Thursday, May 29, 2008
Vimeo
Google has apparently got a phrase that they say reflects something about the company: Don't be evil.
Google owns Blogger, where I write this. They own YouTube. They own Gmail, Google Earth, and of course, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir which they purchased in a leveraged buy out involving Yoko Ono, Michael Jackson, Queen Beatrix and the Church of Scientology.
But there are alternatives. There's Mapquest, and Riseup email and the New Tabernacle Singers...and Vimeo.
Vimeo is the YouTube alternative. Here's an example of the stuff there, and while this is not professionally done, the woman's logic is spot on. She observes that the worser evil we are supposed to not vote for is seldom as horrible as the lesser evil, and the differences between lesser and greater evils is so small...
But to me the perfect line was where she said "What they say when they run for office is pretty different, but what they do when they get there really isn't."
The video is by Rachel MacCratic. Take a look:
McKinney for President from Rachel MacCratic on Vimeo.
Google owns Blogger, where I write this. They own YouTube. They own Gmail, Google Earth, and of course, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir which they purchased in a leveraged buy out involving Yoko Ono, Michael Jackson, Queen Beatrix and the Church of Scientology.
But there are alternatives. There's Mapquest, and Riseup email and the New Tabernacle Singers...and Vimeo.
Vimeo is the YouTube alternative. Here's an example of the stuff there, and while this is not professionally done, the woman's logic is spot on. She observes that the worser evil we are supposed to not vote for is seldom as horrible as the lesser evil, and the differences between lesser and greater evils is so small...
But to me the perfect line was where she said "What they say when they run for office is pretty different, but what they do when they get there really isn't."
The video is by Rachel MacCratic. Take a look:
McKinney for President from Rachel MacCratic on Vimeo.
Green News Daily Roundup - Morning Edition
Over at The Champion Newspapers they are carrying a piece about Cynthia McKinney winning support in her native Georgia at the state Green Party convention back on May 3rd, securing seven of that state's eight delegates. Kat Swift won the eight delegate.
The Park Slope Greens in NYC are encouraging their membership to attend the city convention and get set to be a delegate to the nominating convention set for July in Chicago.
Stories In The News of Ketchikan, Alaska carries an editorial about third parties, calling us "ever hopeful".
The Park Slope Greens in NYC are encouraging their membership to attend the city convention and get set to be a delegate to the nominating convention set for July in Chicago.
Stories In The News of Ketchikan, Alaska carries an editorial about third parties, calling us "ever hopeful".
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Green News Daily Roundup - Morning Edition
The Camden NJ Green Party will be meeting in Collingswood, NJ June 5th at 7 PM at the library at Haddon and Frasier Avenues.
The Rev. Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping will deliver the invocation at a Green Party conference set for NYC this Saturday. You gotta check this one out. It includes presenters like Lynne Serpe, director of FairVote, Joel Kovel, Gloria Mattera, Mark Dunlea and several prominent NYC Greens, as well as what I assume are several prominent non-Greens. The event is set for Hunter College in Manhattan, 105 Lexington Avenue (between 68th and 69th Streets)from 9 AM until 6 PM, and is sponsored by the Green Party of Brooklyn.
That's all for now folks. More after a day's work.
The Rev. Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping will deliver the invocation at a Green Party conference set for NYC this Saturday. You gotta check this one out. It includes presenters like Lynne Serpe, director of FairVote, Joel Kovel, Gloria Mattera, Mark Dunlea and several prominent NYC Greens, as well as what I assume are several prominent non-Greens. The event is set for Hunter College in Manhattan, 105 Lexington Avenue (between 68th and 69th Streets)from 9 AM until 6 PM, and is sponsored by the Green Party of Brooklyn.
That's all for now folks. More after a day's work.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
South Carolina Greens to Bush & Co: We Object!
Join your fellow Greens at Furman 5/31/2008.
The South Carolina Green Party and the York County (SC) Greens are co-sponsoring a protest and demonstration at Furman University on May 31st as President Bush delivers a speech to the students and faculty of that university. The protest is also co-sponsored by The Greenville Anti-War Society, the South Carolina Progressive Network, the Carolina Peace Resource Center, and Code Pink. In addition, the event is sponsored by Operation Democracy, part of MoveOn.org, Aiken Peace, No More Victims, the Freedom Group and finally, Veterans for Peace.
To join in, click the link above and look for your fellow Greens once you get there, or drop us a note in advance at GreggJocoy29715@yahoo.com
Proxies, the cost of a national convention, and the nomination
The numbers just reported by Ronald Kane Hardy at Green Party Watch (GPW) show that, even with strongholds not yet decided,Cynthia McKinney's campaign has secured enough votes for her to be our nominee for President. Unfortunately, as I reported in my last post, the national party has apparently decided to charge each state for their proxy votes.
While this may seem a bad idea at first blush, and indeed may be a bad idea, evidence from past discussions would indicate that lack of financial resources is what has motivated the plan to charge for proxy votes.
According to a source familiar with the national party and it's internal discussions, the GNC is discussing possible changes to this policy of charging for proxy votes.
While this may seem a bad idea at first blush, and indeed may be a bad idea, evidence from past discussions would indicate that lack of financial resources is what has motivated the plan to charge for proxy votes.
According to a source familiar with the national party and it's internal discussions, the GNC is discussing possible changes to this policy of charging for proxy votes.
Tom Yager leaks to Ballot Access News
Well, maybe it's not as dramatic as all that, but in fact, Ballot Access News does attribute their report to Yager of VA. In the report, BAN announces that Cynthia McKinney has secured enough committed votes to win a first ballot victory in her race for the Green Party Presidential nomination.
The only "problem", if there is one, is that simply having the committed delegates is not enough, for McKinney or any of the other candidates. Unless those delegates show up at the convention in numbers high enough, her nomination is not sewn up.
Apparently the national party has decided to charge each state for proxy votes to be cast at the national convention, and some states may face difficulties fielding their entire slate of delegates, even with proxy votes.
Green Party Watch and Green News and Opinion will report more news on this front as it comes available.
The only "problem", if there is one, is that simply having the committed delegates is not enough, for McKinney or any of the other candidates. Unless those delegates show up at the convention in numbers high enough, her nomination is not sewn up.
Apparently the national party has decided to charge each state for proxy votes to be cast at the national convention, and some states may face difficulties fielding their entire slate of delegates, even with proxy votes.
Green Party Watch and Green News and Opinion will report more news on this front as it comes available.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Humbolt CA Greens call for $10 minimum wage
and while I'll agree that this seems like a lot, think about it. That's $400 a week in a 40 hr a week job. That's $20,800 a year, before taxes. Not exactly a king's ransom, but perhaps enough to get by.
The fine folks over at High Boltage have all the details.
The fine folks over at High Boltage have all the details.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
You really can't make this stuff up...
Da votes are in...
The last round of voting in the Libertarian race for their Presidential nomination are:
Bob Barr : 324
Mary Ruwart : 276
Bob Barr is the nominee.
Bob Barr : 324
Mary Ruwart : 276
Bob Barr is the nominee.
It would appear that the Libertarians are going to nominate Barr and Root
So, unless the Libertarians who want a party activist at the head of the party ignore what the person they voted for recommended, former Congressman Bob Barr will be their nominee, and Barr will ask for Root to be his Veep.
I realize that it's unlikely that the Green Party will have accusations of the candidates being frauds, as there have been in the Libertarian race, but that is to our benefit. I tend to believe the nomination will be secured by the McKinney campaign in the first round of balloting, but either way, I don't see the level of disdain amongst the Greens for the different candidates.
I realize that it's unlikely that the Green Party will have accusations of the candidates being frauds, as there have been in the Libertarian race, but that is to our benefit. I tend to believe the nomination will be secured by the McKinney campaign in the first round of balloting, but either way, I don't see the level of disdain amongst the Greens for the different candidates.
Libertarian Party convention
I hesitate to write about this here because, in truth, I don't do other parties very often. There are few enough places to find news about the Green Party as it is without having to share that space with other parties.
Even so, the Libertarians have much in common in terms of policy with the Greens. Often I think we come at things from different directions to reach similar goals, but one cannot deny that the differences between Greens and Libertarians are substantial.
If the Green Party had rules as loose as the Libertarians apparently are, who knows who may have popped up at the last moment to ask for our nomination. I can imagine that Senator Gravel might have come to us if he had thought he had any chance at all. Similarly, at some point in the future, there may be a Democrat or Republican doing well enough to jump ship early on and make better than 5% on election day. For example, if Edwards had left the Democratic Party just after Super Tuesday and brought his campaign staff with him, I have little doubt that he would have secured more than 5 %.
I must say right here and now that I firmly believe that Cynthia McKinney can do that for us as well. In addition, Congresswoman McKinney brings new constituencies to the party, many successful campaigns, and a record of accomplishment and long term positive relations with the Green Party that make her our best candidate.
That does not diminish the other three candidates. I thought that Kent Mesplay was a good candidate in 2004, and in fact, I believe he would have beaten Cobb if he had traveled as Cobb did. I think Kat Swift is a party star on the rise. Her unwillingness to be daunted by the tasks she faces is wonderful, and I have little doubt that she has endeared herself to Greens who put a high value on ballot access. I believe Jesse Johnson brings talents to the party which we have not had access to before both because he was not a Green and because his state party was not affiliated.
Today, all four of our candidates are securely Green. All four are heads-on-straight candidates. All four understand the Green Party's Ten Key Values, and all four are committed to the growth and future of the party. We are blessed indeed.
With that in mind, the Libertarian Party has just opted out of nominating Gravel. Gravel won 71 votes in round 1, 73 in round 2, 78 in round 3 and 76 in round 4. He was in last place in round 4, and was eliminated.
Now these are in round 5.
Former Congressman Bob Barr who won 202 votes in the last round
Mary Ruwart, a Libertarian Party activist, won 202 votes as well
Wayne Allen Root, who I guess is also a Libertarian Party activist, won 149 votes.
These results just in from Round 5:
Barr - 223
Ruwart - 229
Root - 165
Root eliminated.
Even so, the Libertarians have much in common in terms of policy with the Greens. Often I think we come at things from different directions to reach similar goals, but one cannot deny that the differences between Greens and Libertarians are substantial.
If the Green Party had rules as loose as the Libertarians apparently are, who knows who may have popped up at the last moment to ask for our nomination. I can imagine that Senator Gravel might have come to us if he had thought he had any chance at all. Similarly, at some point in the future, there may be a Democrat or Republican doing well enough to jump ship early on and make better than 5% on election day. For example, if Edwards had left the Democratic Party just after Super Tuesday and brought his campaign staff with him, I have little doubt that he would have secured more than 5 %.
I must say right here and now that I firmly believe that Cynthia McKinney can do that for us as well. In addition, Congresswoman McKinney brings new constituencies to the party, many successful campaigns, and a record of accomplishment and long term positive relations with the Green Party that make her our best candidate.
That does not diminish the other three candidates. I thought that Kent Mesplay was a good candidate in 2004, and in fact, I believe he would have beaten Cobb if he had traveled as Cobb did. I think Kat Swift is a party star on the rise. Her unwillingness to be daunted by the tasks she faces is wonderful, and I have little doubt that she has endeared herself to Greens who put a high value on ballot access. I believe Jesse Johnson brings talents to the party which we have not had access to before both because he was not a Green and because his state party was not affiliated.
Today, all four of our candidates are securely Green. All four are heads-on-straight candidates. All four understand the Green Party's Ten Key Values, and all four are committed to the growth and future of the party. We are blessed indeed.
With that in mind, the Libertarian Party has just opted out of nominating Gravel. Gravel won 71 votes in round 1, 73 in round 2, 78 in round 3 and 76 in round 4. He was in last place in round 4, and was eliminated.
Now these are in round 5.
Former Congressman Bob Barr who won 202 votes in the last round
Mary Ruwart, a Libertarian Party activist, won 202 votes as well
Wayne Allen Root, who I guess is also a Libertarian Party activist, won 149 votes.
These results just in from Round 5:
Barr - 223
Ruwart - 229
Root - 165
Root eliminated.
Green news from Reading
In an article at the Reading Eagle, Mary Young writes about the hurdles we Greens face in getting on the ballot in PA.
Frankly, if any other nation made it this hard to even get on the ballot, the US government would consider them anti-democratic...and they would be right!
Frankly, if any other nation made it this hard to even get on the ballot, the US government would consider them anti-democratic...and they would be right!
Saturday, May 24, 2008
McKinney @ YouTube
McKinney campaign in last two days of matching funds drive
The McKinney campaign sent out a report today which offered details of a matching funds effort. It was set up by Rich Whitney, Green Party nominee for Governor of IL, winning better than 10% on election day.
Whitney's campaign, as all Green Party campaigns should, came to the end of the election cycle without debt. Not only that, the campaign was left with a surplus. Now Whitney is offering to match your donations to the McKinney campaign.
To learn more or to participate in this program, simply click here.
Whitney's campaign, as all Green Party campaigns should, came to the end of the election cycle without debt. Not only that, the campaign was left with a surplus. Now Whitney is offering to match your donations to the McKinney campaign.
To learn more or to participate in this program, simply click here.
Them wacky ole Greens
Carol Brouillet is running for Congress from California's 14th Congressional District as a Green. For many, that alone would qualify her as "wacky", as most of us who have run as Greens in places where Greens are uncommon can attest, but add to that her article at Indy Bay indicates that she believes that there are unanswere3de questions about the events leading up to and following 9-11-2001, so that clearly puts her on the "wacko" list.
Finally, she advocates for Community Currency, saying that we should consider the difference between money and real wealth.
I would guess that for many "mainstream" voters these might in fact make her "wacky", but to be honest, I think that many voters today are so tired of the same old political self-preservation tactics of standard politicians that being a little bit "wacky" may be seen as a Good Thing.
I know that's how I see it. Give me a candidate who is unwilling to take a stand and I'll show you a politician who won't make it unless s/he puts the entire party choke collar on and tows the line like a good serf.
Finally, she advocates for Community Currency, saying that we should consider the difference between money and real wealth.
I would guess that for many "mainstream" voters these might in fact make her "wacky", but to be honest, I think that many voters today are so tired of the same old political self-preservation tactics of standard politicians that being a little bit "wacky" may be seen as a Good Thing.
I know that's how I see it. Give me a candidate who is unwilling to take a stand and I'll show you a politician who won't make it unless s/he puts the entire party choke collar on and tows the line like a good serf.
International Middle East Media Center sez: Only McKinney supports Palestinian rights
While I am sure many who favor Nader will point out that he too supports Palestinian rights as well, but apparently I am not the only one who thinks that building something lasting, like a political party, is important.
Given that Cynthia McKinney is in fact the only party associated presidential candidate with broad name recognition who has publicly supported Palestinian Rights, as is pointed out in this article by the IMEMC, I can't help but wonder if those who also support Palestinian Rights have looked in their bank accounts for a few dollars to give to McKinney's bid for federal matching funds. Afterall, if neither the Democratic nor the Republican nominee is going to stand for Human Rights, doesn't it make sense to help someone who does secure matching funds to carry that message forward?
Given that Cynthia McKinney is in fact the only party associated presidential candidate with broad name recognition who has publicly supported Palestinian Rights, as is pointed out in this article by the IMEMC, I can't help but wonder if those who also support Palestinian Rights have looked in their bank accounts for a few dollars to give to McKinney's bid for federal matching funds. Afterall, if neither the Democratic nor the Republican nominee is going to stand for Human Rights, doesn't it make sense to help someone who does secure matching funds to carry that message forward?
Brentwood Press covers Green battle
What's more important, a centuries old vineyard, or a new Big Box Store. Guess where the Brentwood political establishment stands. Guess where the local Green Party activists stand. Now take a look and see if you're right.
Mark June 21st on your calender
According to Miller Politics, that's the date he's going to be holding a Green Party Presidential debate on his BlogTalkRadio program.
BTW, any Greens out there doing BlogTalkRadio, public access TV or radio, low power FM, pirate radio? How are we spreading the word?
BTW, any Greens out there doing BlogTalkRadio, public access TV or radio, low power FM, pirate radio? How are we spreading the word?
SKCM Curry seeks Veep nod
SKCM Curry attended the national meeting in Reading, PA last year and appeared seeking our vice Presidential nomination. I've heard precious little about her, so I figured I'd link to her site and send her an email to see what comes of that. Anyone else you know of running to be Veep?
Cam Gordon is "In The News"
Not sure who Cam is? You should know who Can is. He's one of the Green Party's highest elected officials, serving as Ward 2 Representative on the Minneapolis City Council.
The Minnesota Monitor writes that Mr. Gordon may have caused a bit of a stir with postings to his 2nd Ward Blog.
The Minnesota Monitor writes that Mr. Gordon may have caused a bit of a stir with postings to his 2nd Ward Blog.
Colorado intentional community looks to support McKinney
We Greens are as diverse as the globe we live on. Since "Respect for Diversity" is one of our Ten Key Values, I guess that's no surprise. Even so, we do have some common threads, and one is the intentional community.
Back in the 60s they were sometimes called a "commune". In the United States everything from the Amish in OH, PA and IN to The Farm in Tennessee qualify as intentional communities. They are people who come together deliberately to live with and near other like-minded folks.
Ons is called Neighborhood University City, and from a quick glance at their blog it looks like they clearly stand with Cynthia McKinney in her effort to win the reen Party nomination.
Back in the 60s they were sometimes called a "commune". In the United States everything from the Amish in OH, PA and IN to The Farm in Tennessee qualify as intentional communities. They are people who come together deliberately to live with and near other like-minded folks.
Ons is called Neighborhood University City, and from a quick glance at their blog it looks like they clearly stand with Cynthia McKinney in her effort to win the reen Party nomination.
Bury My Heart In Arcata
Actually, I have been thinking a good deal about how I want my body disposed of once I am dead. Since I have no religious objection, organ harvesting is a given, but then what? Donate my body to a university or medical school? Have myself dis-membered and parts spread across the planet for Search and Rescue teams to use in training? Cremate me and use the ash in a glaze for pottery?
Another option, from the good folks in Arcata, CA, is a "Green Cemetery". I'll admit that I haven't read the full piece, but I believe the basic idea is similar to the Jewish tradition of wrapping the dead in a cloth and burying them without the use of preservatives, making the old "dust to dust" thing a reality.
Wanna know more? Then just click this link.
Another option, from the good folks in Arcata, CA, is a "Green Cemetery". I'll admit that I haven't read the full piece, but I believe the basic idea is similar to the Jewish tradition of wrapping the dead in a cloth and burying them without the use of preservatives, making the old "dust to dust" thing a reality.
Wanna know more? Then just click this link.
Modern Safari explains Tom Lash race
Lash is running for a congressional seat in California. There is a Democrat and a Republican in the race, but the author explains very clearly why Lash is the one to vote for. It's a long, but well written piece which you can enjoy by clicking right here
Stolen Cartoon
Green questions boycott of Israel by Greens
As some of you may know, the US Green Party passed a resolution calling for a boycott of Israeli made goods until Israel comply with all UN resolutions that relate to that land. According to GreenSmartSite, the British Greens have done so as well. The author of the post goes into the history of the question, as well as the role Green parties in the area are having.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Again, not Green news, but even so...
The BBC is reporting that the Canadian military has found huge cracks in the Arctic Ice.
Geeze...why didn't the Green Party see this coming?
Geeze...why didn't the Green Party see this coming?
China identifies 50 sources of radiation
This is not a Green Party post so much as an example of how the globe might be better served if green principles had been the norm for the past sixty years.
According to the BBC, Chinese government officials have identified 50 sources of radiation that resulted from the earthquake. Had these nuclear facilities never been built we would not face this particular hazard.
According to the BBC, Chinese government officials have identified 50 sources of radiation that resulted from the earthquake. Had these nuclear facilities never been built we would not face this particular hazard.
The Perils of Racial Solidarity
A fellow South Carolinian, Kevin Alexander Gray has written a column at Black Agenda Report that points to the limits of racial solidarity, and the damage being done to the Black community by an unwillingness to examine Barack Obama's failings.
The link is there, so I don't think I need to try to replete what Kevin is saying, but there is no doubt in my mind that he hits on many of the same reservations most Greens have.
Gray was the Green Party endorsed write-in candidate for Governor of South Carolina before we had ballot access, and has been everything from director of the Carolina Peace Resource Center to a member of Nader's 2000 steering committee and currently serves as director of South Carolina's ACLU.
The link is there, so I don't think I need to try to replete what Kevin is saying, but there is no doubt in my mind that he hits on many of the same reservations most Greens have.
Gray was the Green Party endorsed write-in candidate for Governor of South Carolina before we had ballot access, and has been everything from director of the Carolina Peace Resource Center to a member of Nader's 2000 steering committee and currently serves as director of South Carolina's ACLU.
Cynthia McKinney visits Sacramento
An article at The Sacramento News and review covers Cynthia McKinney's campaign visit to California's capitol.
The article, well worth a read, points out that a majority of voters support such things as universal health care, an end to the War on Iraq, and government spending for human needs.
The article, well worth a read, points out that a majority of voters support such things as universal health care, an end to the War on Iraq, and government spending for human needs.
“We have to run more candidates on the Green Party ticket to spread awareness of its values in relation to issues which communities of color are dealing with, like racial profiling and police brutality.”_Cynthia McKinney
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Babette Hogan writes about Kat Swift
NYC Green Convention set for May 31st
The Park Slope Greens are hoping for more folks to turn out, and I am thrilled at such outreach.
All the details are at their website.
All the details are at their website.
Alex Walker asks, "Is CA broke?"
OMG....You HAVE to watch this...Dalai Lama sez..."If you have a Green Party, I want to join"
At first I didn't believe it, but here it is in all it's glory. Let the video load, and if you can't wait to hear those words, roll it forward to 2:20 and listen.
All I can say is...wow!
Thanks for this go to Polidoc
Here's Polidoc's YouTube account
Mike Feinstein, of Santa Monica, CA, also has a lot of videos up at You Tube. His can be found over here.
Actually, I just realized that I was looking at the video via Polidoc, and the actual YouTube post of the video came from a Canadian Green, H0P3FA1THL0V3
All I can say is...wow!
Thanks for this go to Polidoc
Here's Polidoc's YouTube account
Mike Feinstein, of Santa Monica, CA, also has a lot of videos up at You Tube. His can be found over here.
Actually, I just realized that I was looking at the video via Polidoc, and the actual YouTube post of the video came from a Canadian Green, H0P3FA1THL0V3
"Vanguard" sez we are "Anti_Jew"
Farheen Hakeem takes a hit
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
McKinney draws majority support in PA
Winning 53% of the caucus vote, McKinney won 17 delegates to the national convention at the PA Greens caucuses.
More details are available at the Green Party of PA website.
More details are available at the Green Party of PA website.
Ohio Green certified: Will be on the ballot come Nov.
Tim Kettler is the candidate, and the article, at the Progress Ohio website, was written by Dennis Spisak.
CA Greens celebrate CA Supreme's decicion of marriage equality
The Wilders show that the CA Greens are pointing to the Democrats and Republicans and asking them, "What took you so long?"
Love is the only thing I know of that is stronger than hate.
Love is the only thing I know of that is stronger than hate.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
International Greens meet in Brazil
The second Global Greens conference was held recently in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The Israeli newspaper Haaretz has what I think is a great article titled Weapons Can't be Green.
I couldn't agree more.
I couldn't agree more.
7 Questions for Kat Swift
Swift is one of the four Greens seeking the Green Party nomination. The seven questions were posed by The Cambridge Chronicle.
In the comments section a reader published this video link to a film about Ms. Swift's campaign.
In the comments section a reader published this video link to a film about Ms. Swift's campaign.
An example of why everyone should susscribe to Ballot Access News
This exciting tidbit of information comes courtesy of Ballot Access News. If you are not a subscriber, take a few of your stupid tax rebate dollars and spend them with him.
League of Women Voters Sues Pennsylvania Supreme Court for Corruption
May 20th, 2008
On May 19, the Pennsylvania League of Women Voters filed a federal lawsuit against the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. The complaint can be seen here. It alleges that justices of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court entered into secret meetings with legislative leaders, bargaining with those leaders to increase judicial pay. In exchange, the justices were to decide the outcome of certain pending cases in a way that would be pleasing to legislative leaders. Thanks to Howard Bashman’s How Appealing for this news.
Both the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, and the Pennsylvania legislature, have been resolutely hostile to minor party and independent candidate ballot access, for decades, but especially in this decade.
League of Women Voters Sues Pennsylvania Supreme Court for Corruption
May 20th, 2008
On May 19, the Pennsylvania League of Women Voters filed a federal lawsuit against the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. The complaint can be seen here. It alleges that justices of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court entered into secret meetings with legislative leaders, bargaining with those leaders to increase judicial pay. In exchange, the justices were to decide the outcome of certain pending cases in a way that would be pleasing to legislative leaders. Thanks to Howard Bashman’s How Appealing for this news.
Both the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, and the Pennsylvania legislature, have been resolutely hostile to minor party and independent candidate ballot access, for decades, but especially in this decade.
Find your local #1 air polluter.
The Political Economy Research Institute (PERI) at the University of Massachusetts released the Toxic 100, an updated list of the top corporate air polluters in the United States. The Toxic 100 index is based on air releases of hundreds of chemicals from industrial facilities across the United States. The rankings take into account not only the quantity of releases, but also the relative toxicity of chemicals, nearby populations and transport factors such as prevailing winds and height of smokestacks.
Find out if your state hosts one of these polluters by clicking here.
Find out if your state hosts one of these polluters by clicking here.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Cynthia McKinney speaks at UN
Cynthia McKinney Remarks
Al Nakba Rally, "Not in My Name"
United Nations, New York
May 16, 2008
On my birthday last year, I declared my independence from a national leadership that, through its votes in support of the war machine, is now complicit in war crimes, torture, crimes against humanity, and crimes against the peace.
I declared my independence from every bomb dropped, every veteran maimed, and every child killed.
I noted that the Democratic leadership in Congress had failed to restore this country to Constitutional rule by repealing the Patriot Acts, the Secret Evidence Act, and the Military Commissions Act.
That it had aided and abetted illegal spying against the American people. And that it took impeachment off the table.
In addition, the Democratic Congressional leadership failed to promote the economic integrity of this country by not repealing the Bush tax cuts. They failed to institute a livable wage, Medicare-for-all health care, and gave even more money to the Pentagon as it misuses our hard-earned dollars.
We can add to that list, too, an abject failure to stand up for human rights and dignity.
If the Democratic and Republican leadership won't respect the right of return for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita survivors, how can we expect them to champion the right of return for Palestinians?
If this country's leadership tolerates the wanton murder of unarmed black and Latino men by law enforcement officials—extra-judicial killings—how can we expect them to stop or even speak out against targeted assassinations in the Middle East?
If the Democratic and Republican leadership accept ethnic cleansing in this country by way of gentrification and predatory lending, why should we expect them to put an end to it in Palestine?
If the leadership of this country impedes self-determination for native peoples in this country, why should we expect them to support indigenous rights for anyone abroad?
And sadly, the sensationalist corporate media would rather trick us into thinking that reporting on a pastor, a former Vice Presidential nominee, and a former cable TV magnate constitutes this country's much-needed discussion of its own apartheid past and present, so why should we expect an honest discussion of apartheid and Zionism?
I hope by now it is clear. Our values will never be reflected in public policy as long as our political parties and our country remain hijacked.
Hijacked by false patriots who usurp the applause of the people and all the while betray our values.
I've decided that neither the Democrats nor the Republicans will operate any longer as business as usual—not in my name.
That Democrats and Republicans will use my tax dollars and betray my values, not one day longer—not in my name.
That neither the Democrats nor the Republicans have earned my most precious political asset—my vote.
And that now is the time to do some things I've never done before in order to have some things I've never had before.
And so here today, I declare my independence from weapons transfers: including Apache Helicopters; F'16s; sidewinder, hellfire, and Stinger missiles.
I declare my independence from occupation, demolished homes, political prisoners, and babies dying at checkpoints.
I declare my independence from UN vetoes, expropriated land, stolen resources, and the installation of puppet regimes.
I declare my independence from all forms of dehumanization and am not afraid to speak truth to power.
And I am happy to join with peace-loving people around the world who know that there can be no peace without justice.
Let us never tire in our work for justice.
Thank you.
Al Nakba Rally, "Not in My Name"
United Nations, New York
May 16, 2008
On my birthday last year, I declared my independence from a national leadership that, through its votes in support of the war machine, is now complicit in war crimes, torture, crimes against humanity, and crimes against the peace.
I declared my independence from every bomb dropped, every veteran maimed, and every child killed.
I noted that the Democratic leadership in Congress had failed to restore this country to Constitutional rule by repealing the Patriot Acts, the Secret Evidence Act, and the Military Commissions Act.
That it had aided and abetted illegal spying against the American people. And that it took impeachment off the table.
In addition, the Democratic Congressional leadership failed to promote the economic integrity of this country by not repealing the Bush tax cuts. They failed to institute a livable wage, Medicare-for-all health care, and gave even more money to the Pentagon as it misuses our hard-earned dollars.
We can add to that list, too, an abject failure to stand up for human rights and dignity.
If the Democratic and Republican leadership won't respect the right of return for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita survivors, how can we expect them to champion the right of return for Palestinians?
If this country's leadership tolerates the wanton murder of unarmed black and Latino men by law enforcement officials—extra-judicial killings—how can we expect them to stop or even speak out against targeted assassinations in the Middle East?
If the Democratic and Republican leadership accept ethnic cleansing in this country by way of gentrification and predatory lending, why should we expect them to put an end to it in Palestine?
If the leadership of this country impedes self-determination for native peoples in this country, why should we expect them to support indigenous rights for anyone abroad?
And sadly, the sensationalist corporate media would rather trick us into thinking that reporting on a pastor, a former Vice Presidential nominee, and a former cable TV magnate constitutes this country's much-needed discussion of its own apartheid past and present, so why should we expect an honest discussion of apartheid and Zionism?
I hope by now it is clear. Our values will never be reflected in public policy as long as our political parties and our country remain hijacked.
Hijacked by false patriots who usurp the applause of the people and all the while betray our values.
I've decided that neither the Democrats nor the Republicans will operate any longer as business as usual—not in my name.
That Democrats and Republicans will use my tax dollars and betray my values, not one day longer—not in my name.
That neither the Democrats nor the Republicans have earned my most precious political asset—my vote.
And that now is the time to do some things I've never done before in order to have some things I've never had before.
And so here today, I declare my independence from weapons transfers: including Apache Helicopters; F'16s; sidewinder, hellfire, and Stinger missiles.
I declare my independence from occupation, demolished homes, political prisoners, and babies dying at checkpoints.
I declare my independence from UN vetoes, expropriated land, stolen resources, and the installation of puppet regimes.
I declare my independence from all forms of dehumanization and am not afraid to speak truth to power.
And I am happy to join with peace-loving people around the world who know that there can be no peace without justice.
Let us never tire in our work for justice.
Thank you.
New Mexico Green blamed for Democrat loss to run again
According to an article at the Farmington Daily Times, the Democrats are not worried about Carol Miller, who pulled 17% a few years ago in a race for the same seat. Seems rather foolish to "not worry" about Miller, especially since the issues have not changed, and many who believe in the Green Party's values just will not vote for a Democrat just to keep out a Republican. If Democrats of any sort want Green votes, they must earn them. Democratic leadership thinks we are willing to vote for them without their making any changes or concessions.
Personally, while I am sure it's not the focus of her campaign, but if Miller helps send another Republican to the house, the democrats will have no one to blame but themselves.
Personally, while I am sure it's not the focus of her campaign, but if Miller helps send another Republican to the house, the democrats will have no one to blame but themselves.
McKinney takes 80% in Maine
The Maine Green Independent Party held their state convention this past weekend. The article says that two of our Presidential candidates attended. When you consider that one of the four candidates is from West Virginia, one is from Texas, and two are from California, the fact that two of them were able to get to Maine is a sign of how our party is moving forward.
The article is over at WCSH6
WMTW did a very short "pre-view" of the convention.
WLBZ2 has a very nice video, but you have to look for it.
The article is over at WCSH6
WMTW did a very short "pre-view" of the convention.
WLBZ2 has a very nice video, but you have to look for it.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Doing what I can
Over the past month three local Greens have shown The Story of Stuff each week in a local public library. Until last week the three of us had no visitors. Why? Apparently not enough publicity, and that was my fault.
Last week was different. Eight others showed up, and while one of the "regulars" was unable to make it that night, Bryan and I did our best to answer questions and think about what we had seen.
One of the folks who attended the event mentioned the MILLIONS of TV sets which will be headed for the planet's landfills over the next few months as we face the prospect of no TV at all because of the transition to digital TV.
Many people are unaware that they will not have to toss out their "old" TV sets, but will only need a digital converter box. In fact, for many of us, digital TV may offer us a chance to get off cable TV and back onto FREE TV.
With that in mind, I registered the domain www.DontTrashYourTV.com and www.DontTrashYourTV.org
The idea is to let people know some facts about TV and TV sets.
For example, Mr. and Ms. TV Watcher, how much TV do you think your kids should watch? How much do they actually watch? Where can you get a digital converter box, and how much will it cost? Where can I recycle my old TV?
I have the domain names, but no content, and no idea how to get a website to "go live"...in short, if it's not set up *for me*, (like Blogger is) I have no idea how to get the idea from my mind to the web.
If you can help, won't you drop me a line?
GreggJocoy@riseup.net
Thanks!
Last week was different. Eight others showed up, and while one of the "regulars" was unable to make it that night, Bryan and I did our best to answer questions and think about what we had seen.
One of the folks who attended the event mentioned the MILLIONS of TV sets which will be headed for the planet's landfills over the next few months as we face the prospect of no TV at all because of the transition to digital TV.
Many people are unaware that they will not have to toss out their "old" TV sets, but will only need a digital converter box. In fact, for many of us, digital TV may offer us a chance to get off cable TV and back onto FREE TV.
With that in mind, I registered the domain www.DontTrashYourTV.com and www.DontTrashYourTV.org
The idea is to let people know some facts about TV and TV sets.
For example, Mr. and Ms. TV Watcher, how much TV do you think your kids should watch? How much do they actually watch? Where can you get a digital converter box, and how much will it cost? Where can I recycle my old TV?
I have the domain names, but no content, and no idea how to get a website to "go live"...in short, if it's not set up *for me*, (like Blogger is) I have no idea how to get the idea from my mind to the web.
If you can help, won't you drop me a line?
GreggJocoy@riseup.net
Thanks!
New Zealand Greens: Some Things Are Bigger Than Politics
VA Greens looking for School Board candidates
Thursday, May 01, 2008
38 years later..what's changed?
From the 1970 release "Monster" by Steppenwolf
Monster
Once the religious, the hunted and weary
Chasing the promise of freedom and hope
Came to this country to build a new vision
Far from the reaches of kingdom and pope
Like good Christians, some would burn the witches
Later some got slaves to gather riches
But still from near and far to seek America
They came by thousands to court the wild
And she just patiently smiled and bore a child
To be their spirit and guiding light
And once the ties with the crown had been broken
Westward in saddle and wagon it went
And 'til the railroad linked ocean to ocean
Many the lives which had come to an end
While we bullied, stole and bought our a homeland
We began the slaughter of the red man
But still from near and far to seek America
They came by thousands to court the wild
And she just patiently smiled and bore a child
To be their spirit and guiding light
The blue and grey they stomped it
They kicked it just like a dog
And when the war over
They stuffed it just like a hog
And though the past has it's share of injustice
Kind was the spirit in many a way
But it's protectors and friends have been sleeping
Now it's a monster and will not obey
(Suicide)
The spirit was freedom and justice
And it's keepers seem generous and kind
It's leaders were supposed to serve the country
But now they won't pay it no mind
'Cause the people grew fat and got lazy
And now their vote is a meaningless joke
They babble about law and order
But it's all just an echo of what they've been told
Yeah, there's a monster on the loose
It's got our heads into a noose
And it just sits there watchin'
Our cities have turned into jungles
And corruption is stranglin' the land
The police force is watching the people
And the people just can't understand
We don't know how to mind our own business
'Cause the whole worlds got to be just like us
Now we are fighting a war over there
No matter who's the winner
We can't pay the cost
'Cause there's a monster on the loose
It's got our heads into a noose
And it just sits there watching
(America)
America where are you now?
Don't you care about your sons and daughters?
Don't you know we need you now
We can't fight alone against the monster
Words and music by John Kay, Jerry Edmonton, Nick St. Nicholas and Larry Byrom
Monster
Once the religious, the hunted and weary
Chasing the promise of freedom and hope
Came to this country to build a new vision
Far from the reaches of kingdom and pope
Like good Christians, some would burn the witches
Later some got slaves to gather riches
But still from near and far to seek America
They came by thousands to court the wild
And she just patiently smiled and bore a child
To be their spirit and guiding light
And once the ties with the crown had been broken
Westward in saddle and wagon it went
And 'til the railroad linked ocean to ocean
Many the lives which had come to an end
While we bullied, stole and bought our a homeland
We began the slaughter of the red man
But still from near and far to seek America
They came by thousands to court the wild
And she just patiently smiled and bore a child
To be their spirit and guiding light
The blue and grey they stomped it
They kicked it just like a dog
And when the war over
They stuffed it just like a hog
And though the past has it's share of injustice
Kind was the spirit in many a way
But it's protectors and friends have been sleeping
Now it's a monster and will not obey
(Suicide)
The spirit was freedom and justice
And it's keepers seem generous and kind
It's leaders were supposed to serve the country
But now they won't pay it no mind
'Cause the people grew fat and got lazy
And now their vote is a meaningless joke
They babble about law and order
But it's all just an echo of what they've been told
Yeah, there's a monster on the loose
It's got our heads into a noose
And it just sits there watchin'
Our cities have turned into jungles
And corruption is stranglin' the land
The police force is watching the people
And the people just can't understand
We don't know how to mind our own business
'Cause the whole worlds got to be just like us
Now we are fighting a war over there
No matter who's the winner
We can't pay the cost
'Cause there's a monster on the loose
It's got our heads into a noose
And it just sits there watching
(America)
America where are you now?
Don't you care about your sons and daughters?
Don't you know we need you now
We can't fight alone against the monster
Words and music by John Kay, Jerry Edmonton, Nick St. Nicholas and Larry Byrom
