John Edwards will be in Washington
May 25 at 5:45
at the Washington County Fair Building
John is working on car pools from Halcyon and UP
Check this page for details.
Call John if you need a ride.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Friday, May 11, 2007
Minutes May 1, 2007
Washington County Democrats met in the Day Lounge at Halcyon House on Tuesday, May 1, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. Sandra Johnson called the meeting to order with 27 people present.
Vice Chair John Greener introduced two guests: Emma Lieberts for the Hillary Clinton campaign and Graham Wilson from the Obama campaign. Each of the guests spoke about their candidate and why they are supporting the one they are.
Emma invited everyone to on Saturday, May 5th. The office is located at 353 College St. People may contact Emma at elieberts@hilaryclinton.com or by cell phone: 319-712-4333. Emma said one of the reasons to support Hillary is that she knows 82 world leaders. Emma also stressed that to elect a woman president would be a very historic moment for our country. She had bumper stickers and pins to give out.
Graham Wilson spoke about Obama¹s stand on the issues of health care, the war, the environment, the economy, politics, and cynicism. He stressed that Obama¹s approach would be to work with other countries and not try to bully them. He reported that over 8,000 people were in Iowa City on earth day to hear Obama speak and that several people met at Linda Boston¹s house to watch the first Democratic Debate. He invited everyone to the Washington
Public Library on Monday, May 7th, from 5 7 pm to hear more about Barack Obama.
Secretary Louise Frakes read the minutes of the April meeting. Everett Burham moved to approve, seconded by Harold Frakes. Motion passed.
Kay Ciha gave the treasurer¹s report. She reported that 1540 letters were sent out and that we did receive more paid members. Our new balance is $836.12. Kay¹s report will be filed for audit.
Kay presented a bill of $78.03 for materials for the mailing. Jim Gorham moved to pay this bill. Seconded by Harold Frakes. Motion passed.
Under old business, John Greener reminded everyone that Tom Harkin and Dave Loebsack will both be running for reelection again in 2008 and we will need to work to support them. A representative from the Tom Harkin campaign will be in our area on May 31st and is needing someone to host a coffee. No action was taken.
Terry Philips reported that Steve Miller is not interested in running for House seat 89. He said he has talked to a couple of other people who might be interested and that everyone should be asking people who they believe will make good candidates.
John Greener reported that Mark Nolte has sent an email saying that he is not going to run this time either.
Under new business Sandra reported the precinct chairpersons and places for the 2008 caucuses needs to be sent to the IDP by August 1. We still need precinct chairpersons for Ainsworth, Crawfordsville, and West Chester. Sandra has reserved rooms at the Washington Jr. High for the Washington caucuses. Everett Burham expressed that he would like ward 4 caucus
to meet at Halcyon. The group agreed and Sandra will amend her room reservation at the JH to 4 rooms (3 city precints and rual Washington precinct.) Harold Frakes reported that he has reserved the Brighton Community Center.
Kay Ciha reported that we need to get the next mailing out. Myra, Tom, Bonnie, and Mike volunteered to help Kay. Myra will arrange for them to meet and work at Halcyon House on Tuesday, May 7th.
Harold Frakes passed out copies of the proposed Constitution and By Laws. He highlighted several portions. He then asked people to take the documents home, read them carefully, and bring them back next month to discuss them and propose changes. John Greener thanked the committee of Harold Frakes, Doris Park, and Steve Maxon for their work on this large undertaking.
Sandra suggested that once we agree on the changes, the body of the whole accept it as an operating document and that we ratify it in March 2008 at the County Convention. Thus, we will have our second reading of the constitution and by-laws at our June meeting, a third reading at our July meeting when we will plan to adopt the amended document and ratify it in March 2008 .
Sandra reported on the Second District Central Committee meeting that she, Terry Philips, and David Smithers attended on April 15th. We are alloted 3 representatives on this committee. Sandra said that David Smithers would like to continue in that position and she asked for 2 more volunteers. Doris Park and Steve Maxon volunteered. Terry Philips suggested that
we also have 3 alternates and that Sandra Johnson, Bonnie Banister, and Terry Philips be the alternates. Jim Gorham moved that we accept these delegates and alternates. John Greener seconded. Motion passed. The next 2nd District Meeting will be Sunday, May 6 at 1:00 at Trinity UMC in Riverside. There will be training workshops and a fund-raiser dinner on Saturday, July 28 at the North Liberty Community Center.
Terry Philips reported that 12 - 15 vets met in Dubuque on April 28 for the Iowa Democratic Veterans Caucus. He said future meeting will be listed on our blog with the May meeting in Des Moines and the June meeting in Riverside.
The County Fair will be July 15 - 20. Mike Phenicic moved that we pay the $60 to have a booth. Seconded by Bonnie Banister. Motion passed.
June 2nd is Ridiculous Day in Washington. Several people indicated that we should do something. John Greener offered his garage as a place to put something together. No official action was taken.
John Greener and Kay Ciha reported that all the Democratic Presidential candidates have been contacted about Renewable on Parade which will be September 21 -23.
Iowa Caucus date is set for January 14, 2008, but it may be moved up a week to January 7th depending on what other states do.
Terry Philips reported on the Drive for Five. We need a minimum of 750 signatures on the petition. He is sure we have at least half of them, but we need to keep working if we are to reach our goal. Louise Frakes encouraged everyone to take a petition around and ask people to sign.
Louise Frakes encouraged everyone to read the book, Don't Think of an Elephant by George Lakoff. It contains many good ideas for reframing our ideas so that others are more receptive to them.
Our next meeting will be June 5th at 7:00 pm at Halcyon House.
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Louise Frakes, Secretary
Vice Chair John Greener introduced two guests: Emma Lieberts for the Hillary Clinton campaign and Graham Wilson from the Obama campaign. Each of the guests spoke about their candidate and why they are supporting the one they are.
Emma invited everyone to on Saturday, May 5th. The office is located at 353 College St. People may contact Emma at elieberts@hilaryclinton.com or by cell phone: 319-712-4333. Emma said one of the reasons to support Hillary is that she knows 82 world leaders. Emma also stressed that to elect a woman president would be a very historic moment for our country. She had bumper stickers and pins to give out.
Graham Wilson spoke about Obama¹s stand on the issues of health care, the war, the environment, the economy, politics, and cynicism. He stressed that Obama¹s approach would be to work with other countries and not try to bully them. He reported that over 8,000 people were in Iowa City on earth day to hear Obama speak and that several people met at Linda Boston¹s house to watch the first Democratic Debate. He invited everyone to the Washington
Public Library on Monday, May 7th, from 5 7 pm to hear more about Barack Obama.
Secretary Louise Frakes read the minutes of the April meeting. Everett Burham moved to approve, seconded by Harold Frakes. Motion passed.
Kay Ciha gave the treasurer¹s report. She reported that 1540 letters were sent out and that we did receive more paid members. Our new balance is $836.12. Kay¹s report will be filed for audit.
Kay presented a bill of $78.03 for materials for the mailing. Jim Gorham moved to pay this bill. Seconded by Harold Frakes. Motion passed.
Under old business, John Greener reminded everyone that Tom Harkin and Dave Loebsack will both be running for reelection again in 2008 and we will need to work to support them. A representative from the Tom Harkin campaign will be in our area on May 31st and is needing someone to host a coffee. No action was taken.
Terry Philips reported that Steve Miller is not interested in running for House seat 89. He said he has talked to a couple of other people who might be interested and that everyone should be asking people who they believe will make good candidates.
John Greener reported that Mark Nolte has sent an email saying that he is not going to run this time either.
Under new business Sandra reported the precinct chairpersons and places for the 2008 caucuses needs to be sent to the IDP by August 1. We still need precinct chairpersons for Ainsworth, Crawfordsville, and West Chester. Sandra has reserved rooms at the Washington Jr. High for the Washington caucuses. Everett Burham expressed that he would like ward 4 caucus
to meet at Halcyon. The group agreed and Sandra will amend her room reservation at the JH to 4 rooms (3 city precints and rual Washington precinct.) Harold Frakes reported that he has reserved the Brighton Community Center.
Kay Ciha reported that we need to get the next mailing out. Myra, Tom, Bonnie, and Mike volunteered to help Kay. Myra will arrange for them to meet and work at Halcyon House on Tuesday, May 7th.
Harold Frakes passed out copies of the proposed Constitution and By Laws. He highlighted several portions. He then asked people to take the documents home, read them carefully, and bring them back next month to discuss them and propose changes. John Greener thanked the committee of Harold Frakes, Doris Park, and Steve Maxon for their work on this large undertaking.
Sandra suggested that once we agree on the changes, the body of the whole accept it as an operating document and that we ratify it in March 2008 at the County Convention. Thus, we will have our second reading of the constitution and by-laws at our June meeting, a third reading at our July meeting when we will plan to adopt the amended document and ratify it in March 2008 .
Sandra reported on the Second District Central Committee meeting that she, Terry Philips, and David Smithers attended on April 15th. We are alloted 3 representatives on this committee. Sandra said that David Smithers would like to continue in that position and she asked for 2 more volunteers. Doris Park and Steve Maxon volunteered. Terry Philips suggested that
we also have 3 alternates and that Sandra Johnson, Bonnie Banister, and Terry Philips be the alternates. Jim Gorham moved that we accept these delegates and alternates. John Greener seconded. Motion passed. The next 2nd District Meeting will be Sunday, May 6 at 1:00 at Trinity UMC in Riverside. There will be training workshops and a fund-raiser dinner on Saturday, July 28 at the North Liberty Community Center.
Terry Philips reported that 12 - 15 vets met in Dubuque on April 28 for the Iowa Democratic Veterans Caucus. He said future meeting will be listed on our blog with the May meeting in Des Moines and the June meeting in Riverside.
The County Fair will be July 15 - 20. Mike Phenicic moved that we pay the $60 to have a booth. Seconded by Bonnie Banister. Motion passed.
June 2nd is Ridiculous Day in Washington. Several people indicated that we should do something. John Greener offered his garage as a place to put something together. No official action was taken.
John Greener and Kay Ciha reported that all the Democratic Presidential candidates have been contacted about Renewable on Parade which will be September 21 -23.
Iowa Caucus date is set for January 14, 2008, but it may be moved up a week to January 7th depending on what other states do.
Terry Philips reported on the Drive for Five. We need a minimum of 750 signatures on the petition. He is sure we have at least half of them, but we need to keep working if we are to reach our goal. Louise Frakes encouraged everyone to take a petition around and ask people to sign.
Louise Frakes encouraged everyone to read the book, Don't Think of an Elephant by George Lakoff. It contains many good ideas for reframing our ideas so that others are more receptive to them.
Our next meeting will be June 5th at 7:00 pm at Halcyon House.
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Louise Frakes, Secretary
Friday, April 20, 2007
Veterans Caucus-- "SECOND CALL TO DUTY'
The immediate goal of our group is to elevate veterans and veterans issues during the build-up to Iowa's first-in-the-nation Presidential precinct caucuses. As the first in the nation, what we do here in Iowa will set the stage for veterans all over the country. Please consider this a second call to duty!
We hope to hold caucus events around the state, and this meeting will be in Dubuque, IA on Saturday April 28. We especially invite those from Northeast Iowa to come for a special organizational meeting of veterans from the First & Second Congressional District, which will be held in conjunction with the state-wide meeting. The location will be at the United Auto Workers Hall at 3450 Central Avenue in Dubuque, and begins at 10:30. Lunch will be served by the locals at a reasonable price. We hope to end around 1:30 PM. See you there, and THANKYOU FOR SERVING!!
Bob Krause, Chair, Democratic Veterans Caucus
501 West Adams Ave #3
Fairfield, Iowa 52556
Ph. 319-961-0830
AGENDA April 28, Dubuque, IA
1. Introduction
2. Election of a Secretary and Treasurer
3. Create a Bylaws Committee
4. Sub-Committee Chairs Reports
A. Platform -- Tom Howe
B. Fundraiser -- Dave Campbell
C. Organizational Liaison -- Ron Healey
D. Communications -- Kent Sovern
5. Other New State Business
6. Lunch (RSVP)
BREAKOUT FOR SUBCOMMITTEE MEETINGS AND DISTRICT ORGANIZATIONAL
MEETINGS 7.ADJOURN>>****************************************************************************>>District
2nd District Representative Information
-- Terry K. Phillips
1605 Riverside Road
Riverside, IA 52327
Ph. 319-430-8536
John Pomberg,
1062 172nd Ave
Solon, IA 52649
Ph. 319-469-2002
The immediate goal of our group is to elevate veterans and veterans issues during the build-up to Iowa's first-in-the-nation Presidential precinct caucuses. As the first in the nation, what we do here in Iowa will set the stage for veterans all over the country. Please consider this a second call to duty!
We hope to hold caucus events around the state, and this meeting will be in Dubuque, IA on Saturday April 28. We especially invite those from Northeast Iowa to come for a special organizational meeting of veterans from the First & Second Congressional District, which will be held in conjunction with the state-wide meeting. The location will be at the United Auto Workers Hall at 3450 Central Avenue in Dubuque, and begins at 10:30. Lunch will be served by the locals at a reasonable price. We hope to end around 1:30 PM. See you there, and THANKYOU FOR SERVING!!
Bob Krause, Chair, Democratic Veterans Caucus
501 West Adams Ave #3
Fairfield, Iowa 52556
Ph. 319-961-0830
AGENDA April 28, Dubuque, IA
1. Introduction
2. Election of a Secretary and Treasurer
3. Create a Bylaws Committee
4. Sub-Committee Chairs Reports
A. Platform -- Tom Howe
B. Fundraiser -- Dave Campbell
C. Organizational Liaison -- Ron Healey
D. Communications -- Kent Sovern
5. Other New State Business
6. Lunch (RSVP)
BREAKOUT FOR SUBCOMMITTEE MEETINGS AND DISTRICT ORGANIZATIONAL
MEETINGS 7.ADJOURN>>****************************************************************************>>District
2nd District Representative Information
-- Terry K. Phillips
1605 Riverside Road
Riverside, IA 52327
Ph. 319-430-8536
John Pomberg,
1062 172nd Ave
Solon, IA 52649
Ph. 319-469-2002
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
April Meeting of the Washington County Democrats
Washington County Democrats met Tuesday, April 3, 2007 at 6:30 for pizza atBreadeaux Pizza in Washington. At 7:00 pm, Sandra Johnson, chair, calledthe business meeting to order. Twenty-four people were present. Sandra welcomed those who have not come for a while as well as Jim Clegg and RobertSpinner who had been ill. She thanked everyone for coming to work togetherto promote the Democratic Party. A news article was circulated which said that a survey by the nonpartisanPew Research Center for the People and the Press found that since 2002 half of those surveyed identified with or leaned towards Democrats, while only 35 percent aligned with Republicans. What good news!
There were three guests: Craig Muenzer, for the Iowa Democratic Party;Graham Wilson, from the Obama campaign; and Beryl Butterbaugh, from the TerryPhilips 2006 campaign. Graham Wilson reported that Obama would be in Iowa on Thursday. Terry said he would talk to Graham after the meeting about possible office space for the Obama campaign. Craig Muenzer said he will be our contact person to the state party and that we should contact him with any questions we have. IDP will help us with training, organizing the caucus, provide access to information, helping draw up a master time line for when things need to be done, etc. He asked if we had other ideas of how IDP could help us. There was about half an hour of discussion. It was announced that the next caucus would be January 14, 2008.
Next there were reports of Special Projects. Terry Philips reported on the Iowa Democratic Veterans Caucus that he attended last Saturday in Des Moines. He said their goal is to have at least one person in each county to be a Veteran coordinator. John Greener moved that Terry Philips be our Veteran Affairs coordinator and that we be a committee of the whole to support him. Motion passed. Linda Boston gave an overview of the Renewable Energy on Parade Expo. The main job for our group will be to organize the Democratic Candidates event, which will take place on Saturday, Sept. 22, from 2 5:30 pm. at theWashington Fairgrounds. Our representatives to the planning group are JohnGreener, Kay Ciha, and Harold Frakes.
The minutes of the previous month's meeting and the County Convention were approved by acclamation. Treasurer, Kay Ciha, reported a balance of $616.87. She presented a bill of $30.00 for printing the 1500 fund raising letters. John Greener moved to pay this bill. Bob Spinner seconded the motion. Motion passed. Tom Antosiak volunteered to help fold the letters and stuff the envelopes.
John Greener reported that he had seen Hilary Clinton in Iowa City today. Louise and Harold Frakes were also there. John presented Dave Ciha with a button of Bill Clinton, which read, "America¹s First Gentleman". He also presented Bonnie Banister with a Hilary button. John said he has now seenHilary Clinton, John Edwards, and Barrack Obama and thinks all three are really good candidates. Kay Ciha reported on the House party for Obama that was held at her home last Saturday. She thanked Pete Morrison for his help with all the technology. Eleven people attended the event.
A discussion was held about who might run for IA House seat 89. John reported that Jennifer Langford is interested. However, she would have to move in order to live in the district. Bonnie Banister added that Jennifer is chair of the Jefferson County Democratic Party and has worked in the State House for the last three years. No one has heard back from Mark Nolte or SteveMiller. Sandra appointed Terry Philips to contact Steve Miller and see if he is interested. She appointed John Greener to contact Mark Nolte and see if he is interested. The group felt that we should look for the strongest possible candidate and not just support anyone who is interested. Harold suggested that perhaps those who are interested should submit a resume of their qualifications and speak to the group.
Sandra reported that although we had discussed the 2007 State and District convention as reported in the minutes, we have found there is no 2007 State or District convention! The next District Convention is April 26, 2008 and the State Convention is June 14, 2008. It was reported that the Washington County Constitution and By-Laws have not been found. Craig Muenzer said he would look to see if there is one on file at the State level. John Greener moved that Steve Maxon, Doris Park, and Harold Frakes form the committee to work on creating a constitution and by-laws for Washington County and to bring it to next month' s meeting for the group to consider. Terry Philips seconded. Motion passed.
Terry Philips reported on the Special Election petition for how to elect the five supervisors. He said it would be great if this could be finished by the end of April. The last possible date to collect signatures would be May30th.
Under new business, Sandra read the list of precinct captains from 2004. The list from 2006 has not been located. Craig said he would check to see if the list was filed at the State level. Several people remembered who was elected or volunteered to fill in. Sandra would like to see each precinc thave a captain and alternate. Tom Antosiak presented information on free advertising on channel 18, MediaCom. Harold Frakes reported that many county constitutions have StandingCommittees. He asked that group if we would like to consider having standing committees. He felt it would be important to have one onA ffirmative Action since 6 - 7 % of the county is Hispanic. He moved that we create such a committee. John Greener seconded. After much discussion, Harold withdrew his motion pending development of the Constitution and By-Laws. Meeting adjourned at 8:55 pm.
Louise Frakes, secretary.
Washington County Democrats met Tuesday, April 3, 2007 at 6:30 for pizza atBreadeaux Pizza in Washington. At 7:00 pm, Sandra Johnson, chair, calledthe business meeting to order. Twenty-four people were present. Sandra welcomed those who have not come for a while as well as Jim Clegg and RobertSpinner who had been ill. She thanked everyone for coming to work togetherto promote the Democratic Party. A news article was circulated which said that a survey by the nonpartisanPew Research Center for the People and the Press found that since 2002 half of those surveyed identified with or leaned towards Democrats, while only 35 percent aligned with Republicans. What good news!
There were three guests: Craig Muenzer, for the Iowa Democratic Party;Graham Wilson, from the Obama campaign; and Beryl Butterbaugh, from the TerryPhilips 2006 campaign. Graham Wilson reported that Obama would be in Iowa on Thursday. Terry said he would talk to Graham after the meeting about possible office space for the Obama campaign. Craig Muenzer said he will be our contact person to the state party and that we should contact him with any questions we have. IDP will help us with training, organizing the caucus, provide access to information, helping draw up a master time line for when things need to be done, etc. He asked if we had other ideas of how IDP could help us. There was about half an hour of discussion. It was announced that the next caucus would be January 14, 2008.
Next there were reports of Special Projects. Terry Philips reported on the Iowa Democratic Veterans Caucus that he attended last Saturday in Des Moines. He said their goal is to have at least one person in each county to be a Veteran coordinator. John Greener moved that Terry Philips be our Veteran Affairs coordinator and that we be a committee of the whole to support him. Motion passed. Linda Boston gave an overview of the Renewable Energy on Parade Expo. The main job for our group will be to organize the Democratic Candidates event, which will take place on Saturday, Sept. 22, from 2 5:30 pm. at theWashington Fairgrounds. Our representatives to the planning group are JohnGreener, Kay Ciha, and Harold Frakes.
The minutes of the previous month's meeting and the County Convention were approved by acclamation. Treasurer, Kay Ciha, reported a balance of $616.87. She presented a bill of $30.00 for printing the 1500 fund raising letters. John Greener moved to pay this bill. Bob Spinner seconded the motion. Motion passed. Tom Antosiak volunteered to help fold the letters and stuff the envelopes.
John Greener reported that he had seen Hilary Clinton in Iowa City today. Louise and Harold Frakes were also there. John presented Dave Ciha with a button of Bill Clinton, which read, "America¹s First Gentleman". He also presented Bonnie Banister with a Hilary button. John said he has now seenHilary Clinton, John Edwards, and Barrack Obama and thinks all three are really good candidates. Kay Ciha reported on the House party for Obama that was held at her home last Saturday. She thanked Pete Morrison for his help with all the technology. Eleven people attended the event.
A discussion was held about who might run for IA House seat 89. John reported that Jennifer Langford is interested. However, she would have to move in order to live in the district. Bonnie Banister added that Jennifer is chair of the Jefferson County Democratic Party and has worked in the State House for the last three years. No one has heard back from Mark Nolte or SteveMiller. Sandra appointed Terry Philips to contact Steve Miller and see if he is interested. She appointed John Greener to contact Mark Nolte and see if he is interested. The group felt that we should look for the strongest possible candidate and not just support anyone who is interested. Harold suggested that perhaps those who are interested should submit a resume of their qualifications and speak to the group.
Sandra reported that although we had discussed the 2007 State and District convention as reported in the minutes, we have found there is no 2007 State or District convention! The next District Convention is April 26, 2008 and the State Convention is June 14, 2008. It was reported that the Washington County Constitution and By-Laws have not been found. Craig Muenzer said he would look to see if there is one on file at the State level. John Greener moved that Steve Maxon, Doris Park, and Harold Frakes form the committee to work on creating a constitution and by-laws for Washington County and to bring it to next month' s meeting for the group to consider. Terry Philips seconded. Motion passed.
Terry Philips reported on the Special Election petition for how to elect the five supervisors. He said it would be great if this could be finished by the end of April. The last possible date to collect signatures would be May30th.
Under new business, Sandra read the list of precinct captains from 2004. The list from 2006 has not been located. Craig said he would check to see if the list was filed at the State level. Several people remembered who was elected or volunteered to fill in. Sandra would like to see each precinc thave a captain and alternate. Tom Antosiak presented information on free advertising on channel 18, MediaCom. Harold Frakes reported that many county constitutions have StandingCommittees. He asked that group if we would like to consider having standing committees. He felt it would be important to have one onA ffirmative Action since 6 - 7 % of the county is Hispanic. He moved that we create such a committee. John Greener seconded. After much discussion, Harold withdrew his motion pending development of the Constitution and By-Laws. Meeting adjourned at 8:55 pm.
Louise Frakes, secretary.
Veterans Caucus Hold First Organizational Meeting
Members of the Iowa Democratic Party’s Armed Forces Veterans Caucus met in Des Moines on March 31 to begin planning a charity barbecue. Tentatively scheduled for Iowa State Fair week, Veteran’s Caucus Chair Bob Krause, of Fairfield, hopes the benefit will raise enough funds to support several veterans’ organizations across Iowa.
The Veterans Caucus used this meeting to organize a steering committee made up of members from each of Iowa’s congressional districts. The Second District is represented by Terry Philips of Riverside and John Pomberg of Salem. Dave Campbell of Des Moines, former caucus chair, is responsible for organizing the August event. Tom Howe, of Dubuque, will head the platform committee and Ron Healey, of Durango, will coordinate the efforts of the IDP Veterans Caucus with other veterans’ organizations.
Third District Congressional Representative Leonard Boswell and wife Dody attended the Veterans Caucus Meeting. Also in attendance were Michelle Obama, wife of Presidential Candidate, Margaret Vernon from Senator Harkin’s office and representatives from the Senators Clinton and Obama campaigns. During the meeting Rep. Boswell spoke about the Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act. This bill provides that the Department of Veterans Affairs shall develop a comprehensive program to screen and monitor veterans for post traumatic stress disorder, and other factors related to combat. The bill is in honor of Joshua Omvig, a young man from Grundy Center who tragically took his own life after returning home from an 11-month tour in Iraq
With the conclusion of business, Alvin Flyr, of Des Moines, was elected vice chair of the Veterans Caucus. The seat was previously held by Dave Campbell, who vacated it to serve as a third district representative on the Iowa Democratic Party State Central Committee.
For more information about the Armed Forces Veterans Caucus, contact the Iowa Democratic Party at 515-244-7292 or Terry Philips at 319-430-8536.
Members of the Iowa Democratic Party’s Armed Forces Veterans Caucus met in Des Moines on March 31 to begin planning a charity barbecue. Tentatively scheduled for Iowa State Fair week, Veteran’s Caucus Chair Bob Krause, of Fairfield, hopes the benefit will raise enough funds to support several veterans’ organizations across Iowa.
The Veterans Caucus used this meeting to organize a steering committee made up of members from each of Iowa’s congressional districts. The Second District is represented by Terry Philips of Riverside and John Pomberg of Salem. Dave Campbell of Des Moines, former caucus chair, is responsible for organizing the August event. Tom Howe, of Dubuque, will head the platform committee and Ron Healey, of Durango, will coordinate the efforts of the IDP Veterans Caucus with other veterans’ organizations.
Third District Congressional Representative Leonard Boswell and wife Dody attended the Veterans Caucus Meeting. Also in attendance were Michelle Obama, wife of Presidential Candidate, Margaret Vernon from Senator Harkin’s office and representatives from the Senators Clinton and Obama campaigns. During the meeting Rep. Boswell spoke about the Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act. This bill provides that the Department of Veterans Affairs shall develop a comprehensive program to screen and monitor veterans for post traumatic stress disorder, and other factors related to combat. The bill is in honor of Joshua Omvig, a young man from Grundy Center who tragically took his own life after returning home from an 11-month tour in Iraq
With the conclusion of business, Alvin Flyr, of Des Moines, was elected vice chair of the Veterans Caucus. The seat was previously held by Dave Campbell, who vacated it to serve as a third district representative on the Iowa Democratic Party State Central Committee.
For more information about the Armed Forces Veterans Caucus, contact the Iowa Democratic Party at 515-244-7292 or Terry Philips at 319-430-8536.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Minutes of the County Convention 3/17/07
Washington County Convention
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Washington County Convention was held Saturday, March 17, 2007 at the Washington County Courthouse. Chairman John Greener called the Convention to order at 1:12 p.m. There were 20 people present, including two guests (Senator Schmidt and Carrianna Suiter).
Senator Becky Schmidt thanked the Washington county democratic voters for all their hard work during the fall election. She said that many issues that have been on the table for years are now being dealt with because the Democrats control both houses of the legislature and the Governorship. These include minimum wage, safe schools act, bulling legislation, cigarette tax, local option for smoke free cities and counties, allowing stem cell research to progress, teacher quality to increase teacher pay. Some good things for small businesses and renewable energy are still being worked on. Senator Schmidt said that working in the legislature she has become even more aware that there are huge differences between the Democratic and Republican parties. She believed that we have the opportunity to elect a Democratic house seat, especially when people see how much has been accomplished by the Democratically controlled legislature. Senator Schmidt also said that she has sent a rebuttal to the Washington Evening Journal about the very erroneous article about her and the Fair Share legislation. There was a question and answer session for the Senator that lasted about 30 minutes.
Mike Roe told the group about his concerns regarding funding for small airports.
Terry Philips reported that Robert Spinner had a stoke this last week and will have to cut back on activities. Chairman Greener said he would send a card from the group.
Carrianna Suiter from the Obama Campaign was introduced and spoke about his recent visits to Iowa. Fred and Nan Stark got to spend about 30 minutes with Obama at the Muscatine Event where there were about 1400 people, many of who were registered Republicans. Carrianna said she is interested in trying to get Obama to the Renewal Energy Expo, but that a formal letter requesting him to come will need to be sent. She said he would be back in Iowa on March 31. She said his campaign would like to have at least one house party in each county and that they will try to get smaller groups to meet with him. She also reiterated that they need office space in Washington County.
Terry Philips explained the three options for electing the 5-member board for supervisors. Jim Humpson has a petition circulating to call for a special election that would allow voters to choose the method of electing supervisors. A minimum of 750 signatures by June 1 is necessary to call for this election. Option 3 would cost more that either Option 1 or 2. Lots of questions were asked and discussed. Several people took petitions to distribute.
Treasurer Bonnie Banister reported $616.87 in the treasury. No minutes from the last Convention were read.
It was reported that there are 14,997 registered voters in Washington County. 3,223 are registered Democrats, 5,685 are registered Republicans and 6,089 are Independents. It was clarified that people can register for party affiliation at the Caucus.
Election of officers was held with the following results:
Chairperson: Sandra Johnson
Vice Chairperson: John Greener
Secretary: Louise Frakes
Treasurer: Kay Ciha
Newly elected Chairperson, Sandra Johnson, took over the meeting. It was announced that we may have 16 delegates to the District and State Convention. The District Convention will be held April 26 and the State convention will be held on June 14. Delegates will be Sandra Johnson, John Greener, Louise and Harold Frakes, Kay and Dave Ciha, Bonnie Banister, Everett Burham, Mike and Patty Roe, David Smithers, Steve Maxon, Doris Park, Terry Philips, Carol Butler, and Darlene Kelley. Alternates will be Fred and Nan Stark. Fred Stark moved, seconded by Harold Frakes, that the executive committee come up with names to fill the remaining alternate seats. Motion carried.
Under old business Secretary Louise Frakes read the fund raising letter, drafted by Harold Frakes. Suggestions for refining the letter include putting it on letterhead, adding our blog address, listing all the papers we send information to, and to ask for email addresses on the enclosure that people send back. Harold Frakes moved that the executive committee finish the letter and get it sent out as soon as possible. Motion passed. Chairperson Johnson asked for a bid on printing and postage cost. Terry Philips move, seconded by Mike Roe, to authorize up to $350 to spend for mailing of the fund raising letter. There was much discussion before the vote. Motion passed. Nan Stark, John Greener, and Mike and Patti Roe all volunteered to stuff the letter once it is ready to go.
Under new business, David Smithers moved, seconded by Terry Philips, to form a membership committee. This committee would take on the responsibility of the mailing and would report at each month’s meeting. Such a committee was set up consisting of David Smithers, Doris Park, and Steve Maxon. Sandra said she currently has a list of Washington County Democrats on Excel. Carrianna Suiter suggested changing to a Google spreadsheet, as it would then be easier to go from computer to computer.
Louise Frakes asked where the Constitution and By-Laws for the Washington County Democrats were. No one seems to know or have a copy. Everett Burham will do some research and report back at the April meeting. If none can be located, then a committee will be set up to write a new set which they will bring back to the group to be voted upon.
Steve Maxon moved that we adopt a resolution petitioning the Iowa State Legislature to urge congress to impeach George W. Bush for high crimes and misdemeanors. Harold Frakes seconded. Steve read the entire resolution to the group. There was much discussion, including Chairperson Johnson removing herself from chair in order to speak to the issue. Harold called for the question. Motion passed. The vote on the resolution was defeated by one vote.
John Greener suggested that Steve draft it as a letter and bring it to the next meeting where those do desired to could sign it.
The next meeting is set for Tuesday, April 3 at 7:00 pm at Breadeau Pizza in Washington.
Chairperson Sandra Johnson thanked everyone for coming and adjourned the convention at 3:37 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Louise Frakes, secretary.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Washington County Convention was held Saturday, March 17, 2007 at the Washington County Courthouse. Chairman John Greener called the Convention to order at 1:12 p.m. There were 20 people present, including two guests (Senator Schmidt and Carrianna Suiter).
Senator Becky Schmidt thanked the Washington county democratic voters for all their hard work during the fall election. She said that many issues that have been on the table for years are now being dealt with because the Democrats control both houses of the legislature and the Governorship. These include minimum wage, safe schools act, bulling legislation, cigarette tax, local option for smoke free cities and counties, allowing stem cell research to progress, teacher quality to increase teacher pay. Some good things for small businesses and renewable energy are still being worked on. Senator Schmidt said that working in the legislature she has become even more aware that there are huge differences between the Democratic and Republican parties. She believed that we have the opportunity to elect a Democratic house seat, especially when people see how much has been accomplished by the Democratically controlled legislature. Senator Schmidt also said that she has sent a rebuttal to the Washington Evening Journal about the very erroneous article about her and the Fair Share legislation. There was a question and answer session for the Senator that lasted about 30 minutes.
Mike Roe told the group about his concerns regarding funding for small airports.
Terry Philips reported that Robert Spinner had a stoke this last week and will have to cut back on activities. Chairman Greener said he would send a card from the group.
Carrianna Suiter from the Obama Campaign was introduced and spoke about his recent visits to Iowa. Fred and Nan Stark got to spend about 30 minutes with Obama at the Muscatine Event where there were about 1400 people, many of who were registered Republicans. Carrianna said she is interested in trying to get Obama to the Renewal Energy Expo, but that a formal letter requesting him to come will need to be sent. She said he would be back in Iowa on March 31. She said his campaign would like to have at least one house party in each county and that they will try to get smaller groups to meet with him. She also reiterated that they need office space in Washington County.
Terry Philips explained the three options for electing the 5-member board for supervisors. Jim Humpson has a petition circulating to call for a special election that would allow voters to choose the method of electing supervisors. A minimum of 750 signatures by June 1 is necessary to call for this election. Option 3 would cost more that either Option 1 or 2. Lots of questions were asked and discussed. Several people took petitions to distribute.
Treasurer Bonnie Banister reported $616.87 in the treasury. No minutes from the last Convention were read.
It was reported that there are 14,997 registered voters in Washington County. 3,223 are registered Democrats, 5,685 are registered Republicans and 6,089 are Independents. It was clarified that people can register for party affiliation at the Caucus.
Election of officers was held with the following results:
Chairperson: Sandra Johnson
Vice Chairperson: John Greener
Secretary: Louise Frakes
Treasurer: Kay Ciha
Newly elected Chairperson, Sandra Johnson, took over the meeting. It was announced that we may have 16 delegates to the District and State Convention. The District Convention will be held April 26 and the State convention will be held on June 14. Delegates will be Sandra Johnson, John Greener, Louise and Harold Frakes, Kay and Dave Ciha, Bonnie Banister, Everett Burham, Mike and Patty Roe, David Smithers, Steve Maxon, Doris Park, Terry Philips, Carol Butler, and Darlene Kelley. Alternates will be Fred and Nan Stark. Fred Stark moved, seconded by Harold Frakes, that the executive committee come up with names to fill the remaining alternate seats. Motion carried.
Under old business Secretary Louise Frakes read the fund raising letter, drafted by Harold Frakes. Suggestions for refining the letter include putting it on letterhead, adding our blog address, listing all the papers we send information to, and to ask for email addresses on the enclosure that people send back. Harold Frakes moved that the executive committee finish the letter and get it sent out as soon as possible. Motion passed. Chairperson Johnson asked for a bid on printing and postage cost. Terry Philips move, seconded by Mike Roe, to authorize up to $350 to spend for mailing of the fund raising letter. There was much discussion before the vote. Motion passed. Nan Stark, John Greener, and Mike and Patti Roe all volunteered to stuff the letter once it is ready to go.
Under new business, David Smithers moved, seconded by Terry Philips, to form a membership committee. This committee would take on the responsibility of the mailing and would report at each month’s meeting. Such a committee was set up consisting of David Smithers, Doris Park, and Steve Maxon. Sandra said she currently has a list of Washington County Democrats on Excel. Carrianna Suiter suggested changing to a Google spreadsheet, as it would then be easier to go from computer to computer.
Louise Frakes asked where the Constitution and By-Laws for the Washington County Democrats were. No one seems to know or have a copy. Everett Burham will do some research and report back at the April meeting. If none can be located, then a committee will be set up to write a new set which they will bring back to the group to be voted upon.
Steve Maxon moved that we adopt a resolution petitioning the Iowa State Legislature to urge congress to impeach George W. Bush for high crimes and misdemeanors. Harold Frakes seconded. Steve read the entire resolution to the group. There was much discussion, including Chairperson Johnson removing herself from chair in order to speak to the issue. Harold called for the question. Motion passed. The vote on the resolution was defeated by one vote.
John Greener suggested that Steve draft it as a letter and bring it to the next meeting where those do desired to could sign it.
The next meeting is set for Tuesday, April 3 at 7:00 pm at Breadeau Pizza in Washington.
Chairperson Sandra Johnson thanked everyone for coming and adjourned the convention at 3:37 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Louise Frakes, secretary.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
County Convention Meets March 17
All Washington County Democrats are welcome to attend the Democratic Party's County Convention at 1:00 on Saturday, March 17, 2007.
We'll meet at the Washington County Courthouse in the third floor court room.
Business items will include the election of officers and discussion to determine platform items. No caucus or straw poll will be held at this time.
Individuals who are not currently registered Democrats, but who wish to attend, may reregister at the door.
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