Yesterday, a very special guest appeared at Casa Don Juan in Downtown Las Vegas. Vice President Joe Biden stopped by to host a roundtable discussion on raising the minimum wage. Rep. Steven Horsford (D-North Las Vegas), Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman (I), and local business owners joined Vice President Biden at Casa Don Juan.
The Vice President received some tough questions yesterday, including one on the economic impact this would have on small businesses. Here's how he responded.
And he's actually quite far from alone. According to a CareerBuilder national survey released late last month, 55% of hiring managers support raising the federal minimum wage to at least $10 an hour (while another 30% want it raised above $8 an hour). This falls in line with a July Lake Research poll showing 61% of small business owners support a $10.10 national minimum wage. And that came after a March Greenberg Quinlan Rosner poll showing 57% of small business owners support a $10.10 minimum wage.
So yes, even those in charge of hiring understand the need for a fairer and more livable minimum wage. And why not? They're on the economic front line. They realize how much we're losing by allowing so many people to fall between the cracks and into unnecessary poverty.
Yesterday, the usual "TEA" powered suspects were mocking Vice President Biden's message at Casa Don Juan. Have they tried living on minimum wage level earnings? Have they met the hard working Americans who are struggling to make ends meet on poverty level income? Have they even visited the states that have recently raised the minimum wage and are actually experiencing improved job growth?
Our guess is no. After all, it's so much easier to take political pot shots than to examine the actual policy. It's so much easier to pontificate about "economic philosophy" than to produce actual policies to solve our growing inequality crisis.
Who knew there could be such a huge fight over so little?
Showing posts with label Las Vegas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Las Vegas. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Last Call
Consider this your last call! You don't want to miss out on this. Seriously, you don't want to miss out on ProgressNow Nevada Action's exciting event, "Celebrate Progress".
There are plenty of great reasons to "Celebrate Progress". So why not join us?
How often do you have the chance to Arshad Hasan, a premier nationwide expert on grassroots campaigning? This alone is worth the price of admission. A source close to the event actually told us, "I learned everything I know about grassroots campaigns from Arshad."
So consider this your last call. We'll be celebrating progress next Tuesday at 6:00 PM. We'll be at Artifice in Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas. And tickets start at just $50... Or $5 a month for the next year!
Please RSVP here. We hope to celebrate progress with you & all our friends at ProgressNow Nevada Action next Tuesday.
Join Arshad Hasan, national ProgressNow Executive Director, and ProgressNow Nevada Action for a big announcement and fundraiser.
In addition to celebrating the big news, join us to celebrate and honor four amazing progressive individuals in Southern Nevada for always standing up for the issues that matter most.
Progressive Leader Award - Senator Tick Segerblom
Rising Progressive Leader Award - Rudy Zamora
Progressive Voice of Reason - Andrew Davey
Progressive Business Owner Award - Cassandra Rice, owner of GymCats
GymCats
There are plenty of great reasons to "Celebrate Progress". So why not join us?
How often do you have the chance to Arshad Hasan, a premier nationwide expert on grassroots campaigning? This alone is worth the price of admission. A source close to the event actually told us, "I learned everything I know about grassroots campaigns from Arshad."
So consider this your last call. We'll be celebrating progress next Tuesday at 6:00 PM. We'll be at Artifice in Fabulous Downtown Las Vegas. And tickets start at just $50... Or $5 a month for the next year!
Please RSVP here. We hope to celebrate progress with you & all our friends at ProgressNow Nevada Action next Tuesday.
Monday, September 8, 2014
The Most Poignant PRIDE Yet
This was a bittersweet weekend for us. We had the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, meet some new friends, amd remember someone who's made such a huge mark in our lives.
On the eve of Sevcik v. Sandoval's day in court (at the Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals) and just after a remarkable series of advances for transgender civil rights, Las Vegas PRIDE weekend came and went. It was a time for celebration of recent progress, as well as a time of reflection on the challenges that still lie ahead.
Friday night's parade offered quite the exciting line-up. Communities of faith, Cleve Jones & Culinary 226, a host of local businesses, and even a few Las Vegas Metro Police officers (!!!) participated in the parade. Also riding in the parade were State Senators David Parks (D-Paradise), Pat Spearman (D-North Las Vegas), Kelvin Atkinson (D-North Las Vegas), & Justin Jones (D-Enterprise), along with Assembly Member James Healey (D-Enterprise), Lieutenant Governor candidate Lucy Flores (D), NV-03 Congressional candidate Erin Bilbray (D), and State Senate candidate Teresa Lowry (D).
Along 4th Street in Downtown Las Vegas, all these people marched in solidarity with Southern Nevada's LGBTQ community and our continuing struggle for full civil rights. They came to show their respect for our community and ask for our support. Doesn't it feel nice to receive this kind of respect?
Then came the Saturday festival. And yes, there were festivities all throughout Clark County Government Center's amphitheater. There were also some elected officials coming back to meet voters. And there were volunteers registering voters. There were families coming in to soak in the sun, along with young LGBTQ Nevadans coming in for a safe place to express themselves.
The whole weekend was a thing of beauty. When I first moved here to Southern Nevada five years ago, one of the first activities I did was Las Vegas PRIDE. So I always experience a rush of emotions around this time of the year every year. However, this PRIDE was the most poignant one for me yet.
I came to know Sandy Eddy quite well over the years. We both served on the Stonewall Southern Nevada board together. And during our time on the board, she became one of my "Vegas adopted mothers". She really meant that much to me, and to all the other people who came into her life.
Last Thursday, Sandy suffered a stroke and was rushed to the hospital. She didn't make it. Yet even at life's end, she kept giving of herself. Several of her organs are about to be donated to those in need. And during this time of mourning, she's brought back together those who had recently drifted apart.
Las Vegas PRIDE was one of the many community events Sandy made sure to do. That's why I ultimately felt compelled to go this past weekend. Even though I initially didn't even want to pull myself out of bed Friday morning, I knew Sandy would kick my ass if I didn't pull myself together and go. She always made sure to go where she was needed.
Sandy Eddy may no longer be with us physically, but I could feel her spirit with me at PRIDE. And I figured she would have been happy about everyone who turned out for the parade, all the activity at the Stonewall & PLAN booths at the festival, and all the other people at PRIDE who were there to serve the greater community.
This was a bittersweet weekend for so many of us. But with so much more to do, Sandy would want everyone to press forward. So we will. (Yet in the spirit of giving that Sandy embdodied all the way through to her very last moments, now's a great time to reach out & help her family during their time of grief.)
On the eve of Sevcik v. Sandoval's day in court (at the Ninth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals) and just after a remarkable series of advances for transgender civil rights, Las Vegas PRIDE weekend came and went. It was a time for celebration of recent progress, as well as a time of reflection on the challenges that still lie ahead.
Friday night's parade offered quite the exciting line-up. Communities of faith, Cleve Jones & Culinary 226, a host of local businesses, and even a few Las Vegas Metro Police officers (!!!) participated in the parade. Also riding in the parade were State Senators David Parks (D-Paradise), Pat Spearman (D-North Las Vegas), Kelvin Atkinson (D-North Las Vegas), & Justin Jones (D-Enterprise), along with Assembly Member James Healey (D-Enterprise), Lieutenant Governor candidate Lucy Flores (D), NV-03 Congressional candidate Erin Bilbray (D), and State Senate candidate Teresa Lowry (D).
Along 4th Street in Downtown Las Vegas, all these people marched in solidarity with Southern Nevada's LGBTQ community and our continuing struggle for full civil rights. They came to show their respect for our community and ask for our support. Doesn't it feel nice to receive this kind of respect?
Then came the Saturday festival. And yes, there were festivities all throughout Clark County Government Center's amphitheater. There were also some elected officials coming back to meet voters. And there were volunteers registering voters. There were families coming in to soak in the sun, along with young LGBTQ Nevadans coming in for a safe place to express themselves.
The whole weekend was a thing of beauty. When I first moved here to Southern Nevada five years ago, one of the first activities I did was Las Vegas PRIDE. So I always experience a rush of emotions around this time of the year every year. However, this PRIDE was the most poignant one for me yet.
I came to know Sandy Eddy quite well over the years. We both served on the Stonewall Southern Nevada board together. And during our time on the board, she became one of my "Vegas adopted mothers". She really meant that much to me, and to all the other people who came into her life.
Last Thursday, Sandy suffered a stroke and was rushed to the hospital. She didn't make it. Yet even at life's end, she kept giving of herself. Several of her organs are about to be donated to those in need. And during this time of mourning, she's brought back together those who had recently drifted apart.
Las Vegas PRIDE was one of the many community events Sandy made sure to do. That's why I ultimately felt compelled to go this past weekend. Even though I initially didn't even want to pull myself out of bed Friday morning, I knew Sandy would kick my ass if I didn't pull myself together and go. She always made sure to go where she was needed.
Sandy Eddy may no longer be with us physically, but I could feel her spirit with me at PRIDE. And I figured she would have been happy about everyone who turned out for the parade, all the activity at the Stonewall & PLAN booths at the festival, and all the other people at PRIDE who were there to serve the greater community.
This was a bittersweet weekend for so many of us. But with so much more to do, Sandy would want everyone to press forward. So we will. (Yet in the spirit of giving that Sandy embdodied all the way through to her very last moments, now's a great time to reach out & help her family during their time of grief.)
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
We Need You
We need to talk.
ProgressNow Nevada Action will be giving us an award. We still can't believe this is actually happening.
However, we're not surprised by the other fine people ProgressNow will be honoring some very worthy people at its Celebrate Progress awards reception on September 16. State Senator Tick Segerblom (D-Las Vegas), organizer extraordinaire Rudy Zamora, and GymCats owner/activist superstar Cassie Rice will all honored for all their amazing work. We certainly couldn't be happier for them.
It's amazing to think we'll be sharing the stage with them. And it's great to see so many worthy people honored. But will it truly be an honor if we're in a mostly empty bar?
tYou know who we want to see at Artifice on September 16 at 6:00 PM? You! If you want to honor some great progressives and a great organization committed to fighting for progressive values, please come to Artifice on September 16. Tickets start at $50, proceeds will be put to great use, and you'll have the opportunity to meet the best of the best in person (along with us).
We couldn't have achieved this without you, so we need you at Artifice on the 16th.
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Why Does ProgressNow Want to Award This Blog? (Find Out 9/16!)
We weren't asking for this. We swear!
We certainly weren't demanding that ProgressNow Nevada Action risk ruining its reputation by giving us an award. But alas, they just had to do that.
Fortunately, ProgressNow will also be honoring some very worthy people at its Celebrate Progress awards reception on September 16. State Senator Tick Segerblom (D-Las Vegas), organizer extraordinaire Rudy Zamora, and GymCats owner/activist superstar Cassie Rice will all honored for all their amazing work. We certainly couldn't be happier for them.
However, it will be more than a little awkward for us to share the stage with them. After all, we just run this dowdy little blog that's dedicated to ending political careers. While Senator Segerblom is working on seemingly endless worthy legislation and Rudy & Cassie are taking the good fight to a whole new level, we just point and laugh at the latest & greatest Sharron Angle endeavor. Oh, and we occasionally embarrass ourselves on Twitter.
If you want to see us embarrass ourselves live, come to Artifice on September 16 at 6:00 PM. And if you want to honor some great progressives and a great organization committed to fighting for progressive values, please come to Artifice on September 16. Tickets start at $50, proceeds will be put to great use, and you'll have the opportunity to meet the best of the best in person (along with lowly us).
We certainly weren't demanding that ProgressNow Nevada Action risk ruining its reputation by giving us an award. But alas, they just had to do that.
Fortunately, ProgressNow will also be honoring some very worthy people at its Celebrate Progress awards reception on September 16. State Senator Tick Segerblom (D-Las Vegas), organizer extraordinaire Rudy Zamora, and GymCats owner/activist superstar Cassie Rice will all honored for all their amazing work. We certainly couldn't be happier for them.
However, it will be more than a little awkward for us to share the stage with them. After all, we just run this dowdy little blog that's dedicated to ending political careers. While Senator Segerblom is working on seemingly endless worthy legislation and Rudy & Cassie are taking the good fight to a whole new level, we just point and laugh at the latest & greatest Sharron Angle endeavor. Oh, and we occasionally embarrass ourselves on Twitter.
If you want to see us embarrass ourselves live, come to Artifice on September 16 at 6:00 PM. And if you want to honor some great progressives and a great organization committed to fighting for progressive values, please come to Artifice on September 16. Tickets start at $50, proceeds will be put to great use, and you'll have the opportunity to meet the best of the best in person (along with lowly us).
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Giant Wakeup Call
Nearly a year ago, it was in flames. And its smoke darkened the Las Vegas Valley below. The Carpenter 1 Fire was a frighteningly giant wakeup call for Southern Nevada.
Our state, along with the rest of the America. West, has been stuck in drought for several years. And with the land hotter and drier than ever before, it's become ideal ground for epic wildfires. Even today, Mount Charleston was placed at high risk for another wildfire.
As the drought worsens and the heat reaches record levels, we're left wondering how many more startling signs we must notice before we take further action on climate change. How many more wildfires must burn? How much more drought must we endure?
President Obama's climate action program will aid in curbing this and other effects of climate change. However, we can't stop here. We need further action just to avoid the worst case scenario.
Nevada's economy depends on our terrain. Las Vegas & Reno depend on tourism. The rural areas depend on farming & ranching. The entire state depends on the little amount of water we receive in precipitation every year.
While some question the cost of robust climate action and others question the very existence of climate change, all the "TEA" fueled deniers are missing the giant wakeup call outside. Go ahead and step outside. Feel the heat, and feel the dry.
It's real. It's happening. And we can no longer deny it. It's our giant wakeup call. Are we now ready to jump out of bed and take action?
Our state, along with the rest of the America. West, has been stuck in drought for several years. And with the land hotter and drier than ever before, it's become ideal ground for epic wildfires. Even today, Mount Charleston was placed at high risk for another wildfire.
As the drought worsens and the heat reaches record levels, we're left wondering how many more startling signs we must notice before we take further action on climate change. How many more wildfires must burn? How much more drought must we endure?
President Obama's climate action program will aid in curbing this and other effects of climate change. However, we can't stop here. We need further action just to avoid the worst case scenario.
Nevada's economy depends on our terrain. Las Vegas & Reno depend on tourism. The rural areas depend on farming & ranching. The entire state depends on the little amount of water we receive in precipitation every year.
While some question the cost of robust climate action and others question the very existence of climate change, all the "TEA" fueled deniers are missing the giant wakeup call outside. Go ahead and step outside. Feel the heat, and feel the dry.
It's real. It's happening. And we can no longer deny it. It's our giant wakeup call. Are we now ready to jump out of bed and take action?
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Do Over
Last year, he had been considered the Democrat least likely to vote for any gun safety legislation. But then, Senator Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia) eventually backed a very modest background checks package. And the NRA still conspired to kill it.
But now, he's back. He wants to try expanding background checks again. And he's not alone.
After all, Senator Manchin wasn't the only Senate Democrat who evolved on gun violence. So did Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. In fact, he went further, way beyond a mere milquetoast background checks compromise. But now, he may be ready to try for those mere milquetoast background checks again.
So what's happened since then? Sunday, for one. Jerad Miller was able to access firearms despite his felony convictions. And now, three innocent people are dead.
What's also happened since then? Well, we've just experienced 74 more school shootings since Newtown. Troutdale just happened to be #74. We don't remember which number Sparks Middle School is.
What else has happened since then? More extremism. More senseless tragedies. More family losses. And even more blood shed.
Now, the only question is: What's changed on Capitol Hill since then? Has Senator Dean Heller (R-NRA) grown a spine yet? Hell, has he sorted out his relationship with Cliven Bundy yet?
We shall find out soon. Last year, Congress put on one of the worst sh*tshows in American history (actually, one of several). Now, they have a chance at a do-over. Will they take it? Or will we have to endure 74 more unnecessary and horrifically bloody tragedies?
But now, he's back. He wants to try expanding background checks again. And he's not alone.
After all, Senator Manchin wasn't the only Senate Democrat who evolved on gun violence. So did Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. In fact, he went further, way beyond a mere milquetoast background checks compromise. But now, he may be ready to try for those mere milquetoast background checks again.
So what's happened since then? Sunday, for one. Jerad Miller was able to access firearms despite his felony convictions. And now, three innocent people are dead.
What's also happened since then? Well, we've just experienced 74 more school shootings since Newtown. Troutdale just happened to be #74. We don't remember which number Sparks Middle School is.
What else has happened since then? More extremism. More senseless tragedies. More family losses. And even more blood shed.
Now, the only question is: What's changed on Capitol Hill since then? Has Senator Dean Heller (R-NRA) grown a spine yet? Hell, has he sorted out his relationship with Cliven Bundy yet?
We shall find out soon. Last year, Congress put on one of the worst sh*tshows in American history (actually, one of several). Now, they have a chance at a do-over. Will they take it? Or will we have to endure 74 more unnecessary and horrifically bloody tragedies?
Monday, June 9, 2014
This Isn't Child's Play
Target is a big store. One can now find clothing, electronics, home appliances, fast food, a pharmacy, and even a grocery store there. For some, it's all about convenience. However, we suspect most of those shoppers wouldn't want to find a certain item lying around at Target...
Especially in the children's department, lying around with toys. Yet in March, Open Carry Texas began posting photos to its Facebook wall of members packing heat in Target. And yes, they were even carrying AR-15 assault weapons in the children's department.
Then last week, a loaded gun was found in the toy aisle of a Target in South Carolina. Think about that. What if that gun had fallen into a child's hand? Then we certainly wouldn't be talking about "child's play" any longer.
Students and faculty at Seattle Pacific University had to endure everything but "child's play" last Thursday. A gunman opened fire and shot one person dead.
The shooter wanted to kill even more people last Thursday, but he was thwarted by two things. One was the limited magazine capacity of his handgun. The other was the pepper spray that SPU student Jon Meis used to subdue the shooter.
Jerad Miller had an extensive criminal record. Both he & his wife, Amanda Miller, had openly boasted about their plan to "start a revolution", overthrow President Obama, and kill police officers. How was he then able to purchase firearms?
Joseph Robert Wilcox attempted to thwart the Millers at Walmart yesterday. He didn't realize that Amanda Miller was right behind him. Just as Wilcox was taking out his concealed pistol, Miller shot him dead from behind.
The NRA's theoretical "good guy with a gun" became a reality yesterday. He also passed away. Sometimes, just being that "good guy with a gun" isn't enough to stop the "bad guy with a gun".
This isn't child's play. Guns are not meant to be toys. And gun violence is an issue we sorely need to take seriously.
Target & Walmart are big stores. We can find many things there. We shouldn't be finding the end of our lives there. Target & Walmart may carry plenty of toys, but this isn't child's play. We can't ignore this bloody reality any longer.
Especially in the children's department, lying around with toys. Yet in March, Open Carry Texas began posting photos to its Facebook wall of members packing heat in Target. And yes, they were even carrying AR-15 assault weapons in the children's department.
Then last week, a loaded gun was found in the toy aisle of a Target in South Carolina. Think about that. What if that gun had fallen into a child's hand? Then we certainly wouldn't be talking about "child's play" any longer.
Students and faculty at Seattle Pacific University had to endure everything but "child's play" last Thursday. A gunman opened fire and shot one person dead.
The shooter wanted to kill even more people last Thursday, but he was thwarted by two things. One was the limited magazine capacity of his handgun. The other was the pepper spray that SPU student Jon Meis used to subdue the shooter.
Jerad Miller had an extensive criminal record. Both he & his wife, Amanda Miller, had openly boasted about their plan to "start a revolution", overthrow President Obama, and kill police officers. How was he then able to purchase firearms?
Joseph Robert Wilcox attempted to thwart the Millers at Walmart yesterday. He didn't realize that Amanda Miller was right behind him. Just as Wilcox was taking out his concealed pistol, Miller shot him dead from behind.
The NRA's theoretical "good guy with a gun" became a reality yesterday. He also passed away. Sometimes, just being that "good guy with a gun" isn't enough to stop the "bad guy with a gun".
This isn't child's play. Guns are not meant to be toys. And gun violence is an issue we sorely need to take seriously.
Target & Walmart are big stores. We can find many things there. We shouldn't be finding the end of our lives there. Target & Walmart may carry plenty of toys, but this isn't child's play. We can't ignore this bloody reality any longer.
Full Circle
Last Friday, a normally sleepy Georgia town on the outskirts of Greater Atlanta was rocked by shocking violence. In Cumming, Georgia, a shootout occurred when a man tried to carry an AR-15 assault weapon and explosives into the Forsyth County Courthouse.
Dennis Marx was due to appear in the Forsyth County Courthouse last Friday to answer to his marijuana and weapons charges. He also had a running law suit against Forsyth County, as he claimed the county violated his civil rights. Dennis Marx was also part of the "Sovereign Citizen/Patriot Movement".
Remember them? They're the ones who rushed to the aid of Cliven Bundy when he declared a "Range War" against the federal government. And they're the ones with a storied history of breeding terrorists who have committed some of the worst crimes this nation has ever seen.
Jerad & Amanda Miller were also part of the "Patriot Movement". White supremacist paraphernalia were found at their apartment yesterday. Jerad & Amanda Miller opened fire at the CiCi's Pizza and Walmart in the Northeast Las Vegas Valley yesterday. They shot two Metro officers dead before shooting someone else dead in Walmart and ultimately killing themselves.
Jerad & Amanda Miller had boasted to their neighbors about their involvement in #BundyRanch. Reno area NBC affiliate KRNV even interviewed Miller in Bunkerville back in April.
We can't help but wonder what Senator Dean Heller (R), Governor Brian Sandoval (R), Assembly Member & NV-04 candidate Cresent Hardy (R), Assembly Member Michele Fiore (R), and other G-O-TEA politicians who had so merrily jumped on the #BundyRanch bandwagon nearly two months ago are thinking now. Do they regret what they said then? Are they embarrassed over their endorsement of what's turned out to be a collection of fringe extremists, some of whom haven't hesitated to resort to violence?
Of course, these are also the same G-O-TEA politicians who have boasted of being "what stood in the way" of legislation that could have prevented criminals like Jerad Miller & Dennis Marx from obtaining firearms. Might they be rethinking this as well? Is that "A rating" from the NRA truly worth more than actual human lives?
Sadly, the #BundyRanch saga has come full circle. Two months ago, a ragtag group of fringe extremists threatened violence against the federal government for daring to enforce the law. A month ago, they began fighting each other and scaring an entire community. And now, some of those threats have actually materialized here in the Las Vegas Valley. Why didn't our "leaders" take these threats seriously before yesterday?
Dennis Marx was due to appear in the Forsyth County Courthouse last Friday to answer to his marijuana and weapons charges. He also had a running law suit against Forsyth County, as he claimed the county violated his civil rights. Dennis Marx was also part of the "Sovereign Citizen/Patriot Movement".
Remember them? They're the ones who rushed to the aid of Cliven Bundy when he declared a "Range War" against the federal government. And they're the ones with a storied history of breeding terrorists who have committed some of the worst crimes this nation has ever seen.
Jerad & Amanda Miller were also part of the "Patriot Movement". White supremacist paraphernalia were found at their apartment yesterday. Jerad & Amanda Miller opened fire at the CiCi's Pizza and Walmart in the Northeast Las Vegas Valley yesterday. They shot two Metro officers dead before shooting someone else dead in Walmart and ultimately killing themselves.
Jerad & Amanda Miller had boasted to their neighbors about their involvement in #BundyRanch. Reno area NBC affiliate KRNV even interviewed Miller in Bunkerville back in April.
We can't help but wonder what Senator Dean Heller (R), Governor Brian Sandoval (R), Assembly Member & NV-04 candidate Cresent Hardy (R), Assembly Member Michele Fiore (R), and other G-O-TEA politicians who had so merrily jumped on the #BundyRanch bandwagon nearly two months ago are thinking now. Do they regret what they said then? Are they embarrassed over their endorsement of what's turned out to be a collection of fringe extremists, some of whom haven't hesitated to resort to violence?
Of course, these are also the same G-O-TEA politicians who have boasted of being "what stood in the way" of legislation that could have prevented criminals like Jerad Miller & Dennis Marx from obtaining firearms. Might they be rethinking this as well? Is that "A rating" from the NRA truly worth more than actual human lives?
Sadly, the #BundyRanch saga has come full circle. Two months ago, a ragtag group of fringe extremists threatened violence against the federal government for daring to enforce the law. A month ago, they began fighting each other and scaring an entire community. And now, some of those threats have actually materialized here in the Las Vegas Valley. Why didn't our "leaders" take these threats seriously before yesterday?
Too Close to Home
It happened. Again. And this time, it happened awfully close to home. And in fact, for those who live in the Northeast Las Vegas Valley, it did hit home.
It was supposed to be a normal Sunday at the CiCi's Pizza at Nellis & Stewart. Two Metro Police officers just happened to be eating lunch there. Then around 11:30 AM, everything changed.
Metro officers Alyn Beck and Igor Soldo were shot dead execution style. The two shooters then removed the officers' weapons & badges, covered their corpses with the Gadsden Flag (the yellow flag with a coiled snake that's become a "TEA Party" icon in recent years), and moved to a nearby Walmart. They then shot a customer dead near the front of the store. After causing quite the bloody scene at that Walmart, the shooters then turned the guns on themselves.
According to neighbors, the shooters often talked about their racist & anti-government ideology. They actually claimed they wanted to commit "the next Columbine". And they claimed they spent time with Cliven Bundy's crew earlier this year.
Five people are now dead, including the shooters. And once again, we're reminded that gun violence can indeed come too close to home. And once it hits home, tragedy all too often follows.
We've often heard certain Nevada Republicans boast about Governor Brian Sandoval (R-NRA), Senator Dean Heller (R-NRA), and Rep. Joe Heck (R-NRA) being "what stood in the way" of better gun safety laws that could have prevented tragedies like this one. Are they ready to resume this boast today? Are they ready to join the NRA's fight to redefine "shooting"? Are they ready to join the NRA in singing the praises of Open Carry Texas' heat packing and Cliven Bundy's armed madness?
Already, they and other politicians are tweeting out condolences and making other somber gestures. That's what's to be expected. It would just be nice if we didn't have to constantly repeat this cycle, this perpetual "Groundhog Day" of gun violence.
We've said this before, yet we must say this again today: We need more than just words. We need more than just the usual "sympathetic" platitudes. We need more than just the usual 48 hours of somber social media messages followed by the "return to normal".
This hit too close to home. We should all take notice. And not only that, but we should take real action as well. Why must we relive this kind of tragedy yet again?
It was supposed to be a normal Sunday at the CiCi's Pizza at Nellis & Stewart. Two Metro Police officers just happened to be eating lunch there. Then around 11:30 AM, everything changed.
Metro officers Alyn Beck and Igor Soldo were shot dead execution style. The two shooters then removed the officers' weapons & badges, covered their corpses with the Gadsden Flag (the yellow flag with a coiled snake that's become a "TEA Party" icon in recent years), and moved to a nearby Walmart. They then shot a customer dead near the front of the store. After causing quite the bloody scene at that Walmart, the shooters then turned the guns on themselves.
According to neighbors, the shooters often talked about their racist & anti-government ideology. They actually claimed they wanted to commit "the next Columbine". And they claimed they spent time with Cliven Bundy's crew earlier this year.
Five people are now dead, including the shooters. And once again, we're reminded that gun violence can indeed come too close to home. And once it hits home, tragedy all too often follows.
We've often heard certain Nevada Republicans boast about Governor Brian Sandoval (R-NRA), Senator Dean Heller (R-NRA), and Rep. Joe Heck (R-NRA) being "what stood in the way" of better gun safety laws that could have prevented tragedies like this one. Are they ready to resume this boast today? Are they ready to join the NRA's fight to redefine "shooting"? Are they ready to join the NRA in singing the praises of Open Carry Texas' heat packing and Cliven Bundy's armed madness?
Already, they and other politicians are tweeting out condolences and making other somber gestures. That's what's to be expected. It would just be nice if we didn't have to constantly repeat this cycle, this perpetual "Groundhog Day" of gun violence.
We've said this before, yet we must say this again today: We need more than just words. We need more than just the usual "sympathetic" platitudes. We need more than just the usual 48 hours of somber social media messages followed by the "return to normal".
This hit too close to home. We should all take notice. And not only that, but we should take real action as well. Why must we relive this kind of tragedy yet again?
Thursday, April 17, 2014
This Is @Everytown.
We've heard the talking heads argue over it. We've seen the polling on it. We've survived all the political spin of it. And that's because we know the real facts about it.
And of course, there's something else to keep in mind. While many politicians and media pundits treat gun violence like just another political football, it's very real to those who have personally experienced its very real carnage. For them, gun violence isn't theoretical. It isn't esoteric. It's quite real, and they're reminded of this painful reality every day.
Erica Lafferty is one of these people. She lost her mother last December. Her mother was a principal at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. She lost her life that fateful day, but Erica won't let her mother's legacy be forgotten. And she doesn't want others to meet the same fate her mother did.
This is why she showed up at the Grant Sawyer State Building yesterday. Is isn't just about Newtown. This happens at Everytown.
Newtown wasn't the last school shooting, far from it. Right here in Nevada, shots were fired at Sparks Middle School. And 8th grade math teacher Michael Landsberry lost his life that day. The Sparks Middle School Shooting was a horrific reminder that Sparks is @Everytown.
Of course, Las Vegas is also Everytown. On the same day Michael Landsberry lost his life while trying to protect others at Sparks Middle School, Kenneth Brown lost his life while trying to protect others at Ballys Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. Also on the same day, two people were shot dead at an apartment complex in East Las Vegas.
This is why Teresa Crawford became a Champion of Change. And this is why showed up at Grant Sawyer yesterday. Far too many people here in Nevada suffered due to gun violence. This doesn't just happen "somewhere else". This happens in Everytown.
This is Everytown. #WeAreEverytown. Throughout Nevada, we've seen people lose their lives to senseless gun violence. But whenever we've had a chance to change this sorrowful reality, all we hear are the same old tired excuses.
We've heard so many speeches from politicians and spin from "industry" promoters over the years that we lost count about a year ago. No matter what Rep. Joe Heck (R-NRA) has said about theoretical legislation and philosophy of process, there's a real bill waiting for his cosponsorship. No matter what Senator Dean Heller (R) says about "legislation he supported recently", he can't hide his filibuster of basic background checks legislation. And no matter what Governor Brian Sandoval (R-NRA) says about theoretical "threats to liberty", he can't spin away the fact that he was what stood in the way of Nevada taking even modest action on gun violence prevention when Congress wouldn't act on federal legislation.
No matter what they and other gun lobby backed politicians say about theories and concepts and philosophy, they can't change reality. Every town has had to grapple with gun violence. Every town knows someone who's lost loved ones to gun violence. And every town deserves a better future without worrying about becoming another headline grabbing armed battlefield.
This is @Everytown. And this is why we can't ignore the reality of gun violence.
And of course, there's something else to keep in mind. While many politicians and media pundits treat gun violence like just another political football, it's very real to those who have personally experienced its very real carnage. For them, gun violence isn't theoretical. It isn't esoteric. It's quite real, and they're reminded of this painful reality every day.
Erica Lafferty is one of these people. She lost her mother last December. Her mother was a principal at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. She lost her life that fateful day, but Erica won't let her mother's legacy be forgotten. And she doesn't want others to meet the same fate her mother did.
This is why she showed up at the Grant Sawyer State Building yesterday. Is isn't just about Newtown. This happens at Everytown.
Newtown wasn't the last school shooting, far from it. Right here in Nevada, shots were fired at Sparks Middle School. And 8th grade math teacher Michael Landsberry lost his life that day. The Sparks Middle School Shooting was a horrific reminder that Sparks is @Everytown.
Of course, Las Vegas is also Everytown. On the same day Michael Landsberry lost his life while trying to protect others at Sparks Middle School, Kenneth Brown lost his life while trying to protect others at Ballys Casino on the Las Vegas Strip. Also on the same day, two people were shot dead at an apartment complex in East Las Vegas.
This is why Teresa Crawford became a Champion of Change. And this is why showed up at Grant Sawyer yesterday. Far too many people here in Nevada suffered due to gun violence. This doesn't just happen "somewhere else". This happens in Everytown.
This is Everytown. #WeAreEverytown. Throughout Nevada, we've seen people lose their lives to senseless gun violence. But whenever we've had a chance to change this sorrowful reality, all we hear are the same old tired excuses.
We've heard so many speeches from politicians and spin from "industry" promoters over the years that we lost count about a year ago. No matter what Rep. Joe Heck (R-NRA) has said about theoretical legislation and philosophy of process, there's a real bill waiting for his cosponsorship. No matter what Senator Dean Heller (R) says about "legislation he supported recently", he can't hide his filibuster of basic background checks legislation. And no matter what Governor Brian Sandoval (R-NRA) says about theoretical "threats to liberty", he can't spin away the fact that he was what stood in the way of Nevada taking even modest action on gun violence prevention when Congress wouldn't act on federal legislation.
No matter what they and other gun lobby backed politicians say about theories and concepts and philosophy, they can't change reality. Every town has had to grapple with gun violence. Every town knows someone who's lost loved ones to gun violence. And every town deserves a better future without worrying about becoming another headline grabbing armed battlefield.
This is @Everytown. And this is why we can't ignore the reality of gun violence.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Long Road
The past nine months have certainly not been dull. They haven't been easy, either. After a surprising wait, SB 374 became law. Yet even as it became law, medical marijuana still wasn't legally available yet because several municipal governments throughout Nevada were refusing to allow dispensaries within their boundaries.
Finally this month, a breakthrough occurred when Clark County announced its plan to approve zoning regulations for medical marijuana dispensaries. That pretty much guaranteed that dispensaries will finally open soon in Nevada's most populous county. And it set an encouraging precedent for other municipal governments to follow.
And now, the Clark County Commission has finally cleared the way for dispensary applications to begin circulating by approving regulations. And just hours before the Clark County Commission approved its new medical marijuana dispensary regulations, the Las Vegas City Council finally directed city staff to begin drafting its own dispensary regulations. The City of Las Vegas had been the biggest municipal government to resist any allowance of medical marijuana, but yesterday the City Council finally came around to approving dispensaries.
So after nine months of regulatory delays and legal brawls, SB 3374 is finally on track for full implementation. And after thirteen years of legal wrangling, police raids, and plenty of confusion all around, the will of the people is finally starting to be recognized...
But this fight is still far from over. Patients still face immense hurdles as they try to access the medicine they need. Even as Clark County and Las Vegas City make progress in adopting new regulations, medical marijuana can not yet be legally obtained anywhere in Southern Nevada.
The road to legal medical marijuana in Nevada has been quite long. And it's been quite difficult at times. And we're still far from the end of it. But at least today, it looks like we're moving in the right direction. Perhaps this long road will finally take us somewhere.
Finally this month, a breakthrough occurred when Clark County announced its plan to approve zoning regulations for medical marijuana dispensaries. That pretty much guaranteed that dispensaries will finally open soon in Nevada's most populous county. And it set an encouraging precedent for other municipal governments to follow.
And now, the Clark County Commission has finally cleared the way for dispensary applications to begin circulating by approving regulations. And just hours before the Clark County Commission approved its new medical marijuana dispensary regulations, the Las Vegas City Council finally directed city staff to begin drafting its own dispensary regulations. The City of Las Vegas had been the biggest municipal government to resist any allowance of medical marijuana, but yesterday the City Council finally came around to approving dispensaries.
So after nine months of regulatory delays and legal brawls, SB 3374 is finally on track for full implementation. And after thirteen years of legal wrangling, police raids, and plenty of confusion all around, the will of the people is finally starting to be recognized...
But this fight is still far from over. Patients still face immense hurdles as they try to access the medicine they need. Even as Clark County and Las Vegas City make progress in adopting new regulations, medical marijuana can not yet be legally obtained anywhere in Southern Nevada.
The road to legal medical marijuana in Nevada has been quite long. And it's been quite difficult at times. And we're still far from the end of it. But at least today, it looks like we're moving in the right direction. Perhaps this long road will finally take us somewhere.
Monday, January 27, 2014
The Reality of Gun Violence
2013 was a memorable year for numerous reasons. Perhaps one of the saddest reasons was the increasing frequency of mass shootings. And already, 2014 is off to an incredibly dangerous start.
From movie theaters to restaurants to neighborhood strip malls and even the famous Las Vegas Strip, the fear of gun violence penetrated deep into our daily lives. Even our schools have sometimes transformed into armed battlefields.
So what can we do about this? How can we reverse this alarming trend? This is what several Nevadans discussed during a special summit on gun violence prevention that was hosted by the Center for American Progress and ProgressNow Nevada.
When we talk about gun violence, we often encounter a number of misconceptions and wrong assumptions. One is that the debate is between "big guv'mint loony lib'rul gun grabbbers" and "gun totin' freedom lovin' conservatives". Unlike the caricatures we see in the media and from certain politicians, reality doesn't resemble the simple caricatures. And local gun owner Dwayne Morton came to the summit to explain this to the audience.
Actually, most gun owners support common sense efforts to reduce gun violence. Don't believe us? Believe this new PPP poll. Overall, 78% of Nevadans support expanding background checks for gun purchases. And 54% of that sample were gun owners.
So why do many in the media still resort to inaccurate caricatures when talking about gun violence? That's a good question. And it's one that Peter Ambler inadvertently brought to the forefront during his presentation. Before he went to work at Americans for Responsible Solutions, he started working for (then) Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Arizona) just days before she was shot at the Tucson massacre.
Both Gabby Giffords and her husband, Mark Kelly, are gun owners. Giffords even enjoyed favorable grades from the NRA during her service in Congress. So what changed? They became victims of gun violence, and they later concluded that America is ready to move beyond the inaccurate caricatures and have a real discussion on the reality of gun violence.
Of course, the reality of gun violence isn't limited to other states. It's also come home to Nevada, and we can no longer ignore the dangerous consequences of inaction.
That's why ProgressNow Nevada's Annette Magnus & Teresa Crawford took to the stage at the summit. They reminded the audience of what occurred in Downtown Las Vegas on January 4, 2010. Security officer Stanley Cooper and US Marshal Richard Gardner were shot on duty at the Lloyd George Federal Building. Johnny Lee Wicks shot both of them with a gun he purchased without a background check at a gun show. Gardner ultimately survived the attack, but Cooper passed away.
Sadly, tragedies like this have become all too common in Nevada and throughout the nation. Believe it or not, 20 kids are hospitalized every day on average in this nation due to firearms injuries. And domestic violence victims now face more danger due to easy & lax gun laws (which allow abusers to access firearms).
The reality of gun violence isn't sexy. It isn't always simple. It's never really limited to just "over there" and/or "not here". And it should never be forced into false caricatures.
Last year, very basic gun safety reform proposals were on the table in Congress and the Nevada Legislature. Both were ultimately smothered to death by the gun lobby. And we're all still living the consequences of that.
The reality of gun violence is quite lethal, yet it can be changed. Are we willing to change it? Are we ready to save lives? This is reality, but it doesn't have to remain this way.
From movie theaters to restaurants to neighborhood strip malls and even the famous Las Vegas Strip, the fear of gun violence penetrated deep into our daily lives. Even our schools have sometimes transformed into armed battlefields.
So what can we do about this? How can we reverse this alarming trend? This is what several Nevadans discussed during a special summit on gun violence prevention that was hosted by the Center for American Progress and ProgressNow Nevada.
When we talk about gun violence, we often encounter a number of misconceptions and wrong assumptions. One is that the debate is between "big guv'mint loony lib'rul gun grabbbers" and "gun totin' freedom lovin' conservatives". Unlike the caricatures we see in the media and from certain politicians, reality doesn't resemble the simple caricatures. And local gun owner Dwayne Morton came to the summit to explain this to the audience.
Actually, most gun owners support common sense efforts to reduce gun violence. Don't believe us? Believe this new PPP poll. Overall, 78% of Nevadans support expanding background checks for gun purchases. And 54% of that sample were gun owners.
So why do many in the media still resort to inaccurate caricatures when talking about gun violence? That's a good question. And it's one that Peter Ambler inadvertently brought to the forefront during his presentation. Before he went to work at Americans for Responsible Solutions, he started working for (then) Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Arizona) just days before she was shot at the Tucson massacre.
Both Gabby Giffords and her husband, Mark Kelly, are gun owners. Giffords even enjoyed favorable grades from the NRA during her service in Congress. So what changed? They became victims of gun violence, and they later concluded that America is ready to move beyond the inaccurate caricatures and have a real discussion on the reality of gun violence.
Of course, the reality of gun violence isn't limited to other states. It's also come home to Nevada, and we can no longer ignore the dangerous consequences of inaction.
That's why ProgressNow Nevada's Annette Magnus & Teresa Crawford took to the stage at the summit. They reminded the audience of what occurred in Downtown Las Vegas on January 4, 2010. Security officer Stanley Cooper and US Marshal Richard Gardner were shot on duty at the Lloyd George Federal Building. Johnny Lee Wicks shot both of them with a gun he purchased without a background check at a gun show. Gardner ultimately survived the attack, but Cooper passed away.
Sadly, tragedies like this have become all too common in Nevada and throughout the nation. Believe it or not, 20 kids are hospitalized every day on average in this nation due to firearms injuries. And domestic violence victims now face more danger due to easy & lax gun laws (which allow abusers to access firearms).
The reality of gun violence isn't sexy. It isn't always simple. It's never really limited to just "over there" and/or "not here". And it should never be forced into false caricatures.
Last year, very basic gun safety reform proposals were on the table in Congress and the Nevada Legislature. Both were ultimately smothered to death by the gun lobby. And we're all still living the consequences of that.
The reality of gun violence is quite lethal, yet it can be changed. Are we willing to change it? Are we ready to save lives? This is reality, but it doesn't have to remain this way.
Friday, January 24, 2014
The Necessity of Simple Steps
Feeling the heat yet? We all are, really. According to NASA, 2013 was the 7th hottest year on record. And according to NOAA, last year was the 4th hottest on record. Whoever is closer to the truth here, it's undeniable that 2013 was one brutally hot year.
And already, the meteorological drama continues in 2014. Just next door, California has declared an emergency due to extreme drought. Meanwhile on the other end of the nation, Winter Storm Janus is dropping even more heavy snow in a region that's still trying to dig out of the last couple of massive snowstorms. And throughout the world, Dust-Bowl-ification may already be worsening food insecurity and political instability.
There's no denying the real danger of climate change. It's here, and it's already begun to wreak havoc around the world and here at home. And this is why calls to action are being made everywhere from Davos to DC.
When we look at climate change and examine ways to solve this growing crisis, we often discuss broad, global solutions. But today, we're thinking globally... And acting locally. And climate solutions can truly start with simple moves like changing light bulbs and improving home insulation.
This is what local Sierra Club organizers and volunteers were talking about last night as they were looking at the next steps to take to finally move Beyond Coal and into a cleaner & greener energy future. While solving climate change as a whole may seem like a daunting task ahead, taking simple steps to improve energy efficiency really isn't difficult. And if we're to ever start saving our own behinds, we must start with those simple steps.
Fortunately, Nevada made some major steps in that cleaner & greener direction last year when the Legislature and NV Energy agreed to SB 123. Finally, the infamous Reid-Gardner Coal Plant on Moapa Paiute tribal land would be retired while NV Energy invests in more locally produced renewable energy.
However, the twisted saga of Reid-Gardner isn't over quite yet. Last night, Moapa Paiute Tribal Council Member Vickie Simmons talked of the new challenge being posed by natural gas (power plant) developers.
As we've discussed before, natural gas is far from ideal. It isn't completely "clean". And it won't magically make all pollution and climate change go away.
This is why local Sierra Club organizer Elspeth DiMarzio moved on to explain the mechanics and the necessity of energy efficiency.
Again, these seem to be simple steps we can all make. However, they're more than just that. They're absolutely necessary for us to begin saving our communities and our planet.
Remember that the less energy we use, the less we need fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. And that means we will have an easier time turning to renewables to fulfill more of our needs.
And no, efficiency doesn't mean we all have to live in the dark. It means we can be smarter about how much energy we use to enjoy 21st century living.
After the speakers wrapped up, the volunteers broke into groups to strategize. Somehow, the media group managed to attract a paleontologist who really wanted to dig deep into the specifics of energy policy. There were also a couple of architectural design students on hand to offer their know-how as well. Meanwhile just a few feet away, the community outreach group was brainstorming partnerships... And found someone who's interested in making a short film on Reid-Gardner, SB 123, and the future of energy in Nevada.
This will probably all be necessary in the days ahead. The Nevada Legislature now has a Interim Energy Committee, and they'll soon be looking for citizen input on SB 123 implementation and more. And when it comes to more, the state can use more of a clear path forward on efficiency. This state's energy usage has skyrocketed in recent years, so we need to set guidelines on track to meet our goal of building cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable communities.
Last year, we saw a breakthrough in Carson City in moving beyond coal and in a greener direction. However, last year was nonetheless one of the hottest on record. There's still more to do to step up to the challenge of climate change. And believe it or not, it all starts with a few simple steps.
And already, the meteorological drama continues in 2014. Just next door, California has declared an emergency due to extreme drought. Meanwhile on the other end of the nation, Winter Storm Janus is dropping even more heavy snow in a region that's still trying to dig out of the last couple of massive snowstorms. And throughout the world, Dust-Bowl-ification may already be worsening food insecurity and political instability.
There's no denying the real danger of climate change. It's here, and it's already begun to wreak havoc around the world and here at home. And this is why calls to action are being made everywhere from Davos to DC.
When we look at climate change and examine ways to solve this growing crisis, we often discuss broad, global solutions. But today, we're thinking globally... And acting locally. And climate solutions can truly start with simple moves like changing light bulbs and improving home insulation.
This is what local Sierra Club organizers and volunteers were talking about last night as they were looking at the next steps to take to finally move Beyond Coal and into a cleaner & greener energy future. While solving climate change as a whole may seem like a daunting task ahead, taking simple steps to improve energy efficiency really isn't difficult. And if we're to ever start saving our own behinds, we must start with those simple steps.
Fortunately, Nevada made some major steps in that cleaner & greener direction last year when the Legislature and NV Energy agreed to SB 123. Finally, the infamous Reid-Gardner Coal Plant on Moapa Paiute tribal land would be retired while NV Energy invests in more locally produced renewable energy.
However, the twisted saga of Reid-Gardner isn't over quite yet. Last night, Moapa Paiute Tribal Council Member Vickie Simmons talked of the new challenge being posed by natural gas (power plant) developers.
As we've discussed before, natural gas is far from ideal. It isn't completely "clean". And it won't magically make all pollution and climate change go away.
This is why local Sierra Club organizer Elspeth DiMarzio moved on to explain the mechanics and the necessity of energy efficiency.
Again, these seem to be simple steps we can all make. However, they're more than just that. They're absolutely necessary for us to begin saving our communities and our planet.
Remember that the less energy we use, the less we need fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. And that means we will have an easier time turning to renewables to fulfill more of our needs.
And no, efficiency doesn't mean we all have to live in the dark. It means we can be smarter about how much energy we use to enjoy 21st century living.
After the speakers wrapped up, the volunteers broke into groups to strategize. Somehow, the media group managed to attract a paleontologist who really wanted to dig deep into the specifics of energy policy. There were also a couple of architectural design students on hand to offer their know-how as well. Meanwhile just a few feet away, the community outreach group was brainstorming partnerships... And found someone who's interested in making a short film on Reid-Gardner, SB 123, and the future of energy in Nevada.
This will probably all be necessary in the days ahead. The Nevada Legislature now has a Interim Energy Committee, and they'll soon be looking for citizen input on SB 123 implementation and more. And when it comes to more, the state can use more of a clear path forward on efficiency. This state's energy usage has skyrocketed in recent years, so we need to set guidelines on track to meet our goal of building cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable communities.
Last year, we saw a breakthrough in Carson City in moving beyond coal and in a greener direction. However, last year was nonetheless one of the hottest on record. There's still more to do to step up to the challenge of climate change. And believe it or not, it all starts with a few simple steps.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Embrace the Weed
Well, isn't this interesting? Last week, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D) dropped quite the bomb during his interview with Las Vegas Sun's Karoun Demirjian. So what was this bong bomb? Go ask Mary Jane about it.
No really, Senator Reid said he's down with medical marijuana. This marks another major policy evolution for the Senator. He's never even tried pot before. And not that long ago, he was a willing "Drug Warrior". But now, he says it's time for a change.
And why not? SB 374 is now the law of the land here in Nevada. Medical studies have shown that marijuana is less dangerous than alcohol, and that there are legitimate health benefits of medical marijuana. Oh, and most Americans now support full legalization of (medical & recreational) marijuana.
Even President Obama now seems to be accepting the science... And society's changing attitudes. So why are Las Vegas & Henderson dragging their feet on allowing medical marijuana dispensaries? Patients need it. The state will soon officially sanction dispensaries to provide it. Why are Nevada's two largest cities pretending that it's some sort of "evil weed"?
Apparently, they're afraid of "the feds". And to be fair, they're still a problem. Even though President Obama and reality now seem to disagree, federal law enforcement is still cracking down on any & all marijuana. And local law enforcement still seems to be following the feds' lead... Even with state law saying otherwise.
Unfortunately, medical marijuana patients and other marijuana users are still caught in the middle of all this hot legal mess. And if they happen to be caught "inhaling while dark skinned", they get quite the heavy book thrown at them.
So what are we to do about this hot legal mess? Usually, we're not into letting out gardens go. But in this case, our OCD weeding is far more detrimental than the actual weed itself. Perhaps it's time for us to finally embrace the weed (provided it's properly regulated).
No really, Senator Reid said he's down with medical marijuana. This marks another major policy evolution for the Senator. He's never even tried pot before. And not that long ago, he was a willing "Drug Warrior". But now, he says it's time for a change.
And why not? SB 374 is now the law of the land here in Nevada. Medical studies have shown that marijuana is less dangerous than alcohol, and that there are legitimate health benefits of medical marijuana. Oh, and most Americans now support full legalization of (medical & recreational) marijuana.
Even President Obama now seems to be accepting the science... And society's changing attitudes. So why are Las Vegas & Henderson dragging their feet on allowing medical marijuana dispensaries? Patients need it. The state will soon officially sanction dispensaries to provide it. Why are Nevada's two largest cities pretending that it's some sort of "evil weed"?
Apparently, they're afraid of "the feds". And to be fair, they're still a problem. Even though President Obama and reality now seem to disagree, federal law enforcement is still cracking down on any & all marijuana. And local law enforcement still seems to be following the feds' lead... Even with state law saying otherwise.
Unfortunately, medical marijuana patients and other marijuana users are still caught in the middle of all this hot legal mess. And if they happen to be caught "inhaling while dark skinned", they get quite the heavy book thrown at them.
So what are we to do about this hot legal mess? Usually, we're not into letting out gardens go. But in this case, our OCD weeding is far more detrimental than the actual weed itself. Perhaps it's time for us to finally embrace the weed (provided it's properly regulated).
Monday, December 2, 2013
Take This Seriously.
Just when we thought we could enjoy the Thanksgiving Holiday last week, the Nevada G-O-TEA Circus of Batsh*t Crazy had to interrupt our plans. Oh, yes. That's right. They went there... Again!
So what happened this time? Oh, Assembly Member Michelle Fiore (R-Las Vegas) just decided to "spice up" a local "talk radio" show with veiled threats of violence. After all, she just loves her weapons... And her NRA Seal of Approval.
So what exactly happened? Assembly Member Fiore was a guest on a KNXT show on Tuesday. So were Culinary 226's Yvanna Cancela and ProgressNow's Annette Magnus. When Fiore confronted Cancela over Culinary's aggressive organizing, she dropped this verbal bomb.
While many (even some on the left) have disagreed with Culinary's more controversial battle plans in its ongoing war against anti-union casinos, no one can say Culinary organizers aren't protected by the First Amendment. And no one can say they deserve "Second Amendment Remedies" for exercising their First Amendment rights.
Of course, the usual G-O-TEA spin doctors tried to change the subject as soon as this news hit Twitter. AFP Nevada even tried to start a flame war over Assembly Member Fiore's Twitter handle! But of course, it didn't work.
Instead, we were reminded of what happens when such violent rhetoric is injected into our political dialogue. When does this ever demonstrate "responsible behavior"? (Hint: Never.) And really, elected officials should know better.
Haven't we experienced more than enough bloodshed this year? Hell, we've even seen gun violence hit awfully close to home here in Nevada. Seriously, this isn't something to blithely dismiss and/or ignore.
So why aren't we taking this seriously? Why are some of our elected "leaders" threatening bullets in others' heads? What will it take for us to finally learn? Gun violence needs to be taken seriously.
So what happened this time? Oh, Assembly Member Michelle Fiore (R-Las Vegas) just decided to "spice up" a local "talk radio" show with veiled threats of violence. After all, she just loves her weapons... And her NRA Seal of Approval.
So what exactly happened? Assembly Member Fiore was a guest on a KNXT show on Tuesday. So were Culinary 226's Yvanna Cancela and ProgressNow's Annette Magnus. When Fiore confronted Cancela over Culinary's aggressive organizing, she dropped this verbal bomb.
"The behavior that you did in front of the Cosmo would get you a bullet in your head in Brooklyn, because that is not the behavior that we want here in Nevada."
While many (even some on the left) have disagreed with Culinary's more controversial battle plans in its ongoing war against anti-union casinos, no one can say Culinary organizers aren't protected by the First Amendment. And no one can say they deserve "Second Amendment Remedies" for exercising their First Amendment rights.
Of course, the usual G-O-TEA spin doctors tried to change the subject as soon as this news hit Twitter. AFP Nevada even tried to start a flame war over Assembly Member Fiore's Twitter handle! But of course, it didn't work.
Instead, we were reminded of what happens when such violent rhetoric is injected into our political dialogue. When does this ever demonstrate "responsible behavior"? (Hint: Never.) And really, elected officials should know better.
Haven't we experienced more than enough bloodshed this year? Hell, we've even seen gun violence hit awfully close to home here in Nevada. Seriously, this isn't something to blithely dismiss and/or ignore.
So why aren't we taking this seriously? Why are some of our elected "leaders" threatening bullets in others' heads? What will it take for us to finally learn? Gun violence needs to be taken seriously.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Boon(doggle)
Martin Martinez was never considered to be a "criminal" before. He worked and paid taxes. And he was providing for his family.
So why was he recently detained in the Henderson Detention Center? He fled gang violence and extortion in El Salvador in 2006. And he arrived in the US undocumented.
So he was sent to jail over a lack of papers... But why was he sent to Henderson?
To be fair, not all detainees have complained about conditions at the Henderson Detention Center. However, that's missing the point. Why are all these resources being used to incarcerate people who are productive and making positive contributions to society?
These raids typically don't work. New evidence suggests that immigration crackdowns (like the ongoing one here in Southern Nevada) just tend to scare high-skilled and productive documented and undocumented immigrants... Into other municipalities that don't conduct such crackdowns. Meanwhile, the immigrants who are locked up can't work. Local economies lose productivity, and federal, state, & local governments have to spend money to incarcerate people who committed the "crime" of acting on their desire for a better life.
Apparently, this ICE contract has generated at least $5 million in annual revenue for the City of Henderson. But at what cost to others is this windfall for Henderson City Hall? How much have Clark County and the City of Las Vegas spent to enforce federal immigration law? How many families have been torn apart? And how many communities have been losing business?
Of course, this brings up an issue that's currently held captive in some dark back room on Capitol Hill. If Congressional Republican "leaders" were to stop trying to duck & cover from comprehensive immigration reform (CIR), they could see how the failing immigration system of present is both cruel and inefficient. Perhaps we'd be wasting less money by simply flushing it down the toilet.
This should be a wake-up call for Rep. Joe Heck (R-Henderson). He says he wants CIR, but he's yet to sign onto HR 15. If he's looking for a "fiscally responsible" reason to push CIR, he only needs to look just beyond his own backyard.
And in the mean time, local governments in Southern Nevada need to reevaluate their decision to spend so much on enforcing federal immigration law. So far, it looks like Henderson City Hall's boon is becoming everyone else's boondoggle.
So why was he recently detained in the Henderson Detention Center? He fled gang violence and extortion in El Salvador in 2006. And he arrived in the US undocumented.
“I work and I pay taxes. I care for my family,” Martinez said. “Then, when I start to try to legalize my status, I’m detained. So I’m not working, and meanwhile the government is paying to lock me up. Now, if they deport me, who will take care of my wife and son, who are U.S. citizens? They’ll be public charges. It makes no sense.”
So he was sent to jail over a lack of papers... But why was he sent to Henderson?
With an average detainee population of more than 200 per day, the Henderson Detention Center has been the primary facility in Nevada for housing federally detained immigrants since early 2011, according to ICE documents obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request.
The federal contract has been a windfall for city coffers, with annual revenues between $10 million and $11 million. The contract has generated revenues above expenses ranging from $5 million to $6 million annually, with the surplus money going into the city’s general fund.
A report from UNLV’s immigration law clinic, being released today and already reviewed by the Sun, argues that the Henderson Detention Center has failed to comply with federal detention standards and procedures, including reasonable access to medical care and legal assistance. After conducting interviews with dozens of immigrant detainees at the facility earlier this year, the report’s authors are a calling for an independent review of the city jail.
To be fair, not all detainees have complained about conditions at the Henderson Detention Center. However, that's missing the point. Why are all these resources being used to incarcerate people who are productive and making positive contributions to society?
These raids typically don't work. New evidence suggests that immigration crackdowns (like the ongoing one here in Southern Nevada) just tend to scare high-skilled and productive documented and undocumented immigrants... Into other municipalities that don't conduct such crackdowns. Meanwhile, the immigrants who are locked up can't work. Local economies lose productivity, and federal, state, & local governments have to spend money to incarcerate people who committed the "crime" of acting on their desire for a better life.
Apparently, this ICE contract has generated at least $5 million in annual revenue for the City of Henderson. But at what cost to others is this windfall for Henderson City Hall? How much have Clark County and the City of Las Vegas spent to enforce federal immigration law? How many families have been torn apart? And how many communities have been losing business?
Of course, this brings up an issue that's currently held captive in some dark back room on Capitol Hill. If Congressional Republican "leaders" were to stop trying to duck & cover from comprehensive immigration reform (CIR), they could see how the failing immigration system of present is both cruel and inefficient. Perhaps we'd be wasting less money by simply flushing it down the toilet.
This should be a wake-up call for Rep. Joe Heck (R-Henderson). He says he wants CIR, but he's yet to sign onto HR 15. If he's looking for a "fiscally responsible" reason to push CIR, he only needs to look just beyond his own backyard.
And in the mean time, local governments in Southern Nevada need to reevaluate their decision to spend so much on enforcing federal immigration law. So far, it looks like Henderson City Hall's boon is becoming everyone else's boondoggle.
Friday, November 15, 2013
What Can Be Done
This week, we've been jumping back into issues closer to home. And yes, there's one issue in particular that's raising our eyebrows and getting us thinking. Here's a hint: T. E. I.
We're not the only ones thinking about it. In a letter to the editor published in today's Las Vegas Sun, Las Vegas elementary school teacher Angie Sullivan summed up the sorry state of perhaps the most important part of Nevada's public infrastructure... And what must be done to fix it.
This is what we've been saying here all along. What politicians in Carson City can't do is what voters must do. And The Education Initiative (TEI) finally gives voters the opportunity to do what must be done.
As usual, Ralston mourns the policy failures that have grown out of the dysfunctional politics of this state. And in quite a few aspects, he's right on the money. But now, we have a chance to move beyond mourning over what can't be done. We finally have a chance to seize what can be done.
So what can be done? Remember these three letters: T. E. I.
We've had it with the overcrowded schools, overburdened teachers, and underfunded public infrastructure. And yes, we've had it with the usual hand-wringing and empty rhetoric. We now have The Education Initiative on next year's general election ballot, and we know it can (and must!) be done.
If we want Nevada to succeed in building a better economy and a brighter future, we have to look beyond what hasn't been done and realize what must be done. Then, we have to recognize that it can be done. And of course, we then have to just do it already.
We're not the only ones thinking about it. In a letter to the editor published in today's Las Vegas Sun, Las Vegas elementary school teacher Angie Sullivan summed up the sorry state of perhaps the most important part of Nevada's public infrastructure... And what must be done to fix it.
Nevadans should vote for the Teacher’s Education Initiative in one year. The initiative will tax businesses that profit $1 million or more.
For over a decade, Nevada’s public schools have been teaching, testing, reteaching, tutoring, testing, testing and failing as public schools endured $1 billion in cuts.
Some have tried to use teachers as scapegoats. This is very puzzling to those of us who serve above and beyond for the students. Frankly, teachers are struggling with too many needy students, not enough supplies, not enough support, and obstacles such as poverty.
Bottom line: We know our students are failing. We have data to prove this. We also know that Nevada does not fund our schools adequately.
This is what we've been saying here all along. What politicians in Carson City can't do is what voters must do. And The Education Initiative (TEI) finally gives voters the opportunity to do what must be done.
As usual, Ralston mourns the policy failures that have grown out of the dysfunctional politics of this state. And in quite a few aspects, he's right on the money. But now, we have a chance to move beyond mourning over what can't be done. We finally have a chance to seize what can be done.
So what can be done? Remember these three letters: T. E. I.
We've had it with the overcrowded schools, overburdened teachers, and underfunded public infrastructure. And yes, we've had it with the usual hand-wringing and empty rhetoric. We now have The Education Initiative on next year's general election ballot, and we know it can (and must!) be done.
If we want Nevada to succeed in building a better economy and a brighter future, we have to look beyond what hasn't been done and realize what must be done. Then, we have to recognize that it can be done. And of course, we then have to just do it already.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Las Vegas 2016?
What a week this is. Yesterday, we saw a row develop over a Republican US Senator using "salty language" to insult Nevada's Senior Senator. But today, some Republicans are declaring their "love for Nevada" with a campaign for Las Vegas to host the 2016 Republican National Convention.
Really? Really? The RNC in Las Vegas?
Will they repeat their message to Nevada homeowners from the 2012 cycle? Will they continue preaching their gospel of austerity? Will they highlight their health care solutions? And will they keep touting their climate & energy plan?
Sure, Las Vegas has plenty to offer national Republicans. But what do national Republicans have to offer Las Vegas and Nevada?
Think about it.
Could the party of "family values" hold its next national convention in Sin City?
Replete with a website and Twitter account, the state of Nevada launched a bid Tuesday for Las Vegas to serve as host of the 2016 Republican National Convention.
Jack St. Martin, executive director of the Nevada Host Committee, cited the area's diversity in making his case for Vegas.
“Las Vegas makes perfect sense for the GOP Convention,” St. Martin said in a statement, according to Politico. “Las Vegas knows how to host something of this magnitude and Nevada’s diverse demographics make total sense for the GOP to come here.”
Really? Really? The RNC in Las Vegas?
Will they repeat their message to Nevada homeowners from the 2012 cycle? Will they continue preaching their gospel of austerity? Will they highlight their health care solutions? And will they keep touting their climate & energy plan?
Sure, Las Vegas has plenty to offer national Republicans. But what do national Republicans have to offer Las Vegas and Nevada?
Think about it.
Sunday, September 8, 2013
The Meaning of PRIDE
In March, the Nevada Legislature was abuzz over a constitutional amendment. Not that long ago, SJR 13 would have been unthinkable. But now, Nevada is on the path to marriage equality.
This and other recent civil rights advances were on everyone's mind at this year's Las Vegas PRIDE. There was plenty to celebrate this past weekend in Downtown Las Vegas. And there was plenty to reflect on. While the overall vibe of the Friday night parade was quite fun and lighthearted, there was a more serious moment.
Assembly Member James Healey (D-Enterprise) and State Senator David Parks (D-Paradise) briefly talked about what's at stake, especially in regards to marriage equality. They drove in the parade, along with Culinary 226, PLAN, ProgressNow Nevada, Rep. Steven Horsford (D-North Las Vegas), Rep. Dina Titus, and HRC Las Vegas. And they drove alongside floats for casinos, bars/nightclubs, religious groups, social groups, and much more.
The fun continued the next day at the PRIDE Festival at the Clark County Government Center... Along with plenty of good work. Representatives from Senator Harry Reid's (D) Las Vegas office came by to talk with festival goers. The Clark County Democratic Party and Southern Nevada Stonewall were registering voters at their table, while the PLAN crew were doing the same at their table. Oh, and Rep. Horsford even came by to say hi to festival goers.
Senator Parks and Assembly Member Healey later had a chance to speak again at the festival. They were joined by Assembly Member Lucy Flores (D-North Las Vegas), who shared what PRIDE means to her.
Throughout the weekend, folks were reminded of the meaning of PRIDE. After many years of struggles for acceptance, the seeds of equality are finally sprouting. In just the past four years, Nevada has seen progress on relationship recognition, hate crimes, employment discrimination, and more. Half of Nevada's Congressional Delegation (guess who...) now support full LGBTQ civil rights. And now, Nevada is finally on the road to marriage equality.
And of course, the festival had plenty of fabulous live entertainment. After all, this was a celebration. After many years of shame, Nevada's LGBTQ community can finally begin to reap the rewards of PRIDE.
This and other recent civil rights advances were on everyone's mind at this year's Las Vegas PRIDE. There was plenty to celebrate this past weekend in Downtown Las Vegas. And there was plenty to reflect on. While the overall vibe of the Friday night parade was quite fun and lighthearted, there was a more serious moment.
Assembly Member James Healey (D-Enterprise) and State Senator David Parks (D-Paradise) briefly talked about what's at stake, especially in regards to marriage equality. They drove in the parade, along with Culinary 226, PLAN, ProgressNow Nevada, Rep. Steven Horsford (D-North Las Vegas), Rep. Dina Titus, and HRC Las Vegas. And they drove alongside floats for casinos, bars/nightclubs, religious groups, social groups, and much more.
The fun continued the next day at the PRIDE Festival at the Clark County Government Center... Along with plenty of good work. Representatives from Senator Harry Reid's (D) Las Vegas office came by to talk with festival goers. The Clark County Democratic Party and Southern Nevada Stonewall were registering voters at their table, while the PLAN crew were doing the same at their table. Oh, and Rep. Horsford even came by to say hi to festival goers.
Senator Parks and Assembly Member Healey later had a chance to speak again at the festival. They were joined by Assembly Member Lucy Flores (D-North Las Vegas), who shared what PRIDE means to her.
Throughout the weekend, folks were reminded of the meaning of PRIDE. After many years of struggles for acceptance, the seeds of equality are finally sprouting. In just the past four years, Nevada has seen progress on relationship recognition, hate crimes, employment discrimination, and more. Half of Nevada's Congressional Delegation (guess who...) now support full LGBTQ civil rights. And now, Nevada is finally on the road to marriage equality.
And of course, the festival had plenty of fabulous live entertainment. After all, this was a celebration. After many years of shame, Nevada's LGBTQ community can finally begin to reap the rewards of PRIDE.
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