THE CLARK COUNTY WOMEN DEMOCRATS MEETING
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15, 11:30AM
AT BOPPIN' BO'S.

CLARK COUNTY DEMOCRATIC WOMEN

12-15-12

ATTENDANCE:  Donna Quesnell, Susan Schwartz, Renee Darr, Rosalie Gottlieb, Deborah Gottlieb, Donna Forsberg, Doretha Simone, Carrie Parks, Jean Norwood, Juanita Greenway, LaVerne Nelson, Liz Campbell, Jane Young, Celia Louderback, Dan and Val Ogden, Sandra Hoyt, Temple Lentz, Anne Tomich, Eric Norwood, Jane Norwood, Kris Nordberg, Candy Bonneville

GUESTS:   Dorothea Simone, of the Sierra Club

NEW BUSINESS: 

CHARTER SCHOOLS:  Celia Louderback spoke about her concerns over the recently passed Charter School Initiative.  She served on the Wasco County School Board at one time.  She said the school districts were usually given $10,000 of state funding per child, but that amount had to pay for the entire 12 years of schooling.  In the discussion that ensued, concerns were expressed about the threat to public schools when public tax money is siphoned off to the profit-making charter schools.  The charter schools will also have fewer restrictions.  This led to concerns that children who need more help or who are disabled could be rejected.  Also, the charter schools will not have to have publicly elected school board members, so there is no accountability.  We will hold extra meetings in February and March to learn more about this issue. 

COAL TRAINS:   Dorothea Simone of the Sierra Club said the group is trying to get a full environmental impact statement on the coal trains, which hasn't happened yet.  Only minimal studies are being conducted so far.  President Obama voted for more regulation of coal in his first term.  The proponents of the coal trains are spreading mis-information about this issue, she said.

 We need answers to the questions like how does it impact global warming?  What about the added pollution and deaths in China,  and the pollution from there that will blow back across the ocean to us?  How will it impact the health of people in our state, especially those with breathing problems?  What about our oyster industry?  Our oyster beds are already dying because of mercury from air pollution.  There are some regulations already, but they are not being enforced.   She passed out cards to send public comments to the Army Corps of Engineers, Dept. of Ecology and the Whatcome County Council by Jan 21.  Coal has diesel fuel in it, which is very poisonous with things like mercury.  It l is also very heavy, so requires more diesel to transport it.  Diesel is bad for people's health, especially those with breathing problems.  Black lung disease is prevalent among coal workers.   For more information, go to powerpastcoal.com.  She also encouraged everyone to write the new governor, Jay Inslee, who promised "clean" jobs.  Shouldn't he then support the No Coal campaign?  He was pretty silent on the issue during the election, according to Simmone.

FUN:  The group then enjoyed singing slightly adulterated Christmas songs from the Fallen Angel Choir.

GAY MARRIAGE:  There also was mention of the recent celebrations and publicity around the first legal gay marriages in the county.  The Women Democrats supplied cookies for the occasion.

SHARE FROMHOLD SERVICE CENTER:  Chair, Donna Quesnell spoke about the new center being built at 2306 NE Andresen to house all of SHARE’s services under one roof.  SHARE is the major agency that serves the homeless in Clark County.  The agency is selling bricks to fund its capital campaign for this project.  The center is named after local Democrat, Bill Fromhold, who was a 49^th District Legislator from 2001-2009.  He died of leukemia in 2010.  The Clark County Democratic Women unanimously voted to purchase a $200 brick to support the building of the facility.  Secretary Carrie Parks agreed to make the arrangements.

NEXT MEETING:  Feb 16, 2013.  Come listen to Hugh Shuford, longtime Democrat and former School Superintendent, speaker on the Charter School initiative that passed in the November election.

Our next regular meeting wil be March 16, and will feature a panel of other speakers on the Charter School issue and what it means for our community.

CLARK COUNTY DEMOCRATIC WOMEN

9-15-12

ATTENDEES:  Laura Emerson, Kathy Lawrence, Juanita Greenway, Donna Quesnell, Carrie Parks, Liz Campbell, Dave Shehorn, Martha Shehorn,  Ralph Schmidt, Laverne Nelson, Rosalie Gottlieb, Debra Gottlieb, Susan Schwarz, Laura Ellsworth, Ed Cote, Jim Moeller, Eric & Jean Norwood, Pat & Charles McClement, Celia Louderback, Sharon Wylie, Belle Wenninger, Candy Bonneville, Doug Lasher, Jane Young, Phyllis Solomon, Jane Buchanan-Banks,  Ann Horstman, Laura Funataki, Jean Dodds, Bob Dodds, Bev McGuffin,

TREASURY REPORT:  We have a balance of $170.  New members:  Martha Shehorn and Belle Wenninger joined the membership and paid their dues, thus $213. in the treasury, with meeting expenses yet to be withdrawn.

NEW BUSINESS: 

KATHY LAWRENCE:  Invited everyone to visit the campaign office behind the Spot tavern at Fourth Plain and Andresen.  Please find a campaign, candidate or issue to support and find a job you can do to help them. 

RALPH SCHMIDT, 18th LD CANDIDATE:  He’s a veteran, has a BA in Math, an MS in Taxation, has designated teaching credentials, and has studied economics, computer science and agriculture.    His work has involved designing tools to help get work done.  He has worked in health, insurance, accounting, law enforcement, etc.    Schmidt expressed appreciation for the donation he received from the Women Democrats at the JJ Dinner.  He believes the tax structure in Washington is killing the economy.  Schmidt took issue with the real estate tax, business tax, and manufacturing tax, which are charged even if the business isn’t making a profit.  The other problem is that people don't have excess income to buy things anymore.  He would change the B&O tax to be figured by net income rather than gross income.  He has lots of campaign signs and asked that people help distribute them.

SHARON WYLIE, 49th LD CANDIDATE:  Thanked the Women Democrats for their support of her campaign last year.  Sharon is going to be sponsoring fund-raisers for Monica Stonier and Annette Cleveland this year.  Wylie said she feels it is important to be sure that we support the next generation of women who will run for office.

DAVE SHEHORN, 18th LD CANDIDATE:  He is chair of the 18th LD Democrats.  With a focus on economic stability, and maintaining the social safety net, Shehorn states he is in favor of CRC and light rail.  We still don't have a plan that has passed the Coast Guard specifications, but that is "doable,"  he said.  He pledges not to compromise security or safety of families if elected.  He  also wants to strengthen the infrastructure for education and particularly to train people who can be job-ready after high school. 

JIM MOELLER:  He was just at a canvassing event for Referendum 74 that had a great turnout of 70 people.

DONNA QUESNELL:  Provided information and spoke on the Charter School proposal that will be on the November ballot.  She said it will use public money.  The school year will go longer, but the teachers won’t be paid more for the extra time. 

LIZ CAMPBELL, LD COMMITTEEWOMAN:  She just returned from the National Democratic Convention in Charlotte, NC.  The delegates for Laurie, Tanisha Harris, Robert Chu, Nolan, Liz Campbell and Gene Finley.  Liz talked about the women's caucus, which was “wonderful.”  You don't have to be a delegate to go to the caucuses.  She listened to speeches from people like Nancy Pelosi and Cecile Richards, who gave speeches on the issues of politics, health care and choice.  Sandra Fluke told them that women like her appreciate the "menopausal militia.” In honor of  Rush Limbaugh’s comments that any woman who uses contraception is a “slut,” Liz wore her  “Sluts for Obama” button proudly during the convention. 

ED COTE:  THIS WAS HIS 8TH CONVENTION.  He thought the democrats did an excellent job of staying on message.  He loved Michelle Obama's speech,  but felt Bill Clinton's speech on Wed night was the best of the convention.  Although he'd been up for 18 hours and was exhausted, he got  tickets to the after party, where he got to listen to Bill Clinton give a 40 minute oration on why he said what he said during his convention speech.  Clinton said that the Republicans have been campaigning on platitudes, so he  wanted to give the facts and statistics about why we are where we are.   Cote also enjoyed the speeches by Nuns on the Bus, Scarlett Johanssen and Elizabeth Warren.  The delegates from the battleground states told them at their meeting that the super-pacs have tons of money  "They're mean, they have lots of money, and they lie."  He encouraged members to phone bank every day like he does, and not to take the election for granted.

DEBRA GOTTLIEB:  At 10:30 am on Oct. 6  at the School for the Blind, AARP will host the candidates of the 49th.  Jaime Herrera-Beutler said no right away to the invitation to have her come speak.  Gottlieb invited all the democratic women to come.

LAURA ELLSWORTH, PLANNED PARENTHOOD:  She said now is the time to work hard.  “We don't want to wake up on Nov. 7 to wonder if we should have done more.”  They have phone banking 2 x per week.  The system dials for you to local residents first and foremost.  5:30-8 pm Tu & Th at new health center in Cascade Park in the shopping center by 112th & Mill Plain.  The protesters against them have been shouting and have been more vocal lately.  They have also been video-taping the customers.  She met recently with Adam Smith in Washington DC.  While there, also met with Jaime Herrera-Beutler, who only was interested in bringing up the most controversial issues about AARP, despite Laura’s efforts to be non-confrontational.   She told Laura that Planned Parenthood was politicizing abortion through the Sandra Fluke incident.  Vancouver's PP is the only Title 10 provider in the 3rd CD.    Laura offered to give Beutler a tour of the new Planned Parenthood Health Center the next time she's home, and Beutler laughed at her. 

HONORING LAURA EMERSON:  Several people told stories about Laura’s influence on both them personally, and on the local party.  Donna credited Laura with first getting her to see the light about Choice by hearing Laura’s story.  Laura was one of 12 children.  Because her parents were poor, and couldn't afford to feed all the children, Laura and several of her siblings spent part of their time growing up in a children's home and being handed around to various relatives.  Kathy Lawrence said her grandmother attended the Congregational Church with Laura before Laura started attending the Unitarian Church.  She remembers Laura having a big heart and always being kind to her grandmother.

Jane Young said she met Laura through the League of Women Voters and they became friends.  She showed a photo of a quilt they gave her reflecting different areas of Laura's life.  One panel depicts Laura's pet chickens.   Laura's chicken costume was displayed.  Laura had it made, and wore it often over the years to remind people to vote.  Her sign always said, "If you don't vote, don't squawk!" Laura intends to wear it this campaign season, then "Pass it on to another Democrats to continue the tradition.."  Laura was also lauded for attending every protest, and for supporting every local candidate, frequently holding running fundraisers.  Laura was one of the statewide chairwomen that worked on  making abortion legal.  She was given a certificate of appreciation for this effort. Officers and those present signed the certificate which will be framed and presented to Laura, again, at a future Democratic gathering. Her passion, devotion and dedication were lauded by the group.

Celia Lauderback cited that thinkprogress.org has reported on what is happening to women in the states that have invoked anti-abortion laws.  40 women in Mississippi have been prosecuted and could get sentenced up to 10 years for having abortions.  In Idaho, a woman was living on $650 per month and couldn't afford her 4th child, so now she and the woman who helped her obtain an abortion are facing time in jail.  The woman in Idaho had taken an abortificant she ordered over the internet,  and her sister turned her in.  The fetus was beyond 20 weeks.  The nearest abortion clinic was 300 miles away.  Laura clarified that Plan B was not the abortificant that was used.  Plan B is a high dose of birth control pills, but it won't abort a baby after more than a few days after intercourse.  A woman in Montana was left by her longtime boyfriend.   Distraught, she attempted suicide, which made her lose the baby.  She is now being prosecuted.  In South Carolina, a woman used alcohol while pregnant, so was prosecuted for “endangerment.”  In Utah, another girl was charged with endangerment after asking her boyfriend to help her with an abortion by kicking her in the stomach.  Now the boyfriend being prosecuted for manslaughter. 

REFERENDUM 74/FREEDOM TO MARRY: A speaker from the campaign said $7.2 million has been raised in support so far, 75% of it from in-state sources.  Only $600,000 has been raised on the opposition side.  "As you know, once we open that door of discrimination, it stays open, and we n ever know who will be pushed through it next," she said.   The organizer said this campaign is very personal for her.  Her mother was white & grew up in Vancouver, but married a Guatemalan.  They faced strong disapproval from people in their church and even some family members.  "If their love and commitment hadn't been strong enough to overcome that, I wouldn't be here."

SUSAN SCHWARTZ thanked all three reps in the 19th LD (Longview/Kelso) for voting for equal marriage in the state legislative session this year.  She passed out to the memberships ten-page "New Stanford Report...." finding challenges in the Charter-School Sector.

CHARTER SCHOOLS, BY RALPH SCHMIDT:  He said that once they get educated, the Columbian staff has changed a little bit on this issue.  He said there's a lot of corruption and stealing on these things.  What happens when these schools go belly up and leave financial liabilities behind?  It falls on the taxpayers to cover the costs.  Charter schools are not audited, and have been found to be practicing selective enrollment .  Many use teachers who are not certified and then exploit them by paying low wages and no benefits.  CARRIE PARKS pointed out that privatizing things reduces transparency and accountability.  Government organizations have to make decisions in public and to make records available to the public upon request.  Public School Board members are subject to elections, which provides accountability.  With private companies, none of this applies. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Ed Cote and his wife are hosting a wine and choice party from 5-7 pm on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at their home in conjunction with Jim Moeller and Sharon Wylie.

Ballots will be mailed Oct. 15. 

The Clark County Democratic Party will hold its Oktoberfest fundraiser at the Fruit Valley Fireman’s Hall on Oct. 6.  Admission is $20.

Liz Luce will hold a political action fundraiser for Planned Parenthood at her home from 5:30-7:30 pm on Oct. 10.

Listen for 3^rd Congressional District Candidate, Jon Haugen, on KPOJ AM 620 this week.  He’ll be on the Karl Wolfson morning show between 7 and 9 am.

NEXT MEETING: 

December 15, 2012 - 11:30 AM. White Donkey Silent Auction Fundraiser -

Boppin' Bo's

CLARK COUNTY DEMOCRATIC WOMEN                                        6-16-12

PRESENT:  Donna Quesnell, Carrie Parks, Juanita Greenway, Jean & Eric Norwood, Debbie Gottlieb, Rosalie Gottlieb,  Susan Schwarz,  Laura Ellsworth, Lavern Celia Louderback, Kathy Lawrence, Dena Horton, Dan and Val Ogden, Ed Cote, Candy Bonneville

GUESTS:    Annette Cleveland, 49^th LD Senate Candidate; Roman Battan, County Commissioner Pos. 2 Candidate (v Boldt-R), Monica Stonier, 17^th LD Representative Candidate; Jim Gizzi, 17^th LD Candidate; Jon Haugen, 3^rd Congressional District Candidate; Helen Nowlin, PUD Commissioner Candidate; Laura Ellsworth, Field Organizer for Planned Parenthood

NEW BUSINESS: 

JON HAUGEN, 3^RD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT CANDIDATE:   He grew up in the Pacific Northwest.  His dad served in the South  Pacific in WWII & went to college on the GI bill.  His mother was a registered nurse and used government funds to get her master's degree in nursing.   This has given Haugen an appreciation for the role of government in providing supportive services to people.  He graduated in the top third of his class from Annapolis in 1981 and became a pilot.  He flew out of Adak, Whidbey and Diego Garcia.  Haugen served 24 years in both active & reserved.  He met his wife, Cathy, in Texas.  She's now a registered RN at Legacy.  His kids went to school here & took advantage of the Running Start Program. 

Haugen said he first got into politics because he objected to the 60% majority needed to pass school levies.  He didn't feel that was democratic, and has worked ever since to change it.  He has also been looking for clean energy sources for State to develop.  He would like to set up manufacturing plants here for wind turbines.  Has has also visited a Norwegian Company in Moses Lake that manufactures silicon for solar panels.  He'd like to create a public-private partnership to make them here.  Jon said he would continue Medicare & Social Security, unlike the Republicans.  Speaking of Jaime Herrera-Beutler's no-taxes pledge to Grover Norquist, Haugen said, "My only allegiance is to the flag, the same pledge I took when I joined the military."

Haugen said it shouldn’t be hard to get his opponent, Jaime Herrera-Beutler, out of office.  A generic democrat beat her in a poll earlier this year.  For a time, she wouldn’t hold public hearings.  Now she only holds carefully controlled coffees during  day, never in the evening. 

Elimination of the Fairness Doctrine requiring broadcast media to provided balanced viewpoints.  It was eliminated in the 1980’s.  Haugen understands that the airwaves are owned by the public.  "We could make a decision to change that back," he said.

Regarding his position on the Columbia River Crossing, Haugen said, “We've spent $150 million and 14 years on the project with no results.”  He's has researched six-lane bridge between Illinois & Missouri that was built for a reasonable price, of $640 million.  Haugen said he feels we could build a similar bridge here that could be built quicker and cheaper than the $3.6 billion the current plans call for.  "I'm a Democrat.  I want to bring jobs to our community, but I also want to spend our money wisely," Haugen said. 

On women's choice, Haugen said, "I am Pro-Choice.  I believe there is a Republican War on Women.  47 senators voted against equal pay for women on the Lilly Ledbetter Act.  Some Republicans wouldn’t even vote to protect all women on the Violence Against Women Act.  Haugen said,  "I will do all I can to protect a women's right to choose, and to be paid equally to men."

He added, "I do support the Affordable Care Act, so that people don't go bankrupt anymore because of needing health care."  He cited that it will provide coverage of contraceptives, and that kids can remain on parent's insurance up to age 26.   The Affordable Care Act will covers 22 milllion people who had no insurance before. 

ANNETTE CLEVELAND, 49^TH LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT CANDIDATE:   She reported she has picked up a lot of union endorsements and also an endorsement from Senator Patty Murray.  Cleveland has picked up one Republican opponent who lists herself as an "independent GOP," branding herself as more moderate.  But this woman served a term in the Oregon State Legislature, where she voted very conservatively, including anti-choice.  Cleveland is a member of the Clark County Democratic Women.

Asked about the Affordable Health Care Act, Cleveland responded that  the health care course we're on now is “absolutely unsustainable."  Cleveland, who is part of the SW Washington Regional Health Alliance, is well positioned to move forward with reforms.  She said she will advocate for mental health parity in state funding.  She also sees “medical homes,” which use a multi-disciplinary approach, as an answer. 

HELEN NOWLIN, PUD COMMISSIONER:   With a Juris Doctorate from Gonzaga, a Master's in Environmental & Energy Law, Nowlin said she feels she’s the best qualified candidate for PUD commissioner.  She has worked as an attorney.  She has become concerned the future of the country, so decided she needed to take a more pro-active approach.  She’s running to replace former commissioner Carol Curtis, who is not seeking re-election. Nowlin said that recent polls show 78% of people indicate that energy issues are very important to them.  Utility costs are going up, but not because of energy shortages as advertised in the paper.  We actually have energy surpluses.  The US is a leading energy exporter, according to Nowlin.  Costs are going up because of market forces that are related to distribution, so resources go to whoever can pay the most for them.  Initiative 937, passed in 2006, requires utility agencies to obtain 15% of their electricity from new renewable resources and to undertake cost-effective energy conservation by 2020.   Nowlin said she feels that wind farms are an option that the PUD should pursue.  "We're going to have to anticipate more regulatory action on carbon emissions. . . the reality is that we have to." 

People have been very good at conserving energy as part of the economic downturn.  Unfortunately, it has resulted in higher prices.  The PUD buys energy by contract several years out, so system can't adjust prices to make up for short-term factors.  I-397 has to be embraced fully to address global warming, Nowlin said.  If elected, Nowlin’s  priorities would be to do necessary research to resolve some of these issues.   She would like to spin off a non-profit sister corporation to the PUD for non electric programs, such as the rebate program.  She would also increase public input and participation and coordination with other local agencies, and would hold more evening meetings. 

Nowlin said she doesn’t consider dams to be renewable energy.  She cited the fact that the average life-span of a hydro-electric dam is 125 years.  “Eventually, this area will have to talk about.  Do we renew them,  and if so, how will we pay for them?  The massive effort to rebuild them can't be done quickly.  The long-term sustainability of relying on them is questionable, “she said.

Asked about coal trains, Nowlin said that China is currently paying the highest price for coal, but it is a carbon threat.  She's against coal trains.

MONICA STONIER, 17th LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT, POSITION 1:  She said she feels that kids need to be trained to think critically. Finding stable and sustainable school funding is also important.  She works at Pacific Middle School, where she has been teaching for 12 years.  She has taught 6-8th graders, both Excel and special needs students.  She currently is an instructional coach who works with teachers to resolve problems.  Her building was awarded a Washington State award this year for closing gaps.  Stonier said it is important to have teachers in the legislature.  "Without the input of teachers who actually work in the classroom with the kids, it will be hard for legislators to make good decisions." 

Stonier is also concerned about kids being able to find work once they finish school.  She is concerned that things like the War on Women and attacks on unions are distracting us from the issues of what this community needs.  She talks to Republican voters about what they're struggling with, and finds that they are concerned about the neighborhood level and their checkbooks.  She thinks she can work with both sides around that commonality.  "People know who I am and that I work hard.  They know that I put the kids and the community first." 

Stonier was questioned about where she stands on charter schools.  She said she has toured several charter schools, which did impress her.  However, she doesn’t feel that money should be taken from public schools to support them.    “We need to look at our schools as community centers and bring what works into the public schools to close the achievement gap,” she said.

ROMAN BATTAN, CLARK COUNTY COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 2:  He was born and raised in the Camas-Washougal area.  He put himself through school  by working two jobs.  He graduated from Clark College and WSU, later becoming the sales director for a local software firm.  This department grew under his direction, but he did extensive travel for the job.  He used to think he might move away, but eventually came to realize that Clark County is his home, and this is where he wants to be. 

Battan said County Commissioners appropriate the budget for local spending, including parks, social services & roads.    “We currently don't see the commissioners getting out in the community to see what the citizens think,” Battan said.  He's been going through the Clark County budget, and feels there are areas of waste he'd like to address rather than cutting back funding for parks and social programs.  “A lot of our county leadership right now is focused on solving the branches, rather than the roots of our problems.”

Regarding the Columbia River Crossing, Battan said that supporting the bridge is a “no-brainer when you consider what it can do for our local economy.”  Battan objected to the tactic that Clark County has used of giving tax breaks to lure companies here.  “That devalues our area.  Instead, we should instead be selling Clark County as "economically vital."  Battan said that Clark County has great value, especially quality of life.  It is only 2-3 hours from Seattle, the ocean, the mountains, and the desert.  It is close to Portland.  Battan said  that if he is elected, he wants to change the culture to sell ourselves from a position of strength this way. 

JIM GIZZI, 17^th LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT, POSITION 2:  This is his first time running for public office.  He has a BA in electrical engineering and has worked  in telecommunications for two decades.  Gizzi said he's got three years of experience in Indonesia, where there is a wealthy class and a poverty-stricken class, but no middle class at all.  He wants to make a change to ensure that doesn't happen here.  He also wants to stop the "no" mentality of the current legislature.  "No, no, no has got to go."  Gizzi said he feels the state needs to make a commitment to the McCleary decision that said education must be a priority and must be fully funded.  "We have a chance to build a coalition of legislators in SW Washington who will go to Olympia and get us recognized in a positive way."  Gizzi said his campaign off to a good start, but he needs more donations to reach his goals.  He has left his job to commit to full-time work on his campaign.

After the candidates finished speaking, CARRIE PARKS distributed a survey to the membership and talked about the process the Democratic Women would use to distribute of funds to the candidates.  The members were asked to vote on which candidates to give funds to, taking into account the following points:

1. Is the candidate a member of the Clark County Democratic Women? We'd like to support those who support us.

2. We like to support women candidates, naturally.

3. How critical is the race?

4. Who needs help the most? (New candidates in lower positions usually need the help more than bigger name candidates. Also, we might want to help support democrats in republican districts so that they at least have a voice. We don't like to let Republicans go unopposed.

5. How good is the candidate on women's issues? Are they pro-choice, for example? Where do they stand on social programs, children's programs, health care and education?

6. Should we support local candidates over candidates from other areas? Should we focus on just local races or also try to support candidates at the state level?

7. In contested primaries, should we give to both candidates equally? We prefer to see all democratic candidates have an opportunity to make their case to the whole electorate rather than being subjected to behind the scenes king-makers.

8. Is the candidate willing to work hard to win?

9. Does the candidate have the ability to be competetive in their race?

10. Is the candidate willing to uphold Democratic values after being elected?

The poll results were then tallied into percentages, which were used to calculate the amount of funding that went to each candidate.

NEXT MEETING:  11:30 am Saturday, Sept. 15th at Boppin Bo’s in the Vancouver Plaza Shopping Center

March 24, 2012 Minutes

GUESTS:    Elizabeth Uelmen, 3^rd CD Candidate;  Annette Cleveland, 49^th LD Senate Candidate; Ron Barca & Joe Tanner, County Commissioner Pos 1 Candidates (v Mielke-R); Roman Battan, County Commissioner Pos. 2 Candidate (v Boldt-R), LAURA ELLSWORTH, Field Organizer for Planned Parenthood

TREASURER’S REPORT:  Treasurer out sick.  No report available.

NEW BUSINESS: 

RON BARCA, Candidate for County Commissioner, Position # 1   He is facing Joe Tanner in the Democratic primary.  He is a Battle Ground resident who works as a LEAN technician for Boeing.  He explained that this job entails finding ways to improve processes and efficiency, something he could bring to the operation of the county if elected.  He has served on the Clark County Planning Commission for 13 years.   The other thing Barca feels he can bring to the job is a sense of vision for the county, which he feels is currently missing.  He finds that it is important to tie vision to principles about what kind of a county we want to live in, and to stick to those principles.   ““We have the opportunity to create our own identity, not to just be an extension of Portland.  I want Clark County Government to provide value to you as citizens,” he said, emphasizing that the county should serve its residents.  Barca stated that the local economy is tied to our rural areas, farms and forests.  He wants to make Clark County’s rural heritage part of our economic recovery.  He would promote local agriculture and encourage small, local businesses.  He would work toward having regulations that make sense and are predictable, so that they are easier to follow.  Examples of the kinds of businesses he would like to support are things such as the 11 local wineries Clark County has, along with its community gardens, cheese makers, people who harvest their own lumber to make custom products, etc. 

JOE TANNER, Candidate for County Commissioner, Position # 1  He will face Ron Barca in the primary.  A Ridgefield resident, he has previously served as both a Washington State Representative and State Senator.  Tanner has also been a small business owner and military veteran.  His chief issue is economic development and creating jobs.  He has extensive background as a leader in this arena, heading several international business ventures and traveling extensively.  He was the founding president of the Clark County Economic Development Council, which works on ways to create local jobs.  During his time in office, he also was Instrumental in establishing WSU Vancouver as the first four-year university in the county.   He brought high-tech manufacturing jobs to Clark County by eliminating the sales tax on manufacturing plants and equipment when they tried to build or renovate their plants.  Tanner said he was inspired to run this year after reading a book that encouraged people to get involved in making their government better.    “This country, and this state needs help at every level, because it is in serious trouble, “he said.

His kick-off will be from 5-7 pm April 10 at the Mill Creek Pub in Battle Ground.  A number of local luminaries will be there, including Al Bauer and Betty Sue Morris.   You can find out more about Joe Tanner at his web site:  www.VoteJoeTanner.com.  He is also on Face book.

ROMAN BATTAN, Candidate for County Commissioner Position #2 He is considering a run for the County Commissioner seat in position #2.  Is meeting with “The Columbian” staff Tuesday and will probably formally announce then.  He was born & raised in Clark County, putting himself through college to obtain an Associate’s Degree in Business at Clark College and a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from WSU with an emphasis in Finance.  Interestingly, Elizabeth Uelmen, candidate for the 3^rd Congressional District, was his track coach in high school.  He credits her with inspiring him about determination.  He has been involved in the County’s Watershed Steward Program, which he feels has been very instructional.  Why is he running?  “It’s simple.  I think our government should be open and transparent.  There should be a dialog between the citizens and our government.  That’s lacking right now, “Battan said.  “It’s not me running the county.  It’s the voice of the people.  That’s the way it should be.”  He feels the current commissioner doesn’t get out to talk to his constituents enough.  He was also critical that in a time of severe financial cut-backs, each county commissioner is still budgeted $1300 every year to get new laptops.  He feels there are better, more efficient uses of such funds.   He also feels that improving local infrastructure is critical to attracting businesses to the area.  He doesn’t like reducing taxes to attract business, because it sends a signal that we don’t think our county is attractive enough to bring in good businesses.  Cutting taxes also attracts businesses that only look at the bottom line, rather than becoming a good member of the community.  His experience is in training and business solutions.  His focus has been on how to take the workers and skills we have here & make the system work more efficiently.  He helped grow his company from 8 employees to 50.  Battan is developing a web site & Face book page which will be up soon.  Look for Roman to come to your house this summer.  He’ll be doorbelling a lot, and has already bought four pairs of Nikes for the job. 

ELIZABETH UELMEN, 3rd Congressional District Candidate against Jaimie Herrera-Beutler-R.  She has been teaching for 17 years, the last 8 in the Evergreen District.   She has also worked in Camas and Vancouver schools.   Another home-grown citizen, she graduated from Columbia River High School.  She has been a single mom, which made her realize the importance of returning to school to improve her education.  There, she was inspired by several great teachers to become a teacher herself.   Another influential figure in Uelmen’s life was her grandmother, who died last August at age 94.  Her grandmother came to the U.S. from Czechoslovakia at age 9.  She got a job cooking & cleaning in a convent, then eventually met her husband, and moved to the West Coast.  She had eight children, two of whom died in childhood.  She often talked to Uelmen about wishing she’d had the choices in life that women have now such as the ability to decide whether and when to have children, and to take care of yourself if something happened to your husband.   Their discussions made Uelmen realize how short a period it has been, only about 100 years, since women first gained the right to vote and to own property.  “We are in a place historically where we are either going to move forward, or start slipping back,“ Uelmen said, which is why she strongly supports Planned Parenthood.  She remembers how important the agency was in her life as a provider of health care when she was a single mother who couldn’t have afforded it otherwise.   She is appalled that Herrera-Beutler has voted to defund this vital women’s program.  Uelmen is reminded of an Alice Walker saying that her grandmother used to quote to her: “The most common way a woman gives up her power is by thinking she doesn’t have any.”  She feels that proactive health care is a right, and is more cost-effective in the long run.  Uelmen is also a strong advocate of education, technology & development to maintain a strong middle class.  She supports protecting Medicare & Social Security.   She also believes that Clark County must improve and modernize its infrastructure so that small businesses can thrive, and good jobs can be developed.  Part of this is unequivocal support of building the new I-5 bridge, including light rail.   “If any of us moved into a house that was built in 1917 on one side and 1958 on the other side, we all would be talking about remodeling.  I’m for the bridge.  It is necessary for our economic future.  Gas is going to cost a lot more.   The I-5 corridor is only going to get more crowded, so we might as well pay for it and build it today rather than saddle our grandchildren with it in the future when it will cost even more,” she said.    Uelmen recently had a hugely successful kick-off that was attended by hundreds of enthusiastic supporters.  Many people at the kick-off expressed their dissatisfaction with Uelmen’s opponent, Herrera-Beutler, who has consistently avoided holding public meetings, and has been inaccessible to constituents who don’t agree with her.

ANNETTE CLEVLAND—49th Legislative District State Senate Candidate, is running for the state senate seat being left vacant by Craig Pridemore, who is running for State Auditor.  Ty Stober, who was not present today, is also running for that seat.  Cleveland is another native of Clark County who attended Clark College and Marylhurst University.  She grew up in a working family where her father was a longshoreman & president of ILWU #4.  She was influenced by the union credo, “An injury to one is an injury to all.”  Cleveland has been a life-long Democrat who first got involved in the party as a young democrat.  She worked on Joe Tanner’s first campaign and later became his staffer.  Later she worked for Senator Brock Adams, who won in 1986.  She ran the SW Washington Office in Vancouver for Brock Adams for 6 years, then continued that work for Patty Murray.  Later, she lobbied on the federal and state level for the American Cancer Society as a Government Relations Manager, where she first got started in public health.  She has 29 years of experience in advertising, communications, government affairs, community relations and strategic planning.   Cleveland said that education, economic development, jobs, and health care are the pillars of our society.  We must ensure the rights of workers, protect reproductive rights, and continue health care reform, where the arena has switched to states developing programs to comply with the new health care law.  She said she would have voted for the recent equality of marriage act recently passed by the state legislature.  “It’s about an injury to one is an injury to all.  It’s about equality, it’s about justice, it’s about what’s right,” she said.  Cleveland currently serves on the Association of Washington Business Board of Directors, the Washington State Hospital Association’s Public Policy Advisory Group, the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce’s Public Policy Advisory Committee, and Identity Clark County’s Government Affairs Roundtable.

KATHY LAWRENCE, Clark County Democratic Committee Chair, thanked Donna Quesnell and the Women Democrats for all the work they do for the party and the support of its candidates.   Attending the Caucus in 1980 and winding up as a national delegate to New York City is how Lawrence first got involved in politics.   She wants people to have fun at the upcoming precinct caucuses, which will be held at locations throughout the county from 1-3 pm Sunday, April 15.    Doors will open at 12:15.  Caucus locations can be found at www.bluedonkeys.com and in “The Democrat.”  The Legislative District Caucuses and County Convention will be held on Saturday, April 28, from 9:00 am to 1:30 pm at Hudson’s Bay High School.  We will start registering people at 7:30 am.   The Democratic Women will make light snacks available at a donation table there.  Money raised from that will be distributed to our candidates.   The agenda for the county convention will be as follows:  Candidates will speak from 9-10:15 a.m.  District caucuses and delegate selection will take place from 10:15-noon.  Everyone will come back together at 12:15 to do resolutions.  She hopes to be done by 1:30.  Lawrence also announced that the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner will be June 23 at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Vancouver.  Vicky Work (737-2451) is the procurement chair.  Please contact her if you have items to donate for the silent auction.  Donna Quesnell has silent auction slips, and would like to fill up a table of ten for the Democratic Women.  Tickets will cost around $65-$70.  Craig Pridemore will be Master of Ceremony & will do the auction.  Lawrence hopes to have Jay Inslee & Maria Cantwell there.   She is also working on getting Donna Brazile, Democratic National Committee Chair, to come as guest speaker.    Brazile has been chair and vice-chair of the Democratic National Committee, as well as being involved in most of the presidential campaigns of the past four decades.  As a national delegate at the Democratic National Convention in 2008, Brazile consistently refrained from declaring her preferred Democratic presidential candidate.  In an interview with political satirist Stephen Colbert, Brazile stated, "Look, I'm a woman, so I like Hillary. I'm black; I like Obama.  But I'm also grumpy, so I like John McCain."  

LAURA ELLSWORTH, Field Organizer for Planned Parenthood, spoke about the ongoing war against women and their reproductive rights.  She reported that President Obama included birth control in the Affordable Care Act, but the Republicans tried to take it away.  Then there have been the Sandra Fluke & Komen for the Cure incidents.  The viciousness of the  attacks have actually benefitted Planned Parenthood by strongly increasing public support of its services and mission.  Abortion accounts for only 3% of what Planned Parenthood does.  “We’re not ashamed of it.  We’re here to be unjudgemental and to provide all health care options,” she said.  “We’re here to replace fear with facts.”  She also mentioned the state’s special legislative session.  It started when the Senate Republicans & three Democrats took over the Legislature and passed a Republican budget at the end of the regular session.  The new budget eliminated all Department of Health family planning—stripping it by 93% of its funds.  Two of the 3 Democrats who helped take over the state senate had been original co-sponsors of the Reproductive Parity Act.  In Health Care Reform implementation, there was a proactive provision that said any plan under the Affordable Care Act that covered maternity care also had to cover abortion in order to make coverage complete & fair across the spectrum.  Washington State voted this concept into law in 1991.  The recent legislative budget actions affect only low-income women, who must rely on public health care.  “We believe that just because women are poor doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t have access to all the options,” Ellsworth said.    She plans to go to a rally in Olympia Tuesday to march around the capital to Attorney General Rob McKenna’s office.  The theme will be, “Don’t rob us of our health care!”  Planned Parenthood volunteers are phone-banking every day, asking people to call the legislative hotline at 1-800-562-6000. She would like people to ask their legislators to not allow any cuts to family planning funding and to find a way to get the Reproductive Parity Act (RPA) passed.   The RPA has been proposed in House Bill 2330 and Senate Bill 6185.  Ellsworth said that Planned Parenthood wants the Legislature to use the Senate Bill.   The 49^th Legislative District has endorsed the RPA.    17^th Legislative District Representative Tim Probst originally said he’d vote for it, then voted against it.  The Republicans are trying to say it would cost money, but it is actually revenue neutral.  If it is passed, it would be the first such legislation in the entire country.  Washington voters have reconfirmed over and over that this is a pro-choice state, Ellsworth said.  A fund-raiser for Planned Parenthood Votes (its advocacy arm) will be held at noon May 2 in Seattle.  Ellsworth is trying to get a table of 10 sponsored.  You can make a donation to help bring people up who may not be able to afford it themselves if you can’t go yourself.  Contact Laura or Planned Parenthood to donate.  The luncheon speaker will be Valerie Plame, the American spy who was outed by Karl Rove and Richard Armitage, Bush Administration officials.  Tickets are $125.  The state of Idaho was recently contemplating mandatory trans-vaginal ultrasound before women could obtain abortions.  Such outlandish laws could be very traumatic, especially for victims of rape.  This is just another decision that takes it out of the hands of women and their doctors and puts it into the hands of politicians.  However, because of Planned Parenthood’s efforts in that state, it looks as if it will not pass.    

LIZ CAMPBELL, State Committee Woman from 18TH LD Talked about the War on Women.  The Republicans are also going after domestic violence.  The House Republicans don’t   want domestic violence legislation to cover immigrants or LGBT citizens.  Her daughter as made a CD called “Healing Hearts” to raise money for this cause.  They can be purchased from Liz for $10 each.  She also encourages women to wear buttons all the time to create conversations, which gives an opening to discuss politics.  She encouraged people to take several buttons, which she is bringing to every meeting.  Women make up more than 50% of voters. 

DONNA QUESNELL, Chair of the Women Democrats, spoke on her concerns about separation of church and state.  She was appalled in January to find her Catholic church passing out pamphlets proselytizing against gay marriage and contraception.  She and other progressive members continue to try to influence things in the right direction.  She also reminded members that dues are $20 per year to belong to the Women Democrats.  $5 of this amount goes to the national group and $5 to the state.    She also advised that President Obama proclaimed March as Women’s History month and called for the celebration of International Women’s Day.  Carrie added to Donna’s remarks by relaying her experience with 17^th LD Republican Senator Don Benton on Reproductive Rights Lobby Day last month.  Parks said that Benton initially told her group that passing Reproductive Rights Parity legislation was “unconstitutional” according to a lawyer that Benton had asked “to look into” the matter.  Later, Benton told the group that “a federal judge in Washington DC ruled that it was illegal.”  When asked why a federal judge would rulee on pending State legislation before it was even passed, Benton said that “the Catholic Bishops asked him to look into it.”  Parks noted that Benton’s mis-matching statements seemed to coincide with the anti-choice flyers Donna had seen being passed out at her church that same weekend.

Dan Ogden reminded people to file for Precinct Committee Officer positions during the filing period of May 14-18.  These are semi-governmental positions.  He contends that the political parties are not private clubs, because they are regulated, and PCO’s have an official governmental role.   He wrote a recent editorial in the Columbian explaining this.  Donna encouraged all activists to support both their local PCO’s and our great candidates by offering to phone bank or doorbell, or to donate money to them.  We need to help them win.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:  Donna reminded people to listen to KPOJ am 620 and to use progressivsecretary.org to send letters to their representatives.  Meet the Press and Face the Nation are also good news shows to help people stay informed.

Next Meeting:  3^rd Saturday of the month—11:30 am June 16

Respectfully Submitted by Carrie Parks, Secretary

A REVIEW:  WASHINGTON STATE FEDERATION CONVENTION

On July 22-23, Kathy Lawrence and Donna Quesnell represented the Clark County Women Democrats in Olympia at the State Federation of Democratic Women's Convention.  Besides Convention Rules, Resolutions / By-Laws and the Executive Board meeting, there were two excellent presentations:


~  NARAL - PRO=CHOICE Washington, Speaker:  Alison Mondi - Quality and Affordable Health Care for Women...She stressed that THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT gives women greater control over their own health care-- the costs are lower -- there are more affordable choices and competition

~  Re-Cap of Democratic Work by Timothy Anderson, Washington State Co-Ordinating Campaign Organizer  OFA (Organizing for America) He stressed the importance of getting our voting block back -- Single females are very important and we need to get them involved.  He praised women as being natural problem solvers.  He said further that women getting degrees is 2 to 1!

His theme:  RESPECT, EMPOWER, INCLUDE.

NOTE:  I will bring this information to our September meeting for you to view in greater detail.

 Kindly RSVP to Donna Quesnell, President, 360-694-0766 for any questions or concerns.

                                                                                                                            Sept 17, 2011 Minutes (Complete ILWU Resolution Included)

Present:  Donna Quesnell, Carrie Parks, Juanita Greenway, Celia Louderback, Lethene Parks, Sherry Warren, Susan Schwartz, Howard Leighty, Brenda Strandhagen, Anne Tomich, Donna Forsbey, Karen Bast, Andrea Wooster, Renata Rhodes, Galina Burley, Dorethea Simone, Melba Halgren, Jean Norwood, Eric Norwood, Bev McGuffin, Misa McCoy, Dan Ogden, Val Ogden, Peggy Pratt, Renata Rhodes, Lisa McCoy, Susan , Bev McGuffin, Donna Forsberg.

Guests:    Sen Craig Pridemore, 49^th LD;

Treasurer’s Report:  $506.70 balance.  Treasurer Kathy Dixon has been sick & unable to attend today.

New Business: 

Craig Pridemore spoke at today’s meeting, focusing largely on the economy.  He also announced that he’s just been asked to be the interim director of Columbia River Mental Health Services for the next few months while a new leader is sought. 

BUDGET:  The state budget picture continues to be grim.  After cutting $4.6 billion from the state budget in this year’s session, the state revenue forecast released Thursday was $1.4 billion shorter than it was last June.  State Leadership and the governor’s office are talking about doing a special session.  They may present a tax passage to the voters, but he Republicans in the Senate will probably block it.  State government employment has been reduced for two straight years, eliminating 4,700 full-time positions -- or more than 7 percent of the state's workforce . So far, two state agencies have absorbed two-thirds of all the cuts — The Department of Social and Health Services and the Department of Corrections.  DSHS has lost 2,400 full-time positions, or about 13 percent of its workforce, since 2007.

REDISTRICTING:  The committee has 2 Democrats and 2 Republicans, members from each state caucus.  It came out with 4 maps last week.  It looks like the 17^th will have to shrink a little, and the 49^th will need to add a few voters.  All 4 maps being considered so far put the 18^th District entirely within Clark County.  After redistricting, each district should have roughly 135,000 voters.  The Redistricting Committee members hope to have final map by Nov. 1.  A plan has to be submitted to the legislature for an up or down vote next year.

UPCOMING LEGISLATIVE SESSION:   Partisanship will play a major role in the upcoming session.  The Republicans think the Senate is very vulnerable to Republican takeover, and that they’ve got a good chance at the governorship.  Democrats are putting up a strong candidate in Jay Inslee, however.   Craig thinks a full gay marriage bill will come up this year.  It will pass in the Legislature, but will be more of a struggle in the Senate.  He thinks it ultimately will pass, though.

One of Craig’s issues next year will be to focus on jurisdictional issues between the state & tribal courts.  It’s a big, very complicated issue for our tribal communities.  He also wants to expand his electronic recycling bill of 2006 which required manufacturers to pay into a fund that pays for recycling electronic materials at the end of their useful lives.  His initial bill has had the direct result of recycling 100 million tons of waste and has employed 50 people at the Port of Vancouver.  Now he wants to expand it to computer peripherals, like printers and fax machines. 

ELECTIONS:  Craig & Sam Hunt are on a committee that will soon decide what to do about precinct committee officer elections.  Both parties have sued the state over the blanket primary.   The state supreme court’s last decision ruled that the way PCO’s are currently elected is unconstitutional.  A bill needs to be passed that allows PCO elections to be held at the county level.  HB1860 is a vehicle to do that.  It will be considered in the legislature next year.  The question is whether the state should pay for PCO elections or the parties should.  PCO’s have a legal function of replacing elected officials when vacancies come up.  

There are also some moderate Republican businessmen who have expressed interest in running against Jaimie Herrera-Beutler.  Craig said if we get a good candidate to run against her, the money is there to support them.

OTHER DISCUSSION:  Women Democratic chair DONNA QUESNEL made Craig an honorary member of the State Democratic Women.

Discussion from a union member in Cowlitz County said the ILWU and the company in Longview are now negotiating, and working on getting the port jobs back to the local area.  The Oregon union the company was previously using is one that isn’t even recognized by the AFL-CIO.  HOWARD LEIGHTY presented a resolution asking the Women Democrats to support the ILWU in their conflict with EGT at the Port of Longview, WA.  His resolution was passed unanimously. (Link to Complete Resolution Text)

MELBA HALGREN, member of SEIU, said her union just endorsed Sharon Wylie for 49^th District Representative.

A motion was moved and seconded to give Sharon Wyllie a donation of $100 from the Democratic Women to support her candidacy.

DORITHEA SIMONE of the Sierra Club said the coal companies want to run 20 trains per day through Clark County to send coal to China.  The problem is that it won’t give us any jobs, but it will cause massive pollution from coal dust along the way.   Coal dust has many pollutants in it, including mercury.  That many trains will also negatively impact traffic.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: 

Susan Schwartz recommended the following 3 books:

Retirement Heist: How Companies Plunder and Profit from the Nest Eggs of American Workers by Ellen Schultz

The Black Banners: The Inside Story of 9/11 and the War Against al-Qaeda by Ali H. Soufan and Daniel Freedman

"Up for Sale" The True Cost of Getting Low Prices” by Gallagher?

Howard Leighty recommends “Storms of my Grandchildren” by James E Hansen, a NASA scientist, about climate change.

Several of these books are available at the Fort Vancouver Library http://catalog.fvrl.org/

Next Meeting: 

11:30 am Saturday, Dec. 13 at Boppin Bo’s.

Respectfully Submitted by Carrie Parks, Secretary

Sat September 17, 2011
Women Democrats Meeting

The Clark County Women Democrats will gather for a no-host luncheon and
meeting, Saturday, September 17, 2010,  at 11:30 AM at Boppin' Bo's
Restaurant, 7809 N.E. Vancouver Plaza Drive, Vancouver, WA ( Next to the
former WINCO'S).

We hope to welcome several who signed our "interest list" at the Clark
County Fair!
We are fortunate to have as our

GUEST SPEAKER,
  SENATOR CRAIG PRIDEMORE.

There will be an opportunity for our questions.

We will discuss our concerns, share our ideas about supporting
Representative Sharon Wylie and other levels of activity in our
democratic efforts.

  All Democratic men and women are welcome and invited to attend this
very informative and important meeting.

Kindly RSVP to Donna Quesnell 360-694-0766.

ALERT:  "Bad Things happen When Good People Do Nothing" 

This should be our theme.

~  Please get involved in helping to re-elect State Rep.Sharon Wylie. 

~  Contact your PCO and offer to help doorbell

~  Contact Rep Wylie's office and offer to help out

~  Attend "MOVE-ON's" demonstrations on Wednesday's in front of Rep. Jaime Herrera Beutler's office (Officers Row) - 'Howard House' at noon on Wednesdays ...See You there!

CLARK COUNTY WOMEN DEMOCRATS MINUTES

 from June 18, 2011—11:30am  Boppin’ Bo’s

The meeting was conducted by Program Chair, Juanita Greenway. 

Welcome and Good Morning

The meeting was called to order.

Officers were introduced.

~   Kathy Dixon was not present so visitors interested in membership were asked to  leave their information on Donna Quesell’s Contact Form (About Clark County Women). Kathy Dixon will contact you.

~  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

~  Visitors were introduced:  Van and Dan Ogden, Hon. Jim Moeller, House of Representatives, Hon. Sharon Wylie, current State House of Representative legislator and candidate in the November, 2011& 2012 elections; and, Kathy Lawrence, chair of the Clark County Democrats.

~  NEW VISITORS:  Susan Schwartz (former chair of the Clark County Democrats), Dorethea Simone, Susan Wagenblast, Lee Johannes, and Temple Lintz, probable future office candidate in Clark County; and, Kathleen Guy, a candidate for leadership training at Georgetown University this summer.  She requested a donation for her trip to DC and did receive one from attendees.

 ~  SPEAKERS:  Sharon Wylie talked about her campaign kick-off, upcoming events and her aspirations for WA State, most importantly jobs.  Volunteer Job Interest Survey forms were distributed to members (five were collected back indicating willingness to work for Rep. Wylie’s campaign).  Contact information for Rep. Wylie is swylie2@gmail.com , campaign manager and contact, 823-6300.

 ~  NEW BUSINESS:  Delegates, Kathy Lawrence and LaVerne Nelson attended the National Federation of Democratic Women and Kathy reported. 

 ~  Registration for the upcoming State Federation of Democratic Women’s Convention (June 24-25, Olympia, WA) was discussed. The convention was later rescheduled for August.

 ~  Kathy Lawrence reported and commented on the Jefferson Jackson Dinner, very successful, 480 attendees.  Thanks were extended to the Democratic Women for assistance with procurement of auction items, to the Dem. Women for their donations, to those who worked on set-up and take-down at the event; and, to those who attended the dinner.

 ~  Juanita Greenway talked about the Countywide Volunteer Database and the Volunteer Job Survey Form, and those who continue working on it:  Jamie Hurly (County Volunteer Coordinator), Maureen Gustafson (Systems Development Coordinator), Candy Bonneville.  Volunteer Job forms were distributed.

Juanita also discussed Dennis Kampe and his committee’s PCO Recruitment plan to include: A Mentoring Plan and training.  Dennis is the Candidate Recruitment Co-ordinator for the 18^th District. Those wanting to become a candidate in the 18^th LD should contact Dennis at denniskampe@live.com.

 ~  In place of Carrie Parks, Secretary, who was absent, Juanita made a report on the DEFEAT of the Home Rule Effort and the energetic efforts Carrie made to publicize the facts and issues involved throughout all the Clark County LDs.  Also discussed were the attendance and the strong negative input from those who protested the approval of the Home Rule Charter at the Commissioners’ meeting in June.

 A drawing was made for three door prizes.

A motion was made to adjourn and seconded.

 ~ Submitted by Juanita Greenway

 ~  The next meeting of the Clark County Women Democrats will be:

DATE:  Sat September 17th, 2011.

TIME:   11:30 AM

PLACE:  Boppin'Bo's

Clark County Women's Democratic Club to Meet

The Clark County Women Democratic Club will gather for a no-host luncheon and meeting, Sat. June 18, 2011, at 11:30 AM at Boppin' Bo's Restaurant, 7809 N.E. Vancouver Plaza Drive, Vancouver, WA ( Next to the former WINCO'S).
The guest speaker, and member of the Women Democrats, is 49th Representative, Sharon Wylie, who is running to retain her office in 2011. 

Our business meeting will include information about the recent National Confederation of Women Democrats' Convention in Washington, D.C.,  from CCDC President, Kathy Lawrence and Lavern Nelson, both delegates.

The agenda for the June 24, 25, 2011, convention of the Washington State Federation of Democratic Women in Olympia, WA  will be discussed.  We are encouraging members to attend.

Workshops are planned -
    2010 Election and re-cap of Party Work
    Re-cap on the legislative session
    Women's Reproductive Freedom

Also, on the agenda, will be action on Emily's List Partnership, and Women's Vote Projects 
 
Several other items of business, along with our efforts and future goals will be on the agenda - i.e.,
    1.  Working for our candidates
    2.  Supporting Health Care Reforms
    3.  Our level of activity / Assisting our PCO's

 All legislators and Democratic men and women are welcome and invited to attend this very informative and important meeting.

Kindly RSVP to Donna Quesnell 360-694-0766.


 

March 19, 2011 Minutes

Present:  Juanita Greenway, Kathy Lawrence, Carrie Parks, Pat and Charlie McClement, Kathy Dixon, Al and Iris Swindell, Susan Schwartz, Rosalie Gottlieb, Celia Louderback, Vicki Work, Rev. Tom Tucker, Laura Ellsworth, Jean and Eric Norwood, Jane Young, Gail Giesler, Mary La Husen, Jamie Hurley
New members:  Jamie Hurly, Gail Giesler, Mary La Husen

Treasurer’s Report:  Kathy Dixon gave the treasurer’s report:  As of the last meeting, we began with a balance of $444.70.  Since then, we raised $126 in dues, $78 from our Christmas auction, and $15 in cash donations.  Total current balance is $657.70 .   Pat McClement made an in-kind donation of $12.95 for the plants that were raffled off at this morning’s meeting.  By May 1, we will have to pay approximately $180 to the Washington State Federation of Democratic Women.  They get $10 for each of our local dues-paying members from the $20 we collect.

New Business:  Kathy Dixon announced that on Feb 24, the U.S. Catholic Bishops threw their moral weight behind the pro-union protesters in Wisconsin, saying that the rights of workers do not go away just because of difficult economic times.

Vicki Work announced that Organizing for America, which promotes the president’s agenda, is sponsoring a women calling women in honor of the one year anniversary of the passage of the Affordable Health Care Act.  Is asking that people bring their own cell phones to call with.  Calls are being made Wednesday, March 23 from 4-8 pm at the Carpenter’s Hall on McLoughlin Blvd.

Susan Schwartz announced that BOB FERGUSON, a member of the King County Council, has announced his candidacy against Rob McKenna for State Attorney General.  That got a big round of applause, as McKenna has wasted taxpayer money suing the federal government over the Affordable Health Care Act, and is currently trying to undermine union rights.

Celia Louderback announced that last Tuesday over 75 people demonstrated on the corner by the Fort Vancouver Library on behalf of the unions and workers of Wisconsin.  She encouraged people to come down every Thursday from 4:30-5:30 to show support for their favorite liberal cause.   She has signs she’ll share on a variety of causes.

Al Swindell, the only Democrat on the Woodland City Council, announced he is selling tickets for the 36th annual Give ‘Em Hell Harry Dinner.  It will start at 5 pm May 14 at the Cowlitz Regional Center at the fairgrounds in Longview.  Take the Kelso exit and watch for the signs.  Tickets are $35.  Contact him at 841-8239 for tickets.  Proceeds support the Cowlitz County Democratic Party and candidates.
Iris Swindell was selling tickets for 2 pm Sunday April 17 at Red Lion in Kelso for the Women’s Suffragette Tea and Style Show.  Tickets are $16.  Many people wear red hats to the event.  Call Iris at 841-8239 if you want to buy a ticket.

Guest Speakers:  Laura Ellsworth of Planned Parenthood spoke about the efforts in Congress to defund Planned Parenthood.  The good news is that over 800,000 people have shown their support for the organization by signing petitions, writing to their legislators, attending rallies, donating funds etc.  Planned Parenthood has centers in Vancouver, Porltand and Longview. 

The Federal House of Representatives has passed a budget extension to fund federal government operations through April 8.  This extension does NOT contain the Pence amendment, which is an attempt to defund Planned Parenthood. It was named after Republican Mike Pence of Indiana, who has been trying to undermine Planned Parenthood funding since 2007.   Though his amendment failed, there is a determined effort to continue to introduce similar amendments.  As long as the budget is not settled, the attacks on Planned Parenthood will continue.

The Senate did defeat HR1, and the Title X cuts, which would have eliminated family planning funds.  Taking funds away from Planned Parenthood is not really a budget cut, because the money will still be spent elsewhere.  It just takes money away from Planned Parenthood.  Local advocates are going to call out our local Republican Congresswoman, Jaime Herrerra, who said cutting these funds won’t harm local patients.   She apparently doesn’t understand that Planned Parenthood is the only provider of Title X family planning services in Clark County.  Title X has never gone to pay for abortions.  It has paid for health care services to low income women who couldn’t afford it otherwise.  Services provided by Planned Parenthood include birth control, vasectomies, sexuality education, and testing for sexually transmitted diseases.  Women are told about ALL their options, not just the ones we want them to have. More and more, Laura has been seeing women in their 40’s coming for family planning care as they lose their health benefits.

The good news is that the Washington and Oregon state budgets have retained family planning funds in their budgets.  However, as our legislators continue to work on budget cutting, we will need to watch carefully.  One thing to stress with lawmakers is that cutting Planned Parenthood services actually will cost MORE than keeping the services as is.  It would take only 115 unintended pregnancies in one year to cost the state as much money as the funds it spends on Planned Parenthood.  Without the services, it is estimated there will be 800 unintended pregnancies per year statewide.  96% of Planned Parenthood funding goes to family planning.  Only 3% ($7500/year) is used for abortion. 

Laura encouraged people to make sure that people used the word “legal” in front of “abortion” and asked if women should go to jail for having one.  (Most people say no to that question.)  She encourages people to sign up on the PP Action section of their web site.  She can forward letter templates to anyone who is interested.  She would like to see letters submitted every week to all our local papers.  Faye, the letter to the editor screener for the Columbian, seems to be anti-choice, and will refuse any letters that are the same as other letters, so it is good to start with the templates, but alter them with your own wording. 
Laura can be contacted at Laura.Ellsworth@ppcw.org or 693-3676.

The second speaker, Rev. Tommy Tucker, said he recently retired from the Vancouver Heights United Methodist Church.  Is a member of the Interfaith Alliance working to bring churches of all faiths together.  There are a number of faith groups who strongly support reproductive choice.  He also participates in a panel on reproductive rights at OHSU for medical students every year.   He recently joined local democratic women for  the last lobbying trip to Olympia to advocate for continued family planning funding.  Rev. Tucker has been a Democrat and union supporter all his life.  He’s also been a life-long supporter of Planned Parenthood.  He said he’s old enough to remember the stories from the time before abortion was legal.  It’s the poor, the people who don’t have any other options, who suffer from making it illegal.  Wealthy people can afford to travel where they need to go to find one.   He personally would like to see abortion be rare, but has seen situations first-hand where abortion needed to be one of the choices on the table, and ended up being the right choice.  

One of the most effective things he feels that people can do to support continued legalized abortion is to find the internal fortitude to have conversations with your family, friends and neighbors about the issue, and to make sure they get the facts.  Personal stories and conversation is what convinces others more than anything else.

Announcements:  Juanita Greenway talked about attending a recent pro-choice march in Portland, and how people there had signs up protesting Rep. Jaimie Herrerra’s vote to cut family planning funding.
She also read information from Sheila Walsh-Guenther, long-time member of the Democratic Women.  She said she moved to Seattle after experiencing a recent severe illness.  Treasurer Kathy Dixon will send her a sympathy card on behalf of our group.

Kathy Lawrence announced that the Jefferson-Jackson Day Dinner will be Saturday, June 11at 5 pm.   Local Senator, Craig Pridemore, will be the MC.  The theme is “Democrats:  The Good Guys.” She has also invited Jay Inslee to speak.  Tickets can be purchased through 60 table captains.  We are hoping that the Democratic Women can get one table filled from the Democratic Women.  If you are interested in attending the dinner, please email Donna at dquesnel@pacifier.com.  Tickets are $65 each.

Kathy Lawrence and Laverne Nelson will be going to Washington, DC to the National Democratic Women’s Convention soon.

Next Meeting: June 18, 2011

Respectfully Submitted by Carrie Parks, Secretary

  CELEBRATING ... Voting Rights for Women
  August 15, 2010

  The Washington State Constitution was permanently amended to grant women
  the right to vote, ten years before the rest of our  country's women had
  that right!  This was in 1910.

  Clark County Democratic Women are inviting both men and women to join in
  our celebration.  We will gather at 11:00AM in Esther Short Park (by the
  clock).  Participants are encouraged to wear period costumes and
  hats but, also, styles through the years, and jeans of course!

  We will carry a banner, parade through the park singing the Suffrage
  song, "Bread and Roses" - perhaps singing it again, at the market
  entrance.  After we disperse into the farmers market, we’ll grab a snack, and
  shop.  We hope you will join us!

  The words to “Bread and Roses” will be provided, but if you wish to
  rehearse beforehand, Google:  “Each Little World Bread & Roses The
  Song”, or use [Link to song]

  You will get the a  history of the poem  set to music and the lyrics.When
  clicking, "here," Judy Collins sings, "Bread and Roses." (Beautiful!)
  Scroll down and sing along!

  Let's Celebrate, August 15^th, 11AM!

  Contact:  Donna Quesnell  360-694-0766