Arizona Borderlands Democrats

The meeting was called to order by Vice President Steve Strom at 3:15 pm at Cady Hall, Patagonia. Approximately 39 members and guests were present, and enjoyed refreshments were provided by Sally Greenleaf, Joyce Cox and Lou Ann Kirby. Strom introduced guests Sharon and Jerry Covey from the Cochise County Democrats, and after a brief silence for reflection on the suffering of our fellow citizens in the Gulf States, as well as others in Iraq and Darfur.

 

Strom introduced the first of two guest speakers, Fred DuVall, whose remarks are appended to these minutes. We then heard from Lydia Guzman, from the Clean Elections Institute. Both speakers made remarks that were well-received by the audience. Ms. Guzman explained the features of the Clean Elections movement. Briefly, a candidate who elects to play under these rules presents the state elections board with a given number of $5 qualifying contributions and agrees to the rules. Then, when the opposing candidate (not running under CE rules) raises money for his campaign, the CE Institute will match these funds for the CE candidate. She also spoke of the negative impact of Proposition 200 on the election rules for all voters. Many problems are anticipated at the next election because of the necessity of proving identity and citizenship at the polls as well as at registration. Potential voters should check the materials they might need to present at their local polling places in advance of the elections, and should in addition write the State Attorney General to express opposition to the current situation. There is no question that these rules will have a chilling effect on the access that legitimate voters will have to the polls.

 

Strom reported on the Tri-County Coordinating Group from the Democratic organizations of Cochise, Santa Cruz and Pima Counties. The attendees decided to make a priority the Identifying, supporting and training of candidates and activists. This meeting had an attendance of about 70 or 80 people. They chose a steering committee, met 9/17/05 and are ready to begin in their mission. They also discussed the various possibilities for teleconferencing and televised speakers for wide-spread gatherings

 

Gail Eifrig presented the Treasurer’s report on behalf of Helen Pohlig, who was unable to be present. The report was accepted by a voice vote.

 

Sally Greenleaf asked for help at the Democrat table for the Fall Festival, in Patagonia, Oct 8+9. Annie McGreevy has the materials for supporting the candidacy of Slade Meade for Secretary of Education in the state of Arizona. Since he is running within the Clean Elections system, he needs all our participation in the $5 qualifying contributions. Members were also encouraged to keep looking for the Shades of Blue column in the International, and to keep themselves alert to the comments in the Shades of Red columns, and consider responding to these, so as to keep an emphatic, positive Democratic message in the media.

 

Lou Anne Kirby as Treasurer of the County Demo Party announced a luncheon in Nogales on September 28, and encouraged people to attend if interested. She also called our attention to some vacant positions of precinct committee person in our area.

 

There was an announcement of our October 16 meeting, which will be a party at Elgin Club. This will include an auction, visits from candidates---and fun. Everyone is encouraged to purchase tickets and bring friends and neighbors.

 

The meeting adjourned at 4:30.

 

Respectfully Submitted

Gail Eifrig, secretary pro tem