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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
TODAY March to White House for Healthcare / Friday Justice Cafe'
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
5 Dem. Senators Join GOPs vs. Public Option
WASHINGTON — After a half-day of animated debate, the Senate Finance Committee on Tuesday rejected efforts by liberal Democrats to add a government-run health insurance plan to major health care legislation, dealing the first official setback to an idea that many Democrats, including
All of the other versions of the health care legislation advancing in Congress — a bill approved by the Senate health committee and a trio of bills in the House — include some version of the government-run plan, or public option.
But the Finance Committee chairman, Senator Max Baucus, Democrat of Montana, long ago removed it from his proposal because of stiff opposition from Republicans who call the public plan a step toward “socialized medicine.”
The committee on Tuesday afternoon voted, 15 to 8, to reject an amendment proposed by Senator John D. Rockefeller IV, Democrat of West Virginia, to add a public option called the Community Choice Health Plan, an outcome that underscored the lack of support for a government plan among many Democrats.
Mr. Baucus voted no, as did Senators
Senator Charles E. Schumer, Democrat of New York, who voted in favor of the proposal, said supporters of the public option would keep on fighting. After the vote on Mr. Rockefeller’s proposal, Mr. Schumer was scheduled to put forward his own public option amendment and it, too, was expected to be defeated.
“We are going to keep at this and at this and at this until we succeed, because we believe in it so strongly,” he said.
Advocates of a public plan say it would provide crucial competition for private insurers and that the larger goals of the legislation, to extend coverage to more than 30 million uninsured Americans and to slow the steep rise in health care costs, cannot be achieved without it.
The debate came as the Finance Committee resumed debate over the health care bill after a three-day weekend because of
In the emotionally charged debate, Mr. Rockefeller railed against the practices of private insurers, who he suggested were largely preying on a defenseless American public. “They’re getting away with terrible things,” he said.
But Senator Charles E. Grassley of
“A government run plan will ultimately force private insurers out of business,” Mr. Grassley said, adding that supporters of the public option were trying to open a back door toward a fully government-run, or single-payer, health system like those in Canada or England.
“Public option is a step toward a completely government run plan that they are hoping for,” Mr. Grassley said.
And he rejected assertions by Democrats, including Mr. Rockefeller, that the public plan would compete fairly because it would have to follow the same rules as private insurers.
“The federal government will not only be running the plan, it will also be running the market in which it competes with the private plans and that doesn’t sound like a level playing field to me,” Mr. Grassley said.
Democrats quickly rose up to answer the charges, including Mr. Schumer, who challenged Mr. Grassley to spell out his views on Medicare, the government insurance plan for Americans over age 65 and for the disabled.
“I just want to know what you think of Medicare, which is a much more government-run program,” Mr. Schumer said.
“I think that Medicare is part of the social fabric of
“But it is a government-run plan,” Mr. Schumer shot back.
Mr. Grassley, a veteran Senate debater, insisted that Medicare did not pose a threat to the private insurance industry. “It’s not easy to undo a Medicare plan without also hurting a lot of private initiatives that are coupled with it,” he said.
Mr. Schumer pounced. “You are supportive of Medicare,” he said. “I just don’t understand the difference. That’s a government-run plan and the main knock you have made on Senator Rockefeller’s amendment, and I am sure on mine, is that it’s government-run.”Continued: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/30/health/policy/30health.html?_r=1&hp
Join Mad As Hell Doctors in Maryland and D.C., TOMORROW Sept. 30th
PDA Joins Mad As Hell Doctors March and Rally
in Maryland and D.C., TOMORROW Sept. 30th
Let's give the Mad As Hell Doctors a warm Maryland and D.C. welcome. We'll join them at stops in Frederick, Columbia, and Silver Spring. Then, we'll march and rally with them for Single Payer healthcare at the White House.
The Mad As Hell Doctors aren't going to take it anymore. They began a cross country tour August 28th in Washington State, and will arrive in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, September 30th. Join us for their stops in Maryland and at their final destination: the White House.
The Care-A-Van will stop in Maryland on their way to a march and rally in D.C. We'll tell the President and Congress to deliver the reform we need: a national single payer health system. We've learned that single payer amendments will be offered on the floor of the House and the Senate. Join us and wear a white ribbon to show your support and so we can recognize you!
Maryland Stop #1 Frederick, Maryland, join us at the Fairground, 797 E Patrick St. from 9:30 to 10 a.m. Then, drive to Columbia (about 1 hour).
Maryland Stop #2 Columbia, Maryland, meet at the Columbia Mall, 10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy. (in front of J.C. Penny) from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Then, drive to Silver Spring (about 30 minutes).
Maryland Stop #3 Silver Spring, Maryland, park at a nearby metered garage and meet us at the Silver Spring Metro Station, 12 Noon and take the Red Line toward Shady Grove to Metro Center, switch to a Blue/Orange train, and then travel to the McPherson Square station. Come early (11:30 a.m.) and pass out single payer leaflets!
Parking Garages near the Silver Spring Metro station:
Network Parking: 1400 E West Hwy, Silver Spring, MD - 0.1 mi W
Central Parking Systems: 8401 and 8455 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD - 0.1 mi NE
Impark: 8403 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD - 0.1 mi NE
Meet at McPherson Square at 3 p.m. to march down Vermont Ave. to the rally at Lafayette Square Park (across from the White House). The rally will start at 4 p.m. with music and exciting speakers.
Bring single payer signs and wear white ribbons--the symbol of the single payer movement. If you miss us at any of these stops, meet us by 3 p.m. at McPherson Square, to march or by 4 p.m. at Lafayette Square Park to rally.
Be part of history by getting mad with the doctors and to understand single payer well enough to argue for it, use the resources on PDA's Healthcare for All/Single Payer IOT pages. PDA is a Mad As Hell Doctors partner.
Thanks and see you there TOMORROW!
Monday, September 28, 2009
MOBILIZE for Health, Fun, Peace
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1. Wednesday September 30th, give the 
Join us at the White House to act against the Afghanistan War
go to: http://www.iraqpledge.org/ for more details.
Join us October 5th when we visit the White House, and you can sign the petition to President Obama... HERE: http://www.iraqpledge.org/nogoodwar.html
If you plan on being a part of the October 5th mobilization in Washington, please fill out this online form: http://vcnv.org/ncnr
We will be gathering at McPherson Square (15th and I Streets NW) at 10 a.m. on Monday, October 5th and then silently processing (two and a half blocks) to the White House to deliver a letter to Obama and request a meeting. The gathering will feature Liz McAlister as a speaker.
In front of the White House we will be joined by various affinity groups, such as the Atlantic Life Community, Witness Against Torture, Veterans for Peace, World Can't Wait, and Activist Response Team. Other groups fully endorsing the action and participating are Peace Action, Code Pink, the War Resisters' League, Voters for Peace, The Washington Peace Center, and Student Peace Action Network. During this action we will all be following the Nonviolence Guidelines listed on this site: http://www.iraqpledge.org/Nonviolence_Guidelines.html
For those actively participating, we ask that either a "We Will Not Be Silent" t-shirt, or a simple black shirt be worn: http://thecriticalvoice.org/order/
We are calling for withdrawal of all U.S. troops from Afghanistan, ending the illegal bombing with US drones, including neighboring Pakistan, and the closing of the Bagram prison and ending indefinite detention and torture. We are calling for an end to these wars and occupations, including that of Iraq, so that our resources can be used for life-sustaining actions including the funding and the rebuilding of Afghanistan's and Iraq's infrastructure and medical assistance to Afghans and Iraqis, in addition to poverty reduction programs in the United States and world wide. We are calling for accountability for those who have committed war crimes.
If you wish to join us in DC on the Monday of the same week our nation will be entering its 9th year of War in Afghanistan, contact the NCNR Co-Conveners jsfirst@tds.net
We will meet on Sunday, Oct. 4th, 2-5 p.m. at the Festival Center located at 1640 Columbia Road NW.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
FRIDAY! UDC Justice Cafe 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 2
"supporting environmental and social justice activists and organizations"
Featuring food, poetry, beer, an open mic session, FREE TABLING for
organizations and more.
**** Music by JOE UEHLEIN AND FRIENDS: http://www.JoeUehlein.com ****
With Sound Tech: Mike Bowers. Food by Kit's Catering (Vegan and Vegetarian)
If you are passionate about social justice and/or the environment and
want to connect, learn, and have fun with others like you, bring your
friends and family to the Firebird Inn, Building 39, B-Level
4200 Connecticut Ave NW Washington DC 20008.
Just above the Van Ness / UDC Metro Station (red line).
Campus Map: http://www.udc.edu/campus_map.htm
Hosted by the University of the District of Columbia David Clarke School
of Law, the District's public interest law school.
Suggested donation $15 / $10 students / $5 kids. All ages event; child
activities provided – and powered by kids!
We need volunteers to help set up and decorate, clean up at the end, and
help host the event.
VOLUNTEER, contact Mike: mikehersh@mikehersh.com or Joe: JFL@udc.edu
FOR A FREE TABLE contact Marie: Marie@Earthrights.org
Upcoming Cafes: First Fridays at 6 pm -10 pm (* with exceptions to avoid
holidays):
November 6th, December 4th, *January 8th, February 5th, March 5th, April
2nd, May (tba), June 4th
For more information on the law school full-tuition three-year Advocate
for Justice Scholarships, go to http://www.law.udc.edu/?page=AFJ
Help us spread the word - Invite your friends to join our UDC Justice
Cafe Facebook group:
For more information on the law school full-tuition three-year Advocate
for Justice Scholarships, go to http://www.law.udc.edu/?page=AFJ
HISTORY: From 1990 – 1997, the Metro DC Environmental Network (MetNet)
provided connectivity to the region's environmental and justice
activists through a monthly calendar, monthly UDC Justice Cafes, a
broadcast fax system, and annual regional Earth Day events.
MetNet 2.0 will recycle the best of the old MetNet as follows:
MONTHLY ECO/JUSTICE CAFÉS: are held on the First Fridays of each month
at the UDC Firebird Inn. They are intended to build understanding,
friendship, community and cooperation among area activists.
THE NEW ON-LINE CALENDAR: will provide the region's most comprehensive
listing of social justice and environmental events. The Calendar will be
"rolled out" in Spring 2009.
AN ONLINE RESOURCE CENTER will access Washington area residents to local
and regional information they need to act on their environmental and
social values. The Resource Center will be built out in stages in the
coming months.
VOLUNTEER EDITORS are sought for sections of the Resource Center .
Editors will collect and maintain a section of the database and, in
return, will be granted control that area's "home page" where they can
write or choose articles to post, manage a forum, and highlight their
favorite resources. These will be serious and demanding – but highly
rewarding – positions.
STRUCTURE: MetNet 2.0 is currently a project of the DC School of Law
Foundation and can accept tax exempt contributions at www.dcslf.org. It
is preparing to file for its own 501 (c) (3) status with the help of the
UDC David A. Clarke School of Law Community Development Clinic.
STAY IN TOUCH: Join the MetNet 2.0 List at http://www.dcslf.org/metnet.html
Friday, September 25, 2009
PDA Welcomes Mad As Hell Doctors
Join P.D.A. welcoming "Mad As Hell Doctors" to Maryland and D.C.
Wednesday Sept. 30th
Let's give the Mad As Hell Doctors a warm Maryland and D.C. welcome.
We'll join them at stops in Frederick, Columbia, and Silver Spring.
Then, we'll march and rally with them for Single Payer healthcare at the
White House. The Mad As Hell Doctors aren't going to take it anymore.
They began a cross country tour August 28th, and will arrive in
Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, September 30th.
The care-a-van will stop in Maryland on their way to a march and rally
in D.C. We will tell the President and Congress to deliver the reform we
need: a national single payer health system. We've learned that single
payer amendments will be offered on the floor of the House and the
Senate. Join us and wear a white ribbon to show your support and so we
movement can recognize you!
Maryland Stop #1 Frederick, Maryland:
Join us at the Fairground, 797 E Patrick St.
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=797+E+Patrick+St.+frederick+md+21701 from
9:30 to 10 a.m. Then, drive to Columbia (about 1 hour).
Maryland Stop #2 Columbia, Maryland:
Meet at the Columbia Mall,
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=10300+Little+Patuxent+Pkwy,+Columbia,+MD
10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy. (in front of J.C. Penny) from 11 to 11:30
a.m. Then, drive to Silver Spring (about 30 minutes).
Maryland Stop #3 Silver Spring, Maryland:
Park at a nearby metered garage and meet us at the Silver Spring Metro
Station, http://www.wmata.com/rail/station_detail.cfm?station_id=31 12
Noon and take the Red Line toward Shady Grove to Metro Center, switch to
a Blue/Orange train, and travel to the McPherson Square station. Come
early (11:30 a.m.) and pass out single payer leaflets!
Parking Garages near the Silver Spring Metro station:
* Network Parking -- 1400 E West Hwy, Silver Spring, MD - 0.1 mi W
* Central Parking Systems -- 8401 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD - 0.1
mi NE
* Impark -- 8403 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD - 0.1 mi NE
* Central Parking Systems -- 8455 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD - 0.2
mi NE
Meet at McPherson Square at 3 p.m. to march down Vermont Ave. to the
rally at Lafayette Square Park (across from the White House).
http://www.wmata.com/rail/station_detail.cfm?station_id=36
Rally begins at 4 pm with music and exciting speakers:
http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&=lafayette+square+park+washington+dc&fb=1&gl=us&hq=Lafayette+Square&hnear=Lafayette+Square&cid=3722500300982937146&li=lmd
If you miss us at any of these stops, meet us by 3 p.m. at McPherson
Square to march or by 4 p.m. at Lafayette Square Park to rally.
Be part of history by getting mad with the doctors and to understand
single payer well enough to argue for it, use the resources on PDA's
Healthcare for All/Single Payer IOT pages:
http://pdamerica.org/iot/iotpage.php?page=Healthcare%20for%20All
PDA is a Mad As Hell Doctors partner. More about the MAHDs:
http://www.madashelldoctorstour.com
Thanks and see you there!
Mike Hersh
for Progressive Democrats of America
P.S. Don't forget the UDC Justice Cafe Friday, October 2nd, 6 to 10 p.m.
at the Univ. of DC, just above the Van Ness Metro station. Food, music,
tabling and more! More info. RSVP:
https://www.thedatabank.com/dpg/309/mtglistproc.asp?formid=meet&caleventid=15637
Progressive Democrats of America is a grassroots PAC that works both
inside the Democratic Party and outside in movements for peace and
justice. Our goal in 2009: Expand progressive influence in Congress as
we build on our 2008 electoral successes. PDA's advisory board includes
seven members of Congress and activist leaders such as Tom Hayden, Medea
Benjamin, Thom Hartmann, Jim Hightower, and Lila Garrett.
Join a PDA Issue Organizing Team: http://pdamerica.org/iot/
Spread the Progressive Word--Shop PDAstore:
https://www.pdamerica.org/pdastore/
video on healthcare reform
contact list. Many of us forward emails with prayers, jokes, and
inspirational quotes to our friends everyday. PLEASE send this important
Healthcare Reform message out to all of your contacts and request that
everyone forwards it to there email contacts also. This is something YOU
can do to contribute to the movement towards Healthcare for all.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veSAMdqH8E0
Contact Garland Nixon with any questions and to find out how what YOU
can do to achieve the goal of Healthcare for all. Some of our
Representatives do not have the inclination to get this done and those
who do might not have the grassroots support. This is something YOU can
do RIGHT NOW. Get this message out.
Garland Nixon
garlandn@gmail.com
Cell Phone # 443 562 0651
Thursday, September 24, 2009
2 Events in Wheaton/Silver Spring Oct 6 & 7
Tuesday, October 6th, 7:00 PM
The Bushey Center, 12210 Bushey Drive Silver Spring, MD
2. Combined MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, PDA, PWG and more. Del. Roger
Manno (Dist 19) is scheduled to join us!
Wednesday, October 7th, 7 PM
Saigonese Restaurant, 11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
------------
1. Town Hall Meeting with District 18 Representatives in Annapolis
Come share your views and hear the latest from your District 18 General
Assembly Members: State Senator Richard Madaleno and State Delegates
Alfred Carr, Ana Sol Gutiérrez, and Jeff Waldstreicher
Tuesday, October 6, 7:00 PM
The Bushey Center
12210 Bushey Drive Silver Spring, MD
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=12210+Bushey+Drive+Silver+Spring,+MD+20902
Public transportation: several bus lines from the Wheaton and Glenmont
Metro Stations
The new Maryland state legislative session is fast approaching. There
will be tough decisions to be made.
Meet the people who will influence the budget and help to set
priorities. Ask questions and let them know what's important to you.
For more information, contact:
English: Lew Winarsky 301.437.4643 or Rick Kessler 301.592.9390
En Español: Ana Maria Delgado 240.277.4757
Sponsored by the District 18 Democratic Caucus
By Authority of the District 18 Democratic Caucus, Victor Weissberg
Chair, Richard Mandel, Treasurer
----------------
2. Combined MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, PDA, PWG and more.
October 7th, 7 pm -- Del. Roger Manno (Dist 19) is scheduled to join us!
Agenda: Progressive Coalition Meeting to plan future events and actions
and Q&A with Del. Roger Manno
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're focusing efforts on making 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 Montgomery County Progressive Alliance google group:
http://groups.google.com/group/mcprogressivealliance
If you're on Facebook, please join the MCPA group:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=3401340272&ref=ts
--------------
Who are all these organizations and what do they do?
1. MCPA: The Montgomery County Progressive Alliance is a flexible,
result-oriented coalition. MCPA includes more than 1,000 local
activists, mainly in and around Montgomery County Maryland. The
organization began in 2003 when Democracy for America Meetup members
reached out to other Meetup groups and other groups. In 2004, 100s of
Montgomery County for Kerry members and local Progressive Democrats of
America members joined the MCPA. MCPA adopted a mission statement,
organized special events, and has held meetings nearly each month since
2003. MCPA members worked to elect progressive leaders, led issue
advocacy efforts in Rockville, Annapolis, and on Capitol Hill, and
cooperated with other organizations and coalitions to make progress in
our communities, state, and nationally. Moving into the rest of 2009 and
building toward 2010, MCPA plans to solidify our organization, raise
funds, and continue our public education and outreach efforts. MCPA is
currently seeking new steering committee members and coalition partners.
2. DFA/DFMC: Democracy for America emerged from Gov. Howard Dean's
presidential campaign in 2004, and has organized grass-roots activists
to support socially progressive, fiscally responsible candidates. DFMC
is Democracy for Montgomery County, a local DFA-inspired organization
which is not directly or legally affiliated with DFA. DFMC has organized
events and meetings; and endorsed and organized volunteers for several
candidates. DFMC is currently seeking additional steering committee
members. Please contact me, mikehersh@mikehersh.com if you're
interested. You can sign up for DFA here:
http://democracyforamerica.com/session/new
3. PDA: Progressive Democrats of America began just after the 2004
Democratic National Convention in Boston. Bringing together people from
the 2004 Kucinich and Dean Campaigns with other progressives, PDA
adopted an "inside/outside strategy" uniting activists working inside
the Democratic Party with those working in peace and justice movements.
PDA's core issues include clean, accurate and transparent elections;
environmental protection; single-payer healthcare; economic and social
justice; and peace. You can sign up for PDA here:
https://www.thedatabank.com/dpg/309/personal2.asp?formid=joinusshort&c=5052037
4. PWG: The Progressive Working Group is a coalition promoting progress
and reform, economic fairness and equality, protecting the environment,
and more. PWG endorsed 14 issues for the 2009 General Assembly session.
PWG currently includes: Audubon Naturalist Society, CASA of Maryland,
Democracy for Montgomery County, Equality Maryland, Health Care Now,
Montgomery County Progressive Alliance, Montgomery Health Care Action,
PeaceAction Montgomery, Peace and Justice of Prince George's County,
Progressive Cheverly, Progressive Democrats of America (Maryland),
Progressive Neighbors, Save Our Votes, and Upcounty Action. Other
progressive organizations are welcome to join PWG. Please contact Wally
Malakoff malakoff@starpower.net for more information.
Note: While MoveOn has determined not to join with these other
organizations in an official capacity, many local MoveOn members are
participating in actions organized and cosponsored by MCPA and vice versa.
Thanks for reading down this far, and hope to see you at the meeting and
future events,
Mike Hersh
Chairperson, MCPA
Steering Committee, PWG & DFMC
Maryland State Coordinator, PDA
Montgomery County Council, MoveOn
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
MMC TV 16 - Today's Health - Michelle Katz, Host
Host Michelle Katz, with Guest Deborah Schumann, MD
Show times and days:
9/23/09 - Wednesday - 7:30 PM
9/24/09 - Thursday - 6:00 PM
9/30/09 - Wednesday - 7:30 PM
10/1/09 - Thursday - 6:00 PM
Progressive Coalition Meeting Weds. October 7th, 7 pm
October 7th, 7 pm -- Del. Roger Manno (Dist 19) is scheduled to join us!
Agenda: Progressive Coalition Meeting to plan future events and actions
and Q&A with Del. Roger Manno
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're focusing efforts on making 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 Montgomery County Progressive Alliance google group:
http://groups.google.com/group/mcprogressivealliance
If you're on Facebook, please join the MCPA group:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=3401340272&ref=ts
--------------
Who are all these organizations and what do they do?
1. MCPA: The Montgomery County Progressive Alliance is a flexible,
result-oriented coalition. MCPA includes more than 1,000 local
activists, mainly in and around Montgomery County Maryland. The
organization began in 2003 when Democracy for America Meetup members
reached out to other Meetup groups and other groups. In 2004, 100s of
Montgomery County for Kerry members and local Progressive Democrats of
America members joined the MCPA. MCPA adopted a mission statement,
organized special events, and has held meetings nearly each month since
2003. MCPA members worked to elect progressive leaders, led issue
advocacy efforts in Rockville, Annapolis, and on Capitol Hill, and
cooperated with other organizations and coalitions to make progress in
our communities, state, and nationally. Moving into the rest of 2009 and
building toward 2010, MCPA plans to solidify our organization, raise
funds, and continue our public education and outreach efforts. MCPA is
currently seeking new steering committee members and coalition partners.
2. DFA/DFMC: Democracy for America emerged from Gov. Howard Dean's
presidential campaign in 2004, and has organized grass-roots activists
to support socially progressive, fiscally responsible candidates. DFMC
is Democracy for Montgomery County, a local DFA-inspired organization
which is not directly or legally affiliated with DFA. DFMC has organized
events and meetings; and endorsed and organized volunteers for several
candidates. DFMC is currently seeking additional steering committee
members. Please contact me, mikehersh@mikehersh.com if you're
interested. You can sign up for DFA here:
http://democracyforamerica.com/session/new
3. PDA: Progressive Democrats of America began just after the 2004
Democratic National Convention in Boston. Bringing together people from
the 2004 Kucinich and Dean Campaigns with other progressives, PDA
adopted an "inside/outside strategy" uniting activists working inside
the Democratic Party with those working in peace and justice movements.
PDA's core issues include clean, accurate and transparent elections;
environmental protection; single-payer healthcare; economic and social
justice; and peace. You can sign up for PDA here:
https://www.thedatabank.com/dpg/309/personal2.asp?formid=joinusshort&c=5052037
4. PWG: The Progressive Working Group is a coalition promoting progress
and reform, economic fairness and equality, protecting the environment,
and more. PWG endorsed 14 issues for the 2009 General Assembly session.
PWG currently includes: Audubon Naturalist Society, CASA of Maryland,
Democracy for Montgomery County, Equality Maryland, Health Care Now,
Montgomery County Progressive Alliance, Montgomery Health Care Action,
PeaceAction Montgomery, Peace and Justice of Prince George's County,
Progressive Cheverly, Progressive Democrats of America (Maryland),
Progressive Neighbors, Save Our Votes, and Upcounty Action. Other
progressive organizations are welcome to join PWG. Please contact Wally
Malakoff malakoff@starpower.net for more information.
Note: While MoveOn has determined not to join with these other
organizations in an official capacity, many local MoveOn members are
participating in actions organized and cosponsored by MCPA and vice versa.
Thanks for reading down this far, and hope to see you at the meeting and
future events,
Mike Hersh
Chairperson, MCPA
Steering Committee, PWG & DFMC
Maryland State Coordinator, PDA
Montgomery County Council, MoveOn
Town Hall Meeting with District 18 Representatives in Annapolis
Come share your views and hear the latest from your District 18 General
Assembly Members: State Senator Richard Madaleno and State Delegates
Alfred Carr, Ana Sol Gutiérrez, and Jeff Waldstreicher
Tuesday, October 6, 7:00 PM
The Bushey Center
12210 Bushey Drive Silver Spring, MD
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=12210+Bushey+Drive+Silver+Spring,+MD+20902
Public transportation: several bus lines from the Wheaton and Glenmont
Metro Stations
The new Maryland state legislative session is fast approaching. There
will be tough decisions to be made.
Meet the people who will influence the budget and help to set
priorities. Ask questions and let them know what's important to you.
For more information, contact:
English: Lew Winarsky 301.437.4643 or Rick Kessler 301.592.9390
En Español: Ana Maria Delgado 240.277.4757
Sponsored by the District 18 Democratic Caucus
By Authority of the District 18 Democratic Caucus, Victor Weissberg
Chair, Richard Mandel, Treasurer
Monday, September 21, 2009
URGENT APPEAL FOR VOLUNTEERS
Join DC NOW for National Equality March Oct 11 West Capital Lawn at Noon
Supporters of equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Americans from every race, class, faith and community are mobilizing for the National Equality March on October 11, 2009, in Washington, D.C. The single demand of the march is clear: “Equal protection in all matters governed by civil law in all 50 states”. The march is being organized by Equality Across America, a grassroots network dedicated to organizing in all 435 Congressional Districts to achieve full equality. For more information about the march or upcoming events visit http://equalityacrossamerica.org/blog/?page_id=19
Statement of NOW President Terry O’Neill
The National Organization for Women is proud to endorse the grassroots National Equality March taking place in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 11, 2009. In the 21st century, it is simply outrageous not to have full equality under the law for all people, including women, lesbians and women of color -- and we have a moral obligation to change that.Throughout history, the struggle for civil rights and social justice has changed the face of private and public institutions. Yet, discrimination remains rampant, particularly against lesbians. NOW recognizes that no woman will have full equality under the law until all women have full equality under the law.
Eliminating second-class rights for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people requires more than repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell and the so-called Defense of Marriage Act, currently casting shadows of inequality over the military and the institution of marriage. It requires more than passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act, which would prohibit workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Our call for change must be bold and uncompromising -- political negotiation only assures that women get less than they deserve. Grassroots NOW activists from around the country will join the National Equality March to demand full equality for all women and all people.
--
DC NOW
www.dc-now.org
"Like any real heirloom, feminism is not of our making and needs reconstruction to serve our time; and like any real treasure, it will last us forever." ~Naomi Wolf, 1983
TOMORROW 9/22 Demonstration against AHIP--"America's Health Insurance Plans"
Noon to 2 PM 9/22, 601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC
Short walk from Archives Metro station
Every day, AHIP is spreading money and misinformation around to kill needed reform. Noon on Tuesday, September 22, we'll send a clear message to the insurance company fat cats and the lawmakers who are "joined at the AHIP."
Bring signs if you can, we'll have some for you if you can't. Tell everyone you know.
AHIP's members support "tea bag" town hall disruptions and withhold needed care from American families. They want to block real reform and trick or arm-twist our elected officials into giving them our tax dollars. The average big health insurance CEO makes about $1 million a month! They line their pockets by telling people they can't have the care they need. They're bankrupting families and killing people.
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Support the Health Care Justice Memorial in DC on the national mall
Contact Margaret Flowers, M.D. mdpnhp@gmail.com 410-591-0892 for more info.
The vigil is going on now, and continues through Sunday, September 27.
Support healthcare activists in the tent signing petitions and passing out literature to educate people about the solution: Single payer.
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Please join us at the Third Annual Healthcare Justice Vigil
Thursday, Sept 24 from 4 PM-sundown. Upper Senate Park
200 New Jersey Ave NW Washington, DC 20001
Walk from Judiciary Sq. Metro Station
Honoring those still fighting for care and remembering those who have died waiting for healthcare delayed or denied.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Third Annual Healthcare Justice Vigil Sept 24
Thursday, Sept 24 from 4 PM-sundown. Upper Senate Park
200 New Jersey Ave NW Washington, DC 20001
Walk from Judiciary Sq. Metro Station
Honoring those still fighting for care and remembering those who have
died waiting for healthcare delayed or denied.
Capitol Area Mobilizes for Healthcare--Events in Maryland and DC
1. Health Care Justice Memorial--Corner of 15th St. and Constitution Ave.
Sunday, 9/20, Setup 10 AM, memorial ongoing through Sunday, 9/27
2. Town Hall Meeting "Reaching for Health Care Reform"
4-6 PM Sunday 9/20, River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation,
Bethesda, MD
3. Demonstration against America's Health Insurance Plans
Noon Tuesday, 9/22 AHIP HQ 601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC
4. Mad as Hell Doctors Meet in Maryland, Rally in D.C. Wednesday, 9/30
5. UDC Justice Cafe Friday, October 2, 6-10 PM University of DC at Van Ness
After working for healthcare, unwind with food, beer, music and fun!
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1. Health Care Justice Memorial in DC on the national mall, the grounds
of the Washington Monument--contact Margaret Flowers, M.D.
mdpnhp@gmail.com 410-591-0892 for more info. Set up begins Sunday,
September 20, 10 AM and the vigil continues 24/7 until Sunday, September
27. Join and support healthcare activists in the tent with a table
inside for petitions and literature to educate people about the
solution: Single payer.
From Dr. Margaret Flowers, MD:
Dear Friends,
A big THANK YOU to those who have volunteered to help with the Flag
Memorial Exhibit. We still need more volunteers, especially to help with
the overnights! The Flag Memorial will be exhibited on the grounds of
the National Monument at the corner of 15th St and Constitution Ave for
Health Justice Week from 10 am on Sunday the 20th to 6 pm on Sunday the
27th. It is based on a new study which shows that there are nearly
45,000 deaths in the US each year due to lack of insurance. See:
http://www.pnhp.org/news/2009/september/harvard_study_finds_.php
This works out to over 120 deaths every day, but these deaths don't make
the news. We wanted a way to make these deaths visible. Flags will be
placed to represent the number of people who have died so far this year
and each day we will add more flags. We will have handouts and petitions
to sign. Please contact me if you can volunteer. My number is 410-591-0892.
The Health Justice Patient Vigil will be held on Thursday September 24th
from 4 to 6:30 pm at Upper Senate Park in Washington.
The Mad As Hell Doctors are coming to Washington! Learn more at
http://www.madashelldoctorstour.com They will Care-A-Van from Frederick
Maryland, making stops in Columbia and Silver Spring, then gather on the
Ellipse at 15th and Constitution (side closest to the White House) to
march to Lafayette Park at 3 pm for a rally at 4 pm.
And, if you can, join us for the PNHP fundraiser on Saturday, Sept 26th
from 6 to 9 pm at the home of Margaret Flowers in Sparks, MD. Call for
more details. 410-591-0892.
Ever onward to single payer,
Margaret
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2. Health Care Town Hall "Reaching for Health Care Reform"
Sunday, September 20, 4-6 PM.
River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation
6301 River Road, Bethesda, MD 20817
With Panel Discussion featuring:
Rep. Chris Van Hollen, Congressional District 8
Dr. Margaret Flowers, Md. Physicians for a National Health Program
Lisa Codispoti, National Women's Law Center
Karen Davenport, Center for American Progress
Sponsored by Montgomery Health Care ACTION
Google Map:
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=6301+River+Road,+Bethesda,+MD+20817
Public Transportation: From Friendship Heights Metro RIDE-ON BUS T2
toward Rockville leaves 3:45. arrives 3:55
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3. Demonstration against AHIP
Noon 9/22, 601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC
Short walk from Archives Metro station:
http://www.facebook.com/l/8093f;www.wmata.com/rail/station_detail.cfm?station_id=81
Every day, AHIP ("America's Health Insurance Plans") is spreading money
and misinformation around to kill needed reform. Noon on Tuesday,
September 22, we'll send a clear message to the insurance company fat
cats and the lawmakers who are "joined at the AHIP." Bring signs if you
can, we'll have some for you if you can't. Tell everyone you know.
AHIP's members support "tea bag" town hall disruptions and withhold
needed care from American families. They want to block real reform and
trick or arm-twist our elected officials into giving them our tax
dollars. The average big health insurance CEO makes about $1 million a
month! They line their pockets by telling people they can't have the
care they need. They're bankrupting families and killing people.
--------------------
4. Mad as Hell Doctors
http://www.pdamerica.org/articles/alliances/2009-07-23-09-33-18-alliances.php
Morning 9/30 Mad as Hell Doctors Meet at Frederick, Columbia and Silver
Spring, MD (details TBA)
4-7 PM 9/30 Mad as Hell Doctors Washington D.C. Rally Lafayette Square
Park in D.C. (across from the White House)
On the morning of September 30th a Care-A-Van meet up will take place on
in Frederick, MD. The time and exact location are still TBA but will be
coming soon. From there, the Care-A-Van will proceed to Columbia, MD to
pick up more Care-A-Van supporters. Again, exact time and locations will
are still TBA. From Columbia, MD the Care-A-Van will proceed to the
Silver Spring Metro Station. There is a large parking lot with enough
spaces for all of our supporters leave their cars and and take the Metro
into D.C. We suggest wearing a white ribbon on your clothing so you will
recognize each other as you ride into the city. We all will march with
our signs, our voices, our unyielding conviction and our commitment to
peaceful demonstration onward toward Lafayette Park where the program
will begin at 4:00pm.
Follow the MAHD tour on their website:
http://www.facebook.com/MadDrs?v=wall&viewas=1472686905&ref=nf
Use the resources on PDA's Healthcare for All/Single Payer IOT pages:
http://pdamerica.org/iot/iotpage.php?page=Healthcare%20for%20All
Plan on meeting and marching with the Mad As Hell Doctors in Maryland
and DC: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/MadDrs?ref=ts
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5. UDC Justice Cafe 6-10 PM Friday, October 2nd
Firebird Inn Building 39, B-Level - 4200 Connecticut Ave NW Washington
DC 20008
Just above the Van Ness UDC Metro Station (red line) Wheelchair Accessible
Campus Map: http://www.udc.edu/campus_map.htm
In support of environmental and social justice activists and
organizations. 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.
Suggested donation $15 / $10 students / $5 kids. All ages event; child
activities provided - and powered by kids! Featuring food, music,
poetry, beer, an open mic session, tabling and more. Hosted by the
University of the District of Columbia David Clarke School of Law, the
District's public interest law school.
We need volunteers to help set up and decorate, clean up at the end, and
help host the event.
VOLUNTEER, contact Mike: mikehersh@mikehersh.com or Joe: JFL@udc.edu
FOR A FREE TABLE contact Marie: Marie@Earthrights.org
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Our effort is growing! AFL-CIO Convention Endorses Single Payer Healthcare
(Pittsburgh, PA) The AFL-CIO, the nation's largest labor federation
representing 11.5 million workers in 57 international and national
unions, has endorsed a single payer health care system as the best way
to guarantee healthcare to everyone. The unanimous vote in favor of
Convention Resolution 34, The Social Insurance Model for Health Care
Reform, came immediately after President Obama had addressed the
Convention last Tuesday.
The resolution states: "The experience of Medicare (and of nearly every
other industrialized country) shows the most cost effective and
equitable way to provide quality healthcare is through a single-payer
system.... We reiterate our longstanding call for congressional leaders
to unite behind such a plan."
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Demonstrate Against Health Insurance Rigging Reform
601 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, DC
Noon on Tuesday, September 22th
AHIP, "America's Health Insurance Plans," is spreading money and
misinformation around to kill needed reform. Send a clear message to the
insurance company fat cats and the lawmakers who are "joined at the
AHIP." Bring signs if you can, we'll have some for you if you can't.
Tell everyone you know. Be there if you can. Short walk from Archives
Metro station: http://www.wmata.com/rail/station_detail.cfm?station_id=81
AHIP's members support "tea bag" town hall disruptions and withhold
needed care from American families. They want to block real reform and
trick or arm-twist our elected officials into giving them our tax
dollars. The average big health insurance CEO makes about $1 million a
month! They line their pockets by telling people they can't have the
care they need. They're bankrupting families and killing people. Tell
AHIP and their allies in Congress that we're not taking it anymore.
We're demonstrating against these mega-corporations which defy decency,
crush competition, and rig the reform process. We demand real healthcare
reform. Join us Noon on Tuesday, September 22th.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Health Care Town Hall Meeting: Reaching for Health Care Reform
Sunday, September 20, 2009 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation
6301 River Road, Bethesda, MD 20817
With Panel Discussion:
Rep. Chris Van Hollen, Congressional District 8
Dr. Margaret Flowers, Md. Physicians for a National Health Program
Lisa Codispoti, National Women's Law Center
Karen Davenport, Center for American Progress
Sponsored by Montgomery Health Care ACTION
Google Map:
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=6301+River+Road,+Bethesda,+MD+20817
From Friendship Heights Metro RIDE-ON BUS T2 toward Rockville leaves
3:45 arrives 3:55
October 2nd 6-10 pm UDC Justice Cafe
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 Wheelchair Accessible
Music by: Joe Uehlein and friends, (confirmed) and Margie
With Sound Tech: Mike Bowers and Catering/Food: Kit's Catering (Vegan and Vegetarian)
Suggested donation $15 / $10 students / $5 kids. All ages event; child activities provided – and powered by kids! Featuring food, music, poetry, beer, an open mic session, tabling and more.
Hosted by the University of the
Firebird Inn Building 39, B-Level - 4200 Connecticut Ave NW Washington DC 20008
Just above the Van Ness UDC Metro Station (red line)
Campus Map: http://www.udc.edu/campus_map.htm
Upcoming Cafes: First Fridays at 6 pm -10 pm (* with exceptions to avoid holidays): October 2nd, November 6th, December 4th, *January 8th, February 5th, March 5th, April 2nd, May (tba), June 4th
For more information on the law school full-tuition three-year Advocate for Justice Scholarships, go to http://www.law.udc.edu/?page=AFJ
We need volunteers to help set up and decorate, clean up at the end, and help host the event.
VOLUNTEER, contact Mike: mikehersh@mikehersh.com or Joe: JFL@udc.edu
FOR A FREE TABLE contact Marie: Marie@Earthrights.org
Monday, September 14, 2009
Healthcare Actions and Events
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
TONIGHT! See me on TV.
"The Edge with Garland Nixon" on Channel 16 (Comcast and Verizon) 7 PM
Mondays and Wednesdays. I'll be on the air with Garland Wednesday Sept.
9th. Past and future guests include Del. Roger Manno, CM. Marc Elrich,
and other progressive leaders from Montgomery County.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
MD Physicians for a National Health Program Fundraiser - Everybody into the Pool
THE SINGLE PAYER POOL THAT IS… ENJOY A SUMMER EVENING BY THE POOL FEATURING MR. RONALD HIKEL – LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR FOR REP. ERIC MASSA, LOCAL FOODS AND WINES, AND SOOTHING BLUES SOUNDS! SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 26th 6 to 9 pm Home of Brian & Margaret Flowers To Benefit The Maryland Chapter of RSVP: 410-591-0892 or mdpnhp@gmail.com Donations accepted Summer Attire www.md.pnhp.org SINGLE PAYER IS NOT ONLY ON THE TABLE, IT IS ON THE FLOOR!! As you may know, in the beginning of 2009, we were told repeatedly that single payer was not on the table. A series of events over the spring and summer changed that. May 5th and 12th – doctors, nurses and health advocates were arrested in the senate finance committee for asking that single payer have a seat at the table. June 10th - the house education and labor health subcommittee holds the first hearing on single payer. June 11th – Dr. Margaret Flowers testifies on single payer in the senate health, education, labor and pensions committee. June 24th – single payer advocates testify at the house committees on ways & means and energy & Commerce. July 30th – celebration of medicare’s 44th anniversary in Washington, D.C. and around the country with events all day long. July 31st – Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-NY) introduces an amendment to substitute HR 676: National Health Care Act for HR 3200. Speaker Pelosi and Chairman Waxman offer a full debate of the weiner amendment and a vote on the floor of the full house this fall. This is the first time in the history of our nation that single payer will be debated and voted upon on the floor of the house. Let’s keep the momentum rolling! Please join us on 9/26/09!
1433 Sparks Rd Sparks, MD 21152
Physicians for a National Health Program
Friday, September 04, 2009
Town Hall Meeting "Reaching for Health Care Reform"
Town Hall Meeting "Reaching for Health Care Reform"
Sunday, September 20th, 4 – 6 pm
River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation
6301 River Road
Bethesda, Maryland 20817Please save the date for this program sponsored by Montgomery Health Care Action (MCHA) and co-sponsored by UULM-MD plus other organizations. MCHA plans to bring together many interested citizens for a public discussion with well-known experts in this movement. Program details later. If you have questions, please contact: healthymontgomery@gmail.com
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
MANNO COMMUNITY BBQ Sun. Sept. 13
NEXT WEEK: MANNO COMMUNITY BBQ
Please join friends, neighbors, community leaders, and County officials for an afternoon BBQ in support of
Roger Manno, Maryland State Delegate
with Special Guest Hon. Isiah “Ike” Leggett, Montgomery County Executive
and Host Committee
Hon. Marc Elrich, Montgomery Co. Council, At-Large
Hon. Nancy Floreen, Montgomery Co. Council, At-Large
Hon. George Leventhal, Montgomery Co. Council, At-Large
Hon. Duchy Trachtenberg, Montgomery Co. Council, At-Large
Hon. Valerie Ervin, Montgomery Co. Council, Dist. 5
Hon. Nancy Navarro, Montgomery Co. Council, Dist. 4
Andrea Chamblee, Carole Anne Barth & Jim Zepp
Chris Wilhelm, The Larkin Family, Ruth Cipolla
Anne Ambler & John Fay, and many more!
$35.00 - Individuals / $100.00 - Host Committee / Kids free!
Sunday, September 13th, 2009 from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
(Redskins slay play the Giants @ 4:30 p.m.)
at the home of Rose & Chris Larkin
2126 Merrifields Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20906
Meeting Rescheduled to Thurs. Sept. 3rd
Reform at 2 Events today. Our regular meeting will be 7 PM Thursday
September 3rd at Saigonese Restaurant
1. Wave Signs to show support for healthcare reform 5 PM
The Four Corners of Georgia Ave & Colesville Rd in Silver Spring
very close to Silver Spring Metro, AFI Theater.
Bring a sign. More info. here:
http://www.moveon.org/event/events/event.html?event_id=98220
2. Tribute to Sen. Ted Kennedy, Vigil for People Suffering Under Health
Care System 7:30 PM
Woodside Park, Georgia Ave & Spring St
Montgomery County Residents Hold Vigil as Tribute to Kennedy and for
People Suffering Under Current Health Care System with County Exec. Ike
Leggett, State Sen. Jamie Raskin. Please bring candles.
Event Demonstrates Dire Need for Public Health Option, Will Include a
Memorial to Senator Edward Kennedy
WHAT: Vigil to support a Public Health Insurance Option and Pay Tribute
to Sen. Edward Kennedy
WHO: Over 100 Montgomery County Residents
WHERE: Woodside Park, Georgia Ave. & Spring St., Silver Spring, MD 20910
WHEN: 7:30 pm, September 2nd, 2009
As Congress wraps up its August recess, on Wednesday, September 2nd
Montgomery County residents will hold a vigil at Woodside Park, Georgia
Ave and Spring St, to honor Senator Ted Kennedy and those who are
suffering under the current health care system and show that Maryland
cannot afford to wait for health care reform with a real public health
insurance option.
The vigils are organized by members of MoveOn.org Political Action,
along with the Center for Community Change, Democracy for America,
Doctors for America, Health Care for American Now, and TrueMajority.
Health care reform with a strong public health insurance option will
help lower skyrocketing health care costs and expand coverage to
millions of Americans. Nearly 300 vigils will be held nationwide on the
same day. The vigils will include a memorial to Senator Edward Kennedy,
who viewed fighting for universal health care as the "cause of his life."
After listening to moving words by Senator Kennedy, local residents will
share their personal stories of the failure of our current health care
system. Vigil participants will light candles and listen as names and
brief stories are read of Americans who are suffering under the current
health care system. This will be done to highlight the desperate need
for a REAL public health insurance option: Ready right away, part of a
plan to cover Everyone, Accountable to the public and Large enough to
contain costs.
County Executive Isiah Leggett will speak, as well as State Senator
Jamie Raskin. The invocation will be given by retired minister, Larry
Schmidt, who served as pastor of Calvary Lutheran Church on Georgia Ave.
for 22 years.
"We can't afford to wait. Every day Maryland residents are denied
life-saving medical treatment, dropped from their insurance coverage, or
buried under medical bills," said Mike Hersh, a local MoveOn member.
"We're calling on Congress to pass the health care reform we need as
soon as they return to Washington. The longer we wait, the more people
suffer."