Monthly MeetingsDay: Third Saturday of every month**
Time: 9:30am Coffee Social 10:00-11:30am General Meeting Location: Garber Buick GMC Dealership Community Room 5255 US Highway 1 Fort Pierce, FL 34982 Please park on the right side of the lot in the far back. Members will be available to direct you. **Changes in April, November and December due to holidays |
All Democrats and progressives are invited to our meetings.
Come and enjoy the company of like-minded women (men also welcome) of all ages and learn about issues important to our community, our state, and our country. Please note that only members will be able to vote on club business. |
October 2019 Meeting
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Date: October 19, 2019
Guest Speaker: Mary Jo Tierney Fort Pierce-based businesswoman and former reporter at the Miami Herald and Palm Beach Post Topic: Citizens under siege from misinformation and fake news, and what they can do to fight it. Tierney, who is also a blogger, will discuss how social media shapes public opinion and the vulnerabilities of individuals, institutions and society to manipulations by malicious actors. |
September 2019 Meeting
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Date: September 21, 2019
Guest Speakers: Doug Coward Executive Director of Solar and Energy Loan Fund (SELF) Jerry Buechler Vice Chairman of the Treasure Coast Citizens Climate Lobby Doug Coward: With a keenly intense interest in opening up solar in Florida, the former St. Lucie County commissioner had the “audacious” idea to start the first local government “green bank, which became the Solar Energy Loan Fund (SELF). SELF’s main mission is to get low-cost capital to use on renewable energy. SELF offers unsecured personal loans to homeowners based on the applicants’ disposable income, not the credit score. The average loan is $9,000 with clientele consisting of 50% seniors, 40% women and 20% veterans. The cost of solar energy has dropped 90% since SELF started in 2011, saving homeowners $110,000 over the life of the product, and is, therefore, not a sacrifice. Although solar panels/renewable energy are at the top of his list, they often end up third or fourth after 1) energy savings (insulation, sealing leaks) 2) energy efficiency and 3) a solar water heater. “Climate resilience” is also part of the program; e.g., it’s not just about AC, it includes a safe roof (wind hazard mitigation) and other improvements that reduce operating costs such as energy and insurance premiums. A new market just opened in addressing water/septic tank hazards. Jerry Buechler: An ardent supporter of using renewable energy, Jerry has solar panels on his roof, an electric car and lawn mowers, has sufficient attic insulation, solar screens, tankless water heater (heats on demand), and solar-powered AC for zero kilowatt usage. He encourages people to take advantage of programs such as those offered by SELF and a 26% federal tax credit, and consider joining the Treasure Coast Solar Co-op, which will save consumers 20% on the cost of individual installation. Disputing the myth that solar is too expensive, he notes that an average investment in solar panels of $13,000 will pay for itself in six or seven years, but the panels are warranted for 30 years. It also increases property values for resale, but not for taxes. He noted there is now a move to panel with microinverters, which convert sun energy from DC to AC power, that allows use of solar power during general power outages. Although people may have been waiting for prices to fall, he noted that dramatic price drops have tapered off. Rather than weakening a roof, the panels actually are protective. In addition, he said, some people believe their Home Owners Association prohibits the installation of solar panels; however, regulations state it cannot be prohibited. |
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August 2019 Meeting
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Date: August 17, 2019
Guest Speaker: Dorothy Malik Assistant Chief Probation Officer Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Circuit 19 In her role with the DJJ, she chairs the Village Coalition of Youth Activities (VCOYA), a collaborative effort within the community teaching life skills, respect for self and others. When young people get into trouble, they can go to residential treatment to get the correct help for low and high risk individuals. Although much has changed, she sees voter apathy – people don’t vote, don’t research candidates, don’t attend committee meetings. She believes that positive participation in the community and understanding the political system “is vital to help youth.” During a question and answer period, Dorothy discussed the VCOYA: It is a think tank that pools resources of organizations and businesses in the community. The VCOYA operates 24 hours a day; however, there are not enough funds “to do everything you want to do.” Work is being done to create a 501(c)3 to enable them to get funding. “We want to take kids into the world to learn” and support a program that keeps kids out of crime. VCOYA currently offers after-school programs and mentoring, and some places provide tutoring. One member noted that members might be able to assist with the VCOYA reading program as the DWC has worked with the Save the Sons clothing drives and Back to School Bash. |
July 2019 Meeting
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Date: June 15, 2019
Guest Speakers: Nicole Hughes Port St. Lucie-based recruiter for the Guardian ad Litem Program, a statewide organization (founded in 1988) which represents abused, abandoned and neglected children in Florida’s dependency courts. Nicole spoke about how the Program changes the lives of children in the foster care system on the Treasure Coast. The goal is to reunite children with their families, or get them adopted. The program has an 80-85% success rate for return or adoption. Currently, 365 volunteers and 30 staff work with the 950 children in the system. Volunteers receive two days of training – talking to children, how to bond, court observation for testifying on behalf of the kids. The GAL volunteers visit their charges at least every 30 days – either announced or unannounced – and advocate to a judge five times a year. There are also programs for kids after they turn 18, such as extended foster care and an independent living program that provides tuition and a stipend. Terissa Aronson President and CEO of the St. Lucie County Chamber of Commerce. Terissa serves as the official spokesperson for the Chamber in conjunction with the Chairman of the Board. In addition, she volunteers on various boards and committees throughout St. Lucie County to further the mission of the Chamber of Commerce. Terissa explained that St. Lucie County has only one Chamber of Commerce, creating power in being united since the 90s. The Chamber is a 501(c)3 business organization supported by dues-paying members and does not receive any government funding. The Chamber’s projects include the Young Floridians with a full scholarship to community college plus $1,000. There is also an adult leadership program, a one-year educational effort that includes tours of area businesses (e.g., Tropicana) and the county jail. The Economic Development Council, a spinoff of the Chamber, which now gets public funding, serves as a business advocate. We also heard from Rebecca Booth with Keep PSL Beautiful on collecting caps for the Buddy Bench project. Plastic caps and lids that cannot be recycled normally are melted and formed into Buddy Benches for schools, a place where children who are bullied or feeling down can sit to meet new friends or get help. Keep PSL Beautiful will also be experimenting with recycling plastic wrap and if that goes well, foam container recycling. The club will be collecting these materials at our monthly meetings. |
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June 2019 Meeting
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Date: June 15, 2019
Guest Speakers: Andi Poli President, League of Women Voters SLC Topic: Encouraging an informed, active participation in government here and around the nation. Andi provided an overview of the nonpartisan LWV, a political action group which got its start in 1920 following on the work of the Suffragettes. The group does not support or endorse any candidate. However, the League does support positions based on research. While often considered a progressive organization (ala the Suffragettes), they work to attain and maintain a position “in the middle” of the political spectrum. She cited an example of local efforts, such as working to get Amendment 4 (regarding re-registering convicted felons to vote) on the ballot. Currently, they are focusing on issues including the census, gun safety, education, voter education, the environment, healthcare – particularly for women – and the expansion of Medicaid. The League is addressing voting irregularities and election security as well. Ellyn (Mel) Bromberg MCPH Bio Indian River Lagoon Council Management Board WaterSHED International Topic: Florida’s “Hot” Water Issues: Micro to Macro Mel’s comprehensive presentation addressed harmful algal bloom (HAB’s), Lake Okeechobee discharges, the Indian River Lagoon Council – CCMP and citizen engagement, U.S. Clean Water Act rollback (U.S. waters), and global climate change/water quality and quantity within Florida. She cited efforts through technology and water conservation groups to combat the damage and dangers of blue-green algae, red tide, bio-solids, nitrogen and phosphorous pollution with concern over increasing intensity and duration of these conditions and events. The Indian River Lagoon Council is working on restoration projects to help the lagoon get and stay healthy with its “One Voice. One Community. One Lagoon.” campaign addressing 32 vital signs. Regarding climate change, she noted, “It doesn’t matter whether you believe it or not,” it’s happening here. We are suffering from extensive flooding and drought (“water whiplash”); Florida is shifting to a subtropical climate; it may benefit the state to increase its desalinization capacity. “Science illiteracy costs money,” she said. Noting that water issues are local, she urged speaking to everyone from the “city council on up,” including the Regional Planning Commission in Stuart, which handles development. |
May 2019 Meeting
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Date: May 18, 2019
Join us for a Members-Only, working meeting. We will be looking at what we've achieved so far, and discussing what we are planning for the rest of the year. This is a great opportunity to hear from and speak with your committee chairs, officers and fellow club members. Bring all your knowledge, experience and ideas! Your contributions are critical to our mission! **New Members and those interested in joining welcome. |
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April 2019 Meeting
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Date: April 13, 2019
**Please note this month's meeting is off schedule, on the 2nd Saturday! Join us for a timely meeting focusing on building awareness of sexual violence and human trafficking in our community. Guest Speaker: Mindi Fetterman, Founder of The Inner Truth Project As you know, seating is limited so please bring a folding chair if possible. Thank you! |
March 2019 Meeting
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Date: March 16, 2019
We are very excited to be able to host Carey Haughwout this Saturday. She is a Public Defender in Palm Beach County and President of the Florida Association of Public Defenders. Our community has been disproportionately impacted by the drug epidemics and mass incarcerations over the last two decades. As we move forward with our engagement in the community in Rights Restoration, this discussion gives us a broader understanding of the issues.....JOIN US!!!!! As you know, sometimes there is standing room only, so please bring a folding chair if you have one. |
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February 2019 Meeting
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Date: February 16, 2019
Join us for a panel discussion on the School Support and Teacher Pay Voter Referendum! Speakers: Kathryn Hensley, SLC School Board Wayne Gent, Superintendent SLC Public Schools Voters in April will be asked to raise property taxes to helps the school district improve teacher pay, school security, student mental-health programs and school educational programs. This referendum will be held entirely as vote-by-mail so be on the look-out for your ballot in April! TC PALM Article |
January 2019 Meeting
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Date: January 19, 2019
Join us as we look at our strengths, challenges, and the emerging issues in our community! Our guest speakers will be two of our newly elected officials. Reminder: As we begin the new year, we will also begin collecting dues for 2019. Help us continue moving forward together by investing in the club and the important work we are doing in our community. Thank you for your continued support! Join us this Saturday as we look at our strengths, our challenges and the emerging issues as we move forward together. Our special guests will be newly elected officials, State Representative Delores Hogan Johnson and County Commissioner Sean Mitchell. |
Speaker:
Sean Mitchell County Commissioner |
Speaker:
Dolores Hogan Johnson FL State Representative |
December 2018 Meeting
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Date: December 8, 2018
Location: Carrabba's Italian Grill, St. Lucie West December's meeting will be replaced with our Holiday Celebration! Join us as we celebrate the season of Light, Peace, and Love! We will install our new officers, honor the 2018 officers for their service and dedication, and provide a nice retrospective of our achievements this year. Please bring an unwrapped toy for the Guardian Ad Litem Program Toy Drive! |
November 2018 Meeting
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Date: November 17, 2018
Join us for our election of officers this Saturday! At our meeting all members will be asked for a voice vote, as all of our candidates are running un-opposed. A short bio of each candidate will be provided prior to voting. The candidates will also have a few minutes to present their vision for the club. We've worked hard to make a blue wave happen and are encouraged by the results of our dedication, particularly here in St. Lucie County! I know we all are looking forward to continuing to move our community, this state and our nation FORWARD...TOGETHER!!!! See you there! |
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October 2018 Meeting
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Date: October 20, 2018
Our October meeting will be very short. We will have postcards, phone calling turf and walking turf available for everyone. Our fundraising event has enabled us to fund GOTV activities with printing and postage. We will also have printed information you can hand out regarding the amendments and our slate of candidates. Immediately following our meeting we ask that anyone capable, please consider spending a few hours canvassing by phone or walking turf at the Port St. Lucie Democratic Headquarters 1034 SE Port St Lucie Blvd (BRIDGE PLAZA - Corner of PSL Blvd and Westmoreland behind the McDonald's and Mobil gas station). We will have experienced folks to make calls or walk turf with and canvassing packets ready to go! We've reserved a table at Lefty's grill right next door to the headquarters so we can gab a quick lunch before working. So let's Get Out The Vote...and make the BLUE WAVE happen :-) |
September 2018 Meeting
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Date: September 15, 2018 With the primary behind us, we will be outlining our strategy for the General Election and how we will get our slate of wonderful Democratic Candidates elected. Additionally, there will be a breakout session for volunteers and signups for our Get Out The Vote actions. Everyone can contribute, whether it's door knocking, phone banking, or writing personalized postcards. Now more than ever, voters are becoming motivated to change the direction of our community, our state and our nation! There is no time to waste and we need your help to flip FL Blue! See you there! |
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