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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).

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Location: Brooklyn, New York, United States

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

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  • Saturday, March 05, 2011

    Austin/Travis County, TX Focus

    For all my Texas Readers: CRITICAL: Three things you can do to help save Texas public schools...I will never understand why Republicans hate education so much. It has been shown over and over that strong education programs reduce poverty, crime and drug use, yet Republicans seem to prefer poverty, crime and drug use to supporting education


    CRITICAL UPCOMING EVENT: This is a rally that hopes to draw from all over Texas. I hope some of my readers can make it.

    It's Raining in Texas Rally
    03/12/2011 (All day)
    The State Capitol Building in Austin, Texas.

    For your GPS: 1100 Congress Avenue, Austin, Texas, 78701

    Dear Fellow Educators, Students, Parents, Administrators and any Texan, who cares deeply about education and the future of Texas,

    We all appear to be at the mercy of our governor and the Texas State Legislature. Governor Perry's and the legislature's unwillingness to tap into the 9.4 billion dollar "Rainy Day" fund is mind boggling. If it's not raining in Texas now, then it's never going to rain!

    The proposed 5 to 10 billion dollar cut in education funding will result in millions of dollars of budget cuts for each school district of Texas; hundreds of millions of dollars in Houston ISD alone. Those of us in education know how detrimental these cuts will be. We cannot allow this to happen!

    The state of Texas is already ranked 43rd nationwide in per-student expenditures. With the proposed cuts, we will land near the bottom! We understand the need to balance the budget, but the education budget should be sacred in Texas as we are already woefully underfunded at the current levels. Instead, the legislature and Mr. Perry would rather mortgage the future of our kids and our state by balancing the budget on the backs of our students and teachers.

    In Governor Perry's last re-election campaign, he claimed that Texas was "open for business." Well, we are on track to have a less educated workforce that will not serve to lure any businesses to Texas and will not promote a brighter future for Texans.

    How much more can we accept as students, parents and educators? Should we remain quiet and watch our Texas education system be destroyed? How many years will it take for funding to return just to the inadequate levels that we have now?

    Recent polls show that 70% of Texans oppose any cuts to public education.

    The time to be heard is NOW! This is the rationale for the Rally in front of the state capitol building on March 12th.

    Will YOU be there? Can you sacrifice a weekend for the future of education in Texas?

    We hope to have representation from every single school and district in the state of Texas! This rally is not our only recourse, but it IS our first step in securing a first class education for our Texas children and changing the status quo.

    For more info: www.itsrainingintexas.com

    Here is the tentative schedule for the day of the rally.

    10:00am (approx.) March from Auditorium Shores up Congress Avenue to the Capitol
    (about 1 1/2 miles), arriving between 11 and 11:30.
    11:30 Pre-rally activities, including a music performance and pre-rally speakers
    Noon: Main rally begins with guest speakers
    2:00pm Main rally ends.
    2:00-5:00pm Mobilizing sessions for community and school leaders at First United Methodist Church Conference Center, right across the street from the Capitol. These sessions will be aimed at equipping folks to go back and continue to lead effective efforts to support the changes we want to see.

    We are excited to announce that we are joining forces with

    Save Texas Schools for one HUGE rally!

    Please visit their website for detailed information about the rally and for important information on what you can do NOW to make a difference!

    www.savetxschools.org


    Relay For Life of Central Austin
    Fri, April 29, 7pm – Sat, April 30, 7am
    We are making a difference by teaming up to participate in the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life. At the event, our team will camp out overnight and take turns walking around the track to raise money and awareness to help the American Cancer Society create a world with less cancer and more birthdays. Saving lives from cancer starts one team, one participant, and one dollar at a time. Our team is doing our part to make sure that cancer never steals another year of anyone’s life. Please join our team or make a donation. The impact we can make together is much greater than what any of us could do alone! http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY11PL?team_id=877897&pg=team&fr_id=32272


    EVENTS:
    To find events in the Austin/Travis County area, go to the Travis County Democratic Party Calendar

    SOME RECURRING EVENTS:

    MONDAYS:
    NxNW Democrats meeting
    3rd Monday of every month
    6:15pm-8:00pm

    Where: Sherlock's Baker St. Pub and Grill, 9012 Research Blvd., Austin, TX. At the corner of 183 and Burnet. (Lots of free parking. We have the inside main room reserved).

    Cost: FREE. Everyone is invited!


    TUESDAYS:

    Capital Area Progressive Democrats Meeting
    First Tuesday of every month
    5:30pm – 7:30pm
    Where: AFL-CIO 1106 Lavaca St

    South Austin Democrats Meeting
    Second Tuesday of every month
    5:30pm – 7:00pm
    Casa Garcia 1000 S Lamar Austin, TX 78704
    Come join the South Austin Democrats at their monthly meeting.
    Eat and socialize 5:30pm Program begins at 6:00
    Find out what is going on at this year's TCDP Coordinated Campaign

    Northeast Travis County Democrats Monthly Meeting
    The last Tuesday of every month from 6:30-9 pm.
    North Rural Community Center in Pflugerville
    15822 Foothills Farms Loop (across 1825 from Springhill Restaurant, behind Lamb's Automotive)

    WEDNESDAYS:

    Capital City Young Democrats
    First Wednesday of each month
    6pm – 8pm
    George Washington Carver Branch of the Austin Public Library, 1161 Angelina Street, Austin, TX 78722, (512) 974-1010
    Capital City Young Democrats welcomes the young and the young at heart to join us for volunteering and social events. Each month, we have a regular meeting, a happy hour, and at least one social or volunteer event. We meet the first Wednesday of every month.

    For more information, contact kimberlyhokanson@gmail.com

    Central Austin Democrats Meeting
    Wed, January 19, 2011, 6:15pm – 7:15pm
    New Worl Deli, 4101 Guadalupe #100 Austin, TX 78751
    DescriptionJoin the Central Austin Democrats at their monthly meeting.


    NAACP AUSTIN:
    The Austin branch of the NAACP has been a part of the association’s long and storied tradition since 1915 and has waged historic fights against racial injustice in Travis County. Beginning with protest against the lynching of blacks in the early part of the 19th century; rightful battle for school desegregation of the 1980’s; the public protest of police brutality of 2002-2004 the local branch has continued the work of the association

    1704 E. 12th Street
    Austin, Texas 78702
    Phone: 512-476-6230
    Fax: 512-476-7425


    Austin Hispanic Women's Network of Texas:
    The Hispanic Women's Network of Texas (HWNT) is a state-wide organization of individuals from diverse backgrounds who are committed to promoting the participation of Hispanic women in public, corporate and civic arenas. HWNT seeks to advance the educational, cultural, social, legal and economic well-being of all women through a broader awareness of their role in society, business and family. Members strive to celebrate the positive image and values of the Hispanic culture.

    P.O. Box 1356
    Austin, TX 78767-1356
    austin@hwnt.org


    Americans United for Separation of Church and State
    Austin Chapter

    We come from all 50 states and a wide variety of religious, political and philosophical backgrounds. We are dedicated to preserving the constitutional principle of church-state separation as the only way to ensure religious freedom for all Americans.

    PO Box 66522 Austin, Texas 78766


    Austin Immigrant Rights Coalition

    The Austin Immigrant Rights Coalition is a membership-based coalition of immigrants, allies, and organizations that promotes human rights and dignity, and social and economic justice for immigrants through community organizing, policy advocacy, and public education.

    Click here to find out what they do.

    Click here to get involved.


    HISPANICS IN AUSTIN:
    This is a blog for Hispanic and Latino-Friendly folks in Austin, TX who want to deep dive into the Hispanic Austinite Experience.

    SOMOS AUSTIN:
    Juan Castillo blogs on Latino news, happenings, culture and more.


    AUSTIN DEMOCRATIC CLUBS:

    Capital Area Progressive Democrats
    First Tuesday of the month, 5:30P
    AFL-CIO, 1106 Lavaca
    Contact: John Lipscombe or 512.826.5517

    Capital City Young Democrats
    First Wednesday of the month, 6:00P
    Carver Library, 1161 Angelina
    Contact: Ben Simnacher or tel. 512.576.1679

    Texas Environmental Democrats
    Third Tuesdays, 7P-8:30P
    Vinny’s Italian Cafe, 1003 Barton Springs Rd.
    Contact: Kedron Touvell or 512.680.5998

    University Democrats
    Every Wednesday during the Fall and Spring semesters, 8P
    Mezes 1.306 on the UT Campus

    Austin Tejano Democrats
    Meet Second Wednesday of the month, 5:30P
    Casa Garcia’s Restaurant, 1000 S. Lamar
    Contact: Fred Cantu or 512.698.4805

    Black Austin Democrats
    Third Thursday of the month, 6P
    Carver Library, 1611 Angelina
    Contact: Natomi Austin

    Capital Area Asian American Democrats
    First Tuesday of the Month, 6:30P Eat, Drink, Socialize, 7:00P Meeting
    First Chinese BBQ Restaurant, 10901 N Lamar Blvd.
    Contact: Ramey Ko or 512.577.5729

    Latinos for Texas
    Third Tuesday of the month, 7:00 – 8:30P
    Contact: Crystal Viagran

    Capital Area Democratic Women
    Second Thursday of the month, 11:30A networking, 12:00P lunch
    Nuevo Leon Restaurant, 1501 E. 6th St.
    Contact: Jean Warneke or 512.217.4814

    Stonewall Democrats
    First Tuesday of the month, 7:30P
    The Red House 1917 Manor Rd. (MAP)
    Contact: Rich Bailey or 512.771.3538

    Circle C Area Democrats
    Second Monday of the month, 6:15P
    Contact: Ed Scruggs or Leslie Westo

    Lake Travis Democrats
    Second Tuesday of the month, 6:30P
    Lakeway Activity Center, 105 Cross Creek Rd.
    Contact: Judy Donohue or 512.531.9804

    North by Northwest Democrats
    Third Monday of the month, 6P
    Sherlocks, 9012 Research Blvd
    Contact: Jack Sigman or 512.796.7245

    Northeast Travis County Democrats
    Last Tuesday of the month, 6:30 Meet and Greet; 7:00 p.m. Meeting starts
    Travis County Community Center in Pflugerville, 15822 Foothill Farms Loop
    Contact: Dave Taylor or 844-1300

    South Austin Democrats
    Second Tuesday of the month, 5:30P Eat and socialize, 6P Program
    Casa Garcia’s Restaurant, 1000 S. Lamar
    Contact: Richard Arriola or 512.547.0556

    Southwest Austin Democrats
    Third Wednesday of the month, 6:30P Social; 6:45P Program
    Will Hampton Public Library, 5125 Convict Hill Rd.
    Contact: Albert Gonzales or 512.280.4900

    West Austin Democrats
    Second Wednesday of the month, 7P
    Howson Branch Library, 2500 Exposition Blvd
    Contact: Janet Hamilton or 512.469.9894

    YellerDawg / Saturday Sages Democrats
    Every Saturday, 11A
    Tres Amigos Restaurant, 1801 S. Capitol of Texas Hwy (MAP)
    Contact: Bill McAfee


    BIODIESEL IN AUSTIN AREA

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

    DieselGreen Fuels: sells biodiesel to fleet customers and wholesale via transport truck. For more info call: 512-247-3835. Offers B20 (good for any diesel engine) and B100 (OK for newer diesel engines).

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


    GREEN BUSINESSES IN THE AUSTIN AREA: These are some of the best local businesses around. Taken from the Green America Green Pages

    Wheatsville Food Co-op
    www.wheatsville.com
    Special offer for Green Pages™ readers: Free sample newsletter.
    "The only grocery store in Texas owned by its customers." Full line of natural and organic foods and groceries.
    Phone: (512)478-2667
    Fax: (512)478-2081
    3101 Guadalupe St.
    Austin, TX 78705-2898

    White Mountain Foods
    www.wmfoods.com
    Since 1970, has manufactured natural European yogurt, vegetarian tamales, tofu deli salads, and meat substitutes, including award-winning vegetarian fajita fixings.
    Phone: (512)385-4711
    3301 E. 5th St.
    Austin, TX 78702

    Habitat Suites
    www.habitatsuites.com
    Austin's award-winning "green" hotel. Spacious one- and two-bedroom suites nestled in tree-shaded gardens of native flowers and herbs. Complimentary breakfast buffet and hospitality hours, courtyard pool, and spa. Environmental brochure available.
    Phone: (800)535-4663
    Fax: (512)467-6000
    500 E. Highland Mall Blvd.
    Austin, TX 78752-3716

    Z Works Design/Build
    www.zworksdb.com
    Complete in-house design and construction services for sustainable buildings. Site-specific passive-solar design, alternative materials (ICF, SIPs, recycled materials), rainwater collection systems, etc.
    Phone: (512)264-0587
    Fax: (512)264-0587
    P.O. Box 92183
    Austin, TX 78709

    Eco-Wise
    www.ecowise.com
    Environmental general merchandise store carrying all types of sustainable flooring, nontoxic and recycled fiber futons, water filters, pest control products, hemp clothing, T-shirts, organic cotton linens, and towels. Nontoxic paints, gifts, and more.
    Phone: (512)326-4474
    Fax: (512)326-4496
    110 W. Elizabeth
    Austin, TX 78704-3002

    20/20 Enterprises, Inc.
    www.WeatherizedHomesInitiative.com
    "Kill-A-Watt~Home" is an employee energy efficiency program. "Eco-Scavenger Hunt" is for employers. Green Fundraisers have 100%+ profit margins. Environmental trade show assistance. "Queen-of-Green."
    Phone: (512)297-5428
    3005 S. Lamar Blvd.
    Ste. D109-289
    Austin, TX 78704

    Innovative Water Solutions
    www.watercache.com
    Sustainable water conservation design/ build firm: rainwater harvesting, graywater reuse, irrigation, drainage, and landscaping for residential and commercial projects. Educational materials and DIY products available.
    Phone: (866)497-7246
    Fax: (512)727-6667
    501 W. Powell Ln.
    Ste. 202
    Austin, TX 78753

    E3 Green
    www.e3green.com
    Provides green products and green rating consultation services. Focus on Austin Energy Green Building and USGBC LEED AP consultation.
    Phone: (512)415-9460
    Fax: (512)415-9460
    109 Fenway Ct.
    Austin, TX 78734

    Sustainable Sources
    www.greenbuilder.com
    Design and hosting of Web sites and other Internet services. Green building professionals directory, listings of green real estate for sale/lease, sustainable building calendar, and bookstore.
    Phone: (512)288-5223
    108 Royal Way, Ste. 1004
    Austin, TX 78737-9065

    Handmade Expressions
    www.handmadeexpressions.net
    Sourcing partner for socially responsible and environmentally friendly products from developing nations. Fair Trade, functional products handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional art. We do custom orders!
    Phone: (734)834-7921
    Fax: (734)348-9904
    5555 N Lamar Blvd.
    Ste. J115
    Austin, TX 78751

    Olive Green Dog
    www.olivegreendog.com
    Special offer for Green Pages™ readers: 15% off. Use code: OLIVEGD.
    "The best source for healthful and environmentally friendly pet products."Natural and organic pet foods, treats, supplements, flea control, shampoo, toys, collars, bedding and outerwear.
    Phone: (877)654-8355
    120 Sunrise Ter.
    Bldg. B
    Cedar Park, TX 78613

    Barbara Jackson, Western Equity Group, Inc.
    Fee-based consulting for individuals and small businesses who wish to evaluate their investment choices in terms of enhancing sustainability for the future. Member, First Affirmative Financial Network.
    Phone: (512)407-9586
    Fax: (877)442-8906
    4131 Spicewood Springs Rd.
    Ste. N-12
    Austin, TX 78759

    Hill Country Green Team
    www.HillCountryGreenTeam.com
    Real estate brokerage and consulting services for green home buyers; marketing services for green builders; consulting for developers using the Conservation Development Model.
    Phone: (512)917-1162
    16700 Goldenwood Way
    Austin, TX 78737

    Crossings
    www.thecrossingsaustin.com
    A progressive learning center, meeting place, and wellness spa located outside of Austin in a scenic hill country setting that inspires growth, balance, and sanctuary.
    Phone: (877)944-3003
    Fax: (512)506-9737
    13500 FM 2769
    Austin, TX 78726


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