Thursday, May 20, 2004
Barron County Courthouse

The meeting was called to order by Chairman Cecil Kippenhan.

Jason Rae read the minutes from the April 15th meeting. A correction was made to remove ‘and entertainment’ from the committee Janet and Steve Schleppegrell have agreed to chair. Mary Hubler moved to approve the minutes with the correction, and Steve Schleppegrell seconded. All present voting yes.

Treasurer Betty Vogel read the Treasurer’s Report. We have a balance on hand of $427.63. According to Treasurer Betty Vogel’s records, we have 48 paid members. Mary Hubler moved and it was seconded by Steve Schleppegrell 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 reminded the group about the upcoming State Convention in Appleton, Wisconsin on June 11th and 12th. We still have a few delegate slots available if someone wishes to attend.

A report was given regarding the 7th Congressional District Convention held May 1st in Stevens Point. At the convention, Jason Rae ran for a position as representative to the Platform and Resolution Committee and won a three-year term.

Chairman Kippenhan then reported on the Better Way Club Fundraiser that he attended. He listened to Jim Hightower, and strongly recommends his book “Thieves in High Places” to anyone.

Chairman Kippenhan also gave a report on the 2nd Tier Caucus. After numerous ballots, the delegates to represent the 7th CD at the National Convention were chosen.

Judy Ferber-Williams, chair of the Democratic Rally, gave a report on the event being planned for August 28th. She run through the committee memberships and discussed getting the word out through parades and other local events.

The options for location to host the rally were discussed. It was moved by Mary Hubler and seconded by Willie Williams to use the Barron County Fairgrounds. All present voting yes.

Related to the Fairgrounds, Betty Vogel discussed the current vandalism insurance on our fair booth. Willie Williams moved, and was seconded by Mary Hubler, to discontinue the vandalism insurance on the fair booth.

Representative Mary Hubler gave a report on both her campaign and the work in the legislature. She handed out nomination papers for people to circulate, and emphasized that they may not be signed until June 1st.

Clarice Fall gave a small report on the Justice Center and the Dedication Ceremony.

Pam Fall announced that she would be running as a Democrat this fall for the position of County Clerk.

Jason Rae announced his intentions to seek one of the two male Democratic National Committee spots at this year’s State Convention.

Betty Vogel discussed purchasing stamps and requested that the Barron County Democratic Party reimburse her. It was moved by Mary Hubler, with a second from Toby Paone, to pay $7.40 for the stamps. All present voting yes.

It was decided by consensus that this month’s food pantry donations should be taken to the Cumberland Food Pantry.

Mary Hubler and Jason Rae moved to adjourn, with all present voting yes.

The next meeting will be June 17th, 2004 at 7:00 PM at the Barron County Courthouse.

Respectfully Submitted,
Jason Rae
Vice Chair and Acting Secretary