Sunday, January 22, 2006
Blue Hearts 9.1.22.06
Hey All,
Here's the latest. It's heavy on opportunities to be involved, especially for local KC's. But there's something for everyone.
GENERAL STUFF:
Shop Whole Foods Market January 24 to Help Improve Farm Animal Quality of Life
Company Donating 5% of Day's Global Sales to Support Non-Profit Animal Compassion Foundation
Austin, Texas — January 2, 2006. Whole Foods Market announced today it will donate five percent of its total global sales on Tuesday, January 24 to the Animal Compassion Foundation (www.animalcompassionfoundation.org). The Animal Compassion Foundation is an independent non-profit 501c(3) organization created by Whole Foods Market in January 2005 that works to improve the lives of farm animals by serving as an interactive resource for ranchers, meat producers and researchers to learn and share practices that support the animals' physical needs, behaviors and well-being.
"The quest for cheap food in our society has created an industrialized model of meat production in which animals are bred and raised in conditions focused on efficiency rather than on the basic needs of the animal," said John Mackey, co-founder and CEO of Whole Foods Market. "As another important milestone on our path to being a responsible tenant of the planet, Whole Foods Market created the Animal Compassion Foundation to act as a forum in which meat producers can learn, share and be inspired to ensure animal welfare as a top priority."
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January 13, 2006
In New Orleans, Bush Speaks With Optimism but Sees Little of Ruin
By ELISABETH BUMILLER
NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 12 - President Bush made his first trip here in three months on Thursday and declared that New Orleans was "a heck of a place to bring your family" and that it had "some of the greatest food in the world and some wonderful fun."
Mr. Bush spent his brief visit in a meeting with political and business leaders on the edge of the Garden District, the grand neighborhood largely untouched by the floodwaters of Hurricane Katrina, and saw little devastation. He did not go into the city's hardest-hit areas or to Jackson Square, where several hundred girls from the Academy of the Sacred Heart staged a protest demanding stronger levees.
Mr. Bush's motorcade did pass some abandoned neighborhoods as it traveled on Interstate 10 into the city.
"It may be hard for you to see, but from when I first came here to today, New Orleans is reminding me of the city I used to come to visit," the president told the local leaders at the Convention and Visitors Bureau, an independent group set up to attract business and tourism to the city.
Mr. Bush added that "for folks around the country who are looking for a great place to have a convention, or a great place to visit, I'd suggest coming here to the great New Orleans."
Mr. Bush, who appeared to be trying to spread optimism in a city that is years away from recovery, did not tell the group or the city's residents what many were hoping to hear: that he would commit the federal government to building the strongest possible levees, a Category 5 storm protection system.
Instead, on a day when the Bush administration revised the deficit upward to more than $400 billion and blamed it largely on Hurricane Katrina, Mr. Bush restated his support for spending $3.1 billion of federal money on building "stronger and better" levees.
Local engineers say those levees would protect against the 100-mile-an-hour winds of a Category 2 hurricane and the low barometric pressure of a Category 3 or weak Category 4 storm. Hurricane Katrina peaked as a Category 5 storm in the Gulf of Mexico and hit land as a Category 3 storm.
The president ignored questions about the city's new rebuilding plan, introduced Wednesday night to enormous community criticism, and White House officials traveling with Mr. Bush declined to offer opinions. The plan, which depends on nearly $17 billion more from the federal government, gives neighborhoods in low-lying parts of the city from four months to a year to attract sufficient numbers of residents or be bulldozed.
The federal government has so far authorized $85 billion in relief to the Gulf Coast, with $25 billion spent.
"We're not going to weigh in," Donald E. Powell, the president's Gulf Coast recovery coordinator, told reporters on Air Force One on Thursday morning. "It will be their plan."
In the meeting at the Convention and Visitors Bureau, Mr. Bush sat between Mayor C. Ray Nagin and Lt. Gov. Mitchell J. Landrieu. Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, the Democrat with whom Mr. Bush has a chilly relationship, was in The Netherlands looking at the country's flood-control system.
Scott McClellan, the White House press secretary, said that the president had not deliberately timed his visit on a day when Ms. Blanco was not in town, and that the White House had reached out to her but she had a scheduling conflict.
Ms. Blanco's press secretary, Denise Bottcher, said that Ms. Blanco would be returning to New Orleans on Thursday night, just hours after the president left the city, and that she was "disappointed" she had missed his visit.
From New Orleans, Mr. Bush traveled to Waveland and Bay St. Louis in Mississippi, where he viewed destruction along the Gulf Coast. He then headed for Palm Beach, Fla., for a closed-door $4 million fund-raiser for the Republican National Committee and Republican candidates at the home of Dwight Schar, a homebuilder and a co-owner of the Washington Redskins.
Copyright 2006The New York Times Company
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I'm including this statement from John Kerry because it synopsizes some of the accomplishments of the Dems in the past year. I think it's good to look back on what we've done as a tool for encouraging us in our future efforts. K
Dear Kristin,
I've been hearing a lot of talk about what we're up against in the critical 2006 elections as we take on the corrupt, power-abusing, Swift Boat style-attacking Republican Party.
But, truth is, they need to worry about what they're up against.
Just look at what we've done in the last twelve months. Time and again, we've demonstrated that we have the power and political will to fight for the things we value most and for the candidates who embody those values.
This past November, our 3 million citizen volunteers helped spearhead Get Out The Vote efforts in critical Democratic victories across the nation ... And since the end of 2004, together we gave $4.5 million to Democratic candidates, committees, state parties, and progressive causes.
We mobilized to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from the Bush-Cheney drill-at-any-cost onslaught... And we garnered endorsements from over 700,000 citizens, from every state in the nation, for our Kids First Act to provide health care for the 11 million uninsured children.
Our national lawyers' network helped ensure that the voting problems of 2000 and 2004 were not repeated in 2005, and it is poised to do it again in 2006.
You also helped me travel around the country to rally citizens, engage grassroots volunteers, and help raise funds on behalf of Democrats.
In Pennsylvania, we've helped Bob Casey wage a strong Senate campaign that has incumbent Rick Santorum on his heels. Long a poster boy for mindless support of Bush policies and the right-wing agenda, Santorum is now scrambling to convince Pennsylvania voters otherwise.
In Washington state, we've stood by Senator Maria Cantwell. She joined me in leading the fight to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge - and now powerful oil company special interests are coming after her with everything they've got.
In Florida, we're helping Senator Bill Nelson, who is running for re-election against Katherine Harris. As you know, Harris made a name for herself by playing a leading role in the 2000 Florida voting fiasco, and we will not allow her to parlay her partisanship into a seat in the Senate.
And that's just a small sampling of the dozens of candidates who have come to count on us to be there for them. Together in 2006, we're going to do even more to help pull through to victory Democrats running at the local, state, and federal levels.
We'll defeat candidates who refuse to challenge the Bush/Cheney administration's illegal, warrantless spying... We'll replace Republicans who have refused to lift a finger to end the Bush administration's mind-numbing incompetence... We'll end the careers of Republican politicians who have cozied up to unethical lobbyists and sold out the American people...
And, we'll be there, each and every day, to make sure no Democrat stands alone in the face of the Republicans' desperate, underhanded election tactics and facts-be-damned campaign ads.
Thanks for all you've done to help Democratic candidates set the stage for victory. And stay tuned for the next steps in our work together.
Sincerely,
John Kerry
Friends of John Kerry, Inc., 511 C St. NE, Washington DC, 20002, U.S.A.
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A positive step for separation of church and state. Again, this proves we can't throw in the towel! K
January 17, 2006
Americans United for Separation of Church and State
Contact: Joe Conn, Rob Boston or Jeremy Leaming
202.466.3234 telephone
http://www.au.org/site/R?i=czJHjt9wIFScTNKLwNfnUw..
CALIFORNIA SCHOOL DISTRICT AGREES TO DROP CREATIONISM COURSE, SETTLE LAWSUIT
El Tejon School Officials Agree Not To Offer Controversial Class Again
Americans United for Separation of Church and State today announced that it has settled a lawsuit over a California school district's decision to teach a course promoting creationism.
Americans United, with assistance from the law firm Arnold & Porter LLP, filed suit against the El Tejon Unified School District last week, seeking to end a course called "Philosophy of Design" that promoted creationist ideas, including "intelligent design." The course, taught at Frazier Mountain High School in Lebec by special education teacher and soccer coach Sharon Lemburg, relied heavily on videos produced by fundamentalist Christian groups that espouse creationism.
Under the terms of the settlement, the course will terminate one week early. The district's board of trustees has also agreed to language stating, "No school over which the School District has authority, including the High School, shall offer, presently or in the future, the course entitled 'Philosophy of Design' or 'Philosophy of Intelligent Design' or any other course that promotes or endorses creationism, creation science, or intelligent design."
Said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, Americans United executive director, "We are delighted with the board's decision to discontinue the 'Philosophy of Design' course and never offer it again. Public schools have no business promoting religion. I hope that other public schools learn from this incident and reject efforts to bring religious doctrines into classrooms."
Americans United represented local parents who opposed the course for its promotion of religious concepts. Although a lawsuit was filed in federal court, attorneys with Americans United continued to dialogue with school board attorneys, hoping to settle the matter out of court.
"This course was far from intelligently designed," said Americans United Legal Director Ayesha N. Khan. "It was an infomercial for creationism and its offshoot, intelligent design. The class would never have survived a court challenge, and the board of trustees made the right call by pulling the plug on it."
On Dec. 20, Americans United and the Pennsylvania ACLU won a decisive victory over "intelligent design" advocates in a case from Dover, Pa. In that legal action, U.S. District Judge John E. Jones III ruled that intelligent design is not science and ordered it removed from the Dover schools.
The El Tejon case, AU maintained, was even more problematic because it relied heavily on "young-earth" creationist materials that insist that the biblical Book of Genesis is literally true and is scientific a controversial view held by many fundamentalists but rejected by other Christians. The U.S. Supreme Court struck down the teaching of creationism in public schools in 1987.
By permitting the course, the El Tejon District was elevating the fundamentalist Christian viewpoint over others and misrepresenting religious concepts as scientific, Americans United asserted in legal documents.
Americans United is a religious liberty watchdog group based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1947, the organization educates Americans about the importance of church-state separation in safeguarding religious freedom.
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LOCAL KC OPPORTUNITIES:
At our Nov 14th meeting at Indian Hills CC our group expressed great interest in supporting Claire McCaskill for US Senate against Jim Talent. I hope you were able to make it to Sunday's (1/22) fantastic fundraiser put on by many of our own Blue Hearts, Anne Bethune, Hannah Fenley, Theresa Freilich, Julie Morris, and Joan Toomey. If you weren't and you'd like to make a donation, please send your check payable to: McCaskill for Missouri to: Blue Hearts, PO BOX 30221, KC MO 64112
Contributions are not tax deductible. Corporate contributions cannot be accepted. Thanks so much!!! Kristin
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"The Future of United Nations Conflict Resolution and Peacekeeping Operations"
Monday, January 23, 2006, 3:30-5:30 pm
Pierson Auditorium, University of Missouri-Kansas City
Admission is free with reservation
Stephen Schlesinger, author of "Act of Creation: The Founding of the United Nations," will open a symposium devoted to discussion of the serious challenges--diplomatic, military, and institutional--faced by the UN as it works to maintain peace in the world. Other speakers include: Susan Manuel, chief of the Peace and Security Section of the UN Department of Public Information; Janet Beik, a senior adviser with the U. S. Department of State's Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization; and Lt. Col. David Last, a professor of political science at the Royal Military College of Canada. Presented in partnership with the University of Missouri-Kansas City. A reception will follow the event. For reservations, contact the Central Ticket Office, 816-235-6222.
View online materials, "Truman and the United Nations": http://www.trumanlibrary.org/whistlestop/study_collections/un/large
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Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri is cooking up Chili for Choice
On Monday, January 23rd , come for chili, stay for the free program. Guest speakers Nicole Berner and Professor Nancy Levit will discuss the history and future of reproductive rights. For more information and to reserve your spot, please call Carrie at 913.312.5100
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Attend the kickoff of the Johnson County Chapter of the Kansas Equality Coalition.
Your participation in this organization is crucial to setting the direction for GLBT Kansans and ensuring fairness and equality for all. You can make a difference.
January 25, 2006
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Colonial United Church of Christ, Heritage Room
7039 Mission Road (park in Jones Store parking lot)
Prairie Village, KS
The Kansas Equality Coalition (www.kansasequalitycoalition.org) is a new, unified statewide group of fair-minded people who are determined to end discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. We seek to ensure the dignity, safety and legal equality of all Kansans.
We are nonpartisan and include people who are religious and secular as well as straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered. We are from all walks of life and from all parts of the state.
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Take Back Kansas:
How We Can Move Kansas Back to the Middle, and Why It Matters
Sponsored by MAINstream Coalition
Thursday, January 26, 2006 -- 7:00PM
Plymouth Congregational Church
925 Vermont Street
Lawrence, Kansas
Kick-off 2006 by finding a way to get involved in moving Kansas back to the middle. Learn more about issues like public education, the separation of religion and government, and the Kansas State Board of Education.
Have the chance to speak with representatives from organizations working to promote moderate/progressive values and issues.
Sign up to be a 2006 volunteer
This event includes Sue Gamble (R), Kansas State Board of Education, District 2; Carol Sader (D), former Kansas Legislator as well as representatives from Kansas Families United for Public Education, Kansas Alliance for Education, Kansas Action for Children, Kansans for Lifesaving Cures, and MAINstream coalition.
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MIDWEST CENTER FOR AMERICAN VALUES will hold the first of several Progressively Speaking forums on issues facing Missouri, the Midwest and the country.
JANUARY 26, 2006 - 6pm-9pm - UMKC Administration Building, 5115 Oak, 2nd Floor
These forums will be interactive, based on experiential learning (does that sound boring? Don't worry - it isn't). MCAV is developing games that will help people understand the particular issue with which we are dealing.
This month we will be focusing on TABOR - the 'so called' Tax payer bill of rights. This is a piece of legislation which was just recalled in Colorado because of the devastation it does to a state budget, education, social services and other programs
This is an 'INVITATION ONLY' Event. We are asking you to send 1-2 people from your organization to the forum. They will learn the game and take it back to teach it to others in your organization or area.
If there is an organization or person you feel should be invited and may not be on the list, please let us know. We have limited space and the game is set for about 50- people.
We will do several follow ups on more particulars as the weeks go by. Please save the date. If you cannot come, please let us know so we can fill your spot.
We are happy that Missouri Budget Project is helping to sponsor this event. More organizations will be added.
Thank you for what you do in your organizations. Together, MCAV believes we can make a huge difference in the priorities of our state and our country.
Vicki Walker
Midwest Center for American Values
www.midwestvalues.org
816.289.5932
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28 is Great – Birthday Party and Fundraiser
Come join Candidate Cydney Rabourn as she celebrates her 28th birthday and prepares for her 2006 campaign for the Kansas House of Representatives!!
Please join us on January 26, 2006 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm at the Lucky Brewgrille, 5401 Johnson Dr. in Mission.
We have the entire downstairs reserved for this event! There will be appetizers, wine, soda, and of course cake provided. The event will also feature several auction items including artwork from local Kansas City artist James Rider!!!
So come, bring friends, neighbors, and relatives you haven’t seen for a while! Let’s make sure that we have a strong voice in Topeka, and help Cydney start her 28th and 2006 off right.
Contributions are made out to Kansans for Rabourn and the recommended levels are as follows:
Sponsor: $280.00
Friend: $128.00
Couple: $56.00
Individual: $28.00
Student: $18.00
Please RSVP at (913) 626-4668 or cydney4ksrep@yahoo.com. Contributions can be sent to Kansans for Rabourn, 6808 Mackey Street, Overland Park, KS 66204.
Paid for by Kansans for Rabourn, Kathleen Zans Treasurer 6808 Mackey Street Overland Park, KS 66204 913-626-4668.
You are encouraged to share this email with your Democratic friends. For more information about other Democratic events in our area and happenings in your Johnson County Democratic Party, visit http://www.jocodems.org/.
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In late January Wal-Mart will hold its annual Managers Convention in Kansas City. While they plan to keep rolling back the American dream for workers and communities, we’ll hold a counter conference to rollback the Wal-Mart model by building a broad movement to restore the dream of a society with good jobs and democratic, sustainable communities. The conference is not just about Wal-Mart. We focus on them because they’re the trend-setters of corporate irresponsibility, but we think all retailers and their suppliers need to respect workers’ rights and be responsible citizens in communities where they operate. The conference will develop strategy and provide needed skills to activate concerned citizens, workers, and clergy.
You are invited to the ROLLBACK WAL-MART Conference
Friday evening and all day Saturday January 27-28, 2006 at University of Missouri-Kansas City
Highlights:
-Keynoter Andy Grossman of Wal-Mart Watch
-Workers from Wal-Mart suppliers from The Philippines (T-shirt maker), Colombia (flower plantation worker) and Nicaragua (jeans maker) -- all union
-Phil Mattera from Good Jobs First, the author of the study called “Shopping for Subsidies: How Wal-Mart Uses Taxpayer Money to Finance Its Never-ending Growth”
-Wal-Mart Corporate Greed Poetry Slam and Open Mike with prizes
-Lot’s of workshops to develop skills of activism and strategy
The conference aims at people from Missouri and Kansas and surrounding states. All are welcome to share experiences and hone their skills and understanding.
For a brochure, a registration form, and more information, go to http://web1.umkc.edu/labor-ed/RollbackWalmart.html
Judy Ancel, Director
The Institute for Labor Studies
816-235-1470
web: www.umkc.edu/labor-ed
a joint program of The University of Missouri-Kansas City and Longview Community College
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Join Heartland Democrats of America along with your elected leaders and candidates for a State of the Union Watch Party.
At last year's State of the Union, President George W. Bush proclaimed that "over the next several months, on issue after issue, let us do what Americans have always done, and build a better world for our children and grandchildren." Did this administration follow up those words with action?
What: HDA State of our Values (State of the Union Watch Party)
Cost: Free admission!
Time: Tuesday, January 31 at 7:00 PM - 3 hours
Host: Michele Lahr
RSVP: Michele@heartlanddemocrats.com, 816.841.2877
Location: Uptown Theater - Valentine Room (Kansas City, MO)
3700 Broadway
Kansas City, MO 64111
Directions:Corner of Broadway & Valentine in midtown Kansas City
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Framing Your Message: How to Talk with Voters
For Candidates, Staff and Volunteers
Sponsored by Heartland Democrats of America
Saturday, February 4th, 8am-3pm
Continental Breakfast and Lunch Included
Lathrop and Gage, 2345 Grand, 24th Floor, Kansas City
Cost: $55 ($45 HDA Members) before 1/27; $65 after
Featuring Senator Chuck Graham, Representatives Beth Low and Paul LeVota And A Very Special Surprise Luncheon Guest
Issue by Issue Framing of Health Care, Education, The Economy, Homeland Security, Abortion, Civil Unions
To register, mail checks to HDA, c/o Meridian Strategies, 4338 Rockhill Rd, Kansas City, MO 64110
For more information or to pay by credit card, contact Michele Lahr, Michele@heartlanddemocrats.com, 816.841.2877
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You are invited to join
Representative Cathy Jolly
and Friends
As she announces her candidacy for
City Council in Kansas City, Missouri - 6th District At-Large
February 9, 2006
5:30 -7:30 pm
Uptown Theater
3700 Broadway
Kansas City, Missouri
Contributions are limited to $1200 per individual, organization, or PAC
Make checks payable to “Committe to Elect Cathy Jolly”
632 East 108th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64131
Please call 816.943.1563 for more information.
Host Committee
Vince Accurso Tim Kristl
Lou Austin Bob Lewellen
Dyanne & Tom Bean Janet Lillis
Hon. Craig Bland Hon. Beth Low
Hon. Mary Groves Bland Hon. Jenee' Lowe
Hon. Michael Brown Cheryel Mack
Mike Burke Kelley Martin
Hon. John Burnett Pat McInerney
Cynthia Canady Hon. Kate Meiners
Kim Carlos Dutch Newman
David Christian James B. Nutter, Sr.
Hon. Melba Curls Woody Overton
Cheryl Dillard Bill Quinn
John Dillingham Jim Rice
Fred Dreiling Jerry Riffel
David Frantze Adam Sachs
Lali Garcia Susan Schmelzer
Mike Graf Kelvin Simmons
Beth Gottstein Jeff & Amy Simon
Mark Hawthorne Hon. Trent Skaggs
Colleen Hernandez Jay Stock
Hon. Jonas Hughes Hon. Charles Wheeler
Ann Marie Jackson Bridgette Williams
Bob & Mary Jacobi Calvin Williford
Sly James Ron Yaffe
Garry Kemp Dale Youngs
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Missouri Democratic Party Update- January 10, 2006
Missouri Democrats have jumped right in to this Election Year. Whether it is one of our four upcoming special elections, Democratic legislators unveiling their plans for this year’s legislative session or the work being done to prepare for the November elections, it is hard to look around the Missouri political landscape without seeing important strides being made by Democrats at every level. In addition, our Democratic Secretary of State, Robin Carnahan, has made a new and efficient addition to her official website that ought to help keep us informed about what is going on in our state. Please review what we have been working on and pay attention to what is coming in 2006.
Thanks,
The Entire MDP Team
February 7th Special Election Update
Genevieve Frank — 93rd House District
Gen Frank is running in the 93rd House District in St. Louis County. Frank is running an intense grassroots campaign identifying new supporters every day. Gen is taking her strong Democratic message to her district. She is committed to running a campaign focusing on the fight for social justice and the policies that will improve the lives of the hardworking people in Missouri. Voters in this formerly Republican district do have a choice! Gen Frank is passionate about this race and has already earned the support of the Greater St. Louis Labor Council, AFL-CIO, Missouri NEA and Missouri State United Auto Workers.
To contribute to Gen's efforts please send a donation to Friends of Genevieve Frank, 418 Summer Top Lane, Fenton, Missouri, 63026. You can also visit the campaign online at www.genfrank.com or call the campaign office at 636-305-6470.
Michael Frame — 105th House District
In the 105th District, Michael Frame has been chosen by his fellow Democrats to replace retired Democratic Representative Harold Selby. Michael has been knocking on doors everyday, continuing to spread his message which focuses on protecting our working families and the middle class. He has secured key endorsements from organizations throughout the community, including SEIU, Missouri United Auto Workers, Missouri NEA and the Carpenters District Council of Greater St. Louis. The last one is especially impressive, as his opponent is a carpenter.
To contribute to Frame's campaign please send a donation to Committee to Elect Michael Frame, 416 Maple Hollow Trail, Eureka, Missouri 63025. You can also find out more information at www.michaelframe.org or call the campaign office 314-644-7725.
The 105th District includes parts of Jefferson, Franklin and St. Louis counties.
Charlie Dake — 132nd House District
Charlie Dake is our Democratic candidate for the 132nd House District in Lawrence County (Southwest Missouri). Charlie is a practicing veterinarian in Aurora and has been a resident of Lawrence County for 37 years. His wife serves as a volunteer for a local service organization that provides meals for seniors. With strong support of the local Democratic Party he looks to pull an upset in this district. The local Republican committee was severely split when nominating his opponent (he only won by one vote), while Democrats are united behind Charlie.
Charlie is running a campaign centered on public education, restoring health care benefits to Missourians and caring for our seniors. He has already received the endorsements of the Teamsters as well as the Springfield Labor Council.
To make a contribution to Charlie's campaign please make a check payable to "Dake for the 132nd", 1856 Lawrence, Miller, Missouri, 65707 or contact him at cadake1@yahoo.com.
April 4th Special Election Update
Wayne Henke — 2nd Senate District
Representative Wayne Henke began his campaign for Missouri’s 2nd Senatorial district by winning the Democratic nomination unanimously in early December. Wayne coached sports and taught high school for ten years in St. Charles County. He is a retired farmer who owned and operated farms in Lincoln and Monroe counties.
Wayne is running a strong ground game – identifying supporters, seeking key endorsements, and talking with the voters of his district about his plan for creating better schools, attracting new businesses, and strengthening the bonds of our communities.
To contribute to Wayne’s campaign please send a donation to The Committee to Elect Henke, 514 Bridgeway Dr, Troy, MO 63379. To find out more about Wayne or volunteer please visit www.waynehenkeforsenate.com.
The 2nd Senatorial District contains all of Lincoln County and western St. Charles County.
Carnahan's Office Gives Missourians Access to Latest State Government News
Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan continues to lead the way in making information more accessible to all Missourians. Last week, Carnahan launched an online news service on her new website that allows Missourians to get the most recent news on the happenings of Missouri state government. "The new website and the addition of Keeping Up Online will make it easier for our customers to use the many services offered by the Secretary of State's office and give all Missourians access to information about their state government," Carnahan stated.
Go to Keeping Up Online: http://www.sos.mo.gov/KeepingUp/
Missouri Democratic Party
P.O. Box 719
208 Madison Street
Jefferson City, MO 65102
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Get out your checkbooks. This e-mail has lots of opportunities to spend your Democratic dollar.
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Democratic National Chairman Howard Dean in Kansas City next week. Chairman Dean will be in Kansas City for the Martin Luther King celebration on Monday. The next morning, the Democratic National Convention is unveiling their new Democracy Bondholder Meetings here in Jackson County, Missouri. This is the first event for this program. It is an opportunity for those Democrats that have contributed money to purchase a "Democracy Bond" to have an exclusive opportunity to hear from the Chairman about the Democratic Party's agenda. A DNC Democracy Bond is a monthly financial commitment to the Democratic National Committee. The smallest increment for a bond is $10/month. Get online and purchase your "Democracy Bond" so you can attend the event next Tuesday morning January 17th from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM at the Uptown Theater in Kan! sas City, Missouri. http://www.democrats.org/kcbonds
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The Raytown High School Young Democrats are trying to raise funds to purchase "I'm a Democrat" t-shirts. As we know, two major things our party could use are Young Democrats and More Exposure. Please sit down right now and write a $10.00 or $20.00 check to the Raytown High School Young Democrats so they can get these t-shirts and express their Democratic pride. Contact Rosisella Villegas, e-mail: Rosisella.Villegas@raytownschools.org to help.
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Area college student to represent our area in the "Model U.S. House of Representatives" Marcus Leach, the Student Government Association President at UMKC will be attending this program in our nation's capitol from April 17-21, 200. This prestigious program is held in the actual committee rooms of the US Hou! se and one student is selected from each House District. However, this program that draws college students from across the country, costs over $1500 to attend. If you are interested in helping Marcus, please contact him at marcusleach@umkc.edu.
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Add these to events to your calendar:
Monday, January 16: MU vs. KU Basketball game watch party with candidates. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. (Game starts at 6:00 p.m.) at the Tomfooleries in Zona Rosa. Jason Grill and Jared Welch will be involved in two of the most costly and closest elections in the entire State of Missouri. Both candidates are running for State Representative seats in Platte County. Jason is running for State Representative in the 32nd District, and Jared Welch is running for State Representative in the 30th District. Both candidates need the support of friends, family, supporters, and colleagues to fund and run effective and successful campaigns. Your support at this event will help Jason build upon his 2004 success, and help Jared build momentum for 2006.For more info: www.grill2006.com or www.jaredwelch.com.
Tuesday, January 17: DNC Chairman Howard Dean in Kansas City. The DNC will be holding a Democracy Bond Holders Meeting. The Kansas City Democracy Bond Holder Meeting is open to anyone that has purchased a DNC Democracy Bond. It is being held at the Uptown Theater from 8:00 am to 9:30 am. Coffee and doughnuts will be provided. Bondholders can bring one guest each. Buy and RSVP at: http://www.democrats.org/kcbonds
Wednesday January 18: Blue Springs Young Democrats meeting with County Chair. The County Committee is taking our Democratic show on the road to local high schools. Chairman LeVota has met with several high school Democratic clubs and will meet with the Blue Springs Young Democrats next week.
Wednesday, January 25: The "Lunch Bunch" first meeting. County Committeeman Steve Bough and the Truman Democrats are hosting a monthly lunch with a Democratic Legislative Candidate (Location to be announced later). For a pledge of a mere $25 a month you get a free lunch once a month and a chance to meet our Democratic leaders. The first lunch will feature candidate for State Representative Jared Welch. For info: 816-221-8443 or StephenBough@henningbough.com
February 1, 2006: The Greater Kansas City Democracy for America will hold a candidate forum at 7:00 at Californos in Westport. The format will be five-minute speeches from each candidate followed by a five minute Q and A period. For any information and to suggest candidates to participate, e-mail Joseph Medley at medleyj_64119@yahoo.com and www.gkcdfa.org.
February 4, 2006: Heartland Democrats of America are holding a seminar called Framing Your Message: How to Talk with Voters for Candidates, Staff, and Volunteers. The program will be from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Lathrop & Gage office at 2345 Grand in Kansas City and costs $55 (for early registration) for the all day seminar with breakfast and lunch. For more information contact Michele Lahr at michele@heartlanddemocrats.com or
http://www.heartlanddemocrats.com/Heartbeat.htm.
SAVE THE DATE: TRUMAN DAYS 2006 on MAY 5 & 6, 2006. Jackson County's annual Democratic Celebration. Details to come. You won't want to miss it!
If you have an event, let us know for the Coordinated Calendar and to get it on this e-mail.
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There's the news. Here's the rant!
Our Republican controlled State Legislature is hard at work in Jefferson City............ trying to get re-elected. Republicans are not trying to pass any legislation to help the citizens of Missouri. They do not have a plan to improve our schools. They do not have a plan to restore integrity and accountability to government. They are only worried that voters will be reviewing the work of the Republican Party. And they should be worried.
Response to Governor Blunt's State of the State address by
Democratic Leadership State Representative Paul LeVota
“Governor Blunt spent much time patting himself on the back for his self-proclaimed ‘achievements’ during his first year in office. Unfortunately, he had little to offer in the way of new ideas to move Missouri forward. It of particular concern that the governor offered no plan for creating good paying jobs for Missourians or improving the state’s economy. Given that Missouri has had no net gain in jobs since May, we expected he would make the economy a priority.”
“Governor Blunt acknowledged that he only wants to fully fund just 15 percent of the formula for distributing state aid to local schools while continuing to woefully underfund the remaining 85 percent. Doing only 15 percent of the job isn’t getting the job done, and Missourians understand that. I am also disappointed the governor is turning a deaf ear to the unanimous opposition from educators regarding his flawed 65-percent mandate, which would erode local control of schools. The governor refuses to let go of a bad idea.
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But as we have been saying, it is not enough for us to show voters the problems with Republican government, Democrats need to have a plan. And we do. We have legislation that will provide all of the opportunities Missourians deserve. We have legislation to provide utility relief, insurance relief, and affordable healthcare. We have legislation that will enhance our public schools and provide good paying jobs that can support entire families. We as Democrats may be in the minority in Jeff City, but we speak for the majority of Missourians. If we summon the courage and determination to take our stand and state it clearly, we win in the long run.
Phil LeVota
Chairman
Jackson County Democratic Committee
Visit our website: www.jacksoncountydemocrats.org
Yahoo! Photos
Got holiday prints? See all the ways to get quality prints in your hands ASAP.
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Missouri Coalition for Lifesaving Cures
January 20, 2006
Coalition Update – Breaking News
Today, we have some great breaking news about the Missouri Stem Cell Research and Cures Initiative – a legal victory that clears the way for us to start gathering the signatures needed to place this important measure on the November 2006 state ballot.
LEGAL VICTORY FOR STEM CELL INITIATIVE
As many Coalition members know, stem cell opponents filed a lawsuit in November challenging the fairness and accuracy of the official ballot summary the Secretary of State developed for our initiative. We never believed the lawsuit had any merit but it did delay our signature gathering effort.
Yesterday afternoon, Cole County Circuit Judge Byron Kinder rejected our opponents' claims and ruled that the ballot summary is in fact "fair and accurate."
"Our opponents' efforts to attack the Stem Cell Initiative with false claims and misinformation did not succeed in a court of law and will not succeed in the court of public opinion," said our Coalition Chair Donn Rubin. "Stem cell opponents will apparently do and say anything to create confusion about what our measure does because they know the majority of voters support its plan to protect stem cell research and cures and ban human cloning. Now that the court has rejected their lawsuit,
we'll start our signature drive as soon as we can get the petitions printed, which should only take a few days."
Below are excerpts from the Associated Press story about yesterday’s court ruling:
Associated Press
January 19, 2006
Missouri judge upholds stem cell ballot measure
A Cole County judge on Thursday upheld the language of a ballot proposal to protect stem cell research and treatments in Missouri, rejecting a claim that the measure's stated ban on human cloning is misleading.
Supporters of the proposed constitutional amendment, who have already raised more than $4 million toward the effort, immediately said they would start gathering the petition signatures needed to get it on the November ballot.
The ballot measure, entitled the Missouri Stem Cell Research and Cures Initiative, includes language that would "ban human cloning."
But opponents, including a University of Utah neurobiologist and the Roman Catholic bishop for Kansas City, argued in court that the title and ballot language are deceptive for failing to classify a certain form of stem cell research, known as somatic cell nuclear transfer, as the scientific equivalent of human cloning.
Those challenging the ballot language had suggested that Cole County Senior Judge Byron Kinder rewrite it. But the judge instead upheld the wording, ruling swiftly from the bench at the hearing's conclusion.
"I have read this ballot initiative over and over again," Kinder said after presiding over several hours of testimony. "Most of what I heard today goes to the issue of what you have to convince voters. The ballot title is sufficient and fair and the language is neutral."
Kansas City Star
January 20, 2006
Petition drive can now begin
Judge approves ballot language for stem-cell vote
JEFFERSON CITY – Cole County Circuit Judge Byron Kinder on Thursday approved the ballot language for a proposed initiative protecting stem-cell research, clearing the way for supporters to begin gathering signatures.
Ruling from the bench after more than five hours of testimony and legal arguments, Kinder said the summary of the initiative as written by Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan “is sufficient, fair, accurate and impartial.”
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Our campaign will soon begin collecting the nearly 150,000 voter signatures needed to qualify the Stem Cell Initiative for the November 2006 state ballot. We will use both volunteer and paid signature gatherers, under the direction of a professional firm. If you think you’d like to become one of our paid signature gatherers, please call our signature coordinater at 800-891-0631. If you’d prefer to be an unpaid volunteer, please call our campaign office at 800-829-4133.
If you’re not a member of our Coalition yet, please take a minute to show your support for lifesaving stem cell research and cures by filling out our online member form. You can also help by forwarding this emailed Coalition Update to your family and friends and urging them to join.
Thank you again for your support. For more information please visit our website, www.MissouriCures.com.
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I would like us to seriously consider being a part of the Peace Gathering on March 19, 2006. It's the 3rd anniversary of the Iraq war. Kristin
Kansas City Iraq Task Force
c/o American Friends Service Committee
4405 Gillham Rd., Kansas City, MO 64110 816 931-5256 iharritt@afsc.org
January 5, 2006
As a leader of community leader working for a more peaceful world, we invite you and members of groups with which you work to join with others in expressing your vision of peace in Iraq and our world.
From UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to senior American military officers (http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/living/health/11880331.htm) to Representative John Murtha, a growing number of U.S. leaders have concluded that there is no long-term military solution to the war in Iraq.
The need to speak out is also supported by the increasing opposition to continued U.S. presence in Iraq by the Iraqi people themselves. According to recently released poll results commissioned for the British Ministry of Defense: 82 percent are "strongly opposed" to the presence of coalition troops; 67 per cent of Iraqis feel less secure because of the occupation; and 43 percent of Iraqis believe conditions for peace and stability have worsened (London Sunday Telegraph - October 23, 2005).
As a consensus for withdrawal of U.S. troops in Iraq grows, increasing numbers of U.S. and Iraqi families are suffering the loss or maiming of loved ones.
We encourage you to act from compassion and vision and add your voice to those who will mark the third anniversary of the Iraq war by calling for its end.
We invite you to IMAGINE a huge symbolic peace gathering during the weekend of March 19 with 2,400 Kansas Citians (estimated number of U.S. military deaths in Iraq by the 3rd anniversary of the war), each with the name and picture of a U.S. soldier killed in Iraq, reminding our community of the cost of the Iraq war at the J.C. Nichols Fountain, 47 & Main, KCMO. The event will include a memorial ceremony remembering the U.S. troops who have lost their lives in Iraq followed by a rally with speakers, music and other activities.
We invite you to join us in supporting and planning this powerful testimony to peacemaking marking the third anniversary of the Iraq war.
You can help make this an historic peace gathering by:
ÿ Having your group officially endorse the event;
ÿ Provide unofficial support in one of the following ways-
ÿ Recruit volunteers who will attend and represent a U.S. soldier who has died in Iraq at the symbolic memorial peace gathering, tentatively to take place on Sunday afternoon, March 19th;
ÿ Make a donation of $100 or what is appropriate for your group to help with organizing and program costs;
ÿ Help publicize the gathering within your congregation or denomination (and forward this letter on to others);
ÿ Participate in planning meetings to help make the event a success.
Please let us know how you would like to be involved. If there is another individual or committee which would like to be involved or to whom you will pass this information, please let us know. Our next 3rd Anniversary of the Iraq War Planning Meeting will take place on Monday, January 23, at 5:00pm at the AFSC office, 4405 Gillham Rd., KCMO. Please join us, or call Ira at 816 931-5256 for more information. Below is a purpose statement for the event.
Thank you for your attention, witness and service to our community and world.
Sincerely,
Ira Harritt Katherine Menges
Co-coordinator KC Iraq Task Force Co-coordinator KC Iraq Task Force
Program Coordinator, KC AFSC
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Here's the latest. It's heavy on opportunities to be involved, especially for local KC's. But there's something for everyone.
GENERAL STUFF:
Shop Whole Foods Market January 24 to Help Improve Farm Animal Quality of Life
Company Donating 5% of Day's Global Sales to Support Non-Profit Animal Compassion Foundation
Austin, Texas — January 2, 2006. Whole Foods Market announced today it will donate five percent of its total global sales on Tuesday, January 24 to the Animal Compassion Foundation (www.animalcompassionfoundation.org). The Animal Compassion Foundation is an independent non-profit 501c(3) organization created by Whole Foods Market in January 2005 that works to improve the lives of farm animals by serving as an interactive resource for ranchers, meat producers and researchers to learn and share practices that support the animals' physical needs, behaviors and well-being.
"The quest for cheap food in our society has created an industrialized model of meat production in which animals are bred and raised in conditions focused on efficiency rather than on the basic needs of the animal," said John Mackey, co-founder and CEO of Whole Foods Market. "As another important milestone on our path to being a responsible tenant of the planet, Whole Foods Market created the Animal Compassion Foundation to act as a forum in which meat producers can learn, share and be inspired to ensure animal welfare as a top priority."
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January 13, 2006
In New Orleans, Bush Speaks With Optimism but Sees Little of Ruin
By ELISABETH BUMILLER
NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 12 - President Bush made his first trip here in three months on Thursday and declared that New Orleans was "a heck of a place to bring your family" and that it had "some of the greatest food in the world and some wonderful fun."
Mr. Bush spent his brief visit in a meeting with political and business leaders on the edge of the Garden District, the grand neighborhood largely untouched by the floodwaters of Hurricane Katrina, and saw little devastation. He did not go into the city's hardest-hit areas or to Jackson Square, where several hundred girls from the Academy of the Sacred Heart staged a protest demanding stronger levees.
Mr. Bush's motorcade did pass some abandoned neighborhoods as it traveled on Interstate 10 into the city.
"It may be hard for you to see, but from when I first came here to today, New Orleans is reminding me of the city I used to come to visit," the president told the local leaders at the Convention and Visitors Bureau, an independent group set up to attract business and tourism to the city.
Mr. Bush added that "for folks around the country who are looking for a great place to have a convention, or a great place to visit, I'd suggest coming here to the great New Orleans."
Mr. Bush, who appeared to be trying to spread optimism in a city that is years away from recovery, did not tell the group or the city's residents what many were hoping to hear: that he would commit the federal government to building the strongest possible levees, a Category 5 storm protection system.
Instead, on a day when the Bush administration revised the deficit upward to more than $400 billion and blamed it largely on Hurricane Katrina, Mr. Bush restated his support for spending $3.1 billion of federal money on building "stronger and better" levees.
Local engineers say those levees would protect against the 100-mile-an-hour winds of a Category 2 hurricane and the low barometric pressure of a Category 3 or weak Category 4 storm. Hurricane Katrina peaked as a Category 5 storm in the Gulf of Mexico and hit land as a Category 3 storm.
The president ignored questions about the city's new rebuilding plan, introduced Wednesday night to enormous community criticism, and White House officials traveling with Mr. Bush declined to offer opinions. The plan, which depends on nearly $17 billion more from the federal government, gives neighborhoods in low-lying parts of the city from four months to a year to attract sufficient numbers of residents or be bulldozed.
The federal government has so far authorized $85 billion in relief to the Gulf Coast, with $25 billion spent.
"We're not going to weigh in," Donald E. Powell, the president's Gulf Coast recovery coordinator, told reporters on Air Force One on Thursday morning. "It will be their plan."
In the meeting at the Convention and Visitors Bureau, Mr. Bush sat between Mayor C. Ray Nagin and Lt. Gov. Mitchell J. Landrieu. Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, the Democrat with whom Mr. Bush has a chilly relationship, was in The Netherlands looking at the country's flood-control system.
Scott McClellan, the White House press secretary, said that the president had not deliberately timed his visit on a day when Ms. Blanco was not in town, and that the White House had reached out to her but she had a scheduling conflict.
Ms. Blanco's press secretary, Denise Bottcher, said that Ms. Blanco would be returning to New Orleans on Thursday night, just hours after the president left the city, and that she was "disappointed" she had missed his visit.
From New Orleans, Mr. Bush traveled to Waveland and Bay St. Louis in Mississippi, where he viewed destruction along the Gulf Coast. He then headed for Palm Beach, Fla., for a closed-door $4 million fund-raiser for the Republican National Committee and Republican candidates at the home of Dwight Schar, a homebuilder and a co-owner of the Washington Redskins.
Copyright 2006The New York Times Company
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I'm including this statement from John Kerry because it synopsizes some of the accomplishments of the Dems in the past year. I think it's good to look back on what we've done as a tool for encouraging us in our future efforts. K
Dear Kristin,
I've been hearing a lot of talk about what we're up against in the critical 2006 elections as we take on the corrupt, power-abusing, Swift Boat style-attacking Republican Party.
But, truth is, they need to worry about what they're up against.
Just look at what we've done in the last twelve months. Time and again, we've demonstrated that we have the power and political will to fight for the things we value most and for the candidates who embody those values.
This past November, our 3 million citizen volunteers helped spearhead Get Out The Vote efforts in critical Democratic victories across the nation ... And since the end of 2004, together we gave $4.5 million to Democratic candidates, committees, state parties, and progressive causes.
We mobilized to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge from the Bush-Cheney drill-at-any-cost onslaught... And we garnered endorsements from over 700,000 citizens, from every state in the nation, for our Kids First Act to provide health care for the 11 million uninsured children.
Our national lawyers' network helped ensure that the voting problems of 2000 and 2004 were not repeated in 2005, and it is poised to do it again in 2006.
You also helped me travel around the country to rally citizens, engage grassroots volunteers, and help raise funds on behalf of Democrats.
In Pennsylvania, we've helped Bob Casey wage a strong Senate campaign that has incumbent Rick Santorum on his heels. Long a poster boy for mindless support of Bush policies and the right-wing agenda, Santorum is now scrambling to convince Pennsylvania voters otherwise.
In Washington state, we've stood by Senator Maria Cantwell. She joined me in leading the fight to protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge - and now powerful oil company special interests are coming after her with everything they've got.
In Florida, we're helping Senator Bill Nelson, who is running for re-election against Katherine Harris. As you know, Harris made a name for herself by playing a leading role in the 2000 Florida voting fiasco, and we will not allow her to parlay her partisanship into a seat in the Senate.
And that's just a small sampling of the dozens of candidates who have come to count on us to be there for them. Together in 2006, we're going to do even more to help pull through to victory Democrats running at the local, state, and federal levels.
We'll defeat candidates who refuse to challenge the Bush/Cheney administration's illegal, warrantless spying... We'll replace Republicans who have refused to lift a finger to end the Bush administration's mind-numbing incompetence... We'll end the careers of Republican politicians who have cozied up to unethical lobbyists and sold out the American people...
And, we'll be there, each and every day, to make sure no Democrat stands alone in the face of the Republicans' desperate, underhanded election tactics and facts-be-damned campaign ads.
Thanks for all you've done to help Democratic candidates set the stage for victory. And stay tuned for the next steps in our work together.
Sincerely,
John Kerry
Friends of John Kerry, Inc., 511 C St. NE, Washington DC, 20002, U.S.A.
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A positive step for separation of church and state. Again, this proves we can't throw in the towel! K
January 17, 2006
Americans United for Separation of Church and State
Contact: Joe Conn, Rob Boston or Jeremy Leaming
202.466.3234 telephone
http://www.au.org/site/R?i=czJHjt9wIFScTNKLwNfnUw..
CALIFORNIA SCHOOL DISTRICT AGREES TO DROP CREATIONISM COURSE, SETTLE LAWSUIT
El Tejon School Officials Agree Not To Offer Controversial Class Again
Americans United for Separation of Church and State today announced that it has settled a lawsuit over a California school district's decision to teach a course promoting creationism.
Americans United, with assistance from the law firm Arnold & Porter LLP, filed suit against the El Tejon Unified School District last week, seeking to end a course called "Philosophy of Design" that promoted creationist ideas, including "intelligent design." The course, taught at Frazier Mountain High School in Lebec by special education teacher and soccer coach Sharon Lemburg, relied heavily on videos produced by fundamentalist Christian groups that espouse creationism.
Under the terms of the settlement, the course will terminate one week early. The district's board of trustees has also agreed to language stating, "No school over which the School District has authority, including the High School, shall offer, presently or in the future, the course entitled 'Philosophy of Design' or 'Philosophy of Intelligent Design' or any other course that promotes or endorses creationism, creation science, or intelligent design."
Said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, Americans United executive director, "We are delighted with the board's decision to discontinue the 'Philosophy of Design' course and never offer it again. Public schools have no business promoting religion. I hope that other public schools learn from this incident and reject efforts to bring religious doctrines into classrooms."
Americans United represented local parents who opposed the course for its promotion of religious concepts. Although a lawsuit was filed in federal court, attorneys with Americans United continued to dialogue with school board attorneys, hoping to settle the matter out of court.
"This course was far from intelligently designed," said Americans United Legal Director Ayesha N. Khan. "It was an infomercial for creationism and its offshoot, intelligent design. The class would never have survived a court challenge, and the board of trustees made the right call by pulling the plug on it."
On Dec. 20, Americans United and the Pennsylvania ACLU won a decisive victory over "intelligent design" advocates in a case from Dover, Pa. In that legal action, U.S. District Judge John E. Jones III ruled that intelligent design is not science and ordered it removed from the Dover schools.
The El Tejon case, AU maintained, was even more problematic because it relied heavily on "young-earth" creationist materials that insist that the biblical Book of Genesis is literally true and is scientific a controversial view held by many fundamentalists but rejected by other Christians. The U.S. Supreme Court struck down the teaching of creationism in public schools in 1987.
By permitting the course, the El Tejon District was elevating the fundamentalist Christian viewpoint over others and misrepresenting religious concepts as scientific, Americans United asserted in legal documents.
Americans United is a religious liberty watchdog group based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1947, the organization educates Americans about the importance of church-state separation in safeguarding religious freedom.
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LOCAL KC OPPORTUNITIES:
At our Nov 14th meeting at Indian Hills CC our group expressed great interest in supporting Claire McCaskill for US Senate against Jim Talent. I hope you were able to make it to Sunday's (1/22) fantastic fundraiser put on by many of our own Blue Hearts, Anne Bethune, Hannah Fenley, Theresa Freilich, Julie Morris, and Joan Toomey. If you weren't and you'd like to make a donation, please send your check payable to: McCaskill for Missouri to: Blue Hearts, PO BOX 30221, KC MO 64112
Contributions are not tax deductible. Corporate contributions cannot be accepted. Thanks so much!!! Kristin
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"The Future of United Nations Conflict Resolution and Peacekeeping Operations"
Monday, January 23, 2006, 3:30-5:30 pm
Pierson Auditorium, University of Missouri-Kansas City
Admission is free with reservation
Stephen Schlesinger, author of "Act of Creation: The Founding of the United Nations," will open a symposium devoted to discussion of the serious challenges--diplomatic, military, and institutional--faced by the UN as it works to maintain peace in the world. Other speakers include: Susan Manuel, chief of the Peace and Security Section of the UN Department of Public Information; Janet Beik, a senior adviser with the U. S. Department of State's Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization; and Lt. Col. David Last, a professor of political science at the Royal Military College of Canada. Presented in partnership with the University of Missouri-Kansas City. A reception will follow the event. For reservations, contact the Central Ticket Office, 816-235-6222.
View online materials, "Truman and the United Nations": http://www.trumanlibrary.org/whistlestop/study_collections/un/large
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Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri is cooking up Chili for Choice
On Monday, January 23rd , come for chili, stay for the free program. Guest speakers Nicole Berner and Professor Nancy Levit will discuss the history and future of reproductive rights. For more information and to reserve your spot, please call Carrie at 913.312.5100
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Attend the kickoff of the Johnson County Chapter of the Kansas Equality Coalition.
Your participation in this organization is crucial to setting the direction for GLBT Kansans and ensuring fairness and equality for all. You can make a difference.
January 25, 2006
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Colonial United Church of Christ, Heritage Room
7039 Mission Road (park in Jones Store parking lot)
Prairie Village, KS
The Kansas Equality Coalition (www.kansasequalitycoalition.org) is a new, unified statewide group of fair-minded people who are determined to end discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. We seek to ensure the dignity, safety and legal equality of all Kansans.
We are nonpartisan and include people who are religious and secular as well as straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered. We are from all walks of life and from all parts of the state.
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Take Back Kansas:
How We Can Move Kansas Back to the Middle, and Why It Matters
Sponsored by MAINstream Coalition
Thursday, January 26, 2006 -- 7:00PM
Plymouth Congregational Church
925 Vermont Street
Lawrence, Kansas
Kick-off 2006 by finding a way to get involved in moving Kansas back to the middle. Learn more about issues like public education, the separation of religion and government, and the Kansas State Board of Education.
Have the chance to speak with representatives from organizations working to promote moderate/progressive values and issues.
Sign up to be a 2006 volunteer
This event includes Sue Gamble (R), Kansas State Board of Education, District 2; Carol Sader (D), former Kansas Legislator as well as representatives from Kansas Families United for Public Education, Kansas Alliance for Education, Kansas Action for Children, Kansans for Lifesaving Cures, and MAINstream coalition.
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MIDWEST CENTER FOR AMERICAN VALUES will hold the first of several Progressively Speaking forums on issues facing Missouri, the Midwest and the country.
JANUARY 26, 2006 - 6pm-9pm - UMKC Administration Building, 5115 Oak, 2nd Floor
These forums will be interactive, based on experiential learning (does that sound boring? Don't worry - it isn't). MCAV is developing games that will help people understand the particular issue with which we are dealing.
This month we will be focusing on TABOR - the 'so called' Tax payer bill of rights. This is a piece of legislation which was just recalled in Colorado because of the devastation it does to a state budget, education, social services and other programs
This is an 'INVITATION ONLY' Event. We are asking you to send 1-2 people from your organization to the forum. They will learn the game and take it back to teach it to others in your organization or area.
If there is an organization or person you feel should be invited and may not be on the list, please let us know. We have limited space and the game is set for about 50- people.
We will do several follow ups on more particulars as the weeks go by. Please save the date. If you cannot come, please let us know so we can fill your spot.
We are happy that Missouri Budget Project is helping to sponsor this event. More organizations will be added.
Thank you for what you do in your organizations. Together, MCAV believes we can make a huge difference in the priorities of our state and our country.
Vicki Walker
Midwest Center for American Values
www.midwestvalues.org
816.289.5932
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28 is Great – Birthday Party and Fundraiser
Come join Candidate Cydney Rabourn as she celebrates her 28th birthday and prepares for her 2006 campaign for the Kansas House of Representatives!!
Please join us on January 26, 2006 from 5:30 – 7:30 pm at the Lucky Brewgrille, 5401 Johnson Dr. in Mission.
We have the entire downstairs reserved for this event! There will be appetizers, wine, soda, and of course cake provided. The event will also feature several auction items including artwork from local Kansas City artist James Rider!!!
So come, bring friends, neighbors, and relatives you haven’t seen for a while! Let’s make sure that we have a strong voice in Topeka, and help Cydney start her 28th and 2006 off right.
Contributions are made out to Kansans for Rabourn and the recommended levels are as follows:
Sponsor: $280.00
Friend: $128.00
Couple: $56.00
Individual: $28.00
Student: $18.00
Please RSVP at (913) 626-4668 or cydney4ksrep@yahoo.com. Contributions can be sent to Kansans for Rabourn, 6808 Mackey Street, Overland Park, KS 66204.
Paid for by Kansans for Rabourn, Kathleen Zans Treasurer 6808 Mackey Street Overland Park, KS 66204 913-626-4668.
You are encouraged to share this email with your Democratic friends. For more information about other Democratic events in our area and happenings in your Johnson County Democratic Party, visit http://www.jocodems.org/.
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In late January Wal-Mart will hold its annual Managers Convention in Kansas City. While they plan to keep rolling back the American dream for workers and communities, we’ll hold a counter conference to rollback the Wal-Mart model by building a broad movement to restore the dream of a society with good jobs and democratic, sustainable communities. The conference is not just about Wal-Mart. We focus on them because they’re the trend-setters of corporate irresponsibility, but we think all retailers and their suppliers need to respect workers’ rights and be responsible citizens in communities where they operate. The conference will develop strategy and provide needed skills to activate concerned citizens, workers, and clergy.
You are invited to the ROLLBACK WAL-MART Conference
Friday evening and all day Saturday January 27-28, 2006 at University of Missouri-Kansas City
Highlights:
-Keynoter Andy Grossman of Wal-Mart Watch
-Workers from Wal-Mart suppliers from The Philippines (T-shirt maker), Colombia (flower plantation worker) and Nicaragua (jeans maker) -- all union
-Phil Mattera from Good Jobs First, the author of the study called “Shopping for Subsidies: How Wal-Mart Uses Taxpayer Money to Finance Its Never-ending Growth”
-Wal-Mart Corporate Greed Poetry Slam and Open Mike with prizes
-Lot’s of workshops to develop skills of activism and strategy
The conference aims at people from Missouri and Kansas and surrounding states. All are welcome to share experiences and hone their skills and understanding.
For a brochure, a registration form, and more information, go to http://web1.umkc.edu/labor-ed/RollbackWalmart.html
Judy Ancel, Director
The Institute for Labor Studies
816-235-1470
web: www.umkc.edu/labor-ed
a joint program of The University of Missouri-Kansas City and Longview Community College
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Join Heartland Democrats of America along with your elected leaders and candidates for a State of the Union Watch Party.
At last year's State of the Union, President George W. Bush proclaimed that "over the next several months, on issue after issue, let us do what Americans have always done, and build a better world for our children and grandchildren." Did this administration follow up those words with action?
What: HDA State of our Values (State of the Union Watch Party)
Cost: Free admission!
Time: Tuesday, January 31 at 7:00 PM - 3 hours
Host: Michele Lahr
RSVP: Michele@heartlanddemocrats.com, 816.841.2877
Location: Uptown Theater - Valentine Room (Kansas City, MO)
3700 Broadway
Kansas City, MO 64111
Directions:Corner of Broadway & Valentine in midtown Kansas City
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Framing Your Message: How to Talk with Voters
For Candidates, Staff and Volunteers
Sponsored by Heartland Democrats of America
Saturday, February 4th, 8am-3pm
Continental Breakfast and Lunch Included
Lathrop and Gage, 2345 Grand, 24th Floor, Kansas City
Cost: $55 ($45 HDA Members) before 1/27; $65 after
Featuring Senator Chuck Graham, Representatives Beth Low and Paul LeVota And A Very Special Surprise Luncheon Guest
Issue by Issue Framing of Health Care, Education, The Economy, Homeland Security, Abortion, Civil Unions
To register, mail checks to HDA, c/o Meridian Strategies, 4338 Rockhill Rd, Kansas City, MO 64110
For more information or to pay by credit card, contact Michele Lahr, Michele@heartlanddemocrats.com, 816.841.2877
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You are invited to join
Representative Cathy Jolly
and Friends
As she announces her candidacy for
City Council in Kansas City, Missouri - 6th District At-Large
February 9, 2006
5:30 -7:30 pm
Uptown Theater
3700 Broadway
Kansas City, Missouri
Contributions are limited to $1200 per individual, organization, or PAC
Make checks payable to “Committe to Elect Cathy Jolly”
632 East 108th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64131
Please call 816.943.1563 for more information.
Host Committee
Vince Accurso Tim Kristl
Lou Austin Bob Lewellen
Dyanne & Tom Bean Janet Lillis
Hon. Craig Bland Hon. Beth Low
Hon. Mary Groves Bland Hon. Jenee' Lowe
Hon. Michael Brown Cheryel Mack
Mike Burke Kelley Martin
Hon. John Burnett Pat McInerney
Cynthia Canady Hon. Kate Meiners
Kim Carlos Dutch Newman
David Christian James B. Nutter, Sr.
Hon. Melba Curls Woody Overton
Cheryl Dillard Bill Quinn
John Dillingham Jim Rice
Fred Dreiling Jerry Riffel
David Frantze Adam Sachs
Lali Garcia Susan Schmelzer
Mike Graf Kelvin Simmons
Beth Gottstein Jeff & Amy Simon
Mark Hawthorne Hon. Trent Skaggs
Colleen Hernandez Jay Stock
Hon. Jonas Hughes Hon. Charles Wheeler
Ann Marie Jackson Bridgette Williams
Bob & Mary Jacobi Calvin Williford
Sly James Ron Yaffe
Garry Kemp Dale Youngs
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Missouri Democratic Party Update- January 10, 2006
Missouri Democrats have jumped right in to this Election Year. Whether it is one of our four upcoming special elections, Democratic legislators unveiling their plans for this year’s legislative session or the work being done to prepare for the November elections, it is hard to look around the Missouri political landscape without seeing important strides being made by Democrats at every level. In addition, our Democratic Secretary of State, Robin Carnahan, has made a new and efficient addition to her official website that ought to help keep us informed about what is going on in our state. Please review what we have been working on and pay attention to what is coming in 2006.
Thanks,
The Entire MDP Team
February 7th Special Election Update
Genevieve Frank — 93rd House District
Gen Frank is running in the 93rd House District in St. Louis County. Frank is running an intense grassroots campaign identifying new supporters every day. Gen is taking her strong Democratic message to her district. She is committed to running a campaign focusing on the fight for social justice and the policies that will improve the lives of the hardworking people in Missouri. Voters in this formerly Republican district do have a choice! Gen Frank is passionate about this race and has already earned the support of the Greater St. Louis Labor Council, AFL-CIO, Missouri NEA and Missouri State United Auto Workers.
To contribute to Gen's efforts please send a donation to Friends of Genevieve Frank, 418 Summer Top Lane, Fenton, Missouri, 63026. You can also visit the campaign online at www.genfrank.com or call the campaign office at 636-305-6470.
Michael Frame — 105th House District
In the 105th District, Michael Frame has been chosen by his fellow Democrats to replace retired Democratic Representative Harold Selby. Michael has been knocking on doors everyday, continuing to spread his message which focuses on protecting our working families and the middle class. He has secured key endorsements from organizations throughout the community, including SEIU, Missouri United Auto Workers, Missouri NEA and the Carpenters District Council of Greater St. Louis. The last one is especially impressive, as his opponent is a carpenter.
To contribute to Frame's campaign please send a donation to Committee to Elect Michael Frame, 416 Maple Hollow Trail, Eureka, Missouri 63025. You can also find out more information at www.michaelframe.org or call the campaign office 314-644-7725.
The 105th District includes parts of Jefferson, Franklin and St. Louis counties.
Charlie Dake — 132nd House District
Charlie Dake is our Democratic candidate for the 132nd House District in Lawrence County (Southwest Missouri). Charlie is a practicing veterinarian in Aurora and has been a resident of Lawrence County for 37 years. His wife serves as a volunteer for a local service organization that provides meals for seniors. With strong support of the local Democratic Party he looks to pull an upset in this district. The local Republican committee was severely split when nominating his opponent (he only won by one vote), while Democrats are united behind Charlie.
Charlie is running a campaign centered on public education, restoring health care benefits to Missourians and caring for our seniors. He has already received the endorsements of the Teamsters as well as the Springfield Labor Council.
To make a contribution to Charlie's campaign please make a check payable to "Dake for the 132nd", 1856 Lawrence, Miller, Missouri, 65707 or contact him at cadake1@yahoo.com.
April 4th Special Election Update
Wayne Henke — 2nd Senate District
Representative Wayne Henke began his campaign for Missouri’s 2nd Senatorial district by winning the Democratic nomination unanimously in early December. Wayne coached sports and taught high school for ten years in St. Charles County. He is a retired farmer who owned and operated farms in Lincoln and Monroe counties.
Wayne is running a strong ground game – identifying supporters, seeking key endorsements, and talking with the voters of his district about his plan for creating better schools, attracting new businesses, and strengthening the bonds of our communities.
To contribute to Wayne’s campaign please send a donation to The Committee to Elect Henke, 514 Bridgeway Dr, Troy, MO 63379. To find out more about Wayne or volunteer please visit www.waynehenkeforsenate.com.
The 2nd Senatorial District contains all of Lincoln County and western St. Charles County.
Carnahan's Office Gives Missourians Access to Latest State Government News
Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan continues to lead the way in making information more accessible to all Missourians. Last week, Carnahan launched an online news service on her new website that allows Missourians to get the most recent news on the happenings of Missouri state government. "The new website and the addition of Keeping Up Online will make it easier for our customers to use the many services offered by the Secretary of State's office and give all Missourians access to information about their state government," Carnahan stated.
Go to Keeping Up Online: http://www.sos.mo.gov/KeepingUp/
Missouri Democratic Party
P.O. Box 719
208 Madison Street
Jefferson City, MO 65102
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Get out your checkbooks. This e-mail has lots of opportunities to spend your Democratic dollar.
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Democratic National Chairman Howard Dean in Kansas City next week. Chairman Dean will be in Kansas City for the Martin Luther King celebration on Monday. The next morning, the Democratic National Convention is unveiling their new Democracy Bondholder Meetings here in Jackson County, Missouri. This is the first event for this program. It is an opportunity for those Democrats that have contributed money to purchase a "Democracy Bond" to have an exclusive opportunity to hear from the Chairman about the Democratic Party's agenda. A DNC Democracy Bond is a monthly financial commitment to the Democratic National Committee. The smallest increment for a bond is $10/month. Get online and purchase your "Democracy Bond" so you can attend the event next Tuesday morning January 17th from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM at the Uptown Theater in Kan! sas City, Missouri. http://www.democrats.org/kcbonds
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The Raytown High School Young Democrats are trying to raise funds to purchase "I'm a Democrat" t-shirts. As we know, two major things our party could use are Young Democrats and More Exposure. Please sit down right now and write a $10.00 or $20.00 check to the Raytown High School Young Democrats so they can get these t-shirts and express their Democratic pride. Contact Rosisella Villegas, e-mail: Rosisella.Villegas@raytownschools.org to help.
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Area college student to represent our area in the "Model U.S. House of Representatives" Marcus Leach, the Student Government Association President at UMKC will be attending this program in our nation's capitol from April 17-21, 200. This prestigious program is held in the actual committee rooms of the US Hou! se and one student is selected from each House District. However, this program that draws college students from across the country, costs over $1500 to attend. If you are interested in helping Marcus, please contact him at marcusleach@umkc.edu.
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Add these to events to your calendar:
Monday, January 16: MU vs. KU Basketball game watch party with candidates. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. (Game starts at 6:00 p.m.) at the Tomfooleries in Zona Rosa. Jason Grill and Jared Welch will be involved in two of the most costly and closest elections in the entire State of Missouri. Both candidates are running for State Representative seats in Platte County. Jason is running for State Representative in the 32nd District, and Jared Welch is running for State Representative in the 30th District. Both candidates need the support of friends, family, supporters, and colleagues to fund and run effective and successful campaigns. Your support at this event will help Jason build upon his 2004 success, and help Jared build momentum for 2006.For more info: www.grill2006.com or www.jaredwelch.com.
Tuesday, January 17: DNC Chairman Howard Dean in Kansas City. The DNC will be holding a Democracy Bond Holders Meeting. The Kansas City Democracy Bond Holder Meeting is open to anyone that has purchased a DNC Democracy Bond. It is being held at the Uptown Theater from 8:00 am to 9:30 am. Coffee and doughnuts will be provided. Bondholders can bring one guest each. Buy and RSVP at: http://www.democrats.org/kcbonds
Wednesday January 18: Blue Springs Young Democrats meeting with County Chair. The County Committee is taking our Democratic show on the road to local high schools. Chairman LeVota has met with several high school Democratic clubs and will meet with the Blue Springs Young Democrats next week.
Wednesday, January 25: The "Lunch Bunch" first meeting. County Committeeman Steve Bough and the Truman Democrats are hosting a monthly lunch with a Democratic Legislative Candidate (Location to be announced later). For a pledge of a mere $25 a month you get a free lunch once a month and a chance to meet our Democratic leaders. The first lunch will feature candidate for State Representative Jared Welch. For info: 816-221-8443 or StephenBough@henningbough.com
February 1, 2006: The Greater Kansas City Democracy for America will hold a candidate forum at 7:00 at Californos in Westport. The format will be five-minute speeches from each candidate followed by a five minute Q and A period. For any information and to suggest candidates to participate, e-mail Joseph Medley at medleyj_64119@yahoo.com and www.gkcdfa.org.
February 4, 2006: Heartland Democrats of America are holding a seminar called Framing Your Message: How to Talk with Voters for Candidates, Staff, and Volunteers. The program will be from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Lathrop & Gage office at 2345 Grand in Kansas City and costs $55 (for early registration) for the all day seminar with breakfast and lunch. For more information contact Michele Lahr at michele@heartlanddemocrats.com or
http://www.heartlanddemocrats.com/Heartbeat.htm.
SAVE THE DATE: TRUMAN DAYS 2006 on MAY 5 & 6, 2006. Jackson County's annual Democratic Celebration. Details to come. You won't want to miss it!
If you have an event, let us know for the Coordinated Calendar and to get it on this e-mail.
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There's the news. Here's the rant!
Our Republican controlled State Legislature is hard at work in Jefferson City............ trying to get re-elected. Republicans are not trying to pass any legislation to help the citizens of Missouri. They do not have a plan to improve our schools. They do not have a plan to restore integrity and accountability to government. They are only worried that voters will be reviewing the work of the Republican Party. And they should be worried.
Response to Governor Blunt's State of the State address by
Democratic Leadership State Representative Paul LeVota
“Governor Blunt spent much time patting himself on the back for his self-proclaimed ‘achievements’ during his first year in office. Unfortunately, he had little to offer in the way of new ideas to move Missouri forward. It of particular concern that the governor offered no plan for creating good paying jobs for Missourians or improving the state’s economy. Given that Missouri has had no net gain in jobs since May, we expected he would make the economy a priority.”
“Governor Blunt acknowledged that he only wants to fully fund just 15 percent of the formula for distributing state aid to local schools while continuing to woefully underfund the remaining 85 percent. Doing only 15 percent of the job isn’t getting the job done, and Missourians understand that. I am also disappointed the governor is turning a deaf ear to the unanimous opposition from educators regarding his flawed 65-percent mandate, which would erode local control of schools. The governor refuses to let go of a bad idea.
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But as we have been saying, it is not enough for us to show voters the problems with Republican government, Democrats need to have a plan. And we do. We have legislation that will provide all of the opportunities Missourians deserve. We have legislation to provide utility relief, insurance relief, and affordable healthcare. We have legislation that will enhance our public schools and provide good paying jobs that can support entire families. We as Democrats may be in the minority in Jeff City, but we speak for the majority of Missourians. If we summon the courage and determination to take our stand and state it clearly, we win in the long run.
Phil LeVota
Chairman
Jackson County Democratic Committee
Visit our website: www.jacksoncountydemocrats.org
Yahoo! Photos
Got holiday prints? See all the ways to get quality prints in your hands ASAP.
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Missouri Coalition for Lifesaving Cures
January 20, 2006
Coalition Update – Breaking News
Today, we have some great breaking news about the Missouri Stem Cell Research and Cures Initiative – a legal victory that clears the way for us to start gathering the signatures needed to place this important measure on the November 2006 state ballot.
LEGAL VICTORY FOR STEM CELL INITIATIVE
As many Coalition members know, stem cell opponents filed a lawsuit in November challenging the fairness and accuracy of the official ballot summary the Secretary of State developed for our initiative. We never believed the lawsuit had any merit but it did delay our signature gathering effort.
Yesterday afternoon, Cole County Circuit Judge Byron Kinder rejected our opponents' claims and ruled that the ballot summary is in fact "fair and accurate."
"Our opponents' efforts to attack the Stem Cell Initiative with false claims and misinformation did not succeed in a court of law and will not succeed in the court of public opinion," said our Coalition Chair Donn Rubin. "Stem cell opponents will apparently do and say anything to create confusion about what our measure does because they know the majority of voters support its plan to protect stem cell research and cures and ban human cloning. Now that the court has rejected their lawsuit,
we'll start our signature drive as soon as we can get the petitions printed, which should only take a few days."
Below are excerpts from the Associated Press story about yesterday’s court ruling:
Associated Press
January 19, 2006
Missouri judge upholds stem cell ballot measure
A Cole County judge on Thursday upheld the language of a ballot proposal to protect stem cell research and treatments in Missouri, rejecting a claim that the measure's stated ban on human cloning is misleading.
Supporters of the proposed constitutional amendment, who have already raised more than $4 million toward the effort, immediately said they would start gathering the petition signatures needed to get it on the November ballot.
The ballot measure, entitled the Missouri Stem Cell Research and Cures Initiative, includes language that would "ban human cloning."
But opponents, including a University of Utah neurobiologist and the Roman Catholic bishop for Kansas City, argued in court that the title and ballot language are deceptive for failing to classify a certain form of stem cell research, known as somatic cell nuclear transfer, as the scientific equivalent of human cloning.
Those challenging the ballot language had suggested that Cole County Senior Judge Byron Kinder rewrite it. But the judge instead upheld the wording, ruling swiftly from the bench at the hearing's conclusion.
"I have read this ballot initiative over and over again," Kinder said after presiding over several hours of testimony. "Most of what I heard today goes to the issue of what you have to convince voters. The ballot title is sufficient and fair and the language is neutral."
Kansas City Star
January 20, 2006
Petition drive can now begin
Judge approves ballot language for stem-cell vote
JEFFERSON CITY – Cole County Circuit Judge Byron Kinder on Thursday approved the ballot language for a proposed initiative protecting stem-cell research, clearing the way for supporters to begin gathering signatures.
Ruling from the bench after more than five hours of testimony and legal arguments, Kinder said the summary of the initiative as written by Missouri Secretary of State Robin Carnahan “is sufficient, fair, accurate and impartial.”
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Our campaign will soon begin collecting the nearly 150,000 voter signatures needed to qualify the Stem Cell Initiative for the November 2006 state ballot. We will use both volunteer and paid signature gatherers, under the direction of a professional firm. If you think you’d like to become one of our paid signature gatherers, please call our signature coordinater at 800-891-0631. If you’d prefer to be an unpaid volunteer, please call our campaign office at 800-829-4133.
If you’re not a member of our Coalition yet, please take a minute to show your support for lifesaving stem cell research and cures by filling out our online member form. You can also help by forwarding this emailed Coalition Update to your family and friends and urging them to join.
Thank you again for your support. For more information please visit our website, www.MissouriCures.com.
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I would like us to seriously consider being a part of the Peace Gathering on March 19, 2006. It's the 3rd anniversary of the Iraq war. Kristin
Kansas City Iraq Task Force
c/o American Friends Service Committee
4405 Gillham Rd., Kansas City, MO 64110 816 931-5256 iharritt@afsc.org
January 5, 2006
As a leader of community leader working for a more peaceful world, we invite you and members of groups with which you work to join with others in expressing your vision of peace in Iraq and our world.
From UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to senior American military officers (http://www.philly.com/mld/inquirer/living/health/11880331.htm) to Representative John Murtha, a growing number of U.S. leaders have concluded that there is no long-term military solution to the war in Iraq.
The need to speak out is also supported by the increasing opposition to continued U.S. presence in Iraq by the Iraqi people themselves. According to recently released poll results commissioned for the British Ministry of Defense: 82 percent are "strongly opposed" to the presence of coalition troops; 67 per cent of Iraqis feel less secure because of the occupation; and 43 percent of Iraqis believe conditions for peace and stability have worsened (London Sunday Telegraph - October 23, 2005).
As a consensus for withdrawal of U.S. troops in Iraq grows, increasing numbers of U.S. and Iraqi families are suffering the loss or maiming of loved ones.
We encourage you to act from compassion and vision and add your voice to those who will mark the third anniversary of the Iraq war by calling for its end.
We invite you to IMAGINE a huge symbolic peace gathering during the weekend of March 19 with 2,400 Kansas Citians (estimated number of U.S. military deaths in Iraq by the 3rd anniversary of the war), each with the name and picture of a U.S. soldier killed in Iraq, reminding our community of the cost of the Iraq war at the J.C. Nichols Fountain, 47 & Main, KCMO. The event will include a memorial ceremony remembering the U.S. troops who have lost their lives in Iraq followed by a rally with speakers, music and other activities.
We invite you to join us in supporting and planning this powerful testimony to peacemaking marking the third anniversary of the Iraq war.
You can help make this an historic peace gathering by:
ÿ Having your group officially endorse the event;
ÿ Provide unofficial support in one of the following ways-
ÿ Recruit volunteers who will attend and represent a U.S. soldier who has died in Iraq at the symbolic memorial peace gathering, tentatively to take place on Sunday afternoon, March 19th;
ÿ Make a donation of $100 or what is appropriate for your group to help with organizing and program costs;
ÿ Help publicize the gathering within your congregation or denomination (and forward this letter on to others);
ÿ Participate in planning meetings to help make the event a success.
Please let us know how you would like to be involved. If there is another individual or committee which would like to be involved or to whom you will pass this information, please let us know. Our next 3rd Anniversary of the Iraq War Planning Meeting will take place on Monday, January 23, at 5:00pm at the AFSC office, 4405 Gillham Rd., KCMO. Please join us, or call Ira at 816 931-5256 for more information. Below is a purpose statement for the event.
Thank you for your attention, witness and service to our community and world.
Sincerely,
Ira Harritt Katherine Menges
Co-coordinator KC Iraq Task Force Co-coordinator KC Iraq Task Force
Program Coordinator, KC AFSC
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# posted by Blue Hearts @ 1:59 PM 
