Stonewall Democrats of Western New York March 27, 2012 Meeting Minutes
Meeting called to order by Bryan Ball at 7:10 PM
Announcements were discussed. The outcome of the Fahey/Kearns election was discussed, and how in the final days of the campaign, former LGBT-ally Michael Kearns came out publicly against marriage equality.
Redistricting being finalized was also discussed, and Darien Pratchett from the Board of Elections gave us an update on where the election schedule for the year appear to be currently.
Bryan Ball announces that Josh Hall, SDWNY Secretary, is planning on resigning his position due to personal commitments, and will make it official in writing. Therefore, we have that position opened to be filled. Carol Speser nominated Cindy Manarina, Kitty Lambert seconded. Cindy Manarina accepted the responsibility. Once Josh submits his resignation in writing, the new secretary may be instated.
Items:
- Scheduling of year’s endorsements/elections was discussed. Members agreed that SDWNY endorsement criteria should be solidified and implemented. Special meeting to discuss same is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, 4/14/12, at El Museo for 12:00 Noon.
- Committee elections to the county Democratic committees was discussed. Bryan Ball and Bruce Kogan mention how important the elections are to SDWNY, and for gaining a stronger voice in the party.
- A GENDA presentation was tentatively scheduled but facilitator was unable to attend the meeting.
- Under Old/New Business: a. Cindy Manarina announced the Buffalo Brunch (annual fundraiser for EmbraceWNY, which offers scholarships and grants to GLBT applicants) on Sunday, April 29th, and that it would be great if SDWNY had a table where we could all sit together and asked if we could make a donation of some kind for the Brunch’s basket raffle. b. Neal Flaig announced Amy Witryol is running against George Maziarz in the 62nd District of the State Senate, and will be announcing her candidacy on Friday.
Brittany DeBole, the newly appointed WNY liason for the Empire State Pride Agenda, announced LGBT Equality and Justice Day is Tuesday, May 8, 2012. A bus will be provided for $45. Fare includes breakfast, lunch, and transportation. c. Empire State Pride Agenda is also spearheading the TRANScribe Project, a collection of stories that display the diverse experiences and identities of transgender New Yorkers. For more information about the TRANScribe Project and to submit your story online, visit www. Prideagenda.org/story. d. Bryan Ball announces that Melissa Breckenridge, longtime SDWNY member, will be moving to Toronto, Canada. He would like the minutes to reflect Melissa’s dedication to SDWNY and LGBT rights issues in WNY—and for all the help she has given to SDWNY, in our events and meetings. SDWNY wishes Melissa all the best in her future.
5. Meeting Adjourned at 8:30 PM.
