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
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
August 2010 - meeting
Tuesday, August 10th, 2010
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 2nd 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
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 3rd and 4th 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, 2nd by Pete Morrison that Louise Frakes, be elected to the position of permanent chair. The motion was approved.
Everett Burham made the motion 2nd 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, 2nd 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 7th, 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
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Kids Love the Donkey
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.
Democratic Donkey is Huge Hit at Parades and Fair
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
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.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Washington County Democrats - July Meeting
Tuesday, July 13th, 2010
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, 2nd 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 18th 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 2nd 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
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