SDSA Membership Minutes
Roberto Flores, SDSA Co-Chair called the meeting to order at 6:33 PM, at Grady’s Restaurant. He introduced Carla Vela, Bexar County Democratic Chair, who joined us for out monthly meeting. The new SDSA Banner was displayed. Lynne Armstrong, Co-Chair announced a back-to-school SDSA t-shirt special, only $8. She thanked all those who made Babette’s Feast, Diane and Larry Stallings, Charlie Gallimore, Jamie Lewis, Cris Ramirez, Bonnie Dietering, and Billy Stallings, such a wonderfully memorable evening.
Richard Moon made a motion to accept the minutes as written, Peg McPhail seconded and the minutes were approved. Jeanne Belaire, assistant treasurer, reported a balance of $3,312.76. Linda Allen made a motion to accept the treasurer’s report and Antonia Padilla seconded, the motion passed. Philip Barcena announced the particulars of the banquet, $55 a ticket, and $100 or more for sponsorships. A form for ordering tickets has been posted on the web site. Michelle Meyers gave $200 for a sponsorship. Roberto thanked Jame Lewis and Philip Barcena and the rest of the committee for the hard work they have put in to make the banquet a success. Richard Moon announced the date of the Endorsement Committee Candidate Forum, January 27th. Olga Hernandez gave a brief report on the Nation Stonewall Meeting in Washington DC. The meetings were held at the Democratic National Committee headquarters, which provided an opportunity to meet members of the DNC. She announced that a new director, Jon Hoadley, had been selected for National Stonewall and that he has graciously accepted an invitation to our SDSA Banquet. On September 14th, Lynne and Olga will host a wine and cheese reception for Jon Hoadley at their home. Olga stressed that NSD is urging members to learn about the process required to become a delegate to the National Convention.
Roberto reported on the City Council Meeting at which Adam McManus protested Police Chief McManus serving as the Grand Marshall of the Gay Pride Parade. Adam McManus also urged his radio listeners to block the re-appointment of Lynne Armstrong, to the city’s Affirmative Action Advisory Committee. He was unsuccessful in his efforts, Lynne was re-appointed by a unanimous vote of the city council members present. Lynne noted that this was not about her, but rather about “this community getting where it needs to be, relative to equality.” Jeanne reported on businesses that advertise on McManus’ radio program. Contacting these businesses by letter, personal contact, offering alternative advertising on our web site were some of the suggestion presented to make these businesses aware of exactly what McManus represents. The sensitivity training with the police academy cadets is scheduled for September, with a 6 hour time frame. Lynne announced the upcoming banquet awardees, Elena Guajardo, Political Advocacy Award, Sam Sanchez, Community Service/Leadership Award and Bryan Gerard, Volunteer Appreciation Award. Eric Alva reported on the Democratic Presidential Candidates at the historic LOGO forum.
Lynne explained that $5 of SDSA’s monthly dues goes to the Texas Stonewall Democratic Caucus, thereby making all of our members, members of the TSDC. Roberto, Lynne and Olga are members of the Executive Board of this committee. She went on to give background information on Shannon Bailey, president of TSDC and a member of the Executive Texas State Democratic Committee, who was arrested in a park, in Dallas, for allegedly having sex with another individual. Members have been divided on whether or not Shannon should resign his position or stay. A meeting will be held this Saturday in Austin to discuss this issue, and any actions or recommendations that should be made. A lengthy discussion ensued. Comments centered around Shannon’s silence on this matter, his ability to be an effective leader, how this reflects on the organization and ultimately on us. On the other hand, Shannon has not been found guilty; and our own members are the ones sensationalizing this issue through the blogs.
Roberto encouraged members to attend the meeting in Austin.
David Plylar announced a meeting at his home on September 13, at which John Courage will be talking about his campaign finance reform plan.
John and Zeda True Courage will be presenting information on the process of becoming a delegate, at the September membership meeting.
Carla Vela reported on the doings of the Democratic Party. She announced that precinct chairs are needed as well as election judges.
Dan Graney announced a fundraiser on November 3rd, at his and Roberto’s home for Richard Noriega, Senatorial candidate.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Cristina M. Ramirez,
Secretary