Coulee Progressives

And now for something completely different . . .

2011-04-10T10:10:00.004-10:00

GASLAND is a new film about the process of "fracking" or hydraulic fracturing of rocks to recover natural gas.

THERE WILL BE A SCREENING OF THIS IMPORTANT ACADEMY AWARD NOMINATED DOCUMENTARY ON SUNDAY, APRIL 17 EVENING (exact time and location TBA - watch this space!) The event will be FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Please SIGN UP to attend this film and see a trailer. Sign the petition to demand that Congress pass the anti-fracking bilL.

Fracking is touted as a way to increase US energy independence, but the process of injecting high pressure chemicals, sand, liquids has resulted in water contamination, noise and shaking making life unbearable for those living near drilling sites, and a host of other complaints including demands to know exactly what chemicals are being used.

You may remember that Scott Walker clone, Governor John Kasich of Ohio, has recently recommended that Ohio public lands - including parks - be opened up for oil and gas development, including fracking.

Fracking is already taking place in Wisconsin, with many urging a hold until more is known about consequences. Those of us who use natural gas for heating, cooking and/or transportation should know what are the real costs, environmental and human, of this "clean" fuel.

Please attend and drag your friends to this FREE screening. This is important!

"The largest domestic natural gas drilling boom in history has swept across the United States. The Halliburton-developed drilling technology of 'fracking' or hydraulic fracturing has unlocked a 'Saudia Arabia of natural gas' just beneath us. But is fracking safe? When filmmaker Josh Fox is asked to lease his land for drilling, he embarks on a cross-country odyssey uncovering a trail of secrets, lies and contamination. A recently drilled nearby Pennsylvania town reports that residents are able to light their drinking water on fire. This is just one of the many absurd and astonishing revelations of a new country called GASLAND. Part verite travelogue, part expose, part mystery, part bluegrass banjo meltdown, part showdown."

The 7.5 point solution

2011-04-06T16:18:00.005-10:00

JD has laid out a clear five point plan for progressives to fight back (I've added a few, so now it's the 7.5 point plan!):

1. Elect Kloppenburg - check (we hope) If you can help observe the recount, please call Julie at 920 904-2005.

2a. File recall signatures against Kapanke - check

2b. Help with other recall efforts if you can

3. Get Steve Doyle elected to the 94th Assembly seat. - in progress! Contact Laura Hundt to volunteer (608 345-2372) Verrrry important, because the big (rotten) guns will be out in this one!

4. Attend BUDGET HEARINGS (see below)

5. Elect an intelligent caring human being (not a heartless, brainless Walker robot) to the seat held currently by Kapanke

6. Recall Scott Walker later this year (have you registered yet to help with this effort? Do it, NOW!)

7. Flip the Assembly in November 2012

7.5 Pledge to sponsor (educate, help register and bring to polls) FIVE NEW VOTERS starting with the Kapanke recall this summer.

Budget Hearings planned

The Joint Finance Committee has announced only ~~four~~ three hearings in pretty out of the way places. The closest to us has been cancelled (Arcadia on Wednesday, April 13).

The legislative Dems are holding more hearings around the state. In La Crosse, on April 25 from 1 to 7 p.m. in UW-L's Cartwright Center.

You can go and just register and/or you can speak. You may also bring written comments for the committee (if you can, bring 20 copies).

See a summary and read the full budget here.

VOTE KLOPPENBURG

2011-04-02T11:45:00.003-10:00

Maybe I'm wrong, but I think all these pundits saying 20% turnout is the best we can hope for on Tuesday are totally not getting it. I mean 100,000 people turning out on a cold wet day to protest was not peanuts. DemocracyNow said it was the largest protest EVER in our state.

I think there will be a huge turnout on Tuesday and that Prosser will go down down down. I think this is the start of people paying attention. But maybe I am living in a bubble. After all, in my first political campaign (canvassing for McGovern in '72) I was convinced that my candidate could not lose! Hahahahaha.

Anyway, this time I hope I'm right.

Forward into April!

2011-04-02T10:40:00.007-10:00

The signatures are in, but there's lots more to do.

Monday at 5 p.m. Rally for Working Families sponsored by the Central Labor Council. Let's remember, on this 43rd anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., that he was in Memphis helping African American sanitation workers organize a union. Meet at the Workers Memorial monument, Green Island Park, 2312 7th Street South (by Green Island Ice Arena).

Tuesday (ELECTION DAY) A National Teach-In on Workers’ Rights, Students’ Rights, Corporate Greed ... and MOBILIZING FOR CHANGE! 12:45 p.m. Welcome, 1:00 Live webcast from New York City moderated by Dr. Cornel West and Dr. Frances Fox Priven. 2:30 p.m. Local teach-in. Valhalla, Cartwright Center, UW-L (1741 State Street) FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

TODAY!

2011-03-26T05:32:00.003-10:00

This from the Dems:

[W]hile Dan is apparently too strapped for cash to keep his district office open, he evidently has enough money to finance a campaign office.

And while Dan apparently doesn't want to talk to us, has canceled town hall meetings, and has generally ignored public sentiment on the Walker Agenda, he is apparently willing to talk to his ever-shrinking number of supporters.

LET ME BE CLEAR ... WE WILL NOT BE IGNORED.

Rally to Recall Senator Dan Kapanke
58 Copeland Avenue (WEST side) at 2:30 P.M.
Saturday, March 26th.

Continue marching

2011-03-23T14:36:00.004-10:00

Now that the amazing giant Madison events and the Republican sculldugery are on break, it might be tempting to turn back to the laundry, dishes, work, volunteer time and other important stuff we were all doing before Walker crawled out from beneath his rock.

Well, no.

Petition signature gathering AND Kloppenburg GOTV continue to be the most important big events we can be involved in right now.

TOMORROW (THURSDAY), March 24, JoAnne Kloppenburg will be in La Crosse. If you can come to one of the two events, please do!

11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at UW-L's Cartwright Center, Port o' Call (1741 State Street)
1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Hmong Cultural and Community Center, 1815 Ward Avenue

Saturday and Sunday you will have the opportunity to

LIT DROP FOR KLOPPENBURG - meet at Jules, 327 Pearl Street, between 1 and 2 p.m. to pick up lit and route maps (each route will take about one hour). If you can help, RSVP at 783-0172 or email JD so they can be prepared.
GATHER PETITION SIGNATURES in Holmen, Onalaska, West Salem - for more info on this effort, please visit the recall headquarters, 116 Fifth Ave. S. Shifts start at 9:30 a.m. and at 2 p.m. or call 608 287-6940, or email recall.kapanke@gmail.com to sign up!

These are both worthy and important things! Don't stop now!! Without an independent Supreme Court, it will be difficult to hold the governor and legislative leadership accountable for the many potentially illegal acts they have already committed (here are a few: discussing political strategy with a person he believed to be a political donor, deploying state troopers to restrict access to the State Capitol, restricting access to the Capitol in violation of a court order, discussing political strategy in his Capitol office with a political operative, ...)

Oh, oh. running out of batteries. Just DO IT!

The tag team

2011-03-19T06:53:00.003-10:00

I'm pulling this out from the last post because it's very important and I want to link to a very good and thorough DailyKos article about this group, the American Federation for Children: Koch-Roaches are handing the baton to a new astro-turf clan.

Be aware that a right wing front group, the American Federation for Children (a right wing anti-public school group founded by a Michigan multi-millionaire) has been making robo calls in the 32nd district telling people that they should not sign recall petitions because they are, "only warranted if public officials have broken the law or engaged in immoral behavior." George points out that these guys have received a Politifact PANTS ON FIRE rating from a previous campaign.

Today I listened to To the Best of Our Knowledge (a WPR program) called, "Question Austerity." I highly recommend it, especially the interview with former Bush (sr) assistant secretary of education, Diane Ravitch, who was a charter school supporter until she realized THEY DON'T WORK and wrote a book about it, The Death and Life of the Great American School System. But what they DO do is funnel public money to private cronies.

That's just what the Walker proposals will do. First, denigrate and reduce the status (even further) of educated public school teachers (apparently already causing one suicide in Wisconsin). [Atttention, this did not start in Wisconsin!] Second, and this is the very important part, convince a segment of working people that somehow it's in their best interest to make people like them pay for an inferior education. Third, make it easier for anyone to run a school and anyone to "teach" in a school. Fourth, shrink the public school system until it's small enough to drown it in the bathtub (to paraphrase Grover Norquist).

Once public schools are on their knees, crony-run private schools can step in big time, siphon off public money (remember, their whole agenda is getting richer from public money) to cronies who can then funnel it back to the "right" politicians.

But who will need to be educated in their new world order?

This weekend and beyond

2011-03-18T18:08:00.005-10:00

First - sorry about the incorrect time for today's Walker welcome party. I was passing along info I received from reliable sources and was unable to change this blog post because of work. Despite the time mix up, at least a couple of hundred people turned out to greet the guv who had to sneak into the building through a guarded back entrance. [Great picture and not so bad article from La Crosse Tribune.]

Scott "My People Love Me" Walker should be getting the message any day now. (Or, as I call him, Captain Queeg).

This weekend and beyond:

Kapanke Recall:

Saturday at 9 a.m. and at 2 p.m. - recall canvassing. At 5:30 p.m. Senator Jon Erpenbach will be at the recall headquarters.
Sunday at 9 a.m. and at 2 p.m. - recall canvassing. At 11 a.m. Senator Jon Erpenbach will be at the recall headquarters.

Be aware that a right wing front group, the American Federation for Children (a right wing anti-public school group founded by a Michigan multi-millionaire) has been making robo calls in the 32nd district telling people that they should not sign recall petitions because they are, "only warranted if public officials have broken the law or engaged in immoral behavior." George points out that these guys have received a Politifact PANTS ON FIRE rating from a previous campaign.

[The internet can take you into some very dark corners while looking for links: For a scary bedtime story, read this little piece on Americans for Prosperity - the OCTAGROUP of the right wing.]

But I digress ...

Kloppenburg for Justice events:

Any time - please sign up to phone bank for Kloppenburg. You can do this from home.
Saturday at 1 p.m. - meet a Jules to lit drop for Kloppenburg
Thursday at 11:30 a.m. - meet and greet the candidate at UW-L's Cartwright Center (Port o' Call)
Thursday at 1:00 p.m. - meet and greet the candidate at the Hmong Cultural & Community Center (1815 Ward Avenue)
VOTE NOW, RIGHT NOW, "absentee voting in person" at your city clerk's office - in La Crosse, City Clerk's office is on the second floor of City Hall and open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

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

A town hall on the budget is coming up in early April. On tonight's Rachel Maddow program, David Cay Johnston highlighted a letter from UW-Stevens Point Chancellor, Bernie Patterson to Governor Walker showing the economic impact of Walker's "budget repair" on university employees. He pointed out that the poorer the employee, the greater the impact (in keeping with many Republican "tax the POOR" plans to alleviate the suffering of the wealthy).

POWER to the people

2011-03-18T17:01:00.008-10:00

The CapX2020 project continues moving forward (after it leaves the Mississppi valley it turns into the "Badger Coulee Transmission Line.")

Last night, there was a meeting of the board of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve Center that was open to the public (but only board members could ask questions.) In attendance were representatives (two public relations people and one environmental person) from American Transmission Company (ATC). There will be another meeting on March 24 at the Kickapoo Reserve - at this meeting, questions from the audience will be accepted.

Different members of the board asked questions dealing with timeline, route alternatives, environmental studies, and the process with the Public Service Commission (PSC). ATC demonstrated they are at the start of the routing process. They will identify all possible routes then choose a few preliminary routes. At that point, they will do environmental studies and cost estimate. Finally, they will choose a main and an alternate route.

ATC will then submit an application to the PSC. The PSC can review the materials and choose a different route if they wish. Per the article in the Winona Post, there are several problems with the line as it crosses the Mississippi involving several agencies including the DNR, the DOT and US Fish and Wildlife agency.

However, all this may change as Scott Walker appoints more "business friendly" members of these state agencies and boards. The PSC is key, though, and they rarely say no. The term of local guy, Mark Meyer, currently a PSC board member, expires this year. Who will Walker pick to replace him? We can only imagine.

So, while all this other stuff is going on, keep your eye on the CapX2020-Badger Coulee Transmission Line project and attend the March 24 meeting (6 p.m. at the Kickapoo Reserve Center) if you can.

Scott Walker in La Crosse FRIDAY

2011-03-17T15:48:00.002-10:00

Greet the Governor - 10 a.m. City Brewery (by the six pack) on Third Street. Bring your most brilliant signs!

Quick Updates - UPDATED

2011-03-16T17:02:00.008-10:00

Are you circulating Kapanke recall petitions? Meet at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at 116 S. Fifth Avenue South.

Rumor has it that Jon Erpenbach, one of the Fab 14 (or 13 - Tim Cullen's questionable), will be at the Recall Kapanke HQ on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. and on Sunday at 11:00 a.m. (11:00 it IS!)

Have you signed up to help the KLOPPENBURG campaign yet???? Sign up to do virtual phone banking from the comfort of your own home. Print and post the flyers announcing her VISIT TO LA CROSSE on Thursday, March 24.

(Hmong version of flyer also available.)

Remind everyone that you can VOTE TODAY RIGHT NOW absentee in person!

Money where your vote is - update

2011-03-14T13:23:00.003-10:00

You probably heard of the little problem over at M&I Bank. Firefighters withdrew more than $100,000 (some say $192,000) from M&I bank on one day prompting the temporary closure of the Madison branch. As this excellent article points out, despite their protests to the contrary, if any bank deserves to take responsibility for their actions, it's this one.

In fact, there's been a MOVE YOUR MONEY project going on for a while now. It started when big banks and financial institutions received billions of dollars in taxpayer funded bailout money. Check it out - it even has a handy tool to help you find a local bank or credit union.

My own personal Move Your Money includes Menards and Festival Foods. Now, I AM adding Kwik Trip. On Friday, the police and firefighters sent a letter to KT's CEO asking him to take a stand by March 17. This great article gives more info about the overall movement to move our money AND get it back from those who took bailouts and push for tax breaks.

If you decide to boycott, please be sure to call, email and/or mail these companies to let them know what you are doing and why.

In case you were wondering ...

2011-03-14T04:57:00.001-10:00

Rick Ungar (Forbes magazine) has been publishing many good and scary things over the past several months on what the political earthquake is really about.

Please read his latest: How The Wealthy Plan to Finance The American Aristocracy With Middle Class Dollars

KLOPPENBURG VISIT TO LA CROSSE

2011-03-14T04:51:00.003-10:00

Supreme Court candidate, JoAnne Kloppenburg, will attend two open forums in La Crosse on THURSDAY, MARCH 24:

From 11:30 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. she will be in the Port o' Call, Cartwright Center, UW-L (1741 State Street)

From 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. she will be at the Hmong Cultural and Community Center, 1815 Ward Avenue

PLEASE ATTEND ONE OF THESE FORUMS AND URGE FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS TO ATTEND!

KLOPPENBURG ELECTION APRIL 5

2011-03-13T10:20:00.003-10:00

Almost everything that's been done so far will end up in the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Currently, the court has four conservative justices and three non-conservatives.

JoAnne Kloppenburg is an experienced and INDEPENDENT candidate.

Her opponent was a Republican Assembly leader originally appointed to the court by Republican governor, Tommy Thompson. While in the Assembly, he voted against legislation prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and took other actions against gay/lesbian citizens. While on the court, he voted to relax recusal rules so that justices can sit on cases involving their campaign contributors. In December, his campaign released a statement saying that he would "complement" the (Republican) governor and legislature. During the primary, Club for Growth, spent over $320,000 in ads for Prosser and other business-backed astroturf groups are involved as well. He is a conservative with ties to Scott Walker.

This is it, folks. Voting is KEY.

Here's what you can do RIGHT NOW to start taking our state back from the corporate-backed puppets who are ready to sell our children, grandparents, jobs and resources to the highest bidders.

1. Volunteer for the Kloppenburg virtual phone bank.

2. Print out a Kloppenburg yard sign and/or window signs.

3. Print and distribute Kloppenburg flyers.

4. Write a letter to the editor.

5. Vote vote vote - you can early vote starting Tuesday. In La Crosse between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. in the City Clerk's office (2nd floor). For more info on early absentee voting, visit the state site.

6. Talk to EVERYONE you know. Tell them how important this election is. Don't let them say politics isn't important or they are too busy or they don't know anything about the issues. (I heard this a LOT when volunteering for Feingold in November).

7. Volunteer to help your neighbors, relatives, acquaintances, colleagues, etc. register to vote (if they are not yet registered) and vote.

This is a test AND it is an extreme emergency. Battle Stations!

Shit hits fan

2011-03-09T17:38:00.002-10:00

According to Jennifer Shilling (who, if someone could actually explode from rage was one-eenth away from doing so), the Republicans rammed through their anti-union legislation and it was a dark day for our democracy.

You can read all about what happened in many places. The meeting was illegal (open meeting laws) and immoral (vote called without debate). It will be before the Republican-controlled Assembly tomorrow at 11 a.m.

THURSDAY MORNING AT 9 A.M. If you can, rally at Madison. If you can't, rally at the La Crosse County Courthouse.

SATURDAY if you can go to Madison, go. There will be school buses leaving from the Sears lot. Please sign up for a seat! If there are no seats left, please car pool.

More soon! (I also hope to get more bloggers on board soon so we can widen our scope).

Bad News - the fight takes a new turn

2011-03-09T14:42:00.003-10:00

"The special conference committee in Wisconsin -- convened in order to strip out the fiscal elements of Gov. Scott Walker's budget repair bill, in order to pass the anti-public employee union proposals and avoid the state SenateDemocratic boycott of the three-fifths budget quorum -- just met for roughly five minutes and passed the bill."

The reason the bill could not pass before was because there were financial parts to it that required a quorum of the senate (20) to vote. With financial provisions stripped from the bill, the Senate and Assembly were able to pass parts of the bill.

According to Talking Points Memo:

"The bill to strip away most collective bargaining for public employee unions, and impose new limits on union organization, is now headed to the full chambers."

By the way, Kapanke voted FOR the bill. All the more reason to redouble our efforts.

MARCH 12 - GO TO MADISON!!!

2011-03-08T19:03:00.003-10:00

March 12 is set to be the biggest day ever in Madison. Family Farm Defenders and the Wisconsin Farmers Union are hosting a TRACTORCADE from noon to 3 with a rally at 3 p.m.

Rural communities will be disproportionately hurt by the cuts to education and BadgerCare, Walker's give back of federal broadband access fees, reduced access to government services in rural areas. If you are a farmer PLEASE WEAR GREEN. If you need more info about getting your tractor to Madison and/or routes and timing, please visit Pull Together to Support Working Families.

BUSES ARE RUNNING. There will be more school buses rather than coaches due to state tournaments. LaCrosse Bus (2) (Kobussen School Bus) Leave at 11:00 am from Valley View Mall (Between Sears & Theatre) and pick up at 11:55 am Kwik Trip in Tomah. Arrive by 2 p.m. and leave at 5 p.m.

BUDGET Town Hall Forum - Wednesday evening

2011-03-08T18:53:00.002-10:00

At 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Hmong Community Center (Ward Ave and South Ave), there will be a Town Hall Forum to discuss Scott Walker's proposed budget and its impact on our community. Please come! We hope, this time, the media might show up too. Maybe...

The Fighting Fourteen!

2011-03-07T15:45:00.003-10:00

Please support the WI Fighting Fourteen! They are not rich and some have been targeted for recalls in an atmosphere saturated with corporate campaign dough! Donate at ActBlue to help fight their recall campaigns.

Today, focus on Dave Hansen.

Wisconsin Democratic State Senator Dave Hansen is a former teacher, truck driver, and lifelong Green Bay Packer fan. He co-authored the 2009 Labor History in the Schools Act, saying "at a time when people are hurting, primarily as a result of a Wall Street dominated culture that promoted greed and get-rich-quick schemes over the value of hard work, it is important for our young people to learn about the important role that organized labor and working men and women have played in helping create the middle class."

Here's a great interview with this former Teamster and friend of the working person.

Dave Hansen doesn't have the Kochs or Club for Growth backing him. It's up to us to show our appreciation for this strong and brave stand. Donate at ActBlue

Money where your mouth (and vote) is

2011-03-06T09:58:00.001-10:00

I admit I listen to a local AM station in the morning to hear what's happening in our area. True, I have to endure quite a bit of FOX talk, sometimes from the host and often from callers, but it's a chance to hear what "the other side" thinks and occasionally sneak in a bit of truth or fact.

I hear a lot of "small business" people calling in and supporting Scott Walker. I wish they would identify themselves. I would like to avoid doing business with them, frankly. So many seem to believe that if only all the highly paid public workers would take a hike, life would be beautiful.

But I think they are forgetting who patronizes their businesses.

There are a lot of teachers, government services workers, police, fire fighters, librarians and others out there who purchase goods and services in La Crosse and the surrounding area. The money we pay in taxes, is paid to people who provide services and they circulate that money back into our communities' pockets.

Anyway, there are statewide efforts to boycott Scott Walker contributors, so if you believe in voting with our pocket books, you can check contributions online at wisdc.org. Remember tocross check against Tom Barrett contributors since some businesses/employers donate to both sides of the aisle. And, individuals are free to donate to candidates they support, but if several donate to one candidate in a short period of time, it's probably a company thing.

You can also use the database and other online resources such as LinkedIn to check Walker advocates against businesses they own (for example, Walker has state on right path, by owner ofLa Crosse Floor Sanding.)

On my list of "I'm not shopping there any more and I've told them why" so far:

Menards - should have done this long ago for connection to WMC, pollution fines and now Walker contributions.
Festival Foods - to be honest, I rarely shop here because their prices are too high (I guess they need that extra cash to donate to Republicans!)

On my list of "more research/thought/clarification is needed":

Gundersen-Lutheran Health System - Their CEO, Dr. Jeff Thompson, is on the board of WMC. That should be enough, but I just switched my insurance (yes, I still have it though I may not be able to afford it in the future) from St. Francis because of their religious affiliation. At the very least, I'm writing a letter and can switch back next year if necessary.
Kwik Trip - this is a struggle. On the one hand, it's a local Wisconsin business. On the other hand, KT gas is from the Alberta tar sands, an environmental disaster and from the Kochs. Maybe that's enough. On the other hand, campaign donations seem to go to both sides and what other gas station (Citgo - but apparently no La Crosse station sells Citgo anymore).Here's an interesting discussion of the issue. For now, Kwik Trip is off my list pending further investigation.

Some businesses get it. Here's the word from one small business (alas, not in La Crosse) that certainly DOES: Silent no more. Some Wisconsin businesses have quit the right wing Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce. Recently, Madison restaurant owners pulled out of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association because of their support for Scott Walker. (Ahem! Attention La Crosse area restaurants!)

Here's a great article from the Nation about the national Chamber of Commerce, that apple pie organization that is supposed to support small businesses but has a rather darker side driving its agenda. In our state, it's the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce (WMC) from which some businesses have withdrawn. For years, I've begged certain non-profits to withdraw from the local Chamber of Commerce which invariably supports Republicans whose policies hurt the clients they serve.

Wherever you are in this process, getting more information and thoughtfully considering how our actions support or hurt our own families, communities and causes is not a bad thing!

ACTION ALERT Kapanke in Vernon County Monday

2011-03-05T07:32:00.003-10:00

Dan Kapanke will be at the Vernon County Courthouse at 400 Court House Sq. in Viroqua at 8:00 a.m. on Monday - if you're able to make it, please attend and let him know what you think about the Walker bill (and remember, it's not JUST about collective bargaining! There's plenty in that bill that will harm our communities!)

This does not in any way lessen our resolve to remove him from office! As I've said many times, just because one does not throw more gasoline on a house fire, does not mean he deserves to continue serving. He had the chance when the Walker budget repair bill was first introduced to say, "This bill will harm my district. I cannot support it. I must work against it." Instead, he did nothing to stop it and in fact has parroted Republican talking points in support of it even after they were no longer valid.

He had his chance to show that he was truly representing the people of the 32nd district and he failed. It's time for him to go. Period.

And remember, this is just the bill for last year's budget. What about the new budget bill? That's even worse! And what about redistricting? Will we have to fight tooth and nail about those, too?

If you want info about signing or circulating the petition, please email CouleeProgressive.

UPDATE! Koch bus at 5:30 p.m.

2011-03-05T04:28:00.003-10:00

Please plan to be at the Radisson before 5:30 p.m. tonight - the NEW eta for the Koch bus. Bring your signs and noisemakers!!!

ACTION ALERT - Now or Never!

2011-03-02T14:52:00.007-10:00

[UPDATE ON RECALL PROCESS - see below]

Americans for Prosperity [sic], the Koch funded right wing group for rich people, is stopping in La Crosse on SATURDAY, MARCH 5 at 6:15 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel (previously, we reported they are coming Thursday).

Please plan to attend!! Bring your signs (this Mother Jones article, "It's the inequality, stupid!" might give you some ideas or this article by Richard Wolff, "How the rich soaked the rest of us").

A little background from SourceWatch:

"AFP is a group fronting special interests started by oil billionaire David Koch and Richard Fink (a member of the board of directors of Koch Industries). ... AFP opposes labor unions, health care reform, stimulus spending, and cap-and-trade legislation, which is aimed at making industries pay for the air pollution that they create. AFP was also involved in the attacks on Obama’s "green jobs" czar, Van Jones, and has crusaded against international climate talks." (read more at link)

From the "we wish they wouldn't have done it now" department: the state Dems have filed recall papers against Dan Kapanke. Ready or not, here it comes.

GET YOUR RECALL ON! Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. pick up packets to gather signatures to recall Dan Kapanke at 1307 Market Street. We will need approximately 18,000 signatures from ALL AROUND the 32nd senate district. Please check the district map (32nd) and contact anyone you know who can help.

~~You need not be registered in the district, but every person who signs MUST be registered to vote in the district.~~ To circulate a petition, you must be a "qualified elector" and to sign a petition, you must be a "qualified elector". A qualified elector is a United States citizen, 18 years of age or older, who has resided in the district or jurisdiction for at least 10 days.

More details will be given when you get your packets.

I have committed to gathering at least 100 signatures. How about you?

Also on Saturday, there IS a bus going to Madison (see previous post below). While the Republicans have locked the people out of their house, protests continue. Don't stop now!

Saturday bus

2011-03-02T08:42:00.002-10:00

There are a few spaces available on a bus leaving La Crosse at 8:00 a.m. and returning from Madison at about 3 p.m. If interested contact Curtis at 608-487-3552

ACTION ALERT: Walker in VIROQUA Thursday

2011-03-01T17:14:00.004-10:00

**VIROQUA RALLEY AT C.A.F.E. SUMMIT - MARCH 3RD - THIS THURSDAY**

*CITIZENS RALLY FOR LOCAL CONTROL AND WORKER'S RIGHTS*

Concerned Citizens and member groups of the Sustain Rural Wisconsin
Network will join a rally protesting state executive branch takeover of
local control and collective bargaining rights is scheduled for 8:30
A.M. this Thursday, March 3rd at the CAFE sponsored "Food, Fuel and
Future Summit" in Viroqua WI.

Representative Lee Nerison, Senator Dan Kapanke and Governor Scott
Walker are scheduled speakers at this event.

Anyone interested in participating should meet at the driveway to the
Firehouse Restaurant, 804 S. Main Street (along Hwy. 14/61 and S.R.
Drive) Viroqua, WI. at 8:15 A.M.

Cow suits and signs will be available-or feel free to craft your own
message centering around the loss of local control for farmers and rural
communities presented by the governor's recent takeover of state
regulatory agencies rulemaking-including veto power on Livestock Siting
Law rules, cuts to aid to local government, badger care and local
collective bargaining.

[CAFÉ = is a pro industrial-confinement agriculture ("factory farm") group]

###

*/Sustain Rural Wisconsin Network/*/ is a statewide coalition of
individuals and organizations dedicated to preserving the environment
while maintaining the health and economic vitality of rural communities./

**Contact: Jennifer Nelson**

**Phone: 608-****476-2301**

**Email: ****call.srwn@gmail.com **

The Wisconsin VERY BAD Idea

2011-03-01T15:37:00.004-10:00

About 100 years ago, our ancestors, specifically UW President Charles Van Hise, proposed The Wisconsin Idea - namely, "education should influence and improve people’s lives beyond the university classroom."

In 1912, Charles McCarthy wrote a book about it, expanding the original idea into a new plan for the public good. The plan would help educate the mostly rural population to better their lives in the new industrial world and use the power of the government to help even the playing field.

The Wisconsin State Historical Society has a great website describing the battles, challenges, and victories won for the people of Wisconsin and the rest of the country during the first few decades of the last century.

Now we are engaged in a great Civil War, testing whether those ideas can long endure.

The new budget unveiled by Scott Walker tonight, marks the battle line between the old and successful Wisconsin Idea and the new Wisconsin BAD Idea (or maybe it should be called the Wisconsin Evil Scheme).

It's not about Wisconsin or ideas. It's about a few wealthy people who want to own the world. It's a plan schemed up by the Kochs, Club for Growth, Grover ("shrink government and drown it in the bathtub") Norquist and the others to dump every good thing we've grown and developed - that has grown and developed us - over the past 100 years.

Why else would the governor choose as his secretary of our Department of Health Services a Heritage Foundation advisor who has argued that "States could save $1 trillion by dropping Medicaid," or a Department of Natural Resources chair whose main goal is to "help businesses"? Idealogues on a mission, not public servants vowing to make our state better. Stepford department heads working to crank back history, not knowledgeable, experienced leaders solving real problems.

Personally, I believe Progressive era reforms - everything from child labor laws to work-time and workplace safety rules to public education (and watch out, voting women!) - have been the target all along. These reforms were part of a move not just to raise up the common people but to combat the power of corporations, monopolies and the super rich. Sound familiar?

I believe the plan is to disappear anything with the word public in it - from public schools to public utilities. Anything worth doing can be done by a private business (but using public funds to pay for it). They've done it in the military, for gosh sake, using private (crony) contractors, from Halliburton and KBR to Logistics Health, to do the work, often at higher cost, that used to be done by public employees (in this case, soldiers, sailors, airmen/women and Marines).

Privatizing everything will ensure more cash for crony campaign contributors who polish their reps by donating to worthy causes like football stadiums (when students can't afford to pay tuition).

This is crazy world, to be sure. (Firefighters are "slobs" and Walker supporters smuggled into the Capitol through steam tunnels! Yikes!!) If we can survive eleven more months, we may come out in one piece but we'll be much the worse for it.

Reading Is Fundamental

2011-02-25T15:26:00.004-10:00

There have been so many great articles published about this issue, so many GREAT articles, I thought I would share the links. I might print some of these out to pass around on the bus tomorrow, too. Share with your friends and family.

1. Wisconsin taxpayers do NOT pay for state workers' benefits! David Cay Johnston is a Tax Analysts' columnist. The Washington Monthly calls him "one of the country's most important journalists"

2. Scott Walker's War a wonderful and heartbreaking article by Bill Lueders, Isthmus

3. Koch prank no laughing matter by Mary Bottari

4. Budget Despair Bill Facts and Figures - mountains upon mountains

5. It's the Inequality, Stupid from Mother Jones, one of the greatest mags ever (complete with eye-popping graphs)

6. Really, this should be #1. I've been forwarding this to everyone I know or barely know or don't really know. What Conservatives Really Want by George Lakoff

There's so much more, but start with these. Maybe I can update after tomorrow's rally.

RECALL (Kapanke) update

2011-02-24T16:28:00.003-10:00

More soon - briefly.

It takes quite a while to recall someone. Here are the steps in a nutshell.

1. You have to get a committee together with at least two or three people willing to be the treasurer and sign the official papers. You need to have a financial account set up.

2. After you file the papers, you need to collect about 18,000 signatures (the required minimum is about 15,500 but you want to collect more to make sure) and you have 60 days to do that.

3. Then you turn the signatures in and the clerk or certifying officer has up to 31 days (minimum 10) to certify. If there are challenges, it may take the whole 31.

4. Then a recall election is schedule for 6 weeks after the certification. If there are more than two candidates, the primary is 6 weeks after and the recall election is 4 weeks after that.

Ok - so, do you want to have your recall election in the middle of the summer when people are on vacation and students are not at university?

Even though many of us are chomping at the bit to get rid of Hanke Kapanke (tip to Geo), if you want to do it right, it's going to take some time.

More info next week. Hold on, it's coming.

UNION!

2011-02-24T16:16:00.002-10:00

Historic vote today at UW-L. Eighty-seven per cent of the faculty voted Wednesday and today on whether or not to join the American Federation of Teachers and 87% of those who voted voted YES! More than 100 people turned out near the campus clock tower to celebrate (with more celebration continuing even now). Next, it's the academic staff's turn. Stay tuned.

Tomorrow, Dan Kapanke is due to return home to French Island. Please rally on the Clinton Street bridge at 5:00 p.m.

Saturday is a BIG rally day in Madison. A coalition of progressive groups is holding a noon time rally at the Capitol. Another rally will begin at 3 p.m. Here's the bus info: CRUE - (Coulee Region Educators) will have a bus leaving the mall lot at 10 a.m.

AFSCME will have one bus - first come first served - leaving at 11:30 am from Valley View Mall (between Sears & Theatre) Second pick up at Kwik Trip in Tomah. Drop off at Butler and E Washington, Madison (2 blocks from the square) and RETURN 5:00 pm Other locations, too (see the Wisconsin Legislative Council of AFSCME bus page).

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

Vote with your pocket book. Boycott Scott Walker donors and email/call to tell them why (that's a very important bit!) The biggies: Kwik Trip, Menards (JR Menard is executive vice president of the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce), Johnsonville Brats, Walmart (but of course), Northwestern Mutual Life, M&I Bank, Miller/Coors, SC Johnson, Sargento.

There are some tricky ones. For example, Wisconsin Credit Union League Action Fund. First of all, what the HELL!? Credit unions - aren't they one step above (barely) communists? Yet, there they are on the list of PACs donating $5,000 or more to Walker. I must have a discussion with my credit union about this one. Well, make your own decisions, but really - where do these folks get the money to buy their politicians??? Think about it.

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

Again, the most important thing any of us can do is talk to our less intelligent relatives, friends and neighbors. That guy who owns the small business and is sick of paying for greedy bottom feeders like teachers and police officers? Who do they think is going to buy their products or services if their pay is cut so deeply? That guy who works without benefits and doesn't want anyone else to have them either? What does he think is going to happen to his pay when the bottom drops out of the "how low can we go" line unions have been holding with respect to wages, working conditions, time rules, etc. At this rate, we will all be serfs soon.

Special Election - Assembly 94th - May 3

2011-02-23T12:24:00.003-10:00

TONIGHT there is a candidate forum at West Salem Middle School (405 Hamlin St.) for 94th Assembly District candidates. Please come and be ready to rock!

THURSDAY RALLY @ UW-L

2011-02-23T06:34:00.002-10:00

Quick update: Tonight (Wednesday) there's a rally at 5 p.m. at City Hall in support of city/county workers.

Thursday there will be a BIG rally (possibly with a guest star - honestly, I don't know who!) from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the UW-L Clock Tower. This rally will celebrate the UW-L faculty union vote. Pass it on.

Quick Updates

2011-02-22T19:04:00.002-10:00

I need a CLONE!!!! or someone to help keep this up to date! Random updates in a flash:

Madison rallies at noon (WMC board meeting at Monona Terrace) and 5 p.m. No bus from La Crosse - CAR POOL!

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

WEDNESDAY - rally at 5 p.m. at La Crosse city hall to support city/county workers AND 94th Assembly district candidate forum at West Salem HS at 7 p.m.

THURSDAY - rally at 4:30 p.m. at UW-L (location unknown at this time)

FRIDAY - rally in Gays Mills (details unknown at this time)

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

The Democrats' response to Scott Walker's "fireside chat" tonight was abominable! Senator Miller looked as if he had just thrown up, it looked like they'd set the thing up in a bathroom, Miller's delivery was terrible and the message was sloppy and unfocused. I *was* surprised because interviews I've seen with these senators over the last few days, including Miller, have been quite good. It's almost as if the secret police were about to break in or something. Very disappointing. Thousands of people are counting on these folks, ready or not. If they're not in the Capitol, it seems like they ought to be talking to SOMEONE (maybe George Lakoff) to get it together.

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

Tomorrow and Thursday, UW-L faculty will be voting on whether or not to form a union. More than 70% of faculty signed cards to ok this election. AFT is hoping for a strong, decisive vote to send a message. No matter what comes from the Walker power grab, having a union will be better than not having one. UW-L academic staff are not as far along but this should help them get it together.

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

Please take every opportunity to engage folks in conversation over this issue. There are so many reasons to hate this bill, this process, these consequences and this plan. Pick one - elderly neighbor? Medicaid and SeniorCare, public transportation, etc. Working guy? Union or not, working conditions and wages will decline for everyone if this goes through. Plus with thousands of people earning less or losing their jobs, who is going to patronize the business he owns or works for?

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

more tomorrow I hope. Email me if you can help!

DEMOCRACY NOW!

2011-02-22T09:18:00.002-10:00

Amy Goodman, award-winning host of Democracy NOW!, the only daily news program that's not afraid to tell the truth, will be at Madison's historic Orpheum Theater on Thursday, February 24.

Check http://tour.democracynow.org/2011/02/madison_wi_4.html for details.

The fight continues

2011-02-21T18:24:00.004-10:00

FIRST - watch this: A Simple Solution to Wisconsin's Budget "Crisis"

Tonight's town hall meeting at the Hmong Community Center was big. The parking lot was packed as was the meeting hall. What was most encouraging to me was the range of people attending.

Remember, if you can, go to Madison - check www.aft-wisconsin.org for bus info or car pool. If you can't make it there, think about paying for a pizza or a party platter of subs for those who are there day and night. Or go through Madison food delivery service.

What's happening in Madison

Senator Erpenbach fears the Republicans will attach the anti-union legislation to an unrelated (like voter id) bill that they may take up as early as Tuesday (for which they do not need any Dems).

The Madison Labor Council (SFCL) authorizes call for national general strike if anti-union bill is enacted.

Police would use force if ordered.

"Miracle on the Hudson" co-pilot Jeff Skiles is in Madison supporting the protesters.

Coming up in La Crosse:

WEDNESDAY - Rally at La Crosse City Hall, 5 p.m.

Kapanke recall? Watch this space next week.

the benefits of vegetables

2011-02-19T17:00:00.003-10:00

So lets say you work for a farmer who pays you in fruits and vegetables - strawberries, tomatoes, corn, potatoes and squash. You negotiate with the farmer to get fewer strawberries, tomatoes and corn and more potatoes and squash. Another worker gets more strawberries, tomatoes and corn and fewer potatoes and squash.

At the end of the season, the other guy looks at his pile of potatoes and squash and looks at your larger pile of potatoes and squash and says that you are greedy and have too many potatoes and squash and obviously you have stolen some of his potatoes and squash.

That's what I thought of tonight as I was thankful that I'd stored up a lot of potatoes and squash to get me through the Wisconsin winter of Scott Walker.

The People Speak

2011-02-19T08:47:00.004-10:00

Wake sleeping giant ... CHECK!

The epic battle, not just for important union and worker rights, but really for our progressive Wisconsin, continues. If you can get to Madison to join the tens of thousands of fellow citizens, go. Buses are available on some days (check AFT-Wisconsin for details). Or check with local unions or Democratic party offices to see about car-pooling.

If you can't make it to Madison, here are some other random suggestions:

1. Find out about local actions and get involved.

2. Email each and every one of the 14 Democratic State senators to THANK THEM for standing the line.

3. If you are on Facebook, join Recall Scott Walker (not just a FB group), I Support the WI 14, and Boycott Scott Walker Contributors at least.

4. Keep up with what's happening through FB, Twitter or Mother Jones blog updates or The Uptake.

5. Watch Assembly Floor Session Part 4 and pass it on. Guy suggests purchasing it and distributing it to churches, schools, civic organizations, etc.

6. Read about your new masters (if Republicans win this one).

7. Email Scott Walker to challenge this blatant lie: "Saturday morning, Cullen Werwie, a spokesman for Gov. Scott Walker, said the Governor's office is receiving about 1,000 e-mails an hour, all supporting the budget bill and the elimination of collective bargaining."

8. Look ahead. No matter what, many very important issues will be decided by the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Currently, the court has a 4-3 conservative majority, including two justices who have very questionable ethics pasts. The April election will pit appointed incumbent, conservative David Prosser against progressive-friendly JoAnne Kloppenburg. We must flip this court! Please do all you can to support, work for, contribute to and ELECT JOANNE KLOPPENBURG to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

9. Educate yourself! and then talk to and challenge any neighbor, friend, co-worker, acquaintance, asshole n grocery store line or whoever expresses support for the bill. They are obviously completely clueless.

Some points to consider:

* This bill is part of a strategic reactionary anti-government national movement. It was not written with the people, families, businesses or economies of Wisconsin in mind. It is part of a national plan to bring Republican "you're on your own" living to Wisconsin and the nation. It was concocted at the November 2010 Republic Governors' Association meeting in San Diego with right wing groups, lobbyists and big business.

* There is no historic budget crisis looming. In fact, Wisconsin would have posted a surplus for the year had Walker not passed tax breaks and shelters for cronies and donors in January.

* This bill would give unprecedented power to the governor over state health programs including BadgerCare, SeniorCare and Medicaid.

* This bill would be devastating for women's health and reproductive rights.

* This bill will end federal funding for public transportation (just in time for that new Transit Center in La Crosse!) - from AMOS: "Because the bill destroys the collective bargaining agreements required by federal law, the bill would make Wisconsin ineligible for receiving federal funding for public transit."

* This is a battle for ALL workers. Listen to Noam Chomsky's take. Listen to economist David Cay Johnston on the Dylan Ratigan show.

[updates coming soon.]

Blitzkrieg!

2011-02-16T16:30:00.005-10:00

Subtitle: PAY ATTENTION, DAMN IT!

Last Friday, word got out that Governor Scott Walker was going to introduce a "Budget Repair" bill that would end public employees' union rights. Since then, protests small and large (and getting larger) have been spreading around the state, especially at the state capitol.

For info on the THURSDAY BUS go to AFT Wisconsin.

Now, look, Scott Walker did not think this up on his own. In fact he and other Republican governors got together shortly after the election in a strategy conference hosted by the Republican Governors Association to see who could go for the biggest cuts (I can only imagine how THAT went. This bit was particularly chilling: "Of the incoming GOP governors, Wisconsin's Mr. Walker appears among the most zealous in his cost-cutting proposals. In an interview, he ticked off an array of proposed pay freezes, changes to health-care funding and reduced benefits to state workers").

(But first, "Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker has violated the state of Wisconsin's campaign finance laws 1,115 times since 2009 by failing to disclose information about contributors." Ok, now on with the story.)

It wasn't just governors who met in San Diego. That three day event also included many lobbyists and rightie groups. I'm just saying, if you were PAYING ATTENTION, this would not have been a surprise!

Now, let's look into the crystal ball and see what the next targets will be:

* Ok, this one's already out of the bag - One university to rule them all

* Bye, bye Badgercare - Hello death panels

* Anti-birth control agenda (and all that implies)

* Family planning? Nope.

Well, it's kind of getting depressing. More tomorrow. Time to make posters.

[Oh and VOTE KLOPPENBURG FOR WISCONSIN SUPREME COURT - It's going to be verrrrry important. More soon.]

PLEASE WATCH THE ED SHOW - Scott Walker EXPOSED. "Walker's cuts would lead to the loss of 9,000 private sector jobs and cost the state about $111 million in lost tax revenues."

Keep on truckin'

2011-02-10T14:06:00.002-10:00

Nearly a year has passed since the last post on this blog. For some reason, we are busier than ever even as it seems our commitments have lessened. But progressive issues continue to need attention and action, so, while there may not be time to update the headlines daily or all the events (you CAN put your own events on the calendar yourself!) at least we can put the word out about actions requiring immediate attention.

If YOU would like to post events here, please email couleeprogressive.

For now:

YOU CAN VOTE NOW for the February 15 primary. In La Crosse, go to the City Clerk's office and you can vote right there. (More info.) David Prosser is the Republican-connected incumbent (originally appointed to the court by Tommy Thompson) who has been getting lots of ad time paid for by the right-wing Club for Growth and other independent rightie groups. Any of the other candidates would be better unless you want crap like this and worse to continue. Here's a chance to change the balance of the court.

The Wisconsin Democracy Campaign invites you to take part in a CITIZEN VIGIL AT THE STATE CAPITOL. The vigil will continue on February 22, the next day the legislature is scheduled to be in session. You can sign up online.

CapX2020 moves forward and it's not just informed citizens who want to stop it. Read this excellent article from the Winona Post about problems CapX2020 is having with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission. Among others, the Wisconsin DOT has concerns about how the proposed routes will impact the Great River Road National Scenic Byway.

Public employee unions are under attack. Despite FACTS showing that public employees earn, on average, LESS THAN private sector employees, Republicans are determined to get rid of unions in our state. It's too late to unelect the villains elected by the uninformed, but at least we can do what we can to counter the propaganda. When was the last time you wrote a letter to the editor? Maybe it's time!

Take the Rail Survey!

2010-03-12T08:03:00.005-10:00

Ok, if they can connect all of Western Europe with high speed rail, why can't we have a decent commuter rail system in Wisconsin? Huh?

Take the survey.

Why we bike

2010-03-05T07:47:00.004-10:00

AIR QUALITY ALERT FOR 23 WISCONSIN COUNTIES INCLUDING LA CROSSE

Kapanke listening session FRIDAY, March 5

2010-03-04T06:53:00.002-10:00

State senator Dan Kapanke will hold a "listening session" in La Crosse tomorrow,
Friday, March 5, from 4 to 6 p.m. at La Crosse City Hall, 400 La Crosse St., City Council Chambers.

Western Wisconsin Bicycle Summit - March 23

2010-02-26T17:30:00.008-10:00

The La Crosse area is home to many passionate bicyclists from recreational family riders to commuters to off road riders to racers. But often the different groups do not have many connections.

[Update: GRAB, PRINT AND POST A FLYER!]

On March 23, that will change. The Western Wisconsin Bicycle Summit, organized by a variety of local bicycle groups in coordination with the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, will offer networking, learning and idea sharing opportunities for businesses, individuals and policy makers and will connect those of us interested in bicycling to the wider state, regional and national family of bicycle advocates.

The event will be at the Radisson Center, 200 Harborview Plaza in La Crosse. A networking, idea sharing, social hour with cash bar will be from 5 to 6:40 p.m.

At 7 p.m., keynote speaker, John Burke, President of Trek Bicycle Corporation. Burke passionately spreads the word about the bicycle as "a simple solution to complex problems."

More details will be released soon. For now, please mark your calendar and save the evening of Tuesday, March 23

A Million Calls

2010-02-23T05:02:00.004-10:00

A consortium of grassroots organizations including MoveOn.org, the Center for Policy Analysis, the Progressive Congress Action Fund, HCAN, DFA and SEIU are urging at least one million Americans on Thursday, February 24 to call their senators and representatives and demand that meaningful health care reform be passed.

The Fix It and Pass It campaign is "making a HUGE push to fix the Senate bill via reconciliation and to pass it!"

When you call, please ask for these items to be included in a reconciliation fix:

* Inclusion of the public option (MOST Americans want a public option)
* The Medicare buy-in (allowing younger people to buy in to Medicare coverage)
* Fixing the excise tax
* Getting rid of the Nebraska Cornhusker Kickback deal
* National exchange NOT state exchange
* Drug re-importation
* Drug price negotiation in Medicare Part D
* Increasing subsidies.

Everything is still on the table. Now is the time to demand what MOST people want.

Contact your reps directly (see below) or use the MoveOn.org tool.

Senator Russell Feingold
La Crosse
425 State St., Room 225
La Crosse, WI 54601-3341
(608) 782-5585

Senator Herb Kohl
La Crosse Office
205 5th Avenue South, Room 216
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 796-0045
Fax: (608) 796-0089

Representative Ron Kind
205 Fifth Avenue S. , Suite 400
La Crosse, WI 54601
8:30am to 5pm
PH: (608) 782-2558
FX: (608) 782-4588
TTY: (608) 782-1173

FRESH

2010-02-21T11:17:00.003-10:00

Don't forget to attend the screening MONDAY NIGHT of the new film, FRESH, Monday, February 22, 7:00 p.m., Graff Main Hall Auditorium, UW-L.

From the website:

FRESH is more than a movie, it’s a gateway to action. Our aim is to help grow FRESH food, ideas, and become active participant in an exciting, vibrant, and fast-growing movement.

When I write we, I don’t mean our small team (officially two of us, with lots of amazing helps from our interns and volunteers) but I mean YOU. All of you. FRESH is a grassroots efforts for a grassroots movement. It’s been tremendously exciting to see the movie catch on and spread like wild fire, being used all over the country as a platform to raise awareness and connecting people to the solutions available in their community.

Senator Feingold office opening open house

2010-02-19T08:45:00.002-10:00

Please join Senator Feingold on Saturday for the official opening of his La Crosse Field Office.

Saturday, February 19 from 9 to 10:30 a.m.
116 5th Ave South, La Crosse

WTC Board Positions Open

2010-02-18T15:38:00.002-10:00

[from June]

Western Technical College is accepting applications for their WTC District Board. The Application materials will be available starting Friday. February 19 and must be returned by 4 p.m. March 5. Three appointments are for three-year terms that start July 1. They will made at a public hearing and meeting March 25. For more information,
call (608) 785-9563.

Speak out about CAFOs!

2010-02-16T05:06:00.000-10:00

[from Guy]

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture is holding listening sessions around the state on the Livestock Siting Law, which governs Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations, or CAFOs. The Livestock Siting Law went into effect in 2006 and is now up for review.

This is our opportunity as citizens to speak and bring written comments. The closest session to our area is from 3 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the Dodger Bowl, 321 King St., Dodgeville.

Comments can be sent by March 10 to michael.murray@wisconsin.gov or Michael Murray, DATCP, P.O. Box 8911, Madison, WI 53708-8911.

The Livestock Siting Law limits local control. As long as CAFO applications are filled out correctly, local governments are pressured by the rules to accept an application. The maximum application fee a local government can charge is only $1,000, which does not cover costs, especially if more research or additional expert opinions are warranted. Local governments should be able to set their own timelines and fees.

Further, the law allows facilities to build before permits and licenses are in place, and thus, under pressure of possible lawsuits, permits are granted.

If a local community zones agricultural, it is required to include CAFOs. These are for-profit businesses that are allowed an unfair advantage with this law. For things such as utilities, we have laws that cover the state for the public good. This law grants an unfair advantage in promoting large-scale, industrialized operations for the profit of less than two percent of the livestock industry. We need to be supporting agriculture that is of a scale the land can support. We are letting family farmers suffer economically while supporting CAFOs.

To read more specifics on the issues surrounding the upcoming Livestock Siting Law rules review, visit www.crawfordstewardshipproject.org.

Update on plastics recycling

2010-02-13T16:17:00.003-10:00

[from Carolyn & Glen]

Thursday, February 11, 2010 the Common Council voted to support the recycle resolution. The Public Works department has up to 60 days to negotiate with Harter waste removal. Earlier in the week Harter offered a better rate/cost for adding the recycling of plastics #1 & #2. The new offer was $.07 per month per household verses the $.25 per month per household. In addition to this better rate Harter also wanted their contract extended to 2015. Presently the contract is through 2012. After the Public Works department has negotiated with Harter they will bring back a proposal. By mid April we will probably hear something, if not sooner.

When the city and county agreed to become an Eco-municipality with that came the responsibility of governing and living with The Natural Step principles guiding environmentally purposeful decisions. ... The recycling of plastics #1 and #2 and not creating more virgin plastics from fossil fuels is an opportunity for this community to eliminate our fossil fuel dependence. Recycling also eliminates our community's contribution to wasteful use of synthetic substances (plastics) which research is finding to be more detrimental than once realized. Although reduction of use would be the best for the planet, recycling is a good start.

Helping

2010-02-10T03:51:00.002-10:00

We've all heard about and, probably, donated to relief of the Haiti disaster. But there's another disaster in our midst - the weather - snow, ice and freezing temperatures - in South Dakota and particularly its effect on the residents of the several reservations in that state.

Unlike Wisconsin, in SD if you don't pay your power bill, utilities can shut you off even in the middle of winter. That, plus an unprecedented ice storm, lots of snow, freezing weather, have combined to make life even more miserable for poorest of the poor.

This disaster has been covered extensively on the website DailyKos and, more recently, by MSNBC program host, Keith Olbermann.

Money donations are especially needed, though donations of CLEAN clothing are also being accepted. Visit the dKos diary for info about donations.

Pass the public option

2010-02-03T14:20:00.003-10:00

Health (insurance) reform is not dead. Many pols believe the best way to get real reform passed is two bills at once - a "fix it" reconcilliation bill and the Senate's flawed bill. How to do it is outlined here (it's a sorry day when new Democrat Arlen Specter shows them how to do it.)

Now, 120 House Democrats have sent a letter to Sen. Harry Reid demanding that what most people want - a public option - is included in the reconciliation process.

But, Ron Kind's name is not on the letter! Horrors!!

So, please contact Ron Kind (or call his office - La Crosse = 782-2558) and get his name on that letter!

Flyer available - PLEASE POST!!

2010-01-19T17:39:00.004-10:00

The flyer for our Jan. 29 event is now available for your download and printing. Please click on the thumbnail to get a 8.5 x 11 version of the flyer, print it (preferably on the back of something you don't need anymore (like the tons of one sided colored-paper flyers the school district sends out at the start of every school year!))

Please post far and wide - school, store, laundro, car window, bicycle, work, dog, etc.

Updated list of tablers

2010-01-19T11:12:00.011-10:00

Update on tablers for the Jan. 29 State of the Union:

[Updated 1/28/10] - Confirmed so far:
* American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin
* AMOS
* Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin
* Climate Commitment Projects at Western Technical College
* Cornucopia Institute
* CouleeCap Job and Business Development
* Coulee Partners for Sustainability
* Coulee Region Sierra Club
* La Crosse Area Freethought Society
* La Crosse City/County Strategic Plan for Sustainability
* LGBT Resource Center for the Seven Rivers Region
* NOW
* Ramona Gonzalez for Court of Appeals
* La Crosse Area Planning Committee
* La Crosse Interfaith Justice and Peace Network
* Lynnwood Farm and CSA
* Mississippi Valley Conservancy
* The Root Note
* Small Family CSA
* Three Rivers Waldorf School
* United Nations Association - La Crosse Contact Group
* UW-L Progressives
* WISPIRG

(invited/still working on)
* High school student groups
* Active Living La Crescent
* many more - email couleeprogressive@hotmail.com for table info or to sign up!

We HAVE a Speaker!

2010-01-19T06:00:00.004-10:00

Guy Wolf's done it again! We have a speaker for our Coulee Progressives State of the Union on Friday, January 29! (Remember - for table space, email couleeprogressive@hotmail.com!)

DAVID MORRIS, Vice President, Institute for Self-Reliance (Minneapolis, MN)

For more than three decades David Morris has been one of the nation’s leading proponents for humanly-scaled, community-based economic and political systems as a prolific writer, speaker and advocate who has provided the basis for an extraordinary array of path-breaking policy initiatives. An economist by training with stellar academic credentials, David is a syndicated columnist and author of more than 200 books and articles on rural communities, energy and sustainability.

He co-founded the Minneapolis and Washington, D.C.- based Institute for local Self-Reliance in 1974 and currently serves as its Vice-President and director of its New Rules Project. The Institute’s mission is to identify public policies that promote strong, locally owned and environmentally sound economies and to assist communities to move in that direction.

Bill Moyers calls him "one of the nation's most innovative thinkers" and US Senator Paul Wellstone of Minnesota described him as "one of the nation's leading experts on sustainable development."

Morris holds a PhD. from Union Graduate School (1976), an MA in Political Science / Latin American Studies from the University of Florida, and a BA in Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University.

His articles have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times and the Smithsonian magazine. He appears regularly on TV and radio, including All Things Considered, NBC’s TODAY Show, The O’Reilly Factor, and CNN Financial News. The Utne Reader listed him as one of the top 100 visionaries in America. President Clinton's Secretary of Energy appointed him to a congressionally created advisory committee to the DOE and USDA and President Bush's Secretary of
Energy reappointed him.

The Institute for Local Self Reliance (ILSR) is a small organization with a remarkable track record for breaking new ground in promoting sustainable communities. In 1978 RAIN magazine described ILSR as an organization that "puts hard numbers on soft dreams".

ILSR was the first to systematically apply the concept of local self-reliance to urban areas. In 1980 ILSR was the first to investigate the energy conservation and solar energy potential for a major city (Baltimore) and was one of the first groups to formally testify before a utility regulatory commission in favor of investing in energy conservation as a cheaper alternative to new energy supplies.

http://www.ilsr.org/

Plastics and CP SOTU Update

2010-01-14T03:51:00.011-10:00

The city is posed to approve plastic recycling in La Crosse. This is a major step - for decades, the argument has been that the city's contract for waste to the "waste to energy" plant required as much burnable waste as possible to remain in the stream. However, with stricter pollution controls required and apparently a reduced plastic waste stream (where ARE all those water bottles going??!!), more emphasis on recycling would be a good thing.

However, more emphasis on not manufacturing/purchasing/disposing of plastics would be a better thing.

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

Update on tablers for the Jan. 29 State of the Union:

[Updated 1/19/10] - Confirmed so far:
> La Crosse Area Freethought Society
> LGBT Resource Center for the Seven Rivers Region
> Climate Commitment Projects at Western Technical College
> American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin
> Ramona Gonzalez for Court of Appeals
> UW-L Progressives
> Lynnwood Farm and CSA
> Small Family CSA
> Three Rivers Waldorf School
> Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin
> La Crosse Interfaith Justice and Peace Network
> The Root Note
> Coulee Partners for Sustainability
> La Crosse Area Planning Committee
> CouleeCap Job and Business Development

(invited/still working on)
* High school student groups
* Coulee Region Sierra Club
* Active Living La Crescent
* many more - email couleeprogressive@hotmail.com for table info or to sign up!

Tom Barret in La Crosse Monday

2010-01-13T07:27:00.003-10:00

Gubernatorial candidate Tom Barrett will be in La Crosse on Monday.

Monday, January 18th
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
City Brewery Hospitality Center
1111 3rd Street South
La Crosse

All Contributions Gratefully Accepted

For more information regarding sponsoring this event, please contact Kelsey at (608) 432-5597 or kelsey[@]barrettforwisconsin.com

or

Please send contributions to:
Barrett for Wisconsin
PO Box 510796
Milwaukee, WI 53203

or online.

State election law allows individuals to contribute up to $10,000 per year, corporate checks are not accepted. Contributions to Barrett for Wisconsin are not tax deductible.

6th Annual State of the Union - It's up to US! - updated

2010-01-08T04:10:00.004-10:00

Join the local progressive community to share ideas, learn about what needs work and energize for the new year!

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Concordia Ballroom, 1129 La Crosse Street, La Crosse, Wisconsin

[Update - UW-L Progressives are screening the new film "RETHINK AFGHANISTAN" at 3 p.m. on this day - see the film website to sign up and for more info.]

We expect about 30 to 40 tablers at our ACTIVIST FAIR where you can sign up for a cause, debate a strategy or share an idea.

[Updated 1/12/10) - Confirmed so far:
> La Crosse Area Freethought Society
> LGBT Resource Center for the Seven Rivers Region
> Climate Commitment Projects at Western Technical College
> American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin
> Ramona Gonzalez for Court of Appeals
> UW-L Progressives
> Lynnwood Farm and CSA
> Small Family CSA
> La Crosse Interfaith Justice and Peace Network

watch for more updates!

A variety of soups and breads plus plates and utensils will be provided at our COMMUNITY POTLUCK but if you can bring a fruit or appetizer or dessert to share, that would be great! Cash bar.

Our PROGRAM will include the annual Coulee Progressives Year in Review and we hope to have a speaker, too.

ADMISSION is by sliding scale fee ($2 to $20). No one will be turned away for lack of funds, but remember, you'll get free food and a warm place to hang out for a few hours on a cold January night!

If you can bring a NON-PERISHABLE FOOD ITEM for area food pantries, we will gladly accept and deliver it.

Sponsored by Coulee Region Progressives, UW-L Progressives and UW-L Native American Students Association.

For more info about securing a table space for your group, organization or cause, please email couleeprogressive@hotmail.com or call 608 788-4039.

See you there!

Rate hikes and serfdom

2009-11-13T14:46:00.008-10:00

For Xcel's explanation of its rate increase request, read this document.

I can't tell if the public comment period is over or not, but you can email the PSC (docket #4220-UR-116) with your comments on the proposed rate increases. This page talks about how to provide comments to the PSC.

It seems other Xcel states are none too happy about paying higher rates when Excel execs waste money on extravagant dinners, spas, box seats at sports events and other luxuries.

In this Wednesday, Nov. 11 article from the Colorado Independent, we learn that:

Some of those 2008 travel and entertainment expenses include $9,524 of a $41,890 bill for a board retreat at the plush St. Julien Hotel and Spa in Boulder; $5,410 of a $9,721 bill for Colorado Avalanche games; $19,323 of a $26,639 bill for “other employee related sporting activity”; $3,746 of an $11,958 tab at McCormick’s Fish House and Bar in Denver; and $3,458 of a staggering $15,211 bill at Frasca restaurant in Boulder.

Really, have we progressed all that much?

Serfdom.

Surprise hearings - energy, health care

2009-11-10T06:01:00.005-10:00

Democracy depends on an informed electorate ... unfortunately, finding out where and when the information will be dribbled out often takes some keen sleuthing.

In Saturday's paper, uncovered by Guy, was a notice of an Excel rate increase teleconference hearing on WEDNESDAY, Nov. 11 from 3 to 6 p.m. in room 104 Wing Technology Center, UW-L. (Note - this overlaps with Wednesday's Racial Profiling listening session, 4 to 7 p.m. at the La Crosse Public Library.)

According to the LaX Tribune: "Xcel filed June 1 with the PSC for an electric rate increase of 5.7 percent and proposed to keep its natural gas rates the same. The PSC staff recently suggested a 2.7 percent electric rate increase and no change in natural gas rates."

Guy says, "Please consider coming and voicing your concerns about money
for laying the plan for 345Kv, 150 powerlines; for upgrades to
increase nuclear power and nuclear storage at Prairie Island
Mdewakaton Dakota Community (even while Xcel is fighting basic safety
measures requested by the Tribe and City of Red Wing, and
all the while raising rates on low income individuals."

I suppose this is better notice than that of Wednesday's Ron Kind Health Care sort-of listening session by proxy

At the start of the call at about 6:35 p.m., a random selection of households in the district will receive a call inviting them to participate. Those who stay on the line will hear some comments from the La Crosse Democrat and will have the opportunity to ask questions. Interested constituents may also dial in themselves by calling 1-877-229-8493 and using the code 15311.

Driving while black?

2009-11-05T18:31:00.002-10:00

from Wisconsin ACLU:

Effective January 1, 2011, all Wisconsin police officers are required to collect data that will be used to determine whether vehicles operated or occupied by racial minorities are disproportionately stopped. The data collected, collection method, and analysis will be determined by a new administrative rule. The Office of Justice Assistance (OJA), a state agency, is preparing the rule with the assistance of the Advisory Committee.

The public is invited to share their comments with the Traffic Stop Data Collection Advisory Committee on a rule being developed to assess the possibility of racial profiling in Wisconsin traffic stops at a public to attend a listening session next Wednesday, November 11th at the La Crosse Public Library, 800 Main Street from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Please encourage people you know to attend and speak out.

If you are part of the media have any questions about the listening session, please contact OJA: Tami Jackson, Office of Justice Assistance, Public and Media Relations Officer, Office: 608-266-6476, tami.jackson[at]wisconsin.gov

If you are an advocate with questions about racial profiling, please contact Chris Ahmuty, Executive Director, ACLU of Wisconsin, Cell: 414.704.6226, CAhmuty[at]aclu-wi.org

Time Saver - do this

2009-10-22T16:26:00.002-10:00

Too busy to write my own, but here's a to do list from Wisconsin Network for Peace and Justice (more details here: http://www.wnpj.org/

*Action Alert 1 - Wisconsin: *Restore Books to Department of Corrections Prisoners

*Action Alert 2 - Wisconsin:* Urge Governor Doyle to speak up for Palestinian water rights by canceling trade mission to Israel

*Action Alert 3 - Wisconsin: *GSA for Safe Schools 2009 Wisconsin School Climate Survey

*Action Alert 4 - Wisconsin:* Demand full public financing of Wisconsin Supreme Court elections

*Action Alert 5 - National: *Take action to protect the peace community of San Jose de Apartado in Colombia

*Action Alert 6 - National:* Oct. 27 March on the Bankers Convention in Chicago

*Action Alert 7 - National:* HR 2404, requiring Afghanistan "exit strategy", introduced

*Action Alert 8 - National:* H.R. 3699 to prohibit funding for Afghan "surge" still needs Wisconsin cosponsors

*Action Alert 9 - National: *Nov. 1-8, host a local event in support of equal marriage rights

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

*Contact:* Wisconsin Representatives and Senators here: www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newseek.cgi?site=ctc&state=wi
Wisconsin State Legislator here: www.legis.wisconsin.gov/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx

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

*Action Alert 1 - Wisconsin: Restore Books to Department of Corrections Prisoners*
*Background:* The Wisconsin Department of Corrections is denying prisoners access to donations of used books; Dan Westfield, Security Chief of the Department of Corrections, imposed the used book ban in November 2008, interrupting a free book service that had been provided to prisoners by Rainbow Bookstore for years without incident. It is a well-documented fact that increasing literacy and educational opportunities for an inmate is directly correlated to the success they will experience when returning to their communities.
*Action Request:* Call Governor Doyle and express your concern at (608) 266-1212 or email him here: www.wisgov.state.wi.us/contact.asp and contact your State Representatives here: www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/waml/waml.aspx to ask them to investigate the Department of Corrections' actions.
*Contact for more info:* Elizabeth Severson at 608-233-3170 or email:
ebseverson@att.net

*...................................... *
*Action Alert 2 - Wisconsin: Urge Governor Doyle to speak up for Palestinian water rights by canceling trade mission to Israel*
*Background:* Governor Doyle plans to lead a trade mission to Israel (http://milwaukee.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/stories/2009/07/20/daily10.html) this
November Nov. 17 to 19 on sciences, water technology and agriculture where he will speak at a water conference and is urging Wisconsin businesses to join him. He has directed the Wisconsin Department of Commerce to promote this trip. Israel practices systematic, widespread racial discrimination against Palestinians in the allocation of water resources, both for human consumption and for agricultural use.
*Action Request: *Sign the Petition Supporting Palestinian water rights (www.ipetitions.com/petition/PalestineWater?e),
and call the Governor's office (www.wisgov.state.wi.us/section.asp?linkid=59&locid=19) to demand that he cancel his planned trade mission to Israel*.*
*Contact for more info:* Barb Olson, Phone: 608-238-1227 email: rafahsistercity@yahoo.com

*......................................*
*Action Alert 3 - Wisconsin: GSA for Safe Schools 2009 Wisconsin School Climate Survey*
*Background:* GSA (Gay Straight Alliance) for Safe Schools (http://www.gsaforsafeschools.org/index.html) is launching a 2009 Wisconsin School Climate Survey to collect important information about the experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning students and their straight allies in Wisconsin middle schools and high schools. It is anonymous and the information gathered will help GSA for Safe Schools and other organizations educate policy makers, educators, and the public on issues facing LGBTQA students and better advocate for their interests on state and local levels. *Action Request*: Please share this link with any middle school or high school-aged youth you are connected to who may be interested in sharing their experiences. LGBTQC School climate survey (http://tinyurl.com/wischoolclimatesurvey09)
*Contact for more info:* GSA for Safe School’s office at (608)661-4141 or email Brian Juchems at brianj@gsaforsafeschools.org or Tim Michael at timm@gsaforsafeschools.org.

*......................................*
*Action Alert 4 - Wisconsin: Demand full public financing of Wisconsin Supreme Court elections*
*Background:* The Impartial Justice Bill (Senate Bill 40 (http://www.legis.state.wi.us/2009/data/SB40hst.html)/ Assembly Bill 65 (http://www.legis.state.wi.us/2009/data/AB65hst.html) would provide for a system of public financing for all Wisconsin Supreme Court elections. In previous Supreme Court elections, business groups such as Wisconsin
Manufacturers and Commerce have pumped millions of dollars into campaign to elect corporate-friendly justices.
*Action Request*: 1) Call the toll-free Legislative Hotline, 800-362-9472 (266-9960 in Madison). Tell your state senator and representative to support the Impartial Justice bill. 2) Call Senate Leader Russ Decker (608-266-2502) and Assembly Speaker Mike Sheridan (608-266-7503 or toll-free 888-947-0044) to urge them to promptly schedule a vote on SB 40 and AB 65.
*Contact for more info:* Beverly Speer, Wisconsin Democracy Campaign, speer@wisdc.org

** *......................................*
*Action Alert 5 - National: Take action to protect the peace community of San Jose de Apartado in Colombia*
*Background:* In Colombia, the Peace Community of San Jose de Apartado has received a note from paramilitaries located in the hamlet of Nueva Antioquia, in the municipality of Turbo. The note told them they must leave their lands, failing which “blood will run”. The Peace Community has previously received threats from these paramilitaries, who openly collaborate with the Colombian Army and Police, and have previously threatened to kill Eduar Lancheros, a companion of the Peace Community.
*Action Request*: Write or call your representatives in Congress, advising them of this continued illegal collaboration between paramilitary forces with the Colombian military. Tell them the U.S. must demand the dismantling of the paramilitary base in Nueva Antioquia, and prosecution of those who threaten the Peace Community and Eduar Lancheros. If they do not, U. S. military aid to Colombia should be suspended. Also please contact the government officials listed here (https://lists.riseup.net/www/arc/csn-web/2009-10/msg00002.html)
*Contact for more info:* Cecilia Zarate-Laun of Colombia Support Network (http://www.colombiasupport.net/), email: csn@igc.org

*......................................*
*Action Alert 6 - National: March On the Bankers Convention in Chicago*
*Background:* the American Bankers Association has its annual meeting in Chicago, October 25-27, and large coalition of labor, community, and consumer organizations are organizing a counter-convention and protest (http://www.showdowninchicago.org/), starting with workshops and discussion on Sunday, Oct. 25 and ending with a march to the Bankers' convention on Tuesday, Oct. 27.

Tuesday schedule:
10:00am - Prayer vigil on Wacker, east of Michigan Avenue
10:30am - March: starting at Stetson and Wacker;
11:00am - Rally at the Sheraton Hotel (301 East North Water Street, Chicago)
*Action Request:* Register for Sunday workshops here (http://www.showdowninchicago.org/takeaction.html#attend) Participate in the march on Tuesday. More info on the march
here (http://www.stopbankgreed.org/)
*Contact for more info:* bolandc@seiu1.org

*......................................*
*Action Alert 7 - National: HR 2404, requiring Afghanistan "exit strategy", introduced*
*Background:* Representative Jim McGovern has introduced HR 2404 (http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/D?d111:1:./temp/%7EbdhrGg:@@@L&summ2=m&%7C/bss/111search.html%7C),
which requires the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to Congress outlining the exit strategy from Afghanistan. The bill currently has 99 cosponsors (http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/D?d111:1:./temp/%7EbdhrGg:@@@L&summ2=m&%7C/bss/111search.html%7C#cosponsors), including Wisconsin's Tammy Baldwin, Gwen Moore and Steve Kagen.
*Action Request:* Contact your representatives (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newseek.cgi?site=ctc&state=wi) to ask them to support for HR 2404, or to thank them for their cosponsorship.
*Contact for more info:* United for Peace and Justice Legislative Working Group, email: rustiandgael@unitedforpeace.org

*......................................*
*Action Alert 8 - National: H.R. 3699 to prohibit funding for Afghan "surge" still needs Wisconsin cosponsors*
*Background:* Barbara Lee has introduced H.R. 3699 (http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h111-3699) to prohibit funding for any increase in the number of troops in Afghanistan. The bill now has 23 cosponsors (http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d111:HR03699:@@@P), but none from Wisconsin yet.
*Action Request:* Write or call your member of Congress (http://www.visi.com/juan/congress/cgi-bin/newseek.cgi?site=ctc&state=wi) to ask them to cosponsor H.R. 3699.
*Contact for more info:* US Labor Against the War (http://uslaboragainstwar.org/contactus.php)

*......................................*
*Action Alert 9 - National: Host a local event in support of equal marriage rights, week of Nov. 1-8*
*Background:* Following up on the October 10 National Equality March in Washington, D.C. calling for full and equal marriage rights for LGBT couples, Equality Across America (http://equalityacrossamerica.org/) is working to build a grassroots network in all 435 Congressional Districts to make this demand a reality.
*Action Request: *Host a local meeting during the week of November 1-8 to help build a grassroots network for full federal marriage equality. Check the map here (http://equalityacrossamerica.org/) to see if an event is already planned for your area. If not, you can download an organizer's toolkit (http://equalityacrossamerica.org/docs/eaatoolkit1.pdf) (.pdf) and register your own event. (http://equalityacrossamerica.org/organize#signup)
*Contact for more info:* info@nationalequalitymarch.com
*
.......................................................................................
*
WNPJ is forwarding these weekly alerts from membership and national affiliates. WNPJ is not responsible for the content, or the contact links for websites & phone numbers. Questions about the Alerts? Please contact the person listed in the alert. If you are a WNPJ member and have an alert you would like posted in this weekly WNPJ Action Alert e-bulletin that comes out mid-week, please send it for review to Steve Burns, WNPJ Program Director at: outreach@wnpj.org. Thanks to UW-Madison work-study student Michaela Machicote for her assistance with these Action Alerts. michaela@wnpj.org

Democracy: Battery edition

2009-10-19T18:08:00.003-10:00

Remember that great moment in The Matrix when Neo wakes up and realizes that he's merely a battery in an immense machine?

Welcome to the Health Care Reform Matrix.

Matt Taibbi walks you through the machine in a very depressing article about so-called health care reform in the September Rolling Stone. Read it.

"We might look back on this summer someday and think of it as the moment when our government lost us for good. It was that bad."

Then, listen to the interview from today's Kathleen Dunn program on Wisconsin Public Radio.

You'll learn that the fix has been in for many months. The Obama White House shook down health industry lobbyists for money to propagandize the American people (if the government had paid it would have been illegal.) You'll learn about deals made with pharmaceutical companies including one that extends drug patents (as if they hadn't gotten enough already) and, of course, no negotiations to pay true costs. You'll understand why Olympia Snowe has become our nation's 45th president and why Max Baucus' bill will be The One and why single payer was "off the table" from the very beginning.

Then, go ahead, and call Ron Kind and ask him to support what most people really want - single payer universal health coverage or even a "robust" pubic option that's not just the rug under which all the uninsurables are swept. Ha ha ha.

You are just a battery.

All that's left of health care reform is a collection of piece-of-shit, weakling proposals that are preposterously expensive and contain almost nothing meaningful — and that set of proposals, meanwhile, is being negotiated down even further by the endlessly negating Group of Six. It is a fight to the finish now between Really Bad and Even Worse. And it's virtually guaranteed to sour the public on reform efforts for years to come.

"They'll pass some weak, mediocre plan that breaks the bank and even in the best analysis leaves 37 million people uninsured," says Mokhiber, one of the single-payer activists arrested by Baucus. "It's going to give universal health care a bad name."

Pennies for Peace

2009-10-14T18:27:00.003-10:00

Central High's Amnesty International group is raising funds through Greg Mortenson's Pennies for Peace campaign to fund a school for girls in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Their goal is to raise $45,000 by February 1, 2010. If you would like to help with this worthy project, please send a check (I think payable to Pennies for Peace) to Central High School, Attention Ms. Newgard-Larson, 1801 Losey Blvd. S., La Crosse, WI 54601.

UN Day in La Crosse

2009-10-13T17:44:00.003-10:00

Veteran activist, Ray Starrett, has good news! The Mayor of La Crosse will proclaim Saturday, October 24 La Crosse - UN Day! Ray is founder of the La Crosse United Nations Association.

Please show support for this proclamation by attending the ceremony on Saturday, October 24 at 10:00 a.m. on the south side of City Hall.

Hope? Nope.

2009-09-10T03:35:00.001-10:00

ACT NOW TO SAVE PUBLIC OPTION

2009-08-22T15:27:00.002-10:00

From FireDogLake:

Sixty-five members of the House drew a line in the sand: no public option, no health care bill.

Unfortunately, the "Blue Dogs" have drawn their own line in the sand: Blue Dog: Votes aren't there to go it alone on public option

You can sign this petition to progressive members to let them know you have their backs, and to remind them that they cannot vote for anything but a public option in both the House bill AND the conference bill. But you will also need to call - call every day - to urge Ron Kind and leaders in the house and senate.

Think we can afford to do nothing?

Without reform, health insurance rates to nearly double in 11 years

"Democracy" and Health Care Reform

2009-08-20T06:09:00.004-10:00

During the election of 2008, Ralph Nader was roundly excoriated for his election night comment, "To put it very simply, he is our first African American president, or he will be, and we wish him well. But his choice, basically, is whether he's going to be Uncle Sam for the people of this country, or Uncle Tom for the giant corporations."

With the latest health care/health insurance "reform" debacle, it's pretty clear that Obama has chosen Tom over Sam.

A recent column by Glenn Greenwald at Salon.com makes the case:

"The Obama White House isn't sitting impotently by while Democratic Senators shove a bad bill down its throat. This is the bill because this is the bill which Democratic leaders are happy to have. It's the bill they believe in. As important, by giving the insurance and pharmaceutical industries most everything they want, it ensures that the GOP doesn't become the repository for the largesse of those industries (and, converesly, that the Democratic Party retains that status). This is how things always work. The industry interests which own and control our government always get their way. When is the last time they didn't? The "public option" was something that was designed to excite and placate progressives (who gave up from the start on a single-payer approach) -- and the vast, vast majority of progressives (all but the most loyal Obama supporters) who are invested in this issue have been emphatic about how central a public option is to their support for health care reform. But it seems clear that the White House and key Democrats were always planning on negotiating it away in exchange for industry support. Isn't that how it always works in Washington? No matter how many Democrats are elected, no matter which party controls the levers of government, the same set of narrow monied interests and right-wing values dictate outcomes, even if it means running roughshod over the interests of ordinary citizens (securing lower costs and expanding coverage) and/or what large majorities want."

So, this is what we canvassed and called and donated and worked for? I don't think so.

Supposedly, Obama is fond of quoting President Franklin Roosevelt, who urged supporters of legislation he favored to "make me do it." On the surface, this sounds like an invitation to participatory Democracy - get out there and fight for the policies you believe in. But, when the person urging you to fight, is found to be supporting and supplying the opposition, it turns into a cruel torture.

Take the Ron Kind [not] listening sessions scheduled for the hinterlands (but not La Crosse) this week. To make things more manageable, Kind will have attendees take numbers and speakers whose numbers are drawn will have two minutes to speak. Apparently, at the Richland Center session, with 500 people in attendance, 25 speakers (five per cent) were allowed to speak. With no guarantee, based on past experience, that anything any constituent says makes any difference whatsoever in Kind's actions or votes, this, too, looks less like a democratic forum and more like something a bully might dream up.

In Afghanistan, elections have just been held. More than fifty political parties were on the ballot. Here, two, or if you believe Nader, one.

Paul Krugman's recent post on Commondreams.org, makes the case that Democrats are not evil, duopolist bullies, but rather, incredibly gullible political dimwits: "So far, at least, the Obama administration’s response to the outpouring of hate on the right has had a deer-in-the-headlights quality. It’s as if officials still can’t wrap their minds around the fact that things like this can happen to people who aren’t named Clinton, as if they keep expecting the nonsense to just go away."

Either way, we are screwed.

Just say, HELL, YES! to health care reform NOW

2009-07-28T19:51:00.003-10:00

Feingold listening sessions - Saturday August 1

7:30 a.m. in La Crosse - City Hall, 400 La Crosse Street

10:30 a.m. in Chaseburg Village Hall

KIND HEALTH SESSION JULY 1 9 A.M.

2009-06-30T09:31:00.001-10:00

From the Tribune:

U.S. Rep. Ron Kind will host a panel discussion on health care reform Wednesday in La Crosse.

The public forum is from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the La Crosse Public Library, 800 Main St. The panel will include a hospital administrator, physician, small-business owner and laborer, and will focus on how health care reforms would affect businesses and families in western Wisconsin.

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

What do we want?

Single payer universal health care!

When do we want it?

NOW!

LOTS of important stuff!

2009-05-23T06:41:00.003-10:00

Sorry to dump all this at once but I just have not had time to update regularly. If you can make it to one or more of these important events, please go!

It's especially important for all of us to push back against the bland and dangerous "middle" that is fast destroying our hopes for true change in environment and health care policy. See more below this event list:

Wednesday, May 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church (1010 Sill St.) - TREATMENT INSTEAD OF PRISON! sponsored by AMOS. A Restorative Justice Forum with rick Raemish, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Corrections; Judge Elliot Levine, La Crosse County Circuit Court; Tim Gruenke, La Crosse County District Attorney. For more info, see the AMOS web site.

Thursday, May 28 at 2:45 p.m. at the Amtrak Station in La Crosse (601 St. Andrew St.) - RALLY FOR HIGH SPEED RAIL! sponsored by UW-L Environmental Council and WISPIRG. For more info and/or to RSVP visit the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=89800911125&mid=820be0G28dac05eG1bf4b0bG7

Thursday, May 28 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ho-Chunk Three Rivers House (corner of 8th and Main Streets in La Crosse) - Wisconsin's Electric Energy Future with Commissioner Mark Meyer, of the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) sponsored by the Clean Energy Coalition. Also on the agenda is discussion about Governor Doyle's Global Warming Task Force. For more info, please email Bill K.

Saturday, May 30 - NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION IN SUPPORT OF SINGLE PAYER UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE - NO LOCAL RALLY IS PLANNED, but please take this opportunity to write and call your representative and senators in support of this best, most cost effective option. See Health Care Now for more details.

Monday, June 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the Franciscan Spirituality Center (920 Market St.) - Judicial Independence Forum - Should we reform Wisconsin Supreme Court elections? sponsored by the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign, a non-partisan organization now building awareness of the Impartial Justice Bill scheduled for a May 27 public hearing: http://www.wisdc.org/pdf/joint-public-hearing-may-09.pdf

On the national front, our wonderful dear leaders are taking the middle path ensuring no significant change will occur in health care and environment issues.

HEALTH CARE - according to American Health Care Reform, the insurance and drug lobbies are buying their way into a sweetheart deal. Referencing a Washington Post March report, "Health insurers and drug makers have showered Congress with almost $6 million bucks to have their seat at the health reform table."

Seeing the handwriting on the wall, major providers and insurers apparently promised to lower costs by &2 trillion and Obama touted this as a "major breakthrough." But, this promise was quickly disputed by those who attended the meeting. And, even if it were true - $2 trillion over 10 years - who is going to hold them accountable?

And what about the reform that would benefit the most Americans at the lowest cost - single payer, universal health care? Off the table. In fact, some "moderate Democrats" have vowed to keep a public plan out of the mix of options now being considered. Ben Nelson (D-MT) has called a public option a "deal breaker."

On the other hand, in April, four major caucuses (Progressives, Black, Asian Pacific American, and Hispanic) sent a letter to Obama stating what's ON the table for them - ‘our support for enacting legislation this year to guarantee affordable health care for all firmly hinges on the inclusion of a robust public health insurance plan like Medicare.'

With big bucks and "bought" Dems (and don't forget the loopy Republicans) and Obama's mastery of making something out of nothing, unless there is a major public outcry, the best, most cost effective health care reform plan will not see the light of day.

ENVIRONMENT - Well, we knew this had to happen! "Coal, Electric Industries Big Winners in Climate Bill Deal." In fact, this bill is so flawed that major environmental groups are not supporting it.

Really, it's too depressing. Watch this Democracy Now! program for more info.

Energy Fair Coming - Take the BUS!

2009-05-05T06:16:00.004-10:00

This just in - don't miss out:

The People's Food Co-op will sponsor a bus trip to this year's MREA Energy Fair on Saturday, June 20. Here are the details:

SATURDAY, JUNE 20
Coach (56 passenger with bathroom facilities)
Bus Cost: $15 (Fair admission separate - see below)

7:00 a.m. - Depart PFC parking lot
9:30 - Arrive at Energy Fair in Custer WI
6:15 p.m. - Depart Energy Fair
9:00 – Arrive at PFC parking lot

FAIR Admission (pay at gate): $15 (general); $10 (+65); $10 (13-18); Free (12 & under)

NOTE: MREA gives $5 off admission for bus goers (coupon given on bus). SIGN UP BY June 6! (Last year's bus sold out early!) There are no cancellations after registration (unless we have a wait list).

If interested, please email Vicki or call the People's Food Co-op, 784-5798.

What do we want? Universal single payer health CARE!

2009-04-08T16:20:00.004-10:00

TELL RON KIND THAT WE WANT
SINGLE PAYER UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE!

APRIL 13

4:30 TO 6:00 P.M.

VALHALLA, CARTWRIGHT CENTER

UW-LA CROSSE

1741 STATE STREET

Tell Ron Kind: CO-SPONSOR and PASS HR 676 -
The United States National Healthcare Insurance Act

It's amazing that the insurance companies and their lobbyists have such a hold on our politicians that even at the Obama health care "summit" in March, those who represented a single payer, universal health care plan were at first excluded entirely, then allowed admittance but virtually ignored.

The facts are undeniable. According to Physicians for a National Health Program, administration consumes at least 31% of U.S. health care spending. The administrative costs of the Medicare program are around 3%.

For the whole picture, download and read the extensive Single Payer/Medicare for All - An Economic Stimulus Plan for the Nation.

If we don't push now for a health CARE (NOT INSURANCE) program that covers everyone for basic and necessary services, we will be stuck with a crushingly expensive welfare program for insurance companies (can you say Medicare Part D?) for a long tie to come.

And every week you will be invited to attend a silent auction, spaghetti dinner or some other fundraiser for a friend, relative, neighbor or co-worker who is seriously ill but has no insurance. If this doesn't make you boiling mad, you should not be visiting this blog!

(And please GET WELL SOON, Guy!)

Sustainability is NOT a four letter word

2009-02-24T17:51:00.002-10:00

Sometimes you have to wonder what some people are thinking. Certain La Crosse Common Council members are having trouble with the Sustainable La Crosse legislation on which a group of committed volunteers has worked long and hard. Dick Mial's column in today's Tribune gives you a few examples of some of the nutso ideas that must be overcome if this meekest of plans is to be implemented.

The very idea that the government might actually be involved in people's and, yes, businesses', lives seems to irk some people (who don't seem to wonder at their government certified clean air and water, their government protected streets, their government subsidized electricity and internet access, their government inspected food (well, hmmm, maybe NOT that one) ... you get the idea.)

But, equally disturbing, are the people who just don't get that this is a real crisis. If you ask me, the time for suggesting is over and now it's time for some real mandates and I mean mandates on private individuals and business, yes.

For example, we now forbid people from burning waste in their back yards. Why? Because the smoke and smell is a nuisance, it's a fire hazard, and worst of all, it's a major health hazard, especially when people burn plastics and other things that should not be burned. It's a government mandate that you NOT burn your trash and it's for the good of all that this mandate exists.

Now it's time to mandate a few more things. I'm all for mandating that businesses selling electrical appliances and toys (ceiling fans, refrigerators, televisions, etc.) turn them OFF. I think we all know what a ceiling fan looks like whether it's moving or not. Or how about the city mandating that any group using city facilities pay a carbon tax for the electricity they use. And that tax increases as more power is consumed. (Yes, I am out to END the wasteful and polluting Rotary Lights as we know it!)

I'm also in favor of mandating that private individuals quit wasting energy with crappy windows and minimal insulation. If I were king, the city would go neighborhood by neighborhood and do an energy audit of every house, then work with homeowners to WEATHERIZE - upgrade doors and windows, insulate, seal cracks, etc. Why couldn't the city offer low or no interest long term loans, paid for by the stimulus bill, to be paid on property tax bills, for homeowners to do this? Homeowners would save on energy costs, people would be put to work building and installing upgrades and utility companies would not have a leg to stand on when they wail about increasing energy demand. (The latest National Geographic magazine has a great feature article on energy conservation we can all do right now.)

And, while they're at it, the city should ensure that homeowners who DO upgrade to save the planet aren't punished for it by higher property taxes. Maybe each neighborhood could be like an energy TIF district, where the payback for the upgrades, say at 0% over 30 to 40 years, takes the place of any property reassessment due to the energy enhancement of the property. And after the 30 or 40 years, then the enhancements can be used to increase the property taxes (assuming the world doesn't end in 2012 or something (since apparently the Y2K apocalypse didn't work out as planned.))

It doesn't have to be Draconian.

The City of Austin does an annual Kill-A-Watt Challenge and businesses participating see a great financial savings from reducing their energy costs. Even Wal-Mart, which has started its own energy challenge, is requiring that suppliers start using less energy too.

One elderly person I talked with was afraid she would be required to ride a bike or [gasp] SHARE A RIDE with someone if the sustainability plan passes! Rather than scare old and overweight people with visions of bicycle torture, why not make it an offer they can't refuse by charging much higher parking fees, increasing frequency and convenience of public transportation (hey! THAT one IS in the sustainability plan) and using the $20/month bicycle incentive in last year's stimulus bill to get some of those big behinds out of the Lexus and onto a bicycle (or at least a bus seat.) Why should those of us who have to BREATHE for a living subsidize fat asses who insist on driving everywhere and clogging our air with asthma inducing pollutants?

The sustainabilty plan is a good start, but to me it doesn't go far enough. Read it and then contact your council representative to vote for this important first step. (And while you're at it, ask her/him to see about getting council meeting agendas posted on the city's website at least one or two days in advance of council meetings!)

Run for cover or stand and fight

2009-02-07T17:36:00.007-10:00

The Republicans have left the jungle gym and are in hot pursuit of their latest target, progressive nominee for Secretary of Labor, Hilda Solis.

First an anonymous hold, then more time to "review her responses" to their questions, then a minor business tax owed by her husband threatened to stop her nomination.

The Nation magazine comes to the point,

The real problem for her opponents is that under Solis, the Department of Labor would once again defend the rights of workers after eight years of repealing, reducing and blatantly ignoring workplace laws and regulations. As a state senator, Solis authored the first environmental justice law in the nation, and she has since said she is committed to creating green jobs. She also told the Senate that she would address the retirement security crisis; ensure that workplaces are safe, healthy, and fair; and protect workers from job discrimination.

--- snip ---

Solis has been one of Congress' strongest backers of the Employee Free Choice Act, serving as a co-sponsor of the measure in 2007, and her nomination is turning out to be an early proxy fight over the legislation itself.

Given that conservatives are going all out to block Solis's appointment, and the fierce and effective right-wing effort to push back the stimulus package, it's crucial that your elected reps hear how many Americans support President Obama's pick for labor.

Some thought the battle was over in November, but that was just the opening round. Every progressive change will be a new battle. So, get on the phone, write that email, mail that letter. This one's worth fighting for.

Push the "stim"

2009-02-03T07:33:00.002-10:00

This is from Campaign for America's Future via www.dailykos.com:

The word on the street here in Washington is that the right is killing us with phone calls to Congress on the Obama economic recovery plan. One congressperson said the calls are running 100 to 1 against it.

The legislation is now on the Senate floor. If senators perceive that Americans side with Obama in this fight—which several polls say they are—that will strengthen the power of progressives in the debate and we’ll get a good bill. If, on the other hand, senators are only feeling the heat from conservatives, then our advocates will be weakened and we’ll get a lousy bill. That’s just the way things go on Capitol Hill....

That means pick up the telephone and call 202-224-3121 (or use the toll-free service at 866-544-7573). Ask the Capitol operator to transfer you to one of your state’s U.S. senators. When you’re connected, say you’re calling to urge your senator to "support the Obama economic recovery plan and oppose all conservative amendments." Call back and repeat for your other senator. Then contact everyone you know and urge them to do the same.

Senate switchboard: (202) 224-3121

Feingold: (202) 224-5323 or contact form

Kohl: (202) 224-5653 or contact form

THANK YOU!

2009-01-31T10:29:00.005-10:00

Thanks to all who worked on and attended the 2009 Coulee Progressives State of the Union!

Planning committee: Kevin, Jessica, RoZ and Obbie, Hank, Guy, Cathy
Flyer: Obbie
Venue: Concodia Ballroom
Soup & Salad: RoZ, Guy, Jess, Cathy, Kevin
Bread donation: Fayze's Restaurant
Guest speaker: Ben Manski
Speaker host: Hank
Emcee: Obbie
Year in Review: Guy (and Kevin?)
Power cord for projector: anonymous angel!

Thanks to everyone else for attending, networking, sharing, bringing great desserts, bringing food donations, helping to set up and helping to clean up!

By tomorrow, we will try to have links/contact info for all groups represented at the Community Fair in case you missed someone.

Please help us make this event bigger and better (yes, bigger IS better in this case) next year by completing the survey!

Please feel free to add your comments!

It's a NEW DAY! [Updated]

2009-01-21T04:50:00.011-10:00

Have you been inspired and energized by Martin Luther King day events and the inauguration of Barack Obama? Here's your chance to get involved!

The FIFTH ANNUAL Coulee Progressives State of the Union will be held on Friday, January 30 at the Concordia Ballroom, 1129 La Crosse Street. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. to the annual Community Fair - lots of local, regional and national organizations and groups letting you know what's going on and giving you the opportunity to sign up to volunteer. Of course, free food and a cash bar and wonderful music and lots of idea sharing will add to the enjoyment.

At 7:30, Ben Manski of the Liberty Tree Foundation for the Democratic Revolution will speak.

[UPDATE:] We will also get a preview of the new video Transportation Liberation and have a great look back at actions and events of 2008!

Entrance is by sliding scale donation (we use entrance fees to help pay for the hall) and you are welcome to bring a dessert to share and/or a non-perishable donation for local food pantries.

Groups, organizations, candidates who want table space during the Community Fair should email CouleeProgressive@hotmail.com.

Updated: Confirmed tablers (so far - will update over the weekend. If you should be on this list, please email me!)

African American Cultural Alliance of La Crosse
American Civil Liberties Union
AMOS/Jubilee Center
Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin
Clean Energy Coalition
Coulee Partners for Sustainability
Coulee Region Sierra Club
Driftless Region Bicycle Coalition
La Crosse Area Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee
La Crosse Area Freethought Society
La Crosse Citizen Advocacy
La Crosse County Democratic Party
La Crosse Interfaith Coalition for Justice and Peace
Lenard for Mayor of La Crosse
Londre for Shelby Town Board
LGBT Center of the 7 Rivers Region
Three Rivers Waldorf School
United Nations Association of La Crosse
Upper Mississippi Anarchy
UW-L Progressives
Vets for Peace/War Moratorium
Wisconsin Farmers Union
Women in Black

YES!

2009-01-20T07:41:00.000-10:00

National Single Payer Health Call in Day

2009-01-14T14:34:00.004-10:00

from Wisconsin Network for Peace and Justice:

Call Congress - Support HR 676 – Single Payer Healthcare. Call 1-202-224-3121

United For Peace and Justice encourages you to join this nationwide Congressional call-in day. This is the second such call-in day, organized by the Leadership Conference for Guaranteed Healthcare - National Single Payer Coalition.

Make your calls to the Washington, D.C. offices of the House of Representatives. HR 676 has been reintroduced in the 111th Congress. There are 86 cosponsors in the House from the 110th Congress who have been sworn into the 111th session. The goal set by the National Single Payer Coalition is to double those sponsors through this massive call-in on Thursday and other efforts. [You can see a map of who is a co-sponsor at this web site. You guessed it! Ron Kind is NOT a co-sponsor! - CP]

If you do not know who your Representative is or how to reach her/him, click on to congress.org -- and then enter your zip code on the upper right corner where it says "Find Your Officials". The Congressional call-in number is 202-224-3121.

When you make the call, be sure to ask if your Representative is already a sponsor of HR 676. If they are, thank them and urge them to do all they can to help it pass.

If your Representative is not yet a sponsor, urge them to become one now. (Visit Healthcare NOW for talking points.) They can also attend a briefing on HR 676 that will be held on Wednesday, January 28 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the halls of Congress.

If you can make one more call, please call one or both of your Senators to support companion legislation to HR 676 in the Senate.

Important Corporate Law Case Coming

2009-01-10T13:11:00.003-10:00

from OneWisconsinNow.org:

The headline reads "Case could rewrite corporate law in Wisconsin” and arguments before the Wisconsin State Supreme Court begin this week.

Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce has already made it known how it would like the Wisconsin Supreme Court to rule.

And who can forget the millions of dollars WMC spent supporting corporate-friendly and ethically-challenged judges Michael Gableman and Annette Ziegler?

Haven’t you had enough? It's time WMC-backed justices Gableman and Ziegler remove themselves from ruling on this case. Sign the petition below and demand Justices Ziegler and Gableman recuse from the Virnich and Moores case.

In 2006, A jury ordered the owners of Communications Products Corporation, Daniel Virnich and Jack Moores, pay $6.5 million in damages after the pair took over $10 million from the company as they drove it into the ground. Dozens of workers were out of jobs when the company went under, and Communications Products Corp. refused to fulfill its union contract and pay workers their due. All the while, Virnich and Moores continued to collect huge payments from the company.

When WMC gets its way, it means fewer rights for workers and more breaks for corporations. Labor lawyers have said that allowing owners like Virnich and Moores to get rich on the backs of workers would "weaken future collective bargaining agreements and companies' duties to meet their obligations."

Please take just a moment and sign on to the petition demanding Gableman and Ziegler recuse themselves. But don't just sign—get five friends to sign too. Together, we'll stand strong with our workers and fight back against the corporate greed of WMC.

Follow this link to sign the petition:

Justices Annette Ziegler and Michael Gableman,

I am writing to request you recuse yourself from participating in the upcoming case before the Wisconsin State Supreme Court involving the former Communication Products Corporation. As you know, oral arguments are set to start, Wednesday, January 7.

Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce not only filed a brief at the appeals level but also reiterated its sentiments and desired outcome of the case in the media just days ago.

Because of the millions of dollars spent by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce which benefited both of your races for Supreme Court, your continued participation would raises serious concerns about your impartiality on this case.

To ensure a Wisconsin Supreme Court with the highest ethical standards, I respectfully request you withdraw from participation in this case.

Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]

Martin Luther King, Jr.

2009-01-09T03:33:00.004-10:00

A community celebration and commemoration of the life and ideas of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will be held on MONDAY, JANUARY 19 at 7 p.m. at the English Lutheran Church, 1509 King Street, La Crosse. The featured speaker will be Reverend Everett Mitchell, of the Madison-area Urban Ministry with music by the Tommy Wesley Gospel Choir. Doors open at 6:30. Free admission. Sponsored by La Crosse County, Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center and Franciscan Skemp Healthcare.

Please print out and distribute the flyer!

"It is not enough to say we must not wage war. It is necessary to love peace and sacrifice for it."

More last minute notice

2009-01-08T09:05:00.002-10:00

From the Tribune:

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation will take public comment in La Crosse today on its draft long-range transportation plan, Connections 2030. A public meeting will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. at the UW-La Crosse Cartwright Center. Area residents are invited to attend to learn about the plan, ask questions and submit comments. The DOT also welcomes comments and questions via phone at (608) 266-8108, or on the Connections 2030 Web site at www.wiconnections2030.gov. Comments will be received until Feb. 27.

The draft plan summary includes:

Support BICYCLE and PEDESTRIAN facilities and plans.:
*Increase accommodations along state trunk highways, where feasible, to develop a connected bike and pedestrian network
* Expand the federal “complete streets” policy to state funded projects
* Continue to implement the state’s bike and pedestrian plan goals

As for PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION:
* Support public, specialized and human services transit.
* Work with partners to ensure that adequate funding is available for existing transit systems and improve coordination among providers
* Seek new funds for rural and regional transit systems to improve coordination between the state’s transit systems
* Improve intercity bus service and connections.
* Promote intercity bus service that links urban and rural areas, and connects to other modes
* Establish a state program to fund service, improve station facilities and purchase new buses

And RAIL SERVICE
* Support development of fixed-guideway transit systems.
* Continue state funding for studies and implementation
* Recommend new, separate operating funds for new fixed-guideway transit systems receiving state assistance, and develop a capital and operating assistance program in
major metropolitan areas
* Increase intercity passenger rail service.
* Continue to improve intercity passenger rail service by supporting existing service and implementing the state’s component of the 3,000-mile Midwest Regional Rail System
* Establish a rail station capital assistance program for existing buildings and constructing new stations, and promote connections with other modes such as local and interregional bus, taxi and air service
* Consider opportunities »to extend intercity
passenger rail service to areas of the state not identified in the Midwest Regional Rail System.

Most important (to me):
Encourage transportation demand strategies.
*Encourage alternatives »to driving alone by promoting ride sharing and telecommuting, providing more transportation service choices and improving modal connections
* Integrate transportation demand management strategies and corridor management

There's more at the link above. And/Or attend tonight's public meeting. Maybe in a few decades our public transportation system will begin to meet the needs of the last century!

Advance notice?

2009-01-07T09:00:00.001-10:00

From the Tribune:

Wisconsin Sen. Dan Kapanke is inviting constituents to his new La Crosse office for an open house Thursday.

Kapanke, who was elected in November to his second term, will be on hand to take questions and talk about the 2009 legislative session. A projected $5.4 billion shortfall is likely to dominate most of the session as lawmakers struggle to balance the state’s budget.

Visitors are welcome between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. in suite 308 of the Exchange Building, 205 Fifth Avenue S. A light lunch will be served.

2009 Progressive State of the Union

2009-01-01T14:05:00.005-10:00

The 2009 Coulee Progressive State of the Union will take place on Friday, January 30th at the Concordia Ballroom, 1129 La Crosse Street.

The evening begins at 5:30 pm with a Community Activism Fair. Our keynote address will begin at approximately 7:30 pm. This year's keynote speaker is Ben Manski, Executive Director for the Liberty Tree Foundation for the Democratic Revolution. Mr. Manski will address this year's theme: A NEW DAY.

A donation of $2 -$20 at the door will get you a simple meal and plenty of networking opportunities with other area progressives. As in years past, we will collect non-perishable food items for donation to local food pantries.

If you are interested in volunteering, or would like to reserve a table for ther Community Fair, please e-mail Cathy Van Maren at cvmaren@mwt.net or Jessica Thill at thill.jess@gmail.com before January 15th.

See you there!

More CAPX2020 Open Houses

2008-12-05T03:56:00.001-10:00

from The La Crosse Tribune:

Representatives of CapX 2020 — the $1.7 billion proposal to upgrade high-voltage power transmission lines from the Twin Cities through Rochester, Minn., and ending in the La Crosse area — will host open houses about the project.

The open houses will include maps with proposed route options.
The 11 utilities involved in the project are reviewing and collecting data about the route options, including three potential sites for crossing the Mississippi River at Alma, Wis., Winona and La Crescent, Minn.

The schedule includes:

-Winona, Minn.: 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Riverport Inn, 900 Bruski Drive Winona.

-Alma, Wis.: 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Alma High School, S1618 Hwy. 35.

-Centerville: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Centerville Community Center/Curling Club, W24854 Hwy. 54/93.

-La Crescent, Minn.: 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, La Crescent American Legion, 509 North Chestnut St.

Do we NEED it? No. Electricity use is going down and since we haven't really even started yet on the CONSERVATION plan that should be at the top of the global warming list, we can expect it to drop even more.

New ways to locally generate electricity are springing up by the hour including this great idea from researchers at the University of Michigan:

It has been estimated that if less than 0.1% of the renewable energy available within the oceans could be converted into electricity, it would satisfy the present world demand for energy more than five times over. ...

OWC [Oscillating Water Column] is economically viable design due to it's simple geometrical construction and also strong enough to withstand against the waves with different heights and different wave periods and directions. This design consists of a rectangular chamber and a pyramidal top which is installed on top of the chamber . .A conical duct is erected on the pyramidal top to reciprocally move the air from the chamber and into the chamber during the process of wave approach and wave leaves the Chamber. A special turbine which is mounted on top of the duct is subjected to turn at one direction as the airflow moves bi-directional. A generator is coupled to the turbine that produces electricity by rotating it's armature shaft which is coupled with the turbine shaft.

Or, simpler, VIVACE (Vortex Induced Vibrations for Aquatic Clean Energy):

Researchers claim to have fashioned a fish-like hydrokinetic scheme that harnesses both fast and slow underwater currents to generate electricity. Called Vivace, for Vortex Induced Vibrations for Aquatic Clean Energy, the technique has the potential to generate electricity, even from lazy river currents, at a cost lower than other energy sources. Michael Bernitsas, a professor at the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor), also has launched a company, Vortex Hydro Energy, to commercialize the technology. The technique mimics the ability of fish to use underwater vortices to swim upstream.

Or, what about harnessing the foot power of all those people at the mall or in hospitals to generate electricity?

Engineers and scientists are developing tiny generators that turn the kinetic energy of everyday movements into electricity which can then power sensors or provide electricity for remote installations.

The technology, known as power harvesting, is already being tested in helicopter frames, the floors of discos and in volunteers' knee joints in order to generate electricity. In the near future, harvesters could be used to recharge iPods and mobile phones, say researchers.

But, wait, what about all those cars? Couldn't they generate electricity, too?

In short, we are at a fork in the road, similar to one faced a century ago when the horseless carriage first appeared. Should we build more barns and plan for more horse poo? Or should we consider that things are going to be very different very soon and the old necessities and solutions (CAPX2020) are just going to be wasteful relics and costly mistakes.

With conservation and LOCAL OR REGIONAL power generation, the need for huge powerlines will be a thing of the past. But only if we make it so.

Giving Good

2008-11-24T04:28:00.002-10:00

There are many opportunities to support local and international groups this holiday season. Some help out local organizations and some help people around the world. The La Crosse Tribune had a nice spread on Sunday about Nine gifts that give back. Included in their list is Heifer International, a wonderful organization that really does "spread the wealth around."

Locally, don't miss the Fair Trade Market on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 1 and 2 in the Ward Room, Cartwright Center, UW-L.

Also, consider a gift to your local peace and justice group, women's shelter (New Horizons lost $35K in county funding and they need your help!) or educational institution.

It GOT to be REAL!

2008-11-18T03:19:00.003-10:00

Friday, November 21, you're invited to join together for food, fun and fellowship at the first annual African-American Cultural Alliance R&B Karaoke-thon, "It Got to be Real," from 5 to 11 p.m. at the Concordia Ballroom (1129 La Crosse Street).

The purpose of the event is to establish a non-profit community based organization. This is a Free event and the public is welcome! For more information call: (608) 789-6270

YOU can help identify high priorities for sustainability in La Crosse

2008-11-16T19:32:00.004-10:00

I recently received an invitation to participate in a La Crosse Joint Oversight Committee on Sustainability survey and I'm passing it along to you. Note - the deadline is November 22! (emphasis added):

Our committee consists of seven members, including three City representatives, three County representatives, and one community member ... . We are writing a "Strategic Plan for Sustainability", which will be formally presented to the City Council and the County Board for their consideration and adoption. If you are interested in helping out with this endeavor, we invite you to complete a very short online survey. The results of this survey will help us identify high priority sustainability issues that the strategic plan should address.

The survey consists of two questions. The first question simply asks you to select (and rank) the 5 highest priority issues from a list of 19 sustainability issues. The second question asks you to, "Give us your best idea – a specific initiative or innovation - that would help make the La Crosse area a more sustainable place to live."

Survey responses are completely anonymous. The survey does not ask for your name, nor does it record who completes the survey. We will simply tabulate the results and use them as we complete the strategic plan.

If you would like to participate, please complete the survey by 10 p.m. Saturday, November 22.

Your help in making La Crosse a more sustainable community is greatly appreciated.

We're Baaaack!

2008-11-14T20:15:00.002-10:00

I've bobbed to the surface in the whirlpool of work, family, sleep and other stuff and just in time, too!

Saturday - meet at 12:30 p.m. on the La Crosse Street side of City Hall to show support for repeal of California's Proposition 8 and a nationwide end to discrimination against the GLBT community. You can also sign the "Repeal Prop 8" pledge now and forward this to your friends as soon as possible.

Tuesday at noon - 1Sky Day of Action - meet at Ron Kind's Office (5th and Jay) to urge his support for climate protection legislation. (Sponsored by 1Sky Initiative, League of Women Voters, Sierra Club and others.) For more info, contact John Stewart 214-707-0340.

Tuesday at 6 p.m., it's RETHINKING THANKSGIVING, a community feast and discussion at the Ho-Chunk Three Rivers House, 724 Main Street. Take a look at the historical and contemporary issues facing indigenous people and celebrate the harvest. Everyone invited. FREE. Also, this year we will collect coats and jackets for those who need them.

Thursday at 7 p.m. - Clean Energy Coalition hosts a public forum at the Ho-Chunk Three Rivers House, 724 Main Street. on CAPX2020 with featured speakers Tim Carlsgaard, representing CapX 2020, the consortium of eleven utilities that is planning the expansion of the transmission grid across the Midwest and Carol Overland, a Minnesota attorney who is an intervener opposing CapX2020 (www.nocapx2020.info) For more info on the forum, email Bill.

La Crosse is about to witness the construction of a huge 345 kv transmission line across the river near downtown La Crosse, that will then head north on the river to French Island, then north and east to a substation between Onalaska and Holmen. Homeowners affected in Minnesota were notified, but those on French Island have not. This project, along its projected trajectory through Minnesota, has been the subject of many public meetings. But its impact in Wisconsin, only now, is coming to the attention of policy makers and governmental officials. Over the past few months several hearings have been held in La Crescent and other Minnesota sites with regard to some of these issues. But now, it is a hot issue for Wisconsin and specifically for La Crosse.

Still seeking some helpers to post regularly here and help keep up the calendar of events! Email for info.

Busy, busy, busy

2008-10-22T15:56:00.005-10:00

It's been almost a month since the last post. Lots of stuff has happened, is happening and will happen, but illness, work, family, farm and other life goings on have been overwhelming lately! It would be great if a few others would volunteer to post once a week or so, but I know my busy life is nothing compared to some others'!

So, this is a brief update - what's coming up immediately - and I hope to update the whole site this weekend and get on a better update schedule (but, I'm on dial up and it takes time!)

Friday is UN Day - to celebrate, Dr. Keith Knutson, Viterbo history professor, will speak on "How Can the US Regain its Leadership Role Regarding International Human Rights?" The setting will be Viterbo University's Reinhart Center Board Room, at 12:00 noon.

Friday at 6 p.m. at Valhala, UW-L Cartwright Center is a free musical kickoff to the final days of the campaign. Don't miss ROCK FOR BARACK featuring some of the great bands of our area (sponsored by UW-L Dems)

Sunday, October 26, plan to attend the Affordable Health Care for All Rally, sponsored by AMOS from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. at the English Lutheran Church, 1509 King Street.

On Thursday, October 30, the Clean Energy Coalition will have their monthly meeting at 7 p.m. at the Ho-Chunk Three Rivers House (8th and Main). This month's program will be "Harnessing Wind Energy in the Midwest," or "A T. Boone Pickens Plan for the Midwest," or "How will the Midwest Wean itself of Coal-produced Electricity?" Howard Kruger, of Ecoenergy (headquartered in Elgin, IL), will explain the projected construction of 195 to 200 wind turbines, producing 500 megawatts of energy, between Olmstead, Wabasha, and Winona Counties. Those attending will also receive a basic introduction to power lines: what currently exists and what would be needed to carry wind-produced electricity in western MN and SD to the power-hungry population centers along the Great Lakes. (Consider the October meeting a preparation for a debate about the CapX 2020 powerlines project, which will be the topic for the CEC forum on Thursday, Nov. 20.) For questions, contact billkatra@hotmail.com.

Volunteers are desperately needed in the last few days before the election. We cannot let up now. Did you know Wisconsin is listed as one of the states where real voter problems could be a major factor in the election? Check out this Salon.com voter suppression guide or read the entire Pew report or read Block the Vote in Rolling Stone mag or watch Prof. Mark Crispin Miller discuss his book, Loser Take All - Election Fraud and the Subversion of Democracy. We need to make sure people get out to vote if they haven't done so already and we need to be alert to possible problems (yes, even in quiet little western Wisconsin!) Call (608 785-5866) or sign up on the web site. Vols especially needed from November 1 through the 4th (make election day your own personal holiday and spend it helping the right people get elected!)

By the way, with the sad demise of cursor.org, I've been shopping around for a new go-to web site. While not as humorous or immediate, truthdig.com has great writers and important news. I highly recommend a visit there. Some of their recent postings include a great piece by Chris Hedges: The Idiots Who Rule America, A Week in Real America by Bob Boyarski and Going Poll Crazy (trying to make sense of election polls).

Updates to numbers, headlines and more coming this weekend. In the meantime, if you'd like to help keep this site up to date, please email Cathy.

[And, totally unrelated to anything above (except maybe the ELECTION) is this dire warning from the ACLU!]

VOLUNTEER!

2008-09-26T15:50:00.002-10:00

MANY more volunteers are needed right now in La Crosse. Please volunteer now!

Stop by the office and donate any time you can. You will not be pushed to do something you are not comfortable with. Here are the opportunities:
We will not push you to do something you are not comfortable with.

Volunteers needed for phone banking, canvassing, database entry, front desk help,
hosting house parties, registering new voters, writing letters to the editor, housing staff and driving voters to the polls on election day.

How important is this election to you and your family?

Stop by 127 S. 6th Street or Call at 608-785-5866. Do it NOW.

More nukes?

2008-09-24T03:43:00.003-10:00

Please join us for this important program!

IS MORE NUCLEAR ENERGY IN OUR FUTURE? on Thursday, September 25 at 7 p.m. at the Ho-Chunk Three Rivers House, 724 Main Street, La Crosse.

Special guest, John LaForge, co-founder of Nukewatch and editor of Nukewatch Quarterly, will speak. John has advised the Dutch and British governments on nuclear issues, has been active in all issues nuclear, from nuclear power and nuclear waste storage to food irradiaion, depleted uranium and Project ELF. John is widely recognized as a world class expert on nuclear issues.

Joining John are panelists Dr. Al Gedicks, UW-L Sociology Department, an expert on the processing and storage of nuclear materials and its impact on American Indian communities, and Mark “Spark” Burmaster and George Nygaard, citizen leaders in the effort to shut down the nuclear power plant in Genoa, Wisconsin in the 1980s.

Will Wisconsin lift its moratorium on nuclear power plants?

Is nuclear energy safe and clean?

Will nuclear power help ease the global warming crisis?

How will a nuclear energy program affect us?

Sponsored by the Clearn Energy Coalition, citizens educating themselves and their communities about important issues of energy and environment. For more info, email billkatra@hotmail.com

CarFree!

2008-09-13T13:59:00.006-10:00

From Purplearth:

To celebrate World Carfree Day, September 22, we
are helping to organize several events.

This coming Monday, Sept. 15 we'll present
Transportation Liberation at the
People's Food Co-op upstairs meeting
room, (315 Fifth Ave. S.) starting at 7 p.m.

On World Carfree Day, Monday, Sept. 22, we're having
a Carfree Equinox Party in Port O'Call in the Cartwright
Center at UW-L, starting at 7 p.m. There will be lots of 
information and exhibits about how to become
carfree, or at least carless. We'll present Transportation Liberation at 7:30. Then a
few people will talk about bike advocacy, the Bike/Ped Committee and Myrick Ecopark.
There will be DJ Muzik and snacks. Plus we'll have our recumbent tandem and trailer
for folks to check out.

This event is free and open to the public. This is a really important event for a city
that has committed to being an Eco-Municipality. Table space will be available if
you'd like to bring any relevant information or a carfree exhibit. Setup is from 6-7.
Please let me know if you want space.

Transportation Liberation is a multimedia show in which we discuss
many pragmatic ideas on how to make driving optional. Our 45-minute
show includes sights and sounds of good and bad transportation
methods, traffic calming, various kinds of biking accommodations and
why the driving infrastructure is not sustainable.

In June we were invited to give Transportation Liberation to a
international audience at the Towards Carfree Cities Conference in
Portland, Oregon. Our show was well received by over 200 people. Some
people said it's the best presentation they've ever seen.
To see a 5 minute preview go here http://www.purplearth.net/TransLib/index.php
Find out more about World Carfree Day here http://www.worldcarfree.net/wcfd/

Looking forward - Martin Luther King, Jr 2009 event

2008-09-10T17:04:00.002-10:00

No matter what happens in November, history marches on.

Be part of the planning for the 2009 Martin Luther King, Jr. event in La Crosse.

Email the Jubilee Center to get on the list - first planning meeting will be held during the week of September 22.

(Remember to volunteer NOW to help the living history move forward.)

Somethings happening . . .

2008-09-08T05:17:00.004-10:00

Lots of stuff is going on this fall. With students back on campus, campaigns in full swing, and important issues rolling headlong into the mix, it's going to be hard to attend everything!

A few things we can do will help. First, please email with your calendar items so I can put them on the list (right column, scroll down). Second, please check to see what else is happening before scheduling an event if at all possible. Every season we seem to end up with several days of overlapping important and great programs.

Third, if anyone would like to help me keep this calendar up to date in a timely manner (I have a busy life, too!) I would very much appreciate it! Please email me and we can discuss.

(Fourth - if you haven't yet signed up to volunteer for a campaign - DO IT NOW! Volunteers are desperately needed!)

In the meantime, just a note of a few important upcoming events.

On Sept. 10, the UW-L Obama campaign will kick off at 6 p.m. in Valhalla, Cartwright Center. Voter registration, speakers and more.

Also on Sept. 10 from 5 to 7, a reception for Cheryl Hancock will be at the Pump House with Jennifer Shilling and other elected officials.

Also on Sept. 10 (see what I mean!?), the great film, Why We Fight, will be shown at the Franciscan Spirituality Center on Market St. at 7 p.m.

One last calendar note: on Sept. 13 at 7 p.m. the American Friends Service Committee "Speak for Peace: U.S. Veterans and Iraqis Creating the Way Forward" will be held in room 337 Cartwright Center, UW-L.

Amy Goodman Violently Arrested at RNC

2008-09-01T17:56:00.002-10:00

Bill of Rights?

Time to act

2008-08-30T08:10:00.002-10:00

There are just about two months to go until the most important election in a long time.

While Barack Obama may not be the ideal candidate (he's definitely NOT an anti-war candidate and he is friendly to nuclear power), the stakes are too high, I believe, for casting about for another.

So, it's time to act. You can sign up at the website or visit the local headquarters at 127 S. 6th St. There's a training on Sunday, August 29. Go if you can.

Closer to home, Cheryl Hancock is taking on the well funded Mike Huebsch (and definitely needs a new web site!) Huebsch has blocked many strong progressive bills as leader of the state assembly. He must go if we are to achieve health care reform at the very least. And Tara Johnson is running against Dan Kapanke.

By the way, Wisconsin Public Radio recently featured a new book by John Grisham, The Appeal. Read it. While the story takes place in Mississippi, it might has well be Wisconsin.

We are not only facing a reinvigorated (by the selection of a fundamentalist high school basketball star as Republican vice-presidential candidate) reactionary right, anti-science voting block but also a state Republican party and their cronies who will do whatever they can to keep people from voting or at least muddy the issues or call into question the vote (thankfully, relatively sane people are still in control of the state elections board).

Check out this Grassroots Toolkit page offered by Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the largest spending Republican organizations in the state.

They are working for their candidates - are you?

Join the Grassroots Caravan Friday!

2008-08-21T12:50:00.004-10:00

The GrassRoutes Caravan is a group of 38 people traveling by bike from Madison to the Republican National Convention in St. Paul. They are passing through La Crosse on Friday, August 22 and will arrive at the Great River State Bike Trail head on County Highway B near the intersection with Highway 16. ANYONE WHO WANTS TO JOIN CAN MEET THE BIKERS AT THE TRAILHEAD ON COUNTY ROAD B! All human-powered vehicles and their riders are encouraged to join the Caravan for the ride along the marsh bike trails and downtown La Crosse to the Cameron Park Farmers' Market.

At 7:00 pm at Bluffland Bloom and Brew on 4th Street in Downtown La Crosse, riders will be giving performances of art, music by Madison folk singer Thistle, Nora and Gnoll from Springfield, Missouri, and a bilingual puppet show by the Neverwood Collective focused on getting beyond electoral politics. In addition, local advocates and activists, Obbie and RoZ, will present their video, Transportation Liberation

The next day riders will help at the Habitat for Humanity project at 1118 Liberty Street and the Kane Street Community Garden before heading to Winona.

The Caravan is a pedal-powered village on a mission of community service projects to help out with flood relief, community gardens, river clean-up and other needs in Wisconsin and Minnesota while transporting 38 riders to rally at the Republican National Convention in Minnesota without burning gasoline. This is not a protest; the Caravan will demonstrate in motion the power of the bicycle as a real form of transportation and a tool for the liberation of people who are willing to ride the distance together in intentional community.

For More Information about the Caravan you are encouraged to contact Kristine Pettersen or you can look online at www.PNC2RNC.org

Witness against war - August 14 in La Crosse

2008-08-13T07:21:00.003-10:00

Please welcome and join the Witness Against War folks on Thursday evening, August 14 at the La Crosse Public Library, 8th and Main Streets.

A potluck supper will start at 6:30 p.m. At 7:00 p.m. the peace walkers will talk about their mission. For more info on the Witness Against War: 2008 tour, visit the website of Voices for Creative Non-Violence.

Hiroshima Remembrance

2008-07-31T19:58:00.000-10:00

The Interfaith Justice and Peace Group, Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, Lutheran Office for Justice and Peace, Unitarian Universalist Social Justice Committee, Nukewatch are sponsoring this year's remembrance of the first use of a nuclear weapon. Details below, and for more information, call 786-2816.