January 2011 Minutes of the Washington Co. Democrats

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

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

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

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

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

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

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