Thursday, March 18, 2004
Barron County Courthouse

The meeting was called to order by Chairman Cecil Kippenhan.

We had 22 people in attendance.

Jason Rae read the minutes from the February 19th meeting. Betty Vogel asked for a change in the wording of the item regarding the fair and the booth. It was moved by Jim Vogel and seconded by Marlene Raether to approve the minutes with the correction.

Treasurer Betty Vogel read the Treasurer’s Report. We have a balance on hand of $232.03. According to Treasurer Betty Vogel’s records, we have 33 paid members. Mary Hubler moved and it was seconded by Edith Olson to approve the Treasurer’s Report as read.

We then took a few moments to go around the room and introduce ourselves to the group.

Chairman Cecil Kippenhan discussed the upcoming caucus. The 1st tier caucus is scheduled for Sunday, April 4th at the Courthouse. This is the first step for selecting delegates to go to the Democratic National Convention in Boston on July 26-29th. Registration for the first tier will begin at 11:00 AM, with registration closing at 1:00. The caucus will then begin at 1:00 PM. You need not be a member of the party to attend.

The Justice Center’s walk-through open house is scheduled for Saturday, March 27th. The formal dedication will be May 1st.

Cecil Kippenhan reported that the State will honor anyone who signs up five (5) NEW members. You can then become a “Super Democrat.”

Chairman Cecil Kippenhan then discussed the upcoming Democratic Leadership Institute scheduled for April 17th and 18th at the Chula Vista Resort. You must be at least 18 to attend.

Marlene Raether read a Thank You card from the Cameron Food Pantry, the recipient of last month’s donation.

Mary Hubler then spoke about Dave Obey’s race for US House. He now has an opponent for re-election. She then briefly discussed her campaign and the recently completed legislative session in Madison.

A discussion was begun on a possible event for the Barron County Democrats to hold. Ideas included a pig roast or other cookout during the summer. A committee will be formed to look into dates, options, and other components of the day.

The selection process for the Seventh Congressional District Convention and State Convention was discussed. The Congressional District Convention will be May 1st in Stevens Point. The State Convention is June 11th and 12th in Appleton, WI.

Those who wished to attend the conventions were asked to express interest. Mary Hubler moved and Jim Vogel seconded to approve Jason Rae, Cecil Kippenhan, Marlene Raether, Jerome McRaith, Ruth Young, Edith Olson, and Jason Gillette as delegates to the conventions. If others wish to attend, there are still a few spots open.

Jason Rae, a member of the State’s Platform and Resolution Committee, discussed the 2004 Platform, which will need to be approved at this year’s State Convention. He has a draft of the platform and is seeking feedback to bring to his May meeting. Jason also informed the group that he will be running for election at the District Convention in May for a permanent position on the committee.

Jerome McRaith discussed the Veterans for Peace organization and informed the group how they can become members.

Edith Olson asked people to notify her if members are sick or in the hospital.

Meeting was adjourned, by a motion from Mary Hubler and second by Jason Rae.

The next meeting will be April 15th, 2004 at 7:00 PM at the NUE Building in Rice Lake.

Submitted,
Jason Rae
Vice Chair
Acting Secretary