Tonight’s meeting at the Willis Center, was called to order by chair, Peg Watkins, at 7:35pm, with 51 members signing in attendance.

Member Lee Lybarger was called upon to lead the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Secretary report  –  Minutes from the April meeting had been posted to the website for review and, with no changes or corrections, Mindy made a motion to approve as written, with a second by Heather Karr.  All approved and motion passed to accept that record.

Treasurer’s report  –  John reviewed the report which was printed on the back side of the agenda that was handed out at the door.  All of the info seemed to be in order and no questions or additional details were voiced.  Brad Shimp made the motion to accept and Lee Lybarger seconded.  All in favor and report will go into the record as written.

Chair reports  –  Peg opened the floor to anyone that may be in order to be added to the executive committee.  No one at this time.                                                                                                                                                                   She reminded that this Friday, May 17^th, is the Ohio Democratic Party Legacy dinner with special guest speaker, Nancy Pelosi.  Our party has reserved 30 places and if anyone on the list is unable to attend, please contact her as soon as possible so all places are taken.

Fund raising –  Julie reported that the committee is still waiting to secure an exact date in June/July until a reply comes from a requested speaker.  (“Cat out of the bag”- it may be a current presidential candidate)    The event – Catch a Rising Star – plans are being furthered.      She also re-introduced interest in the monthly donation campaign.  She explained that a ‘thank you gift’ will be provided based on the level of donation per month.  It will insure a steady income in addition to the membership funds, which are largely income at the beginning of the year.  Anyone interested in this opportunity can contact her, Peg or John to begin the process.

Campaign & Candidates  –  Aileen – She and Ken are jointly launching their campaigns for Westerville city Council this Wednesday.   Jay is having a house party.  Brad Shimp is hosting an event for Melanie on the 23^rd.  Heather & Emma are reaching out for support from others in the party also.  Further details in the future.                                                                                 The group was reminded that there will be approximately 100 non-partisan vacancies for candidates to consider on the next ballots – among them townships trustees, school boards, villages and more.  We need to garner support from independents and gain strengths in our direction.

Old business –  The agenda has listed the upcoming events to be reminded of.

 Office report –  Donna thanks the region reps for stepping up with regard to the first Friday commitments.  She also stressed that the office facility is open for anyone that needs a meeting place or office to use during campaign times.  She is emphatic, though, that she be made aware of your needs so that multiple events are not meeting at the same time. Please let her know since she co-ordinates these times appropriately.

Bd of Elections –  Deputy director Anthony Saadey came to announce the results of the May election.  He stated that is was a lower Republican turn out than expected.   He also stated that the BOE will be conducting ‘candidate school’ for anyone possibly interested in seeking an office, but is reluctant due to lack of knowledge of the procedure involved.  It has been offered in the past and proven successful.  He encouraged interest.  It is planned for June 6^th at the BOE.

Cathi Kulik ask for support for the Moms Demand Action event taking place on Saturday, June 8^th.  They are wearing orange shirts in support of gun violence awareness.

David Carpenter relayed that he spoke at the state house regarding HV6, energy efficiency.

Peg recognized guest visitors, Westerville City Council members Alex Hickman & Valerie Cummings.

Peg also thanked the groups from Westerville working their Friday events.

Lee Lybarger, once again, requested anyone that has any Delaware Democratic Party history he can add to his work on the archives.

With no further business, at 8:19pm a motion was made by Denise McCandless to close the business part of the gathering.  It was seconded by Jonathan Chu and all in favor. Meeting adjourned.

At this point, groups broke into regions for further discussions.

Respectfully submitted,

Barbara Berry                                                                                                                                                                               Secretary