Democratic Club of North Florida

January 2011 DCNF Meeting

2012-01-24T19:16:00.001-05:00

Monday, January 30, 11:30 am

Please come to our Monday, January 30, 11:30 am program meeting.. Social & refreshments for first half hour. Meeting convenes at noon. in the Downtown Collins library program rooms.

Topic: "Pushing a Progressive Agenda in Florida"
with Rep. Scott Randolph. Susanna Randolph is invited but is in the late stages of pregnancy

Scott is a veteran Florida legislator, a ranking member of the Florida House of Representatives Finance & Tax Committee, elected to the Legislature in 2006; Susannah is the Executive Director of Florida Watch Action who organized the Pink Slip Rick campaign and former campaign manager for Congressman Alan Grayson's re-election bid in 2010.

Visit DCNF.BLOGSPOT.COM for more info

Dues for 2012 are $15 per year. Please send to P.O. Box 362, Tallahassee, FL 32302.

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A Message From Dave Jacobsen

Dear Democrats,

Vice President Joe Biden will be in Tallahassee in 2 weeks, on Monday, February 6. The Challenger Center has been selected as the venue for a large gathering downtown. I'm helping Allison Tant and Ruth Bedell to fill it.

Attendance tickets are $100 each.

I need your help filling the room so if you would please reach out to your list of progressives and also could get your warm body in the room along with a friend or two, we all would mightily appreciate it. We certainly don't want VP Biden coming to town and facing a bunch of protesting GOP dummies outside before coming into a less than full house!

Additionally, the first 100 to make donations using the link will be put in a drawing for lunch or dinner (depending on time of day) with Biden.

THANK YOU!

Here's the link to the event: https://my.barackobama.com/february6tallahasseereception

Dave Jacobsen

Meetings for 2012

2012-01-21T11:38:00.002-05:00

JANUARY

Monday, January 30, 11:30 am program meeting. Social & refreshments for first half hour. Meeting convenes at noon. Downtown Collins library program rooms confirmed.

Topic: "Pushing a Progressive Agenda in Florida" with Susannah and Scott Randolph. Scott is a veteran Florida legislator, a ranking member of the Florida House of Representatives Finance & Tax Committee, elected to the Legislature in 2006; Susannah is the Executive Director of Florida Watch Action who organized the Pink Slip Rick campaign and former campaign manager for Congressman Alan Grayson's re-election bid in 2010.

February

Monday, February 20, 6:30 pm program meeting. Library program rooms confirmed.

Topic: "Critiquing the Redistricting Maps" With Matt Isbell (conf) & Ryan Terrell (conf).

March

Monday, March 19, 11:30 am

Topic: "Ill Winds Blow"' in November" covering:

Amendment 5 (Leg takes power from Judiciary),

Amendment 6 (removes abortions from privacy clause)

Amendment 8, formerly 7 (allow public funding of religious schools).

April

Board meeting Wednesday, April 4, 6 pm. Place TBA.

Monday, April 16, 6:30 pm program meeting. Library to be reserved by Gladys Feb. 1.

Topic: "Legislative Damage Assessment" with panel of education, union, legislators.

May

Board meeting Wednesday, May 2, 6 pm. Place TBA.

Monday, May 21, 11:30 am program meeting. Topic: Bob Rackleff; "What I Learned in Uganda.". (Conf)

June

Topic: "Answering Deniers on Climate Change." Jeff Chanton, Scott Hannahs, et al. Arrangers: Joe, Linda.

July

July 21 picnic 4-7 pm. Lee Vause Park large shelter (Reserved from 3 pm). June 8 noon qualifying deadline for local candidates.

August--Hiatus

September

Monday, September 17, 11:30 am program meeting.

Election of two members of nominating committee.

Topic: For Constitution & Citizenship Day program on immigration. Rambana & Ricci immigration attirneys or Michael Gold. Arranger: Tabitha.

October

Topic: Musings by Diane Roberts of FSU English (to be invited)

November

Monday, November 19, 11:30 am

Election of 2013 board.

Topic: "A Wry View of State, National and International Politics" by Larry Spalding, retired legislative director of FL ACLU. (Need to confirm date)

December

Sunday, December 2 annual holiday party, 4-7 pm. Millett House.

Holiday Party, Sunday Dec. 4th

2011-11-30T07:43:00.005-05:00

YOU ARE INVITED

to attend the annual Holiday Party sponsored by the Democratic Club of North Florida. The party will be held from 4 - 7 pm, Sunday, December 4, at the home of Emily Millett, 1104 Ivanhoe Rd. in Waverly Hills.

RSVP's are not required, but guests are asked to bring a favorite dish to share, or donate $5 per person at the door. Visitors will be asked for a $5 contribution. The club will provide chips & dip, wine, beer, and coffee. Also, members may pay their dues for the coming year!

Mark your calendar! We hope to see you and your friends there!!

For further information, contact Linda Miklowitz at LMiklowitz@aol.com.

DCNF November 21st Meeting

2011-11-05T07:19:00.001-05:00

Richard Junnier, young attorney, world traveler, and official "light-hearted philosopher" will be featured in our last program meeting of the year, Monday, November 21, devoted to humor.

The meeting in the program room of the Collins downtown public library starts at 11:30 am with a social and refreshments. There will be an election of the 2012 board at noon. The program begins at 12:15 pm.

Junnier will present the paper he gave at the Fifth Annual Lighthearted Philosophers' Society Conference in St. Petersburg in October. It won the Joseph S. Ellin Memorial Essay Prize for best paper. The essay uses satire to critique libertarian law and economic models and offers a humanistic approach to the deterrence of criminal conduct. It is entitled "Leibniz and the Behavioral Economic Approach to Confusing a Law Review Editor."

Richard Junnier holds an LL.M. in Global Economy with a concentration in human rights from New York University, an LL.M. in International Law from the National University of Singapore, a J.D. from Florida State University, a certificate in Transnational Organized Crime Studies from Erasmus College of Law in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and a B.A. in Psychology from Florida State University. He has served on the Editorial Board of the Florida Bar Journal and has served as article selection editor and associate editor of the Florida State University Law Review.

He has published in the areas of privacy rights and property taxation. Between 2006 and 2008 he was an attorney for the Innocence Project of Florida, where he assisted with the exoneration of William Michael Dillon after 28 years of wrongful incarceration. He currently practices in Florida while researching global trade, tax policy, and international human rights law.

Mark your calendars for the annual DCNF holiday party Sunday, December 4, at the home of Emily and Pete Millett, 1104 Ivanhoe Road, in Waverly Hills just north of Betton Road between Thomasville and Meridian Roads. Members can bring a covered dish or a $5 contribution. Chips and dips and soft drinks and wine and beer will be provided by the club.

DCNF October 2011 Meeting

2011-10-11T19:56:00.003-05:00

Attorney Barry Richard will speak on "Security, Pseudo-Patriotism and the Erosion of American Liberties" at the Democratic Club of North Florida meeting Monday evening October 17.

His talk examines laws that undermine freedom and equality such as the historical suspension of habeas corpus, the internment of US citizens and the recent Patriot Act.

Recognized by the National Law Journal in 2006 as one of "the 100 most influential lawyers in America," Barry Richard was also listed as both a top litigation and appellate lawyer in Chambers and Partners USA Guide for several years. He was also selected as one of two National Law Journal Lawyers of the Year in 2001 for his "national reputation for compelling advocacy." The New York Post noted the "trademark clarity and forcefulness" of his argument, and CBS anchor Dan Rather called his nationally televised argument before the Florida Supreme Court in the 2000 Bush-Gore litigation "brilliant."

Richard was identified in the 2006 edition of The Best Lawyers in America for his appellate practice, having argued over 250 appellate cases nationally. He was selected as a Fellow in the American College of Trial Lawyers, which limits its membership to one percent of lawyers in each state. He was invited as one of 500 lawyers in the International Academy of Trial Lawyers. He has been retained for more than two decades by The Florida Bar as its general litigation counsel and has represented the Florida Academy of Trial Lawyers before the Florida Supreme Court.

The meeting, in the program rooms of the downtown Collins Public Library, will begin at 6:30 pm for refreshments and socializing and convene at 7 pm. The Nominations Committee will announce its slate for the November election of the board.

Results of September Meeting

2011-09-20T18:41:00.002-05:00

Democratic Club of North Florida

September 19th, 11:30 am Meeting.

"How Florida Tax Policy Hurts Middle Class". The Speaker was Alan Stonecipher, Director of Communications/Research Analyst with Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy The FCFEP is the progressive antidote to conservative think tanks.

Alan provided us with a fact based analysis of how regressive our state tax policy is. Here is one amazing portion of his presentation:

Florida has the Second-Worst Tax System in the Nation in Terms of Fairness

· Lowest 20% of earners in Florida, with an average income of $10,500 in annual earnings, pay 13.5% of that income in state and local taxes.

· The middle 20% of earners, with an average income of $37,400, pay 9.0% of their income in state and local taxes.

· The top 1%, averaging $2.4 million in income each year, pay 2.1% of it in state and local taxes in Florida.

To see the entire presentation visit:

https://home.comcast.net/~DCNF/home/stone3.pdf

also visit http://www.fcfep.org/

Monday September 19th, 11:30 am Meeting.

2011-09-14T06:45:00.001-05:00

Democratic Club of North Florida

Monday September 19th, 11:30 am Meeting.

The Democratic Club of North Florida meets Monday the 19th, The meeting topic is "How Florida Tax Policy Hurts the Middle Class." The speaker will be Alan Stonecipher, director of communications and research analyst with the Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy. Alan has 20 years of experience in public policy and governmental analysis in Florida and additional governmental experience in Louisiana and in Washington, D.C.

The meeting, in the program rooms of the downtown Collins Public Library, will begin at 11:30 am for refreshments and socializing and convene at noon. Two members of the Nominations Committee will be elected.

Dues for 2011 are $15 per year. Please send to P.O. Box 362, Tallahassee, FL 32302.

Annual Democratic Picnic

2011-07-06T20:05:00.002-05:00

11th Annual Old-Fashioned Democratic Picnic

Saturday July 23 from 4-7 PM

Rod Smith, state chair of the Florida Democratic Party, and a representative for U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, Lynn Bannister, are featured speakers at the 11th annual Old-Fashioned Democratic Picnic sponsored by the Democratic Club of North Florida.

The picnic, Saturday, July 23, 4-7 pm, at Vause Park, 6024 Old Bainbridge Road, on the north bank of Lake Jackson, will mix politics and fun with political speakers starting at 5 pm, a speaker's corner, live music and lots of food. Other public officials are invited to speak briefly and to serve the public (supper).

An optional catered barbecue dinner with (three meats), dessert (three fruit cobblers), and iced tea will be offered for $10 ($5 children), or bring your own supper. The number of servings is limited. Reserve your plates and avoid the line and need for cash by sending in your check made out to DCNF to PO Box 362, Tallahassee, FL 32302.

We will again be collecting school supplies for the school district.

DCNF is a social and educational organization promoting the values of the Democratic Party. For further information, go to dcnf.blogspot.com or our Facebook page or write DCNF@comcast.net or call Linda Miklowitz at 878-4320.

UPDATE on June Meeting

2011-06-13T20:19:00.001-05:00

Assessing the aftermath of the 2011 Florida Legislature
The Democratic Club of North Florida will have a panel discussion of experts to reflect on the impact the 2011 Legislative Session will have on Florida's citizens. The club will meet in Program Rooms A&B, at 6:30 pm on Monday, June 20 at the Leroy Collins Downtown Public Library.

The panelists are Rep. Michelle Rehwinkle Vasilinda; Jackie Pons, Leon County Superintendent of Schools; Doug Martin, lobbyist, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees and Jessica Lowe Minor, Executive Director, Florida League of Women Voters. Each panelist will discuss how their constituents will be affected by the actions of the Florida Legislature. The meeting is free and open to the public.

JUNE 2011 MEETING

2011-06-13T17:42:00.001-05:00

June Meeting of the Democratic Club of North Florida

"Damage Assessment of the 2011 Legislative Session" is the program part of the monthly meeting of the DCNF Monday, June 20, in the program rooms of the downtown Leon County Collins public library. A panel of observers, lobbyists and legislators will weigh in.

The social and refreshments part begins at 6:30 pm and the meeting at 7 pm.

DCNF is a social and educational organization promoting the values of the Democratic Party. For further information, go to Blogspot.com/DCNF or our Facebook page or write DCNF@comcast.net or call Linda Miklowitz at 878-4320.

If you have not already paid, 2011 dues are due. They are $15 per household. Please send your check to DCNF, P.O. Box 362, Tallahassee, FL 32302. You may also pay at the meeting.

2011-05-19T19:40:00.005-05:00

Did you see Tallahassee's own Andrew Gillum on MSNBC the other night? Watch the segment at this link

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/43070587#43070587

The Last Word with Lawrence O Donnell hosts segment by Andrew Gillum speaking for People for the American Way .

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Recap of The Democratic Club of North Florida will meet May meeting The program is described below:

"The Increasing Economic Inequality in the U.S., the Social and Health Costs, and What We Can Do."
Pat Fowler presented charts that show trends in the U.S. and comparisons with other nations. Pat's biography includes: Silent Generation, Social Worker, human rights observer in Ireland and Colombia, organizational performance consultant, trainer, political worker.
Pat's book reference list includes those below along with their present prices with media mail shipping on half.com

The Theory of Moral Sentiments, Adam Smith, 1752: $7.49 (paperback)
The Spirit Level, Wilkinson and Pickett, 2009:$17.92 (hardcover)
Winner Take All Politics, Hacker and Peirson, 2010: $10.64 (hardcover)

You might also want to visit this blog site that provides a list of local Democratic events http://asskickingdonkey.com/smf/index.php?topic=50.msg82#msg82

Make sure you note our future events:

Membership meeting Monday, June 20, 6:30 pm.

PROGRAM: Legislative Damage Assessment after the Bills Have Gone to the Governor. Local legislators and AFSCME PLACE: Program rooms A & B

Annual DCNF Picnic, Saturday, July 23, 4-7 pm. Vause Park, 6024 Old Bainbridge Road, N side of Lake Jackson. Turn R from Old Bainbridge,

PROGRAM: Rod Smith State of Florida Democratic Chair. Also rep for Sen. Nelson.

May Meeting

2011-05-10T07:10:00.001-05:00

May Program Meeting of Democratic Club of North Florida.

The Increasing Economic Inequality in the U.S., the Social and Health Costs, and What We Can Do." The presenter is political worker Pat Fowler with projected charts that show trends in the U.S. and compare it to other nations Pat's biography includes: Silent Generation, Social Worker, human rights observer in Ireland and Colombia, organizational performance consultant, trainer and political worker.

When: Monday, May 16, 6:30 pm for refreshments and social. Meeting starts at 7 pm.

Where: Leon County Collins Library program rooms A & B.

The meeting is free and open to the public. For further information, contact DCNF@comcast.com or call Linda Miklowitz at 878-4320, or visit dcnf.blogspot.com for any final updates.

2011 dues are due. They are $15 per household. Please send your check if you haven't paid to DCNF, P.O. Box 362, Tallahassee, FL 32302.

What Happened at the April DCNF Meeting ?

2011-04-18T20:19:00.001-05:00

What Happened at the April DCNF Meeting ?

Health Care Reform is the topic of Monday, April 18, monthly meeting of the Democratic Club of North Florida.

Kenneth Brummel-Smith, M.D., gave an insightful summary on the first anniversary of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), what it provides and what will be lost if the court rules it unconstitutional.

Dr Brummel-Smith's analysis was that the PPACA was a much needed first step in the right direction and provides many new protections for patients and needed and rational reforms to Medicare and Medicaid. He recommended the following web site for good info on the PPACA.

http://www.kff.org/healthreform/upload/8061.pdf

Personally I learned a number of good provisions in the law I was unaware of, like provisions to train many new general practitioners, (GPs).

For those of you who find it hard to make it to the Noon meetings you will be happy o know that the next two meetings will be in the evening

If you have not paid already your 20011 Annual Dues are $15 for an individual or household. Make your check out to DCNF and send it to Democratic Club of North Florida
P O Box 362
Tallahassee, FL 32302

___Changing your address phone or email? Just go to the bottom of this page and fill out the FORM with the new info. Also for some of you we have more than one email address which means you may get the same email on more than one account. If you want to stop receiving mail at one of the addresses, just go to the bottom of the email you want to stop and unsubscribe to that email address.

April DCNF Meeting

2011-04-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

Health Care Reform is the topic of Monday, April 18, monthly meeting of the Democratic Club of North Florida.

At the first anniversary of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, we ask what's good in the law and the impact if the Supreme Court rules it unconstitutional.

Kenneth Brummel-Smith, M.D.

Charlotte Edwards Maguire Professor and Chair, Department of Geriatrics of the Florida State University College of Medicine will share his insights and talk about what can be improved.

The meeting, in the program rooms of the downtown Collins Public Library, will begin at 11:30 am for refreshments and socializing and convene at noon.

The meeting is free and open to the public. For further information, contact Linda Miklowitz at LMiklowitz@aol.com or call, call Linda at 878-4320, or visit our Blog at dcnf.blogspot.com/ for any final updates

MESSAGE FROM COCA:

2011-04-04T19:56:00.001-05:00

"COCA (Council on Culture and Arts)" <erica@cocanet.org>
Date Mon, 04 Apr 2011 00:46:07 -0400 (EDT)

Subject Important Invitation: A Message From COCA

Dear Friends and Colleagues,
Right now, our City, State and country have a tough line to toe. They need to rank their priorities and decide what is appropriate for public funding.

As governments at all levels are weighing those priorities, they are discussing where the arts fit into that list.

We see the Federal government considering the elimination of the NEA, State legislators considering to barely fund cultural grants at all, even at a level that is already 95% less than it was five years ago.

This year, the City of Tallahassee is implementing a new strategy of obtaining community input on budget matters early in the process by holding Budget Public Meetings this week in three different locations in the community. Citizens will have the opportunity to "interact with staff in an open house format, review service areas and provide feedback about how they would like to see the budget divided".   Their goal for these meetings is to get a better sense of community priorities before staff begins crafting the budget to present to the City Commissioners for their consideration and approval.

Those who think public safety is a high priority will be there.

Those who think social services should be a high priority will be there.

Those who think government funding should not go to anything but those two things will be there.

Some will be there who may think government has no reason to support the arts and culture at all.

As someone who appreciates what the arts and culture bring to this community you must come forward and let them know that arts and cultural City funding is important or your voice will be telling them with its silence that it should not be considered a priority.

As always, I hope that all of you will use positive comments about the impact you have felt and seen as a result of the City's current support for arts and culture and/or constructive criticism that includes suggestions for improvement.     If you have anything to say about COCA's role in the community or the impact it has had on you we encourage you to add that to your statement as well.

This is not the time to stay home and hope someone else speaks for you. COCA is urging you to choose at least one of the meetings to attend and bring your message of support for the City to fund the arts and culture.

Choose from one of the below meetings or attend more than one:

6:00 PM     Monday, April 4-Gilchrist Elementary School, 1301 Timberlane Road

6:00 PM     Tuesday, April 5-Walker-Ford Community Center, 2301 Pasco St.

6:00 PM     Wednesday, April 6-Tallahassee Senior Center, 1400 North Monroe St.

I have included some Facts to Consider on the following page and of course, please feel free to call us at COCA if you would like to discuss anything prior to the meetings. As always, we are grateful to have such an engaged community and when an invitation is extended from your local government to share your opinion, we hope you will seize the opportunity. Let us know if you plan to attend so we can have an idea of how many voices will be heard.

Thanks for all your work, your support and your participation in making arts and culture strong in Tallahassee,

Peggy Brady, Executive Director

FACTS TO CONSIDER:

ECONOMIC IMPACT

No matter how tight a budget, during the Great Depression the arts and culture received more not less government support because of its transformative and affective impact, not just its economic ones. Today, we must also speak to its economic impact. Here in Tallahassee that impact has been surveyed and documented and it was done in a down time-during this current recession. That data shows that with the City and County's support combined with the earnings of local arts organizations, which include private, corporate and admission/ticket sales there is a healthy ROI for the local community. Translated into dollars, for every dollar that comes from local government into the local arts organizations, even now in this recession, $7.66 is spent back in the local economy.

If growing the economy, creating jobs and working in public/private partnerships is their goal, the City can count on arts and culture as valuable partners and a good use of public funding during these times as is documented by objective data.

WHERE IS THE CULTURAL FUNDING IN THE CITY'S BUDGET NOW

In the City's budget the cultural funding is found in FUNDING FOR OUTSIDE AGENCIES. Local non-profit arts and cultural organizations submit competitive grant applications through COCA each year providing detailed information on the projects and outcomes they will achieve with the use of these public funds. These applications are then reviewed by a citizen's panel to recommend the distribution of $529,298 to the highest scoring of over 25 local non-profit organizations. The cultural organizations who receive the funding also provide interim and final reports on the use of the funds.   Eight local non-profit organizations that have successfully competed in past years were left with no funding this year due to the decreased grant fund.

COCA, the Council on Culture and Arts is designated local arts agency, a non-profit public service organization that works with the city through performance service contracts. As a public agency, created by statute and inter-local agreements, COCA was also given a restriction from raising private dollars for its own operating in order to assist those local organizations seeking those same dollars. COCA's services include providing promotional outlets about cultural offerings and opportunities to the public, providing exhibition opportunities and business tools for local artists and creative businesses, managing the competitive grants programs for both the City and the County, working with the school district and teachers to support arts education, providing a central resource to citizens for locating and learning about local arts and culture and serving as a public/private partner with the City and County in absence of a department of Cultural Affairs. COCA's City contract funding totals $192,036.

www.cocanet.org

850-224-2500
cultural@cocanet.org

Tallahassee Monday Celebration

2011-04-02T15:04:00.000-05:00

I’m sorry if you missed the Saturday Morning Rally at the Capitol. We had some amazing speakers in support of labor and the middle class. You have another chance to participate this Monday.See the announcement below.

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Monday April, 04 Tallahassee, FL Tallahassee Celebration

We-Are-1 Rally

We will be gathering in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at Kleman Plaza from 11AM to 1PM. During this time union members, leaders, students, and other community organizers will be reciting different parts of the last speech he gave to striking sanitation workers in Memphis, TN.

People’s Rally Saturday

2011-03-30T18:59:00.004-05:00

Celebrate Solidarity

Spring, Summer, Every Season

Join an alternative Rally to support

fairness, equality and solidarity

Where:

The Dolphin Fountain, West Side of Capital

Starts at 8:30 AM

Saturday, April 2, before the parade

Speakers and Live Music

Show up - for fairness, prosperity for all not just a few, good jobs not cheap labor, support for local business through a people focused economy

Stand up - for a place at the table for all, not just those who can buy a seat; for democracy and partnerships for prosperity.

Join up – with your neighbors from all walks of life, work together for a better community with good schools serving every neighborhood, good jobs for all who can work, a decent life for those who need help.

No More Money Politics

Fight for What's Right

Solidarity for Democracy

For more information: Patrick Fowler 668-1463 patrickjfowlerfla@comcast.net or

David Jacobsen 385-6504 davejacobsen@msn.com

2011-03-17T18:17:00.002-05:00

DCNF Celebrates Women's History Month

The Democratic Club of North Florida meets from 11:30am to 1pm, Monday, March 21 at the LeRoy Collins Library. Light refreshments will be available for a donation from 11:30 - 12 noon.

Our Speaker will be Dr. Rachel Sutz-Pienta, visiting assistant professor of Women's Studies at Florida State University, assistant professor of Education at Valdosta State University. She is also Democratic State Committeewoman for Wakulla County, Chair of the Wakulla DEC, president of Wakulla Democratic Women's club, founding member of Wakulla County League of Women Voters, and one of Tallahassee Democrat's 25 Women You Need to Know in 2011.

Reminder: 2011 dues are due now .If you have not already paid please send $15 per household to DCNF, PO Box 362, Tallahassee, FL 32302.

The meeting is free and open to the public. For further information, contact Linda Miklowitz at LMiklowitz@aol.com or call, call Linda at 878-4320, or visit http://dcnf.blogspot.com/ for any final updates

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The Democratic Club of North Florida is a sponsor of the Legislative Reception of the Democratic Women's Club of Florida, Region 1, on April 5. This sponsorship entitles DCNF members to attend without cost.

The reception is at the Brogan Museum from 5:30-7:30 pm. We ask members who want to attend to contribute $10 to DCNF to defray the sponsorship cost. The cost for individual admission is $50. Please respond to Linda Miklowitz at LMiklowitz@aol.com or 878-4320 if you want to attend.

March Monday Daytime Meeting at the Library

2011-03-16T07:01:00.001-05:00

DCNF Celebrates Women’s History Month
The Democratic Club of North Florida meets from 11:30am to 1pm, Monday, March 21, at the LeRoy Collins Library. Light refreshments will be available for a donation from 11:30 - 12 noon.

Our Speaker will be Dr. Rachel Sutz-Pienta, visiting assistant professor of Women's Studies at Florida State University, assistant professor of Education at Valdosta State University. She is also Democratic State Committeewoman for Wakulla County, Chair of the Wakulla DEC, president of Wakulla Democratic Women's club, founding member of Wakulla County League of Women Voters, and one of Tallahassee Democrat's 25 Women You Need to Know in 2011.

Reminder: 2011 dues are due now .If you have not already paid please send $15 per household to DCNF, PO Box 362, Tallahassee, FL 32302.

The meeting is free and open to the public. For further information, contact Linda Miklowitz at LMiklowitz@aol.com or call, call Linda at 878-4320, or visit http://dcnf.blogspot.com/ for any final updates

DCNF: Legislative Update Monday Feb 21st

2011-02-17T19:41:00.001-05:00

!Correction: The Postcards had April instead of the correct date of February 21!

The DCNF Looks at the 2011 Legislative Session The Sparks are beginning to fly so don’t miss this meeting and the chance to get some of the inside info.

A prospective view of the upcoming 2011 Florida legislative session with House Democratic Leader Ron Saunders and other legislators is the program for the Monday, February 21, meeting of the Democratic Club of North Florida.

The meeting is in the program rooms of the downtown Collins Leon County Public Library. A social with light refreshments begins at 6:30 pm. The meeting convenes at 7 pm.

Reminder: 2011 dues are due now .If you have not already paid please send $15 per household to DCNF, PO Box 362, Tallahassee, FL 32301.

The meeting is free and open to the public. For further information, contact Linda Miklowitz at LMiklowitz@aol.com or call , call Linda at 878-4320, or visit http://dcnf.blogspot.com/ for any final updates

The Democratic Club of North Florida Presents

2011-01-17T10:59:00.001-05:00

A retrospect of the destruction of the African-American community of Rosewood and how the State of Florida came to offer college scholarships to the descendants of its residents is the topic of the monthly meeting of the Democratic Club of North Florida Monday, January 24.

Attorney and lobbyist Martha Barnett, who was the catalyst for the reparations bill, is featured speaker following a slide show of the history.

The noon meeting is in the program rooms of the downtown Collins public library. A social with a light lunch begins at 11:30 am for which a donation is asked.

For further information call Linda at 878-4320 or email
DCNF@comcast.net Visit the Blogsite http://dcnf.blogspot.com/

Holiday Party

2010-11-30T21:59:00.001-05:00

We invite you to join us at our annual DCNF holiday party Sunday, December 5 from 4-7 pm. It is at the home of Emily and Pete Millett, 1104 Ivanoe Road, in Waverly Hills, between Meridian and Thomasville Roads, a bit north of Bradford Road. Please bring a covered dish to share or a $5 donation. Please feel free to bring your friends.

We wish you the best winter holiday yet.

Sincerely,
Linda Miklowitz
President-elect of DCNF

November DCNF Meeting with SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER

2010-11-10T19:17:00.001-05:00

DCNF PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE US ARMED FORCES

The Democratic Club of North Florida meets from 11:30am to 1pm, Monday,
November 15, at the LeRoy Collins Library. Light refreshments will be
available for a donation from 11:30 - 12 noon.

The agenda includes the election of new officers and board members, and a
talk by outgoing DCNF President Mary May, who will commemorate the 69th
anniversary of Pearl Harbor and the first days of WWII in the Pacific
(December 1941).

The meeting is free and open to the public. Veterans and current members of
the US Armed Forces are cordially invited to attend. For further
information, contact Mary May at 562-0594, or mmay@fsu.edu.

A couple of reminders: (1) It's time to renew club membership; and (2) The
DCNF annual holiday party will be held from 4 - 7 pm, Sunday, December 5.
More information about the party will be forthcoming.

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October Meeting at City Hall

2010-10-14T20:07:00.000-05:00

The DCNF October Meeting -PLEASE NOTE THE LOCATION is City Hall

Our Special Guest , Leon County School Superintendent Jackie Pons will speak on the State of the Schools, including class sizes.

The Democratic Club of North Florida meets from 6:30 - 8:00 pm, Monday, October 18, in the Tallahassee Room at the City Hall.

Light refreshments will be available for a donation from 6:30 to 7 pm, followed by nominations for new DCNF officers and board of directors. The meeting is free and open to the public. For further information, contact Vice President Linda Miklowitz at 878-4320, or at LMiklowitz@aol.com.

Handicap parking is available in the City Hall garage accessible from Duval Street. The elevator goes to the second-floor. Turn right from the elevator and again at the end of the wall to the Tallahassee Room.

Visit the Club Website: http://dcnf.blogspot.com/

UpDate On the Sept Meeting

2010-09-20T18:50:00.001-05:00

The DCNF September Meeting

Sorry if you missed the meeting. It was a good one!

Featured speaker, Dr. Jay Rayburn, talked about the process of political polling and some of the Florida races.

Interesting comments included;

1.Allen Boyd will be in a very tight race for re-election.

2. The senatorial race is very interesting from a political historian standpoint and he predicted Charlie Crist will have a chance if Democratic voters look at poor poll numbers for Meek and switch to Crist to make sure that Rubio will not make it to Washington.

Dr. Rayburn' s favorite web site for polling info is http://www.realclearpolitics.com/

Visit the Club Website: http://dcnf.blogspot.com/

---------OTHER STUFF--------

ReThink Energy, (contact Kim Ross 850 766 1300) http://rethinkenergyflorida.org

---------------------------------------------------------------

Ruth Bedell wanted you to see this link about a V.O.I.C.E. meeting Wednesday Sept 22

There will be a panel discussion on the importance of registering to vote to disenfranchised groups. More info below

Time	Wednesday, September 22 · 7:00pm - 8:30pm

Location	Leroy Collins Library, Program Room A 200 Park Avenue W Tallahassee, FL

Created By	V.O.I.C.E.: Volunteers Organizing and Initiating Change Everywhere

THE DCNF SEPTEMBER MEETING

2010-09-13T20:09:00.001-05:00

The DCNF September Meeting

The Democratic Club of North Florida meets from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm, Monday, September 20, in rooms A & B at the LeRoy Collins Library on Park Avenue.

Featured speaker, Dr. Jay Rayburn, Department of Communications, FSU, will talk about "Public Election Trends in Florida." Club President, Mary May, tells us that Dr. Rayburn is very entertaining in the way of Lance deHaven Smith. Should be fun and educational too.

The meeting is free and open to the public. From 11:30 - 12:00, light refreshments will be available for a donation.

For further information, contact Mary May at 562-0594, or mmay@fsu.edu.

Visit the Club Website: http://dcnf.blogspot.com/

---------OTHER STUFF--------

HealthCare Reform, Dr. Ken Brummel-Smith Tues 7PM Sept 14 FSU College of Medicine,1115 W Call St. (parking adjacent to building)

ReThink Energy, (contact Kim Ross 850 766 1300 http://rethinkenergyflorida.org

DCNF Picnic This Saturday, July 24

2010-07-18T18:27:00.002-05:00

The Democratic Club of North Florida cordially invites you to the

10th Annual Picnic and Political Rally

4 to 7 p.m., Saturday, July 24, 2010
Lee Vause Park, Lake Jackson, in Tallahassee[1]

The afternoon will feature music, good food, and speeches by our Democratic elected officials, candidates, and representatives from campaigns and Democratic organizations.

BBQ dinners will be available from 4 to 5 p.m. at a charge of $10 per adult and $5 for children 12 or under. Tickets will be sold at the entrance to the pavilion.

The speakers program will start promptly at 5 p.m. Please let me know in advance if you would like to be on the program to speak and, due to time constraints, we ask that you limit your talk to three minutes. Candidates may wish to set up tables near the pavilion in order to display their campaign literature.

The DCNF extends a special invitation to all officials and candidates to have a little fun by helping us serve the meal. Please let me know if you would like to take a “shift” at the serving table.

Finally, the DCNF is suggesting that our rally-goers bring a small donation of school supplies that will be distributed among students in Leon County public schools.

Please contact Mary May (850-562-0594), or mmay@fsu.edu, by July 23 to confirm that you will be on the program to speak, serve some meals, or need further information.

We hope you will join us for this big event!

Officers 2010 President Mary May; Vice President Linda Miklowitz; TreasurerBarbara Judd

Board of Directors John Armstrong. Ruth Bedell, Jerry Conger, Jim Davis, Dennis Reilly, Bill Rollins

Past PresidentDavid Jacobsen Communications John Armstrong

Democratic Club of North Florida – Chartered 2000

http://DCNF.blogspot.com

Program of Speakers — (Confirmed, as of 7/15/10)

(by office and alphabetical order of surname)

US Senate

Maurice Ferre, Former Mayor of Miami

Kendrick Meek Campaign, Represented by Conor Hurley

US Representative (Congress), Dist. 2

Congressman Alan Boyd (incumbent)

State Senator Al Lawson

Fl Governor

Representative from Alex Sink campaign

Fl Attorney General

Senator Dave Aronberg, represented by Bradley Pough

Senator Dan Gelber

Fl Chief Financial Officer

Loranne Ausley -- or a representative from campaign

Fl Commissioner of Agriculture

Scott Maddox, or a representative from campaign

State Senate, District 6

Curtis Richardson

State House, District 8

Representative Alan Williams (incumbent/unopposed)

State House, District 9

Representative Michelle Rehwinkel Vasilinda (incumbent)

Rick Minor

County Commission

Dist. 5

Kristin Dozier

Bob Rackleff (incumbent)

At-Large: Group 2

Nick Maddox (unconfirmed?)

Scott Matteo

Cliff Thaell (incumbent)

Mayor

John Marks

City Commission

Seat 3 Seat 5

Nancy Miller Erwin Jackson

Bill Rollins Dr. James Moran

Gil Ziffer (incumbent)

LCo School Board

Joy, Bowen (incumbent), or campaign representative

Democratic Organizations

Barbara Devane

Kim Ross, Founder, “Crude Awakenings”

Larry Simmons, Chairman, LCDEC

Representative from FPIRG – Amendments 5 & 6

Representative from OFA

[1] Lee Vause Park, 6024 Old Bainbridge Rd. Drive North on Monroe (Hwy. 27); turn right on Old Bainbridge Rd.; look for park entrance on the right, about a quarter-mile down Old Bainbridge.

DCNF Annual Picnic

2010-07-11T10:24:00.002-05:00

The Democratic Club of North Florida

cordially invites you to attend the

10th Annual Picnic and Political Rally

4 to 7 pm, Saturday, July 24, 2010

Lee Vause Park at Lake Jackson in Tallahassee

The afternoon will feature music, food, and speeches by our Democratic elected officials, candidates, and representatives from campaigns and Democratic organizations.

BBQ dinners will be available from 4 to 5 p.m. at a charge of $10 per adult and $5 for children under age 12. Tickets will be sold at the entrance to the pavilion.

The Speaker program will begin promptly at 5pm! (See below for confirmed speakers, as of 7/10/10.)

The DCNF is encouraging our rally-goers to bring a small donation of school supplies that will be distributed among young students in Leon County public schools. RSVP's are not necessary, but we hope you will join us for this big event! For further information, please contact Mary May (850-562-0594, or mmay@fsu.edu.

Officers 2010 President Mary May; Vice President Linda Miklowitz; Treasurer
Barbara Judd

Board of Directors John Armstrong. Ruth Bedell, Jerry Conger, Jim Davis, Dennis Reilly, Bill Rollins

Past President
David Jacobsen Communications
John Armstrong

Program of Speakers — (confirmed as of 7/10/10)

US Senate

Ferre, Former Miami Mayor Maurice

Meek, Kendrick Campaign, Represented. by Conor Hurley

US Representative (Congress), Dist. 2

Boyd, Alan

Lawson, Al

Florida Governor

Representative from Alex Sink campaign

Fl Atty Gen

Aronberg, Senator Dave – Represented by Bradley Pough

Gelber, Senator Dan

Fl CFO

Ausley, or representative from campaign

Fl Com of Agric

Scott Maddox, or representative from campaign

State Senate, Dist 6

Richardson, Curtis

State House, District 8

Williams, Alan

State House, Dist 9

Rehwinkel-Vasilinda, Representative Michelle

Minor, Rick

County Commission

Dist. 5

Dozier, Kristin

At-Large:

Group 2

Matteo, Scott

Thaell, Cliff

Mayor

City Commission

Seat 3 Seat 5

Miller, Nancy Jackson, Erwin

Rollins, Bill Moran, Dr. James

Ziffer, Gil

LCo School Board

Bowen, Joy

Democratic Organizations

Devane, Barbara, FPIRG representative,OFA representative

Ross, Kim ("Crude Awakenings")

Simmons, Larry, DEC

------------other notices provided by our members----------------------

Join us on Tuesday July 20 at 11:30 am at the Capitol in Tallahassee for this important rally. Then visit with your elected representatives to ask them to let the voters decide.

Goal: at least one citizen from EVERY legislative district and over 1000 people total! Please FORWARD this to all your supportive friends in Florida!

The Legislature has been called into Special Session on Tuesday, July 20 -23 to consider a Joint Resolution legislation that would place the question of drilling in state waters on the ballot for November. Please join Crude Awakening, the Florida Wildlife Federation, Hands Across the Sand, 1SkyFlorida, and other Florida organizations to show statewide support for this ballot initiative. Our message to the legislators is – Let the people decide!!
FaceBook Invite: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=136827606345410

People needing a place to stay or having other questions can contact: crudeawaketally@gmail.com

If you do nothing else, please call or write your legislator:
House: http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/sections/representatives/myrepresentative.aspx

Senate: http://www.flsenate.gov/Legislators/index.cfm?Mode=Find%20Your%20Legislator&Submenu=3&Tab=legislators&ZipCode=

Kim Ross

Crude Awakening Tallahassee

http://sites.google.com/site/crudeawakeningtally/home

Member Announcement

2010-07-05T08:05:00.004-05:00

A presentation by Mr. Ion Sancho, Leon Co. Supervisor of Elections, on *Thursday, July 8,* *2010, from 7:00pm -8:30pm*, at the Leroy Collins Public Library, Program Rooms A & B, 200 Park Avenue W, downtown Tallahassee.

He will speak on "The untold story following *Hacking Democracy*: A documentary on the insecurity of electronicvoting." This civic educational event is sponsored by Volunteers Organizing and Initiating Change Everywhere (VOICE). Mr. Sancho, who is nonpartisanand nationally recognized for his work as Supervisor of Elections, has devoted special attention to studying voting technologies and increasingcitizen participation in our electoral system. He is passionate about his field. You will not be disappointed by his presentation.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^%%^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Please Join:
Sarah Butters · Barbara DeVane · Moe Dewitt · Will Hall

Matthew Land · Mike Poché · Steve Schale · Kyle Simon

Christian Ulvert · Raju Vyas · Weston Walker · Karen Woodall

(Host Committee in Formation)

For a Cocktail Reception in Honor of

SEN. DAN GELBER

Florida's Next Attorney General

Tuesday, July 6th

6:00 – 7:30 PM

At 101

215 West College Avenue
Tallahassee, FL 32301

All Contributions Are Welcome

Maximum Contribution: $500 per person or corporation

For Questions or to RSVP contact: Ashley at Ashley@DanGelber.com 786-390-3507

Donate Online at: http://www.dangelber.com/

&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&^^^^^^^^^&&&&&

Don't let them steal your vote

2010-05-11T19:50:00.009-05:00

The Florida Hometown Democracy Land Use Initiative is on the November 2, 2010 ballot in Florida as an initiated constitutional amendment to the Florida Constitution. The initiative proposes to require voter approval of all changes to local comprehensive land-use plans, in order to "give voters more say over development."^[1] Currently, county and city commissioners make land-use decisions.^[2]

The initiative will appear as Amendment 4 on the November ballot. In order to pass the amendment needs at least 60% of the total votes. On June 17, 2009 the Florida Supreme Court tossed out a challenge and on June 22nd the Florida Division of Elections certified the amendment.^[3]

April Meeting update

2010-05-01T09:42:00.002-05:00

Tom Flanigan, News Director WFSU-FM/Florida Public Radio Network, Was kind enough to provide some audio files from our last meeting of the DCNF. Please read and listen to Flanigan's reprt below.

Leon County Elections Supervisor Ion Sancho says the last time Florida really had fair elections was in the 1980s. That was after the courts forced redrawing of the state's election districts without politics affecting the process. But in recent years, Sancho says things are worse than every and both Democrats and Republicans are to blame…
Speaking before Leon County Democrats on Monday, Sancho said he's supporting the "Fair Districts" amendments that will be on this November's ballot. Meanwhile, the Florida Legislature has introduced two amendments of its own that Sancho says would keep district lines unfair. Opponents of the Fair Districts amendments say they would put the state at odds with federal court rulings that ensure minority representation.
https://home.comcast.net/~DCNF/fair1.mp3
Leon County Elections Supervisor Ion Sancho is NOT a big fan of lawmakers being allowed to draw their own voting districts….
That's why Sancho says he's supporting Florida Constitutional Amendments Five and Six. They would set up tighter controls on how lawmakers could draw voting districts. Sancho's also against two new amendments proposed by the legislature that he says would effectively gut Amendments Five and Six. Those who oppose the so-called "Fair Districts" amendments say they could put the state in violation of federal fair voting rules and result in endless lawsuits.
https://home.comcast.net/~DCNF/fair2.mp3

Member Messages

2010-04-25T20:10:00.001-05:00

I have attached an invitation to a fund raiser for Suzanne Kosmas – Congresswoman from the district that stretches from Ormond Beach to Orlando. She defeated Tom Feeney in the last election in a very difficult race much to the surprise of the Republicans. Despite her conservative district and to her political peril she voted in favor of the Health Care Reform Bill. I served with her in the Legislature and know her to be a person of high ethical standards.

Sarah Palin has pinpointed Suzanne as one of the districts the Republicans must take back. They will be pouring money into that race. It would be wonderful to have a large turnout for her fund raiser even though she does not represent our district. Please come – contribute whatever you can. The invitation talks about some sizeable contributions but I spoke with Suzanne yesterday and she said that every bit helps. Invite as many friends as you wish.

Marjorie Turnbull

Please Join

Sam Bell, Betty Castor, Danny Fuchs,

Mark Hendrickson, Don Hinkle,

Kathy Baughman McLeod

Harry Spring, Karen Thurman

For an event in support of

Congresswoman

Suzanne Kosmas

Monday, May 3rd

5:00pm – 6:30pm

At the office of

Pennington, Moore, Wilkinson, Bell & Dunbar

215 South Monroe Street, 2nd Floor

Tallahassee, Florida 32301

Sponsor: $1,000

Host: $500

Friend: $250

To RSVP, Please Contact Alex Roth at

(386) 428-3900 or alex@kosmasforcongress.com.

Paid for by Kosmas for Congress

Contributions are not tax deductible.

Corporate contributions are prohibited.

################################^###############

'Voices of Honor' Tour Comes to Tallahassee, Florida

Thursday, April 29th at 7pm

The national 'Voices of Honor' Tour highlights the continuing use of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy to fire competent, fit, and highly-skilled Americans from the U.S. military solely because of their sexual orientation.

When: Thursday, April 29th starting at 7pm

Where: Tallahassee City Hall, Commission Chamber300 S. Adams Street Tallahassee, FL 32301

What: 'Ask Not' – Film screening explores how gay and straight veterans are turning to activism to challenge DADT

Featuring: A panel comprised of both GLBT and straight veterans speaking on their experiences in the military and the impact of DADT.

Passed in 1993, the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' law allows gay, lesbian, and bisexual service personnel to serve in the armed forces as long as their sexual orientation is not publicly disclosed or discovered. More than 13,500 men and women have been discharged from the military because of their sexual orientation, including more than 60 Arabic linguists and nearly 800 other service members in critical occupational fields.

For more information contact: Justin Ford at 850-445-6623 or justinford33@gmail.com.

To learn more online, visit: www.hrc.org/sites/repealdadt

Justin Ford

(850) 445-6623 cell

Don’t let them continue to steal your VOTE!

2010-04-20T18:48:00.004-05:00

Hi DCNF Members: We had a fascinating Club meeting Monday. Ion Sancho provided a riveting account of current legislative issues involving voting rights and Fair Redistricting.

Current Republican gerrymandered districts are designed to "steal votes". Why else would a state voting district that stretches from here to Jacksonville, have a slim finger that sticks into Leon County? Some five or six thousand Leon County voters are assured of having their votes negated by this legislative trickery.

As most of you know there are citizen sponsored Fair District Amendments on the ballot this year. However, incumbent legislators in their desperate attempt to keep power are pushing to place on the ballot competing, contradictory ballot measures they hope will muddle the waters, confuse voters and cancel out any real meaningful changes.

DCNF Members are urged to TAKE ACTION on SJR 2288 and HJR 7231 to urge our legislative members to kill these anti-democratic bills.

Tuesday night, the House passed HJR 7231 along party lines. State Representative Michelle Rehwinkle Vasilinda voted AGAINST the resolution; Senator Al Lawson is IN FAVOR of the resolution. DCNF members are urged to oppose HJR 7231.

1. Voice your opposition quickly and easily at: http://ga4.org/campaign/SJR2288.

2. Write a "Zing" or a letter to your newspaper.

3. Call, email, or write the Legislative Leaders below to tell them that you "oppose SJR 2288 because it weakens the standards of FairDistrictsFlorida.org Amendments 5 and 6":

Senator Al Lawson

228 Senate Office Building
404 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100
487-5004
(NOTE: Call Josh Robinson at Lawson's campaign office: 222-0710; (cell) 205-546-0013; or email at:
jrobinson@allawsonforcongress.com)

Senator Jeff Atwater, President

Florida Senate

312 Senate Office Building

404 South Monroe Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100

(850) 487-5100

atwater.jeff.web@flsenate.gov

Representative Larry Cretul, Speaker
Florida House of Representative
420 The Capitol
402 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300
(850) 488-1450
larry.cretul@myfloridahouse.gov

Senator Mike Haridopolos, Chair

Reapportionment Committee
420 Senate Office Building
404 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1100
(850) 487-5056
haridopolos.mike.web@flsenate.gov

Representative Dean Cannon, Chair
Select Policy Council on Strategic & Economic Planning
422 The Capitol
402 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300
(850) 488-2742
dean.cannon@myfloridahouse.gov

(See full text of Amendments 5 & 6 at http://www.fairdistrictsflorida.org .; "google" SJR 2288 and HJR 7231 to read the text of the resolutions.)

April 2010

2010-04-13T20:36:00.001-05:00

The DCNF April Meeting

The Democratic Club of North Florida meets from 12 noon - 1 pm, Monday, April 19, in Rms. A & B at the LeRoy Collins library on Park Avenue.

John Brushwood, NW Florida's Regional Field Director of Organizing for America (OFA), will be the featured speaker.

OFA is part of the Democratic National Committee, and is actively working to elect Democratic candidates who support President Obama's agenda. Brushwood will discuss OFA's full-field campaign and its coordination with local and statewide Democratic campaigns in the November elections. From 11:30 - 12:00, light refreshments will be available; donation suggested

The meeting, which is free and open to the public. For further information, contact Mary May at 562-0594, or mmay@fsu.edu.

Please visit the blogsite at http://DCNF.blogspot.com for more information

Monday March 15th Meeting at Amtrak

2010-03-08T21:10:00.004-05:00

Democratic Club of North Florida March Meeting 2010

When and where: 7:00 - 8:00pm, Monday, March 15, at the Amtrak Station

(6:30 - 7:00 pm, light refreshments available for a donation)

Featured Speaker: Andy Opel, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Director, Media

Production Program, School of Communication at FSU, whose topic is:

"Talking About Taxes: Framing Messages in the

Tempest of a Tea Party"

The election of President Obama spawned the right-wing anti-tax populism of the Tea Parties. Dr. Opel will discuss how to fight back against the cut-taxes-at all-cost mentality of the Tea Party by exploring possible pathways to restoring a vigorous defense of the public good.

The meeting is free and open to the public.

For further information, contact Mary May at 562-0594, or mmay@fsu.edu.

MORE ABOUT Dr.Opel: Dr. Opel came to our attention last summer in the aftermath of contentious demonstration during an Allen Boyd townhall meeting on Healthcare. A photo of Dr Opel being confronted by one of the Tea Bag demonstrators appeared in the Democrat. The photo sparked a an intelligent and reasoned letter in favor of healthcare by Dr Opel followed by a week later by a hate and fear filled letter from his Tea Bag opponent, which seemed to be streamed straight from the mind of Rush Limbaugh. I’ll post both of these letters on the DCNF Blog.
PLEASE FOLLOW THIS LINK TO SEE THE LETTERS TO THE EDITOR BY Dr. Opel and Reed Cameron

A message from the State Democratic Leader to the DCNF

2010-02-20T08:38:00.002-05:00

Dear Democratic Club President,

Today we are all suffering from the past twelve years of failed Republican "leadership" in Florida. This year we have the OBLIGATION to change the wrong direction of Republican "leadership". Your Democratic Caucus members of the Florida House are totally committed to that task. I believe that every Democrat should know what your caucus is doing. So, what we have done is created a House Democratic Caucus website www.flhousedems.com.

I would like you to share this with every member of your club. The site is updated almost daily. It will make you most knowledgeable about current issues. It will give you and your members the acts that they can discuss with others. Please put a story about our website in your newsletter, email the info to your members, and talk about the website at your meetings.

Thank you.

Democratically yours,

Franklin Sands
Democratic Leader

Feb 2010 DCNF Meeting

2010-02-10T19:13:00.001-05:00

Noted Florida Correspondents offer DCNF

A Preview of the 2010 Legislature

Bill Cotterell, political editor at the Tallahassee Democrat, and Steve Bousquet, St. Petersburg Times' Tallahassee bureau chief, are the featured speakers at the Democratic Club of North Florida (DCNF) on Monday, February 15. The two reporters, considered among the most respected associates in the Capital Press Corps, will offer their views about issues facing the upcoming 2010 Legislative session.

The meeting, which is free and open to the public, takes place at noon in rooms A & B at the LeRoy Collins Library on Park Ave. Light refreshments will be be available for a $5 donation from 11:30 to 12 noon, followed by the presentation.

For further information, contact Mary May at 562-0594, or mmay@fsu.edu.

DCNF Jan Meeting

2010-01-18T18:01:00.001-05:00

Monday Noon DCNF Meeting at Amtrak

Educating Tallahassee's Future Workforce

will be the subject of the luncheon meeting of the Democratic Club of North Florida, which will be held on Monday, January 25, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Amtrak Station on Railroad Avenue Guest speaker will be Robin Johnston, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Tallahassee Community College, which is administering a $570,000 John S. and James L. Knight Foundation grant dedicated to improving Tallahassee's economic prosperity by developing a more adaptable workforce and attracting and retaining college graduates and young professionals.

The meeting is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be available for a $5 donation, or guests may bring their lunch!

For further information, contact DCNF President Mary May at 562-0594, or e-mail

mmay@fsu.edu.

Visit www.DCNF.blogspot.com for last minute details and more information on the Club

Should there also be a sentence to the effect that sandwiches and

soft drinks will be available for $5.00 per person and that

attendees may bring their own brown bag lunches?

Barbara and John --

Below is what I've prepared for email/post card/Tall Democrat.

Barbara -- Anything you want to add or delete? IF NOT, please

directly give John and me the Okay to run with it!!

"Educating the Workforce of the Future"

Featured speaker is Robin Johnston, Vice President for

Institutional Advancement & Executive Director of the TCC

Foundation, the recipient of a number of grants, including a

$570,000 award from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Johnston, interested in assisting TCC's nontraditional students,

helps to fund scholarships and special jobs training programs

aimed at generating "sustainable economic activity" in Tallahassee

and the surrounding area.

(Sources: "One to Watch," Tallahassee Magazine, March-April 2008;

"New Institute to Focus on Tallahassee's Economy," Tallahassee

Democrat, January 22, 2009.)

Updates

2009-11-21T09:09:00.001-05:00

Announcement, Death of Cathy Gretsch

The DCNF is sad to learn about the death of Cathy Gretsch on November 14. For many years, Cathy taught English at Leon High School. She was a very active Democrat, having been a long-time memer of the Leon County Democratic Women's Club, and a founding member of the DCNF. At the time of her death, she lived in California near her daughter Martha. A December 2 memorial service will be announced in the TALLAHASSEE DEMOCRAT.

November 24, 2009
Brown Bag Break - "The Week That Will Live in Infamy." Local author and former teacher Mary May will discuss the Japanese attacks on Pearl Harbor, the Philippines, Wake Island, and Guam. Lunch may be pre-ordered from Fat Sandwich at 425.8303. Times are noon to 1:00 p.m. R. A. Gray Building, First Floor, free.

DATE CORRECTION & Notes on the DCNF November Meeting:

2009-11-17T21:10:00.002-05:00

IMPORTANT CORRECTION: The DCNF Holiday Party will be on Saturday December 12^th. An incorrect date was previously announced. The party will be from 4-7 at Emily Millett's house.

Meeting Notes:

We had another wonderful and informative meeting Monday night.

The meeting started with the confirmation of the new board members. More on that in a later post

Ion Sancho dropped in to give us his periodic update on the very bad election laws the legislature continues to pass.

Then the featured speaker Karen Thurman, Democratic Party Chair, gave us some news on statewide issues. Karen was very upbeat about the state of the party, indicating it was in the best condition in a decade. The Obama campaign left the Democrats with a rich database of new voters and the party continues to update these profiles. Ms. Thurman indicated that if the party can gain 6 to 10 seats in the Florida legislature Democrats will have the power to force more honest lawmaking in the Capital.

Karen indicated the Governor's Office is the most important prize next year. The VETO pen could stop a lot of bad laws from passing.

Much mention was made of Allen Boyd and his opposition to the House healthcare bill. The general consensus was that we must continue to call and or write his office and let him know that most of us want healthcare reform and that those showing up to yell at public meetings are a small minority. Boyd will have another chance to vote on this bill once it is combined with the Senate bill, so let him know who the real majority is.

Ms. Thurman provided an interesting discourse on why the Party has no statewide platform explaining that Florida is such a politically diverse State that a policy for South Florida might not be the right one for North Florida.

I think a general message for the night was that if we can elect a few more Democrats to office we will drastically increase our ability to effect change. So stop whining and get out there and elect Democrats.

COMMENTS, CORRECTIONS AND OBSERVATIONS ARE WELCOME TO THIS POST. JA

November Meeting

2009-11-10T19:32:00.002-05:00

THE DCNF WELCOMES THE CHAIR OF THE FLORIDA DEMOCRATIC PARTY

The November meeting of the Democratic Club of North Florida will be held from 6:30 – 8 p.m., Monday, November 16, at the Amtrak Station, with Congresswoman Karen Thurman, Chair of the Florida Democratic Party since 2005, as the featured speaker. Under Thurman's leadership, the Party has elected its first Cabinet official since 1998, picked up three Congressional seats, nine State House seats, and helped deliver Florida's 27 electoral votes for President Barack Obama. Thurman will discuss the condition of the
FDP and other items related to the coming election year.

• Elections will be held for new officers and board members.
• Security is provided at the Amtrak Station.
• The meeting is free and open to the public.
• From 6:30 to 7 p.m., light refreshments will be available for a donation.

Upcoming events:Annual holiday party, 4 – 7 pm, Saturday, December 12, at the home of Emily Millett. Guests are asked to bring a covered dish. More details will be
forthcoming.
Monthly meeting, TUESDAY, January 19. Speaker is Robin Johnson, head of the
TCC Workforce Foundation. Time and Location will be forthcoming.

Meeting Update

2009-10-21T09:40:00.004-05:00

Monday Meeting Followup:

Mary Ellen Klas and her husband, John Kennedy provided a fascinating discussion of the future of the newspaper. The question and answer session was most informative. If you want to follow up on that discussion I suggest you listen to the Diane Rehm show from Tuesday:

LINK CLICK HERE

10:00New Business Models for Journalism

The traditional business model for journalism is collapsing, but it's not clear what will take its place: An update on new efforts to ensure a vibrant and independent press that include for profit, low profit, and non-profit news organizations.

Also mark these future DCNF events on your calendar.

Watch for details about upcoming meetings and events:

Monday, November 16: Club elections; Congresswoman Karen Thurman, Chair, FDP

Saturday, December 12: Annual Holiday party

Meeting Monday

2009-10-14T17:02:00.001-05:00

Announcement and Agenda: DCNF Meeting,

6:30 – 8:00 pm, Monday, October 19, at the Amtrak Station.

Club officers and board members for 2010 will be nominated. The featured speaker will be Mary Ellen Klas, Tallahassee Bureau Chief for the Times/Herald, who has been covering state politics since 1988.

Light refreshments will be available for a donation. The meeting is free and open to the public.

Watch for details about upcoming meetings and events:

Monday, November 16: Club elections; Congresswoman Karen Thurman, Chair, FDP

Saturday, December 12: Annual Holiday party

Mary Ellen Klas - Tallahassee Bureau Chief

Mary Ellen Klas has been covering Tallahassee politics since 1988 -- when Tom Gallagher was running his first insurance commissioner race and Bob Martinez was Florida's first modern-day Republican governor. A native of Minnesota, Mary Ellen came to Florida as a business reporter for the Palm Beach Post in 1986, after graduating from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York. She became the Palm Beach Post's Tallahassee bureau chief in 1990 and, from 1994 to 2004, she worked as a senior reporter for the Post and for Florida Trend. Mary Ellen joined the Herald as Tallahassee bureau chief in 2004. She is married to Orlando Sentinel Bureau Chief John Kennedy and they have two daughters.

Mary Ellen Klas
Tallahassee Bureau Chief

Some items by Klas:

Florida lobbyists urge overturning of state's ban on gifts to ...

Aug 5, 2009 ... BY MARY ELLEN KLAS. Herald/Times Tallahassee Bureau ...
Mary Ellen Klas can be reached at meklas@MiamiHerald.com ...
www.miamiherald.com/516/story/1171662.html - Cached - Similar

High stakes ride on Crist's PSC picks - St Petersburg Times ...

By Mary Ellen Klas, Times/Herald Tallahassee Bureau Friday, September 25, 2009. TALLAHASSEE — Gov. Charlie Crist will decide this week who to appoint to two ...
buzz.yahoo.com/.../1.../High-stakes

Public Service Commission - Naked Politics

Posted by Mary Ellen Klas on October 5, 2009 in Public Service Commission | Permalink | Comments (1) · Cris

NEWS

2009-09-27T11:14:00.001-05:00

ELECT CURTIS RICHARDSON

FOR

STATE SENATE

Dave and Sandi Jacobsen invite you to their home to meet Curtis Richardson who is a Democrat running for the Senate seat of retiring Senator Al Lawson.

Curtis is an eight-year member of the House of Representatives who is term limited. He is also a former member

WHEN: Tuesday, September 29, 2009, 5:30 – 7:00

WHERE: 3019 Windy Hill Lane

(in Stonegate subdivision off Centerville Rd)

FOR DIRECTIONS: 339-1084 OR 385-6504

Refreshments and light snacks will be served:

########################&&###########################

DCNF President to Speak:

September 29, 2009

Brown Bag Break Encore - Local author and former teacher Mary May will continue the discussion of her latest book, "From Freedmen to Free Men: Black Political Leaders in Tallahassee and Leon County, Florida, 1865-1890 and 1950-1971." Lunch is not included, but may be pre-ordered from Fat Sandwich at 425.8303. The program and parking are free. Times are noon to 1:00 p.m. R. A. Gray Bldg., First Floor, free.

(www.museumoffloridahistory.com/mfh/calendar/index.cfm)

September Meeting

2009-09-19T07:13:00.001-05:00

You are invited to attend the monthly meeting of the

Democratic Club of North Florida

11:30am – 1 pm, Monday, September 21,

in meeting rooms A & B at the LeRoy Collins Public Library.

ERIC DRAPER, Deputy Director of the Florida office of the National Audubon Society,

will discuss issues related to offshore oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.

Mr. Draper is a relentless advocate in the development of federal

and state policies aimed at preserving Florida’s unique water resources.

The meeting is free and open to the public.

From 11:30 to noon, a light lunch will be available for a donation.

For more information, contact Mary May, President,

at 562-0594 or at mmay@fsu.edu, or visit:

http://www.dcnf.blogspot.com/

Support Teddy's Dream

2009-08-28T08:02:00.010-05:00

Dear DCNF Friends,

The passing of Ted Kennedy and my strong desire to see improvements to the U.S. Healthcare system inspired me to create the TeeShirt pictured here. I intend to wear mine in public to express my support of the ideals of Ted Kennedy to gain quality affordable healthcare for all.

You can click on the link and buy it from http://www.cafepress.com/DCNF

or if you are on a budget, download the following linked image and make your own with and inkjet printer and TeeShirt Transfer paper available at the office supply store. Let’s do it for Teddy ........J. Armstrong

Image for Download

PICNIC UPDATE

2009-08-10T18:46:00.003-05:00

Remember Everyone is Welcome
you don’t have to RSVP but an email to the Judds juddtb@comcast.net will help us plan better…Biring all you friends they don’t have to be CLUB members – COME FOR THE FUN

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! It’s time for the
DCNF’s 10th Annual Picnic
Lee Vause Park at Lake Jackson in Tallahassee
4 – 7 pm, Saturday, August 15, 2009

You are cordially invited to the 10th Annual Picnic
sponsored by the Democratic Club of North Florida on Saturday, August 15, at the Lee Vause Park at Lake Jackson. The program will include speeches by Democratic candidates, elected officials, and special guests.
A BBQ dinner will be available for $10 per adult and $5 for children under the age of 12. Guests who plan to eat are encouraged to make reservations in advance. Please RSVP by July 30 with the number of adults and children to: Barbara Judd at 1971 Queenswood Dr., Tallahassee 32303; (850-562-8036; or by email at juddtb@comcast.net.)
Visit http://www.dcnf.blogspot.com/ for more info

We hope you will put the date on your calendar and join us for this event. For further information, contact: Mary May, President, at 850-562-0594 or mmay@fsu.edu).

Lee Vause Park, 6024 Old Bainbridge Rd. – Drive North on Monroe St. (Hwy. 27); turn right on Old Bainbridge Rd.; look for park on the right, about a quarter-mile down Old Bainbridge Rd.
Everyone Welcome COME FOR THE FUN

· Confirmed Speakers
Brown, Tyrone (US Senate)
Steve Schale, Senior Advisor, Dan Gelber Campaign
Alan Boyd
Al Lawson
Ausley
Richardson, C.
Vasilinda
R. Minor
Karen Thurman ????
Akinyemi
· Possible campaign representatives:
Sink; Meek; Draper
· Other speakers; helpers:
Larry Simmons (cand. LCDEC) -- help out/speak
Justin Ford (YDs) – help out/speak
Ralph Mason, College Dems – help out/speak
Rep. from CCDWC
Barbara Devane (speak/health care)

DCNF’s 10th Annual Picnic

2009-07-11T18:04:00.001-05:00

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

It's time for the

DCNF's 10^th Annual Picnic

Lee Vause Park at Lake Jackson in Tallahassee

4 – 7 pm, Saturday, August 15, 2009

You are cordially invited to the 10^th Annual Picnic sponsored by the DCNF on Saturday, August 15, at the Lee Vause Park at Lake Jackson. The program will include speeches by Democratic candidates, elected officials, and special guests.

A BBQ dinner will be available for $10 per adult and $5 for children under the age of 12. Guests who plan to eat are encouraged to make reservations in advance. Please RSVP by July 30
with the following information to: Barbara Judd at 1971 Queenswood Dr., Tallahassee 32303; (850-562-8036; or by email at juddtb@comcast.net.)

Name ___________________________________

Number in Party: Adults_______ Children__________

We hope you will put the date on your calendar and join us for this event. For further information, contact: Mary May, President, at 850-562-0594 or mmay@fsu.edu).

Democratic Club of North Florida – Chartered 2000

http://DCNF.blogspot.com

June Meeting

2009-06-11T17:55:00.001-05:00

The Democratic Club of North Florida (DCNF)

cordially invites you to

MEET AND TALK WITH YOUR STATE SENATOR FROM DISTRICT 6!!

Details:
• DCNF meeting, Monday, June 15, in the LeRoy Collins Public Library
• Open to the public; Reservations not required
• 11:30 – 12:00 noon Light refreshments available; donation suggested
• 12:00 – 1:00 pm Call to order
Introduction of Senator Al Lawson
Q & A session

The guest speaker, Senator Alfred “Al” Lawson, Jr., will discuss the 2009 session of the Florida Legislature in which he served as Democratic Minority Leader. Senator Lawson introduced a number of bills, several of which were related to the Florida Retirement System, homestead property taxation and exemptions, and home foreclosure actions. Senator Lawson co-introduced S2742, a Resolution entitled “Floridian of the Century/Governor LeRoy Collins,” to honor the life and legacy of the late Governor Collins on the 100th anniversary of his birth.

He has put his support behind HB1171, a bill that addresses property insurance issues and which presently is headed for the governor’s signature.

Following Senator Lawson’s talk, the floor will be open for questions from the audience. Details and outcomes of Senator Lawson’s legislative efforts can be seen on his website at: www.flsenate.gov.

For more information, contact Mary May, President,
at 850-562-0594 or by email at: mmay@fsu.edu.

Democratic Club of North Florida – Chartered 2000
http://DCNF.blogspot.com

Sandy" D'Alemberte Visits with the DCNF

2009-05-12T17:30:00.005-05:00

The Democratic Club of North Florida Presents Talbot "Sandy" D'Alemberte:

Where: May 18, at Amtrak Station;
When: 6:30 - 7:00 pm, light refreshments available for a donation;
Who: Talbot "Sandy" D'Alemberte is scheduled to speak, and will discuss his life as a public official. D'Alemberte is President Emeritus and Professor, Florida State Univeristy, College of Law; Dean of Florida State University College of Law (1984 to 1989); served as President of the American Judicature Society (1982-84), President of the American Bar Association (1991-92); appointed president of Florida State University (1993 through January 2003). Numerous awards in the U. S. and abroad; author of The Florida Constitution (Greenwood Press 1991).

**********************************************************************************.
For more info see: http://www.law.fsu.edu/faculty/tdalemberte.html

Talbot "Sandy" D'Alemberte

President Emeritus and Professor
Florida State University
College of Law
Collins Center
Phone: 850.644.0800
Fax: 850.644.1442

Education
J.D., University of Florida, 1962
B.A., University of the South, 1955

Related Links• Publications
• Vita
A former President of the American Bar Association (1991-92), Talbot ("Sandy") D'Alemberte served as Dean of Florida State University College of Law from 1984 to 1989 and was appointed president of Florida State University in 1993, serving in that capacity through January 2003.

A member of the American Law Institute, he also has served as President of the American Judicature Society (1982-84), practiced law for several years with Steel Hector & Davis in Miami, and was a member of the Florida House of Representatives from 1966-1972. D'Alemberte has won numerous national awards for his contributions to the profession, including the 2001 Wickersham Award given by the Friends of the Law Library of Congress, the 2001 Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, the 1998 ABA Section of Legal Education Robert J. Kutak Award, the 1998 ABA World Order Under Law Award, the 1996 American Judicature Society's Justice Award, the 1996 National Council of Jewish Women's Hannah G. Soloman Award, the 1986 National Sigma Delta Chi First Amendment Award, and an American Academy of Television Arts and Sciences "Emmy" in 1985 for his work in open government. He holds honorary degrees from Cleveland State University, Hofstra University, Nova Southeastern University, Stetson University, University of the South (Sewanee), University of Bridgeport, University of Denver, University of the West Indies, and Open University of Great Britain. He is also the author of The Florida Constitution (Greenwood Press 1991).

********************************************************

April Meeting

2009-04-14T11:06:00.000-05:00

It’s Still the Economy, Stupid!

The Democratic Club of North Florida (DCNF) will meet at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 20, in rooms A & B at the LeRoy Collins Public Library.

John C. Hall, of the Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy, will be the featured speaker. Hall will discuss the Center’s research into Florida’s fiscal and economic policies, with particular attention to their impact on low and moderate to middle income families, individuals, and indigenous small businesses.

Hall has led research efforts into federal and state policies for more than 35 years. His background includes service as Executive Director of ARC of Florida; Senior Analyst at Florida TaxWatch and in the Office of Planning and Budgeting; and as a bureau chief at the former Florida Department of Health and Human Services (HRS).

The meeting is free and open to the public.
****************************************************** Mission state of the Florida Center for Fiscal and Economic Policy and a more complete description of John C. Hall’s education and professional experience

Our MISSION is to perform and review research on state-level fiscal and economic matters with particular attention to their impact on low and moderate/middle income families and individuals and indigenous small businesses owned by, and employing, such families and individuals. John C. Hall has led research efforts focused on federal and state governmental fiscal and policy matters for more than thirty-five years. Most recently, Mr. Hall was the Executive Director of The Arc of Florida, a statewide association advocating for people with disabilities. Previously, he was a faculty member and an Associate in Research at Florida State University’s Center for Prevention & Early Intervention Policy. Prior to accepting a position with FSU, he was a Senior Research Analyst at Florida TaxWatch, for seven years responsible for the health and human services research and budget areas. He was also Senior Governmental Analyst of the Office of Planning and Budgeting, Executive Office of the Governor, and prior to that worked for several years as a bureau chief within two Program Offices at the former Florida Department of Health and Human Services (HRS). While at HRS, Mr. Hall was an agency principal participant in the Consensus Estimating Conference for the Economic Assistance programs (i.e., forecasted budget requirements for the AFDC and Refugee Assistance programs). Early in his career, Mr. Hall was a lead researcher with the National Assessment of Juvenile Corrections administered by the University of Michigan where he investigated states’ policies of institutionalization of juveniles, including housing juveniles in jails. While at FSU and TaxWatch, Mr. Hall managed and conducted research for the state on funding strategies, costs, and recommended provider rate structures for selected health and human services programs. Mr. Hall holds a Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Ohio State University and a Masters Degree in Social Work, in Administration and Policy, from the University of Michigan.

March DCNF Meeting

2009-03-08T15:25:00.001-05:00

DCNF HONORS DEMOCRATIC WOMEN ON THE LEON COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD IN CELEBRATION OF WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

Michelle Rehwinkel-Vasilinda, State Representative in District 9, will speak at a dinner meeting hosted by the Democratic Club of North Florida in celebration of Women's History Month. Special honorees are the Democratic women elected to the Leon County School Board. The dinner begins at 6:30 p.m., Monday, March 16, at the Ramada Inn North. The public is invited and reservations are requested.

Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door. To order tickets please mail checks, payable to the DCNF, to Barb and Ted Judd, 1971 Queenswood Dr., Tallahassee FL 32303; phone number 562-8036. Note: Due to the costs incurred for this event, guests who make reservations by phone, but do not attend the dinner, will be billed for the full amount.

For further information, contact Mary May at 562-0594 or e-mail: mmay@fsu.edu

DCNF 2009 UPDATE

2009-01-15T22:16:00.002-05:00

DCNF February 2009 Meeting

UPCOMING EVENTS, FEBRUARY AND MARCH

The DCNF will hold its regular club meeting at noon on Monday, February 23, in the LeRoy Collins Public Library. In recognition of Black History Month, the guest speaker will be Althemese Barnes, Executive Director of the John G. Riley Foundation and Museum, who will discuss the role of the foundation in the preservation of black historic sites throughout Florida. A light luncheon will be available for $5 per person from 11:30 to 12:00. Club members and guests are invited to attend.

On March 16, the club will spotlight Leon County Women in Education at a dinner meeting at the Ramada Inn North. Plan to make your reservations ASAP. Tickets, which will be available at the February 23 meeting, may be purchased in advance for $30; at the door for $35. Further details will be forthcoming!

Holiday Party on Saturday, December 6, 4:00 – 7:00

2008-10-18T18:05:00.015-05:00

DCNF Holiday Party DCNF Christmas Party
You're Invited The Democratic Club of North Florida invites you to its annual Holiday Party on Saturday, December 6, 4:00 – 7:00 at the home of Emily Millett, 1104 Ivanhoe Rd. in Waverly Hills. Club members are encouraged to bring their favorite holiday hors d'oeuvre' or to make a $5 donation at the door. The club is providing beverages
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The CLUB also requests that guests to bring a non-perishable food item or a toy (unwrapped)!! to donate to those less fortunate.
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YES WE DID !!!!
====================================================================

Election Analysis at Library Lunch
WHAT HAPPENED AND WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

Meet the Capital Press Corps

Lunch Meeting at the Library!!!!!!!!!!
Three of Florida's respected Capital Press Corps members will lead a panel discussion of what the results of the November 4 Election mean for the citizens of Tallahassee and Florida at the Democratic Club of North Florida's monthly meeting at the LeRoy Collins Downtown Library on Monday, November 17, at 11:30. A light lunch will be available for $5.

The panelists include Mary Ellen Klas, Tallahassee Bureau Chief for the Miami Herald; Steve Bousquet, Tallahassee Bureau Chief for the St. Petersburg Times and Bill Cotterell, Political Editor for the Tallahassee Democrat.

DCNF ELECTION:Please arrive at 11:30 if you want to vote on new DCNF
Board Members. Club Members in good standing are eligible to vote on
the 2009 Officers and Board. Polls will close at noon. (NOTE: It looks like we have only one candidate per position so I expect we will vote by acclamation to accept the new board members)

DCNF Christmas Party

You're Invited

The Democratic Club of North Florida invites you to its annual
Holiday Party on Saturday, December 6, 4:00 – 7:00 at the home of
Emily Millett, 1104 Ivanhoe Rd. in Waverly Hills. Club members are
encouraged to bring their favorite holiday hors d'oeuvre' or to make
a $5 donation at the door. The club is providing beverages

We will have some PRIME Pecans on sale

We will have some PRIME Pecans on sale fresh from the Grove. Great
for all your holiday needs. These will be sold at $9.

Come to the Next Gathering of the DCNF Monday

The Democratic Club of North Florida welcomes the Mickee Faust performers to the Democratic Club's Monday, October 20, meeting at the LeRoy Collins Downtown Library, meeting rooms A & B. The reception begins at 6:30 with the cabaret beginning at 7:00. Members are requested to bring a finger food or beverage to share. The meeting is free and open to the public.

The Mickey Faust troupe will spoof the current political and economic climate locally and nationally.

Democrats in Florida know that if they put Florida in Barack Obama's win column, his election as the 44th President of the United States looks very promising. The October meeting will give volunteers and activists a brief reprieve before returning to the very serious business of electing Democrats locally and nationally.

The Mickee Faust Club is Tallahassee Florida’s tongue-in-cheek answer to a certain unctuous rodent living in Orlando. But the Faust Club’s name also plays homage to Goethe's good German doctor whose struggles with the devil mirror the group's own.

The leader of the club is Mickee Faust himself, the foul-mouth, illegitimate sewer rat brother of that better known, better groomed cartoon creation. In real life, this cigar chomping, male rodent is deaf, female performance artist Terry Galloway.

To learn more about the Mickey Faust Club visit their web http://www.mickeefaust.com/about_us.htm

A brief business meeting will include the nominating committee presenting the slate of candidates for the coming year.

Upcoming meetings:
November 17, Noon, LeRoy Collins Library. Panel discussion of reporters interpreting the impact of the recent November Election.

December 6, 4:00 - 7:00 Democratic Club's Holiday Party at the home of Emily Millett. Members are asked to bring a holiday treat or beverage or pay $5.

DCNF WebSite

September Meeting

2008-09-10T19:04:00.007-05:00

A Discussion with Akin Akinyemi

The Democratic Club of North Florida Welcomed Democrat Akin Akinyemi as the September Speaker

Akin Akinyemi is the only Democratic candidate for the At-Large Leon County Commission seat. Akinyemi discussed the environment and water management and was strongly endorsed in person by Commissioner At-Large
Cliff Thaell. Akin is a worthy candidate all Democrats should vote for.

For more information about Candidate Akinyemi visit his website www.akinforallofleon.com

We also had a speaker on Amendment 2.. here is a summary

VOTE No on Amendment 2: (Marriage amendment)

While Amendment 1 aims to fight bigotry, Amendment 2 -- placed on the ballot by citizen initiative -- would foster prejudice. Even worse, it's deceptively worded so as to hide its true scope. Voters should see through this cynical ruse to draw ultra-right voters to the polls in a high-stakes presidential election year.

The amendment bills itself as "marriage protection." Its supporters say it's meant to keep Florida from being forced into recognizing unions between same-sex partners. Malarkey -- state law already bans same-sex unions in four different statutes, using language that has withstood legal challenge in other states.

But the real problems with this amendment go further than supporters are willing to admit. Legal analysts say it could be used to block companies that provide benefits for unmarried partners -- regardless of whether such unions are homosexual or heterosexual. It would needlessly tangle "Golden Girl"-style arrangements that allow seniors to share living accommodations while preserving inheritance rights for their descendents, and could also complicate child-custody arrangements for thousands of unmarried parents in Florida.

This amendment is heartless and pointless. The main beneficiaries: Attorneys who would reap fees from the endless litigation this amendment could spawn.

· RECOMMENDATION: No on Amendment 2

Picnic update and pictures

2008-08-17T16:57:00.004-05:00

Thanks for all the help in making the DCNF Picnic the best ever.

Take a look at the pictures of the event by clicking on the link

And please don't forget to volunteer your time during this critical election

Obama Campaign Contact Info:
Field Organizer Frederick Wong

Contact Phone: 850-566-8455

Location: Tallahassee Obama Campaign HQ (Tallahassee, FL)
920 E Lafayette St
Tallahassee, FL 32301

Directions: The new Obama campaign office is on East Lafayette, on the strip between Chili's Restaurant and the Moon. The campaign building is right next to the Namasté Yoga Center of Tallahassee with the purple sign.

Democratic Picnic

2008-08-03T10:33:00.002-05:00

DEMOCRATIC CLUB OF NORTH FLORIDA
Invites you to the 8th annual old-fashioned

Democratic Political Rally & Picnic
Saturday, August 16, 2008 4:00 – 7:00
Lee Vause County Park

PLEASE EMAIL DCNF@comcast.net and help us get an idea of how many people are coming so we have enough food !

FEATURING Barack Obama’s Tallahassee Field Director Fred Wong. A salute to Reps Loranne Ausley and Curtis Richardson who are retiring due to term limits. All Democrats running for state & local office are invited to speak.

You are cordially invited to attend the club’s 8th Annual Democratic Political Rally and Picnic to hear Barack Obama’s Tallahassee Field Director Fred Wong report on what’s going on with the Obama Campaign. It will be the club member’s last chance to hear campaign speeches from Reps Ausley and Richardson. Local Democratic Officeholders will be in attendance. The Democratic candidates will have signup sheets and campaign materials available. We’ll hear old-fashioned stump speeches, music, food, and fun.
For $1 you can have your picture taken with Democratic Presidential Candidate Barack Obama

We’ll have a 3-meat barbeque dinner (plus vittles for the vegans) with all the fixin’s for a $10 donation or $15 a couple. Please contact Mary May, DCNF VP, to reserve a spot. Her number is 562-0594. Email: mmay@mailer.fsu.edu

Directions: The Park is located in Northwest Tallahassee off US 27 North. Take US 27 North toward Havana and proceed to the intersection where Capital Circle NW and Old Bainbridge Intersect at US 27. (On the Northwest corner is the Oak Valley Shopping Center where Publix is the anchor store. The address is 5819 North Monroe.) At the intersection turn right on to Old Bainbridge Road (East) and go about ½ mile to Lee Vause Park. Turn right (South) on to Marjorie Turnbull Lane and follow the directions to the Large Pavilion.

For questions, please contact Club President Dave Jacobsen at 385-6504 or 339-1084 or Vice-President Mary May at 562-0594.

Big Turnout for Recount

2008-07-19T18:55:00.004-05:00

There was a really big turnout for Recount the the Movie shown at the Moon. I beleve this is an indication of how ready the Democratic community is in the Tallahassee area to bring Change to Washington. Make plans now to attend the Democratic Picnic Next Month. Saturday, August 16 for the club's Democratic Old-Fashioned Picnic at Lee Vause Park from 4:00 - 7:00.

Annual DCNF Legislative Update

2008-06-12T09:13:00.003-05:00

Representatives Loranne Ausley and Curtis Richardson will brief the Democratic Club of North Florida members on the results of the 2008 Legislative Session at the club's Monday, June 16, meeting at the Leroy Collins Downtown Public Library from 6:30 - 8:30 in meeting rooms A & B.

Many have called the recent session the least productive and the worst legislative session ever. Ausley and Richardson will present the unfunded mandates that the Republican controlled House and Senate are passing on to local and county governments to handle.

They also may say what their future plans are since they are both term-limited out in 2008. Both were early backers of the Democratic Presidential Nominee Barack Obama. Perhaps we'll learn if Tallahassee is one of his campaign stops.

The meeting is Monday, June 16, and begins with a reception at 6:30 in Meeting Rooms A&B at the Leroy Collins Downtown Public Library.

The meeting is free and open to the public.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 16 for the club's Democratic Old-Fashioned Picnic at Lee Vause Park from 4:00 - 7:00. Elected officials and candidates will be on hand to greet the members and guests.

Meeting update

2008-05-20T18:08:00.005-05:00

Another Great Presentation by Lance:

sorry if you missed it. As ususal Lance provided unique insight into Florida elections. Once again it looks like the election in Florda will be close (maybe razor close ) and may be pivital. One interesting insight by Professor deHaven Smith was that an Obama/Clinton ticket would provide an historic sweep... stay tuned.

In Audio News (see links) there were very interesting audio shows on politics the last two days. The first was by present day Bush Republicans and the second by a real conservative who hates Ann Coulter and Rush Limbaugh:

1.)Talk of the Nation - a discussion with several Republicans spokesmen that pushed the concept that the Republican Party was suffering because all their ideas since Regean were so successful that they had run out of ideas (very funny)
http://www.npr.org/templates/player/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=90596524&m=90596521

2.)Diane Rhems :Mickey Edwards: "Reclaiming Conservatism" (Oxford)
The former Republican congressman explains his belief that the conservative movement has abandoned its principles and transformed from the best defender of the Constitution to its most threatening opponent.
http://wamu.org/programs/dr/08/05/20.php#20512

Also Listen to Senator Jim Webb on Fresh Air explain why he left the Republican Party and became a Democrat. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=90595861

Monday Meeting of the DCNF - May 19th

2008-05-12T20:22:00.003-05:00

Lance deHaven Smith to use history to predict voter trends this fall
As the primary season winds down and the the Democratic candidate becomes more clear, the Democratic Club of North Florida's May speaker will use past voting trends to predict the success of the Democratic Presidential nominee in the November election. Lance will use trend data from past Florida elections to show if theDemocratic Presidential nominee has a chance in the fall election. The meeting will be on Monday, May 19, at the Leroy Collins downtown library, Meeting Rooms A & B, at 11:30 am. A light lunch will be available to purchase.

Lance will discuss the impact, if any, the heavy voter turnout in January primary will have in the general election. He'll use history to predict if the voting patterns of working White Floridians will translate into a Democratic victory. He'll also summarize what the Democrats need to between now and the election to assure that Florida's electoral votes are in the Democratic candidate's win column.
.NOTICE !!!! Visit the Revamped DCNF web site www.dcnf.blogspot.com

Save Energy, Save Money: Tallahassee's Energy Efficiency Programs "

2008-04-14T13:49:00.001-05:00

The Democratic Club of North Florida is sponsoring a joint meeting with the Big Bend Sierra Club on energy conservation. The meeting will be at the United Church in Tallahassee, 1834 Mahan Drive (a short distance West of the Blairstone and Mahan intersection on the North side). The gathering begins at 6:30 pm on Monday, April 21, with a reception followed by the keynote presentation at 7:00.

Bob Seaton, Retail Energy Services Manager for the City of Tallahassee Utility Services, Energy Services Department, will speak about the City of Tallahassee's programs to help the community reduce electrical demand and save energy. He'll discuss ways to save energy at home, including some myths and misconceptions, and take a closer look at current City initiatives of particular interest like PV net metering, fuel switching, and Greenbuilding incentives. Along the way, his presentation will try to clear up some of the confusion between "Demand" and "Energy". A better understanding of these terms could improve our local energy conversations.

He’s hoping for a lot of good questions from the audience.

Bob manages the City of Tallahassee's Retail Energy Services division. This is the group that for many years has implemented the City's familiar energy efficiency programs, including energy audits, low interest loans, gas rebates, ceiling insulation, solar rebates, photovoltaic net metering, and low income programs. Bob's group will implement the City's new Demand Side Management programs specifically aimed at reducing summer peak electrical demand during the hottest hours of the hottest days of August.

Bob moved from Boca Raton to Tallahassee on January 1, 1979 to enter graduate school at FSU. In 1982 he was a doctoral candidate in biological science when he took a job with Planergy, Inc.-- an Austin, Texas energy services firm then under contract to the City of Tallahassee. He was one of the City's earliest energy auditors, engaged in what was at the time a new kind of utility service on the customer's side of the meter. He has managed City's energy auditing and energy services programs since 1987.

Bob has a master's degree in biological science. He's 59, single, and in his private life enjoys bicycling, billiards and natural history. He lives in a 70-year-old house on East Call Street, downhill from the spring and ravine.

You can contact him at (850) 891-6130, or bob.seaton@talgov.com

Bob Seaton
Retail Energy Services Manager
City of Tallahassee Utility Services, Energy Services Department

A post from a DCNF Member

2008-03-27T20:29:00.003-05:00

Here is a post from one of our members; Post your responses:
I don't know any Democrat who is not frustrated by the continuing illegal waste of lives and national resources in Iraq. However, both the party leadership and our own representative, Alan Boyd, have continued to support the war by voting for supplemental funds as requested by the administration. With 4000 of our troops killed, 30,000 wounded and nearly $1 Trillion dollars spent there is no reason to continue draining our resources at $25 billion per month.

I have spoken to Mr. Boyd's representative in DC and learned that he is again soon planning to vote the requested $102 billion in funds. At the DCNF picnic last summer he argued that it was necessary to safeguard out troops. His representative recently replied that Mr. Boyd believes that to withhold the funds would not have any effect because DOD would not cut the troops there, but instead would start to cut domestic expenditures. I assume this would be a threat to close bases in thiscountry.
I find this highly implausible so have asked in an email 10 days ago how he comes to this conclusion but have not received any reply. If DOD representatives have made such a threat, we would like to know about it.

Under these circumstances I would like to propose that the DCNF pass a resolution for Mr. Boyd to not fund this debacle further, and to make this resolution known to party leadership. It would be easy for our organization to take a vote among its members by email where these are known, and to make calls if not. I would say that if 2/3 or more of the members so voted a strong resolution could be
forwarded to both our national representatives and to the Democratic
National Committee.

Joe Cain

March Meeting and Update

2008-02-19T18:42:00.012-05:00

In March, the DCNF is sponsoring a dinner to celebrate Women’s History Month and to honor the Democratic women who serve as our elected public officials in Tallahassee and Leon County. Our invited guests include the Honorable Loranne Ausley, Jane Sauls, Debbie Lightsey, Doris Maloy, and Nancy Daniels.

You are invited to attend this special event on Monday, March 17, 6:30 p.m. at the Ramada Inn on North Monroe Street. In keeping with the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, we plan to have lots of shamrocks and a main course of corned beef and cabbage.*

Tickets are $30 a person and may be purchased by contacting: Barbara or Ted Judd at 562-8036, juddtb@comcast.net; or Dave Jacobsen at 385-6504, davejacobsen@msn.com;
We hope you will join us for an enjoyable evening and a chance to express your appreciation to our honored guests for their work in the Democratic Party and as our representatives in government.

Please make your reservation NOW to help us with planning – Note all reservations must be paid for even if you are not able to attend * CASH BAR AVAILABLE

We look forward to hearing from soon. David Jacobsen

Emmett Till's Tragic Death - Feb Meeting

2008-02-10T20:11:00.000-05:00

Emmett Till's Tragic Death
Hear how the Mississippi Press reported Emmett Till's tragic death at the February Democratic Club Meeting

Come to the February 18 Meeting at the Amtrak Building, 918 Railroad Ave. A Security Officer is on duty

Our speaker is Davis Houck, Associate FSU Professor, who will discuss his upcoming book on how the Mississippi news media dealt with the brutal beating death of Emmett Till, the 14-year old African American teenager, by white men on the night of August 28, 1955.

Houck has already authored two books on the civil rights movement.

Last year we honored Tallahassee's first black mayor and first black female mayor.

Tickets to the Club's March 17 dinner to honor the women who represent Leon County and Tallahassee will be on sale for $30 each.

Bring a snack or beverage to share. Otherwise, contributions will be gladly accepted. Club shirts will be on sale for $10.

At the January membership meeting, the members voted unanimously to increase annual membership dues $15. Couples who pay $15 dues are not affected. If you haven't already, please pay your dues.

Visit the club's website: www.DCNF.blogspot.com

DCNF January Meeting on Proposition 1

2008-01-17T19:33:00.000-05:00

Come to the Library Tuesday for the January Meeting

The Democratic Club of North Florida invites you to attend on TUESDAY January 22, 6:30 – 8:00 at the LeRoy Collins Downtown Library, Meeting Rooms A. Please note that the meeting is on Tuesday not the regular third Monday because of the Martin Luther King Holiday.

With our State facing a looming budget crisis can we afford to cripple our already patchwork tax-base and endanger or schools, police, teachers firemen and State workers? Mark Pudlow, statewide spokesman for the 137,000-member Florida Education Association, will be our guest to discuss The property Tax Amendment that will be on the Primary Ballot in a few days. He is working with Florida is Our Home, Inc. to defeat the measure.

Bring a snack or beverage to share. Otherwise, contributions will be gladly accepted. Club shirts will be on sale for $10.

At the January DCNF Board meeting, your board voted unanimously to recommend to the membership that the annual membership dues be raised from $10 to $15. Couples who pay $15 dues now would not be affected. This issue will be presented for a vote at the business meeting prior to the guest speaker's presentation.

DCNF Holiday Party

2007-11-29T21:05:00.001-05:00

The Democratic Club of North Florida will be hosting the annual holiday party from 4-7 pm on Saturday, December 8, at the home of Emily Millett, 1104 Ivanhoe Dr., Waverly Hills. Club members and guests are invited to attend and bring a covered dish or donate $10 at the door. Suggested dishes include: finger foods like chicken fingers or ham biscuits etc., salads, desserts, or any of your favorite holiday hors d'oerves.

Volunteers will be calling you to get a headcount.

RSVP MARY MAY at mmay@fsu.edu or 562-0594. Don't delay e-mail now!!!! and tell Mary if you are going to bring food or pay at the door and how many you will bring.

We look forward to seeing you at the party.

Media Consolidation

2007-11-22T12:49:00.000-05:00

Very Important Alert

At the DCNF meeting this week I mentioned that the FCC is once again trying to ram through new media consolidation rules. This time they want to allow your local newspaper to also own local TV outlets. Use the following link to watch Bill Moyers Journal segment on the issues

What You Can Do: Act today since the comment period closes Dec 11th

Visit the following link and send your comments electronically to the FCC
http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/ecfs/Upload?hot_docket=1010800991%7C06-121%7CMedia+Ownership+Further+Notice+of+Proposed+Rulemaking&Send=Continue

FCC LINK

John Armstrong DCNF communications director

Green Empire

2007-11-13T19:12:00.000-05:00

Green Empire Author
The Democratic Club of North Florida invites you to learn,Are St. Joe's business practices good for the Panhandle?Monday, November 19, 6:30-8:00. Amtrak Building, 918 Railroad Ave.June Wiaz, author and environmentalist, will discuss her book, the Green Empire, which traces the St. Joe Company from focusing on growing trees, turning them into paper, and managing its ancillary businesses to selling its paper mill, changing its name, and launching a concerted drive to turn its natural-resource assets in the Florida Panhandle into greater profits. Wiaz presents how today the St. Joe Company is a critical and fiscally powerful force in the real-estate development of northwest Florida. She’ll explain how St. Joe is poised to reshape the rural Panhandle and to drastically alter the landscape, environment, and economic foundation of the region with the development of a regional airport near Panama City that will be larger than Tampa International Airport. #####################################The meeting is free and open to the public. Bring a snack or beverage to share.The club cordially invites all Democrats to attend the club’s Annual Democratic Holiday Party at the residence of Emily Millet, 1104 Ivanhoe, in Waverly Hills on Saturday, December 8, 4:00 – 7:00, Members are requested to bring a holiday treat or libation or make a $10 donation. The club will provide beverages.

2007-10-16T17:42:00.000-05:00

Monday, October 15, 6:30-8:00. Amtrak Building, 918 Railroad Ave.

· Building a place to live, citizen involvement is key to Tallahassee’s future, Mike Pate, Knight Foundation's Tallahassee Program Director.

Mike gave us an inspiring talk about what the future of Tallahassee could be and how the Knight Foundation is trying to help us get there. Here are several links that let you know a few of the things they are up to. I've also added some links to some audio file from Richard Florida, one of the new thinkers who is helping inspire the Knight initiatives.

http://www.knightfdn.org/

http://www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071005/BREAKINGNEWS/710050372

http://coca.typepad.com/cocanotes/2007/03/the_knight_crea.html

http://www.knightfdn.org/default.asp?story=community/tallahassee/index.asp

audio link to Richard Florida

Recount the Movie

2007-10-14T17:29:00.000-05:00

HBO is going to shoot a new movie about the 2000 election...
Oscar winner Kevin Spacey will head a high-wattage cast in HBO's movie "Recount," about the fight over Florida's electoral votes in the 2000 election.

LINK to more info

SEPTEMBER Meeting on Healthcare

2007-09-04T21:00:00.000-05:00

Sorry if you missed the healthcare meeting there was a great turnout and the info provided was wonderful. I urge you to read Dr Brummel-Smith's recent article in the Tallahassee Democrat, his publication in JAMA (pdf), and see his Powerpoint Presentation (pdf).

Also visit Hillary's site and listen in to her webcast Tuesday on healthcare. http://www.hillaryclinton.com/

Kenneth Brummel-Smith, M.D., Charlotte Edwards Maguire Professor and Chair, Department of Geriatrics, Florida State University College of Medicine is our speaker.

Physicians for a National Health Program link: http://www.pnhp.org/

COST of the WAR IN IRAQ

2007-08-01T18:36:00.000-05:00

Estimates are the war in Iraq will cost 1 Trillion dollars.

We could have bought 43 million Prius cars for that amount. I'd rather have had a Prius.

The picnic was Fantastic

2007-07-27T18:42:00.000-05:00

Sorry if you missed it. Here are some video of the Party --
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rvo4-fJ72YA
(This may take a whle to load)

We had lots of good food, music and lots of exciting stump speeches.....

SiCKO CANCELLED!!!!!

2007-06-22T20:17:00.000-05:00

SiCKO CAncelled -----Never Mind
SiCKO Screening Delayed a Week until July 6

The screening of Michael Moore's SiCKO is delayed a week because not enough prints of the film were available and Tallahassee was not considered a major media market. The film will play at the Tallahassee AMC in the Tallahassee Mall beginning July 6. We will not meet as a group nor will there be any discussion after the movie when it plays here. I sincerely apologize for any inconvenience I may have caused.

To express how disappointed you are that the film is delayed a week, send an email to the Weinstein Group at movies@themovieinsider.com or visit their webpage
http://www.themovieinsider.com/

If any questions, please respond or call me at 385-6504.

For more information about the movie visit the movie’s website: http://www.sicko-themovie.com/videos

DCNF Monday June 18 Meeting with the Leon County's State Representatives

2007-06-09T13:57:00.000-05:00

Democratic Club of North FloridaMonday June 18, 6:30 – 8:00Amtrak Building, 918 Railroad Ave.

How Did Leon County Fare in the Recent Legislative Session?

State Representatives Loranne Ausley and Curtis Richardson will discuss how Leon County fared in the recent Legislative Session. They'll explain issues that the House passed that would benefit Florida's citizens but the Senate failed to take up. We'll hear of the bills that each worked on that were signed into law. We'll learn how the proposed property tax revision will affect Leon County citizens. Both Representatives are term limited out and the 2008 Session will be their last in the House. We might be the first group to learn what their future plans after next year.

Please join the Democratic Club of North Florida at the Amtrak Building, Community Room. The June 18 meeting begins 6:30 with the reception followed by the meeting at 7:00. Parking is plentiful and security is on duty. Club shirts will be on sale for $10. Bring a snack or beverage to share. Otherwise, contributions will be gladly accepted. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information call 385-6504.

DCNF Picnic Alert

Save the date: Saturday, July 21. The Democratic Club of North Florida's 7th Annual Old Fashioned Picnic will be at Lee Vause Park in Northwest Tallahassee from 4:00 - 7:00. Congressman Allen Boyd is the featured speaker. Many of the declared Democratic candidates will be in attendance

Standing Room Only at Last Meeting

2007-06-04T20:08:00.000-05:00

Our Political Correspondent gives us the low-down on our last DCNF Meeting
##############################
Democratic Club of North Florida Hosts Karen L. Thurman, Florida Democratic
Party Chair
By Greg Brown

The Honorable Karen L. Thurman, former U.S. Congresswoman for Congressional District 5 and current Florida Democratic Party Chair, spoke to the Democratic Club of North Florida during its monthly meeting on May 21, 2007, at the Amtrack Building on Railroad Avenue. Ms. Thurman discussed the Florida Democratic Party’s political strategies for the next election cycle.

In addition to Ms. Thurman, the Honorable Curtis Richardson, State Representative for District 8, helped to introduce a few of the Democratic candidates running for local and state races. Alma Gonzalez is running for*Leon County Commissioner At-Large. Michele Rehwinkel Vasilinda is running*for the State House District 9 being vacated by Rep. Loranne Ausley. Alan*Williams is running for State House District 8 being vacated by Rep.*Richardson. Candidate Mark Ravenscraft is running for State Senate District 3.

Ms. Thurman described various “get-out-the-vote” methods the Florida Democratic Party will use to help local, state, and national Democrats. She also discussed the political effects of changing the Florida Democratic Presidential Primary to late January 2008. Recent political corruption scandals within the state and nation have galvanized Florida voters of all*political persuasions and given Democrats an advantage in upcoming*elections. Ms. Thurman is very optimistic for the success of Democrat*candidates given their exceptionally high quality, integrity, and professional qualifications.

The Democratic Club of North Florida meets monthly to discuss with local representatives and experts on topics of importance to the community. Their next monthly meeting is Monday, June 18, 2007, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Amtrack Building near Gaines Street and Railroad Avenue, and is open to the public. The Hon. Curtis Richardson will provide a summary of the 2007 Florida Legislature. Check the DCNF web page for more information at

Special Event

2007-04-03T21:47:00.000-05:00

A Very Special DCNF Event
Dinner with Diane Roberts
Over the years the Democratic Club of North Florida has had many distinguished speakers but never combined with a Dinner Event . To kick off this new tradition we have a very special speaker.

Diane Roberts, NPR commentator, political satirist, native daughter, author and FSU professor discusses her recent book “Dream State.” Introduced by Greg Brown.

When and Where: A dinner buffet will be served Monday, April 16, 6:30 – 8:00, Ramada Inn, 2900 N. Monroe for a donation $20.

The Club needs to let the Ramada about how many we have coming to the event so we really need you to RSVP. Please contact Ted or Barbara Judd at (850) 562-8036 or at juddtb@comcast.net or Dave Jacobsen (850) 385-6504 or davejacobsen@msn.com

http://www.fsu.edu/~wfsu_fm/programs/wesun/drbio.html
: http://http://www.dkroberts.com/

Diane Roberts is a prize-winning journalist, author, essayist, National Public Radio commentator, and a reviewer and documentary-maker for the BBC. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Times of London, The St. Petersburg Times, The Guardian, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The New Republic, The Oxford American, Southern Exposure, and many literary journals. She has appeared on BBC television, ABC, C-Span, and Pacifica Radio. Her latest book, DREAM STATE: Eight Generations of Swamp Lawyers, Conquistadors, Confederate Daughters, Banana Republicans, and other Florida Wildlife (Free Press), about her politically prominent (and very odd) family has been called "perfect," as well as "hilarious," "wild," "fun," "strange," and "splendid."
She calls herself a member of an endangered species: the native Floridian. Her first Florida ancestor, a Frenchman named Francois Brouard, arrived in Spanish East Florida in 1799-the King of Spain was giving away free land. Brouard made his fortune and anglicized his name to "Broward," which connoisseurs of the 2000 Florida election fiasco will recognize as the county that gave us dangling, hinged and pregnant chads-it was named for her cousin, Governor Napoleon Bonaparte Broward. Her father was a civil engineer who'd been brought up dirt poor (but proud) in the North Florida swamps; her mother is an artist from the plantation country of West Florida who can tell the difference between sterling silver and silverplate at fifty paces. From the ages of five to 18, Diane attended a little hippie prep school in Tallahassee--most of the kids there were children of academics. She got a B.A. and an M.A. in writing from Florida State University where she had the highest grade point average in her sorority. She went to Oxford University in 1980 and earned a B.A. Hons. in English literature and a D. Phil. in American literature, spending nine years in England. She only missed two things from home–grits and FSU football games.
She is the author of three books, including Dream State, Falkner And Southern Womanhood (University of Georgia Press, 1993) and The Myth of Aunt Jemima (Routledge, 1994), which won several awards. She is currently working on a novel set in England in the 1980s and a non-fiction book based on her grandfather's World War I travels through France and Italy. Diane Roberts divides her time between London and Tallahassee, where she teaches at Florida State University and lives in an English Arts and Crafts cottage. She would like everyone to know that the weather in Florida is actually terrible: hurricanes, thunderstorms and sometimes even snow and ice–at least up in Tallahassee.
Website: http://www.dkroberts.com/

2007-04-01T16:23:00.000-05:00

Video of Al Gore's Testimony in Congress regarding Global Warming.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yo7rmajxxnc

Democratic Feast at Lucy Ho's

2007-03-23T19:03:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all of the crowd to visit Lucy's Ho's for a Democratic Dinner.. We enjoyed seeing you all.. and thanks to Dave J for arranging it all.

DCNF March Meeting

2007-03-07T22:43:00.000-05:00

Democratic Club of North Florida Discusses Affordable Housing in Tallahassee By Greg Brown

The Democratic Club of North Florida hosted a distinguished panel to discuss “A Need for Affordable Housing in Tallahassee,” during its monthly meeting on March 19, 2007, at the Amtrack Building on Railroad Avenue. The panel was composed of two former Tallahassee Mayors, the Hons. Dorothy Inman-Johnson and Penny Herman, with Ms. Jamie Ross, the Affordable Housing Director for the 1000 Friends of Florida.
Leon County Commissioner Cliff Thaell opened the meeting with a summary of the fiscal impacts of recent property and sales tax polices considered by the Florida Legislature. He discussed tax policy alternatives and immediate responses taken by the County. These include freezes on hiring and travel, and reductions in capital investments. Commissioner Thaell estimates the Legislature’s new tax policies could have a $10 to $20 million-dollar negative impact on Leon County.
Mayor Inman-Johnson, executive director of the Capital Area Community Action Agency, Inc., provided stark statistics about the dearth of workforce housing in Leon County and surrounding areas. A working family needs to make more than $13 per hour to afford a typical two-bedroom apartment in Tallahassee. The families that the Capital Area Community Action Agency serves include over 15,000 individuals. The wage earners in this population typically make the minimum wage of $6.40 per hour or less. Housing costs take a huge proportion of their income competing with other necessities such as food and health care.
Mayor Herman discussed the economics of affordable housing and tax policy by explaining how cost shifting has occurred with the recent “Save Our Homes” Constitutional Amendment. According to Mayor Herman, the property tax burdens are shifted from long-time property owners to first-time owners making home ownership harder for the entry market.
Ms. Ross discussed how the Sadowski Act established a dedicated funding source for affordable housing. The 1000 Friends of Florida monitors the performance of the Act and advocates for its funding. 1000 Friends' affordable housing program recognizes the immensity of the affordable housing shortage, and is a strong advocate of public/private sector cooperation.
The Democratic Club of North Florida meets monthly to discuss with local representatives and experts on topics of importance to the community. Our next monthly meeting is Monday, April 16, 2007, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Ramada Inn, 2900 N. Monroe, and is open to the public. Diane Roberts, NPR commentator, political satirist, native daughter, author, and FSU professor will be our next guest speaker. A dinner buffet will be served for a donation $20. Please contact Ted or Barbara Judd for ticket information at (850) 562-8036 or at juddtb@comcast.net.

Report on the Feb Meeting

2007-02-20T18:32:00.000-05:00

We had a great meeting Monday at the library. Our club vice president Mary May, former FSU History professor. Watch a slide show by following the link;

http://photoshow.comcast.net/watch/FM9km8Fp

also see the following article from the Tallahassee Democrat

Originally published February 20, 2007Historian: City came a long way in a short timePost Comment
By Gerald Ensley DEMOCRAT SENIOR WRITER

You could be a parent with children in junior high and have never lived in a Tallahassee that didn't have black elected officials.
On the other hand, it was only 36 years ago that James Ford became the first black elected to the Tallahassee City Commission in the 20th century and only 21 years since Dorothy Inman-Johnson became the first black woman elected to the City Commission.
"The (recent) dates are incredible," said Barbara Judd, a Connecticut native who moved to Tallahassee in 1990. "It seems like a long time in coming."
That's the Black History Month lesson Mary May imparted Monday to about 50 members of the Democratic Club of North Florida at the Leon County Library. May, a retired Florida State associate professor and member of the club, has worked for several years on a book about black elected officials in Leon County.
May first wrote a paper about the subject in 1990, before publishing books about an uncle's World War II bomber squadron and her hometown of Vernon. She hopes soon to complete the book about local black elected officials, which covers two periods: 19th century Reconstruction and the latter half of the 20th century.
May ticked off several names little-known to modern Tallahasseeans: Jonathan Gibbs, Everett Jones and Jonas Toer, the first three blacks elected to the Tallahassee City Council in 1871, and Alfred Cobb, the last black elected to the council (1886) in the 19th century. She recalled the first three unsuccessful modern black candidates for the City Commission: K. S. Dupont (1957), Sam Howell (1963) and Edwin Norwood (1969).
She took the audience through some overlooked civil-rights highlights, such as in 1944 when 11 men and women became the first blacks to vote in a Tallahassee election in the 20th century.
Ford, a longtime educator and businessman, reminisced about his successful 1971 bid for the City Commission, which was conducted on a financial shoestring and drew heavily on support from white college students and professors.
"I think I was fortunate enough in the historical evolution of Tallahassee to be in the right place at the right time," said Ford, who was re-elected three times.
Inman-Johnson recounted how her failed bid for the Leon County School Board in 1984 led to her election to the City Commission in 1986 - followed by her resounding re-election in a 1990 primary against five white men.
"I think a lot of people have forgotten that - but I haven't," said Inman-Johnson. "I think it was a tribute to Tallahassee."
Contact reporter Gerald Ensley at (850) 599-2310 or gensley@tallahassee.com.

February DCNF Meeting and Other stuff

2007-02-08T20:32:00.000-05:00

The Democratic Club of North Florida February Lunch Meeting this Monday
February 19, 11:30 – 1:00 LeRoy Collins Library, Meeting Rm A
Breaking the Racial Barriers of the Tallahassee City Commission DCNF VP Mary Cathrin May, a retired teacher and historian, will discuss the events during the Civil Rights Movement in Tallahassee that led to the 1971 election of James Ford as the city's first African-American mayor. The title of her presentation is "Breaking the Racial Barriers of the TallahasseeCity Commission." Special guests include Mayor Ford and former Mayor Dot Inman-Johnson who also will offer remarks.
Please join the Democratic Club of North Florida at the LeRoy Collins Downtown Public Library, 200 W. Park Ave. The February 19th meeting begins 11:30 with the purchase of a light lunch followed by the meeting at noon. The meeting is free and open to the public. For moreinformation call 385-6504.
NOTICE !!!! Visit the Brand New DCNF web site www.dcnf.blogspot.com
VISIT the DCNF Websitehttp://www.DCNF.blogspot.com
DCNF.blogspot.comhttp://DCNF.blogspot.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

DCNF has a WEB SITE !!!!Come visit our blog where you can keep up to date on ClubActivity, change your e-mail address and share your thoughts. Please visit the site and share it with your friends. As always you can share your thoughts and suggestions by e-mail at href="mailto:DCNF@comcast.net">DCNF@comcast.net
DCNF BLOG LINKhttp://www.DCNF.blogspot.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

January Meeting and a Special EventDid you miss our January speaker Tom Baxter, a vocal opponent ofthe war and a member of Veterans for Peace and the TallahasseeVietnam Veterans Against the War ? Too bad, it was a thought provoking talk and Tom brought lots of friends to join in thediscussion

Our Next DCNF Meeting Monday Jan. 29

2007-01-16T18:04:00.000-05:00

Bring the troops home now to a heroes welcome

This war is being prosecuted in our names, with our money, with our blood, against our will, Molly Ivins, Creators Syndicate.

Most of his supporters – perhaps all them not named Lieberman – will be Republicans, and will be tepid and wary, George F. Will, Newsweek columnist.

Seventy percent of Americans oppose sending more troops to Iraq, according to a new poll that provides a devastating blunt response to President Bush’s plan to bolster military forces there, AP wire story.

So goes the reporting of the Iraq War. Tom Baxter, a vocal opponent of the war and a member of Veterans for Peace and the Tallahassee Vietnam Veterans Against the War will offer a local slant on the Iraq War when he speaks to members of the Democratic Club of North Florida on Monday, January 29, at the Amtrak Building (train depot), 918 Railroad Ave. The meeting begins at 6:30 pm with a reception followed by the meeting at 7:00 pm. Tom has been part of the Eternal Peace Witness team in front of Florida’s Old Capitol on Thursdays and Sundays. Tom will discuss his role in opposing the war and how we can express our opposition to the war.

Parking is plentiful, lighting is bright and security is on duty.

The club is providing light refreshments. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information call 385-6504.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
February's Meeting will observe Black History Month and will be at the Leon County Library at 11:30 am on Monday, February 19. The club will offer lunch for a minimal charge.

FW: DCNF Blog

2007-01-11T18:31:00.000-05:00

Don't forget the retreat this Saturday from 9:30 to 1:00

2007-01-10T18:46:00.001-05:00

Kudos to Allen Boyd;

I was listening to the Preston Scott show this morning - something I rarely do and when I do I can't stand it for long.

Preston's guest was our U.S. Representative Allen Boyd. They ran through a number of predictable talking points until they got to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Boyd indicated that the war was not going well.

Poor Preston tried to push the right-wing talking point that there are really just a good things happening but they were just being under reported.

First Boyd made the point that although Afghanistan was justified Iraq had turned out to be not justified by any facts.

When Preston pushed Boyd again that aren't there really some success stories there, Boyd flatted Preston with a reptort that 3,000 dead Americans 20,000 wounded and half a trillion dollars spent could hardly be considered a success!

I don't think Preston knew what hit him.