ATTENDANCE:  Zephyr Tate-Mann, chair; approximately 30 present

BUSINESS MEETING called to order at 7:00pm

Zephyr introduced Paul Scott, Director of Region 11 (Assembly Districts 34, 36 and 59).  He acts as a liaison between the California Democratic Party organization and the various Democratic clubs to help advance the Party’s agenda.  Paul emphasized the goals of voter registration, candidate development and how to structure a campaign to get the voters out on election day.  He also makes sure that the Clubs get all the delegates they’re allowed to the Pre-Endorsement Convention.

Zephyr also introduced John Perez as the member of the LACoDem Central Committee who is in charge of registering new American citizens.  John attends the swearing-in ceremonies held periodically at the Fairplex and can always use more help if anyone from our club wants to accompany him.  Mike Davis, our Membership Chairman, has volunteered for this service on at least one occasion. 

Carolee announced that preparations are underway for the Holiday Party to be held in Scrooby Lounge at 4:00 to 7:00p.m, on Sunday, December 6.

Zephyr, Rudy Mann and Ivan Light are delegates to the State Party and attended the recent meeting in San Diego.  Excerpts from our Death Penalty Resolution have been submitted for inclusion in the State Platform. Zephyr testified at the State Executive Committee’s Platform Committee as an advocate for its inclusion.

Applications will soon (December 15-Feb 12, 2010) be taken for the Redistricting Committee which was created by the adoption of the recent ballot proposition.   Interested club members should refer to the website www.wedrawthelines.ca.gov for qualifications, stipend and application information. 

The Women’s Caucus of the CDC has started a petition against the Stupak Amendment – an amendment added at the last minute to the House bill for Health Care Reform.  The amendment goes far beyond current prohibitions against the use of public funds for abortions and would result in citizens having to purchase separate abortion policies totally outside any health plan purchased through the public cooperatives.

The Swanson Bill, introduced by Debra Bowen, California Secretary of State, into the state legislature, will allow firefighters and other emergency responders to vote at any polling place if they are called out on an emergency service during an election.

The CDC is requesting donations of gently used or new blankets for skid row residents and other needy homeless people.  Zephyr will be the contact person for our club.  Call her to arrange delivery at 626-5566.

Bob Gerecke promoted Darcel Woods’ campaign for the 59th Assembly District.  With the failure of the Anthony Adams recall, there will probably not be an early opportunity for her to face any opponents.  However, this will give her more time to raise funds for the regular 2010 election.  Darcel’s Bio and campaign literature was distributed along with some contribution envelopes.  Bob described Ms. Woods’ 30/30 fundraising program, encouraging each club or individual to coordinate with 30 people and commit to each donating $30. 

Meg Mathies reported that Move-On and Organizing for America are sponsoring a vigil at Memorial Park on December 8th at 5:30 pm.  The event is called “The Cost of Delay” of not passing Health Care Reform.  There will be speeches and a demonstration.  Please bring candles, signs and placards.

Chuck Farritor emphasized the need for all members to get behind the Lakoff amendment (to allow a simple majority for State budget and fiscal decisions).  Zephyr stated that this has just been approved by the Attorney General and will soon, but not yet, be out seeking petition signatures.  At that point we will be able to help most effectively.

Business meeting was adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

PROGRAM:  

Merrill introduced the program, a documentary film by Robert Greenwald entitled “Rethink Afghanistan.” The director interviewed people from all walks of life throughout Afghanistan as well as military, security, religious experts who emphasized the futility of continuing to occupy the country and oust the Taliban or Al-Qaeda.  Evidence of the destruction of lives and property was seen in nearly every scene and the words of the ordinary people who have been affected by the continuing war were especially heartbreaking.   It was a persuasive and compelling argument for a new strategy and left our group anxious to hear what position President Obama would take in his speech to the nation scheduled for December 1, 2009.    

The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Carol Whitson
Recording Secretary

Upcoming Events/Reminders:

Holiday Party December 6,  4-7 pm at Scrooby Lounge
NO Luncheon Meeting in December
NO General Meeting in December