recognize the contributions and accomplishments of Orange County's Hispanic women. Selected honorees exemplify the efforts of all women to make strides in their own personal careers and their continuing effort to our community.
Another purpose of this event is to raise funds that will allow us to support students needing financial assistance with their post-secondary education costs. Your contribution will help us to continue to meet our obligation to support the youth of our community in their pursuit of higher education
Cost: $50.00 per person RSVP to Carole Vargas at 714.241.7527 or email her at c.vargas@prodigy.net. If sending a check, please make the check out to Santa Ana LULAC Council #147 Mail check to Carole Vargas, Hispanic Women Recognition Awards Chair, 2234 N. Towner Street, Santa Ana, CA 92706

Nov 7 Saturday 6:30-10pm, Anaheim: CAIR-Greater Los Angeles Area 13th Annual Banquet Celebrate CAIR-LA's 13 Years of Service to the Community
On behalf of the Council on American-Islamic Relations of Greater Los Angeles Area (CAIR-LA), it is our pleasure to invite you to attend our 13th Annual Fundraising Banquet. This year's theme is "A New Era of Hope: Our Role, Our Future."
Anaheim Hilton Hotel, 777 Convention Way, Anaheim, CA 92802 ca.cair.com/losangeles/event/13th_Annual_Banquet

Nov 9 Mon 7pm, Laguna Woods Village: Concerned Citizens of Laguna Woods Village A Conversation about Afghanistan and Pakistan. . . with Anila Ali Educator! Activist! Journalist! Human rights advocate! Passionate believer in human rights and gender equality Strives to build bridges between American society, the Muslim world, and Pakistan Born in Karachi, Pakistan Member of Council of Pakistan American Affairs Contributor to Pakistan Link Serves on a number of Boards Middle school teacher in Irvine Author of Three Steps Behind
Anila will talk about the present situation, women's rights, and economic progress in Afghanistan and Pakistan. She encourages questions and a dialogue with her audience. Guests $2
Laguna Woods Village, Clubhouse 1 open to the public. Please bring this email to gain entrance to Laguna Woods Village.
Clubhouse 1 is located at 24232 Calle Aragon, Laguna Woods, 92637. Enter Gate 1, which is located on southside of El Toro Blvd., between Paseo de Valencia and Moulton Pkwy. Going west (away from the hills) from Paseo de Valencia, it's on the left hand side. cclagunawoodsvillage@gmail.com

Nov 10 Tuesday 4-9pm, Irvine: The Africa Project Fall Fundraiser at Ruby's 4602 Barranca Pkwy, Irvine CA
Please join us for The Africa Project Youth Board's fall fundraiser at Ruby's Diner. Enjoy great food and support a great cause. YOU MUST BRING THE EVENT FLYER!!! Download here dfa-oc.org/images/7030_1238878365495_1035332248_1587681_6361323_n.jpg or send an email to debra@theafricaproject.com

Nov 11 Wednesday 11:30am-1:30pm, Irvine: Just One Woman: Wahu Kaara Women for OC's Festive Holiday Gathering, Duck Club in Irvine
Kenyan 2005 Nobel Peace Prize nominee speaking in her only Orange County appearance about empowering women and men for social change. Wahu Kaara is a candidate in the 2012 Kenyan presidential elections and determined to walk the talk of empowering women as agents of social transformation. Free and open to all, guests are encouraged to bring an appetizer, main dish, salad or dessert for four to six people. Women For supports the Action Committee for Women in Prison by gathering holiday gifts for women incarcerated in CA prisons. Allowable gifts: small lotions, soaps, shampoo, conditioners, toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, lip balm, stationery, candy, packets of coffee, tea and cocoa. Please bring donations to meeting. The Duck Club is at the end of Riparian View, off Michelson Dr. between Culver Dr. and Jamboree Rd. Follow signs to San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary. womenforoc.org Contact: 949/276-7298

Nov 11 Wednesday 7-9:30pm, Tustin: "Coal Country" Screening Join us for a screening of "Coal Country," a powerful documentary that focuses on the destruction of Mountain Top Removal Coal Mining. Learn why there is no such thing as "clean coal" and why we need to end our dependency on fossil fuels now! Why should Californian's worry about MTR? Because coal is dirty from the time it is mined until long after it is burned to light your home
Aldersgate United Methodist Church 1201 Irvine Blvd. Tustin, CA 92780

Nov 11 (2nd Wednesday) 7pm, Laguna Woods: Laguna Woods Democratic Club Clubhouse 3, Dining Room 1
Special guest speaker, Trent Lange, President of the California Clean Money Campaign, Chair of Californians for Fair Elections. In his capacity as an unpaid volunteer for CCMC, Trent Lange has a passion for fair elections without undue monetary influence from special interest groups. The California Fair Elections Act (CFEA) will bring basic election reform that will allow candidates and elected officials to get out of the money game and back to solving the State?s problems. CFEA will create a pilot project to make voluntary public financing available for candidates running for Secretary of State in 2014 and 2018. Since public financing began in Arizona and Maine, elected officials have passed bipartisan, groundbreaking legislation without fear of retribution from powerful special interests. Come hear this committed and passionate activist speak on clean money.
Meeting also features Club business, legislative action, a raffle and refreshments. Call Betty Brodsky at 458-1075 for more details. Be sure to bring your return address labels for use on our legislative action postcard mailing. PLEASE BRING FOOD ITEMS FOR SOUTH COUNTY OUTREACH.

Nov 15 Sun 2:30-4:30pm, Anaheim: Confronting U.S. Sponsored Torture with Jameel Jaffer
Islamic Institute of Orange County, 1220 N. State College Boulevard, Anaheim, 92806
Sponsors: Islamic Shura Council of Southern California, Progressive Christians Uniting, and Religious Campaign against Torture

Nov 16 Monday 7pm, Mission Viejo: Recipe for America: Why Our Food System is Broken and What We Can Do to Fix It author Jill Richardson will speak at the Canyon Democrats Meeting. Norman Murray Senior Center, 29456 Veterans Way. For more information, go to canyondemocrats.org

Nov 17 Tuesday 7am-8pm, 72nd AD: 72nd ASSEMBLY DISTRICT SPECIAL PRIMARY ELECTION DAY: Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Ballots will be centrally counted at the Registrar of Voters of Voters office.
If one candidate receives a majority of the votes (50% + 1), no Special General Election shall be held.

Nov 18 Wednesday 6:30-9pm, Fountain Valley: Democratic Club of West Orange County hosts PFLAG who will present a program on the promotion of the well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender persons Green Valley Community Center, 17250 Los Jardines West, Fountain Valley. Open to all Democrats. dcwoc.org. For more information, contact Jo Anne Jennings at 714-846-5201 or by email at jennin1944@yahoo.com.

Nov 19 Thursday 7-9pm, Santa Ana: OC Green Drinks OC Green Drinks events are casual and agenda-free; they're just a great forum in which Orange County's growing demographic of eco-conscious professionals can have a drink, spark up a 'green' conversation and not be met with a blank look.
The Road Less Traveled Store, 2204 N. Main Street, 92706 roadlesstraveledstore.com

Nov 20 Friday 11:30am-1:30pm, Orange: Professor Linda Cohen on Coping with California's Fiscal Crisis. Sponsored by League of Women Voters of Central Orange County.
Cohen is an Economics Professor and Associate Dean of Graduate Studies in the School of Social Sciences at UCI. She's also one of the founding faculty members for UCI's new School of Law. Her research expertise is in areas of political economy, social choice and government regulation. She has served on committees and commissions for the State of California, the National Academy of Sciences, and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Location: Yen Ching Restaurant, 574 S. Glassell Street, Orange. (Just north of the 22 Freeway.) Cost: $12.00 for three-course lunch, including tax and tip. For reservations, call Christine Moore at 714-508-2563.

Nov 21 Saturday 2pm, Irvine: Americans United for Separation of Church & State, Annual Meeting and Appetizer/Dessert Potluck, 15600 Sand Canyon Avenue, Irvine. Open to all. No charge. au-oc.org. For more information, contact Steph Campbell at 714-299-4551 or by email at orangecountyau@yahoo.com.

Nov 27 Friday 10-6pm: BUY NOTHING DAY-Black Friday We are honoring Buy Nothing Day at our store on Friday Nov 27th. Our store will be a site for trade barter only, no cash or cards, bring something to trade and trade with others. Our back lot will have items for trade only. We will be hosting beverages, and snacks.
The Road Less Traveled Store, 2204 N. Main Street, 92706 roadlesstraveledstore.com

San Diego, CA Focus

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:

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

Lowery4Council Cellphone Bank/Walk Party
Date(s):Saturday, November 7, 2009
Time:12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Description:
We are on a very short fuse to contact as many Perm. Absentee Voters as we can by November 9th, when mail-in ballots go out and Early Voting at the Registrar of Voters is available. When WE ORGANIZE, WE WIN! So we're lining up more opportunities for volunteers to contribute to winning this pivotal election for Oceanside's future.We are scheduling additional Walk/CellPhone Parties like our inaugural one this past Sunday for targeted precincts over the next 3 weekends, Noon-3p: Sunday, October 25th; Sunday, November 1st; Saturday, November 7th; Sunday, November 8th With yummy food catered by Hill Street Cafe after phoning/walking!Please email MarthaSullivan@mac.com ASAP for which date(s) you can attend, and whether you'll Walk or use your cellphone to call voters in targeted precincts.

Location: 812 Alberta Avenue, Oceanside CA
Contact:(760) 754-6968
Email:marthasullivan@mac.com
Website:www.Lowery4Council.com

Open House with Kevin Beiser
Date(s): Saturday, November 7, 2009
Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Description:
You are invited to meet Kevin Beiser, Math Teacher of the Year and Canidate for San Diego Board of Education District B. Donations are encouraged and greatly welcomed. Suggested contributions are: $25, $100, $250 or $500.

Location: 8262 Kaplan Dr., San Diego, CA 92123
Contact: (619) 838-5274
Email: kevinbeiser@yahoo.com
Website: www.kevinbeiser.com

SPECIAL RECEPTION, Kate Kendell, NCLR, Leader on Front Lines of Today's Battle for LGBT Equality
Date(s): Saturday, November 7, 2009
Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Description:
A rare opportunity, to meet and hear from one of America’s premier leaders in the modern LGBT civil rights movement at a Special Reception presented by the San Diego Democratic Club, for Kate Kendell, executive director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights (NCLR). The NCLR is a national legal organization committed to advancing the civil and human rights of LGBT people and their families through litigation, public policy advocacy, and public education. Through direct litigation and advocacy, the NCLR works to change discriminatory laws and to create new laws and policies benefiting the LGBT

Location: email or call for more info
Price: $15.00 / Person
Contact: (619) 200-8194
Email: jmockbee@san.rr.com
Website: www.sddemoclub.org

Lowery4Council Cellphone Bank/Walk Party
Date(s): Sunday, November 8, 2009
Time: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Description:
We are on a very short fuse to contact as many Perm. Absentee Voters as we can by November 9th, when mail-in ballots go out and Early Voting at the Registrar of Voters is available. When WE ORGANIZE, WE WIN! So we're lining up more opportunities for volunteers to contribute to winning this pivotal election for Oceanside's future.We are scheduling additional Walk/CellPhone Parties like our inaugural one this past Sunday for targeted precincts over the next 3 weekends, Noon-3p: Sunday, October 25th; Sunday, November 1st; Saturday, November 7th; Sunday, November 8th With yummy food catered by Hill Street Cafe after phoning/walking!Please email MarthaSullivan@mac.com ASAP for which date(s) you can attend, and whether you'll Walk or use your cellphone to call voters in targeted precincts.

Location: 812 Alberta Avenue, Oceanside CA
Contact: (760) 754-6968
Email: marthasullivan@mac.com
Website: www.Lowery4Council.com

Town Hall Meeting on Term Limits
Date(s): Monday, November 9, 2009
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Description:
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors has been using a $100 million Taxpayer-funded slush fund to dole out favors that have helped keep the same 5 Republicans in power since 1995. Since then, they've bought their incumbencies and their reelections through wasteful spending instead of focusing on fire protection, health services and other core services that San Diego County Expects! Come learn more about how we can improve your San Diego County government by passing term limits for the Board of Supervisors.

[Editor's Note: I used to be against term limits, but the abuse of power I have seen in NYC regarding term limits has made me think they are necessary]

Location: Chula Vista Library: Civic Center Branch at 365 F Street, Chula Vista, CA 91910
Contact: Stephanie Lapera at (619) 228-8101
Email: ItsTimeForTermLimits@gmail.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

PBS FRONTLINE Report: "SICK AROUND THE WORLD"
Date(s): Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Description:
As part of Lestats continuing free community film series... This PBS repor asks: Other rich countries have universal health care. Why don't we? Can we learn anything from the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Japan and Taiwan?

Location: Lestat's West Showroom (next to Lestat's Coffeehouse), 3339 Adams Ave, San Diego CA 92116 in Normal Hts (about 5 blocks east of 30th and Adams)

Contact: (619) 282-0437
Email: info@llestats.com
Website: www.Lestats.com

Poway Club General Meeting
Date(s): Thursday, November 12, 2009
Time: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Description:
Sal Magallanez, General Manager of Liberty One, will review the history of talk radio in San Diego and describe what Liberty One is doing to return progressive talk to the San Diego airwaves.

Location: Twin Peaks Middle School Little Theater (rm 608), 1460 Tierra Bonita Road, Poway CA
Contact: (858) 748-5330
Email: info@PowayDemocraticClub.org
Website: www.PowayDemocraticClub.org

Seafood & Wine for Heroes: Dinner for Military Families and Veterans
Date(s): Friday, November 13, 2009
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Description:
Join us this Veterans' Day weekend for a wonderful seafood buffet, filet mignon, various roasted selections, and desert buffet with bottomless wine and champagne to raise funds for Interfaith Community Services' Military Families and Veterans Safety Net Program. The program provides assistance with housing, groceries, utilities, child care, education, and other needs. Special guests include Congressman Bob Filner, Assemblymember Mary Salas, and USMC Judge Advocate Brigadier General (Ret.) David Brahms. Cost: $90/person or $150/couple. NOTE: When purchasing tickets online, under the additional comments, please enter "Seafood & Wine for Heroes," specify how many tickets you're ordering, and provide the names of all guests in your party.

Location: Bellefleur Restaurant, Carlsbad
Price: $90.00 / Person
Contact: Carla Mays (760) 815-6084
Email: carla4obama@gmail.com
Website: https://app.etapestry.com/hosted/InterfaithCommunityServices/OnlineDonation.html

Escondido Democratic Club November 14 meeting
Date(s): Saturday, November 14, 2009
Time: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Description:
San Diego Union-Tribune political report John Marelius, who has been observing and reporting on politics at the state and national level for more than 30 years, Discusses Have Democrats Lost Their Edge?

Location: Escondido Library, 239 S. Kalmia Street
Contact: (760) 740-8595
Email: communications@escondidodems.org
Website: www.escondidodems.org

'California Politics' by Senator Kehoe
Date(s): Saturday, November 14, 2009
Time: 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Description:
At our November meeting, the Lake San Marcos Democratic Club is proud to present California Senator Christine Kehoe as our featured speaker on 'California Politics.' Christine was elected to the State Senate in 2004 to represent the 39th Senate District. She previously served in the State Assembly for two terms and served as Speaker Pro Tempore. From 1993 to 2000 she was on the San Diego City Council. Christine also served on the California Coastal Commission from 1997 to 2000. She currently chairs the State Senate's Appropriations Committee. She successfully passed several bills related to the wildfires of 2005 and 2007 that helped improve safety and prevention. In 2006 she chaired the Joint Legislative Committee on Emergency Services and Homeland Security, where she is now the vice-chair. Christine also served on the Governor's Blue Ribbon Fire Commission. She was also the first to chair the Legislative LGBT Caucus. She is a member of the Senate Committee on Budget & Fiscal Review; Natural Resources & Water; Transportation & Housing; Energy, Utilities and Communications; and Local Government; Energy and Environment Task Force for the Council of State Governments 2009 and 2010. NOTE: Social begins at 12:30pm and meeting at 1:00pm.

Location: AT OUR NEW LOCATION (Check Club Newsletter for details or phone, email or check website below).
Contact: (760) 752-1035
Email: SOLSM12@aol.com
Website: www.lsm.sddem.org

Cell Phone Bank November 14th, 2009
Date(s): Saturday, November 14, 2009
Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Description:
Come to our cell phone bank and help get out the vote to the "Mail-In Ballot" voters! Time is short. Ballots go out November 9th and we must get folks to return them with a "YES" on the recall and also VOTE FOR CHARLES 'CHUCK' LOWERY.

Location: Hill Street Cafe, 524 So Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054
Contact: (760) 754-6968
Email: Lowery4Council@gmail.com
Website: www.Lowery4Council.com

2009 Equality Awards honoring Jerry Brown, Stuart Milk and Diane Schroer
Date(s): Saturday, November 14, 2009
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Description:
Equality California is honoring three individuals for their outstanding contributions to equality in the State of California. Business attire. Hosted bar and reception. Silent auction.

Location: Museum of Man, 1315 El Prado, Balboa Park
Price: $100.00 / Person
Contact: (619) 847-3531
Email: albert@eqca.org
Website: www.eqca.org/sandiego

Naturalization Ceremony Voter Registration
Date(s): Wednesday, November 18, 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

Delivering for High Tech, Bio Tech, & Green Tech in San Diego
Date(s): Thursday, November 19, 2009
Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Description:
Please Join Lisa Haie & Co-Hosts for a Cocktail Reception in support of Francine Busby for Congress 2010. At the Rancho Pacifica home of Lisa Haile. RSVP required for gate entry. RSVP online at www.busbyforcongress.com, to Leigh by email below, or by phone.

Cost: Minimum Suggested Donation: $100.
Location: 4663 Rancho Laguna Bend, San Diego, CA 92130
Contact: (760) 681-4108
Email: leigh@busbyforcongress.com
Website: www.busbyforcongress.com

South Bay Democratic Club meeting
Date(s): Saturday, November 21, 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

Chula Vista Democratic Club Meeting
Date(s): Sunday, November 22, 2009
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Description:
We are holding our first meeting and all are welcome to attend and partifipate. The meeting will mainly consist of club business - the "nuts and bolts" of the organization that still need to be addressed and ironed out. We hope to be an active group of Democrats that will help foster party ideals and encourage and support individuals running for office in Chula Vista. Looking forward to working with all of you.

Location: The Brew House at Eastlake
Contact: Ed Valerio
Email: president.cvdc@gmail.com

San Diego Democracy for America Meetup
Date(s): Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: 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

Oceanside City Recall Election
Date(s): Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Time: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Description: Last day to register for this City Recall election is November 23rd. Last day to request mail in ballot is December 1. Be sure and vote!
Location: City of Oceanside

East County Caucus for the San Diego Democratic Central Committee Meeting
Date(s): Saturday, December 12, 2009
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: At CWA Local 9400 Union Hall, 566 E. Main Street, El Cajon 92020.
Contact: Christopher Pearson
Email: chrispearson11@hotmail.com

Naturalization Ceremony Voter Registration
Date(s): Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Time: 10:10 AM - 12:00 PM
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

Mesa Democratic Club Monthly Meeting
Date(s): Monday, January 11, 2010
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Description:
We will be kicking of 2010 will elections of officers. While we do have a slate, we welcome others candidates who would like to play a leadership role. Speaker is not yet scheduled.
Remember, club dues are due in January.
Location: Party Headquarters
8340 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, Suite 105 (Turn into Industrial Park Driveway at lights)
Website: www.mesa.sddem.org

SDCDP Central Area Meeting
Date(s): Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Description:
Central Area members of SDCDP are encouraged to attend, especially members of the SD County Central Committee.
Location: 8340 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., Suite 105, San Diego CA 92111 (Go North on Industrial Park Driveway)
Contact: (858) 277-3367
Email: CentralVC@sddemocrats.org


SAN DIEGO FOOD CO-OPS:

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

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

They also have a good community events calendar.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Ché Café

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

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

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

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

General Store

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

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

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

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

News from the blogs:

Travis Armstrong Resigns from the Santa Barbara News-Press...This crap is still going on? I know someone who left years ago. What took Travis so long?

Mayor Villaraigosa wants commuter rail now, not decades from now

Gavin Newsom Drops Out of Governor's Race...I think this surprised a lot of people, myself included.

In Industry First, Voting Machine Company to Publish Source Code

Ethnic politics rears its head in LA Council District 2

Ethics Inquiries Into Richardson and Waters...I suspect Maxine Waters will be shown to have done nothing wrong, at least not intentionally. I trust her. But it should be investigated.

Update on California’s Water Situation

Boxer and Feinstein sign letter supporting a strong public option

The San Francisco 2009 Ballot

LA-SF Nation's Second Busiest Air Route - Shows Need For HSR: The busiest route, the Boston-NYC-DC route, has a high speed rail that is extremely well used. Time for the second busiest route to follow the same path.

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

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

News from the Blogs:

Buildings Dept. Woes Have Persisted Despite Bloomberg’s "Overhaul"...I notice most of Bloomberg's reforms accomplish little

Who is Paying Monserrate's Legal Bills?...more on the same topic here

Under Attack, Credit Raters Turn to the First Amendment

Gonzalez: 911 upgrade reeks of conflict of interest

Several NY/Tri-State Reps on the Fence on the Public Option

Senator Monserrate Must Go

Thompson Gets Gay City News Endorsement

Landmark Green Jobs Bill in NY is Win-Win-Win

Monserrate Found Guilty... Of Misdemeanor. That means he can keep his state senate seat if he wants. So Queens has a State Senator who switches parties on whiims, slashes the face of his girlfriend, and lies like crazy. State Senator Liz Kruger is demanding Monserrate resign. You can sign the petition to fire Slasher Monserrate

Ex-Aide Sentenced in NYC Council Slush Fund Scheme


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




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!

Senator Gillibrand Among 30 Democratic Senators Who Sign Letter Calling For Public Option

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.


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

Atlanta, GA Focus

Here is info on biodiesel, food co-ops and organizations in Atlanta, GA. Some local events can be found at the bottom.

BIODIESEL IN ATLANTA:

Here are some biodiesel stations in Atlanta, GA. 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.

Refuel Biodiesel
250 Arizona Ave NE
Atlanta, GA 30307-2251
(404) 219-9709
website: www.refuelbiodiesel.org

Current hours of operation:
24 Hours a day / 7 days a week - Self-Service
Fuel type: Currently we have B20 available, however we will be adding a B100 nozzle in the near future.

Methods of payment accepted:
VISA, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover Card
The unit will run debit cards that bear a VISA or Mastercard logo as credit.


Atlanta, GA Food Co-op:
Sevananda Natural Foods Market
Everyone Can Shop, Anyone Can Join!

We are one of the Southeast‘s largest consumer-owned cooperatives providing fresh, local and organic produce, natural foods, vitamins and supplements, a large selection of bulk herbs and spices, earth-friendly household and pet products and freshly prepared foods including nutritious baked goods, soups, sandwiches, entrees and salads.

Located in Little 5 Points, near Downtown Atlanta, we offer shoppers and member/owners a variety of health and nutrition classes for healthy living.

467 Moreland Avenue NE
Atlanta, GA 30307
(404) 681-2831


Atlanta Branch of the NAACP contact info:
Atlanta Branch location: 2034 Metropolitan Pkwy
mail: PO Box 310067
Atlanta, GA 30314


Events in the Atlanta area (from the Young Democrats Website):

Young Democrats of Atlanta Monthly Business Meeting
Nov. 4, 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM
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

Young Democrats of Atlanta Fall Retreat
Nov. 6-8,
Location: Milway Family Cabin 548 Cinnamon Bear rd, Mineral Bluff, GA, 30559 US
Contact: Katie Milway
email: kmilway@gmail.com
Price: $15.00
Website: http://www.georgiayds.org/more...

Gubernatorial Candidates Forum
Nov, 9, 06:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: Speakers Auditorium at GSU 44 Courtland St, Atlanta, GA, 30303 US
Contact: Zachary Koffler
email: zak.koffler@gmail.com
770-851-5654
Website: http://www.georgiayds.org/more...
Young Democrats of Georgia is proud to present the first 2010 Democratic Gubernatorial Forum. In conjunction with College Democrats of Georgia, It will be hosted by Young Democrats of Georgia State University on November 9th, 2009 in the Speakers Auditorium in the Student Center.
[RSVP]

Young Democrats of Atlanta Monthly Business Meeting
Dec. 2, 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM
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