05.30.08
Posted in Meeting Minutes at 11:52 am by M Beauregard
Greater Heights Democrats Monthly Meeting 5/10/2008
· Recognize Elected Representatives/ Candidates/ and New Members
· Treasurers Report: No report.
· Speaker(s):
· Diane Trautman, Candidate for Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector: Ms. Trautman discussed her campaign and stated that it is important to get citizens involved in the election process. She stated she would bring ethical leadership to the office to include accountability, accessibility and authenticity. If elected she pledged to increase outreach to the community – particularly to veterans and senior citizens to inform them of available exemptions to property taxes and outreach to youth to encourage them to register to vote. She further stated that if elected she will appoint a chief appraiser to oversee a fair appraisal process for both residential and commercial properties.
She invited attendees to sign up to get email updates about her campaign. She also asked that if anyone wanted to help her campaign they could host a house party, invite her to community events and/or make a campaign contribution.
· Announcements & Upcoming Events:
· Veterans for Peace and Oil Patch Dems: flag display in Hermann Park, Memorial Day Weekend; for more information contact Jim Rine, jmrine@hotmail.com. Volunteers are needed to help place the flags and read the names of the fallen veterans.
· Harris County Democratic Party: HCDP is in need of volunteers to help enter data about primary voters; call party headquarters if interested in helping to determine hours they need volunteers.
· State Convention 2008 – June 5th – 7th. Austin TX
· July 4th Parade with Lindale Park Civic Club: Mary Kay Green made a motion, which was seconded, that the club participates in the parade. The motion passed. Kevin Hoffman will get information about the parade.
· July 4th GHDC party (TBA): Phyllis Qualls will chair a planning committee. Jimmy Bordwine, Ed Gonzalez and Max Beauregard volunteered to serve on the committee.
· No GHDC meeting in July
· National Convention 2008 – Aug 25th – 29th Denver CO
· Next meeting Saturday, June 14, 2008, 9:00 – 10:30 am
· Speaker(s):
o David Mincberg, Candidate for Harris County Judge
o Bill Kelly, General Campaign Manager, Harris County Democratic Party Coordinated Campaign
Permalink
05.14.08
Posted in Meeting Minutes at 5:14 pm by M Beauregard
Greater Heights Democratic Club
Monthly Meeting
4/12/2008
· Recognize Elected/Representatives/Candidates: Those in attendance introduced themselves.
· Approval of the Minutes: A copy of the minutes from the last meeting was available for those who wanted to review them.
· Treasurer’s Report: Vickie Bellow reported that the club has $1,982.50 in the treasury.
· Speaker(s): Topic Area SD Conventions
· SD 6 – Allan Jamail: Mr. Jamail was introduced by Kevin Hoffman. Mr. Jamail stated he is a member of the Senate District state Democratic Party Executive Committee. He described the make-up and duties of the Executive Committee. He also stated that he served as the Chair of the Senate District 6 Credentials Committee at the recent Senate District Convention. There was much discussion regarding the party’s primary/caucus model. Many of those in attendance stated they are dissatisfied with the process and asked Mr. Jamail to convey the message to the Executive Committee that it reconsiders the model. Most stated they prefer the “one person, one vote” of a primary only. Mr. Jamail said that it will be up to the state Rules Committee to discuss any changes to the current system. He extended an invitation to members to contact him if they have complaints or concerns and he will take the message to the state party.
There also was discussion about how to develop and convey a unifying message to the public that it will be important to support the Democratic ticket in November regardless of who the Presidential nominee is. There were reports that some are stating they do not plan to participate in the election if their candidate is not the nominee.
· SD 15 – Lenora Sorola–Pohlman: Mr. Hoffman reported that Ms. Sorola-Pohlman was unable to attend the meeting.
· Announcements & Upcoming Events:
· HCDP meeting: May 1st Precinct Chair Swearing In. If you would like to serve as a precinct chair and/or election judge please let us know.
· GHDC Yard Sale: Sat May 3, 2008
· Cinco de Mayo Parade: Sat May 3, 2008; for more information contact Janie Reyes, 502 Highland, Houston 77009, 713.862.6121.
· Veterans for Peace and Oil Patch Dems: flag display in Hermann Park Memorial Day Weekend; for more information contact Jim Rine, jmrine@hotmail.com. Mary Kay Green made a motion that the Club donate $100 in sponsorship of the Veterans for Peace flag display; Max Beauregard amended the motion to increase the amount to $150. Vickie Bellow seconded the amended motion; motion passed.
· State Convention 2008: June 5th – 7th , Austin TX
· National Convention 2008: Aug 25th – 29th , Denver CO
· HCDP needs office volunteers: Call Jamaal at (713) 802-0085 for details.
· If you would like to sit on any of the HCDP’s standing committees please contact your SD chair or SD member before May 1st so that your name can be added to the list.
· SD 6 Chair: Janie Reyes, phone number (713)862-6121, email jr4700@aol.com
· SD 15 Rep: Lenora Sorola–Pohlman, phone (713)861-7766, email Lenora.Pohlman@HRH.COM
Permalink
03.14.08
Posted in Meeting Minutes at 5:16 pm by M Beauregard
Greater Heights Democratic Club
Monthly Meeting
March 8, 2008
9:00 – 10:30 am
Chatter’s Restaurant
The meeting was called to order by Kevin Hoffman, President, at 9:20 am.
Mr. Hoffman announced that the first order of business was to elect a secretary. Max Beauregard nominated Phyllis Qualls. Mr. Hoffman asked for other nominees from the floor; there were none. There was a motion to elect Ms. Qualls by acclamation; motion passed.
New members and visitors were welcomed to the meeting and asked to introduce themselves.
Mark Eisenberg and Larry Weiman introduced themselves; they are in the run-off election 4/8/08 to be the Democratic nominee for the 80th Civil District Court.
A representative of State Representative Rick Noriega’s office thanked attendees for their support in electing Rep. Noriega to be the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate.
Blaise Mladenka announced that the club will have a yard sale Saturday, 4/8/08, 7:00 am – 4:00 pm, location to be determined. Mr. Mladenka distributed flyers announcing the yard sale and a sign-in sheet for those willing to volunteer to help with the yard sale. He asked that the announcement be distributed to solicit donations for the sale as well as inform the public of the sale.
Mr. Hoffman announced that the club has an entry in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 3/15/08. He asked that those interested in participating sign in and provide contact information so they can be notified of the parade details when they become known. The parade begins at noon and those participating were asked to arrive at 11:00 am to help decorate.
Max Beauregard gave a presentation regarding the primary results, comparing several races by precincts, as well as his interpretation of some of the data. He noted that over 400,000 people voted in the Harris County Democratic primary and that the 874 precincts had been consolidated to 367 polling locations.
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee thanked members for their support of the Democratic ticket in the 3/4/08 primary and reminded all that it is important to maintain the momentum and excitement through the November elections. She reported that the Department of Justice has announced an investigation of the Harris County Jail system. She urged members to write letters to Mayor Bill White in support of restoration of the program run by the city to provide housing repairs to low income senior citizens. She noted that she is running for re-election in November and asked for the support of those present.
Leslie Taylor introduced herself and stated she is a judicial candidate in the November election.
Adrian Garcia, the Democratic nominee for Harris County Sheriff, thanked attendees for supporting him in the primary and urged all to continue the momentum through November.
Announcements:
Mr. Hoffman stated that the club has made a commitment to assist in voter registration efforts and held two such drives leading up to the primary. If enough people are interested in serving as voter registrars, he will arrange for training.
Houston Super Neighborhood 22 is sponsoring “Wild Day ‘08” 4/26/08; it will be held on Washington Avenue. Voter registration will be available during the event.
Mr. Hoffman stated there are some complaining they are no longer receiving club emails; he reminded everyone to remember to update email address changes. Many have been dropped due to the change from Houston.rr. addresses to Comcast.
Treasurer’s Report: Vicki Bellow reported that the club’s treasury has $2,067.74.
There being no further business, Mr. Hoffman adjourned the meeting at 10:45 am
Permalink
01.15.08
Posted in Meeting Minutes at 1:49 am by M Beauregard
GHDC Meeting Minutes, 1/12/08
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Kevin Hoffman, our new GHDC club President, called the meeting to order at 9 AM. He thanked everyone for coming out on this cool, crisp, and beautiful day. Our former President, Max Beauregard, could not attend this morning’s meeting, because he had a prior work obligation at Houston Community College.
Harris County Justice of the Peace David Patronella swore in the GHDC club officers for 2008: Kevin Hoffman, President; Vicki Bellow, Treasurer; and Henry Weissborn, Secretary.
Jessica Farrar, State Representative for District 148, gave us an update of her 8th legislative term. She said that she has always stood up for her constituents, and has never been complicit with the Republican leadership. She mentioned that she founded the Environmental Caucus and the Women’s Caucus. She reported that, as legislator with the Environmental Caucus, she filed various bills, and, "of course, none of the bills ever got a hearing". She said she has been working with Councilman Adrian Garcia in an effort to curb Houston cantinas. She noted that House Speaker Tom Craddick came within 3 votes of being ousted in the last legislative session. She commented, "I think we can do it next time".
Harold Landrineau, a former President of the Heights Democrats, announced that he is running for Justice of the Peace.
Diane Trautman announced her candidacy for Harris County Tax Assessor. She is currently a Professor of Education at Stephen F. Austin University, and said she is the only female in her race. She said she is a "family person", who "learned all of her values and ethics from her family". She previously gained financial background from years of service in the banking industry. She eventually moved into the field of education. She declared that the Republican Tax Assessor, Carl Bettancourt, "is not a friend of education". She said that he has "worked publicly against funding for education". She called Bettancourt "the most dangerous politician in Texas, and perhaps the nation". She said he "is in the mode of Karl Rove in every way", and said her race "will be a tough race, no doubt about that".
Kevin Hoffman reported that the annual Chevron Marathon will take place tomorrow morning. The race will commence at 7 AM, and the runners will proceed through the Heights. The event will conclude at noon.
He announced plans to have a GHDC fundraiser garage sale next month, and asked us to start gathering items to contribute.
David Walensky announced that he is running for the 152nd District Court. He is a Precinct Chair, and said he "has been in the grassroots working in the treches for the Party for 30 years".
Ruben Guerrero announed his candidacy for the 117th Criminal District Court.
Jim Wrotenberry announced that he is running for the 125th Civil District Court.
Debbie Kerner, a former President of the Greater Meyerland Democratic Club, announced her candidacy for the Harris County Board of Trustees, Position 5. She is a speech pathologist, who works in private practice. She has had a long career serving children with special needs in Special Education.
Mark Eisenberg announced his candidacy for the 80th Civil District Court.
Fred Cook announced that he is running for the 215th Civil District Court. He said he has 25 years experience. His web site is www.cook4judge.com.
Larry Weiman described himself as "your returning Democratic candidate". In 2003, he challenged a 3-term Republican judge, and came very close to winning. He got 48% of the vote that year. He said we needs just 2% more in order to win this year.
Mekisha Murray said that she is running for the 351st Criminal District Court. Her website is www.murray4judge.com.
Bruce Mosier said that he is a candidate for Judge of the 190th Civil District Court. He announced that he will have a campaign fundraiser soon in Kobain, the club at 33 Waugh Drive that is located behind Chatter’s Restaurant. The details will be provided shortly.
Kevin Hoffman commented, "that pretty much concludes our presentations from the candidates this morning".
When someone recommended that it would be advisable to just vote the straight ticket "D" in upcoming elections, Mary Kay Green retorted that it would be better when voting to punch each individual race on the ballot because of concerns about ballot integrity. She said she would feel more secure in believing that the votes will really be counted.
Vicki Bellow related the Treasurer’s Report that we have $2,282.58 in the bank.
Jim Dougherty, the Democratic candidate for District Attorney in 2000, spoke on behalf of C.O. ("Clarence" Bradford, this year’s candidate for District Attorney. He gave a "personal plug" for Clarence, who is a former Chief of the Houston Police.
Kevin Hoffman adjourned the meeting at 10:15 AM.
Henry Weissborn
Permalink
10.14.07
Posted in GHDC Blog, Meeting Minutes at 3:29 am by M Beauregard
We attended a special, complimentary breakfast meeting at the Spanish Flower Restaurant. It was a meet-and-greet hosted by State Representative Jessica Farrar (www.jessicafarrar.org) for the Precinct Chairs in District 148 and for the Greater Heights Democratic Club (G.H.D.C.). We ate breakfast in the room in the left rear section of the restaurant.
Jessica Farrar called the meeting to order at 9:30 AM. She asked us to have a moment of silence to honor some a longtime activists and volunteers for Heights Dems Democrats who passed away recently:
Martha Diaz, Precinct 2 Chair for 40 years http://www.ghdc.org/2007/10/10/in-memoriam/
Bob Mercer, (Linda Mercer’s father, both of Cottage Grove subdivision), and
Bill Buie, who manned the phones diligently for GOTV for the Melissa Noriega Campaign in May http://www.ghdc.org/2007/10/15/in-memorium-bill-buie-longtime-activist-and-volunteer-with-heights-democrats/
Bill Buie’s life partner for 23 years, Bob Rogers, is going through a difficult time, as is E.I. Smith, who is battling all finds of serious illnesses. E.I.’s wife, Irene, and daughter, Vera, were in attendance with their support for the Club.
Farrar announced that Halloween parties sponsored by elected officials will take place this year at Moody Park and Proctor Plaza to provide a safe haven for neighborhood kids.
She said that it has been quite a challenge lately to fight against Republicans in the tough climate that we are in. She asked us to consider "how hard are the fights we fight, and how corrupt the people we fight against". She jokingly referred to her efforts to stave them off as "guerrilla warfare". As part of an ongoing campaign to educate voters, she has formed the Women’s Health and Environmental Caucuses. She is engaged in a struggle to get people involved in the CHIP program. She commented that, contrary to popular misconception, "CHIP is not mostly for poor kids, but for kids who have both parents working". She talked about the insidious influence of the petrochemical industry, which, through its paid lobbyists in the Texas Chemical Council, is effectively blocking pro-environmental legislation. She reported that she has been working lately with some moderate Republicans, those "who believe that science matters", in an effort to pass some stem cell research legislation. She reminded us that "elections matter".
She has been fighting Governor Perry on the immigration issue. He is spending millions of dollars on "border security". It turns out that they haven’t caught anybody. Instead, the money is being used to pay off local sheriffs. She said that Bob Perry and a handful of other wealthy builders are cashing in under the leadership of Tom Craddick in the Texas House. They were successful in using their influence to sneak through some legislation that enacted the "Texas Residential Construction Committee", a piece of legislation that gives builders immunity from any kind of lawsuit, and orders that any complaints about home construction will get funneled to the committee, which is staffed entirely by wealthy builders. She keeps working to increase awareness of the corruption of Tom Craddick, and said that during the last Speaker’s election the opposition came within just 3 votes of kicking him out.
She said that she is working on the passage of some animal cruelty legislation, and on an effort to curb the death penalty. The anti-death penalty effort has been helped by increasing questions about the fairness of the criminal justice system, and by various "Innocence Projects" across the nation. She was instrumental in passing legislation to limit the enrollment in Pre-K classes statewide to 18 students per class. She was instrumental in passing a law to require health insurance companies to pay for reconstructive surgery after mastectomies.
On a personal note, she is currently enrolled in her 8th week of law school, and is working toward her law degree. She said that this effort will help to make her a more effective legislator.
She introduced HISD employee Rebecca Flores, who spoke on behalf of Dr. Abelardo Saavedra, the Superintendent of Schools, about the upcoming bond proposal for new schools and upgrades on the November ballot. She said, "We’ve had a bit of controversy lately on the bond issue". She reported that the activist Quannel X recently made a very derogatory comment about Dr. Saavedra that was published in the local paper. She commented that "we did very well in the bond upgrade that passed in 2002". Since then, "we’ve had a huge increase in students passing the TAKS test". She urged everyone "to take out the politics, and do what’s best for our kids". She noted that HISD schools have had declining enrollments in recent years. She said that part of the reason is that teachers have been moving to the suburbs, which are getting support for their bonds. She declared that passage of the bond proposal will help to plug the teacher drain.
For a complete list of the bond projects and details about financing the proposal, go to www.houstonisd.org and click on HISD Bond Proposal 2007, or visit www.hisdbond.com or call (713) 621-4003.
Max Beauregard stressed the importance of studying the 16 proposed Texas Constitutional Amendments on the ballot. For more information on the proposed amendments, the Texas House has the pros and cons of each one listed. Representative Scott Hochberg has this information posted on his website, www.scotthochberg.com or details can be reviewed from Leagues of Women’s Voters site, link on the left: http://www.lwvhouston.com
Jessica Farrar thanked her staff members Isaiah "Ike” Warner, Legislative Director; Lillian Ortiz, Chief of Staff; Omar Enriquez, Community Liaison; Max Beauregard, Community Liaison; and, Diane Mosier, Community Liaison. She also thanked Bruce Mosier, and said, "with Diane Mosier, you get Bruce".
She thanked us for our work. She closed the meeting at 11:30 AM.
Henry Weissborn
Permalink
09.10.07
Posted in Meeting Minutes at 3:12 pm by M Beauregard
Our President, Max Beauregard, was out participating in HISD’s 4th Annual "Reach Out to Drop Outs" walk, an effort to encourage Houston students to stay in school, so our Vice-President, Kevin Hoffman, chaired the meeting.
Diane Mosier, a former club President, spoke first. She said that she is currently working as a volunteer coordinator for the local team of Democratic judicial candidates, who are campaigning to take Harris County back in 2008. Her husband, Bruce Mosier, is going to be one of the candidates in that cycle. She said, "We will have some contested judicial primary races in the next Democratic Primary. We haven’t had any of those in a long time. We are certain that the Republican opposition is getting very nervous". A number of the local Democratic judicial candidates announced their candidacies at the meeting. Some of the other candidates who were in attendance were Bob Schaffer; R. K. Sandill (www.sandill4judge.com): Fred Cook (www.cook4judge.com); Shawna Reagin www.reagin4judge.com and Robert Hinojosa, a former Family Court judge who lost his post in the Republican sweep of 1994.
A mother whose daughter attends Harvard Elementary School in the Heights announced an upcoming benefit fundraiser for the school, that will be held on November 3, and will feature the local "world groove" music group Moodafaruka (www.moodafaruka.com).
Maureen Haver, the Canvas Director for the statewide grassroots group Texans Together (www.texanstogether.org), talked about her organization, and the work that it is doing in the Houston area. She said that she is engaged in a variety of local mobilizing activities. She can be reached at maureen.haver@gmail.com and 832-641-2882.
Texans Together is a 501(c)(3) organizations that was founded this year with the goal of building a strong grassroots movement that educates and mobilizes citizens to fight for economic opportunity. The local office is located at 411 Cavalcade, and can be reached at (713) 782-8833 or info@texanstogether.org.
Texans Together is putting a lot of resources into organizing minority-majority areas like Aldine and Spring Branch that are currently represented by Republicans. They hope to change that. Another constituency on which they are focusing is the Hurricane Katrina evacuees. HCDP Chairman Gerry Birnberg noted that "a high concentration of them has settled in Precinct 133". Texans Together recently canvassed 7,000 homes in the Aldine and Spring Branch areas, and is conducting a massive voter registration drive. They work together locally with the grassroots group Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now ( www.ACORN.org ) and the Houston Area Table coalition. The Houston Area Table meets monthly at the upper Kirby Building at 3015 Richmond.
Melissa Noriega is running again for the Houston City Council At-Large Position 3 seat. Our club voted last spring during the first round of voting to endorse her in that round, and we voted to endorse her again in this cycle provided that she is not opposed by any candidates who are sustaining members of the Democratic Party. Her web site is www.melissanoriega.com
Kevin J. Hoffman is a candidate for the Houston Community System College Board of Trustees District 1 position. We tentatively voted to endorse him also as long as we determine after further investigation that he is not opposed by any candidates who are sustaining members of the Democratic Party. He can be reached at kevin4hccs@yahoo.com
Vicki Bellow presented the Treasurer’s Report that we have $1,843.58 in the bank.
Kevin Hoffman adjourned the meeting at 10:30 AM.
Henry Weissborn
Permalink
06.09.07
Posted in Meeting Minutes at 8:35 am by M Beauregard
Max Beauregard called the meeting to order at 9 AM. We met at Kobain’s, the bar behind Chatter’s, because this morning we had a special book-signing and lecture event with Melinda Henneberger, the author of “If They Only Listened To Us: What Women Voters Want Politicians to Hear”. He commented, "this morning we have a wonderful day and set-up with 4 quality speakers". Max announced some special guests in attendance. Associate Judge Leta Parks; Isaiah Warner, legislative aide to State Representative Jessica Farrar; and, City Councilman Ron Green, his wife, and son.
Sondra Wygal, President of the Texas Young Democrats, spoke first. She announced 2 upcoming fundraisers for her organization. The first, a fundraiser for the Texas Young Democrats leadership fund, will take place at the Adam Mark Hotel in Dallas from July 18- 21. The majority of the Democratic Presidential Contenders will speak at the convention. Volunteer training will be part of the event. Registration costs $60. The web site is www.YDADallas2007.0rg. She mentioned that membership in the Texas Young Democrats open to any Democrat between the ages of 14 and 40. Max Beauregard commented that they have "a very loose and liberal interpretation of the word “young”. Shondra responded, "yes, we did raise the age".
She announced an upcoming conference of National Liberal Youth. John Edwards is already confirmed to speak at the conference. Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, and Bill Richardson are tentatively scheduled, but not yet confirmed.
Max Beauregard announced that GHDC will be marching alongside the ROADWomen in the Pride Parade. Bob Scamardo, who is President of the Houston Equal Rights Alliance (HERA), spoke next. He said that the volunteers for the Pride Parade will get t-shirts in exchange for committing to work 2-hour shifts.
Jen Bryan, a member of HERA, discussed the Voter ID Project. HERA, in conjunction with GLBT, is conducting the largest voter registration and Voter ID Project in its history. They are seeking 100 volunteers (www.houstonera.com).
Max Beauregard said our contingent in the Pride Parade will gather at 7 PM at Lanier Middle School. The parade will start at 9 PM. He said that we have been asked by the Pride Committee to contribute $100 for the parade. HCDP was the recipient last year of a community service award from the Pride Committee.
He mentioned that gospel and soul singer Candi Staton will perform later this month at a Juneteeth Celebration, that will be hosted by former State Rep Al Edwards (www.candi-staton.com). He announced that Mayor Bill White will be the keynote speaker at an Environmental Summit in the University Center at the University Center Main Campus tomorrow.
The Harris County Republican Party has a defamatory video on the internet, which attacks all of the Democrats serving in city government. It is available on You Tube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDBw-Q8NHVw The slanderous, scare-tactic propaganda video, which is paid for by HCRP TV (Republican Party), urges voters to not support Melissa Noriega. The clip purportedly "stars" "Team Noriega" (Rick and Melissa) and shows footage of them, Annise Parker, Carol Alvarado, Bill White, Mayor Bill White, and Sheila Jackson Lee, and is accompanied by scary music with screams. Ron Green noted that the current composition of City Council is 8 Democrats and 6 Republicans. He said, "we’ll be in even better shape if Melissa wins on Saturday. We’ll have 9 Democrats and 6 Republicans". The last day of early voting in the run-off is Tuesday.
David Robinson, who is Chair of Precinct 57, noted that election workers make just $6 an hour for an exhausting day of work.
Max Beauregard said that early voting takes place at Moody Park, which is located near Fulton and I-45. He recommended that we vote early there, because you can generally get in and get out pretty quick.
Joe Jennings said that he is also a precinct chair. He reported that Dennis Kucinich has submitted an amendment to impeach Vice-President Dick Cheney for helping to start the war with Iraq without provocation, and for falsifying and fabricating evidence in order to do so. He started a discussion over whether to enlist Sheila Jackson Lee’s support of the amendment to impeach Dick Cheney.
Leta Parks pointed out that the mere act of lying, if it wasn’t done under oath, is not a "high crime and misdemeanor", and is thus not grounds for impeachment. A heated discussion ensued.
Referring to the Iraq War, Joe Jennings accused Dick Cheney of being the "brains of the operation". Max Beauregard expressed concern about whether a quorum was present at the meeting. He said the procedural issue is whether we had enough paid membership in attendance that morning. He wanted to know whose membership was paid, and who’s not paid.
Mary Kay Green asked for further discussion. Leta Parks said she has a question about whether Dick Cheney lied under oath. Joe Jennings pointed out that the Detroit City Council recently passed a resolution in favor of Kucinich’s call to impeach Dick Cheney. Representative John Conyers’ wife serves on the Detroit City Council.
Mary Kay Green suggested that we either write to Sheila Jackson Lee on an individual basis or ask her to sponsor it, or that we do it as a group. She questioned whether lying was a violation of his oath of office, or specifically which law it violated. Leta Parks said the fundamental question was whether it constituted lying under oath. Joe Jennings said, "I’m not making something up here". Mary Kay Green said the danger with this resolution is that "it might divert Congress’s attention away from a lot of important issues that we would like for Congress to address". The motion passed, although not unanimously. Joe Jennings agreed to send a letter on this topic to Sheila Jackson Lee.
Sheila Jackson Lee said that she had just come from a meeting a few blocks away on flood prevention preparedness. She said, "I am a lawyer. We know at this point where we are politically. Any sort of lightning rods that we can keep in the presidential campaigns should best stay there. I appreciate and encourage the debate. I’ve been engaged with Dennis Kucinich from the very minute that he filed it".
"We’re going to have a press conference tomorrow on the failure of comprehensive immigration return. We can do this in the right way". The press conference was held on Sunday, June 10, at 2:30 PM at the George "Mickey" Leland Federal Building, 1919 Smith.
Regarding the collapse of legislation on the curtailment of funding and withdrawal from Iraq, she declared, "I couldn’t have been more outraged. I want to thank the Heights Democrats for all that you do".
Max Beauregard said, "We want Sheila Jackson Lee back again. She predicted, "we’re going to win in November".
Kevin Hoffman said, "She’s been working hard on the campaign to preserve historic landmarks in Houston".
She said, "I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired. We’re destroying the historic landmarks in our community. We’re becoming development-victimized. You’ve got to stand up. When you aren’t powerful, you’re being railroaded. They want to tear up the bricks. We want to discuss the set-up of a development fund that will go toward the funding of historic landmarks. We will meet with the Mayor on Monday. It is a question of moving forward on historic preservation. I would love for you all to write a letter of support for historic preservation. If you could write letter to me and to the Mayor, I would appreciate it. Thank you all very much. I look forward to seeing you all on the campaign trail".
Barbara Ann Radnofsky said, "it was an absolutely wonderful experience to be accompanied on the campaign trail by a New York Times reporter. She’s written a really wonderful book that the Brazos Bookstore has agreed to carry. We had an event last night, and sold 60 books. This morning we have an opportunity to hang out in a bar (Kobain) and listen to her. With that, I give you Melinda Henneberger".
Melinda Henneberger said she comes from a very Republican background. In order to give inkling, she said, "if this poor President’s popularity rating plummeted to 3%, my family would still be supporting him.”
She grew up Catholic. Throughout her childhood, her favorite priest was anti-war and used to ride around town in a psychedelic bus. She was affected at that time by the anti-war and Vatican II movements in the Church.
She greatly enjoyed the experience of writing her new book. She found it to be therapeutic to learn what women are really looking for in our next leader. She said, "the first thing I heard from women is how ‘unheard’ they feel. The other thing I started to realize is the extent to which American politics is still not an OK thing to talk about. That’s still especially true of women. If we’re not out there talking about these issues, then maybe we don’t actually know what our leaders should be doing policy-wise. The other thing is, ‘here, who am I to weigh in? One of the thrills of the project is realizing how we can have an impact. I really did become convinced that change is possible. We can make a difference".
For a lot of mothers, who are known as the "security-moms", security is a major issue. It was the number 1 issue cited by the Democrats who defected from the Party in 2004. Abortion is a very important issue for swing voters. The Bishop’s pronouncement on the issue influenced a lot of swing voters. Democratic women now are looking for a way to return back to the Party.
Another pivotal issue was the idea of condescension. She said, "some women commented that, ‘Democrats look down on me’. This is a very religious, true-believing country. The number 1 thing that I am going to tell Senators is to make a moral argument for our policies.
Last summer while on vacation, my family and I listened to a cassette tape of Martin Luther King. What he really achieved was the impossible. If we make a moral case, I think that we can really get there in a big way". Someone said that her faith-based analysis seems reminiscent of Bush. She retorted that Republicans do not have a monopoly on faith, and that "Bush is the best friend that corporate America ever had".
Since her first days in journalism, she has moved into writing political commentary. She said, "until recently I had no political opinions whatsoever. I was an objective political reporter".
She discussed the 2008 Presidential campaign. Mary Kay Green said, "we have an advantage, but it’s not a done deal. Anybody on the Republican side is going to have some bedrock appeal. Bush being out of the way is going to be to the Republican’s advantage.
She noted that Bill Richardson has the best overall experience level. He has been a Congressman, Cabinet-member, and Governor. She said, "let’s face it. We don’t elect Senators. We elect Governors". History bears that out.
Melinda Henneberger commented, "I have a lot of concerns about Hillary Clinton. Her negatives run so deep. Authenticity is a big issue. I hope that we don’t choose another nominee who people don’t want in their living rooms". She said her 3 favorite Presidential candidates right now are "Bill Richardson, Barack Obama, and John Edwards". She warned, "if the Republicans were to choose someone like Giuliani, who is pro-choice, then they would be formidable".
A professional photographer, D. R. Dalton, was in the audience, and took photos of the event. www.daltondehart.com
Max Beauregard announced that he would be leaving the meeting shortly with Melinda Henneberger and Barbara Ann Radnofsky to attend a presentation at the U.H. Hilton Hotel entitled "True Blue, Texas Women…speak their minds". All of the local state Representatives, Dr. Alma Allen, Ellen Cohen Jessica Farrar, Senfronia Thompson, and Ana Hernandez, were going to be there. Max Beauregard is currently working on a demographic analysis of the voting patterns of Houston-area women.
Melissa Noriega said, "I know that you’ve been listening to Melinda Henneberger for a while". She said she has already started reading the chapter on Catholic women in Ms. Henneberger’s book. She said, "I’m running for Shelley Sekula Gibbs’s old seat (At-Large 3). This seat has been active since December. Only 2% of the electorate, or 15,000 to 20,000 voters, are expected to turn out to vote". Her campaign office is located in a 2-story-office building at 7401 Gulf Freeway. She will have an Election Night Party at Cafe Adobe. She said, "as soon as the polls close, the party will begin".
Sheila Jackson Lee said, "thank you, and go Heights Democrats".
Vicki Bellow reported that she and Max Beauregard have been blockwalking for Melissa Noriega. Max Beauregard said, "I have been elated by the response that we have gotten while blockwalking". He announced that we will have a July 4th Happy Hour Party at Leta Park’s home with folksinger Glenna Bell www.glennabell.com
Due to the expected low voter turnout on June 16, the number of polling places has been collapsed from 400 to 300 locations. Max Beauregard said, "we had some power-hitters here today". He pointed out that the Heights is one of the fastest-growing areas in the city. He said that 23% of the city’s growth in recent years has been in the Heights.
Max Beauregard adjourned the meeting at 11 AM.
Permalink
04.14.07
Posted in Meeting Minutes at 9:18 am by M Beauregard
Kevin Hoffman, Vice President, called the meeting to order at 9 AM. He was the Presiding Officer this morning. Max Beauregard, President, was not present, since he was out giving a presentation on "voter demographics" to the election judges of County Commissioner El Franco Lee. Kevin said, "Today we are celebrating the hundredth day of the Democratically-controlled U.S. Congress".
Constitutional Amendment, May 12
Mary Kay Green pointed out that in 2003 the Texas Legislature passed a measure for property tax relief for the elderly and disabled. She said the problem is that the limitation or cap wasn’t consistent. The new measure would make the change uniform across the board. She said what the Legislature did in 2003 and 2006 didn’t mesh well. Essentially, they need permission to amend the Constitution. Mary Kay Green said, "I see no reason to oppose it".
Gary Yokie commented that passage "would bring the change in line". Mary Kay said, "It would bring everyone down to a uniform level".
Antiwar News & Announcements
Jim Rine of Veterans for Peace said there will be a Memorial Day Flag Memorial again this year on May 27, 28, and 29 to commemorate the servicemen who have died in Iraq. This year there will also be a section dedicated to those who have committed suicide upon returning from Iraq. There will be a flag for each person who has died as a result of that war. The flags will be flown on Fannin Boulevard next to Hermann Park. The sponsors include Veterans for Peace (www.vfphouston.org) and Military Families Speak Out (www.mfso.org). He asked for volunteers. Mary Kay Green pointed out that the flag event last year got some press coverage. Jim Rine said the Houston Chronicle had a picture on the front page and a story inside. Vicki Bellow made a motion for the Heights Democrats to be a co-sponsor and to donate $100. The motion passed unanimously (jmrine@hotmail.com).
Bill Crossier reported that over 500 people attended the impeachment rally at the Resurrection Church on April 9. He said we now need to put pressure on Congress by making phone calls calling for impeachment. Linda George Smith said we only have 20 months left to get Bush impeached. Bill said just think of how much more damage he could do in 20 months. He said they’re constantly looking for excuses to invade Iran.
Legislative Update
Kevin Hoffman gave a "Capitol Update" from Jessica Farrar. She is pushing for new legislation that would restore CHIPS funding. He expressed relief that the marriage counseling bill is now dead. He thanked everyone who participated in this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Community Events
He discussed this year’s Cinco de Mayo Parade. Vicki Bellow commented that the $125 entrance fee is a little steep. This year the organizers are asking that each group pay its own fee. We talked about the possibility of participating under the banner of another club, such as the Tejano Democrats, in order to avoid paying the fee. Mary Kay Green said the Tejano Democrats have a substantial amount in their kitty. Jim Rine suggested that we investigate the rules on participation, and consider participating under the banner of another club. We agreed to contribute $25 to the Cinco de Mayo Parade, which is the same amount that we have contributed in the past.
We discussed participation in this year’s Gay Pride Parade. Vicki Bellow said, of all the parades locally, it always ends up being the most fun. Bill Crossier said the crowd there is always very receptive to our message. We agreed to participate with the ROADwomen in this year’s parade (www.roadwomen.com).
Kevin Hoffman announced that Huey Long, the last surviving member of the original Ink Spots, will celebrate his 103rd birthday on Wednesday, April 25, and will celebrate his birthday at Gallery 2, located at 325 W. 19th, from 6 to 8:30 PM. He commented that "Huey Long is a true living Heights treasure" (www.m2-houston.com). For more information, contact m2-houston@sbcglobal.net.
He announced that Max Beauregard will be one of the presenters at a free seminar entitled, "The Larger Context and Lesser Known Issues Behind Immigration", on Wednesday, April 25, from 5 to 8:30 PM, on the HCC Pinemont Campus, 1265 Pinemont. Other presenters will be sociologists Dr. Stephen Klineberg and Dr. Nadia Flores, of Rice University and Texas A&M, respectively; and, Jose Rendon, of the Houston YMCA.
Kevin Hoffman said that Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee has asked that we help get out the word on efforts to preserve historic Heights landmarks. She is involved in the preservation efforts. Kevin suggested that we have 3 goals as blockwalkers: to promote Melissa Noriega’s campaign, to promote our club, and to promote historic Heights landmarks. She has requested calls to her office on the subject.
Fundraising
Vicki Bellow discussed fund raising possibilities. She said we might want to have a garage sale fundraiser. Someone said an auction might be easier or better. She suggested that we consider having it at the Boom Boom Room or another Heights-area location.
Linda George Smith said her advice to local area Democratic clubs is that they activate their committees.
We discussed changing our meeting time from 9 AM to 10 AM. Mary Kay Green pointed out that Chatter’s opens for business at 11 o’clock. If we were to start meeting at 11 AM, we would have to park on the other side of the building in order to not take up space from customers arriving at opening hour. Someone commented that her only concern is that she prefers meeting at 9 AM. She suggested meeting at 9:30 AM as a compromise. Bill Crossier predicted that the noise level would be higher at a later hour. Max Beauregard had wondered whether we could move into Kobain’s, the bar that sits behind us. Bill Crossier observed that the noise would be even more of a problem there. Mary Kay Green said that food wouldn’t be an issue. We would still be bringing our own food, as we do now. Chatter’s would provide the coffee. Vicki Bellow will bring the sound system next time. She has it in her house. Kevin Hoffman said we will table the issue until our next meeting.
Kevin asked whether anyone has more announcements. Someone said the Heights Church of Christ, 1548 Heights Boulevard, will have an environmental forum next weekend, entitled, "Protecting Creation: A Call for Environmental Stewardship". Barbara Ann Radnofsky, our 2006 Senate candidate, will speak on water issues at 12:30 PM (www.heightschurchofchrist.org). Mary Kay Green commented that Sara Owen-Gemoets, a lesser-known candidate who happens to be a Methodist minister, spoke recently at a candidates’ forum in the Heights that was organized by Patrick McIlvain. No one is changing their endorsements, but Sara was well-received. She was very well-spoken and refreshing. She came across as very reasonable, and impressed the attendees at the forum.
The meeting was adjourned by Kevin Hoffman at 10 AM.
Permalink
03.19.07
Posted in Meeting Minutes at 8:39 pm by M Beauregard
The meeting was called to order by Max Beauregard at 9 AM. He recognized some guests at our meeting. Gerry Birnberg, chair of the Harris County Democratic Party, was in attendance (www.hcdp.org). He announced various upcoming events, such as the Spring Home and Garden Tour on April 14, and 15, sponsored by the Houston Heights Association (www.houstonheights.org); and, a big impeachment event, entitled :"Impeachment: Our Right, Our Duty", at the Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church, 2025 West 11th Street (just west of TC Jester Boulevard), Houston, Texas 77008, at 7 PM on April 9, 2007, with keynote speaker Cindy Sheehan, Professor Bob Jensen, State Representative Lon Burnham, Debra Sweet, City Councilwoman Ada Edwards, Diane Wilson, and Sissy Farenthold. There will be petition signing, postcard writing, tabling, networking, music, videos, speeches, and food.
He announced upcoming speeches by Tim Flannery, author of Weather Makers: How Man is Changing the Climate and What it Means for Life on Earth, "widely acclaimed as the finest and clearest account on the science behind global warming", on March 19; and, political writer Joe Klein, on April 12. Bill White will introduce Tim Flannery’s speech with his own remarks on global warning.
He said that Jim Rine has volunteered to put together a scrapbook of GHDC club history. The Mosiers, Diane and Bruce, founded the club, and know a lot of the club’s history.
Gerry Birnberg said the big story this week is the conviction of Lewis "Scooter" Libby, the former Chief of Staff to the Vice President, on four counts of obstruction of justice and lying to a grand jury and federal officials.
He announced a rally and march of the Houston Coalition of Working People and the Poor, which will commence at Hermann Square at noon, and will conclude at Houston City Hall, on March 24, 2007. This is a new broad-based coalition of religious, political, community, and labor organizations that was formed this year in Houston. The Coalition will demand full funding for human needs, including restoration of funding for CHIPS and food stamps, and affordable housing.
Coalition members include James Dixon, Coalition Chair and Pastor of the Community of Faith Church; Richard Shaw, Secretary and Chair of the local chapter of the AFL-CIO; Dave Atwood of the Houston Peace and Justice Center; Jose Ballester, Minister of the First Unitarian Universalist Church; State Senator Rodney Ellis; City Councilwomen Ada Edwards and Carol Alvarado; Dr. S. J. Gilbert, Sr., Houston Metropolitan Ministers Alliance; Pancho Arguelles, Training Coordinator of Houston Interfaith Workers 4 Justice; and the Harris County Democratic Party (HCDP). For more information, call (713) 688-2900.
Max announced that GHDC will participate in the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade downtown on Saturday, March 17, at noon. The staging area will be on Hamilton Street near Minute Maid Park. He said the idea is not just for us to be Irish, but to be Democrats. He said,” If we just look Irish, we’ll blend in with everybody else". Mary Kay Green said we’ll have flyers to pass out to the crowd to show who we are. Vicki Bellow said,”The thing to do is wear our Heights Democrats t-shirts with green things, like hats". Max found some green and white hats that are perfect for the parade.
Melissa Noriega talked about her campaign for City Council At-Large Position 3. There will be a special election on May 12 to fill the unexpired term of Shelly Sekula-Gibbs. She is the wife of State Representative Rick Noriega. She said her political career started years ago when she first started working with Rick in their civic club. She said it’s always an honor to be invited to speak before Democratic groups. She predicted that, if people support her and turn out en masse, she will win without a run-off. Gerry Birnberg asked what is her strategy to get voters out to the polls. She said her "sign crew is awesome" and "they’re getting out there". She is looking for more volunteers to phone bank. She said early voting is going to be very important in this election, "turn-out is the key’; and, warned, "I tell you, the people who vote early in special elections aren’t always Democrats".
Max Beauregard reported that she has been endorsed by the Harris County AFL-CIO Council and the GLBT Political Caucus. Her campaign headquarters is located at 7401 Gulf Freeway. Gerry Birnberg pointed out that she is the only sustaining member of the Harris County Democratic Party who on the ballot, and said, "As far as I know, she is the only Democrat in the race".
Someone expressed concern about the current rules on term limits, and she said, "the current set-up handicaps people". She said, "if we’re going to do it, let’s do something that makes sense". She would be in favor of two (2) four year terms, rather than three (3) two year terms.
Gerry Birnberg asked whether she would support a local ordinance calling for verifiable paper ballots. She said she absolutely would be in favor of that. She thanked us for having given her the opportunity to speak before us. Vicki Bellow made a motion to endorse her campaign. The motion passed unanimously. Although City Council races are supposed to be non-partisan, the fact is that partisan affiliation is a definite factor. Martha Wong is Treasurer of Roy Morales’ campaign, and Talmadge Heflin is a backer. Another opponent, Noel Freeman, is a Log Cabin activist in the Republican Party. Melissa Noriega predicted that this is going to become very quickly a very partisan race. She said everything is going to depend ultimately on which side turns its voters out.
Vicki Bellow presented the Treasurer’s Report that we have $1,257.48 in the bank.
Max Beauregard adjourned the meeting at 10