August 21, 2005 Meeting Report

General Membership Meeting



The meeting was called to order at 3:20 pm at Cady Hall, Patagonia, by president, John Michael. 17 members and 4 non-members were present.

John introduced guests, Kris Garcia (Arizona office of Progressive Majority in Phoenix) and Traci Siegel (national office of Progressive Majority in D.C.). Kris explained the objectives of the Progressive Majority in terms of recruiting, encouraging and supporting progressive candidates for political office at all levels. He also provided information on the Camp Wellstone training to be held in Tucson on Sept. 30-Oct. 2, 2005. Traci described efforts of the Progressive Majority nationwide, including candidate recruitment and the provision of one-on-one training. For additional information see: www.progressivemajority.org For Camp Wellstone registration go to www.wellstone.org

Rebecca Robinson reported on her activities as the summer intern for ABD and the Santa Cruz County Democratic organization, including regular communication with members, planning and organization of the Aug. 13 meeting of Democratic clubs and organizations in the area, the attempted canvass of Patagonia Democrats. A discussion of the future of the survey tool used for canvassing followed. The future of the survey depends on its objectives; a strategic decision in this regard will be made in the near future.

John highlighted the schedule of upcoming ABD activities:

Minutes of the July 17 meeting were approved without change. There were questions regarding the approval of minutes from the March and May meetings; this issue will be resolved prior to the next meeting.

The Treasurer’s Report through Aug. 15 was approved. A copy of that report is attached to these minutes.

Lois Kolesar presented a report from the Events Committee. Sally Greenleaf has agreed to coordinate the ABD booth at the Patagonia Fall Festival; Lance and Maria Hoopes volunteered to co-chair that event with her. A coordinator for the booth at the Santa Cruz County Fair in Sept. is still needed. Vista Michael has taken responsibility for the auction to be held at the 10/16 event; Gail Eifrig has taken responsibility for publicity of that event; additional volunteers are needed for program and entertainment. Maria Hoopes’ design used on the ABD mugs and T-shirts was acknowledged; ideas are being sought for new items with national appeal to be offered for sale on line.

Juanita Havill presented a report from the Message Committee. LouAnne Kirby wrote the most recent “Shades of Blue” column for the Nogales International. The committee continues to encourage letters to the editor expressing Democrats viewpoints on issues. Gail Eifrig has volunteered to assist and coach letter writers upon request. Writers may want to use the “talking points” developed by Juanita and Rebecca Robinson, which are posted on the ABD website.

John reported on the August 13 meeting of representatives from party organizations and clubs from Pima, Cochise and Santa Cruz counties. Fifty people from 20 different organizations attended. Focus of the group is to increase Democratic representation in the state legislature and to replace Congressman Jim Kolbe. The action plan calls for the development of candidate and activist training in the area and the possibility of hiring a staff person. The next meeting of the group is scheduled for Oct. 29.

John also reported on the state Democratic convention in Flagstaff on Aug. 20. The convention adopted a resolution supporting military service personnel and their families and opposing the war in Iraq.

The meeting adjourned at 5:00 pm



Respectfully Submitted

Helen M. Pohlig, Acting Secretary