Mole's Progressive Democrat

The Progressive Democrat Newsletter grew out of the frustration of the 2004 election. Originally intended for New York City progressives, its readership is now national. For anyone who wants to be alerted by email whenever this newsletter is updated (usually weekly), please send your email address and let me know what state you live in (so I can keep track of my readership).

Name: mole333

Location: Brooklyn, New York, United States

I am a research biologist in NYC. Married with two kids living in Brooklyn.

View my complete profile

Thursday, July 01, 2010

Progressive Democrat Newsletter Issue 264

Still using some shortcuts to get the newsletter out...but I think there is still plenty of good info I am getting out to my readers. I should note that as I have neglected the newsletter, readership has gone down a bit. Hopefully it will pick up.

Let me begin by showing some hard numbers on why we really should be glad Obama is our president and why there is reason to hope for economic recovery. This is a graph of private sector job loss/creation from January 2007 to June 2009. It shows the abysmal job creation under Bush, and the gradual improvement under Obama: (see also this Daily Kos diary)

If the trend continues, we will do okay. Of course it would be interesting to extend this from Bush I years through Clinton years, through Bush II and up to today. From everything I have seen it would be a clear mediocre to poor job creation under the Bush terms and improvement to prosperity under Clinton and Obama. But we still have a long way to go to make up all that lost ground under Bush.

And here is something from Current TV's Vanguard series. This is part of a show they did on an American Jihadist. It is the kind of journalism I have come to expect from Current TV that you don't get elsewhere. This is just a sample from an hour long show: (note: has a commercial before the real thing begins)

And another important story they covered, one that hit Daily Kos earlier, but has otherwise not been covered much: Inside Vanguard's Rape on the Reservation: Mariana van Zeller Reflects

And speaking of Current TV, this was from their website: Policing Free Speech / Political Spying: ACLU Review

Here is this week's newsletter:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Bill Clinton on Barack Obama

BP Fined for Lying...and more suggestions on where to gas up

Certainty vs. Uncertainty: Understanding Scientific Terms about Climate Change

Upset Win for Sean Coffey (Attorney General candidate) for Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats Endorsement

NYC Focus: Joel Klein is Goddamned Liar

Brooklyn, NY Focus

Manhattan, NY Focus

Queens, NY Focus

Bronx Focus: June 29 Democracy for New York Fundraiser/Meet and Greet for Charlie Ramos, jr. for State Senate:

Bronx Focus: Desiree Pilgrim-Hunter for State Senate...perhaps NY State's most important primary election this year.

Bronx, NY Focus

Suffolk County, NY Focus

Rochester, NY Focus

New York 19th District Focus: Putnam, Dutchess, Orange, Rockland, and Westchester Counties

NEW YORK STATE FOCUS

California Focus: Want to know if your vote was counted? Check website

California Nurses Push Back at Whitman

CA-Sen: Carly Fiorina In the mold of Sarah Palin

Orange County, CA Focus

San Diego, CA Focus

Silicon Valley Area, CA Focus

California 11th District Focus: San Joaquin, Alameda and Santa Clara Counties

CALIFORNIA FOCUS

A stark comparison between Democrats and Repubs in Texas: Texas GOP and Democratic Platform Comparison

Austin/Travis County, TX Focus

Dallas County, TX Focus

Houston/Harris County, TX Focus

Texas 10th District Focus: Turn TX-10 Blue

Texas 21st District Focus: Turn TX-21 Blue

TEXAS FOCUS

VA-4: A Progressive Democrat for Southside Virginia:

Virginia Focus: Republican Cuccinelli pocketing money meant for wounded veterans

Virginia Focus: Republican Eric Cantor opposes support for small businesses

Charlottesville/Albemarle County, VA Foucus

Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania County, VA Focus

Hanover County, VA Focus

VIRGINIA FOCUS

Minnesota Focus: Ham Lake Mayor Paul Meunier announces State Senate candidacy:

Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak Endorses Staunton for District 41A:

The Most Winnable Seat in Minnesota

Progressive Candidates in Minnesota

MINNESOTA FOCUS

Republican Mark Kirk: "Liar" - It's OK to use the word

Here's something that we need: The Good Jobs Chicago Coalition...and here is video of the Good Jobs Chicago Coalition taking on Wal-Mart:

ILLINOIS FOCUS

Washington Education Association the American Federation of Teachers Endorse Dean Willard for Washington State Representative

Lillian Kaufer endorsed by Democracy for Snohomish County for State Senate (D) 44th District

Progressive Candidates in Washington State

WASHINGTON STATE FOCUS

Republican Congressman Gerlach sides with Wall Street against hard-working Pennsylvanians

Republican Pat Toomey Stubbornly Reaffirms Support for Drilling in Great Lakes...how many oil disasters will it take for the Greedy Oil Party to end its addiction to the oil industry. More here:

Progressive Candidates in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Focus: Lois Herr for Congress

Lancaster Co. PA Focus

PENNSYLVANIA FOCUS

New Jersey Chemical Plant Puts 12 Million at Risk, Threatens Most Lives in New York City

Sussex County, NJ Focus

Passaic County, NJ Focus

Warren County, NJ Focus

NEW JERSEY FOCUS

Crisanta Duran, Democrat for State Representative in House District 5 in Denver, Colorado:

An important new blog in Colorado: CO-Sen: New Website to Hold Republican Candidates Accountable for their Extreme Views

Progressive Candidates in Colorado

Recent Economic Data Show Progress in Colorado

Boulder County, CO Focus

Larimer County, CO Focus

Douglas County, CO Focus

COLORADO FOCUS

Wisconsin DOT: see no global warming, speak no global warming, mitigate no global warming...it is WAY past time for global warming denial and delays. It is time to act.

Crisis equals opportunity: raise the standards for high school graduation.

WISCONSIN FOCUS

Michigan Focus: ACLU Sues Wal-Mart for Firing Employee for Medical Marijuana Use...if this person needed insulin, or Prozac, or any other medicine, would Wal-Mart fire him? Yet another reason I boycott Wal-Mart.

MI Republican Sec. of State candidate lists hate group leader's endorsement...yet another example of the close relationship between Republicans and racism.

Progressive Candidates in Michigan

MICHIGAN FOCUS

Joe Garcia and hope for Florida Democrats

Broward County, FL Focus

Orange County, FL Focus

Pinellas County, FL Focus

FLORIDA FOCUS

AZ Sheriff Arpaio's "Sweeps" Don't Work

Progressive Candidates in Arizona

ARIZONA FOCUS

North Carolina Focus: NC-5 District Focus (Stokes County, Statesville, Surrey County, Iredell County, Watauga County, Yadkin County)

NORTH CAROLINA FOCUS

Atlanta, GA Focus

Fayette County, GA Focus

Coweta County, GA Focus

GEORGIA FOCUS

KANSAS FOCUS

US Marine Fights Tea Party Theocracy in TN

Report: Coal Industry Harms TN and WV More Than It Helps

TENNESSEE FOCUS

IOWA FOCUS

Elliot Anderson for Nevada Assembly

NEVADA FOCUS

Bill Clinton on Barack Obama

Speaking in South Africa, President Bill Clinton had this to say about President Barack Obama:

“I think he's done a better job than he's given credit for,” Clinton said. “I feel very strongly about this.”

The former president, who, like Obama, saw his polling numbers dip dramatically during his second year in office, said that Obama is not fully “responsible” for how he is perceived, adding that a dip in approval is “not avoidable” in an economic downturn.

“Until people feel good about their own lives, they're not going to feel good about their president,” Clinton said. “And there's nothing you can do about that.”

“He is a brilliant, articulate and, I think, an exceedingly empathetic person,” the former president said of Obama.

Read more: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0610/39093.html#ixzz0sAI15o5m

I suspect Bill Clinton knows EXACTLY what Obama is going through (having had to follow in the wake of a Bush recession himself). I have been asked about Obama's performance by several readers. My answers are often similar to Clinton's, though I personally am more liberal than either Clinton or Obama ever claimed to be. One of my more recent responses went like this:

I think Obama is a very competent leader. But I am not sure it is enough to counter both the racism AND the slow progress in correcting the HUGE mess he inherited AND the hostile, conservative-controlled media. I think even FDR would have a hard time if he had all that to deal with.

Truth is we have to remember Clinton's slogan: It's the economy, stupid. If the economy turns around, Obama will win. If not, he will have a hard time winning. And I think he knows it. Obama knows what he needs to do and is trying to slowly, patiently do it. And I don't think anyone knows whether it will work or not.

Both 2010 and 2012 hinge on almost nothing but the economy. Obama has a charisma that will be of enormous help, at least in his own re-election if not in helping other candidates. I think many of the candidates he has helped recently have not necessarily been his choice so much as obligation so I am not sure how well we can judge his ability to get out the vote for a Democratic Congressional candidate. But even the best charisma in the world won't make up for a bad economy, and whoever is in power will, fairly or unfairly, get blamed for the economy.

At this point only time will tell.

BP Fined for Lying...and more suggestions on where to gas up

BP's lies and greed isn't just about the Gulf anymore. Seems they have been lying to the government about prices and royalties related to production on the Southern Ute tribal lands in Colorado. More on this below, followed by some resources to help decide what gas stations best suit your ideals. Sunoco and Hess seem the best according to most sources. Citgo perhaps next. BP/Arco (which I admit I used to like), Exxon/Mobil and Chevron/Texaco seem the worst according to most sources.

From BBC News:

British oil firm BP has been fined $5.2m (£3.5m) by the US Interior Department.

The fine was imposed after the firm was accused of making "false, inaccurate, or misleading" reports regarding energy output on tribal lands in Colorado...

In a written statement, the Interior Department said the case related to BP's activities on Southern Ute Native American tribal lands in southwestern Colorado.

"It is simply unacceptable for companies to repeatedly misreport production, particularly when it interferes with the auditing process," said Michael Bromwich, the director of BOEMRE.

BOEMRE said auditors found BP reported incorrect royalty rates and prices.

Certainty vs. Uncertainty: Understanding Scientific Terms about Climate Change

Here is an essay from the Union of Concerned Scientists, the first in a series of articles about climate science by climate scientists:

Uncertainty is ubiquitous in our daily lives. We are uncertain about where to go to college, when and if to get married, who will play in the World Series, and so on.

To most of us, uncertainty means not knowing. To scientists, however, uncertainty is how well something is known. And, therein lies an important difference, especially when trying to understand what is known about climate change.

In science, there's often not absolute certainty. But, research reduces uncertainty. In many cases, theories have been tested and analyzed and examined so thoroughly that their chance of being wrong is infinitesimal. Other times, uncertainties linger despite lengthy research. In those cases, scientists make it their job to explain how well something is known. When gaps in knowledge exist, scientists qualify the evidence to ensure others don't form conclusions that go beyond what is known.

Even though it may seem counterintuitive, scientists like to point out the level of uncertainty. Why? Because they want to be as transparent as possible and it shows how well certain phenomena are understood.

Decision makers in our society use scientific input all the time. But they could make a critically wrong choice if the unknowns aren't taken into account. For instance, city planners could build a levee too low or not evacuate enough coastal communities along an expected landfall zone of a hurricane if uncertainty is understated. For these reasons, uncertainty plays a key role in informing public policy.

Taking into account the many sources of scientific understanding, climate scientists have sought to provide decision-makers with careful language regarding uncertainty. A "very likely" outcome, for example, is one that has a greater than 90 percent chance of occurring. Climate data or model projections in which we have "very high confidence" have at least a 9 out of 10 chance of being correct.

However, in this culture of transparency where climate scientists describe degrees of certainty and confidence in their findings, climate change deniers have linked less than complete certainty with not knowing anything. The truth is, scientists know a great deal about climate change. We have learned, for example, that the burning of fossil fuels and the clearing of forests release carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. There is no uncertainty about this. We have learned that carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases in the atmosphere trap heat through the greenhouse effect. Again, there is no uncertainty about this. Earth is warming because these gasses are being released faster than they can be absorbed by natural processes. It is very likely (greater than 90 percent probability) that human activities are the main reason for the world's temperature increase in the past 50 years.

Scientists know with very high confidence, or even greater certainty, that:

* Human-induced warming influences physical and biological systems throughout the world
* Sea levels are rising
* Glaciers and permafrost are shrinking
* Oceans are becoming more acidic
* Ranges of plants and animals are shifting

Scientists are uncertain, however, about how much global warming will occur in the future (between 2.1 degrees and 11 degrees Fahrenheit by 2100). They are also uncertain how soon the summer sea ice habitat where the ringed seal lives will disappear. Curiously, much of this uncertainty has to do with—are you ready?—humans. The choices we make in the next decade, or so, to reduce emissions of heat-trapping gasses could prevent catastrophic climate change.

So, what's the bottom line? Science has learned much about climate change. Science tells us what is more or less likely to be true. We know that acting now to deeply reduce heat-trapping emissions will limit the scope and severity of further impacts – and that is virtually certain.

Learn more about how scientists define certainty and uncertainty.

This is part of a series of articles meant to strengthen the communication of climate science, by scientists, to the American public. The series includes short articles on scientific terminology, the impacts of climate change, and new discoveries by leading researchers. Some are listed in "Related Articles" on the right side of this page.

I urge all my readers to become members of the Union of Concerned Scientists. They have LOTS of great stuff like this that I don't have the chance or forget to pass on. If you want the most up to date science this is a good way to get it and if you want to help real scientists actually affect government policy, this organization is one of the main ones bringing scientists and politicians together.

Brooklyn, NY Focus

Reform the NY State Senate:

I have put together a NY State Senate Act Blue Page that targets some key State Senate races, including two Bronx races. These are ones where I have some insight into the candidates. I am open to more suggestions for races to target. I ask you to pick one or two of these races and give even $5-10 if you can. If we win even just three of these seats, it will make a difference in Albany.

CENTRAL BROOKLYN INDEPENDENT DEMOCRATS ENDORSEMENT LIST: (from the CBID website)

CBID is the most progressive and reform club in Brooklyn, so their endorsements are quite meaningful (though I don't always agree with them 100%).

Upset Win for Sean Coffey for Attorney General for Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats Endorsement

12th Congressional District
Nydia Velazquez

10th Congressional District
Kevin Powell

18th State Senate District
Velmanette Montgomery

20th State Senate District
Eric Adams

44th Assembly District
James Brennan

52nd Assembly District
Joan Millman

44th AD Male District Leader
Jacob Gold

44th AD Female District Leader
Lori Knipel

52nd AD Male District Leader
Chris Owens

52nd AD Female District Leader
Jo Anne Simon

For more information on these candidates as well as their opponents, please check out the questionnaires CBID requires candidates to fill out to be considered for endorsement.

Lambda Independent Democrats Endorsements: LID is the biggest and strongest LGBT organization in Brooklyn. Here are their endorsements for 2010:

United States Senate:
Kirsten Gillibrand

NY State Comptroller:
Thomas DiNapoli

NY State Attorney General:
Eric Schneiderman

U.S. House (8th Congressional Dist.):
Jerrold Nadler

U.S. House (10th Congressional Dist.):
Kevin Powell

U.S. House (11th Congressional Dist.):
Yvette Clarke

U.S. House (12th Congressional Dist.):
Nydia Velazquez

Civil Court, County-wide:
Harriet Thompson

Civil Court, 7th District:
Betty Joyce Williams

NY State Senate:
18 – Velmanette Montgomery
20 – Eric Adams
21 – Kevin Parker
22 – Michael DiSanto
23 – Diane Savino
25 – Daniel Squadron
27 – Igor Oberman

NY State Assembly:
44 – Jim Brennan
46 – Alec Brook-Krasny
52 – Joan Millman
55 – William Boyland
57 – Hakeem Jeffries

District Leader/State Committee:
41 Male – Lew Fidler
44 Female – Lori Citron Knipel
44 Male – Jacob Gold
50 Male – Lincoln Restler
52 Female – Jo Anne Simon
52 Male – Chris Owens
57 Female – Olanike Alabi
57 Male – Walter Moseley
60 Male – Ralph Perfetto

New Kings Democrats Endorsements: NKD are newcomers to the block and are an outgrowth of the Obama campaign in Brooklyn. Here are their local Brooklyn endorsements:

U.S. Congress- District 12: Nydia Velazquez
New York State Senate- District 25: Daniel Squadron
New York State Assembly- District 52: Joan Millman
Female State Committee District Leader- District 50: Kate Zidar
Male State Committee District Leader- District 50: Lincoln Restler
Female State Committee District Leader- District 52: Jo Anne Simon
Female State Committee District Leader- District 53: Barbara Medina
Male State Committee District Leader- District 53: Esteban Duran

BROOKLYN BLOGS:

Pardon Me for Asking

NO LAND GRAB

Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn

Bed-Stuy Blog

Duffield St. Underground

Brooklyn Streets, Carroll Gardens

KEEP WAL-MART OUT OF NYC:

Bloomerg wants to help Wal-Mart open up in NYC even though Wal-Mart has been shown to deliberately destroy small businesses, use illegal immigrant labor paying them slave wages, and treating their workers badly.

I don't mind big chain stores. I like IKEA and CostCo and Trader Joe's in particular. But Wal-Mart has been shown to be bad for communities they open up in.

Wal-Mart has a gender discrimination suit against them still active: Meet the Woman Behind the Walmart Gender Discrimination Suit

Learn about Wal-Mart’s Dismal Record on Worker and Customer Safety (PDF)

Wal-Mart's Wage and Hour Violations (PDF)

HELP STOP WAL-MART AND BLOOMBERG FROM RUINING NYC

Go here to find out more. Bloomberg is a lost cause, but write NYC Public Advocate Bill de Blasio and Comptroller John Liu and tell them to stop Wal-Mart. Wal-Mart and Bloomberg are anti-union, anti-small business and anti-community. Let's get our Public Advocate and Comptroller fighting for us!

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 Downtown 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.

# When? First and Third Tuesday of each month, 7:00 pm
# Where? 4th Avenue Pub, 76 4th Avenue

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.

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.

San Diego, CA Focus

EVENTS:

You can find great calendar of events for San Deigo, California, thanks to the San Diego County Democrats. Check it out and get involved with your local community. That is how change happens from the bottom up.

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.

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.

Houston/Harris County, TX Focus

EVENTS:

You can find many local Houston and Harris County events at the Harris County Democratic Party

Diane Trautman for Harris County Tax Assessor

Democracy for America has endorsed Diane Trautman for Harris County Tax Assessor. Here is her statement to DFA:

Background:

I have a Bachelors degree in English and a Masters degree in Education from the University of Houston as well as a Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership from Sam Houston State University. I have over 30 years combined administrative and leadership experience in banking and education. Not only have I led large organizations, I teach others to do the same as a professor of education at Stephen F. Austin State University. As an active member of several chambers of commerce, community organizations, and Democratic clubs, I stay in touch with the needs of the community. I am proud to be wife to a very understanding husband, mother of three outstanding children, and grandmother of an adorable grandchild who all support me in my desire to bring ethical leadership to the Harris County Tax Office.

Goals:

In 2008, I was proud to be the Democratic nominee for Harris County Tax Assessor, proud to receive over half a million votes, and proud to be endorsed by the Houston Chronicle twice, once for the general election and once for the appointment after my opponent decided to quit 3 weeks after he was elected. The appointed interim tax assessor has had 2 lawsuits filed against him and now has a pending Department of Justice investigation on voter registration irregularities in that office.

As a result I feel that public trust in this office is at an all time low. So at the urging of family, friends, and supporters, I made the decision to run again for HCTA in 2010 to restore public trust and improve customer service in that office. As a professor of education, I teach my graduate students to be ethical leaders and the importance of earning their customers trust. I intend to do the same as Harris County Tax Assessor.

Issues:

1. Due to my 2008 opponent resigning under a shroud of suspicion and lawsuits filed against the current tax assessor,one of the biggest issues constituents face is a lack of trust in the tax office. I will address this by running a more transparent office and modeling ethical and appropriate office holder behavior.

2. Another issue for constituents is lack of customer service, specifically in the area of voter registration. Last year, thousands of voters were dropped from the rolls and thousands of provisional ballots were not counted in a timely manner. I will address this by developing a voter registration system that is fair, inclusive and works for all Harris County citizens and will promote community outreach and voter education throughout the county year round.

3. Adequate staffing and training is a big problem in the Harris County Tax office. The past two tax assessors have cut staff in vitally important parts of the office and have had several department heads who have been accused of conflict of interest by using their position to influence voters. I would do a needs assessment for staffing all parts of the office immediately upon taking office, implement employee training programs for ethical behavior, and get rid of all political appointee department heads who know nothing about running the tax office.

Please volunteer for Trautman's campaign or if you can't do that, please contribute.

BIODIESEL IN HARRIS COUNTY:

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 selling biodiesel near Houston:

ORourke Petroleum: 223 McCarty Street, Houston, TX 77029, 713-672-4500. Offers B20 (good in any diesel engine). CFN CARDLOCK ONLY

hyperfuels.com: 12969 W Hardy Frontage Toll Rd, Houston, TX 77037, 877-447-7207. Offers B100 (good in newer diesel engines, older engines may have problems). Open 9 AM - 5 PM.

Peachleaf Bio: 1611 Peachleaf St, Houston, TX 77039, 281-449-9500. Offers B99 (good in newer diesel engines, older engines may have problems). COOP SIGNUP NEEDED. Call for details. Open M-F 8-5.

Houston Biodiesel: 723 N Drennan Street, Houston, TX 77003, 713-222-0832. Offers B100 (good in newer diesel engines, older engines may have problems). Open 9:30-6 M-F; WEEKENDS CALL

American Greenfuels: 6421 Eppes St, Houston, TX 77087, 713-634-0033. Offers B99 (good in newer diesel engines, older engines may have problems). CALL FOR AVAILABILITY

FLORIDA FOCUS: Blogs, Equality, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

Democrat Alan Grayson: What's REALLY Wrong With The Banks:

DEMOCRAT KENDRICK MEEK BLASTS BP & CORPORATE IRRESPONSIBILITY AT AMERICA'S FUTURE NOW CONFERENCE:

Democrat Alex Sink on GOP plans for Florida immigration "papers" law:

BLOGGING FLORIDA:

The Florida Progressive Coalition: progressive politics in Florida.

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

FLA Politics: Political news from Florida

PROGRESSIVE CANDIDATES IN FLORIDA:

Millie Herrera for Florida's 114th District Representative:

Democracy for America has endorsed Millie Herrera for State Representative for the 114th District. Here is what they have to say about her:

Millie has dedicated her life to helping others -- working for a better Florida and working to train the next generation of progressive grassroots leaders.

Millie has felt this recession firsthand. As a small business owner, she's worked to create jobs in this tough economy. She knows the struggles Florida families face and she has the experience and vision to help put the state back on track.

Here is Herrera's statement to DFA:

Background:

I am a lifelong progressive Democrat, born in Cuba and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, went to school in Carbondale, Illinois, and lived in Caracas, Baton Rouge and Dallas, Texas before moving to Miami in 1987. In 1995, I became active in Miami politics after Newt Gingrich's "Contract ON America" showed me what happens when progressives become complacent, serving as Miami-Dade Democratic Party Deputy Director, then in 1997 organized the Miami-Dade Democratic Hispanic Caucus and was its President until 1998. In 2000, had the honor of being a delegate at the DNC National Convention, and was also elected President of the Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Florida, and was reelected in 2002. My passion has been to bring Hispanics into the Democratic Party and awaken the sleeping giant with voter registration, community organizing, and GOTV. In 2000, I founded The Miami Group, a marketing and business consulting firm. This gave me the opportunity to serve my community, becoming a volunteer Guardian Ad Litem for abused and neglected children, and serving on the Kendall Community Council. In 2004, I ran for State Representative in District 114. My opponent, the Republican incumbent ran a very well funded campaign and I did not prevail. My work on behalf of children in the juvenile justice system and the abused and neglected continued, as well as advocacy for growth management and halting sprawl in South Florida. In 2005-2006 I was the spokesperson for the Hold The Line campaign in the Hispanic community. In 2007-2008, I worked tiredlessly to elect a Democrat to the White House, and hosted a Spanish language radio show until April 2009 to communicate the Democratic message and point of view on the issues to the Hispanic community in South Florida. I continue to advocate for progressive issues: health care for all, highest quality public education, immigration reform, women's rights and the right to choose.

Goals:

I am running because we need a sweeping change in Florida politics. Too many Florida state legislators protect the interests of big business over the best interests of their constituents. I will be a voice for working families, small business owners, children and a clean water and environment.

Issues:

-Improve education by increasing funding by the state of school districts, community colleges and universities
-Economic development programs to bring new industries to Florida that create new jobs
-Growth management laws that protect the Everglades and our drinking water

If you live in Fountainebleau, Sweetwater, University Park , Westwood Lakes, Westchester, Kendall, Richmond West or South Miami Heights, please volunteer to help Millie Herrera's campaign. If you can't volunteer, please donate.

Alan Grayson for Congress (FL-8)

Alan Grayson has been one of the rising stars of the Democratic Party this year, standing up to the Republicans every time they lie or oppose programs that would actually help Americans. He is the firebrand our party needs to keep moving forward. Republicans thought he'd be an easy target, but he has surged through grassroots fundraising and isn't looking all that vulnerable right now. But the right wing is still trying to challenge him. Democracy for America has eagerly endorsed Grayson for re-election. Here's what they have to say about him:

Representative Alan Grayson is living proof that Democrats win when they stand up for what they believe in. Grayson ran for Congress in his traditionally conservative area as a progressive Democrat, going on to win 52 percent of the vote in November 2008.

Since heading to Washington, Grayson has become one of the progressive movement's best voices, taking the fight for real healthcare reform with a public option straight to the Republicans working to killing any and all reform.

If you live in the FL-8 district, you can help this progressive champion defeat the right wing yet again by volunteering for his campaign. Or you can contribute to his re-election fund. Either way, keep in mind this is a critical race for 2010.

Equality Events in Florida: The Dolphin Democrats have a calendar with many events throughout Florida. Go here to find out what is going on in your area.

Florida Democratic Party Netroots Coalition

The Netroots Coalition was created to help bring together bloggers and Netroots activists who support the Democratic Party. The mission of the organization is to contribute to the growth and influence of the Democratic Party, to establish and maintain a Democratic online community, and to promote the party and all party candidates for Democratic leadership throughout the state and nation. We also seek to assist and encourage Florida Democrats, including clubs, county, and grassroots organizations to get online and establish a communication network and promote online participation among Democrats. Go here to join.

Florida Democratic Party Small County Coalition

The SCC is made up of the counties in Florida that have less than 35,000 registered Democrats, which includes more than half of the counties in Florida. The mobilization and organization of small counties through the SCC is an important asset to Florida Democrats. As one of the finest examples of what cooperation within the Party can achieve, the SCC, Florida's largest Democratic voting block, gives Democrats from smaller counties a chance to deliver our message in underrepresented areas of Florida.

Go here to get active in the coalition.

Mark your calendars for the next Smal County Coalition Convention on June 20-22 in Nassau County. Learn more here: http://www.doug2008.net/scc2008.html

Alternative Energy in Florida:

Some statistics from Repower America:

* NextEra Energy began construction on three solar energy facilities that will prevent the release of nearly 3.5 million tons of greenhouse gases – or the equivalent of removing 25,000 cars from the road per year!

* Florida Power & Light claims to be the nation's No.1 utility for energy conservation. FPL's programs have helped the company avoid the need to build 12 medium-sized power plants since 1980.

* Governor Crist’s Action Team on Energy and Climate Change adopted a fifty-policy climate plan that, when fully implemented, will provide a net cost savings of more than $28 billion and reduce GHG emissions by 64% by 2025.

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 Florida, 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 is a biodiesel cooperative in Florida. If you drive a diesel truck or car, check them out.

Brevard BioDiesel
Brevard County

Brevard Biodiesel seeks to promote the availability and use of clean-burning, renewable biodiesel fuel as a replacement for petroleum by raising public awareness of its environmental, economic, and national security benefits.

Check out their website. They have some good environmental news reports on their site.

Here are some other alternative energy groups in Florida:

SolarCity Gainesville is a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of solar and renewable energy in Gainesville and Alachua County. Go here for more info.

Jacksonville's Sustainable Future:
Jacksonville's Sustainable Future is a resource for those who are concerned about Global Climate Change and want to do something, as well as a resource for those who want to learn more.

Our focus is on creating a better world for future generations.

Join us to discuss citizen awareness projects, personal endeavors, and other plans for a better future for Jacksonville, Orange Park, the Beaches, St. Augustine, Fernandina, and the other areas that make up Greater Jacksonville. Go here for more info.

We are working on a number of projects related to energy conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy.

Please join us if you want to work towards a greener, cleaner, and healthier future for our community.

Here are some Florida groups and events:

Florida Public Transportation Association

The Florida Public Transportation Association (FPTA) is chartered to fulfill the following objectives:

1. To provide a forum for public transit service providers and affiliated organizations to exchange experiences, studies and to engage in meaningful discussion of mutual problems, concerns and issues.
2. To foster the improvement of public transportation in the state by promoting the beneficial use of research and factual study.
3. To act as a collective voice in promoting the recognition, use, expansion and enhancement of public transportation in the state.
4. To elicit cooperation efforts among member agencies, their employees, agents and customers, along with the general public to pursue and achieve common interests.
5. To represent the interests of member agencies, individually or collectively, in forums appropriate for the prosecution, enforcement or defense of issues of interest to those members.
6. To receive and apply funds for the achievement and furtherance of organizational purposes and objectives, including levying, assessing, charging and collecting dues from the membership of the Association.
7. To acquire, hold and own land, facilities, equipment and furnishings and do all things necessary and incident to carrying out the organizational purposes and objectives.

Miami-Dade Democratic Black Caucus Regularly Scheduled Meeting
Second Saturday of every month at 10 AM
Event Location: El-Portal City Hall 500 NE 87 Street, The Village of El-Portal.

We welcome new membership, please join us, free continental breakfast served! Honorable Joyce A. Davis, President 305-754-0934

Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Miami-Dade
Fourth Wednesday of every month, 7:00PM
Hoja Nueva Restaurant at the Westin Colonade
Please attend the monthly meeting for the Miami Dade Democratic Hispanic Caucus of Florida. For more info: 305 632-0036

Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club
Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club Breakfast Meeting
Event Location: “Versailles” restaurant located at 3555 SW 8 ST Miami, FL 33135 Fourth Saturday of each month, 9:00 a.m. (If this is the same Versailles Cuban restaurant that I know in California, the food is fantastic! Particularly the roast chicken and rost pork).

The Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club invites you to its next breakfast meeting at “Versailles” restaurant located at 3555 SW 8 St
Cost: $15 per person.

For more info contact: Hector Caraballo (President, Miami Dade Cuban American Democratic Club) at hector_at_miamicubandems.org

MIAMI-DADE YOUNG DEMS MONTHLY MEETING
Fourth Tuesday of every month, 7pm
Location:
Gordon Biersch
1201 Biscayne Ave. Miami, FL 33131
For info: 786-425-1130

Sumter County Democratic Club
P.O. Box 1066 Wildwood, FL 34785
General Meeting at 7:00 p.m. on the 2nd Thursday of every month Sumterville Community Center

Tri-County Women's Democratic Club
General Meeting at 9:30 a.m. on the 1st Monday of every month at the Sumter County Sheriff's Annex on Highway 466 @ Morse Boulevard.

Charlotte County Democrats meeting
The Charlotte County Democratic Club meets on the second Saturday of every month. Please join us at 9:30 AM for coffee and snacks. The meeting starts at 10 AM. Location is the upstairs meeting room at the Public Library on Aaron Street in Port Charlotte. Call 743-5560 for directions or more info.

And for those interested in a more fun way to be liberal, here are Florida's Drinking Liberal groups:

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Island Jack's Patio Bar and Grille, 5425 W Atlantic Blvd, Margate (just East of 441)
* Hosted by Jacqueline Hope Derby and Dave Pfeffer, ftlauderdale (at) drinkingliberally.org

Orlando, Florida
* Every Wednesday, 6:00 pm onward
* Johnny's Fillin' Station, 2706 S Ferncreek Ave (NE corner of Michigan and Fern Creek)
* Hosted by Dan Hill, orlando (at) drinkingliberally.or

Pensacola, Florida
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Intermission, 214 S Palafox St
* Hosted by Terry Welch, pensacola (at) drinkingliberally.org

Tallahassee, Florida
* Third Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm onward
* Gill's Tavern, 2545 North Monroe Street
* Hosted by Sharon Collins, tallahassee (at) drinkingliberally.org

South Tampa UPDATED
* Every Wednesday, 7:00 pm onward (used to only be first Thursday)
* Rock-N-Sports, 1600 E 8th Ave, #E200 (Above Starbucks, Across from Muvico, Next to Adobe Guilas)
* Hosted by Tim Heberlein, southtampa (at) drinkingliberally.org
* http://livingliberally.org/drinking/chapters/FL/southtampa

St. Petersburg
* Last Thursday of each month, 8:30 pm onward
* Limey's Pub, 1492 4th St N
* Hosted by Connor Davis and Dave Lee, stpetersburg (at) drinkingliberally.org

Brandon
* Every Thursday, 7:00 pm onward
* Giordano's, 11310 Causeway Blvd, Brandon FL 33511 (Outside patio) (NEW location)
* Hosted by Joe Litton and Shirley Litton, brandon (at) drinkingliberally.org
* http://livingliberally.org/drinking/chapters/FL/brandon

Land O Lakes
* Second Tuesday of each month, 7:00-9:00 pm
* Rapscallions, 4422 Land O Lakes Blvd (US-41)
* Hosted by Brian Reach and Michael Greenman, landolakes (at) drinkingliberally.org

NEVADA FOCUS: Blogs, Progressive Majority, Food Co-op, Alternative Energy, Groups and Events

NEVADA 2010: I now have my Nevada 2010 Act Blue page up to support Democratic efforts to turn Nevada bluer. Dina Titus (NV-3) is one of our top seats to defend in 2010, particularly given her vote in support of Obama's Healthcare reform and the right wing attacks against her. I am also targeting NV-2 to take over from the Republicans (a long shot, but so was NV-3 in 2008!) and supporting the Nevada Democratic Party as well. Give a little bit to solidify our gains in Nevada.

Democrat Dina Titus Cosponsors Extension of Deadline to Qualify for First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit - 6/29/10:

The Nevada Young Activist Project (NYAP)

The Nevada Young Activist Project (NYAP) was developed as part of PLAN’s commitment to nurturing and supporting the lead- ership development of our state’s youth. NYAP’s vision is to aid the development of an educated and respected youth community that works towards the goals of social justice, willingly takes action and is able to achieve positive changes in our community in order to create accessible pathways to engage the democratic process and to reverse underrepresentation of their communities.

Action PLAN

* Recruit young activists and educate them in public policy making and the political system as a whole
* Provide local youth with the necessary tools to become leaders in their community
* Develop and continue nurturing an active base that— with comprehensive access to opportunities and resources—actively, continuously and successfully takes direct action within the progressive movement
* Develop and nurture a base of able and non-able voters that share our values/goals/ vision and can effectively mobilize them during the electoral cycle
* Deepen young people's commitment to civic engagement through voter registration and "Get Out the Vote" activities

Learn More

Check out the NYAP Brochure to see our list of trainings with descriptions.

Get Involved

NYAP members participate in a variety of issues ranging from environmental work, immigration to homeless advocacy. Please contact one of the PLAN offices to get more information.

Las Vegas:
732 S. 6th Street, Suite 200
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 791-1965
Contact the office.

Reno:
821 Riverside Drive
Reno, NV 89503
(775) 348-7557
Contact the office.

Humboldt County, NV Democrats Soup Kitchen: Every Fourth Sunday (and sometimes fifth Sunday), 5pm – 7pm
138 Winnemucca Blvd. Methodist Church back door
We are serving a dinner to less fortunate people in our community. You can find out when the next one is by checking out the Humboldt County Dems calendar.

Blogging Nevada:

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

My Silver State: Where Progressive Nevadans Unite

And a reader's suggestion: About ProgressNow Nevada: a multi-issue progressive advocacy organization that combines cutting edge online organizing and communications with rapid and hard-hitting earned media strategies. Year round, ProgressNow Nevada works to engage citizens from across the state around issues of immediate state or local concern.

Desert Beacon: Progressive blog for those interested in Nevada and national politics

RockSpot: ramblings about political issues.

Here are some Democracy for America groups in Nevada for those who want People Powered Politics:

Las Vegas Democracy For America: Las Vegas Democracy For America is working to build our membership, register new voters, work to see our votes are protected and help elect Progressive Democrats at every level.

Our goal is to create a vibrant, unified Democratic Party in our counties and state. In addition work with other states to promote unity and take back our country in 2008. Sign up here to help.

DFA Reno/Democracy for Nevada: We are the Northern Nevada non-campus DFA affiliate Sign up here for more info.

Henderson NV Democracy For America: Henderson NV & Las Vegas Democracy For America are working to build our membership, register new voters, work to see our votes are protected and help elect Progressive Democrats at every level. Sign up here for more info.

PROGRESSIVE MAJORITY:

Progressive Majority is one of the most successful progressive organizations out there, electing good, solid progressives all over the country. Soon Progressive Majority will be up and running in Nevada and you can help. Fill out THIS FORM to join the Progressive Majority email list and stay informed. We'll send out an email as soon as we launch in Nevada.

Groups and Events in Nevada:

The Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada (PLAN) is a non-profit organization formed in 1994 to bring people and organizations together to build a better Nevada. We are more than two-dozen groups dedicated to working for social, economic, and environmental justice. Our member groups include anti-poverty activists, people of color, children’s advocates, disabled persons, environmentalists, lesbians and gay men, and labor unions.

Las Vegas Democratic Party Meetup Group A large and active group organizing Las vegas.

Southern Nevada Stonewall Democratic Club
P O Box 72858
Las Vegas, Nevada 89170-2858
702 250-2070
www.stonewalllv.org

Stonewall Democrats of Northern Nevada serves the greater Reno/Sparks/Carson City area of Northern Nevada, meetings seem to be first Monday of each month. For more info: 775-787-0890, StonewallDemNN_at_yahoo.com

And for those who like to combine social events with politics, here are the Drinking Liberally groups in Nevada:

Boulder City, Nevada
* Last Friday of each month, 6:00 pm onward
* Boulder Dam Brewing, 453 Nevada Hwy
* Hosted by Valerie McNay, Lynn Goya, Dave Kreamer and Matt Di Teresa, bouldercity (at) drinkingliberally.org

Fernley, Nevada
* Third Thursday of each month, 7:00 pm onward
* Truck Inn, (upper level of restaurant)
* Hosted by Joe Slabbinck and Robert Gleason, fernley (at) drinkingliberally.org

Northwest Las Vegas
* Every Thursday, 6:30 pm onward
* Tenaya Creek Restaurant & Brewery, 3101 N. Tenaya Way
* Hosted by Betsy Meinhold, lasvegas (at) drinkingliberally.org

Southeast/Henderson
* Every Tuesday, 7:00 pm onward
* The Gin Mill, 2561 Windmill Parkway (SE corner Windmill Parkway & Pecos)
* Hosted by David Black-Downes and Karen Kostoff, henderson (at) drinkingliberally.org

Reno
* Second Wednesday of each month, 6:00 pm
* Sage Creek Grill, 5851 S Virginia St (next to Wild Oats)
* Hosted by Kevin and Allison Edwards

Continuing the Fight for Healthcare reform in Nevada: sign up here to volunteer for the Health Care for America Now campaign in Nevada. About Health Care for America Now:

Health Care for America Now (HCAN) is a national grassroots campaign of more than 1,000 organizations in 46 states representing 30 million people dedicated to winning quality, affordable health care we all can count on in 2009. Our organization and principles are supported by President Obama, Vice President Biden, and more than 190 Members of Congress.

We are building a national movement to win comprehensive health care reform by helping mobilize people in their communities to lobby their U.S. Senators and Representatives in Congress to stand up to the insurance companies and other special interest groups to achieve quality, affordable health care in 2009.

Sign up to fight for health care reform in Nevada now. Or contact:

Theresa Navarro, HCAN
tnavarro@healthcareforamericanow.org

NEVADA FOOD CO-OPS

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

Great Basin Community Food Coop
271 Wonder Street
Reno, Nevada 89502
Phone: (775) 324-6133
info@greatbasinfood.coop
http://greatbasinfood.coop

Great Basin Community Food Cooperative welcomes all who choose to participate in a community that promotes more equitable and ecologically sustainable ways of living, shares resources, and creates economic opportunity in an atmosphere of respect and reverence for humanity and the earth.

# We will maintain an uncompromising commitment to organic, local, and sustainable enterprise and products to the fullest extent possible.

# We will respect the diverse needs of our community at all cultural and economic levels, especially delivering the lowest prices possible consistent with a sound business plan.

# We will provide resources and tools to help our community empower themselves by hosting educational workshops and creating a knowledgeable and accommodating staff.
Great Basin Community Food Cooperative, above all, exists to reflect the values of its members.

The co-op is preparing to move at the end of March 2009 to 542 1/2 Plumas

We are excited to announce that we will be open to the public and accepting food stamps at our new location. The new site is also a great community access point for wholesome, local food-- located within two blocks of three major bus lines!! It has 34 parking spaces and enough storage space to accomodate bi-weekly orders from our largest organic distributor and daily deliveries from our local farmers and crafters!!

They also have a nice list of events.

Alternative Energy in Nevada:

Some stats from RePower America:

* Boulder City’s ‘Solar One’ is the third largest solar thermal plant in the world with a 64-megawatt capacity. Potentially, the site could generate 2,000 megawatts, or enough power for about a half-million people.

* Nevada has sixteen operating geothermal plants with a total of 300-megawatts installed capacity – producing enough electricity for over 200,000 homes! There are an additional 300-megawatts of geothermal power under development.

* The state has a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) that requires all public utilities to generate 20% of their electricity from renewable energy resources by 2015, with at least 5% from solar energy.