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Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May13,  2012 at the Pride Center at Equality Park 2040 A North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL

7:00 pm – FREE pizza and soft drinks hosted by Howard Forman

7:30 pm – Program starts.  

From Our President, Tim Ross

On May 22, I sent out a letter to the remaining 25 mayors in Broward county who  had not signed the  Mayors for the Freedom to Marry Statement asking them to sign the statement.  Since they live in Davie, I also asked Dolphin Democrats members and longtime partners Gary Hensley and Bob Bernhardt to approach Davie Mayor  Judy Paul on the issue.  I am proud to announce that Gary and Bob have informed me that Judy Paul has signed the Mayors for the Freedom to Marry Statement.  In addition Mayor Marilyn Gerber of Coconut Creek, and Mayor Mike Ryan of Sunrise have also signed the statement.

At this time, I would like to offer my heartfelt thanks to Mayor Marilyn Gerber of Coconut Creek, Mayor  Judy Paul  of Davie, and Mayor Mike Ryan of Sunrise for their support of Marriage Equality.    Marriage matters to LGBT people in similar ways that it matters to everyone.  Gay and lesbian couples want to marry, make a lifetime commitment to one another, and protect their families. Marriage says “We are family” in a way that no other word does. It is one of the few times that people make a public promise of love and responsibility for each other and ask friends and family to hold us accountable.  It’s as basic as the Golden Rule.  Marriage strengthens families, and it provides couples with the tools to build an enriched and secure life for themselves and for their families.  Thank you for affirming that we are family in time for us to celebrate your support during June, which is Gay Pride Month.

This month, I will be asking other Dolphin Democrat members in committed relationships to contact their mayors who have not yet signed the statement.  I hope to make more announcements as the month progresses.

Thanks,

Tim Ross

President

The Dolphin Democrats

Letter to Jack Seiler Regarding His Comments on Marriage Equality

Hon. John Seiler, Mayor

City of Ft. Lauderdale

City Hall

100 North Andrews Avenue

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301

March 21, 2012

RE: Sun-Sentinel Article “Mayors back gay marriage”

Dear Mayor Seiler:

                I write to you on behalf of the members of the Dolphin Democratic Club, and for those who believe in equality and justice for all.  In a March 10, 2012 article in the Sun-Sentinel newspaper, several mayors of municipalities within Broward County are quoted as endorsing equal rights for all humans, including the right of marriage, regardless of a person’s sexual orientation. Mayor Frank Ortis of Pembroke Pines, Mayor Lori Moseley of Miramar, and Mayor Joy Cooper of Hallandale Beach all joined in supporting marriage equality. Your name, however, was conspicuously missing from the list of supporters.  The LGBT community continues to fight the battle for equality, and as Mayor of a city that possesses one of the highest concentrations of LGBT members in the country, people look to you to champion for all people that you represent. Your quoted comments made it appear as if the LGBT community should be happy with domestic partnership benefits and appointments to volunteer city advisory boards. Are you kidding? 

In the on-line version of the Sun-Sentinel story, you go on to say that because state law does not allow for gay marriage, the subject is moot and it just wasn’t something you intended to spend much time thinking about. Mr. Mayor, I remind you that this state used to restrict the rights of African-Americans, Jews, Native Americans and many others, and if it were not for the courage and moral fortitude of our leaders, we would still be living in a society that denies equal rights to these Americans.   Through your statements, you have clearly abdicated your role as a responsible leader by dismissing a large segment of your constituency to second-class status. I believe that all members of the LGBT community and those who possess a progressive mind find your statements unacceptable.  Adding to this, you once again failed to appear at the recent annual gay-pride event which was held at Ft. Lauderdale’s Holiday Park. We are not sure why you haven’t spent much time considering the issue of equal rights for everyone, but we do know that achieving equality is a challenge that must engage all segments of our community, and certainly our elected officials must lead the charge.

If you believe that your words were misconstrued or taken out of context, we invite you to our Club meeting to explain your position so that there is no misunderstanding. Our relationship with you has always been supportive and cordial, and we hope that we can be assured of your continued support of our community. The LGBT community will only stand behind those who share our vision of equality, and we will not accept a secondary role in our society.  We look forward to hearing from you.

Very truly yours,

TIMOTHY A. ROSS, President

VOTE BY MAIL 2012–2014
ALL BROWARD VOTERS NEED TO REAPPLY

Voters who wish to cast their ballots by mail may make a single request to get absentee ballots for every election through 2012. Absentee ballots no longer need a reason.  People can use them if they prefer to vote by mail. Broward voters who want absentee ballots, either for a single election or for multiple elections, need to request them from the Supervisor of Elections Office.  Requests can be made in person, by mail, by phone or by filling out an application online. Call 954-357-7055 for details or applyonline here.

* Online requests are only for 1 year

* Phone requests can be for every election through 2014.

Join the Dolphin Democrats Facebook Group, like the Dolphin Democrats Facebook Page, or follow the Dolphin Democrats on Twitter.

https://www.dolphindems.org/uncategorized/4454/

Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 9th,  2012 at the Pride Center at Equality Park 2040 A North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL

7:00 pm – FREE pizza and soft drinks hosted

7:30 pm – Program starts.  Our program will include:

From Our President, Tim Ross

I would like to thank the membership of the Dolphin Democrats for the outpouring of concern (as well as strawberries and cashews) I received on my recent stay in the hospital from Monday, March 12 through Wednesday, March 21.  It was heart wrenching to have missed our meeting on March 14^th, and I was in denial about that until late Wednesday morning March 14th. Thanks to our Secretary, Sal Torre, and Director John Beuscher, everything was setup for the meeting.  Our Vice President Julie Carson did a great Job officiating while Stuart Milk swore in our board.  All in all, our March meeting was a huge success thanks to all of them.

There were over 200 posts of concern on Facebook for me while I was in the hospital .   I would have been a total mess in the hospital without Michael Rajner, who took the bus (because his car was in the shop) to bring me strawberries, cashews, my laptop, underwear, socks, and toiletries.  Michael Rajner asked me to let a friend (who shall remain unnamed in this communication) know that friends don’t let friends ride the bus!  The hospital would not let me take a shower for the entire nine days, and it was a relief (thanks to Michael Rajner and the toiletries he brought) to be able to wash my hair in the sink, have clean underwear, warm socks, and a cache of food when dietary screwed up and forgot my meals or brought me things I should not be eating.  Michael came to visit me three times, was on the phone with me daily, and really helped me a lot.  Thank you Michael!

I would also like to thank our Sergeant of Arms Jack Doren (who brought me strawberries AND cashews) Director Ed Leuchs, Director Ken Evans, and Michael Lockwood (who both brought me strawberries when I was in the CCU after my heart surgery), Linda Jain and Katy Peterson (who both brought me strawberries).  I also received a visit from Jahra McLawrence (who ran for judge in 2010), and was visited in the CCU after my surgery by David Park, our Treasurer Tim Hart, and David Stack (the Wilton Manors Voter Registration Captain for OFA).  Did I mention thanks for the strawberries and cashews?  LOL!

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our Secretary Sal Torre, Director and former President Dean Trantalis, and Michael Albetta for supporting Tom Green in his campaign for Wilton Manors Commission. Tom had a fundraiser Thursday at the Manor.  Sal staffed the sign-in table, and Michael and Dean were also present. The coconut shrimp at The Manor is TO DIE FOR!  Tom is a founding member of the Dolphin Democrats. Tom’s election will be on Tuesday, November 6, 2012.  Tom will have other fundraisers, about which we will give notices in our newsletters and on our website. This will allow other members of the Dolphin Democrats the opportunity to step up to the plate to support one of our own who is a founding member. Once again, thanks to Sal, Dean, and Michael for representing the Dolphin Democrats at Tom’s fundraiser.

We need to setup an ECO (Electioneering Communications Organization) and a Non Profit (we might do a Super-PAC like Stephen Colbert!) so we are in compliance with state and federal campaign finance regulations.   We need this to ensure that the funds for our Get Out The Vote (GOTV) Center this year are reported properly in compliance with campaign finance regulations. We may have a fundraiser for our ECO and Non Profit at The Manor in June, because I think it is important that we patronize gay businesses in our community. I am pricing catering as well from other gay businesses on Wilton Drive for us to have this event at Hagen Park.  Look ahead for further announcements. 

On Wednesday, March 21, I had a letter from the Dolphin Democrats hand delivered to Fort Lauderdale Mayor Jack Seiler regarding his comments on Marriage Equality in the Sun-Sentinel on March 9, 2012. Several mayors in Broward County have signed The Mayors for the Freedom to Marry Statement.  They are Mayor Joy Cooper of Hallandale Beach, Mayor Lori Mosely of Miramar, Mayor Frank Ortis of Pembroke Pines, and last but not least, Mayor Gary Resnick of Wilton Manors.  If your mayor is not on this list, call her or him and ask them to sign the Mayors for the Freedom to Marry Statement at http://www.freedomtomarry.org/expressionengine.php?/pages/mayors-for-marriage-statement.  

I have included the text of the letter to Jack Seiler below. I would like members of the Dolphin Democrats who reside in the City of Fort Lauderdale (as well as the LGBT community) to contact him at (954) 828-5003 or via e-mail at [email protected] to ask him why he has been silent on this letter.  Ask him why he has not contacted the Dolphin Democrats over my open invitation in this letter to speak at a Dolphin Democrats meeting.  Let him know he can reach me at(866) 478-8262 or [email protected] if he wants to setup an appearance before the Dolphin Democrats at our April 11, 2012 meeting at 7:30 pm at thePride Center at Equality Park, 2040 A North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL.  I will make him our primary speaker at that meeting if he would like. 

Thanks,

Tim Ross

Letter to Jack Seiler Regarding His Comments on Marriage Equality

Download Letter Here

 Congratulations to Bryan Caletka Win on March 13th in Davie

Bryan Caletka is an openly gay town council member in Davie.  He was re-elected on March 13 , with 62% of the vote.  Thank you to any and all Dolphin Democrat members who helped by making campaign contribution, phone calls, knocking on doors, or by waving signs at the polls.

President Obama – LGBT Event and Photo Reception

I just wanted to send everyone a quick message to let you know about an exciting opportunity coming up this April. The LGBT Obama for America Leadership Council, in conjunction with LGBT for Obama, will be welcoming President Barack Obama for an LGBT-themed event and photo reception April 10th, in Hollywood, Florida.

This reception represents a truly unique opportunity to receive a high-level briefing b Obama for America staff persons and to learn more about the campaign's LGBT program at both the national and local level. The reality is that this type of event isn't being held in every state and its placement in Florida demonstrates how important both Florida and the LGBT community are to the Obama campaign. It is truly a rare opportunity that you should not miss.

For more information and to RSVP please visit: my.barackobama.com/april10hollywoodlgbtevent or contact Robert at [email protected]. If you're able to make it please make sure to join our event page on Facebook www.facebook.com/events/375027909197793/ so that we can keep track of space available. As always feel free to pass along the invite!

Sincerely,

Michael Kenny

(Michael Kenny  is the Executive Director of Florida Together, and attended our gala in October, 2011.  He sent this note using his personal e-mail because Florida Together is a nonprofit Organization)

Organizing for America

We have additional new staff in Central Broward!  Jermaine Freeman has joined the Broward OFA team from Tennessee.  Jermaine will be responsible for East Tamarac, North Lauderdale, Lauderhill, Margate and East Sunrise.  Yasmin Nasser is joining the Broward OFA team in a staff capacity.  Yasmin has been a star in the office day in and day out for the past 6 months.  Yasmin will be responsible for Wilton Manors, Oakland Park and Lauderdale Lakes.  If you are an active volunteer in one of these  areas, expect to hear from Jermaine and Yasmin soon..

As always you are welcome in the main OFA office at 3300 Inverrary Blvd in Lauderhill from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm weekdays, and 11:30 am to 7:30 pm on Saturdays.  We need volunteers for phone banking, canvassing, voter registration, and data entry. You can see and RSVP to all our events online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/search_results?orderby=day&zip_radius%5b0%5d=33311&zip_radius%5b1%5d=15&country=US&radius_unit=mi.  Please consider volunteering once a week.  Here are our volunteer events for the next month:

Monday Every Week Voter Registration: Main Courthouse 201 SE 6^th St, Fort Lauderdale, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, YOU MUST BE CERTIFIED BY OFA TO REGISTER PRIOR TO THIS EVENT, RSVP to Gary McClellan at 954-776-6871.

Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday Every Week Phone Bank:  OFA Office, 3300 Inverrary Blvd, Lauderhill; 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, RSVP to Jermaine Freeman at 423-785-6605

Thursday Every Week Voter Registration Training:  OFA Office, 3300 Inverrary Blvd, Lauderhill; 6:30 pm RSVP to Meaghan Hardy at 954-254-7138 followed by commitment during the week at courthouses and libraries

Wednesday Every Week (beginning March 21): Phone Bank for Volunteer Recruitment and Vote by Mail Re-enrollment, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Genesis Banquet Center, 6455 W. Commercial Blvd, Tamarac; RSVP to June Jones/Jermaine Freeman at954-695-4828

Saturday  Every Week, Phone Bank and Canvass for Volunteer Recruitment &  Vote by Mail Re-enrollment, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, Camp Live Oak, 1131 NE 45^th St (Floranada Rd) Oakland Park, RSVP to Betty DiMaio at [email protected] or954-638-8762

Saturday  Every Week Phone Bank and Canvass 11:00 am –  3:00 pm, Voter Registration Training 11:30am:  Trantalis Law Office, 2255 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors; RSVP to Michael Francis at 305-458-8928 followed by commitment during the week at courthouses and libraries

Saturday, March 31: Pompano OFA Office Grand Opening 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm: Pompano Beach OFA office, 950 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, RSVP to Sunny Tsou at 301-357-7035 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/officeopening/gppxdx.

Sunday April 1: Voter Registration Training 9:30 am, and Jazz fest Voter Registration Event 11:00 am to 2:00 pm: Voter Registration Training at Esplanade Condo Social Room 401 SW 4^th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, RSVP to Sunny Tsou at301-357-7035 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/voterregistrationdrive/gpyttc

Monday April 2: Phone Bank 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm:  Camp Live Oak, 1131 NE 45^th St (Floranada Rd) Oakland Park, RSVP to Betty DiMaio at [email protected], 954-638-8762, or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/phonebank/gpp7st.

Tuesday April 3: Women Calling for Affordable Care 11:00 am to 2:00 pm:  OFA-FL volunteers and team members are coming together to make calls to our community in support of the Affordable Care Act. Most of the people we'll be talking to are women who directly benefit from the bill, and we'll be sharing ways the Affordable Care Act makes a difference in their lives. If you're able, please bring your cell phones to help make calls! Kenny Davis Office, 1773 N. State road 7, Lauderhill, RSVP to Jermaine Freeman at 423-785-6605 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/womenforobamaevent/gppmpl.

Tuesday April 3: Phone Bank 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm:  Pompano Beach OFA office, 950 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, RSVP to Sunny Tsou at 301-357-7035 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/phonebank/gppmgt.

Wednesday April 4: Broward College Voter Registration two shift, 9:00 am and 10:30 am:  Broward College – Library 101 Coconut Creek Blvd, Coconut Creek, YOU MUST BE CERTIFIED BY OFA TO REGISTER PRIOR TO THIS EVENT, RSVP to Eileen Pangione at 954-970-0802 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/voterregistrationdrive/gppmfq.

Wednesday April 4: Pompano Voter Registration Training 10:30 am to 1:30 pm:  Pompano Beach OFA office, 950 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, RSVP to Sunny Tsou at 301-357-7035 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/voterregistrationdrive/gppmjb.

Wednesday April 4: Voter Registration Training 3:00 PM to 5:00 pm:  Old Dillard Museum 1009 NW 4^th St, Fort Lauderdale, RSVP to Sunny Tsou at 301-357-7035 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/voterregistrationdrive/gppmhq.

Thursday, April 5: Pompano Data Entry Training Session 10:30 am to 12:30 pm: learn how to be able to enter data from our nightly phone banks.  You can even enter data from your home! Pompano Beach OFA office, 950 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, RSVP to Sunny Tsou at 301-357-7035 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/training/gppmg8.

Thursday, April 5:  Pompano Office Manager Training Session 11:00 am to 12:00 pm: Office managers keep the office tidy and alive with energy. If you are interested in helping around the office this training/meeting is for you!  Pompano Beach OFA office, 950 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, RSVP to Sunny Tsou at 301-357-7035 or online athttps://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/training/gppmgf.

Thursday, April 5: Pompano Phone Bank, two shifts, 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm: Pompano Beach OFA office, 950 N. Federal Highway, Pompano Beach, RSVP to Sunny Tsou at 301-357-7035 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/phonebank/gppmgm.

Thursday, April 5 and 11: Hollywood Data Entry Training Session 5:45 pm to 7:45 pm, learn how to be able to enter data from our nightly phone banks.  You can even enter data from your home! Starbucks, 1801 Young Circle, Hollywood, RSVP to Chris Hernandez at 954-871-5331 or online at https://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/training/gpy4fv.

Sunday April 15: Affordable Care Act Training Voter Registration Training 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm:  Betty and Al’s house, 1442 Ne 54^th St, Fort Lauderdale, RSVP to Betty DiMaio at [email protected], 954-638-8762, or online athttps://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/training/gppmhs.

Democratic Women’s’ Club Protest: Every Saturday!

Come join us this Saturday, March 31 (and every Saturday) at 9:00 am at the NE corner of Federal Highway and Atlantic Boulevard, Pompano Beach, as we continue our protest against the war on women.  The Affordable Care Act contains very tangible help for women.  If the ACA is overturned, women will continue to be discriminated against in the health care market.

Currently, women pay about $1 billion more a year than men.  There is a chart that shows state by state the percent more that women pay for health insurance and what it will be after ACA goes into effect starting in 2014.  Contact me at  [email protected] for a copy of the chart.  Women would continue to pay exorbitantly more for their health insurance if the law is overturned.

Four additional benefits that women will lose, if the ACA is not upheld:

1. Being a woman is no longer a “pre-existing condition.”

2. Breast cancer screenings, cervical cancer screening and other preventive care must be covered by insurance.

3. You don't need a co-pay for birth control anymore.

4. Children can stay on your health insurance until they’re 26 years old.

Come out on every Saturday and stand up for women.

Thanks.

Maggie Davidson

President

Democratic Women’s Club of Northeast Broward

Please Host an Organizer!

We are stepping up our ground game in Florida — we've got a lot of organizers starting soon and volunteers from throughout our region will also be making trips here to work side by side with local volunteers and help prepare for November in our state.  They will be coming here because they believe in the work we're doing, and they know the stakes in next year's election. Many of these organizers are arriving on short notice in areas that are new to them, and they will need temporary places to stay. 

Do you have an extra bedroom or a foldout couch you could use to host an organizer for a few days?  I know this is a big favor to ask, but as someone who has stayed with supporters like you before, I can tell you that it means a lot to the folks you host, and it is enormously helpful to this movement. So if you have the space, will you sign up today to host an organizer at http://fl.barackobama.com/Florida-Supporter-Housing?

After you sign up, we'll be in touch with more details.  You can also contact Juan Penalosa, our Regional Field Director for Central Broward, at 954-646-3050.

Thanks,

John

John Gilbert
Florida State Field Director
Organizing for America

VOTE BY MAIL 2012–2014
ALL BROWARD VOTERS NEED TO REAPPLY

Voters who wish to cast their ballots by mail may make a single request to get absentee ballots for every election through 2012. Absentee ballots no longer need a reason.  People can use them if they prefer to vote by mail. Broward voters who want absentee ballots, either for a single election or for multiple elections, need to request them from the Supervisor of Elections Office.  Requests can be made in person, by mail, by phone or by filling out an application online. Call 954-357-7055 for details or applyonline here.

* Online requests are only for 1 year

* Phone requests can be for every election through 2014.

The Dolphin Democrats collect non perishable food items and toiletries for The Poverello Center.  We have a collection basket at all of our membership meetings,.  We will also have the collection basket at Pridefest on March 11-12.   The mission of The Poverello Center is to provide life-saving food and basic living essentials with the highest degree of understanding, respect and love for individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are residents of Broward County and meet the specified qualifications for services.

Join the Dolphin Democrats Facebook Group, like the Dolphin Democrats Facebook Page, or follow the Dolphin Democrats on Twitter.

https://www.dolphindems.org/uncategorized/4455/

February Newsletter CLICK HERE 

must have adobe reader

Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 14,  2012 at the Pride Center at Equality Park 204 A North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL

7:00 pm – FREE pizza and soft drinks with appearances by judicial candidates

7:30 pm – Program starts.  Our program will include:

Swearing in our new Board of Directors

Suzann Boisvenue, Mayor of Oakland Park

Mitch Ceasar, Chair of the Broward Democratic Party

From Our President, Tim Ross

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for electing the new Dolphin Democrats board by acclamation.  We had no opposition.  The new Dolphin Democrats board brings much talent to the table to make 2012 a successful celebration of our 30 year anniversary. 

I am waiting on confirmation to announce a special guest to swear in the new Dolphin Democrats board.  This person is involved on an international basis speaking out about LGBT issues.  I hope to also have this person give a brief presentation on LGBT rights around the world at our meeting.  Look for an update on our next e-newsletter that comes out in early March for further inbormation.

I have set up a Dolphin Democrats Team in the Miami AIDS Walk on April 22, with a target of 20 team members and a fundraising goal of $2,000.00. This will raise our visibility in the community and cost the Dolphin Democrats $0. There is a $10 registration fee per registrant.  I have personally received $53 in sponsorships as a team member since signing up Tuesday.  We will have a spokesperson from Care Resource (who is the beneficiary of all funds raised at the AIDS Walk) at our April meeting.  Care Resource has a three story building on Oakland Park Blvd around the corner from my home.  I encourage each member of the Dolphin Democrats to consider signing up under our team and setting a goal to raise $100 each.  Join our team at http://www.kintera.org/faf/r.asp?t=12&i=487437&g=4977647.  Or pledge to our team at by clicking the General Team donation tab on our team page. 

Recently, one of Debbie Wasserman Schultz’s Republican opponents created a website at http://obamaattackdog.com/ that depicts Debbie with a dog collar on her neck.  This ad is reprehensible and extremely inappropriate.  It is unsuitable in any public debate.  It is an especially heinous affront to women to depict and call Debbie a dog.  Debbie is outstanding on LGBT and women’s rights, and that makes this attack on her as a woman particularly abominable.

Rather than talk on the issues, Debbie’s Republican opponents take every effort to dehumanize her.  Debbie’s record on LGBT issues has given her a100% rating (see page 18 on the scorecard) from the Human Rights Campaign.  This makes Debbie a champion of equal rights for LGBT people.  I ask that the Dolphin Democrats membership get involved in Debbie’s campaign at http://www.dwsforcongress.com/.

Once again, thank you for electing our new Dolphin Democrats Board. I think you will  be pleased with where your new board takes the Dolphin Democrats on our 30^th anniversary in 2012. 

Tim Ross

JOIN THE BROWARD DEMOCRATIC PARTY FOR OUR ANNUAL UNITY DINNER

Saturday, March 10, 2012

The Broward Democratic Party’s' Democratic Unity Dinner (Formerly known as the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner) is its annual fundraiser. Please join us on this Important night to hear our plans to win the debate on issues, get voters to the polls, win the marketing and public relations battles and support our candidates.  We will hold the event at the Marriott Coral Springs Hotel  Golf Club and Convention Center, 11775 Heron Bay Boulevard in Coral Springs, Florida. Ur President,Tim Ross, is the$Recording Secretary of the Broward Democratic Party. 

The VIP Mixer is from 6:30-7:30 P.M. The Dinner, Awards, and Speeches start at 8:00 P.M. Black Tie Optional

Diamond Sponsorship ($2,500.00)
Gold Sponsorship ($2,000.00)
Table ($1,700.00)
Dinner Ticket ($150.00)
VIP Cocktail Ticket ($125.00)

Advertise in our journal:

Back cover ($1000.00)
Front inside cover ($750.00)
Back Inside cover ($600.00)
Full page (4-1/4 x 7-1/2) ($500.00)
Half Page (4-1/4 x 3-1/4) $350.00

Please Call 954-423-2200 to RSVP today.

2012 membership renewals were due on December 31, 2011.  If you have not received a printed newsletter, it is because your membership has expired.  Please renew your membership NOW here.

Our February print newsletter is available here.  You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to access it.

Black Gay Pride, Friday February 24 – Sunday, February 26

The Dolphin Democrats are one of the sponsors for Black Gay Pride, please participate for Black History Month.

Friday, February 24, 2012 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm BrothasSpeak Ft. Lauderdale will present “Rising To The Love We Need—A Pride Reading” hosted by Black Gay Pride South Florida. This event will feature readings by award-winning performance artists and authors Marvin K. White and Sheree L. Greer who, through their dynamic voices, will set the tone for the weekend’s Black Gay Pride events. The authors will also be signing copies of their publications during the evening’s festivities which will be held at The Pride Center located at 2040 N. Dixie Hwy. Wilton Manors, FL 33306.  Free and open to the public. Join us for the after party @P.J.’s 924 N. Flagler Drive.

Saturday, February 25, 2012 From 7:00 to 9:00 pm Black Gay Pride South Florida, Aqua Foundation For Women, and The Miami-Dade LGBT Visitor Center present “Rhythm & The Word” Featuring Spoken Word Artist Chunky and Percussionist Bishop S.F. Makalani-MaHee, with Artist/Authors Marvin K. White, Sheree Greer, Rajindra Narinesingh, Lorenzo Robertson , and Natalie Kennedy performing and reading from their works. Join us for a stimulating artistic evening with free drinks provided by Aqua Foundation for Women and Bacardi. Miami-Dade LGBT Visitors Center is located at 1130 Washington Ave. – 1st Floor. $10 Suggested Donation.

Sunday, February 26, 2012 From 1:00 to 5:00 pm Black Gay Pride South Florida and The Pride Center present “Old School Family Reunion Block Party” featuring the music of old school jams, and Black Gay Greek Sorority and Fraternity Step show from 3-5pm. You can also get your card game on. The festivity will be at thePride Center located at 2040 N. Dixie Hwy. Wilton Manors, Fl 33306. Free and open to the public.

For more information about Black Gay Pride South Florida or any of the weekend’s events, please call (954)775-2310.

The Dolphin Democrats collect non perishable food items and toiletries for The Poverello Center.  We have a collection basket at all of our membership meetings,.  We will also have the collection basket at Pridefest on March 11-12.   The mission of The Poverello Center is to provide life-saving food and basic living essentials with the highest degree of understanding, respect and love for individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are residents of Broward County and meet the specified qualifications for services.

https://www.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=487437&lis=1&kntae487437=EE1E5472265642DEBEF227343E90A5D3&supId=352372714&team=4977647https://www.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=487437&lis=1&kntae487437=EE1E5472265642DEBEF227343E90A5D3&supId=352372714&team=4977647https://www.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=487437&lis=1&kntae487437=EE1E5472265642DEBEF227343E90A5D3&supId=352372714&team=4977647

HELP BRYAN CALETKA WIN HIS MARCH 13th , 2012 RACE IN DAVIE, FL

Bryan Caletka is an openly gay town council member in Davie.  He needs our help.  We are phone banking for Bryan and Mayor Judy Paul (a strong str8 supporter of LGBT rights) from Randy Fleischer’s office Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 9pm. The address is 8258 State Rd 84, Davie FL 33324.  We are also knocking on doors for Bryn on weekends. Contact Randy Fleischer to RSVP by phone at 954 472-8401 or email him at[email protected].  Randy also can send you a call list for you to call from home.  Bryan says that the phone calls are especially effective, and thanks any Dolphin Democrats member who can help.  His election is less than a month away. 

The Dolphin Democrats need YOU!

 PRIDEFEST 2012 MARCH 10th & 11th

The dolphin Democrats need volunteers to staff our booth at Pridefest.  The hours are from Noon to 7:00 pm each day  Please send an email to[email protected] if you can help us out for a couple hours.  We will call you to schedule you for a tour.  Thanks.

Organizing for America

On January 24, we watched President Obama's State of the Union with 30 other supporters in NE Broward. We loved his hopeful message, and watching it together as a group almost made it feel like we were there in person. Did you hear the issues defined from our Democratic perspective? Did you find the address as energizing as we did? We hope it helped you feel the urgency of getting more involved as a volunteer.

Now it's time to take the next step. We need your commitment to volunteer at least 2 hours a month to help re-elect President Obama. There are many ways to help, but we can't win without your involvement. Please RSVP now to [email protected]  or call Betty DiMaio at 954-938-8762 and plan to check out one of our volunteer events:

Thursday every week Voter Registration Training 6:30pm: OFA Office, 3300 Inverrary Blvd, Lauderhill; RSVP Meaghan Hardy at 954-254-7138 followed by commitment during the week at Deerfield or Downtown Courthouse or on Saturdays at African-American Library

Saturday, February 18: Phone Bank & Canvass for Volunteer Recruitment and Vote by Mail Re-enrollment, 11am – 3pm,

¨ Camp Live Oak, Executive Office, 1131 NE 45th St (Floranada Rd) Ft. Lauderdale

¨ Trantalis Law Office, 2255 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors

Saturday, February 25: Phone Bank & Canvass for Volunteer Recruitment and Vote by Mail Re-enrollment, 11am – 3pm,

¨ Camp Live Oak, Executive Office, 1131 NE 45th St (Floranada Rd) Ft. Lauderdale

¨ Trantalis Law Office, 2255 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors

Saturday, March 3: Phone Bank & Canvass for Volunteer Recruitment and Vote by Mail Re-enrollment, 11am – 3pm,

¨ Camp Live Oak, Executive Office, 1131 NE 45th St (Floranada Rd) Ft. Lauderdale

¨ Trantalis Law Office, 2255 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors

VOTE BY MAIL 2012–2014
ALL BROWARD VOTERS NEED TO REAPPLY

Voters who wish to cast their ballots by mail may make a single request to get absentee ballots for every election through 2012. Absentee ballots no longer need a reason.  People can use them if they prefer to vote by mail. Broward voters who want absentee ballots, either for a single election or for multiple elections, need to request them from the Supervisor of Elections Office.  Requests can be made in person, by mail, by phone or by filling out an application online. Call 954-357-7055 for details or applyonline here.

* Online requests are only for 1 year

* Phone requests can be for every election through 2014.

Join the Dolphin Democrats Facebook Group, like the Dolphin Democrats Facebook Page, or follow the Dolphin Democrats on Twitter.

  

The Dolphin Democrats Will be collecting non perishable food items and toiletries for

The Poverello Center. we will have a collection receptacle at all of our membership meetings, tabling at the Pride flea market
and at all of our outside activities, like, Pride in the Park, Stonewall Street Festival, etc.

The mission of The Poverello Center is to provide life-saving food and basic living essentials with the highest degree of understanding, respect and love for individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are residents of Broward County and meet the specified qualifications for services.

Please renew your membership or donate today ** JOIN THE DOLPHINS ON FACEBOOK

https://www.dolphindems.org/uncategorized/4456/

May Newsletter CLICK HERE
must have adobe reader

The Poverello Center. we will have a collection receptacle at all of our membership meetings, tabling at the Pride flea market
and at all of our outside activities, like, Pride in the Park, Stonewall Street Festival, etc.

The mission of The Poverello Center is to provide life-saving food and basic living essentials with the highest degree of understanding, respect and love for individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are residents of Broward County and meet the specified qualifications for services.

The Dolphin Democrats are committed to sustainability of The Pride Center and have committed to helping them raise $1,500. This was an action that the Dolphin Board of Directors unanimously supported. Please remember to bring your check book or a few extra dollars that can be given to The Pride Center. This gift is also a tax deduction to the fullest extent of the law. Jason Burns Major Gifts Officer The Pride Center at Equality Park 2040 North Dixie Highway, Wilton Manors, FL 33305 954.463.9005 954.764.6522 Fax http://www.PrideCenterFlorida.org VOTE BY MAIL 2011-2012 ALL BROWARD VOTERS NEED TO REAPPLY Voters who wish to cast their ballots by mail may make a single request to get absentee ballots for every election through 2012. Absentee ballots no longer need a reason. People can use them if they prefer to vote by mail. Broward voters who want absentee ballots, either for a single election or for multiple elections, need to request them from the Supervisor of Elections Office. Requests can be made in person, by mail, by phone or by filling out an application online. Details at 954-357-7055 or online here. * Online request are only for 1 year * Phone request can be for every election through 2012. Please renew your membership or donate today ** JOIN THE DOLPHINS ON FACEBOOK

Membership Dues are Due
Please renew your membership Today

On February 5th, the Dolphins will have a booth at the Flea Market at the Pride Center in support of the March munincipal elections. Please let me know who among you will be able to staff the booth along with the timeframe you will be available.

Thank you for your continued support of this activity.

[email protected]

Our Next Meeting – February 9th, 2011

Our Dolphin Democrats Elections

March 8th City Commission Candidates

Celebrating Black LGBT Pride

The Dolphin Democrats Will be collecting non perishable food items and toiletries for
The Poverello Center. we will have a collection receptacle at all of our membership meetings, tabling at the Pride flea market
and at all of our outside activities, like, Pride in the Park, Stonewall Street Festival, etc.


The mission of The Poverello Center is to provide life-saving food and basic living essentials with the highest degree of understanding, respect and love for individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are residents of Broward County and meet the specified qualifications for services.

Registration For Our 2011 Winter Conference Is Now Open!

We're excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2011 Florida GLBT Democratic Caucus Winter Conference to be held February 25-27, 2011 at Hotel Duval in Tallahassee. Sign up to attend by clicking ‘Register Today’ on our conference web page:

http://www.floridaglbtdemocrats.org/conference.html

The conference will include a welcome reception, appearances by state and local elected officials, informative workshops, including grassroots organizing, diversity and how to pass a Human Rights Ordinance in your county, as well as entertainment events planned throughout Florida’s capital.

It’s going to be an amazing weekend that you won’t want to miss. Register today!

Black Pride 2011- Bayard Rustin (March 17, 1912 — August 24, 1987) was an American civil rights activist, important largely behind the scenes in the civil rights movement

Dolphin Democrats General Meeting January 12, 2011 * Notes

Open Mic Night: What can we do better? What do you want to see for programs?

· Talk about Democratic Values – what it means to be a Democrat; for example, support taxation based on ability to pay (economic policy)

· Talk about local issues

o Runway

o Reduction of library hours

o Same sex adoption – come together with several organizations with one voice

· Need to attract more women into the Dolphins

· Need to attract more diverse membership (Hispanics, African-Americans)

· Need to attract more young members

o Ryan Terrell circulating Dolphin info on all Broward campuses

· What can we do to support the Democratic Party?

· Need Democratic Party to pay young Dems to ballot chase like Republicans do

· Have a plan to win (early/absentee voting)

· Need trust, affection, speak with one voice as “the Dolphins”

· Intensify commitment of all members

· Stop attacking Democratic candidates – support whatever Democrat is running

· Support not only GLBT issues but also issues of other groups

· Move forward from here

· Reach out and mentor someone (especially potential future candidate)

· Set a positive example so people want to be a part of Dolphin organization

· Survey members

o What do they want?

o What will make organization better?

Please renew your membership or donate today

The Broward Democratic Party requests your presence at the 2011 Democratic Unity Dinner
Please join us on this Important night to hear our plans to win the debate on issues, get voters to the polls, win the marketing and public relations battles and support our candidates.

Broward Democratic Party 2011 Democratic Unity Dinner,
(formerly The Jefferson-Jackson Dinner)
Saturday March 5th 2011
Marriott Coral Springs Hotel
Golf Club and Convention Center
11775 Heron Bay Boulevard
Coral Springs, Florida
VIP Mixer 6:30-7:30 P.M.
Dinner, Awards, Speeches 8:00 P.M.
Black Tie Optional

Diamond Sponsorship ($2,500.00)
Gold Sponsorship ($2,000.00)
Table ($1,700.00)
Dinner Ticket ($150.00)
VIP Cocktail Ticket ($125.00)

Advertise in our journal
Back cover ($1000.00)
Front inside cover ($750.00)
Back Inside cover ($600.00)
Full page (4-1/4 x 7-1/2) ($500.00)
Half Page (4-1/4 x 3-1/4) $350.00
Please Call 954-423-2200 to RSVP today

**

JOIN THE DOLPHINS ON FACEBOOK

https://www.dolphindems.org/uncategorized/4460/

_________________________________
Message From The Florida GLBT Caucus
On Don't Ask Don't Tell Repeal
_________________________________

Accomplishments by the Administration and Congress on LGBT Equality

______________________________________

Talking About Protecting the Affordable Care Act
Instead of working to find bipartisan solutions to create jobs, grow the economy, and make America more competitive, Republicans in Congress are spending all of their time re-fighting the political wars of the last two years by trying to repeal health reform and give control over your health care back to insurance companies.

Download Talking Points

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Membership Dues are Due as of December 31st, 2010 Please renew your membership Today Open Mic Night: Dolphin Democrats January Membership Meeting Developing a strategy going forward. January 12th 7:30pm Wednesday, January 12, 2011 @ 7:30 Dolphin Democrats Progam: Open Mic Our mission as an organization is to strengthen and further the ideals and principles of the Democratic Party which recognizes and promotes diversity, good will, and respect for all members of the community. We just participated in a campaign season that culminated in a General Election on November 3rd. How did we do? We'd like to hear from you on Open Mic night at the Dolphin Democrats' General Meeting. What suggestions do you have for the board to consider as we set up our programs for 2011? Let us know on Wednesday night. Beginning this month the Dolphin Democrats Will be collecting non parishabel food items and toiletries for The Poverello Center. we will have a collection receptical at all of our membership meetings, tabling at the Pride flea market and at all of our outside activities, like, Pride in the Park, Stonewall Street Festival, etc. The mission of The Poverello Center is to provide life-saving food and basic living essentials with the highest degree of understanding, respect and love for individuals living with HIV/AIDS who are residents of Broward County and meet the specified qualifications for services. View A Slide Show Of Our Holiday Party CLICK HERE The slides take a moment to load in your browser View Still Pictures Of Our Holiday Party CLICK HERE Dolphin Democrats 2011 Elections Nomination Procedures for Officers and Directors The Dolphin Democrats Nominating and Election Committee – Michael Albetta – Chair, Gwen Handelman, Robert Bernhardt The Dolphin Democrats Nominating and Election Committee is organized for the election of Officers and Directors at the February 9th, 2011 meeting. Members interested in running for an office or a seat as Board member should contact a Nominating Committee Member – Michael Albetta Chair, Gwen Handelman, and Robert Bernhardt, at the addresses listed below. To be considered for the official slate, the Nominating Committee will need all nominations no later than January 31, 2011. Nominations will be accepted from the floor at the January 12, 2011 Dolphin meeting and also at the meeting prior to the elections on February 09. Candidates should send a brief narrative statement of no morethan 200 words including relevant background, skills and interests – to be posted on the Dolphin website prior to the February meeting. Letters of endorsement from Dolphin Members and additional background information may also be included for the Committee's use, but will not be distributed by the Committee. The Committee is charged with nominating one person for each Executive Board positions – President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer > Major requirement for the any Executive position is the person has served a full year on the Dolphin board in the past ten years.. We also are charged to fill 11 Board members. The terms are for 1 year. The President and Vice President shall be of opposite gender and shall be elected together as a ticket. Candidates must have been a Member of the Dolphin Democrats 45 days before the election – Monday, December 27, 2010. Please send your information before January 31, 2011 to: • E-mail: [email protected] • Fax: (866) 478-8262 • Mail: PO Box 7437, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33338-7437 The Dolphin Democrats Nominating and Election Committee – Michael Albetta – Chair, Gwen Handelman, Robert Bernhardt. Chair, Michael Albetta January Newsletter CLICK HERE must have adobe reader Please renew your membership or donate today ** JOIN THE DOLPHINS ON FACEBOOK President, Dolphin Democrats

______________________________________

View A Slide Show Of Our Holiday Party
CLICK HERE
The slides take a moment to load in your browser

View Still Pictures Of Our Holiday Party
CLICK HERE

_________________________________

January Newsletter CLICK HERE

must have adobe reader

Membership Dues are Due
Please renew your membership Today

Please renew your membership or donate today

**

JOIN THE DOLPHINS ON FACEBOOK

https://www.dolphindems.org/uncategorized/4461/

Florida Senator & Minority Leader Steve Geller

and the Dolphin Democrats

Cordially Invite You to Attend

Presidential Pride Reception

Sunday, June 27, 2010                                            5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Stonewall Library and Museum

the largest gay and lesbian lending library in America

1320 E. Sunset Boulevard            Fort Lauderdale, FL.  33304

Casual Business Dress

Members $10 /  Non-members $20

Free with $35 Membership Renewal

›

Special Tribute to the Late Rusty Gordon

founding member of antecedent to Dolphin Democrats

a founder of the National Organization of Women (NOW)

a leading women and gay rights activist

Stonewall Museum Exhibit

Where the Gays Are: 50 Years in Fort Lauderdale

Food provided by Casa D'Angelo                      Wine by the Wine Warehouse 

https://www.dolphindems.org/uncategorized/4463/

Florida Senator & Minority Leader Steve Geller

and the Dolphin Democrats

Cordially Invite You to Attend

Presidential Pride Reception

Sunday, June 27, 2010                                                          5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Stonewall Library and Museum

the largest gay and lesbian lending library in America

1320 E. Sunset Boulevard            Fort Lauderdale, FL.  33304

Casual Business Dress

Members $10 /  Non-members $20

Free with $35 Membership Renewal

›

Special Tribute to the Late Rusty Gordon

founding member of antecedent to Dolphin Democrats

a founder of the National Organization of Women (NOW)

a leading women and gay rights activist

Stonewall Museum Exhibit

Where the Gays Are: 50 Years in Fort Lauderdale

Food provided by Casa D'Angelo                      Wine by the Wine Warehouse 

https://www.dolphindems.org/uncategorized/4464/