Democracy for Montgomery County

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Voting Protection in MD + Update from Progressive Neighbors of SS and TP

Contents: Voting Protection in MD + Update from Progressive Neighbors of
Silver Spring and Takoma Park

1. Town Hall Meeting 8:00 p.m. AFI Theater, Silver Spring Wednesday Jan. 30

2. ACTION ALERT: Your Emails are Needed for Campaign Finance Reform in
Montgomery County - Bill Has Been Introduced

3. PDA's Clean and Fair Elections Conference Call tonight: Maryland is
on the agenda
Time: 9:00 pm EST - Conference Call #: (712) 775-7100 Code: 936487#

4. PDA / DFA / MCPA Meeting 7:30 February 5th in Wheaton - Gearing up
for the Primary

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

Wednesday Jan. 30 Mont. County Council Town Hall Meeting

8:00 p.m. AFI Theater, Silver Spring. Progressive Neighbors will focus
on the issues of affordable housing and progressive taxation.

Affordable Housing: The County Council needs to pass legislation to
prevent excessive rent increases and the resultant loss of existing
affordable housing in MC. A rent stabilization law combined with
limitations on condo conversions is necessary if we are to maintain
affordable housing and economic diversity in our County. County
Executive Leggett said he would sign rent stabilization legislation if
passed by the Council.

Progressive Taxation: The County Executive has announced that the County
will have a $400 million deficit next year. Unless the Council finds
ways to raise additional revenue, there will be serious cuts in services
(including education which accounts for 1/2 of the County's budget). We
support progressive taxation - those who can afford to pay the most,
should pay their fair share which means a higher rate for wealthy
residents. Where do the Council members stand?

Endorsements: In addition, to endorsing Donna Edwards in the 4th
Congressional Feb. 12th Primary, Progressive Neighbors has endorsed
Alies Muskin for Montgomery County Board of Education in the Primary.

More information, contact: malakoff@starpower.net

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

ACTION ALERT: Your Emails are Needed for Campaign Finance Reform in
Montgomery County - Bill Has Been Introduced

State Bill MC 803-08 will be voted on by the County Affairs Committee of
the Mont. County State Delegation this Thursday morning, Jan. 31st. The
bill would allow Montgomery County to enact its own campaign finance
reform rules for County elections which could include public financing.
Progressive Neighbors has endorsed the legislation as has Common Cause
Maryland, the MD League of Women Voters, the Washington Post (!) and
other groups. Delegate Susan Lee of District 16 is leading the effort
for the bill at the state level.

Here's What You Can Do Right Now to Make a Difference: Email your
delegates and senator in Annapolis to let them know that you strongly
support this bill for clean elections and improving democratic
participation at the County level. (Again, it's Bill MC 803-08) Key
representatives who have not committed themselves to supporting the bill
and need to hear from us are District 20 Delegate Sheila Hixson
(sheila.hixson@house.state.md.us), Dist.15 Delegate Brian Feldman
(brian.feldman@house.state.md.us), and Dist.17 Delegate Jim Gilchrist
(jim.gilchrist@house.state.md.us) We could really make a difference here
so please send emails on Tues or Wed. of this week (Jan 29 and 30) in
support of the bill. (Email addresses of other representatives are
listed at http://mlis.state.md.us )

If the committee votes out the bill, it goes to the full Montgomery
County Delegation and then to the floor of the State House and Senate.
Further information on the bill can be found at:

www.montgomerycountydelegation.com/MC%20803-08.html

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

Please join our PDA Issue Organizing Team for Clean, Fair, Transparent
Elections Issue Organizing Team conference call today!

TODAY, Tuesday, January 29 9:00 pm EST
Conference Call #: (712) 775-7100 Code: 936487#

Topics: State initiatives and pro-active strategies in anticipation of
2008 electoral challenges and shenanigans!
Challenges in New Hampshire, Optical Scan option taken up in New York,
Electoral Integrity victories in Maryland!

Join this IOT's Google discussion group.
htt://groups.google.com/group/PDAcleanelections/subscribe
Questions, comments or concerns, please call Diane at 845-661-3754 or
email diane@pdmerica.org.

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

PDA / DFA / MCPA February Meeting - Gearing up for the Primary (open to all)
Tuesday, Feb 5, 2008, 7:30 PM in Wheaton

Join our big push to the primary elections February 12 and much more!

SaigonESE Restaurant, 11232 Grandview Ave Wheaton, MD 20902
Google Map: http://tinyurl.com/2fbdso
Short walk from the Wheaton Metro / Red Line: http://tinyurl.com/3836uy
Parking in the huge municipal lot across the street.

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

Monday, January 28, 2008

Stop Telecom Immunity: Call Sen. Mikulski and Sen. Cardin now!

Stop Telecom Immunity: Call Sen. Mikulski and Sen. Cardin
at the Capitol Switchboard 202-224-3121 now!

Despite Reid's recent pledge to oppose immunity for the telecom industry, he has brought forward one of two bills, both amended by the Senate Intelligence Committee, which contains… immunity!

Reid didn't have to do this. He could have championed the other bill, which eliminated immunity for the telecom industry.

So today, the Senate will vote to grant immunity to the telecom industry for their illegal spying on Americans, or they will protect our rights and the Constitution and vote no.

Call your Senators NOW at the Capitol Switchboard 202-224-3121 and tell them to vote no on the FISA Amendment to allow immunity for the telecom industry.

We've let Bush trample on our civil rights long enough, without letting him-and the Democratic enablers Harry Reid and Dianne Feinstein—give a break to those corporations who willingly break the law. And don't let poor AT&T, Verizon and BellSouth tell you that they didn't know warrant-less wiretapping is illegal, or that they couldn't refuse; Qwest Communications saw it for what is was, and said, “No, thanks.”

The New York Times editorialized, just this past Saturday: “The Senate (reportedly still under Democratic control) seems determined to help President Bush violate Americans' civil liberties and undermine the constitutional separation of powers. Majority Leader Harry Reid is supporting White House-backed legislation that would expand the administration's ability to spy on Americans without court supervision and ensure that the country never learns the full extent of Mr. Bush's illegal wiretapping program.”

To learn more about the terrible cost of this immunity for those who helped break the law, read the ACLU's opinion.

Dial 202-224-3121 now--and tell your Senators to vote against any bill containing immunity for the telecom companies that are illegally spying on Americans.

In Solidarity,

Tim Carpenter
National Director

P.S. Since a Democrat is poised to become the next leader of the “free” world, and Edwards has already come out strongly opposed to telecom immunity, it will be interesting to see if Clinton and Obama assume the mantle of leadership and stand up for our rights by actually casting a vote to uphold the Constitution.

_{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: Elect a permanent, progressive
majority in 2008. PDA's advisory board includes seven members
of Congress and activist leaders such as Tom Hayden,}_Medea
_Benjamin,_{Thom Hartmann and Rev. Lennox Yearwood.
More info: http://pdamerica.org}

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

1/23/08 Update from HealthCareMaryland.org

Health CareMaryland.org is working with our friends and allies--other organizations, elected officials, and concerned individuals--to bring high-quality universal health care to Maryland in 2008. We're planning town halls, summits, conferences, and organizing legislative efforts. Health Care Maryland.org is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization which promotes research, public education and advocacy to guarantee universal high-quality health care for all Maryland residents.

Digging In the Right Place

Washington state Sen. Karen Keiser (D), chairwoman of her legislature's powerful health committee, this week introduced the nation's most far-reaching universal health care proposal
There's a memorable moment in "Raiders of the Lost Ark" when Indiana Jones sees a rival's archaeological excavation and realizes the buried treasure is somewhere else. "They're digging in the wrong place!" he exclaims. The line could explain why our national elections leave us feeling empty. By expecting so much so fast from Washington D.C., we are digging for "change" in the wrong place.

As Recession Looms, Another SCHIP Veto

Tomorrow, the conservative minority in the House is expected to sustain President Bush's third veto of expanding the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
SCHIP has already successfully provided health coverage to six million kids, but nine million more remained uninsured. The bipartisan compromise bill would extended coverage to four million more kids, and even that was too compassionate for Bush and his fellow conservatives.

Democratic Presidential Candidates Agree on Health Care Model

The contenders envision private insurance continuing, but they see a government-run plan as a competitive option.
WASHINGTON — Hillary Rodham Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards have been sniping at each other for months over healthcare, but there's one thing the top Democratic presidential candidates agree on: Americans of all ages should have the choice of buying a government-run plan modeled on Medicare.
The idea, which would set up a competition between a new government plan and private insurance programs, has been overshadowed by the political horse race. But it's one of the most far-reaching and controversial proposals for making health insurance more affordable and more widely available.

St. Louis-Based Health Initiative Wins National Award

...for Improving the Health of Special Needs Babies
Nurses for Newborns Foundation “Bridge to the Future” program selected as 2008 Monroe E. Trout Premier Cares Award winner
PHOENIX--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Nurses for Newborns Foundation (NFNF) of St. Louis has been honored by the Premier healthcare alliance with the 16th Annual Monroe E. Trout Premier Cares Award for its Bridge to the Future program, which works to improve the health of special needs babies. NFNF last night received the Cares Award and $70,000 for the work it has done to prevent infant mortality, child abuse and neglect through in-home nursing visits.

Maryland County Plan To Provide Coordinated Care for Uninsured Delayed by Three Months

The launch of a Howard County, Md., health access program has been delayed for three months to Oct. 1 because legislation is needed to exempt the program from state insurance regulations, the Baltimore Sun reports (Carson, Baltimore Sun, 1/18). The Healthy Howard program aims to provide affordable and coordinated health care to uninsured residents who are not eligible for state and federal programs. To be eligible for the county's program, individuals must have lived in the county for at least one year and must have been uninsured for a year (Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report, 10/18/07).

Washington State Voters may prescribe health care fix

Other states such as Maryland proposed so-called "Wal-Mart bills" but had the efforts blocked by the courts. Experts say federal law would have to be changed to allow states to force employers to provide health coverage.
Washington voters could be the first in the nation to directly decide what kind of health insurance system their state will have.
Labor groups -- with strong support from hospitals and physicians and some support from small business owners -- are pushing a multistep proposal in the current legislative session that would require town-hall style meetings around the state to find out what people want.
The Legislature would set up a nine-member citizens work group, appointed by the governor, that would travel the state collecting public input on what constitutes quality, affordable health care. The work group would hire an expert in health economics to evaluate up to five proposals and report back to the Legislature in 2009 with recommendations and suggestions.

Groups Propose Long-Term Care Overhaul

Three long-term care organizations have proposed a restructuring of the current long-term and post-acute care systems that would, they said, encourage individuals to save for their long-term care needs and ease the financial pressure of long-term care expenditures on federal and state budgets. “The long-term care system, if you want to call it that, is pretty messed up,” said Bruce Yarwood, president and CEO of the American Health Care Association, adding that the current system is extremely fragmented.

Free State Politics: Senate President Pledges Support for Progressive Principles

Senate President Pledges Support for Progressive Principles
by Mike Hersh Wed Jan 23, 2008 at 11:24 AM EST

Maryland Senate President Thomas V. "Mike" Miller. Jr. attended a
bloggers' meeting organized by Senator Rich Madaleno (District 18 ) in
Annapolis January 21 to discuss the upcoming session, the recent special
session, and Maryland politics. The two-hour gathering in the James
Senate Office Building also featured a fact-filled overview of state
finances by Sen. Madaleno, supported by District 20 Senator Jamie Raskin
and House of Delegates Majority Leader Kumar Barve (District 17).

President Miller recounted the accomplishments achieved during the
special session: extending health care to 100,000 Maryland residents,
increased funding for education and poverty programs, and creating new
opportunities in the state. In his customarily outspoken style, Sen.
Miller laid out the road map he believes the state will follow during
the 2008 session and onward--warning that many in the room "will not
like" all of it, but promising Governor Martin O'Malley will continue to
lead Maryland based on "progressive principles." [continued:

http://www.freestatepolitics.us/showDiary.do?diaryId=1115]

Thursday, January 17, 2008

What: Donna Edwards Fundraiser 5-9 pm Sunday, January 20 in Wheaton

When: Sunday, January 20, 5:00 PM

Who should come: Anyone who wants to send a great person to Congress

Why: Have fun and support a great candidate for Congress

* Support and meet Donna Edwards 5-9 pm Sunday, January 20 in Wheaton
* Watch Donna Edwards and her campaign to replace Al Wynn on the PBS program "Now" Friday Jan. 18th.
* The Democratic Primary Election is February 12, 2008

==========================

Support and meet Donna Edwards, Democratic candidate for Maryland's 4th Congressional District
Sponsored by Montgomery County campaign volunteers and Haitian-American friends of Donna Edwards

5-9 pm Sunday, January 20, 2008
ANTIPUQUEÑO RESTAURANT
2504 Ennalls Avenue Wheaton, MD 20902
(where Sabang used to be)

Short Walk from the Wheaton Metro stop (red line)

DIRECTIONS: From I-495 take the Georgia Avenue Exit towards Wheaton. Continue for almost 2 miles and make a left on Ennals Avenue (the block before University Blvd.). Continue for two blocks to the Antipuqueno Restaurant on the left. There is plenty of free public parking.

Watch NFL Playoffs on Flat Screen HD TV!

Contribute to the campaign and have a good time! Music, dancing, cash bar and Salvadorian Tex-Mex menu.

For more information, contact Ken Leiner (240) 305-8880 or Claire Gabriel (301) 384-5458 or email: community1event@yahoo.com

If you are unable to attend, but would like to make a contribution to the campaign

Make an on-line contribution: https://secure.actblue.com/contribute/entity/17959

Or write a check to Donna Edwards for Congress and send your donation to P.O. Box 441153 Fort Washington, MD 20749-1153

To comply with Federal Election regulations, you must identify your Occupation and Employer. If not employed, please enter "not employed" under occupation, and please enter "none" under employer. If self-employed, please enter "self" under employer.

You must also attest Contribution Eligibility by writing the following: I confirm that the following statements are true and accurate.
1. I am a United States citizen or a permanent resident alien.
2. This contribution is made from my own personal funds, and funds are not being provided to me by another person or entity for the purpose of making this contribution.
3. I am not a federal contractor.
4. I am at least eighteen years old.

==========================

Watch Donna Edwards and her campaign to replace Al Wynn on the PBS program "Now" Friday Jan. 18th 10 PM on WETA - channel 26

Repeated on WETA World on Sunday, Jan. 20th, at 12 midnight, and again at 5 AM. WETA World is Comcast cable channel 202 and Verizon FIOS channel 873.

==========================

This message was not paid for or coordinated with any candidate or campaign.

Donna Edwards Fundraiser 5-9 pm Sunday, January 20 in Wheaton

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

1/16/08 Update from HealthCareMaryland.org

http://www.HealthCareMaryland.org
"Health Care Delayed is Health Care Denied"

Health Care Maryland.org is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization
which promotes research, public education and advocacy to guarantee
universal high-quality health care for all Maryland residents. We're
working with our friends and allies--other organizations, elected
officials, and concerned individuals--to bring high-quality universal
health care to Maryland in 2008. We're planning town halls, summits,
conferences, and organizing legislative efforts. Read articles at the
Health Care Maryland website. Please share with interested friends and
colleagues.

Urge Senators to Deliver Quality Indian Health Care
From FCNL -- Friends Committee on National Legislation

Senators will vote January 22 on reauthorization of the Indian Health
Care Improvement Act (S. 1200).This bill lays the foundation for program
change and addresses health crises such as diabetes, youth suicide, and
drug addiction that have escalated among native peoples in the past 15
years. Take Action

Doctors Give Massachusetts Health Reform A Failing Grade
Poor Early Outcomes Raise Red Flags, Only Private Insurers Profit
From MedicalNewsToday.com

Over 250 Massachusetts doctors have signed an open letter to the country
warning that the health reform model enacted by Massachusetts is failing
and that a single payer program is the only alternative.

"It is urgent that the rest of the country know that Massachusetts is a
living laboratory for the health care reforms being pushed in California
and by the Obama/Clinton/Edwards campaigns. Right now the Gov.
Romney/Massachusetts' plan gets a failing grade on the ground," said
Dr.Rachel Nardin, Assistant Professor of neurology at Harvard Medical
School.

Our Future Rooted in Our Past

Unprecedented change in the nation's healthcare system is looming, while
the ability to attract new nurses still is hindered by sexual and gender
stereotypes.
by Catherine Spader, RN | Nurse.com

Nurses who came of age during the baby boom generation have transformed
nursing from a role dominated by tasks and physicians' orders into a
profession of independent thinkers with their own body of knowledge. As
the baby-boom nurses begin to retire and exit the workforce in the next
20 to 30 years, they leave behind some big shoes to fill.

Generation X and Y nurses, born and raised in a fast-paced world, thrive
on technology and change--and that's a good thing because tomorrow's
healthcare system will look much different than when baby boomers
entered as young nurses starting in the early 1960s.

State Town Hall Tour to Focus on Health Care Issues

From Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative, and the Health Care for All!
campaign
A Busy Spring: As many of you might know by now, we have reconvened our
Technical Advisory Committee. This team of experts from the Johns
Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, University of MD School of
Law, Community Catalyst, and others helped draft the original Health
Care for All! plan. We have brought them back together to draw up a new
plan to represent all the things that have changed since the original
plan was written, and hope to have a newly updated Health Care for All!
plan late this spring. We have had series of stakeholder meetings
already and the wheels are in motion to get the very difficult work
completed.

CareFirst's quality initiative: Doctors to get more for providing better
care
By Karen Buckelew | Maryland Daily Record Business Writer

Maryland doctors soon will have the chance to earn higher payments from
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield through a new initiative to improve the
quality of patient care. The new CareFirst Quality Rewards program,
which the state's largest insurer announced Tuesday, will give doctors
the chance to earn up to 7 percent increases in the standard fee
CareFirst pays physicians for services.

Casa's services mean advocacy in many languages
Nonprofit has expanded its reach to serve area's burgeoning African
population
By Agnes Jasinski | Gazette Staff Writer

For the last three years, Casa of Maryland has been a second home for
Frederic Ngongang of Cameroon. Ngongang, who left the African country
for Takoma Park in 2003, arrived on United States soil in need of
immediate employment. What he found was one of the state's largest
advocacy groups for Hispanics, but one that welcomed him as well....

Over the last year, Casa has increased efforts to reach Africans through
health care services through partnerships with nonprofits such as the
Ethiopian Community Development Council and the county's African
American Health Program, Jaramillo said.

Keeping King's dream alive--Sen. Verna L. Jones helped win an expansion
of health care
By Susan Gvozdas | Special to the Baltimore Sun

The Rev. Johnny R. Calhoun is overseeing the construction of a $3
million community center in Parole. State Sen. Verna L. Jones helped win
an expansion of health care for the poor and elderly. Business executive
James Pitts orchestrated the renovation of the Robinwood Community Center.

The three are among nine individuals and groups to be honored Friday
night at Anne Arundel County's 20th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Dinner. The event will also mark the 40th anniversary of King's
assassination....

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Health Care For All! Town Hall Meetings on Health Reform in Maryland

For additional information, please
contact the Maryland Citizens'
Health Initiative at 410-235-9000
or visit www.healthcareforall.com

THE TOWN HALL MEETINGS WILL BE 6 TO 9 PM
AND ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

The Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative's Technical Advisory
Committee will provide you an opportunity to:
* Learn about the new health care expansion laws
* Give comments on what YOU want to see in an overall plan to
give access to quality, affordable health care for all Marylanders

Wed Jan. 30 Baltimore City Sheldon Hall,
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health,
615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore City

Wed Feb. 6 Howard County Date tentative; Location TBA

Wed Feb. 20 Prince George's County Oxon Hill United Methodist Church,
6400 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD

Tue Feb. 26 Montgomery County River Road Unitarian Universalist Church,
6301 River Road, Bethesda, MD

Thu Feb. 28 Baltimore Co., Harford Co., Carroll Co. Towson Unitarian
Universalist Church,
1710 Dulaney Valley Road, Lutherville, MD

Mon Mar. 3 Western Maryland Frederick Public Library,
110 East Patrick Street, Frederick, MD

Wed Mar. 12 Upper Shore Easton Unitarian Universalist Congregation,
7401 Ocean Gateway, Easton, MD

Wed Mar. 19 Lower Shore Location TBA

Tue Mar. 25 Anne Arundel County Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis,
333 Dubois Road, Annapolis, MD

Saturday, January 12, 2008

PROGRESSIVE ACTION FOR THE ECONOMY January 16, 2-4 PM

Join us for a...

TOWN HALL MEETING:

PROGRESSIVE ACTION FOR THE ECONOMY

Wednesday, January 16, 2-4 PM
Cannon Caucus Room, 345 Cannon House Office Building
[Very close to the Capitol South metro stop (blue / orange line)]

Everything bad is going up: Foreclosures. Oil prices. Bankruptcies. Medical costs. Outsourcing. College tuition. Poverty. Except for the dollar. Wages. That's going down.

As our struggling economy teeters toward recession, what action is needed to protect working families? What long-term investments must we make to build a vibrant economy that works for everyone?

Wednesday, January 16th, join us on Capitol Hill for this important town hall meeting, exploring what we must do to get our economy on track.

RSVP for the Capitol Hill Town Hall Meeting on the Economy: http://ga3.org/caf/events/_TownhallEconomyMeeting/details.tcl

The Economy and Progressive Remedies

With U.S. Reps. Barbara Lee and Lynn Woolsey, the Co-Chairs of the Congressional Progressive Caucus; and U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, the Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Services;
Robert Kuttner, author of The Squandering of America and co-founder and co-editor of The American Prospect; and Roger Hickey, co-director, Campaign for America's Future

Robert Kuttner's latest book offers a new model of managed capitalism that can deliver security and opportunity, and rekindle democracy as a check on concentrated wealth.

In what is sure to be a remarkable political year, it is up to us to drive the national debate with bold ideas to remedy the rampant failures of the conservative era, and establish a broad progressive mandate for lasting change. We need your help, your participation and your voice.

We hope to see you on Capitol Hill for this event. Together, we can take our country back.

RSVP for the Capitol Hill Town Hall Meeting on the Economy: http://ga3.org/caf/events/_TownhallEconomyMeeting/details.tcl

Co-hosts: the Campaign for America's Future and The American Prospect

Sincerely,

Emily Barson
Events Manager
Campaign for America’s Future

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Three Important Meetings On One Day: Sunday January 13

-- What's Going on in Annapolis for the Coming Legislative Session?
MD Dist 18 Senator Rich Madaleno on health care, global warming, the
budget and slots 10:15 am Sunday January 13

River Road UU Congregation, River Road UU Congregation, 6301 River Road,
Bethesda, MD 20817
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=6301+River+Rd,+Bethesda,+MD+20817
Public Transportation and Driving Directions:

http://www.rruuc.org/Directions.html

-- Progressive Neighbors of Takoma Park and Silver Spring Public Meeting
Special Legislative Session: Victory or Defeat for Progressives?
1:30 pm Sunday January 13

With Dist 18 Del. Ana Sol Gutierrez, Prof. Allan Lichtman
AU/Commentator, Josh Kurtz Editor Roll Call, Elbridge James President
Progressive MD; Aaron Meisner Stop Slots Maryland, and Donna Edwards 4th
District Democratic Candidate for Congress

Argyle Park Rec. Center 1030 Forest Glen Road Silver Spring, MD
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=1030+Forest+Glen+Rd,+Silver+Spring,+MD+20901
(between University Blvd. and Sligo Creek Parkway)
RSVP / More Info: 301-587-5559 or malakoff@starpower.net

-- District 20 Town Hall Meeting: Meet and Discuss Maryland's Issues
4 – 6 pm Sunday January 13

With Sen. Jamie Raskin, and Delegates Tom Hucker, Heather Mizeur and
Sheila Hixson

Fellowship Hall, Colesville United Methodist Church, 52 Randolph Road
Silver Spring, MD
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=52+Randolph+Road++silver+spring+MD

Town Hall Jan 16th: Barney Frank, Barbara Lee and Lynn Woolsey

Campaign for America's Future | www.ourfuture.org
Please RSVP to participate in this critical discussion:
http://ga3.org/caf/events/_TownhallEconomyMeeting/details.tcl

TOWN HALL MEETING ON THE NEED FOR URGENT PROGRESSIVE ACTION TO TACKLE
ECONOMIC INSTABILITY.

Everything is going up. Foreclosures. Oil prices. Bankruptcies. Medical
costs. Outsourcing. College tuition. Poverty. Except for the dollar.
That's going down.

As our struggling economy teeters toward recession, what urgent action
is needed to cushion the blow to working families? What long-term
investments must we make to build a vibrant economy that works for everyone?

On Wednesday, January 16th, join us on Capitol Hill for a critical town
hall meeting, exploring what we must do to get our economy back on track.
RSVP for the Capitol Hill Town Hall Meeting on the Economy:

http://ga3.org/caf/events/_TownhallEconomyMeeting/details.tcl

WHAT: Capitol Hill Town Hall Meeting on the Economy and Progressive Remedies

WHO: U.S. Rep. Barney Frank, Chairman of the House Committee on
Financial Services
U.S. Reps. Barbara Lee and Lynn Woolsey, Co-Chairs of the Congressional
Progressive Caucus
Robert Kuttner, author of The Squandering of America and co-founder and
co-editor of The American Prospect
Roger Hickey, co-director, Campaign for America's Future

Co-hosted by the Campaign for America's Future and The American Prospect

WHERE: Cannon Caucus Room, 345 Cannon House Office Building
Very close to the Capitol South metro stop (blue / orange line)

WHEN: Wednesday, January 16, 2008 from 2:00 - 4:00 PM

(Light refreshments will be served.)

Rep. Frank said the recent poor jobs report "should be a wake-up call
that a public policy response is needed to help the economy recover more
quickly and to help average Americans deal with any downturn." And
Robert Kuttner's latest book offers a new model of managed capitalism
that can deliver security and opportunity, and rekindle democracy as a
check on concentrated wealth.

In what is sure to be a remarkable political year, it is up to us to
push the parameters of national debate, make room for bold ideas that
remedy the failures of the conservative era, and establish a broad
mandate for lasting change. And we can only shape the debate with your
help, your participation and your voice.

We hope to see you on Capitol Hill for this special event, so together,
we can take our country back.

RSVP for the Capitol Hill Town Hall Meeting on the Economy:

http://ga3.org/caf/events/_TownhallEconomyMeeting/details.tcl

Sincerely,

Emily Barson
Events Manager
Campaign for America's Future

Monday, January 07, 2008

Montgomery County Congressional Candidates’ Forum on Jan. 27

IMPORTANT: Come to the Montgomery County Congressional Candidates' Forum
on Jan. 27

What: The Role of Congress in U.S. Foreign Policy: Iraq, Iran, and
National Security.

All candidates for Congress from Montgomery County districts 4 & 8 have
been invited to explain their foreign policy views. Come hear what they
have to say, and ask them YOUR questions.

When: Sunday, Jan. 27, 2 – 4 p.m.
Where: County Council Office Building, 3rd-floor hearing room, 100
Maryland Ave., Rockville
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=100+Maryland+Ave,+Rockville,+MD+20850
Short walk from Rockville Metro on the Red Line

Why: Show them how important YOU think these issues are.

Please put this on your calendar TODAY! Tell your friends and
neighbors!! The media is saying that Iraq is off the radar screen--let
candidates for Congress know that this is not true!

Print out this email notice and put it in your house of worship, local
library, or community center. Forward it to everyone you know who lives
in Montgomery County. We need your help to advertise this important event!

Sponsored by PeaceAction Montgomery. Cosponsored by Pax Christi
Montgomery; UFCW Local 1994, MCGEO; Montgomery County Student Anti-War
Network; Washington Region Religious Campaign Against Torture.

Sunday, January 06, 2008

Shut Down Guantanamo! DC Action on January 11

Important Action on January 11 in DC !!! Please forward to all your
friend and lists!

The following action is supported by witnesstorture.org, Amnesty
International, CodePink Women for Peace, and many other groups. We stand
against torture and extra-judicial confinement. We stand for Habeus
Corpus, the rule of law, and respect for human life and human dignity.
Please join us in support of this powerful action to declare our
abhorrence of the crimes that have been committed in our names.

Shut Down Guantanamo! (Washington, DC)
Start: Jan 11 2008 - 10:00am
End: Jan 11 2008 - 3:00pm

Prisoners of Guantanamo march to the Supreme Court: A provocative street
theater performance involving people wearing orange jumpsuits and black
hoods. We will march in an orderly, silent procession, hauntingly
evoking the moral disgrace that is Guantanamo. All participants are
strongly encouraged to attend a final planning meeting and training on
Thursday (January 10th), 4|6pm. After dinner, there will be a public
program on Guantanamo from 7-9 pm. Location: St. Stephens and the
Incarnation Church, 1525 Newton Street NW, at 16th Street.

January 11th Schedule
10:00 am - Gather at the National Mall for Orientation to Prisoner March
(National Mall @ 12th street NW between Madison Dr NW & Jefferson Drive
SW - near the Smithsonian Metro Stop)

11: 00 am - Permitted demonstration on the National Mall co-sponsored by
Amnesty International and National Religious Campaign Against Torture
Noon - Guantanamo Prisoner Procession from the National Mall to the
Supreme Court (2 plus miles)

1:30 pm - Funeral Ceremony at the Supreme Court remembering the four men
who died in custody at Guantanamo and mourning the death of Habeas Corpus

Location
National Mall
12th street NW and Madison Dr NW
Washington, DC, 20004
United States

Friday, January 04, 2008

Sunday January 6, Meet Donna Edwards

5:30 PM to 8:30 PM Sunday January 6, Meet Real Democrat Donna Edwards
The grassroots progressive Democrat for Congress in Maryland's 4th
District.

The primary is Feb. 12. Join Donna Edwards for a "Woman to Woman
Conversation"

Prince George's Ballroom, 2411 Pinebrook Ave., Landover
**http://maps.google.com/maps?q=2411+Pinebrook+Ave,+Hyattsville,+MD+20785

Entertainment by "Sense of Urgency" a jazz quintet. FREE!
For info contact Carletta Fellows at 301-316-1880.

Directions to Prince George's Ballroom:
Prince George's Ballroom is located in the Kentland community of
Landover, at Pinebrook Avenue and Landover Road. The facility is also
accessible by Metro on the Orange/Blue Line, Landover station.

From Baltimore, take the Baltimore-Washington Parkway south toward
Washington, D.C. Take Route 202 (Landover Road), Cheverly exit. Make a
left turn onto Landover Road. At the 7th stop light make a right onto
Pinebrook Avenue and continue straight to the circular driveway.

From Washington, D.C., take Route 50 east to the Landover Road (Route
202) exit. Take Route 202 toward Upper Marlboro, then proceed through 2
stop lights to Pinebrook Avenue. Make a right onto Pinebrook Avenue and
continue straight to the circular driveway.

Sunday, December 30, 2007

RECEPTION and FUNDRAISER for ANA SOL GUTIERREZ

FRIENDS OF ANA CORDIALLY INVITE YOU TO
A RECEPTION and FUNDRAISER for
Maryland State Delegate ANA SOL GUTIERREZ

Come enjoy great Latin food, music, drinks, and progressive politics about
What's Happening in 2008 in the Maryland General Assembly

When: Friday, January 4, 2008, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Where: Lauriol Plaza Restaurant (Rooftop)
1835 18th St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20010
Tel 202-387-0035

Suggested Contributions: $500, $250, $100, or $50
Your generous contribution will help support Ana 's work
in the Maryland General Assembly!!

RSVP by email to asolgut@starpower.net or by calling 301-718-0707

If you are unable to attend this event,
Please show your support for Ana by
Sending a contribution to:

Gutierrez for Delegate
3317 Turner Lane
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
(Make checks payable to: Gutiérrez for Delegate)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
By Authority: Gutiérrez for Delegate, Edward Brandt, Treasurer

Maryland's Special Legislative Session: Victory or Defeat for Progressives?

PUBLIC MEETING PROGRESSIVE NEIGHBORS
www.progressiveneighborsmd.org

Maryland's Special Legislative Session: Victory or Defeat for Progressives?
Where Do We Go From Here?

1:30pm Sunday January 13th
Argyle Park Rec. Center
1030 Forest Glen Road
Silver Spring, MD
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=1030+Forest+Glen+Rd,+Silver+Spring,+MD+20901
(between University Blvd. and Sligo Creek Parkway)

Most convenient public transportation:
C4 BUS to W UNIVERSITY BV & DENNIS AV
Walk about 8 blocks: http://tinyurl.com/2tpfca

Panelists Include...
Del. Ana Sol Gutierrez - Delegate, Dist 18
Allan Lichtman - AU Professor and Commentator
Josh Kurtz - Political Editor, Roll Call
Elbridge James - President, Progressive MD
Aaron Meisner - Stop Slots Maryland

The Special Legislative Session made major changes in state income,
corporate, and sales taxes and in the state budget. It approved a
referendum for 2008 to decide whether slots should be legalized. How do
all these changes add up? Did the burden fall on working Marylanders?
How did social programs fare? What happened to progressive proposals,
such as an income tax more heavily tilted toward the wealthy and a tax
to ensure that corporations pay their fair share? What are the chances
of defeating slots in 2008? For further information about the meeting,
call 301-587-5559

Thursday, December 27, 2007

News Update from HealthCareMaryland.org

Universal Health Care in Maryland in 2008

Click here to subscribe to updates from Health Care Maryland.

California court limits health insurers’ ability to cancel policies

By Bob Egelko | San Francisco Chronicle Staff Writer

Health insurers can't wait until a policyholder is sick or injured to investigate the person's medical history and then abruptly cancel the policy on the grounds that important information was left out of the original application, a state appeals court has ruled.

On Monday, the Fourth District Court of Appeal in Santa Ana called a halt to a practice that lawyers for policyholders claim is widespread. Known as "post-claims underwriting," it has led to numerous lawsuits - mostly unsuccessful so far - and state enforcement actions against insurers.

Howard County Candidate Forum Jan. 12

Candidates ... have been invited to discuss ... health care
by Nate Sandstrom | At A Glance | ColumbiaFlier.com

Maryland's primary elections are just around the corner, and a local advocacy group is hosting a public forum for candidates or their representatives next month.

African Americans in Howard County, a local nonprofit group that focuses on issues that affect minorities and the poor, will host the Jan. 12 forum for candidates who are running in Maryland's Feb. 12 primary.

Bill Would Allow U.S. Residents To Purchase Health Insurance In Any State

Recent Op-Ed Highlights Need To Pass Bill To Allow U.S. Residents To Purchase Health Insurance In Any State, Letter Says [See Original ]

A Dec. 12 Wall Street Journal opinion piece written by Merrill Matthews, executive director of the Council for Affordable Health Insurance, highlights the "tragedy of state governments forbidding citizens from exercising the basic right to buy health insurance from other states," John Graham, director of health care studies at the Pacific Research Institute, writes in a Journal letter to the editor (Graham, Wall Street Journal, 12/20). In the opinion piece, Matthews recommends that Congress pass the Health Care Choice Act -- legislation sponsored by Rep. John Shadegg (R-Ariz.) that would allow U.S. residents to purchase health insurance in any state -- to help make the market more competitive and reduce costs (Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report, 12/12).

largest malpractice insurer in Maryland to reduce premiums

Maryland: The Medical Mutual Liability Insurance Society of Maryland, the largest malpractice insurer in the state, last week announced plans to use an almost $100 million dividend to reduce malpractice insurance premiums for physicians by 8%, pay physicians $13.8 million in credits against premiums for 2008 and return $84 million to the state for emergency subsidies, the Baltimore Sun reports (Salganik, Baltimore Sun, 12/14).

State Insurance Commissioner Ralph Tyler last month ruled that Med Mutual, which had declared a $68.6 million dividend, should return the full amount to the state. However, Tyler allowed Med Mutual 30 days to develop an alternative plan. Med Mutual said that conditions in the malpractice insurance market have since improved and allowed them to declare a larger dividend (Dominguez, AP/Washington Times, 12/14).

States' Health Care Liability Totals $2.73T, Some Unfunded

the five largest states by population -- California, Texas, New York, Florida and Illinois -- have reserved no funds for retiree health care obligations
From MedicalNewsToday.com

Nearly half of states have not adequately funded their pension and retiree health care obligations, which will total $2.7 trillion over the next 30 years, according to a study released on Wednesday by the Pew Center on the States, part of the Pew Charitable Trusts, the New York Times reports (Williams Walsh, New York Times, 12/19). States have reserved sufficient funds to cover 85% of the future pension and retiree health care obligations, according to the report.

The report found that states will owe $381 billion for retiree health care and other nonpension obligations over the next 30 years.

Teen dies after CIGNA HealthCare denies transplant funds

"She passed away, and the insurance (company) is responsible for this"
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

GLENDALE, Calif. -- A 17-year old died just hours after her health insurance company reversed its decision not to pay for a liver transplant that doctors said the girl needed.

Nataline Sarkisyan died Thursday night at about 6 p.m. at University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center. She had been in a vegetative state for weeks, said her mother, Hilda.

Physician shortage looms in Maryland

Rural areas expected to be hit hardest
by Steve Berberich | Gazette.net Staff Writer

‘‘I think this is just a small piece of a bigger problem,” Sen. Thomas M. Middleton (D-Dist. 28) of Waldorf said of the report. ‘‘My gut feeling is that we are approaching a crisis in primary care doctors.”

Monday, December 24, 2007

Maryland Moms Lobby for Peace and Accountability

Maryland Moms Lobby for Peace and Accountability and Chesapeake Carolers Deliver Peace Message to Congress

This Christmas season, two Maryland soccer moms (who exchange meat loaf recipes, teach Sunday school and share carpool duties) felt upset that Congress members had been naughty in 2007 -- by violating their oaths of office, i.e. using billions of our dollars for funding the illegal and unpopular Iraq occupation, and by not impeaching the criminals Bush and Cheney. Why was Congress deliberately setting a treacherous precedent by promoting a permanent war economy with our money, and by supporting unbridled presidential power in the 21st century? Gosh darn it!

So these two feisty gals wiped away their copious tears, put on decent foundation and lipstick, and got to work. They wrote subversive Christmas carols, wrote ringing truth-to-power letters on adorable stationery to 13 representatives, baked organic impeachment and (crumbling) Constitution cookies, and stuffed cute anti-war stockings with coal. They also prepared a "thank you" tin of cookies for the one Congress member who has stood for Americans in every vote he has cast: Representative Dennis Kucinich, whom they support for President in 2008.

Watch the videos: http://blog.pdamerica.org/?p=1567
Read the whole story: http://blog.pdamerica.org/?p=1523

Please share with all your friends!

Peace and Accountability to all, and to all a good night!

Friday, December 21, 2007

News from HealthCareMaryland.org 12/21/07

Universal Health Care in Maryland in 2008

Health Care Maryland.org is a non-partisan, not-for-profit organization working with other organizations, elected officials, and concerned individuals to bring high-quality universal health care to Maryland in 2008. We're planning town halls, summits, conferences, and organizing legislative efforts. Visit our website: http://www.healthcaremaryland.org/ (by Mike Hersh)

States' Health Care Liability Totals $2.73T, Some Unfunded

the five largest states by population -- California, Texas, New York, Florida and Illinois -- have reserved no funds for retiree health care obligations
From MedicalNewsToday.com

Nearly half of states have not adequately funded their pension and retiree health care obligations, which will total $2.7 trillion over the next 30 years, according to a study released on Wednesday by the Pew Center on the States, part of the Pew Charitable Trusts, the New York Times reports (Williams Walsh, New York Times, 12/19). States have reserved sufficient funds to cover 85% of the future pension and retiree health care obligations, according to the report. The report found that states will owe $381 billion for retiree health care and other nonpension obligations over the next 30 years.

» Read more

Teen dies after transplant funds denied by CIGNA HealthCare

"She passed away, and the insurance (company) is responsible for this"
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

GLENDALE, Calif. -- A 17-year old died just hours after her health insurance company reversed its decision not to pay for a liver transplant that doctors said the girl needed. Nataline Sarkisyan died Thursday night at about 6 p.m. at University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center. She had been in a vegetative state for weeks, said her mother, Hilda.

» Read more

Physician shortage looms in Maryland

Rural areas expected to be hit hardest
by Steve Berberich | Gazette.net Staff Writer

Widespread shortages in many physician specialties can be expected by 2015 in Maryland, especially in rural counties, unless action is taken soon, said a committee of top medical experts in an unpublished report due to the state government next month. ‘‘I think this is just a small piece of a bigger problem,” Sen. Thomas M. Middleton (D-Dist. 28) of Waldorf said of the report. ‘‘My gut feeling is that we are approaching a crisis in primary care doctors.”

» Read more

California Moves Closer to Passing Universal Health Care Plan

By Michael B. Marois | Bloomberg.com

Dec. 18 (Bloomberg) -- California is one step closer to passing a $14 billion plan supported by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to expand health care to the state's uninsured by charging employers a fee and raising taxes on cigarettes. The state Assembly, controlled by Democrats, passed the bill yesterday in a 45-31 vote. It would require businesses to spend as much as 6.5 percent of payroll costs on health care for workers or pay as much into a state program. It also would raise the tax on a pack of cigarettes by at least $1.50 from the current 87 cents and force all residents to buy insurance if they can afford it.

» Read more

Small Businesses Oppose Mandates for Health Plans

By MILT FREUDENHEIM | The New York Times

The small-business lobbying group that had a big role in derailing Hillary Rodham Clinton’s effort to overhaul health care in the early 1990s has staked out its position for the 2008 political season. The group, the National Federation of Independent Business, which says it has 350,000 members and lobbyists in 50 states, warned politicians and policy makers on Wednesday not to impose new health-benefit obligations on small employers.The group said in a statement of principles that “a health care system built on employer mandates or on play-or-pay taxes is unacceptable.”

» Read more

'Is this what America stands for?'

By Linda P. Campbell | McClatchy Newspapers

Hillary Clinton talks about health-care reform in terms of "American values, American families and American jobs." Barack Obama talks about health care as a "right for everyone, not a privilege for the few." John McCain talks about making insurance more affordable "by fostering competition and innovation." Uwe Reinhardt talks about outrages.The Princeton economics professor tells of a hospital patient charged $9,000 for a night in the intensive care unit and $791 for stockings that run $12 at a drugstore. He tells of a father who sought treatment for his son's infected eye and got billed $1,200. "Is this what America stands for?" he asked. But it wasn't really a question.

» Read more

Sunday, December 16, 2007

HealthCareMaryland.org: Universal Health Care in Maryland in 2008

Health Care Maryland.org:
Bringing Health Care to All Maryland Residents

Our Goal: Universal Health Care in Maryland in 2008

Please join our google group: http://groups.google.com/group/healthcaremaryland
Please Participate at our website: http://www.healthcaremaryland.org/

We know we have our work cut out for us. We've been working with doctors, elected officials, administrators and others developing a comprehensive, fundamental approach to health care for our state. We need your help organizing events, gathering information, building coalitions and more. The stakes are too high for us not to succeed.

Health Care Maryland Google Group | Health Care Maryland DFA-Link | Health Care Maryland Forums

Recent articles collected at our website:

'Is this what America stands for?'

By Linda P. Campbell | McClatchy Newspapers

Hillary Clinton talks about health-care reform in terms of "American values, American families and American jobs."

Barack Obama talks about health care as a "right for everyone, not a privilege for the few."

John McCain talks about making insurance more affordable "by fostering competition and innovation."

Uwe Reinhardt talks about outrages.

The Princeton economics professor tells of a hospital patient charged $9,000 for a night in the intensive care unit and $791 for stockings that run $12 at a drugstore. He tells of a father who sought treatment for his son's infected eye and got billed $1,200.

"Is this what America stands for?" he asked. But it wasn't really a question.

» Add new comment | Read more

Health notes December 16, 2007 baltimoresun.com

Health notes | baltimoresun.com

Diabetes support group to meet
Upper Chesapeake Health will offer a Parish Nurse Diabetes Support Group at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Aberdeen Senior Center.
For information and to register, call 410-273-5666.Information: 800-515-0044.

Group aids cancer patients, families
Upper Chesapeake Health has a new cancer support group for individuals who have been diagnosed with any type of cancer and their families. The group will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Harford Memorial Hospital. Information: 800-515-0044.

» Add new comment | Read more

How to control health spending

By Dan Radmacher | The Roanoke Times

It doesn't sound like much: 2.5 percentage points. That's the amount that health care prices have been increasing more than the level of inflation. But, the beauty of compound interest turned ugly, that small difference adds up over the years.

Excluding a short period in the '90s when managed care systems exerted some pressure on costs and a booming economy expanded growth in other areas, health care spending has consumed a larger and larger proportion of America's gross domestic product.

According to projections by actuaries at the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services, health spending will equal 20 percent of GDP by 2015.

» Add new comment | Read more

Health savings accounts for poor tested

By KEVIN FREKING | ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER | SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER

WASHINGTON -- The popularity of health savings accounts for the poor will be put to the test in Indiana under a program approved Friday by the Bush administration. Under the plan, someone making $20,000 a year could get health coverage for about $19 a week.

Bush has long pushed health savings accounts as a way to slow the rising cost of medical care and extend basic coverage to the uninsured.

Under the Indiana program, eligible residents can pay up to 5 percent of their incomes into state-subsidized "Personal Wellness and Responsibility Accounts" that cover their initial medical expenses up to $1,100. Once that deductible is reached, private insurance purchased by the state kicks in.

» Add new comment | Read more

Driving a stake through health reform's heart

OPINION | John Sweeney | The News Journal. Wilmington, Delaware | Friday, December 14, 2007

Supposedly the 2008 election will be the one that turns health care around in this country.

Voters rank health worries right behind concerns about the war in Iraq. Candidates at all levels, businesses, labor unions and reformers of all stripes have been calling for real reform.

Every day we seem to see another story about the rising number of uninsured people in this country.

So unlike the ill-fated Clinton attempt at health care reform in the early 1990s, real changes are on the way, right?

Don't bet on it.

» Add new comment | Read more

The year of public health in Md.

By Vincent DeMarco | Baltimore Sun Opinion

The people of Maryland should be very proud of their leaders for making 2007 the year of public health in Maryland, which despite its wealth has traditionally been among the worst states at providing health insurance for poor adults.

The General Assembly this year passed four new laws, which will:

• Require all workplaces and public places to be smoke-free.

• Increase the state tobacco tax by $1 per pack.

• Allow young adults to stay on their parents' insurance plans.

• Provide health care coverage for many lower-income adults.

» Add new comment | Read more

Report: Health care gap is growing along racial, economic lines

Center on Health Disparities calls for collaboration by hospitals, communities and counties
by C. Benjamin Ford | Gazette Staff Writer

A report from Adventist HealthCare’s newly created Center on Health Disparities shows that the growing diversification of the counties has increased the gap in health care along racial and economic lines.

The 113-page report, ‘‘Partnering Toward a Healthier Future,” was released Friday at Washington Adventist Hospital in Takoma Park and followed by a panel discussion with regional health and government leaders.

‘‘We believe collaboration is the only way health disparities will cease to exist,” said William G. ‘‘Bill” Robertson, president and CEO of Adventist HealthCare.

» Add new comment | Read more

Welcome to Health Care Maryland.org

We're joining forces with other organizations and individuals, elected officials and other leaders to guarantee health care to everyone in Maryland.

» Mike Hersh's blog | Add new comment

Saturday, December 15, 2007

Maryland Moms Lobby for Peace and Accountability--Get in on the Impeachment movement

Progressive Democrats of America - Stand Up. Take Action. Vote.

Join the Peace and Impeachment Movement. Work for Health Care, Secure and Clean Voting, and Economic Justice. Help stop Global Warming.

Get in on the Impeachment movement:

Impeachment articles at the PDA blog. Please post and forward widely

Maryland Moms Lobby for Peace and Accountability

On December 13th, Debbie and Barb lobbied Congress in festive holiday attire. As Chesapeake Carolers, they had so much fun! They even made new friends on the steps of the Capitol Building! They hope you like the pictures! And wait till you see their music videos! [read more]

Impeachment: If not now, when?

December 15th, 2007

Lawmakers need to stand up for the Constitution and support impeachment
By LINDA BOYD | GUEST COLUMNIST | Seattle Post-Intelligencer

The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for, and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors. — Article II, Section 4

On Nov. 6, Rep. Dennis Kucinich introduced articles of impeachment against Vice President Dick Cheney on the floor of the House of Representatives. For one shining moment the will of the majority of Americans and the promise of this nation’s founders were truly represented. The detailed charges were solemnly read from the House podium and televised on C-Span. House Democratic Leader Steny Hoyer made a motion to table the bill. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi lobbied hard for votes to table.

In a stunning turnaround, House Republicans changed strategy and voted decisively to prevent tabling the impeachment resolution. Pelosi was defied by 85 Democratic members who voted against tabling the impeachment resolution. This includes John Conyers, chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, and six committee members. The resolution was quickly voted back to the Judiciary Committee, where it is not resting quietly.

Judiciary Committee member Bob Wexler wrote, “The American people are served well with a legitimate and thorough impeachment inquiry. I will urge the Judiciary Committee to schedule impeachment hearings immediately and not let this issue languish as it has over the last six months. Only through hearings can we begin to correct the abuses of Dick Cheney and the Bush administration.”[read more] Post Comments »

30,000 People Join Congressman Wexler’s Call For Cheney Impeachment Hearings in Just 24 Hours

December 15th, 2007

Blockbuster First Day for WexlerWantsHearings.com
by CONGRESSMAN ROBERT WEXLER DEMOCRAT – FLORIDA | Contact: Josh Rogin, 202-213-6165

(WASHINGTON, DC) In only the first 24 hours, more than 30,000 people have signed up online to join Congressman Robert Wexler’s (D-FL) call for impeachment hearings for Vice President Richard Cheney. On Friday, December 14, Wexler launched www.WexlerWantsHearings.com and asked Americans to join his efforts to convince Congress to hold impeachment hearings. As of 2:30 PM on Saturday 36,000 people have signed up, and the momentum generated by Wexler’s campaign is only accelerating.

“The amazing response generated by my call for impeachment hearings simply confirms the passion and energy that exists throughout the nation to hold this Administration accountable” said Wexler. “Originally my long term goal was 50,000 people to join the movement. Now it is clear we will accomplish that in only the first couple days. Major momentum now exists on behalf of our movement and it is now clear that average Americans desperately want Congress and the House Judiciary Committee to take action.” [read more] Post Comments »

A CASE FOR HEARINGS

December 15th, 2007

By Representatives and Members of the Judiciary Committee: Robert Wexler (D-FL), Luis Gutierrez (D-IL), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI). For more info on this campaign go to www.WexlerWantsHearings.com.

On November 7, the House of Representatives voted to send a resolution of impeachment of Vice President Cheney to the Judiciary Committee. As Members of the House Judiciary Committee, we strongly believe these important hearings should begin.

The issues at hand are too serious to ignore, including credible allegations of abuse of power that if proven may well constitute high crimes and misdemeanors under our constitution. The charges against Vice President Cheney relate to his deceptive actions leading up to the Iraq war, the revelation of the identity of a covert agent for political retaliation, and the illegal wiretapping of American citizens. [read more] Post Comment »

Get in on the Impeachment movement:

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

join Donna Edwards for the grand opening of our Montgomery County office

Please join Donna, her campaign staff and fellow volunteers

for the grand opening of our new office in Montgomery County.

Breakfast will be provided, along with the latest news about
campaign events and our plans for the next two months!

Saturday, December 15, 2007

9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Rock Creek Village Center

5540 Norbeck Rd., Rockville, MD 20853

(corner of Norbeck Rd. and Bauer Dr.)

RSVP to gina@donnaedwardsforcongress.com

or via cell phone: 240-620-1486.

Please feel free to invite friends and family!

Let's spread the word far and wide!

Help us get Donna Edwards elected to Congress!!!

We can't do it without your support!!!

PS: If you would be able to donate or loan any of the following items, please let us know. We'd like to make the office comfortable for all our great volunteers! Microwave oven, Small refrigerator, Coffee pot, Tables, Chairs, Shelving, Desks

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Monday, January 28, 2008

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Monday, January 07, 2008

Sunday, January 06, 2008

Friday, January 04, 2008

Sunday, December 30, 2007

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Monday, December 24, 2007

Friday, December 21, 2007

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Saturday, December 15, 2007

Wednesday, December 12, 2007