MINUTES OF GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

JAN. 22, 2010

The meeting was opened at 9:45 by President Charlie Ara, followed by the flag salute and song.

Reports, Announcements, and Action

*There is currently a bank balance of $2,093.45 and 53 dues-paying members.

*Betty McMillion, chair of the Riverside County Democratic Party Central Committee, presented the club its most recent bounty for registering voters: a check for $32.

*Executive board members were sworn in by Betty McMillion who commended the club for being so active.

*Call for volunteers or applications: to the State Convention in April in L.A.; to the Commission on Redistricting; to the Endorsing Conference March 20; to local commissions (Ricki Brodie was just appointed to a Palm Desert commission). Contact Charlie Ara if interested.

*Members are again directed to the PDG Democrats’ excellent website at www.pdgdems.org. Chris Towner is doing a great job keeping it attractive and up-to-date.

*A motion was passed to become a chartered Democratic club again this year.

Program: Candidate Forums, California 37^th Senate District

Candidates Justin Blake, Art Guerrero, and Anna Nevenik shared their ideas and stands by responding to a set of questions moderated by Betty McMillion. This large district includes most of Riverside County, minus the city of Riverside. Registration has dramatically changed the balance of registered Democrats in the last two years---the Republican advantage has dropped from 14% to just over 3%. Because the huge “Decline to State” bloc supported Obama in the presidential election, there is a real chance the Democrats could take the Senate seat, moving us closer to the 2/3 of the state senate needed to pass the state budget.

The election is slated for April 13. Any candidates taking 50% + 1 wins. If there is no one with a majority, the top Democrat will face the top Republican in June.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:30.

Next meeting: Friday, February 12, 9:390 at the Rec Center. Topic to be announced.