Upcoming Progressive Events in Montgomery County and D.C.

Upcoming progressive events in Maryland/Montgomery County

1. PWG/Progressive Neighbors House Concert Fundraiser with Magpie --
Sunday, March 15, 4:15 p.m.
2. Lobby Night in Annapolis for Accurate, Verifiable Paper-Ballot Voting
-- Monday, March 16, 5:30 p.m.
3. Building the Election Reform Movement MeetUp (DC Metro area) --
Monday, March 23, 7 p.m.
4. MoveOn PowerUp Campaign Kick-Off -- 12:30 p.m. Saturday March 28 or
Sunday 29, details TBA
5. Combined MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, MoveOn, PDA, PWG and more. --
Wednesday April 1, 7 p.m.

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

1. PWG/Progressive Neighbors House Concert Fundraiser with Magpie
Sunday, March 15, 4:15 p.m. at 706 Erie Ave. Takoma Park
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=706+Erie+Ave.+Takoma+Park.+MD
bus service available: http://www.wmata.com/
Donation is $15 with veggie potluck dish to share and $20 without. For
more information - 301-587-5559

2. Lobby Night in Annapolis for Accurate, Verifiable Paper-Ballot Voting
Monday, March 16, 5:30 p.m. The Senate Building, 11 Bladen St.,
Annapolis, MD
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11+Bladen St.+Annapolis+MD

We'll meet in the Rotunda (turn right and walk up the ramp after passing
through the metal detector), organize into teams, receive assignments,
talking points and other materials. Bring a valid ID!
Find your State Delegate(s) and Senators here: http://mdelect.net/ and
send your contact information and the names of your state elected
officials to Stan Boyd, sbb223@yahoo.com ASAP.

Transition to paper ballot voting across the state will save Maryland
money, due to extravagant costs for maintaining the less reliable and
impossible to verify touch screen machines. Our state should use a
system which will provide private and independent voting for disabled
voters alongside the paper ballot-based system. Many jurisdictions in
Maryland used to use the paper-ballot optical scan voting which was
unanimously supported by the Maryland legislature in 2007. We ask our
representatives to ensure a smooth, cost-effective transition to
reliable, transparent voting for the 2010 election cycle, as planned.

3. Building the Election Reform Movement MeetUp (DC Metro area) Sign
up/more details here: http://electionreform.meetup.com/176/
Monday, March 23, 7 p.m. Burma Restaurant 740 6th street NW Washington,
DC 20001 2nd floor walkup
(16th and H St. 2nd floor--short walk from Gallery Pl. Chinatown metro stop)
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=740+6th+St.+washington+dc+20001

Guest speaker Joseph Oddo (writer/political consultant/businessman and
co-founder of the Independent Greens of Virginia) will discuss his
10-Point Platform for Election Reform and report on 2008 voting
machinery failure in VA. We will also discuss progress on paper
ballot/opti-scan voting in Maryland and the Lobby Day in Annapolis on
March 16th. More info, contact: jenkarius@gmail.com

4. SAVE THE DATES! MoveOn PowerUp Campaign Kick-Off (12:30 pm. to 2:30
p.m. March 28 or 29, details TBA)
Sign up and--in the next few days--view finalized details here:
http://pol.moveon.org/event/poweruplaunch/92499

5. Combined MeetUp/Meeting for MCPA, DFMC, MoveOn, PDA, PWG and more.
Wednesday April 1, 7 p.m. Saigonese Restaurant 11232 Grandview Ave
Silver Spring (Wheaton), MD 20902
Short walk from Wheaton Metro (red line) /
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232+Grandview+Ave+Silver+Spring+MD+20902
We're working on Coalition Building Efforts, several bills and lobby
efforts on the state and national level. We'll also discuss the upcoming
County Council Special Election, coalition efforts, and much more!

We're planning special events, forming a steering committee, and working
on meetings with legislators, etc. We'll be holding meetings and events
to make a real difference in our county, state and nation. Participating
organizations include: Montgomery County Progressive Alliance, Democracy
for Montgomery County, Progressive Democrats of America, MoveOn.org and
the Progressive Working Group as well as several "MeetUp" groups. MoveOn
has an exciting, progressive agenda for the U.S. and 1000s of involved,
informed members in our area. Please join the Montgomery County MoveOn
Council by clicking on this link:
http://www.moveon.org/team/search/signup.html?team_id=4221

MAGPIE SUNDAY MARCH 15

IDES OF MARCH - "SMASHING THE EMPIRE" HOUSE CONCERT FEATURING MAGPIE

SUNDAY MARCH 15, 4:15 PM
706 Erie Ave. Takoma Park, MD 20912

SONGS OF THE EARTH, HOPE, AND CHANGE

The house concert will benefit Progressive Neighbors and the Progressive
Working Group

No RSVP necessary, but first come first serve
Bring a pot luck dish (veggie only) and folding chairs if you have.
Donation: $15 (with pot luck dish to share) $20 (without)

For more information - 301-587-5559 CD'S AND DVD'S FOR SALE

Urgent: Act TODAY to Protect Verifiable Elections in Maryland!

"VerifiedVoting.org" <vevo@mail.democracyinaction.org>
Subject: Urgent: Keep Maryland on the Path to Verifiable Elections
[Please forward to all your friends, lists, groups, etc.]

We need your help to protect Maryland's path to trustworthy elections. Two
years ago, the Legislature passed a law to phase out unreliable touch
screen voting systems by 2010.

That victory is now in jeopardy. With the current budget climate, there is
talk of delaying implementation of the law. But paper ballot/optical scan
systems are cheaper to maintain and operate than touch screen voting
machines. This fact is not as widely known in Annapolis as it needs to be.

You can help to educate lawmakers. Send a letter to your legislators urging
them to continue Maryland's path toward more cost-effective and verifiable
voting systems. Go to this Web page to send a letter:

http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/199/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=26736

[Please use your own words--legislators receiving exactly the same message
tend to discount the effort. Show some originality, mention your delegate(s)
and state senator by name if you can.]

The state's current touch screen voting systems cannot prove their
accuracy, and do not allow meaningful recount. Please take action today to
make sure that the 2010 elections in Maryland are verifiable.

Thank you for all you do.

Best regards,
The Team at Verified Voting

let single payer into the White House Summit on healthcare

Please make the call and forward to your friends and lists.

Call The White House (202) 456-1414 or (202) 456-1111
Ask them to let single payer into the White House Summit on healthcare.

On Thursday, March 5, 2009, the White House will host a summit on how to
reform the healthcare system.

The 120 invited guests include lobbyists for various interest groups
including the private-for-profit insurance industry (AHIP), some members
of Congress including Senate Finance Chairman Max Baucus who has already
ruled single payer "off the table,"� and various others concerned with
healthcare.

No single payer advocates have been invited to attend.

Please urge President Obama to fulfill his promise for transparency and
openness in government

Call The White House (202) 456-1414 or (202) 456-1111.
Ask them to let single payer into the White House Summit on healthcare.

Distributed by:
All Unions Committee For Single Payer Health Care--HR 676
c/o Nurses Professional Organization (NPO)
1169 Eastern Parkway, Suite 2218
Louisville, KY 40217
(502) 636 1551
Email: nursenpo@aol.com
http://unionsforsinglepayerHR676.org
03/03/09

announcements and appeals for help from groups that are part of the PWG coalition

Progressive Working Group Participants and Friends, (thanks to Wally
Malakoff for drafting this announcement)

Below are announcements and appeals for help from groups that are
part of the PWG coalition. If you are going to be in Annapolis or can
make a trip or you can phone bank or send an email, please volunteer and
help other members of our progressive coalition. Showing legislators
that there is a coalition of groups behind these issues definitely helps.

We also urge all groups to sign onto the PWG's Statement of Purpose
(attached), even if your group is unable to endorse all 14 legislative
priority issues the coalition has adopted.

The PWG has signed on to letters from participant groups to
legislators in support of priority legislative issues that the PWG
adopted. Letters have been sent thus far on Combined Reporting for
Corporations and the Maryland Guard Home Bill. The letters used the
following language.

"On behalf of name of group, and with the endorsement of the
Progressive Working Group..." body of letter. At end of letter: "The
Progressive Working Group (PWG) is a newly formed coalition of
progressive groups, primarily in Montgomery and Prince George's
Counties, that is working to create a broad-based progressive presence
in Annapolis. All PWG member organizations support the purpose of the
organization; not all member organizations may support every item of the
PWG legislative agenda.

"Progressive Working Group membership to date: Casa of Maryland,
Equality Maryland, Progressive Democrats of Maryland, Health Care Now of
Maryland, Progressive Neighbors, Progressive Cheverly, Democracy for
Montgomery County, Upcounty Action, SAVEourVotes, Peace Action
Montgomery, Peace and Justice Coalition of Prince George's County,
Audubon Naturalist Society, Montgomery County Progressive Alliance,
Montgomery Health Care Action"

ANNOUNCEMENTS

-SAVEourVotes needs emails and letters to ensure implementation of
the law passed two years ago that would phase out unreliable touch
screen voting systems and implement a proven and more cost-effective
paper ballot voting system by 2010. That victory is now in jeopardy. Go
to
http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/199/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=26736
for more information and to send an email to your legislators.

-Volunteers are needed to testify Wed. March 4th in Annapolis on the
Maryland Guard Home Bill. Contact Jean Athey at jeanathey@verizon.net

-Progressive Cheverly and Progressive Neighbors encourage written
or in-person testimony on Combined Reporting legislation - Thurs. Mar 5
in the House, Wed. Mar 11 in the Senate.
Contact Norm Oslik: noslik@verizon.net 301-322-5272.

-Democracy for Montgomery County/Progressive Democrats of
America/Mont. County Progressive Alliance is meeting Wed. March 4 from
7-10 pm at Saigonese Restaurant. (11232 Grandview Avenue, Wheaton, MD
20902) Among the items to be discussed are progressive issues before the
General Assembly. Contact Mike Hersh for more information
mikehersh@mikehersh.com 301-933-7169

-Sierra Club and Audubon Naturalist Society are phone banking
against funding for the ICC Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this week
and next. Contact Alana Wase at Sierra Club (301-277-7111
alana.wase@mdsierra.org) or Dolores Milmoe at Audubon (301-652-9188 x 19
dmilmoe@audubonnaturalist.org) to volunteer and for more information
about sending emails.

-Casa of Maryland is looking for volunteers in the next two weeks to
testify with them in Annapolis on immigration issues including in-state
tuition for children of immigrants and denial of driver's licenses.
Contact Hector Pop at 240-354-5661 hpopchun@casamd.org

Progressive Working Group Legislative Priorities

-Corporate Income Tax - Rate Reduction and Reform (Combined Reporting)

-Health Security Act (Single Payer)

-Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act

-Defund the ICC

-In-State College Tuition For Non-Citizen Immigrant Children

-Opposition to Real ID in Current Form

-ASVAB(Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)-Protect Student
Privacy

-Keep the MD Guard at Home

-Electoral Integrity - Post-Election Audits; Voting Process
Transparency

-Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act

-Gender Identity and Expression Protections

-No Police Spying on Lawful Activities

-Public Financing of General Assembly Campaigns

-Workforce Anti-Fraud Bill (Misclassification of Workers as
Independent Contractors)

SUNDAY MARCH 15 MAGPIE SUNDAY MARCH 15

IDES OF MARCH - "SMASHING THE EMPIRE"
HOUSE CONCERT FEATURING MAGPIE

SUNDAY MARCH 15, 4:15 PM
706 Erie Ave. Takoma Park, MD 20912

SONGS OF THE EARTH, HOPE, AND CHANGE

The house concert will benefit Progressive Neighbors and the Progressive
Working Group

No RSVP necessary, but first come first serve
Bring a pot luck dish (veggie only) and folding chairs if you have.
Donation: $15 (with pot luck dish to share) $20 (without)

For more information - 301-587-5559
CD'S AND DVD'S FOR SALE

Save the Date: Political Music and Laughs with Roy Zimmerman

Political Music and Laughs with the fun, smart Roy Zimmerman

Saturday, March 21 8 PM in ROCKVILLE, MARYLAND
Real American - The Full Show Moore Music House Concert
Call or email for directions and reservations: 301-461-3600 or
mooremusicconcerts@gmail.com

See/hear Roy online here: http://www.royzimmerman.com/
Spread the word to friends and contacts in and around DC and Montgomery
County!

Sometimes ya just gotta laugh, and a catchy melody can't hurt. Come
enjoy "Funny Songs About Ignorance, War and Greed" by Roy Zimmerman.

Don't miss Roy singing a compelling combination of socially conscious
comedy and original music in the best tradition of political musical
humorists.

DFA/PDA/MCPA Monthly Meeting Wednesday, March 4

Event Name: DFA/PDA/MCPA Monthly Meeting

Description: The Maryland session is in full swing. We're involved
with several bills and lobby efforts on the state and national level.
We'll also discuss the upcoming County Council Special Election,
coalition efforts, and much more! This is an important meeting to
discuss and plan 2009 efforts. We're discussing special events, forming
a steering committee, visits to and with legislators, etc.

Time: Wednesday, March 4 from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Location: Saigonese Restaurant (Wheaton, MD)
11232 Grandview Avenue
Wheaton, MD 20902

Directions: Short walk from the Wheaton Metro Stop (red line) Public
Parking in the big lot across the street. Grandview Ave. is very close
to Georgia Ave. University Blvd. and Viers Mill Rd. A few miles outside
the Beltway--nearest exits Ga. Ave. and Conn. Ave.

TONIGHT: Building the election reform movement Meetup

TONIGHT: Building the election reform movement Meetup

7 PM Monday 2/16/09

http://electionreform.meetup.com/176/calendar/9283209/

Location Saigonese Restaurant
11232 Grandview Ave
Silver Spring, MD 20902
(301) 946-8002

RSVP: jenkarius@gmail.com

Decided to make it a casual snack or dinner because of the MD rsvp's.
It's very close to the Wheaton metro. please call if you need directions.
Jennifer: http://electionreform.meetup.com/176/members/5211291/

Dear DC Metro Election Reform meetup members:

Here are the long-awaited minutes below.

Please forward comments. Mike has suggested Eleanor Norton Holmes as a
potential speaker for the Meetup, and I plan to take up contact with her
and someone from Verified Voting and Vote Trust, as those were names
brought up by Carol last meeting.

Yours, jennifer

Minutes/Notes from the December 4th Building the Election Reform Meetup
Attendees: chair Jennifer Karius, Mike Hersh, Dan Barnett, George Ripley,
Guest speaker: Carol Waser

A round of introductions is made by participants to explain reasons for
interest in the meetup and potential skills they may bring to the meetup.

Some of the priorities for election reform from the Dec. 4th group:

• The importance of raising public attention to electoral reform, as one
key system relevant to a successful democracy
• Election security concerns including:
• The need to ban DRE voting machinery (with MD as an example)
• The need for election oversight/ audits standards/ systems and laws
for (also being developed by Shelly Fudge of SaveOurVotesMaryland)
• The need for DC representation: symbolic for problems nationwide (see
speaker synopsis below)
• The role of the Democratic Party in advocating election reform;
creating a platform for the issue
• Seeking broader bipartisan grounds for election reform
• Creating a broader collaboration between election reform groups toward
affecting legislation and the mainstreaming of public attention toward
the cause

Some of the skill sets possessed by the Dec. 4th group:

• Concrete successes in community organizing
• Lobbying background (local, state, federal)
• Writing, also, esp. on election reform issues
• Contacts with election reform advocates/ groups/ legislative staff

Carol Waser is a DC election integrity activist, who is very up-to-date
on the recent difficulties in the DC primaries regarding voting
machinery. Carol attended DC Board of Election meetings, and after
following the issue, is an advocate for ending the use of DRE machines.
Instead, she advocates manual procedures in conjunction with opti-scan
machinery. A special investigation committee discovered a glitch in the
central tabulator is believed to be the problem with the vote count
during the DC primaries.

The general discussion around Carol's presentation of the DC election
situation is that election officials are too little informed on the
issue, or the need for greater attention on election reform. There is
not enough unified effort toward addressing the shortcomings of
machinery. Also, election administration processes, featuring the
election officials charged with the responsibility of maintaining,
improving, and troubleshooting election administration, appear to be a
large part of the problem. Lacking continuity on the part of DC
officials in following up with problems during the primaries appears to
have obstructed the resolution of the problems.

Meetup action points:
• Meetup members will attend the Public Meeting at the U.S. Election
Assistance Commission on December 8th
• Minutes will be distributed for the next meeting in order to aid
priority setting for the Meetup

Progressive Working Group Report

Progressive Working Group Participants and Friends,

Last month, the Progressive Working Group (PWG) held two meetings with legislators – Jan. 6th at Eastern Village Cohousing and Jan. 11th at Wheaton Library - to present and advocate for the 14 legislative priorities our coalition had agreed upon. A total of 19 state legislators from Montgomery and Prince George's Counties and over 100 participants from progressive groups attended the meetings which we felt were very successful in creating greater visibility for our legislative agenda and the PWG.

To confirm their positions on the issues, we also sent written surveys to legislators who attended the meetings and those who didn't, and we followed up with phone calls. The positions of 30 state legislators, as reflected at the meetings and in the surveys, are attached. Please feel free to use the information as your group sees fit for lobbying or membership education.

On Feb. 10th , members of the PWG steering committee met with House Speaker Michael Busch to introduce him to the coalition, advocate and discuss our legislative agenda, and get feedback. Following the meeting, the steering committee met with District 20 Delegate Sheila Hixson, Chair of the Ways and Means Committee and District 20 Senator Jamie Raskin. A summary appears below.

The next meeting of the PWG is Sunday afternoon Feb. 22nd at 1:30 at the Wheaton Library. (11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton 20902) We will present further information on these Annapolis meetings, hear reports from progressive groups about their lobbying efforts in Annapolis, and discuss next steps in advancing our legislative priorities and building our coalition. Please mark your calendars and plan to join us.

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

On Feb. 11th Michael Tabor and PWG members Margaret Flowers and Bridgette Marti spoke at a meeting of Baltimore United for Peace and Justice to explain the Progressive Working Group. There was discussion of a statewide network.

Also, the PWG is co-sponsoring a fundraising house party with Progressive Neighbors 1:30 Sunday afternoon, March 15th Please join fellow progressives in what should be a fun event with Magpie, a well-known folk duo. Admission will be $15 plus, if possible, a dessert to share.

The Maryland Chapter of the Physicians for a National Health Program is asking for help in reaching out to health care providers and legislators who will be attending a State Medical Society of Maryland rally/lobby day in Annapolis on Wednesday, Feb. 18th from 8 to 11 am on Lawyers Mall in Annapolis. Contact Margaret Flowers at conversationcoalition@gmail.com if you are able to help.


For the Progressive Working Group Steering Committee

Sharon Dooley, Mike Tabor, Dana Beyer, Norman Oslik, Mike Hersh, Wally Malakoff

PROGRESSIVE WORKING GROUP REPORT

Annapolis Meetings with: House of Delegates Speaker Michael Busch (District 30)
Senator Jamie Raskin and Delegate Sheila Hixson (both District 20) February 11, 2009

A delegation representing the Progressive Working Group Steering Committee made up of Dana Beyer, Mike Tabor, Mike Hersh and Norman Oslik met with Speaker Busch, Delegate Sheila Hixson and District 20 Senator Jamie Raskin. to discuss and advocate for our ’09 Legislative Agenda. All three legislators offered suggestions to guide our legislative strategy.

Speaker Busch met with us for approximately 20 minutes, and discussed prospects for our agenda in the 2009 General Assembly Session. His view was that some issues have good prospects for passage in both the House and the Senate, but others will not pass one or both houses. The House of Delegates is reluctant to act on legislation previously passed by the House, but not by the Senate.

Here is what he expressed to us:

1. Combined Reporting – Previously passed in the House, but unlikely to be considered again, absent Senate action. Passage is unlikely this session.

2. Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act – Likely to pass in both the House and the Senate.

3. De-fund the ICC – He felt there is no chance of passage in either the House or the Senate.

4. In-State Tuition for Children of Immigrants irrespective of status – The House previously passed this, but is unlikely to consider it again, absent Senate action. Passage is unlikely.

5. Oppose Real ID – Real ID is not likely to pass in its current form.

6. Student Privacy re: ASVAB – More information needed to make any assessment.

7. Keep MD Guard at Home – Questioned Governor's legal authority to prevent deployment.

8. Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage – Unlikely to pass this session. Speaker supports a Civil Unions Act, but passage is unlikely this session.

9. Gender Identity – Unsure of prospects in House. Passage is unlikely this session.

10. Electoral Integrity – Speaker supports “Going back to paper ballot.” Needs more information to make a more substantial assessment.

11. No Spying – A bill is likely to pass this session.

12. Public Campaign Finance – Previously passed in the House, but unlikely to be considered again, absent Senate action. Passage is unlikely this session.

13. Workforce Fraud – Will probably pass. He is working closely with Secretary of Labor Tom Perez and the O'Malley Administration. Well aware this would generate revenues for the state.

14. Health Security Act – Very unlikely to pass in House or Senate. ERISA Federal legislation, he feels, impedes State action. Hope for $500 million from the Federal Government to extend healthcare.


The Speaker was very frank, generous, and forthcoming and expressed sincere interest in our work. He thanked us for our efforts, and we discussed continuing communications. Busch indicated that he listens to elected delegates so PWG and affiliated groups need to build support among delegates and have them make their position clear to Busch. That is particularly true for items #6, 10, and 14 because he said he is unfamiliar with them.

Meeting with Sen. Jamin Raskin: Sen. Raskin strongly supports the entire PWG agenda. This was an exchange of ideas covering specific legislators who are supportive or not supportive of various bills and initiatives. We also discussed concerns about a weaker substitute bill on State Police Spying. Sen. Raskin suggested other initiatives, ways to expand our capacity, and other valuable concepts. He thanked us for our involvement and interest, and invited us to work with him moving forward.

Meeting with Del. Sheila Hixson, Chairperson House Ways and Means Committee: Del. Hixson is supportive on all the PWG bills and issues with the exception of de-funding the ICC. The Chairperson was helpful identifying areas of wide agreement in the House, and indicating difficulties with certain issues. She also expressed a strong willingness to meet with our members and others, working on solutions and better approaches to several concerns including the ICC. She thanked us for our involvement and interest, invited us to work with her moving forward, and invited us to her upcoming breakfast meeting February 22, 2009.

The Impact of State Budget Cuts on Montgomery County

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

Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 Time: 7:30 pm
Place: Takoma Park Middle School
7611 Piney Branch Road
Silver Spring, MD 20910

TOPIC: The Impact of State Budget Cuts on Montgomery County

SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS:
State Senator Richard Madaleno, Chair, Montgomery County State Senate
Delegation
State Delegate Brian Feldman Chair, Montgomery County House Delegation
Councilman Phil Andrews President, Montgomery County Council

State budget problems could shift teacher pensions to the county.
Hear our state and county leaders discuss where we will be going.

For more information, please contact either Mark Woodard at (301) 592-1811,
Donna Graham at (301) 585-4759, or Paul Mitchell at (301) 588-7126.

You can also e-mail us at silverspringdems@yahoo.com

These are the 14 issues/bills the Progressive Working Group is currently working on

These are the 14 issues/bills the Progressive Working Group is currently
working on

1. Combined Reporting--tax issue, requiring corporations engaged in
commerce inside and outside of Maryland to fully account for commerce
and pay tax liabilities in Maryland

2. Health Security Act--state-wide privately provided, publicly financed
healthcare system
3. Global Warming Act--limit green house gas emissions, based on
compromise between stakeholders, legislators, commercial interests, etc.

4. Defund ICC--withdraw general revenues support for the ICC project

5. In-State College tuition for all Maryland residents regardless of
their parents' documentation status

6. Oppose Real ID

7. Student Privacy re: Military Testing--protect students from use/abuse
of personal information

8. Keep MD Guard at Home--recognizing the lack of legal justification
for deploying Maryland Guard to Iraq

9. Electoral Integrity--requiring auditing of elections to guarantee
accuracy and increase public confidence

10. Religious Freedom Act/Civil Marriage--enforcing equal protection
under law for all Maryland residents regardless of religion or sexual
orientation

11. Gender Identity--recognizing specific rights for Maryland residents
regardless of gender identity

12. No spying--articulating limitations on "spying" activities by
Maryland law enforcement to address abuses/surveillance of law-abiding
groups and individuals

13. Public Campaign finance--a well-designed optional system of public
financing for General Assembly campaigns

14. Anti-Workforce Fraud--addressing the widespread misidentification of
employees as independent contractors.

Mike Hersh
http://www.mikehersh.com

mixed prospect for success on our agenda

A delegation from the Progressive Working Group--Dana Beyer, Mike Tabor, Norm Oslik and I--met with legislators in Annapolis 2/10. There's mixed prospect for success on our agenda, but we learned a lot. Speaker Michael Busch generously took time to discuss our 14 point agenda, and explained at least three of our issues have a good chance of passing into law. After our discussion with the Speaker, we met with Sen. Jamie Raskin, Del. Sheila Hixson, and Del. Roger Manno. We also chatted with Del. Tom Hucker and said a quick "hi" to House Maj. Leader Kumar Barve, Del. Karen Montgomery, Del. Heather Mizeur, Del. Saqib Ali, Del. Craig Rice, Del. Kirill Reznik, Del. Jeff Waldstreicher, and other hard-working state legislators--all were on their way to meetings, hearings or conference calls. -- Mike Hersh http://www.mikehersh.com

Maryland Campaign to Keep the Guard at Home

Maryland Campaign to Keep the Guard at Home

 

from Steve Lane, atticlane@yahoo.com; Rossana Baptista, rossana4444@yahoo.com;  Fran Pollner,  franpollner@yahoo.com; Scott Tsikerdanos, STsikerdanos@senate.state.md.us

Bill to Keep the Maryland Guard at Home Introduced in State Assembly
Grassroots Coalition Urges Quick Approval

Olney--A coalition of 24 organizations across the state of Maryland is urging the Maryland General Assembly to pass legislation requiring that the Maryland National Guard be used for legal purposes, and no other. The legislation, introduced by Senator Richard Madaleno (D-18) in the Senate and Delegate Jill Carter (D-41) in the House of Delegates, states that the governor shall refuse to release the Maryland National Guard into federal control without either a legal justification or a declaration of war. If the Guard is called into federal service for a legal reason, and that reason expires, then the governor shall request return of the Guard to his control.  Cosponsors in the Senate include Jamie Raskin (D-20), Paul Pinsky (D-22), David Harrington (D-47), Catherine Pugh (D-40), and Michael Lenett (D-19).

The legal basis for calling the National Guard to serve in Iraq is the 2002 Congressional Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF), which was limited to the purposes of defending the national security from Iraqi threats and enforcing UN Security Council Resolutions left over from the 1991 Gulf War. The purposes set forth in the AUMF have been achieved: Clearly, Iraq does not pose a threat to our national security, and no UN Resolutions remain to be enforced.  Neither the AUMF nor any other law authorizes an indefinite assignment of State Guard members to the National Guard of the United States. Thus, there is no legal basis for sending any National Guard members to Iraq.

"With the war in Iraq, the President unilaterally changed the basic mission of the National Guard, from protection at home to military adventurism abroad," commented Jean Athey, coordinator of PeaceAction Montgomery, one of the Campaign member groups. "This change came at a steep price, for National Guard members and for the state of Maryland. Guard deployments have caused financial and emotional disruption to many Maryland families. Multiple deployments have made the situation worse. Moreover, we believe that Maryland's civil defense and emergency response capabilities have been severely undermined by requisition of the National Guard. We also believe that the National Guard should not take the place of regular soldiers. The primary purpose of the Guard, in our view, is to defend the state of Maryland, not serve as a back-door draft."

 

The bill, SB 501, has been assigned to the Judicial Proceedings Committee and will be considered in February. The Maryland Campaign to Keep the Guard Home is organizing a Lobby Night for Feb. 23. Information on the the bill's status is available at http://mlis.state.md.us/2009rs/billfile/SB0501.htm. Until the text is included on the State's Web site, it may be read here: http://www.mdguardhome.org/legal.html

 

For more information: www.MDGuardHome.org

stop anti-immigrant actions by Montgomery County

From Casa of Maryland and Delegate Ana Sol Gutierrez : please help us stop anti-immigrant actions by Montgomery County local government. Please call or email County Executive Ike Leggett:

Dear Friends of our Immigrant Communities,

We have an EMERGENCY here in Montgomery County. Please read the ALERT below and then pick up your phone and/or write/email your OPINION directly to County Executive Ike Leggett BEFORE he makes a final decision on Tuesday, Feb 3rd!  

Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett is being pressured to grant Mo. Co. police new powers to detain arrested foreign-born persons indefinitely, while authorizing calls to federal immigration enforcement (ICE) for possible deportation action. This proposal has raised serious human rights as well as a civil liberty concerns which remain unanswered.  This undefined, unwritten, and ill-conceived law enforcement policy change with zero training, zero oversight, and zero accountability has  discrimination and racial profiling written all over it. If this practice is adopted, the legal and civil rights ramifications are going to be complex and hurtful.

Please express your strong OPPOSITION to this highly flawed proposal. Your help with calls, emails, and letters is urgently needed! 

 

ALERT!  

Montgomery County could take a major step  down a  slippery slope to creating a discriminatory and hostile environment for all immigrants.   County Executive Isiah Leggett has indicated that as soon  as next week he may announce changes to Montgomery County’s long  standing policy against local police enforcing federal immigration laws. For years, the County’s policies have considered this the job of the U.S.federal government.   Though no written proposals have been presented for review and consideration by the County Council, the MD Judiciary, legal and immigration law experts, public safety officials, community advocates, and the general public,  Mr. Leggett is considering granting new unrestricted powers to Mo. Co. police to notify U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when  individuals who are foreign born are arrested (not yet convicted) as suspects of committing both misdemeanors and  felonies.  

Please CALL or EMAIL Mr. Leggett to let him  know you oppose this highly flawed change in policy that targets all foreign-born residents in our County.  Montgomery County is not Prince William County and we do not want the County police to take any steps towards enforcing federal immigration laws, while further alienating the immigrant communities and destroying the public’s trust in law enforcement.   
 
 
You can call Mr. Leggett at: (240) 777-2500.  
Or e-mail his office at: voicemail@montgomerycountymd.gov  or ike.leggett@montgomerycountymd.gov

Please cc or bcc Justiceinmontgomerycounty@gmail.com

Suggested Talking Points:

--I oppose changing current County law enforcement policies to authorize police detentions based on an individual’s place of birth

--I oppose Mo. CO. police collaboration with ICE in enforcing federal immigration laws.
 
--I support Montgomery County’s long standing tradition which values the contributions of our productive, diverse, and hard working immigrant communities.  
 
--I support policies that strengthen the public’s trust and protect individual civil liberties and human rights.  I do not want  Montgomery County to become the next Prince William County.
 

Below is a brief draft LETTER you can cut and paste or modify to communicate your personal opposition to this proposal.

Dear  County Executive Leggett:  

I am a concerned  Montgomery County resident and voter.  Although there is  no question that I believe that hardened criminals, especially those who  engage in violent behavior, should be tried and incarcerated when found guilty, I believe that using  place of birth and/or immigration status as a means to combat violent crime in Montgomery County  is wrong for a number of  reasons:  

-           Experiences in this County (or in the country) DO NOT support the existence of a  connection between violent crimes and immigration status. On the contrary, a number of reputable studies show that immigrants, both documented and  undocumented, commit fewer crimes than U.S-born residents.  

-           Recently in Montgomery County, the alleged need for targeting undocumented immigrants has been goaded by extremist, anti-immigrant  groups, such as Help Save Maryland. Other jurisdictions such as Frederick County and Prince William County, Va, have adopted anti-immigrant measures that have achieved little  more than vilifying members of those communities. Recently  committed murders in  Montgomery County are being used by such such groups to demand  similar measures in Montgomery County and to seek to validate their unfounded claim that “immigrants are violent criminals”.   

-           Changing  Montgomery County law enforcement policies regarding detention of foreign-born suspects and notification of Immigrations and  Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials will affect public safety  and undermine the immigrant community's trust of the police.  Many  crimes, including recent murders, were solved through cooperation from the immigrant community, including undocumented  immigrants.  

-           Law enforcement officials, the State’s attorney,  and the MD Judicial system have many effective legal tools at their disposal for dealing with  violent criminals to ensure they are detained and not freed to  commit other crimes.  

In short, I oppose  any change to Montgomery County’s long standing policies regarding its treatment of foreign born residents.   Montgomery County should not become the new Prince William County in Virginia.  This change in police enforcement policies is a step in the wrong direction,  and I strongly oppose it.

Sincerely,
 
    (Please put your name  and city or area where you live in the County.)
 
Concerned  Montgomery County voter
 
Please send a copy to:  
Justiceinmontgomerycounty@gmail.com
and to
County  Council President Phil Andrews at councilmember.andrews@montgomerycountymd.gov

THIS WEEK: Upcoming events in the MD, DC, VA area

THIS WEEK: Upcoming events in the MD, DC, VA area this week

1. MCPA, DFMC, PDA, Meetup Meeting
Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at Saigonese 7 PM
Saigonese Restaurant 11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton)
Short walk from the Wheaton Metro / Red Line

2. Eco-Justice Cafe' All Ages Family Friendly Event!
Friday, February 6, 2009 6 to 10 PM
Univ. of DC Firebird Inn 4200 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, DC

3. Experience Dan Reed's inspirational, wonderful music live
Sunday, February 8, 2009 at Jammin' Java 8 PM
Jammin' Java 227 Maple Avenue East, Vienna, Virginia 22180

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

1. MCPA, DFMC, PDA, Meetup Meeting
Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at Saigonese 7 PM
Saigonese Restaurant 11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring (Wheaton)
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11232 Grandview Ave Silver Spring%2C MD 20902
Short walk from the Wheaton Metro / Red Line
Parking in the lot across the street

This is an important meeting to discuss and plan 2009 efforts. The
Elections are over, we did great, now we have to dive into 2009. We're
discussing special events, forming a steering committee, visits to and
with legislators, etc. Please bring $15 for 2009 dues.

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

2. Eco-Justice Cafe' All Ages Family Friendly Event!
Friday, February 6, 2009 6 to 10 PM
Univ. of DC Firebird Inn 4200 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, DC
Just above the Van Ness/UDC metro stop (red line)

If you are passionate about social justice and/or the environment and
want to connect with others like you - then come and join us! Featuring
food music, poetry, beer, an open mic session, tabling organizations and
more. "Slow Food" Panel Discussion from 6:30 to 7pm with Leigh Haughter,
organic farmer; Ayize Sabater, co-founder of Delights of the Garden, and
Ed Bruske, Chef and DC Urban Gardener. UDC Sustainability Society will
meet at 6pm at the Cafe. $10 students, $15 others.

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

3. Experience Dan Reed's inspirational, wonderful music live
Sunday, February 8, 2009 at Jammin' Java 8 PM
Jammin' Java 227 Maple Avenue East, Vienna, Virginia 22180

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=227+Maple+Avenue+East,+Vienna,+Virginia+22180
Public Transportation: Closest Metro stop: Vienna - the end of the
Orange line

Solo acoustic all ages show. Call 703-255-1566 for more details and
directions.
Admission only $12:
http://www.prestocart.com/cgi-bin/order.pl?ref=jamminjava&fm=1

Listen online to Dan's music and learn more about Dan: http://danreed.com/
Watch "The Dictator" video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzf6xE4zdpo

With Florida-based LIQUID MUSIC GROUP's upcoming release of the new Dan
Reed CD "Coming up for Air", Dan presents a group of songs that mirror
this life journey. "What I have learned most on this path is that music
brings people together and in a world of war, corruption, disease, and
environmental destruction... 'together' is a good direction. I am
constantly inspired and hopeful for the future of music. It is an
amazing playground to feel connected inside and out. This creative
journey has been a very wild and harrowing ride, but the view has been
worth the price of admission."

Experience Dan Reed's inspirational, wonderful music live

Experience Dan Reed's inspirational, wonderful music live
Sunday February 8, 2009 at Jammin' Java 8 PM

227 Maple Avenue East, Vienna, Virginia 22180
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=231+Maple+Avenue+East,+Vienna,+Virginia+22180
Public Transportation: Closest Metro stop: Vienna - the end of the
Orange line

Solo acoustic all ages show. Call 703-255-1566 for more details and
directions.

Admission only $12, buy online:
http://www.prestocart.com/cgi-bin/order.pl?ref=jamminjava&fm=1

Listen online to Dan's music and learn more about Dan: http://danreed.com/
Watch "The Dictator" video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzf6xE4zdpo

With Florida-based LIQUID MUSIC GROUP's upcoming release of the new Dan
Reed CD "Coming up for Air", Dan presents a group of songs that mirror
this life journey.

With songs composed from Hong Kong to New Dehli, Jerusalem to London, he
has come full circle to do what he has always done best--create, and
most importantly... to sing to all who will listen.

"What I have learned most on this path is that music brings people
together and in a world of war, corruption, disease, and environmental
destruction... 'together' is a good direction. I am constantly inspired
and hopeful for the future of music. It is an amazing playground to feel
connected inside and out. This creative journey has been a very wild and
harrowing ride, but the view has been worth the price of admission."

Dan Reed's inspirational, wonderful music live 02-08-09

Experience Dan Reed's inspirational, wonderful music live
Sunday February 8, 2009 at Jammin' Java 8 PM

231 Maple Avenue East, Vienna, Virginia 22180
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=231+Maple+Avenue+East,+Vienna,+Virginia+22180
Public Transportation: Dunn Loring Merrifield Metro (Orange line), 2T bus (Tyson's Corner)

Solo acoustic all ages show. Call 703-255-1566 for more details and directions.
Admission only $12: http://www.prestocart.com/cgi-bin/order.pl?ref=jamminjava&fm=1

Listen online to Dan's music and learn more about Dan: http://danreed.com/
Watch "The Dictator" video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzf6xE4zdpo

With Florida-based LIQUID MUSIC GROUP's upcoming release of the new Dan Reed CD "Coming up for Air", Dan presents a group of songs that mirror this life journey. With songs composed from Hong Kong to New Dehli, Jerusalem to London, he has come full circle to do what he has always done best--create, and most importantly... to sing to all who will listen. "What I have learned most on this path is that music brings people together and in a world of war, corruption, disease, and environmental destruction... 'together' is a good direction. I am constantly inspired and hopeful for the future of music. It is an amazing playground to feel connected inside and out. This creative journey has been a very wild and harrowing ride, but the view has been worth the price of admission."

Leafleting at Inauguration

Event: Leafleting at Inauguration "Visit Dr. Single Payer!"
What: Rally
Host: Healthcare-Now of Maryland, Progressive Democrats of America, Leadership Conference for Guaranteed Health Care
Start Time: Tomorrow, January 20 at 9:00am
End Time: Tomorrow, January 20 at 4:00pm
Where: McPherson Square

Dance with us DanceObama: The Pulse for Peace

Dance with us

DanceObama: The Pulse for Peace

Over the next few days, change is a gonna come. The change is overt: a new President, a new administration, and it is as-yet-undefined. Some startling clues exist, however: pictures of dead children in Gaza horrify us, creating the clear loud message that brutality and carnage, no matter under what guise, are not to be tolerated. A pilot saves 155 people with calm and skill that reassures us that not all disasters end in total loss and that paying attention and thinking clearly actually works sometimes. A gay bishop and a rightwing preacher both celebrate a new government that is not catering to any one constituency but appears to want to cut a swath across all, and maybe even elevate the country to a higher moral ground, without privileging one belief system or lifestyle over another.

The train rolled into town yesterday, bringing a newly-forceful but always thoughtful guy to lead the changes. He did not bring the change with him on the trip, nor will he deliver it to us with his inaugural address. But over the next few days, through music , art, dancing, sharing food and warmth, change will come to us.

We will create it.

DanceObama: The Pulse for Peace is one of many events planned for Washington DC. It has also inspired people in Boston, Chicago and California to join in, at their own times, in their own celebrations of manifesting hope and change through music and dance. The event in DC is open to all, for a donation of $15.00, and it will happen at the Peace Mural Gallery at 3336 M. St in Georgetown from 4-6 pm Monday, in the midst of stunning paintings by the artist Huong. Hot drinks and small food will be served, and we will have drummers, dancers, and music to move to.

Over 100 years ago, a man named Rudolf Laban began to devise ways of bringing people together through specifically created participatory dance events called movement choirs, in which each person contributed to a communal celebration of harmony. By finding the universal pulse for change, individual voices and collective joy can be heard across the world, calling each of us to thoughtful, aware, and considered action.

Some of the music that we will be using for this event:

Sweet Honey in the Rock: "We Are the Ones We've Been Waiting For"

Kanye West: "Love Train"

Sly and the Family Stone: "Everyday People"

Cat Stevens: "Peace Train"

John Lennon: "Imagine"

Johnny Clegg: "Life is a Magic Thing"

Seal: "A Change is Gonna Come" (or any version)

The Pointer Sisters: "Yes We Can, Can"

U2: "Beautiful Day"

If you can, come down to Georgetown on Monday afternoon and be a part of starting the pulse with us. If you can't, put on the music, be inspired, and begin to move with us. Together we cross the threshold into a new way of being in the world: as agents of our own lives and stewards for peace and hope everywhere.

typo in phone # Mike Hersh and Associates Consulting

typo in phone # Mike Hersh and Associates Consulting

Should be 301-933-7169

Talk about growing pains!

	Mike Hersh and Associates Consulting Serving Candidates, Organizations, and Issue Campaigns.
	Online and Traditional Outreach  Online and Traditional Fundraising  Special Events Planning and Support  Political and Issue Campaign Management  Media, Constituent, and Membership Relations Contact: mikehersh@mikehersh.com 301-933-7169	Donna Edwards Campaign credit:Washington Post
	Services Provided by Mike Hersh and Associates:  Developing and implementing fundraising, political and issue campaigns  Planning and managing events, press conferences, meetings and special projects  Recruiting, managing, and training members, volunteers, interns and staff  Public and on airs peaking and issue advocacy for candidates, issues and causes  Managing web-sites, blogs, message boards and other online communications media  Writing releases, articles and profiles for radio, TV, newspapers and magazines  Drafting and delivering mass email messages for issue campaigns and candidates  Raising funds, donor relations, phone campaign management and benefit planning  Designing and implementing action alerts, mobilizing and training citizen lobbyists  Online organizing using blogs, websites, social networks, and web-based applications  Advance work/troubleshooting for book tours, press conference, and large-scale events  Designing and auditing procedures, mission statements and other fundamental policies  Representing organizations and candidates at events, conferences, workshops, panels, etc.  Developing legislative strategies, support and training for issues and organizations  Managing legislative relations, outreach/coalition building and mobilization  Consulting with elected officials, activists and experts on policy, strategy and tactics  Managing membership communications strategies, organization and development  Training volunteers, staff and interns on use of web-based applications  Newsletter, leaflet and online publishing: writing, editing and distribution on deadline  Managing simultaneous projects, creative problem-solving under pressure	Senator John Kerry Healthcare Press Conference Gov. O'Malley, Lt. Gov. Brown, Sen. Pres. Miller, Speaker Busch, Sen. Forehand, and Del. Manno

Announcing Mike Hersh and Associates Consulting

	Mike Hersh and Associates Consulting Serving Candidates, Organizations, and Issue Campaigns.
	Online and Traditional Outreach  Online and Traditional Fundraising  Special Events Planning and Support  Political and Issue Campaign Management  Media, Constituent, and Membership Relations Contact: mikehersh@mikehersh.com 301-603-9388	Donna Edwards Campaign credit:Washington Post
	Services Provided by Mike Hersh and Associates:  Developing and implementing fundraising, political and issue campaigns  Planning and managing events, press conferences, meetings and special projects  Recruiting, managing, and training members, volunteers, interns and staff  Public and on airs peaking and issue advocacy for candidates, issues and causes  Managing web-sites, blogs, message boards and other online communications media  Writing releases, articles and profiles for radio, TV, newspapers and magazines  Drafting and delivering mass email messages for issue campaigns and candidates  Raising funds, donor relations, phone campaign management and benefit planning  Designing and implementing action alerts, mobilizing and training citizen lobbyists  Online organizing using blogs, websites, social networks, and web-based applications  Advance work/troubleshooting for book tours, press conference, and large-scale events  Designing and auditing procedures, mission statements and other fundamental policies  Representing organizations and candidates at events, conferences, workshops, panels, etc.  Developing legislative strategies, support and training for issues and organizations  Managing legislative relations, outreach/coalition building and mobilization  Consulting with elected officials, activists and experts on policy, strategy and tactics  Managing membership communications strategies, organization and development  Training volunteers, staff and interns on use of web-based applications  Newsletter, leaflet and online publishing: writing, editing and distribution on deadline  Managing simultaneous projects, creative problem-solving under pressure	Senator John Kerry Healthcare Press Conference Gov. O'Malley, Lt. Gov. Brown, Sen. Miller, Del. Busch, Del. Manno, Sen. Forehand

What are you doing this weekend? (please share with progressives)

Annual Grassroots Leadership Conference, Washington DC Conference: $75.00 / Inauguration Celebration: $45.00 per person. Register online: https://www.thedatabank.com/dpg/309/mtglistproc.asp?formid=meet&caleventid=14123 Saturday, January 17, 2009 through Sunday, January 18, 2009 11 AM - 5 PM     University of the District of Columbia 4200 Connecticut Ave, Washington, DC  20008 Just above Van Ness/UDC station (Red line) As the nation prepares for the inauguration of President Barack Obama, please join the Progressive Democrats of America national team for our Annual Grassroots Leadership Conference at the University of the District of Columbia, January 17 and 18, 2009. Saturday, January 17 10:00 a.m.: REGISTRATION 10:45 a.m.: OPENING COMMENTS by Tim Carpenter, PDA National Director 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.: WORKSHOP Led by PDA Operations Coordinator Kimberly Buchan, this workshop will offer a brief overview of FEC regulations to be considered when planning fundraisers and an overview of how chapters can become State PACs and the benefits of doing so. We will also review the current financial status of PDA that will prepare the leadership as they develop fundraising plans later on in the conference. 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.: PDA CD NATIONAL ORGANIZING LUNCHEON. Click here Join us for Chinese! We welcome State Coordinators, current Congressional District Point Persons, and PDA members interested in learning more about, and helping with, our CD efforts. For more information and to register, click here. 1:40 - 3:10 p.m.: WORKSHOP--Room 201 We'll talk tech--website review, websites for chapters, state action alerts, followed by Q & A. 3:00 - 4:00 p.m.: BOOK SIGNING Meet PDA Advisory Board member CONGRESSWOMAN BARBARA LEE, Chair of the Black Congressional Caucus! Purchase a copy of Rep. Lee's new book, "Renegade for Peace and Justice," and get it signed! 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.: PRE-CELEBRATION RECEPTION for New PDAers 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.: INAUGURATION CELEBRATION Mix and mingle! Join us for music, food, drinks, and fun! Music by Dan Reed Featured Speakers: REP. JOHN CONYERS, PDA Advisory Board member, Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, HR 676 Sponsor REP. JIM MCGOVERN, PDA Advisory Board member REP. RAUL GRIJALVA, CPC Co-Chair and PDA Advisory Board member REP. LORETTA SANCHEZ, HR 676 Co-Sponsor REP. ERIC MASSA, Winning PDA-endorsed candidate in New York's 29th Congressional District JOHN NICHOLS, Washington Correspondent, The Nation DONNA SMITH, PDA Co-chair Heathcare NOT Warfare campaign, featured in Michael Moore's "SICKO" MICHAEL LIGHTY, California Nurses Association (CNA) KATIE ROBBINS, Heathcare NOW! ANDY SHALLAL, Busboys and Poets Proprietor, PDA Advisory Board Member, and host of the First-Ever Inaugural Peace Ball RET. COLONEL ANNE WRIGHT, Peace Activist TIM CARPENTER, The Nation Magazine's 2007 Progressive of the Year and PDA's National Director Sunday, January 18 PDA 2009 STRATEGY DAY 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.: REGISTRATION & coffee and bagels 8:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.: TIME-LINE FOR 2009 by Laura Bonham 9:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.: ISSUE ORGANIZING TEAMS/FOCUS GROUPS Moderated by Tim Carpenter and Laura Bonham. Getting involved, integration with chapters and congressional district organizing in 2009 and beyond. Q & A 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.: PANEL - "Healthcare NOT Warfare" campaign 2009 Moderated by Tim Carpenter. Q & A follows the panel. Panelists: DONNA SMITH, PDA Co-chair Heathcare NOT Warfare campaign, MICHAEL LIGHTY, California Nurses Association (CNA) KATIE ROBBINS, Heathcare NOW! CHUCK PENNACCHIO, Healthcare for All Pennsylvania, PDA PA Leadership Team 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.: DISCUSSION "STATE ORGANIZING" Moderated by Tim Carpenter and Laura Bonham. What works--what doesn't, developing leadership teams, building the time-line in 2009 and goals. 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.: LUNCH Pizza is served. Opportunity for one-on-one discussion among grassroots leaders. 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.: CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT ORGANIZING Moderated by Mervis Reissig. Introduction of the Congressional District National Organizing Committee: Laurel Bault, Michael Gilbreath, Anna Givens, Jeffrey Rich, George Six, Bruce Taub. Discussion of new Congressional district organizing strategy in 2009. 2:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.: SUSTAINING PDA Moderated by Sarah Stott. A team of PDA activists are working to strengthen the Change makes Change program--learn about this program and the importance of Change makes Change. 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.: HOW CAN PDA IMPROVE IN 2009? Moderated by Tim Carpenter A freewheeling discussion of ways to improve our effectiveness and performance in 2009. 3:30 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.: PANEL - Inside and Outside: Building the PDA Community Moderated by Tim Carpenter Panelists: JOHN NICHOLS, Washington Correspondent, The Nation LAURA BONHAM, PDA Communications Coordinator BILL FLETCHER, JR., Senior Scholar with the Institute for Policy Studies, the immediate past president of TransAfrica Forum STEVE COBBLE, PDA Board Member/Political Director, fellow with the Institute for Policy Studies GLENN MILLER, Chief of Staff to Rep. Raul Grijlava 4:45 p.m.- 5:00 p.m. CLOSING COMMENTS from Tim Carpenter AGENDA SUBJECT TO CHANGE

DANCE-OBAMA: The Pulse for Peace

DANCE-OBAMA: The Pulse for Peace

What: Inaugural event, dance
When: Monday January 19, 2009 4-6 pm.
Where: Peace Mural Gallery, 3336 M. St NW, Georgetown
Contact: Karen Bradley 202-669-3927 Robyne Davis 703-798-4305
Website: http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http://www.peacemural.org%2Fevents%2Fdance-obama

The artist Huong's stunning works of art depicting aspects of peace and justice are the setting for a singular event in the sweep of inaugural celebrations. Dance therapists, bloggers, activists, and dancers will come together for a visual and participatory celebration of hope and change and finding our voices as citizens.

"Movement choirs have been around in one form or another for thousands of years," said Karen Bradley, one of the organizers of the event. "Whenever people celebrate or mourn or protest, moving in unison provides a means of empowering oneself and the community."

Robyne Davis, another organizer, pointed out "This inauguration offers people a chance to engage with the hope and change Barack Obama inspires in an active and interactive way. Through song and dance, we can hear our own voices and are empowered to work towards a more peaceful and just world."

Featuring drummers, dancers, and the paintings in the gallery, and led by emcees/actors/improv artists James Kinstle and Joe Brady, the event is sure to inspire collective joy, vision, and hope for a manifestation of Dr. King's dream.

Inaugurate Progress event, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. tribute January 19

Help us honor and celebrate the legacy of peace, hope and justice on
January 19th--Martin Luther King Day on the eve of Barack Obama's
inauguration. $300 regular price. Contact me mikehersh@mikehersh.com for
a discount.

Gather and share intimate conversation with PDA Advisory Board Members
and friends:

Rep. Eric Massa, PDA-endorsed congressman from New York
Rep. Jim McGovern, Rules & Organization Subcommittee Chair
Tom Hayden, Author and peace activist
Medea Benjamin, Co-founder CODEPINK and Global Exchange
Jodie Evans, Co-founder CODEPINK
Thom Hartmann, Project-Censored Award winning, New York Times
best-selling author and nationally syndicated radio personality
John Nichols, Washington Correspondent for the Nation Magazine
Donna Smith, National Co-Chair PDA Heathcare NOT Warfare campaign

Music by Dan Reed

1/12 Reception In honor of Delegate Jeff Waldstreicher District 18, Montgomery County

Please Join Governor Martin O'Malley, Attorney General Doug Gansler,
Speaker Michael E. Busch & Chairman Joseph F. Vallario, Jr.
For a Reception In honor of Delegate Jeff Waldstreicher District 18,
Montgomery County

With Hosts Mike McCurry, Former Press Secretary to President Bill
Clinton; Andrew Mitz & Carol Fried
Monday, January 12, 2009 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
at The Home of Jeffrey Cohen & Leslie Fried
4406 Brookfield Drive Kensington, MD 20895
Hosts ~ $500 Patrons ~ $250 Guests ~ $100

Please make checks payable to: Friends of Jeff Waldstreicher1010 Hull
Street, Suite 202 • Baltimore, MD 21230
(410) 547-1068 ext. 233

Contributions and gifts to Friends of Jeff Waldstreicher are not tax
deductible.
By Authority: Friends of Jeff Waldstreicher, Jonathan Sachs, Treasurer.

3 Progressive Events Tomorrow and Beyond

Kicking off 2009 with Exciting Events

1. Progressive Working Group--uniting Maryland Progressive Organizations 1:30 PM Sunday 1/11

2. Reception for Del. Roger Manno 12:30 PM Sunday 1/11

3. Reception for Del. Tom Hucker 3:30 PM Sunday 1/11

4. Help Leaflet for Healthcare NOT Warfare/National Healthcare Friday Jan. 16

5. PDA National Grassroots Conference and Celebration in D.C. Saturday and Sunday Jan. 17-18

6. Martin Luther King Day fundraiser in D.C. Monday January 19.

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

1. Progressive Working Group--uniting Maryland Progressives

THE 2009 LEGISLATIVE SESSION IN ANNAPOLIS - "A CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN?" January 11th

We've received definite or tentative confirmations from Senators Jamie Raskin, David Harrington, Mike Lenett, and Paul Pinksy, and Delegates Kumar Barve, Roger Manno, Karen Montgomery, Anne Kaiser, Jolene Ivey, Doyle Niemann, Jeff Waldstreicher, Victor Ramirez, Kirill Reznik, Craig Rice, and Herman Taylor. Others expected.

Sunday January 11th, 1:30 p.m.
Where: Wheaton Public Library, 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton 20902. (The meeting room is on the lower level.)

Among the legislative priorities that will be presented to legislators at the meetings: the Global Warming Solutions Act, combined taxation reporting for corporations, protection for immigrants, public financing of General Assembly campaigns, Workforce Anti-Fraud Bill, defunding the ICC, Health Security Act (single payer), bill on electoral integrity and transparency, protection for students from military recruiters, Civil Marriage Protection Act, gender identity and expression protection, no police spying on lawful activities, and bring the MD National Guard home.

2. Roger Manno Reception/Fundraiser
Time: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Address: 2138 Merrifields Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20906
Suggested donation: $35.00 To donate online, click here: http://www.rogermanno.com/contribute/index.cfm?Fuseaction=contribute

3. Tom Hucker Reception/Fundraiser
Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm
McGinty's Public House
911 Ellsworth Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20910

4. Help Leaflet January 16 PDA and the Leadership Conference for Guaranteed Healthcare/National Single Payer Coalition will leaflet at metro stations all around Washington, D.C. to tell people about healthcare reform and PDA's Healthcare NOT Warfare campaign. From 5 p.m. until we run out of leaflets or crowds. Contact Dr. Margaret Flowers at conversationcoalition@gmail.com to sign up.

5. PDA National Grassroots Conference in D.C. January 17-18 Join several members of Congress, progressive leaders, Col. Ann Wright (ret.), workshops, panels, live music, celebration, tabling, More info/sign up here

6. PDA Martin Luther King Day Pre-Inaugural Tribute fundraiser: January 19 from 10 PM to Midnight. Intimate conversation with PDA Advisory Board Members and friends including Rep. Raul Grijalva, Co-Chair, Progressive Caucus; Rep. Jim McGovern; Thom Hartmann, award winning radio host/best selling author; Tom Hayden, peace activist; Donna Smith of Michael Moore's SiCKO; Code Pink founders Jodie Evans and Medea Benjamin; John Nichols, The Nation Magazine, author The Genius of Impeachment; live music by Dan Reed; SURPRISES!

Please contact me for an invitation to the event, regular price $300 but available for $275 for a limited time.

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A Progressive Agenda for the Obama Years: Pre-Order PDA's 5 DVD set recorded live in Denver featuring exciting guests (Rep. John Conyers, Rep. Barbara Lee, Rep. Raul Grijalva, Rep. Dennis Kucinich, Rep. Keith Ellison, Sen. Jamie Raskin, Jim Hightower, Rep. Lynn Woolsey, Amy Goodman, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Rep. Jim McGovern, Ron Kovac, John Nichols, Norman Solomon, Donna Smith, Vincent Bugliosi, Rep. Robert Wexler, Mimi Kennedy, Jim Zogby, Tom Hayden, MORE!), panels, live music. $45 for a limited time. Order online here.

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Sun. 1/11 Progressive Working Group Mtg. with Maryland Legislators

THE 2009 LEGISLATIVE SESSION IN ANNAPOLIS - "A CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN?" January 11th

We've received definite or tentative confirmations from Senators Jamie Raskin, David Harrington, Mike Lenett, and Paul Pinksy, and Delegates Kumar Barve, Roger Manno, Karen Montgomery, Anne Kaiser, Jolene Ivey, Doyle Niemann, Jeff Waldstreicher, Victor Ramirez, Kirill Reznik, Craig Rice, Saqib Ali, and Herman Taylor.

Lineup may change. Others legislators expected.

Sunday January 11th, 1:30 p.m.
Where: Wheaton Public Library, 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton 20902. (The meeting room is on the lower level.)
Short walk or bus ride from the Wheaton Metro stop (red line)
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=11701%20Georgia%20Ave.%2C%20Wheaton%2020902

Among the legislative priorities that will be presented to legislators at the meetings: the Global Warming Solutions Act, combined taxation reporting for corporations, protection for immigrants, public financing of General Assembly campaigns, Workforce Anti-Fraud Bill, defunding the ICC, Health Security Act (single payer), bill on electoral integrity and transparency, protection for students from military recruiters, Civil Marriage Protection Act, gender identity and expression protection, no police spying on lawful activities, and bring the MD National Guard home.

Reception For Delegate Tom Hucker Sunday, January 11

Governor Martin O'Malley, Speaker Michael E. Busch & Chairwoman Maggie
McIntosh
Invite You to A Reception For Delegate Tom Hucker

Sunday, January 11, 2009 3:30 until 5:30 p.m.
McGinty's Public House
911 Ellsworth Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20910

Host Committee: VIPs $4,000 Benefactors: $2,000 Hosts $1,000
Sponsors $500 Patrons $250 Friends $125

RSVP/questions, please call (410) 547-1068 ext 216 or e-mail
jill@martinlauer.com
Please make checks payable to Friends of Tom Hucker.
Contributions or Gifts Friends of Tom Hucker are not tax deductible.
By Authority: Friends of Tom Hucker, Dennis Desmond, Treasurer.

Support Del. Roger Manno Sunday, January 11

DELEGATE ROGER MANNO'S PRE-LEGISLATIVE SESSION COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER

Please join community leaders, neighbors, friends and activists for a
pre-legislative session brunch/lunch to support Delegate Roger Manno.

Date: Sunday, January 11th, 2009
Time: 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Address: 2138 Merrifields Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20906
http://maps.google.com/maps?q=2138+Merrifields+Drive,+Silver+Spring,+MD+20906

Join a discussion about the upcoming session of the General Assembly,
the challenges facing Montgomery County and the State, community issues,
and Roger's 2009 legislative agenda.

Suggested donation: $35.00 Light Lunch will be served.

To donate online, click here:
http://www.rogermanno.com/contribute/index.cfm?Fuseaction=contribute

RSVP/more info: Roger@RogerManno.com
Please RSVP by Saturday, January 10th -- all are welcome!!

Please make checks payable to Friends of Roger Manno. Bring checks to
this event or mail to:
Friends of Roger Manno
2138 Merrifields Drive
Silver Spring, MD 20906.

Checks must be received by Monday, January 12th for deposit before the
2009 legislative session of the General Assembly.
Donate online here:
http://www.rogermanno.com/contribute/index.cfm?Fuseaction=contribute

Directions:

>From Downtown Silver Spring or DC: North on Georgia Avenue, right on
Bel Pre Road, left on Layhill Road, left on Marymont Road. Follow
Marymont to the end (intersection of Marymont and Merrifields). House is
2138 Merrifields Drive (last house on the right on Marymont).

>From Rockville and Gaithersburg: East on Norbeck Road, right on
Layhill Road, right on Marymont Road. Follow Marymont to the end
(intersection of Marymont and Merrifields). House is 2138 Merrifields
Drive (last house on the right on Marymont).

>From Olney and Gaithersburg: South on Georgia Avenue, left on Layhill
Road, right on Marymont Road. Follow Marymont to the end (intersection
of Marymont and Merrifields). House is 2138 Merrifields Drive (last
house on the right on Marymont).

Authorized by: Friends of Roger Manno, Vilma White, Chair; Sandra
Zimmet, Treasurer.

http://www.RogerManno.com

Please Support Del. Kirill Reznik

New Years Message from Del. Kirill Reznik:

I hope you had a wonderful New Year holiday and are looking forward to a
successful and prosperous 2009.

With the new year upon us, the start of the 426th Session of the
Maryland General Assembly is only a short week and a half away and this
year I plan to continue to keep you informed about the happenings of the
legislative Session, my activities, any legislation that I sponsor or
co-sponsor, and our successes and achievements.

As you know, Maryland law prohibits me and all members of the state
legislature from fundraising during the 90-day session. But the
realities of politics never take a break. If you are able, please
contribute to my campaign before the deadline on January 13th, 2009.

Even in this time economic downturn, I need your help to build a strong
campaign so that I can continue to do my work in the legislature and
help to make Maryland a great place to live, work, raise our families
and enjoy our wonderful way of life.

To make a contribution please click on this link:
https://secure.dlccweb.com/o/5470/p/10021/donate

Or Mail a check to:
Friends of Kirill Reznik
18469 Stone Hollow Drive
Germantown, MD 20874

Contributions to Friends of Kirill Reznik are not tax deductible.
Maryland law permits contributions from any individual or entity,
including corporations, other business entities, political clubs,
federal committees, and labor unions. Contributions may not exceed $4000
to any one campaign account and a total of $10,000 to all campaigns
during a four year cycle. Contributions of $100 or more cannot be in cash.

Friday January 9 public interest "Eco/Justice" Café !

Dear Friends,

 

Please join us for the monthly public interest "Eco/Justice" Café !

First Fridays at 6-10 pm

Friday, January 9
Friday, February 6
Friday, March 6

Et Cetera...

 

UDC David A. Clarke School of Law Firebird Inn

Building 38, B-Level; 4200 Connecticut Ave., NW; Washington, DC 20008

 

A great professional networking opportunity for the public interest community!

Join the Cafe list at http://www.dcslf.org/metnet.html 

 

Featuring food music, poetry, beer, an open mic session,
tabling organizations and more.

Music by Mike Bowers: http://www.mdbmusic.com/music.html
And (maybe!) by Maureen: http://www.myspace.com/maureenmusic 
and by Jeff DeWeese.

 

Massages by Lisa Bregman!

Help us spread the word - forward this e-mail.  Join our Facebook Group!

 

There's still room for FREE tabling - contact Joe at JFL@udc.edu

Yes! Our venue is Wheelchair Accessible

Suggested donation $15/ $10 students/$5 kids (Food and drink included.)

All ages event; child activities provided – and powered by kids!

TO VOLUNTEER on Jan. 9, email Joe Libertelli at JFL@udc.edu.

Hosted by the University of the District of Columbia David Clarke School of Law, the District's public interest law school. For more information on the law school full-tuition three-year Advocate for Justice Scholarships, go to http://www.law.udc.edu/prospective/afj.html