Democratic Meeting
The Washington County Democrats met on Wednesday, October 9, 2013 in the Washington Public Library. Chairman Richard Gilmore called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Those present were Richard Gilmore, Robin Plattenberger, Kay & Dave Ciha, Fred & Nan Stark, Jim & Karen Gorham, John Greener, Lorraine Williams, Sandy Johnson, Terry Philips, and Harold & Louise Frakes.
Minutes were approved as sent out. Treasurer’s report was given. The General Fund has $1966.97 and the Candidate Fund has $500.00.
Under Old Business, the Fund Raiser Dinner was discussed. We cleared $1342.78 on it. Several ideas were presented concerning the auction. 1. Split the auction up between the various speakers. 2. Simply have a silent auction. 3. Combine the silent auction with the live auction. Everyone thought Gary Murphy was a great auctioneer and made the auction fun, but we were disappointed that so many people left before the auction was over. General consensus was that the tables, the decorations, the speakers and the meal were all great. We just need to decide what to do about the auction. No decision was made. It was also noted that we need to have access into the building by 9:30 am.
John Greener moved that we give a monetary donation to our 2 guest speakers. There was some discussion, but the motion died for lack of a second.
Report of the Special Supervisor Election was given. Republican Richard Young won and will take office immediately.
John Greener asked if we are going to support the bridge issue. It was decided that those interested should attend the Supervisor meeting about it.
Under new business, Kay Ciha announced that there would be a meeting at the Fairfield Arts and Convention Center Wednesday, October 16 at 7:30 pm about CAFOs. Anyone interested in restricting the CAFOs was encouraged to attend. Dr. Robin Plattenberger reported that the high use of antibiotics with animals is causing problems in treating humans.
Candidate Development report by Harold: Richard almost has 2 pieces of literature ready to hand out. Many other offices will be up for election: County attorney, a Democrat to run against Jared Klein; 2 Supervisor seats (districts 3 & 5). We need to be working on filling these open seats.
Terry Philips talked about how to win elections. He recommended contacting Democrats and then following up with an absentee ballot. Kay recommended using Becky Schmidt’s “Neighbor to Neighbor” program. All agreed that personal contact and getting a commitment of Democrats to vote is critical. We need to reach all Democrats not just those active in the County Party.
Announcements: Harold reported that Chris Canney’s wife has been diagnosed with cancer. They are asking for donations of organic vegetables and fruit.
Meeting adjourned at 8:52 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Louise Frakes, acting secretary
