Montgomery County Progressive Alliance

Rep. Chris Van Hollen on "Political Pulse"

2011-09-06T22:46:00.001-04:00

Congressman Chris Van Hollen, who represents Maryland's 8th Congressional District, will be on "Political Pulse" on Channel 16 TV in Montgomery County with host Charles Duffy to discuss:

1. His membership on the 12 member House/Senate "Super Committee," a bi-partisan committee which is charged with attempting to find $1.5 trillion in budget cuts;

2. Some of the moving parts of the budget debate such as medicare, social security, the wars, the possibility of new taxes and tax reform and whether Maryland should expect to receive less money from the Federal Government; and

3. President Obama's re-election bid.

The interview will air on: Thursday, September 8th, at 9:00 p.m. and Friday-Sunday, September 9th-11th, at 6:00 p .m.

OneVoice Tour Comes to UDC Law

2011-09-06T18:10:00.001-04:00

OneVoice Tour Comes to UDC Law

Wednesday, September 21 · 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm

University Of The District Of Columbia David A. Clarke School Of Law

4200 Connecticut Ave, NW, Bldg. 52, Room 312

Washington, DC

contact: Alia Cambel aliacambel@gmail.com

The OneVoice Tour is Coming to UDC Law September 21 from 12-2.

The Muslim Law Students Organization, Jewish Law Students Association, Christian Law Students Association, Asian Pacific Law Students Association and Law Review of UDC Law would like to invite you to this amazing upcoming event. Please join us in listening to the stories of dynamic Israeli and Palestinian youth leaders who are trying to effect change in this world.

See below for more details:

OneVoice Israeli and Palestinian youth leaders will take on Washington, D.C. from September 16-23 to discuss the United Nations vote on Palestinian statehood, the regional unrest, and the potential impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. These two representatives will provide an insider’s perspective on the political atmosphere and the daily lives of their fellow citizens in the midst of rising tensions.

OneVoice activists Eyal Shapira and Obada Shtaya will engage everyone from students, to dignitaries, to politicians, sharing their stories and opening Washington’s ears to a new constituency: the “silent majority” of Israelis and Palestinians who call for a two-state solution.

Eyal, 25, was born and raised in Jerusalem, a place defined by its position as a key final status issue in the conflict. Refusing to shy away from difficult conversations, Eyal constantly mobilizes his fellow activists to take to the streets of Jerusalem, educating people and getting them interested in OneVoice and its mission.

Obada, 20, considers freedom of movement to be a fundamental right of all Palestinians. His father, accused of being a member of Hamas, was restricted in his travels for nearly two decades and arrested several times. These experiences sealed Obada’s passion for travel and politics.

OneVoice’s International Education Program (IEP), based in New York, connects the movement’s youth network to American college students and community members who have an interest in the conflict. More than 16,000 students have attended OneVoice regional tour events on over 100 U.S. college campuses. Watch OneVoice and founder Daniel Lubetzky on PBS NewsHour.

OneVoice’s CEO, Howard Sumka, a 25-year veteran of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), will also join the tour to provide analytical insights gleaned through his work with Israeli and Palestinian leadership. Dr. Sumka brings to the table four years of experience as the director of USAID’s mission in the West Bank and Gaza. Watch Dr. Sumka on VOA Middle East Newsmaker.

Stand Up!

2011-09-05T16:26:00.001-04:00

We the People vs. the Super Committee

Stand up for the principles we believe in; to support programs we know work!

The "Super Committee" aka the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction will make decisions which will affect our communities. We cannot afford to remain on the sidelines.
We're organizing ongoing efforts to reach out to Congress--especially Rep. Van Hollen and the rest of the "Super Committee"--educate the public, and get our message out.
We're holding meetings and events to show strong support for investments in jobs, clean energy, education and infrastructure; and protecting our communities from austerity cuts.

Please join us at these important upcoming events:

Join the MCPA to discuss these issues and organize meetings with members of Congress, media outreach, and coordinate our critically important actions!

7:30 to 9 PM tomorrow evening, Tues. Sept. 6th
Saigonese Restaurant in Wheaton, 11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902

Public Transportation: 2 block walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)

Montgomery County NOW presents, Feminism in Politics: Discussion and Workshop
Special Guest Speakers: Sen. Jennie Forehand and Del. Ana Sol Gutierrez, with Former Congressional Candidate Andrea Miller, and Maryland NOW President Linda Mahoney. Get more involved in national, state and local issues.

Monday, September 19 · 7 to 9 PM
Rockville Regional Public Library, 21 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850
Parking across the street in 2 garages

Public Transportation: short walk from the Rockville Metro stop

Town Hall Meeting: Taking Back the Budget Debate

7:30pm to 9:30pm Tuesday, September 20th
Silver Spring Civic Center--One Veterans Place (corner of Ellsworth and Fenton)

Downtown Silver Spring, Short walk from Silver Spring Metro Stop

Speakers include Rep. Donna Edwards, State Senators Roger Manno and Jamie Raskin, Economist Heather Boushey, and IPS Fellow Karen Dolan. Moderator, Maryland NAACP’s Elbridge James.

Symposium: America in the 21st Century
Hosted by the Univ. of DC Law Students Organizations

7 to 10 PM Wednesday, October 5th

University of the District of Columbia Room 312 Bldg. 52
4200 Connecticut Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008
Garage and street parking available
Van Ness / UDC Metro stop (red line) on campus
Campus Map: http://www.udc.edu/campus_map.htm

Ninety-minute panel, followed by a reception. This first symposium will be focused on issues we find important. Affordable College, the Affects of the Recent Healthcare Bill, Jobs and the Economy.

Invited to speak: Congress members John Conyers Jr., Keith Ellison, Maxine Waters, and Donna Edwards, with honored guests Andre Carson, Maya Rockemore and Professor John Brittian of UDC. Moderated by Garland Nixon, the "Raucous Caucus" (heard 7 PM Tuesdays on WPFW 89.3 FM)

Please donate to help us keep working on these issues for you!

Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible.

Thank you and see you at these and other events!

Mike Hersh

Director, Montgomery County Progressive Alliance

We the People vs. the Super Committee

2011-09-04T10:27:00.001-04:00

We the People vs. the Super Committee

The "Super Committee" will make decisions which will effect you, your family, and our communities for years to come.
We're organizing a "caucus" to lobby Congress, especially Rep. Van Hollen and the rest of the "Super Committee."
We're cosponsoring a large-scale town hall meeting Sept. 20th in Silver Spring. (Details below.)

Reminder: We're meeting to discuss these issues 7:30 PM this Tues. Sept. 6th
Saigonese Restaurant in Wheaton
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902
11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: 2 block walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)

Montgomery County NOW presents, Feminism in Politics: Discussion and Workshop

Special Guest Speakers: Sen. Jennie Forehand and Del. Ana Sol Gutierrez
With Former Congressional Candidate Andrea Miller, and Maryland NOW President Linda Mahoney

Get more involved in national, state and local issues.

Monday, September 19 · 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Rockville Regional Public Library
21 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850
Parking across the street in 2 garages
5 Block walk from the Rockville Metro stop

Please join us at these events.

Thanks, and have a great Labor Day!

Mike Hersh

P.S. Please donate to help us keep working on these issues for you!
Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible.

----------

Our Money . . . Our Voices . . . Our Budget Priorities
Town Hall Meeting: Taking Back the Budget Debate

Time: Tuesday, September 20 · 7:30pm - 9:30pm

Location: Silver Spring Civic Center

One Veterans Place (corner of Ellsworth and Fenton), downtown Silver Spring
Short walk from Silver Spring Metro Stop

We need you to help fix the PRIORITIES CRISIS in Washington and Annapolis!

America CAN afford to care. We can:
* Put America back to work
* Institute a fair tax system
* Protect Americans’ health and save the environment
* Preserve Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid
* Bring all the troops and military contractors home from the wars

We can shift the debate! Join us as we organize for real, progressive solutions.

Speakers include Rep. Donna Edwards, State Senators Roger Manno and Jamie Raskin, Economist Heather Boushey, IPS Fellow Karen Dolan. Moderator, the NAACP’s Elbridge James. Music by singer/songwriter Christina Van Norman. And YOU will get a chance to speak!

This Town Hall Sponsored By: Progressive Democrats of America; Democracy for America, Mont. Co.; Montgomery County Progressive Alliance; Baltimore Nonviolence Center; Bethesda Friends Meeting; CASA de Maryland; Center for Peace, Fred. Co.; Chesapeake Citizens; CCAN; Citizen-Soldier Alliance, Baltimore; Columbia Christian Church; Fellowship of Reconciliation; Friends Meeting, Annapolis; Gray Panthers, Metro DC; Green Party, Anne Arundel Co.; Green Party, MD; Green Party, Montgomery Co.; Healthcare-Now of MD; Homewood Friends Meeting; Little Friends for Peace; MD Black Family Alliance; MD United for Peace & Justice; MCCRC; Montgomery County Chapter, National Organization for Women; Montgomery County Peace & Justice Studies Association; Muslim Amer. Society/MD; NAACP/MD; Network of Spiritual Progressives, MD; Orthodox Peace Fellowship; Pax Christi/MD; Peace Action, Anne Arundel Co.; Peace Action Montgomery; Peace & Justice Coalition, Prince Georges; Pledge of Resistance, Baltimore; Progressive Democrats of America, (National and MD); Progressive Cheverly; Progressive Maryland; Progressive Neighbors; Progressive Working Group (Steering Committee); Prosperity Agenda; RRUU/Social Justice Council; Sandy Spring Friends Meeting; Sheet Metal Workers Internaional, L 100; SCLC/Mo. County; UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO; Veterans for Peace, Baltimore; Veterans for Peace, Metro DC; Voters for Peace; WeGreen USA; Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom/DC

organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all

2011-09-03T14:30:00.001-04:00

We're organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all.

Next meeting: 7:30 PM Tues. Sept. 6th
Where: Saigonese Restaurant
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902

11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: 2 block walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)

Report on progress in our county and state on Healthcare, the Environment, Education, Labor, Transportation, Energy and other issues. We're building up our coalition and lobby efforts on the state and national level, planning special events, forming a steering committee, and working on meetings with legislators, and other organizations.

Feminism in Politics: Discussion and Workshop

2011-09-01T20:54:00.000-04:00

Montgomery County NOW presents!
Feminism in Politics: Discussion and Workshop

Experts will answer questions and help you get more involved in national, state and local issues. Free and open to the public.

Monday, September 19 · 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Special Guest Speakers:

* Sen. Jennie Forehand, Maryland State Senator, will discuss what's changed for women in politics.

* Del. Ana Sol Gutierrez, Maryland Delegate, will discuss challenges facing women and Latinas in politics.

* Andrea Miller, former candidate for Congress will discuss how to get started in politics, and lobbying on national issues.

* Linda Mahoney, President, Maryland NOW will discuss her lobbying efforts for the Harriet Tubman statue.

Rockville Regional Public Library
21 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850
Parking across the street in 2 garages
5 Block walk from the Rockville Metro stop

http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/libraries/branchinfo/ro.asp

Directions: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=21+Maryland+Ave,+Rockville,+MD+20850

Parking: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/libraries/branchinfo/ro.asp#parking

Protest at the White House to stop disastrous tar sands pipeline construction

2011-08-30T19:39:00.000-04:00

Protest at the White House to stop disastrous tar sands pipeline construction

Date/time:	Saturday, August 20 - Saturday, September 3
Location	The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW across from Lafayette Park
Contact:	Amanda Brinton, 202-363-4366, amanda.brintonsierraclub.org
Description:	Check out more information and register HERE

Town Hall Meeting: Taking Back the Budget Debate

2011-08-30T12:33:00.001-04:00

Town Hall Meeting: Taking Back the Budget Debate
Time: Tuesday, September 20 · 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Silver Spring Civic Center

One Veterans Place (corner of Ellsworth and Fenton), downtown Silver Spring

Silver Spring, MD

We need you to help fix the PRIORITIES CRISIS in Washington and Annapolis!

America CAN afford to care. We can:
* Put America back to work
* Institute a fair tax system
* Protect Americans’ health and save the environment
* Preserve Social Security
* Bring all the troops and military contractors home

We can shift the debate! Join us as we organize for real, progressive solutions.

Speakers include Rep. Donna Edwards, State Senators Roger Manno and Jamie Raskin, Economist Heather Boushey, IPS Fellow Karen Dolan. Moderator, the NAACP’s Elbridge James. Music by singer/songwriter Christina Van Norman. And YOU will get a chance to speak!
Our Money . . . Our Voices . . . Our Budget Priorities

This Town Hall Sponsored By:Baltimore Nonviolence Center; Bethesda Friends Meeting; CASA de Maryland; Center for Peace, Fred. Co.; Chesapeake Citizens; CCAN; Citizen-Soldier Alliance, Baltimore; Columbia Christian Church; Democracy for America, Mont. Co.; Fellowship of Reconciliation; Friends Meeting, Annapolis; Gray Panthers, Metro DC; Green Party, Anne Arundel Co.; Green Party, MD; Green Party, Montgomery Co.; Healthcare-Now of MD; Homewood Friends Meeting; Little Friends for Peace; MD Black Family Alliance; MD United for Peace & Justice; MCCRC; MCPA; Muslim Amer. Society/MD; NAACP/MD; Network of Spiritual Progressives, MD; Orthodox Peace Fellowship; Pax Christi/MD; Peace Action, Anne Arundel Co.; Peace Action Montgomery; Peace & Justice Coalition, Prince Georges; Pledge of Resistance, Baltimore; Progressive Democrats of America, (National and MD); Progressive Cheverly; Progressive Maryland; Progressive Neighbors; Prosperity Agenda; RRUU/Social Justice Council; Sandy Spring Friends Meeting ; Sheet Metal Workers Interna’l, L 100; SCLC/Mo. County; UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO; Veterans for Peace, Baltimore; Veterans for Peace, Metro DC; Voters for Peace; WeGreen USA; Women’s Interna’l League for Peace and Freedom/DC. Other sponsors of this Town Hall: Montgomery County Peace & Justice Studies Association.

Progressive in Maryland and on Facebook?

2011-08-30T10:55:00.001-04:00

Progressive in Maryland and on Facebook? Join Progressive Democrats of
Maryland! https://www.facebook.com/groups/pdamaryland/

Women's Equality Day Friday Aug 26 5:30-7:30pm

2011-08-24T14:00:00.001-04:00

Women's Equality Day

Time Friday, August 26 · 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Location La Tasca Rockville

141 Gibbs Street Rockville, MD

(short walk from Rockville Station Red Line Metro)

SPECIAL GUESTS
■ Rockville Mayor Phyllis Marcuccio
■ State Senator Jennie Forehand
■ Kate Campbell Stevenson as Suffragist Alice Paul (author of the Equal Rights Amendment)

Featuring a roundtable discussion with local women activists. Happy hour drinks and tapas available for purchase.

Pay $20 for $40 in food and drinks at La Tasca Restaurant:
https://livingsocial.com/deals/107455?ref=conf-jp&rpi=23641973

If you want to use the 50% off deal at the event, you have get it TODAY 08/24. It takes that long to process the deal.

For more information, contact Anne Whitt at 301-466-2653 or annewhitt12@yahoo.com

TOWN HALL MEETING: Taking Back the Budget Debate

2011-08-23T10:16:00.001-04:00

Progressive Democrats of America is co-sponsoring:
TOWN HALL MEETING: Taking Back the Budget Debate

Help fix the CRISIS of PRIORITIES in Washington and Annapolis. The U.S. has the resources; what we need is the political will to:

Put Americans back to work
Institute a fair and progressive tax system
Protect Americans’ health and save the environment
Preserve Social Security
Reduce the Pentagon budget
Bring all the troops & military contractors home

WE CAN, WE MUST, SHIFT THE DEBATE!
JOIN US TO ORGANIZE FOR REAL, PROGRESSIVE SOLUTIONS

WHERE: Silver Spring Civic Center (corner of Ellsworth & Fenton, downtown SS)

WHEN: 7:30-9:30 PM, Tuesday, September 20th

PANEL: US Rep. Donna Edwards, MD State Senator Roger Manno, Economist Heather Boushey, IPS Fellow Karen Dolan. Moderator, NAACP’s Elbridge James

QUESTION & ANSWER: Followed by breakout into action groups.

Our Money . . . Our Voices . . . Our Budget Priorities

This Town Hall Sponsored By:

Baltimore Nonviolence Center; Bethesda Friends Meeting; CASA de Maryland; Center for Peace, Fred. Co.; Chesapeake Citizens; CCAN; Citizen-Soldier Alliance, Baltimore; Columbia Christian Church; Democracy for America, Mont. Co.; Fellowship of Reconciliation; Friends Meeting, Annapolis; Gray Panthers, Metro DC; Green Party, Anne Arundel Co.; Green Party, MD; Green Party, Montgomery Co.; Healthcare-Now of MD; Homewood Friends Meeting; Little Friends for Peace; MD Black Family Alliance; MD United for Peace & Justice; MCCRC; MCPA; Muslim Amer. Society/MD; NAACP/MD; Network of Spiritual Progressives, MD; Orthodox Peace Fellowship; Pax Christi/MD; Peace Action, Anne Arundel Co.; Peace Action Montgomery; Peace & Justice Coalition, Prince Georges; Pledge of Resistance, Baltimore; PDA, MD; Progressive Cheverly; Progressive Maryland; Progressive Neighbors; Prosperity Agenda; RRUU/Social Justice Council; Sandy Spring Friends Meeting ; Sheet Metal Workers International, L 100; SCLC/Mo. County; UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO; Veterans for Peace, Baltimore; Veterans for Peace, Metro DC; Voters for Peace; WeGreen USA; Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom/DC. Other sponsors of this Town Hall: Montgomery County Peace & Justice Studies Association; American Friends Service Committee—DC; Social Security Works; Coalition on Human Needs;National Priorities Network; Peace Action.

Special thanks to UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO for providing funds to make this Town Hall possible!

help save Rockville deer

2011-08-22T20:10:00.001-04:00

endcruelty@aol.com wrote:

Dear friends and colleagues,

Some of you have not yet heard about this, but I hope if interested you will contact me for more information.

[Please] alert your Rockville, MD membership to sign the petition which now has about 800 signatures and NONE from Rockville; and to write opposing the hunt to dsimon@gazette.net and to mayorcouncil@rockvillemd.org.

Also to ask them to attend the Oct. 24 meeting where I hope each one of us will have signed up to the citizens' forum to make a 3 minute statement about the deer. I have myself bought many great posters, etc. we can use now to educate the public and at the meeting before it starts.

I have contacted print and TV media. And we will have a deer mascot there.

I have also now set up a chip-in for people to give money to help us get the word out to the public who is ignorant there is a hunt proposed.

I maintain we have 2 Rockvilles leading to class warfare, and that many of the people who have turned their backs quite rudely on me from Rockville have done so as they are concentrated on getting someone re-elected to city council or to be mayor in early Nov.

Today Bob Barker wrote a letter to the mayor and council, and to the Gazette, and to the Washington Post.

Frankly, it would be great to hear from someone ... I know you are all busy, which is why I don't contact you constantly.

I would love your ideas as to what else you think I should do.

Thank you again, and as always,
Carol E. McCormick
(301)424-3435

organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all

2011-08-21T15:13:00.001-04:00

We're organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all.

Please keep us working for you! Please pay $15 dues here. Contribute now:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=ZJHW68V2N9Q5C

Next meeting: 7:30 PM Tues. Sept. 6th
Where: Saigonese Restaurant
11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902

Report on progress in our county and state on Healthcare, the Environment, Education, Labor, Transportation, Energy and other issues. We're building up our coalition and lobby efforts on the state and national level, planning special events, forming a steering committee, and working on meetings with legislators, and other organizations.

Taking Back the Budget Debate: A TOWN HALL MEETING

2011-08-20T21:00:00.001-04:00

Taking Back the Budget Debate: A TOWN HALL MEETING

Tues., Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m.
Silver Spring Civic Center
One Veterans’ Place (Fenton & Ellsworth)
Silver Spring

Turn your anger and outrage over the budget deal into ACTION!

Speakers: Rep. Donna Edwards, State Senator Roger Manno, economist Heather Boushey, IPS Fellow Karen Dolan
Master of Ceremonies: The NAACP’s Elbridge James
Music: Singer/songwriter Christina Van Norman

You will have the opportunity to ask your questions and then to help us organize for real, progressive solutions.

Here’s our action agenda:

* Put America back to work
* Institute a fair tax system
* Protect Americans’ health and save the environment
* Preserve Social Security
* Bring all the troops and military contractors home

Don’t miss this important event--invite all your friends!

Our Money . . . Our Voices . . . Our Budget Priorities

Sponsored by Fund Our Communities, Bring the War Dollars Home
A Maryland Coalition
www.OurFunds.org

We're organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all.

2011-08-19T16:51:00.001-04:00

We're organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all.

Meet Up charges us each month to use their system, and we also incur expenses organizing events, printing materials, etc.

Please keep us working for you! Please pay $15 dues here. Contribute now.

Next meeting: 7:30 PM Tues. Sept. 6th
Where: Saigonese Restaurant
11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)

Report on progress in our county and state on Healthcare, the Environment, Education, Labor, Transportation, Energy and other issues. We're building up our coalition and lobby efforts on the state and national level, planning special events, forming a steering committee, and working on meetings with legislators, and other organizations.

Please join the MCPA Google Group. | On Facebook, join the MCPA group.

SAVE THE DATE! Topic: Feminism in Politics

2011-08-17T10:25:00.001-04:00

SAVE THE DATE! Topic: Feminism in Politics

Expert speakers, elected officials will help you get more involved in national, state and local issues. Free and open to the public.

Monday, September 19th from 7pm-9pm
Rockville Library
21 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850
5 Block walk from the Rockville Metro stop
http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/libraries/branchinfo/ro.asp

Directions: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=21+Maryland+Ave,+Rockville,+MD+20850
Parking: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/libraries/branchinfo/ro.asp#parking

Taking Back the Budget Debate

2011-08-16T16:32:00.001-04:00

Taking Back the Budget Debate

A TOWN HALL MEETING

Tues., Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m.
Silver Spring Civic Center

One Veterans’ Place (Fenton & Ellsworth)
Silver Spring (short wall from SS Metro)

Speakers: Rep. Donna Edwards, State Senator Roger Manno, Economist Heather Boushey, IPS Fellow Karen Dolan
Master of Ceremonies: The NAACP’s Elbridge James
Music: Singer/songwriter Christina Van Norman

You will have the opportunity to ask your questions and then to help us organize for real, progressive solutions.

Here’s our action agenda:

* Put America back to work
* Institute a fair tax system
* Protect Americans’ health and save the environment
* Preserve Social Security
* Bring all the troops and military contractors home

Don’t miss this important event--invite all your friends!

Our Money . . . Our Voices . . . Our Budget Priorities

Sponsored by Fund Our Communities, Bring the War Dollars Home
A Maryland Coalition
www.OurFunds.org

Phone, Fax, and Write to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security!

2011-08-12T13:16:00.001-04:00

Phone, Fax, and Write to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security!

Tell our politicians to keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Defy brutal, self-defeating austerity which could cause a Depression. We're working for you! Please contribute now! (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible)

Contact elected officials and read them the "riot act." Tell them that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the deficit or debt. They should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. Make sure they know that if they do anything to cut these life-saving and cost-effective programs, you will never vote for them again.

Tell your Senators and Representative, don't cut Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security--their jobs depend on standing up for us!

Tell President Obama to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-456-1111 / 202-456-1414 Fax: 202-456-2461

Tell leaders in Congress: We the People will not tolerate looting programs we paid into every working day of our lives to indulge the greedy few.

Tell Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-224-3542 Fax: 202-224-7327

Tell Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to stand down! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-224-2541 Fax: 202-224-2499

Tell House Speaker John Boehner to stand down! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-0600 Fax: 202-225-5117

Tell House Majority Leader Eric Cantor to stand down! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-4000 Fax: 202-225-0011

Tell House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-0100 Fax: 202-225-4188

Tell DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-7931 Fax: 202-226-2052

We're doing all we can, mobilizing the public to stand up against failed, fatal policies. We need your help now! Please contribute now!

Proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. It would also devastate our economy and destroy jobs. All Americans will endure hardship and pain We're fighting back with our Emergency Coalition to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We work with friendly members of Congress and pressure other members not to sacrifice our safety net in any political deal. We're working to turn back the malign designs of the "Denial Caucus"--the Tea Party supporters--who are driving to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Will you contribute to help us? (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible)

Joe Uehlein Solo & U-Liners Shows!

2011-08-12T12:28:00.001-04:00

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Tom Morello at The Birchmere on Sept. 2

Joe Uehlein opening (solo)


UPCOMING SHOWS Labor Day: Busboys & Poets -- Joe Solo -- Sept. 5 w/Anne Feeney!! This event is a fundraiser for Anne Feeney, perhaps the greatest contemporary labor troubadour of them all! Anne is battling cancer and in need of funds to help pay medical expenses. Please come and enjoy the music of Pam Parker, Emma's Revolution, Luci Murphy, the DC Labor Chorus, Anne Feeney and others. Busboys & Poets: 1025 5th St. NW Busboys and Poets: 5th & K NW location Sept. 6: Joe Uehlein & Don Walters at New Deal Cafe Don Walters hosts a great Americana Music Series at the New Deal Cafe in Greenbelt, and the last time I joined with Don we had a blast! Come enjoy the great food and tunes! New Deal Cafe 113 Centerway Roosevelt Center Greenbelt, MD 20770 (301) 474-5642 New Deal Cafe Sept. 11: Takoma Park Folk Fest -- The U-Liners!! The U-Liners will present a 45 minute concert on the field stage at 2pm, and then again on the Seventh Heaven stage as part of a tribute to Steve Earle! Takoma Park Folk Fest

Tom Morello, The Nightwatchman (Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave) will do a solo concert at the Birchmere on Friday, Sept. 2 -- help us usher in a rockin' Labor Day Weekend!! Joe Uehlein will be opening -- come join in the fun!

Tom Morello w/Joe Uehlein -- Birchmere

Start off Labor Day Weekend with a bang!! Tom Morello, The Nightwatchman. You know him from Rage Against the Machine fame. Tom has stood with working families on countless picket lines and rallies and demonstrations, so let's show our appreciation with a strong crowd at the Birchmere!

DATE: Friday, September 2

TIME: 7:30pm

LOCATION: The Birchmere

MORE: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave Alexandria, VA 22305

The Birchmere

The U-Liners will return to the Takoma Park Civic Auditorium as part of the We Are Takoma Series on Saturday, October 15!!

Joe Uehlein

email: joeuehlein@mac.com

Phone, Fax, and write! Protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

2011-08-09T11:07:00.001-04:00

Phone, Fax, and write! Tell our politicians to keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Defy brutal, self-defeating austerity which could cause a Depression. We're working for you! Please contribute now! (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible)

Tell President Obama to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-456-1111 / 202-456-1414 Fax: 202-456-2461

Tell leaders in Congress: We the People will not tolerate looting programs we paid into every working day of our lives to indulge the greedy few.

Wheaton MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, PDA, and more.

2011-08-08T17:38:00.000-04:00

Combined MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, PDA, and more.

NEW DATE: Thursday, August 11, 2011 7:30 PM
Please RSVP to mike@mikehersh.com

Report and discussion on progress in our county and state on Healthcare, the Environment, Education, Labor, Transportation, Energy and other issues. We'll discuss county and Maryland politics--the special session, budget, etc.-- and efforts to protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We're building our coalition and planning lobby efforts on the state and national level, special events, and working with elected officials and other organizations to achieve progress.

Saigonese Restaurant (Great, Affordable Vietnamese Cuisine)
11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)
Google Map: http://maps.google.com/map s?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902

If you haven't already: Please join the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance Google Group: http://groups.google.com/g roup/mcprogressivealliance

Please contribute $15 to keep this meetup going. Pay online: http://www.meetup.com/Mont gomeryCountyProgressiveAlliance/dues/ or bring to this meeting.

protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

2011-08-06T17:34:00.001-04:00

KeepOurPromise.org is organizing in the streets and in the suites to protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We met with 80 Congressional offices July 27th, and led 1,000s of people nation-wide in a call in day. We told them cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security would hurt tens of millions of Americans. Jobs will be lost. Economic growth will suffer. We need contributions NOW: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ

BUSBOYS AND POETS PRESENTS "The Nuclear Age at 2/3 of a Century"

2011-08-05T12:01:00.000-04:00

"The day will come when the cannon will be a museum piece" -- Victor Hugo

To Commemorate the 66th Anniversary of America's Atomic Destruction of Nagasaki on August 9th, 1945

AUGUST 9th, 2011, 6:30 PM
BUSBOYS AND POETS PRESENTS
"The Nuclear Age at 2/3 of a Century"
A talk by TAD DALEY
Busboys and Poets Restaurant, 14th and V, NW, Washington, DC.

Author, APOCALYPSE NEVER: Forging the Path to a Nuclear Weapon Free World (Rutgers University Press, 2010).

Former Speechwriter and Policy Advisor for Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Congresswoman Diane Watson, and the late U.S. Senator Alan Cranston.

Tad will be introduced by HAROLD MEYERSON, Wednesday op-ed columnist for The Washington Post and Editor-At-Large for The American Prospect. The event is co-sponsored by Progressive Democrats of America, PeaceAction, Teaching for Change, Physicians for Social Responsibility, and Citizens for Global Solution. It is FREE & OPEN TO ALL.

*APOCALYPSE NEVER is a book intended not for nuclear experts and policy wonks, but instead for a broad general audience, about the many facets of the contemporary nuclear weapons peril, the mountaintop vision of banning and dismantling every last nuclear weapon on earth, and pathways by which we might ascend toward that summit.
* The book received no less than 27 nuggets of "advance praise" from luminaries like former White House Chief of Staff John Podesta, Martin Sheen, Lt. Gen. Robert Gard, Rabbi Michael Lerner, Michael Douglas, Daniel Ellsberg, and Pulitzer Prize winner Martin Sherwin.

* The book has received no less than nine terrific reviews, including one from Ploughshares Fund president Joe Cirincione in The Nation, another from Federation of American Scientists president Charles Ferguson for The Public Interest Report, and another from former CIA counterproliferation operative Valerie Plame Wilson and her husband Ambassador Joe Wilson (played in the movie Fair Game by Naomi Watts and Sean Penn) for the FireDogLake book salon. Their opening passage?

>>>>>Apocalypse Never is a frightening book to read but impossible to put down. In clear, accessible prose, Tad Daley unblinkingly lays out the case, point by point, for why we must ultimately rid the world of nuclear weapons or else suffer the inevitable consequences of the end of civilization as we know it … Daley then takes on the task of showing how this seemingly Herculean task can be accomplished, even within our lifetimes. It is compelling and accurate in its assessments and one of the absolute best out there … <<<<<

* Tad Daley and Harold Meyerson will talk about the book, and the topic, and the road to nuclear abolition. Then books will be available for purchase from the terrifically independent Busboys and Poets bookstore (known as "Teaching for Change"), and Tad will provide you with an elaborate autograph. Come recall the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and walk with us as we envision the road to abolishing nuclear weapons and abolishing war itself.
www.apocalypsenever.org.

http://www.busboysandpoets.com/events.php

After the Deficit Deal--Time to Speak Out to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

2011-08-03T10:16:00.000-04:00

After the Deficit Deal--Time to Speak Out to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

KeepOurPromise is working for you! Please contribute what you can to keep us strong:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ
(Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible)   

Proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. All will endure hardship and pain if the cuts happen. We're fighting back with our Emergency Coalition to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We've created the website KeepOurPromise.org to empower this critically important effort. Tell our politicians to keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.

The debt ceiling deal does not raise any revenues. It cuts $1.2 trillion from programs now and $2.5 trillion more to come. Automatic "triggers" could slash Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, unless we do something about it now. KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We work with friendly members of Congress and pressure other members not to sacrifice our safety net. We're working to turn back the Tea Party efforts to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Will you contribute to help us?

Contact elected officials and tell them Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the deficit or debt. They should cut corporate profiteering--not benefits. Make sure they know that if they slash these life-saving and cost-effective programs, you will never vote for them again.

Tell your Senators and Representative, don't cut Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: http://capwiz.com/pdamerica/callalert/index.tt?alertid=51625501

Tell President Obama to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-456-1111 / 202-456-1414 Fax: 202-456-2461

Tell leaders in Congress: We the People will not tolerate looting programs we paid into every working day of our lives to indulge the greedy few.

Tell Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-224-3542 Fax: 202-224-7327

Tell Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to stand down! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-224-2541 Fax: 202-224-2499

Tell House Speaker John Boehner to stand down! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-0600 Fax: 202-225-5117

Tell House Majority Leader Eric Cantor to stand down! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-4000 Fax: 202-225-0011

Tell House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-0100 Fax: 202-225-4188

Tell DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-7931 Fax: 202-226-2052

We're doing all we can, mobilizing the public to stand up against failed, fatal policies. We need your help now! Please contribute!

Share this important action alert with all your contacts on email, Facebook, etc.

KeepOurPromise met with 80 Congressional offices July 27th

2011-07-29T10:45:00.001-04:00

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Keep us working for you!

On July 19, KeepOurPromise helped organize an emergency briefing on Capitol Hill with members of Congress, staff, and experts.

On July 20, we met with 85 Congressional offices and organized a national call-in day.

On July 21, David Shuster reported that Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Raul Grijalva took our message to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. According to Shuster's comments on Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Rep. Grijalva warned Rep. Peolosi that House progressives refuse to follow President Obama's lead on cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Not only that, but her own leadership position "would be challenged."

On July 22, eighty House members joined Rep. Grijalva and the other CPC Co-Chair Congressman Keith Ellison in a letter to Rep. Pelosi which reads in part:

"We are united as Democrats in saying that it’s time to stand up to the Republican hostage-taking. We will not be forced to vote for a 'final agreement' that we do not agree to--and that the American people do not agree to. We stand united with you in insisting that benefit cuts for working families, our seniors, children, and people with disabilities must be off the table, and we stand united with you in fighting for millions of Americans who need Democrats to be firmly on their side."

This battle is far from over. Moving forward, we will work with our allies and members of Congress to protect and expand--not slash--our safety net. We're turning back the malign designs of the "Denial Caucus"--the Tea Party supporters in Congress--who are driving to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We cannot Keep Our Promise without your help. Will you contribute to help us?

KeepOurPromise organizers and allies met with 80 Congressional offices July 27th, and led 1,000s of people nation-wide in a call in day. We told Senators and House members that cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. Jobs will be lost. Economic growth will suffer. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.

We need your help now! Contributions have been coming in, but not enough to cover our expanding activities. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

We're helping to convene a series of Congressional briefings and hearings. We're launching a media strategy to inform and mobilize the public, and holding call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards. We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, we need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All. Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events. We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security benefits. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

We need your help now! Please Contribute here. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

If you can't contribute, please share the above article with all your friends, and post the blurb below to Facebook and Tweet:

Fight Cuts to #Medicaid #Medicare, and #SocialSecurity Benefits! This is NOT the United States of Austerity! http://bit.ly/keepourpromise #p2

We met with 80 Congressional offices yesterday, July 27th

2011-07-28T09:25:00.001-04:00

We met with 80 Congressional offices yesterday, July 27th, and led 1,000s of people nation-wide in a call in day. We told Senators and House members that cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. Jobs will be lost. Economic growth will suffer. All Americans will endure hardship and pain if these cuts happen. Help us make sure those cuts don't happen. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security.

We need your help now! Contributions have been coming in, but not enough to cover our expanding activities:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ
(Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

More info.: http://keepourpromise.org/

We're helping to convene a series of Congressional briefings and hearings. We're launching a media strategy to inform and mobilize the public, and holding call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards. We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, we need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All. Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events. We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID

2011-07-25T12:28:00.001-04:00

AFL-CIO and Progressive Democrats of America Events

Your help and support is needed! Be part of the mobilization to STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID on TODAY, JULY 25th AT 5:30 PM AT THE SOCIAL SECURITY COMPLEX IN WOODLAWN in Baltimore!

HELP bring national attention to our protest to say: STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID. Send a strong message to Congress.

Please mobilize your members, staff, family and friends to be part of one of our largest demonstrations. These cuts will have a negative impact on our total community.

Location : Social Security Complex, 6401 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD
Contact : Fred D. Jason, Jr., President, MD/DC AFL-CIO, (410) 318-8537

Tell the House Negotiate Prescription Drug Benefits Under Medicare Part D

Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 10am, Longworth Cafeteria

According to economist Joseph Stiglitz the U.S. can save $1 trillion in 10 years by negotiating the prescription drug benefit in Medicare; this is not a tax this is simply applying standard business practices and saving the taxpayers money.

Join us as we lobby the House to protect the benefits in Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We have prepared packets which show price comparisons between common drugs purchased for the Veterans Administration and Medicare; Medicare often pays up to 48% more for the exact same drugs.

Click here to RSVP.

Can't join us for the lobby day? Sign the petition.

Call your Representative in the House: 202-224-3121

Call your Senator in the Senate: 888-907-1485

Date: Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Location: Longworth Cafeteria (Basement), Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC
Contact: Andrea Miller (443) 878-2071

Lobby, Call and Fax to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

2011-07-25T10:58:00.001-04:00

We're making progress in keeping our promise. Now is the time to push harder to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

KeepOurPromise is working for you! Please contribute what you can to keep us strong:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ

Join us 10 am Wednesday, July 17 in the Rayburn House Cafeteria to lobby Congress to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security

Tell President Obama to stand strong! No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-456-1111 / 202-456-1414 Fax: 202-456-2461

Tell Your Senators and Representative to protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security from any cuts:
http://capwiz.com/pdamerica/callalert/index.tt?alertid=51625501

Tell Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to stand strong! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-224-3542 Fax: 202-224-7327

Tell Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell to stand down! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-224-2541 Fax: 202-224-2499

Tell House Speaker John Boehner to stand down! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-0600 Fax: 202-225-5117

Tell House Majority Leader Eric Cantor to stand down! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-4000 Fax: 202-225-0011

Tell House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi to stand strong! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-0100 Fax: 202-225-4188

Tell DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz to stand strong! No cuts Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security: 202-225-7931 Fax: 202-226-2052

KeepOurPromise is working for you! Please contribute what you can to keep us strong:
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ

On July 19, KeepOurPromise helped organize an emergency briefing on Capitol Hill with members of Congress, staff, and experts. On July 20, we met with 85 Congressional offices. On July 21, David Shuster reported that Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Raul Grijalva took our message to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. According to Shuster's comments on Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Rep. Grijalva warned Rep. Pelosi that House progressives refuse to follow President Obama's lead on cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Not only that, but her own leadership position "would be challenged." On July 22, eighty House members joined Rep. Grijalva and the other CPC Co-Chair Congressman Keith Ellison in a letter to Rep. Pelosi which reads in part:

"We are united as Democrats in saying that it’s time to stand up to the Republican hostage-taking. We will not be forced to vote for a 'final agreement' that we do not agree to--and that the American people do not agree to. We stand united with you in insisting that benefit cuts for working families, our seniors, children, and people with disabilities must be off the table, and we stand united with you in fighting for millions of Americans who need Democrats to be firmly on their side."

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Unfortunately, the battle is far from over. Moving forward, we hope to meet with 100 members of Congress July 27th to ask them to join the fight on our side. We will work with friendly members of Congress and pressure other members not to sacrifice our safety net in any political deal. We're working to turn back the malign designs of the "Denial Caucus"--the Tea Party supporters in Congress--who are driving to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Let's be clear. Thanks to your support, we've met with members of Congress to gain their support. We cannot Keep Our Promise without your help. Will you contribute to help us?

Proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. All will endure hardship and pain if the cuts happen. We're fighting back with our Emergency Coalition to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We've created the website KeepOurPromise.org to empower this critically important effort. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Please contribute whatever you can to help. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible)   We're setting up a media strategy to inform and mobilize the general public on these issues, and planning call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards with calls.

We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All (single payer healthcare).   We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events. Contribute now to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

  We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 27th. We're meeting with members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! We're holding events nation-wide with our allies to commemorate the anniversary of Medicare at the end of this month, as well as Vigils at Congressional offices. The first hearing in the series is scheduled for July 19 in the Rayburn House Office Building. It will focus on the impact of proposed cuts on people in need--and what the American People don't know about proposed cuts.   Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security remain at risk. Will you help us prevail? Contribute here. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

2011-07-23T20:19:00.001-04:00

On July 19, KeepOurPromise helped organize an emergency briefing on Capitol Hill with members of Congress, staff, and experts. On July 20, we met with 85 Congressional offices. On July 21, David Schuster reported that Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Raul Grijlava took our message to Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi. According to Schuster's comments on Countdown with Keith Olbermann, Rep. Grijalva warned Rep. Peolosi that House progressives refuse to follow President Obama's lead on cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Not only that, but her own leadership position "would be challenged." On July 22, eighty House members joined Rep. Grijalva and the other CPC Co-Chair Congressman Keith Ellison in a letter to Rep. Pelosi which reads in part:

"We are united as Democrats in saying that it’s time to stand up to the Republican hostage-taking. We will not be forced to vote for a 'final agreement' that we do not agree to--and that the American people do not agree to. We stand united with you in insisting that benefit cuts for working families, our seniors, children, and people with disabilities must be off the table, and we stand united with you in fighting for millions of Americans who need Democrats to be firmly on their side."

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Unfortunately, the battle is far from over. Moving forward, we hope to meet with 100 members of Congress July 25th to ask them to join the fight on our side. We will work with friendly members of Congress and pressure other members not to sacrifice our safety net in any political deal. We're working to turn back the malign designs of the "Denial Caucus"--the Tea Party supporters in Congress--who are driving to defund and destroy Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Let's be clear. Thanks to your support, we've met with members of Congress to gain their support. We cannot Keep Our Promise without your help. Will you contribute to help us?

Proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. All will endure hardship and pain if the cuts happen. We're fighting back with our Emergency Coalition to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We've created the website KeepOurPromise.org to empower this critically important effort. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Please contribute whatever you can to help. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible)   We're setting up a media strategy to inform and mobilize the general public on these issues, and planning call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards with calls.

We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All (single payer healthcare).   We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events. Contribute now to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

  We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! We're holding events nation-wide with our allies to commemorate the anniversary of Medicare at the end of this month, as well as Vigils at Congressional offices. The first hearing in the series is scheduled for July 19 in the Rayburn House Office Building. It will focus on the impact of proposed cuts on people in need--and what the American People don't know about proposed cuts.   Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security remain at risk. Will you help us prevail? Contribute here. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

Want to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security?

2011-07-22T14:37:00.000-04:00

Want to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security? http://www.keepourpromise.org met with 85 Congressional offices on 7/20. Help us meet with 100 more next week. Contribute here: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ

Fight Against Cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

2011-07-19T12:18:00.000-04:00

Fight Against Cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

With talks under way between the White House, Senate, and the House, proposals are on the table to cut Medicaid by $100 billion dollars, raise the Social Security retirement age from 65 to 67, reduce the monthly Social Security check, and possibly raise Medicare premiums. We're convening an emergency coalition to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security here: http://www.keepourpromise.org

Cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens of millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. Jobs will be lost. Economic growth will suffer. All Americans will endure hardship and pain if these cuts happen. Help us make sure those cuts don't happen.

We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Help us Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Visit our website regularly, share it on Facebook, Tweet our articles.

Join us TODAY for an Emergency Briefing: http://www.keepourpromise.org/

Find Out What Congress Isn't Telling You
Tuesday, July 19^th 2 to 4 PM
2237 Rayburn House Office Building
Closest Metro: Capitol South Blue/Orange lines

Join us TOMORROW for a Lobby Day:

http://www.keepourpromise.org/index.php/events/icalrepeat.detail/2011/07/20/2/-/dc-lobby-day-and-national-call-in-day

Can't make it to DC? Join our Call-in Day:

http://www.keepourpromise.org/index.php/events/icalrepeat.detail/2011/07/20/4/-/national-call-in-day-save-medicaid-medicare-and-social-security

We're getting support and interest from Congress members John Conyers, Gwen Moore, Barney Frank, Keith Ellison, Rob Andrews, and Senator Bernie Sanders as well as from the NAACP, Urban League, AFL-CIO, SEIU, NOW, and many others. Can we count on your support too? Please read more and consider making a donation to keep us working for you here: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=Q6J4WAVQVMEWQ Please give $50, $25, $10--whatever you can. We need every one we can get, and every dollar you can spare to continue this fight!

Thank you,

Mike Hersh

Maybe I was naive, or possibly I'm just too impatient?

2011-07-18T21:13:00.001-04:00

Maybe I was naive, or possibly I'm just too impatient? I tapped into my
savings to set up a website dedicated to saving Medicare, Medicaid, and
Social Security--counting on the support of those who understand the
terrible damage cuts would cause. Hoping that people would contribute to
support the website. Was I wrong? See and support
http://www.keepourpromise.org/

U-Liners Tribute to Jerry Garcia July 30th

2011-07-18T01:06:00.001-04:00

This is always a fun and spirited evening! The IOTA Club now has more seating, and a great menu! Come join in the fun!

Forward email

FARM WORKDAY at the LICKING CREEK BEND FARM Sunday, July 24

2011-07-17T12:39:00.001-04:00

Sent on behalf of: LICKING CREEK BEND FARM a sustainably-grown fruit and vegetable farm since 1972

SUMMER, 2011                                    All the news that’s fit to eat

***********************************************************************************************

FARM WORKDAY at the LICKING CREEK BEND FARM

On Sunday, July 24th, we are having a volunteer workday. It’s a great opportunity to see what and how we grow our veggies and fruit and to lend us a hand. We offer the option of coming up on Friday or Saturday evening, camp out and work with us on Saturday and Sunday. We also have limited beds. Get there by 7 AM!

Our farm is 2 hours from DC near Berkeley Springs, W. VA. Bring swim suits and towels to swim in the creek. We’ll feed you. If interested and for directions, contact esiegel2@igc.org

A few considerations:

1. You must be in good shape; bring sunscreen, a large hat, bug spray (although there are no mosquitoes on the farm!); and a water bottle.

2. The work day starts at 9:00am, so you will need to leave by 7:00am (no later than 7:30am) on Sunday. If you have room for others, let us know so we can help arrange for carpools.

3. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate or be responsible for small children.

CSA – COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE – JOIN OUR CSA…
And receive weekly fresh vegetables and fruits straight from our farm. Our vegetables and fruits are grown to organic standards and are certified. We also provide some fruits from a local orchard that are IPM raised (minimal pesticide use).

The concept of a CSA is a partnership between a small local farm and people in a near-by city. It offers an interaction with the farm and we sponsor a visiting day to meet the farm workers and in turn allow the farm workers, who work insanely long hours, to meet the folks who are on the receiving end. It makes quite a difference – for both the consumer and farmer.  
The CSA offers the weekly seasonal pick from the fields. The attached calendar approximates what should be available in which months, but it is not always exact as we are dependent on the whim of Mother Nature. We don't know how much of what will be ready at a given time. Our membership form is also attached. Visit our website for a brief history of CSAs and more details about ours.     www.lickingcreekbendfarm.com

Our CSA is divided into 4 sessions. The next session is August-September, the most plentiful. Right our CSA includes peaches, nectarines, plums, apples, Swiss chard, turnips, cucumbers, squash, basil and our tomatoes (including heirloom varieties) are almost ready.

CSA pick up locations:
Saturdays:     18th and Columbia Rds, NW 9:30am – 1:30pm at our Adams Morgan Farm Market
        14th and Park Rds, NW, 9:30am – 1:30pm at our Columbia Heights Farm Market
        Takoma Park, Maryland, 4:30pm - 9:30pm, address provided with sign up

Tuesdays:   Brookland Metro Station, 4:00pm – 7:00pm Brookland Farmers Market
        Takoma Park, Maryland, 8:30pm - 9:30pm, address provided with sign up

Thursdays:     16th and Q Streets, NW, DCJCC 5:00pm – 6:30pm

For further information contact esiegel2@igc.org ASAP to sign up for Session 2: August – September.

Thanks for your interest and support. Please let us know ASAP

Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

2011-07-16T18:13:00.001-04:00

Proposed cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security benefits would hurt tens millions of Americans. It would also devastate countless hospitals, medical practices, retirement communities, clinics, and the people they serve. All will endure hardship and pain if the cuts happen. We're fighting back with our Emergency Coalition to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. We've created the website KeepOurPromise.org to empower this critically important effort. We demand that our politicians keep our promise between generations and among all Americans to preserve, protect--and even expand and improve--Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Please contribute whatever you can to help. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible)   We're setting up a media strategy to inform and mobilize the general public on these issues, and planning call-in days to jam the White House and Congressional switchboards with calls.

We're explaining that Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are not "broke," and do not add to the debt or deficit. We should cut corruption and corporate profiteering--not benefits. To control costs and provide the best outcomes, need Expanded, Improved Medicare for All (single payer healthcare).   We're working with members of Congress and staffers, the Black, Progressive and Hispanic Caucus, as well as progressive, faith, patients' rights and civil rights leaders and organizations, unions, and more. We convene weekly action meetings to plan lobby days, call-in days, Congressional hearings, town hall meetings, a media strategy and special events. Contribute now to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

  We're holding a massive citizen's lobby day July 20th. We're meeting with 85 members of Congress with a simple message: No cuts to Medicaid, Medicare or Social Security. Let Medicare negotiate with big drug companies on prices. Improve and expand Medicare--don't cut it! We're holding events nation-wide with our allies to commemorate the anniversary of Medicare at the end of this month, as well as Vigils at Congressional offices. The first hearing in the series is scheduled for July 19 in the Rayburn House Office Building. It will focus on the impact of proposed cuts on people in need--and what the American People don't know about proposed cuts.   Please contribute now to help us Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security. (Contributions to Keep Our Promise are not tax deductible).

Save the Dream / Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

2011-07-15T11:40:00.001-04:00

1. TONIGHT Friday July 15th and ONGOING: Help us Save the Dream in Langley Park
2. Wednesday, July 20th lobby day to Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid in Washington, DC
3. Progressive Coalition Meeting 7:30 PM Tuesday, August 9th in Wheaton
4. Support the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance, working for you: http://bit.ly/mocoprogress

-------------

1. TONIGHT Friday July 15 and ONGOING: Help us Save the Dream

It was a proud day last Spring when the Maryland Legislature passed the Dream Act, a terrific bill to extend in-state tuition to deserving young people. These are kids who've lived in our state, studied hard at our schools, and want nothing more than a chance to contribute to Maryland's economy as college graduates. With the high costs of college, the Dream Act is often their only chance at the American Dream.

There's been a great deal of confusion and misinformation about the Dream Act. It will not cost the state a lot of money. In fact, it would more than pay for itself as our young people learn, work, and contribute in our state. It will not deprive any child of documented parents a spot in our excellent Maryland State Universities. The Dream Act guarantees preference for the children of documented parents.

So why is the Dream Act at risk? A well-funded, largely out-of-state operation is spreading misinformation. They're trying to exploit the Dream Act as a wedge issue for political purposes. They used new, high-tech methods and a huge war chest to generate countless petitions to overturn the Dream Act. It seems the anti-Dreamers have the signatures they need to put this on the ballot, but not so fast! They didn't count on us!

You can help! Volunteers are working together to Defend the Dream. We need you to check the signatures to make sure they're valid. Early indications are that many of them may be questionable at best.

We'll meet this Friday, July 15th from 5 pm to 9 pm at CASA de Maryland 's offices:
8151 15th Avenue, Langley Park, MD 20783
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=8151+15th+Avenue,+Langley+Park,+MD+20783

If you want to live in a Maryland that honors the hard work of all our young people with the opportunity for higher education, please join us!

-------------

2. Join the Progressive Democrats of America's Wednesday, July 20th lobby day in Washington, DC.

Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid Lobby Day

Progressive Democrats of America and allies will bring a simple message to Congress:
Don't cut Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. Let's Medicare negotiate prescription drug prices. Lift the cap so millionaires pay their fair share. End the wars, redirect funds to meet human needs. In honor of Medicare's Anniversary, we want to improve and expand the program, not cut it!

When: Wednesday, July 20. Meet at 10am or 2pm
Where: United Methodist Building,
100 Maryland Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=100+Maryland+Ave+NE+Washington+DC+20002
(Metro: Union Station, Red line)

For more info/RSVP: http://bit.ly/lobby-7-20-11
Download the lobby day flyer , post on bulletin boards and hand out at meetings and events!

--------------

3. Progressive Coalition Meeting 7:30 PM Tuesday, August 9th in Wheaton

Combined MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, PDA, and more.
Progressive Coalition Meeting to plan future events and actions.

Saigonese Restaurant, 11232 Grandview Ave
Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902

--------------

4. Support the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance; keep us working for you: http://bit.ly/mocoprogress

We're organizing efforts to help achieve progress on the issues you care about.

We're working with members of Congress and the Maryland General Assembly every day.

We're building coalitions to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security, hold events, lobby, and more.

All this takes time and resources. We cannot continue to succeed without your generous support.

Please contribute whatever you can to keep making progress in Montgomery County, Maryland, and the USA.

Support the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance; keep us working for you: http://bit.ly/mocoprogress

Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid Lobby Day

2011-07-15T11:07:00.001-04:00

Please support the Progressive Democrats of America's upcoming lobby day in Washington, DC.

Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid Lobby Day

When: Wednesday, July 20. Meet at 10am or 2pm
Where: United Methodist Building,
100 Maryland Ave NE, Washington, DC 20510
(Metro: Union Station, Red line)

For more info/RSVP: http://bit.ly/lobby-7-20-11
Download the lobby day flyer and post on bulletin boards and hand out at meetings and events!

Join us TODAY to plan our next steps

2011-07-05T01:00:00.001-04:00

Reminder: Monthly Progressive Action Meeting
Join us to plan our next steps today,
Tuesday July 5th, 7:30 - 9 PM.
Let's make our own fireworks for progress after the 4th!

We've been working with members of Congress and the Maryland General Assembly to achieve Progress.

Our insiders report Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are facing deep cuts and radical changes. We need to strengthen and expand these programs, not cut them. We're building a coalition working for the People's Budget, progressive revenues, cuts to corporate loopholes, and protecting programs people need. We're working to wrap up the wars, and shift resources to better use: creating jobs, providing healthcare, and more. Also: report on our US Senate lobbying efforts for equality.

Saigonese Restaurant -- 11232 Grandview Ave Wheaton, MD
Short walk from the Wheaton Metro Stop (red line)
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring%2C+MD

RSVP via Email: mocoprogressives@gmail.com / mike@mikehersh.com
RSVP on: MeetUp: http://www.meetup.com/progressive-victory/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=205997409446232

See you there!

Mike

Reminder: Make Fireworks for Progress on the 5th!

2011-07-04T11:10:00.001-04:00

Reminder: Monthly Progressive Action Meeting tomorrow, Tuesday July 5th, 7:30 to 9:00 PM
Saigonese Restaurant, 11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)
Google Map: http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902

We've been working with members of Congress and the Maryland General Assembly to achieve Progress.

Our insiders report Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid are facing deep cuts and radical changes. We need to strengthen and expand these programs, not cut them. We're building a coalition to work for progressive revenues and cuts to corporate loopholes, not programs people need. We're working to wrap up the wars, and shift those resources to creating jobs, providing healthcare, and more. Also: report on our US Senate lobbying efforts for equality.

Join us to plan our next steps tomorrow, Tuesday July 5th. Let's make our own fireworks for progress after the 4th!

Please RSVP to me, or just show up if you decide late.

I hope to see you there!

Thanks,

Mike

Eco-Justice Cafe TONIGHT! Come any time 4PM to 10 PM

2011-07-01T13:46:00.001-04:00

Time: TONIGHT! Friday, July 1 · 4:00pm - 10:00pm
Share with all your eco-justice community-minded friends!

UDC Firebird Inn (Building 38, B-level)

4200 Connecticut Ave. NW

Washington, DC
Just above the Van Ness UDC Metro Stop (red line)

The Cafes support area environmental and social justice activists, their organizations, and the UDC students and staff who care.

Joshua Cooper, Ph. D., Coordinator of the 10th Annual Human Rights on the Hill program http://www.law.udc.edu/event/human_rights will present. He will be accompanied by students and other presenters from the week-long human rights program.

- Happy Hour and networking begin at 4 pm

- Live music, fine home made vegan/veggie food, great beer, soft drinks

- Free childcare/kids area available

- Requested donations: $15/$10 for students & lower income earners/$5 for kids gets you great food by Fresh Start, good beer and sorta OK soft drinks. No one turned away for inability to donate!

Please pay the donation when you register (though it's not required!)

- 7 pm Shabbat - everyone welcome. (Other religious ceremonies, ethical expressions, pagan rites invited!)

- Organizational tablers welcome at no charge - contact JFL@udc.edu

- Additional musicians, poets, jugglers, visual artists also sought: JFL@udc.edu

- 4.0 Lounge Game Room will be open for billiards!

Questions, comments, criticisms: Joe - JLibertelli@udc.edu

Also, join us tomorrow, July 2 from 9am - 4:30pm for the 10th Annual Human Rights on the Hill: http://www.law.udc.edu/event/human_rights. There will be many talks and topics on human rights in the U.S. and abroad.

Tell Our Senators: We All Deserve Full Equality

2011-06-29T00:11:00.001-04:00

Tell Our Senators: We All Deserve Full Equality	Take Action!
Help Ratify the Equal Rights Amendment by 2015

Tell Our Senators to Lift the Time Limit from the ERA Please join our call for equality! PDA members will be lobbying with our sister United for Equality coalition members in the Senate Wednesday and Thursday this week. We need your support! Your calls will help raise awareness for the visits. See below for background information, a call-in script, and tips for a successful call. PDA stood up for equality with our allies National Director Tim Carpenter said, "We strongly endorse Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin's Resolution [HJ Res 47] to 'remove the deadline for ratification and clarify that upon ratification by three additional states, the Equal Rights Amendment will be added to the United States Constitution.'" PDA National Board Member Rep. Woolsey said: "It is with great pride that I stand with this bipartisan group in support of the long-overdue Equal Rights Amendment..... Here’s the text of the proposed Equal Rights Amendment, 'Section 1: Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of sex.' Replace the word 'sex' with 'race', and there would not be a single dissenting vote in the entire United States Congress." Please call during working hours through July 1st. You can follow up in about a week, and ask if your Senators have made any decision yet. For a direct line to your Senators, use this action alert. Tips for a Successful Call Ask to speak with the Senator's staffer working on constitutional and/or women's issues. If that person is unavailable, ask to leave a message on their voice-mail. Note: It's critically important to stress that you're calling to support a resolution removing the time limit from the ERA, not the "start over" new ERA legislation. Please limit your remarks to this issue only. Include your own experiences which pertain to the ERA. MORE INFORMATION: See: United4Equality.com and U4E's Facebook page.

Making History! ERA Lobby Days--this Weds. and Thurs.

2011-06-27T01:17:00.001-04:00

Please join us in the Senate office buildings this Wednesday and
Thursday to lobby for quick ratification of the ERA.

We'll meet in the Dirksen Senate Office Building Basement Cafeteria at
10 AM
(Closest Metro Stop: Union Station on the Red Line)

Even if you can't make it, please share this email with all your
progressive local lists, contacts, feminists and ERA supporters.

United for Equality (U4E) is organizing meetings with Senators and their
staffers this week to gain a sponsor and cosponsors for HJ Res 47, the
measure to lift the time limit from the ERA. 47 would allow ratification
of the ERA upon the votes of three state legislatures.

38 states are required, and 35 have already voted to ratify. Rep. Tammy
Baldwin 47, and there are currently about 2 dozen cosponsors in the
House. U4E and coalition member Progressive Democrats of America set up
a national call-in effort this week, with people from all around the
country calling their Senators to express support for 47. We'll cover
all the key Senators' offices.

Even if you didn't make the training session, you can still join the
effort! No one will be thrown in over their head!

We'll meet ahead of time to prepare. By the time we start lobbying,
we'll all be ready to make history.

We'll have talking points, and folders to give Senators and staffers.
We'll work in teams of 3 or more.

People lobbying for the first time will be teamed with experienced
lobbyists.

Please contact Carolyn Cook: ccook@united4equality.com to RSVP for one
or both days. Even if you can't RSVP, please show up!

Senator Kerry wants to hear from YOU!

2011-06-24T15:52:00.001-04:00

Senator Kerry wants to hear from YOU!

Comment on this post and forward this link far and wide...thank you!

http://www.pdamerica.org/blog/view/from-senator-john-f-kerry/

We really need to step up comments...Senator Kerry and his staff are
watching this closely.

http://www.pdamerica.org/blog/view/from-senator-john-f-kerry/

SENATE LOBBY DAY Thursday, June 30

2011-06-24T15:26:00.001-04:00

United 4 Equality coalition to host SENATE LOBBY DAY for HJ Res. 47

Capitol Hill, Thursday, June 30, 2011 from 10am - 5pm.

Training offered. Paired up in teams. Interested in joining us?

Email info@united4equality.com with your name, # in group, lobbying
experience if any, and phone #.

No experience necessary. Feminist Passion and purpose highly desirable!

We'll have ERA cheat sheets for volunteers and materials packets for
distribution to Senators!

Come on out and join history-in-the-making! Goal: Senate introduction of
our bill a.s.a.p!

Please share with ALL your feminist, equality-loving contacts!

Healthcare NOT Warfare in the Senate.

2011-06-19T15:26:00.001-04:00

Healthcare NOT Warfare in the Senate.

Last Push--Deadline 5 PM ET Monday!

Dear Friend,

On Tuesday, June 7, PDA joined our friends, National Nurses United/California Nurses Association (NNNU/CNA) in a hugely successful rally and lobby day in Washington. Over 2,000 people attended the rally in the morning, before dozens of citizen lobbyists headed to the Hill to meet with Democratic senators or their aides.

We delivered our letter, asking for a significant troop withdrawal from Afghanistan beginning in July and to support Sanders' single-payer bill (S. 915)—signed by more than 16,000 peace advocates—to all the members of the Senate Democratic Caucus.

Although we fell short of our goal to collect 25,000 signatures by June 7, the Senate is still considering the Defense Authorization Act, and we're still actively seeking more signers. At our meeting with Sen. John Kerry, we promised to deliver 10,000 more signatures on June 21. We're close to reaching that goal, but your signature can put us over the top and beyond. Click here to help us surpass our goal.

Thank you to our friends at NNU/CNA, U.S. Labor Against the War, Labor Campaign for Single Payer Healthcare, Healthcare-NOW!, CODEPINK, RootsAction, and United for Peace and Justice, who also circulated the letter among their members.

A special thank you to PDA Advisory Board member Thom Hartmann, who featured Healthcare NOT Warfare co-chairs Donna Smith and Norman Solomon on his June 8 program. Watch it here!

If you have already signed the letter, thank you. Please ask your like-minded friends and family members to sign it, too. If you haven't signed it yet, please sign here and pass this along. (Remember to delete the "unsubscribe" link at the very bottom of your forward before sending.)

We're closer than we've ever been to ending the war in Afghanistan, and the issue of spiraling healthcare costs is still unaddressed. The time is ripe for Healthcare NOT Warfare. Please help us top our goal.

In solidarity,

Tim Carpenter for PDA

Help bring our message of Healthcare NOT Warfare to the Senate

2011-06-18T13:48:00.001-04:00

Help bring our message of Healthcare NOT Warfare to the Senate
Sign the Letter PDA is bringing to the Senate Democratic Caucus

Prominent peace and justice advocates have signed this letter. Please add your signature by completing the form below. The letter was delivered to the Senate as part of the June 7 Rally with the Nurses and Citizens Lobby Day with over 16,000 signatures. We will continue to gather even more signatures as the Senate debate continues.

To: The Honorable Senators of the Democratic Caucus
U.S. Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Democratic Senators,

We, the undersigned, express our support for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) Afghanistan Withdrawal Resolution, introduced by Rep. Barbara Lee and passed on February 26, 2011.

We support the American Health Security Act of 2011 (S.915), sponsored by Sen. Bernie Sanders, which will move us to a single-payer healthcare system.....

To read more and sign, please click this link: http://bit.ly/senate-letter

Then, please send this email to all your contacts, friends and lists.

To go the extra mile, post the following on your Facebook page:

Still going! Sign the Letter to Senators for Healthcare NOT Warfare! PDA will keep taking your signatures to the Hill to demonstrate strong support for our values--peace and expanded, improved Medicare for all. Share this with all your Facebook friends, on email, etc. Thank you! http://bit.ly/senate-letter

You're invited to help make history TOMORROW!

2011-06-17T11:43:00.001-04:00

Reminder: you're invited to join us TOMORROW to prepare for our Lobby 4
Equality June 29, 2011
(Please share this email with all equality advocates and feminists you
know.)

We're working to gain ratification for the the Equal Rights Amendment
which states:

"Equality of rights under the law shall not be denied or abridged by the
United States or by any state on account of sex."

Join Montgomery County NOW, Maryland NOW, Progressive Democrats of
America, Montgomery County Progressive Alliance and friends who are
teaming up to lobby Congress in support of House Joint Resolution 47 (HJ
Res 47) under the leadership of United 4 Equality, LLC :
http://www.united4equality.com

SCHEDULE:
1. LOBBY TRAINING Saturday, June 18th 4:30pm - 6:30pm
Saigonese Restaurant 11232 Grandview Avenue Wheaton, MD 20902-4632
(a few blocks from the Wheaton Metro stop, red line)

This is an inexpensive, good restaurant. People can get tea or coffee
or a dessert--or nothing.

INSTRUCTOR Andrea Miller, PDA's National Deputy Field Director has
graciously offered to host our lobby training this Saturday at no cost
to attendees. Andrea is a seasoned organizer and former Congressional
candidate from Virginia. She will be speaking at the National NOW
Conference next weekend in Tampa and will prepare us for our big day in
two weeks.

FACILITATOR Mike Hersh, PDA, MCPA and MC NOW, will discuss plans for
upcoming events and ways we can all support the ERA 2015 campaign effort.

2. CONFERENCE CALL (time and date TBA) to discuss and finalize plans,
instructions for lobbying.

3. LOBBY DAY / CALL-IN DAY Wednesday, June 29 Senate Office Bldgs 10am
- 6pm
If you cannot make the training session, you can still join the lobby
day effort! We'll meet ahead of time at the Senate Office Bldgs. to
prepare you. By the time we start lobbying, we'll all be ready to make
history.

BACKGROUND:
"47" is an exciting, new strategy developed by an MC NOW member and
founder of United 4 Equality, LLC, Carolyn Cook, urging Congress to
remove any time limit for ratification of the 1972 Equal Rights
Amendment. Her proposal avoids "starting over" (that would require 326
representatives, 67 senators and 38 states to pass).

Instead, "47" safeguards victories previously won in Congress and 35
states to end sex discrimination under the Constitution and ensures that
a path to equality exists in perpetuity for the final three states
needed. It is imperative as corporations seek 2012 candidates willing to
do their bidding that citizens recognize the advantages in establishing
equal rights for all under law.

Updates on the ERA: Thanks to the hard work and leadership of United for
Equality, we're gaining more House cosponsors. This week, feminist
advocate, Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, joined Maryland's Chris Van
Hollen and Donna Edwards, and DNC Chairperson Debbie Wasserman Schultz,
Keith Ellison, Dennis Kucinich, and others on "47". Congresswoman Tammy
Baldwin introduced the bill in March.

We are currently seeking a Senate sponsor for introduction. Prime
targets are Al Franken and Lisa Murkowski among others. Lobby Day will
target the Senate Judiciary Committee where Ben Cardin sits. Of course
we won't forget to visit our own Barbara Mikulski to ask her to back HJ
Res 47.

REMEMBER: No one will be thrown in over their head! We'll work in teams
of 3 or more. People lobbying for the first time will be teamed with
experienced lobbyists. We will gather at the Senate Office Buildings 10
am on Wednesday, June 29th. We hope to cover all the key Senators'
offices. We'll have talking points, and folders to give Senators and
staffers.

Hope to see you there tomorrow, and / or June 29th!

Mike

express your support for healthcare not warfare

2011-06-16T13:22:00.001-04:00

Sign the Letter to the Senate Democratic Caucus

sign here: http://www.pdamerica.org/forms/sign/Sign-Letter-Senate-Democratic-Ca

Prominent peace and justice advocates have signed this letter. Please add your signature. The letter was delivered to the Senate as part of the June 7 Rally with the Nurses and Citizens Lobby Day with over 16,000 signatures. We will continue to gather even more signatures as the Senate debate continues.

Please sign the letter here: http://www.pdamerica.org/forms/sign/Sign-Letter-Senate-Democratic-Ca

To: The Honorable Senators of the Democratic Caucus
U.S. Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510

Dear Democratic Senators,

We, the undersigned, express our support for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) Afghanistan Withdrawal Resolution, introduced by Rep. Barbara Lee and passed on February 26, 2011.

We support the American Health Security Act of 2011 (S.915), sponsored by Sen. Bernie Sanders, which will move us to a single-payer healthcare system.

The resolution and Sanders' S.915 express the intent of the Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign, which is to eliminate unnecessary military spending and redirect those funds to meet the very real need for comprehensive health coverage for all.

The vast majority of Americans are facing economic hardship brought on by policies that have favored the elite over working families. Foreclosures, high unemployment, bankruptcies, and loss of equity, savings, and pensions, accompanied by the rising costs of food, education, gasoline, and energy, have impacted the lives of most Americans.

While much of this problem was created on Wall Street and the failure of regulatory bodies to protect us, we recognize that the spiraling costs of healthcare and continuing to fight a war of choice in Afghanistan are responsible for a significant portion of the national debt and the hardships many Americans face.

With two major spending bills facing the Senate—the Defense Authorization Act and the 2012 budget—we encourage Senate Democrats to offer amendments that will cut unnecessary military spending and redirect those funds to providing healthcare for all and preserving and expanding Social Security and Medicare.

As peace and justice advocates, we expect our Democratic Senators will follow the lead of the Party that elected them and act in compliance with the will of the majority of U.S. citizens by taking necessary steps to begin a significant drawdown of U.S. troops in Afghanistan, beginning in July, as dictated in the DNC Resolution. In addition, we ask that Democratic Senators move to contain the spiraling costs of healthcare and address the 47 million Americans currently lacking access to healthcare by co-sponsoring the American Health Security Act of 2011.

In kind regards,

[your name] if you sign the letter here: http://www.pdamerica.org/forms/sign/Sign-Letter-Senate-Democratic-Ca

Join us for the July 1 Cafe

2011-06-13T18:43:00.001-04:00

The July 1 Cafe is shaping up nicely. Featuring food, music, poetry, beer, an open mic session, tabling and more.

4 to 10 PM Friday July 1st
Firebird Inn (big cafeteria)
Building 38 Level B Univ. of DC
4200 Connecticut Ave., N.W.,
Just above the Van Ness/UDC Metro Stop

If you are passionate about social justice and/or the environment and want to connect, learn, and have fun with others like you - join us!

Dinner from Fresh Start Catering starts around 7 PM (vegan/veggie food!)

Wheelchair Accessible. Suggested donation $15 / $10 students / $5 kids. All ages event; child activities provided – and powered by kids!

Hosted by the University of the District of Columbia David Clarke School of Law, the District's public interest law school.

Joshua Cooper, Ph.D., Coordinator of the 10th annual UDC-DCSL "Human Rights on the Hill" program will present at 7 pm
http://www.law.udc.edu/event/human_rights.

Joshua will be accompanied by students and other presenters from the week-long human rights program which is not geared specifically for law students or lawyers, and which is open to the general public.

We'll also have Sean Finnegan on classical Brazilian guitar.

We will be "open" for Happy Hours from 4 to 6 if you're caught in town killing time, trying to avoid work, etc.
Still room for other acts. Organizations, musicians, authors, etc. can table for free! Contact Joe at jfl@udc.edu

This Cafe will be sponsored by Michele Masset Accupuncture and Physical Therapy. See http://massetpt-ac.com for a nice photo of Michele, who you will probably recognize from the Cafes (husband: Larry Martin; daughter, Mila) and some amazing reviews at http://local.yahoo.com/info-32949160-masset-michelle-masset-acupuncture-physical-washington Clearly, juxtaposing the reviews with her website, Michele is a better health professional than web self-promoter - but a new website is coming soon! : )

Register to attend on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/?tid=1880749372885&sk=inbox#!/event.php?eid=197431940303726

Or on the School of Law's website (where you can donate in advance, if you prefer) at http://www.law.udc.edu/event/July_Cafe.

If you're not heading out of town for the 4th, we hope to see you!

Tune in tomorrow Monday June 13 at 9 AM to Kassim's Corner! CBS Radio AM 1580

2011-06-13T00:10:00.001-04:00

Tune in tomorrow Monday June 13 at 9 AM to Kassim's Corner! CBS Radio AM
1580

Guests Joel Segal: Progressive Democrats of America National Advisory
Board Member and Senior Congressional Legislative Assistant working on
Universal Healthcare and Jobs for All; and Mike Hersh: Progressive
Democrats of America Maryland State Coordinator, National Social Media
Coordinator. We'll be on around 9:15.

Miss the show? Not in the DC area? Listen online:
http://www.kassimscorner.com

Tune in tomorrow Monday June 13 at 9 AM to Kassim's Corner!

2011-06-12T23:33:00.001-04:00

Tune in tomorrow Monday June 13 at 9 AM to Kassim's Corner! CBS Radio AM 1580

Guests Joel Segal: Progressive Democrats of America National Advisory Board Member and Senior Congressional Legislative Assistant working on Universal Healthcare and Jobs for All; and Mike Hersh: Progressive Democrats of America Maryland State Coordinator, National Social Media Coordinator. We'll be on around 9:15.

Miss the show? Not in the DC area? Listen online: http://www.kassimscorner.com

Rally to Protect Medicare and Social Security

2011-06-11T10:45:00.001-04:00

Please share with your local contacts:

Information thanks to Donna Edwards for Congress: http://www.donnaedwardsforcongress.com

Dear Friends,

This coming Monday, June 13^th, at 1 pm, the Republican House & Senate Leadership--including Rep. Paul Ryan, the architect of the Republican plan to end Medicare--will be holding a "town hall" at the Newseum on the economy.

If interested, you can show your opposition to Republican plans to end Medicare as we know it outside the event. The "Rally to Protect Medicare and Social Security" will start at 12:30 pm outside the Newseum.

Rally to Protect Medicare and Social Security

Monday, June 13^th at 12:30pm

Outside of the Newseum

555 Pennsylvania Ave, NW

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=555+Pennsylvania+Ave,+NW+Washington+DC+20001

2 blocks from Archives Metro (blue/orange lines)

Beat the Heat with Cool Tips June 12th; 2 - 4 pm

2011-06-10T12:00:00.001-04:00

Beat the Heat with Cool Tips

Continuing the Energy Seminar Series, on June 12th, WeGreen USA with BG&E is organizing
an interactive session on how to Save Energy, Save Money

Sunday, June 12^th; 2 - 4 pm

Marilyn J. Praisner Library – Meeting Room

14910 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20866

SAVE ENERGY, SAVE MONEY

Will focus on easy and inexpensive energy conservation methods.

A "giveaway" bag (that includes literature that the presenter will give an overview of
including Peak Rewards) will be given to each participant.

GUEST SPEAKER: BG&E Representative

Plus More … Some Great Environment Info

WeGreen USA, a community action group, is helping individuals and communities
take action in reducing the carbon footprint, greenhouse gases and environmental pollution.
Ours is the collective strength of individuals working together
for making our communities more energy efficient and sustainable.

Free for Maryland residents, but space is limited so please Register.

Register at: http://www.wegreen-usa.org/event-registration.html

DIRECTIONS FROM:

North (The Columbia area)

Drive south on Columbia Pike (Rt. 29).
Turn right at Spencerville Rd. (Rt. 198)
Take the next left at Old Columbia Pike. (Sandy Spring Bank is on the corner).
Continue for 1/4 mile to the library on the right.

South (The Silver Spring area)

Drive north on Columbia Pike (Rt. 29) to Greencastle Rd. (first traffic light after Briggs Chaney Plaza).
Turn Left on Greencastle Rd., continue to Old Columbia Pike.
Turn right on Old Columbia Pike.
Continue around the curve. The library is on the left and has a bright teal roof.

East (The Laurel area)

From Sandy Spring Rd. (Rt. 198) cross Columbia Pike (Rt. 29).
Take the next left at Old Columbia Pike. (Sandy Spring Bank is on the corner).
Continue 1/4 mile to the library on the right.

West (The Spencerville area)

From Spencerville Rd. (Rt. 198) drive to Old Columbia Pike
Turn right at the Sandy Spring Bank.
Continue about 1/4 mile to the library on the right.

Free for Maryland residents, but space is limited so please Register.

Register at: http://www.wegreen-usa.org/event-registration.html

www.wegreen-usa.org

Their DREAMs and Maryland’s Future

2011-06-09T17:16:00.001-04:00

Help Us Preserve Their DREAMs and Maryland's Future

Casa de Maryland, Progressive Maryland, and allies worked hard to pass the new Dream Act in April to allow high-achieving, tax-paying immigrant students to attend Maryland colleges at in-state tuition rates. Our state joined ten others that now benefit from higher graduation rates, lifetime employment skills, and tax payments (See Washington Post editorial).

But now a small group of extremists is collecting petitions to repeal it and take away educational opportunities from Maryland's children and military families.

Please help us stop them and defend progress in Maryland. If you see any anti-DREAM petitioners, call 443-990-1010 to report the:

Address you saw them and description
Date of the sighting (if not immediate)
What the petitioner was telling signers

Save and call the "One Maryland Defense" Hotline Number: 443-990-1010
(or 1-877-299-7473 for Spanish/bilingual calls)

INSTITUTIONS & ORGANIZATIONS SUPPORTING THE DREAM ACT INCLUDE:
CASA de Maryland, Progressive Maryland, Baltimore City Council, Maryland State Board of Education, Montgomery and Prince George's County, the University System of Maryland, Morgan State University, Maryland Association of Community Colleges, Maryland State Education Association, Maryland Industrial Areas Foundation Affiliates (IAF): Action in Montgomery (AIM), Baltimoreans United in Leadership Development (BUILD), and People Acting Together in Howard (PATH), Baltimore Jewish Council, Baltimore-Washington Conference of the United Methodist Church, Greater Baltimore Urban League, Korean American Association, Jewish Community Relations Council, Maryland Catholic Conference, Maryland Episcopal Diocese, Maryland Interfaith Legislative Committee, Maryland Vietnamese Mutual Association, Presbytery of Baltimore, Progressive Maryland, South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT), and dozens more...

Dear Friends, MS Bike Ride this Saturday! How you can help!

2011-06-06T16:22:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends,

A friend of mine, David Sacks, is biking the MS Bike Ride this weekend, June 11. He and I both would appreciate your tax-deductible donation, no amount is too small. You may know that I have been battling MS for about 15 years. My mother also had the disease. David, his team, and all the MS Bike Riders are riding to raise money for research to help all who are affected by this disease, now and in the future.

You can click on this link to donate through David and his team, The Pedalling Penguins.

His letter is below, please circulate it to whomever you may know that may like to help.

Thank you so much for whatever you can do. And thank you to David, his team and all of the MS Bike Riders.

Best,
Karen

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Sacks, David
Date: Mon, Jun 6, 2011 at 1:10 PM
Subject: FW: MS ride

Dear Friends,

On June 11 I'll be cycling not just for fun, but also for a worthy cause. I registered for BIKE MS: BEYOND THE BELTWAY 2010 because I want to help raise funds that will go toward research aimed at treating and eventually curing multiple sclerosis.

Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system. Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with more than twice as many women as men contracting the disease. There is no cure, and MS affects more than 400,000 people in the U.S., and 2.5 million worldwide.

I'm asking for you to support my efforts with a tax-deductible donation. You can click on this link or on the link at the bottom of this message to make a secure online donation, or mail your contribution to the address below. Any amount that you give will make a big difference in the lives of people with MS.

I'm looking forward to the ride, and I really appreciate your support.

David

P.S. - If you would like more information about multiple sclerosis, the National MS Society or Bike MS, visit www.MSandYOU.org.

Make a secure donation online at:
www.MSandYOU.org

TONIGHT Healthcare NOT Warfare Celebration and Benefit

2011-06-06T16:11:00.001-04:00

Please join us and share this email with all DC-area progressives!
View online: http://www.pdamerica.org/blog/view/healthcare-not-warfare-celebration-and-benefit-tonight/

Healthcare NOT Warfare Celebration and Benefit
TONIGHT Monday, June 6 · 8:00pm - 11:00pm

John Nichols Donna Smith Thom Hartmann Norman Solomon

All proceeds benefit PDA's Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign.

8:00 PM Private reception: $100 suggested donation--order tickers here.

8:30 PM Main Event: $30 suggested donation--order tickets here.
If you can't be there, please support the Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign.

The Original Busboys and Poets
2021 14th St NW, Washington, DC

Closest Metro Stop: U St. / Cardozo (Green Line)
Join us for a night of celebration and community!

Featured speakers include:

John Nichols—journalist for the Nation, political commentator for Democracy NOW! and MSNBC
Donna Smith—co-chair Healthcare NOT Warfare Campaign, CNA/NNU community organizer
Thom Hartmann—progressive radio host, and award-winning, New York Times best-selling author.
Norman Solomon—Congressional candidate, National Co-Chair of Healthcare NOT Warfare.

8:00 PM Private reception: $100 suggested donation--order tickers here.

8:30 PM Main Event: $30 suggested donation--order tickets here.
If you can't be there, please support the Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign.

Speakout to End the Bush Tax Cuts

2011-06-06T14:48:00.000-04:00

Tues. June 7, Noon: 10th Anniversary
Speakout to End the Bush Tax Cuts

In Courtyard of the Baltimore Social Security Admin.
6401 Security Blvd., Woodlawn, Md. (map below)
Convened by Progressive Maryland

As our nation's economic crisis continues, some in Congress would continue tax cuts for millionaires while ending Medicare as we know it and endangering our country's safety net. Progressive Maryland on Tuesday will mark the tenth anniversary of the day George W. Bush signed into law a $1.35 trillion tax cut that primarily benefited the wealthiest Americans while leaving our country with massive debt.

Please join Progressive Maryland and allies as community advocates and every day Marylanders testify about the detrimental effects and urgent need to end tax cuts for the wealthy. This Maryland event is one of dozens across America to support Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security-- and protest efforts to cut essential services while giving trillions of dollars in additional tax cuts, exemptions and loopholes to the super-rich and to corporations.

"Enough is enough," said Executive Director Rion Dennis. "Our economy is in tatters and the middle class is disappearing. Yet some in Congress are at it again. They want to give even larger tax cuts to corporations and the super-rich while slashing essential services, environmental protections and attacking public employees."
Progressive Maryland supports the Taxation in Fairness Act, sponsored by Rep. Jan Schakowsky, an Illinois Democrat. The bill would create new tax brackets for millionaires and billionaires and help working Americans and middle-class families cope with the ongoing economic crisis. More at http://Progressivemaryland.org

Support the Democratic National Committee and Bernie Sanders

2011-06-05T12:09:00.001-04:00

Please sign this letter to the Senate Democratic Caucus asking them to support the DNC Afghanistan Withdrawal Resolution and Sanders' American Health Security Act of 2011 (S.915).

This letter will be distributed to the members of the Senate Democratic Caucus on June 7, as part of the June 7 Rally and Lobby Day with the Nurses. (If you can't make it to DC, then please participate in the June 7 National Call-in Day.)

Many of our allies in the progressive movement have endorsed and signed this letter: we hope you'll join them. Sign here.

Our goal is to gather at least 25,000 signatures between now and midnight, June 5. Click here to sign, and then please post this to your Facebook page and forward this email to your like-minded friends and family members. (Remember to remove the "Unsubscribe" link at the very bottom before you send the forward.)

Bin Laden is dead; the Afghanistan mission is accomplished. It is time to bring our troops and war dollars home and start addressing the very real hardships facing Americans, including providing comprehensive healthcare for all and the spiraling costs of healthcare.

Join us for a pre-rally benefit for the Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign on June 6 at Busboys and Poets!

It's not too late!

2011-06-04T20:48:00.001-04:00

We are pleased to announce that Norman Solomon, co-chair of the Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign, will be joining Thom Hartmann, John Nichols and Donna Smith at the Healthcare NOT Warfare Benefit at Busboys and Poets on June 6!

There's still a chance to take your place with the leading lights of progressive thought as they speak about the burning issues behind the Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign. And, for a few dollars more, you can spend time schmoozing with these luminaries before they speak.

Join us for this evening of celebration and community at the private reception at 8:00 PM before the main event. Click here for details and to reserve your ticket.

Or simply come to the main event at 8:30 PM. Click here for details and to reserve your ticket.

This promises to be a fun and entertaining evening. We certainly hope you can attend this warm-up celebration, sure to get you ready for the June 7 Rally with the Nurses at Lafayette Park. Click here for more information.

If you can't make it to Busboys and Poets @ 14th and V on Monday night to hear Hartmann, Nichols, and Smith, we hope you will consider making a contribution. Click here so we can continue to build our Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign.

Hope to see you there,

Tim Carpenter
PDA National Director

11 AM today: roundtable about Pepco's reliability

2011-06-04T03:56:00.001-04:00

MD Delegate Tom Hucker will be holding a community roundtable about Pepco's reliability, clean energy, and measures which the General Assembly has and will take to improve performance. The event is hosted by the Fenton Street Market this morning at 11:00 AM in front of the Silver Spring Civic Center.

Please bring your best ideas about Pepco and Maryland's clean energy future to the Community Forum at Fenton Street Market, 11 am on Saturday, June 4. RSVP please! http://www.fentonstreetmarket.com/?p=2891

Saturday, June 4 · 11:00am - 12:00 Noon

Veterans Plaza

8523 Fenton St.

Silver Spring, MD

11 AM today: roundtable about Pepco's reliability

2011-06-04T03:47:00.001-04:00

Veterans Plaza

8523 Fenton St.

Silver Spring, MD

Join us TONIGHT for the Eco/Justice Cafe! 4 to 10 PM

2011-06-03T13:26:00.001-04:00

Join us TONIGHT for the Eco/Justice Cafe! 4 to 10 PM
Please share this message with all your friends and lists!

University of the District of Columbia / Firebird Inn
Building 38, B-Level / 4200 Connecticut Ave., NW in DC
Just above the Van Ness/UDC Metro Stop (Red Line)

RSVP: Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=110487459039650
At the UDC School of Law website: http://www.law.udc.edu/event/June_Cafe

The June Cafe is sponsored by Jobuntu - Computer Support for People!
http://www.jobuntu.net contact Joseph Horgan at Joseph@Jobuntu.net / 240-242-9596

Joe Uehlein of the U-Liners http://www.uliners.com/ will play a few songs solo! Other performers expected. Drum circle--BYO percussion!

Carolyn Cook of United for Equality http://www.united4equality.com/ will present and lead a discussion on the Equal Rights Amendment.

Lashanda Thigpen of Earthworks will speak--and Earthworks will be collecting used cell phones and other electronics--so bring yours.

Naomi Bloch and Nick Maravell will update us on their efforts to save Nick's Montgomery County Organic Farm from the school board.

Bring a veggie/vegan pot luck dish to share if you can!

Happy Hour 4 to 6 PM / Live music begins at 6 PM
Veggie-Vegan Food by Fresh Start comes out at 6:30 PM
Interfaith Shabbat at 7 / Talks at 7:15 / Music restarts at 8 PM
Drumming circle at 9:30 PM - BYO Percussion Instrument!

Donations are requested: $15, $10 for students/low income; $5 for kids under 13. Feel free to donate more. We do not turn people away for inability to pay - but seriously, where can you eat, drink, and be merry (in a p.c. kinda way) for $10-15/person? : )

To donate in advance, please go to: https://udc.site-ym.com/donations/donate.asp?id=2477 use the general fund with a note to June Cafe.

Join us TONIGHT for the Eco/Justice Cafe!

2011-06-03T13:06:00.001-04:00

Celebrate Healthcare NOT Warfare

2011-06-01T21:34:00.001-04:00

Celebrate Healthcare NOT Warfare

Join us for an evening of celebration with John Nichols, Donna Smith, and Thom Hartmann!

Join Donna and John at 8 PM. Thom will appear around 8:30 PM.

Monday June 6th: PDA Celebration and Benefit for the Healthcare NOT Warfare Campaign

8 / 8:30 to 10 PM Busboys and Poets 14th & V Sts. NW

Closest Metro stop: U St / Cordozo (Green Line)

Private reception before the main event at 8:00 PM. Reserve your ticket. http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/celebrate-healthcare-not-warfare-at-busboys-and-poets

Main event at 8:30 PM. Reserve your ticket. http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/pda-celebration-and-benefit-for-healthcare-not-warfare-at-busboys-and-poets

This will be a fun and entertaining evening. If you can't attend, please make a contribution https://www.pdamerica.org/payments/give/donate to help support our Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign.

Memorial Day Weekend and the Victory Garden - 5/31/11

2011-05-31T12:13:00.001-04:00

Memorial Day Weekend and the Victory Garden - 5/31/11

I was lucky enough to spend my morning and early afternoon yesterday in three different gardens, growing in two of them and advising in the third. Being in the garden is always a joyous time, even with the summer heat, but it had special resonance on Memorial Day: since early in the last century, if not before, food gardening and local food production has held a special place in American life, a role which is at once both intensely practical and intensely patriotic.

Washington Post garden writer Adrian Higgins captured this beautifully in his recent commentary, "The victory garden, still a winning idea." Mr. Higgins noted, as so many of us do, that "the closer I am to the source of the veggies I eat, the better I feel about myself and the planet."

The article is a clarion call for people to get involved in growing food, stressing that we are already moving toward a time "when we will need victory gardens on every block, in a post-industrial, post-global planet, when advancement is measured in localizing our world, not expanding it." Brilliant. The only thing Mr. Higgins missed was mentioning that this movement is happening right in his own backyard, with Montgomery Victory Gardens!

In addition to growing our own, we will also need to defend the farms that still exist, and hopefully we will do so with all the vigor and determination that the Victory Gardeners of WW II fought their struggle.

You have all heard of the dire threat to Nick's Organic Farm, the only organic seed producing farm in Montgomery County. The next public meeting in this struggle is on Thursday, June 9. You can read more about it at the new Save Nick's Organic Farm website, as well as find opportunities to volunteer in the campaign.

Whether you join us on June 9 (please do!), grow your own food, or participate in any of a myriad number of ways folks are recreating our food system, you are participating in one of the most important, fundamental, and downright patriotic movements of our time. Don't forget it!

For the new food revolution,

Gordon Clark, Project Director
Montgomery Victory Gardens

Healthcare NOT Warfare celebration with John Nichols, Donna Smith, and Thom Hartmann

2011-05-31T09:58:00.001-04:00

Join us for an evening of celebration with John Nichols, Donna Smith, and Thom Hartmann!

Monday June 6th: PDA Celebration and Benefit for the Healthcare NOT Warfare Campaign

8 / 8:30 to 10 PM Busboys and Poets 14th & V Sts. NW
Closest Metro stop: U St / Cordozo

Private reception before the main event at 8:00 PM. Reserve your ticket.
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/celebrate-healthcare-not-warfare-at-busboys-and-poets

Main event at 8:30 PM. Reserve your ticket.
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/pda-celebration-and-benefit-for-healthcare-not-warfare-at-busboys-and-poets

This will be a fun and entertaining evening. If you can't attend, please make a contribution https://www.pdamerica.org/payments/give/donate to help support our Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign.

Re: Fab Four in and around DC

2011-05-30T20:15:00.000-04:00

Fab Four in and around DC

2011-05-30T15:35:00.001-04:00

Dear Capitol Area Progressive,

I hope to see you at these Fab Four Progressive Events in and around DC:

1. Friday June 3rd: Eco-Justice Cafe at Univ. of DC
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/ecojustice-cafe-june-3

2. Monday June 6th: PDA Celebration and Benefit for the Healthcare NOT
Warfare Campaign
Private reception $100:
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/celebrate-healthcare-not-warfare-at-busboys-and-poets
Main event $30:
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/pda-celebration-and-benefit-for-healthcare-not-warfare-at-busboys-and-poets

3. Tuesday June 7th: (afternoon) Rally with the Nurses at Lafayette Park
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/support-the-nursesrally-and-lobby-in-dc

4. Tuesday June 7th: (evening) PDA Chapter Meeting in Wheaton
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/montgomery-county-maryland-pda-chapter-meeting

---------------

1. Friday June 3rd: Eco-Justice Cafe
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/ecojustice-cafe-june-3

UDC Bldg 39, Level B - The Firebird Inn
(just above the Van Ness/UDC metro)
4200 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington DC 20008
The June 3 Cafe will begin with a Happy Hour from 4-6 pm.
Food by Fresh Start Catering comes out at 7 pm

Friendly people, tabling, live music, great vegetarian and vegan food,
beer & wine, a children's play/art area and more! Donations requested:
$15, $10 for students/low income; $5 for kids under 13. Feel free to
donate more.

To donate in advance, please go to
https://udc.site-ym.com/donations/donate.asp?id=2477 and use the general
fund with a note to June Cafe.

Contact Joe at JFL@udc.edu regarding: Tabling organizations, additional
performers welcome, potluck dishes welcome in lieu of or in addition to
$ donation.

---------------

2. Monday June 6th: PDA Celebration and Benefit for the Healthcare NOT
Warfare Campaign

8 / 8:30 to 10 PM
Busboys and Poets 14th & V Sts. NW
Closest Metro stop: Convention Center

Join us for an evening of celebration with John Nichols, Thom Hartmann
and Donna Smith!

Private reception before the main event at 8:00 PM. Reserve your ticket.
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/celebrate-healthcare-not-warfare-at-busboys-and-poets

Main event at 8:30 PM. Reserve your ticket.
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/pda-celebration-and-benefit-for-healthcare-not-warfare-at-busboys-and-poets

This will be a fun and entertaining evening. If you can't attend, please
make a contribution https://www.pdamerica.org/payments/give/donate to
help support our Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign.

---------------------------

3. Tuesday June 7th: (afternoon)

Rally with the Nurses at Lafayette Park
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/support-the-nursesrally-and-lobby-in-dc

10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Lafayette Square Park--across from the White House
16th St NW & H St NW, Washington DC 20005
Closest Metro stop: Metro Center

Speakers: Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Barbara Boxer, Rep. Dennis Kucinich
and John Nichols

---------------------------

4. Tuesday June 7th: (evening)

PDA Chapter Meeting in Wheaton
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/montgomery-county-maryland-pda-chapter-meeting

7:30 to 9 PM
Saigonese Restaurant
11232 Grandview Ave
Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)

Join us for a recap of the PDA/progressive events. We'll also discuss
the 2011 Maryland session--successes and failures--and the upcoming
special session including redistricting, revenues, budget issues and
plans for next year. Other hot topics: Congress and the budget, defense
authorizations, Patriot Act extension, and more!

I hope to see you at all of these great events,

Mike Hersh

PDA Celebration and Benefit for the Healthcare NOT Warfare Campaign

2011-05-28T11:56:00.001-04:00

After three successful state tours of the Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign this year, we’re taking it to Washington, D.C., in June.

On the night of June 6, we hope you’ll join us for an evening of celebration and community featuring John Nichols, Thom Hartmann and Donna Smith!

PDA Celebration and Benefit
for the Healthcare NOT Warfare Campaign
at Busboys and Poets 14th & V Sts. NW
Closest Metro stop: Convention Center

Join us for a private reception before the main event at 8:00 PM. Click here for details and to reserve your ticket.

Or come to the main event at 8:30 PM. Click here for details and to reserve your ticket.

This promises to be a fun and entertaining evening. We certainly hope you can attend this warm-up celebration to the rally the next day. If you cannot, we hope you will consider making a contribution by clicking here so we can continue with our state Healthcare NOT Warfare tours.

Please mark your calendars for the June 7
Rally with the Nurses at Lafayette Park.
Closest Metro stop: Metro Center
Click here for more information.

---------------------------

PDA Chapter Meeting in Wheaton
Saigonese Restaurant,
11232 Grandview Ave
Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902 Google Map
Public Transportation: Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line)

Join us for a recap of the PDA DC HealthcareNOTWarfare fundraiser (June 6) and the healthcare rally and lobby day (earlier on Tuesday June 7) We'll also discuss the 2011 Maryland session--successes and failures--and the upcoming special session including redistricting, revenues, budget issues and plans for next year. Other hot topics: Congress and the budget, defense authorizations, Patriot Act extension, and more!

Hope to see you there,

Tim Carpenter
PDA National Director

June 12 U-Liners with John Kadlecik special concert: Art & Activism

2011-05-26T00:27:00.001-04:00

EVENT: The U-Liners with Special Guest John Kadlecik present a special concert:
Art & Activism -- Music that inspires and informs. COVER CHARGE: $10
SHOW TIME: 7:00pm to 8:30pm Sunday, June 12, 2011
VENUE: Takoma Park Civic Auditorium -- 7500 Maple Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912
ARTIST WEBSITE: http://www.uliners.com/ LABEL WEBSITE: http://www.azaleacityrecordings.com/

What role does music, and art, play in public dialogue? Can music save the world? Joe Uehlein & The U-Liners will explore this question in both a historical and contemporary context in a special concert on Sunday, June 12 from 7pm - 8:30pm at the Takoma Park Civic Auditorium as a fundraiser for Voices for a Sustainable Future, a Takoma Park based non-profit.

As Joe Uehlein says, “Art is a critical complement to activism. No matter how brilliant our attempts to inform, it is our ability to inspire that makes the difference. Every great social movement has had a backbone of music and art. The sustainability movement is no different, and will define the 21st Century in the same way that six great social movement defined the 20th Century: Labor, civil rights, women’s, environment, equality, peace & freedom. It’s time to get out of our silos and work together to solve the climate crisis and build a sustainable future for the planet and its people. Music and art will play a critical role.”

The U-Liners, often described as Woody Guthrie meets Merle Haggard meets Jerry Garcia, are a top-notch roots-rock ensemble that has played every great DC-area venue including the Birchmere, Jammin’ Java, the IOTA Club, Strathmore, the Black Cat, and many more. the band has performed at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Yale University, the Knitting Factory in New York City, Bally’s in Las Vegas and other venues around the country.

The band includes some of DC’s best musicians including Wammie-winning multi-instrumentalist Avril Smith on guitar and mandolin, Wammie-winning drummer/percussionist Larry Ferguson, Mindy McWilliams on violin and vocals, Barry Warsaw on bass, Eli Gonzalez on sax, and Joe Uehlein on guitar and vocals.

The U-Liners will be joined by special Guest John Kadlecik of Further (with Phil Lesh and Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead). A Takoma Park resident, John is touring the country playing large venues with Further.

Joe Uehlein is the founding President of the Labor Heritage Foundation, and more recently is the founder of the CultureWorks Collective, dedicating to integrating art and activism in ways that help unite and inspire people to achieve progressive change. A 40+ year member of the American Federation of Musicians and a life-long labor and environmental activist Joe has lived his life at the confluence of art and activism.

The U-Liners, one of the region’s best roots-rock bands, celebrate critical praise for their eponymous CD. On Tap Magazine said “Longtime area roots-rocker Joe Uehlein practices in the best folk tradition: social consciousness that never loses site of musical enjoyment, and vice versa.” The Washington Post said “The payoffs are plentiful....the original tunes enliven things... real treats...when it puts a hauntingly harmonized spin on (Woody Guthrie’s) 'Pastures of Plenty." http://www.uliners.com/

Background: A strong activist for worker rights and the environment himself, Joe is politically active and on the cutting edge of the latest efforts for workers’ rights and social justice today. He is the founder of CultureWorks Collective, dedicated to integrating art and activism in ways that help unite and inspire people to achieve progressive change.

From his early days working in an aluminum mill in Central PA, a feisty and passionate Joe Uehlein developed a keen interest in Rock & Roll and the Folk and Country sounds of working class music. Joe’s broad musical journey began in union halls across the country, touring to Japan, Switzerland, Great Britain and Venezuela, and led to sharing the stage with countless legendary artists including Pete Seeger, Tom Morello, Steve Earle, Boots Riley, and Lester Chambers. Joe also performed at the White House for President Jimmy Carter.

Their debut CD, The U-Liners, crosses bridges and boundaries, providing audiences with inspiration, camaraderie and solid entertainment. As The Washington Post says, ”The payoffs are plentiful...”

You're invited! See you June 6!

2011-05-25T02:50:00.001-04:00

Dear Friend,

After three successful state tours of the Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign this year, we’re taking it to Washington, D.C., in June.

On the night of June 6, we hope you’ll join us for an evening of celebration and community featuring John Nichols (Nation Magazine, MSNBC) and Donna Smith (SiCKO, national nurses organizer and healthcare advocate)!

PDA Celebration and Benefit for the Healthcare NOT Warfare Campaign
at Busboys and Poets 14th & V Sts. (Convention Center metro)

Join us for a private reception before the main event at 8:00 PM. Click here for details and to reserve your ticket.

Or come to the main event at 8:30 PM. Click here for details and to reserve your ticket.

Please mark your calendars for the June 7 Rally with the Nurses at Lafayette Park. Click here for more information.

Hope to see you there,

Tim Carpenter
PDA National Director

Sign Petition to Save Organic Farm in Potomac

2011-05-24T22:27:00.001-04:00

From our friend Naomi Bloch:

Nick's Organic Farm has leased County land held for an eventual middle school in Montgomery County Maryland for the past 30 years. Farmers from all over the region rely on Nick's certified organic feed and seed for their organic operations.

Sign here: http://www.change.org/petitions/turn-a-30-year-old-organic-farm-in-maryland-into-a-food-education-hub-not-soccer-fields-2

On March 7, 2011, Nick and the community at large were given 2-weeks notice that the land would become Soccer Fields. There have still been no public hearings on this decision.

Many environmental, agriculture and local food organizations have banded together to ask Montgomery County's Executive, Ike Leggett, to form a Food Policy Council that will use Nick's Organic Farm as an anchor for agricultural and food education.

A Food Policy Council would fit perfectly with the County's current efforts to strengthen the local food system; including the Food Innovation Hub, and of course the nationally renowned Agricultural Reserve.

We have to act quickly, the County is moving ahead on soccer field construction on this site. Please join the organizations calling for a Food Education center at Brickyard Farm by signing the petition to Executive Leggett. The public should have a voice in the future of the Brickyard property...and the health of their local food system.

For more info as this issue evolves: http://brickyardblogmontgomery.blogspot.com/

Sign here: http://www.change.org/petitions/turn-a-30-year-old-organic-farm-in-maryland-into-a-food-education-hub-not-soccer-fields-2

Celebrate Healthcare NOT Warfare Monday, June 6

2011-05-20T19:48:00.001-04:00

Celebrate Healthcare NOT Warfare
at Busboys and Poets
2021 14th Street NW, Washington, DC

Monday, June 6, from 8:00–10:00 p.m.

8:00-8:30 p.m. Pre-event reception
$100 includes intimate gathering with the guest speakers and priority seating: http://www.tinyurl.com/June-6-reception

8:30-10:00 p.m.—public event
$30 suggested donation: http://www.tinyurl.com/June-6-event

With featured speakers:

John Nichols—the Nation, political commentator Democracy NOW!, MSNBC

Donna Smith—co-chair Healthcare NOT Warfare Campaign, CNA/NNU community organizer

All proceeds benefit Progressive Democrats of Americaʼs Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign

Montgomery County Peace Luncheon, Saturday, May 21

2011-05-17T15:31:00.000-04:00

Please come to the Montgomery County Peace Luncheon, Saturday, May 21, at 11 a.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Rockville, 100 Welsh Park Dr., Rockville. Directions here: http://www.uucr.org/directions.php

The keynote speaker for this year's Peace Luncheon is Gene Bruskin, co-founder of U.S. Labor Against the War (USLAW, www.uslaboragainstwar.org), an organization consisting of some 200 labor affiliates.

Mr. Bruskin, a highly inspirational speaker, will discuss the relationship of war and inequality in the U.S. He will talk from a personal viewpoint, sharing stories from his wide experience in both union and peace organizing.

Under Mr. Bruskin’s co-leadership, USLAW has become the most respected voice for peace within the U.S. labor movement; the organization is also well-regarded internationally. In addition to serving as co-convenor of USLAW, Gene Bruskin is currently Director, Strategic Campaigns Department, American Federation of Teachers. From 2006 through 2008, he was director of the highly successful Justice@Smithfield Campaign for the UFCW.

Don’t miss your chance to hear this exciting, nationally renowned speaker! Find out how the labor and peace movements can work together effectively from someone with a lifetime of successful, on-the-ground organizing experience.

There is a suggested donation of $25 for the luncheon, but pay what you can. All proceeds from the luncheon will support a project of Women for Afghan Women, one that Peace Action Montgomery coordinator Jean Athey saw when she visited Kabul recently and will briefly describe.

Lebanese Taverna is catering, and there will be vegetarian options. You will have the opportunity to purchase handicrafts from Afghanistan to benefit girls' schools and women's coops.

Please come and invite your friends!! But, very important: you need to RSVP so that the organizers can ensure that there is enough food. Just send an email to info@peaceactionmc.org and say you intend to come to the peace luncheon. Do it today, as space is limited!

Sponsored by Peace Action Montgomery, Pax Christi, and the Social Justice Committee of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Rockville

Urgent Maryland Environmental Action Alert

2011-05-16T14:10:00.001-04:00

Urgent Maryland Environmental Action Alert: thanks to Greg Smith

Fight Dirty Energy. Protect Maryland's Environmental and Clean Energy Laws.

Call and Write Governor O'Malley Today. Urge Him to Veto Senate Bill 690.

Dear friends,

One of Maryland's most important environmental and clean energy laws is under attack by the incinerator industry. Maryland's Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS) is an essential tool in the state's efforts to fight global warming, promote clean, renewable energy, and reduce our disastrous over-dependence on fossil fuels.

This important law is now just a signature away from being badly weakened, and the man holding the pen, the person who will decide whether to weaken or defend this essential law is Governor Martin O’Malley. He's been leaning the wrong way, and he needs to hear from you today.

The RPS requires companies that supply electricity to Maryland residences, businesses, and public and private institutions to get at least 20 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by the year 2022. Suppliers can either generate their own renewable energy or they can purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) from other generators. Those generators can operate in Maryland or in other states.

Senate Bill 690 would weaken the RPS by inappropriately elevating waste incineration -- the burning of garbage, tires, automobile scraps and other materials -- to the top tier of Maryland’s RPS, placing this polluting, destructive technology on par with wind, solar, geothermal, and other legitimate renewable energy resources.

SB 690 would provide even greater financial incentives to incineration, which is already heavily subsidized. It also could flood Maryland’s energy market with dirty in-state and out-of-state RECs, and crowd out legitimate renewable energy. This would undermine Maryland's efforts to fight global warming and promote clean, renewable energy.

Governor O'Malley's next and last scheduled bill signing day is Thursday, May 19. He can either sign Senate Bill 690, veto it, or take no action and allow SB 690 to become law without his signature.

We need Governor O'Malley to take decisive action, defend and promote truly renewable energy, and veto SB 690.

To Learn More and Take Action

You can learn more about how to fight this attack on Maryland's RPS by reading below and by visiting our new web site at:        www.communityresearch.wordpress.com

On our site, you will find fact sheets, information on how your legislators voted on SB 690, letters from a nonprofits calling on Governor O'Malley to veto SB 690, and editorials from newspapers that support a veto.

You will also find an easy way to send Governor O'Malley an email letter.

Act Now. Please Call and Write Governor O'Malley Today. Urge Him Veto Senate Bill 690.

SB 690 passed by just one vote in the Senate in the closing hours of the General Assembly session.

Governor O’Malley supports incineration, and he supported SB 690 during the 2011 General Assembly session.

But a growing alliance of environmental, public health and sustainability nonprofits is urging Governor O’Malley to veto SB 690.

State legislators are, too. So are businesses that develop and deploy recycling, composting and legitimate renewable energy. And three Maryland newspapers – the Baltimore Sun, the Carroll County Times, and the Frederick News-Post – now urge Governor O’Malley to veto SB 690.

Please join us in urging Governor O'Malley to do the right thing and veto Senate Bill 690. Call and write him today. And spread the word by forwarding this action alert to friends, neighbors, colleagues and fellow activists.

Phone:  800-811-8336

Email:  governor@gov.state.md.us

Or send Governor O'Malley an email letter through our site and action link provided by the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives.

A Few of the Many Problems with Incineration

Proponents claim that waste incineration is clean, inexpensive and renewable. It's not.

Information provided by the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other sources indicate that incineration is more expensive and polluting than many other ways to generate electricity. It's more expensive than on-shore wind, off-shore wind, big solar, small solar, geothermal, hydroelectric, natural gas, coal and nuclear energy. Megawatt for megawatt, incineration generates more carbon dioxide than even coal, the most carbon-intensive fossil fuel. Megawatt for megawatt, it generates more lead, mercury and other pollutants than natural gas and even coal.

Mass-burn garbage incinerators generally destroy huge quantities of recyclable and compostable materials even in counties and cities with recycling programs.

Ton for ton, reuse, recycling and composting generally save more energy than incineration generates. They also provide more local jobs and more local revenues than incineration or landfilling.

Proponents also claim that incineration reduces demand for landfill space. It can, but incinerators don't eliminate demand for landfills. Some materials cannot be burned or don't burn well and go straight to landfills. And incineration generates enormous of quantities of ash, which contains toxic pollutants and often is dumped in landfills.

The majority of what most jurisdictions burn or bury could be reused, recycled or composted -- with less expense, less pollution, and less damage from resource extraction, and with more energy saved, more materials conserved, and more benefit to local economies.

"The choice for Governor O'Malley and Maryland is clear. We can attempt to reach our renewable energy goals honestly by pursuing wind, solar and other legitimate

renewables, or we can cheat by promoting trash incineration.

"We can build a sustainable, green economy based on reducing waste and creating local jobs and revenues through recycling and other strategies, or we can continue

to burn and bury valuable resources and diminish our children's future.

"Mr. O'Malley should veto the bill."

-- Brenda Platt, Co-Director of the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, and an expert on building sustainable economy through resource conservation, Op-Ed in the Baltimore Sun, May 10, 2011

Clean is Clean.

Renewable is Renewable.

Incineration is Neither.

Get Involved: support progressive candidates and issues

2011-05-13T12:02:00.000-04:00

Get Involved: support progressive candidates and issues
If you live in the Montgomery County Maryland area--or support our efforts here--please join the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance. MCPA is local, independent coalition of organizations. MCPA organizes debates, forums and other events to inform the public and advance understanding and progress in Montgomery County.

MCPA will endorse issue campaigns, educate the general public on issues, host events, and otherwise support progressive issues and campaigns as MCPA and in concert with other organizations. To achieve everything we should--to expand our meetings, hold more forums, extend outreach, and organize support for the best candidates--we ask you to become a paying member of MCPA now. Contact mikehersh@mikehersh.com to work with MCPA. Become a paying member of MCPA.

Paying members will help us establish our priorities, allocate our resources, and make a real difference. For the low cost of $25/year, about $2 per month, you can participate in the changes you want to see in Montgomery County. Contribute online or bring payment to any event or meeting.

Paying members will be eligible to serve on committees (including the new steering committee), participate in charting our course into the next year including formulating the process through which we will nominate candidates and voting to endorse candidates for office in 2010. Organizations and individuals are eligible to join MCPA. They will also participate in our planning and decision-making processes governing our role in state and local elections.

Our committees will study and make recommendations for MCPA's positions on issues facing all levels of government including: health policy, transportation and land use, energy and environment, equality under the law, accurate and transparent elections, clean politics including public campaign financing and other fundamental changes in access to our government, affordable housing, access to needed services, protection from public or private violations of basic rights, respect and support for all members of our community--regardless of race, age, gender, sexual identity, national origin, creed, denomination, religion or lack thereof.

If you haven't yet: please join our Meetup Group, our Google Group, and our Facebook Group.

Please donate to support our ongoing meetings, public forums, website, and more, or bring payment to any event or meeting. Sponsor our Meetup Group. Attend our meetings and events, join our committees, help us organize more events and develop or endorsement process.

Thanks!

Mike Hersh
Executive Director, Montgomery County Progressive Alliance

vote for Clarissa Libertelli's Doodle for Google.

2011-05-12T23:30:00.000-04:00

Vote for Clarissa Libertelli's Doodle for Google.

One of our students at Wood Middle School was selected out of 107,000
entries as a finalist for the region in her age group in the Doodle for
Google contest. If she wins the overall contest she wins a scholarship
and the school gets $25,000 in computer equipment. Clarissa Libertelli
is the name of the student and she is in 7th grade.

Please help Wood and Clarissa by voting for her. I have posted the link
below. Each email address can only vote once so if you have multiple
email addresses please vote from each one.

Clarissa's doodle was hand drawn, scanned and then colored using
software. Some of the other doodles were not drawn freehand.

This is an awesome honor for Wood and Clarissa. She will find out if
she wins when she attends an awards presentation in New York City.

http://www.google.com/doodle4google/vote.html#d=d3-3

Please feel free to send the link to your family, friends, neighbors,
colleagues and anybody else you thing might be interested in voting for
this young lady.

Thanks for your support,

Lori Wilen

Montgomery County Peace Luncheon, Saturday, May 21

2011-05-11T10:27:00.002-04:00

Montgomery County Peace Luncheon, Saturday, May 21

2011-05-11T10:27:00.001-04:00

Human Rights Commission Hosts Free Community Forum

2011-05-09T14:16:00.001-04:00

Human Rights Commission Hosts Free Community Forum

The City of Rockville's Human Rights Commission will host the second free community forum in a series Thursday, May 12, at 7 p.m. at the Twinbrook Community Center Annex, 12920 Twinbrook Parkway.

The forum, Defending Religious Freedom; Building Interfaith Bridges, will focus on how to advocate for religious freedom and interfaith dialogue globally and locally. It will feature guest speakers from the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom and Interfaith Works, and will include a discussion and light refreshments.

For more information about the forum or the Human Rights Commission contact Janet Kelly, human rights and mediation coordinator, at jkelly@rockvillemd.gov or 240-314-8316, TTY 240-314-8137.

Fwd: IMPORTANT UPDATE for Mother Earth Day Celebration

2011-05-05T15:00:00.000-04:00

You Are Invited to

"Mother Earth Day" Celebration

On May 15^th (a week after Mother's Day), join WeGreen USA in celebrating
"Mother Earth Day" Gardeners Special Seminar & No-Meat Potluck – A fun and information packed event.

Sunday, May 15^th; 2 - 4 pm

Marilyn J. Praisner Library – Meeting Room (not Community Center)

14910 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20866

Free for Maryland residents, but please bring a meatless dish to share with 6-8 people.

Since space is limited please Register at: http://www.wegreen-usa.org/event-registration.html

"GARDENERS SPECIAL" - MASTER GARDENER PRESENTATIONS

Two Maryland Master Gardeners' educating Maryland residents about safe, effective and sustainable
horticultural practices that build healthy gardens, landscapes and communities.

Homeowners and the Chesapeake Bay

GUEST SPEAKER: Catherine Callahan

Montgomery County Master Gardener

Container Gardening

GUEST SPEAKER: Liz Hofmeister

Montgomery County Master Gardener

NO-MEAT POTLUCK

Please bring a meatless dish to share with 6-8 people.
Choose from any category:

Appetizer, Salad, Main Course, Fruits / Dessert.

Bread & Beverages will be served.

FREE GIFT for the first thirty (30) attendees

WeGreen USA, a non-profit, community action group, is helping individuals and communities take action in reducing the carbon footprint, greenhouse gases and environmental pollution. Ours is the collective strength of individuals working together for making our communities more energy efficient and sustainable.

DIRECTIONS FROM:

North (The Columbia area)

Drive south on Columbia Pike (Rt. 29). Turn right at Spencerville Rd. (Rt. 198) Take the next left at Old Columbia Pike. (Sandy Spring Bank is on the corner). Continue for 1/4 mile to the library on the right.

South (The Silver Spring area)

Drive north on Columbia Pike (Rt. 29) to Greencastle Rd. (first traffic light after Briggs Chaney Plaza). Turn Left on Greencastle Rd., continue to Old Columbia Pike. Turn right on Old Columbia Pike. Continue around the curve. The library is on the left and has a bright teal roof.

East (The Laurel area)

From Sandy Spring Rd. (Rt. 198) cross Columbia Pike (Rt. 29). Take the next left at Old Columbia Pike. (Sandy Spring Bank is on the corner). Continue 1/4 mile to the library on the right.

West (The Spencerville area)

From Spencerville Rd. (Rt. 198) drive to Old Columbia Pike and Turn right at the Sandy Spring Bank. Continue about 1/4 mile to the library on the right.

To REGISTER click this link: http://www.wegreen-usa.org/event-registration.html

UDC Eco/Justice Cafe Friday, May 6th!

2011-05-02T17:30:00.001-04:00

Dear Friends, Please join us on Friday, May 6 for

Live music, excellent vegan/veggie food, great networking!

UDC Eco/Justice Cafe!

4 - 10 pm

University of the District of Columbia Firebird Inn

Building 38, B-Level

4200 Connecticut Ave., NW

Washington, DC 20008

(Groups seeking a free table, please contact JLibertelli@udc.edu - but please write quickly as space is limited!)

Tabling organizations include: Jobuntu, Earth News, Tolu News, Choices and the UDC Environmental Leaders Sustainability Club

Register on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/6hs7952
Or at the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law website: http://www.law.udc.edu/event/May_Cafe

Order of Business:

4-6 p.m. Happy Hours
7 p.m. Talk by Shahid Buttar, Executive Director, Bill of Rights Defense Committee, Cafe Co-Sponsor - See http://www.bordc.org/

8 p.m. Performance by Shahid Buttar, Hip Hop Artist! See http://www.shahidbuttar.com/index.php?sn=42

Closing: Join UDC Law Professor John Brittain and Joe Libertelli for a drumming session to end the evening!

(Food by Fresh Start Catering comes out at 7 pm)

What, Why, Etc.

The Eco/Justice Cafe features friendly people, tabling organizations with important information and services,
live music, pool tables, video, great vegetarian and vegan food, beer & wine & soft drinks, a children's play/art area and more!

Donations are requested: $15, $10 for students/low income; $5 for kids under 13. Feel free to donate more.

We do not turn people away for inability to pay.

To donate in advance, please go to

https://udc.site-ym.com/donations/donate.asp?id=2477

and use the general fund with a note to May Cafe.

These Cafes are all about community building.

Come on out, have a good time, meet kindred spirits.

- Tabling organizations, additional performers welcome
- Volunteers always sought - before, during and after the Cafe
- potluck dishes welcome in lieu of or in addition to $ donation
- other initiatives welcome!

And, of course PLEASE invite your Facebook (and other) friends to this event.

Again, please register for this event at:

Register on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/6hs7952
Or at the School of Law website: http://www.law.udc.edu/event/May_Cafe

Thank you!

The Eco/Justice Cafes are organized by the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law

For information on the full-tuition scholarship for activists,

see: http://www.law.udc.edu/page/justice

Free Workshop: How Square Foot Gardening Can Help You Live Like a “Locavore”

2011-05-02T14:02:00.001-04:00

Free Workshop: How Square Foot Gardening Can Help You Live Like a "Locavore"

One of our favorite speakers, Linna "the locavore" Ferguson, returns to College Park to discuss this timely topic, answering these questions and others:
·         What is a locavore anyhowand do we really want to be one?
·         What difference does being a locavore have on our environment?
·         How can we "integrate local food into our lifestyles"?
·         Where can we find local food networksand what are they anyway?

Linna will discuss the easiest way to get the most local food you can by growing your own with the world-famous method, Square Foot Gardening a small space, intensive-growth approach that works.

When: Saturday, May 7, 1 pm to 3 pm

Where: Old Parish House, 4711 Knox Road, College Park, MD 20740

Metro: Just one block from the College Park Metro stop on the green line.
Driving: Park on the street, and be sure to get a parking pass when you arrive!

How: For more information and to register, please email janiso@erols.com or call and leave her a message at 240-888-6972.

For more on Linna, see http://www.foodscaper.com/ --
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To post to this group, send email to mcprogressivealliance@googlegroups.com
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For more options, visit this group online at http://groups.google.com/group/mcprogressivealliance?hl=en

Free Workshop: How Square Foot Gardening Can Help You Live Like a “Locavore”

2011-05-02T11:09:00.001-04:00

Free Workshop: How Square Foot Gardening Can Help You Live Like a "Locavore"

The Montgomery County Budget and the Public Schools Monday, May 2

2011-04-26T16:58:00.000-04:00

The Greater Silver Spring Democratic Club

Please join us for the next meeting of the
Greater Silver Spring Democratic Club.

Date: Monday, May 2, 2011

Time: 7:30 pm

Place: Takoma Park Middle School
7311 Piney Branch Road
Takoma Park, MD

TOPIC:

The Montgomery County Budget and the Public Schools

SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS

Ike Leggett
Montgomery County Executive

Valerie Ervin- Council President
(District 5)

Doug Prouty
President, MCEA

Chris Barclay-School Board President
(invited)

Montgomery County Progressive Alliance

Rep. Chris Van Hollen on "Political Pulse"

OneVoice Tour Comes to UDC Law

OneVoice Tour Comes to UDC Law

Stand Up!

We the People vs. the Super Committee

organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all

Feminism in Politics: Discussion and Workshop

Protest at the White House to stop disastrous tar sands pipeline construction

Town Hall Meeting: Taking Back the Budget Debate

Progressive in Maryland and on Facebook?

Women's Equality Day Friday Aug 26 5:30-7:30pm

TOWN HALL MEETING: Taking Back the Budget Debate

help save Rockville deer

organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all

Taking Back the Budget Debate: A TOWN HALL MEETING

We're organizing to guarantee opportunity, security, and prosperity for all.

SAVE THE DATE! Topic: Feminism in Politics

Taking Back the Budget Debate

Phone, Fax, and Write to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security!

Joe Uehlein Solo & U-Liners Shows!

Phone, Fax, and write! Protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

Wheaton MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, PDA, and more.

protect Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

BUSBOYS AND POETS PRESENTS "The Nuclear Age at 2/3 of a Century"

After the Deficit Deal--Time to Speak Out to save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

KeepOurPromise met with 80 Congressional offices July 27th

We met with 80 Congressional offices yesterday, July 27th

STOP THE CUTS TO SOCIAL SECURITY, MEDICARE AND MEDICAID

AFL-CIO and Progressive Democrats of America Events

Lobby, Call and Fax to Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

Thanks to your support, KeepOurPromise is protecting Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

Want to Save Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security?

Fight Against Cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

Fight Against Cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

Join us TODAY for an Emergency Briefing: http://www.keepourpromise.org/

Find Out What Congress Isn't Telling You Tuesday, July 19th 2 to 4 PM 2237 Rayburn House Office Building Closest Metro: Capitol South Blue/Orange lines

Join us TOMORROW for a Lobby Day:

Can't make it to DC? Join our Call-in Day:

Maybe I was naive, or possibly I'm just too impatient?

U-Liners Tribute to Jerry Garcia July 30th

FARM WORKDAY at the LICKING CREEK BEND FARM Sunday, July 24

Save Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security

Save the Dream / Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid

Save Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid Lobby Day

Join us TODAY to plan our next steps

Reminder: Make Fireworks for Progress on the 5th!

Eco-Justice Cafe TONIGHT! Come any time 4PM to 10 PM

Tell Our Senators: We All Deserve Full Equality

Making History! ERA Lobby Days--this Weds. and Thurs.

Senator Kerry wants to hear from YOU!

SENATE LOBBY DAY Thursday, June 30

Healthcare NOT Warfare in the Senate.

Healthcare NOT Warfare in the Senate.

Last Push--Deadline 5 PM ET Monday!

Help bring our message of Healthcare NOT Warfare to the Senate

You're invited to help make history TOMORROW!

express your support for healthcare not warfare

Sign the Letter to the Senate Democratic Caucus

Join us for the July 1 Cafe

Tune in tomorrow Monday June 13 at 9 AM to Kassim's Corner! CBS Radio AM 1580

Tune in tomorrow Monday June 13 at 9 AM to Kassim's Corner!

Rally to Protect Medicare and Social Security

Beat the Heat with Cool Tips June 12th; 2 - 4 pm

Their DREAMs and Maryland’s Future

Dear Friends, MS Bike Ride this Saturday! How you can help!

TONIGHT Healthcare NOT Warfare Celebration and Benefit

Speakout to End the Bush Tax Cuts

Support the Democratic National Committee and Bernie Sanders

It's not too late!

11 AM today: roundtable about Pepco's reliability

11 AM today: roundtable about Pepco's reliability

Join us TONIGHT for the Eco/Justice Cafe! 4 to 10 PM

Join us TONIGHT for the Eco/Justice Cafe!

Celebrate Healthcare NOT Warfare

Celebrate Healthcare NOT Warfare

Memorial Day Weekend and the Victory Garden - 5/31/11

Healthcare NOT Warfare celebration with John Nichols, Donna Smith, and Thom Hartmann

Re: Fab Four in and around DC

Fab Four in and around DC

Find Out What Congress Isn't Telling You
Tuesday, July 19^th 2 to 4 PM
2237 Rayburn House Office Building
Closest Metro: Capitol South Blue/Orange lines

Clean is Clean.

Renewable is Renewable.

Incineration is Neither.