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PROGRESS OF THE WEEK: "Independence Day" Edition!

7/3/2015

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*** PROGRESS OF THE WEEK ***

Marriage Equality & Obamacare are ALIVE in all 50 States (Americans are happy about it).
...but the Confederate Flag and unfair Overtime Pay are DEAD! 
(click on the links above for some great updates….or review the list below)


#LOVEWINS
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(click on more White House highlights above)


 WATCH/LISTEN:
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President Obama delivers eulogy in Charleston
(great speech!)



LISTEN:
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President Obama on the Marc Maron podcast
(candid interview!)



JULY 4TH MOVEMENT-BUILDING TIP:
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Paul Revere the Community Organizer


Have a great 4th...enjoy your life, liberty and pursuit of happiness!
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(click above to read it again..and again)


PROGRESS OF THE WEEK Highlights:

“Conservatives Explain Why They Lost On Marriage” (Huffington Post)

“The Supreme Court Upholds A Key Part of the Affordable Care Act”  (WhiteHouse.gov)

“Majorities back two big Supreme Court decisions” (Political Wire)

“5 Days That Left a Confederate Flag Wavering, and Likely to Fall” (NYT)

“Who benefits from Barack Obama’s Minimum Wage Plan, in one graphic” (Vox)




FOLLOW OUR
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(includes Progress USA national posts, DC Career Progress, DC Comm Tech For Progress, Campaign 4 Progress DC, Advocate 4 Progress DC, Serve 4 Progress DC and Jim's Forward Progressive blog)
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JULY PROGRESS PARTY: "1st Thursdays" Career Networking Mixer with "Boss of the Year" Awards Benefit @ Local Sixteen!

6/29/2015

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Now, what is this Bossed Up partner event about?

Watch Founder Emilies Aries’ TED Talk:
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Join N4P as we meet fellow networkers from several great sponsor groups at....
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(a low-dollar benefit for Women AND Men to support 
Bossed Up scholarship recipients)
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30% off with promo code: “N4P”


includes free appetizers, cupcakes and drink tickets 
for the 1st 25 attendees courtesy of Local Sixteen!

 Join our NEW Meetup event:
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7pm Thursday, July 2nd
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Local Sixteen
www.localsixteen.com
1602 16th Street, Washington, DC 20009
@ U Street

 *** $5 drink/food specials all night ***
Please join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy grassroots community inspired by the "Yes We Can" Movement to engage Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers in political and civic participation, at our July Progress Party: “1st Thursdays” Career Networking Mixer with Bossed Up at their 2nd Annual “Boss of the Year” Party! Although this event is geared toward women, men who want to support the cause are welcome.

This is a party with purpose: a majority of proceeds from the event fund need-based scholarships for Bossed Up’s Bootcamp – the weekend-long program for women facing career transition.

Each year, hundreds of women take part in Bossed Up Bootcamp and five outstanding alums are nominated for Boss of the Year in recognition of the powerful ways they’ve transformed their lives #likeaboss!

Want to get more N4P updates on Career events and news for political, civic and social activists? Even if you can't attend the event, sign up for Career Progress updates via our google group, join DC Career Progress on facebook and follow #CareerProgress on twitter!

Questions/Comments? Contact us at network4progress@gmail.com
Please consider voting for our activist friend 
Molly Checksfield, formerly of Social Security Works, as the Boss of the Year! (it's free)
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30% off with promo code: “N4P”

 includes free appetizers, cupcakes and drink tickets for the 

1st 25 attendees courtesy of Local Sixteen!


FOLLOW ALL OUR NETWORKS:
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(includes Progress USA national posts, DC Career Progress, DC Comm Tech For Progress, Campaign 4 Progress DC, Advocate 4 Progress DC, Serve 4 Progress DC and Jim's Forward Progressive blog)
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CT4P NEWS: Highlights, Opps & Events/Deadlines (6/29 OpenGov, SPIN Academy app, 6/30 Women Who Tech, 7/16-19 Netroots)

6/26/2015

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Comm Tech News 4 Progress
(June 26, 2015)



- CT4P NEWS & HIGHLIGHTS -


“Inside Obama’s Stealth Startup” - profile of U.S. Digital Service
(Fast Company)

“Government prioritizes Digital Engagement”
(Computer World op-ed)

NEW White House Digital Director: “What I’ve learned so far from #socialcivics”
(Medium)

“Open Source Software now permitted in the U.S. House of Representatives”
(Open Gov Foundation)

“Want to Get More from Your Email List? Here’s One Change Your Nonprofit Should Try”
(Network For Good)

Senator Mark Warner: “Asking tough questions about the gig economy”
(Washington Post op-ed)

“Sean Parker unveils social network for politics” (Politico)
ALSO: TechCrunch & Huffington Post

Request an invite with an email to: andrew@brigade.com





- CT4P OPPORTUNITIES - 
JOB: Digital, Engineering, Managers, Design, Analytics, IT (Hillary 2016)
JOB: Director of Data & Analytics (Bernie 2016)
JOB: Digital Account Coordinator (Local Politechs Strategies)
JOB: Digital Media Producer (UN Foundation)
JOB: Designer/Developers, Strategist/Organizers (Veracity Media)
JOB: Operations Intern - Paid (Open Gov Foundation)
JOB: IT Manager - Temp, PT (Montgomery County Dems)





- UPCOMING EVENTS & DEADLINES -


TODAY: “Art of Political Campaigning” early bird deadline
(7/27-8 Campaigns & Elections conference @ House of Sweden)
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6/29: Open Gov 101
hosted by DC Office of Open Govt, Open Data Nation & DC Future

@ General Assembly (McPherson Square)
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6/29: SPIN Academy application deadline
(8/25-28 Training for “Communicators for Change” in Petaluma, CA)
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6/30: Women Who Tech’s Women Startup Challenge
co-sponsored by Craig Newmark of craigslist & craigconnects, Rad Campaign, CrowdRise, Medium, General Assembly, 500 Startups, Care2, NTEN, Tech Cocktail and Forward 3 Web Technology Summit
@ General Assembly (McPherson Square)
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6/30: Digital District’s Summer Rooftop Extravaganza
@ Eden (Farragut)
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7/15: 501cTECH’s Technology Innovation Awards submission deadline
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6/24: Progress Meetup "Communications & Technology" Edition featuring a discussion of 2016 digital & media political trends! 

6/11/2015

2 Comments

 
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(sign up for free entry until 5pm 6/24 or for future updates)
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Join us on our NEW Meetup group!!!
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Network For Progress
presents


JUNE PROGRESS MEETUP:
“Communications & Technology” Edition



including Open Bar sponsored by 
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General Assembly


featuring a discussion on  
Digital & Media-savvy political trends for 2016 and beyond
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with
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Mike Moschella
Digital Strategist

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Vice President, Nation Builder
Co-Founder, New Leaders Council
former Political Director, Truman National Security Project

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Patrick Ruffini 
GOP Digital Strategist

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Founder, Engage
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Co-Founder, Echelon Insights
former eCampaign Director, Republican National Committee
Webmaster, Bush for President 2004

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Drew Dougherty
Digital Strategist
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Product Manager, Political
Aristotle



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Jeb Ory
Mobile Strategist
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CEO & Co-Founder, Phone 2 Action

+
YOUR Community Announcements!



including
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Change University
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Campaign Karma



6:30pm-8:30pm
Wednesday, June 24th
(6:30 Networking, 7:00 Program, 8:00 Networking)
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General Assembly
(8th Floor)
1133 15th Street, Washington, DC 20005
@ McPherson Square
Please join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy grassroots community inspired by the "Yes We Can" Movement to engage Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers in political and civic participation, at our June Progress Meetup: “Communications & Technology” Edition with light appetizers and open bar sponsored by General Assembly - the school for technology, business and design education for entrepreneurs and startup companies. This civic-focused startup space has been visited by President Obama and boasts the appropriate tagline “where revolutions begin.” 

This month we will feature a 7pm discussion of digital and media-savvy political trends for creating effective online buzz and relationships in 2016 with some of the top experts on both sides of the aisle.  Afterward, we will have a few brief presentations from local activist-focused startups and we welcome announcements about upcoming events and activities from the audience.

Want to get more N4P updates on Communications & Technology events and news for political, civic and social activists? Even if you can't attend the event, register to sign up for CT4P updates, join DC Comm Tech For Progress on facebook and follow #CT4P on twitter!

Want to be a Co-Host or Sponsor? Questions/Comments?
Contact us at network4progress@gmail.com
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(sign up for free entry until 5pm 6/24 or for future updates)
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Join us on our NEW Meetup group!
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Follow ALL the N4P Networks!
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(includes Progress USA national posts, DC Career Progress, Campaign 4 Progress DC, Advocate 4 Progress DC, Serve 4 Progress DC and Forward Progressive blog)
2 Comments

NEWS: 6/10-20 Event Calendar, #BidenTributeNight, ACA Update

6/10/2015

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NEWS 4 PROGRESS
(June 10, 2015)



WATCH: President Obama delivers eulogy of Beau Biden
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#BidenTributeNight Pics & Press:
Runinout Photo Gallery

RuninDC: “DC Fundraiser for Fisher Foundation honors Beau Biden”

The Hill: “Biden-palooza to honor VP’s late son Beau Biden”

Politico: “At Draft Biden, grief leads to hope”

Give to the Beau Biden Foundation:
https://delcf.org/biden

Send a message of condolences to the White House:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2015/05/30/memory-beau-biden-quite-simply-finest-man-any-us-have-ever-known


UPCOMING PROGRESS CALENDAR:
Political & Advocacy

6/10: Arlington Democrats’ Post-Primary Unity Event! (Ballston)

6/10: Hillary for DC - Pride Edition @ Howard Theater! (Shaw)

6/10: DC For Democracy’s June Meetup: Small-Dollar Democracy! (Eastern Mkt)

6/11: Hillary for America’s LGBT Pride Reception & Party @ Lost Society! (U St) -> buy tickets

6/13: Hillary For America’s Official Campaign Announcement DMV House Parties (featured facebook event)

6/17: Planned Parenthood Metro Washington’s Caucus over Cocktails! (Crystal City) -> buy tickets

6/19: URGE’s Generation 2 Generation Celebration Awards @ Hyatt (Capitol Hill)

(follow Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress and other N4P Networks)


Civic & Service/Giving

6/10: Asian-American Young Professionals’ Networking for Nepal @ Manor! (Dupont)

6/13: Capital Cause’s Millennial Week Day of Service

6/10-14: Capital Pride (includes 6/13 Parade & & 6/14 Festival)

6/14: DC Flag Day 2015 Vigil @ Dupont Circle

6/15: Millennial Week’s 2016 Town Hall & Reception (McPherson Sq)

6/19: My Brother’s Keeper’s Pro Bono Lab with Serve DC, Taproot, IMPACT & DC Social Innovation Project!

(follow Serve 4 Progress and other N4P networks)


Career & Development

6/10: NextGen Happy Hour with Young Government Leaders, GovLoop & DC Connect @ Madhatter! (Dupont)

6/11: WIN’s “Women Opening Doors for Women” @ AFL-CIO! (Farragut) -> buy tickets

6/11: Progressives Communicator’s Networking for Interns/Supervisors! (Dupont)

6/12: DNC Fall Internship application deadline

6/13-20 Millennial Week! (includes 6/16 Job Fair & 6/20 Conference)

6/16: Democratic GAIN’s 2015 Career Fair @ NEA HQ! (Farragut) -> 20% off with promo code: “JTAL”

6/17: Virginia Progressive Leadership Project’s program application deadline

(follow DC Career Progress and other N4P networks)


Communications & Technology

6/11: Embassy of Italy’s Digital Diplomacy Series: “The End of Power”

6/11: Open Gov 101 @ General Assembly-1776 DC (McPherson Sq)

6/11: WeWork Dupont’s 12th Floor Opening Party (Dupont)

6/12: Startup Weekend’s “Social Impact” Edition @ Impact Hub (Gallery Place)

6/18: Social Media for Non Profit’s DC conference (Dupont) -> apply to volunteer or for a scholarship by 6/15

6/19-20: NOI + Organizing 2.0’s Social Media Strategy Training (NYC)

(follow DC Comm Tech 4 Progress and other N4P networks)

WATCH: President Obama on 
5th Anniversary of the Affordable Care Act
(includes a timeline of U.S. health care reform)

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FOLLOW OUR NETWORKS:
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(includes Progress USA national posts, Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress, Forward Progressive blog and more!)
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REMINDER: June 9th is Virginia Democratic Primary Day!

6/8/2015

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Here are some good resources before you vote in Northern Virginia tomorrow. 

I have not been following these races very closely but from what I know of the candidates I think the endorsements are pretty solid.

Washington Post Endorsements
Alexandria Mayor, Arlington County Board, Fairfax Board of Supervisors

General Assembly

Blue Virginia Endorsements & Debate Videos

Arlington County Board (watch debate)

45th House District - Alexandria (watch debate)

Alexandria Mayor (watch debate)

Learn more about the Arlington and 45th House District candidates: 

https://vote.arlingtonva.us/elections
(includes list of their web sites)


State Voting Information
http://sbe.virginia.gov

You can read more endorsements in local newspapers like the Arlington Sun Gazette and Alexandria Times as well as use google to search for more candidate web sites, debates and other stories....although i am sure you have been inundated with plenty already.



FOLLOW OUR NETWORKS:
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(includes Progress USA national posts, Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress and Forward Progressive blog)
0 Comments

JUNE PROGRESS PARTY: Rooftop Mixer & Aviators Night honoring the Biden family (supporting Joining Forces & Fisher House) 

6/4/2015

1 Comment

 
REGISTER NOW!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
presents
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JUNE PROGRESS PARTY:
Rooftop “1st Thursdays” Mixer & Aviators Night

honoring the Biden family

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#progressparty #bidentributenight


in support of programs for veteran’s families in Memory of Beau Biden
(read the VP & POTUS statements and send a message of condolences to the White House)
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https://www.whitehouse.gov/joiningforces/get-involved
(Dr. Jill Biden & Michelle Obama’s initiative)


&
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http://www.fisherhouse.org/ways-to-give
(feel free to give in Memory of “Beau Biden” and use the email “network4progress@gmail.com” and Fisher House will ensure your messages will be forwarded to the Biden family)

partners include
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www.draftbiden2016.com

&
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http://www.meetup.com/CapitalHillMeetUpDCYoungPoliticos


5pm-8pm 
Thursday, June 4th

(5:30 Buffet, 8:00 Raffle)


appetizer buffet courtesy of
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www.runinout.com

& 
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Sauf Haus Beer Hall 
http://www.saufhausdc.com
1216 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
@ Dupont Circle & Farragut 
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It’s an “Aviators” Theme...so feel free to bring your coolest shades to pay tribute to the Biden family 

Come Early...for the appetizer buffet at 5:30pm and $2-off drink/food specials until 7pm

Stay Late...to win raffle prizes from Gryphon, Lost Society and Boomerang Pirate Ship

Please join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy community inspired by the "Yes We Can" Movement to engage Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers in political and civic participation, for our June rooftop "1st Thursdays” mixer in Dupont with free food courtesy of Sauf Haus and Runinout.com (here’s their own facebook event). 

This month we teamed with “Draft Biden 2016” PAC (here’s their own facebook event) to celebrate the viral awesomeness of our Vice President and show support for veteran’s families in honor of the Biden family’s commitment to their care. But in response to the sad news of the passing of Joe’s veteran son Beau we want to make this a truly special night to pay tribute to their service.

CAUSE OF THE MONTH: VETERAN’S FAMILIES
In honor of the Biden family, we’re inviting everyone to get involved in Joining Forces, Dr. Jill Biden’s initiative with First Lady Michelle Obama. 

Also, 50% of the proceeds will be donated to the White House-endorsed charity Fisher House. As you may have heard, the Biden’s have hosted Thanksgiving dinners with the veteran’s families that they help and the organization is the recipient of the Obama’s largest charitable donation in 2014. 

Feel free to give in Memory of “Beau Biden” and use the email “network4progress@gmail.com” to send your tribute and Fisher House will ensure your messages are forwarded to the Biden family.

+ HELP SEND FAIRFAX’S TOORA ARSALA TO THE YDA CONVENTION IN LA!
(watch his video & donate here)

Toora is an award-winning volunteer who is raising money to pay for his trip to the Young Democrats of America Convention in Los Angeles this summer where he is a candidate for Secretary of the Disability Caucus. Due to his medical issues he needs to buy a plane ticket and separate hotel room for his Mom as well so it is a costly endeavor for his family.

Want to be a Co-Host or Sponsor? Questions/Comments? 
Contact Jim at network4progress@gmail.com

REGISTER NOW!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
I recommend reading this Washington Post story then watch the Yale speech below that is even more poignant in retrospect as mentioned in the article: “Family losses frame Vice President Biden’s career”

WATCH: Joe Biden @ Yale Commencement  (start at 1:09:00)
(a summary of the speech’s great life advice for grads AND activists about the importance of relationships to success is in the VP’s Medium post)




FOLLOW ALL OF OUR NETWORKS:
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GET UPDATES!
(includes Progress USA national posts, Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress and more!)
1 Comment

5/28-6/5 PROGRESS CALENDAR: Mayor Bowser's Office, America's Impact, Not Your District PAC, Promoting Awareness Victim Empowerment, DC Connect/Young Gov Leaders/GovLoop, Martin O'Malley, Gun Violence Awareness Day & PDF 2015 (NYC)

5/28/2015

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PROGRESS CALENDAR


(May 28-June 5)
N4P Events
6/4: JUNE PROGRESS PARTY: “Biden-palooza!” Aviators Night!

Upcoming Community Events
5/28: Meet-and-Greet with Mayor Bowser’s Office @ American Ice Company

5/28: America’s Impact Happy Hour: Congress & National Security @ James Hobam’s

5/28: Not Your District PAC Happy Hour @ Local 16

5/28: PAVE-Promoting Victim’s Awareness Empowerment Happy Hour @ Nick’s Riverside Grill

5/29: DC Connect & Young Government Leaders & GovLoop Happy Hour @ Black Finn

5/30: Martin O’Malley Campaign Announcement @ Federal Hill (Baltimore)

6/2: National Gun Violence Awareness Day - pledge to wear orange!

6/4-5: Personal Democracy Forum (NYC) - volunteers needed!

(register for upcoming community events below)

5/28: Meet-and-Greet with Mayor Bowser’s Office 

@ American Ice Company (U Street)
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5/28: Not Your District PAC Happy Hour 
@ Local Sixteen (U Street)
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5/28: America’s Impact Happy Hour Discussion: 
Congress & National Security 
@ James Hoban’s (Dupont)
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5/28: PAVE-Promoting Victim’s Awareness Empowerment Happy Hour 
@ Nick’s Riverside Grill (Georgetown Waterfront)
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5/29: DC Connect & Young Government Leaders & GovLoop Happy Hour 
@ Black Finn (Farragut)
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5/30: Martin O’Malley Campaign Announcement 
@ Federal Hill (Baltimore)
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6/2: National Gun Violence Awareness Day 
- pledge to wear orange!
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6/4: JUNE PROGRESS PARTY: “Biden-palooza!” Aviators Night!
@ Sauf Haus Bier Hall (Dupont)
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6/4-5: Personal Democracy Forum (NYC) 
- volunteers needed!
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Get more updates from
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FOLLOW OUR NETWORKS!
(includes Progress USA national posts, Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress, Policy Progress, Grassroots Progress, Progress Office 
and Jim’s Forward Progressive blog)
0 Comments

UPCOMING PROGRESS CALENDAR: May 22-June 4

5/22/2015

0 Comments

 
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UPCOMING PROGRESS CALENDAR

TODAY: “Art of Political Campaigning” Early Bird Deadline

5/26: MCYD’s Civic Engagement Networking Night

5/26: NetSquared Meetup’s “Mobile & Non-Profits”

5/27: New Leaders Council’s Fellows Fundraiser

5/27: Courage For Kids Fundraiser

6/4-5: Personal Democracy Forum (NYC) - scholarship deadline today!


6/4: JUNE PROGRESS PARTY: “Biden-palooza!” Aviators Night!





details below...



5/22: “Art of Political Campaigning” Early Bird Deadline
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REGISTER!
5/26: MCYD’s Civic Engagement Networking Night
@ McGinty's Pub (Silver Spring)
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REGISTER!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
5/26: NetSquared Meetup’s “Mobile & Non-Profits”
@ Taoti Creative (Dupont)
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RSVP
5/27: New Leaders Council’s Fellows Fundraiser
@ AFL-CIO HQ (Farragut)
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REGISTER!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
5/27: Courage For Kids Fundraiser
@ Mission (Dupont)
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DONATE!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
6/4-5: Personal Democracy Forum (NYC) 
- scholarship deadlines on 5/22 & 5/26 -
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REGISTER or APPLY for Scholarship or to Volunteer!
6/4: JUNE PROGRESS PARTY 
Rooftop “Biden-palooza!” Aviators Night

(hosted by N4P & Draft Biden)

@ Sauf Haus Beer Hall (Dupont)
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REGISTER & SHARE!
0 Comments

FWD BLOG - American Smart Ass: How David Letterman influenced our culture for the better

5/20/2015

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With the end of his late night career tonight, there are several articles right now about David Letterman’s impact on television and I wanted to throw in some thoughts on an even greater impact he had on our culture: as an American Smart Ass.

Letterman was a pioneer of being a mainstream, beloved subversive TV personality who came up with a generation of stars like Alan Alda in “M.A.S.H.” or Roseanne Barr as well as Bill Murray in “Stripes” and “Ghostbusters” or Matthew Broderick in “Ferris Bueller” who brought the same persona to the big screen.

In the beginning, his underdog battles were about taking down the sacred image of the talk show format along with his clueless bosses at General Electric, but later on it became about taking down George Bush and other dumb ass Republicans for creating the war in Iraq and other foolish policies.

Although he wasn’t very comfortable in the Jon Stewart/Stephen Colbert-style of news satire that developed around the time, after 9/11 his overt passion for New York City and the issues affecting us became greater and greater. In his final interviews with Bill Clinton and President Obama he showed a clear interest in how we can better both America and the world around us….and him telling Bill O’Reilly that he is full of it to his face was something we truly needed. Watch him in action here.

Luckily, even though we will also lose Jon Stewart this year, I’m sure Stephen Colbert will admirably fill Letterman’s shoes while Jimmy Kimmel and Conan O’Brien continue their smart-assery as well as almost all of the late nights hosts will have been impacted by his legacy in some fashion. Interestingly, as of September, FIVE of them will have hosted a show that David Letterman created.

But especially in sitcoms and the movies it seems like the Smart Ass is a dying breed. Over the last 20 years we have seen the rise of the Dumb Ass (or caricature of it) in our culture from Jim Carrey to Adam Sandler to Will Ferrell. Meanwhile, sitcoms are nearly dead as a vehicle for the Smart Ass….yet Tim Allen still has a job.

The reason why this is most concerning is that somehow the Dumb Ass is even getting more gigs in politics too. With the rise of Fox News, George Bush and the Tea Party it seems like being an arrogant moron without the irony of an Archie Bunker in “All in the Family” is a trend that holds back some of the great progress we have made on some social issues like LGBT rights.

But we know that Smart Ass-ness sells….often even better than the Dumb Ass.

In 2008, Barack Obama’s team triumphed over Sarah Palin’s team, but that was when everyone was watching.

Besides being smarter than most of his competitors, Obama’s zingers against Mitt Romney and White House Correspondent’s Dinner speeches have shown his excellent wit and based on his appreciative comments on his last “Late Show” appearance I think he learned a few lessons from Letterman that we could all benefit from.

Politicians and Activists often give impassioned policy arguments and criticisms of foolish things their opponents are saying but sometimes the best thing to do is be a Smart Ass rather than preach in a fashion that only the choir cares about.

I am not sure if a President can get away with too many “sarcastic” talking points but being smart and entertaining is something we can all do to cut to the chase in a fun and creative way.

So, long live the “Smart Ass”....now ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do to insult the “Dumb Asses” in our country.


ABOUT "FORWARD PROGRESSIVE" BLOG:
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Network For Progress founder Jim McBride discusses Social, Social Media and Media political strategy that promotes mainstream message and community-building to grow the Obama coalition's "Yes We Can!"-inspired Movement of Hope & Change. 
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0 Comments

5/7 SPRING PROGRESS PARTY: Rooftop “1st Thursdays” Charity Mixer for Nepal!

4/30/2015

0 Comments

 
REGISTER!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
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SPRING PROGRESS PARTY:
Rooftop “1st Thursdays” Charity Mixer for Nepal!



6:30pm-8:30pm 
Thursday, May 7th

Public Bar
1214 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
@ Dupont Circle


4pm-8pm Happy Hour Specials:
http://www.publicbar.co/menu/happy-hour
(includes $3 domestics, $5 rail, $6 wine)


Please join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy community inspired by the "Yes We Can" Movement to engage Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers in political and civic participation, for our "1st Thursdays" mixer on the rooftop of Public Bar in Dupont! 

Starting in May we will begin to feature a "Cause of the Month" where we will ask for an optional $5 donation for our event where 50% of the proceeds will go toward a good universal good cause each month. 

Anyone who donates gets a bonus raffle ticket as a thank you gift!

CAUSE OF THE MONTH:

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Let's join facebook in supporting this organization's work to save lives in Nepal as they recover from a devastating earthquake that took thousands of lives. 

Feel free to learn more and donate now:
https://internationalmedicalcorps.org/nepal-earthquake


Want to be a Co-Host or Sponsor? Questions/Comments? 
Contact Jim at network4progress@gmail.com
0 Comments

THE MOST OUT-OF-CONTEXT QUOTE OF ALL TIME - Nobel Peace Prize winner Martin Luther King Jr: "A riot is the language of the unheard."

4/27/2015

0 Comments

 
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When Ferguson and now Baltimore protests have led to violence, there has been varied responses from my Democratic and Progressive friends as people debate how far to switch gears from voicing support to condemning or making excuses for people who lash out with violence in response to violence….ranging from breaking windows to looting to throwing bricks at cops.

There is no excuse for this behavior...especially because it is even more premeditated and indiscriminate than the original act.

And lets set the record straight. In his 1966 interview with Chris Wallace where he uttered those words, MLK was making an observation NOT an endorsement.

It isn’t a legitimate activism tactic to destroy your own neighborhood and to suggest Dr. King condoned it is a misguided approach that discredits the legacy of Peace and Love that earned him that Monument on the National Mall.

In the below interview this is what he really was saying:

"Violence is impractical and immoral."

"I would hope that we can avoid riots because riots are self-defeating and self-destructive."


Let’s remember that and echo THOSE words when these tragedies happen….just like the family of Freddie Gray and many other residents of Baltimore are doing tonight in interviews on CNN and MSNBC. 


CNN's Van Jones said it well: "Black Jobs Matter. Black Businesses Matter. Black Neighborhoods Matter."

He could have added "COPS Lives Matter" in reference to African-Amercian and other races of police officers also under attack.

Let’s follow the lead of these voices because they represent the people who will live the consequences of these acts....let's not attempt to bury the lede and minimize them. 

One of the greatest tools an activist has is finding common ground....its a well-documented fact. 

So, let's take a break from our talking points and the "yeah, buts" and find common ground that violence is NEVER the answer or in our quest for "Justice For All" we will achieve "Justice For No One." 

- Jim McBride, Network For Progress

WATCH BELOW:
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0 Comments

4/28: N4P & WNDC present "Status of Jobs for Progressives" 

4/15/2015

1 Comment

 
BUY TICKETS:  $15 with "n4pmember" code!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
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&
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present
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CAREER PROGRESS PANEL:
“Status of Jobs for Liberals & Progressives”


6:00pm - 8:30pm 
Tuesday, April 28th, 2015

Woman’s National Democratic Club
1526 New Hampshire Avenue, Washington, DC 20036
@ Dupont Circle



$15 N4P & WNDC Members /$20 Non-Members 
(Cash Bar and Appetizers + One Complimentary Drink)

The Great Recession of 2008 took a toll on men, women, the young and the old. Since then, we moved in the right direction, but not fast enough, and have not reached our goal. Come hear different perspectives on the U.S. employment status, job types and qualifications, and future trends for liberals and progressives.

Panelists will include:
Tom Manatos, Tom Manatos Jobs List

Michael Madowitz, Center for American Progress
Mike Hersh, Progressive Democrats of America 
Courtney Sieloff, Jobs That Are Left 

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

Network For Progress is a social and media-savvy movement-building community to engage Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers in political and civic participation.

Woman's National Democratic Club (WNDC), the meeting place for Democrats in the nation's capital, engages members (women and men) in public policy and serves as a forum for Democratic leaders. 


ABOUT THE SPEAKER ORGANIZATIONS:

Center for American Progress is an independent nonpartisan policy institute dedicated to improve the lives of all Americans and change the country, through bold, progressive ideas, strong leadership and concerted action.

Tommanatosjobs.com helps job seekers find their perfect position. 

Progressive Democrats of America aims to transform the Democratic Party, government and country, through its grassroots efforts and progressive principles.

Jobs That Are Left is one of the most useful job resources in the progressive community. Now maintained by Democratic GAIN, JTAL has shared over 20,000 positions with its member roll of 25,000—and growing every day!
BUY TICKETS: $15 with "n4pmember" code!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
1 Comment

FORWARD FRIDAY: Have your voice heard on Iran, Lynch, Trafficking & Justice Reform!

4/3/2015

0 Comments

 
CONTACT SENATE MEMBERS
CONTACT HOUSE MEMBERS
(includes web site and social media listings)
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Right-wing activists are telling Congress what they think but are you???

Contact YOUR Congress Members and Leaders before starting the weekend!



- HOT TOPICS -

Tell Congress you support it: President Obama announces Iran Deal
(Vox explains the Iran Deal)

Tell Congress you support Loretta Lynch as Attorney General
(Washington Post Editorial)

Tell Congress you support the Human Trafficking Act
(but ask members to remove abortion language)

Tell Congress you support the Smart Sentencing Act
(Watch Bi-Partisan floor speeches)


CONTACT SENATE MEMBERS
CONTACT HOUSE MEMBERS
(includes web site and social media listings)
0 Comments

3/24: March Progress Meetup @ General Assembly featuring "Future of Reproductive Rights" program with NARAL & OWL!

3/24/2015

0 Comments

 
REGISTER FOR #PROGRESSMEETUP!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
Network For Progress
presents

MARCH PROGRESS MEETUP
(open bar sponsored by General Assembly)
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Get inspired for PROGRESS: Watch/Listen to President Obama’s #SELMA50 speech!


Featured Program:

"Future of Reproductive Rights"
with
Travis Baille
Lead Organizer
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NARAL Pro-Choice America
http://www.prochoiceamerica.org/about-us

&
Jodi Ochstein
Founder, Ochstein Strategies
Executive Director, Organizing Women to Lead
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www.owlnetwork.org

+
N4P “Ready For Unity” movement-building update
&
crowd-sourced Community Announcements!



6:30pm-8:30pm
(6:30pm Networking, 7:00pm Program, 8:00 Networking)
Tuesday, March 24th
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General Assembly
(8th Floor)
1133 15th Street, Washington, DC 20005
@ McPherson Square

*open bar & snacks courtesy of General Assembly
*raffle prize courtesy of Gryphon DC
Please join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy community inspired by the "Yes We Can" Movement to engage Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers in political and civic participation, for a crowd-sourced Progress Meetup to connect each other with activists, organizations and opportunities to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in the DC-metro area.

And there is no better place to host a "general assembly" on 21st Century digital-driven movement-building than the home of General Assembly - the technology, business and design school for entrepreneurs and startup companies.

PROGRAM SUMMARY
TRAP laws are zoning out women’s health centers from Texas to Virginia while abortion restrictions are becoming a legislative poison pill for even a bipartisan bill on human trafficking. What is happening and what can we do about it? This month our featured program will discuss trends in the movement for “Reproductive Rights” and where things are headed in 2016….including how YOU can take action for women’s health and for your communication and leadership skills!

Afterward, we will invite attendees to share their own or recommended events and actions where you can work for PROGRESS.

We will also discuss how we can get “Ready For Unity” by advocating for a more successful Progressive Democratic Movement and invite folks to join Team N4P to develop ongoing and future initiatives.

Watch or Listen to February’s #YESWECAN8 Program:
“Future of our Movement” Media & Young Dem Panels

Please invite friends and colleagues!

Want to be a Co-Host or Sponsor? Questions/Comments?
Contact us at network4progress@gmail.com

REGISTER FOR #PROGRESSMEETUP!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
FOLLOW OUR NETWORKS!
(includes Progress USA national posts, Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress, Forward Progressive blog & more)
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SIGN UP FOR EMAIL & SOCIAL MEDIA UPDATES!
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INVITE: 3/12 March Progress Party & DC is Ready For Hillary! ALSO: 3/3 ThinkProgress Anniversary Panel! 3/4 ACA Rally! 

3/2/2015

1 Comment

 
TUESDAY: “10 Years of Think Progress and the future of digital media” 
(there is a waitlist so i recommend signing up and even if you’re not confirmed later it’s probably worth taking your chances that there will be enough no-shows that they won’t turn you away)
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REGISTER!
WEDNESDAY: “King vs Burwell” ACA Rally @ Supreme Court!

Join Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington to protect health care for millions of Americans as we rally on March 4th from 8 am - 12 pm at the Supreme Court. We are rallying to protect access to health care for the millions of individuals who would be impacted by a negative outcome in the King vs. Burwell case. Planned Parenthood will have the SWAG and signs that you need to show your support! Stand with us to say that access to care shouldn't depend on your zip code!
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RSVP!
Ready For Hillary? See the event below!

If you’re NOT as Ready For Hillary...


Network For Progress 
presents


MARCH PROGRESS PARTY:
“1st Thursdays” Networking Mixer
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(“Kiss me I love O’bama!” Edition)
REGISTER FREE UNTIL 5PM 3/12:
RSVP & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
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6:30pm-8:30pm
Thursday, March 12th

Gryphon
www.thegryphondc.com
1337 Connecticut Avenue, Washington, DC
@ Dupont Circle-South

4pm-7pm Happy Hour:
1/2 off all drinks & raw bar
(drink specials all evening include $5 house wine, $4 coronas and $6 specialty cocktails)



Registered attendees will have a chance to win a $25 Gryphon gift card!
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Please join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy community inspired by the "Yes We Can" Movement to engage Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers in political and civic participation, for a St. Patty’s Day-themed monthly happy hour to network and socialize at the new Gryphon @ Dupont-South!

Even though there is a huge Ready For Hillary event the same night in the interest of re-starting our 1st Thursday events we will use this as a casual opportunity to offer shelter for the huddled masses of Obama supporters in denial that he will be replace, supporters of Warren and alternative candidates, folks who are too apathetic to care about a primary election almost a year away….not to mention Hillary supporters who might not want to donate to a Super PAC.

To help people connect we will introduce a Networking Wall with everyone’s name, favorite candidate and industry of interest.


Want to be a Co-Host or Sponsor? Questions/Comments?
Contact us at network4progress@gmail.com
REGISTER FREE UNTIL 5PM 3/12:
RSVP & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
THURSDAY: “DC is Ready For Hillary” Fundraiser!

(please mention our great activist friend “Michelle Woods” as your referral)
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REGISTER!
RSVP & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
FOLLOW OUR NETWORKS:
(includes Progress USA national posts, Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress, Forward Progressive blog & more!)
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SIGN UP FOR EMAIL & SOCIAL MEDIA UPDATES!
1 Comment

TAKE ACTION: Tell Congress to show they LOVE America by respecting the Constitution over a foreign leader's campaign trip #bibigohome

3/2/2015

1 Comment

 
CONTACT YOUR HOUSE MEMBER!
CONTACT YOUR SENATOR!
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It is ironic how people who talk so much about defending the Constitution are willing to compromise on their beliefs when they don't get what they want. By inviting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to speak before Congress as part of a campaign swing just TWO WEEKS before his next election. This is a key reason the White House has given for not meeting with Netanyahu right now even though the visit was inappropriately planned without informing the President in advance. This is a dereliction of Congress' duty to their country in favor of a lecture intended to undermine promising negotiations to save American blood and treasure from another, even more costly, war in the Middle East.

As this Washington Post op-ed notes, this is a dangerous precedent that would be unthinkable when Democrats controlled Congress. Ironically, Bibi is a right-wing protege of Itzhak Shamir, who Republican George H.W. Bush more vigorously opposed than anything the current administration has done.


The bottom line is the United States is as supportive as Israel as ever before with plenty of military support for tools like their Iron Dome missle defense system. It doesn't mean we need to bow to the dangerous wishes of their leader and even give him a VIP Pass on the red carpet of the U.S. Congress.

Here is a recent list of only 34 Democrats that are currently boycotting the speech tomorrow:
http://www.cnn.com/2015/02/26/politics/democrats-missing-netanyahu-whip-list

(for us DC-area folks we have lots of work to do with our VA and MD members)
CONTACT YOUR HOUSE MEMBER!
CONTACT YOUR SENATOR!
TAKE ACTION & SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS HOW TO CONTACT ALL THEIR CONGRESS MEMBERS VIA PHONE, EMAIL + TAGGING ON FACEBOOK & TWITTER!
#bibigohome 


NOT SURE WHY OR HOW TO DO THIS?
Remember to simply let your representatives know where you stand and find out where they stand on the issue. Conservatives often out-lobby Progressives by a ratio of 10-to-1 or more so if we don't take LITERALLY only a minute to have our voice heard then we can't complain.

If they support your position then thank them so they know someone is paying attention to them doing the right thing and it will encourage them to keep doing it!
OR
If they don't support your position then they will know that someone is paying attention to them doing the wrong thing and it will discourage them from doing it again!



DON'T KNOW YOUR HOUSE MEMBER?
www.whoismyrepresentative.com
CONTACT YOUR HOUSE MEMBER!
CONTACT YOUR SENATOR!
FOLLOW ADVOCATE 4 PROGRESS & OUR OTHER NETWORKS!
(includes Progress USA national posts, Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress, Forward Progressive blog & more!)
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GET EMAIL & SOCIAL MEDIA UPDATES!
1 Comment

FWD BLOG - Dear Democrats: Why is the DNC Winter Meeting open to the public…yet designed for Party Crashers Only? #itmypartytoo

2/19/2015

0 Comments

 
Network For Progress and Generation Obama-DC founder Jim McBride's "Forward Progressive" take on why the Democratic Victory Task Force needs to call for a major re-boot to put the “party” back into the Democratic Party via a 50-State Strategy 2.0


WATCH THE "FWD VLOG":
A preliminary report from the Democratic Victory Task Force is scheduled for the DNC Winter Meeting this week to help us decipher what went wrong in 2014 so it can be corrected in 2016. 

I’m sure there will be lots of great recommendations and mysteries discovered but the most important fact is right under our nose: the Democratic Party in many ways isn’t really a party at all. And for a party of the “people” it is kind of critical.

The problem is easy to spot when you consider this week’s DNC Winter Meeting where we can see that no adjustments have been made yet.
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The event is technically open to the public according to their schedule but how many Democrats even know that? Yet there are general sessions and caucus meetings but aside from party officers only the activist versions of the Salahi’s will actually participate in….people so committed to the party that they show up even if they only see the details second-hand.

First off, the only schedule i have seen is a PDF for God’ sake! 
I would suggest adding more trainings and panels to the program to get people thinking but let’s start small.

If it wasn’t for Virginia DNC Committeeman Frank Leone’s twitter feed I wouldn’t have even known about it....so congrats to him for doing his job but I don't think he has ever been retweeted by a party committee yet so he's a voice in the wilderness.

After asking around I found out there was a web page where you could sign up for free…..on a Association of State Democratic Chairs web site I have never heard of. Maybe because it is obviously only designed for State Democratic Chairs....that's why my friend had to find it via google search.

But you would think the DNC would be trumpeting this exciting event and the speaker program somewhere, right? Wrong!

Here's what I came up with....in the meantime let the DNC know what you think on twitter and facebook because you need to let them know why #itsmypartytoo and what is #mydemautopsy. You can copy your feedback in the comments below so we can share our ideas in the process....I will include some feedback I collected recently as well.

There is no “Contact Us” page so we will skip email and phone today.


In the meantime….nothing on twitter yet.

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Or Facebook...Marco Rubio’s book is apparently the most important topic for the Democratic Party in the last 24 hours:
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Well, there must be something on the web site, right? But there isn’t even an Events page:
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On the bottom left of the page is a “What’s Next for Democrats” video where DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman-Schultz asks for our input, which is great, yet provided no opportunity to give the feedback that she was asking for. There are a couple surveys that were circulated in November and December but neither are shared here.

OK but what about those emails….at least one of those must have mentioned the meeting right?

Sort of….I got one email that invites me to donate money so i can “win” a chance to attend the meeting AND meet President Obama!
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I also was invited to become a DNC Member this past month but since there were no membership benefits like "meeting invites" listed I have to assume membership doesn’t have its privileges.

On the DNC web site is a blog post about the contest and where I can see that the DNC Chair wants ME there….maybe if i click on that link i can sign up?
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Actually, no. She wants you to be entered in a contest to meet the President...not actually show up to get involved or anything! I know many folks would only attend if they won a contest but thousands of Democrats live within a day’s drive of Washington, DC and if the DNC is able to set up out-of-state volunteer drives during election season then why not even tell people about a quarterly meeting?
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Okay, maybe we can’t attend but how about a Hashtag or Live-Stream or at least a YouTube channel so we can follow along from home? No, that’s for CPAC…conservatives are more digital-savvy i guess. They even have an app!

Of course, outside organizations always have an advantage but a potential juggernaut like the President’s Organizing For Action barely has any events that get beyond house party status....if at all these days.

This is the 2015 Democratic “organizing advantage” at work. We have great data for banner ads and door knocks that the average voter will probably notice for a split second but don’t use much of it to segment and actually REACH supporters who follow our emails, social media or even visit our web sites. 

In the end, despite some mild gains from superficial forms of content and outreach, not many new activists get involved and not many new voters are inspired by our grassroots army to join our movement OR at minimum pull the lever to vote Democratic in November.

The funny thing is, when you go to the About US page of the DNC web site, there is a section on the 50-State Strategy of funding party committees nationwide so they can better compete. The highlights end after 2008 because for some reason unifying our party with a nationwide network of activists was no longer a priority.
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And if you go to the Leadership page, you see a list of politicians and not any staff who can even be a resource for people interested in helping build the Democratic Party:
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Yes, there are local party committees and campaigns that people can work with too but in many cases they offer the same insular structure where you basically need the secret password to participate….and even when you do you might later regret walking in the door in the first place.

The best example I found in November was how the Warner for Senate campaign held a Get-Out-The-Vote Rally on Election Eve and it got barely more publicity than the DNC Meeting….no twitter, no facebook, no web site. No events or campaign offices were ever mentioned on those platforms. It mattered too…a near surprise upset.

This culture needs to change from the TOP DOWN not just rely on the BOTTOM UP. Party leaders talk a good game about “grassroots” organizing but successful people-focused activism is supported by strong leadership not just left to hang out to dry. 

Democratic Party of Virginia’s Vice Chair of Technology Dave Leichtman recently posted a blog about the need for a 50-State Strategy for Digital Organizers and I would suggest incorporating such a program into re-invigorating the original vision.

The Democratic Party needs to focus on three key things right now as part of 50-State Strategy 2.0:

  1. Relationships

  2. Innovation

  3. Innovation to build more Relationships


I recently saw the film “The Imitation Game” and the story of Alan Turing is inspiring and tragic because he was an innovator who helped a society triumph even though society worked against him personally and professionally. 

We have thousands of Democratic Party activists whose talents are being lost in the current system. Sometimes this happens because they are not trained to create relationships and innovation but sometimes it's as simple as they are not rich enough to work without a living wage or in conditions that the party supposedly finds an affront to our values when implemented in the private sector.

Until party and campaign organizations are truly partnering with their supporters to adequately invest in creating the 21st Century solutions necessary to build the kind of relationships that enable trust and influence in the electorate, no one is going to care enough to fight back anymore…..and that means no one is going to donate, volunteer or vote either.

It’s often called Movement-building...organizing groups of like-minded people around a singular cause. 

That is why we chant “Yes We Can!” not “Yes I Can!” 

Even though I have encouraged people to organize themselves, the fact is if they are not part of a smart coordinated team effort than all that work eventually dies and can become worthless….look at Occupy Wall Street.

And if you look at leaders of great movements, I don’t recall MLK using the “March on Washington” as a vehicle for big fundraiser or Barack Obama hosting rallies without telling his supporters about them. Why create obstacles to building your movement?

That is why the most important message that was lost in 2014 wasn’t simply how many jobs were created in the past 5 years, but the message of who we are and who are we going to share it with. Everything else should complement these efforts.

It’s time to put the Obama campaign’s “Respect. Empower. Include.” slogan at the forefront of a Democratic MOVEMENT that is well-aware that it represents much more than a bureaucracy….but it is leading the cause of democratic opportunity for all in our government.

Hopefully, the Democratic Victory Task Force will address some of these issues.  And I really hope we can work with current DNC leaders to enact them because they will need Obama supporters and those who demand a “Yes We Can” culture if they’re going to work for another presidential candidate in 2016.


There's no reason why Network For Progress should be the only game in town for the State of the Union and so many other great community-building opportunities.

In the meantime, the question remains, if the Democratic National Committee holds a meeting and doesn’t invite Democrats….does it make a sound?


ABOUT JIM MCBRIDE (FORWARD PROGRESSIVE):

Jim has spent over twenty years working in Communications, from radio to TV to public relations from the high-tech sector (Checkpoint Software, OfficeDepot.com) to being the first media staffer hired at the International Association of Fire Fighters after 9/11 who managed Fire Fighters for Kerry press outreach.

McBride has been an active grassroots activist since 2004, previously serving as President of the Arlington Young Democrats (Virginia Young Democrats’ 2007 Club of the Year), Vice Chair of Precinct Operations for Arlington Democrats, Virginia for Obama Volunteer Database Coordinator (2008 Primary), Founder of Generation Webb and the Generation Obama-DC community he still engages as one of the DNC’s top Gen44 young professional fundraisers for the Obama Victory Fund.

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Let’s campaign for a more unified movement and get “Ready For Unity!”
Like Us!
Follow Us!
FWD
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Follow Forward Progressive on Facebook & Twitter!
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NEWS 4 PROGRESS: RFH Tonight! 2/15 ACA deadline! 2/16 Liz Run! 2/17 PMD! 2/18 AYD & Netroots deadline! 2/26 YDA & WIN! + Progress Highlights!

2/12/2015

0 Comments

 
*** NEWS 4 PROGRESS **
(February 12, 2015)



WATCH:
Vox.com Conversation with President Obama

READ:
BuzzFeed Conversation with President Obama



UPCOMING CALENDAR:
2/12: Women Ready For Hillary
2/15: ACA Deadline
2/16: “Run Liz Run” to the White House
2/17: Progressive Maryland “Budget” Tele-Town Hall
2/18: AYD Meeting: “Net Neutrality”
2/18: Netroots Nation panel submission deadline!
2/19-21: DNC Winter Meeting
2/26: YDA Founder’s Day Receptiom
2/26: WIN’s Young Women of Achievement Awards

(details below)


PROGRESS HIGHLIGHTS:

*State of the Union Recap
- videos, photos and info -

*White House Ebola Update

*Clean Energy Update
(details below)




UPCOMING CALENDAR:


2/12: Women Ready for Hillary
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REGISTER


2/15: 2015 ACA applications due!

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www.healthcare.gov

Watch the President’s Buzzfeed video:
“Things Everybody Does But Doesn't Talk About”



2/16: President’s Day “Run Liz Run” to the White House!
@ Capitol Hill
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RSVP ON FACEBOOK

For the 2/15 Ready For Warren-DC Meeting & other updates:
GOOGLE GROUP
FACEBOOK GROUP



2/17: Progressive Maryland’s
“State Budget Organizing” Tele-Town Hall
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REGISTER

RSVP ON FACEBOOK



2/18: Arlington Young Democrats’s
“Net Neutrality: Why should you care?”
@ Guarapo (Court House)
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RSVP ON FACEBOOK


2/18: Netroots Nation panel submissions due!
http://www.netrootsnation.org/proposals
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*Watch the Google Hangout Q&A!
*Apply for a free Blue Nation Review pass to Netroots Nation!


2/19-21: DNC Winter Meeting
Hyatt Regency, 400 New Jersey Avenue, NW, Washington, DC
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SCHEDULE


2/26: Young Democrats of America’s Founders Day Reception
featuring Paul Begala and DNC Vice Chair Rep. Tulsi Gabbard

@ International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (Gallery Place)
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REGISTER

RSVP ON FACEBOOK


Women’s Information Network’s
Young Women of Achievement Awards
@ Carnegie Institution for Science (15th & P)
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REGISTER


PROGRESS HIGHLIGHTS:

State of the Union Recap





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#SOTU15 VIDEO & RESOURCES
(watch and read online for infographics, photos and more)

WHITE HOUSE VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE
(#AskTheWH Feedback Form: http://www.whitehouse.gov/your-feedback-2015)

EVERY “STATE OF THE STATE” VIDEO


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#SOTUUNITYDC PHOTOS & VIDEO
including surprise guest DNC Political Director Raul Alvillar and DC Shadow Rep Franklin Garcia
(via dcireporter.com)

#SOTUNITYDC PHOTOS
(via Randy Goldstein)

Straw Poll Results announced after the speech:
HILLARY CLINTON: 42
ELIZABETH WARREN: 23
JOE BIDEN: 6
MARTIN O’MALLEY: 1


White House Ebola Update
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http://wh.gov/ebola-response


Clean Energy Update
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Report: Wind and solar energy have tripled since 2008 
(Washington Post)

The cost of wind and solar power keeps dropping all over the world 
(Vox)



FOLLOW US!
(includes Progress USA (national posts), Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress, Policy Progress, Grassroots Progress, Progress Office and Forward Progressive blog)
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Join our networks via Email, Facebook & Twitter!
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2/10: #YESWECAN8 Anniversary Celebration @ 1776! (8th birthday of Obama For America & 4th birthday of Network For Progress)

1/30/2015

0 Comments

 
ADVANCE REGISTER BY 5PM 2/10!
JOIN & SHARE on Facebook!
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$7 for Advance registered attendees! $10 @ Door with NO RSVP!

Open Bar, Pizza & Raffle Prize courtesy of General Assembly!

(raffle prizes also provided by 201 Bar and Digital DC)

featuring

“Future of the Movement” discussion on the 8th birthday of Obama For America
&
“Ready For Unity” campaign launch on the 4th birthday of Network For Progress



SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

Mark Walsh
Host, "Left Jab Radio"
founding CEO, Progress Media (creator of Air America Radio)
former Chairman, New Leaders Council
former Chief Technology Adviser, Democratic National Committee
former Head of Internet Strategy, Kerry for President
Board Member, Bipartisan Policy Center
http://www.leftjabradio.com/about
@walsh

Richard Fowler
Host, Richard Fowler Show
Fox News contributor
former President, Alexandria Young Democrats
http://fowlershow.com
@richardafowler

Catherine Read
Democratic Social Media Strategist
Board Member, Equality For Virginia
Board Member, NARAL Pro-Choice Virginia
Rural Caucus Chair, Virginia Democrats
www.catherineread.com
@csread


*** Young Leader Panel ***

Joseph Kitchen, President
Young Democrats of Maryland
www.ydmaryland.org

Maurice Simpson, President
Prince George’s County Young Democrats
www.pgcyd.com

Matt Brown, President
Arlington Young Democrats
www.arlingtonyoungdems.org

Dadly Cordero Teran, President
Fairfax Young Democrats
http://www.fairfaxyoungdems.net

Shawn Logue, Northern Region Chair
Virginia Young Democrats
www.vayd.org


Valeria Ojeda-Avitia, President
AU Democrats
http://www.aucollegedems.org



PARTNERS INCLUDE:

Network For Progress
http://networkforprogress.weebly.com/follow-us.html
(including DC Career Progress, DC Comm Tech For Progress and more)

Generation Obama-Washington, DC
http://www.facebook.com/generationobamawashingtondc

Northern Virginia for Obama
https://www.facebook.com/NorthernVirginiaforObama

Young Democrats of America
www.yda.org

America’s Impact
(formerly Foreign Policy Professionals for Obama)
https://www.facebook.com/AmericasImpact

DC Young Politicos
http://www.meetup.com/CapitalHillMeetUpDCYoungPoliticos

Public Policy Professionals Social Group
http://www.meetup.com/Public-Policy-Professionals-Social-Group

Cameroon American Council - African Congressional Fellows Program
http://africansincongress.nationbuilder.com


6:30pm-8:30pm
Tuesday, February 10th
(6:30 Networking, 7:00 Program, 8:00 Networking)


General Assembly
(12th Floor)
1133 15th St, Washington, DC 20005
@ McPherson Square



Please join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy community inspired by the "Yes We Can" Movement to engage Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers  in political and civic participation, for a celebration of the 8th birthday of Obama For America with a look ahead at the “Future of our Movement” and the 4th birthday of Network For Progress with a “Ready For Unity” campaign to advocate for a stronger coalition in 2016 and beyond. 

The program will include several media-savvy experts and young activists who can give their take on how to grow our causes in the 21st Century online and offline.

And there is no better place to host a gathering focused on the future of the increasingly digital-driven world of movement-building than a space that President Obama has recognized recently, the 1776 Startup Campus, which boasts the tagline “Where revolutions begin.” Our venue as well as open bar and appetizers are provided courtesy of General Assembly - the school for technology, business and design education for entrepreneurs and startup companies.

As the President described at the State of the Union Address, 2014 was a great year for America but a terrible year for his Democratic allies but as we saw during the 2008 Obama campaign and recently witnessed in Paris, “unity” is not just an hopeful ideal but a STRATEGY for positive action that we need more than ever to move America forward.

As you might have seen, the DNC has created a Democratic Victory Task Force that is planning to submit a report at their February Meeting and sent out November and December surveys  to ask for your input on how to succeed again so please have your voice heard:

The President’s organization, Organizing For Action (formerly Obama For America) is also asking for feedback.

But we need to make sure ALL our voices are heard this time. At the event, we will encourage a more open dialogue as well so we can learn from each other and work together as well to build support for our collective causes.


Want to be a Co-Host or Sponsor? Questions/Comments?
Contact us at network4progress@gmail.com


Please invite friends and colleagues!
ADVANCE REGISTER BY 2/10!
JOIN & SHARE on Facebook!
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INVITE: 6th Annual STATE OF THE UNION Watch Party: “Unite For Progress” Edition (including 2016 Straw Poll & DNC Suggestion Box)

1/20/2015

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ADVANCE REGISTER BY 5PM 1/20!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
Join 200+ Registered for #SOTUUNITYDC! 

$10 Suggested Donation @ Door without RSVP!



(ALL attendees receive straw poll card, raffle & pizza starting at 7pm)
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#SOTU15 preview and live-stream information:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/sotu
(watch online for infographics, photos and more)



1/21: White House Online Open House!
#‎AskTheWH‬
http://wh.gov/cheeseday

Feedback Form:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/your-feedback-2015


2014 Progress Highlights:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/2014-in-review




Special Guest:

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Franklin Garcia
U.S. Shadow Representative
@fgarciadc


Partners include:
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Network For Progress
http://networkforprogress.weebly.com/follow-us.html

(including DC Career Progress, DC Comm Tech For Progress and more)
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Generation Obama-Washington, DC
http://www.facebook.com/generationobamawashingtondc
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Obama For America Alumni Association
https://sites.google.com/site/ofadcalumni


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Progressive Communicators of DC
http://www.pcdcnetwork.org
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Social Security Works
http://www.socialsecurityworks.org
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Launch Progress
http://launchprogress.org
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DC Young Politicos
http://www.meetup.com/CapitalHillMeetUpDCYoungPoliticos
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DC Democratic Party
http://www.dcdemocraticparty.org
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America’s Impact
www.americasimpact.org


Host Committee:

Jim McBride, Emile Aries, Lauren Babb, Charles Balogh, Crystal Brooks, Kelsi Browning, Daniel Buk, Molly Checksfield, David Do, Margot Friedman, Randy Goldstein, Lauren Jencik, Alex Lawson, Britton Loftin, Svetlana Matt, Jeff Pudlo, Brian Rauer, Nate Reul, Kyle Simon, Alvil Singh, Herb Smith, Luke Squire and more!




6:30pm-10:30pm Tuesday, January 20th
(Program & Presidential Address starting @ 8:30pm)

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Local Sixteen
(upstairs bar and heated deck)
http://www.localsixteen.com
1602 U Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
@ U Street Metro


Pizza & Drink Tickets for Early Birds + Raffle Gift +
$5 Drink & Appetizer Specials ALL NIGHT courtesy of Local 16!

Raffle Sponsors also include:

The Madhatter bar & grill
http://www.madhatterdc.com

NAKID Social Sports
http://www.playnakid.com


Please join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy community for those inspired by the "Yes We Can" Movement, and several great partners for our 6th Annual State of the Union Watch Party where Progressives, Democrats and “Hope Mongers” can watch and celebrate the President’s Address to Congress at 9pm while mingling for friends, careers and PROGRESS starting at 6:30pm! In exchange for straw poll, raffle tickets and feedback activities etc. small donations are requested to fund N4P expenses.

As many of you know, 2014 was a great year for America (http://www.whitehouse.gov/2014-in-review) but a terrible year for Democrats so this year's theme is...UNITE FOR PROGRESS! As we saw during the 2008 Obama campaign and recently witnessed in Paris, “unity” is not just an hopeful ideal but a STRATEGY for positive action that we need more than ever to move America forward.

Featured activities include….

2016 Candidate Showcase & Straw Poll:
First off, we want to offer a platform for attendees to meet representatives of groups supporting 2016 candidates and hear their pitch before voting in a 2016 Straw Poll that will reveal who DC-area politicos would like to see run for President. Feel free to share who you are supporting and why they’re the best candidate to unify the movement with #sotuunitydc


2016 Action Showcase & Petition Station (with Twitter Bomb):
We also want to offer a platform for attendees to have their voice heard and connect with causes they care about so we will highlight various local and national causes with an issue petition and information station. Before the speech we will also stage a “DC Voting Rights” twitter bomb for @whitehouse @mcconellpress @speakerboehner with the help of our friends at Phone 2 Action. You can sign a petition now on the White House web site.

What else should the President need say to America during his State of the Union Address?

Here is a #MySOTU Wish List and feel free to share yours with @whitehouse @mcconellpress @speakerboehner and Members of Congress!


Open “Dem Autopsy” Interviews & Submissions:
But most importantly, we also will ask everyone to join together to become “Ready For Unity” by getting engaged in the future of our Movement so we can help build on the President's growing legacy and message so we can build critical momentum when the nation decides which party should have the majority again in 2016 and beyond.

As you might have seen, the DNC has created a Democratic Victory Task Force that is preparing a preliminary report for their February Meeting and sent out surveys to ask for your input on how to succeed again so please have your voice heard:
http://my.democrats.org/page/s/december-survey
https://my.democrats.org/page/signup/survey-nov-2014

At the event, N4P will also ask you to do the same thing via video interviews during the event where you can share your Open “Dem Autopsy” feedback with the world! You can also share your ideas for @thedemocrats via your eventbrite registration, the hashtag #mydemautopsy and our DNC Suggestion Box at the event. We will post them later with your permission.




Want to be a Co-Host or Sponsor? Questions/Comments? 
Contact us at network4progress@gmail.com

Please invite friends and colleagues!

ADVANCE REGISTER BY 5PM 1/20!
JOIN & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
1 Comment

FWD BLOG: What should the President say to America during his State of the Union Address? #MySOTU 

1/19/2015

0 Comments

 
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As the President and his congressional supporters try to dust themselves off and position the Democratic Party for success in 2016 it’s important to examine their new message to America and that starts with the State of the Union Address.

Democrats need to get better at simply explaining what they did and what they want to do while persuading through a well-framed moral and fact-based argument that can win Hearts AND Minds that is supported by universal ideals that can find common ground to appeal to the broadest audience possible.

Vox recently published an analysis of persuasion techniques that teaches you “How to debunk false beliefs without having it backfire” that everyone interested in advocacy should read. Luckily this is one thing that this President is good at, and frankly MUST be good at as the leader of the entire nation...that’s why he his in the Oval Office. But we can ALL do better....especially when we share a consistent message that people can remember.

Here is the the #1 issue on my “wish list” on what the President should say and how he should explain it...I will update it as an ongoing reference that I hope our fellow Obama supporters can use as well.


TALKING POINT: RENEWABLE ENERGY INDEPENDENCE

Issue: Jobs, Economy, Energy, Environment


The President needs to discuss the importance of Renewable Energy Independence for helping create jobs at home in America and explain the great success of solar and electric vehicles thanks to federal loans etc. and how the reduction of gas prices is partly fueled by our unsustainable reliance on the expensive and environmentally harmful fracking process. He should then share his future plans like the EPA’s new standards for cutting carbon emissions and how they will benefit the economy but he should also consider re-working his carbon tax into a more popular-sounding Polluter Tax.

All Americans should understand the importance of ending our dependence on foreign oil and how countries like Russia and Iran benefit from it so this should be an easy argument to make that is practical for today and not just a “sacrifice” to fight the distant and murky effects of global warming that can be difficult to sell in the current political environment.



The White House’s online live-stream of the speech is a great tool for sharing supporting graphics and photos with those willing to find it but in this case I would recommend hold up a live picture at the lecturn of the California drought to SHOW America what global warming looks like. These kinds of images should also be live-tweeted at minimum.


Here is my template….feel free to share your own!

Policy:

Issue Category:

Common Ground:

Progress Example (past record and how it worked):

Agenda Example (future proposal and how it will work):



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INVITE: 12/18 Progressive Holiday Party with PCDC & N4P! 12/13-14 NOI's RootsCamp Un-Conference with N4P Discount!

12/18/2014

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REGISTRATION PAGE IS SOLDOUT BUT U CAN RSVP ON FACEBOOK:
RSVP & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
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*** Progressive Holiday Party ***

benefiting
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hosted by
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Progressive Communicators of DC
http://www.pcdcnetwork.org


& 
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Network For Progress
http://networkforprogress.weebly.com/follow-us.html



sponsored by
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Vanguard Communications
http://www.vancomm.com



6pm-9pm
Thursday, December 18, 2014

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Dirty Martini
(upstairs bar)
1223 Connecticut Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20036
@ Dupont Circle




Join Network For Progress, a social and media-savvy community for connecting professional and grassroots Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers with political and civic participation, as we team up with Progressive Communicators of DC for their annual holiday party at Dirty Martini! Appetizers will be provided.

Questions? Contact Jim @ network4progress@gmail.com

Interested in giving?
As party organizers, Vanguard Communications is coordinating a Toddlers and Teens toy drive at the holiday party. This toy drive will coincide with the holiday giving activity that is also taking place at Vanguard's office. New, unwrapped toys or cash gifts can be collected at the party and will be donated to Toys for Tots DC, located in Anacostia. Not sure what to give? Consult the Amazon Wish List for a list of toys that the Marines say families need most.

About PCDC:

Founded in 2006, Progressive Communicators of Washington, D.C. (PCDC) is an informal network of 1,200+ members working in communications who are committed to progressive causes. PCDC sponsors trainings and speakers; shares tips, strategies and best practices; and provides forums for progressive communicators to share information, including a Yahoo Group email list. To join PCDC, please send an email to pcdc-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.



About DC Network For Progress:
Launched by alumni of OFA’s Generation Obama-Washington, DC chapter, Network For Progress is a social and media-savvy community for connecting professional and grassroots Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers with political and civic participation. 

Follow N4P and its sub-communities like 

DC Career Progress and DC Comm Tech For Progress: 
http://networkforprogress.weebly.com/follow-us.html

REGISTRATION PAGE IS SOLDOUT BUT U CAN RSVP ON FACEBOOK:
RSVP & SHARE ON FACEBOOK!
12/13-14: New Organizing Institute’s RootsCamp un-conference & Job Fair!
(featuring Senators Kristin Gillibrand & Chris Murphy)

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Volunteers attend free if you sign up by ASAP: http://act.neworganizing.com/survey/RC_2014_Volunteer

OR 10% off by using N4P's promo code "NFP10RC14" here:
http://roots14.eventbrite.com
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Are you "Ready For Unity?" Join our "Grassroots" Democratic Autopsy & "50-State 2.0" Movement-building Campaign! #readyforunity #mydemautopsy #50state20

12/11/2014

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JOIN THE 12/13 EVENT & "READY FOR UNITY" TEAM HERE!
Share on FACEBOOK!
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Before you decide WHICH presidential campaign you are “Ready” for you should join the fight to ensure HOW your candidate and their fellow Democrats can better be prepared to win in 2016!

You’re invited to join Network For Progress for a “Ready for UNITY” Democratic Movement-building Task Force! 

Starting with a forum at New Organizing Institute’s RootsCamp (Room TBA) on December 13th, Network For Progress will facilitate a "Grassroots" Democratic Autopsy long-term crowd-sourced Unite 4 Progress "50-State Strategy 2.0" campaign to transparently have grassroots voices heard on the direction of the Democratic Party and work together for future electoral success and not just submit ideas to the experts in Washington that they will be too overwhelmed to handle.

Our deadline for a preliminary report will be the Tuesday BEFORE the State of the Union Address (most likely January 20th).

The goal of this work is to broaden the conversation about what works and what doesn’t so we can ALL learn from previous experiences. In general, the Democratic Party is comprised of people working hard and doing many good things BUT we need to embrace and reinvigorate more strategies that can foster 21st Century-style cultural and systemic innovation for public engagement to create a thriving American Majority-inspired DEMOCRATIC MOVEMENT for 2016 and beyond.

Why is this so important? When we talk about democratic “movements” these days we may think of the Arab Spring or Burma, or we might think of Progressives or Occupy Wall Street, but the Democratic Party would benefit from leveraging its brand name and start to identify AND conduct itself more clearly as the Party of Democratic principles of inclusiveness, equality, fairness and opportunity that 90% of Americans think are the cornerstone of our founding.

Framing your argument in terms of values has been a popular theme from George Lakoff, author of “Don’t Think of an Elephant,” and Leadership Expert Simon Sinek offers a good glimpse into its importance for “brands” ranging from MLK to Apple with his TED Talk: “Start With Why.”

Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden also once discussed at a TED Talk how there is a difference between winning and succeeding. We know that Democrats can “win” a bunch of elections in 2016 but we also need to recognize that a broader movement-building strategy can position candidates to better SUCCEED for the long-term.

Read N4P's Jim McBride "Forward Progressive" Blog for more:
"Why It's Time For A National MOVEMENT-BUILDING Strategy!"

Please join us and we will begin to share online, video, event and petition platforms to connect and spread your feedback to friends and influencers!

JOIN THE 12/13 EVENT & "READY FOR UNITY" TEAM HERE!
Share on FACEBOOK!
About Network For Progress:
Launched by alumni of OFA’s Generation Obama-Washington, DC chapter, Network For Progress is a social and media-savvy community for connecting professional and grassroots Progressives, Democrats, Hope Mongers and Change Makers with political and civic participation. 

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Follow #N4P networks via EMAIL, FACEBOOK & TWITTER!
(includes Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress, Policy Progress, Grassroots Progress, Progress Office and Jim’s Forward Progressive blog)
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FWD BLOG: Why it's time for a National MOVEMENT-BUILDING Strategy for Democrats to succeed in 2016 and beyond!

12/11/2014

0 Comments

 
JOIN THE 12/13 ROOTSCAMP EVENT & "READY FOR UNITY" TEAM!
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There is no way to sugar coat it: Politics is a cyclical game BUT the Democratic performance in the 2014 elections was an unmitigated disaster. 


There is ample evidence that 2010 was not just a fluke caused by voters angry about the slow return of jobs after the TARP, the Recovery Act and Wall Street Reform during the Great Recession OR the myths of the Obamacare fight. Even though the positive results of these and related policies are now clear and primed for Democrats basking in their glow, 2014 led to the worst turnout since World War II (when people were kind of busy with other maters) and the most Republican House seats since just before the Great Depression (when the bottom fell out).

Unfortunately, that means Democrats will have to wait until after 2020’s redistricting year (the last election before the next census) to have a chance to fix much of the damage done in the last four years.

The fact is, the Democrats can’t put Barack Obama on the ballot for any more elections and not every race is held in a hotly-contested Purple State during a presidential year so the Democrats need to start looking at how they can better connect with voters.

The good news about hitting rock bottom is that this time people are seriously discussing where “Yes We Can” went. The Democratic National Committee is sharing a survey of supporters right now and has created a Democratic Victory Task Force that will develop a preliminary “autopsy” report for their February Meeting followed by a final analysis in the summer. The team looks promising as it includes some familiar faces like Donna Brazile, Maria Cardona and tech-savvy Google Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt but time will tell whether they can absorb the cultural and systemic issues that led to this moment.

Yet “Victory” is not a big enough goal for this committee. In the end, winning elections is just a by-product of achieving public support for your cause FIRST that can come from a National MOVEMENT-BUILDING Strategy that seeks to win the hearts and minds of the American people.

There will be plenty of PIECEMEAL PROPOSALS matched with HUGE EXCUSES but we need to focus on the basics.

For example, due to online fundraising and the over-rated power of money to easily brainwash voters and win elections the post-“Citizens United” campaign finance environment didn’t hurt Democrats too much in 2012 as high-priced tools like TV advertising have reached a saturation point in a dying market.

Re-Districting is a legitimate problem often mentioned as Democrats should hold maybe 15 more seats in the House of Representatives if you compare their 2014 national vote total to their elected Members of Congress but we need to remember that losing elections is how we got in this situation in the first place...and that even if this were corrected the GOP would still have a commanding majority.

Hence, my simplest 2014 analysis is that sadly Barack Obama couldn’t figure out how to bring the Movement for “Hope” and “Change” to the Washington political establishment BUT the Washington political establishment definitely brought a movement of “cynicsm” and “status quo” politics to Barack Obama.

The President’s shine was destined to be tarnished by the ugly realities of governing and his time was now focused on more pressing matters, but he might regret how “Yes We Can!” became transformed into “Yes I Can!” where If you just give $5 the experts they can go off and win the election for you...don’t worry about the details or anything!

Well, it’s TIME to worry about the details that were left behind like the Howard Dean-led DNC’s “50-State” Strategy that supported party growth across the entire nation and helped create huge wins in the 2006 mid-terms before people knew who Barack Obama was.

The examples are endless, but here is one from the air war and one from the ground game that illustrate the rudimentary issues that I thought had become Outreach 101.

In 2014, after watching Bill Clinton be heralded as the “Explainer-in-Chief” and the success of My.BarackObama.com, am I seeing key Congressional and Senate races omit what should be politically-popular news about their governing agenda and record of achievements from their messaging AND even information on how to get involved like their campaign office and event information from their web sites and social media platforms....the internet wasn't created for only sharing cool things AFTER they happen!

In 2014, despite widespread use in party circles, why aren’t campaign organizers treated as capable of 21st Century communication with supporters (especially young people) on a regular basis via meetups, email, text and social media? Maybe because they’re perceived as low-skilled labor that doesn’t warrant a living wage or interns who don’t earn any wage at all?

The fact is, we have some numbers on our side but you don’t get credit for having a fundraising advantage or a great Get-Out-The-Vote program on Election Day. You lost the ENTIRE election….there’s no prize for your ad spending or door knocking results in October. Granted, there are external factors and demographic realities that affect candidates, but there needs to be a National MOVEMENT-BUILDING Strategy to shape the political climate 24/7/365 and more than ever it deserves to be scrutinized.

As Obama has said about Washington’s obstacles to policy solutions, the question is not whether there are enough “ideas” to help Democrats win elections - the U.S. electorate is demographically MORE LIBERAL today than it was in 2006 & 2008 - but whether there are enough PEOPLE that are willing and able to implement them.

And it starts with leadership! All it takes is one person at the top who has a vision and everyone else will become both “willing” and “able” to implement a plan in a hurry. So, with that in mind, we need to go beyond just dropping our comments in the Suggestion Box but really need to open up the dialogue beyond that.

And the fact is, the Democratic Party can never be as flexible and experimental as an individual activist, so even though some of the information gathered might not work for party organizations this kind of dialogue will offer us the opportunity to learn lessons that might be unique to our own issues and interests.

That’s why we need to focus on more than presidential primary candidates but a “Grassroots” Democratic Autopsy and long-term “Unite 4 Progress” campaign to help all smart candidates to WIN anyplace and anywhere!

A crowd-sourced forum will allow people to not be limited to emailing someone their feedback BUT to Share, Collaborate and Advocate for them, so best practices of all kinds can become more broadly championed and more easily percolate to the top of organizations instead of just getting read once and archived forever.



In particular, there is so much frustration among Obama supporters right now that this concept can be a great vehicle for channeling their energies by offering plenty of opportunities to promote legacy-building that will increase the President’s poll numbers and make him more of an asset to candidates for the next election.

Now, please join us in our quest for a growing a true Democratic Movement and let’s bring PROGRESS back in America!

JOIN THE 12/13 ROOTSCAMP EVENT & "READY FOR UNITY" TEAM
About “Forward Progressive” Blog:
Grassroots Social & Media Strategist Jim McBride writes about "post-partisan" forward-minded solutions to policy and campaign issues that prioritize strategies that appeal to broad coalitions of voters and supporters to ensure movement success. 

He was the Founder of Generation Webb and Generation Obama-Washington, DC chapter as well as one of the lead organizers of Virginia For Obama’s grassroots-led primary campaign. He is currently the President of the grassroots community Network For Progress and has over 20 years in communications and political work.
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Follow on FACEBOOK!
Follow on TWITTER!
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Follow #N4P  networks via  EMAIL, FACEBOOK & TWITTER!
(includes Career Progress, Comm Tech 4 Progress, Campaign 4 Progress, Advocate 4 Progress, Serve 4 Progress, Policy Progress, Grassroots Progress, Progress Office and Jim’s Forward Progressive blog)
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