Call to Order

President David Meadows called the meeting to order.

Guest Speaker

Democratic State Committee (DSC) Chair, Scott Bolden, addressed the Stein Club membership (more than 150 people present) in light of the importance of our meeting: endorsement of presidential candidates. Mr. Bolden gave a passionate speech about the importance of participation in electoral politics and support for democratic candidates. He also highlighted his support for Stein representation in the DSC, and talked about his efforts to reform the DSC.

President's Report

President Meadows welcomed meeting attendees and special guests such as Metro Q. Radio. He reported on his participation with Metro Q Radio recently to promote the Stein endorsement meeting and talk about equality for GLBT couples in the District.

President Meadows then asked the membership to approve the minutes from the December 8, 2003 meeting. The minutes were approved.

Peter Share commended Scott Bolden for his work to increase diversity representation at the DSC, and highlighted the fact that the Stein Club represents the diversity of the GLBT community. He indicated that Stein should be a part of the DSC because it represents a vital constituency.

Phil Pannell commented that when the Stein resolution came up at the DSC, some were against it. He talked about a meeting scheduled between Scott Bolden and leaders from the Latino community to talk about creating a Latino democratic club. He also mentioned that the DSC used to have 11 GLBT members and there are currently only 5.

Treasurer's report

The Treasurer provided the financial report to the Stein Club, which presented a beginning balance of $2,393.46. With expenses totaling $200.00, fees $39.00, and deposits $658, the ending balance presented was $2,812.46.

Vice President's Report

Vice President Lewis presented resolution to oppose the recall of the Mayor. Phil Pannell said that he opposes the recall, but expressed disappointment regarding the Mayor's position on the Salvation Army, which he opposes. He feels that the Mayor needs to express more support for Black poor people.

Kurt Vordran said that the recall has the potential of being a major distraction to the party and the city. He stated that we need to focus our attention and en energy in the presidential election.

The resolution passed unanimously.

Peter Share recommended Stein releases a press communication in opposition to the recall.

Presidential Endorsement

President Meadows invited each of the representatives of the presidential candidates to provide their presentation to the Stein membership, and indicated that after presentations members will have an opportunity to ask questions to the presenters. After several passionate presentations and questions from the audience, President Meadows began the voting process. According to the By-laws of the organization, a candidate needs a vote of more than 60% of the Club members present and voting in order to receive the Stein endorsement. After the votes were counted, no candidate received more than 60% of the votes. According to the By-laws, if no candidate receives a majority vote (more than 60%) on the first ballot, a second ballot shall be conducted upon adoption of a motion by any member. In this case, only the two candidates with the higher number of votes would be considered.

Peter Share moved that the Stein Club conduct a second vote considering the two candidates with highest number of votes from the first ballot. The two candidates considered were John Kerry and Howard Dean. After the votes were counted, candidate John Kerry received more than 60% of the vote, therefore receiving the endorsement of the Stein Club. The final results were as follows: Kerry: 28, Dean: 15, No endorsement: 3.

Adjournment

Upon motion, the Stein Club voted to adjourn the meeting.