Progressive Democrat Issue 235

This blog got some major readership during the election. Not sure how much of an effect it had, but certainly in some of the smaller races where I cover Progressive Majority candidates I think I make a bit of a difference.

Lots of election roundups in this issue. Progressive candidates did very well in Washington State and Minnesota. Not so well in Pennsylvania or Colorado. Virginia and New Jersey governorships switch to Republican. NYC continues to be dominated by political machines and developer money. I would say that the elections were NOT a referendum on Obama, who remains very popular everywhere but the South. Rather it is a referendum on the Democratic Party which has been tending to do what it always does--water down its message until it no longer seems to stand for anything. This always happens for good, logical reasons. But people don't vote for good, logical reasons. They vote for a strong message that they feel attracted to and the Democratic Party is not delivering that right now. Obama often is, but the party as a whole is not. That is what is happening.

I mention this in some of my coverage below, but I want two clear lessons from this year's elections to be noted.

First, corruption is starting to be a winning strategy again. In 2006 and 2008 corruption was a major factor in defeats around the nation. Many Republicans and a few Democrats lost elections because of corruption. It now seems voters are going back to their earlier acceptance of corruption. I say this partly because of results in NYC (where corruption was never really rejected) but also in New Jersey where someone who was clearly corrupt was just elected Governor.

But the other lesson is one that Democrats should have learned years ago and need to keep being reminded of: the weaker your message, the greater your chances of losing. Republicans can lie, steal and cheat their way to victory. Democrats have to clearly and strongly and honestly state their message and they do well. After winning big on a strong message in 2006 and 2008, Democrats are backing off from that strong message. This is hurting them. You DON'T win votes with a wimpy message. Corzine in New Jersey was always something of a weak candidate. He never offered a strong message to voters. That left him vulnerable even to a Republican whose "clean" image had become seriously tarnished by revelations of corruption. In Virginia Creigh Deeds looked to have a real shot when he was running a more progressive campaign. Then he started to run to the right more and more. As he ran to the right his support faded. To all Democrats out there: a good honest campaign with a clear, strong message is what wins it for Democrats. Never lose sight of that. Perhaps it is time to remind everyone of a little book that I believe Obama made use of called The Political Brain by Drew Westen. In it Westen uses psychological and neurolgical analysis (real science!) to show what works and what doesn't in an election. Obama, from what I can tell, made use of Westen's ideas to great effect. Clinton also used similar tactics and is, to some degree, a model of what works in Westen's book (as is FDR). Democrats need to read this book and always keep it in mind.

Voter apathy (which includes acceptance of corruption in their politicians) mixed with a weak Democratic message usually means a win for Republicans. I sure hope our Democratic leaders across the country are paying attention to that lesson. Going along with that lesson is the fact that Blue Dog Democrats are seeing a substantial fall off in their fundraising while an aggressive progressive like Alan Grayson was able to raise over $500,000 in 24 hours by pushing a strong progressive message on health care reform (I chipped in $25, which is all I can afford right now). The message Grayson was emphasizing to inspire that $500,000 in 24 hours:



And while we are on the topic of a strong progressive message from Congress, over the objections of anti-American Republicans, the Senate passed a bill extending unemployment benefits.

I also am adding to many of the state focus pages contact info for how you can get active in healthcare reform in your area. We have to keep up the pressure...in fact we have to increase the pressure. Check your state page for contact info or go to Health Care for America Now.

One final bit of information that may be under most people's radar. Remember back in 2007 there was an odd incident where some Israeli jets violated Syrian airspace and there was some dispute about what really happened? I considered it very telling that although there was a clear border violation, NEITHER nation really wanted to make a big deal of the event. Of course there were accusations going back and forth, but overall both Israel and Syria kind of wanted everyone to stop talking about it as if BOTH nations had something to hide. Well, Salon.com has an article on what seems to have happened.

Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

The Return of Homeland Security Presidential Directive #12

Why Do Republicans Hate Our Veterans?

Ned Lamont Announces Run for CT Gov

Silicon Valley Area, CA Focus

Orange County, CA Focus

San Diego, CA Focus

CALIFORNIA FOCUS

NYC FOCUS: Did the elections matter?

Brooklyn, NY Focus

Queens, NY Focus

Bronx, NY Focus

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS

Austin/Travis County, TX Focus

Dallas County, TX Focus

Houston/Harris County, TX. Focus

TEXAS FOCUS

Atlanta, GA Focus

Fayette County, GA Focus

Coweta County, GA Focus

GEORGIA FOCUS

Warren County, NJ Focus

Sussex County, NJ Focus

Passaic County, NJ Focus

NEW JERSEY FOCUS

WASHINGTON FOCUS

Michigan Congressman John Conyers: Public Option Is Necessary

MICHIGAN FOCUS

PENNSYLVANIA FOCUS

Charlottesville/Albemarle County, VA Foucus

Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania County, VA Focus

Hanover County, VA Focus

VIRGINIA FOCUS

ARIZONA FOCUS

Latest from Alex Sink for Florida Governor

Florida Alliance for Retired Americans on Healthcare Reform

FLORIDA FOCUS

MINNESOTA 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

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

The Return of Homeland Security Presidential Directive #12

Some time back I wrote in depth about the implementation of something called Homeland Security Presidential Directive #12 (HSPD#12)which threatened my wife's rights as well as the rights of every Federal employee and contractor. The directive per se isn't bad, merely requiring a uniform system of issuing IDs to all Federal employees and contractors across all agencies. But, under the Bush Administration, no good idea went unexploited for opportunities to deny people their basic civil liberties. The implementation of HSPD#12 became a wholesale attempt to get anyone with access to a Federal facility (including my wife who was a grad student in a NASA run building) to agree to allow the government to investigate every aspect of their lives from medical records, financial records and interviewing their neighbors. Keep in mind, this has nothing to do with top secret materials. EVERYONE from the Board of Ed to NASA etc. would have to comply.

My original series of articles covered first the controversial implementation at NASA's JPL facilities with detailed email discussions by NASA scientists. I then tried to analyze in some detail the method of implementation, a widely used process in Federal employment decisions called the "Suitability Matrix" which included moral judgements and potential anti-gay judgements similar to the military's policy of excluding gays. Finally I presented a well written resignation letter from a long-time NASA empkoyee who refused to sign (something my wife may yet have to face some day).

This whole thing has been implemented in a spotty fashion. NASA and the BLM were gung ho and some law suits resulted. One of those lawsuits, filed by JPL employees, went all the way to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals which ruled in favor of the NASA employees. And I recently heard from a USDA employee hearing that the implementation there is also going forward with similar intrusiveness despite the law suits.

There was an expectation that under Obama the intrusiveness of the implementation of HSPD#12 would be stopped. And at my wife's branch of NASA the information they are requiring is now much more reasonable and less intrusive. However, the USDA seems to be progressing with intrusive methods and it now turns out that the Obama Administration is appealing the Ninth Circuit Court's ruling to the Supreme Court. This comes from Robert M. Nelson, senior scientist at NASA's JPL and lead plaintiff in the lawsuit that had blocked implementation of HSPD#12:

For Immediate Release

On Monday, Solicitor General Elena Kagan, filed for a writ of certiorari before the United States Supreme Court, requesting a review of a Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals injunction that protected employees at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory from intrusive, open ended, background investigations under of Homeland Security Presidential Directive #12 (NASA and Caltech vs. Nelson et al. No. 07-56424). If granted, the writ would permit the Supreme Court to hear arguments and rule on the legality of government investigations into the private lives of federal contractors who do non-classified work. Kagan’s requested that the Supreme Court overturn an en banc decision of the Ninth Circuit Court issued on June 4 of this year. The June 4 ruling had denied a motion from the Department of Justice for an en banc hearing (a hearing before a large panel of the Ninth Circuit) on the question of overturning an injunction issued last year against NASA and the California Institute of Technology by a three judge panel of the Ninth Circuit. The lower court ruling was unanimous in favor of the JPL employees.

The plaintiffs in the case have thirty days to respond to the Solicitor General’s petition

Considerable interest in this case centers around the demand by Caltech that every JPL employee ‘voluntarily’ agree to submit to an open ended background investigation, conducted by unknown investigators, in order to receive an identification badge that was compliant with HSPD#12. The government argued that there were no limits to the extent of the investigation. If an employee refused to ‘volunteer’, Caltech would terminate the employee. Caltech manages JPL for NASA.

Robert M. Nelson, a JPL scientist and the lead plaintiff in the case said, ‘We are, of course quite disappointed. The Solicitor General has opened a Pandora’s Box, permitting the Supreme Court to possibly erase all protections that citizens might have against government snooping into the most intimate details of their private lives. The government could engage in a wholesale invasion of privacy.”

All documents relevant to this case are posted at HSPD12JPL.org

Let's hope either the Obama Adminstration reverses this action in a moment of reason, or the Supreme Court makes the right decision. If the Supreme Court agrees with the Ninth Circuit Court, then the issue is dead. If they reverse the Ninth Circuit Court decision, then it is one more Bush-era attack on our civil liberties that the Obama Administration has failed to end.

Why Do Republicans Hate Our Veterans?

This letter from an Oklahoma Iraq War Veteran is being forwarded by Jon Soltz, founder of VoteVets.org:

From: Miranda Norman
Date: Thu, Nov 5, 2009 at 12:13 PM
Subject: Coburn Blocking Vets' Aid - Will You Stand Up To Him?

Dear Jon,

Right now, in a disgraceful move, my Senator, Tom Coburn, is single-handedly holding up some very important veteran legislation. Sen. Coburn is trying to block S. 1963, "The Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2009." While this is a legal move, we think it is morally wrong for Sen. Coburn to hold up any veterans benefits during a time when our men and women in uniform are giving so much to our country.

Click here to sign our petition to Senator Coburn to stop blocking veterans legislation.

By blocking this bill, Sen. Coburn is denying veterans a myriad of benefits and services. One of these benefits is caregiver assistance to our most wounded veterans. Severely injured veterans often need assistance to do some of the smallest tasks, and generally family members do that assistance -- often putting quite the strain on them. This bill will provide much-needed relief for those caregivers by allowing for family caregiver assistance and lodging and food assistance for attending caregivers.

Sen. Coburn is blocking some benefits specifically for women veterans. Title II of this bill increases funding for such issues as mental health care for women who suffered military sexual trauma, women's health care needs, and medical services for newborn children. Other aid in the bill concerns rural veteran health care issues, mental health care matters, and programs to help ease the burden of veteran homelessness.

Click here to tell Senator Coburn that his hold on veterans aid is not acceptable.

Now is not the time to play petty political games with our veterans. What Senator Coburn is doing is shameful, and he deserves to know that those of us who are veterans and support veterans will not stand for it. So take a moment to sign the petition above, and tell your friends and family to do the same.

Thanks for all of your support.

Sincerely,

Miranda Norman
Iraq War Veteran
Oklahoma State Captain

What the hell is WRONG with today's Republicans. I mean we send these people off to a war then abandon them when they get back. That just stinks.

Ned Lamont Announces Run for CT Gov

This came from Ned Lamont:

I wanted you to be one of the first to know that, this afternoon, I will be filing papers to establish a committee to explore a potential candidacy for Governor of Connecticut.

Since our 2006 campaign for Senate, I have continued to meet with citizens across our state -- as co-chairman of the Obama campaign in Connecticut, founder of a state policy institute at Central Connecticut State University, and as an outspoken advocate for health care reform. I have been constantly reminded during these conversations that Connecticut is not living up to its potential and that too many of our families are still being left behind.

Whether it has been health care and the economy, losing jobs, young people leaving the state, or the never-ending budget crisis, we have all seen our state head in the wrong direction.

Simply put, Connecticut's current Chief Executive is not getting the job done.

Over the next few weeks, I look forward to continuing these conversations with voters across the state. And I also look forward to hearing from all of you.

You can sign up here to stay connected on Twitter and Facebook:

http://www.nedlamont.com

I hope to have your support as we start this new chapter together.

Ned Lamont defeated Joe Lieberman in the Democratic Primary in Connecticut. I noticed that Lamont ran an amazing campaign in that primary. Problem was that the great organization in the primary slumped before the general election where Lieberman ran as an independent. Lamont is good. I hope he has learned that you have to have the money and grassroots organization to go all the way, not just through the primary.

Silicon Valley Area, CA Focus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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


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

Dean Democratic Club Working Meeting
Monday, 16 November, 2009
07:00 PM - 09:00 PM

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

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

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

Silcion Valley Young Democrats Monthly meeting
Monday, 16 November, 2009
07:00 PM - 08:30 PM

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

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

Voting Membership: Young Democrats (14-35)

Associate Memberships: Seasoned Democrats who want to support Young Democrats, includes special privileges. (Ask a Club officer for more details)

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

Democracy for America Link Monthly Meeting
Wednesday, 02 December, 2009
07:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Ralph & Jackie Wheeler's house
3956 Nelson Ct.
Palo Alto, CA 94306-4521

Hosted by the Dean Democratic Club of Silicon Valley
Annual potluck & 2010 goals brainstorming

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

Silcion Valley Young Democrats Monthly meeting
Monday, 21 December, 2009
07:00 PM - 08:30 PM

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

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

Voting Membership: Young Democrats (14-35)

Associate Memberships: Seasoned Democrats who want to support Young Democrats, includes special privileges. (Ask a Club officer for more details)

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orange County, CA Focus

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

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

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

Click here to join.


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

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

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

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

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


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

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:

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:

Ten reasons the health care bill is a good bill

Fresno Puts Its Money Where Its Mouth Is For Maintenance Hub

CA-10: Sworn in and Looking forward to Voting on Health Care Reform

SF seeks green power alternatives to PG&E

Time to watch Keith's Gay-Marriage Comment again (updated with special request)

Mayor Villaraigosa wants commuter rail now, not decades from now

Boxer and Feinstein sign letter supporting a strong public option

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

NYC FOCUS: Did the elections matter?

So it has been a long and tiring primary/runoff/general election. And the net result is not really that different from where we started. Money and machines won most races. Corruption paid off in most cases. A few interesting upsets occurred to keep things interesting, but by and large, things stay the same.

The mayor will be the same pro-business, anti-labor dictator he has always been. In fact I expect him to be worse. He has just pulled off one of the biggest coups of recent history by flat out telling the voters they don't matter. It doesn't matter if the voters want term limits, Bloomberg will push those limits aside like Moses parting the Red Sea and simply spend any amount of money to win. NYC voters, $200 per vote. His ego will of course be boosted by this and he is bound to feel like there are no checks or balances on his power. And by and large he is right. NYC is run more dictatorially than any city I have lived in. That struck me during Giuliani's reign and it strikes me even more since the Bloomberg putsch. NYC doesn't need voters. Just sit back and trust Papa Bloomberg. I predict a bad third term.

Turning to Public Advocate, instead of the passive assent of Betsy Gotbaum, Bloomberg will have the far more active collaboration of Bill de Blasio who will aid Bloomberg in his attempts to turn the whole city over to wealthy developers and outside contractors. But we should get a handful of stands by Bill de Blasio which will give the illusion of standing up to Bloomberg, which may in the long run be an improvement. Bill de Blasio is ambitious and he lets NOTHING stand in the way of his ambition. To be mayor, de Blasio will have to either be Bloomberg's tame pet (probably not a good way to impress voters) or find some very dramatic ways to stand up to Bloomberg. This latter is de Blasio's style. He will back developers, the local machine and Bloomberg 90% of the time. But he will choose a 10% of the time that doesn't matter so much to his donors, but makes an impression on voters. My wife points out de Blasio has a decent record standing up on education issues. I hope that means one of the main areas where Bloomberg will find active dissent from de Blasio is in education. We need some serious brakes to be put on Bloomberg's privatization of education and, much as I dislike where de Blasio stands on many things, I do think this could be his saving grace. In that sense, de Blasio will be an improvement over Gotbaum.

For Comptroller we trade the low key Thompson for the camera hungry and dynamic Liu. It is unclear that this will change how the Comptroller's office actually functions. My gut feeling is that it is an improvement and is potentially the only real (if small) check on Bloomberg's dictatorial powers if for no other reason than it will give Liu an opportunity to show off. Overall I think Liu has the potential of being an excellent Comptroller and his style will show the public what the Comptroller's office is all about. What I am less sure about is will Liu actually do a better job than Thompson. I think yes, but we will have to see.

As an aside, I also strongly believe that Liu and de Blasio are positioning themselves for mayoral runs. Will we see a Liu vs. de Blasio vs. Weiner vs. (fill in a few more names) primary in 4 years? Or will these guys coordinate their efforts and avoid some primary conflict? If they are now rivals for mayor, the next 4 years could be interesting. Liu is likely to stand up to Bloomberg to make an impression (could be grandstanding, real effort or both). Bill de Blasio could either take Bloomberg's side against Liu or could go the other way and try to out do Liu in standing up to Bloomberg, depending on which way de Blasio sees the wind blowing. I think it would be great if we saw 4 years of Liu and de Blasio trying to out do themselves in standing up to Bloomberg. But I suspect they each with find small areas to take stands while overall leaving the city in Bloomberg's control with no real checks and balances.

The City Council will not change much. Reform almost certainly will be off the table with the new city council. It is true that several incumbents lost, which in itself is pretty good. However no candidate who really looked to shake things up won. Daniel Dromm and Debi Rose seem like excellent people (assuming the WFP scandal doesn't bite them back), but not really strong enough personalities to seriously challenge the status quo. Margaret Chin has been called "too radical," which gives some promise of shaking things up, but I don't know enough about her to know if the reality will fit that accusation. I honestly hope it does! I don't really know Rev. Fernando Cabrera, but he doesn't strike me as someone who will shake the status quo much. Jumaane Williams I also don't know well enough to judge, but don't have high hopes for any real change when it comes to having a stronger, more honest city council.

Brooklyn Party Boss Vito Lopez did get a beating in the 34th district where the Lopez/WFP alliance backed Maritza Davila against Diana Reyna and lost twice. But this isn't really a victory for reform so much as a loss for Lopez since Reyna was formerly Lopez's ally who simply didn't show enough loyalty. Will she actually side with reform? I am skeptical. However, some of the main reformers in Brooklyn started out as machine allies who simply weren't willing to toe the line enough for Lopez. So perhaps now that Reyna has nothing to lose by siding with the reformers, she will show a new independence. That is the best case scenario. But more likely, there is no real change here.

Looking at some of the open seats I see even less room for optimism. Steve Levin is a machine hack who has no interest in reform or in standing up to Bloomberg at all. Actually, I suspect he will be practically no change over David Yassky except Levin doesn't try to pretend he is a reformer the way Yassky did. Which is best: a corrupt politician who makes no pretense or a weasel who talks good but is still a corrupt politician?

Brad Lander will be no real change over Bill de Blasio except he will be a less friendly and more brooding version of Bill. Now I have one political friend who says I am misjudging Brad. I hope he is right. But every interaction I have had with Brad makes me feel he is nothing but a less likable version of de Blasio and that we will see no change whatsoever here.

There are cases where I hate to be right. Kevin Kim, who seemed a decent candidate, lost to Republican Daniel Halloran. Now after the primary I was glad Vallone lost because he is a DINO, but now we have an actual Republican instead. I took some crap because I criticized Kim for his choice of Michael Tobman for his campaign. Tobman has a history of nasty, losing campaigns. In that piece I expressed my support for Kim, but warned that hiring Tobman is a bad omen. Sadly, I was right. Tobman was associated with another loss. I am starting to feel all I need to know is that Tobman is hired by someone to write that person off as losing. I would have loved to have been proven wrong in this one. But the net result is worse than before because now a Republican will replace a Democrat and I doubt that will lead to any reform.

The other open seat races I know less about but don't see any real fire breathing reformers in the lot.

So machine politics continued to dominate with no strong reforming force making it. Early on I had hoped WFP would prove the reforming force, but instead they sided with the machines wherever possible and violated campaign finance rules to boot, thus proving they are not helpful in reforming NYC politics.

So, NYC, looks like we will limp along with inadequate fire house coverage, schools that increasingly are outsourced to outside contractors for more and more testing but no real change (unless de Blasio takes a stand on education), more slush fund scandals (unless Liu proves an effective Comptroller), though perhaps a bit more carefully hidden than in the past, more developer give aways and, should Bloomberg decide he wants a fourth term, I am sure the ever more spineless city council will once again roll over and give it to him. And voters will again complain about it...and re-elect incumbents overwhelmingly. Business as usual in NYC with no real change from yet another low turnout election.

Brooklyn, NY Focus

News from Brooklyn:

With a Solid Council Win, Reyna Breaks With Vito Lopez

Class, financial issues led Brooklyn voters' gripes about Bloomberg

Atlantic Yards Gets $55 Million Subsidy For Make-Believe Affordable Housing.

DDDB Walkathon: Maturation of a Movement

Arguments in the current legal challenge to Ratner's scheme:




"Brooklyn is Dying"




Friends & Residents of Greater Gowanus (FROGG)

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

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

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

For more information: FROGGcommunity@earthlink.net


PLASTIC RECYCLING IN BROOKLYN:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


BROOKLYN REFORM DEMOCRATIC ORGANIZATIONS:

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

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

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

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

Democracy for NYC in Brooklyn:

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

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

Currently there is only one Brooklyn chapter:

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


DRINKING LIBERALLY IN BROOKLYN:

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

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


FOOD CO-OPS IN BROOKLYN:

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

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

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

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

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

This is the largest Food Co-op in America. Joy and I are members. Low prices and high quality even if it can be a bit inconvenient at times.

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

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