E-Board Meeting Minutes

    Meeting notes from 34th Democrats Executive Board monthly meetings

    Executive Board Meeting

    10-20-2021 Board Meeting Minutes

    400 300 34th Democrats

    34th Dems Board Meeting Minutes

    October 20, 2021 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    6:30 pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Sara Smith, Sarah Koch, Rachel Glass, Bunny Hatcher, Colleen Hinton, Dawn Rains, Gina Topp, Julie Whitaker, Karen Richter, Norman Sigler, Steven Butts, Aaron Garcia, Chris Porter, Leah Griffin

    Welcome & Reminder of our social contract

    Review of Agenda and Minutes 

    • September minutes approved by verbal affirmation 
    • Agenda for tonight approved by verbal affirmation

    Announcements & Upcoming Dates 

    • Year One Reflection Interview Reminder to meet with the Chair
    • Open Board Positions:
    • 2nd Vice Chair
    • LAC Chair
    • Endorsements Chair
    • Proposal to take board meetings back to 7-8:30pm.  Approved by verbal affirmation. 
    • Award committee could use a board member to be involved. 
    • October meeting reflections 
      • Feedback on speakers, both engaging, also had some input for improvement
      • Some platform discussion regarding Tribal representation, and a couple of board members volunteered to look into ways to increase it.  Karen Richter and Bunny Hatcher will pursue it. 
    • November meeting Townhall planning Fitzgibbon and Eileen Cody likely attending, plus an environmental policy presentation from a local teacher 
    • Website issue for the 34th and may need assistance
    • Burien canvassing this last weekend covered 3 precincts! 

    End of Year Celebration and Decision

    • Typically, been held at the Hall of Fauntleroy, potluck with 34th providing main course and beverages, ~$1,500
    • Discussions around Holiday giving, pros and cons of having in-person versus virtual events. There was a suggestion regarding a service event and holiday gift. 
    • Leah Griffin moved and Chris Porter seconded: postpone celebratory gathering to the Spring, and in the meantime pursue a community service project. Verbal approval, no opposition.  

    Resolutions 

        • Chris Porter spoke regarding the resolution and recent action 
        • Bunny Hatcher spoke regarding the resolution and highlighted various sections
        • Discussion regarding whom/where to send the resolution if it is approved; sending to Biden administration plus Secretary of Interior and Secretary of Energy, and State Representatives and Senators   
        • Bunny Hatcher moved and Chris Porter seconded sending to the membership with a ‘do pass’ recommendation.  Verbal approval, no opposition. 
      • Rachel Glass spoke regarding the resolution and recent conversations she has heard and suggested that we have Martin speak to the membership.
      • Karen Richter moved and Bunny Hatcher seconded NOT to move this forward to the membership. 
      • Verbal approval, majority passed. 

    Redistricting  

    • Thank you to everyone providing lots of representation in redistricting meetings 
    • The new maps will cause major issues, regardless of what happens with the new maps, we will experience disruption and upheaval, so be planning for changes. 

    Final GOTV Plan (Burien and non-Burien) 

    • Good turnout last week and please continue to GOTV! 

    Good of the Order

    8:18 Adjourned by Carla Rogers, Chair 

    Executive Board Meeting

    09-15-21 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    400 300 34th Democrats

    34th Dems Board Meeting Minutes

    September 15, 2021 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    6:30 pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Bunny Hatcher, Chris Porter, Dawn Rains, Julie Whitaker, Karen Richter, Nick Bonazza, Norman Sigler, Sara Smith, Steven Butts, Trey Lykins, Rachel Glass, Leah Griffin, Sarah Koch

    Call to Order

    Welcome & Reminder of our social contract

    Review of Agenda and Minutes 

    • Minutes from August meeting approved, Leah Griffin moved, Sarah Koch second, all in favor, no opposition
    • Agenda for tonight approved

    Announcements & Upcoming Dates 

    • Please send newsletter articles to Steve by Sept 28!
    • We will not host a mayoral debate this cycle.
    • 2 Resignations, Jordan Crawley who shared his letter publicly with the 34th, and Janine Anzalota who resigned privately to the Chair.  Both have contributed considerably to the 34th and will be deeply missed.  Redistricting was Janine’s most recent focus, which is starting this month, so the 34th has some catch up to do.  Open Board Positions:
      • 2nd Vice Chair
      • LAC Chair
      • Endorsements Chair
      • KCDCC Alt – Aaron Garcia will be elected in October
      • PLEASE RECRUIT AND/OR VOLUNTEER FOR THESE POSITIONS. 
    • Redistricting – the window for input opens soon, and there is training available.  Encourage 34th members and others to make their voice heard!  Learn more: https://www.redistricting.wa.gov/participate/how-to-participate.  There was a brief discussion on effective and collaborative letter-writing, as well as strategizing public testimony.  
    • Burien Canvases – September 19, 25, Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
    • West Seattle Canvas – October 9 – distribution of walk pieces to PCOs
    • Adopt a Street – October 9, 1:30 – 3:30 – invitation to come on out! 
    • Next Member Meeting – October 13
    • Next Board Meeting – October 20
    • GOING FORWARD BOARD MEETINGS WILL BE 6:30 – 8:00
    • Election Day – Nov 2 

    September Membership Meeting Observations

    • Jen Nye did a great job presenting on Whole Washington. 
    • Resolutions passed very smoothly and without road-bumps

    Remaining Campaign Contributions 

    • $500 remaining (based on $300 max for Mosqueda)
    • Executive Board Recommendation
      • King County Executive = $250
      • KCC Pos. 5 = $200 ($400 total)
      • Seattle Mayor = $250
      • Seattle City Council Position 8 = $600 
      • Seattle City Council Position 9 = $0 
      • Burien City Council Positions 1,3,5, & 7 = $1350 ea. position ($5400 total) 
      • Port 1,3, & 4 = $500 ea. position ($1500 total)
      • Seattle Attorney = $250
      • King County Superior Court = $0
      • Highline School Board = $150
    • Discussion of potential contributions
    • Steven Butts moved and Dawn Rains amended the motion to donate $100 for each Krystal Marx, Sarah Moore, Hugo Garcia, the Highline School Levy and Brandon Hersey; Rachel spoke in favor of the motion. Unanimous approval. 

    GOTV Plan (Burien and non-Burien) 

    • Burien Walk Pieces ready on Sept 19
    • Non-Burien Walk Pieces ready by Oct 9
    • Burien will be in Spanish/English
    • October 9 – Send Off Canvas in Burien and West Seattle including and distribution of walk pieces to PCOs
    • Sept 18 – Oct 30 (All Saturdays):  Burien Canvas events with various unions/organizations/candidates
    • Clarifying point: Lit drops do NOT require any social interaction due to Covid concerns 
    • More information: https://34dems.org/general-election-canvasses-begin-join-us/ 
    Dates  Location  Partners/Guests
    Sept 19 (Sunday), 1-4pBurien PressWorking Families Party
    Sept 25, 10-1pTeamsters HallMLK Labor, LiUNA
    Oct 2, 10-1pBurien PressNorman Sigler’s Campaign 
    Oct 9, 10-1pWestcrest Park (8th Ave)

    Burien Press

    Teresa Mosqueda’s campaign

    Lorena Gonzalez, Hamdi Mohamed

    Oct 16, 10-1pBurien PressHamdi Mohamed’s campaign (?)
    Oct 23, 10-1pBurien PressNorman Sigler’s Campaign
    Oct 30, 10-1pTeamsters HallTentative (One America)

    End of Year Celebration Planning and 2021 Awards Committee 

    • Serious concerns expressed about an in-person holiday gathering due to Covid spiking again. Will decide next meeting.  
    • Annual Awards – Ann will lead the committee but she would like some additional participation from newer members. 
      • Elected Official of the Year
      • Cherisse Luxa Award for Lifetime Achievement
      • Jackie Dupras Award for Member of the Year
      • Executive Board Member of the Year
      • PCO of the Year
      • Rising Star of the Year
      • Outstanding Committee of the Year
      • https://34dems.org/annual-awards/ 

    Resignations and End of Year Reflections

    • Brief discussion of resignations, how to inspire leadership, rebuild Board vacancies, etc. 
    • Schedule your EOY Reflection appointment in Google:  https://forms.gle/Wvt5jYMDggCn5UdW8 

    Good of the Order   

    • Continuation of redistricting discussion and strategizing 

    8:10 Adjourned by Carla Rogers, Chair 

    Executive Board Meeting

    08-25-21 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    400 300 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    August 25, 2021 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    6:30 pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Bunny Hatcher, Chris Porter, Colleen Hinton, Dawn Rains, Gina Topp, Janine Anzalota, Julie Whitaker, Karen Richter, Nick Bonazza, Norman Sigler, Sara Smith, Steven Butts, Trey Lykins

    Call to Order

    Welcome & Reminder of our social contract

    Review of Agenda and Minutes 

    • Minutes from July meeting approved
    • Agenda for tonight approved

    Announcements & Upcoming Dates 

    • COI moved to September meeting
    • Please send newsletter articles!
    • Attend the Picnic   9/18, 4pm – Sunset.  Concerns expressed about Covid, kids, food, following King County guidelines, providing masks, creating a super-spreader event, low attendance, food options to prevent spreading, etc.   These concerns will be addressed at the event planning meeting on 9/1. 
    • Babies!  Three new babies coming in the next few months for the Board.  
    • Last month there was a question about Judge campaign contributions. A bylaw review shows we can do so. 
    • The TAF Center is not able to host political groups due to their funding sources.  
    • White Center Benefit is noon until 5pm this Sunday
    • Candidate Support – VAN ; Jennifer Fiscamba requested assistance, and Carla is asking for volunteers
    • 9/8 Carla will be away and has coverage for running the meeting 
    • September 8 – member meeting (Whole WA pre-meeting program)
    • Election Day – Nov 2

    August Membership Meeting Observations

    • Mostly went well, toward the end the meeting began taking a downward turn. 
    • There was confusion about deleting and adding to resolutions and whether it was a state-specific rule. 
    • Chris will send Carla a clip of a recent issue permeating the LDs. 

    Endorsements and Campaign Contributions

    • Brandon Hersey – seeking endorsement
    • Vivian Song Maritz – only Candidate Spotlight
    • Highline Education Levy Renewal
    • Contributions in progress, $800 in reserve

    Mayor Debate with Social Justice Equity Focus coming in October (2nd?)

    Resolutions Committee

    • Resolution supporting whole Washington Health Trust
    • Resolution in Support of a SELECT COMMITTEE FOR CLIMATE 

    Discuss KCDCC rules change for Endorsements

    • Rules Change for KCDCC to Allow non-Democrat endorsement
    • The Bylaws and Rules Committee will be working on amendments over the winter. 
    • Do’s / Don’ts and Consequences (LPO is Local Party Organization, similar to LD) 
    • Do’s: 
      • LPOs are allowed to amend their rules or bylaws as they see fit to endorse candidates who align with Democratic party values, but don’t identify as a democrat. 
      • LPOs are allowed to endorse those candidates if they amend the rules and choose to do so. 
      • LPOs can include these endorsed candidates on our website and anything that does not touch data. 
    • Don’ts: 
      • LPOs are NOT allowed to give VB access to candidates who are not a Democrat or are not ONLY  democrats. 
      • LPOs are not allowed to publicize the endorsement of this candidate in any materials that would be used in walking turf, phonebanking, textbanking, etc as connected to VB. 
    • Consequences: 
    • If found to have shared resources connected to VB with the candidate, then the LPO and all of their other endorsed candidates lose VB access? 
    • THE LPO WOULD LOSE ACCESS, NOT THE OTHER CANDIDATES – IT WOULD BE “OUR MISTAKE” AND NOT THEIRS. 
    • Votebuilder (vb) will ONLY be usable by Democrats (owned by national party and state is the enforcer) 
    • Interest in supporting but not “endorsing” and NOT changing rules since we can’t include them in any materials. 
    • Option to support a non-democrat ONLY when there is not another democrat in the race. 
    • Goes against the stated purpose of the org, which is to support Democrats. 
    • Vote for democratic values, or democrats ONLY.  

    GOTV Plan (Burien and non-Burien) 

      • Carla is working to get more elected officials to attend and is seeking Union involvement. 
      • Nick is pushing PCOs to come out and canvas with the candidates and the unions. 
    • “Drop offs” count as a “touch” in Vote-Builder if you also leave your name and phone number 
    • Walk piece creation beginning soon, ready in late September
    • October 9 – Send Off Canvas in Burien and West Seattle days and distribution of walk pieces to PCOs
    • Teresa Mosqueda x 34th Dems at WS location TBD
    • Sept 18 – Oct 30 (All Saturdays): Burien Canvas events with various unions/organizations
    • Election Day – Nov 2

    Good of the Order

    • B-Town festival coming up 
    • Burien Fiesta is a lot of fun 

    8: 18 Adjourned by Carla Rogers, Chair 

    06-15-21 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    150 150 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    June 15, 2021 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    7:02pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Rachel Glass, Sara Smith, Steven Butts, Colleen Hinton, Karen Richter, Bunny Hatcher, Jordan Crawley, Julie Whitaker, Trey Lykins, Norman Sigler, Nick Bonazza, Sarah Koch, Janine Anzalota, Dawn Rains

    Call to Order

    • Welcome & Reminder of our social contract
    • Review of Agenda and Minutes 
      • Minutes from May member meeting approved
    • Announcements & Upcoming Dates 
      • Aaron Garcia interested in KCDCC Alt role
      • Need to fill Resolutions & Endorsements Co-Chair role
      • Another T3 Training opportunity (starts June 22); self-paced education, follow up to previous training 
      • PSARA Event Thursday/Juneteenth – Karen Richter and Rachel Glass PSARA promoting education and awareness regarding Juneteenth holiday presented by various poets, actors, singers and performers, register here: https://www.psara.org/ 
      • National Infrastructure Bank (NIB) Program – pre-meeting on July 14
      • Redlining program – Monday night, July 27, 7pm 
      • Primary GOTV Kickoff – July 8, 7-8:30
      • Burien Initiative Planning Meeting TBS
      • Canvas Send Off  – July 17 
      • Next Board Meeting – July 28 (one week later than normal)
      • Fall Picnic 34th In-Person Reunion – September 18 confirmed! – Lincoln Park, casual event for socializing with the 34th and various candidates.  Time TBD. 
      • Planning meeting June 29, 7pm

    Committee Spotlights 

    • PCO GOTV Activities – Nick Bonazza – had first PCO meeting this last Saturday, discussion on guidelines and best practices to be successful. Looking for volunteers in helping with GOTV! Kickoff call  is July 8th
    • Door hanger for door knocking providing information on endorsed candidates, the PCO role, and ways to volunteer. Will have a Burien version coming in early July which will also include a Spanish translation. 
    • Programs – Rachel highlighted upcoming Redlining educational program and Redistricting program. 
        • Outreach – Steve & Karen two activities last week, had a presence at West Seattle High School for voter registration and made a way for them to connect to registration online, and may have broken their goal for the year!  Also did an Adopt A Street and cleaned up 16th Ave S from Roxbury to Elmgrove.    
    • Observations from June Membership Meeting
        • Generally, went extremely well and received many positive comments
        • Unfortunately, were not able to endorse a mayor
        • Rules Change?  Jordan discussed the confusion around the mayor’s race. The endorsement rules online had not been updated to reflect the most recent changes.  Suggested holding our endorsement until after the Primary.  Reviewed and discussed section 8 of endorsing candidates.  Agreed the language currently allows the 34th to endorse after primaries, and recommended rules clarification for next year.  
        • Follow up to Georgette Reyes’ letter to the 34th.  Carla contacted her and discussed the matter, and provided guidance on candidate vetting and procedure within the 34th
        • Plan for July & forward – Port endorsements and school board endorsements, would like candidates to schedule time and provide information about themselves ahead of asking for endorsement.  
        • Jordan Crawley presented the updated platform, and led the discussion on changes. 
        • The Platform is intended to provide guidance on endorsing resolutions and candidates. 
        • Jordan Crawley moved and Bunny Hatcher seconded that the Platform be presented to membership for voting with a DO PASS recommendation.   Verbal unanimous approval, no opposition. 
      • Resolution Committee 
    • Compassion Seattle
        • Charter Amendment requires the city to take specific, measurable actions prioritizing mental health and substance use disorder treatment services, combined with housing to provide long-term solutions for those who are experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity: https://compassionseattle.org/ 
        • The opposition has also approached us to endorse a different plan:  https://www.houseourneighbors.org/our-endorsers 
        • Karen Richter, Rachel Glass, and Colleen Hinton will review information and educate the 34th Board. 
    • Good of the Order (GOTO) & Announcements 
      •  Congrats to everyone on the excellent endorsement meeting.  
      • Due to some issues within the endorsements process this year, Carla has asked Jordan to draft a policy for Board consideration. 

    8:50 – Adjourned by Chair Carla Rogers 

     

    Executive Board Meeting

    05-19-21 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    400 300 34th Democrats

    34th Dems Board Meeting Minutes

    May 19, 2021 – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    7:07pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Rachel Glass, Sarah Koch, Steven Butts, Jeff Sbaih, Colleen Hinton, Karen Richter, Gina Topp, Bunny Hatcher, Jordan Crawley, Julie Whitaker, Estey Chen, Trey Lykins, Leah Griffin, Norman Sigler, Richard O’Neill, Nick Bonazza, Chris Porter, Janine Anzalota, Dawn Rains.

    Call to Order

    • Welcome & Reminder of our social contract
      Carla noted that this was the first Board meeting attended by our newest Board member, Sarah Koch, Bylaws and Rules Committee Chair.  Welcome, Sarah!  Carla noted that the social contract values of Big-Tentedness, Patience, and Coordination are especially important right now during the hectic season of forums and endorsements, and thanks Jordan, Rachel, Trey, Chris and Ann Martin in particular for their hard work in this endeavour over the last month.  
    • Review of Agenda and Minutes 
        • April 21 Board Meeting: Karen Richter has an amendment – please add the link for Green New Deal WA – www.passthegndwa.org 
    • Announcements
        • Carla regrets the problem with the link for the May Membership meeting last week.  Upon investigation she discovered that with the new Zoom registration process, we will NOT be able to send out a generic link for people to click on to attend (which is what happened in May).  Some people used that link and had problems, others used the link they got with their registration confirmation, successfully.  All attendees will have to use their unique link which Zoom provides immediately after registering for the meeting, on the web page that you use to register.  Carla suggests that people copy and paste that link into wherever they access their meeting links.  Carla encourages everyone to also add the Zoom auto-reply address to their safe senders list so that emails from Zoom do not go to spam.  
        • Discussion clarified several questions about registration and how to help members access meetings:
          • To invite members to a meeting, the best way is to send them the link to register for the meeting.  Once they register, a link will immediately show up on their registration confirmation on the Zoom page.  They will need to save that link.
          • There is no deadline to register for a meeting.  People can register right before the meeting, or even during the meeting.
          • We require registration for meetings as we don’t want interlopers voting in membership meetings.  The forums, on the other hand, are open to non-members of the 34th, and do NOT require registration – hence we provide a generic link to attend those, on our website.  
          • Janine Anzalota thanks Carla and Jordan for managing the complicated technology required for these remote meetings, which involves way more work than for in-person meetings.
          • Trey Lykins noted that he has been working with various members who have had problems not getting 34th Dems emails, and for some people if they marked our emails as spam at any time in the past, their email blocks us.  Have members contact him for assistance if we hear about any problems. 
    • Upcoming Dates
        • Candidate Forums – 
          • May 22, 11-4pm:  Seattle City Council and King County Executive
          • May 25, 7-9pm:  Burien City Council
          • June 5, 11am:  Seattle Mayoral
        • Endorsements Meeting – at our June Membership meeting, Wed June 9.
        • Fall Picnic – the fundraising group met briefly to plan a fall in-person picnic, likely at Lincoln Park, waiting for reservations for the picnic shelters to open up and hope to secure a date soon.  This will be a reunion for members to get together for the first time in person, there will be some fun activities, and we hope to get some candidates to come.  
    • Review of May Membership Meeting
        • Aside from the access issues with the faulty link, the Board agreed the meeting went very well.  Unfortunately the pre-meeting presentation on the uptick in AAPI Hate Crimes was not recorded in the flurry to resolve members’ access problems, but Carla will post the slides from the presentation on the Programs Hub page on our website.  
    • Platform Review
        • Jordan Crawley presented a summary of work on the 34th Dems Platform for 2021 and provided a link to the draft put together by Carla, Rachel and Jordan.  Please review in preparation for discussion during the June Board meeting, when we will vote on whether to approve this Platform: 
          [Draft] Platform 2021 – Google Docs
        • For the first time, the 34th LD initiated meetings with representatives of local tribes – a positive and meaningful step forward.
    • Resolutions for Consideration
        • Resolution Supporting Whole Washington Health Trust  Resolution Supporting Whole Washington Health Trust – Google Docs
          • Janine Anzalota noted that pronouns used throughout the document should be changed to they/them.
          • Norman Sigler presented that this resolution has been adopted by Kitsap Dems and the 33rd LD; Joe Fitzgibbon supports it, Eileen Cody does not – has to do with funding which can’t happen unless we get a federal waiver – Rep. Jayapal confirms this is the case.  All stakeholders would need to agree.  
          • Norman Sigler motioned, and Bunny Hatcher seconded to recommend approval to membership, inclusive of any changes desired by the Board.  Motion passed by voice vote.  Carla requested flexibility regarding which membership meeting this will be presented at, as June is endorsements and July will be a full agenda as a result.  
        • Resolution in support of a Select Committee for Climate in the Seattle City Council  Resolution in Support of a SELECT COMMITTEE FOR CLIMATE in the Seattle city Council.4.30.21 – Google Docs
          • This was drafted by the 43rd LD Dems and they are asking all LDs located in the City of Seattle to support this.  Our 34th EELU Caucus is asking the Board to consider it.  The idea was that having a Select Committee would force the Council to really focus on climate issues, which they are not doing now.  Janine Anzalota would like to see King County included in this resolution.  In discussion, it was noted that this resolution is purposely very specific to the City of Seattle and appropriately left as such.  Colleen Hinton will take this feedback to the EELU Caucus.
          • Karen Richter motioned, and Norman Sigler seconded to recommend approval to membership, inclusive of any changes desired by the Board.  Motion passed by voice vote.  
        • Resolution urging Governor Inslee to sign “Equity Now!” Executive Order  
          • Chris Porter provided background info on this resolution.  This Executive Order has been sitting on the Governor’s desk and would reverse effects of the 1998 decision that race could not be used as a factor in affirmative action decisions.  Chris notes that although the resolution calls for the Governor to sign it by June 19 (symbolic for the commemoration of Juneteenth), the organizers are not expecting that the resolution be passed by that date given the short time frame.  Norman Sigler advocated to try and fit it in at the June Endorsement meeting.  Carla suggested we could fit it in during the natural break that occurs while votes are being tallied.  As an exception because of the time sensitive nature of just this resolution – does not want to do this for all resolutions.  
          • Janine Anzalota motioned, and Nick Bonazza seconded to recommend approval to membership, inclusive of any changes desired by the Board.  Motion passed by voice vote, and resolution will be on agenda for June 9 membership meeting.  
      • T3 Presentation
        • Colleen Hinton presented a brief summary of the “Train the Trainer” program offered by the Best Practices Institute of the Democratic National Committee from late March to early May.  The 12 webinars were presented twice weekly for 6 weeks and the different ways offered for completion of the material based on the needs of the individual made it easy to complete.  Good overview of democratic organizing.  Several Board members attended and found it very useful – strongly recommended for others when this is offered again in the future.  
    • Endorsements Meeting
        • Carla noted that while we do have some non-Democratic candidates invited to/attending our Candidate Forums, we only consider Democrats for Endorsements.  There was some discussion about why we have non-Democrats able to attend forums – for the races that are non-partisan, the candidates don’t declare a party affiliation and we don’t necessarily know where they stand on the issues.  
        • Slate:  we have a proposed slate of candidates who are either running unopposed or are the only Democratic candidate in a partisan race.  Currently these are Pete Holmes (City Attorney), Ryan Calkins (Port of Seattle), Jimmy Matta (Burien City Council/Mayor), Hugo Garcia (Burien CC), Jennifer Fichamba (Highline School Board), Andrea Robertson (King Co Superior Court judge).  We have added the Levy that will be on the ballot, to the slate.  Carla would like us to vote on proposing this slate for endorsement as a block.  We would not be able to add any names to the slate, but we could remove a candidate if a new candidate files to run between now and the filing deadline on May 21.  
          • Sarah Koch motioned, and Rachel Glass seconded to accept the slate.  Motion passed by voice vote.
        • Leah Griffin proposed a dual endorsement for the King County Executive race, given how contentious this race between two competing 34th LD Democrats is expected to be.  Gina Topp noted that per our bylaws, the membership has to vote on an endorsement and the Board cannot circumvent that.  Sarah Koch clarified our rules/bylaws that if neither candidate gets 60% of the vote by members, a dual endorsement can be considered at that point.  
    • Good of the Order (GOTO) & Announcements 

    None raised.

    9:05 pm – Meeting Adjourned by Chair Carla Rogers 

     

    01-20-21 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    150 150 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    January 20, 2021  – Virtual meeting held via closed ZOOM

    7:03pm – Call to Order by Chair Carla Rogers 

    Attendees: Nick Bonazza, Karen Richter, Rachel Glass, Jordan Crawley, Sara M. Smith, Leah Griffin, Dawn Rains, Bunny Hatcher, Jeff Sbaih, Ted Barker (guest), Steve Butts, Norman Sigler, Colleen Hinton, Julie Whitaker, Richard O’Neill, Gina Topp, Carla Rogers, Estey Chen

    Opening Activities: Carla opened by discussing the next two years’ social contract and the need to work well together.  

    First activity: An ice breaker designed to help members understand what makes each person feel valued.  

    NameRoleFeels Valued with:
    1. Nick BonazzaPCO Chairloves communication; respect
    2. Karen RichterCo-Chair Outreach Committeecoordination, challenge, Communicating with each other, Direct interface with our community
    3. Rachel Glass First Vice Chaircommunicating, human connections
    4. Jordan Crawley 2nd Vice Chair, Chair Platform & Legislative Action Cmte respect through understanding;
    culture of mutual respect
    5. Sara M. SmithSecretary humor, holding heavy issues with a light hand 
    6. Leah GriffinKCDCC Rep keep things moving
    7. Dawn RainsCoalitions Chairefficient & effective use of time
    8. Bunny HatcherKCDCC  Alternatepatience
    9. Jeff SbaihChair, Social Justice & Equity Cmte candid conversations, chocolate and peanut butter
    10. Ted BarkerGuest acceptance – big tentedness
    11. Steve ButtsOutreach Cochair, Newslettercross-pollination, history
    12. Norman SiglerKCDCC Committee Personexpectations; inclusive progressive community
    13. Colleen HintonCaucus & Election Chairopenness to new ideas, creating community, not be afraid to speak up
    14. Julie WhitakerTreasurerenhance understanding of behind-the-scenes Cmte work; wants to be acknowledged for what they contribute
    15. Richard O’Neill  
    16. Gina ToppParliamentarianstrong dialogue
    17. Carla Rogers Chairopen to new ideas
    18. Estey ChenYoung Dems Rep 

    Second Activity: “Where are you on the Democratic Spectrum” 

    All Democrats are welcome in the 34th District Democrats and we endeavor to treat each other well and provide a safe and welcoming environment.  This activity was designed to showcase the variability of views within the 34th Dems. 

    Board Representation 

    Jordan Crawley shared maps of previous and current board members residences, which showed representation has not been proportional from districts, and encouraged more representation from under-represented districts. Specifically, there is a current need for an additional board member from White Center and from Burien.  Link: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1MrDjOqyvuftoGHQe_zUvkjd31aLne_qSzSaEGpEy1-4/edit?ts=6008fbf9#slide=id.gb7104e9c1a_0_0 

    Administrative Reminders

    • New participants need to update their contact information on the online Google sheet, and send in headshots for the website
    • In-person meetings will likely not resume until fall or winter due to Covid-19  
    • Communication via slack
    • Using Google docs
    • Board Reports shifting to written report in advance of the meeting instead of verbal report during the meeting
    • EBoard Meetings will use the additional time as a working session
    • Stay on schedule, start and end on  time, and stick to agenda 
    • Upcoming retreat: March 6 (via closed Zoom meeting) 
    • Everyone needs to fill out the 34th membership form for tracking purposes
    • Everyone will receive the Membership Survey: Policy Priorities to help track priorities for Legislative action.

    Formal Business 

    • Proposed Standard Rules change 
    • Carla, Jordan and Rachel reviewed the rules document and advised of changes, especially regarding added budget process details. 
    • Leah Griffin motioned to pass, Rachel Glass seconded. Unanimously voted to approve new rules. 
    • Proposed leadership structure for board members and discussion.  
    • Norman Sigler suggested adding a Covid-19 resource page on the website to discuss community engagement, and current practice of Zoom meetings.  
    • Legislation Tracker – Jordan Crawley presented, and demonstrated use. 
    • 34th District Democrat Letters of Support discussion:  The 11th district has a way to ‘write a letter’ as a board to endorse, support, or promote something.  For example, they wrote a letter regarding the recent resignation of the Odessa Brown physician due to systemic racism. This can be a faster way to communicate that “The Board of the 34th supports “X”” as opposed to “The 34th supports X” because that can take months. More discussion at the Resolutions and Endorsements committee level.

    Meeting adjourned at 9:05pm. 

    11-18-20 Virtual Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    150 150 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    11-18-20 – Held via Zoom conference due to COVID-19.

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Steve Butts, Gina Topp, Rachel Glass, Dawn Rains, Jordan Crawley, Jeff Sbaih, Ben Reilly, Ted Barker, Ann Martin, Karen Richter, Chris Porter, Nick Bonazza, Jeff Sbaih, Max Brown, Art Chippendale

    7:05 – Gina called the meeting to order.

    Our last executive board meeting! Gina thanked the board for their good work over the past 2 years. Everyone contributed a high or low about the last 2 years. 

    King County Dems candidates visited the meeting and said a few words. Shasti Conrad is running for reelection. The reorganization is on December 5 and will be online. PCOs will receive a mailed packet with a special code to register for the meetings. Sarah Toce is running for Communications Chair. kcdems.org/reorganization has more information. 

    7:35pm – Wrap-up reports from committees

    • Treasurer – Ben shared the details in the final budget report. We ended the year with approximately $16k to carry forward.  We also hired a deputy treasurer.  Membership is at ~298 and 126 PCOs. Ben would prefer not to return as Treasurer but he is considering other roles.
    • Communications – Carla shared that she is planning to return as communications chair so no transition is needed. Carla is also running for chair. James Moore has joined the committee and is working on the website. 
    • Legislative Action Committee – Jordan’s activities are complete and he plans to continue his work on LAC next year. Jordan is also running for Second Vice Chair. 
    • Caucus/Elections – Rachel would like to understand what the caucus/election role will be in the next term. Will we need to fill this role? Rachel wants to continue to be involved in these areas as VC1.
    • Outreach – Karen and Steve would like to return as Outreach Co-Chairs. They are already planning when they can resume events after it is safe. They want to start working with the Equity and Social Justice committee for outreach.
    • Newsletter – Steve plans to continue his good work on the newsletter. 
    • PCO – the committee is planning close out and transition. Nick is updating the calendar and binder. Nick is willing to serve again and Max will support. Trey Lykins also wants to help Nick. 
    • State Committee – State reorg is at the end of January. Ann is not running again but there is one person so far who has announced that she will run – Janine Anzalota. Chris Porter is planning to run again for his current role. 
    • King County Committee – Max and Martha are not running again. Leah will run for Alternate. Ted will run for King County Committeeperson.  No wrap up activities. KCDCC may switch to quarterly meetings next term.
    • Bylaws – Art will work with Carla to get some things up on the website. Was hoping to have some. Art doesn’t want 
    • Finance – Dawn shared that there is not really anything to wrap up. Do we need this committee?
    • Membership – would like to have a membership drive immediately in January. Planning to create a cheat sheet for the membership committee. Wants to connect Membership to Outreach and to Diversity. 
    • Hospitality – not present
    • Leadership Development – not present
    • Social Justice and Equity Committee – Jeff wants to return in his role. Meeting next week with the committee to talk about goals both short and long term. 
    • Gina stated that she would be interested in fundraising for the next term. 

    December Holiday Party

    The group discussed ideas for the holiday party/meeting. Elected officials will be at the holiday meeting. Ideas included: 

    • A thank you holiday postcard to members to be sent
    • Raise the paddle for charity – food banks, OneAmerica, SW Youth and Family Services
    • Talk about the committees in the break out sessions

    Jeff made a motion to donate proceeds to the 3 food banks. Karen Richter seconded, motion passed. 

    Candidates will have 2 minutes to speak. Slides can be shared as well. 

    Very few nominations have been submitted for the awards.. 

    Georgia Opportunities

    Gina shared that we have volunteer opportunities already on the website. The group discussed whether we would want to hold an event. An event would be helpful to inspire folks to sign up for shifts. Rachel, Ben, Ann and Gina will organize an event. 

    January Meeting Overview

    Our reorganization will be on January 13. KCD will send out instructions on the process. The new chair will handle the rest of the elections. 

    Good of the Order

    Nick thanked Gina for her leadership. 

    Art talked about how we will need to double down on the work in our next 2 years. 

    Ann thanked everyone for allowing her to represent us at the state. 

    8:53pm Adjourned

    Executive Board Meeting

    10-21-20 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    400 300 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    10-21-20 – Held via Zoom conference due to COVID-19.

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Steve Butts, Gina Topp, Rachel Glass, Les Treall, Dawn Rains, Jordan Crawley, Jeff Sbaih, Ben Reilly, Ted Barker, Ann Martin, Karen Richter, Chris Porter, Nick Bonazza

    7:02 – Gina called the meeting to order.

    Ben presented the Budget overview. We have over $15k in the bank. Campaign contributions have gone out based on the membership vote last week. Membership is down compared to last year. Donna Christiansen asked the board to consider donating to the Reykdal campaign at the membership meeting. Ann Martin made a motion to contribute $500 to the Reykdal campaign. Dawn seconded. Ann spoke for her motion. The motion assumes that we would take the recommendation to the next board meeting. Board members voted and passed the motion. Gina will email the Reykdal campaign about this contribution intent. 

    Survey from the State Party – Chris shared information about the demographics survey being sent to all LD executive board members. This is for each LD and board and will be sent out after the Reorg to the PCOs.

    Gina provided an overview of the Reorganization process. Only elected PCOs as of January 1 are eligible to vote. 

    Gina noted that we will hold our virtual holiday party in December. An Awards Committee was formed, which will decide those honored (Ted, Steve, Chris, Ann, Karen, Gina volunteered to be on the committee) – Committee, PCO, Member, Board Member, Elected Official, … of the Year and two named awards Lifetime Achievement, Rising Star… will be given. 

    November will be the last Executive Board meeting and the November 11th program will be a Legislative Town Hall.  Jordan, Rachel, Dawn will organize the program. Chris and Ben will do a tribute to Veterans since it will be Veterans Day. We will also have each board member share a quick 30 second overview of their responsibilities.

    The board discussed the Maury Island Resolution, which was tabled at the last board meeting. Jordan made a motion to recommend approval to the membership. Rachel seconded. Motion passed. 

    Committee Reports – Board members were asked to consider the upcoming transition, whether they are interested in running again/serving as chair. 

    State Committee – Please refer to the newsletter for this report. Max and Leah were absent.

    King County – Refer to the newsletter for Chris and Ann’s report.

    Communications – We have had great success with the Meet Us Monday campaign in social. Lots of social media engagement now with the election coming up. Website and social promotion of the phone banks have also been successful.

    Outreach – Karen and Steve are getting in touch with other LDs to determine if there are ways to do outreach during COVID, otherwise it has been difficult to do anything in outreach. They would like to work with the Equity and Social Justice Committee on ways to do outreach to diverse communities. 

    Fundraising – DeLancey is in NC so Gina provided an update. We have reserved a facility in Burien for the fundraiser. We need to select a date between now and mid-July to hold the event. The TAF Center has given us through July or we lose our deposit. The new board will choose the date. Rachel shared that a community contact was willing to donate 20 t-shirts as a possible fundraiser. Rachel will explore the opportunity and will work with Gina to execute. 

    Finance – No updates. 

    Membership – Dawn reported that we are still down (same period) in membership, from 304 last year to 295 current members. Dawn asked what transitions activities are needed for Membership and will work with Gina to handle so we preserve the data.

    Equity and Social Justice – Jeff is assembling the caucus. Activities have slowed during GOTV but will pick up in November with a February goal to start activities. Jeff also shared information about the upcoming OneAmerica event on Nov 13.

    Bylaws – Art was absent.

    Leadership Development – No progress to report. 

    Newsletter – Steve is tech-challenged right now but will be working on the newsletter next week. The goal will be to send by Nov 4.

    PCO – Nick provided a quick report in addition to the written report.  It’s all GOTV! Dialers will start Saturday 31 – Nov 1 Monday and go all day. 

    LAC – Jordan shared his Membership Policy Caucus presentation. This is a Rules change allowing for MPCs to be convened. The goal is to amplify our advocacy work. The change to the Rules has been submitted/published for membership review as of Oct 2. Document will be shared. 

    Hospitality – Jesse was absent.

    Caucus & Elections – Rachel asked in these last few days to send her any phone-bank-averse volunteers and she will connect them to non-phone bank options for GOTV.. Several members shared what they had done for GOTV. 

    Gina adjourned the meeting at 8:41.

    Executive Board Meeting

    09-16-20 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    400 300 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    09-16-20 – Held via Zoom conference due to COVID-19.

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Steve Butts, Gina Topp, Rachel Glass, Les Treall, Dawn Rains, Jordan Crawley, Art Chippendale Jeff Sbaih, Ben Reilly, Ted Barker, Ann Martin, Karen Richter, Chris Porter, Max Brown, Dawn Rains

    Guests: Marcee Stone-Vekich, Trey Lykins, Jim Street, Erin Jones

    7:02 Gina called the meeting to order.  The board introduced themselves to our guest speakers. 

    7:10 Chris introduced Erin Jones who provided a presentation entitled Addressing Systemic Racism and How to Take Action. Erin provided a long list of recommended resources on the topic.

    To become more equitable in your practice, you are going to need to listen/watch/read something related to equity at least 4-5 times a week (just like what is required to stay physically fit). Here are some suggestions: Reading: anything by authors Dr.  Beverly Tatum, Zaretta Hammond, Ibram X Kendi, Jason Reynolds, Kathy Obear, Richard Rothstein, Michelle Alexander, or Dr. Christopher Emdin; New York Times “The 1619 Project” Podcasts: Revisionist History, Code Switch, This American Life, Words Matter, Teaching While White, 1619 Project, Nice White People, Calling Justice, Seeing White, Facing Ourselves, Speaking of Racism, Throughline; Christian: Pass the Mic, Quick to LIsten, Truth’s Table Watch:  TV: This is Us, Black-ish, The Red Line, Black Earth Rising, When They See Us; Black Lightning, Watchmen, Self Made, Black-ish, Dear White People; Film: The Hate U Give, Emanuel, Hello, Privilege. It’s Me, Chelsea, Cracking the Codes, 13th, Just Mercy, Selma

    8:21 Gina introduced Jim Street from the 43rd LD who shared information about the Climate Advocates’ Collaboration Hub. Jim invited a representative from the 34th to join this group in their advocacy actions. Email streetjim2@gmail.com if you are interested in getting involved. Ann Martin made a motion to ask the Legislative Action Committee, in concert with Karen Richter and her role to make a recommendation on how we night engage with this organization. Chris Porter seconded the motion. Ann spoke for her motion. The board voted and the motion passed. Gina will connect Jim and Jordan. 

    8:48 Gina provided a reminder of the 34th Calendar overview for the rest of the year. 

    There are only 2 more ‘working’ months as a board. Code of Conduct and Resolutions are still outstanding. We also need to consider a spend-down, which would need to be voted on by the membership in October. 

    • Jordan advocated for us to designate time for Code of Conduct. He also shared that we have 4 remaining resolutions, 3 of which are internally driven. 
    • Jesse mentioned that we should not spend a lot of the remaining budget money because we may be hampered in raising funds next year due to COVID. Jesse also agreed with Jordan on the CoC. 
    • Chris agreed on CoC priority. 
    • Gina shared a proposed meeting agenda. 
    • Others commented. 
    • Discussion transitioned to how we would handle the budget overage.
    • Carla shared her research on costs for a postcard printing which could be provided to PCOs for distribution. 
    • Ann Martin moved and Carla seconded that we take a recommendation to the membership in September for spending as follows: $3000 (communications effort TBD), $1000 R90, $2500 Tarleton campaign, $2500 Senate campaign, $2500 House campaign, $2500 Treasurer Mike Pelliciotti campaign. 
      • The board voted and the motion passed. 

    Gina opened the floor for continued discussion about the resolutions process, opened by guest Marcee Stone-Vekich. Discussion was held. 

    Ann signaled a push back on Jordan’s belief that it is not our place to make changes to submitted resolutions. 

    Jesse made a motion to vote to add the Maury Island resolution to the agenda in October as presented, Steve seconded. Jesse spoke to his motion. Motion passed, the resolution will be added to the agenda. Ann moved that the board take the resolution to the membership with no recommendation. Carla seconded. Chris called the question. Motion failed. Ben made a motion and Rachel seconded to send the resolution back to the author. Chris spoke against the motion. Rachel spoke for the motion. Motion failed. Karen made a motion which Ben seconded to table this resolution until after the election. Carla seconded. Motion passed. 

    • Gina noted that the PCO committee is asking the board for volunteers to call the membership to recruit for phone banking. 

    10:08 Gina adjourned the meeting 

     

    Executive Board Meeting

    08-26-20 Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    400 300 34th Democrats

    Executive Board Meeting Minutes

    08-26-20 – Held via Zoom conference due to COVID-19.

    Attendees: Carla Rogers, Steve Butts, Gina Topp, Rachel Glass, Les Treall, Dawn Rains, Jordan Crawley, Art Chippendale Jeff Sbaih, Ben Reilly, Ted Barker, Ann Martin

    7:00 – The meeting was called to order by Rachel Glass. 

    7:02 Kevin Mendez, new Field Organizer from the Coordinated Campaign, spoke for a few minutes about the current activities. 

    • We are getting a dedicated field organizer for the 34th. kevin@wa-democrats.org, 425-361-3463
    • Neighborhood team huddle on Saturday @4pm
    • Thursday there will be a local party regional meeting with Shasti and Cat

    7:10 Outstanding Resolutions

    Marcee Stone Vekich and Max Vekich presented a resolution proposing a renaming of Maury Island. Art moved that we table consideration of the resolution until next month’s board meeting. Carla seconded. Motion passed by majority. Jordan and Leah will do research to support fact finding about this resolution. 

    David Toledo presented a resolution about the makeup of the leadership of the Arts & Culture office. David’s resolution encourages the current director to step down and allow for someone of color to be considered for this leadership role. The group had much discussion, q&a. (Resolution name: Supporting BIPOC Director for Seattle’s Office of Arts & Culture)

    Jordan led discussion of the various outstanding resolutions to be considered for the September agenda. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1sSsqSisZu6VPzr63Q76leVAD_fHKMMyeqtts5fSJK68/edit?usp=sharing is where all resolution status will be updated as resolutions are considered and move through the process. 

    • Seattle’s Natural Capital – Leah moved that we choose no action on this proposed resolution. Ben seconded. Leah spoke on behalf of the motion. Chris spoke against the motion. Les spoke for the motion to take no action. Rachel feels that the resolution is too dense for consideration, suggesting Chris Porter help refine it.  The board voted to take no action.
    • West Seattle Bridge Now – Les made a motion to not take action on the resolution. Ann Martin seconded. Les spoke for, Jordan spoke against. Motion failed. Jesse made a motion to move this to membership for a vote, with a recommendation to approve. Chris Porter seconded. Jesse spoke for and no one spoke against. Motion passed by majority. 
    • Defund Police & Invest in Communities – Art made a motion to forward this resolution with a recommendation to pass. Ann Martin seconded. Art spoke on behalf of the motion. Les spoke against the motion. Chris Porter spoke for the motion, Ben Reilly spoke against. Motion failed 8-4. Jesse made a motion to take this to membership with no recommendation, Carla seconded. Motion passed with a majority.
    • Black Lives Matter Movement – Chris made a motion to forward to the membership with a recommendation to approve. Seconded by Ann Martin. Motion passed with majority. 
    • BIPOC Director of Seattle Arts & Culture – Chris made a motion to forward to the membership with a recommendation to approve. Seconded by Jordan.  David spoke in favor of the motion. Carla spoke against the motion. Chris spoke in favor of the motion. Jesse spoke against the motion. Motion failed. Jesse made a motion to send the resolution back to the author for revisions. Steve seconded. Members spoke for and against. Motion passed. 

    9:32 September Meeting Agenda

    Ann Martin moved that we go with option 2 which includes 3 resolutions and no Code of Conduct. Karen Richter seconded. A majority agreed.  We will cover the West Seattle Bridge Now, Defund Police & Invest in Communities and BLM resolutions in the meeting. 

    9:40 Adjourn