Washington County Iowa Democratic Party

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2012-02-13T16:02:00.002-06:00

Not something the Republicans want to hear this year! Double click on the video.

Loebsack Event - Democratic Conference

2012-02-12T06:51:00.005-06:00

A Democratic Conference for Dave Loebsack, our 2nd District Congressman, was held at approximately 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 11, 2012. The conference was held at the Iowa Memorial Union on the University of Iowa campus, and sponsored by the University Of Iowa Young Democrats.

The general purpose of the conference was to update and inform those present, on the status of both the new layout of the 2nd District and the new challenge faced by Dave in the upcoming November 2012 election.

In addition to Dave, the featured speaker was Rep. Steve Israel, the Chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Rep. Israel discussed the strategic importance of Congressman Loebsack's race on both a local and national level.

A Power Point presentation highlighted the focus of the campaign effort over the next several months, leading to Dave's re-election. It was clearly outlined just how important the re-election of Dave Loebsack will impact both the 2nd District and also the State of Iowa and the nation.

The event was well received by all of those in attendance, including Peter Morrison, Washington County Chairperson and Adhali Larios, Affirmative Action, chair of Washington, Iowa.

We had the opportunity to discuss important work in Washington County in the Spring, Summer and Fall of this year, and the cooperative participation of Iowa university students during the campaign this summer and fall.

Initial Look at Democratic IA Senate [42] Candidates

2012-02-05T05:33:00.002-06:00

The area counties incorporating the new IA Senate District 42, had the opportunity provided by the Henry County Democrats to introduce themselves to the public and answer a few questions from the audience.

The Henry County Democrats hosted the event and the moderator was County Chair Dave Helman.

January 2012 Monthly Meeting

2012-01-23T15:45:00.001-06:00

WASHINGTON COUNTY DEMOCRATS

Meeting, Jan. 11, 2012

Washington County Democrats met Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012, in a second floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library, with 12 people present.

Chairman Peter Morrison called the meeting to order and led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Minutes of the December 2011 monthly meeting were declared ready to be filed for the record.

Treasurer Kay Ciha distributed copies of the financial report of 12-14-11 to 1-11-12 and gave the treasurer’s report. Cash on hand on 12-14-11 was $1,775.07. Income was $25.00 from a membership payment. Expenses were: $84.00 for Three Chicks Publication (caucus); $56.00 for one year’s, P.O. box rental from USPS; $76.70 for caucus publicity printed in The Washington Evening Journal; and $28.70 to Wolf Floral for a plant for Jim and Karen Gorham. Balance (cash available) on 1-11-12 was $1,554.67.

Report of the Chair. Pete said that the caucus turnout was a little greater than anticipated, and there was not the confusion at the library that they had thought might happen (with Republican and Democratic precincts meeting at various places in the library). No one had showed up at the Brighton caucus.

Committee Reports. There were no committee reports.

Old Business. Pete had a number of caucus packets ready to send to Des Moines. There was discussion on the assembling of the precinct papers, including proposed platform resolutions. These will be assembled with the properly signed forms after the meeting has adjourned, and then declared ready for mailing to Des Moines on Thursday, Jan. 12.

New Business. County Convention will be held from noon until about 2:30 p.m., March 10, 2012, in the main floor meeting room (council chambers) of the former Washington Public Library building. There will probably be a light lunch available.

Other details will be finalized at the February meeting, which will be at 7 p.m. Feb. 8 in a back meeting room on the second floor of the Washington Public Library. At that meeting, we will mainly discuss and prepare for the County Convention and the details surrounding it. The County Convention will also count as the March meeting; we will not have two separate meetings in March. The Second District convention will be April 28 in Fort Madison. Anyone elected as a delegate at the county convention, will attend the Second District Convention and will also go to State Convention.

Motion was made and seconded to adjourn, motion passed, and meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

Washington County Convention - 2012

2012-01-18T17:43:00.004-06:00

Washington County Democratic Convention

2012

Convention Site Location: Old Library [Main Floor Council Room]

Directions: 1 block East of the town square, across the street North of the Washington Community Y

Date: Saturday, March 10, 2012

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. - Registration and Refreshments

12:00 noon – Convention start time

All Delegates and alternates need to register!

Questions: Please contact

Peter. G. Morrison, Chairman

peter.morrison@mac.com

Ph.: 319-936-4084

2012 Precinct Caucus Locations - Wash. County

2011-12-31T12:23:00.001-06:00

Iowa Democratic Party Caucus

Tuesday January 3^rd, 2012 6:30pm

You must be in line or signed in by 7:00pm to participate

Washington County Democrats will meet at the following location(s):

Ainsworth - 2989 Spruce Avenue, Crawfordsville

Brighton – Washington Public Library (2^nd floor back room)

English River - Kalona Library, 510 C Ave., Kalona

Kalona - Kalona Library, 510 C Ave., Kalona

Riverside - 2810 Hwy. 22, Riverside

Washington Ward 1 - Washington Public Library (basement break room)

Washington Ward 2 - Washington Public Library (basement break room)

Washington Ward 3 - Washington Public Library (2^nd floor back meeting room)

Washington Ward 4 - Halcyon House (Game Room)

Wellman - Wellman Municipal Bldg. (City Council chambers)

The purpose of a presidential year caucus is to:

1. Discuss and adopt proposed resolutions to be added to the County platform.

2. Elect Delegates and Alternates to the County Convention.

3. Elect Precinct Committee Persons to the County Central Committee.

The precinct caucus is a great way to get involved in grassroots activities with the

Iowa Democratic Party.

All Iowa Democrats are encouraged to attend.

Please call Pete Morrison at 319-936-4084 if you have a question.

2nd District meeting - 12/2011 in Washington, IA

2011-12-28T01:06:00.004-06:00

Iowa 2nd District Meeting Held at the Blair House

The 2nd District Democrats held there final 2011 meeting at the Blair House in Washington, Iowa.

At the December 18, 2011, meeting of the central committee of the Second District Democrats the following decisions were made:

Lee County will host the District Convention at the Fort Madison High School;

Sandra Dockendorff (Des Moines County) has been elected as the Webmaster; and

Bob Beisch (Wapello County) has been elected as Treasurer.

The next meeting of the district central committee will likely take place at the site of the next convention.

December Meeting - Wash. County Democrats

2011-12-28T01:05:00.000-06:00

WASHINGTON COUNTY DEMOCRATS

Meeting, Dec. 14, 2011

Washington County Democrats met Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011, in a second floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library, with 17 people present.

Chairman Peter Morrison called the meeting to order led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Minutes of the November monthly meeting were declared ready to be filed for the record.

Kay presented the treasurer’s report and distributed copies of the report, from November 9 to December 14, 2011. There was no action in the account, and so the starting and ending balance of cash on hand was $1,775.07. Pete will file the treasurer’s report for audit.

Report of the Chair: Pete said he had received lots of e-mails from IDP and the 2nd District. Lots of organizational things are going on right now. On Sunday, Dec. 18, the 2nd District will meet at Blair House in Washington. Terry Philips will open Blair House for them. It will be a final combined 2nd District with “old” and “new” members/representatives, and there will be elections for some officers and the transition taking place. The treasurer and webmaster will be resigning at that meeting because he lives in Cedar Rapids. He and possibly some other people will need to be replaced at that meeting. It is assumed that the 2nd District will be taking care of the $20 rental charge for Blair House; but the Washington County Democrats have it reserved, at least. Kay said that a potluck meal will take place at 1 p.m., with the meeting scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.

Committee Reports. It has been difficult to find key chairpersons willing to serve. A new resident in Washington has expressed willingness to chair the Affirmative Action Committee.

Adhali Larios-Hernandez introduced himself. He has served in Iraq U.S. Special Forces and is a Staff Sergeant. He has been involved in projects in Cedar Rapids, on furthering education and helping the economy, and said he is inexperienced but willing to learn. Adhali has recently been appointed to the position of Affirmative Action Chair and is also going to be the replacement for Patrick Finney as 2^nd District Precinct Captain.

The other key chairman is Terry Phillips. He said he had nothing exciting to report, and would not until after the January Caucus.

Old Business. Pete said that at the upcoming 2nd District meeting on Sunday, indications are that the group will choose to meet in Washington most of the time.

New Business. Pete addressed the January Caucus and the need to publish information ahead of time. Kay said the notice must be published twice and must include precinct locations. The first notice should be published between Dec. 20 and Dec. 26, and the second notice between Dec. 27 and Jan. 2.

Adhali lives in the 2nd Ward and can fill in as precinct leader since former precinct leader Patrick Finney has moved away. Suggestions for precinct leaders in Brighton included Dr. Faye Vittetoe, a strong Democrat, or Dr. Louise Frakes. The 1^st, 2^nd and 3rd wards are scheduled to meet at the Washington Public Library, the 3^rd in a small room at the back of the second floor and the others [1^st & 2^nd] in the break room in the basement. The 4th Ward will meet at Halcyon House. Kalona and English River will meet at the Kalona library. Riverside could meet at Bob Spenner’s home, and Crawfordsville at Mike Mitchell’s home. For Wellman, Steve Maxon will reserve the municipal building tomorrow, or the library next door if the municipal building isn’t available for Jan. 3.

Sandra Johnson questioned whether we would actually need two printings of the Caucus notice. The answer was that we do need two printings. The group then decided that we could have the first printing in one newspaper and the second printing in another publication. We should arrange to do this as inexpensively as possible. Pete said we should meet “the letter of the law” to avoid undue complaints by the Republicans. Kay said she believed it would be necessary to have the notice printed in The Journal once in order then to be eligible to have it printed in the free paper as well.

Kay will sort through the lists and see how many registered voters are listed for Brighton. At last count, it was between 12 and 14 registered voters. She had asked for a CD of the county and has been promised one in the near future.

Terry asked to speak The county attorney had asked who was in charge, and relayed some information he had received from the DCI, alerting Caucus attenders that there may be some orchestrated attempts to create disruptions during the Caucus. One such disruption could take the form of numerous requests to change party affiliation in an attempt to take up precious Caucus time, etc. Kay said we have the right to walk anyone out of the Caucus as long as we have a good reason.

The group explored possible reasons for the turnover of personnel at the courthouse. At least one of the reasons was that the person is ready to retire.

Fred Stark brought up one item -- the need for someone to be willing to be appointed councilor for the 3rd Ward. Anyone interested from the 3rd Ward should express interest to Mayor Sandra Johnson.

Rich Taylor spoke on his candidacy for state senate and told a little of his background in the business of heating and air conditioning. He is a master mechanic, very active in the Union, and has worked at the penitentiary in Fort Madison. As senator he would “have the worker’s back.” He stands up for good contracts, and has been “fairly successful at it” He watches out for the average person. He fully intends to win this primary and then the general election in November. He is retired and has the time and the interest, and is concerned about what every one of us thinks. He plans to work hard for the people of southeast Iowa as well as all of Iowa and pledges to be available to the public and will not dodge people who come to talk to him in Des Moines when he is senator. His Web address is www.richtaylor4statesenate.com

There are three people running in the Democratic primary for state senate. There are 220 registered Democrats in the “Big Three” in the voting district.

Atalie told us that he is doing continuing education at institutions such as Kirkwood. He is here helping his mother, who has major health problems. He would like to be politically involved and has a network of students as well. He said he believes in the working man and the middle class, and believes taxing the middle class, working people, is not the best idea.

January 11 at 7 p.m. will be the next Democratic Party meeting.

Pete added another reminder to attend the Blair House event if possible on Dec. 18. At that meeting an official vote will probably be taken about having Washington as the permanent meeting area. Rich Taylor said he thought a spokesman from Lee County would make a pitch for the 2nd District to choose Fort Madison as their permanent meeting place instead. Mayor Sandra Johnson said she would probably be able to cut short her weekend plans in order to attend the session at Blair House, and would be there to support and stand up for Washington as the choice for the permanent meeting place.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

November Minutes - Wash. County Democrats

2011-12-28T00:49:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, November 9th, 2011

November Minutes

WASHINGTON COUNTY DEMOCRATS

Meeting, Nov. 9, 2011

Seven Washington County Democrats met Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2011, in a second floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library.

Chairman Peter Morrison called the meeting to order led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Minutes of the October monthly meeting were noted and filed for record.

Kay presented the treasurer’s report and distributed copies of the report, from Oct. 12 to November 9, 2011. Cash on hand on October 12 was $1,470.07. With income and expenses, cash available on Nov. 9, 2011, was $1,775.07, the treasurer’s report would be filed for audit.

Chairman Pete commented on the Second District Convention will be held April 28, 2012, and that pursuant to the request of the Second District and Al Bohanan, their Chairman, he made application on the provided forms to host the event.

We don’t as yet have active committee chairs and we will need to have committees and need to have then in place after the first part of the year 2012.

Old Business:

Precinct designation is in a state of flux right now. All our precinct locations will, Pete thinks, remain pretty much the same. Pete has contacted all of the elected Precinct Captains, with the exception of Patrick Finney, and determined that Richard Gilmore will be the temporary 4^th Ward Captain. Harold Frakes declined to act and a Temporary Chair will be required for Brighton. As soon as everything is finalized, a listing of the Precinct data will be distributed to all members with email.

The Second District is hoping to have the district convention in Washington as the central location. They will need to select a site, and they have sent out district convention bid documents. We previously discussed some possibilities, such as Washington High School or Highland High School. The convention would be held on April 28, 2012. As noted, we have applied to be the host for the 2012 Convention. We should know what the decision of the 2^nd District would be in January or possibly earlier.

New Business:

We will have a complete list of 2012 Caucus Chairs/Places soon. It will be email distributed upon completion.

The consensus is that the December meeting will be the 2^nd Wednesday in December, on the 14^th. The time will change back to 7:00 p.m. in the meeting room of the Library.

County Convention plans will be made at the January 2012 meeting. Current plans call for the County convention to be held again at the Library, using both the 2^nd floor meeting rooms.

Chairman Pete adjourned the meeting. The next meeting will be at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2011.

Respectfully submitted,

Pete Morrison, Chair and acting Sec.

October Minutes 2011

2011-10-20T19:22:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, October 12th, 2011

October Minutes

WASHINGTON COUNTY DEMOCRATS

Meeting, Oct. 12, 2011

Nine Washington County Democrats met Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in a second floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library.

Chairman Peter Morrison called the meeting to order led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Minutes of the September monthly meeting were noted and filed for record.

Kay presented the treasurer’s report and distributed copies of the report, from Sept. 14 to Oct. 12. Cash on hand on Sept. 14 was $474.18. With income and expenses, cash available on Oct. 12 was $1,470.07. Five hundred dollars of the income was the grant which Pete had applied for and had obtained from IDP, to help with membership. For the fall luncheon alone (Oct. 2), income was $1,012 and expenses were $666.11. About 68 to 70 meals were served. The amount of $345.89 was cleared on the luncheon.

Mike Mitchell moved to approve the treasurer’s report, Bob Spenner seconded, and the motion carried. Pete said that the treasurer’s report would be filed for audit.

In 2008 we had $987.55 after paying the last check for post office box rent. Box rent this year is at $56. We’ll be better off going into 2012 than we were going into 2008 (even without that $500 grant).

Chairman Pete commented on the Second District meeting. It helped with some revenue and also in terms of costs on the day of the meeting (Oct. 2). He said it was really nice to have those people in Washington and it was a semi-productive meeting. A number of people from the new counties, which will be part of the new Second District, were present.

Committee Reports. Pete praised Kay for the fine job she did of heading up the luncheon and for the good report.

We don’t as yet have a platform committee and will need to establish that before the first part of January.

Old Business. Precinct designation is in a state of flux right now. All our precinct locations will, Pete thinks, remain pretty much the same. The auditor has the final say on that. There is a total of maybe three or four people who did fall into the “iffy” category. There are some questions that need to be answered regarding who would be eligible to serve as precinct captains -- must they be members of WCDP? Could they be from another precinct? Pete said those questions are for Washington County Auditor Bill Fredrick. Pete will talk to Bill.

Kay reminded us that everyone is going in as a temporary precinct chair, and permanent officers will be elected at the caucus.

Old Business. The Second District is hoping to have the district convention in Washington as the central location. They will need to select a site, and they have sent out district convention bid documents. We discussed some possibilities, such as Washington High School or Highland High School. The convention would be about April 28.

Our group wondered whether we should continue to pursue this and whether we could pull it off. The Second District would bring their own server and laptops and desktops. There would need to be a sound system at the selected site. We would need a mike and someone to operate the sound system. Kay suggested that that would be a good opportunity to make more money with a luncheon. Bob voiced his opinion that we should only consider this if the work and responsibility would not fall on Kay again, or Kay and one other person -- that if we did this, we would need people committed to work and to help. The last convention, it was noted, was in Fairfield.

Bob volunteered to contact people at the Highland school to see if something can be worked out, and to check on the possibility of arranging for some high school students to help with serving in exchange for a percentage of the income’s going to their school programs.

Kay said the convention would be an opportunity for 1) funds and 2) publicity.

Chairman Pete adjourned the meeting. The next meeting will be at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 9.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

Group Fundraiser and 2nd District Gathering in Washington, Iowa

2011-10-03T17:01:00.003-06:00

October 2, 2011

The Washington County Democrats, decided to combine their annual fundraising luncheon with the subsequent meeting of the 2nd District Democrats at the 4-H Building at the Washington County fairgrounds on Sunday, October 2, 2011.

The event was a win/win situation for the 2nd District Democrats and the county group. The Washington County Democrats enjoyed greater participation and the benefit of the shared facility, while the 2nd District group had the nicer facility as well as the benefit of gathering for lunch without the normal hassle of the potluck.

It was the first gathering of the new members of the new 2nd Congressional District, and the members of the former group. It also constituted the first reorganizational event in preparation of the future district reorganization.

Washington is located near the center of the new 2nd Congressional District, and that means we will probably be meeting in Washington often according to a 2nd District representative.

September Minutes

2011-10-03T16:59:00.000-06:00

Wednesday, September 14th, 2011

September Minutes

WASHINGTON COUNTY DEMOCRATS

Meeting, September 14, 2011

Thirteen Washington County Democrats met Wednesday, September 14, 2011, in a second floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library.

Chairman Peter Morrison called the meeting to order led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Minutes of the August monthly meeting were noted and filed for record.

The Treasurer presented the treasurer’s report through and including September 14, 2011; Pete said it would be filed for later audit.

For the Report of the Chair, Pete said the Second District meeting would be held on Oct. 2 as contemplated at the last meeting. Lunch will be offered beginning at noon, and the meeting time is scheduled for 2 p.m. Information has gone out to all of the current Second District counties including Linn County, as well as all of the new counties included in the updated and revised Second District, which will include 19 counties in all. This will be a sort of coordination meeting -- the last of the old group and the first of the new group all in one setting. Pete supplied them with a map and directions to the 4-H building. They will not need to bring food for a potluck; Washington County Democrats will be supplying food from noon until the meeting time.

Also, Washington is now apparently centered geographically, in what will be the new Second District, and speculation is that they might like to have meetings fairly continuously now in Washington. This is yet to be decided.

Pete had applied for a grant from the Iowa Democratic Party, and he announced that we had received a grant for $500. He turned the check over to treasurer Kay Ciha. Sandra Johnson asked what the mission, or purpose, had been for the seeking of these funds. Pete said there were four things that a group could apply for. Membership development, which seemed the most appropriate, was one of those, and Pete had chosen that category. Everyone present thanked Pete for doing this.

Under the agenda item of Committee Reports, we discussed the upcoming fundraising dinner and Second District meeting and the food items needed -- including sloppy Joes, vegetable lasagna, potato salad and coleslaw. Kay offered to make a large batch of sloppy Joes and perhaps some vegetable lasagna. Several people offered to make coleslaw and potato salad and to help with the sloppy Joes and lasagna. We need enough to serve about 60 people, at least, but we would hope for more, such as 125 people attending. The group discussed whether to use tickets. The Second District people would not need tickets, since any of them who wanted to buy a meal would pay at the door. Terry Philips moved that we make 150 tickets. Mimi Jacoby seconded, and the motion passed.

The ticket price is $10. Terry said he didn’t want the Second District members to feel as if we were taking advantage of them to make money, and suggested offering them a $2 discount on the price of a meal. It was decided that this offer would be posted on the Second District Web site. Pete said Al Bohanan had indicated that the Second District proceedings habitually include passing a hat at the end of the meeting, and the funds then go to the host organization. Terry pointed out that this may or may not happen; and even if it does happen, there are other expenses they must meet, and we may not receive the entire amount.

Kay announced that on Sept. 25 U.S. Rep. Dave Loebsack would be at the Ciha home from noon to 2 p.m. She invited anyone interested to come and meet him. The group discussed food that members might bring, as well.

Under Old Business, Terry spoke about the redistricting plans. He said the county supervisors can decide whether to call for a general election vote on the subject of supervisor representation: whether to remain with the supervisor representation as it is (I.e., supervisors represent a particular district with only the people living in that district deciding on that one candidate) or to change it (such as voting for supervisors at-large). The redistricting plan will be presented to the supervisors at their meeting Friday (Sept. 16), and they will set a date to hold a public hearing. Terry said that supervisor Wes Rich will no longer belong to the district including the city of Richmond. Instead, he will be in the district with Riverside. Kay announced that her plans to run as a supervisor candidate would be made after the district plan is finalized. Kay also said we should soon be able to get maps from the courthouse Web site.

Pete mentioned that we would probably be asked to report to IDP, about how we are using/or have used that $500 grant.

Under New Business, we discussed the subject of caucus chairs. IDP wants a list of caucus chairs as soon as possible. Pete will contact Louise Frakes, former county chair, for her lists. Precincts will change. We also need to know the exact date on which caucuses will be held. Tentatively it has been set for February 6. This might possibly be decided by the time of the Second District meeting on Oct. 2. Also, a meeting site must be decided -- in our case, this will probably be the Washington Community High School building.

Fred Stark spoke about the opportunities for new candidates to run for a seat on the park board and for at least one city council seat. He said this would be a chance to make a real difference in local governance, and pointed out that the deadline to announce candidacy is approaching.

The next meeting is scheduled for October 12, at 7:30 p.m., and the November meeting will be on November 9. Both will be at the Washington Public Library, 2^nd floor. The 7:30 time will hold through the November meeting. In November we can decide about returning to an earlier meeting time, as well as deciding whether we need to meet in December

Mimi told about an online press conference at 9:45 p.m. on Thursday, September 15, during which Sue Dvorsky of Iowa City will comment on the real story behind the Republican candidates’ “myths.”

Pete declared the meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

August Meeting

2011-08-26T18:12:00.000-06:00

Wednesday, August 10th, 2011

August Minutes

WASHINGTON COUNTY DEMOCRATS

Meeting, Aug. 10, 2011

Eleven Washington County Democrats and guests met Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011, in a second floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library. Fourteen people were present.

Chairman Peter Morrison called the meeting to order led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Minutes of the past monthly meeting were noted and the minutes were filed for record.

The Treasurers report through and including August 10, 2011, was presented by the Treasurer and filed for audit.

The Chair reported on the 2^nd District workshop that was held on July 30, 2011 in West Liberty, Iowa.

Redistricting was discussed. Richard Gilmore and Terry Philips. Members of the redistricting committee had a tentative map to show. Basically, there are to be six districts.

Under the category of Old Business, Pete commented on the recent Washington County Fair. Perhaps because of the intense heat during that week, fair attendance was less than usual. Free County had a booth next to the Democratic booth. Pete thought we had done a good job while we were there. The donkey was a big attraction, and children especially liked the donkey.

We discussed the need to be informed about meeting and event schedules. Some people do not have ready access to a computer and e-mail. Kay Ciha moved that the secretary, Nan, would mail minutes and notices of upcoming meetings to Mimi Jacoby and to Ferd Marie. Mimi seconded. The motion passed by a voice vote.

New Business: Pete said we need committee chairs and we also need to focus now on a community events committee. Also, we need to begin focusing on candidate development.

Next on the agenda is the request that the Second District meet in Washington on Oct. 2. It will be the combined Second District -- that is, the current representation and the newly redistricted Second District. Mr. Al Bohanan said he is ready to start the organizational process for the new Second District. Washington County has been somewhat the center of the former representation of the Second District, and it will remain pretty much the center in the newly reconfigured Second District, which is expanding both westward and eastward. Pete expressed the idea that it might be mutually beneficial to combine the Washington County annual fundraising dinner with the Second District meeting. Rather than their needing to bring dishes for a potluck meal, we could provide the meal. We would sell tickets and serve probably from noon until about 1:30 p.m., and the meeting would begin at 2 p.m. Consensus of people thought the best location would be the 4-H Building on the fairgrounds, and it has been reserved for that date. Mr. Bohanan said the Second District normally takes up a contribution and in this case it would be turned over to the Washington County Democrats to go toward our expenses. We also discussed U.S. Representative Dave Loebsack’s presence at this event. He would probably want to be there, or have some of his staff there.

Bob Spenner moved that the Washington County Democrats hold our fundraising dinner on Oct. 2, 2011, and incorporate the Second District people, who will meet at 2 p.m. Serving time is to be from noon until about 1:30 p.m. Mimi seconded the motion. The motion passed, in a voice vote.

Kay Ciha volunteered to oversee the arrangements for that community event. We discussed people who might possibly be able to take a big role in executing the dinner preparations. The committee will handle that.

Pete also brought up the IDP request for information from us about the County Convention, wanting to know how many people would probably attend. Mr. Bohanan suggested that we keep in mind the quorum number, and average the number of attendees from four years ago and the number of attendees from two years ago. He suggested that would probably be about 50.

The IDP also needs names of precinct chairs. Bob reminded everyone that the names should be the officers we elected at the last County Convention. They hold office until the beginning of the next County Convention, when new officers are elected.

We discussed the County Democratic Party meeting time and whether we should meet at 7 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. A motion was made, seconded and passed in July that we meet at 7:30 p.m. During discussion, Bob brought up the fact that he had understood it to be for the summer months, or during Daylight Saving Time, when so many farm-related activities were going on and needed to be taken care of during daylight hours. Pete declared that we would meet at 7:30 p.m. through November, and at the November meeting ascertains whether we should return to the 7 p.m. starting time.

Mr. Bohanan told everyone that the Harkin Steak Fry is scheduled for Sept. 18.

Mr. Bohanan then spoke on convention sites. He said he would like for us to submit a bid to host the District Convention in April, in Washington. We would need a room to hold at least 140 people. In the old Second District we had a wide geographical spread of representation.

Some possible sites were discussed, among them the 4-H Building. Also some area high schools were mentioned, such as the one in Mid-Prairie. Mr. Bohanan said the group could look over the 4-H Building as one possibility, on Oct. 2, to see if it would be suitable for their needs.

Number of people has gone from about 800 to about 340. The upcoming convention will probably be comparable to the convention in 1996 -- President Clinton’s second term of office. There are many able people in the surrounding areas that could bring their expertise into the planning and conducting of the convention in Washington. The subject of bids for the convention in April should ideally be an item of discussion on Oct. 2, when the current Second District convenes for its last meeting and the new Second District is about to pick up the reins.

Dates must be decided upon. A probable date would be April 28, 2012.

Sandra Johnson asked about technology requirements. Pete replied that there should be a sound system and possibly a stage or platform. Mr. Bohanan said there should be some patched-together system for the purpose of voting, and that IDP does not supply that. Wi Fi was used last time. We should use the same system they did in Fairfield last time, because it saves a lot of time.

Mr. Bohanan will be back to talk to us about the convention and reiterated that the logical place to hold it would be in Washington.

The next meeting will be at 7:30 p.m. On Sept. 8 at the Washington Public Library.

The August 11 meeting was adjourned at 8:17 p.m.

The meeting was adjourned.

Washington County Democrats will meet again on Wednesday, September 14, at 7:30 p.m. at the Washington Public Library.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

Meeting Minutes - July 2011

2011-07-25T16:39:00.000-06:00

Wednesday, July 13th, 2011

July Minutes

WASHINGTON COUNTY DEMOCRATS

Meeting, July 13, 2011

Eleven Washington County Democrats met at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 13, 2011, in a second floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library. Ten people were present, including Brian Fritsch, political director of the campaign of U.S. Representative Dave Loebsack. Chairman Pete Morrison called the meeting to order with the group’s reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Minutes of the June meeting were declared approved as written and will be filed for report. Kay Ciha, treasurer, provided a printout of the financial report from June 8 to July 13, 2011. Cash on hand was $716.19, income from T-shirts sold was $61.00, and that gave a balance of $777.19. Expenses were $64.35 to Walmart for parade candy and decorations; $46.92 for parade candy provided by Steve Maxon; and $16.74 for candy for another parade, also provided by Steve Maxon. The ending balance of cash available was $649.18.The financial report will be filed for audit.

Pete reported on the Second District meeting on June 26 at the Senior Dining Center in Riverside. Primary areas of discussion were: changes to take place in the Second District because of redistricting; namely, the elimination of Linn County and the addition of several other counties including Scott County. There will be a meeting regarding the transition process. Al Bohanan will speak on that.

Brian Fritsch spoke, stating that he has worked exclusively on the campaign side of things. He said so far there were three opponents running for U.S. representative against Dave Loebsack -- Richard Gates, a Tea Party candidate; Dan Dolan, a house developer from Blue Grass; and John Archer, a crop attorney for John Deere, backed by the Republican Party. The new district is only about half as Democratic as the old Second District used to be.

Flood assistance was passed yesterday (July 12). A bill is being worked on for a national flood center -- so there are fewer surprises but rather an idea ahead of time of where flooding might occur. Defense Act and education and labor legislation have been worked on.

The group discussed some of the negative publicity and ideas that have surfaced already regarding campaigning for the 2012 election. President Obama and the Democratic National Party are working together. President Obama and the DNC administration have raised about $86 million already for the campaign. Republicans are being far less transparent about where their campaign funds come from. Brian said there would probably be fewer ads, because the largest population in the district is centered in the Quad Cities. Cedar Rapids and Iowa City are significantly smaller in terms of registered voters. The money will be more spread out than before.

Old Business:

A. Redistricting -- Richard Gilmore said the southern three townships are in a precinct. They have a different representative than the rest of the county. Marion, Crawford and Brighton townships have their own precincts. It is not permitted to have two separate ballots at a polling station. The largest precinct must be limited to 3,500 people, and there are 2,010 people in this precinct.. It has to be considered a block, like a city. Pete commented that redistricting is a “thorny issue” which will be put under the “Old Business” agenda for next month.

B. Report on parades. Pete announced that the Washington County Democrats parade entry had won a $50 prize from the TrekFest event, and we also received a ribbon. The TrekFest parade was very successful, and the Wellman Fourth of July parade was very successful, as well.

C. Executive Board meeting. Printed copies of the budget that the Executive Board had prepared were distributed. Bob Spenner moved to approve the two-year budget as proposed by the Exec Board group. Richard seconded. The motion was unanimously approved.

D. Grant application. The application for a grant was filled out and sent. We will now see if it is “granted” and whether the amount made available to us is $500 or $1,000 from the Iowa Democratic Party. The IDP has sent an acknowledgment of receipt of the application.

E. Verify Fair preparation. A signup sheet for the Democratic Party booth was available, and shifts are three hours in length. Someone should be at the booth on Monday from 1 to 9 p.m., and Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tear-down will be between 7 and 9 p.m. Thursday. The accouterments for the fair booth are with Mike and Patty Roe; and Mike and Patty will set up the booth on Sunday evening with assistance from Sandra Johnson, Terry Philips and Bob Spenner. Brian had brought some Loebsack bumper stickers and other promotional material. Promotional materials at the booth this year will probably be mainly about President Obama and Representative Loebsack, with maybe some material for Senator Harkin, and anything else the Democratic Party wants to come up with.

New Business:

A. We need committee chairs -- for candidate development. We will need to work on that next year. Pete is somewhat uncertain about Affirmative Action. He has talked to a couple of people interested in being Democrats. He will definitely need a Platform Committee in place by January 2012 if not a little sooner, and there were some names he brought up as possibilities for this committee.

It was noted that new library policy demands that we present a $35 check as a deposit toward any cleanup or damage to a meeting room, whenever we hold a group meeting there. The check is returned if the group leaves the meeting room tidy and in order. Pete reserved the meeting room for August and September.

B. Farmers Market was discussed, and whether we might want a booth or a table there. Sandra Johnson said that there is a limit of two nonprofit groups at each farmers market and we would need to request this a week or more in advance. Candidates are outside the nonprofit status and can roam freely about the farmers market area. We can wear our T-shirts and “roam freely” around, too. Usually farmers market is over after the first hard frost after Oct. 1.

C. Second District workshop. This will be held on July 30.

Pete said he had also been asked by Al Bohanan if he would be interested in doing Web master work. Kay offered to check on whether she has a Papal account that Democrats can use to make payments. This is about registering for the Second District workshop. The Washington County Democratic Party originally budgeted funds to pay for 10 people to attend at a cost of $25 each for registration. If not many people from our group attend, we could perhaps include the price of lunch, since registration would not cost as much as the budgeted amount. Dinner at the site of the workshop would be the responsibility of the people attending. As for payment, anyone can take care of that by computer. Kay will reimburse anyone who wants reimbursement. Each person will register, etc., on his or her own.

Kay moved that everyone should do his or her own signing up (can be on the Web site by next week, and Pete will send the list) to attend the Second District workshop July 30, and she will reimburse anyone who would like reimbursement. Nan seconded. The motion passed.

Louise Frakes moved that we change our meeting time from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month, and that the meetings will run from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., so that we could still be out of the building by 9 p.m. Richard seconded. The motion passed.

The meeting was adjourned.

Washington County Democrats will meet again on Wednesday, Aug. 10, at 7:30 p.m. at the Washington Public Library.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

Washington County Fair - 2011

2011-07-23T05:10:00.004-06:00

July 23, 2011

Well, the Fair was this week, and the Washington County Democrats had a presence as always with their booth. Gloria the donkey was there for the kids to see and ride.

The weather was hot, hot, hot this time around. Attendance was spotty most of the time, as Washington residents sought the cooler home air-conditioned areas or the swimming pool in sunset park.

We did have a few members brave the heat and man the booth through out the week and want to thank those that braved the heat and operated the booth and also those that set-up and handled the booth take down again this year.

TrekFest 2011

2011-06-26T08:43:00.009-06:00

We were able to get it together for TrekFest 2011 in Riverside, Iowa. Bob Spenner drove the float, [thanks Bob] and we had several members ride and throw out candy. Did we have any left over candy this time? I think we went through every available sack. We'll have to buy more next time. Gloria (the donkey) is back and looking good.

With everything in order, the parade is about to start and we are worried that the rain will start before we finish.

We had a pretty good turn out of parade watchers also.

Oh and we made it through the entire parade without rain. To bad it did come and sort of dampened the afternoon activities.

But we did win for the best political float and we did take home the prize and $50.00.

Washington County Democrats Monthly Meeting

2011-05-24T11:41:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, May 11th, 2011

May Minutes

Washington County Democratic Party Meeting

May 11, 2011

Washington County Democratic Party met in regular session May 11, 2011, in the Washington Public Library. Sixteen members were present.

President Peter Morrison called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance. The April minutes had been sent by e-mail and posted onto the blog.

Treasurer Kay Ciha provided printed copies of the financial report for April 13 to May 11, 2011. Cash on hand as of April 13 was $962.31. Income during this period from membership dues was $145.00, so that increased the finances to $1,107.31. There was $100 of expenses for the fair booth, leaving a balance of of $1,007.31.

Pete said unless there were objections, the treasurer’s report would be filed for audit. There were no objections.

During the chairman’s report, Pete said he has been attempting to find people to chair committees. Some people are not even willing to serve on committees. This was one of the subjects discussed at the May 7 executive board meeting.

Ione read a poem dated June 3, 1962, dealing with solving problems of society with “disposable people.”

Old Business.

Pete had appointed Richard Gilmore and Terry Philips to represent the Democratic Party on the five-member committee. Three Republicans make up the rest of the committee. The districts won’t remain the same for the next decade because of population shifts. Richard said the redistricting rules meant they must go with census blocs. The three townships in the southern part of Washington County will probably be represented by Dave Heaton of Mount Pleasant. They will have a different ballot.

Pete has contacted some people for committee chairs, and none of them have gotten back to him. It is hoped that this will be completed by next month. In discussion, it was brought up that committee chairs and officers selected at the Caucuses should be attending meetings and taking an active part. On this evening, six of the 10 precinct chairs from the Caucus were present. Sign-up sheets were distributed for those present to indicate which committees they might be interested in serving on or even chairing.

A reminder was given about membership dues, due and payable as soon as possible. There are 13 households that have paid. Pete would like to have that number increased to 50.

Pete presented some price quotes on T-shirts from Marcus Fedler. Quantity pricing starts at 48. There is a slight difference in pricing, between white or natural-colored shirts, and colored shirts.

Louise moved that the shirts not be white, Mike Mitchell seconded, and motion carried.

Richard Gilmore offered his Redistricting Committee earnings of $10 an hour to the T-shirt purchasing fund. This was greeted with appreciative applause.

The pros and cons of various color combinations were discussed. We discussed whether to have the donkey in blue or black, and whether to have a donkey on both front and back of the shirts, or to have the front of the donkey on the front of the shirt and the back of the donkey on the back of the shirt. Kay Ciha moved that the shirts be a light gray with navy blue lettering stating “Washington County Democrats“ and a donkey on the front, the donkey to be mostly blue with red head and blue stars as on the Washington County Democrats letterhead logo. Steve Maxon seconded, and the motion carried.

Susan Mitchell moved that we order 48 shirts, Richard seconded, and the motion carried. A signup sheet was distributed for those present to indicate how many shirts and of what sizes to order.

We went over the survey evaluating our county organization. Items rated excellent or very good were: calendar of events updated regularly, e-mail lists being updated and used, party plans constituency group events, party hosts well-publicized annual events, party sends donor letters (we try), party maintains a regular budget with line items, etc.; Web site is frequently updated and all the current officers are listed, we have a Facebook and Twitter site (Kay updates Facebook), technology -- we did use technology in 2008 to quite a considerable degree and we have access to it. Areas that were not as strong included a rapid response network, and a local constituency group outreach. The survey asked how the IDP might help in our training, and what additional resources would be helpful to our county. Pete would like to determine what their position is regarding Washington County.

New Business.

Pete brought up the matter of a state-recommended biennial budget. He pointed out that we have a revised budget through June 30, 2011. If we have a biennial budget, we could review and revise it if needed at the end of the first year. Louise Frakes moved that we plan a two-year budget according to the constitution, and, at the end of the first year, we have the option of revising it. Kay seconded, and the motion carried. The budget will be planed from July 1 to June 30.

Membership development and recruitment, Pete stated, must be our No. 1 priority (“It pays dues for us to use”). Louise stressed the importance of personal contact, such as a telephone call, to invite people to come to meetings and share their talents. Everett reminded everyone that we need to endorse and encourage appropriate candidates, and endorse and respect the candidates. We also need to speak up proudly for our candidates.

Some other ideas for getting people involved were Coffee and Conversation times. Jefferson County Democrats hold a Coffee and Conversation every Saturday morning at the local HyVee Store, and people are welcome to come, discuss issues or just have a social hour. We could have more social activities. Louise suggested a book-and-discussion group that could meet during winter months.

Pete will try to see what is going on in Johnson County. An Obama campaign office will be developed there, maybe as early as September or October.

Pete expressed the hope that we can be effective and do a good job in the parades where we are represented. For the Ridiculous Day events, there could be an option of having a booth or a table and having some brochures available, etc. Evidently there is no charge for this.

Louise moved that we participate in Ridiculous Day, with JoAnn Zager handling the arrangements. Mike Mitchell seconded and motion carried. Steve Maxon and Doris Park will help with Ridiculous Day in Washington, as well as the event in Kalona. In Kalona, our involvement would be just with the parade and would not include having a table or a booth. Steve said he would head the parade organization at the Wellman July Fourth celebration, as well. Bob Spenner agreed to arrange our part in the Riverside TrekFest parade.

The next meeting will be June 8 at the Washington Public Library. Kay Ciha may provide refreshments.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

Washington County Democrats Meeting April 2011

2011-04-25T13:09:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, April 13th, 2011

April Minutes

Minutes of the April 2011, meeting of Washington County Democrats

Washington County Democrats met at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, 2011, in the second floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library. Sixteen members and guests were present. Chairman Pete Morrison called the meeting to order with the group’s reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Minutes of the last meeting, which had been sent by e-mail as well as printed on the blog, were approved as written. Treasurer Kay Ciha distributed printed financial reports, which showed a balance of $962.31. The minutes and the treasurer’s report will be filed for audit.

For the chairman’s report, Pete said there would be a number of issues to cover under the categories of Old and New Business, in greater detail. Other than that, he had attended the Second District event in Riverside. There were no administrative committee reports presented.

Old Business. We discussed redistricting maps. We now have published redistricting maps in both the Iowa House and the Iowa Senate. Though these were considered tentative, it looks as if they are rapidly becoming OK with all parties. Gov. Branstad hasn’t heard any negative comments from anyone. This was then passed by a Senate committee, and the House is now undertaking it. A redistricting committee of either five or seven members will be needed; if five, Democrats will be allowed to select two; if seven, Democrats can supply three. This will actually be addressed in September. It was noted that three county supervisors will be running for election in 2012, and we need to think of Democrat candidates to run.

Pete has talked to several people about chairing various committees. No one at the present time wishes to commit to these responsibilities. This includes the position of the events chair. It looks as thought there are only three upcoming events in which we could participate --Ridiculous Day, TrekFest, and the Fourth of July at Wellman. Concerning the Kalona event, there was a question about whether there would be enough people to represent us. These events would be an opportunity to provide exposure for any candidates running for office.

An executive board meeting will be held from 10:30 to about noon on May 7, in the back room of Dodici’s Shop. County dues are due and would be appreciated, and we are asking for updated e-mail addresses. John Stellmach spoke about activity going on now involving union supporters and, it is hoped, a backlash against what has been happening to unions this season. There was discussion about whether the configuration of the board of supervisors would remain at five supervisors or whether it might revert to three. If returning to the three-person board, this would not take place immediately. There may be potential candidates among people moving into northern Washington County from Johnson County.

We discussed the possibility of having new Democratic Party shirts printed. Consensus was that this should be done before the county fair. Louise Frakes moved that Pete look into buying new shirts. John S. seconded. A price should be available at the May meeting. Louise said she would like a shirt similar to the gray one but with blue lettering instead of red. Doris Park expressed willingness to create a new design according to specifications. The motion carried.

New Business. Republicans in the Iowa House have passed some questionable stuff. Group consensus was that not much of significance is being accomplished in the Iowa Congress. The good news was that at least little harm is being done. A positive note is that Senator Gronstal’s district is changing very little.

Louise and Harold Frakes had attended the Workers United event in Des Moines; neither state Senator Sandy Greiner nor state Representative Jarad Klein had been present. John S. commented that the bill 525 in Iowa would be much worse than what is happening in Wisconsin and Ohio. There, dues and fees would cease to be deducted from paychecks, resulting in the bargaining agent’s always having to organize and scramble to collect dues. If this bill should pass in Iowa, there would go the money which is the last bastion of trying to compete with corporations. In Iowa Sen. Gronstal saved us, killing the bill. The issue will come back again (in two years). John further explained that the bill would do away with seniority and progressive discipline, which requires just cause for an employer to discipline a worker. It was pointed out that Sen. Greiner is very much in favor of the free agent concept, which could benefit her.

Pete Morrison, Steve Maxon, Doris Park, and Louise and Harold Frakes attended the April 3 Second District meeting. Pete reported that a workshop is being planned, and that Washington has been considered as a possible site. They need a large room and about four adjoining breakout rooms, and cost is a factor in selecting a site. The meeting was mostly about seeking a location, and about the redistricting. Louise said the Second District is encouraging a women’s group to get together and discuss women’s issues, regarding women in general, of any party.

Pete said the Progressive Caucus has put together something that is more positive as an alternative to the “Ryan proposal.” The debt ceiling battle promises to be a really difficult issue. It may not end up being the best for us.

Pete brought up the IDP document and questionnaire for Washington County -- an assessment of how we are doing. A rundown includes party structure, communication, fundraising, technology, etc. Pete will scan the document and send it to everyone with e-mail addresses. We will discuss it at the May meeting. It is to be turned in by May 13.

The next meeting will be May 11 at 7 p.m. at the library. The April meeting was adjourned for refreshments graciously provided by Doris and Steve and which were very much enjoyed and appreciated.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

2nd District meeting - 4/2011 in Riverside, IA

2011-04-03T20:35:00.004-06:00

2nd District meeting, Riverside, Iowa

April, 3, 2011

We met on a warm Sunday afternoon in the community center after some confusion due to the incorrect description in the invitation email.

The main topic of discussion was the recent release of the new redistricting map, prepared after the final census figures indicated that the state of Iowa will be losing one congressman. The group discussed the proposed new and revised second district. The first and perhaps final map shows Linn County moving to the new proposed 1st District and Scott County [Davenport, Iowa], along with a few other counties moving into the new 2nd District. Of course at this juncture, everything is still speculation, but individual who had talked with Dave Loebsack indicated that Dave planned to move to Iowa City if the current map is finalized. He has indicated that he will again run for office in the 2nd District, which requires residence in the 2nd District.

Other matters that were brought up included planning for the next meeting of the 2nd District, the development of a workshop planning committee, workshop ideas and upcoming events in the various counties.

Legislative Briefing 3/19/2011

2011-03-22T19:28:00.003-06:00

The last of three legislative briefings was held again at the Court House in Washington on Saturday morning, March 19, 2010. Sandy Greiner and Jared Klein were on hand to address the crowd of about 30+ people throughout the 2 hour session.

Unfortunately not much has taken place in Des Moines so far, and of course the two legislators blamed the senate Democrats for holding up legislation previously passed by the House. I guess that the fact that the House, had pushed through a radical right wing agenda, had no part to play in the delay.

It was my guess that the two-year period following the 2010 election would be mostly deadlock. I predicted that even an annual budget would be hard to establish with the hard right positions of the new Republican House, clashing with the more moderate views of the Iowa Senate.

Washington County Democrats Meeting March 2011

2011-03-18T05:37:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, March 16th, 2011

March Minutes

Minutes of March Meeting

The Washington County Democrats met in the 2^nd floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library on Wednesday, March 16th, 2011 with 18 members and guests present. The Chairperson, Louise Frakes, called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm with the group reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing, America the Beautiful.

Minutes of the last meeting [February 2011] were provided in written form for the group. Those minutes were also previously, posted on the blog and sent to all of those with e-mail addresses. A request for any changes or additions was made and hearing none, the minutes were approved as written.

Treasurer Kay Ciha presented the current Treasurer’s Report, and written copies were provided to the group, the report reflected a balance of $957.17 and will be filed for audit.

The Chairperson indicated that the Main focus of tonight's meeting is to elect new officers, Standing Committee Chairs, Delegates to 2^nd District Central Committee, and County Convention Chairs for Arrangements, Rules and Nominations, and Credentials Committees. (constitution Article III section 5).

Harvey Ross from the 2^nd District was scheduled as a guest speaker, but he had not arrived and would be given a later opportunity to speak.

There were no legislative committee reports.

Old Business:

Nan Stark presented a report of the audit committee and provided a statement that will be filed with the minutes of this meeting.

The Chair indicated that a motion to suspend the rules be made in order to transact constitutional changes.

Changes in County Constitution, as follows:

ARTICLE XII - AMENDMENTS

This Constitution may be amended at any County Convention by a majority of the accredited delegates so assembled. All proposed amendments must be submitted to the Convention in writing, and must be delivered to the Chair of the Washington County Democratic Party at least 14 days prior to the call of the County Convention.

Upon motion made by Robin Plattenberger and 2^ndby Pete Morrison, the motion passed to suspend the rules.

Article VI Sec. 4 of Constitution

Strike Sec. 4. Duties of the Immediate Past Chair shall be. The Immediate Past Chair shall assume the duties of the Chair in the absence of both the Chair and the Vice Chair, and shall otherwise assist the Chair in the performance of his or her duties, and shall chair the Community Events Standing Committee. Said Sec. 4 shall be replaced with, “The Community Events Standing Committee and chair shall be elected at large or appointed by the Chair.” Upon motion made by Richard Gilmore and 2^nd by Steve Maxon, the motion passed.

Article III section 5

Motion was made by Pete Morrison and 2^nd by Bob Spenner that the wording be added: “Off Year Caucus” to the title “Reorganization Meeting” Motion passed.

As Harvey Ross had arrived, he was given the opportunity to talk on the subject of the Stonewall Caucus and the 2^nd District and after his presentation, Jared Hershberger, representing Dave Loebsack’s office spoke briefly. Nick Kariya who was with Harvey Ross and representing the Minority caucus made a short presentation on his caucus.

New Business:

There were no committee reports.

The next order of business was the election of new officers: The Chair asked Harvey Ross and Jared Hershberger to assist in counting the ballots.

The following members were elected for the next two years to the noted elected positions:

Chairman: Peter G. Morrison

Vice-Chair.: Richard Gilmore

Secretary: Nan Stark

Treasurer: Kay Ciha

Congratulations to the newly elected officers.

Upon motion by Pete and 2^nd by Dave Ciha, the officers were seated.

Finding no nominations for committee chairs, motion was made by Louise Frakes and 2^nd by Barb Edmondson, that the Chair appoint the committee chairs and members as constituted. Motion carried.

It was noted that due to re-districting, that the Washington County Democrats, would have to appoint members to the re-districting committee. Pete would follow-up on that matter.

The Chair is one member or would appoint his 2^nd District representative, plus two additional delegates and alternates would be selected next month at the meeting.

The group discussed the establishment of a meeting time, place and date. It was decided that the meeting place, subject to change, would be the Washington Public Library, on the 2^nd Wednesday of every month, and the time would remain the same at 7:00 p.m. Motion carried. Pete to follow-up with the Library on that issue and establish scheduling with them.

The chair asked for any additional new business and found none.

The Chair announced upcoming events as follows:

Legislative Briefing on Saturday, March 19, 2011 at 10:00 a.m., to be held at the Washington County Court House.

The Chair called for any other business and finding none the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. Kay Ciha provided refreshments.

The next meeting will be on Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. at the Washington Library on the 2^nd floor. Doris Park and Steve Maxon will provide treats and beverage.

Respectfully submitted,

Nan Stark, Secretary

Peter G. Morrison, Secretary and now Chairman

New Officers to be elected

2011-03-18T05:36:00.001-06:00

New officers of the Washington County Democrats will be elected March 16, 2011. [ see March minutes for details. ]

February 2011 Minutes of the Washington Co. Democrats

2011-02-17T08:58:00.001-06:00

Monday, February 7th, 2011

February Minutes

Minutes of February Meeting

The Washington County Democrats met in the 2^nd floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library on Monday, February 7th, 2011 with 10 members present. The Chairperson, Louise Frakes, called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm with the group reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing, You’re a Grand Old Flag.

Minutes of the last meeting [January 2011] were provided in written form for the group. Those minutes were also previously, posted on the blog and sent to all of those with e-mail addresses. A request for any changes or additions was made and hearing none, the minutes were approved as written.

Treasurer Kay Ciha presented the current Treasurer’s Report, and written copies were provided to the group, said report reflected a balance of $677.17 and will be filed for audit.

The Chairperson indicated that we must work on a renewal membership drive. A membership request will be made.

There were no legislative committee reports.

Old Business:

There were no reports of either the audit or nomination committees.

The chair issued a reminder that changes would be requested at the County “off year caucus/Reorganizational meeting next month.

Chair noted that the 2011-2012 dues of the Washington County Democrats are due and requested. A reminder will be distributed, and Kay will supply Pete with copy for email distribution.

New Business:

Some of the issues that are being discussed in the State House, included the gun issue, tax issues and budget issues. People are encouraged to write letters to the editor referencing issues that they believe are important.

3 County supervisor positions are up for election in 2012, and we need to find candidates now for those positions.

There were no committee reports.

It was determined that the March meeting would be held at the Washington Public Library. The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 9^th, 2011. The meeting time and date was established at the prior months meeting and confirmed by the Chair. Kay Ciha will provide refreshments.

The chair asked for any additional new business and found none.

The Chair announced upcoming events as follows:

Legislative Briefing on Saturday, February 19, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. and also, on Saturday, March 19, 2011 at 10:00 a.m., both to be held at the Washington County Court House.

The Chair called for any other business and finding none the meeting was adjourned at 8:12 p.m. Mike and Susan Mitchell provided refreshments.

Respectfully submitted,

Peter G. Morrison, Secretary

January 2011 Minutes of the Washington Co. Democrats

2011-01-25T18:19:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, January 19th, 2011

January Minutes

Minutes of January Meeting

The Washington County Democrats met in the 2^nd floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library on Wednesday, January 19th, 2011 with 15 members present. The Chairperson, Louise Frakes, called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm with the group reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing the star spangled banner.

Minutes of the last meeting [October 2010] were provided in written form for the group. Those minutes were also previously, posted on the blog and sent to all of those with e-mail addresses. A request for any changes or additions was made and hearing none, the minutes were approved upon motion by Bob Spenner and 2^nd by Ferd Marie.

Treasurer Kay Ciha presented the current Treasurer’s Report, and written copies were provided to the group, said report reflected a balance of $487.17 and will be filed for audit.

The Chairperson indicated that we need to work on getting Democrats elected and outlined some of her thoughts.

There were no legislative committee reports.

Louise reported on the legislative session held at the Washington County Court House the previous Saturday. Kay Ciha was also present at the meeting and provided some comments.

Old Business:

Barb Edmondson provided some comments about her feelings/impressions after the election and some discussion developed regarding election procedure.

New Business:

The re-organizational meeting was discussed and it was decided that we would hold that meeting in March, at the time of and in conjunction with our regular March monthly meeting. It was determined by consensus that the Off-Year-Caucus/Reorganizational meeting would be held March 9^th, 2010 at 6:30 p.m., and further that the meeting would be held in the large 2^nd floor meeting room of the Washington Public Library. The date, time and place was later confirmed by the Chair. Additional details of the March meeting will be provided at the February meeting and included in the February meeting minutes.

The Appointment of the Audit Committee was as follows: Patty Roe and Nan Stark would handle the audit in addition to the Treasurer, Kay Ciha.

The Appointment of the Nominating Committee was as follows: Kay Ciha, Richard Gilmore, Sandra Johnson, Mike Pierson and Susan Mitchell.

It was indicated by the Chair, that the Community Events chairperson, was the past president and that needed to be changed. We also need add “off year caucus” to the Reorganizational Meeting. It was suggested that the procedure for doing so would be to ask for and receive, a suspention of the rules, during that meeting.

The Chair asked if we want to have refreshments after future meetings. It was determined that the group consensus was to continue the practice. The Mitchell’s volunteered to bring the refreshments to the February meeting. Kay Ciha volunteered to bring refreshments to the March meeting.

It was determined that the February meeting would be held at the Washington Public Library. The meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 7^th, 2011. The meeting time and date was later confirmed by the Chair.

The chair asked for any additional new business and found none.

The Chair called for any other business and finding none the meeting was adjourned at 8:47 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Peter G. Morrison, Secretary

Governor Chet Culver comes to Washington

2010-10-29T05:25:00.003-06:00

Chet Culver toured Washington’s improvement of our downtown, which included the use of I-Jobs funds and Main Street Iowa funding.

Governor Culver also was able to meet with guests at the Washington County Democrats headquarters and heard the concerns of the assembled group. He emphasized that the polls had tightened and it won’t be over until the final vote is cast on November 2nd. But Chet indicated that he was very impressed with the hard work that had been the effort of the Washington Community over the past couple of years.

Rally for Becky is a Success

2010-10-29T05:09:00.003-06:00

On Saturday, October 23, 2010 IA Senator Becky Schmitz held a final Fundraiser and rally in Washington County before the November 2nd elections.

The main speaker for the event was U.S. Senator Tom Harkin who entertained the group with some informative comments on past performance in Iowa and good comparison statistics of Becky’s opponent.

Tom was pointed in emphasizing that if Democrats get out the vote, Democrats win.

Becky also was very confident that if we are able to get out our Democratic supporters to vote early and get our friends and neighbors to vote, she is confident that she will win!

Everyone seemed to enjoy the afternoon event, as Becky outlined what she felt were her accomplishments over the past four years.

2010 Washington County Democrats Fundraiser Luncheon

2010-10-25T04:55:00.006-06:00

On Sunday, October 17, 2010, the Washington County Democrats held their annual Fundraiserwith a luncheon starting at 12 noon. A host of political office holders and candidates were present to provide the informational talks for the assembled group.

Local members and guests gathered for

the pork loin luncheon provided through the generous volunteer efforts of the committee made up of members of the Washington County Democrats.

Our own 2nd District Congressman, Dave Loebsack spoke about the upcoming election and made the point that all it required was common sense for voters to choose the Democratic candidate vs. the Republican candidate. Compare the record, the accomplishments these past

couple of years, the proposals offered by each candidate and common sense tells us that the voter will choose the Democratic candidate.

Lt. Governor, Patty Judge, offered the group advise on the issues of getting out the vote. She stated that it was imperative that all of use vote and get all of our friends and neighbors that are Democrats to vote. It will be a win for Democrats in the state if we do not shirk our responsibility and get to the polls. Voting early will be important for Democrats this year, she reminded everybody.

Becky Schmitz, our Iowa

State Senator, pointed out all of the important things that the Democratic legislature had accomplished in the past few years in Iowa. She noted that we had experienced one of the most difficult times over the past couple of years since

the great depression and still had a long way to go. In addition to the national economic meltdown brought on by 8 disastrous years of Republican leadership nationally, Iowa experienced one of the worst floods in our nations history.

Larry Marek, our Iowa State House Representative, pointed out that the state has received the best credit rating available among the states with a AAA rating by all reporting services. Iowa also, balanced the budget and ended this past year with a large surplus with higher than expected revenues.

One of the most interesting speakers of the event was Andrew Pitts, who represented Francis Thicke, who is the Democratic Candidate for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture. Andrew showed a great deal of enthusiasm in his passionate support of Francis Thicke.

He pointed out the importance of the position of Secretary of Agriculture in Iowa and indicated that we just cannot afford more of the same with the current Republican Secretary.

The overall turnout was less than I had hoped for but all that attended the event did seem to have a good time and enjoyed each others company.

Just another reminder to get out the vote and vote Democratic.

Monthly meeting for October

2010-10-18T17:16:00.000-06:00

Wednesday, October 13th, 2010

October Minutes

Washington Democratic Meeting Minutes for October 13, 2010

Alternate-Chairperson Harold Frakes called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. There were 17 Democrats present.

Chairperson Frakes asked for approval of the minutes of the September meeting, which were posted on the Washington Democratic blog. Bob Spenner made a motion to approve the minutes and Ferd Marie seconded the motion.

The treasurer’s report, was given by Kay Ciha, Treasurer. The cash available to date was stated as $1,219.38.

Shayna, representing the Becky Schmitz campaign, announced that she scheduled a Call and Chase for 10/16 at the headquarters, starting at 10:00 a.m. She further indicated that a number of the Becky Schmitz staff and visitors from Des Moines would be assisting, and there was a need for additional volunteers. She further outlined that a fundraiser was being held at the 4-H Bldg. at the Fairgrounds on the 23^rd of October, and that flyers would be available soon with additional details.

Larry Marek reported that he attended a forum in Iowa City and that both Jared and Sandy were both no shows. He also reported on new figures coming out of Des Moines, showing even better economic figures than previously anticipated.

Richard Gilmore indicated that he had attended recent supervisor meetings and that there was little pending for Supervisors. He was working on getting out a message and also yard signs.

Rodney Stogdill indicated that although he was spending little money this year he did have signs and was trying to distribute them.

Loebsack’s Representative, Henry Marquard reported that new organizational structures were being developed this close to elections to coordinate the GOTV efforts, etc.

Terry Phillips reported for Veterans Affairs. He reported that work in coordination with campaigns was ongoing.

Harold Frakes as Events Chair presented a report on the recent events. Ferd’s Weiner roast was well received, despite rain. There was an event at the Pony Farm for Becky, a small party at Jean Potratz’s and a breakfast at Rose Jaynes. He also talked about our Fundraiser dinner plans, with more in old business.

Old Business:

Everyone is encouraged to sign up for the big push for Becky on the 16^th of October.

A reminder of the important Fundraiser Event on the 17^th of October. All plans are in place, and a quick calculation indicated that about 100 tickets had been sold. All people were in place for setup, etc.

Our date for the Fundraiser, conflicts with the Arts Festival and date change was in order. Terry Phillips made a motion that we change to the first Sunday in October, second by Richard Gilmore. Motion carried.

It was noted that Saturday early voting at Riverside, Iowa held at City Hall from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

New Business:

November meeting date? No meeting recommended, with Terry making the motion and Pete the 2^nd. Motion carried, so no November meeting.

Christmas democratic group get-together, to be held at the invitation of Richard and Robin, with date & arrangements, to be determined.

Party on Election Night recommended by Harold and it was decided to have a party or get-together at the headquarters at 8:00 p.m. On November 2^nd.

Group to pack up the office and keys returned by 11/15. Material cannot be stored at the Frakes, and Pete thought we should consider a small storage facility if no other place available. Cost indications apparently were that annual storage would be about $300.00 per year. Issue to be determined later.

A newspaper ad was discussed and it was collectively decided that the exec would decide on the ad and determine the cost, ad size, etc. Decision would be up to exec committee.

Any political candidate disbursement was to be decided by the exec committee after review of minimum needed for carry over.

Pete would determine the extent poll watchers were required and see to the organization of Poll Watchers if that issues was not handled by IDP or campaign staff.

Harold Frakes adjourned the meeting at 8:35 pm

Respectfully submitted:

Peter Morrison, Secretary

Roxanne Conlin Meet & Greet in Washington, IA

2010-10-09T17:12:00.005-06:00

Roxanne Conlin, the Democratic Candidate for the U.S. Senate arrived in Washington, Iowa on Saturday, October 9, 2010 at about noon, to a group of between 35-40 individuals that gathered at the Washington County Democratic Headquarters to meet her and ask questions. Because of limited space, it was standing room only for many who also listened from adjacent rooms and the hallway of the facility.

The group was very interested in hearing her views on a wide variety of subjects, including Social Security, Medicare, what has become known as ObamaCare, the economy and a host of issues applicable to voters in the upcoming November elections.

Those attending the event seemed very pleased with her sincerity in addressing issues that impact all of us.

Especially meaningful, were comments about how little her opponent Charles Grassley had addressed issues relating to senior citizens, small communities and veterans. Everyone seemed concerned about Grassley’s calls for privatizing social security and the VA.

Time seemed all to short, as Roxanne addressed the crowd for more than an hour, on what was a beautiful fall afternoon in Washington, Iowa.

September monthly meeting

2010-09-23T07:15:00.001-06:00

Wednesday, September 15th, 2010
September Minutes

Washington Democratic Meeting Minutes for September 15, 2010

Chairperson Louise Frakes called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. There were 25 Democrats present.

Chairperson Louise Frakes asked for approval of the minutes of the August meeting, which were posted on the Washington Democratic blog. Jim Gorham made a motion to approve the minutes and Bob Spenner seconded the motion.

The treasurer’s report, was given by Kay Ciha, Treasurer. The cash available to date was stated as $1,335.76.

Chairperson Louise Frakes asked members to sign a petition for the satellite voting to be held in Riverside. She also explained that Rachel Berdo from St. James School had requested a T-shirt to represent the Democrats for the schools fall fest to be auctioned off. The shirt brought $150. Louise also had four of Francis Thicke’s books and these were sold to members. The proceeds will go to the Francis Thicke campaign.

Chairperson Louise requested that each city/community have a coffee for the candidates for one event and possibly get 20 or more people to attend as well as to invite the newspaper and other media to these functions. She asked members to sign up after the meeting.

The Chairperson then asked representatives of the candidate or candidates to update the group on events and activities.

Larry Marek reported that he has spent time at breakfasts, golf events and he was named the Friend of Iowa Business and is working hard to get more jobs in Iowa. The Listening Post at the Presbyterian home hosted by Jim Redlinger invited him to speak. The League of Women Voters in Iowa City has set their Forum for October 12th from 7-9 pm. He has also been invited to speak at Lake Darling to address the I-Fund. Washington debates will be October 18th at 6:00 pm. On October 22nd he will be attending a seminar in Cedar Rapids on keeping elders in their homes. Louise Frakes encouraged members to use these events and interests as talking points.

Loebsack’s Representative, Alex reported that the first debate was in Coralville and it went well. She asked members to take signs and literature when door knocking.

Becky Schmitz’s campaign manager reported that we have 45 days left to election. Becky’s campaign is transitioning to phoning and knocking on doors. They are looking for volunteers to do phone and run on a regular schedule. Call and chase will happen on the 18th of September, from 1-4 pm if people can come. The campaign will need volunteer shifts the week before elections and the week of election.

Terry Phillips reported for Veterans Affairs. He reported that their website is up and running.

It is: theidvc.net

The Veterans caucus is very active. They are trying to see if veterans could have a designated symbol on the driver’s license, which could be helpful to vets. Larry Marek is working to support this idea.

Louise stated that the Frakes may host a Farm Day on October 9th and invited everyone to attend if it happens. She will notify people by email. Ferd Marie will be having his Weiner Roast October 19th at 5:30 pm. She also reminded members of the fund raising dinner to be held on October 17th Sunday at noon. Each member is requested to sell 10 tickets. Iona Burham requested she have the count of the meals by the 11th of October. The T-shirt discussion was delayed until the next meeting.

Rose Jaynes reported how good Governor Culver was on National TV talking about why the state of Iowa has one of the lowest unemployment in the country. It is due to the jobs created by the legislature supporting new infrastructure in the state and also due to the support of wind energy which has brought many jobs to Iowa.

Terry Phillips moved that the second Tuesday meeting time be changed. Bob Spenner seconded the motion. Motion passed.

Terry Phillips moved to have our next meeting on Thursday, October 7. Bob Spenner seconded the motion. Motion passed.

Reverend Burham spoke in support of Barbara Edmondson, running for re-election in the County Attorney race. Larry Brock [R], who is running against Barb Edmondson, has sent a letter to people in Washington. Robin Plattenburger, read the letter for Reverend Burham. Discussion followed.

Specific requests by Lauren for the pre-election time frame:

1. Sign pledge to serve 3 hours a week for 7 weeks
2. Vote by Mail
3. Sept 18, Chase and run program
4. Sept 24, Friday, Early vote day, there will be noon gathering of Democrats at the office who will walk to Court House and vote, followed by a luncheon.
5. Sept. 25th pick up people’s ballots at their homes; votes can be turned in Monday, September 27, 2010.
6. Oct. 9/10 dry run for election and there will be 3 shifts both days. [Details will be provided at the October meeting.]

Louise Frakes adjourned the meeting at 8:35 pm

Respectfully submitted:

Margaret Marie, Acting Secretary

August 2010 - meeting

2010-08-29T09:20:00.000-06:00

Tuesday, August 10th, 2010

August Minutes

Minutes of August Meeting

The Washington County Democrats met at the new headquarters office on Tuesday, August 10th, 2010, with 20 individuals present. The Chair, Louise Frakes, called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm with the group reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing America the Beautiful.

Minutes of the last meeting held on August 6, 2010 were available in written form for the group. Those minutes covered the re-convention of the previous Washington County Convention. Minutes were also posted on the blog and sent to all of those with e-mail addresses. Motion was made and seconded that the minutes be approved and the minutes were approved as written.

Treasurer Kay Ciha presented the current Treasurer’s Report for July, and written copies were provided to the group, member dues received and bills for headquarters rent, internet & phone service, fair booth rent, and miscellaneous supplies were approved leaving a balance of $1,852.88, as of August 10, 2010, the report was approved and will be filed for audit.

The Chair reported on the Fair and Mrs. Culvers visit.

The chair called for candidate reports.

Larry Marek, Iowa House member 89, talked briefly about his candidacy plans in the upcoming election.

Lauren Brainerd the IDP representative talked about walk packets and call packets for the vote by mail campaign and indicated that she would be from 5-8 p.m. on August 17, 2010.

Richard Gilmore, supervisor candidate, talked briefly about his campaign plans and requested volunteer help.

Jared Hershberger talked about the recent campaign efforts of Dave Loebsack, and requested information on upcoming events and club meetings in the area.

The chair called for committee reports.

Tom Antosiak for the Veterans caucus spoke on the magazine drive and indicated that he would be leaving the area.

Steve Maxon reported on the 2^nd District elections.

No other committee reports at that time.

Old Business:

Sign-up is needed for volunteer workers at the headquarters during the designated hours.

Sign-up providing meeting treats, for upcoming meetings in September, October and November.

New Business:

The chair brought up discussion about the plans for the upcoming Fund Raising Dinner on October 17, 2010.

The chair brought up the issue of new group t-shirts, possibly with the donkey on the shirt. The chair and also Kay would look into the cost, design, etc.

Discussion about dispersing funds to help local candidates was raised and it was decided after discussion, that we would wait until we had a better grasp of the funds available after fund raising efforts etc.

The chair opened a discussion about how to help local candidates.

It was decided that a party on December would be planned at the November meeting.

It was noted that Ferd Marie had hosted his annual wiener roast in September. He indicated that this year the event would be held on Sunday, September 19th at 5:30p.m. Ferd will furnish hot dogs & buns and everyone else should bring a dish of something to share. Then come and enjoy the fellowship of fellow Democrats.

Finding no further new business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:07 p.m.

Members were invited to stay and continue their discussions of the evening’s business after the meeting is adjourned.

Next meeting will be held Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the headquarters office.

Respectfully submitted,

Peter G. Morrison, Secretary

County Convention - Re-convening of Proceedings

2010-08-29T09:17:00.001-06:00

Friday, August 06, 2010

Washington County Democratic Convention

Minutes of the Re-convening of the Convention Proceedings

The Washington County Democrats met at the Washington County Democratic Headquarters on Friday, August 6th, 2010, to reconvene the convention originally held in March of 2010. The meeting was held pursuant to notice to those members that were delegates to the original convention that were members of the Washington 3^rd and 4^th Wards.

The Temporary Chairperson, Louise Frakes, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Seven delegates, and 10 alternates, and registered Democrats were seated for a total of 17 participants. This fulfilled the number needed for a quorum as required by the state constitution. Lists are attached to the minutes.

The meeting started with the Pledge of Allegiance and the Star Spangled Banner.

The temporary Chair called for election of both a permanent chair and a secretary.

Fred Stark made the motion, 2^nd by Pete Morrison that Louise Frakes, be elected to the position of permanent chair. The motion was approved.

Everett Burham made the motion 2^nd by Mike Roe, that Peter Morrison, be appointed permanent secretary and that motion was approved.

Pete Morrison made the motion that all present be seated as delegates, 2^nd by Fred Stark. Motion passed.

Richard Gilmore was present as willing to run for the open Washington County Supervisor position in District 5.

Richard presented a brief history of his resume and experience, and indicated that he had decided to pursue the position with a petition.

The Chair asked if anybody else wished to be placed in nomination, and finding none the group elected Richard by acclamation.

Some additional discussion was followed by the announcement that a vote by mail effort was planned for Saturday, August 7^th, 2010. Individuals that were interested in participating were encouraged to sign up.

The Convention concluded at 7:19 p.m., having completed all requirements.

Next regular meeting of the Washington County Democrats will be held August 10, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the headquarters location.

Respectfully submitted,

Peter G. Morrison, Secretary

Kids Love the Donkey

2010-07-25T07:48:00.003-06:00

The Big Hit of the Fair was the Donkey! Bob Spenner helps kids up on the mascot. He must be an old hand at that.

Kids could not get enough of the donkey.

Democratic Donkey is Huge Hit at Parades and Fair

2010-07-25T07:41:00.002-06:00

The new Washington County Democrats mascot, used in most of this summers parades and at the Washington County Fair, is a big hit with the kids. Along with the award winning Donkey, the county Democrats received well earned recognition and even a bit of prize money.

The donkey was the work of Steve Maxon and Doris Park, of Max-Cast in Kalona, Iowa. Steve and Doris are loyal members of the Washington County Democrats.

Washington County Fair - 2010

2010-07-25T07:08:00.006-06:00

The Washington County Democrats again this year, provided a booth at the Washington County Fair. Volunteers offered literature, candy, handouts and the new hit this year, our own “Democrats Rock” donkey. Members examining the donkey decided its (her) name shouldbe “Gloria”.

The Donkey was a major hit with the kids and adults, attending the fair booths this year. Member, Ferd Marie, looked on as some of the kids attending the Fair jumped up on the Donkey.

Our own State Senator Becky Schmitz and our Representative Larry Marek, both attended the Fair and greeted attendees and had their picture taken with the Donkey.

Our Democratic booth at times was so crowded with kids waiting for their turn to rid on the donkey that Fair attendees could barely get by the crowd.

Patty Judge, Lt. Governor of Iowa visited the Fair and of course had an opportunity to see the fair mascot in person.

Washington County Democrats - July Meeting

2010-07-14T21:11:00.002-06:00

Tuesday, July 13th, 2010

July Minutes

Minutes of July Meeting

The Washington County Democrats met at the new headquarters office on Tuesday, July 13th, 2010, with 19 individuals present. The Chair, Louise Frakes, called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm with the group reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing the Star Spangled Banner.

Minutes of the last meeting held on June 8, 2010 were available in written form for the group. Minutes were also posted on the blog and sent to all of those with e-mail addresses. Dave Ciha made the motion, 2^nd by Doris Parks that the minutes be approved and the minutes were approved as written.

Treasurer Kay Ciha presented the current Treasurer’s Report for July, and written copies were provided to the group, Bills for headquarters rent, IDP delegate fees, internet & phone service, parade candy, fair booth rent, and miscellaneous supplies were approved leaving a balance of $2,286.52, as of July 13, 2010, the report was approved and will be filed for audit.

Candidate’s reports and comments were moved to later in the meeting.

Events chair, Harold Frakes, reported on the parades this past month and indicated that the parades went well. He especially wanted to congratulate Steve and Doris for the outstanding job on the donkey.

No other committee reports at that time.

Old Business:

The Chair stated that all of the Washington County democrats were in attendance at the state convention. She said that many counties had only a very few delegates attend.

It was noted that the Washington County delegates held their open house for the new office and that the event was well attended and everyone had an enjoyable time.

New Business:

The Chair passed around a sign up sheet for the fair booth. The Chair asked for clarification on who would set up the fair booth and was assured that Sandy Johnson and Terry Philips would coordinate the set up on the 18^th in the afternoon and would be working with the Roe’s. Anyone wanting to help with setting up the Fair Booth should go tot he Fair grounds Exhibit Hall on Sunday about 1:00 pm.

The question of the headquarters office hours was brought up, and after a short discussion, motion was made by Harold Frakes and 2nd by Bob Spenner, that the office be open as follows, from July 24 through September 23, 2010: The office would be open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Also, the office would be open on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. A sign up sheet for July 24-29 was passed around and a subsequent system will be developed and posted at the office for people to volunteer their time in the future.

The Chair indicated that we should try to find a candidate for District 5 and possible names were talked about. The Chair indicated that she should have a name not later than August 1, 2010 if we are going to have a candidate for that district.

The Chair noted that reports indicated that the Republicans had cut the registered lead by the Democrats by 50,000 individuals and that the Democrats needed to work to continue to hold majorities in both the Iowa House and Senate.

Harold Frakes made a motion and 2^nd by Margaret Marie that the Washington County Democrats give the Roxanne Conlin campaign $266.00? Toward a fundraiser, and upon the discussion and Vote, the motion failed.

The Chair called for any other new business and finding none, the meeting moved to candidates comments.

Barb Edmondson just arrived and made a few comments about the on going status of her re-election campaign.

Lauren Brainerd talked to the group about the legal issues of campaigning. She volunteered to train people to canvas for the Coordinated Campaign. Margaret Marie moved that we have that training on Saturday, July 24th from 9:30 am to 10:00 am and then canvas from 10:00 – 1:00 pm. Doris Park seconded. Motion passed. That is also the first Saturday that the office will be open from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon.

Becky Schmitz talked briefly about her campaign and asked if she could interest a group in door knocking from 9:30 a.m. until noon on Saturday, August 7, 2010.It was agreed that we would help find people to door knock. Becky noted that the mayor of Fairfield is holding a fundraising event for her on August 17th, that the Pony Farm will host something in September, and that she will plan to attend our Fundraiser dinner in October.

Terry Philips reported on Larry Marek’s golf tournament fundraiser. Terry also, talked briefly about the Veterans Caucus and working with political procedures.

Finding no further new business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

Members were invited to stay and continue their discussions of the evening’s business after the meeting is adjourned. Linda Brown and Merle Davis provided refreshments.

Next meeting will be held Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. at the headquarters office.

Respectfully submitted,

Peter G. Morrison, Secretary

Kalona Days - Parade [ 6/19/2010 ]

2010-06-27T15:14:00.003-06:00

On June 19th, 2010, we had a great day in Kalona. The Kalona Days parade was quite an event with sunny skies and the introduction of our life size donkey.

The nearly completed donkey was part of the truck carrying the members of the Washington County Democrats.

The Washington County Democrats also had secured a booth in the downtown Kalona area, handing out literature and a few trinkets during the downtown festivities.

As always we went through a lot of candy as the parade proceeded through the parade route.

Washington County Democrats - 2010 Headquarters Open House

2010-06-20T12:44:00.005-06:00

The Washington County Democrats provided a first glimpse at the new 2010 Headquarters at 225 West Main Street, across from the Washington County Court House on Friday, June 18, 2010.

Despite the weather, many of our members and several out of town guests attended the event.

Although we are not yet fully operational, with a few details yet to be implemented, the headquarters is shaping up to provide facilities for the party and all local, state and national candidates to call home in Washington County.

Now that the primaries are out of the way, several local, state and national candidates and representatives from the various campaigns presented plans they are focusing on this election season.

Featured speakers included, State Senator (45), our own Becky Schmitz, Iowa Sec. of Agriculture candidate, Francis Thicke, Pete D’Alessandro, Political Director from the Culver campaign and Lindsay Burr, Political Director from the Dave Loebsack campaign. Louise Frakes was a wonderful MC, and the event was a wonderful educational experience for all of those in attendance.

We hope that all of the candidates running for election or re-election will take full advantage of the office facilities. We will have phone line options, computer and Wi-Fi capabilities as well as an adaptable meeting area.

We will be announcing office hours for the headquarters in the near future.

Please feel free to send any comments or suggestions to: Pete Morrison, Secretary at peter.morrison@mac.com or call the headquarters at: 319-653-3110