BlueGrassRoots

Breaking: McConnell on WVLK this afternoon

Just heard that Mitch McConnell will be interviewed on Lexington's WVLK this afternoon at 2:30.

More details and phone # to come. If anyone out there hears anything, please write in the comments.

UPDATE: Yes, Mitch McConnell will be on Kruser's show at 2:30. The station said that he will be taking calls. The number is 859-253-5959. I imagine some of you have some questions to ask him, eh?

UPDATE #2: Will someone please tape the show for me?

UPDATE #3: He's on NOW.

UPDATE #4: Chickenshit bastard wouldn't even take calls from his constituents, how pathetic. He knows both Republicans (immigration, Fletcher/ Forgy people) and Democrats (um... too many to list) would have absolutely ripped him to shreds. So he takes a softball interview from a third rate right wing hack instead. Chickenshit bastard.

The Draft Horne Movement Keeps Building Steam

This is old news, but better late than never, eh? Bluegrass Report had a big survey in which 500 of its readers responded to a bunch of KY politics questions. This is the BIG NEWS within:

Also noteworthy about this group, only 38% said that U.S. Rep. Ben Chandler (D) should challenge Senator McConnell (R) next year (62% said no). Meanwhile, Andrew Horne (D) bests the group of possible McConnell opponents:

2008 Senate Challenger Preference (Democratic respondents only)
Andrew Horne -- 37%
Greg Stumbo -- 33%
Charlie Owen -- 19%
Bruce Lunsford -- 11%

That's right, the most insider political blog in the state just put Lt. Col. Andrew Horne in 1st place among all potential challengers to McConnell in 2008. This is despite the fact that he hasn't been campaigning or even set up an exploratory committee to run, not to mention the fact that he's never run for a state office.

There is some definite buzz happening with the Draft Horne movement in Kentucky. First of all, Horne has been an incredible ambassador for our state and our troops, as he has loudly and publicly criticized McConnell for his shameless rubberstamping of Bush's failed Iraq policy and his truly disgusting filibuster of the Webb amendment to restore proper rest and rotation between tours for our troops. This is someone who has the courage to stand up for what is right and speak truth to power, no matter what taunting he may endure from the right as a result. And quite frankly, the silence of our other Democrats in KY on this issue has been deafening. That is, when they aren't giving more unchecked warrantless spying powers to Dick Cheney and Alberto Gonzales.

Secondly, Horne matches up ideally against McConnell. McConnell won't be able to smear him for standing up to Bush on Iraq, at least not successfully. If McConnell tries to call a 27 year Marine and Iraq veteran a wimpy cut-and-runner terrorist appeasing Defeatocrat for opposing a very unpopular war, it will be suicide. He would LOSE, make no mistake about that. Not have a close race... LOSE. However, McConnell would bash every other candidate with these labels (though its effectiveness might not be overwhelming or even successful if things continue like they are in Iraq).

Horne also doesn't have many of the flaws that other candidates have, particularly with past scandals or social standing/perception. I won't get into those (you know what they are) because I will strongly support whichever candidate gets the nomination, and I'm not going to get into smearing here. But McConnell will probably end up spending somewhere around $20 million dollars on attack ads alone in this race. The slightest chink in someone's armor could be fatally amplified with this kind of money. But what are Horne's weaknesses in this area? I can't think of many. I've never met the guy, and maybe I'm off base here, but he seams like a guy with outstanding character and dedication to his country, whether you are conservative or liberal (of course I'm not talking about the 25%'ers, I'm sure they'll despise him). McConnell will definitely try to smear him, as he has ruthlessly with all of his opponents, but I think he'd have a hard time making them stick on Horne.

Anyway, if you're one of those Kentuckians that would like to see Lt. Col. Andrew Horne at least enter the 2008 Senate race against Mitch McConnell, I implore you to GO HERE and SIGN THE PETITION TO DRAFT HORNE into the race!

Media Czech Moves to W Weekly

Well, as some of you may be aware, I have parted ways with Lexington's Nougat Magazine, for whom I wrote a full page media criticism column in every issue the past 14 months. The publisher's new policy of banning discussion of religion, gay rights and women's rights because they are "controversial" was a little too much for me to take (and this is a self-described Arts/alternative magazine). After I challenged the no gay rights policy (which would be "profanity", in the words of the publisher) with my Holsinger column (which she refused to run), my decision to leave was very easy.

Foreseeing this turn of events, I fortunately lined up a gig writing at W Weekly here in Lexington. W used to really suck, but they've dramatically improved in the last 6 months and there's some genuinely good stuff in there these days. W decided to run my Holsinger column that Nougat censored, and has offered me a regular spot in each issue, if I so desire. And the word on the street is that they actually give you a few bucks for your work, which is kinda considerate. (Nougat never paid me one red penny).

Anyway, my article on Karl Rove's destruction of the Republican Party for a generation to come was published in this week's issue, with a zesty inside cover page 2 spot.

And I'm quite happy to announce that my review of the Yearly Kos Convention will be the cover story for the new issue that  hits stands tomorrow. The people at W have been great (Robbie Clark is the kind of editor that you want), and this whole situation has turned out to work for the best.

Writing a monthly column was frustrating sometimes, as I had to choose just one topic for the month, which was always difficult (yes, the media spreads A LOT of lies, it's impossible to cover a month's worth in one column). Also, it was difficult to write about topics that were very current, as I had to finish my column in the middle of the previous month, meaning that people sometimes read my column a month and a half after I had written it. And while I loved the whole "Media Czech" format, it was a bit constraining, as I wasn't able to branch out into other subjects besides misinformation in the media.

But the old "Media Czech" idea isn't dead, as I plan to break out the old MC occasionally to highlight some egregious MSM lies. Plus, the Media Czech name, which is in parts clever, stupid, corny and sappy, is simply too good to abandon.

And would like to thank the people at Nougat (besides Miki) that were very supportive of me for the past year +, especially the recently departed editor Jennie Leavell. Jennie was the person who accepted my pitch for the Media Czech column, and she was very appreciative of my work the entire time. This column has meant so much to me, as it helped me focus some positive energy in a really difficult time for me personally, and it has managed to open a bunch of doors for me as well. Without this column, it is doubtful that I would have taken over the reigns at BlueGrassRoots when Ben took his LOA. Which means that I wouldn't have had the great experience of working with the Ditch Mitch crew (and being able to meet Jim Pence, a true KY legend). I have also been able to meet/talk with a number of individuals whom I greatly admire (Elizabeth Edwards, Tom McMahon, Sam Seder, Cliff Schecter, Mark Boehlert, Barack Obama???), that I never would have had the opportunity to otherwise.

This was all possible because Jennie Leavell decided to run my column, and I will be eternally grateful to her. (I also thank Lo and Saraya for helping out as well).

Anyway, I'm happy to be writing every week for an audience that mostly includes UK students, as they will play a key role in our politics in the coming year with some big '08 races.

So check out the W Weekly tomorrow or the coming week for my cover story, and keep checking in regularly for my column.

(And buy from their advertisers!!! We must support indie media that doesn't avoid "controversy" like other Lexington magazines)

Next Week: Big Iraq Summer Protests in KY

Next week, Louisville, Lexington and Newport will be holding the biggest Iraq Summer events of the month. The "Take a Stand Campaign" will hold large rallies on the 27th and 28th, the climax of the month-long effort to bring our troops home safe and hold Mitch McConnell accountable for his shameful rubber-stamping of Bush's failed Iraq policy.

The Lexington rally will be held downtown in Phoenix Park, from 5 to 8 each night. The Louisville rally will be held at Bellermine University at Frazier Hall, same time. Some great speakers will be at both events, and we should get some bigtime media coverage. There will also be a rally at Newport on the Levee, so check that out in Northern KY.

From their website:

The "Take a Stand Campaign" is a nation-wide organizing drive to demand that members of Congress and the Senate take a stand with the vast majority of Americans who want a safe and responsible redeployment of American Forces from Iraq.

Across America, over 100 "Iraq Summer" organizers are working to involve thousands of ordinary Americans in an effort to pressure targeted members of Congress to vote to bring a safe end to the war.  This "Take A Stand Campaign" will culminate with "Take A Stand" town meetings to be held on August 28th, immediately before congress reconvenes.

There are lots of ways to get involved -- from attending a Take a Stand town hall in your area to helping organize and spreading the word about the event. To sign up for an event near you, CLICK HERE. For more information about getting involved, contact Cammie Croft at cammie@iraqcampaign.org.

(crossposted at DitchMitchKY)

DebateSam.com

I've discussed it many, many times, but there is perhaps no other group of "liberals" that are more  incompetent and idiotic than the people who run Air America Radio. First, they managed to let a bunch of inept con men financially back the network, then they decided to ditch all of their best programming in favor of "liberals" like "Lionel", who manage to pull off the rare trifecta of being neither funny or informative, while also bashing liberals who dare criticize AG Fredo.

Any fans of the old Sam Seder Show (the best political show on radio or TV at the time) should check out this link, www.debatesam.com, calling on the bad joke "Lionel" to debate Sam, who's slot he took, on Gonzalez, or anything else for that matter.

I don't think that Lionel actually reads the news at all, so it really wouldn't be a fair fight, but it would certainly be fun to listen to.

Oh, and you can still listen to Sam Seder on Sundays, here. And buy his very funny book, FUBAR, here.

KFTC meeting in Lexington Tonight

The Central KY chapter of Kentuckians for the Commonwealth meets tonight for their big annual gathering/ meeting /etc.  Its 7:oo at the corner of 4th and MLK at the Mission House.

These folks do great work, and I hope to see some of you there.

Draft Horne for US Senate

There is a new site up devoted to drafting Andrew Horne into the 2008 Senate Race against MItch McConnell. The old petition that I set up to persuade him to run has been incorporated into that site, so if you want to get involved, go to the new site. It's quite spiffy, and should be fully operation very soon.

In addition, Bluegrass Report has a survey up on their site, and one of the questions asks who is your preferred candidate to run against against McConnell. If you're so inclined, go vote for Horne. His name recognition is still low, so this would help give him so mojo.

Kentuckians for the Commonwealth

If you're looking to get away from your computer and do some good for your community, I advise you to check out Kentuckians for the Commonwealth. They do outstanding work, and are second to none in the Bluegrass as far as activism goes. This is a very busy week for them, with meetings all over the state, so check out their calendar if you want to get involved.

Their new blog is also an outstanding read. (and quite spiffy)

Ben Chandler Cowardice Thread

Remember my praise of Chandler for co-sponsoring the bill to start the impeachment process against AG Gonzales? Telling you to contact him and send him some love?

Well, fuck that.

Ben Chandler, along with 41 other blue dogs in the House, chose to cave in to Bush's fearmongering and give him the green light to continue shreading our Constitution. His appeasement of Bush/Gonzales on the FISA bill is just mind-boggling. Let's just give MORE unchecked power to Gonzo, that makes perfect sense.

Politically savy? No, just spineless if you ask me. Great job perpetuating both negative stereotypes of Democrats and false talking points ("FISA doesn't let us spy, etc...")

Let's let him know, eh?

email: http://www.house.gov/writerep

D.C. Office for federal legislation issues or Washington, D.C. tours:

1504 Longworth HOB
Washington, D.C. 20515
Phone: (202)-225-4706
Fax:  (202)-225-2122

District Office for casework:

1021 Majestic Drive, Suite 180            
Lexington, KY 40513            
Phone: (859) 219-1366
Fax: (859) 219-3437

Press Contact:

Stephanie Pepper
Phone: (202)-225-4706
Fax:  (202)-225-2122

Back From Chicago / YearlyKos

I'm back from the amazing YearlyKos Convention in Chicago, otherwise known to me as "the most wonderful place on earth". I was in Vegas for last year's inaugural gathering, and this year was even better. In Vegas, I was in full "star watching mode", as I basically went to panels to see all of my favorite bloggers in person. This year, my main objective was to learn. Particularly, learn how to build Kentucky's local/state blogosphere into a force to be reckoned with, just like so many others have over the past year.

In many ways, this was a sign of how the blogosphere has matured over the last year. While last year focused on big national blogs/bloggers, 2006 showed everyone the power of state/local blogs and muckrakers. We took back both branches of Congress in large part due to the tenacity, research and general mischief that these new journalists provided. This year's panels were full of their stories, providing a basic "how to" guide for everyone wanting to follow in their footsteps.

Additionally, this year showed how the perception of the liberal blogosphere has changed. While we used to be shunned as the wacky pajama-wearing losers in their parent's basement, we now are respected and feared by Democrats, Republicans and the media alike. 8 presidential candidates knew that we could not be ignored, and showed up for a quite lively "debate" of sorts. Additionally, the right-wing noise machine is scared to death of us, as you could see by Bill-O's colossal meltdown over the past week.

Expect big changes with BlueGrassRoots over the next week. We will be revamping our site dramatically by utilizing the tools that so many other state blogs have used with great success over the past year.

Draft Lt. Col. Andrew Horne for US Senate!

Sign the Petition Here

Check out the links on the right of that page to find out more about Horne.

Mitch is too scared to face Iraq Summer protest

As Jim shows in his great video below, protesters made a little visit to the Louisville home of Mitch McConnell yesterday. In fact, Mitch himself was home and able to witness this himself.

Additionally, Mitch would not leave his apartment because he was too much of a coward to even be seen by these protesters. The protesters stayed in front of his apartment from 11am to 11pm, and Mitch chose to hide there all day and night. Here are some of the details from an Iraq Summer press release yesterday below.

UPDATE: Iraq Summer is still there today but there are now counter-protesters. Yes, Mitch has called in the last few people that aren't ashamed of him, because he's so afraid of Iraq Summer. So if you're in Louisville right now and want to be heard, go to the 2300 block of Dundee and join the fun.

UPDATE #2: The "counterprotesters" showed up 5 minutes before the news crews got there, and left immediately after the news crews left. But Iraq Summer has been there non-stop for McConnell's entire weekend stay in Louisville. A righty site is reporting that Mitch supporters "drowned out" his supporters this weekend, which is laughable and typically dishonest. Jim will have a video up later showing the overwhelming support that the protesters had from those passing by. And unlike the fake counterprotesters, Iraq Summer will not let up on Mitch in August.

Kentuckians Picket at Mitch McConnell's Doorstep Calling for an End to the War in Iraq

Anger has Reached a Boiling Point in Kentucky as Sen. McConnell Continues to Support the President's Reckless War Policy; Sen. McConnell's Solution – Stay Inside

Louisville, KY – In a preview of the anti-Iraq war fervor Senate Republicans will face over August recess, Kentuckians went door-to-door in Sen. Mitch McConnell's Louisville neighborhood today, distributing yard signs urging Sen. McConnell to stand up to President Bush and bring an end to the reckless war in Iraq.  As part of the Iraq Summer campaign, constituents also stood outside Sen. McConnell's home, holding up signs and greeting passersby.  The Kentuckians first arrived at McConnell's house at 11 am Saturday morning and found Capitol Police standing guard outside the home. Nine hours later, Sen. McConnell has yet to come out from his home, apparently preferring to duck his constituents than address their concerns about his continued support for the President's unending Iraq war policy.

Many of Sen. McConnell's own neighbors came out to express their support for the Iraq Summer campaign and collect yard signs calling on the Senator to end the war in Iraq.  Cars driving by have been honking all afternoon to urge Sen. McConnell to bring our troops home.

"As Senate Minority Leader, Mitch McConnell has led Republicans in blocking an end to President Bush's failed Iraq war, so we came to him to show just how much anger there is in Kentucky over his continued support for an unending war in Iraq," said Aniello Alioto, Kentucky Field Director for the Iraq Summer campaign, who was at Sen. McConnell's house.  "The Iraq war has cost too much – in money, in resources, in lives.   After more than four years, over $400 billion spent, and the deaths of more than 3,600 American troops, it's time for Sen. McConnell to bring our troops home.  Kentuckians are fed up with the President's failed Iraq policy, and they're fed up with Sen. McConnell failed leadership."

Sen. McConnell's continued support for the President's Iraq policy and his obstruction of an end to the war have hurt his standing with voters back home.  A Survey USA poll released this week shows that Sen. McConnell's approval has dropped below 50 percent for the third time this year.  Only 48 percent of Kentuckians approve of the way the senator is handling his job, while 44 percent disapprove, according the poll.  The Senator's approval rating is now at its lowest point in two years of Survey USA polls.

"Sen. McConnell may think that if he just hides inside long enough, his constituents will just go away, but that's not going to happen," added Alioto.  "Opposition to Sen. McConnell's support for this war is too high – anger has reached a boiling point in Kentucky, and across this state, people are demanding Sen. McConnell take a stand and end the President's reckless war.  We'll be rallying, holding events, writing letters and dogging Sen. McConnell all summer long, urging him to bring the troops home.  Sen. McConnell isn't going to be able to duck his constituents forever.  If this is how he planned to deal with opposition to the war, he's in for a long summer."

"Senate Republicans should be quaking in their boots. The anti-Iraq war fervor is not unique to Kentucky. All across the country Senators who blocked an end to the war will be forced to face the consequences of their spineless votes during August recess. The only homecoming parade greeting these Republican Senators will be the parade of constituents demanding an end to the war in Iraq," said Moira Mack, national spokeswoman for Americans Against Escalation in Iraq.

-----

"Iraq Summer" is a nationwide, 10-week long campaign with nearly 100 organizers in 15 states and 40 congressional districts to turn up the heat on Republican members of Congress who have opposed setting a timeline to bring a safe and responsible end to the war in Iraq. The effort will culminate with a national "Take a Stand" day on August 28th, when members will have the opportunity to explain their stance on the war to their constituents in a town hall setting.

(crossposted at DitchMitchKY)

"Iraq Summer" Demonstration in Lexington

This afternoon, a group of Lexington patriots came out to Triangle Park to voice their disapproval of Bush's escalation of the Iraq War, and those who enable them (that's you Mitch). There were even a few Iraq veterans there to show their support for the protest.

The group that organized the protest was the Kentucky wing of Iraq Summer. Iraq Summer is an organization stemming from Americans Against Escalation in Iraq, and its mission is to put pressure on those in Congress who continue to enable George W. Bush and his failed Iraq policy. With September being the big month that Petraeus's report comes out and Congress will debate Iraq funding, Iraq Summer knows that this summer is immensely important in terms of grabbing a hold of these Congressmen and showing them the light: that our Iraq policy has to change. The American public is already there, but we need to grab more Senators and Representatives if we're going to force Bush's hand. Some local Kentucky veterans of the Iraq War are lending their time to the effort.

I grabbed a copy of one of their press releases and even a letter that they hand delivered to Mitch McConnell's office (which is quite zesty). Below is the full text of both.

Elizabeth Edwards Rocks Lexington (and chats with me for 10 minutes!)

I’m not really sure how many supporters John Edwards had in Lexington on Friday morning, but I know that he has a lot more now. The line on John Edwards that is making the rounds is that his best asset in the campaign to win the presidency is not his humble Southern background, health-care platform or charm, but his wife, Elizabeth Edwards. After watching her performance during Friday’s Small Change for Big Change event in Lexington, I think that statement isn’t too far off base.

Elizabeth Edwards performed a rather spectacular hour+ Q & A session with over 200 contributors, fans, and potential voters. And due to the online outreach efforts of the Edwards campaign (thanks to Tracy and Amy, via DMKY’s Shawn Dixon) and the southern charm of DMKY’s own Jim Pence, Jim and I were able speak with Elizabeth face to face for roughly 10 minutes before her public Q & A session.

Though the Edwards staff thought we had a decent chance of chatting with her for a couple of minutes, shortly after we entered the venue and set up our cameras (Jim and fellow film guru Erica), we were told that there was no time for an interview. After Jim disappeared for a few minutes to chat up the Edwards folks, he came back saying that she might be doing a short “meet and greet” with some people.

“What’s a meet and greet?”

“I’m not sure”

“I’ve never been to a meet and greet”

“Yea, me neither”

Ten minutes later, Jim pulled me backstage and one of the staff stopped us and asked if we were the guys from DitchMitchKY and told us that we could speak with Mrs. Edwards in a few minutes, but not on camera or on tape. So while all of the slick, dolled up TV reporters waited for Elizabeth to come out for the Q & A, the blogger in ratty Chuck Taylors and ripped pants, and the hillbilly with the Acapulco shirt were whisked upstairs to meet her.

Self-Censoring a column about Self-Censorship (wtf?)

UPDATE: I should emphasize that I am NOT referring to Jennie Leavell in this post, who is the actual editor and has been quite awesome through all of this. Please don't direct any of this towards her, it is someone else.

Update #2: I've been told that the column will now be published. We'll see. There's been a great amount of pressure put on the magazine in response to this, which I did not ask for, but is nevertheless greatly appreciated. I'll keep you all updated.

If you care to indulge me, let me get something off of my chest about my earlier column on self-censorship in the media and Nougat Magazine (Lexington's supposed "indy-alt-arts magazine", if you don't know that)

As of the time of my writing this tonight, there is a good chance that my editor is going to censor my entire column because of its content. Yes, that would be self-censorship of a column about self-censorship.

Let me go back a bit to explain the context.

About a week and a half ago, I pitched an idea to one of my editors about writing a review about my little visit to the Crazy-Ass Creation Museum.

My editor wrote me back saying that Nougat will no longer make any reference to "controversial" subjects, so they could not do any story on the museum. In fact, she specifically said that Nougat will now refuse to run any article that talks about "religion, gays or abortion".

I replied, "so you're an alternative independent magazine, yet you refuse to even mention women's reproductive freedom, attacks on science and human reason, and the denial of civil rights for an entire class of citizens? ........ Interesting."

She responded by saying that they've tried that "edgy" stuff before, but they're now going to cover safe topics so they can get more advertising dollars. Additionally, she said that since they're starting to mail to one Lexington zip code, they could be sued by someone for "corrupting their children".

I shit you not. wtf???

An additional inside source told me that advertisers will now pay to have fluff pieces written about them in the magazine. So they are basically seeking to become an advertising flyer.

Anyway, at this time I was finishing up my Media Czech column about the 100% false myth that gets repeated over and over again as fact in the media without challenge-- that Saddam wouldn't let weapons inspectors in and that's why we had to invade.

So I scrapped that column. I decided to write the one on self-censorship in the media instead (linked earlier). I considered it a subtle but firm FUCK YOU to my editor.

Anyway, the latest word is that the editor with the most clout is going to refuse to run it, which is just wonderful irony, don't you think? One person within there is going to fight for it, but we'll see how it works out very very soon.

Regardless of how this turns out, how fucking pathetic is it that Lexington has no alt-indy magzine worth a shit anymore? (Shit, we can't count Ace, can we?) And how are we going to fucking fix this problem in Lexington? And keep the Main/Limestone/Vine/Upper block from getting leveled so they can build a fucking hotel??

If you're interested, let's brainstorm, eh?

Is Ben Chandler a Miser?

I really don't know, but why don't you call him and find out.

Chris Bowers of Mydd.com has started a "Use it or Lose it" campaign in order to get safe Democratic incumbents to contribute 30% of their cash on hand to Democrats in tough congressional races, or to Democratic committees. Chandler has over $600,000 of much needed cash to help Democrats take control of the House.  Is he willing to step up?

Here's where you call: Lexington (859-219-1366), (859-685-1035) , Washington (202-225-4706)

I'm currently getting the run around, but will keep trying.

UPDATE:

I've been contacted by the Chandler campaign and they have informed me that they will NOT be giving 30% of their cash on hand to Democrats who need it.  I invite you to call him and tell him what you think about that.  Though Chandler has given a significant amount of money over the past 2 years, its hard to imagine why he would hold onto $130,000 that he doesn't need.

Sierra Club Follies

Feel free to swing by and tell Carl Pope at the Sierra Club what you think of their premature exclamation of support for Lincoln Chafee in the Rhode Island senate race.  Endorsing a candidate that may not make it out the primary, especially one that supports the other team, seems a bit stupid.  Those like me that will choose to send your hard earned cashola elsewhere, may I recommend the National Wildlife Federation or the Nature Conservancy or the World Wildlife Foundation.  You can also think locally and give to the Kentucky Conservation Committee, which while affiliated with the Sierra Club (they are basically the SC's Cumberland Chapter), they do good works and the money is used locally.

Save the Internet

Save the Internet.  Seriously, Save the Internet.  This is not a partisan issue - both Republican and Democratic lawmakers have screwed the pooch on this one.  Here's the gist:

Congress is pushing a law that would abandon Network Neutrality, the Internet's First Amendment. Network neutrality prevents companies like AT&T, Verizon and Comcast from deciding which Web sites work best for you -- based on what site pays them the most. Your local library shouldn’t have to outbid Barnes & Noble for the right to have its Web site open quickly on your computer.

And here's what it means to consumers:

Decisions being made now will shape the future of the Internet for a generation. Before long, all media — TV, phone and the Web — will come to your home via the same broadband connection. The dispute over net neutrality is about who'll control access to new and emerging technologies.

On the Internet, consumers are in ultimate control — deciding between content, applications and services available anywhere, no matter who owns the network. There's no middleman. But without net neutrality, the Internet will look more like cable TV. Network owners will decide which channels, content and applications are available; consumers will have to choose from their menu.

The Internet has always been driven by innovation. Web sites and services succeeded or failed on their own merit. Without net neutrality, decisions now made collectively by millions of users will be made in corporate boardrooms. The choice we face now is whether people can choose the content and services they want, or whether the broadband barons will choose for them.

I am fully cognizant that many people do not care what I have to say, and actually hope that this site loads so slowly that they die of old age before being forced to read another comment from some crazy leftwing commie.  But this isn't really about blogs.  It's about the internet as we know it.  Supporters range from right wing bloggers, to gun owners, to HIV support groups.  If calling your representative is not your cup of tea, then do the easy thing and sign the petition (don't worry it doesn't make you some commie lovin' MoveOn member just by signing the petition).  But if you can make the call, try calling Rep. Whitfield now at 202-225-3115, especially if you're in his district.  He's already voted against net neutrality in favor of big telecom.  Could it be the big money he gets from the telephone industry (or the fact that their contributions were down slightly from last cycle and he needs to catch up)?

And all good Democrats should properly chastise Mike McCurry for signing on with this.

Call Your Congressperson

And tell them to vote in favor of House Resolution 1606.  This would put a stop to the regulatory crap from the FEC with respect to bloggers and their blogs - regulations that don't seem to apply to any other medium of communications, no matter how politically motivated (read more from one of the attorneys that's been working with a bi-partisan blogger coalition on regulatory hearings and comment submissions during the administrative rules making process).  In other words, James Carville or Mary Matalin can get on television and say whatever they want, but put those statements on a blog and all of a sudden they'd be regulated.  Besides clearly benefitting big corporate media, the regulations are just stupid.

This applies to all blogs and all bloggers, not just lefties or righties, good or bad, pretty or ugly.  Find your reps' contact info here.  If anyone hears any response, or gets a firm "yea" or "nay" please post it in the comments.

Help

It has gone without saying (I hope) that regardless of political leanings that everyone can help the Katrina victims by donating to the Red Cross.  Whether you think people in wheel chairs, the poor, and innocent children are blameless victims or if you think they were simply too stupid to leave, these are fellow human beings.  I'm not imputing morality, or lack thereof, but quite frankly I'm too exhausted to get into the victim blaming debate that seems to be raging from some on the political right. 

There's other ways to help too:

Activism: Share the Love, Kentucky

Congratulations to Allison Smith and ShareTheRoadKY.com for getting 900 applications for a sweet-looking "Share the Road" license-plate created here in the Bluegrass State!

Allsion did a great job at getting the word out and gettin'r done.  I know that John's Run/Walk Shop and Pedal Power also helped by offering discounts to applicants. 

Here's to a great success for the bicycling community that will lead to more car/bike love and safer roads for all.

UPDATE: This is why Allison's efforts are so critical.

Activism: Bike Riding is Patriotic

Biking is one of my favorite activities.  I ride the mile and a half to school each day on the ten-speed my dad rode when he was in law school.  The brakes don't work well and they don't work at all in the rain, but almost nothing beats the feeling of cruising down a hill, hands off the handlebars. 

My commute on Nicholasville Road takes about eight minutes, six if I hit all the lights and have fresh air in my tires.  Research has shown that as little as 5-10 minutes of exercise is enough to raise energy levels and release the body's natural drugs, endorphins, into your system.  Plus, I don't have to look for a parking spot, and I'm doing my small part to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.

The biking community (no, not that biking community) is trying to have a "Share The Road" license plate produced here in the Bluegrass State.  They need 900 applications by September 1st to have the state print the plates. 

Go to ShareTheRoadKY.com and fill out the application form if you want one for your non-sustainable form of transportation to show your support for human-powered transportation.  Making cities more bike-friendly is a bipartisan issue, so everybody should head on over to ShareTheRoadKy.com and get 'er done.

P.S. Welcome again to Pete from Kentucky Blog--we're glad to have him.

Activism: Take This, Senator Frist!

Social Justice Sunday

Sunday, April 24, 2005, in Louisville.

Social Justice Sunday

2:30 p.m. at Central Presbyterian Church

318 West Kentucky St., at Fourth. Phone: (502) 587-6935

Progressive religious leaders from around the country are joining with Clergy and Laity Network and DriveDemocracy to take the fight to GOP Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and the far right’s unprecedented attack on the constitution and the judiciary.

Speakers will include:  Rev. Dr. Nancy Jo Kemper, Executive Director, Kentucky Council of Churches; Rev. Dr. Robert Franklin, Professor, Emory  University,  Atlanta, former President,  Interdenominational  Theological  Center, ordained minister,  Church of  God in Christ;  Rev. Dr. Joan Brown Campbell. Director, Department of Religion, Chautauqua Institution, Chautauqua, New York;  Emily Whitehurst, Director of the 100-year-old Ecumenical Council in Austin, Texas; Rev.   Dr. Albert M. Pennybacker, Chair and Executive Officer, Clergy and Laity Network (CLN), former NCCC Associate General Secretary for Public Policy, former Professor, Lexington (KY) Theological Seminary.

Protecting Constitutional Principles, Rally & Political Speaking

4:30 p.m. at  Old Jefferson County Court House

West Jefferson Street between 5th and 6th Streets

Judges and public officials will speak about the threat to basic constitutional principles from assaults by the radical right.

Speakers will include Eleanor Jordan, former member, Kentucky General Assembly; Jonathan Miller,  Kentucky treasurer; State Sen.  Julian Carroll, a former  Kentucky governor; Michael J. O’Connell, retired circuit judge, and Jerry Lundergan, chairman of the  Kentucky Democratic party.

Politics: Change For Kentucky Summit

Change for Kentucky 2005 State Summit & Training Workshop

May 21-22, 2005
Paroquet Springs Conference Center, Shepherdsville KY
$25.00 admission/lunch provided

Click Here For More Information or Make a RESERVATION

Join Change for Kentucky and Democracy for America supporters from across the state at our 1st Annual State Summit & Training Workshop in Shepherdsville, Kentucky.

This 2-day event is an opportunity to meet and network with grassroots leaders from across the Commonwealth, receive some real-world political training, and help Change for Kentucky reframe the future of progressive politics in Kentucky.

Saturday
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Tom Hughes, Executive Director, Democracy for America.

Sunday
CLOSING SPEAKER: Crit Luallen, KY State Auditor

Agenda Items and Workshops
• Building a Grassroots Organization- Logistics & Best Practices
• The Lay of the Political Landscape -Challenges We Face
• Winning with Words - a George Lakoff Workshop on Framing Our Message
• Our Grassroots Assets- Campaign Skills and Winning "50% + 1"
• A PAC or a 527 or a 501(c)4?  The Ins & Outs of Grassroots Fundraising

If you've never been involved in politics before, or if you've been doing this your whole life, the CFK Summit and Training Workshop is for you. Fees are $25.00 per person, lunch provided.  All reservations must be prepaid.

NOTE: Change for Kentucky is offering 10 Scholarships to individuals. Scholarships include registration, hotel, dinner and travel stipend. Click HERE to download an application.

Education: Bluegrass Boys Ranch

When I was in high school, I wanted to go to Deep Springs for college.  Stellar academics on a ranch in Nevada appealed in a serious way to my romantic nature.  I wrote 7 essays for them (answering questions like, "What is evil?"), went there to interview, and ultimately ended up as their 14th (out of 13 spaces) choice.  I was bummed.  Don't get me wrong.  I'm glad I went to college where I did.  I am exceptionally fortunate to have gone to Davidson where my brain was like a seed cast onto good soil.  But, combining academics with responsibility-laden work on a farm still appeals to me in both an intellectual and viceral way. 

My girlfriend pointed this story out to me, knowing that starting a "farm school" here in Kentucky is one of my professional/personal goals.  The Bluegrass Boys Ranch is pretty much exactly what I had in mind.  I can't believe it took me nearly two years to discover that Lexington already had such a school.  I would like to publicly thank everyone associated with The Bluegrass Boys Ranch--Anita Madden, Bobby Joe Guinn, donors, alums, employees, parents--for their trailblazing, courageous work. 

Activism: Past, Meet The Future

Kentucky, take note, there are some righteous new kids on the block and their names aren't Joey, Jordan, Donnie, Danny, and Jon.  They're the  Teen Environmentalists of Kentucky.   

After just a few meetings, they're already hard at work on a benefit concert on May 14th.  We'll have more details as they become available, but right now, let's just say that it's gonna ROCK!

BlueGrassRoots' people are in intense negotiations with the TEK's people trying to discover mutually agreeable terms under which they would appear on the BlueGrassRoots Radio Review to give us a piece of their young, passionate, and committed minds.  We'll keep you informed...

Anyway, I saw them meeting at Good Foods Co-op a few weeks back and it warmed my heart to see a sign that said "Teen Environmentalists of Kentucky" combined in a single phrase.  Much better than "Teens for the Neocon Revolution" or "Teens for Corporate Colonialism." 

Keep up the good work, TEK!

Activism: Eat, Drink, and Help a Great Program

Bluegrass Domestic Violence Program Fundraising Luncheon
Sponsored by Frost Brown Todd LLC

Lexington, Kentucky (January 21, 2005) – Frost Brown Todd LLC, one of the region’s largest full-service law firms is pleased to sponsor a fundraising luncheon for the Bluegrass Domestic Violence Program (BDVP).  Event details are below.

BDVP is a private, non-profit, organization that exists to serve and advocate for women and families affected by domestic violence and economic hardship  This mission is fulfilled by providing prevention, intervention, crisis response, and follow-up services related to domestic violence by offering help to families and individual striving for self-sufficiency.

Fundraiser Luncheon
Monday, February 21, 2005
Four Points Sheraton
1938 Stanton Way Lexington, KY 40511
Keynote Speaker: Martha L. Boyd

Ms. Boyd is a Major in the US Army Reserve and an attorney with Frost Brown Todd.  She returned recently from Iraq where she served as the Coalition Provisional Authority Senior Advisor to the Iraqi ministry of Labor and Social Affairs and helped establish the first public shelter for victims of domestic violence in Baghdad.

$30.00 per person

All proceeds go to Bluegrass Domestic Violence Program

Please RSVP by February 14, 2005
859.244.7539

Cash, Check and All Major Credit Cards Accepted
Please make checks payable to Frost Brown Todd

BDVP provides residential services such as an emergency shelter, 24-hour crisis line, comprehensive counseling and casework, legal advocacy, medical advocacy and public education in Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicolas, Powell, Scott, and Woodford counties.

Activism: Taco Bell's Grilled Stuft Slavery Burrito

You are cordially invited to join members of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers on Monday, Feb 7, 2005 at 7 p.m. at the Lexington Friends Meetinghouse for a presentation on the realities of farmworker exploitation, modern-day slavery, and the Taco Bell boycott. The presentation will include a screening of the film "Immokalee: From Slavery to Freedom" and will be led by Romeo Ramirez, a farmworker and leader of the CIW and recipient of the 2003 Robert F Kennedy Human Rights Award for his work in the fight against modern-day slavery.

The presentation will be followed by a discussion of how Lexington residents can get involved in the fight against corporate greed and for human rights. Plans will be discussed for the Lexington stop of the 2005 Taco Bell Truth Tour (March 5) and Mass Rally at Yum Brands, Taco Bell's parent company, in Louisville on March 12.

For more information, call 239-986-0891 or 502-454-3400 x 1022 or visit http://www.ciw-online.org

Directions to the Meetinghouse can be found at: http://www.rfkmemorial.org/human_rights/2003.htm