Tuesday, April 26, 2011

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

The Greater Silver Spring Democratic Club

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

Date: Monday, May 2, 2011

Time: 7:30 pm

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

TOPIC:

The Montgomery County Budget and the Public Schools

SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS

Ike Leggett
Montgomery County Executive

Valerie Ervin- Council President
(District 5)

Doug Prouty
President, MCEA

Chris Barclay-School Board President
(invited)

Saturday, April 16, 2011

TODAY Understanding Incentives and Wind Power

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You are Invited to

 

WeGreen USA’s Energy Seminar series

Understanding Incentives and Wind Power

Free for Maryland residents, but space is limited so please

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

Sunday, April 17th; 2 - 4 pm

Marilyn J. Praisner Library  –  Meeting Room

14910 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20866

Free for Maryland residents, but space is limited so please

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

__________________

 

UNDERSTANDING INCENTIVES

What are the incentives given by the Federal, State, County and Utility Companies
(like Pepco and BGE) for making our homes energy efficient?

Who can qualify?

How do we get them?

 

GUEST SPEAKER: Eric Coffman – CEM, CDSM, LEED-AP

Sr. Energy Planner - Montgomery County Dept. of Environmental Protection

 

WIND POWER 101

An overview of the competitive electricity market.

Why wind power is a great option for individuals and the environment?

How to support the domestic renewable energy industry in a simple, cost-effective way?

 

GUEST SPEAKER: Kristin Schulz

Residential Green Power Outreach Coordinator - Clean Currents

__________________

 

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


Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Amy Goodman+WPFW Town Hall April 21 in Silver Spring

The WPFW Local Station Board is hosting a Town Hall meeting next
Thursday, April 21, from 7-9pm, at the Silver Spring Civic Center at 1
Veterans Place, in downtown Silver Spring. To kick it off, Amy Goodman
will provide an update on the attack on public broadcasting.

The purpose of the Town Hall is for our listeners to tell the Board and
station management how your community radio station is meeting your needs.

The Silver Spring Civic Center, 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring, MD
20910 is a short walk from the Silver Spring metro stop and accessible
from several bus lines. Parking is free after 6pm at the Wayne Avenue
Garage (Garage 60), 921 Wayne Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

This activity is not sponsored by, associated with or endorsed by
Montgomery County Government.

For more information, email ingridnatasha@yahoo.com

First Annual International Urban Sustainability Summit Saturday, April 16, 2011

University of the District of Columbia

First Annual International Urban Sustainability Summit: Food Sovereignty, Security and Justice

Saturday, April 16, 2011 8:00 am – 5:30 pm

at the University of the District of Columbia Auditorium and the UDC David A. Clarke School of Law

4200 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, DC 20008 / Van Ness-UDC Metro (Red line)

 To register: http://www.law.udc.edu/event/sustain  

 

Plenary Sessions: UDC Auditorium

Workshops:  UDC David A. Clarke School of Law and other rooms across campus

 Admission is Free!

EVENT OVERVIEW:

The University of the District of Columbia’s (UDC) College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences (CAUSES) celebrates Earth Day by hosting the inaugural "International Urban Sustainability Summit”; the 2011 theme being "FOOD- Sovereignty, Security and Justice”. The Summit will take place on Saturday, April 16, 2011, from 8:00 am – 5:30 pm, on UDC’s Van Ness Campus.

The International Urban Sustainability Summit is timely, as it will bring together experts, grassroots leaders and members of the community who are interested in exchanging information and finding out more about fair and equal access to healthy food options in the urban environment. The day-long event will feature a collective of diverse speakers, presenters and workshop leaders who will provide a broad understanding of urban sustainability issues. Additionally, the venue will feature "Green” exhibitors providing information on cutting edge resources, best practices, community involvement and the latest Green products. The event will provide for great networking and it will inform, engage and empower attendees to act.

The featured keynote speaker for the occasion is "Green” innovator and 2008 MacArthur Fellow, Will Allen, founder of Growing Power - a model urban sustainability program. Will Allen is an urban farmer who is transforming the cultivation, production, and delivery of healthy foods to underserved, urban populations.

Schedule and Speakers appear below. Register for the Summit by clicking on "Register for this event" above.

Exhibit space is available for grassroots, nonprofit, government and business groups. See more.

 

Schedule for Saturday, April 16, 2011

Location:

University of the District of Columbia
Van Ness Campus – Building 46, Main Auditorium and Building 39, Law School
4200 Connecticut Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008

· 8:00 am Registration & free Continental Breakfast

· 9:00 am Welcome and Opening of the Morning Session

Action Summit Moderator: Iveracottis Short, D. Min., Summit Chair
Action Summit Openings: Barbara Jumper, VP Real Estate and Facilities
Nature of the Occasion: Gloria S. Wyche-Moore, Ph.D.

· 9:15 am Morning Keynote Presentation - Mr. Will Allen

Mr. Will Allen will present on his extensive body of work in the area of Urban Agriculture and take questions from the audience

· 10:30 am  Panel #1 – National and International Food Sovereignty
40 minutes of moderated dialogue followed by 20 minutes of questions from the audience
Moderated by Joe Libertelli, UDC School of Law
-  Carlton Eley – EPA
-  Bill Freese – Center for Food Safety
-  Nora Pouillon – Restaurant Nora
-  Samuel Hancock –The EmeraldPlanet
-  Makani Themba-Nixon – The Praxis Project
-  Kathy Ozer – National Family Farm Coalition

· 11:30 -11:45 am Coffee Break in Auditorium Lobby

· 11:20 am Featured Guest Speaker - Dr. Rovenia Brock

· 11:45 – 12:45 Pre-lunch keynote Speaker Dr. Rovenia Brock – Auditorium

- 12:45 – 1:45 Lunch – Free, served in auditorium lobby, seating throughout the University campus. Please take time to network with conference attendees and visit the vendor booths located in the lobby of the auditorium.

· 1:45 – 2:45 Concurrent workshop sessions

Bill Freese, Center for Food Safety
The Failed Promise of Biotechnology
Building 38, Window’s Lounge, Second Floor

Makani Themba-Nixon, The Praxis Project
Food Justice in Living Color
Building 39, Room 201

Larry Chang, EcolocityDC
Localization: From Grassroots to Edible Forests
Building 44, Room A03

William Hare, UDC
Cooperative Extension Service and Urban Agriculture in the District of Columbia
Building 39, Room 204

Tambra Stevenson, Creative Cause
Healing the Soul of the City: Faith, Food & Freedom For All
Building 39, Room 205

Mark and Suzi Lilly, Farm to Family
Real Food Security
Auditorium

2:45 – 3:00 Break, and transition back to the Auditorium 3:00 – 4:00 Panel #2 – Strengthening Our Local Food System 40 minutes of moderated dialogue followed by 20 minutes of questions from the audience

Moderated by Joe Libertelli, UDC School of Law
-  Bread for the City
-  Kevin Hornberger – Library of Congress
-  Larry Chang – EcolocityDC
-  Carole Morison – DelMarVa Poultry Justice Alliance
-  Tanikka Cunningham – DC Healthy Solutions
-  Margaret Morgan Hubbard – ECO City Farms

4:00 – 5:00 Afternoon Keynote: Will Allen speaking on practical steps to increase urban agriculture in the Washington, DC metropolitan area

Questions from audience moderated by Vinnie Bevivino,

5:00 -5:15 Acknowledgements and Summit Closing: Dr. Iveracottis Short


Featured Key Note Speaker:

Will Allen, 2008 MacArthur Fellow and Founder of Growing Power

Will Allen is an urban farmer who is transforming the cultivation, production, and delivery of healthy foods to underserved, urban populations. In 1995, while assisting neighborhood children with a gardening project, Allen began developing the farming methods and educational programs that are now the hallmark of the non-profit organization Growing Power, which he directs and co-founded. Guiding all is his efforts is the recognition that the unhealthy diets of low-income, urban populations, and such related health problems as obesity and diabetes, largely are attributable to limited access to safe and affordable fresh fruits and vegetables. Rather than embracing the "back to the land” approach promoted by many within the sustainable agriculture movement, Allen's holistic farming model incorporates both cultivating foodstuffs and designing food distribution networks in an urban setting. Through a novel synthesis of a variety of low-cost farming technologies – including use of raised beds, aquaculture, vermiculture, and heating greenhouses through composting – Growing Power produces vast amounts of food year-round at its main farming site, two acres of land located within Milwaukee's city limits. Recently, cultivation of produce and livestock has begun at other urban and rural sites in and around Milwaukee and Chicago.

Will Allen earned a B.A. (1971) from the University of Miami. After a brief career in professional basketball and a number of years in corporate marketing at Procter and Gamble, he returned to his roots as a farmer. He has served as the founder and CEO of Growing Power, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, since 1995 and has taught workshops to aspiring urban farmers across the United States and abroad. (Source: MacArthur Foundation website (www.macfound.org), John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, 140 S. Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60603-5285 USA Phone: (312) 726-8000)

Featured Guest Speaker:

Dr. Rovenia Brock - "Dr. Ro”, Acclaimed Nutrition Expert

Rovenia M. Brock, PhD, a.k.a. Dr. Ro, is an award-winning nutritionist, fitness expert, lecturer, media personality, and author of "Dr. Ro's Ten Secrets to Livin' Healthy”.

An articulate and charismatic media pro, Dr. Ro is known and loved by millions of television and radio fans. Named by More magazine as one of the nation's top five nutrition experts, Dr. Ro is currently a Nutrition Contributor to NPR, and Nutrition Advisor to The Today Show. She is host of the "Livin' Healthy with Dr. Ro” series aired on TV One and frequently seen on The Today Show.

She hosted Black Entertainment Television's Heart & Soul, the first-ever national health and fitness television show for African American women, and was the Nutrition Counselor for ABC News' "Lifetime Live” and the Weekly Nutritionist to NBC's Morning Show in Washington, DC. Dr. Rovenia Brock has been featured and quoted widely in print venues, including Ebony, O magazine, Essence, and Self and in many major daily newspapers.

Presenters and Workshop Leaders:

Carlton Eley – Mr. Carlton Eley is a Senior Environmental Specialist at the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA). He is an environmentalist, urban planner and lecturer. In his work towards normalizing environmental justice during the planning process, Carlton Eley has become the EPA's leading expert on the topics of equitable development. Mr. Eley will speak on smart growth and urban areas.

Bill Freese – Mr. Bill Freese is a Science Policy Analyst with the Center for Food Safety (CFS). An expert on agricultural biotechnology for over a decade, Bill Freese debunks myths about genetically engineered crops. He is a highly sought after lecturer and published writer. His efforts often focus on science and societal implications. His 2002 comprehensive report on genetically engineered pharmaceutical crops helped initiate public debate on "biopharming”. Mr. Freese will discuss debunking myths about genetically engineered crops and the "promise” to feed the world.

Samuel Lee Hancock – Dr. Samuel Lee Hancock, CM is the President and Executive Director of The EmeraldPlanet, a world-wide environmental and economic development movement headquartered in Washington, D.C. The international non-profit is dedicated to identifying at least 1,000 best practices for sustainable, environmental and economic development. The Emerald Planet features its own weekly television program entitled "The EmeraldPlanet,” focused on the best of the best in practical environmental, economic and civil society. Broadcast via Channel 10 in Fairfax, VA, "The EmeraldPlanet” is simulcast to 532 stations around the country. At least 150 of the weekly simulcasts go out to major American markets. Dr. Samuel Hancock will present on "Peace for Power.”

Kevin Hornberger – Mr. Kevin Hornberger is a Facilities Operations Specialist with the Library of Congress (LOC), the nation's largest library and oldest federal institution. Mr. Hornberger facilitated meaningful institutional change in the day-to-day practices of the historic library as he implemented the LOC's effort to pulp all of its food waste, disposable cutlery and containers. The new process is a first step in creating resourceful compost for later use in local farming. A graduate of the University of the District of Columbia's School of Engineering and Applied Science, he is also responsible for identifying and securing the services of green vendors working with the LOC. Mr. Kevin Hornberger will discuss composting food waste and organic matter at the Library of Congress as he presents "From Garbage to Garden: Recycling Postconsumer Food Waste and Reducing Landfill Waste.”

Carole Morison – Ms. Carole Morison, a memorable character from the documentary "Food, Inc.,” exposed the food, labor and environmental damages exacted by industrial farming. She is co-founder of Delmarva Poultry Justice Alliance and works as an agricultural consultant specializing in local food systems, advocating for the rights of family farmers. Ms. Morison will speak about the journey of a chicken farmer and the ill effects of concentrated animal feeding operations.

Makani Themba-Nixon – Ms. Makani Themba-Nixon is Executive Director of the Praxis Project, a non-profit organization helping communities use media and policy advocacy to advance health equity and justice. She currently works on a Robert Woods Johnson Foundation initiative – Policy Advocacy on Tobacco and Health (PATH), created to build tobacco control policy and advocacy in community of colors; as well as numerous tools and resources that help people translate local problems into progressive, effective policy initiatives. Ms. Themba-Nixon is the former Director of the Transnational Racial Justice Initiative, an international project to build capacity among advocates to more effectively address structural racism and leverage tools and best practices around the world. Ms. Makani Themba-Nixon will discuss her efforts in helping communities use media and policy advocacy to advance health equity and justice.

Nora Pouillon – Ms. Nora Pouillon, a crusader for clean food since the early 70's, is the founder of the nation's first certified organic restaurant. Restaurant Nora opened in Washington, D.C. in 1979 setting the standard for healthy, delicious and creative organic food design. Ms. Pouillon's goal was to show people that healthy, clean food tastes delicious. Her efforts have resulted in a campaign for organics and more sustainable lifestyles. She was instrumental in establishing the first producer only Fresh Farm Market in the nation's capitol; an important part of her effort to connect local farms, growers and producers with the urban population. She provided the initial framework for the farm to table movement of today. Ms. Nora Pouillon will speak about an experiential journey in organic cuisine, a "new American” woman and restaurant entrepreneur.

Larry Chang – Mr. Larry Chang is an environmental designer, publisher, life counselor and the Founder of EcolocityDC which seeks to address environmental, economic and social sustainability issues. He has been introducing the transition model to the Washington region and is particularly focused on urban sustainability through farming and international community development. Mr. Chang will speak about community response to food security as he presents "Localization from Grassroots to Edible Forests”.

 CAUSES: Providing a sustainable bridge from college to the world

The College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences

University of the District of Columbia, 4200 Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008

Ph. 202-274-7124 Fax: 202-274-7016 Email: CAUSES@udc.edu

www.udc.edu/CAUSES

National Nurses United DC protest 10:00 am tomorrow, April 14

Join the nurses of National Nurses United as we protest at Rayburn House Office Building at 10:00 am tomorrow, April 14.

We'll gather on the Independence Ave side across from the main entrance as Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker testifies for Rep. Issa’s Government Oversight and Reform Committee:  http://oversight.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1243%3A4-13-11-qstate-and-municipal-debt-tough-choices-aheadq&catid=12&Itemid=20

Closest metro: Capitol South (Blue/Orange lines)

Monday, April 11, 2011

Invitation to Luncheon on May 21

Peace Action Montgomery, Pax Christi, and the Social Justice Committee
of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Rockville (UUCR) invite you to
their annual Peace Luncheon on May 21, to benefit Women for Afghan
Women, a terrific organization providing literacy, medical and other
services for rural women in Afghanistan.

You can read about the organization here:
http://www.womenforafghanwomen.org/about/AWFOctober09Color.pdf

The keynote speaker for this year's luncheon is Gene Bruskin, a renowned
national labor leader and co-founder of US Labor Against the War. Sen.
Jamie Raskin will present the Maryland Peace Maker Award this year.
Jean Athey, who will have just returned from a trip to Afghanistan,
will briefly talk about her experiences.

The luncheon will feature Middle Eastern food and will be held at UUCR
at 11:00 a.m., May 21, 100 Welsh Park Dr., Rockville. Directions here:
http://www.uucr.org/directions.php The suggested donation is $25, but
pay what you can.

Everyone is invited, but please be sure to RSVP to
info@peaceactionmc.org <mailto:info@peaceactionmc.org> so that the
organizers can order enough food for everyone! Please put this on your
calendar today!

Tues. April 12 Briefing, Pizza+ Phone Bank to Raise the Minimum Wage

Tues. April 12,  6-8 pm: 2011 General Assembly Briefing
Pizza and Phone Bank to Raise the Minimum Wage, at
Progressive Md., 8720 Georgia Ave, Ste. 500, Silver Spring

 Raise Maryland Campaign organizers are working across the state to build
support . They've spent the past month in Charles County, talking with hundreds
of community members who all agree it's time to raise the minimum wage here in
Maryland!

Please help us get the word out about the campaign's community meeting in late
April on taking the next steps. Help hard working Marylanders get the pay raise
they need and deserve.

Come to Progressive Maryland for an informative  General Assembly briefing by
PM's senior lobbyist explaining the 2011 Session that ends just the day before,
 plus pizza and drinks as a thank you for sharing your valuable time. To RSVP or
ask questions, please email  Kate@progressivemaryland.org  


Sunday, April 10, 2011

STAND UP FOR TIM DECHRISTOPHER AT BUSBOYS AND POETS

STAND UP FOR TIM DECHRISTOPHER AT BUSBOYS AND POETS

Tim DeChristopher stood up for all of us when he disrupted an
illegitimate BLM oil and gas auction in December of 2008 and outbid oil
corporations for parcels around Arches and Canyonlands National Parks in
Utah. Will you stand up for Tim?

Please join PDA and Busboys and Poets for ...
Tim DeChristopher: Building a Movement for a Livable Future
2021 14th St. NW | Washington, DC (14th and V)
Thursday, April 14th | 9:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.

With a Special Performance by the AKOMA DRUMMERS

Click here for the details:
http://www.pdamerica.org/events/view/tim-dechristopher-building-a-movement-for-a-livable-future

We must support young people in their struggle for a livable future.
Please don't miss this brave and committed young man!

Building the movement,

Tim Carpenter, PDA National Director

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

26th Annual Peace, Justice, & Environment Conference

26th Annual Peace, Justice, & Environment Conference
Encouraging the Language and Practice of Peace & Justice

Friday evening, April 29 & Saturday,April 30, 2011
St. Camillus Roman Catholic Church ,
1600 Saint Camillus Dr., Silver Spring, MD 20903-2598. [directions below]
Sponsored by:
Maryland United for Peace and Justice/Institute For Positive Action
St. Camillus Roman Catholic Church, a multi-ethnic church with a
strong Latino base
Pax Christi DC Metro and Baltimore

Purpose: Words do wound! As we have seen in the last election round and
more recently, rash words spoken in anger and hate can provoke violent
actions. As peaceful people, we need to use language carefully to
promote our vision of a peaceful and non-violent world. This conference
is designed to help us achieve that goal.

Registration: clip-and-mail form below with payment
(covers lunch; regular $25 until April 20,
then $30; retirees and students $10; scholarships)
OR e-mail your RSVP to phamm001@verizon.net and
pay on site.

Friday, April 29
6:30 - 7:30 pm Pot Luck Dinner, home hospitality arrangements
7:30 -- 8:30 pm MUPJ Business meeting: Agenda to follow
8:30-9:00 pm Networking & Conference set-up
Saturday, April 30
8:00- 8:40 am Registration (on site okay) Table set up, bagels, cream
cheese, coffee, tea
8:45-8:55 am: Welcome
9:00 -- 9:30 MD State Legislative Session Wrap-up Sen. Paul Pinsky
(invited) Sen. Victor Ramirez
9:35- 10:25 am: KEYNOTE: The Right Rev. Eugene Sutton, Bishop of the
Episcopal Diocese of Maryland
10:30 -- 12 noon: Workshop Session I
12 noon -- 12:55 Lunch, vegetarian options
1:00 -- 1:30 pm: Benjamin Peace Awards
1:35 - 2:50 pm: Workshop Session II
2:55 - 4:10 pm Workshop Session III
4:15 --4:45 pm Remarks by Sen. Jamie Raskin
4:45 -- 5:00 pm Closing

List of workshops
In English
1. Animal Rights: Dustin Garrett Rhodes, Friends of Animals
2. Anti-war: Ray McGovern
3. Civil Liberties: Constitution Challenges: Sue Udry, Defending Dissent
Foundation
4. Community Building: David Harrington, Community First
5. Collective Bargaining and Unions: Glennard Middleton, AFSCME
6. Counter Recruiting: John Judge, C.H.O.I.C.E.S.
7. Environment wrap up: Chesapeake Bay Foundation
8. Finding peace after spousal abuse: Lisa Lincoln
9. Fund Our Communities--Bring the War Dollars Home: Organizing MD for
Peace and Justice!: Jean Athey Montgomery Peace Action
10. Keeping Peace with Counter Protestors, Little Falls Meeting
11. Language and Politics: Changing the Frame: Kathryn Rudd (3 hours in
the afternoon )
12. Nuclear Power: How Will Japan's Experience Inform the Energy Debate?
Norm Meadow, MCC, Gwen DuBois, PSR & Michael Mariotte, NIRS
13. Palestine/Israel: Josh Ruebner US Campaign to End the Israeli
Occupation
14. Restorative Justice/Prison Reform: Jerry Park Elbridge James, NAACP
(invited)
15. Achieving Health Justice in Maryland: Margaret Flowers
16. Sow Weapons, Reap Death: Alex Patico, Orthodox Peace Fellowship,
North America
17. Spiritual Practices for Sustainable Activists", "Gift of Conflict":
Louisa Davis
18. Voices for Peace from Afghanistan -- March 2011: Judith Kelly and
Jim Noonan
19. Immigration Policy Issues: Jaci Braga< US Catholic Conference of
Bishops

In Spanish
20. Environment: Patricia Delgado and Philipe Hansel
21. The Spirituality of Oscar Romero and Social Justice: Scott Wright
and Joe Nangle (Invited)
22, Legislative Update: Sen. Victor Ramirez

In Both English and Spanish
23. Trade and Latin American Policies: Juan Molina
24. Worker's rights/Immigration: CASA

All presenters confirmed at press time, but program is subject to last
minute changes
MARYLAND UNITED FOR PEACE & JUSTICE, Inc.
In a statewide meeting of Maryland activists, agreement was reached to
present a yearly peace and justice conference. MUPJ was started
following the first statewide conference in April, 1986 to promote
networking and to organize the annual conference.
MUPJ/INSTITUTE FOR POSITIVE ACTION, Inc.
The IPA is the 501(c)(3) tax-exempt affiliate of MUPJ, dedicated to
promoting nonviolence and peace education.
FRED BENJAMIN PEACE AWARDS
Open to all public, private, and home-schooled high school students
throughout Maryland, entries can be literary, artistic, or musical.
There are usually three topic choices based on the conference theme.
HOME HOSPITALITY
Home hospitality will be offered for out of town attendees. Please so
indicate on the registration form if you need or can provide.
INFORMATION TABLES
Tables will be provided for those who would like to distribute or sell
literature or other materials. Please so indicate on the registration form.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS
The premises are smoke-free. Please help us keep them scent-free as well
by not wearing perfume, cologne, or after-shave.

DIRECTIONS
Take the DC Beltway to New Hampshire Avenue. Go south towards the city.
After about 1 mile, make a right hand turn onto Dilston Road. Go 1 block
to Avenel Road. Make a left onto Avenel Road. Go down the hill to the
second right, St. Camillus Dr. Make a right and go up and down the hill
to the parking lot in front of the school. We will be meeting in St.
Francis' International School.

REGISTRATION FORM
Before April 20th, cost is $25; after, $30. Students and retired: $10
(Scholarships available---no one turned away for lack of funds)
Registration includes vegetarian option lunch.
Note: You may register later or on-site, but please RSVP so we can order
enough food.
Clip this coupon & Send with payment to: "MUPJ-IPA",
C/o Paulette Hammond,
401 Westshire Rd., Baltimore, MD 21229

Info Paulette (410-747-3811) or Tony (301-390-9684)
(Scholarships available --- no one turned away for lack of money)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Name:________________________________
Address:______________________________
_____________________________________
Zip__________
Phone number:_________________________
e-mail:________________________________
Organization:___________________________
Do you plan to set up a literature table?
Yes ? No ?
Group: ________________________________
Let us know the following by April 20th:
Need transportation? Yes ? No ?
Can provide___ Need___ Home Hospitality:
Fri. night ? Sat. night ?
_____ I/We would like to renew /join as members of MUPJ. Make checks
payable to "MUPJ" according to the following dues schedule (not tax
deductible):

Individual Membership: ___$15 per year Organizational Memberships:
Organizational Memberships [Prince George's Peace & Justice has renewed
for this year]
Less than 50 members; ___$25 per year
50 to 500 members: ___$35 per year
More than 500 members; ___$45 per year
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CO-SPONSORS (at press time):
Adelphi Friends Meeting
Anne Arundel Peace Action
Baltimore Monthly Meeting of Friends, Stony Run
Baltimore News Network
Baltimore Quaker Peace and Justice Committee, a joint committee of
Homewood & Stony Run Friends & Old Town Friends Fellowship
Benjamin Peace Foundation
Committee for Palestinian Right (CPR)
Ghandi-in-Action International
Global Coalition for Peace
Health Care Now-Maryland
Little Falls Friends Meeting
Little Friends for Peace
Maryland Conservation Council (MCC)
Orthodox Peace Fellowship
Peace Action Montgomery County
Peace Committee of Sandy Springs Friends Meeting
Prince George's Peace and Justice Coalition
Progressive Cheverly
Social Action Committee of Paint Branch Unitarian Universalist Church
The Network of Spiritual Progressives of Greater Washington DC Chapter
Women in Black, Frederick
Women's International League for Freedom, Baltimore Branch
Women's International League for Freedom, Catonsville Branch

We also thank the following for their generous support: The Art
Milholland and Luann Mostello Fund

And a special thanks to our major co-sponsor: St. Camillus Church
Thank you all for making this conference possible!

lucyduff@earthlink.net
9210 Fowler Lane, Lanham MD 20706

Monday, April 4, 2011

Protect Social Security/End Subsidies to Big Oil and Gas

Protect Social Security/End Subsidies to Big Oil and Gas


Join PDA as we lobby the U.S. Senate to protect Social Security. We will deliver packets that ask Senators to support S493 – Reid/Sanders Amendment to Protect Social Security and S522 – Sanders Deficit Reduction Bill that will balance the budget by taxing the rich and ending oil and gas subsidies. We will meet in the Dirksen Cafeteria (Basement)

S493 - Reid/Sanders Amendment to Protect Social Security
http://www.pdava.org/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_view&gid=23&tmpl=component&format=raw&Itemid=68

To express the sense of the Senate that Social Security benefits for current and future beneficiaries should not be cut and that the Social Security program should not be privatized as part of any legislation to reduce the Federal deficit.

S522 - Sanders Deficit Reduction Bill
http://www.pdava.org/index.php?option=com_docman&task=doc_view&gid=24&tmpl=component&format=raw&Itemid=68

To reduce the Federal budget deficit by creating a surtax on high income individuals and eliminating big oil and gas company tax loopholes.

Date: April 6, 2011
Time: 1:00pm
Place: Dirksen Cafeteria (Basement Level)

RSVP: Stephen Spitz (kcnspitz@aol.com)

CORRECTION: Tuesday, April 5 Progressive Coalition Meeting to plan future events and actions.

Progressive Coalition Meeting to plan future events and actions.

Tuesday, April 5 · 7:30pm - 9:00pm

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

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

PDA: Progressive Democrats of America began just after the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston. Bringing together people from the 2004 Kucinich and Dean Campaigns with other progressives, PDA adopted an "inside/outside strategy" uniting activists working inside the Democratic Party with those working in peace and justice movements. PDA's core issues include clean, accurate and transparent elections; environmental protection; single-payer healthcare; economic and social justice; and peace. See: http://www.PDAmerica.org/ You can sign up for PDA there.

MCPA: The Montgomery County Progressive Alliance is a result-oriented coalition working on local, state, national and international issues. MCPA includes more than 1,000 local activists, mainly in and around Montgomery County Maryland. The organization began in 2003 when Democracy for America Meetup members reached out to other Meetup groups and other groups. In 2004, 100s of Montgomery County for Kerry members and local Progressive Democrats of America members joined the MCPA. MCPA adopted a mission statement, organized special events, and has held meetings nearly each month since 2003.Please join the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance Google Group: http://groups.google.com/group/mcprogressivealliance

DFA/DFMC: Democracy for America emerged from Gov. Howard Dean's presidential campaign in 2004, and has organized grass-roots activists to support socially progressive, fiscally responsible candidates. DFMC is Democracy for Montgomery County, a local DFA-inspired organization which is not directly or legally affiliated with DFA. DFMC has organized events and meetings; and endorsed and organized volunteers for several candidates. DFMC is currently seeking additional steering committee members. Please contact me, mikehersh@mikehersh.com if you're interested. You can sign up for DFA here: http://democracyforamerica.com/session/new

If you haven't already: Please contribute $15 for 2011 to keep this meetup going. Pay online: http://www.meetup.com/progressive-victory/dues/ or bring to a meeting.

Tues. May 5th Progressive Coalition Meeting to plan future events and actions.

Progressive Coalition Meeting to plan future events and actions.

Tuesday, April 5 · 7:30pm - 9:00pm

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

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

PDA: Progressive Democrats of America began just after the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston. Bringing together people from the 2004 Kucinich and Dean Campaigns with other progressives, PDA adopted an "inside/outside strategy" uniting activists working inside the Democratic Party with those working in peace and justice movements. PDA's core issues include clean, accurate and transparent elections; environmental protection; single-payer healthcare; economic and social justice; and peace. See: http://www.PDAmerica.org/ You can sign up for PDA there.

MCPA: The Montgomery County Progressive Alliance is a result-oriented coalition working on local, state, national and international issues. MCPA includes more than 1,000 local activists, mainly in and around Montgomery County Maryland. The organization began in 2003 when Democracy for America Meetup members reached out to other Meetup groups and other groups. In 2004, 100s of Montgomery County for Kerry members and local Progressive Democrats of America members joined the MCPA. MCPA adopted a mission statement, organized special events, and has held meetings nearly each month since 2003.Please join the Montgomery County Progressive Alliance Google Group: http://groups.google.com/group/mcprogressivealliance

DFA/DFMC: Democracy for America emerged from Gov. Howard Dean's presidential campaign in 2004, and has organized grass-roots activists to support socially progressive, fiscally responsible candidates. DFMC is Democracy for Montgomery County, a local DFA-inspired organization which is not directly or legally affiliated with DFA. DFMC has organized events and meetings; and endorsed and organized volunteers for several candidates. DFMC is currently seeking additional steering committee members. Please contact me, mikehersh@mikehersh.com if you're interested. You can sign up for DFA here: http://democracyforamerica.com/session/new

If you haven't already: Please contribute $15 for 2011 to keep this meetup going. Pay online: http://www.meetup.com/progressive-victory/dues/ or bring to a meeting.
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TONIGHT! When a Father Knows Best: Seeking More than Sympathy

When a Father Knows Best: Seeking More than Sympathy
Time Monday, April 4 · 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Location  Wheaton Regional Library
11701 Georgia Ave Wheaton, MD
(large conference room downstairs)

Created By Montgomery County NOW

Our speaker is a forceful advocate for women — the father of a then fifteen-year-old daughter who was gang-raped. Coping with this, he encountered people who didn't help his daughter or him as they should have. He decided to use his energy to insist that women who find themselves similarly-situated are treated with respect by every institution with which they come in contact: hospitals, the police, the school system, the court-system, the juvenile justice system, as well as by those who have assaulted them.

Join us to discuss a fundamental issue: what we expect of officials in the most personal of crises who fail us when we most need them and how we in the community can insist on better.

For more information, contact info@mcmdnow.org

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Monday, April 4 When a Father Knows Best: Seeking More than Sympathy

7-9 p.m.  Monday, April 4  
Montgomery County Chapter of the National Organization for Women presents:

When a Father Knows Best: Seeking More than Sympathy

Wheaton Library
11701 Georgia Ave. Wheaton, MD 20902
(large conference room downstairs)
For more information: info@mcmdnow.org

Join us to discuss what we expect of officials in the most personal of crises, what to do if they fail us when we most need them, and how the community can insist on better.

Our speaker is the father of a then fifteen-year-old girl who was gang-raped. Coping with this, he encountered people who didn't help his daughter or him as they should have. He decided to use his energy to insist that victims are treated with respect by: hospitals, the police, the school system, the courts, and the juvenile justice system. 

Friday, April 1, 2011

April 4 from 7-9 pm When a Father Knows Best: Seeking More than Sympathy

Monday, April 4 from 7-9 pm


MCNOW MONTHLY PROGRAM:

When a Father Knows Best: Seeking More than Sympathy

Wheaton Library, 11701 Georgia Avenue, Wheaton, MD 20902 
(large conference room downstairs)

Our speaker is a forceful advocate for women — the father of a then fifteen-year-old daughter who was gang-raped. Coping with this, he encountered people who didn't help his daughter or him as they should have. He decided to use his energy to insist that women who find themselves similarly-situated are treated with respect by every institution with which they come in contact: hospitals, the police, the school system, the court-system, the juvenile justice system, as well as by those who have assaulted them.  

Join us to discuss a fundamental issuewhat we expect of officials in the most personal of crises who fail us when we most need them and how we in the community can insist on better.

For more information, contact info@mcmdnow.org

Demand a State Senate Vote to Ban Discrimination

Join Marylanders Urging the State Senate Vote to Ban Discrimination. Please act and share this alert with your friends and lists today!

Contact your state senator and key senators.
Demand a Maryland Senate vote on HB 235: The Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act.

Calls work better than emails.
Important: mention it if you live in the Senator's district and if you represent or belong to an organization, religious group, congregation, etc. Firmly ask the staffer who answers the phone to take a brief, specific message.

Sample message: "My name is __________ and I live in (your state district or county). I represent/belong to (any
organization, religious group, congregation, etc.). I am calling because I--and many Marylanders I know--strongly support HB 235: The Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act. Sen. _______ must act today to help end discrimination against transgendered people in housing, credit and employment. We urge the Senator to ask Senate President Mike Miler to allow HB 235 out of the Rules Committee, and we expect Sen. ___________ to support HB 235 on the Senate floor."

Please express these essential points in your own words.
For more key points, see below.

If you send email directly or using a link below, always use your own words. Many legislators ignore and even resent identical emails, considering them "spam." Even a dozen articulate calls and emails from constituents on a topic can persuade a senator. Please act now!

Use this link to find
your district and contact your own state senator: http://mdelect.net/electedofficials/
Contact members of the Senate Rules Committee: http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/05sen/html/com/06rul.html

Call Senate President Mike Miller (410) 841-3700, (301) 858-3700 or 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3700 (toll free) and tell him to allow The Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act out of the Rules Committee to let the
Maryland Senate vote on HB 235 this session.

Send an email to thomas.v.mike.miller@senate.state.md.us or
use this link:
http://equalityfederation.salsalabs.com/o/35015/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=539


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

Adapted from Progressive Neighbors (a member of Progressive Working Group):
 
It has come to the attention of the Progressive Neighbors steering committee that State Senate President Mike Miller has shunted HB 235, the gender anti-discrimination bill, to the Rules Committee in violation of Senate rules. The bill, as you may know, passed strongly out the House of Delegates on Saturday, and deserves a fair hearing in the Judicial Proceedings Committee and then the Senate floor, just as do the other 93 bills that have passed to the Senate before crossover.

The Progressive Neighbors steering committee has voted to support HB 235 to protect the transgender community from discrimination. We urge you to contact your Senators and Delegates and ask that they lobby their colleagues on the Rules Committee to move the bill out of Rules and over to Judicial Proceedings Committee where it belongs. (The members of the Rules Committee are listed below.)
 
Thank you,
Progressive Neighbors
 
Members of the Senate Rules Committee: Katherine Klausmeier – Chair, Brian Frosh – Vice Chair, David Brinkley, Richard Colburn, Ulysses Currie, Roy Dyson, George Edwards, Edward Kasemeyer, Nathaniel McFadden, Thomas Middleton, Thomas Mike Miller - Senate President.

C
ontact members of the Senate Rules Committee: http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/05sen/html/com/06rul.html

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

Adapted from Equality Maryland (a member of Progressive Working Group):

ACTION ALERT--HB 235 Gender Identity Bill At Risk

This year, the Maryland Legislature has an opportunity to pass House Bill 235, the Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act, which will add vital protections on the basis of gender identity for employment, housing, and credit. This bill will literally save lives of Transgender Marylanders.

But, it's turning into politics as usual in Annapolis. Contact Committee Chair Sen. Katherine Klausmeier District 8, Baltimore County and Vice Chair Sen. Brian Frosh [District 16, Montgomery County--including parts of Chevy Chase, Bethesda and Potomac, and urge them to become champions on this important anti-discrimination legislation.

Note: PLEASE call if you have the time, and always use your own words--legislators tend to ignore or even resent identical emails.

Mention if you live in their district and/or if you represent or belong to an organization, religious group, congregation, etc.


Call Senator Katherine Klausmeier: (410) 841-3620, (301) 858-3620 or toll free 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3620
(toll free)
Call Senator Brian Frosh: (410) 841-3124, (301) 858-3124, or toll free 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3124 (toll free)
Call Senate President Mike Miller: (410) 841-3700, (301) 858-3700 or 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3700 (toll free)

Sen. President Mike Miller doesn't think the Senate has the will to move on more social issues, but we know that Sen. Frosh and Sen Klausmeier, both of whom hold leadership positions on the rules committee, are ready to support this bill--they just need to hear from you. We're asking all Marylanders who believe in ending discrimination towards our transgender community to stand up and speak out in support of HB 235.
Contact these Senators today to stand up for fairness and to end discrimination for Transgender Marylanders.

Email Sens. Klausmeier and Frosh: http://equalityfederation.salsalabs.com/o/35015/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=525

Email Sen. Miller: http://equalityfederation.salsalabs.com/o/35015/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=539

You have an opportunity to make history in Maryland this legislative session and to join 12 other states who support ending discrimination based on gender identity. Will you speak up for fairness today?

As the session winds down, all pro-equality allies need to reach out to Sen. Frosh and Sen. Klausmeier so they don't let time expire on this important piece of legislation. It's truly up to the two of them. By reaching out to Sen. Klausmeier and Sen. Frosh you'll not only join pro-equality allies all across the Free state in ending discrimination, but you'll be ending injustice for all transgender Marylanders.

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

From Progressive Maryland (an ally of Progressive Working Group):

... End the Senate Bottleneck: Pass HB 235,
The Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act

Contact your senator anytime, they'll be working all weekend.

 The pressure's on in the Maryland Senate in Annapolis. 

Saturday the House passed by 60% the Gender Identity Anti-Discrimination Act (House Bill 235) to end discrimination against transgender Marylanders in housing, employment and credit.

But Senate President Mike Miller is treating it differently than any other bill this year and sent it to the Rules Committee where it will most likely die this session--an outrage to anyone who stands up to injustice.

Even Committee Chair Sen. Katherine Klausmeier, stated publicly "It's all up to the president. I'm trying to work with him to get it out ..." If Rules votes the bill out, it will move to the Judicial Proceedings Committee, which could hold a hearing, vote, and send it to the full chamber.

Please urge your Senator to pressure Sen. Miller to move HB 235 out of the Rules Committee. Then phone him or her toll-free at 1-800-492-7122 (if no answer, leave your message).

HB 235 will give vital protections to transgender people in housing, credit and employment in Maryland, where 1 in 5 are fired because of who they are.

Stand up for fairness and end this unjust discrimination: http://equalityfederation.salsalabs.com/o/35015/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=539
Then phone your senator toll-free at 1-800-492-7122.

Discrimination against any minority members of society as second class citizens must never be tolerated. Send a clear message to Senate President Mike Miller that it is unacceptable to express our disappointment in the failure of one major civil rights bill by killing another.

---------

Find your district and contact your own state senator: http://mdelect.net/electedofficials/
Call Senate President Mike Miller: (410) 841-3700, (301) 858-3700 or 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3700 (toll free)
Call Senator Katherine Klausmeier: (410) 841-3620, (301) 858-3620 or toll free 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3620 (toll free)
Call Senator Brian Frosh: (410) 841-3124, (301) 858-3124, or toll free 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3124 (toll free)
Contact members of the Senate Rules Committee: http://www.msa.md.gov/msa/mdmanual/05sen/html/com/06rul.html