Welcome to Foothills Democrats!

OUR HISTORY AND MISSION:

The Foothills Democrats has become an influential, vibrant, progressive organization with about 250 members. We share values and goals which bring us together in social gatherings and political activities. Our mission is to unite with fellow Democrats, exchange information and learn about local, state, and national issues. Most importantly, we are committed to elect Democrats to local, state, and national offices.

On August 31, 2000, a group of energized Democrats living in the Northeast Scottsdale foothills areas met and formed what is now known as the FOOTHILLS DEMOCRATS. These half dozen activists held the belief that a Democratic presence in the Foothills area was needed to bring progressive minded citizens together. Few would have imagined that from a small group a few short years ago we would be where we are today!  As an organization, we have proven our strength and have demonstrated our relevance to the community.

Foothills Democrats have had an impact on local, state, and national elections. Our members have made phone calls, knocked on doors, wrote checks, put signs in their yards and made their views known. As a club, we have sponsored fund raising activities that contribute financial support for candidates as well as the Arizona Democratic Party and Maricopa Democratic Party.  Our members are leaders among the state, county, and legislative districts. We’ve made a difference. There have been good Democrats elected who may not have won had not the Foothills Democrats became involved.

We meet regularly in many different venues.  As we focus on learning about candidates and issues, we have breakfast groups, luncheon groups,  and evening meetings.  The Policy and Politics Breakfast Series welcomes many candidates and government officials to talk about important issue relative to our state and our nation.  Our Lunch with Professors Series gives members an opportunity to hear about issues from experts and enjoy a social luncheon.  Our General Meetings are devoted to learning about critical state and local issues.  Once in a while, we meet during happy hour for a "Spur of the Moment" conversation.  During the year, we celebrate with social events that give us all a chance to "let our hair down" and enjoy the many friendships we share.

We have come a long way.  We have worked hard and made many friends. We will continue this tradition!

If you’re not a member, please join now, online through our secure website, by e-mailing us at info@foothillsdemocrats.org, or by calling 602-234-6590 and leaving a message. If you are a member already, think in terms of how you can increase your efforts during this very important 2012 election cycle! Join us and help change the face of Arizona politics. Our membership is open to all who support our mission.

Goals and Priorities for 2012

What are our Goals/Priorities?

• 1.      Unite Democrats to provide  an organization for active participation in political systems
• 2.      Provide a forum for the discussion of issues
• 3.      Educate and Inform members (and others) regarding local county, state, and national issues
• 4.      Raise funds (through dues, contributions, and events) to contribute to the financial support of Democratic candidates 
• 5.    Collaborate with other Democratic Party organizations to elect and support Democratic candidates.

• 1.      Book Discussion Group  -  (6-8 per year)
  
• 2.      Lunch with Professors- (4 per year)
• 3.      Foothills Democrats Breakfast Discussions – Policy and Politics -  (4 per year)
• 4.      General Meetings -Legislative Update and Review  – (4 per year)
• 5.      Expansion of Membership – focus on “Closet Democrats” and “Millenials”

Special Events and Social Gatherings

• 1.       Birthday Party               (Early December)
• 2.        Round-Up BBQ             (Early Fall)
• 3.       Spur of the Moment      (5/6 per year)
• 4.     Other Events and Programs consistent with our Mission

Purpose

There is a three part purpose: (1) Learn about critical political issues from each other and invited experts; (2) Collaborate with other Democratic Party affiliated organizations; and (3) Support election of Democratic candidates. (We also intend to have fun and enjoy the company of people who share our commitment.)

Status

We have made progress and grown in the past two years, but now we must reaffirm our purposes and plan to accomplish our mission more effectively.   We will work to increase member participation and commitment to the values of the Democratic Party.

Choices and Elections!

              The 2012 election process is getting underway.  In spite of the intense efforts of key Republicans, the Citizen’s Independent Re-Districting Committee (IRC) finally submitted its redrawn maps to the Department of Justice for approval.  Because Arizona is one of the states under “DOJ Supervision” for past transgressions making changes to its legislative maps, it may be up to 60 days before a final approval is given.  Republican leaders have stated their intent to further delay implementation by going to court.  In addition, misguided Republican legislative leaders have introduced a bill to “save the people from the poor judgment of the IRC” and rescind the “will of the people referendum” establishing the IRC.  WOW!!!  As soon as the results and details are final, the Arizona Democratic Party will let us know.  Until then, we may not know for certain our congressional and legislative districts .

With that as background, the 2012 campaign for election to office has started in earnest.  At Foothills Democrats, we have refrained from endorsing candidates engaged in a primary election.  This means that when more than one Democratic candidate files for election, and a primary is needed, Foothills Democrats will not formally endorse any one.  However, that does not mean that you, as an individual, cannot decide to support a primary election candidate.  In fact, we will do our best to inform you about those candidates.  As we become aware of their contact information and fund-raising events, we’ll let you know.  Some of you will want to contribute financially to various campaigns for their primaries.   Go to the website http://www.foothillsdemocrats.org for information about candidates and events.

Foothills Democrats will try to arrange opportunities for its members to have “face time” with the candidates through forums and presentations.  We intend to use our “Policy and Politics” events and “General Meetings” for that purpose.  We invite candidates to make appearances and respond positively to their requests for time at our meetings.  It is our responsibility as political activists to be informed and know about their qualifications, experience, and platforms.  This is one way we can help our candidates and encourage them to continue their pursuit of an opportunity to serve.

More events will be planned as the field of candidates is known (in the fall).  You will be asked for your direct involvement in their campaigns.  As a Political Club, we are able to provide limited financial support for Democratic candidates, and we will do so.  In addition to financial support through the Arizona State Democratic Party and Maricopa County Democratic Party, we have made direct contributions to individual candidates when it is permitted.  Our intention is to do so again!

Success in 2012 (which means the election of Democratic Party candidates) is up to you as individuals.  As a political club, Foothills Democrats will continue its tradition of keeping you “in the loop” and giving you opportunities to understand the issues and learn the facts!  Happy Elections!!!

OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS:

The Foothills Democrats annually elect members to the Board of Directors. These Board members are responsible for the membership, programming, and volunteering efforts of the Club. For 2011 our Board members are:

• Marv Christensen – Chair
• Mac MacDonald – Acting Secretary. Book Discussion Coordinator
• Carole Pearsall - Events Coordinator
• Ned Doback - Events Coordination
• Boyd Mathes - Communications Coordinator
• Michael Sills – Membership Chair
• Carol Wintermute - Special Events
• Peter Royers - Website Manager, Acting Treasurer
• Phil Abramowitz - Advisor
• Patricia AtLee - Emeritus Board Member