Kootenai Dems Celebrated July Fourth

First, we formally donated $2500 to the Idaho Veterans Home in Post Falls. This significant contribution came from the funds we gathered from our Vet’s Home Sponsorship Project. Ten of us met recently with Len Crosby to present our donation. Len is one of several local veterans who spearheaded the founding and development of this facility. After 23 years, it is now a reality. I extend my thanks to everyone who made this contribution possible.

Second, we marched in the Coeur d’Alene Fourth of July Parade. Leading the way were several dozen Democrats (dressed in blue), who marched with our KCDCC Banner in the company of Paula Marano’s Mercedes “Sporty Blue.” Accompanying them were Kathy & Mike Judson’s donkeys Bailey and Annabelle, along with a big blue side-by-side tandem bike pedaled by Kelly and Randy McFarline. All along the Sherman Avenue parade route, our group was met with clapping and shouts of support. I only saw two objectionable signs. I like to think that this signifies a growing realization that the radical right-wing message is not so widely accepted. You can check out photos of the event on our Facebook page.

Our Summer Gala is Weeks Away

As I have mentioned in recent updates, our plans are now fully in place for The Big Blue Huckleberry Barbecue. This summer gala and fundraiser will take place on July 29 at Elk Point Events (AKA Stella’s on the Hill). I invite you to make plans to join your fellow Dems as we raise a glass to our past, and fight for our future. Tickets at available now. You can purchase them securely at ActBlue.

Women’s Symposium

Recently, we marked the first anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Dobb’s Decision, returning the power to restrict or protect abortion to the states. As you know, the negative impact of this decision has adversely affected the rights of pro-choice women living in red states like Idaho. Predictably, it is serving as a catalyst for motivating more women to vote Democrat in 2024. If so, this increased turnout could give progressives a chance to gain needed political support.

To that end a group of local women are launching the “Idaho Women’s Symposium. This conference will present women’s views and make the case for reversing laws and policies that are anti-women. The one-day symposium will be held in three North Idaho locations, starting on August 16 in Sandpoint, then August 17 in Coeur d’Alene, and August 18 in Moscow. Those of you who want to help with this event, can contact Kathy Judson at 208 274 2536. Look for additional details in future issues of my Chair’s Message as well as on our website and social media.

I hope you are enjoying our currently smoke-free summer and thank you all for being Democrats.