Medicare for All Would be a Healthy Move
Saul Friedman, Newsday
http://www.newsday.com/entertainment/ny-bzsaul5151028mar31,0,2234018.column?coll=ny-entertainment-columnists
The bill isn't yet high on the list of legislative priorities in the new Congress, primarily because most Republicans and President George W. Bush still are wedded to putting the insurance industry in charge. While every Democratic presidential candidate supports universal coverage, only Dennis Kucinich currently favors a "single-payer" solution like Medicare.

General Tried to Warn Bush on Tillman – Memo Shows Suspicions on Soldiers Death Weeks Before Family Was Told
Associated Press
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17877488/

[Duchess Note – The continuous lies/deceptions from Bush Regime, Pentagon and Military keep on piling up month after month into years. Its gotta end soon and the majority of Americans will wake up to the true facts. And hopefully, as a collective, continually demand answers. (In a peaceful, intelligent and non violent manner.) We must not back down nor be bullied.]

LATEST NEWS & UPDATES ON KUCINICH FOR PRESIDENT

Congressman Kucinich to Speak at “Politics & Eggs” Breakfast
Hosted by the New England Council & the New Hampshire Political Library
http://home.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20070327006212&newsLang=en



Dems Blast Tax-exempt Sport Venues – Kucinich: Owners Get Rich, Not Communities
Lisa Friedman, Daily News DC
http://www.dailynews.com/news/ci_5553157

Congressman Kucinich: Stop Funding The War
Michael Shank / /FPIF Commentary
http://www.fpif.org/fpiftxt/4116
Dennis Kucinich is a Democratic congressman from Ohio. He was one of only 14 Democrats to oppose the current Iraq supplemental bill, which sets a deadline for a withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. The bill, the Iraq Accountability Act, did not, however, cut funding for the war. Here he speaks with Michael Shank about the reasons for his vote, his fears of an attack on Iran, his concerns about the future of the Democratic Party, and his faith that new American leadership will craft a different partnership with the world community.

Blog about Military Funding: Rep Kucinich Not Happy With Dems
http://truthisnews.blogspot.com/2007/03/rep-kucinich-not-happy-with-dems.html
Dennis Kucinich says the Dem plan for the troops is a disaster for America. We Agree.
http://kucinich.us/node/3900
From Ravelbabel.com:
U.S. Rep. Dennis Kucinich is not at all happy with the Military Funding Bill passed by the House last week, calling it "a disaster for America." Kucinich made the comments in an exclusive telephone interview with the editors at truthdig.com, and he didn't hide his displeasure with the Democratic party. "The Democrats should have been voting—or come up with a plan to get out of Iraq," Kucinich said. "Not one that’s going to keep us there a year or two. It’s the same kind of thinking that led us into Iraq—that we didn’t have any alternatives." He said the Democrats should be listening to the American people and taking steps to immediately end the war and bring the troops home. " ... that means to set in motion a plan to end the occupation, close the bases, bring the troops home using money that’s already in the pipeline to do so. At the same time there’s a parallel process of bringing in international security and peacekeeping forces to stabilize Iraq. And we can get that help once we end the occupation."

[DUCHESS NOTE: Many thanks to Linda Z in TX for contributing all these articles. Bravo!]

[DUCHESS NOTE: New, interesting and thought provoking commentaries from Duchess friends can be found at FRIENDS OF FRIDAY FORUM, click on this link: http://friendsoffridayforum.blogspot.com/]

"This Isn't American Idol, We're Choosing the President of the United States" - Kucinich on Corporate Media Campaign Coverage
Democracy Now
http://www.democracynow.org/article.pl?sid=07/03/28/1335231
Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D - OH) was one of eight Congressmembers to vote against the House war-spending bill last week that set a timetable for the withdrawal of troops from Iraq. We go to Capitol Hill to speak with Kucinich about the bill, why he thinks impeachment "should be on the table," the corporate media's coverage of the race for the Democratic presidential nomination and more.

Tolkien Jr Completes Lord of Rings
Jonathan Thompson, The Independent
http://enjoyment.independent.co.uk/books/news/article2390834.ece

Kucinich Has a Chance to Make a Historic Move and to Stand Out as a Presidential Hopeful
Dave Lindorff, Baltimore Chronicle
http://baltimorechronicle.com/2007/031907Lindorff.shtml

An Open Letter to the President – Four and a Half Years Later
Commentary by Sean Penn
http://www.thepeoplesvoice.org/cgi-bin/blogs/voices.php/2007/03/27/title_31
Even in a so-called victory, what we saw yesterday was a House of Representatives that couldn't bring itself to represent either conscience or constituents. It's a tragedy that the Democratic Party's leadership in Congress refuses to allow the House to vote on Barbara Lee's amendment for a fully funded, orderly withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq by the end of this year. Elites circled the war wagons against this proposal, and postponed the day of reckoning that must come as soon as possible - a complete pullout of U.S. military forces from Iraq. There are presidential candidates who understand this. We do have candidates of conscience. As things stand today, I will be voting for Dennis Kucinich, who has fought this war from the beginning. You might say Kucinich can't win. Well, we have an opportunity to re-establish the credibility of democracy as viewed by the world at large.

[Duchess Note – Many thanks to Linda (TX) in sharing the above two articles and a heartfelt BRAVO to Sean Penn who speaks truth. Plus his mentioning Congressman Kucinich. And I also convey a hearty BRAVO to those Americans who strive every day to bring about truth, justice, peace, compassion and enlightenment to those around us.]

QUOTE OF THE DAY … Each one has to find his peace from within. And peace to be real must be unaffected by outside circumstances. Mahatma Gandhi

Bush's Shadow Army – Blackwater
The Nation
http://www.thenation.com/doc/20070402/scahill

[Duchess Note: If the Bush Regime bombs Iran it'll lead to huge, even major, repercussions that will reverberate around the world. Then I remember what Mahatma Gandhi once said ... When I despair, I remember that all through history the ways of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants, and murderers, and for a time they can seem invincible, but in the end they always fall. Think of it--always.]

LOTS OF NEWS ON CONGRESSMAN KUCINICH & HIS 2008 PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN

Dennis Kucinich Speaks at SEIU Presidential Forum
http://kucinich.us/node/3801/play

AN OPEN LETTER TO REPRESENTATIVE AND CANDIDATE DENNIS KUCINICH
By Daniel I. Fearn
http://www.opednews.com/maxwrite/print_friendly.php?p=opedne_daniel_i_070320_an_open_letter_to_re.htm

Congressman Kucinich Talks About Congress Votes to Continue Funding War – DJK Voted Against It
http://kucinich.us/node/3792/play

Presidential Candidate Touts His Consistent Anti-War Stance as an Advantage Over Fellow Democrats
DAN HIGGINS, Staff writerFirst published: Monday, March 26, 2007

ALBANY -- Presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich predicted Sunday that by the time the New Hampshire primary arrives early next year, so many Americans will have tired of the war in Iraq that his peace platform will make him the choice for the Democratic nomination. "They all voted for (war funding)," Kucinich said of his fellow Democratic opponents -- former Sen. John Edwards, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Sen. Barack Obama. He said he is the only Democrat who can boast he's always been against the war, which, he told a packed house Sunday evening in Albany, "was based on lies."

Kucinich, a Democratic congressman from Ohio, was the guest speaker at Upper Hudson Peace Action's 25th anniversary dinner. Some 300 people squeezed into the basement of First Church in Albany. The potluck supper featured many vegetarian dishes, but it was Kucinich who brought the red meat. He ran down his platform of hot topics among progressive voters: ending the occupation of Iraq, canceling the North American Free Trade Agreement and working toward a universal, single-payer system of health care.

He also said that as chairman of a House subcommittee on domestic policy, he plans to launch an investigation of "a narrow portion" of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He offered few details, but said his subcommittee would be looking at "a few, specific discrepancies in the public record." The 9/11 Commission that published its final report in 2004 never resolved some conflicting facts, Kucinich said. He announced his own look at 9/11 in answer to a question from an audience member. The man complained that the 9/11 Commission was too tied to the Bush administration to offer an unbiased report, and Kucinich agreed.

Supporters who attended Sunday's event said they'll vote for him because he's speaking boldly about issues that other candidates seem to be ducking. "I like his attitude," said Voorheesville resident Ann Eberle. She said she especially liked Kucinich's role in drafting a bill in 2005 that calls for the U.S. to create a Cabinet-level Department of Peace. Earlier Sunday, Kucinich appeared in Schenectady, greeting supporters at Arthur's Market in the Stockade neighborhood. He said he would return to the Capital Region this election cycle.

[Duchess Note: Many thanks to Judith and Linda in sharing several of the articles today.]

It Is Time To Take A Strong Stand - Message from Elizabeth Kucinich on Saturday, March 24th

Today as the Democratic leadership celebrates the passage of HR 1591, Dennis and I are in mourning. We mourn the deaths of those who have passed and those whose lives are now on the line, both in the military and civilian Iraqis. We mourn the destruction, the ecocide. We mourn with families in Iraq and the US who will see more death and devastation. We mourn the callous and calculated political spin cloaking the Congress' hawkish support of war, with the rhetoric of peace. Congressman Kucinich voted NO. Standing firm with him on this NO vote were 13 Democrats: John Barrow [GA], Dan Boren [OK], Lincoln Davis [TN], Barbara Lee [CA], John Lewis [GA], Jim Marshall [GA], Jim Matheson [UT], Michael McNulty [NY], Michael Michaud [ME], Gene Taylor [MS], Maxine Waters [CA], Diane Watson [CA], and Lynn Woolsey [CA].

I would like to thank Iraq Veterans Against the War, Military Families Speak Out, Veterans for Peace, Code Pink, Gold Star Mothers and all those other organizations who have worked so valiantly in recent years to raise awareness about what is going on in Iraq and to end the war. We would also like to thank the other 13 Democrats who voted against the additional Administration's appropriation request of $120 billion. $120 billion for an escalation of the war, the privatization of Iraqi oil assets and a possible extension of the war into Iran. And the President said he will veto this because it's not enough. By showing such a weak position against the Administration and the war, the Democrats have thoroughly undermined whatever bargaining position they could have had. Americans must be heard. It is time to take a strong stand for the end of the war and for peace. It is time to return to the town halls of America to develop a powerful movement for change.

The President’s Prison
NY Times Editorial

George Bush does not want to be rescued. The president has been told countless times, by a secretary of state, by members of Congress, by heads of friendly governments — and by the American public — that the Guantánamo Bay detention camp has profoundly damaged this nation’s credibility as a champion of justice and human rights. But Mr. Bush ignored those voices — and now it seems he has done the same to his new defense secretary, Robert Gates, the man Mr. Bush brought in to clean up Donald Rumsfeld’s mess. Thom Shanker and David Sanger reported in Friday’s Times that in his first weeks on the job, Mr. Gates told Mr. Bush that the world would never consider trials at Guantánamo to be legitimate. He said that the camp should be shut, and that inmates who should stand trial should be brought to the United States and taken to real military courts.

Mr. Bush rejected that sound advice, heeding instead the chief enablers of his worst instincts, Vice President Dick Cheney and Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. Their opposition was no surprise. The Guantánamo operation was central to Mr. Cheney’s drive to expand the powers of the presidency at the expense of Congress and the courts, and Mr. Gonzales was one of the chief architects of the policies underpinning the detainee system. Mr. Bush and his inner circle are clearly afraid that if Guantánamo detainees are tried under the actual rule of law, many of the cases will collapse because they are based on illegal detention, torture and abuse — or that American officials could someday be held criminally liable for their mistreatment of detainees.

It was distressing to see that the president has retreated so far into his alternative reality that he would not listen to Mr. Gates — even when he was backed by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who, like her predecessor, Colin Powell, had urged Mr. Bush to close Guantánamo. It seems clear that when he brought in Mr. Gates, Mr. Bush didn’t want to fix Mr. Rumsfeld’s disaster; he just wanted everyone to stop talking about it. If Mr. Bush would not listen to reason from inside his cabinet, he might at least listen to what Americans are telling him about the damage to this country’s credibility, and its cost. When Khalid Shaikh Mohammed — for all appearances a truly evil and dangerous man — confessed to a long list of heinous crimes, including planning the 9/11 attacks, many Americans reacted with skepticism and even derision. The confession became the butt of editorial cartoons, like one that showed the prisoner confessing to betting on the Cincinnati Reds, and fodder for the late-night comedians.

What stood out the most from the transcript of Mr. Mohammed’s hearing at Guantánamo Bay was how the military detention and court system has been debased for terrorist suspects. The hearing was a combatant status review tribunal — a process that is supposed to determine whether a prisoner is an illegal enemy combatant and thus not entitled in Mr. Bush’s world to rudimentary legal rights. But the tribunals are kangaroo courts, admitting evidence that was coerced or obtained through abuse or outright torture. They are intended to confirm a decision that was already made, and to feed detainees into the military commissions created by Congress last year. The omissions from the record of Mr. Mohammed’s hearing were chilling. The United States government deleted his claims to have been tortured during years of illegal detention at camps run by the Central Intelligence Agency. Government officials who are opposed to the administration’s lawless policy on prisoners have said in numerous news reports that Mr. Mohammed was indeed tortured, including through waterboarding, which simulates drowning and violates every civilized standard of behavior toward a prisoner, even one as awful as this one. And he is hardly the only prisoner who has made claims of abuse and torture. Some were released after it was proved that they never had any connection at all to terrorism.

Still, the Bush administration says no prisoner should be allowed to take torture claims to court, including the innocents who were tortured and released. The administration’s argument is that how prisoners are treated is a state secret and cannot be discussed openly. If that sounds nonsensical, it is. It’s also not the real reason behind the administration’s denying these prisoners the most basic rights of due process. The Bush administration has so badly subverted American norms of justice in handling these cases that they would not stand up to scrutiny in a real court of law. It is a clear case of justice denied.

Conservatives Cost A Lot of Money
Jane Smiley, HuffingtonPost
http://www.alternet.org/stories/49578/

96% of MoveOn Members Did Not Show Support for the Pelosi Bill
John Stauber
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0321-34.htm

[Duchess Note: This lady is cancelling her membership with MoveOn.org, as their views and policies are not always in line with mine. One wonders who they are supporting, cause its not Liberals nor Progressives.]

Global Warming Can't Buy Happiness
Bill McKibben
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0321-22.htm

The First Openly Goldless Member of Congress
Ellen Goodman, Truthdig
http://www.alternet.org/stories/49632/
Representative Pete Stark is the highest-ranking politician in American history say publicly that he doesn’t believe a “supreme being”, but believes that real political courage is saying, “Lets tax the rich and give money to poor kids.”

A Time For Anger, A Call To Action
Bill Moyers
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0322-24.htm

The Decider is Delusional
John Nichols
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0322-20.htm

Are We Politicians or Citizens?
Howard Zinn, Progressive Magazine
http://www.progressive.org/mag_zinn0507

Tony Snow Once Criticized Clinton For Exerting Executive Privilege
Meanwhile the White House is also being questioned about its claims that it has the executive privilege to bar presidential advisers from testifying before Congress. Nearly 10 years ago White House Press Secretary Tony Snow publicly criticized President Clinton for resisting efforts to have his aides testify about Monica Lewinsky. At the time Snow wrote: "Taken to its logical extreme, that position would make it impossible for citizens to hold a chief executive accountable for anything. He would have a constitutional right to cover up."

[Duchess Note - At a recent press conference, the spin and BS coming out of Snow's lying mouth, was practically comic regarding the above. He'll spin like the devil to protect the lies, corruption and crimes of the Bush Regime. The man has no soul ... he sold it to Darth Cheney.

Stand Close to The Police
http://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/music/bal-to.virgin23mar23,0,216504.story?track=rss
Baltimore Sun
Virgin Fest brings Beastie Boys, Smashing Pumpkins to town When the Virgin Festival returns this August to Pimlico Race Course, it will bring with it the hottest touring act of the year - the Police - along with the highly successful hip-hop group the Beastie Boys and acclaimed alt-rockers Smashing Pumpkins.



The Police Files – Interview with Andy Summers
John Preston, Sydney Morning Herald
http://www.smh.com.au/news/books/the-police-files/2007/03/22/1174153246958.html?s_cid=rss_smh

The Peace Alliance & US Dept of Peace Campaign Has Two New Co-Sponsors!

Rep. Dale Kildee [MI-5-D] & Rep. Nick Rahall [WV-3-D] These two members of the House of Representatives are brand new http://www.thepeacealliance.org/content/view/49/126/. This brings our current total to 62 Representatives signed on in support of H.R. 808. Congratulations to all who helped make it happen! Please call these two new co-sponsors, regardless of where you live, and thank them for their commitment to the legislation. You can call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard to be connected: 202-224-3121



Awesome & Passionate Video of Congressman Kucinich Speaking about Iraq, Congress, HR1234, etc. Check it out today & then Contact your Congressional Representative
http://kucinich.us/node/3746/play

Ten Reasons to Impeach George Bush and Dick Cheney from Democracy Rising - Ask Congress to impeach President Bush and Vice President Cheney for the following reasons:

1. Violating the United Nations Charter by launching an illegal "War of Aggression" against Iraq without cause, using fraud to sell the war to Congress and the public, misusing government funds to begin bombing without Congressional authorization, and subjecting our military personnel to unnecessary harm, debilitating injuries, and deaths.

2. Violating U.S. and international law by authorizing the torture of thousands of captives, resulting in dozens of deaths, and keeping prisoners hidden from the International Committee of the Red Cross.

3. Violating the Constitution by arbitrarily detaining Americans, legal residents, and non-Americans, without due process, without charge, and without access to counsel.

4. Violating the Geneva Conventions by targeting civilians, journalists, hospitals, and ambulances, and using illegal weapons, including white phosphorous, depleted uranium, and a new type of napalm.

5. Violating U.S. law and the Constitution through widespread wiretapping of the phone calls and emails of Americans without a warrant.

6. Violating the Constitution by using "signing statements" to defy hundreds of laws passed by Congress.

7. Violating U.S. and state law by obstructing honest elections in 2000, 2002, 2004, and 2006.

8. Violating U.S. law by using paid propaganda and disinformation, selectively and misleadingly leaking classified information, and exposing the identity of a covert CIA operative working on sensitive WMD proliferation for political retribution.

9. Subverting the Constitution and abusing Presidential power by asserting a "Unitary Executive Theory" giving unlimited powers to the President, by obstructing efforts by Congress and the Courts to review and restrict Presidential actions, and by promoting and signing legislation negating the Bill of Rights and the Writ of Habeas Corpus.

10. Gross negligence in failing to assist New Orleans residents after Hurricane Katrina, in ignoring urgent warnings of an Al Qaeda attack prior to Sept. 11, 2001, and in increasing air pollution causing global warming.

We're Still Wrapped Around Their Fingers
Baltimore Sun
http://www.baltimoresun.com/entertainment/music/bal-li.popcol22mar22,0,7504785.column?track=rss
Hot Springs, Ark. Camelot Records & Tapes, circa 1984. My father and I are on our weekend ritual of record shopping. And on this Saturday afternoon, Daddy is perplexed by my choices, even a little upset. There isn't a black artist among the three 45s I choose, and the one LP I select is Synchronicity by the Police.

Ghosts in the Hit Machine: 10 Hidden Gems from the Police Commemorate Their 30th Anniversary
Vh1
http://www.vh1.com/artists/news/1554452/20070312/police.jhtml

Review & Photos from 4th Annual Peace Conference
Westin Arlington Gateway Hotel
Washington DC
Feb 3rd & 4th

Weekend of February 2nd through 4th was the 4th Annual Peace Conference down in Washington DC. I met up with Susan at her apartment on the upper eastside that Friday morning and Jade also joined us. Susan joined NYDoP core team end of 2006 and Jade came onboard after learning about conference the week before. We all piled into her car rental and headed out of Manhattan around 11am. As we headed south the weather became more overcast, cooler and wet. The ride down was lots of fun and we engaged in conversation on a variety of topics. I utilized Susan’s cell phone halfway down to let my friend Nancie know I was on my way. I’ll be staying with Nancie and Tim at their lovely home in VA. Susan, Jade and I stopped at one of the last rest stops in NJ for abit of lunch and then back on Interstate 95. The interstate doesn’t go thru much of Delaware, but they sure do have a lot of pricey tolls. Mon dieu! Susan is a fast, reliable driver and we made good time, arriving at the Westin Arlington Gateway hotel around 3:30pm. Susan was staying at the hotel; Jade and I were staying with friends in different parts of eastern Virginia. After utilizing the restroom etc, Jade and I headed for the Metro station. At the Metro station we encountered other peaceniks from Utah & Colorado. They are great folk and such cheerful, optimistic personalities. Kind locals helped us in getting cards for the Metro. Took the “orange” line five stops to Vienna stop where Jade and I waited for our friends. By this time the weather is wet, windy and a nasty chill in the air. Nancie showed up at 5:30pm and we headed back to her home. After unpacking, freshening up and calling Mom the three of us headed out for dinner at a Japanese buffet in Fairfax. Nancie and Tim treated me to delicious food and the selection was great. Than we headed back to their home, relaxed abit and then put on swimsuits for the leisurely soak in their hot tub/Jacuzzi. That felt so good!

Up early the next morning and had tasty, healthy breakfast with Nancie before she drove me to Metro station at 8:45am. Arrived in plenty of time, registered early, sold a peace bracelet, engaged in conversation with others and scanned the area in the hotel for other New Yorkers. Spent some time before conference began looking for NY contingent and our sign. [We never did find our sign, as Peace Alliance didn’t make one. I didn’t care for that one bit.] Just before 10am I found David and then we located others to sit in the back of auditorium. Over the weekend 20+ from NYC and NY State would converge into our main group. That Saturday morning there was Carol, Kevin, Chris, David, Marianne, Jade, Susan, Gay, Dawn, Joe, Howard, Nancy, Barry and I. The wonderful Dot Maver opened up the conference to cheering of many participants. Next up was Aaron Voldman from Student Peace Alliance. This was followed by guest singer Jimmy Demurs, who sang beautifully without any musical accompaniment. Then Marianne Williamson took to the stage and had everyone meet your neighbors. This was quite fun and I briefly chatted with ladies from Colorado. Marianne spoke at length about a number of topics relating to peace and nonviolence. Then she introduced a mystery guest, and we were all delighted when Congressman Wynn [D] from Maryland stepped up to the podium to speak. He stressed that “diplomacy is important” and that “peace requires engagement and dialogue”. He is so right! At 11am Lynn McMullen talked with us about the Grassroots Success Stories. Many state coordinators [including Kevin & Carol from NY] related stories and events happening in their states for peace.

[NYDoP State Coordinator, Kevin Fagan, standing at right & waiting to speak]

Lynn mentioned that we had 190 congressional meetings lined up for Feb 5th and 6th, plus 690 participants at the conference. We all cheered and applauded … many of us attended the conference in Sept 2005 and 475 participants at that time. We are making strides and it feels damn good. City Council DoP resolutions are happening and around the country many chapters are engaging in events/projects.

At 12:30pm we broke for 1 ½ hours to nosh on lunch. Joe reserved a table for some of us in the hotels restaurant. I sat down with Joe, Howard, Dawn and her boyfriend Bill for a tasty meal and fascinating conversation. Before heading back to the ballroom, I checked to see if Elly and Sarah had shown up. [They are my ride back to NYC & I wanted to connect with them.] No sign of them and name tags still waiting. Sigh! At 2pm everyone congregated again in the main ballroom for the rest of the afternoon activities, talks and breakout sessions. Lynn McMullen shared more stories of grassroots success and Marianne Williamson talked about language and message discipline. It’s important to convey and bring forth in such a manner during these upcoming meetings with congress. She also talked more about the bill and legislation summary. Also, Marianne mentioned that Senator Ted Kennedy was very much interested in a pro-active DoP bill. This news brought joy to many in attendance. She stressed that we fill out the provided postcards, so they can be mailed to the senator’s office promptly. We need to keep him interested.

At 4pm we broke up into groups, so as to attend specific workshops. Jade and I attended the one on “working with the media & press” for 1 ½ hours. Several journalists were taking part in it and I really enjoyed all that was discussed. Advice on how to get and handle press and/or TV interviews. Sending letters to editors of newspapers/magazines. How to get ones Op-Ed published and/or more out of blogsphere. The latter one was of great interest to me, but overall, I found everything of equal fascination. Priorities included talking points, deadlines, focus, opinions, viewpoint, challenging questions, show passion in topic, communication, enthusiasm, and dressing for success and no jargon were some key phrases emphasized. Also stressed is that reporters prefer good material, quotes, making connections, networking, focusing on pro & not anti. Plus, press releases need to be jazzed up. I took lots of notes and listening to the dialogue/exchanges was equally enthralling.

At 5:30pm we adjourned for a two hour dinner break and our NY team [15+] headed off to a Thai place. I checked in with Kevin and Chris regarding Elly and Sarah. Still no sign of them and I was annoyed with myself in forgetting to bring Elly’s cell phone number with me on the trip. Duh! Everyone was engaged in many lively conversations and ordering our food took awhile.

I gathered that this particular restaurant isn’t used to large groups descending on them during dinner. As it got closer to 7:30pm we still hadn’t been served dinner, so many of us, me included, decided to get it to go. I had ordered the veggie pad Thai meal and took it back to hotel ballroom. [Weather was cold and windy that weekend & I’m glad I dressed in layers.] Found a seat and during the musical entertainment I noshed on my meal, which, I might add, was really delicious. Yummy! Country music artist, Carly Goodwin, performed and was accompanied by Josh Kear on guitar. I’m not a big fan of country music and found Ms Goodwin’s music to be pleasing. Then it was time for the main attraction that evening … Deepak Chopra spoke for over an hour to a full ballroom. It was standing room only for this segment. I’ve only heard him speak on public broadcasting television and for the most part, I wasn’t overly impressed. Don’t mean to ruffle anyone’s feathers, but I must speak with honesty and clarity. If you asked me what he talked about, I’m sorry to say, I just don’t remember. At least most of the audience was enthused by his presence and words. Afterwards, I utilized Jade’s cell phone to call Nancie; I left the hotel at 9:40pm and jumped on the Metro back to Vienna, VA stop. Nancie was waiting for me and we drove back to her house. I was beat and went straight to bed.

Next morning, after a delicious and refreshing breakfast, I put suitcase in Nancie’s van and she drove me to the Metro station. I arrived in plenty of time before things started at 10am. Still no sign yet of Elly or Sarah and I was getting more and more agitated. I sat with Joe and Carol in the front row with a nice view of left side of stage. The hour and a half segment was titled “Share the Spirit of Peace” and it was aptly named. First off … a Peace Alliance award to given to Matthew Abrecht for his outstanding work and dedication to DoP campaign. Then Rickie Byars Beckwith sang three great spiritual songs and got a majority of the audience on their feet. This segment was followed by Jimmy Demers singing a beautiful version of “America the Beautiful” without music. It was so moving and we gave him a standing ovation. Marianne Williamson spoke briefly before introducing Rev Michael Beckwith, who is spiritual director of the Agape International Spiritual Center. His sermon was energetic, uplifting, optimistic and at times some humor. I was far more impressed with Rev Beckwith than Deepak Chopra. Then the hour before lunch break was Lynn McMullen talking about fundraising. Many goals we need to tackle and challenges ahead. On the way to lunch, with rest of group, I was trying to control my anxiety regarding getting back to NYC. Weighing all my options and deciding on a course of action. As several of us were sitting down, Kevin came in and announced two New Yorkers would be joining our group. He gives me a smile and introduces Elly and Sarah. A profound relief flooded my being and I jumped up to give the ladies heartfelt hugs. I was so happy I almost cried, but managed to tone that emotion.

Everyone had a great time at lunch and we also engaged in discussion/organization of the teams congressional meetings over next two days. Groups of four would go to different meetings and then all converge at around 2pm for the meeting in Senator Clinton’s office with her chief of staff. I’d be with them all in spirit, as I had to be back to work next day.

At 2:30pm a majority of our team headed back to the ballroom for more congressional training. Elly, Sarah and I grab our belongings, and then head out to the car. Weather is still cold, windy and abit overcast. Sarah took command of the wheel, but before driving out of DC, the ladies wanted to see and visit the Jefferson Memorial. I had no objections to this side trip and a visit to any of the memorials sounded great to me. The parking area was closed near the Jefferson, so we decided to visit the FDR Memorial. This site is relatively new and opened a few years ago, so none of us had visited it. Cold though it was and very few tourists in sight, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll through this serene memorial. We all read the inscriptions/quotes, plus had our pix taken next to statues of FDR and his wife Eleanor.

Then it was back to the car and a four hour drive to NYC via Interstate 95. Along the way we made one pit stop at a rest area for light refreshment. Throughout the ride we conversed about numerous topics; such as work, men, families, kids, peace, enlightenment, events and this organization called Landmark Education. They both live on the Queens/Long Island border and insisted on driving me home to northern Brooklyn. So very sweet and thoughtful of them … arrived home between 9pm and 10pm. Tired, but jazzed about the weekend and all the challenges ahead of us. One of which is working on getting my congresswoman to co-sponsor the bill, like she’d done 3 times before, and also work on getting a meeting with her. If any of my readers live in Brooklyn, or NYC area, take a moment and contact Congresswoman Velazquez and kindly ask her to co-sponsor HR808 today. Many thanks … peace is the only way. To learn more about the Dept of Peace; check out www.nyc-dop.com OR www.ThePeaceAlliance.org

QUOTE OF THE DAY ... Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding. Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

Rocky is Calling for Uprooting of Bush - He's Joining Washington State on a Resolution
Doug Smeath, Deseret Morning News
http://deseretnews.com/dn/view/0,1249,660199482,00.html

Almost Every Aspect of Iraqi Life has Gotten Worse in the Last Four Years - Operation Deepening Nightmare
Patrick Cockburn
http://kucinich.us/node/3736

The website below is a national list of KUCINICH meetups
http://www.wewantkucinich.com/connect/index.htm

[Duchess Note: Many thanks to Linda Z from TX in sharing the above articles.]

Defense Spending Soars to Highest Levels Since World War II
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines07/0320-05.htm

Iraqis Increasingly Pessimistic, Anti-US
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines07/0320-02.htm

From the Folk at “World Can’t Wait!” – Pictures & Video from the March on the Pentagon

Over 20 thousand people marched on the Pentagon Saturday, March 17, demanding an end to the war on Iraq, no war on Iran, and that Bush be impeached. The crowd included many students and youth, veterans of the current Iraq war and other wars, and many others from around the country. Saturday's protest came 40 years after the 1967 March on the Pentagon, which marked a turning point in the movement against the Vietnam war. Protests are being held all across the country and around the world this weekend to mark the 4th anniversary of the unjust war on Iraq. More reports will be coming soon from this important weekend of protest. For now, check out pictures and video at the following link http://www.worldcantwait.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3971&Itemid=223

Purple Hearts, Democrats Abroad & Kucinich
Democrats.com Unity
http://www.democrats.com/node/12284



Kucinich Urges Conversation about Impeachment
http://kucinich.us/node/3696/play

Wake Up America Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFqzukTJon8

Kucinich Has a Chance to Make a Historic Move & to Stand Out as a Presidential Hopeful
Dave Lindorff
http://www.indybay.org/newsitems/2007/03/16/18377460.php

Join Others Who Support Congressman Kucinich in His Presidential Campaign for 2008 – Find & Sign Up with a Meetup Group Today
http://www.wewantkucinich.com/connect/index.htm

Firemen Douse Rudy’s Image as 9/11 Hero – Union Bid to Halt White House Run
Sarah Baxter, NY Sunday Times
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/us_and_americas/article1530535.ece

[Duchess Note - The real heroes on that horrific day in September 2001 were the firemen, police, volunteers and those tending the wounded. They are the heroes ... not Guilani. Like the Bush Regime, Guilani has used and abused 9/11 for his own personal gains. Like the Bush Regime, Rudy has no compassion nor consideration of the 9/11 families. I say "BRAVO" to the firemen and bring forth the truth.]



Check Out The Different Presidential Candidates for 2008
http://impact.myspace.com/

You call Yourself a Progressive, But You Still Eat Meat?
Kathy Freston
http://www.alternet.org/envirohealth/49188/

Halliburton: From Bush's Favorite to a National Disgrace
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines07/0314-08.htm

Editorial Pages Call for Axing Attorney General
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines07/0314-06.htm

Neocons in Cheney’s Office Fund al Qaeda-Tied Groups & No One Cares?!?
Tom Engelhardt, Tomdispatch.com
http://www.alternet.org/waroniraq/49275/

Important Message From CodePink Organization
Today, Monday, March 19, marks four years of war in Iraq. We hope you attended one of the hundreds of actions this weekend against the continued bloodshed. Today you have another opportunity to attend rallies, call and visit your congressperson before they vote this week on the supplemental bill that would allocate another $100 billion for war. Tell them "No More Money for War." You also have an opportunity to pressure one of the largest on-line activist groups, MoveOn.org. MoveOn has not taken a stand against this Supplemental. It asked its members to take a vote on whether or not to support the Supplemental, but failed to explain how disastrous this inside-the-beltway compromise really is:

* It will keep the war going well into 2008;
* It omits Congresswoman Barbara Lee's amendment, which would have fully funded withdrawal by the end of the 2007;
* It gives the President the right to waive requirements that troops sent to Iraq must be properly trained, equipped and rested;
* The funds can be used for attacking Iran, since the final version removed language saying the president had to get authorization from Congress before attacking Iran.
* And finally, MoveOn neglects to tell its members how absurd it is to give George Bush another $100 billion for war when there is no military solution to the violence in Iraq.

The Democrat leadership says this is the "best bill" they can get passed, but admits that President Bush is likely to veto it anyway. We need to tell Congress to stop the political machinations and use its Constitutional authority to end war by cutting the funds. We need to tell MoveOn to join the rest of the peace movement with the clear, principled call to Congress: Vote No on the Supplemental. Don't Buy Bush's War. This week, your leadership is crucial. Call your member of Congress at 800-828-0498, and inspire your friends to do the same. Attend a MoveOn candlelight vigil tonight with the real message: No Money for War!

Message from Democrats.com Unity
Kucinich: "Impeachment May Well Be the Only Remedy"

Today Rep. Dennis Kucinich defied Speaker Nancy Pelosi and put the Impeachment of George W. Bush "on the table" where it urgently belongs. Kucinich said, "This week the House Appropriations committee removed language from the Iraq war funding bill requiring the Administration, under Article 1, Section 8, Clause 11 of the Constitution, to seek permission before it launched an attack against Iran. Since war with Iran is an option of this Administration and since such war is patently illegal, then impeachment may well be the only remedy which remains to stop a war of aggression against Iran."

Of course speaking about impeachment is not the same as introducing Articles of Impeachment. But Kucinich is stepping into a firestorm of opposition from the corporate media and his own party's leadership - and needs our support to keep him going. Please thank Rep. Dennis Kucinich for speaking out on impeachment - and ask him to make his remarks real by introducing Articles of Impeachment: info@kucinich.us OR http://kucinich.us/contact

Read more of Kucinich's speech in "The Ides of March" by Cindy Sheehan:
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/node/19708

On Wednesday night, Kucinich spoke with a group of citizens about Iran and impeachment. Here's video:http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/node/19680

We also highly recommend this new video of an impeachment workshop with Mimi Kennedy, John Nichols, Antonia Juhasz, David Swanson, and Tim Carpenter:
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/node/19700

If Elected, Clinton Says Some G.I.s In Iraq Would Remain
Michael R. Gordon & Patrick Healy, NY Times
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines07/0315-02.htm

[DUCHESS NOTE – Make your voices known and heard to ALL presidential candidates for 2008. All US troops out of Iraq by end of 2007! We don’t want a president in office who’ll keep our troops in the Middle East. The war and occupation of Iraq is inmoral and illegal. We want a true democracy in the US and not a fascist imperial regime bent on world domination. Support and vote for a presidential candidate who’s been against the war in Iraq from the beginning and wants to bring ALL our troops home. Vote for Kucinich … http://kucinich.us]

What We Need: Single Payer, a Single Plan
Lisa Nilles
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0315-24.htm

Congressman Kucinich Speaking on Iran
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oiYBZ2ykqc&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eafterdowningstreet%2Eorg%2F

Kucinich: 'Impeachment May Well be the Only Remedy Which Remains to Stop a War of Aggression Against Iran'
Ron Brynaert
http://rawstory.com/news/2007/Kucinich_Impeachment_may_well_be_only_0315.html

[DUCHESS NOTE: Many thanks to Linda Z in TX for sharing some of the above articles.]

Liverpool: Peace Be With You
Posted on: 03/07/07
Written by: Sarah Hall, Liverpool Review
email: shall@cnylink.com

The weekend of Feb. 3, over 1,000 people gathered in Washington, D.C. to ask the federal government to consider creating a federal department of peace with a cabinet-level position. The attendees listened to speeches from such activists as Deepak Chopra and Michael Beckwith. In the audience was Liverpool resident Gay Montague, a former English teacher at Liverpool High School. Montague attended the conference with friend Danya Wellmon of East Syracuse. The two were the only Central New Yorkers in attendance. “It was really inspirational,” Montague said. “Almost every state was represented.” Montague is part of the Peace Alliance, a national organization committed to forming a department of peace. The organization was formed by motivational speaker Marianne Williamson, an author whose works include “Healing the Soul of America” and “The Gift of Change.” Montague has long been committed to creating a more peaceful world, and the Peace Alliance is a natural fit for her.

“It’s important for people to know that it’s not an antiwar or anti-military organization,” Montague said of the alliance. “It seeks to establish a federal department of peace with a cabinet-level appointment. We want to bring the idea of peace to the forefront. We put our energy into creating peace rather than being antiwar. There’s a difference.” Montague, with Wellmon’s aid, is trying to establish a chapter of the Peace Alliance in Central New York. She wants to educate people on the mission of the organization and to spark a different kind of thinking about conflict resolution. The creation of a federal peace department is part of that new thinking. A bill has been brought forth in Congress proposing a federal department (House Resolution 808), and 60 representatives have already agreed to cosponsor the bill. In addition, 19 major cities including Chicago, Detroit and Atlanta, some of the most violent places in the country, have put their support behind the proposal.

The Time Has Come
Montague said that the idea of a department of peace is not new. “It first came up in 1792,” she said. “It was proposed by Benjamin Banneker and Benjamin Rush when the country’s government was being set up. It’s come up several times since then. It’s an idea whose time has come.” While the idea of a department of peace may seem overly romantic to some, Montague pointed out that the proposal is also very practical. “Interpersonal violence costs $300 billion in one year in the U.S. according to the World Health Organization,” she said. “And that figure doesn’t include the costs of war. Violent crime is on the rise. It’s up 8 percent in the nation’s smaller cities, and the national murder rate is up for the first time in years. Something’s not working.” Montague said that the department of peace would work to create a new concept of conflict resolution and would teach nonviolent tactics in areas where violence is prevalent. The department would work internationally and locally to improve living conditions for people and to prevent outbreaks of violence.

“Studies have shown that we can identify where the next outbreak will be based on the conditions people are living in,” Montague said. “These include high child mortality rates, limited or no access to markets and people feeling like they have no voice in government. Peace department workers could step in in these situations to prevent the violence.” The department would also aid the military in the aftermath of war to rebuild infrastructure and bring about a return to normalcy in war-torn nations. “After the shock and awe of war, people need jobs,” Montague said. “There needs to be a good transition.” In addition, the department would undertake efforts here in the U.S. to limit violence, working with prisons to better rehabilitate violent criminals, presenting programs to schools and assisting victims of violence. It would provide an umbrella under which all peace programs could operate, allowing for increased awareness and better oversight. “It’s a rethinking to set up conditions for peaceful resolution,” Montague said.

The biggest part of that rethinking would be the establishment of a peace academy which would work in conjunction with the military academy to train people for nonviolent conflict resolution. The cost, Montague said, would be minimal; activists anticipate asking for a mere 2 percent of the budget for the Department of Defense. The cost is especially paltry when considering the potential benefits. Montague recognized that the idea will still have its naysayer’s, but she’s not discouraged. “Abolition was unthinkable at the time,” she pointed out. “Women’s suffrage was unthinkable at the time… I think people are beginning to realize that what we’re doing isn’t working. This is a viable path.” For more information about the Peace Alliance, visit www.ThePeaceAlliance.org OR www.nyc-dop.com

Kucinich Hires Critic of Israel for Hill Panel
Daniel reilly & Patrick O’Connor / The Politico
http://dyn.politico.com/printstory.cfm?uuid=4D3193F2-3048-5C12-0066B32A6264B844

Whose Oil Is It, Anyway?
Antonia Juhasz, NY Times
http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/node/19606

Kucinich: take Oil Out of Iraq Funds Bill
United Press International
http://www.upi.com/Energy/kucinich_take_oil_out_of_iraq_funds_bill/20070314-013542-9226r/

[DUCHESS NOTE - Many thanks to Linda Z in TX for sharing the above three articles.]

Message Outtake from “Center for American Progress Action Fund” in Regards to Attorney General Alberto Gonzales & Bush Regime
THE 'CLINTON DID IT TOO' DEFENSE FURTHER WEAKENED: Last week in Little Rock, Rove claimed the attorney firings were "normal and ordinary" because Clinton did the same thing when he replaced all 93 U.S. Attorneys in 1993. The difference, as former White House Chief of Staff John Podesta told The Progress Report, is that "the Clinton administration never fired federal prosecutors as pure political retribution." The Clinton administration, like the H.W. Bush and Reagan administrations before it, asked for all U.S. Attorneys to resign at the beginning of their respective presidential terms. As the Carpetbagger blog reports, replacing all the prosecutors is not "remotely unusual" -- "indeed, it’s how the process is designed." "The Congressional Research Service has confirmed how unprecedented these firings are. It found that of 486 U.S. attorneys confirmed since 1981, perhaps no more than three were forced out in similar ways, three in 25 years, compared with seven in recent months." The new emails show the Justice Department knew what they were doing had never been done before. "In recent memory, during the Reagan and Clinton Administrations, Presidents Reagan and Clinton did not seek to remove and replace U.S. Attorneys to serve indefinitely under the holdover provision," Samson wrote.

PERSONAL NEWS #116
On Thursday evening, January 18th, I attended the monthly NYDoP core team meeting. Those in attendance were Kevin, Dawn, Marianne and I. Turnout was low due to the cold, blustery weather and threats of snow. Despite that the four of us got much accomplished during the allotted time frame. Discussion on the upcoming Peace Conference in DC was an important topic. Also, from mid-2004 to the present, New Yorkers for a Dept of Peace [NYDoP] have held their meetings at many locations throughout Manhattan. In January 2006, many thanks to the kindness and generosity of Laura Miranda, we now have a “meeting space”. This month we celebrated the one year anniversary. May our group, and the peace movement, continue to grow and shine forth with great joy.

On Monday evening, January 22nd, I attended my third “Peace Circle” in Brooklyn. It was held at Mary’s apartment, which is situated in a lovely brownstone in Park Slope. Those in attendance that evening were Mary, Gili, Kim, Joyce and I. Was feeling abit agitated that day and the peaceful delightful atmosphere, with meditation, helped in a soothing way. Joyce offered to drive Gili and me to our respective homes, which was so sweet and thoughtful of her.

Saturday, January 27th, rally and protest in Washington DC review is posted on February 1st and photos on February 6th.

QUOTE OF THE DAY … Patriotism does not mean support for your government; it means support for your country … Mark Twain

Weekend of February 3rd and 4th at 4th Annual Peace Conference review & photos will be posted shortly, please stay tuned…………

On Wednesday evening, February 7th, I attended the monthly DFNYC meetup in Park Slope. About seven of us were in attendance and halfway through the meeting fellow Kucitizen, Paul B, showed up. I hadn’t seen him in months and always a pleasure to hangout with him. Dedicated to political campaigns, health issues and activism, plus he is such a nice man. Topics of discussion were Dave Pollack, Daily Gotham, New Democrat Majority [NDM], Public Advocate/City Council campaigns will be in 2009 and HR 455 legislation introduced by Congressman Nadler of NY. Also a brief discussion on Senator Kennedy’s S233 legislation to prohibit further funds for escalation of US military forces in Iraq. Meeting wrapped up around 8:50pm and I walked part way to my bus stop with Paul.

On Thursday evening, February 8th, I participated in the NYDoP conference call to “debrief” the recent 4th annual peace conference in DC. Many of us who attended the conference were on the call and it was great hearing everyone’s thoughts on the event. How do we proceed from point A to B and take the inspiring motivation from conference to new levels. In the upcoming month or so our group will be participating in Planning & Strategy for 2007/2008. It’ll be a busy, exciting time.

PEACE QUOTE OF THE DAY ... Peace hath higher tests of manhood, than battle ever knew. John Greenleaf Whittier



The Time for Action on Iraq – Message from Congressman Kucinich
Democratic leaders are poised to give President Bush another $120 billion ($120,000,000,000) for the war, more than enough money to keep out troops in Iraq through the end of his term and enough money to expand the war into Iran. Democratic leaders want to fund the war while saying they oppose the war. They are promising to use the war as a campaign issue against Republicans in 2008. We do not have time to discern whether the leaders who say they are for peace yet vote for war are motivated by sincerity, self-deception or duplicity. We need to mobilize now to contact Members of Congress to vote against further funding of the war. If the war is to be brought to an end, then Members of Congress must hear from you. Your efforts will make a difference.

Remember last year when Democrats ran TV commercials against Republicans attacking them for supporting the war? Democrats were brought to power in the House and the Senate because of the war. Now, in the first 100 days in a Democratic Congress; it is the Democrats who are raising the banner of war in the name of the troops, in the name of the Constitution, in the name of national security and in your name. Voila! The Democratic version of the war in Iraq. The Democratic Party is at a turning point. Either we take this nation out of Iraq by cutting off funds NOW or we will forfeit the trust and the confidence of the American people. There will be consequences for Democrats funding the war.

Please join the thousands of citizen activists who are coming to Washington in the next 10 days to meet with Members of Congress to demand an end to the war and a real plan for stabilizing Iraq. Tell them about my bill, HR 1234, the plan to end the Iraq war. HR 1234 is the plan that will end the occupation, close the bases, bring the troops home, make Halliburton and all contractors come home and stabilize Iraq with an international peace-keeping and security force. HR 1234 will restore Iraq’s sovereignty over its oil, control its food and energy prices and protect its financial integrity by ensuring Iraq will not be the target of World Bank and IMF structural adjustment policies.

Please read HR 1234 before you meet with Members of Congress. This bill, crafted with the consultation of senior UN advisors with expertise in international peace-keeping and security missions, military experts and principals of the international political community is the plan that will end the occupation, bring our troops home and stabilize Iraq. HR 1234 - Spread the word!

Hidden Costs of War: Long-Term Price of Providing Veterans Medical Care Could Reach $660 Billion
http://kucinich.us/node/2613

Congressman Kucinich & 2008 Presidential Candidate – Prayer for America Video
August 14, 2006
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8528466337443301416&q=kucinich&hl=en

America Needs A Ron Paul and Dennis Kucinich “Unity Ticket”
By Jay Esbe, OpEdNews
http://www.opednews.com/articles/opedne_jay_esbe_070312_america_needs_a_ron_.htm

[Duchess Note - Many thanks to Linda Z (TX) for sharing some of the above articles.]

Just Call Me Mike: a Journey from Actor to Activist
Mike Farrell, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/mediaculture/48993/

Times Square Anti-war Vigil Starts
Article & Photos by Justin Rocket Silverman, amNew York Staff Writer
As the U.S. closes in on its fourth year in Iraq, the Granny Peace Brigade Sunday ramped up its protest of the war with a week-long vigil honoring the soldiers killed since fighting began in March 2003. The Grannys will spend six days, from dawn till dusk, at the Times Square military recruiting center reading the names of the more than 7,700 Americans, coalition soldiers and journalists killed since fighting began in March 2003.
http://www.amny.com/news/local/am-grannies0312,0,3288282.story?coll=am-topheadlines


[Photo Note: Duchess at event yesterday holding the banner]


[Photo Note: Duchess friend, Linda G, at event ringing chimes after each name is spoken]

WHAT WAS IN THE NEWS THIS PAST WEEKEND

World Water Day
Face it: Clean tap water is something you take for granted. The thing is, other people, lots of them actually, aren't so lucky. As a matter of fact, the lack of clean drinking water is one of the most urgent health crises facing the planet today. The Tap Project lets you do something about that. But don't worry, it's easy: all you have to do is have a glass of water. On March 22, 2007 the United Nations' World Water Day, hundreds of restaurants in New York City, home to some the best tap water on the planet, will invite their patrons to pay $1 for something they normally get for free. The funds collected will support UNICEF water programs, which provide safe drinking water to children around the world. Go to: http://www.tapproject.org

Police Tour Add Shows
http://uk.news.launch.yahoo.com/dyna/article.html?a=/070312/340/h1hm6.html&e=l_news_dm
The Police have announced details of a series of new dates in the UK, after the original shows quickly sold out

Meet the Candidates 2008: Kucinich runs again
John Beaudoin, Publisher
http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=18051053&BRD=2703&PAG=461&dept_id=555131&rfi=6

Vermont: 36 Towns Call For Impeachment Probe of President
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines07/0307-01.htm

Vermont Votes to Impeach Bush/Cheney
John Nichols
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0307-22.htm

Limited Options and Endless Possibilities
Ted Rall
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0307-21.htm

Harry Belafonte, The Lion at 80
Amy Goodman, King Features Syndicate
http://www.alternet.org/stories/48942/

Big News from MoveOn.org - The Democratic Party of Nevada is dropping Fox as the host of its presidential debate!

We accomplished this together ... More than 265,000 of us signed the petition saying "Fox is a mouthpiece for the Republican Party" and asking Nevada Democrats to drop Fox.

1] Over 3,000 of us called and emailed Nevada Democrats. Robert Greenwald's new film Fox Attacks: Obama generated over 300,000 views on YouTube.
2] John Edwards showed real courage by announcing he would not attend the Fox debate.
3] Nevada bloggers like LasVegasGleaner.com and RenoDiscontent.com—and national blogs like MyDD.com and DailyKos.com—kept up the heat.
4] Nevada MoveOn member Danny Coyle got the Carson City Democratic Central Committee (in Nevada's capitol) to overwhelmingly pass a resolution urging that Fox be dropped.
5] The Drudge Report, Fox's partner in the right-wing smear machine, says our defeat of Fox means "war"—that's fine, our side is ready for battle.
6] Film director Robert Greenwald will continue making his Fox Attacks online videos exposing Fox's smears—and we'll keep working with him to achieve big victories.

Can you chip in to help Robert Greenwald's Brave New Films continue their Fox Attacks videos exposing Fox? Every donation makes a big difference. To contribute, and to see the most recent video, click here: http://www.moveon.org/r?r=2414&id=9998-2148547-SfoYT3&t=3

We could feel our momentum growing on Thursday when Nevada Senator Harry Reid told bloggers, "I don't like Fox."

7] That night, Fox President Roger Ailes proved why—making remarks that associated Barack Obama with Osama Bin Laden.
8] This was the final straw—Nevada Democrats sent Fox a letter Friday saying, "We cannot, as good Democrats, put our party in a position to defend such comments."
9] Hopefully, this sets a precedent for all Democrats: Fox should be treated as a right-wing misinformation network, not legitimized as a neutral source of news. All the media coverage of this fight has certainly reminded the public and the media that we can't trust Fox.
10] We couldn't have dealt such a defeat to Fox without Outfoxed director Robert Greenwald's powerful online video Fox Attacks: Obama—which exposed Fox's smears. This video was viewed over 300,000 times on YouTube and was very effective in recruiting thousands of new people into our fight against Fox in Nevada. Robert's videos will be vital to future fights against Fox.

Air America 2.0 Begins Today
Mark Green, HuffingtonPost
http://www.alternet.org/mediaculture/48880/

America’s Veterans Left in the Lurch
Jeanine Plant, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/stories/48894/

Making Women’s Health an International Priority
Lucinda Marshall
http://www.alternet.org/rights/48933/

Challenging the Workplace Dictatorship
http://www.alternet.org/workplace/49008/
Barbara Ehrenreich

The 5-Minute Interview with actor Sean Bean
The Independent [UK]
http://news.independent.co.uk/people/profiles/article2341313.ece


[Photo of Sean Bean from “Outlaw”]

OUTLAW – Sean Bean Interview
IndieLondon
http://www.indielondon.co.uk/Film-Review/outlaw-sean-bean-interview


http://www.librarything.com/

POLICE Tour Tickets Sell Out In Minutes
London Reuters
http://nz.entertainment.yahoo.com/070309/5/54n.html

[The Police at the recent Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, were they performed "Roxanne". Media goes on and on about Sting, which is such a bore. The Police is a 3-piece band, not one person. Get with it! Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland are equally vital as the trio. Only reason I'd see the reunion tour is for the music & those two great musicians.]

Not Ready to Make Nice
By Dixie Chicks

Forgive, sounds good
Forget, I’m not sure I could
They say time heals everything
But I’m still waiting
I’m through with doubt
There’s nothing left for me to figure out
I’ve paid a price
And I’ll keep paying

I’m not ready to make nice
I’m not ready to back down
I’m still made as hell and;
I don’t have time to go round and round and round
It’s too late to make it right
I probably wouldn’t if I could
Cause I’m made as hell
Can’t bring myself to do what it is you think I should

I know you said can’t you just get over it
It turned my whole world around
And I kind of like it
I made my bed and I sleep like a baby
With no regrets and I don’t mind sayin

It’s a sad sad story when a mother will teach her
Daughter that she ought to hate a perfect stranger
And how in the world can the words that I said,
Send somebody so over the edge
That they’d write me a letter
Sayin that I better shut up and sing,
Or my life will be over

I’m not ready to make nice
I’m not ready to back down
I’m still made as hell and
I don’t have time to go round and round and round
It’s too late to make it right
I probably wouldn’t if I could
Cause I’m made as hell
Can’t bring myself to do what it is you think I should

I’m not ready to make nice
I’m not ready to back down
I’m still mad as hell and
I don’t have time to go round and round and round
It’s too late to make it right
I probably wouldn’t if I could
Cause I’m mad as hell
Can’t bring myself to do what it is you think I should

Forgive, sounds good
Forget, I’m not sure I could
They say time heals everything
But I’m still waiting

[DUCHESS NOTE - Check out the latest in views, reflection and opinions by friends and acquaintances of the Duchess over at FRIENDS OF FRIDAY FORUM. Click on this link ... http://friendsoffridayforum.blogspot.com/]

Kucinich: Bush Has No Backup Plan for Iraq, Forfeits Right To Lead
http://kucinich.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=59635
Congress must end the war, HR 1234 is the Backup Plan

Libbygate: Now Let’s Get to the Real Story
Dave Lindorff
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0306-38.htm
So Scooter Libby has taken the fall. Three and a half years and a long bloody war after he and a gang of war-mongers in the White House and Blair House, including President Bush and Vice President Cheney, set out to undermine and trash the reputation of an Iraq war critic, former ambassador Joseph Wilson, Libby has been found guilty of perjury, lying to the FBI and obstruction of justice by a Washington jury. Now maybe special counsel Patrick Fitzgerald and what passes for journalists in the mainstream media can get down to the real business of finding out just why the entire White House smear operation was unleashed upon a minor state department official and why they went so far as to violate federal law and expose his CIA-operative wife, Valerie Plame, in the process destroying her entire network of contacts for monitoring the spread of nuclear weapons in the Middle East. Because that's what this whole Libby story is really about.

LIVE FROM NYC - ITS THE NEWS

Law of Attraction for World Peace
James Twyman, Debbie Ford & Jean Houston
http://www.passalongwebsites.com/secretcall/jeandebbie/

Why Can’t We Talk About Peace in Public?
Matt Taibbi, RollingStone.com
http://www.alternet.org/waroniraq/48601/

Rotten Tomatoes UK Sits Down for a Chat with One of Britain's Finest Actors; Sean Bean
Interview by Joe Utichi
http://uk.rottentomatoes.com/click/movie-10006593/reviews.php?rid=1604030

Drinking and Rape: The Rest of the Story
Jaclyn Friedman, Women’s eNews
http://www.alternet.org/stories/48835/
Blasting women with warnings about getting drunk in public does little to help them and sidesteps men’s responsibility for sexual assault.

Sean Bean Interview on Steve Wright Show on BBC2 Radio
http://www.hopkinsfan.net/multimedia/BBCRadio2OutlawInterview.mp3

One Bite at a Time: A Beginner’s Guide to Vegetarianism
Kathy Freston, HuffingtonPost.com
http://www.alternet.org/envirohealth/48633/

Hersh: Bush Funneling Money to Al Qaeda Related Groups
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/022607A.shtml

U.S. Imperialist Maneuvers Target Iran
By: Mazda Majidi
http://www.pslweb.org/site/News2?JServSessionIdr001=g3pwistxd1.app13a&page=NewsArticle&id=6491&news_iv_ctrl=1261
Tactics may change, goals remain. On Feb. 27, the U.S. government announced that it would attend a meeting of Iraq's neighbors discussing ways to stabilize the country.

60,000 Marriages Broken by Iraq, Including Mine
Stacy Bannerman, The Progressive
http://www.alternet.org/waroniraq/48788/

Hollywood Keeps Dissing Documentaries At The Oscars
Danny Schechter, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/mediaculture/48801/
[Duchess Note - Those Hollywood folk should be praising documentaries, not dissing them. Many of the documentaries over last 5 to 10 year are far superior to the majority of over priced, hyped garbage that comes out of Hollywood. Yes, you heard me, over priced garbage! Occasionally one gets a well acted treasure. If you want good acting, well, look no further than the British. American actors who are true to the "acting profession" are few and far between. Give me an actor of quality; not some over priced, hyped up star.]

Most Support US Guarantee of Health Care
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines07/0302-06.htm

The Stolen Election of 2004
Michael Parenti
http://www.commondreams.org/views07/0302-21.htm

The Jet Blue Blues
Barbara Ehrenreich, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/rights/48417/

Kucinich Introduces Legislation to Immediately End Iraq War
Please Take a Moment to Contact Your Congressional Representative to Support It
Nadia Goodenu
http://www.opednews.com/articles/genera_nadia_go_070301_kucinich_introduces_htm



PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE DENNIS KUCINICH IN NJ
Lewis Candura, Morris County Democratic Chairman will host Congressman Dennis Kucinich at Morris County Democratic Headquarters

11 Washington Street in Morristown on Sunday, March 4, 2007. The HQ doors will open at 3:30 PM and everyone is invited.

Free parking (on Sunday) is available one block south at the parking garage on the corner of Schuyler Pl. and Anne Street. This is a great chance to meet with the one Presidential candidate who was NOT "tricked, deceived or misled" by Bush lies as the other candidates admitted they were. If they were so easily duped, perhaps they are NOT Presidential material. Dennis is also the candidate who has a solid, progressive published position on all the issues. Check all his positions at http://kucinich.us/ and sign up for the Kucinich Campaign. Contributions are alsowelcome and encouraged.

Collision Course With Iran
Congressman Dennis Kucinich, Global Research, The Nation
http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=viewArticle&code=KUC20070301&articleId=4973

[Duchess Note: Many thanks to fellow Kucitizen, Linda Z, in sending this info.]

Media Action Alert From The Peace Alliance - PLEASE CONTACT THE NATION MAGAZINE TODAY!



In the latest Peace Alliance & Dept of Peace campaign e-Newsletter, we told you about Congressman Jim McDermott's (D-WA 7th) recent op-ed published February 26, 2007 in the Seattle Times discussing why he supports HR 808.

Yesterday, the Nation's editor, Katrina Vanden Heuvel, in an on-line article posted in the Legislation Watch section, wrote favorably about the legislation and referenced the McDermott op-ed while praising Dennis Kucinich for championing this bill. She writes:

"In 2001, Representative Dennis Kucinich introduced legislation to create a Department of Peace and Nonviolence to "not only make nonviolence an organizing principle in our society, but to make war archaic," as he told Studs Terkel in an article for The Nation in 2002. Six years later, H.R. 808 has 59 co-sponsors; including Rep. Jim McDermott, who writes that the bill "embodies the dreams and aspirations of Americans to live in a nation that uses its great strength to support the cooperative efforts of people throughout the world to create peace." The legislation calls for $8 billion in annual funding, less than one month of spending on the Iraq War and in stark contrast to the $439 billion allocated to the military in the recent Bush budget."

TAKE ACTION TODAY!

1. CONTACT THE NATION & write a letter to the editor at: http://www.thenation.com/contact/lett

For tips on how to write a good letter to the editor, go to: http://www.thepeacealliance.org/content/blogcategory/36/45/

For Talking Points, please go to http://www.thepeacealliance.org/content/view/288/68/ and remember that letters in your own words are best. You will also find blog entries following the article, many of which oppose the concept, but a few are supportive. We encourage you to register and post a positive and polite comment. Please let us know if you've responded and if your letter is published by sending an email to press@thepeacealliance.org

2. CONTACT REPRESENTATIVE JIM MCDERMOTT. Many of you have already done this after reading about this op-ed in our e-Newsletter, but in case you haven't, please contact Representative Jim McDermott at 202.224.3106 (Washington, DC) or 206.553.7170 (Washington State) or email him through the web form found at Congress.org, and thank him for raising awareness of this legislation. Please contact The Nation and Congressman McDermott today and forward this email quickly and widely!