Official Slate of Candidates for the Dolphin Democrats is Announced
Dolphin Democrats
Official Slate of Candidates for the Dolphin Democrats is Announced
The Dolphin Democrats Nominating Committee is pleased to present the official slate of candidates for Office and Board of Directors of the Dolphin Democrats. The Committee has endorsed candidates for each of the 4 Offices and the 13 seats on the Board of Directors.
The Committee was impressed with the strengths and commitment exhibited in this year's list of candidates. Elections will be held at the Annual Meeting on Wednesday, February 8, at 7:30 p.m. at the GLCCSF on North Andrews Avenue. Additional nominations will be taken from the floor at the Annual Meeting on February 8.
Best wishes!
Dolphin Democrats Nominating and Elections Committee
SLATE OF CANDIDATES
PRESIDENT
Kenneth Keechl
VICE PRESIDENT
Melissa Fojtik
SECRETARY
Julie Bruno
TREASURER
Kathy Scaman
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ted Adcock
Michael Albetta
Robert Bernhardt
LeAnna Bradley
Edie Hambright
Gary Hensley
Ron Mills
Adam Sanders
Alan Silva
Amy Shoosmith
Barbara Stuart
Ted Verdone
Bob Williamson
Dolphin Democrats
Nominating Statements from Candidates for February 8, 2006 Election
* Indicates Official Slate
PRESIDENT and VICE PRESIDENT
* Kenneth Keechl and Melissa Fojtik
Melissa and I have been honored to be your Vice President and President in 2005. We would be honored to be re-elected in 2006. As you know, when you bestowed this honor upon us, we make a number of pledges to you. We have met each of these pledges. We have increased the membership of the Dolphins by adding 250 paid members to our club. We have also successfully reached out to the lesbian community, the transgender community, and the community of color. Should you re-elect us, we will continue to ensure that all of our new members renew their memberships in 2006 and we will continue our outreach efforts. Melissa and I will continue to fight the homophobic anti-gay marriage amendment as well. We are proud of our efforts to educate the Florida Democratic Party on this issue and that the Florida Democratic Party unanimously adopted our resolution condemning this proposed homophobic constitutional amendment. We are also proud of our response to the “We Are Family” video controversy before Broward County’s School Board last year. Rest assured, we will continue to protect our interests in our “own backyard,” as well as throughout the state. Lastly, Melissa and I feel that we need to focus the Board’s efforts in 2006 on ensuring that GLBT and GLBT-supportive candidates are elected to office locally, statewide, and nationally. Through the Dolphins’ extremely successful fundraising efforts including, but not limited to, our membership drive, our 23rd Annual Awards Banquet, our Presidential Reception last year, and our Dolphin/Stonewall Democrats joint fundraiser for Barney Frank, the Dolphins are in the best financial position in the history of this organization. We will utilize this money, and those additional monies we raise this year, to “get out the vote” to ensure that those candidates who publicly express solidarity with us are elected. Last year, Melissa, your Board, and I worked tirelessly to make the Dolphins a stronger political force in Broward County. We are prepared to work even harder in 2006. Together, we will continue to make a difference.
Sincerely,
Kenneth E. Keechl, President
Melissa J. Fojtik, Vice President
SECRETARY
* Julie D. Bruno
My name is Julie D. Bruno. I earned my Bachelor’s degrees in English Composition and Communications from Florida State University and recently graduated with my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Florida School of Professional Psychology. Particularly, I have a special interest in the treatment of individuals with existential concerns, history of abuse and trauma, substance abuse, gender issues and family of origin issues. Currently, I recently opened a private practice in the Fort Lauderdale area and am employed with Nova Southeastern University.
All of my life I have been committed to working with individuals and groups that want to evoke positive change within themselves and the greater community. After joining the Dolphin Democrats I realized that now, at this political juncture, it is time for me to commit myself and the skills I have acquired throughout my career to evoke positive change for my community. I hope to have the opportunity and privilege to do so with the Dolphin Democrats.
One thing interests me most of all: Equality
Life's splendor forever lies in wait about each one of us in all its fullness, but veiled from view, deep down, invisible, far off. It is there, though, not hostile, not reluctant, not deaf. If you summon it by the right word, by its right name, it will come. – Franz Kafka
Julie D. Bruno
TREASURER
* Kathy Scaman
I would like to run for the Treasurer position on the Dolphin Board this next year. I have a BBA in Accounting from University of St. Thomas and am an assistant controller. I've been in accounting for 23 years and have been on the current board for about 9 months and have served on the audit committee. I can use my accounting background to fill the financial reporting needs of the organization and I work well with others. I am the treasurer for Fusion Coalition and have served other non-profits in the past in the same capacity.
Thank you for your consideration.
Kathy Scamon
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Ted Adcock
It has been an honor being on the Board of the Dolphin Democrats in 2005. I definitely want to serve again in 2006. In addition to assisting the President and Vice-President with administrative issues throughout the year, I have enjoyed being the President's liaison to the transgender community. I spent numerous hours last year representing the Dolphins in preparation for the South Florida Day of Remembrance. Due to my efforts, the Dolphins were a sponsor of this event and received recognition for our efforts. I was also very active in lobbying the Broward County School Board in response to the "We Are Family" video issue last year. Proudly displaying my Dolphin badge, I attended every GLBT festival, all Jefferson Jackson events, and many fundraisers throughout 2005. I also recruited a number of new Dolphin members. Lastly, I was a co-chair of the Dolphins' 23rd Annual Awards Banquet, which I believe was a financial and political success. If re-elected, I would like to co-chair the Dolphins' 24th Annual Awards Banquet as well. Thank you for your consideration.
Ted Adcock.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Michael A. Albetta
I have had the honor and pleasure to serve on the board of the DolphinDemocrats in 2005 and since 1998. I have served many positions on the boardas well as Vice-President and twice as President. I do not want to bore thiscommittee with what I have done. But, let me say that I was awarded thisyear with the highest esteem award that the Dolphins could give- "Dolphin ofthe Year". I think that says enough.
I would be very honored to serve with Ken Keechl and Melissa Fojtik. Theytruly represent what GLBT Democratic politics should be. If the NominatingBoard would recommend me, I would be honored and give the best of myability.
Sincerely yours,Michael A. Albetta
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Robert (Bob) Bernhardt
I would be honored to be nominated for a second term as a Board member of the Dolphin Democrats.In my first term -2005, I have served as the chair of the IT Committee and served on the Membership committee. I am a member of the Broward DEC and the Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus.
Accomplishments include increasing Dolphin Membership by almost 200, through aggressively soliciting members of the GLBT community and Domestic Partners in Broward County. Thank You notes, Timely Newsletters and Dolphin News Blasts have been my responsibility. I have also re-implemented Annual Membership cards and timely membership dues renewals. My partner Gary Hensley and I have successfully raised funds for the Dolphins by selling bumper stickers, buttons and raffles.
My goals for the Dolphins in 2006 include increasing membership to 500, increase the visibility of the Dolphins by having voter registration drives, and helping to elect GLBT friendly Democrats on a local and national level. I will also work diligently against the hateful Florida constitutional amendment heading for the ballot which would not only ban same-sex marriage, but also make any sort of domestic partnership or civil union protection unconstitutional.Thank You
Robert (Bob) Bernhardt
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* LeAnna Bradley
My name is LeAnna Bradley and I would like to be considered for the Dolphin Democrat Board
The following is a bit of criteria about me: I am transgender and I have one son and I raised 4 adopted children. I have served my country for 32 years in the military and now retired: a. Shipping and receiving research analyst, b. Training instructor, c. Emergency medical technician, e. Driving instructor, f. Public relations for three years, g. Traveled many countries so very familiar with culture.
I have worked in law enforcement - I ran my own shipping and travel business for 6 years
I have my own private investigation research business - I do church ministry work at the church - I work well with other groups - I have worked with different work shops for education.
Several Professor Educators have encouraged me to follow through with this as they believe in the concept.
I have been going to universities and churches and independent groups and speaking on a better education concept of what one should understand not only about them selves but also to accept others. This concept is not about gender, nor race, nor orientation. It is about being able to change a negative feeling to a positive feeling of one’s personal culture world and learning the true six senses of which we all have: Who-What-When-Where-Why-How.
I truly believe that having a transgender on the board would be helpful when it came to transgender issues.
LeAnna Bradley
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Justin S. Flippen
Last summer I was appointed by our president, Ken Keechl, and subsequently elected by our membership to fill a vacancy on the board of directors. As a Dolphin Democrat since 1997, the Dolphins were one of the first organizations I joined as a young college student. I believe my role on the board helps to give our youth a voice in the affairs of the club. I am a life-long resident of Broward County and when the fiasco over the "We Are Family" children's music video took place with the School Board, I made it a point to ensure that I did all I could to voice my objections to the presence of homophobia and bigotry within the School Board's Diversity Committee, including speaking before the school board at one of their meetings. I have raised our concerns relative to our fight for equal rights to our Democratic gubernatorial candidates and will continue to do so with our public and elected officials. I am the past president of the Florida Atlantic University College Democrats, past vice president of the University of Florida College of Law Law School Democrats, and I would be honored to continue to serve as a Director of the Dolphin Democrats. When we hold our club elections, I would respectfully ask that you consider voting for me as one of our directors.
Democratically yours,
Justin S. Flippen, J.D.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Edie Hambright
I am Edie Hambright, 56 year old resident since 9-15-04 of Wilton Manors, lovingly partnered to Julia Davis for 11 1/2 years, and proud to be a lesbian Democrat ever since I first voted in North Carolina at 21yo! We moved from Key West during the winter of 2004 where we had lived for 5 years. I had worked for 30 years as a Substance Abuse Counselor/Marriage and Family Therapist/Professional Counselor in various agencies. I now enjoy the freedom of working with Julia as Wellness Home Consultants in our home-based Nikken wellness business. I have been active in grass roots politics as a Democrat since coming of age in the 60's and I was actively involved in the Key West Lambda Democratic Club since 1999. We joined The Dolphins as soon as we moved here and I was elected to be a Board Member last summer as a vacancy came open. I am concerned deeply about the current political landscape, locally, statewide and nationally, and I will continue to work earnestly, passionately for the election of persons who are honest, respectful, and consistent in their support for the equal rights, benefits, and needs of GLBT persons-committed couples and their children, friends, and families. If elected again for the Board, I will continue with great pride to serve with my heart ,my mind, my sweat, and my feet.
Thank you.
Edie Hambright, ThM, CAP, LMFT, LPC
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Gary S. Hensley
I would be honored to be nominated for a second term as a Board member of the Dolphin Democrats.
In my first term -2005, I have served as the chair of the Membership committee. I am a member of the Broward DEC and the Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus.
Accomplishments include increasing Dolphin Membership by almost 200, through aggressively soliciting members of the GLBT community and Domestic Partners in Broward County. Thank You notes, Timely Newsletters and Dolphin News Blasts have been added to the IT function to continue this trend. My partner Robert Bernhardt and I have successfully raised funds for the Dolphins by selling bumper stickers, buttons, silent auctions and raffles.
My goals for the Dolphins in 2006 include increasing membership to 500, increase the visibility of the Dolphins by having voter registration drives, opening a GOTV office, and helping to elect GLBT friendly Democrats on a local and national level. I will also work diligently against the hateful Florida constitutional amendment heading for the ballot which would not only ban same-sex marriage, but also make any sort of domestic partnership or civil union protection unconstitutional.
Thank You
Gary S. Hensley
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Ron Mills
I would Like To Serve (1) more term on the Dolphin Democrats Board.
In 2002 I was appointed to the board by Dean Trantalis.
In 2003- 2005 I was elected to the board.
I served as The Webmaster, Chair of Program committee, awards committee, and co-chair of the Campaign committee.
I believe that this will be a crossroads year for The Dolphin Democrats with the '06 elections and would like to contribute to the board and the membership (1) more year.
Ron Mills
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sandra Pasternack
I am a Post-op transsexual..& believe, very strongly, although it is getting better in the GLBT Dolphin Dems org....that our representation is sorely missing on the board. While I agree that most members are Gay/Lesbian...with few of us Trans folks there, it's still very important for inclusion.
I have been a life-long democrat..& remember marching & rallying in Golden Gate Park(SF)...in the late 60's early 70's to show our disagreement with the Viet Nam war...& now, believe it is vitally important to let the Fed Gov't & by extension, the local & state gov't, that this Iraq war is just as bad.
I hope this helps with my selection
Sandra Pasternack
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Adam Sanders
I am seeking a position on the Board of Directors and believe my experiences in the political arena will be an asset to the Dolphin Democrats.
I began my political career working on the first gubernatorial campaign of former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey, and later in the legislative office of New Jersey Assemblywoman Loretta Weinberg, who introduced legislation, which eventually passed, enacting domestic partnerships in that state.
In 2001, while working with Florida State Representative Ken Gottlieb, a group of students traveled to Tallahassee to meet with legislators about the anti gay harassment they experience in school every day, only to be told by a conservative lawmaker, “God will destroy you.” That week, I convinced Representative Gottlieb to introduce the Dignity for All Students Act, and was afforded the opportunity to travel the state promoting the legislation. My educating Gottlieb on the issues of concern to the GLBT community made him a better legislator, and even after my having moved on, he continues to introduce similar legislation each year. I am proud to have played a role in promoting progress on a statewide level, and will be proud to serve on the Board of Directors of the Dolphin Democrats.
Adam Sanders
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Amy Shoosmith
My aspiration to become a Dolphin Democrat Board Member stems from my deep respect for the organization and a sincere commitment to work diligently in 2006 and beyond to get Democrats elected who are supportive of rights for the LGBT community. I believe collaboration and determination will lead us to great victories in the coming year.
I am tremendously intrigued with the philosophies of problem solving and conflict resolution. I am completing my Master’s degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution at Nova Southeastern University. I am currently participating in an internship with Flash Resolutions, and I anticipate graduating from NSU in June 2006. I am also a Florida Supreme Court certified mediator. I believe these skills, as well as my communication skills; will contribute to my effectiveness as a Dolphin Board Member.
A primary goal of mine is to continue actively pursuing an America in which the dream of democracy and freedom is actualized for ALL American citizens.
In short, I am confident that I possess the persuasive, analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed as a Dolphin Democrat Board Member. I am looking forward to the opportunity to pursue our mutual goals.
Amy Shoosmith
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Alan Silva
My life has been dedicated to public and community service, especially in leadership roles. My professional career, until retirement in 1997, was in management and the Foreign Service: as City Manager in Fall River, MA and director of various offices in the U. S. Agency for International Development. Upon retirement, I moved to Florida and became active in civic and political organizations:
· volunteering as Acting City Manager of Fort Lauderdale for ten months;
· served as Parliamentarian, By-laws Chair, and Secretary of the Dolphins;
· elected as Broward Democratic Party’s Area 9 Leader (for Greater Fort Lauderdale-Dania Beach); and
· honored by the Dolphins as “Humanitarian of the Year”.
I am known as a “team player”, an innovative organizer and manager, and effective coordinator --- someone who can bring people together, develop a game-plan, and get the job done. These skills are especially important this year to mobilize Democratic activists, ensure that the Dolphins are in the forefront of statewide and local GLBT get-out-the-vote efforts, and elect Democratic candidates up and down the ballot. I have been honored to serve as your Secretary for the past year and would appreciate your support of my candidacy for Director/Board member.
Alan Silva
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Barbara Stuart
I would like to run again for Board Member.
I have been Co-Chairperson of the last three Banquets, President's Reception, and work on the Newsletter every month.
I have been on the board for the past several years, and have been a member since their inception.
I was recently appointed by Robin Bartleman for the Diversity Committee for Broward County School Board and have been an appointee on the Minority Women's Business Enterprise Committee, for three years. I have been active in Broward County Politics for the past twenty years. I attend all State Conventions and Local Conventions.
Thank you,
Barbara Stuart
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Ted Verdone
Ted Verdone has lived in Wilton Manors at 2224 NW 6 Terrace since July, 2000. He has served for five years on the Board of Directors of the Stonewall Library, was its Treasurer for two years, and was recently elected as its Vice President. He has served on the Parks and Recreation Board and the Affordable Housing Task force for the City of Wilton Manors. He has also personally invested in several local real estate adventures.
He is the President of Verdone Enterprises, LLC, and a Trustee of Crown Trust. These organizations own residential income properties and businesses in Massachusetts, California, and in the Fort Lauderdale area of Florida.
He served on the Board of Directors of the Worcester (Mass.) Property Owners Association for over 25 years, and served as President of the Massachusetts Rental Housing Association for two years in the mid 1990’s. He was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award by that organization in 2003. He was also appointed by then Governor, William Weld, of Massachusetts, to his Lead Paint Poison Advisory Council, a position that he held for over three years.
He has been a Toastmaster since October of 1979. He achieved Toastmasters highest award, that of Distinguish Toastmaster, in 1985. He served in 1989 – 1990 as District Governor of Toastmasters District 31, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. He has helped found over 40 Toastmasters Clubs over the years and is a charter member of the Proud Speakers Club #2266 of Fort Lauderdale. The club meets at the GLCC on Monday evenings in room #2. Toastmasters has over 8,000 clubs, in 67 countries, but this is one of only eight clubs in the organization with predominately gay members. In 1993 he was presented a Presidential Citation for meritorious service and longtime leadership in Toronto, Canada, at the Toastmasters International Convention, by its then president, Bennie Bough.
He has been a political advocate for many years and is in the process of organizing “FAIR SHARE,” a citizens group with mission of making the public aware of Florida’s unfair property tax laws. The ultimate goal is to change these laws and make the property tax load equitable for all.
He hopes that he can help the Dolphin Democrats produce a platform with policies that will be acceptable by main stream voters while still strongly advocating issues that are dear to our gay constituency.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ted Verdone
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Bob (Robert) Williamson
I wish to become a member of the Dolphin board. I am a retired educator having taught government in the public schools, developed and managed education programs for disadvantaged youth through the U.S. Office of Economic Opportunity and worked for the U.S. House of Representatives Education Labor Committee as well as several years for the D.C. Public Schools and the University of the District of Columbia.
I was a member of the Dolphin Club in 1997-98 before moving to Savannah, GA. I returned to Fort Lauderdale and became a member of the Dolphins again. I am very interested in local, state and national politics. I am an activesupporter of Jim Davis for governor.
I offer my political and educational skills to serve the Dolphins andBroward County. I would like to work on increasing membership and to getthe gay community involved in political activities through reaching out toother groups in the county. I am a member of Equality Florida, the GLBTDemocratic Caucus, the National Democratic Party, PFLAG, SAGE, GLSEN, The Human Rights Campaign, ACLU, The Interfaith Alliance, and Americans United for Separation of Church and State.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,Bob Williamson
-end-
Official Slate of Candidates for the Dolphin Democrats is Announced
The Dolphin Democrats Nominating Committee is pleased to present the official slate of candidates for Office and Board of Directors of the Dolphin Democrats. The Committee has endorsed candidates for each of the 4 Offices and the 13 seats on the Board of Directors.
The Committee was impressed with the strengths and commitment exhibited in this year's list of candidates. Elections will be held at the Annual Meeting on Wednesday, February 8, at 7:30 p.m. at the GLCCSF on North Andrews Avenue. Additional nominations will be taken from the floor at the Annual Meeting on February 8.
Best wishes!
Dolphin Democrats Nominating and Elections Committee
SLATE OF CANDIDATES
PRESIDENT
Kenneth Keechl
VICE PRESIDENT
Melissa Fojtik
SECRETARY
Julie Bruno
TREASURER
Kathy Scaman
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ted Adcock
Michael Albetta
Robert Bernhardt
LeAnna Bradley
Edie Hambright
Gary Hensley
Ron Mills
Adam Sanders
Alan Silva
Amy Shoosmith
Barbara Stuart
Ted Verdone
Bob Williamson
Dolphin Democrats
Nominating Statements from Candidates for February 8, 2006 Election
* Indicates Official Slate
PRESIDENT and VICE PRESIDENT
* Kenneth Keechl and Melissa Fojtik
Melissa and I have been honored to be your Vice President and President in 2005. We would be honored to be re-elected in 2006. As you know, when you bestowed this honor upon us, we make a number of pledges to you. We have met each of these pledges. We have increased the membership of the Dolphins by adding 250 paid members to our club. We have also successfully reached out to the lesbian community, the transgender community, and the community of color. Should you re-elect us, we will continue to ensure that all of our new members renew their memberships in 2006 and we will continue our outreach efforts. Melissa and I will continue to fight the homophobic anti-gay marriage amendment as well. We are proud of our efforts to educate the Florida Democratic Party on this issue and that the Florida Democratic Party unanimously adopted our resolution condemning this proposed homophobic constitutional amendment. We are also proud of our response to the “We Are Family” video controversy before Broward County’s School Board last year. Rest assured, we will continue to protect our interests in our “own backyard,” as well as throughout the state. Lastly, Melissa and I feel that we need to focus the Board’s efforts in 2006 on ensuring that GLBT and GLBT-supportive candidates are elected to office locally, statewide, and nationally. Through the Dolphins’ extremely successful fundraising efforts including, but not limited to, our membership drive, our 23rd Annual Awards Banquet, our Presidential Reception last year, and our Dolphin/Stonewall Democrats joint fundraiser for Barney Frank, the Dolphins are in the best financial position in the history of this organization. We will utilize this money, and those additional monies we raise this year, to “get out the vote” to ensure that those candidates who publicly express solidarity with us are elected. Last year, Melissa, your Board, and I worked tirelessly to make the Dolphins a stronger political force in Broward County. We are prepared to work even harder in 2006. Together, we will continue to make a difference.
Sincerely,
Kenneth E. Keechl, President
Melissa J. Fojtik, Vice President
SECRETARY
* Julie D. Bruno
My name is Julie D. Bruno. I earned my Bachelor’s degrees in English Composition and Communications from Florida State University and recently graduated with my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the Florida School of Professional Psychology. Particularly, I have a special interest in the treatment of individuals with existential concerns, history of abuse and trauma, substance abuse, gender issues and family of origin issues. Currently, I recently opened a private practice in the Fort Lauderdale area and am employed with Nova Southeastern University.
All of my life I have been committed to working with individuals and groups that want to evoke positive change within themselves and the greater community. After joining the Dolphin Democrats I realized that now, at this political juncture, it is time for me to commit myself and the skills I have acquired throughout my career to evoke positive change for my community. I hope to have the opportunity and privilege to do so with the Dolphin Democrats.
One thing interests me most of all: Equality
Life's splendor forever lies in wait about each one of us in all its fullness, but veiled from view, deep down, invisible, far off. It is there, though, not hostile, not reluctant, not deaf. If you summon it by the right word, by its right name, it will come. – Franz Kafka
Julie D. Bruno
TREASURER
* Kathy Scaman
I would like to run for the Treasurer position on the Dolphin Board this next year. I have a BBA in Accounting from University of St. Thomas and am an assistant controller. I've been in accounting for 23 years and have been on the current board for about 9 months and have served on the audit committee. I can use my accounting background to fill the financial reporting needs of the organization and I work well with others. I am the treasurer for Fusion Coalition and have served other non-profits in the past in the same capacity.
Thank you for your consideration.
Kathy Scamon
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Ted Adcock
It has been an honor being on the Board of the Dolphin Democrats in 2005. I definitely want to serve again in 2006. In addition to assisting the President and Vice-President with administrative issues throughout the year, I have enjoyed being the President's liaison to the transgender community. I spent numerous hours last year representing the Dolphins in preparation for the South Florida Day of Remembrance. Due to my efforts, the Dolphins were a sponsor of this event and received recognition for our efforts. I was also very active in lobbying the Broward County School Board in response to the "We Are Family" video issue last year. Proudly displaying my Dolphin badge, I attended every GLBT festival, all Jefferson Jackson events, and many fundraisers throughout 2005. I also recruited a number of new Dolphin members. Lastly, I was a co-chair of the Dolphins' 23rd Annual Awards Banquet, which I believe was a financial and political success. If re-elected, I would like to co-chair the Dolphins' 24th Annual Awards Banquet as well. Thank you for your consideration.
Ted Adcock.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Michael A. Albetta
I have had the honor and pleasure to serve on the board of the DolphinDemocrats in 2005 and since 1998. I have served many positions on the boardas well as Vice-President and twice as President. I do not want to bore thiscommittee with what I have done. But, let me say that I was awarded thisyear with the highest esteem award that the Dolphins could give- "Dolphin ofthe Year". I think that says enough.
I would be very honored to serve with Ken Keechl and Melissa Fojtik. Theytruly represent what GLBT Democratic politics should be. If the NominatingBoard would recommend me, I would be honored and give the best of myability.
Sincerely yours,Michael A. Albetta
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Robert (Bob) Bernhardt
I would be honored to be nominated for a second term as a Board member of the Dolphin Democrats.In my first term -2005, I have served as the chair of the IT Committee and served on the Membership committee. I am a member of the Broward DEC and the Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus.
Accomplishments include increasing Dolphin Membership by almost 200, through aggressively soliciting members of the GLBT community and Domestic Partners in Broward County. Thank You notes, Timely Newsletters and Dolphin News Blasts have been my responsibility. I have also re-implemented Annual Membership cards and timely membership dues renewals. My partner Gary Hensley and I have successfully raised funds for the Dolphins by selling bumper stickers, buttons and raffles.
My goals for the Dolphins in 2006 include increasing membership to 500, increase the visibility of the Dolphins by having voter registration drives, and helping to elect GLBT friendly Democrats on a local and national level. I will also work diligently against the hateful Florida constitutional amendment heading for the ballot which would not only ban same-sex marriage, but also make any sort of domestic partnership or civil union protection unconstitutional.Thank You
Robert (Bob) Bernhardt
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* LeAnna Bradley
My name is LeAnna Bradley and I would like to be considered for the Dolphin Democrat Board
The following is a bit of criteria about me: I am transgender and I have one son and I raised 4 adopted children. I have served my country for 32 years in the military and now retired: a. Shipping and receiving research analyst, b. Training instructor, c. Emergency medical technician, e. Driving instructor, f. Public relations for three years, g. Traveled many countries so very familiar with culture.
I have worked in law enforcement - I ran my own shipping and travel business for 6 years
I have my own private investigation research business - I do church ministry work at the church - I work well with other groups - I have worked with different work shops for education.
Several Professor Educators have encouraged me to follow through with this as they believe in the concept.
I have been going to universities and churches and independent groups and speaking on a better education concept of what one should understand not only about them selves but also to accept others. This concept is not about gender, nor race, nor orientation. It is about being able to change a negative feeling to a positive feeling of one’s personal culture world and learning the true six senses of which we all have: Who-What-When-Where-Why-How.
I truly believe that having a transgender on the board would be helpful when it came to transgender issues.
LeAnna Bradley
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Justin S. Flippen
Last summer I was appointed by our president, Ken Keechl, and subsequently elected by our membership to fill a vacancy on the board of directors. As a Dolphin Democrat since 1997, the Dolphins were one of the first organizations I joined as a young college student. I believe my role on the board helps to give our youth a voice in the affairs of the club. I am a life-long resident of Broward County and when the fiasco over the "We Are Family" children's music video took place with the School Board, I made it a point to ensure that I did all I could to voice my objections to the presence of homophobia and bigotry within the School Board's Diversity Committee, including speaking before the school board at one of their meetings. I have raised our concerns relative to our fight for equal rights to our Democratic gubernatorial candidates and will continue to do so with our public and elected officials. I am the past president of the Florida Atlantic University College Democrats, past vice president of the University of Florida College of Law Law School Democrats, and I would be honored to continue to serve as a Director of the Dolphin Democrats. When we hold our club elections, I would respectfully ask that you consider voting for me as one of our directors.
Democratically yours,
Justin S. Flippen, J.D.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Edie Hambright
I am Edie Hambright, 56 year old resident since 9-15-04 of Wilton Manors, lovingly partnered to Julia Davis for 11 1/2 years, and proud to be a lesbian Democrat ever since I first voted in North Carolina at 21yo! We moved from Key West during the winter of 2004 where we had lived for 5 years. I had worked for 30 years as a Substance Abuse Counselor/Marriage and Family Therapist/Professional Counselor in various agencies. I now enjoy the freedom of working with Julia as Wellness Home Consultants in our home-based Nikken wellness business. I have been active in grass roots politics as a Democrat since coming of age in the 60's and I was actively involved in the Key West Lambda Democratic Club since 1999. We joined The Dolphins as soon as we moved here and I was elected to be a Board Member last summer as a vacancy came open. I am concerned deeply about the current political landscape, locally, statewide and nationally, and I will continue to work earnestly, passionately for the election of persons who are honest, respectful, and consistent in their support for the equal rights, benefits, and needs of GLBT persons-committed couples and their children, friends, and families. If elected again for the Board, I will continue with great pride to serve with my heart ,my mind, my sweat, and my feet.
Thank you.
Edie Hambright, ThM, CAP, LMFT, LPC
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Gary S. Hensley
I would be honored to be nominated for a second term as a Board member of the Dolphin Democrats.
In my first term -2005, I have served as the chair of the Membership committee. I am a member of the Broward DEC and the Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus.
Accomplishments include increasing Dolphin Membership by almost 200, through aggressively soliciting members of the GLBT community and Domestic Partners in Broward County. Thank You notes, Timely Newsletters and Dolphin News Blasts have been added to the IT function to continue this trend. My partner Robert Bernhardt and I have successfully raised funds for the Dolphins by selling bumper stickers, buttons, silent auctions and raffles.
My goals for the Dolphins in 2006 include increasing membership to 500, increase the visibility of the Dolphins by having voter registration drives, opening a GOTV office, and helping to elect GLBT friendly Democrats on a local and national level. I will also work diligently against the hateful Florida constitutional amendment heading for the ballot which would not only ban same-sex marriage, but also make any sort of domestic partnership or civil union protection unconstitutional.
Thank You
Gary S. Hensley
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Ron Mills
I would Like To Serve (1) more term on the Dolphin Democrats Board.
In 2002 I was appointed to the board by Dean Trantalis.
In 2003- 2005 I was elected to the board.
I served as The Webmaster, Chair of Program committee, awards committee, and co-chair of the Campaign committee.
I believe that this will be a crossroads year for The Dolphin Democrats with the '06 elections and would like to contribute to the board and the membership (1) more year.
Ron Mills
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Sandra Pasternack
I am a Post-op transsexual..& believe, very strongly, although it is getting better in the GLBT Dolphin Dems org....that our representation is sorely missing on the board. While I agree that most members are Gay/Lesbian...with few of us Trans folks there, it's still very important for inclusion.
I have been a life-long democrat..& remember marching & rallying in Golden Gate Park(SF)...in the late 60's early 70's to show our disagreement with the Viet Nam war...& now, believe it is vitally important to let the Fed Gov't & by extension, the local & state gov't, that this Iraq war is just as bad.
I hope this helps with my selection
Sandra Pasternack
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Adam Sanders
I am seeking a position on the Board of Directors and believe my experiences in the political arena will be an asset to the Dolphin Democrats.
I began my political career working on the first gubernatorial campaign of former New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey, and later in the legislative office of New Jersey Assemblywoman Loretta Weinberg, who introduced legislation, which eventually passed, enacting domestic partnerships in that state.
In 2001, while working with Florida State Representative Ken Gottlieb, a group of students traveled to Tallahassee to meet with legislators about the anti gay harassment they experience in school every day, only to be told by a conservative lawmaker, “God will destroy you.” That week, I convinced Representative Gottlieb to introduce the Dignity for All Students Act, and was afforded the opportunity to travel the state promoting the legislation. My educating Gottlieb on the issues of concern to the GLBT community made him a better legislator, and even after my having moved on, he continues to introduce similar legislation each year. I am proud to have played a role in promoting progress on a statewide level, and will be proud to serve on the Board of Directors of the Dolphin Democrats.
Adam Sanders
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Amy Shoosmith
My aspiration to become a Dolphin Democrat Board Member stems from my deep respect for the organization and a sincere commitment to work diligently in 2006 and beyond to get Democrats elected who are supportive of rights for the LGBT community. I believe collaboration and determination will lead us to great victories in the coming year.
I am tremendously intrigued with the philosophies of problem solving and conflict resolution. I am completing my Master’s degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution at Nova Southeastern University. I am currently participating in an internship with Flash Resolutions, and I anticipate graduating from NSU in June 2006. I am also a Florida Supreme Court certified mediator. I believe these skills, as well as my communication skills; will contribute to my effectiveness as a Dolphin Board Member.
A primary goal of mine is to continue actively pursuing an America in which the dream of democracy and freedom is actualized for ALL American citizens.
In short, I am confident that I possess the persuasive, analytical and communication skills necessary to succeed as a Dolphin Democrat Board Member. I am looking forward to the opportunity to pursue our mutual goals.
Amy Shoosmith
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Alan Silva
My life has been dedicated to public and community service, especially in leadership roles. My professional career, until retirement in 1997, was in management and the Foreign Service: as City Manager in Fall River, MA and director of various offices in the U. S. Agency for International Development. Upon retirement, I moved to Florida and became active in civic and political organizations:
· volunteering as Acting City Manager of Fort Lauderdale for ten months;
· served as Parliamentarian, By-laws Chair, and Secretary of the Dolphins;
· elected as Broward Democratic Party’s Area 9 Leader (for Greater Fort Lauderdale-Dania Beach); and
· honored by the Dolphins as “Humanitarian of the Year”.
I am known as a “team player”, an innovative organizer and manager, and effective coordinator --- someone who can bring people together, develop a game-plan, and get the job done. These skills are especially important this year to mobilize Democratic activists, ensure that the Dolphins are in the forefront of statewide and local GLBT get-out-the-vote efforts, and elect Democratic candidates up and down the ballot. I have been honored to serve as your Secretary for the past year and would appreciate your support of my candidacy for Director/Board member.
Alan Silva
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Barbara Stuart
I would like to run again for Board Member.
I have been Co-Chairperson of the last three Banquets, President's Reception, and work on the Newsletter every month.
I have been on the board for the past several years, and have been a member since their inception.
I was recently appointed by Robin Bartleman for the Diversity Committee for Broward County School Board and have been an appointee on the Minority Women's Business Enterprise Committee, for three years. I have been active in Broward County Politics for the past twenty years. I attend all State Conventions and Local Conventions.
Thank you,
Barbara Stuart
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Ted Verdone
Ted Verdone has lived in Wilton Manors at 2224 NW 6 Terrace since July, 2000. He has served for five years on the Board of Directors of the Stonewall Library, was its Treasurer for two years, and was recently elected as its Vice President. He has served on the Parks and Recreation Board and the Affordable Housing Task force for the City of Wilton Manors. He has also personally invested in several local real estate adventures.
He is the President of Verdone Enterprises, LLC, and a Trustee of Crown Trust. These organizations own residential income properties and businesses in Massachusetts, California, and in the Fort Lauderdale area of Florida.
He served on the Board of Directors of the Worcester (Mass.) Property Owners Association for over 25 years, and served as President of the Massachusetts Rental Housing Association for two years in the mid 1990’s. He was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award by that organization in 2003. He was also appointed by then Governor, William Weld, of Massachusetts, to his Lead Paint Poison Advisory Council, a position that he held for over three years.
He has been a Toastmaster since October of 1979. He achieved Toastmasters highest award, that of Distinguish Toastmaster, in 1985. He served in 1989 – 1990 as District Governor of Toastmasters District 31, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. He has helped found over 40 Toastmasters Clubs over the years and is a charter member of the Proud Speakers Club #2266 of Fort Lauderdale. The club meets at the GLCC on Monday evenings in room #2. Toastmasters has over 8,000 clubs, in 67 countries, but this is one of only eight clubs in the organization with predominately gay members. In 1993 he was presented a Presidential Citation for meritorious service and longtime leadership in Toronto, Canada, at the Toastmasters International Convention, by its then president, Bennie Bough.
He has been a political advocate for many years and is in the process of organizing “FAIR SHARE,” a citizens group with mission of making the public aware of Florida’s unfair property tax laws. The ultimate goal is to change these laws and make the property tax load equitable for all.
He hopes that he can help the Dolphin Democrats produce a platform with policies that will be acceptable by main stream voters while still strongly advocating issues that are dear to our gay constituency.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ted Verdone
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
* Bob (Robert) Williamson
I wish to become a member of the Dolphin board. I am a retired educator having taught government in the public schools, developed and managed education programs for disadvantaged youth through the U.S. Office of Economic Opportunity and worked for the U.S. House of Representatives Education Labor Committee as well as several years for the D.C. Public Schools and the University of the District of Columbia.
I was a member of the Dolphin Club in 1997-98 before moving to Savannah, GA. I returned to Fort Lauderdale and became a member of the Dolphins again. I am very interested in local, state and national politics. I am an activesupporter of Jim Davis for governor.
I offer my political and educational skills to serve the Dolphins andBroward County. I would like to work on increasing membership and to getthe gay community involved in political activities through reaching out toother groups in the county. I am a member of Equality Florida, the GLBTDemocratic Caucus, the National Democratic Party, PFLAG, SAGE, GLSEN, The Human Rights Campaign, ACLU, The Interfaith Alliance, and Americans United for Separation of Church and State.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,Bob Williamson
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