January 2026
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Happy New Year.
May 2026 bring peace, comfort, joy, and a Democratic majority in the Congress!
Thanks to all of you, the Lamorinda Democratic Club experienced another productive, action-packed, and meaningful year.
- We hosted virtual and in-person meetings, and special events that brought members together and celebrated community.
- We connected members, Precinct Organizers, activists, elected Democrats, prospective candidates, and neighbors.
- We rallied, marched, protested, and supported activism.
- We created, carried, distributed, and delivered protest and campaign signs.
- At festivals and farmers markets, we explained Prop 50 to thousands of California voters and provided the information and enthusiasm that converted passive citizens into active voters.
- We welcomed new Precinct Organizers to the LDC Precinct Organizing Project team, and expanded voter outreach to include additional precincts in Alamo, Danville,
- Lafayette, and Walnut Creek.
- Together, Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizers reached 35,100 Contra Costa Democrats, neighbor-to-neighbor, to Get Out The Vote and help win the Prop 50 election— a significant contribution to changing the political landscape on a national level.
We fulfilled the mission of the LDC — to Engage, Educate, and Elect.
We championed the importance of Organizations like ours — building community, connecting coalitions, and creating a space for all sorts of Democrats to find common ground and friendship.
Thank you LDC members and friends, for being part of this Club.
Wishing you all the best for the new year,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Save the Date!
Lamorinda Democratic Club February General Meeting
The LDC 2026 “Open House”
Saturday, February 7, 10:30 a.m. at the Lafayette Library
Join LDC members, Precinct Organizers, 2026 candidates, elected leaders and representatives for the first LDC general meeting of 2026.
Don’t miss this annual event — the chance to come together, reconnect, and hear from local elected officials about the opportunities and challenges they foresee in 2026. There will also be time to mingle over mimosas, coffee, tea, and pastries.
Members will also have the opportunity to approve the LDC Budget for 2026.
New Year — New Dues
If your Membership Status at the top of this email is “2026 Member,” thank you! It means we have received your annual Club dues and you are a member in good standing — eligible to participate on Club votes and committees, and upcoming LDC candidates and issues endorsements.
It also means you value the mission of the Lamorinda Democratic Club— to Engage, Educate, and Elect.
If your Membership Status is “Inactive,” please renew or join before our first general meeting on February 7.
Club dues and donations keep the LDC up and running and fund the Club’s Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out The Vote and help win elections!
Join the Club or renew your Club membership online by clicking here: Join/Renew/Donate
If you prefer, you may mail a check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda, CA 94563
LDC POP Stars
Thank you to the following 2025 LDC POP (Precinct Organizing Project) Stars who contributed above and beyond the annual LDC membership dues, in support of the LDC Precinct Organizing Project:
Anonymous
Jean Barnhardt
The Connolly Family
Russell Creighton
John Donnelly
Shelley Gartner
Mary Ann Hoisington
Carol Larsen
Patsy Mickens
Susan Pak
Lisa Pomonareff
Katie Ricklefs
Jamie Roche
Mike Rusk
Shirley Shelangoski
Valerie Sloven
Cherida Smith
Marcie Tuttle
Layna White
Susan Wright
LDC Precinct Organizing Project Results — November 2025
Contra Costa Precincts with LDC Precinct Organizers, saw an average registered Democrat turnout of 72% — 9% higher than registered Democratic turnout for the County, and more than 30% higher than turnout for general registered voters for the state of California.
Congratulations LDC Precinct Organizers!
Lamorinda Democratic Club New Advisory Group
Join the LDC “Spokes” — a new Club advisory group who will keep us up to date and relay city/town specific information for the Precinct Organizing Project, the Candidates Committee, and more. We encourage LDC members who are particularly interested in local issues, attend city council meetings, or would like to be more connected to their local government, to get involved!
We anticipate monthly meetings during an election season (e.g. March to November 2026), and quarterly meetings in non-election years. Meetings may be virtual or in-person, daytime or evening — depending on the preferences of the group. Let us know if you are interested! Email: spokes@LDclub.org
LDC Thursday Morning Coffee Club
Join LDC Members and other area Dems to chat about politics and news of the day, every other Thursday at 10 a.m.
The LDC Thursday Morning Coffee Club alternates between meeting in person at the Cap One Cafe in downtown Walnut Creek, and virtually via Zoom.
To be added to the Coffee Club meeting reminder list or find out more, please email Mike: MEMBERSHIP@LDclub.org
Lamorinda Democratic Club Officers for 2026
At the November 2025 General meeting, LDC members voted to reelect the following LDC officers for 2026:
President: Tracy Brog
1st Vice President: Peter Ericson
2nd Vice President: Mike Rusk
Treasurer: Russell Creighton
Secretary: John Donnelly
Tuesday Challenge
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
In this season of gratitude and giving, I wanted to take a moment to express sincere gratitude for your support of the Lamorinda Democratic Club and our mission to engage, educate, and elect.
We are living at a time when connecting through our shared “big-D” Democratic and “small-d” democratic values is particularly essential and relevant.
Thank you for being a part of this team— working together with civility, compassion, and understanding — to build a connected, well-informed community and competent, dedicated leadership and representation at every level of government.
We have built this dedicated community together, and with your ongoing membership and support, we can continue to grow the Lamorinda Democratic Club and expand its influence in the community at large.
Because of your collective membership in this Club, Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizers were able to reach more than 35,000 Democratic voters this election cycle — a truly outsized contribution to Getting Out The Vote for the passage of Prop 50.
From now through “Giving Tuesday,” on December 2, please remember the Lamorinda Democratic Club when making your annual giving donations.
Accept the “LDC Double-Word Challenge!”
First Word: “Dues”
Please pay your LDC dues for 2026 by clicking here: Join/Renew/Donate
Second Word: “POP-Star”
Make a $100 or more donation to the LDC Precinct Organizing Project by clicking here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/ldcgivingtuesday
POP-Star donations received by December 1 will be matched up to $1000 by an anonymous LDC member-donor.
Thank you to all the POP (Precinct Organizing Project) Stars, who have already gone above, by contributing beyond their annual LDC membership dues.
All donations for 2025 will be considered cumulative. If, for example, you made a $50 contribution back in February, and donate $50 today, your cumulative $100 donation will land you on the 2025 POP Star list, and go toward meeting the $1,000 matching challenge.
Here is my Thanksgiving wish for all of us, as active Democrats and members of the Lamorinda Democratic Club:
May we continue to find the joy in politics — in coming together with common purpose — to support actions, candidates, issues, and legislation that improves lives and moves us closer to a more perfect union.
May you and those you love enjoy a happy and restful holiday, and maybe even find time for a game of Scrabble.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
November 2025
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
A blue wave. A sweep. A bases-loaded home-run.
No matter the metaphor, this was a good week for Democrats.
The Democratic victories in California, Virginia, New Jersey, New York, Georgia, and Mississippi were hard-fought, strategic, and unique. But each one demonstrated the importance of building diverse coalitions, understanding voter concerns, and connecting locally.
And none of the successes was entirely predictable even a month ago! They involved thousands of hours, and the commitment, patience, and determination of volunteers who care about the future and success of this American, small “d,” democratic experiment.
I hope that these political wins restore some measure of hope and optimism, and motivate all of us to do what we can to build bridges, stay positive and keep moving forward.
Thank you to every one of you who donated time, money, energy, and voted — to propel Prop 50 across the finish line!
Together, 2025 Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizers reached 36,100 Contra Costa voters, neighbor to neighbor, to Get Out The Vote, and help win this election.
The final vote counts will not be certified until December, but as of Nov 4, the registered Democratic turnout in Precincts with LDC Precinct Organizers averaged 11% higher than Democratic turnout for the state, 12% higher than Democratic turnout for Contra Costa as a whole, and almost 30% higher than the registered voter turnout (all parties) for the state.
So we did well.
Many thanks to all who answered the call for our membership renewal and matching donation drive at the end of October. It was a success!
In just 48 hours, we surpassed our membership renewal challenge and fundraising goals — to support the Precinct Organizing Project and jumpstart the coffers for elections next year. Your contributions are significant in building a better prepared, more informed and engaged community.
Thank you LDC members, for your ongoing membership, generosity, and dedication to our Club’s mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect Democrats.
If you have yet to renew your membership or join the Club, please consider paying 2026 Club dues before Thanksgiving. Replenishing resources will be instrumental as we plan and create the budget for another important election year ahead.
The next LDC General Meeting on Wednesday, Nov 12, will be an opportunity to celebrate the LDC Precinct Organizing team, and all who supported the effort. Members in good standing will also have the opportunity to vote for 2026 Club Officers.
Wednesday’s meeting will be the last chance for us to meet in person before the new calendar year.
I hope to see you at the Lafayette Library 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on November 12.
May the Veterans among you enjoy a peaceful and meaningful Veterans Day. Thank you and your families for your sacrifice and service.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Lamorinda Democratic Club November General Meeting
Wednesday, November 12
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Doors open at 6 p.m.; Meeting begins at 6:20 p.m.
Lafayette Library Community Hall
Join us on Wednesday, November 12, for the last LDC General meeting of 2025, and the opportunity to celebrate the Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizing team!
Pizza, salad, wine, beer, sweets.
LDC members will also be voting on Lamorinda Democratic Club officers for 2026.
The LDC Nominating Committee recommends the current slate of officers for 2026:
President: Tracy Brog
1st Vice President: Peter Ericson
2nd Vice President: Mike Rusk
Treasurer: Russell Creighton
Secretary: John Donnelly
Renew or Join the Club
Take this opportunity to renew your membership or join the Club, and support the LDC mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect.
All new memberships or renewals made between now and the end of the calendar year will carry through 2026.
To join, renew, or donate online, please click on this link: Join/Renew/Donate
or you may mail a check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda, CA 94563
Membership Status
Please look for your membership status at the top of this email. 2025 memberships expire on December 31, 2025.
Lamorinda Democratic Club membership provides a unique opportunity to learn about candidates and issues, shape the Democratic party agenda at a grassroots level, and connect with local Democrats.
Membership dues provide the necessary funding to connect local Democrats, build community, and win elections. Lamorinda Democratic Club members in good standing are eligible to participate in all Club events and activities and to vote on Club by-laws, leadership, budget, and endorsements.
Questions about membership? Contact LDC Membership Chair Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org
LDC Thursday Morning Coffee Club
Join us on the first and third Thursdays of the month at 10 a.m. for casual and lively conversation about news and politics of the day. Coffee Club Thursdays alternate between Zoom and in-person meetings.
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk to find out more or receive the meeting links and details.
Email: membership@LDclub.org
From the California Democratic Party:
“Every two years, the California Democratic Party updates and adopts our Party Platform. The Platform is an expression of our values, our collective vision and aspirations and should reflect the 10 million plus California Democrats we represent. We need to hear from you!”
The Platform Committee is currently accepting written testimony, but time is running out. The testimony period for the 2026 Platform ends on Friday, November 14th at 5:00PM.
If you would like to provide input on our 2026 Platform, please fill out the form using the link below. Please list the Platform plank for which you are submitting testimony, suggested language, and your reasons for the change. You MUST fill out an individual form for each of the separate planks for which you wish to give testimony.
https://fs3.formsite.com/CADEM2011/fat6zmokwi/index
The Platform Committee uses the previous Platform as a base in crafting the new Platform. Here is a link to the 2024 Platform for you to consider as you submit your testimony for the 2026 Platform: https://cadem.org/our-platform/
October Update 2025
DC Members and Friends,
The goblins and ghouls of Halloween must surely feel inadequate against the backdrop of continuing horrors created by this president and his administration. He literally took a wrecking ball to the White House this week.
But any super-hero worth her salt will tell you there is always an antidote to battle the monsters.
An estimated 7 million people participated in “No Kings!” rallies throughout the country, delivering the message that there is immense power in coming together and building community — especially if it inspires the kinds of activism that wins elections.
At the forefront of all that is happening now, is California Prop 50. This election cycle, Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizers will together reach more than 40,000 Contra Costa Democrats — to Get Out The Vote for Prop 50 by Tuesday, November 4.
Members and friends, if you are not in a position to volunteer time or energy, but would like to support the LDC Precinct Organizing Project and help LDC Organizers reach more voters, there is still time! Please consider renewing your membership or making a donation to the LDC Precinct Organizing Project before Halloween at midnight.
In a year where we did not plan or budget for this important special election, it is particularly challenging to fund the critical supplies needed to reach voters: printing, paper, envelopes, yard signs, buttons, and STAMPS.
Please remember — Americans in every part of the country are counting on California voters to help protect the Democratic process and ensure fair representation in the U.S. Congress.
Here are two exciting opportunities to donate to the LDC Precinct Organizing Project and make an outsized contribution to Get Out The Vote for Prop 50:
$50 FOR 50!
For every $50 donation between now and October 31 at midnight, an anonymous LDC member will match donations up to $500!
NO TRICK — JUST TREAT!
Join the Club or renew your membership by Halloween. If just 10 of you renew or join by midnight on Halloween, three anonymous donors, will contribute an additional $600.
All new memberships or renewals between now and the end of the calendar year will carry through 2026.
To join, renew, or donate, please click on this link: Join/Renew/Donate
Please mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 12, when I hope you can join us for the next LDC General Meeting and a celebration of the Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizing team. Club members in good standing will also have the opportunity to vote on Club officers for 2026.
This Halloween, may you all take time to see the super-heroes.
Happy Election Day.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
ON THE CALENDAR:
Lamorinda Democratic Club November General Meeting
Wednesday, November 12
Layette Library Community Hall
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Join us on Wednesday, November 12, for the last LDC General meeting of 2025, and the opportunity to celebrate the Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizing team!
Pizza, wine, beer, and sweets.
Lamorinda Democratic Club members in good standing will also be voting on Club officers for 2026.
The LDC Nominating Committee recommends the current slate of officers for 2026.
President: Tracy Brog
1st Vice President: Peter Ericson
2nd Vice President: Mike Rusk
Treasurer: Russell Creighton
Secretary: John Donnelly
Renew or Join the Club
Take this opportunity to renew your membership or join the Club, and make your membership dues go even further to support the LDC mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect.
To join, renew, or donate, please click on this link Join/Renew/Donate, or you may mail a check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda, CA 94563
Questions about membership? Contact LDC Membership Chair Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org
LDC Thursday Morning Coffee Club
Join us on the first and third Thursdays of the month at 10 a.m. for casual and lively conversation about news and politics of the day. Coffee Club Thursdays alternate between Zoom and in-person meetings.
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk to find out more or receive the meeting links and details.
Email: membership@LDclub.org
A Video Message from Congressman Mark DeSaulnier
Mark DeSaulnier 2026!
“I am running for re-election to Congress in 2026 to do what I’ve always done – to fight for this community I call home where I’ve raised a family, opened a business, and served you. Every day I stand up for our values, for California, and for the United States of America, and I’ll never back down. I ask for your support!”
September 2025
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
There’s a palpable sense of urgency in the air this September.
The frenzied rush to fill the waning days of summer with last chances, the frantic clicking of katydids before evenings begin to cool, and the nervous back-to-school butterflies are colliding with the disturbing and frenzied headlines and politics of the day.
LDC Members and friends, let’s channel the anxious energy of this seasonal transition and political outrage into the power of organizing and action.
Summer officially ends on the equinox— Monday, September 22. There’s still time to join, volunteer, connect, or make a commitment to get involved — before the sun sets on the summer of ’25.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
JOIN THE CLUB OR RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP!
Join or renew now through December 2025, and your membership will also count as a 2026 membership. Remember: 2026 is an election year, and members in good standing have the opportunity to vote on Club business, bylaws, and issue and candidate endorsements. LDC members are also invited to become committee members and participate in all LDC meetings and events.
Member dues provide nearly all the funds necessary to keep the Club up and running, and continue the mission of the LDC — to Engage, Educate, and Elect.
Please join or renew online by clicking here: Renew Membership.
Or, you may send in your dues payment by check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
CA PROPOSITION 50 – THE ELECTION RIGGING RESPONSE ACT
Over the Labor Day weekend, Lamorinda Democratic Club Board members voted to recommend LDC endorsement of Prop 50. Members, please look for an upcoming email from the Lamorinda Democratic Club offering you the opportunity to vote on whether to endorse Prop 50.
LDC “members in good standing” will receive a separate email providing a link to vote electronically. Members will also receive further information about the proposition including a description of why the LDC Board and other Democratic entities support the proposition.
If you were a member in 2024 and have not renewed for 2025, renew today and become immediately eligible to vote on the Club’s endorsement of Prop 50.
LDC AT THE LAFAYETTE ART, WINE, & MUSIC FESTIVAL
https://lafayettefestival.com/
Saturday, September 20 (10 a.m. -7 p.m.) and Sunday, September 21 (10 a.m.- 6 p.m.)
Downtown Lafayette, Space 269 (across from Postino on Mt. Diablo Blvd.)
Attracting more than 85,000 visitors over two days, the Lafayette, art, wine, and music festival may be the largest annual festival in the county!
More than 200 art and vendor booths, 20 wine and beer booths, three stages, four kid zones, and… The Lamorinda Democratic Club Booth!
Stop by the LDC booth to meet and mingle with club members, Democratic neighbors and friends, and local elected and community leaders.
To volunteer at the LDC booth, please email info@ldclub.org. Please indicate your day and time preference (a one or two hour shift) and include your cell number.
LDC AT THE MORAGA PEAR FESTIVAL
https://www.moraga.ca.us/424/Pear-and-Wine-Festival
Saturday, September 27 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Moraga Commons
Stop by the LDC booth at the Moraga Pear Festival! Meet Moraga Dems, chat about news, politics, elections, and enjoy “pear pies, pear salad, specialty pear beverages and wine from the Lamorinda AVA while listening to live music.”
Email LDC Secretary, John Donnelly if you are interested in volunteering at the LDC booth. SECRETARY@LDclub.org.
CONGRATULATIONS ROSSMOOR ROCKERS!
This year’s LDC Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship saw almost 90 participants in attendance! Among the fearless warriors were LDC members, Precinct Organizers, Democratic activists, community and elected leaders, city council members from Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, and Walnut Creek, and Congressman Mark DeSaulnier also stopped by!
Determined to take home the gold, the Democrats of Rossmoor team,“Rossmoor Rockers”entered the ring with a focus and energy rarely seen outside of a roller derby rink.
Lead by City Council members, team “Thank You for Your Attention to This Matter!” finished in a close second place. And team “Rubber Duckies,” which included the evening’s youngest participants, came away with bronze medals.
Congratulations medal winners, and many thanks to all who participated in this annual event, sharing the fun, joy, and camaraderie of community.
LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB PRECINCT ORGANIZING PROJECT
If LDC members choose to endorse Prop 50, LDC Precinct Organizers will be ready to unroll voter lists, and prepared to Get Out The Vote BEFORE November 4. Ballots for this special election will be mailed by October 6, so there is no time to waste!
Email GOteam@LDclub.org to join the team or find out more.
LDC PRECINCT ORGANIZING SPECIAL PROJECT
Later this year, interested LDC Precinct Organizers will be invited to participate in a special project to find out why some registered Democrats chose not to cast their votes in the 2024 election.
Although LDC Precinct Organizers saw extraordinary Democratic turnout in their precincts — around 85%, we would like to know more about the “Didn’t Votes” ahead of voter outreach for the mid-term elections in 2026.
If being part of this project sounds interesting too you, and you would like to participate, please email GOteam@LDclub.org.
LDC THURSDAY MORNING COFFEE CLUB
Join LDC Members and other area Dems to chat about politics and news of the day, every other Thursday at 10 a.m.
The LDC Thursday Morning Coffee Club alternates between meeting in person at the Cap One Cafe in downtown Walnut Creek, and virtually via Zoom.
To be placed on the Coffee Club meeting reminder list or find out more, please email Mike: MEMBERSHIP@LDclub.org
Summer 2025
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
What do you think we will remember most about the summer of ’25?
While chaos, confusion, incompetence, and cruelty continue to define this president’s administration, LDC members and friends protest, rally, challenge, protect, and persevere. And yet, we still recognize the importance of finding ways to maintain the roles and responsibilities of daily life, share joy and laughter, and celebrate the moments that deserve celebration.
Please do not miss the opportunity to come together and celebrate our Democratic community — LDC members, friends, Precinct Organizers, activists, elected representatives and community leaders, volunteers and voters.
Join the fun on Wednesday, August 20, at the Lafayette Library, for the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s 9th annual Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship! Doors open at 6 p.m.
You do not need to have any special qualifications or trivia knowledge to participate. All participants compete as a team and the champions will have their team name engraved on the perpetual trophy. The top three teams will be awarded medals, and there will be free-flowing margaritas, wine, beer, and finger foods for everyone.
Don’t miss THE local Democratic social event of the season!
Register before August 13, by clicking here: LDC Trivia 2025 Registration
I look forward to seeing you there, and in the meantime, I hope that you manage to carve out a few more enjoyable memories this summer.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Spring 2025
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
It’s time to SPRING FORWARD and rally!
Yes, it’s challenging to manage fear, anger, frustration, and despair in the wake of an exhausting storm of chaos, corruption, and stunning incompetence. We awake to daily breaking news and chilling headlines that are shocking and still somehow unsurprising.
But now is not the time to disconnect. It’s the time to reach out, channel energy, build community, plan, and strategize. There is immense power in organizing, registering voters, and coming together.
LDC members and friends, we have the power to engage, educate and elect. That is the mission of the Lamorinda Democratic Club. If you have recently joined the Club or renewed your membership, thank you very much for recognizing the value of the LDC—to you, and to the community at large.
In lieu of an April general meeting, I am excited to announce that the Lamorinda Democratic Club will partner with the Democrats of Rossmoor to participate in a national day of protests and rallies. Please join us on Saturday, April 5th, in Walnut Creek to reconnect and make your voices heard.
Let’s rally!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Time to Rally!
Please join the action! Participate in the national “Hands Off!” Day of Action. Members and Friends of Lamorinda Democratic Club and Democrats of Rossmoor will meet on the Broadway Plaza side of the Apple Store (between the Apple Store and the fountain: map) in Walnut Creek on Saturday, April 5 beginning at 10:30 a.m. The “official” start time is noon.
Bring signs or come early and we will make them together!
If it’s raining, we will meet at the Cap One Cafe (map), across the street from the Apple Store (1139 S. Main St., Walnut Creek).
Participants may, of course, leave whenever they wish, but we anticipate disbanding at 1:30 p.m. Please, no violent or crude rhetoric in signs. This should be a peaceful demonstration.
Hope to see you there!
Please Join or Renew!
If you are one of the nearly one-thousand registered Democrats who receive our regular email Club updates, participate in LDC events, or benefit by member support of issues or candidates, please consider joining the Club or renewing your membership for 2025.
LDC member dues provide the necessary funding to connect local Democrats, build community, finance the LDC Precinct Organizing Project, and win elections. Lamorinda Democratic Club members in good standing are eligible to participate in all Club events and activities and to vote on Club by-laws, leadership, budget, and endorsements.
Thank you, LDC members, for your ongoing membership, generosity, and dedication to our Club’s mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect Democrats.
To renew today online, click here: Renew Membership.
Or, if you prefer to pay by check, mail to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
Box 31
Orinda, CA 94563
Membership Questions?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org
LDC Thursday Morning Coffee Club
Join LDC members and friends for casual conversation about local, state, and national politics and news of the day at the LDC Coffee Club!
Lead by LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk or other LDC Board members, the Coffee Club provides an opportunity to get to know other Club members and trade political commentary and ideas. Currently the Coffee Club meets on Thursdays at 10 a.m. either in-person at a local coffee spot and or virtual meetings on Zoom. For more information or to add your name to the meeting notification list, please email Membership@LDClub.org.
Congratulations California State Democratic Party Delegates!
Congratulations to the following Lamorinda Democratic Club members, who were elected or appointed as California State Democratic Party Delegates:
Matthew Brown
Sarah Butler
Edda M Collins Coleman
Steve Danziger
Mario DiPrisco
Thomas Duckworth
Peter Ericson
Sue Hamill
Katha Hartley
Susan Hildreth
Brodie Hilp
Latika Malkani
Cecilia Minalga
Michelle Sinnott Petersen
Katie Ricklefs
Marisol Rubio
Shirley Shelangoski
Alex Rubio-Talvera
Renee Zeimer
LDC Members’ Vote on Measure T Endorsement
The LDC Board recommends endorsement of Acalanes Union High School District Measure T, a local parcel tax for the Acalanes Union High School District (AUHSD) on the May 6 special election mailed ballot. The measure provides locally-controlled funding to retain great teachers, manage class sizes, offer Advanced Placement classes, and provide academic counselors.
To see details and find out more about Measure T, click here.
February 2025
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Capping off a week of grassroots fury and fervor, that gripped congressional town hall meetings across the country, U.S. Congressional District 10 constituents will have the opportunity to see and hear from Representative Mark DeSaulnier in their own backyard tomorrow:
Thursday, February 20th at 6:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s College in Moraga.
In addition to hearing legislative and committee updates, Congressman DeSaulnier will take questions and hear directly from constituents on Thursday. I plan to be there; I hope you will too!
To RSVP and submit questions in advance, click here: https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp
If you prefer to watch the town hall from home, you can tune in virtually through the Congressman’s Facebook page or on YouTube. The event will also be available to view on these same links immediately following the event.
Looking ahead, the LDC Program and Planning team is working on an in-person Spring General Meeting. It will provide the opportunity for us to come together, discuss local, regional, and national political issues and challenges, and channel outrage and energy into productive organizing. Date, time, and place will be announced soon.
We still have the power to organize.
We still have the power to Engage, Educate, and Elect — the mission of the Lamorinda Democratic Club.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO VOTE FOR CALIFORNIA DEMOCRATIC PARTY ASSEMBLY DELEGATES!
One AD15 and sixteen AD16 candidates received endorsements by the Lamorinda Democratic Club. LDC Members and Friends, we have the opportunity to elect dedicated, active, and engaged grassroots organizers to represent our districts in the CA State Democratic Party.
Assembly Delegates have an important role in steering the direction of the state party. They vote for endorsements of the California Democratic Party, elect CADEM regional directors, and become a voice for our local district when establishing the California Democratic state platform.
These LDC endorsed candidates represent the best of our local Democratic community — They are informed, thoughtful, pragmatic, collaborative problem-solvers who have been active grassroots organizers. They are dedicated Democrats interested in a thriving and growing political party with meaningful influence. Let’s help get them elected!
Every registered Democrat in California may register and vote for up to 14 Assembly Delegate candidates. The top 7 SIF (Self-Identified Female) and top 7 OSIF (Other than Self-Identified Female) Assembly District Delegate candidates will be declared the winners.
Assembly District 16
Self-Identified Female
1. Alexandria Rubio-Talavera
2. Marisol Rubio
6. Sue Hamill
13. Tandra Ericson
15. Cecilia Minalga
17. Michelle Sinnott Petersen
21. Katha Hartley
23. Latika Malkani
28. Edda M Collins Coleman
Other than Self-Identified Female
4. Russell Creighton
5. John Donnelly
10. Mike Rusk
12. Peter Bert Ericson
14. David Clark
16. Tom Duckworth
19. Steve Danziger
Assembly District 15
Self-Identified Female
3. Shirley Shelangoski
The numbers to the left of each name indicate the candidate’s “ballot number.” They are listed in order of the time and date on which they registered as candidates.
Please vote for no more than 7 candidates in each of the two categories.
I hope you take this opportunity to take some action: register, vote, and spread the word to at least 3 or 4 Democrats in your Assembly District who otherwise may not know about the upcoming election.
If you already registered to vote electronically, you may vote online until Sunday, February 23, at 6 p.m. or in person on Saturday, February 22, between 10 am and 2 p.m:
IBEW Local 302 Union Hall
1875 Arnold Dr, Martinez
If you missed the deadline to register for electronic voting, or you have not received your voting password and pin number, you may still register online to vote in person by clicking on this link:
https://ademelections.com/register/person
LDC Member, Brodie Hilp, is also an AD16 Assembly Delegate candidate.
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
Look for your membership status at the top of this email. If it is not “2025 Member,” please renew or join the Club today!
LDC member dues provide the necessary funding to connect local Democrats, build community, and win elections. Lamorinda Democratic Club members in good standing are eligible to participate in all Club events and activities and to vote on Club by-laws, leadership, budget, and endorsements.
Thank you, LDC members, for your ongoing membership, generosity, and dedication to our Club’s mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect Democrats.
To renew today online, click here: Renew Membership
Or, if you prefer to pay by check, mail to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
Membership Questions?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org
January 2025
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
As engaged and active area Democrats, I know you never like to miss an opportunity to vote and have your voice heard!
Registration is now open for all registered California Democrats to vote for California Democratic Party Assembly District Delegates.
Assembly District Delegates vote for endorsements of the California Democratic Party and positions on Ballot Propositions, elect CADEM Regional Directors, and become a voice for our local district when establishing the California Democratic State Platform.
You may vote for up to 14 candidates. The top 7 SIF (Self-Identified Female) and top 7 OSIF (Other than Self-Identified Female) Assembly District Delegate (ADD) candidates will be declared the winners.
At the January 9 LDC general meeting, Lamorinda Democratic Club members voted to endorse the following individuals for Assembly District Delegates:
Assembly District 16
Self-Identified Female
1. Alexandria Rubio-Talavera
2. Marisol Rubio
6. Sue Hamill
13. Tandra Ericson
15. Cecilia Minalga
17. Michelle Sinnott Petersen
21. Katha Hartley
23. Latika Malkani
28. Edda M Collins Coleman
Other than Self-Identified Female
4. Russell Creighton
5. John Donnelly
10. Mike Rusk
12. Peter Bert Ericson
14. David Clark
16. Tom Duckworth
19. Steve Danziger
Assembly District 15
Self-Identified Female
3. Shirley Shelangoski
The numbers to the left of each name indicate the candidate’s “ballot number.” They are listed in order of the time and date on which they registered as candidates.
Please vote for no more than 7 candidates in each of the two categories.
Please register to vote by clicking here.
Please hold on to the PIN number you receive upon registering. You will need the pin number to vote after January 31, when voting credentials are mailed. (Write it down, take a screenshot of it, or take a photo of it.)
Electronic Voting Registration CLOSES at noon on January 24, 2025
Electronic Voting Registration Credentials are mailed on January 31, 2025
Electronic Voting CLOSES at 6 p.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2025
Be sure to spread the word among Democratic neighbors and friends in your Assembly District, and send them the list of LDC endorsed candidates!
These endorsed candidates represent the best of our local Democratic community — They are informed, thoughtful, pragmatic, collaborative problem-solvers who have been active grassroots organizers. They are dedicated Democrats interested in a thriving and growing political party with meaningful influence. Let’s help get them elected!
As inauguration week approaches, it may be an especially good time to take action — do something positive — focus on a task that will always reward you with agency:
Register and Vote.
Wishing you a peaceful, active, and meaningful Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
LDC member dues provide the necessary funding to keep local Democrats connected, build community, and win elections. Lamorinda Democratic Club members in good standing are eligible to participate in all Club events and activities and to vote on Club by-laws, leadership, budget, and endorsements.
Thank you, LDC members, for your ongoing membership, generosity, and dedication to our club’s mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect Democrats.
To renew today online, click here: Renew Membership
Or, if you prefer to pay by check, mail to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
Membership Questions?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org
December 2024 – January 2025
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
2024 may not be exiting the scene exactly the way we hoped it would.
We accepted the challenge; we rallied; we poured energy, heart, and soul into what we hoped would win every election. And yet, we came up shy of the kind of victory we envisioned.
I hope that December allows each of us the space to review, rest, recover, and reestablish perspective and a sense of purpose.
As the calendar year closes, let’s appreciate all that we did accomplish together and recognize that, as LDC members and friends, we have much to celebrate:
- 16 out of 17 LDC-endorsed candidates won their elections.
- We expanded the Precinct Organizing Project—adding more than 20 new Organizers.
- We met our fundraising goal to support the Precinct Organizing Project.
- We reached more than 38,000 Democratic voters in Contra Costa County—providing trusted election information and Democratic voter guidance.
- We supported our endorsed candidates, providing platforms to reach voters, opportunities for candidate-voter interaction, shared experience for first-time candidates, and the confidence and trust in knowing that the LDC Gets Out The Vote!
- We raised awareness about the injustice of the Port Chicago 50 and celebrated their long overdue exoneration.
- We navigated a tumultuous presidential primary and general election season.
- We grappled with the pros and cons of 2024 ballot measures and propositions.
- We received legislative updates from local, regional, and state elected leaders.
- We became better informed about the California homeowner insurance crisis.
- We came together at LDC general meetings, Candidate Nights, New Year’s Open House and Trivia Night, pickleball at the Lafayette Rink, Orinda 4th of July Parade, Lafayette and Moraga festivals, and LDC Thursday Morning Coffees.
- We exchanged personal stories of joy and grief and achievement and defeat. We shared experiences and friendship.
LDC members and friends, may you and your friends and family find comfort, peace, and love in the year ahead, and I hope to see you at the Lamorinda Democratic Club New Year’s Open House on January 9 at the Lafayette Library. More details follow below.
Here’s to 2025, letting go of 2024, and trusting the power of community to keep us moving forward.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
THANK YOU, CRAIG CHESLOG
It is with mixed emotions that we announce Craig Cheslog’s move to Sacramento. We obviously are happy for Craig and wish him all the best in this new chapter.
On the other hand, it is daunting to think about all the ways in which we will miss Craig—a former president of the LDC, current Chair of the Issues and Candidates Committee, Club Parliamentarian, E-Communications Director, editor, mentor, and advisor to me and many others—in a million ways.
Craig will remain on the Board, and, fingers crossed, he will come back to try and reclaim victory at the Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship next year! He also hopes to continue joining the Thursday Morning Coffee events when they happen via Zoom each month.
In the meantime, you can see what’s on Craig’s mind by following his commentary on news, politics, sports, or whatever he finds interesting “while browsing the internet” via his newsletter. Check out “The Long Twilight Struggle” and consider subscribing by clicking here.
Lots of luck, Craig. Thank you!
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
LDC member dues provide the necessary funding to keep local Democrats connected, build community, and win elections. Lamorinda Democratic Club members in good standing are eligible to participate in all Club events and activities and to vote on Club by-laws, leadership, budget, and endorsements.
Thank you, LDC members, for your ongoing membership, generosity, and dedication to our club’s mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect Democrats.
To renew today online, click here: Renew Membership
Or, if you prefer to pay by check, mail to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
Membership Questions?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org
NEXT LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEETING
LDC 2025 NEW YEAR’S OPEN HOUSE
JANUARY 9, 2025, 7 p.m.—Lafayette Library, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd.
The LDC New Year’s Open House provides an opportunity for members, friends, neighbors, LDC Precinct Organizers, and elected and community leaders to meet informally, engage on issues, celebrate community, and ring in the new year.
Doors open at 7 p.m., and drinks and desserts will be on hand. See you there!
MEMBERS VOTE: 2025 LDC BUDGET APPROVAL AND A BYLAWS AMENDMENT
LDC members in good standing will have the opportunity to vote on the 2025 Club budget, and a proposed bylaws change. 2024 Club membership expires on December 31, 2024.
2025 LDC BUDGET
Proposed budget will be available at the meeting.
PROPOSED BYLAWS AMENDMENT
The proposed bylaws change would eliminate Article 6.1, Section b — the requirement to hold eight meetings per year.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
CADEM 2025—ELECTIONS FOR ASSEMBLY DISTRICT DELEGATES
Stay tuned for your opportunity to register and vote for Assembly District Delegates (ADDs) to represent our district at the CA state party level.
This year is particularly exciting for the Lamorinda Democratic Club because you will see many members of the LDC on the ballot!
ADDs vote for endorsements of the California Democratic Party and positions on Ballot Propositions, elect CADEM Regional Directors, and become a voice for our local district when establishing the California Democratic State Platform.
Registration for online or in-person voting opens on January 6 at noon and closes January 24 at noon. Voting will take place in February.
Registration is open now to run for one of these ADD positions. Click here to register to run or for more information.
THE ECONOMICS OF IMMIGRATION
Jon Haveman, Bay Area economist, will speak in Lafayette on “The Economics of Immigration.”
Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church, January 3 at 1:30 p.m. This is an opportunity to hear from an expert on one of the hottest political topic—Immigration.
There is no fee to attend. For more information: lopc.org/first-friday-forum
DEMOCRACY AWAKENING
Heather Cox Richardson, Democracy Awakening
Heather Cox Richardson, well-known political historian and author of Democracy Awakening, will be the guest speaker at a Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation event on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Don’t miss this very special evening – buy your tickets NOW before they sell out:
https://www.lllcf.org/hcrichardson.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
Eager to get involved or join the Club? Interested in meeting with area Dems for a casual conversation about news and politics? Join LDC Thursday Morning Coffees! Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org
The Morning After Election 2024
“But hear me when I say… the light of America’s promise will
always burn bright as long as we never give up…”
—Vice President Kamala Harris, November 6, 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
This is not the email I thought I would be writing on November 6.
As we digest the stunning 2024 election results and come to terms with the shocking loss, it is way too early to look through the long lens of history. There will be plenty of time for analyzing what happened, and how we got here.
There are no easy words of consolation — to calm the anxiety, fear, anger, and grief — as we also struggle to understand and accept that more than 71 million of our fellow Americans voted the way they did.
In the days ahead, I hope that each of you can take some time to restore your spirits and recover — so we can again move forward together — with the hope, optimism, and sense of possibility that good citizenship requires.
In the meantime, let’s not overlook some important local ballot victories! Final results are submitted by the county on December 5, but it clearly looks as though sixteen out of seventeen Lamorinda Democratic Club endorsed candidates will have won their races! And both of the measures endorsed by the LDC are on track to emerge victorious!
The 2024 election also brought together a team of Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizers who reached more than 38,000 Democratic voters, neighbor-to-neighbor, to Get Out The Vote, win elections, and build a more connected community. Along the way, LDC Precinct Organizers received thank you notes and emails, spurred activism, highlighted the importance of local government, and inspired their neighbors to participate in democracy.
Congratulations to each of the LDC-endorsed candidates! Thank you for throwing your hat in the ring, campaigning with grace and enthusiasm, and for your willingness to serve.
We wish you the best of luck in your new or incumbent roles and thank you for making the LDC a meaningful partner in working for the common good of our communities.
The next LDC general meeting is on Wednesday, November 13, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. Click here to receive the Zoom meeting registration link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIpceuvpj0pG9Mk6US_-ZunTEvqseTQu0nB
Hope to see you there!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club
Congratulations to the 2024 LDC Endorsed Candidates
Who Won Their Elections!
Contra Costa Community College Governing Board Member Ward 2
Diana Honig
Acalanes Union High School District Governing Board Member
Wendy Reicher
Paul Chopra
San Ramon Valley Unified School District Governing Board Member Trustee Area 3
Shelley Clark
Moraga School District Governing Board
Stephanie Dickerson
City of Concord Member City Council District 4
Carlyn Obringer
City of Lafayette Member City Council Full-Term
John McCormick
Gina Dawson
Carl Anduri
City of Lafayette Member City Council Short-Term
Jim Cervantes
City of Orinda Member City Council
Darlene K. Gee
Cara R. Hoxie
City of Walnut Creek Member City Council
Cindy Darling
Kevin Wilk
East Bay Regional Park District Director Ward 2
Lynda Deshambault
East Bay Municipal Utility District Director Ward 2
Luz Gomez
Measure H – City of Lafayette
Measure Q – San Ramon Unified School District
Thank You and Congratulations to the
2024 LDC Precinct Organizing Team!
November 2024
LDC Members and Friends,
Ghosts and goblins were probably the least of our fears this Halloween — as election anxieties run high and we navigate a political haunted house just days before the 2024 election.
We are finished with October surprises — most of which were disturbing and even shocking; but few were truly surprising. And now we are ready for some good news.
By 8 p.m. on November 5, LDC Precinct Organizers in Lamorinda, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Briones Hills, Danville, Martinez, Concord, Saranap and Alamo will have contacted more than 36,000 Democratic voters neighbor to neighbor — by mail, email, phone, and in-person conversations. Our Precinct Organizing team effort will likely be consequential in electing Democrats to every level of government, increasing awareness of local politics and government, and building a stronger, more connected community.
I am so proud and grateful to be a part of this organization. LDC Precinct Organizers and LDC members are models of civic responsibility — contributing valuable time, energy, ideas and resources — to engage voters, support great candidates, and promote the Democratic and democratic values to ensure a thriving democracy.
Whether you choose to spend election night watching returns at home with friends and family, glued to Steve Kornacki’s “Big Board” update, attending a candidate’s watch party, or under the covers until the sun rises on November 6, I hope you all feel good about being a member or friend of the Lamorinda Democratic Club and knowing that it makes a difference.
Happy Election Day.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
UP NEXT: LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB GENERAL MEETING
Wednesday, November 13 at 7 p.m. via Zoom
LDC 2025 Club Officer Election
LDC Members in good standing will have the opportunity to vote for 2025 LDC officers. The Lamorinda Democratic Club Nominating Committee recommends the following nominees for 2024 LDC Officers:
President: Tracy Brog
1st Vice President: Peter Ericson
2nd Vice President: Mike Rusk
Treasurer: Russell Creighton
Secretary: John Donnelly
LDC PRECINCT ORGANIZERS CROSSING THE FINISH LINE
THANK YOU to every single LDC Precinct Organizer—for all of the time, energy, and enthusiasm you have dedicated to Getting Out The Vote, and for recognizing the importance of every position on the ballot. It matters who we elect to school boards, city councils, district, and regional positions. You have made a positive, lasting contribution in building a better, more connected community.
LDC WEBSITE ELECTION PAGE: A RESOURCE FOR CONTRA COSTA VOTERS
Check out the LDC City-Specific Voter Information Guides on the LDC website! If you live in Alamo, Briones Hills, Concord(District 2), Danville, Lafayette, Martinez, Moraga, Orinda, Pleasant Hill, Saranap, or Walnut Creek, see the Democrats running for office on your ballot. You can also find links to more information about each of the LDC-endorsed candidates. If you are willing to install a yard sign on your property for an LDC-endorsed candidate, please email GOteam@LDclub.org.
LDC MEMBERS – USE YOUR “INFLUENCER” POWER TO HELP ELECT 2024 ENDORSED CANDIDATES!
You may not have a million followers on Instagram, or send out daily TikTok videos, but Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends, you are powerful influencers! If everyone receiving this email contacted 10 neighbors or friends between now and Tuesday at 8 p.m., we would reach more than 7,000 additional Contra Costa voters!
To find out more about any of the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s endorsed candidates, go to the “Election 2024 LDC Endorsements” page of the LDC website: https://ldclub.org/ And please spread the word to help Get Out The Vote!
Acalanes Union High School District: Paul Chopra and Wendy Reicher
Concord City Council, District 2: Carlyn Obringer
Contra Costa Community College District, Ward 2: Diana Honig
East Bay Municipal Utility District, Ward 2: Luz Gomez
East Bay Regional Parks District, Ward 2: Lynda Deschambault
Lafayette City Council, Full-Term: Carl Anduri, John McCormick, Gina Dawson
Lafayette City Council Short-Term: Jim Cervantes
Moraga School District: Stephanie Dickerson
Orinda City Council: Darlene Gee, Cara Hoxie
San Ramon Unified School District, Area 2: Shelley Clark
Walnut Creek City Council: Kevin Wilk, Cindy Darling, Brendan Moran
LOCAL MEASURES
City of Lafayette Measure H (Sales Tax): Vote Yes
San Ramon Unified School District Measure Q (Parcel Tax Renewal): Vote Yes
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
It’s time to renew your Lamorinda Democratic Club membership for 2025!
Your membership dues provide the funding that keeps the Lamorinda Democratic Club up and running, supports the LDC Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out the Vote and help win elections, and pays for all the special events and programs we host throughout the year.
Please join or renew online before December 31, by clicking here: Join Now.
Or, you may send in your dues payment by check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
Only “members in good standing” are eligible for LDC committee positions, to vote on any and all LDC business and bylaws, upcoming issues, and candidate endorsements.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
Eager to get involved or join the Club? Interested in meeting with area Dems for casual conversation about news and politics? Join LDC Thursday Morning Coffees! Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org.
October 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
If you stopped by the Lamorinda Democratic Club booth at the Lafayette Art, Wine, and Music festival a few of weeks ago, you may have witnessed the joy and even the fun in politics — LDC members, neighbors, friends, candidates, and elected leaders coming together to support good government at every level, enjoying the banter and celebrating community.
The one-on-one connections and conversations at these events provide the conduits to empathy and understanding, engaging with voters, winning elections, and even making new friends. They are important opportunities to foster the LDC mission:
to Engage, Educate, and Elect Democrats.
Neighbor-to neighbor voter outreach is also at the center of the LDC Precinct Organizing Project.
This election cycle, LDC Precinct Organizers are excited to reach more than 30,000 Democratic voters in Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Alamo, Briones Hills, Danville, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Saranap, Martinez, and Concord — with precinct-specific voter information, to identify Democratic candidates, and highlight our endorsed candidates.
It is not too late to volunteer and become a Precinct Organizer, or join a team already in place!
To get involved or find out more, please email: GOteam@LDclub.org
LDC members and friends, as we enter the final stretch of this consequential election, I hope you plan to vote early and please urge your neighbors and friends to do the same.
The next Lamorinda Democratic Club virtual general meeting is this Wednesday, October 9 at 7 p.m.. At this traditional pre-election BYOB Bring Your Own Ballot meeting, Tom Duckworth and Peter Ericson will present pros and cons of Election 2024 ballot measures.
Here’s to finding the joy.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Up Next: Lamorinda Democratic Club October General Meeting
BYOB – Bring Your Own Ballot!
Wednesday, October 9 at 7 p.m.
Click here to receive the Zoom meeting registration link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMpduisqzIjH9JFknslzpzf8M0W3Mn84kmv
LDC Precinct Organizers Hit the Ground Running!
For Election 2024, LDC Precinct Organizers are covering nearly 50 Precincts — together reaching more than 30,000 Democratic voters — to inform, engage, and help win elections! Precinct Organizers met last Sunday afternoon to pick up voter lists, Voter Information Guides, stamps and envelopes, and hundreds of LDC Precinct Organizing Project Voter Information Guides were already mailed today. Thousands more will be mailed and distributed in the days ahead.
THANK YOU to every single Organizer — for all of the time, energy, and enthusiasm you are dedicating to Getting Out The Vote, and for recognizing the importance of every position on the ballot. It matters who we elect to school boards, city councils, district and regional positions.
LDC Website Election Page — A Resource for Contra Costa Voters
Check out the LDC City-Specific Voter Information Guides on the LDC website! If you live in Alamo, Briones Hills, Concord(District 2), Danville, Lafayette, Martinez, Moraga, Orinda, Pleasant Hill, Saranap or Walnut Creek, see the Democrats running for office on your ballot. You can also find links to more information about each of the LDC endorsed candidates. If you are willing to install a yard sign on your property for an LDC endorsed candidate, please email GOteam@LDclub.org
Daily Phonebanking to Elect Harris/Walz
LDC Booth at the Lafayette Art, Wine, And Music Festival
Thanks to all the volunteers, candidates, and visitors who made the Lamorinda Democratic Booth the place to be, at the Lafayette Art and Wine Festival in September!
September 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
This is it. We are in the home stretch of election season 2024.
For LDC members and friends who have been in the political trenches for months now, it’s important to remember that many of our neighbors, family members, and fellow Americans are just beginning to think about the 2024 election.
And while the presidential and congressional races may be at the top of mind, it is incumbent upon us to remind voters about the importance of the local, district, regional, and state-wide races that also shape policy and affect a whole range of issues about which we care deeply.
Fortunately, LDC-endorsed candidates are making the job easy for us!
They are intelligent, competent, experienced, responsible individuals — dedicated to serving our communities and determined to make a positive difference.
As the mission of the LDC is to engage, educate, and elect, please take a good look at the list of our endorsed candidates and do what you can to help them win their elections.
Add your name to their list of supporters and endorsers. (You are an influencer!)
Donate to campaigns.
Put up a lawn sign.
Host a meet-and-greet at your house.
Join the LDC Precinct Organizing team to Get Out The Vote.
If, like me, you’ve been watching U.S. Open Tennis this week, you may have been reminded of what it takes to win.
“Keep moving forward!”
Enjoy the U.S. Open finals this weekend, and decide what you will do to take a full swing!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
LDC 2024 ENDORSED CANDIDATES
To find out more about any of the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s endorsed candidates, or to contact or contribute to their campaigns, go to the “Election 2024 LDC Endorsements” page of the LDC website: https://ldclub.org/
Acalanes Union High School District: Paul Chopra and Wendy Reicher
Concord City Council, District 2: Carlyn Obringer
Contra Costa Community College District, Ward 2: Diana Honig
East Bay Municipal Utility District, Ward 2: Luz Gomez
East Bay Regional Parks District, Ward 2: Lynda Deschambault
Lafayette City Council, Full-Term: Carl Anduri, John McCormick, Gina Dawson
Lafayette City Council Short-Term: Jim Cervantes
Moraga School District: Stephanie Dickerson
Orinda City Council: Darlene Gee, Cara Hoxie
San Ramon Unified School District, Area 2: Shelley Clark
Walnut Creek City Council: Kevin Wilk, Cindy Darling, Brendan Moran
LOCAL MEASURES
City of Lafayette Measure H (Sales Tax): Vote Yes
San Ramon Unified School District Measure Q (Parcel Tax Renewal): Vote Yes
LDC PRECINCT ORGANIZING PROJECT
Just 30 days to go before California ballots are mailed, and voting begins!
But it is not too late to join the LDC Precinct Organizing team! Whether or not you have ever participated in any sort of voter outreach, we welcome you to get involved. You will be provided with all the tools necessary to make the experience as easy, stress-free, and rewarding as possible.
There’s a job for everyone, no matter your skills, the amount of time you can devote, or your preferred method of outreach to your Democratic neighbors: in-person, mail, email, calling, or texting. Please don’t let this important election pass by without getting involved! If Michelle Obama’s Democratic convention message to “Do something!” inspired you, join the LDC Precinct Organizing team!
To join the team or inquire further, email Tracy: GOteam@LDclub.org
LDC BOOTH AT THE LAFAYETTE ART, WINE, AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
Saturday, September 21 (10 a.m. – 7 p.m.) & Sunday, September 22 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
Attracting 85,000 visitors over 2 days, the Lafayette Art, Wine, and Music Festival may be the largest annual festival in the county!
More than 200 art and vendor booths, 20 wine and beer booths, 3 music stages, 4 kid zones, and… the Lamorinda Democratic Club Booth!
Stop by the LDC booth to meet and mingle with Club members, Democratic neighbors and friends, and lots of local 2024 election candidates!
Lamorinda Democratic Club Booth space is #478, on the north side of Mt. Diablo Blvd., just around the corner from Uncle Yu’s.
LDC BOOTH AT THE MORAGA PEAR FESTIVAL
Saturday, September 28 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Moraga Commons Park
Pear pies, pear salads, pear drinks, music, and the Lamorinda Democratic Club Booth!
Stop by the LDC Booth and say hello, support local candidates, and pick up your 2024 election swag!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LDC TRIVIA NIGHT CHAMPIONS
This year’s Hot August Night Trivia Championship gold medals went to team “Lafayette Measure H”
The Rossmoor Rockers certainly gave Measure H a run for their money — especially in the music rounds, where the Rockers traditionally dominate. But in the end, it may have been Measure H’s unique knowledge of local city council leaders that lead them to victory. Congratulations to all the medal winners, and thank you to everyone who participated in an evening that brought us together to celebrate community, and maybe even see the fun in politics.
First Place: “Measure H”
Second Place: “Rossmoor Rockers”
Third Place: “Fight Win”
GOT SWAG?
Are you looking for election lawn signs, bumper stickers, campaign buttons or other swag? Go to the LDC website to contact the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s swag rep, Valerie Sloven. https://ldclub.org/2024-election-swag/
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
Look for your membership status at the top of this email. If it is not “2024 Member,” please join today.
Your membership dues provide the funding that keeps the Lamorinda Democratic Club up and running, supports the LDC Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out the Vote and help win elections, and pays for all the special events and programs we host throughout the year.
We are counting on you in this very important election cycle!
Please join or renew online by clicking here: Join Now. Or, you may send in your dues payment by check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
If you would like to be able to vote on any and all upcoming issues or candidate endorsements, please keep in mind that only “members in good standing” are eligible to vote.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
Eager to get involved or join the Club? Interested in meeting with area Dems for casual conversation about news and politics? Join LDC Thursday Morning Coffees! Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org.
August 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
In a month that felt like a year, Democrats hung on tight—riding a rollercoaster of politics, headlines, and history-making moments. August 2024 has ushered in the possibility of a new dynamic duo to lead the nation, new Olympic heroes and heroines, and detainees at long last returned to their loving families and friends. Hope, optimism, and enthusiasm are home again too.
August is also a great time to engage in a little cooling off — to restore, relax, and energize. And this year’s LDC Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship is just the ticket in the midst of a heated election season.
I hope every one of you will join us to meet and reconnect in person at the Lafayette Library on Wednesday, August 28, at 6 p.m.
This will be our Club’s 8th annual “Trivia Night.” While it is always a fun and informal way for the LDC community to come together, it is also significant in terms of building enthusiasm and energy for the important work of organizing, supporting Democratic candidates, and team-building.
Gather a team or come on your own, and enjoy frozen margaritas and finger foods over mingling, banter, and some friendly team competition.
LDC “Trivia Night” is an excellent opportunity to invite your friends or neighbors who have never been to a Club meeting, are unfamiliar with local or regional politics, and may come away inspired to get involved.
Will 2023 “Trivia Night” champion, Team CERTitude be the first in LDC history to win back to back gold medals? Or will the Rossmoor Rockers capture the title this time? Perhaps there’s another as-yet undiscovered horse in the race — ready to claim victory.
LDC Members and Friends, just imagine having your team name engraved on the LDC Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship perpetual trophy!
In the meantime, please also mark your calendars for LDC Candidates Night-Part II, special Zoom meeting on Wednesday, August 21, at 7 p.m., when the LDC Issues & Candidates Committee will announce recommended candidates for endorsement, and all LDC members in good standing will have the chance to vote on endorsements.
Congratulations to the following Election 2024 candidates who received enthusiastic Lamorinda Democratic Club endorsements at the July 10 Candidates Night-Part 1 special meeting:
Carl Anduri, Lafayette City Council
Cindy Darling, Walnut Creek City Council
Carlyn Obringer, Concord City Council
Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek City Council
To find out more about any of our endorsed candidates, or to contribute to their campaigns, go to the “Election 2024 LDC Endorsements” page of our website: https://ldclub.org/
Whether you are on the campaign trail as a candidate, organizing from your own kitchen table, knocking on doors, or participating in the Democratic Party convention in Chicago this month, stay cool, and stay safe.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Coming Up Next!
LDC Candidates Night-Part II, on Wednesday, via Zoom on August 21 at 7 p.m.
This is the second and final special meeting dedicated to 2024 LDC Candidate endorsements. LDC Members in good standing will have the opportunity to meet candidates virtually and vote for candidate endorsements. If you have questions about your membership status or would like to renew your membership or join the Club, click here: Join Now.
LDC Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship, Wednesday, August 28 at 6 p.m.
LDC members, register before August 22 to receive “Trivia Night” complimentary admission. Each member may also invite an additional guest with complimentary admission.
Click here to register for LDC Trivia Night: Right here
Non-members may register with a $20 donation.
LDC Precinct Organizing Project — Ready for ’24!
With fewer than nine weeks left before California ballots are mailed, the LDC Precinct Organizing team is busy prepping for Election 2024.
Whether or not you have ever participated in any sort of voter outreach, we welcome you to join the LDC POP team. You will be provided with all the tools necessary to make the experience as easy, stress-free, and rewarding as possible. There’s a job for everyone, no matter your skills, the amount of time you can devote, or your preferred method of outreach to your Democratic neighbors: in-person, mail, email, calling, texting. Please don’t let this important election pass by without getting involved!
To join the team or inquire further, email: GOteam@LDclub.org
2024 Election Candidates
If you are you a candidate for election in 2024 whose name will be on the ballot in any or all of the following areas:
Lamorinda, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Danville, Alamo, Concord, Martinez, Briones Hills, Saranap, and you would like to request the endorsement of the Lamorinda Democratic Club, please email LDC Issues & Candidates Committee Chair Craig Cheslog: issues@LDclub.org
Do you plan to run for city council or school board in Lamorinda, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Martinez, Danville, or San Ramon? Please let us know, so LDC Precinct Organizers can prepare early with information for Contra Costa Democratic voters!
LDC Membership
July 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
The messiness of democracy is fittingly on full display as we approach this July 4th holiday. So is the example of a political party whose diverse coalition is willing to share opinions and arguments in spite of the inevitable contentiousness and discomfort.
The stakes are too high.
As Democrats hold on tight to navigate the stormy politics of Election 2024, we demonstrate how hard we are willing to fight to organize victory. We reveal fearlessness and passion in the face of the existential threat to our democratic republic. And though we may have traded some of the hushed whispers of quiet conversations for scrappier rounds in the ring, we will stay focused, emerging stronger, more resilient, and better able to battle for a more perfect union.
This 4th of July I will also be celebrating the members and friends of the Lamorinda Democratic Club — Precinct Organizers, campaign donors, supporters and volunteers, candidates, community leaders and office-holders, activists and representatives, LDC Board members and committee members — who devote valuable time, energy and resources to this ongoing and amazing American experiment.
I wish you a happy and meaningful Independence Day.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB IN THE
ORINDA 4TH OF JULY PARADE
Celebrate Independence Day with the Lamorinda Democratic Club!
We are once again excited to have California Assembly Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan and team RBK walk with us in the Orinda Parade on Thursday, July 4.
Please join us! March with fellow Dems behind the LDC banner, and stop by the LDC Booth at the Orinda Community Center.
For details, contact Valerie: vsloven@comcast.net or Tony: tonysuh@comcast.net
The staging area for the parade is the Orinda Bart station parking lot on the east side of Camino Pablo. Arrive for assembly between 8:30 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. and enjoy coffee and bagels or doughnuts with Democrats. The parade begins promptly at 10 a.m. and ends at the Orinda Community Center Park and Library.
Suggested parking is in the west side of the Orinda BART station, or near the Orinda Safeway — though no promises as parking is sometimes restricted.
LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB SPECIAL MEETING: CANDIDATES NIGHT PART 1
Wednesday, July 10, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0od-qorD4tGd0V8zs9Aif5oIROgHE6xGtW
This meeting will be entirely dedicated to LDC candidate endorsements. LDC members in good standing will have the opportunity to meet candidates virtually and vote for candidate endorsements.
The club’s Issues and Candidates Candidates Committee has voted to recommend to the club that it endorse the following candidates in this first group of endorsements:
Carl Anduri, Lafayette City Council
Cindy Darling, Walnut Creek City Council
Carlyn Obringer, Concord City Council
Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek City Council
We will also have an opportunity to hear from candidates who will be seeking the club’s endorsement for the second stage of our process (see the August 22 meeting information below).
To renew your membership or join the club, click here: Join Now.
LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB SPECIAL MEETING: CANDIDATES NIGHT PART 2
Wednesday, August 21, at 7 p.m. via Zoom
This meeting will be entirely dedicated to the second group of LDC candidate endorsements. LDC members in good standing will have the opportunity to meet candidates virtually and vote for candidate endorsements.
To renew your membership or join the club, click here: Join Now.
2024 CANDIDATES SEEKING LDC ENDORSEMENT
If you are a candidate interested in the LDC’s endorsement for the November 2024 election, please contact Craig at endorsements@ldclub.org.
LDC HOT AUGUST NIGHT POLITICAL TRIVIA CHAMPIONSHIP
Wednesday, August 28, at the Lafayette Library
Be sure to register for the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s most popular event of the year!
“Trivia Night” offers the opportunity for LDC members and friends, Precinct Organizers and activists, candidates, and elected officials to come together in an informal way over frozen margaritas and finger foods, some political trivia, friendly competition and banter, and just for fun.
LDC Members, LDC Precinct Organizers, and elected officials receive complimentary admission with advance registration by Friday, August 17. All LDC members are welcome to invite one guest each — complimentary.
Click here to join the club or renew your membership: Join Now.
For other non-members attending, the registration fee is $20 per person.
LDC PRECINCT ORGANIZING PROJECT — READY FOR ’24!
REALIZE YOUR SUPERPOWERS AND JOIN THE LDC PRECINCT ORGANIZING PROJECT!
Whether or not you have ever participated in any sort of voter outreach, we welcome you to join the POP team and will provide all the tools necessary to make the experience as easy, stress-free, and rewarding as possible. There’s a job for everyone, no matter your technology skills or how little time you can devote. Please don’t let this election pass by without getting involved.
To join the team or inquire further, email Tracy: GOteam@LDclub.org
LDC DINKS & DEMS for PRECINCT ORGANIZING – THANK YOU and CONGRATULATIONS
Thank you to all the generous sponsors and participants in the LDC Dinks & Dems Pickleball for Precinct Organizing event on Saturday, June 22, at the Lafayette Community Center “Rink.”
IN spite of triple digit temperatures, ultra-cool LDC members and friends had a great time dinking, diving, and driving for the LDC Precinct Organizing Project — to expand Democratic voter outreach in Contra Costa County and help win important elections for every position on the 2024 ballot.
Congratulations to all the tournament medalists!
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
Look for your membership status at the top of this email. If it is not “2024 Member,” please join today.
Your membership dues provide the funding that keeps the Lamorinda Democratic Club up and running, supports the LDC Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out the Vote and help win elections, and pays for all the special events and programs we host throughout the year.
We are counting on you in this very important election cycle!
Please join or renew online by clicking here: Join Now Or, you may send in your dues payment by check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
If you would like to be able to vote on any and all upcoming issues or candidate endorsements, please keep in mind that only “members in good standing” are eligible to vote.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org.
June 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
The long, warm, stretched-out days of June invite us to rise early, retire late, and celebrate freedom.
Pride month, Juneteenth, D-Day commemorations, reunions, and “Schools out!” memories open the door to summer — a whole season dedicated to exploration, adventure, getting together, and possibility.
We are excited to announce another jam-packed calendar of LDC events this summer!
Members and Friends, I hope you will take advantage of all the opportunities to get involved, make connections, support outstanding 2024 candidates running for every spot on the ballot, and make a positive difference in our communities.
Happy June!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
NEXT UP:
The “Dinks & Dems” LDC Pickleball Fundraiser
For Precinct Organizing
Saturday, June 22, 4 p.m. at the Lafayette Rink
(Lafayette Community Center) 576 St. Mary’s Rd.
Pickleball Clinic, Tournament, Music, Pizza, Fun!
To participate in the pickleball clinic or tournament, register online: https://ldclub.org/pickleball/
The LDC is looking for tournament sponsors at three levels. 100% of sponsor donations will go toward the LDC Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out The (Democratic) Vote in this important election year. Whether or not you plan to participate in the pickleball clinic or tournament, please consider becoming a tournament sponsor by donating here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/picksponsor.
Many thanks to the early and enthusiastic sponsors of the LDC Dinks and Dems Pickleball Tournament! Your donations will make a profound difference in expanding Democratic voter outreach to ensure that dedicated, competent, and responsible leaders and representatives are elected to every position on the ballot.
“FIRST CLASS DINKER” $340 (One more sponsor needed!)
provides 500 first-class mail stamps to reach Democratic voters
ANONYMOUS
BRUCE FIREMAN
“ACE” $120 (Goal met!)
provides 400 precinct-specific Democratic voter information guides
KATIE & RUSSELL CREIGHTON
CASEY FARMER
JOHN HALL
MARY ANN HOISINGTON
LATIKA MALKANI
KATIE RICKLEFS
TONY SUH
RENEE ZEIMER
“SMASH” $75 (10 sponsors needed)
provides 300 envelopes for precinct-specific Democratic voter information guides
LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB SPECIAL MEETING: CANDIDATES NIGHT PART 1
Wednesday, July 10, at 7 p.m. via Zoom
This meeting will be entirely dedicated to LDC candidate endorsements. LDC members in good standing will have the opportunity to meet candidates virtually and vote for candidate endorsements.
To renew your membership or join the club, click here: Join Now.
LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB SPECIAL MEETING: CANDIDATES NIGHT PART 2
Wednesday, August 21, at 7 p.m. via Zoom
This meeting will be entirely dedicated to LDC candidate endorsements. LDC members in good standing will have the opportunity to meet candidates virtually and vote for candidate endorsements.
To renew your membership or join the club, click here: Join Now.
2024 CANDIDATES SEEKING LDC ENDORSEMENT
If you are a candidate interested in the LDC’s endorsement for the November 2024 election, please contact Craig at endorsements@ldclub.org. Candidates who have already requested the club’s endorsement should receive the questionnaire by Monday, June 10.
LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB IN THE
ORINDA 4TH OF JULY PARADE
Celebrate Independence Day with the Lamorinda Democratic Club!
We are once again excited to have California Assembly Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan and team RBK walk with us in the Orinda Parade on Thursday, July 4.
Please join us! March with fellow Dems behind the LDC banner and stop by the LDC Booth at the Orinda Community Center.
For details, contact Valerie: vsloven@comcast.net or Tony: tonysuh@comcast.net
LDC HOT AUGUST NIGHT POLITICAL TRIVIA CHAMPIONSHIP
Wednesday, August 28 at the Lafayette Library
Be sure to register for the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s most popular event of the year!
“Trivia Night” offers the opportunity for LDC members and friends, Precinct Organizers and activists, candidates, and elected officials to come together in an informal way over complimentary frozen margaritas and finger foods, some political trivia, friendly competition and banter, and just for fun.
LDC Members, LDC Precinct Organizers, and elected officials receive complimentary admission with advance registration by Friday, August 17. All LDC members are welcome to invite one guest each — complimentary.
Click here to join the club or renew your membership: Join Now.
For other non-members attending, the registration fee is $20 per person.
LDC PRECINCT ORGANIZING PROJECT — READY FOR ’24!
REALIZE YOUR SUPERPOWERS AND JOIN THE LDC PRECINCT ORGANIZING PROJECT!
Whether or not you have ever participated in any sort of voter outreach, we welcome you to join the POP team and will provide all the tools necessary to make the experience as easy, stress-free, and rewarding as possible. There’s a job for everyone, no matter your technology skills or how little time you can devote. Please don’t let this election pass by without getting involved.
To join the team or inquire further, email Tracy: GOteam@LDclub.org
MEET FLORIDA CANDIDATE FOR U.S. SENATE — RIGHT HERE IN LAFAYETTE!
The Electing Women Bay Area PAC is hosting Florida U.S. Senate Candidate Debbie Mucarsel-Powell at a home in Lafayette on Thursday, June 13, at 12 noon. Click here for more information: https://womencount.org/teams/ewba-welcomes-debbie-mucarsel-powell-lafayette-2/.
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
Look for your membership status at the top of this email. If it is not “2024 Member,” please join today.
Your membership dues provide the funding that keeps the Lamorinda Democratic Club up and running, supports the LDC Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out the Vote and help win elections, and pays for all the special events and programs we host throughout the year.
We are counting on you in this very important election cycle!
Please join or renew online by clicking here: Join Now. Or, you may send in your dues payment by check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
If you would like to be able to vote on any and all upcoming issues or candidate endorsements, please keep in mind that only “members in good standing” are eligible to vote.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org.
May 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Speaking of a local issue with regional, state, and possibly national implications…
If you live in Lamorinda, Danville, Alamo, parts of Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Martinez, and Concord, you almost certainly know friends or neighbors who have had their homeowners’ insurance policies canceled. Insurance companies have pulled out of the state’s fire insurance market as quickly as the number of homes identified in high wildfire risk zones has grown — leaving thousands of homeowners to seek coverage through the California FAIR Plan, the insurer of last resort.
At a recent California State Assembly Insurance Committee hearing, the president of the California Fair Plan warned of the dire state of the plan,
“We don’t have the money on hand, and we have a lot of exposure.”
A representative from the insurance industry cautioned, the California Home Insurance crisis is “a ticking time bomb” and “We are going to have a major event and meltdown.”
Democratic Assemblymember Jim Wood commented, “We’re like one bad fire away from complete insolvency.”
At the center of the predicament is a plan with $200 million in insurance reserves, $2.5 billion in reinsurance, and over $300 billion in total exposure (already written policies.)
How did we get here? Where do we go from here? Are the warnings overblown?
I hope you can attend the next LDC general meeting on Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m. via Zoom, when California State Senator Steve Glazer will join us for a legislative update including the topic of California homeowner insurance non-renewals.
To those of you who are moms, have played a mother’s role, or will be celebrating or remembering your own mom, Happy Mother’s Day.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
LDC MAY GENERAL MEETING
California Housing Insurance … a ticking time-bomb?
Wednesday, May 15 at 7 p.m.
Click here to receive the Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcpcOyvrD8sH9zEJLImZa72XXso8zN5HsYK
LDC DINKS & DEMS PICKLEBALL FUNDRAISER FOR PRECINCT ORGANIZING
Saturday, June 22, 4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
at the Lafayette Rink (Lafayette Community Center) 576 St. Mary’s Rd.
Tournament, Clinic, Music, Pizza, Fun!
To participate in the pickleball clinic or tournament, register online by June 1: https://ldclub.org/pickleball/
Between now and June 1, the LDC is looking for tournament sponsors at three levels. 100% of sponsor donations will go toward the LDC Precinct Organizing Project – to Get Out The (Democratic)Vote in this important election year. Whether or not you plan to participate in the pickleball clinic or tournament, please consider becoming a tournament sponsor by donating here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/dinks
First-Class Dinker (Hoping for 2 sponsors)
$340
provides 500 first-class mail stamps to reach Democratic voters
Ace (Hoping for 5 sponsors)
$120
provides 400 precinct-specific Democratic voter information guides
Smash (Hoping for 10 sponsors)
$60
provides 300 envelopes for precinct-specific Democratic voter information guides
LDC HOT AUGUST NIGHT POLITICAL TRIVIA CHAMPIONSHIP
Mark your calendars for one of the LDC’s most popular events of the year!
LDC members, friends, neighbors, Democratic candidates, elected representatives, and Precinct Organizers come together for a fun evening of trivia, margaritas, and camaraderie!
The Lamorinda Democratic Club Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship
Wednesday, August 28, 6 p.m. at the Lafayette Library
Online registration opening July 1: Details and Registration Links will be sent out SOON!
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
Look for your membership status at the top of this email. If it is not “2024 Member,” please join today.
Your membership dues provide the funding that keeps the Lamorinda Democratic Club up and running, supports the LDC Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out the Vote and help win elections, and pays for all the special events and programs we host throughout the year.
We are counting on you in this very important election cycle!
Please join or renew online by clicking here: Join Now.
Or, you may send in your dues payment by check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
If you would like to be able to vote on any and all upcoming issues or candidate endorsements, please keep in mind that only “members in good standing” are eligible to vote.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org.
April 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
On how many occasions do Americans simultaneously witness the same special event?
Whether you’ve booked an Airbnb in Cleveland, Ohio or plan to virtually watch the total solar eclipse, most of us will take time to experience the celestial phenomenon this Monday, April 8 just after noon California time.
No Super Bowl or Taylor Swift concert or final episode of MASH ever attracted the kind of attention of the last solar eclipse — seen across the continental United States by an estimated 215 million U.S. adults (88%.) How amazing would it be to see that many Americans voting in November!
What makes a total solar eclipse so special is of course its rare occurrence, but it is also the uniqueness of a bonding experience for millions of Americans — a source of conversation, connecting us before, during, and after the event. Will we notice that the birds chirp louder before they become silent, or that the temperature drops suddenly and a breeze kicks up? Will we see Baily’s Beads or the “diamond ring” effect?
We may watch with strangers, family, friends, or in peaceful solitude. But no matter how or where, Monday early afternoon will be a reminder of the power and joy of universal experience.
LDC Members and Friends, in this important election year when the potential threat to democracy is all too real and existential, we may do well to remember that sharing darkness and light, and coming together for common purpose, is powerful, rewarding, hopeful, and even fun.
It is certainly not something we will easily forget.
Be sure to wear your solar eclipse glasses!😎
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Next Lamorinda Democratic Club Monthly Meeting
Wednesday, April 10 at 7 p.m. via Zoom
The next LDC general meeting will be on Wednesday, April 10, via Zoom. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m.
LDC Members in good standing may vote on the 2024 Club Officers.
Click here to receive the Zoom meeting registration link: Registration link
LDC Precinct Organizing Election 2024 Kickoff Meeting
Saturday, April 20 at 11am Lamorinda location provided upon RSVP:
To join the LDC Precinct Organizing team or find out more, please email Tracy at: GOteam@LDclub.org
2024 Candidates Seeking LDC Endorsement
Please contact Craig at: issues@LDclub.org
Vote for California 2024 Democratic National Convention Delegates
Deadline to Register to Vote: April 11
California Democrats will send 496 delegates and 35 Alternates to the Democratic National Convention in 2024.
August 19–22 Chicago, Illinois
District-Level: Each of California’s 52 congressional districts (CDs) are allocated a number of district-level delegates and alternates, based on population and presidential voting from the 2016 and 2020 elections.
All voting will be electronic and will take place on April 21.
Register to vote: https://delegateapplication.com/register/voter
District 8: John Garamendi 3 Males/ 3 Females 1F Alternate
District 9: Josh Harder 2 Males/ 3 Females
District 10: Mark DeSaulnier 3 Males/ 3 Females 1M Alternate
District 14: Eric Swalwell 3 Males/ 3 Females 1F Alternate
At-Large: At-large delegates are selected from a statewide pool and offer another way for Democrats to participate in the national convention. Potential candidates for at-large delegate must submit Form B, pledging their support to a presidential candidate, within the filing period of February 12, 2024- April 24, 2024. At-Large Delegates are chosen by the Presidential Campaigns and confirmed by the Statewide Delegation at the May 18, 2024 meeting.
LDC Dinks & Dems Pickleball Fundraiser for Precinct Organizing
Saturday, June 22, 4:30 p.m.- 7:30 p.m. at the Lafayette Rink (Lafayette Community Center)
Tournament, Clinic, Music, Pizza, Fun!
Online Registration opening May 1: LDclub.org
LDC Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship
Wednesday, August 28 at the Lafayette Library
Online registration opening July 1: LDclub.org
Renew Your Lamorinda Democratic Club Membership
Or Join the Club
Your membership dues provide critical funding that keeps the Lamorinda Democratic Club up and running, supports the LDC Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out the Vote and help win elections, and pays for all the special events and programs we host throughout the year.
We are counting on you in this very important election cycle!
Please join or renew online by clicking here: https://ldclub.org/join-donate-square/.
Or, you may send in your dues payment by check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
If you would like to be able to vote on any and all upcoming issues or candidate endorsements, please keep in mind that only “members in good standing” are eligible to vote.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org.
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Right here, in our own Contra Costa backyard, a tragic event of historic proportion occurred 80 years ago. It has yet to receive the attention or resolution it deserves.
On July 17, 1944, a series of ammunition explosions at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine, took more than 300 lives, seriously injured another 400, destroyed cargo ships, millions of dollars in equipment and ammunition, and severely damaged the naval base and the town of Port Chicago.
It was World War II’s worst U.S. home-front disaster, and in its wake of destruction was found a trail of inequity and injustice.
Three weeks after the explosions, 50 surviving Black sailors were charged with mutiny for refusing tO return to work at the Port Chicago ammunition loading docks.
Their trial was the largest court-martial in U.S. history, and it ended on September 2, 1944, with the conviction and imprisonment of all 50 men — for conspiracy and mutiny.
All of the “Port Chicago 50“ have since passed away, but the effort to clear their names of wrongful convictions continues. Individuals like Jonathan U. Lee, Chair of the Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) Port Chicago Task Force, dedicate countless hours to raise awareness of the historic injustice and advocate for exoneration of the mutiny convictions.
LDC members and friends, the Lamorinda Democratic Club invites you to step aside from one night of the 2024 election news cycle—to hear the story of the Port Chicago 50, the trial that followed, and an update on the exoneration efforts at a local, county, regional, state, and federal level. Let’s find out if there is anything we can do to support the efforts to bend the arc towards justice a little more quickly.
I hope to see you at the next LDC general meeting on Wednesday, March 27, at the Lafayette Library. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
UP NEXT: LDC’S IN-PERSON MEETING
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31, 7 P.M., LAFAYETTE LIBRARY
THE PORT CHICAGO 50…80 YEARS AND STILL SEEKING JUSTICE
The next LDC general meeting will be in-person on Wednesday, March 27, at the Lafayette Library. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m.
The March general meeting will feature a presentation by Jonathan U. Lee, Assistant United States Attorney in the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California and Chair of the Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) Port Chicago Task Force. We will hear about the CCCBA Port Chicago Task Force goal to raise awareness of the Port Chicago Disaster, the injustice of the mutiny trial that followed, and the effort to seek exoneration of the mutiny convictions.
LDC MEMBERS VOTE:
BYLAWS AMENDMENTS AND CLUB BUDGET
LDC members in good standing will have the opportunity to vote on the 2024 club budget, a proposed bylaws change, and to hear an announcement of the officer nomination recommendations for 2024-25.
The proposed Bylaws changes would adjust the terms of officers to coincide with the calendar year and clarify how renewing members can become members in good standing after paying their dues. Here are red-line versions of the proposals (language to be added is underlined, language to be deleted has a line through it):
Article 2. Membership
Section 2.1. Members: Membership in the Club shall be open to all registered Democrats and to all persons under the age of voting registration who shall declare their loyalty to the Democratic Partyintend to register as Democrats when they register to vote.
a. Diversity shall be encouraged, and the Club shall actively recruit members in an effort to have a diverse Club membership.
b. Renewing members are members in good standing until their membership is delinquent. New and delinquent members become members in good standing 21 days after payment of their dues. Renewing members become members in good standing immediately upon payment of annual dues. New members (including those individuals who were not members in the previous year) will become members in good standing 21 days after payment of annual dues.
Section 2.2. Demographic Focus: The focus of the Club shall be the organizing of Democratic action in the communities of Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda and other nearby areas as shall best serve the purposes of the Club and those wishing to join the Club.
Section 2.3. Dues: The Board of Directors shall have the authority to establish classes of membership, such as individual, family, student, supporter, benefactor, etc.
a. Dues shall be set so as to provide the Club with funds for its activities but not so high as to discourage membership.
b. Membership dues shall be due January 1st of each year and shall be delinquent March 31st of the same year.
c. Only members in good standing are eligible to vote on any matters related to the Club’s elections of its officers, endorsements, finances or these bylaws brought before the membership for a vote. Only such eligible members shall be able to participate as officers of the Club or as chairs of any Club committees empowered to act on behalf of either the Club or its Board of Directors. Other members of the Club may, however, participate as volunteers in other capacities.
Article 5. Elections
Section 5.1. The President shall appoint the Nominating Committee in February August of each year. The Board of Directors must approve the appointments.
Section 5.2. The nominees for officers shall be submitted to the membership in April October of each year.
Section 5.3. The election of officers shall take place at the General Meeting in May >u>November of each year.
Section 5.4. The election of officers shall be conducted by a show of hands by the general membership at the May November meeting, following any nominations of members in good standing (along with at least one seconding nomination) from the floor by members in good standing (as defined in Section 2.1.b.).
Section 5.5. Officer terms run from January through December of each year. Terms will begin at the beginning of the January membership meeting, but no later than January 31.
LDC MEMBERS ELECTED TO THE CONTRA COSTA DEMOCRATIC CENTRAL COMMITTEE
Congratulations to LDC Board Members Katie Ricklefs and Renee Zeimer on reelection to the Democratic Party of Contra Costa Central Committee!
Now all six of the District 2 publicly elected representatives to the Central Committee are current members of the Lamorinda Democratic Club. Congratulations to Katie Ricklefs, Renee Zeimer, Marisol Rubio, Susan Hildreth, Sarah Butler, and Brodie Hilp.
Great to know there is sterling representation at the county level!
EAST BAY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT WARD 2 BOARD MEMBER VACANCY
The East Bay Municipal Utility District recently announced that it is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy for the Ward 2 Board Member.
Ward 2 lies in Contra Costa County and its boundaries include the Cities of Alamo, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Town of Danville; portions of San Ramon and Pleasant Hill and communities of Blackhawk and Diablo. The vacancy is due to the resignation of John A. Coleman, effective March 8, 2024. The EBMUD Board of Directors will appoint an individual to fill this seat.
The appointee will hold the seat until the next general election in November 2024. The individual subsequently elected in November 2024 would then serve the remainder of Coleman’s term—until December 31, 2026. The person selected to fill this vacancy in Ward 2 must be a registered voter and resident of the geographical boundaries of Ward 2. Eligibility can be verified by contacting the Contra Costa County Registrar of Voters at (925) 335-7800. You can also check your address on EBMUD’s interactive ward map.
Persons wishing to be considered for this seat must submit an application packet consisting of a letter expressing their interest and qualifications for selection (no more than two pages), a resume, and a minimum of three letters of reference. Application packets are due no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 22. For more information, please click here.
SUPERVISOR KEN CARLSON INVITES YOU TO THE 2ND ANNUAL JAMES MORIARTY MEMORIAL ST. PATRICK’S DAY FUNDRAISING DINNER
Supervisor Ken Carlson invites you to the fundraising dinner on Friday, March 15, at 5:30 p.m. at UA Local 342, 935 Detroit Avenue, in Concord. General admission tickets are $75 with sponsorships available. For more information or to donate, please click here.
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
Look for your membership status at the top of this email. If it is not “2024 Member,” please join today.
Your membership dues provide the funding that keeps the Lamorinda Democratic Club up and running, supports the LDC Precinct Organizing Project to Get Out the Vote and help win elections, and pays for all the special events and programs we host throughout the year. We are counting on you in this very important election cycle.
Please join or renew online by clicking here: https://ldclub.org/join-donate-square/. Or, you may send in your dues payment by check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
If you would like to be able to vote on any and all upcoming issues or candidate endorsements, please keep in mind that only “members in good standing” are eligible to vote.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org.
March 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Happy Super Tuesday!
As some of the county’s (and dare I say, “the country’s!”) most engaged and active Democrats, there is little doubt you filled out your ballots as soon as they arrived in the mail. Now, please be sure they have made their way to a mailbox, a drop box, or a polling location before 8 p.m. tonight — Tuesday, March 5, 2024.
If you have questions about your registration, ballot, or polling place, click here for the Contra Costa Elections website: https://www.contracostavote.gov/elections/
or call Contra Costa County Elections Department at (925) 335-7800.
To see a current list of drop boxes by city and address:
https://www.contracostavote.gov/elections/how-to-vote/voting-by-mail/
Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizers will soon be meeting to create the Get Out The Vote strategy for the 2024 General Election. Although General Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, California voters will begin receiving ballots by October 7.
LDC members and friends, it is not too soon or too late to join the LDC Precinct Organizing team!
LDC Precinct Organizers connect with registered Democrats in their own neighborhoods by reaching voters in the way that each individual Organizer finds most comfortable and convenient. Please join us! If you’d prefer to start by just dipping your toes in the Precinct Organizing pool, you are welcome to begin by helping out more experienced Organizers in your area.
Each election cycle, Lamorinda Democratic Club Precinct Organizers Get Out The (Democratic) Vote across Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Saranap, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, Alamo, Concord, Martinez, and San Ramon, together reaching more than 20,000 Contra Costa Democratic voters, neighbor to neighbor.
In the last election, Contra Costa precincts “covered” by LDC Precinct Organizers saw an average 76.6% turnout of registered Democrats! That is 16.1% higher than the Democratic turnout for the county and 19.2% higher than the registered voter turnout for the state of California.
Please join the LDC Precinct Organizing team. Help make a meaningful difference in the local community, the county, state, and nation by engaging your Democratic neighbors, providing them with important election information, and getting out the vote — to elect good, competent, dedicated Democratic representatives and community leaders at all levels of government. If you have questions, or would like to get involved please email: GOteam@LDclub.org
Please remind your friends and family to vote today!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Up Next: Lamorinda March Meeting
- The Port Chicago 50 … 80 Years and Still Seeking Justice
The next LDC general meeting will be in-person on Wednesday, March 27, at the Lafayette Library; doors open at 7 pm.
The March general meeting will feature a presentation by Jonathan U. Lee, Assistant United States Attorney in the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California and Chair of the Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) Port Chicago Task Force. We will hear about the CCCBA Port Chicago Task Force goal to raise awareness of the Port Chicago Disaster, the injustice of the mutiny trial that followed, and the effort to seek exoneration of the mutiny convictions.
- LDC Members Vote
2024 LDC Budget
LDC Bylaws Change
- Announcement of 2024 LDC Officer Nominations Recommended by LDC Board
Renew Your Lamorinda Democratic Club Membership for 2024
LDC member dues provide the necessary funding to keep local Democrats connected, build community, and win elections. Lamorinda Democratic Club members in good standing are eligible to participate in all Club events and activities, and to vote on Club by-laws, leadership, budget and endorsements.
To renew today online, click here: Renew Membership
Or, if you prefer to pay by check, mail to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
Membership Questions?
Contact LDC Membership Director Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org.
January 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Are your calendars marked for the LDC’s 2024 New Year’s Open House on Wednesday, January 31, at the Lafayette Library?
Don’t miss the next LDC general meeting which promises to be the perfect antidote to political campaign and news fatigue. I hope that hearing from an incredible line-up of Democratic local, county, and state district leaders and representatives will leave you feeling energized, hopeful, proud, and ready for action. The LDC Open House is also an opportunity for members, friends, neighbors, LDC Precinct Organizers, elected officials, and candidates to meet, informally engage on issues, and celebrate the community.
You will also hear from both Democratic candidates running for California State Senate District 9 in the March Primary Election: San Ramon City Councilmember Marisol Rubio and California State Assemblymember Tim Grayson.
Doors open at 7 p.m. and drinks and desserts will be on hand. I hope to see you there!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
LDC MEMBERS TO VOTE ON WHETHER TO ENDORSE
MORAGA SCHOOL BOND ON MARCH 2024 BALLOT
At the January 31 Open House, LDC members in good standing will have the opportunity to vote on whether to endorse Measure D, a Moraga school facilities bond that will appear on the March primary election ballot. The club’s Issues and Candidates Committee recommends that the club endorse the measure.
The Moraga School Board’s Resolution initiating this bond process can be viewed at: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1i3YJdPfWgVC-M2keKo-a9D3MJ3-B0J2_/view?usp=sharing. The language that will appear in the voter’s pamphlet begins on page 8. The school district has (as law allows) created a website in support of the measure: https://www.moraga.k12.ca.us/About-Us/District/Updating-School-Facilities/index.html.
IS YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP UP TO DATE?
Look for your membership status at the top of this email. If it is not “2024 Member,” please renew today. LDC membership dues support the vast array of programs, events, and club meetings that fulfill our mission to engage, educate, and elect Democrats. Lamorinda Democratic Club membership provides a unique opportunity to learn about candidates and issues, shape the Democratic party agenda at a grassroots level, and connect with local Democrats.
Membership, dues, and donations are also critical to the success of the LDC’s precinct organizing project, reaching more than 22,000 Democrats each election cycle to get out the vote and win elections.
To join the club or renew your LDC membership, click on this link: https://ldclub.org/join-donate-square/.
THANK YOU LAFAYETTE CITY COUNCILMEMBER TERESA GERRINGER
After nearly 23 years of public service in Lafayette—the last five as a member of the Lafayette City Council—Councilmember Gerringer announced her resignation from the City Council effective January 23, 2024.
Teresa is a longtime Lamorinda Democratic Club member and friend, and we wish her the best of luck in the next chapter of her life, as she looks forward to spending more time with her family in the Pacific Northwest.
It would be difficult for any of us to wrap our heads around the depth and breadth of Teresa’s public service. As both a professional and a volunteer, Teresa has been devoted to improving lives, and building and connecting community: five years on the Lafayette City Council (one year as Mayor), 18 years as a Lafayette School District Trustee, Communications Director for a Contra Costa Supervisor, District Director for a California State Senator, almost 11 years as a Delegate representing Region 7 on the California School Boards Association, a Charter member of the Lafayette Library & Learning Center Foundation Board, and council representative on various regional boards, including the Contra Costa Transportation Authority, California Cities East Bay Division Executive Board, CalCities Communications, Transportation and Public Works Policy Committee, and the Contra Costa County Solid Waste Authority/Recycle SMART, among others. Teresa also advocated for increased funding for education at the state and federal level, helped pass local revenue measures to fund improvements to school facilities and programs, and coordinated partnering with Contra Costa Transit Authority and local schools to bring the Street Smarts traffic safety program to Lafayette.
We will miss you, Teresa! Thank you for your amazing record of public service. You are leaving some mighty big shoes to fill!
The Lafayette City Council is accepting applications for new City Council appointment until 8 a.m. on Thursday, January 25, 2024.
The application form is available on the City of Lafayette website: https://www.lovelafayette.org/city-hall/city-council/council-vacancy.
CANDIDATES FOR CALIFORNIA STATE SENATE DISTRICT 9
Lamorinda is now in Senate District 9 after the most recent redistricting process. The first election with the new district lines will be held during the primary on March 5, 2024. You can see the new district lines in the map below. The Democrats who are seeking the office are San Ramon City Councilmember Marisol Rubio and California State Assemblymember Tim Grayson.
December 2023 – January 2024
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Here on the cusp of the new year, I am thinking about gratitude and resolution—gratitude for what we have accomplished together in 2023 and a New Year’s resolution to see the challenges of 2024 as exciting opportunities.
I once heard someone describe challenge as opportunity wrapped in ugly paper. My hope for the year ahead is that we can tear through the ugly wrapping to reveal and embrace the possibilities beneath.
2023 was a good year for the Lamorinda Democratic Club.
- We strengthened our community, connecting members, friends, new Democrats, local elected leaders, and representatives.
- We grew the LDC Precinct Organizing Project in a non-election year, adding six new precinct organizers from Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda. Welcome: Michael, Barbara, Evelyn, Hillary, Justine, and Melissa. Thank you for joining the team!
- We raised funds for expanding voter outreach via the LDC Precinct Organizing Project.
- We provided opportunities for local elected representatives and community leaders to keep us informed and educated on the issues.
- We maintained relationships with candidates who were elected in the last election.
- We engaged and educated local Democrats on a wide range of topics and stood together above the chaos and confusion, and the despair and frustration emanating from news headlines.
- We had fun spending time together!
LDC New Year’s Open House
LDC Precinct Organizing Pickleball Fundraiser
LDC Booth at the Orinda Fourth of July Parade
LDC Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship
LDC Booth at the Lafayette Art and Wine Festival
- We reminded Democrats about the importance of party organization and demonstrated grassroots power through the success of the LDC Precinct Organizing Project—reaching more than 20,000 Contra Costa Democrats each election cycle to elect smart, dedicated, competent individuals to every position on the ballot.
- We supported legislative issues at the local, state, and county level, that improve lives and transform communities.
I close the year grateful, hopeful, and resolute. Thank you, LDC members, for your ongoing membership, generosity, and dedication to our club’s mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect good, capable Democrats. I hope that together we continue to harness the energy and imagination that turn challenge into opportunity, and propel action.
May you and your friends and family find joy, comfort, peace, and love in 2024.
Happy New Year!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
NEXT LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB GENERAL MEETING
NEW YEAR’S OPEN HOUSE AT THE LAFAYETTE LIBRARY
Wednesday, January 31. Doors open at 7 p.m.
Members, friends, elected representatives, precinct organizers, community leaders, activists, and volunteers, please join us for this kickoff event for 2024—to reconnect, and celebrate the new year!
In addition to hearing from some of our favorite local leaders, LDC members will also have the opportunity to vote on whether to endorse Measure D, a Moraga school facilities bond that will appear on the March primary election ballot. The club’s Issues and Candidates Committee recommends that the club endorse the measure.
The Moraga School Board’s Resolution initiating this bond process can be viewed at: https://drive.google.com/
November 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
It is clear that voters are capable of holding multiple, complex, nuanced opinions simultaneously. Sometimes they can even appear contradictory.
How do we explain that 18 Ohio counties that voted for Trump in 2020 backed the Issue 1 Ohio Constitutional amendment protecting reproductive rights and abortion?
How do we explain that in some polls, voters rate the economy as their most important voting issue, and yet five swing states show Biden – arguably the most successful president since FDR in turning around the economy — losing ground to his predecessor?
How is it possible that Democratic Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear won his second term in a state that Trump carried by 26 points?
What questions will pollsters be asking to get an accurate picture of where voters are ahead of 2024? How will they account for the conflict, confusion, and controversy in American politics and in polling?
Please join us for the next Lamorinda Democratic Club general meeting this Wednesday, November 15 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. Former LDC Board member Brad Kent will guide us through the changes and implications of polling as we approach the next election. Brad is a PhD candidate in Political Science at UC Berkeley, where he has instructed undergraduates and graduate students in American Politics, Comparative Politics, Political Psychology, and Public Policy.
Please click on this link to receive a registration link for the Zoom meeting on Wednesday.
I hope you all enjoyed a meaningful Veterans Day weekend, and I wish you and your families a happy Thanksgiving.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
October 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
The unimaginable terrorist attack that struck Israel on Saturday morning consumes our minds and hearts as we think about the lives lost, the families devastated by news of loved ones taken hostage, and the unfathomable depth of fear in which millions of our fellow human beings struggle to live their daily lives.
Maintaining faith that “the bond of our common humanity is stronger than the divisiveness of our fears and prejudices” (Jimmy Carter, Nobel Lecture 2002) is critical, however challenging, to remaining hopeful for the possibilities of peace and conflict resolution.
LDC Members and Friends, please stay connected and involved. Let’s continue to promote the LDC’s ongoing mission — to engage, educate, and elect good committed, competent, and capable government representatives and leaders.
The next LDC general meeting will feature a legislative update from CA State Assembly Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan.
Click here to Register for a link to register for the meeting via Zoom, on WEDNESDAY, October 11, at 7p.m.
I look forward to seeing you on October 11.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
LDC at the September 2023 Lafayette Art & Wine Festival
Thank you LDC Board Member Valerie Sloven, for organizing the LDC booth at this annual Lafayette event that attracts upwards of 60,000 visitors each year.
From Valerie:
“… The weather was perfect and Lafayette was jumping with happy people.
Thank you, MaryAnn Hoisington, Cathy McRoberts, Tony Suh, Russell Creighton, Renee Zeimer, Steve Danziger, Shirley Shelangoski, Evelyn Hollenberg, Tom Duckworth and France Silcox for volunteering your time. Thanks also to Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan and AUSD Trustee Jennifer Chen for stopping by.
We had some good conversations with festival goers, friends and neighbors and handed out buttons and stickers. Many folks just stopped and said, “Thank You,” for being here.”
Renew your LDC membership or join the Club.
September marked the start of the LDC annual membership renewal campaign. Renew or join now, and your membership will be valid until 2025!
Membership dues finance the operation of the Club, allow us to host a variety of in-person events that keep us connected, and fund the LDC Precinct Organizing Project—Getting Out The Vote of thousands of Contra Costa Democratic voters each election cycle—to win elections.
To pay membership dues online, click here: LDclub.org
To pay membership dues by mail, please send a check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda, CA 94563
Questions about membership? Please email LDC Membership Director, Mike Rusk: MEMBERSHIP@LDclub.org
Join the LDC Precinct Organizing team.
Please help meet the 2024 goal of adding at least 17 new Precinct Organizers to an already amazing team—enabling the LDC to expand neighbor-to-neighbor voter outreach to thousands of additional Contra Costa Democrats.
To join the team or find out more, please email Tracy at goteam@LDclub.org
Thank you and “Welcome!” to the newest members of the LDC Precinct Organizing Project: Justine P., Evelyn H., Barbara H., and Michael T. I look forward working with you to Get Out The Vote in 2024!
LDC Members and Friends, if you live in any of the following towns or cities, we would especially love to have you join the Precinct Organizing team:
Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga, Walnut Creek, Concord, Danville, Alamo, Pleasant Hill, Martinez
September 2023
LDC Members and Friends,
Back to school, back to work, back home.
For those of us who still organize our lives around the academic calendar, September marks the start of each new year — whether a holdover from our own school days and those of our children, as educators, or just living summer to summer. As we crack open the cover of a brand-new monthly planner, we relive the jittery butterflies of a new beginning, and the chance to refresh our goals, opportunities, and perspectives.
Septembers reconnect us with old friends, introduce us to new prospects, and coax us to try something different. Septembers inspire us to plan and organize.
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends, this September, I hope you will consider the ways in which you can further participate in the mission of our club: to engage, educate, and elect. I hope you will stay connected, and help plan and prepare for an important general election year that will be underway in just 4 months.
To start this September off on the right foot, the experts advise: get enough sleep, pack a good lunch, make new friends, and don’t be afraid to get involved.
And be sure to take advantage of early school year LDC “extra credit” opportunities:
Renew your LDC membership or join the Club.
Membership dues finance the operation of the Club, allow us to host a variety of in-person events that keep us connected, and fund the LDC Precinct Organizing Project — Getting Out The Vote of thousands of Contra Costa Democratic voters each election cycle — to win elections.
Renew or join now, and your membership will be valid until 2025!
To pay membership dues online, click here: Join/Renew/Donate
To pay membership dues by mail, please send a check to:
LDC
Box 31
Orinda, CA 94563
Join the LDC Precinct Organizing team.
Between now and the end of this school year, our goal is to add at least 17 new Precinct Organizers to an already amazing team — allowing us to expand neighbor-to-neighbor Contra Costa Democratic voter outreach.
Specifically, we would love to recruit:
2 new Precinct Organizers from Lafayette
3 new Precinct Organizers from Moraga
3 new Precinct Organizers from Orinda
4 new Precinct Organizers from Walnut Creek and Pleasant Hill
1 new Precinct Organizer from Danville
2 new Precinct Organizers from Concord
1 new Precinct Organizers from Alamo
1 new Precinct Organizers from Martinez
To join the team or find out more, please email Tracy at: GOteam@LDclub.org
Volunteer or participate in an upcoming LDC event.
The LDC booth at the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival
Saturday, Sept. 23 (10am–7pm) & Sunday, Sept. 24 (10am–6pm)
The Lafayette Art & Wine Festival is possibly the largest annual festival in Contra Costa County. In 2022, over 65,000 people were in attendance — visiting more than 25 wine and beer booths, 3 continuous music stages, 4 kid zones, and more than 300 art and vendor booths!
Please stop by the LDC booth to say hi, meet your Democratic neighbors, check out a bounty of Democratic swag, or just to take a cool festival break. Our Club booth (#469) will be located on the North Side of Mt. Diablo Blvd., at 3568 Mt. Diablo Blvd, just outside of Mighty Market. If you are a 2024 Democratic candidate for election or reelection, the LDC booth is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to connect with lots of local Democratic voters, activists and LDC Precinct Organizers.
To volunteer for a one or two-hour shift at the LDC booth, or to reserve an election candidate time-slot, please contact LDC Board Member Valerie Sloven who will be managing the volunteer list. Email: slovenvsloven@comcast.net
I hope you enjoyed the summer days, exactly as you like, and that you are now ready for all that a new school year has in store.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
NEXT LDC GENERAL MEETING
Wednesday, October 11 at 7 p.m. on Zoom
Legislative Update from CA State Assembly-Member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan
LDC 2023 SUMMER RECAP
JUNE 2023 Dinks & Dems Pickleball Fundraiser for the LDC Precinct Organizing Project
What happens when dozens of enthusiastic Democratic pickleball junkies and newbies turn out on a balmy June evening at the Lafayette Community Center “Rink” to raise funds needed to expand the LDC Precinct Organizing Project? They have fun, and get the job done! Thank you LDC members and friends, city council members from Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga, Concord, and everyone who supported the effort as a sponsor, tournament player, cheerleader, or pickleball clinic participant. Also, massive thanks to the pickleball pros who donated their time to teach, and spread the joy of learning a new game.
We far surpassed our Precinct Organizing Project fund-raising goal and had such a good time, that there may be more LDC pickleball events in the future!
Congratulations to gold medal winners Bruce Fireman and Joe Farrell who had never even met before playing in the tournament together!
To see more photos from the event, click here: ldclub.org/pickleball/
JULY 2023 LDC at the Orinda 4th of July Parade
The Lamorinda Democratic Club was proud to resume our traditional spot in the Orinda 4th of July celebration. Thanks to LDC Board Member Tony Suh for organizing the LDC Booth at the end of the parade route. It was the perfect spot for local Dems to meet up after the festivities.
AUGUST 2023 LDC “Trivia Night”
No recounts or hanging chads with this crowd. When the results of the 7th annual Lamorinda Democratic Club Political Trivia Championship were tallied, there was a peaceful transfer of the perpetual trophy to this year’s winner. The Rossmoor Rockers had a commanding lead at half-time, propelled by their astounding pop music knowledge, but in the end, it may have been a combo of the “Barbie or Taylor” and “Corn & Iowa, and Primaries” that pulled out a win for this year’s champion — Congratulations Team CERTitude!
Well done Team sHEROe and Team Way to Go Ohio! who tied for second place, and bronze medalists, Rossmoor Rockers.
Many thanks to all who participated in “Trivia Night” and recognize there is nothing trivial about getting together and staying connected. There is nothing trivial about the power that comes from building community.
To see more photos from the event, click here: 2023 Trivia Night Pictures
LDC MEMBERS AND FRIENDS INVITED to CONGRESSMAN DESAULNIER ANNUAL RECEPTION
Join Congressman Mark DeSaulnier for his annual reception at Shadelands Ranch: Friday, September 8, 2023, 6:00PM – 8:00PM PT
Shadelands Ranch: 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road | Walnut Creek, CA 94598
Here is the link to register: ANNUAL RECEPTION
August 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Are you ready to chill?
Fortunately, the 2023 Lamorinda Democratic Club Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship is just around the corner!
Join the fun on Wednesday, August 9 at the Lafayette Library. LDC “Trivia Night” is an opportunity for Club members, friends, Democratic community leaders, activists, elected officials, candidates, and Precinct Organizers to get together for a cool evening of mingling, trivia, and fun. Frozen margaritas, finger foods, and lively banter will be free-flowing, and you may even come away with your team name engraved on the fancy perpetual trophy. Feel free to enter solo, or gather friends or colleagues and register as a team.
LDC members and Precinct Organizers receive complimentary admission with registration before August 9. Members and Precinct Organizers may also bring one complimentary non-member guest with advanced registration. For non-members, registration is $15 per person at the door.
To join the club before August 9, click here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joinldc
No trivia experience is necessary, and it’s really anyone’s game.
Rumor has it some of our favorite city council members may be back to defend their 2022 title, and Assembly-member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan and staff have already registered as a team. All the usual LDC suspects will be in attendance, so be sure to register today for this fun event!
Register for “Trivia Night” online, by clicking here:
https://forms.gle/Udwdvi2Jmjm8CVn46
I hope you’ll take a break to beat the heat on August 9, enjoy the opportunity to connect with Club members and friends, and help foster the kind of connections that can win elections and build community.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
July 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
The lazy days of summer have not kept Lamorinda Democratic Club members from remaining active, engaged, and connected.
Congratulations to the winners of the first LDC Dinks & Dems Pickleball Championship! Joe Farrell and Bruce Fireman rode to victory, undefeated in the round-robin tournament on June 17 at the Lafayette Rink. Not only was it their first tournament win — It was the first time they played together and the first time they met!
Dinking and driving to the sounds of Earth, Wind, and Fire, The Doobie Brothers, and all our favorite summer tunes, tournament players, pickleball “newbies,” cheerleaders, and team sponsors demonstrated enthusiasm usually reserved for Getting Out The Vote! A great time was had by all, and the event raised over $5,000 for the LDC Precinct Organizing Project — positioning us well for the 2024 election season.
Many thanks to all the generous LDC Precinct Organizing supporters, Dinks & Dems pickle ball players, “newbies,” sponsors and contributors who met the “We’re almost there!” donor challenges.
The LDC Precinct Organizing Project is about grassroots organizing, connecting, and mobilizing.
Each election cycle, LDC Precinct Organizers from Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga, Danville, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Martinez, Concord, and San Ramon reach thousands of Democrats in their own neighborhoods — to help elect competent, dedicated, and effective Democratic representatives and leaders to every spot on the ballot.
To join the LDC Precinct Organizing team or find out more,
email: Goteam@LDclub.org
Look for Dinks & Dems Pickleball event photos on the LDC website: LDclub.org
Lamorinda Democratic Club at Orinda 4th of July Parade
Thank you to all the LDC members and friends who stopped by the LDC booth at the Orinda Community Center after the 4th of July parade. Kudos to LDC Board Member Tony Suh, for coordinating LDC volunteers for this event!
Next Up: The Lamorinda Democratic Club Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship – WEDNESDAY, August 9 at 6 p.m.
No need for any trivia experience in order to participate! Feel free to enter solo, or to assemble a team. Perpetual Trophy presented to the winning team, and fancy medals awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Don’t miss this fun and informal opportunity to connect with LDC members, local electeds and activists, friends, and neighbors.
There will be margaritas, finger foods, wine, beer, and lots of friendly banter!
To register, go to: Trivia Night registration
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
June 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Don’t miss seeing your Democratic friends in action at the next Lamorinda Democratic Club event! I hope to see you at the Lafayette Rink on June 17 for the LDC Dinks & Dems Pickleball Fundraiser for the Precinct Organizing Project. Please help us prepare for 2024! Your participation and support will provide the necessary funds to expand Democratic voter outreach in Contra Costa County and help Dems win elections. If you are not able to participate as a player, or in the Newbie Clinic, please sponsor a player!
Please feel free to forward the invitation to your friends and neighbors.
See you at the courts!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
The Lamorinda Democratic Club invites you to participate in a
PICKLEBALL FUNDRAISER
for the
LDC Precinct Organizer Project
Saturday, June 17 – 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
at the Lafayette Community Center Rink
576 St. Mary’s Rd. in Lafayette
4 p.m. – 5 p.m. Intro to Pickleball Clinic
5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Pickleball Tournament
Register today! Players and Sponsors – register and donate here
The LDC Precinct Organizing Project is about grassroots organizing, connecting, and mobilizing.
We are a team, together reaching thousands of Contra Costa County Democratic voters each election cycle to engage, inform, and help elect competent, dedicated, and effective Democratic representatives and leaders to every spot on the ballot.
Unique, Effective, Local, Grassroots Organizing in Contra Costa County
The LDC “POP” (Precinct Organizing Project) is unique in its established and growing network of Precinct Organizers who connect with their Democratic neighbors each election cycle to identify all the precinct-specific Democratic candidates on their ballot, provide helpful precinct-specific information, and turn out the vote.
In the 2022 General Election, LDC Precinct Organizers reached more than 20,000 registered Democrats and Contra Costa precincts covered by LDC Precinct Organizers saw an average of 76.6% turn-out in registered Democrats! That is 16.1% higher than the Democratic voter turn-out for the county and 19.2% higher than the registered voter turn-out for the state of California.
Now it’s time to get ready for 2024!
Register today: Players and Sponsors – register and donate here
All fundraiser proceeds will go directly to support the work of LDC Precinct Organizers.
There are three ways to participate:
PLAY in the Dinks & Dems Tournament
-
Register today: Players and Sponsors – register and donate here
-
Find your sponsors. Click here for fundraising tips: https://ldclub.org/pickleball/
-
Ask sponsors to donate online or by check.
-
Play pickleball! Matchplay from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
-
Enjoy the after-party.
-
All matches will be doubles. If you don’t have a partner, no problem! We will connect you with a partner.
-
Feel good, knowing that you made a big difference in Getting Out The Vote, and helping to elect terrific Democrats across the ballot.
SPONSOR a Player
-
To sponsor a player online click here: Players and Sponsors – register and donate here
-
Encourage your Pickleball enthusiast friends to play for Precinct Organizing, and offer to sponsor them.
-
To sponsor a player by mail. Send check to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
PO Box 61
Orinda, CA 94563
-
If sponsoring by mail, please be sure to include the name of the player or players you are sponsoring, or indicate that you would like your donation to count towards any team needing a boost to make the minimum. [Write “Any Team” on the memo line of your check.]
LEARN
-
Participate in the Pickleball Clinic pre-event from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.
-
There will be two divisions: one for Pickleball Newbies (those who have played a little), and one for Pickleball First-Timers (those who have never played.)
-
Register for the Pickleball Clinic with a $50 donation to the LDC Precinct Organizing Project. Register for the Newbies Pickleball Clinic
Just make a donation to Pickleball fundraiser
For more on the Precinct Organization Project, click here: Precinct Organizing Project
Questions? email: info@LDclub.org
May 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Neither the unseasonably cool and rainy evening nor the first game of the Warriors-Lakers NBA Playoffs stood in the way of a surprisingly full house at Stanley Middle School in Lafayette on Tuesday night. Lots of familiar faces from the Lamorinda Democratic Club, Lafayette City Council, and Lafayette School Board, were among those who came to hear an update from our Congressman Mark DeSaulnier.
It was the Congressman’s 181st Town Hall meeting since he was first elected in 2014. Connecting with thousands of constituents each year in town halls, district offices, schools, and businesses, in every corner of the district is just one part of an impressive record of accomplishments, and as was evident, a part of the job that he enjoys.
Often introduced as “the hardest working congressman in the House,” Congressman DeSaulnier has a reputation for humility, unique in a profession more associated with ego. He has managed to work quietly, under the radar, to serve his constituents and get the job done — until reporters started paying more attention this week.
“Little Known Democrat”… New York Times
“Political Man of Mystery”… Esquire
“Legislative Secret Agent” … Lawrence O’Donnell
[ just three of the monikers used to describe Congressman DeSaulnier this week]
The congressman had a busy week. He presented a $3 million check to the City of Lafayette to improve traffic safety and create safe school routes, another to the City of Walnut Creek to expand broadband and facilitate smart infrastructure, and delivered additional funding to the School Pantry Program at White Pony Express. He awarded students and artists, and presented his ongoing work to improve transportation and infrastructure, advance mental healthcare, and deliver gun safety reforms.
It was, however, news of his draft and introduction of a Discharge Petition, that drew the unusual media attention Congressman DeSaulnier received these last few days. Deployment of the obscure, rarely-used rules device was openly crafted, as an emergency option, should the U.S. reach the precipice of the debt ceiling cliff. Congressman DeSaulnier was fine with describing the weedy, complicated procedure to anyone who inquired. He’s a Rules guy.
“I wrote it in a way to be prepared,” said Mr. DeSaulnier, a former member of the Rules Committee who worked with Democratic procedural experts to craft legislation that could provide a debt-limit escape hatch. “I anticipated there would be these problems with the Republican caucus, whether it was abortion or the debt limit. I think it was the responsible thing as a legislator to do.”
… New York Times May 2, 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club members and friends know the importance of supporting and electing smart, competent, responsible leaders and legislators to every spot on the ballot.
You never know when a “Little Known Democrat” may try to save the day.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Next LDC General Meeting
Thursday, May 11 at 7 p.m. via Zoom
Legislative and Issues Update by LDC Issues and Candidates Co-Chairs, Craig Cheslog and Tom Duckworth
Membership Vote: LDC Board Officers
Nominated by the LDC Nominating Committee, and recommended by the LDC Board:
-
- President: Tracy Brog
- 1st Vice President: Peter Ericson
- 2nd Vice President: Mike Rusk
- Treasurer: Russell Creighton
- Secretary: France Silcox
Dinks & Dems Pickleball Fundraiser for the LDC Precinct Organizing Project
Saturday, June 17th from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Lafayette Community Center Rink.
To register as a player, or for the Intro to Pickleball Clinic by June 1, click on the appropriate link below.
Players and Sponsors – register and donate here
Register for the Newbies Pickleball Clinic
Just make a donation to Pickleball fundraiser
All tournament matches will be doubles play, but don’t worry if you don’t have a partner. Sign up and we will happily find you a partner!
Find more information on the LDC website: LDclub.orgor email: info@LDclub.org
April 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
There is real scientific evidence that the longer days, brighter colors, and shrinking shadows of spring make us happier and even healthier. Our circadian clocks tick more evenly, and shorter wavelengths of blue and violet light scatter more efficiently across the sky— making it bluer. Spring gets us ready to head outside and excited to move forward.
The upcoming April 13 LDC general meeting literally is sure to get us moving forward in the right direction. The early 2023 LDC focus on Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience already provided provocative and engaging presentations on Housing, and Energy. Next up is Transportation and Infrastructure.
We are delighted to welcome local leaders – city and town council members and mayors – from Concord, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Orinda, and Moraga for a panel presentation on Local Motion—an update on local transportation and infrastructure plans, challenges, and improvements.
Here are just a few questions to get you thinking about the topic:
How do you move through your town for work, recreation, shopping, dining, school?
Has climate change caused you to consider new modes of transportation — for adaptation? Mitigation?
What sorts of obstacles prevent you from making a switch to biking, walking, electrical vehicles, or public transportation?
How can we effectively support the efforts of our local leaders and legislators to create cleaner, greener, safer movement through and around our towns and cities?
In addition to the April 13 general meeting program, the LDC Nominating Committee will present the Board-recommended nominees for 2023 LDC officers. LDC Members-in-good-standing will have the opportunity to vote on:
- LDC Board-recommended Club alternative representative to the Democratic Party of Contra Costa County (DPCC): Valerie Sloven
- LDC Board-approved budget proposed for 2023
- LDC Board-recommended proposed changes to bylaws (Click here to see proposed changes)
I look forward to seeing you at the next meeting. In the meantime, let’s clean out the closets, turn over the soil in the flower beds, open all the windows, and allow ourselves the space to imagine new possibilities and new ways of moving forward.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Next Lamorinda Democratic Club Meeting: Thursday, April 13 at 7 PM via Zoom
Local Motion… an update on local transportation and infrastructure plans, challenges, and improvements
Guest Speakers:
Carl Anduri, Lafayette Mayor
Wei-Tai Kwok, Lafayette City Councilmember
Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek City Councilmember
Carlyn Obringer, Concord City Councilmember
Latika Malkani, Orinda City Councilmember
Renata Sos, Moraga Mayor
Click here to register for the Zoom link :https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtf-uqrDsjGNO3e5gAXjdpIssg6dkohyhd
2023 LDC Membership Renewal Drive Ends Friday, March 31
To renew your membership for 2023, please go to:
https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joinldc
Alternatively, you may mail a $60 check for membership dues to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda, California 94563
If you find membership dues to be prohibitive or challenging, please contact membership@LDclub.org to request a waiver. All requests are treated confidentially.
Last Day to Renew Membership for CADEM Roster: April 4
April 4 is the last day to renew your membership in order to be considered a “member in good standing” for our roster submission to the California State Democratic Party.
The number of individuals who are LDC members as of April 4 will determine the LDC’s representation at the California Democratic Party Pre-Endorsement Conference. This directly affects our influence on the state Democratic Party’s endorsement of candidates for California State Senate and Assembly as well as the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Please renew today!
Dinks, Drinks & Dems! … a Pickleball Fundraiser for the LDC Precinct Organizing Project: Saturday, June 17, 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Lafayette Rink
Save the date for this fundraiser! Pickleball is the fastest growing and most Democratic sport in America! Whether you’re a player, sponsor, or cheerleader, there is a role for everyone who would like to participate in this fun event. All proceeds will go to support the LDC Precinct Organizing Project — reaching more than 20,000 Contra Costa Dems each election cycle — to get out the vote and help win elections in Lamorinda, Walnut Creek, Concord, Martinez, and throughout Contra Costa County.
March 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Seeing snow on the top of Mt. Diablo this week was a beautiful, if unfamiliar event.
We have certainly witnessed rainy weeks and rare snowy days in this part of the world, but science predicts increasingly longer-lasting, more catastrophic weather patterns ahead.
Now the grey clouds tinged with climate change cling to every new downpour and flood and wildfire—with a foreboding finger-wag, as if to reprimand, “It’s too late to go back! Now it’s about adaptation, resilience, and preparation—not just mitigation.”
In January’s general meeting, we heard Steve Falk describe the intersection of housing, environment, city planning, and climate change. The next Lamorinda Democratic Club general meeting will welcome an expert in the field of energy—so we can hear about emerging climate change resiliency technologies and what else is in the energy toolbox for climate change adaptation.
Learning about this important and topical issue may make us more informed voters, better-prepared citizens, and more confident and responsible community members, leaders, and representatives. More importantly, it may be able to restore some sense of control and hope in the future.
March is the perfect month to move forward—focused on positive change, with a renewed energy!
I hope to see you at the next Zoom meeting on Thursday, March 9, at 7 p.m.
Best,
Tracy Brog
President, Lamorinda Democratic Club
NEXT GENERAL MEETING:
Good Energy! … Options for Climate Change Resilience & Adaptation
Thursday, March 9, 7 p.m. via Zoom
Dr. Sean Ericson spent six years working at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado and is currently a member of the Energy Systems and Climate Analysis Group at Electrical Power Research Institute. He has a master’s degree in Mineral and Energy Economics from the Colorado School of Mines and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Colorado Boulder.
Club Business…Member Vote to Approve the LDC Budget for 2023/24
Please click here to register and receive the Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcsc-6gqzkiHtd4CVoGocpQQUk61bzPFWD0. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
LDC ENDORSES ORINDA MEASURE Z
If you are an Orinda registered voter, please Vote “YES!” on Measure Z—to keep great teachers in Orinda Schools!
Special Election: Tuesday, March 7, 2023
February 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
I know we are all still reeling from the news of multiple mass shootings in our own state—and more U.S. mass shootings in January 2023 than there were days in the month. I know we are sickened and heartbroken by the atrocious violence that claimed the life of a 29-year-old Memphis father who loved skateboarding, photographing sunsets, and dinners with his family. I know we feel sick and tired of the effort to affect the kind of change we want to see.
But you know who else must be tired?
The Sandyhook parents who never saw their children blow out the candles on their 6th birthday cake,
the Parkland parents who never heard their teenagers say, “Mom, Dad! You’re embarrassing me!” as they took one more prom photo,
the grandchildren from Half Moon Bay who never had the chance to finish hearing their grandparents’ immigration stories,
Tyre’s mom—who had to hear accounts of her son’s heart-wrenching call for help, “Mom!” while he was being brutally beaten by the police officers who swore an oath to protect him,
and the parents, children, uncles, aunts, grandparents and best friends of the too-short lives taken by guns and violence every day on American streets.
So, while California can boast the strictest gun laws in the country, there is still more we can do. And while charges were filed swiftly against the Memphis police “scorpion” unit, we still have a long way to travel along “the arc of the moral universe” as it bends towards justice.
Engaging, Educating, and Electing Democrats is the mission of the Lamorinda Democratic Club. In times like these, nothing we do seems like enough. But we can draw inspiration and energy from witnessing the parents, children, friends, and family who, with grace and dignity, just keep going—to chip away—with the hope that piece by piece, we will get there together.
In this Lunar Year of the Rabbit, I wish you peace, hope, prosperity, and good health.
Sincerely,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
The Lamorinda Democratic Club 2023 Open House
on Thursday, February 9
7 p.m. at the Lafayette Library
Members, friends, city, county, and state elected representatives, party leaders, and activists—please join us for this fun in-person event at the Lafayette Library (3491 Mount Diablo Blvd, Lafayette, CA 94549) to kick off the new year, meet, mingle, and enjoy drinks and desserts.
Among the featured speakers, we will hear from:
Ken Carlson, Contra Costa County Supervisor
Carl Anduri, Lafayette Mayor
Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek City Council
Latika Malkani, Orinda City Council
Rob Sturm, Lafayette School Board
Edda Collins Coleman, Orinda School Board
Dave Smith, Lafayette School Board
Steve Danziger, Moraga Orinda Fire District Director
Liz Daoust & Charles Heath, Orinda Measure
PLEASE RENEW YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP FOR 2023
To renew online, please click here.
To renew by mail, please send a check ($60 for a single annual membership) to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
PO Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
Unsure of your LDC membership status? Email Mike Rusk: Membership@LDclub.org
January, 2023
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
I hope you are staying safe and dry on these stormy days. The 2023 rainy season in our part of California is off to a promising start. Now it’s time to replenish the reservoirs of the Lamorinda Democratic Club!
Weathering four elections in the space of the last 16 months was no small task for our club. In each election cycle, the LDC performed an outsized role in Engaging, Educating, and Electing Democrats.
GOTV
The Lamorinda Democratic Club Got Out The Vote for Democratic candidates across Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Saranap, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Danville, Alamo, Concord, Martinez, and San Ramon.
LDC Precinct Organizers reached more than 20,000 Contra Costa Democratic voters in each election cycle, person to person, producing Democratic voter turnout that was above state and county percentages. In the last election, Contra Costa precincts “covered” by LDC Precinct Organizers saw an average 76.6% turnout of registered Democrats! That is 16.1% higher than the Democratic turnout for the county and 19.2% higher than the registered voter turnout for the state.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
The LDC saw another successful year bringing together local Dems to meet, learn, and build community.
Monthly Zoom meetings (including a virtual Open House), the annual Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship, and the LDC booth at the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival are just a few examples of the ways in which we reached out, expanded, and connected.
SUPPORTING DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES & ELECTEDS
Whether running for local, city, county, or state office for the first time or for reelection, Democratic candidates and incumbents sought the LDC’s endorsement—knowing it comes with effective volunteer organizing and support that translates into votes.
While you hunker down to stay dry, I hope you can find time to celebrate all this new rain and snow. Please also take a minute to renew your membership, so the LDC can refill its reservoir and continue the mission to Engage, Educate, and Elect Democrats.
Online: https://ldclub.org/join-donate/
By Mail: P.O. Box 31, Orinda CA 94563
I look forward to seeing you at the LDC General Meeting on Thursday!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
First LDC General Meeting of the Year
Thursday, January 12
7 p.m. via Zoom featuring Guest Speaker Steve Falk
Currently a lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley, Goldman School of Public Policy, Steve spent more than 28 years as Lafayette’s City Manager, followed by his roles as Interim City Manager for the cities of Richmond, Oakland, and Hercules. He was also the subject of a 2020 New York Times feature story, Build Build Build Build Build, and was presented with the Bay Area Metro Award in 2019 for his vocal support of housing “to address climate change, income inequality, and housing affordability.” Steve has a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from Harvard University and also is an artist and writer.
Register to receive a Zoom link for the meeting by clicking here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvf-uurzMsG9Hg8K-BQtGqHihj7XhglM9r. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
The Lamorinda Democratic Club 2023 Open House
on Thursday, February 9
7 p.m. at the Lafayette Library
Members, friends, city, county, and state elected representatives, party leaders, and activists—please join us for this fun in-person event at the Lafayette Library (3491 Mount Diablo Blvd, Lafayette, CA 94549) to kick off the new year, meet, mingle, and enjoy drinks and desserts.
CADEM ASSEMBLY DISTRICT DELEGATE ELECTIONS FOR ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 16
There is still time to register and vote in person for our district’s delegates to the California Democratic Party State Convention!
Several Lamorinda Democratic Club members, including LDC Board Member Tom Duckworth, are running. Click here to see a list of all the candidates in Assembly District 16. Registered Democrats in each Assembly District will elect 14 delegates for a two-year term, including seven self-identified females and seven other than self-identified females.
The in-person location for Assembly District 16 will be announced soon, but ballots can be dropped off at any voting location in the state. Click here to see these voting locations and times. In-person voter registration opportunities will end on January 22, 2023.
These Assembly District Elections are one of three major ways delegates are selected for the California Democratic Party. These delegates vote on California Democratic Party business—including endorsements, resolutions, state party officers, and the state party’s platform.
All Democratic Party County Central Committees elect delegates from among their members. The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County elects delegates from each Supervisorial District (ours is District 2) and then the rest in an at-large vote of the entire membership in good standing. These elections among members in good standing will happen at the DPCCC’s Organizational Meeting on Thursday, January 19, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about these elections by clicking here.
California Democratic Party delegates are also selected by appointment from statewide party officers and by Democratic Party Elected Officials (or the highest vote-getting Democrat if no Democrat was elected) for statewide offices; the U.S. Senate; and State Assembly, State Senate, and Congressional offices.
RENEW YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP
To renew online, click here: https://ldclub.org/join-donate/
To renew by mail, please send a check ($60 for a single annual membership) to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
PO Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
December, 2022
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
May you and yours find comfort and joy in this holiday season.
We look forward to the year ahead and thank you very much for being part of the LDC family as we build community and continue to meet the mission of the Lamorinda Democratic Club: to Engage, Educate, and Elect.
Please be sure to mark your calendars for the first two LDC events of 2023!
Best wishes and Happy New Year!
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
First LDC General Meeting of the Year on Thursday, January 12
7 p.m. via Zoom featuring guest speaker, Steve Falk
Currently a lecturer at University of California, Berkeley, Goldman School of Public Policy, Steve spent more than 28 years as Lafayette’s City Manager, followed by his roles as Interim City Manager for the cities of Richmond, Oakland, and Hercules. He was also the subject of a 2020 New York Times feature story, Build Build Build Build Build, and was presented with the Bay Area Metro Award in 2019 for his vocal support of housing “to address climate change, income inequality, and housing affordability.” Steve has a Master’s Degree in Public Policy from Harvard University and is also an artist and writer.
Register to receive a Zoom link by clicking here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvf-uurzMsG9Hg8K-BQtGqHihj7XhglM9r
The Lamorinda Democratic Club 2023 “Open House” on Thursday, February 9
7 p.m. at the Lafayette Library
Members, friends, city, county, and state elected representatives, party leaders and activists:
Please join us for this fun in-person event to kick off the new year, meet, mingle, and enjoy drinks and desserts.
Join the Club/Renew Your Membership for 2023
Please click here to pay dues online: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joinldc
Or, you may pay by check:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda, CA 94563
Dues are $60 per year per individual membership, $120 per year per family membership.
Your membership is important to us. If you are a student, or find membership dues to be prohibitive, please contact Membership@LDclub.org to request a waiver. All waiver requests will be treated confidentially.
November, 2022
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Are we there yet?
As organizers, candidates, and active Democrats, the long election season can remind us of being seven years old in the backseat of a station wagon on a long road trip. But now, with just two days to go, the election energy and excitement is electric and Lamorinda Democratic Club members and friends are rallying enthusiastically to cross the finish line together!
LDC Precinct Organizers are the heart and soul of the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s mission: to Engage, Educate, and Elect Democrats. From the time that ballots were mailed out in early October, LDC Precinct Organizers have been meeting, mailing, emailing, and calling Democratic voters in their neighborhoods, and most will continue to Get Out The Vote until polls close at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 8.
Early Democratic voter ballot returns in neighborhoods covered by LDC Precinct Organizers demonstrate the success of our determined efforts. Until every Democrat votes, turnout is never as high as our hopes, but the Lamorinda Democratic Club can feel proud of building a strong team of Organizers, creating an inclusive and welcoming community, and supporting outstanding responsible, capable, and qualified candidates running for every race on the ballot.
The LDC has become a trusted resource for the community in guiding local Democrats and candidates. LDC Members recognize that the decisions made by local government can affect positive, meaningful change on many of the issues about which Democrats care most.
City councils and school boards, district and county representatives,d and legislators can have a powerful influence on lives, even beyond the times and communities in which they directly serve.
I hope that by the time all the ballots are counted in Contra Costa County, we will have much to celebrate.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
RENEW YOUR LAMORINDA DEMOCRATIC CLUB MEMBERSHIP
To renew online, click here: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joinldc
To renew by mail, please send a check ($60 for a single annual membership) to:
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda CA 94563
October, 2022
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
For Contra Costa County citizens who value progress on the agendas, policies, and actions of city government, school boards, and county leadership, this 2022 mid-term election is a must-get-out-the-vote situation.
Fortunately, Lamorinda Democratic Club members and associates are among the most informed and active Democrats in the county. Our communities are counting on the energetic, enthusiastic, and motivating efforts of the LDC to help outstanding candidates win these local elections.
To support a remarkably qualified field of dedicated, responsible, experienced, Democratic candidates across the 2022 ballot is an exciting opportunity and should make anyone of us feel proud.
LDC Precinct Organizers are already in the wings and ready for action! By next week, when voters receive ballots, Organizers will have begun the process of connecting with Democrats in their precincts, neighbor-to-neighbor—to provide precinct-specific information about how, where, and when to vote—and a guide to identifying the Democratic candidates and the LDC-endorsed candidates for every race on their ballot. From past election experience, we know that Democratic voters find the guides helpful in informing their voting decisions, and we know that the efforts of LDC Precinct Organizers produce greater Democratic voter turnout.
There is still time to join the Precinct Organizing Team! No experience is necessary. Organizers are provided with the necessary tools, work within their own availability schedules, and reach voters in whatever way they find most comfortable and convenient. If you would like to join the team or find out more, please contact me by emailing: GOteam@LDclub.org.
The next Lamorinda Democratic Club general meeting is Thursday, October 6 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. It will feature the traditional LDC pre-election “BYOB” (Bring Your Own Ballot) program—including a presentation of the ballot propositions by the LDC “Pros & Cons Dynamic Duo,” Peter Ericson and Tom Duckworth.
Please be sure to check out the Lamorinda Democratic Club website for upcoming election information, including a list of the LDC-endorsed candidates, links to candidate websites, and community candidate forums. LDclub.org
I hope to see you at the meeting on Thursday, October 6, and look forward to working with fellow LDC Precinct Organizers between now and November 8!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
September, 2022
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Local political races are heating up as quickly as our September weather.
By now, LDC members have had the opportunity to hear directly from 15 Democratic candidates seeking the Club’s endorsement for the 2022 general election.
LDC Issues and Endorsement Committee members have discussed candidates, considered questionnaire answers, and done the homework to make informed and responsible recommendations. The Issues & Candidates Committee has also observed and participated in interviews with many of these candidates during the DPCCC (Democratic Party of Contra Costa County) District 2 endorsement recommendation process.
Now it’s up to LDC Members!
The next general meeting of the Lamorinda Democratic club will take place this Wednesday, September 14 at 7 p.m., via Zoom, and all members in good standing will have the opportunity to vote on candidate endorsements. Please note that this is a different date than our typical schedule.
LDC endorsements are particularly meaningful for those incumbents and candidates seeking reelection and election in local, county, and statewide races.
The announcement of candidates receiving the Club’s endorsement will go out to over 700 of the most active, connected, and dependable Democrats in Contra Costa County.
LDC endorsed candidates will also benefit by having their names highlighted on the information distributed to hundreds and even thousands of voters in each precinct where LDC Precinct Organizers will be Getting Out The Vote neighbor-to-neighbor.
All LDC-endorsed candidates will be featured at the LDC booth at the Lafayette Art, Wine, and Music Festival next weekend: Saturday, September 17, and Sunday, September 18. Over the course of the weekend, the festival typically attracts more than 85,000 visitors—many of whom stop by the LDC Booth to find out how to cast their votes! The festival could not come at a more perfect time—just two weeks ahead of ballot mailing. We hope that LDC-endorsed candidates will use the Lamorinda Democratic Club booth as a “home-base” from which they can distribute campaign materials, and meet as many voters as possible. (See LDC booth location details at the end of this email.)
Decisions made at every level of government have micro and macro implications. The ways in which local elected officials work and collaborate to make our communities more inclusive, more diverse and equitable, cleaner, greener, safer, and better connected, can have profound effects beyond the confines of their offices.
The threads of democracy run through every race on the ballot. It matters who is elected as a school board member, city council member, county supervisor, or county clerk. Decisions made by water district and fire district board members have never been more critical.
Lamorinda Democratic Club members, I hope you will participate in Wednesday’s 2022 Candidate Endorsement meeting.
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Lamorinda Democratic Club Issues & Candidates Committee
Candidate Endorsement Recommendations
Board of Supervisors
Ken Carlson (District 4)
East Bay Municipal Utility District
Marguerite Young (Ward 3)
Acalanes Union High School District
Jennifer Chen
Orinda City Council
Latika Malkani
Stuart House
Lafayette School Board
Katy Foreman
Robert Sturm
Dave Smith
Orinda School Board
Edda Collins Coleman
Contra Costa County Board of Education
Sarah Butler (Area 2)
Moraga Orinda Fire Protection District
Chris Young (District 1)
Steve Danziger (District 3)
Michael Donner (District 4)
Contra Costa Community College District
Rebecca Barrett (Ward 3)
Contra Costa County Clerk
Kristin Connelly (endorsement carries over from the primary election)
Lamorinda Democratic Club Issues & Candidates Committee
Statewide Proposition Endorsement Recommendations
YES on Proposition 1 (Provides a state constitutional right to reproductive freedom, including the right to an abortion)
YES on Proposition 28 (Requires funding for K-12 art and music education)
YES on Proposition 31 (Upholds the ban on flavored tobacco sales)
Calendar for 2022 Candidate Community Forums
LDC Members and Friends—please support our candidates by attending as many upcoming candidate forums as your schedule allows. There will be plenty of time for questions and answers.
Monday, October 3 at 7 p.m.
Candidates for Lafayette School District Board
Sponsors: League of Women Voters-Diablo Valley, Las Trampas Creek Council of PTAs
Stanley Multi-Purpose Room, Stanley Middle School
3455 School St., Lafayette
Tuesday, October 4 at 6 p.m.
Candidates for Contra Costa Board of Supervisors, District 4
Sponsors: League of Women Voters-Diablo Valley, Contra Costa Libraries
Walnut Creek Main Library
1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek
(CCTV will record and televise. Available on LWV/DV YouTube and votersedge.org)
Wednesday, October 5 at 7 p.m.
Candidates for Acalanes Unified High School District Board
Sponsors: League of Women Voters, Diablo Valley, Acalanes Parents Club, Campolindo Parents Club, Las Lomas PTSA, Miramonte Parents Club
Del Valle Education Center
1963 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek Room 401
Thursday, October 6 from 6-8 p.m.
Candidates for Orinda City Council
Sponsors: League of Women Voters-Diablo Valley, Orinda Association
Orinda Library
Thursday, October 6 from 6-8 p.m.
Candidates for Moraga Orinda Fire District Board
District 3 and District 4
Sponsors: League of Women Voters-Orinda Association
Orinda Library
Thursday, October 13 at 7:30 p.m.
Candidates for Orinda School District Board
Sponsors: League of Women Voters-Diablo Valley, Orinda Association, Orinda News, Orinda One, Las Trampas Creek Council of PTAs
Orinda Library
(Recording available via Zoom on LVW/DV YouTube and http://www.votersedge.org)
Thursday, October 13 at 6:30 p.m.
Appointed Lafayette City Council Members for 2023
Sponsor: Lafayette Homeowners Council
Thursday, October 13 at 7 p.m.
Candidates for Lafayette School District Board
Sponsor: Lafayette Homeowners Council
Thursday, October 20 at 7 p.m.
Candidates for Acalanes U.H. School Board
Sponsor: Lafayette Homeowners Council
Lamorinda Democratic Club Booth
Lafayette Art, Wine & Music Festival
Saturday, September 17 & Sunday, September 18
Please come and join us at the Lafayette Art and Wine Festival!
The LDC’s Booth Location is in front of Learning Express at 5205 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Booth #469.
Extra August, 2022 Letter – Candidate Meeting
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Don’t miss the opportunity! TOMORROW (Thursday, August 25), at least 13 fantastic Democratic candidates on the November ballot will be participating in the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s “Meet the Candidates Night” starting at 7 p.m. via Zoom.
It will be an LDC Candidate Lalapalooza! So please join the meeting and hear about why these candidates are motivated to run for office, what sort of experience has prepared them for the roles they’re seeking, and what they will uniquely bring to the position.
If you plan to attend and have a question for any of the participating candidates, please email it directly to the LDC Issues & Candidates Committee Chair Craig Cheslog at issues@LDClub.org. There is a possibility that time constraints may not allow your question to be asked on Thursday. If that is the case, we will forward questions to the candidates so they can answer you directly.
Here is the line-up, but this is not an indication of the timeline, or who will go first. We are trying to remain flexible and nimble as additional candidates may be added to the list, and other accommodations are made.
East Bay Municipal Utility District
Marguerite Young (Ward 3)
Acalanes Union High School District
Jennifer Chen
Orinda City Council
Latika Malkani
Stuart House
Lafayette School Board
Katy Foreman
Robert Sturm
Dave Smith
Orinda School Board
Edda Collins Coleman
Contra Costa County Board of Education
Sarah Butler (Area 2)
Moraga Orinda Fire Protection District
Chris Young (District 1)
Steve Danziger (District 3)
Michael Donner (District 4)
Contra Costa County Clerk
Kristin Connelly
REMINDER: Only members who have renewed their membership or joined the club by the end of today, Wednesday, August 24, will be eligible to vote for candidate endorsements on September 14. To renew or join online, please click here: https://ldclub.org/join-donate-square/.
If you have questions about the status of your membership, please contact LDC Membership Chair Mike Rusk by emailing membership@LDclub.org.
One thing is certain: we can be incredibly proud of each and every one of these candidates who are throwing their hats in the ring. As individuals, they are unbelievably impressive and as a group, formidable. Let’s get our selected elected!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
CONTRA COSTA DEMOCRATS ANNUAL PARTY BBQ!
LDC Members:
As a sponsor of the 2022 DPCCC BBQ, the Lamorinda Democratic Club receives two complimentary tickets. The first two members to individually email info@LDclub.org with the subject line “ Count Me In!” will receive our two tickets.
This annual fun event will be held at Concord Community Park (3501 Cowell Rd, Concord, CA 94518) on Saturday, September 10th, 2022, from noon to 5:00 p.m. The BBQ (which this year is really a taco bar!) is a great way to connect with county Dems, elected officials, candidates, and activists.
August, 2022 Letter
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
If you attended the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship last Thursday, you may have reconnected with some friends, made new ones, or joined the club for the first time!
You may have chatted with candidates for school board, county clerk, or fire district board. Perhaps you met city council and committee members from Concord, Lafayette, and Walnut Creek. Maybe you were on the team “Waiting for Garland” or “Trump Looks Good in Orange.” You may even have heard LDC member Leonard Dorin describe what it was like to attend FDR’s speech, in Chicago, following his fourth inauguration! But one thing is certain: you would have noticed that we just had a good time being together, in person—sharing the same space, and struggling to remember the general election year that Chubby Checker’s Twist was a number one hit.
There is, however, nothing trivial about these opportunities to connect. They are at the core of how we understand each other, solve problems, organize, energize, support, and elect.
Photo of the 2022 Hot August Trivia Champions
Thank you to everyone who was able to participate in this year’s event. You made it so much fun! Congratulations to the 2022 championship team Niners
Pictured from left to right: Kevin Wilk (Walnut Creek City Council), David Clark (Lafayette Creeks Committee & LDC Board Member), Carl Anduri (Lafayette City Council), and Wei-Tai Kwok (Lafayette City Council)
Congratulations also to Silver medalists: Winners, and bronze medalists: Trump Looks Good in Orange. Many thanks also to LDC Members Mark and Marcia Dunaway for crafting and donating such beautiful prizes for the winning team.
Members also voted to elect Peter Ericson as the LDC Representative to the DPCCC (Democratic Party of Contra Costa County) and Craig Cheslog as the Alternate for the remainder of this calendar year and for the following two-year term beginning in January 2023. Congratulations Peter and Craig, and thank you very much for your willingness to represent the Lamorinda Democratic Club.
So “What’s up next?” you ask? The LDC calendar is chock full of more opportunities for us to get together! Please take a look at the list below, and do let us know if and how you’d like to get more involved.
Stay cool,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
Thursday, August 25, at 7 p.m. on Zoom
LDC Virtual “Meet the Candidates!” Night
This is an LDC special event and another chance to hear from some Democratic candidates who have requested an LDC endorsement before our club endorsement votes at our September 14 meeting. You can register for the August 25 Meet the Candidates meeting by clicking here:
If you are a candidate seeking the club’s endorsement and would like to participate in our virtual “Meet the Candidates Night, please email Craig Cheslog at issues@LDclub.org as soon as possible and no later than Monday, August 22.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 at 7 p.m. on Zoom:
“LDC 2022 Candidate Endorsements”
LDC General Meeting Featuring Membership Vote
Members, don’t miss the opportunity to weigh in on LDC endorsements for the upcoming election. Candidate endorsement votes will follow the presentation of the LDC Issues & Candidates Committee recommendations.
Saturday, September 17–Sunday, September 18:
LDC Booth at Lafayette Art & Wine Festival
The Lafayette Art & Wine Festival is back! And the excitement is palpable! Please stop by the LDC Booth (in front of Learning Express at 5205 Mt. Diablo Blvd.) to say hello, find some cool Democratic swag, mingle with all the Dems who visit, or meet Democratic Candidates on the November ballot.
If you would like to volunteer for a two-hour shift at the LDC booth, please let us know that too at info@LDclub.org! There will be at least one LDC Board member for each shift, so please do not let inexperience keep you from volunteering. In addition to meeting and greeting festival goers, we will also be registering voters and introducing candidates to voters.
The LDC Booth is a terrific opportunity for candidates to meet voters in a friendly and informal way as the festival attracts more than 85,000 visitors! If you are a candidate and would like a scheduled slot at the LDC booth, please contact Tracy by emailing president@Ldclub.org.
LDC Precinct Organizing Project Election 2022 Kick-Off
(Date, Time, and Place to be determined in Early October)
The LDC “POP” Precinct Organizing Project is the Lamorinda Democratic Club’s superpower, and LDC Precinct Organizers are its superheroes!
Each election cycle, LDC Precinct Organizers together reach about 20,000 voters throughout central Costa Contra County. But we are working to reach more! Currently, Organizers connect with voters, neighbor-to-neighbor, in Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Martinez, Danville, Alamo, and San Ramon. If you are a current Precinct Organizer, or have participated in the past, please drop us a line to say “Count me in for November!” Email Tracy at GOteam@LDclub.org.
If you are new to the club or have never done any voter outreach before, but would like to know more, please contact us! If you have a friend or neighbor, you can also organize as a “dynamic duo!”😉 It’s fun, it significantly increases Democratic voter turn-out, and helps get great candidates elected, and it feels good to be making a positive difference.
First & Third Thursdays of Most Months at 10 a.m.
LDC Virtual Coffee Club
Join LDC Membership Chair Mike Rusk for friendly conversation about the political news of the day. This is another avenue for new members to meet fellow members and share what’s on their minds. Typically, the group is around six people and the conversation goes on for an hour. If you’d like to participate, please email Mike at: membership@LDclub.org.
Call for Contra Costa Poll Workers
Poll workers are critical to maintaining safe in-person voting for voters without reliable access to mail service, voters with disabilities, voters who need language assistance, and voters who simply prefer to cast their ballot in person. For more information, or to apply, visit https://www.cocovote.us/poll-worker-center/become-a-poll-worker/.
July, 2022 Letter
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
Yes, it’s that time of year! It’s time to register for the not-to-be-missed Lamorinda Democratic Club Hot August Night Political Trivia Championship on Thursday, August 11, at 6 p.m.
This is one of the LDC’s most popular annual events. “Trivia Night” offers the opportunity for our members and friends, LDC Precinct Organizers and activists, candidates, and elected officials to come together in an informal way over complimentary frozen margaritas and finger foods, some political trivia, friendly competition and banter, and just for fun. I hope you can join us! Just like last year, the 2022 ”Trivia Night” will take place at the Lafayette Library, outside, on the patio.
LDC Members, LDC Precinct Organizers, and elected officials receive complimentary admission with advance registration by Friday, August 5. If you join the Lamorinda Democratic Club now through August 1, your membership will carry through to December 2023. For other non-members attending, the registration fee is $15 per person.
The theme of the 2022 event is “TV Game Shows of the 70s.” So get ready to Tell the Truth, avoid a Family Feud, and find out whether the Price is Right! The table exhibiting the most team spirit may receive special recognition or prizes.😉 So be inspired! Round up your friends, fellow Precinct Organizers, neighbors, Club members, or favorite city council members, and enter as a team. Or come on your own! Everyone who attends will participate as part of a team. Will team “Good Trouble” return for a shot at victory again? Or will the once-upon-a-time “Young Dems” try to recapture their youth with a win? And what about Democrats of Rossmoor? Will they be back with their besties on the Walnut Creek City Council?
In the meantime, the Lamorinda Democratic Club is gearing up for the November 2022 election. The LDC Issues and Candidates Committee is already receiving and considering candidate requests for endorsement, and LDC Precinct Organizers are preparing to reach thousands of registered Dems in Contra Costa so we can Get Out The Vote for our amazing Democratic candidates. If you or someone you know would like to join the Precinct Organizing team or have questions, please send an email to: GOteam@LDclub.org, and be sure to include your voter registration address. LDC Precinct Organizers live in Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Alamo, Danville, Martinez, and San Ramon, and we welcome new Organizers and Volunteers at any time! No experience is necessary, and as an LDC Precinct Organizer, you can reach out to your Democratic neighbors in whatever way works best for you and the voters in your precinct. Spend as little or as much time as your schedule allows, or volunteer to help in a neighboring precinct with an experienced Organizer. Please join us!
Also, please save the date for Lamorinda Democratic Club’s (Virtual) Meet the Candidates 2022 on Thursday, August 25, at 7 p.m. All candidates seeking the endorsement of the Lamorinda Democratic Club are invited to attend. The evening will allow LDC members to hear directly from candidates ahead of the September 14 general monthly meeting, when endorsement voting will take place. If you are a candidate for election in November 2022 and wish to be considered for an LDC endorsement, please get in touch with Craig, Chair of the LDC Issues and Candidates Committee, at issues@LDclub.org.
I hope to see you at “Trivia Night” in August!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
May, 2022 Letter
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
If the recent and alarming news stories coming from Nashville school boards, North Carolina city councils, Texas and Oklahoma state houses, the Senate, and now the Supreme Court, share a common thread, perhaps it is that “Elections have consequences.” (Barack Obama, 2009)
To advance our Democratic goals of safe, fair and just treatment under the law, a cleaner greener environment, protecting reproductive rights and voting rights, and expanding education, economic, and housing opportunities, we must continue to get Democrats to turn out and vote in every election — for every level of government.
So please, consider joining the LDC Precinct Organizing Project. Become a Democratic Leader and Organizer in our community. Help engage, educate and elect Democrats — the mission of this club. The June primary is fast approaching, but it is never too late to join the team! No experience is necessary, and you can Get Out The Vote on your own schedule, in your own precinct, and in a way that works best for you and your neighbors.
Together, LDC Precinct Organizers reach tens of thousands of Contra Costa Democratic voters each election cycle, neighbor-to-neighbor. The program is effective in getting out the vote, and it’s fun being part of a team effort. It’s also great way to get to know your Democratic neighbors, and other members of the Club. Current LDC Precinct Organizers live in Lamorinda, Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Concord, Danville, Martinez, and San Ramon.
To join the Precinct Organizing team or find out more, please send an email to:
GOteam@LDclub.org
The next Lamorinda Democratic Club general meeting is on Thursday, May 12, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. It is our June 2022 Primary “BYOB” (Bring Your Own Ballot) meeting, where we will go over the ballot, and answer remaining election questions. Additionally, next Thursday’s meeting will provide another “Round-Table” discussion opportunity. Using break-out rooms on Zoom, members will gather around the table (virtually) to share ideas and thoughts about the upcoming election and other political news items.
I hope you can join us on Thursday, May 12! In the meantime, be sure to look for your ballot arriving by mail soon, and please return it early!
To those of you who are moms, or playing the role, or celebrating, or remembering your own mothers this Sunday, Happy Mothers Day.❤️
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
NEXT LDC GENERAL MEETING
Thursday, May 12 at 7 p.m. via Zoom
Click here to register and receive the Zoom link:
MIND THE GAP
We are trying to fill in a few gaps in our Precinct Organizing voter outreach. If you live in one of the following precincts, we would especially love your help getting out the vote:
Lafayette (LFET) 103,104,110,113
Orinda (ORDA) 103, 104, 106
Moraga (MORG) 102,103
Walnut Creek (WLCR) 105, 107
LDC CANDIDATE ENDORSEMENTS
The following CA June Primary Election candidates received endorsements from the Lamorinda Democratic Club:
Contra Costa County District Attorney: Diana Becton
Contra Costa County Assessor: Floy Andrews
Contra Costa County Sheriff – Coroner: Benjamin Therriault
Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder: Kristin Connelly
Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors District 4: Carlyn Obringer
LDC LEGISLATION ENDORSEMENT
The LDC also endorsed California Senate Bill 912, authored by Senator Monique Limón. SB 912 is sponsored by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and the University of California. It would increase access to biomarker testing, which can help determine the best treatment plan for a specific patient. Click here to read the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s fact sheet about the bill.
LDC BYLAWS CHANGES APPROVED
Three bylaws changes were approved at the last meeting.
The Club Treasurer shall prepare an annual budget to be approved by the membership.
Unbudgeted expenditures of $2,000 or more shall require approval by the membership.
The LDC President may authorize unbudgeted expenditures less than $2,000 upon LDC Board approval and following consultation with LDC Treasurer – to assure adequate funds.
April, 2022 Letter
- JUNE 9 PRIMARY ELECTION CANDIDATE ENDORSEMENTS recommended by the LDC Issues & Candidates Committee (Contra Costa District Attorney, Contra Costa Clerk/Recorder, Contra Costa Sheriff, Contra Costa Board of Supervisors District 4)
- LEGISLATIVE ISSUE ENDORSEMENT recommended by the LDC Issues & Candidates Committee
- LDC BYLAWS CHANGE recommended for endorsement by the LDC Board of Directors
- LDC 2022 BUDGET recommended for endorsement by the LDC Finance Committee
March, 2022 Letter
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends,
If there is any subject that can demonstrate the sweeping expanse of our Big Blue Democratic tent, surely it must be California Housing: specifically, the new California laws derived from California SB9 and SB10.
No matter where you are on the spectrum of opinions, we hope you will join us for the next Lamorinda Democratic Club General Meeting on Thursday, March 10 at 7 p.m. The meeting will provide an excellent opportunity to get answers to your housing questions and to learn about some local implications of the new state legislation.
The evening’s expert panel includes:
- Greg Wolff, Planning Director, City of Lafayette
- Jim Cervantes, Chair of Lafayette GPAC (General Plan Advisory Committee), and newly appointed Member of the California Housing Finance Agency Board
- Cindy Darling, Walnut Creek City Council Member, former Chair of Walnut Creek Planning Commission
Additionally, LDC members will have the opportunity to vote on whether to endorse a recent bill introduced by Congressman Mark DeSaulnier. The Saving Local News Act (H.R. 6068) would make it easier for newspapers to become non-profits, allowing them the flexibility to focus less on maximizing profits and more on producing quality content. The local news resolution (H.Res. 821) addresses the urgent need for Congress to prevent the further decline of local media outlets. Please click here to learn more about these bills.
Please be sure to register in advance for the meeting. You can click here to register, and then you will receive a confirmation email.
If you have not yet renewed your LDC membership, please do so by clicking here. Only members who have renewed their membership by March 31 will be eligible to vote for the first round of 2022 Candidates and Issues endorsement recommendations at the April 14 general meeting.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
February, 2022 Letter
|
January, 2022 Letter
- Go online:
- Mail a check for $60 to: Lamorinda Democratic Club, P.O. Box 31, Orinda, CA 94563
Questions about membership or getting more involved? Please contact LDC Membership Chair Mike Rusk at MEMBERSHIP@LDclub.org.
December, 2021 Letter
that we need to keep going!November Letter
Lamorinda Democratic Club Members and Friends, If the autumn of 2021 has taught us anything, it’s that “All politics are local” is ringing louder and truer than ever before.
From Virginia school board fights over false narratives about “Critical Race Theory,” to Texas legislative attacks on reproductive rights, local issues exploded onto the national scene and may likely have the staying power to drive the elections of 2022.
The Lamorinda Democratic Club has always recognized the power of LOCAL. We know the importance of understanding what’s happening in our neighborhoods, and harnessing the influence of our local members, organizers, and activists to affect change in, and well beyond our communities. And we know that our mission to “engage, educate, and elect Democrats” can make a positive, lasting change in the lives of our families, neighbors, and the friends we have yet to meet.
Please join us for the next, and last, LDC General meeting of 2021, when city council members from Concord, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Pleasant Hill, and Walnut Creek will be presenting Adapting to Climate Change—a Local Update this Thursday, November 11, at 7 p.m. via Zoom.
How is climate change already affecting local city planning for housing, transportation, land-use and development, water, energy, traffic, local economy, emergency management? Our Thursday meeting will provide an opportunity to hear from local elected leaders about adaptation strategies, actions and ideas, and about some of the specific challenges our communities face.
Thank you to the following invited speakers for participating in what we hope will be just the first in a series of presentations dedicated to the topic:
- Carlyn Obringer, Concord City Council
- Carl Anduri, Lafayette City Council
- Wei-Tai, Lafayette City Council
- Teresa Onoda, Moraga Town Council
- Amy Worth, Orinda City Council
- Ken Carlson, Pleasant Hill City Council
- Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek City Council
- Cindy Darling, Walnut Creek City Council
In this season of grace and giving, thank you to each and every member and friend of the Lamorinda Democratic Club for doing your part to respect and improve the lives of our neighbors—regardless of their immigration status, their race and ethnicity, how they’re employed, where they live, or who they love.
Thank you for your compassion, empathy, and understanding.
Thank you for listening to all sides of the argument, trusting science, and recognizing reason.
Thank you for being part of the LDC team, and for making a difference.
May the Veterans among you enjoy a peaceful Veterans Day. Thank you and your families for your service.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Best,
Tracy Brog
Lamorinda Democratic Club President
On the Calendar:
Time to Renew or Join! The Lamorinda Democratic Club Membership 2022 Renewal Campaign begins officially on Tuesday, November 30, which also happens to be “Giving Tuesday!” Please remember the LDC when you are writing annual checks for your favorite non-profits!
Lamorinda Democratic Club
P.O. Box 31
Orinda, CA 94563Questions about membership? Contact LDC Membership Chair Mike Rusk at membership@LDclub.org
LDC Thursday Morning Coffee
Join us on the first and third Thursdays of the month at 10 a.m. for lively banter about the news and politics of the day! If you are new to the Club, or new to town, this is a particularly great way to meet some long-time members and friends of the LDC, as well as some LDC Board members.
We’d like to know what’s on your mind! Contact: membership@LDclub.org
How to Run a Political Campaign
The Democratic Party of Contra Costa County is offering two trainings this month: :
- Candidate Basics Training: Saturday, November 13, 1-2:30 p.m. Click here to register.
- Campaign Management 101: Saturday, November 20, 1-2:30 p.m. Click here to register.
Contra Costa Democrats Connecting!
Join the Contra Costa Young Dems and the Lamorinda Democratic Club for a no-host get-together on Wednesday, December 15, 7-9 p.m.
Drop in at Headlands Brewing in Lafayette to meet new Dems or reconnect with friends!
3420 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
In Memoriam: Our community will miss long-time Lamorinda Democratic Club member, Betty Karplus of Orinda, who passed away on September 22.
“What a wonderfully talented, generous, and energetic person she was!” from LDC Board Member Mary Ann Hoisington.
“A brilliant, and remarkable woman — modest, down-to-earth, and kind.” from LDC Board Member Valerie Sloven.
Betty was a World War II welder, a physicist, researcher, teacher, Orinda Citizen of the Year, a pioneer for the rights of students with disabilities, mother of seven, grandmother of sixteen, and great grandmother of sixteen! In her 70’s, Betty joined the Peace Corps and worked for two years in a home for handicapped children, in Jamaica. The obituary in the Orinda News included a photo of Betty in July 2021, painting a picnic table in Sequoia National Park—as part of a refurbishment project—her way of celebrating her 95th birthday. She was 96 years old. To those of you who were lucky enough to have called Betty a friend, our sincerest condolences. No doubt, her life well-lived will continue to inspire so many of us.
You must be logged in to post a comment.