ASGP - Hiawassee Gathering December 8 - 10, 2000.
The Green Party of the United States Contacts:
Nancy Allen, Media Coordinator 207-326-4576, nallen@acadia.net
Scott McLarty, Media Coordinator, 202-518-5624, scottmclarty@yahoo.com
The Georgia Green Party is set to host the
Coordinating Committee of the Association of State Green Parties, at a
post-election meeting being held in Hiawassee, Georgia, December 8 -
10, 2000. In conjunction with the ASGP meeting, a Gathering of Georgia
Greens will be held simultaneously to discuss our activities of this
election cycle and our plans for the 2002 campaigns. Please visit the
following links for meeting details, locations, etc.
Members of the media are encouraged to attend. Please visit the Media
Relations page for more information.
ASGP Meeting
Gathering of Georgia Greens
Call for Volunteers
Location/Reservations
Meals
Directions/Transportation
Check Hiawassee Weather
Media Relations
Association of State Green Parties
The Georgia Green Party is proud to welcome the Association of State
Green Parties to the North Georgia Mountains for what is sure to prove
an historic gathering in our national development.
The Coordinating Committee of the Association of State Green Parties
agreed at their Friday meeting immediately preceding the Denver
Presidential Nominating Convention last June to hold the next
face-to-face meeting in Hiawassee Georgia on December 8th through the
10th.
The agenda has been prepared by the Steering Committee and may be
found here.
Each affiliated state Green Party is entitled to two voting delegates
at this event and may also bring alternates as provided by their local
rules. Any state Green Party which is not already affiliated with the
ASGP is urged to contact the Accreditation Committee for an
application for affiliation. You may obtain an application by
contacting Tony Affigne with the Accreditation Committee.
All observers are welcome to attend the meeting.
Gathering of Georgia Greens
In a separate meeting held simultaneously with the ASGP-CC meeting on
Saturday, we will use this opportunity to debrief on our activities of
this election year, and to strategize our future development in
preparation for the 2002 election cycle. Materials will be available
to help you organize an affiliated Green Party local in your county. A
full agenda for the day's business can be found here.
We will share meals with the ASGP and in the evening we will dance
together in the Nutshell (if its warm) or the Lodge (if its
cold).
Call for Volunteers!
Georgia volunteers are needed to aid with every aspect of hosting
these meetings. If you are able to help with airport shuttles,
cooking, serving, meeting set-up, clean-up, etc., please contact our
coordinator, Kerrie Dickson via email or by phone at (706)896-7464 or
(706)896-7946. All help is welcome and appreciated!
Location
Both meetings are being held at:
Enota Campground and Resort
1000 Highway 180
Hiawassee, GA 30546
(706)896-9966
Email: information@enota.com
www.enota.com
Everyone is encouraged to stay on-site at Enota. To make your
reservations, please contact the meeting coordinator Kerrie Dickson
via email. We're sorry that there is no more on-site inside housing
available. All Delegates across the country and from Greens around
Georgia. There are still abundant camp sites and RV hook-ups on-site.
Folks are now being to asked to book their rooms themselves at the
Hiawassee Inn and the Holiday Inn Express in Hiawassee, just a 20
minute car ride away. Please go here for a list of available off-site
housing. Please let us know that you've booked a room so we can plan
for meals and extra chairs. Children are welcome. And cooperative
child care is being organized on-site, including a Popcorn Video on
the Large Screen Saturday Night Party during the dance.
Meals
Whether you are a carnivore, vegan or vegetarian, meals will be
provided on-site and are sure to please. Meal tickets are available
for $50 (for Friday through Sunday) or $25 per day. Children under 18
eat free. Thursday dinner is $6.00. Restaurants are also available 20
minutes away in either Helen or Hiawassee.
Directions/Transportation
Directions to Hiawassee and Enota can be found by visiting the links
below. Any out-of-town guests who need to schedule an airport shuttle
may contact Kerrie Dickson via email or by phone at (706)896-7464 or
(706)896-7946. Anyone who has scheduled an airport shuttle already may
check the link below for the time and passenger list for your shuttle.
Hiawassee Weather
Here's the current weather for Hiawassee. Please note that because of
the way the Enota Campground and Convention Center is situated in
relation to the mountains, it is often several degrees colder there
than in Hiawassee.
ASGP Minutes 12.10.2000
THE ASSOCIATION OF STATE GREEN PARTIES
ASGP Coordinating Committee Minutes
National Meeting
December 9-10, 2000
Minutes from the meeting of the ASGP CC
Hiawassee, GA
12/9 and 12/10/00.
Submitted by Greg Gerritt
Session 1 AM 12/9/00
The first order of business was a request by Richard Walton, delegate
from RI, asking that the meeting be dedicated to the recently departed
Barbara Bradbury, former delegate from RI and a Green Party stalwart
for many years. It was consensually agreed to dedicate the meeting to
Barbara.
Roll Call
Delegates present from Green Parties in the following states:
AR, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, MA, ME, MI, MN, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH,
OR, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI. 25 total
Absent AZ, HI, WY
Observers present from the following states:
AK, AL, IA, KY, MD, MO, MS, MT, OK, SC.
Co-chair Annie Goeke opened the meeting by giving an overview of the
successful role played by the ASGP and all it's committees in the
inception of the presidential campaign right up to the day of the
elections.
Co-chairs Tom Sevigny and Steve Herrick reported on the meeting with
Ralph Nader in DC in which we discussed future plans, and set
ourselves up for better communication between the ASGP and the Nader
team. Each State party present gave a one minute report on recent
events and election results in their state.
Facilitators Lynne Serpe and Robert Randall explained the procedures
they
would use to facilitate the meeting.
Accreditation committee report: presented by Tony Affigne RI.
Explained accreditation process. Resolution from committee to admit KS
Green Party to Association. Secondedby CT. ASGP agreed on admitting
KS.
Welcome. IL application is still under review, was not received in
time for the committee to discuss and vote on it prior to this
meeting. An email vote will go out after the committee finishes its
review.
Steve Herrick reported on the Boston Negotiations and the Agreement
that was produced by the negotiations. The process for approving or
disapproving the resolution will be an up or down vote on the entire
package. It was considered inappropriate to amend the agreement, as if
one party to the negotiations amends an agreement, then the other side
would also be free to amend, which would send the whole thing back to
the drawing board.
There were a number of clarifying questions and much discussion. It
was acknowledged that in order to implement the agreement that there
will be changes in the bylaws, rules, and procedures of the ASGP and
the future Green Party National Committee, and that there are
provisions in the agreement that may contradict.
The facilitators then checked for consensus. 3 people had concerns but
agreed to stand aside if their concerns would be recorded. Jennifer
Ellingston DC. Concerned about how this agreement relates to work of
transition committee and if the changes that need to be made by the
ASGP to implement this will carry over into the new GP National
Committee.
Howard Hawkins NY Concerned about implementation, the issue of
clustering locals for representation on the new NC, and that some of
the fine details are problematic. Paul Loney OR similar concerns to HH.
Too many unknowns.
Note from Secretary: It is my belief that the issue of carrying over
changes from the ASGP to the new GP NC will not be an issue. I assume,
and it is just an assumption, that if the ASGP ratifies changes in
structure, that they will carry over when the ASGP files for National
Committee Status. I realize that not everyone agrees with this
interpretation.
Transition Committee Report presented by Rick Lass NM and Ron
Stanchfield NY. History of Transcomm and its mandates. It has been
clear that there is strong support for moving from equal numbers of
delegates for each state to one that is more proportional to the size
and strength of the various Green Parties. The question is how to get
there. There is acceptance that Congressional Districts are a
reasonable way to total state populations, and that every State gets
at least 2 Delegates. The size of the body is problematic, with most
Greens looking for something around 150 delegates. Therefore a fully
proportional body is out unless we lump or cluster Congressional
Districts, and then the little states get disproportional power. But
even this we can live with it seems. The questions are what is the
right ratio of delegation size, and should delegations be required to
show up in full number, making the body larger, or shall a smaller
number of delegates, at an extreme two from every state, be given
weighted votes, for example the two NY delegates could each have 15
votes, while those from NH would each have one vote.
Voice versus Vote is an issue that we are still looking for consensus
on, and no cluster has yet emerged dominant, at least not among the
committee. Ron presented his maps, we asked more questions.
The Transition Committee came back several more times during the
weekend. Probably more than any committee in ASGP history the Trans
Comm has asked questions, seeking to see if there is a consensus, and
if so what it is. We will continue to prick consciences until a
consensus is found. The committee needs a few new members to replace
those stepping down. The committee has some wicked good debates, and
is an interesting window into the evolution of the party. I highly
recommend it if you can stand the uncertainty, and I will not bring
this committee back in the minutes unless someone demands it.
The Transcomm does request that each state send in information about
the size of the party, number and size of local groups, vote counts,
etc. Would be good to see a questionnaire. A formal proposal to
continue the the Transcomm was approved.
David Cobb, legal adviser to the ASGP, member of the TEXAS Green
Party, presented a proposal for the ASGP to start preparing its FEC
filing for National Party Committee Status, in other words to ask for
an AO, Advisory Opinion. David provided background. Explained about
State Party Committees, National Party Committees, and countless other
things that we should all know. The Secretary knows some of this, but
can not explain it as well as David. At the meeting we asked that
David write up a formal report on his presentation, and that I
reiterate that here. David, when it is ready please forward it
out.
Rick Lass NM drafted Resolution language: The ASGP shall not file for
an AO from the FEC on Green Party National Committee status before
April 30, 2001. In the meantime ASGP may begin doing the necessary
legal work and research in preparation of such a filing. If the GPUSA
adopts the Boston Proposal, ASGP will defer to the new Green Party
according to our resolution adopting the Boston Negotiations
recommendations. However, after April 30, 2001 ASGP's CC will
determine how the filing for an AO proceeds.
Proposed by RI, seconded by ME. Lots of questions, concerns. Process
explained, the fact that there are rules that we can use to make
decision on what is in the filing, what bylaws we use are the ones the
body chooses to use. There do not seem to be any real issues around
the idea that the new GP-US National Committee structure will be the
direct evolutionary successor of the ASGP CC structure and operations.
We are effecting our own transformation, and are legitimate in
continuing in our seats as forming the Green Party as long as we are
the duly elected delegates from our State Parties. When the filing is
ready, we shall seek consensus on mailing it in, probably with a
little wordsmithing. We shall probably do this as an email ballot.
Test for /consensus. Concerns Julia Willebrand NY still worried about
proportional representation, Basil Kyriakakasis AR this resolution
violates our procedures. Dawn McClain MI Do we have the legal
expertise in each state to do this properly? Consensus on the
resolution.
Break for lunch and workshops.
12/9/00 PM Session
Moment of Silence for David Brower
Treasurer's Report Budget/Finances/Fundraising present by ASGP
Treasurer
Robert Franklin TX.
Discussion of the so far not ready for prime time mailing and what
lists are available. ASGP SC had hoped that more state parties would
cooperate with us on a national mailing. States continue to discuss
this at home. A few states have shared lists, others will do the
mailing from home with ASGP providing materials and postage. Budget
was looked at to be too low, and there was much concern over
presenting a budget for an office without the IDEA of an office being
debated first.
Agreed that there should be an email ballot on the exact way to
request state party cooperation on a national mailing, included
letting various states have a say in the timing of the mailing in
their own state so as not to conflict too much with their local
fundraising. Also agreed that we need a formal Treasurer's report at
each meeting, and maybe in between too, such as every 3 months, and
request the Treasurer send out current report within a reasonable
time. Finance Committee was formed, and met later. Having an active
team, rather than leaving this to a one or a few folks seems to be
putting this on a better track.
Issue of DC office/Clearinghouse needs a discussion. Seed Money for
organizing needs a fuller explanation/plan before being budgeted. Who
should do the organizing plan? David Cobb came back to discuss Legal
Issues, furthering our understanding of where we are heading. ASGP is
currently a 501C4 organization. See David's report for a fuller
explanation.
Committee Reports
Greg Gerritt pinch hit for the Media Committee because none of the
committee leadership could attend the GA meeting. Greg thanked the
Media Committee for a great job done all year and noted some of the
controversies that occurred around a very few press statements such as
the one on Palestine.
Nathalie Paravincini TX reported for the Communications committee.
Prior to the Election progress was impossible, for obvious reasons.
The committee is working on packets for delegates, helping to keep the
lists up to date, and list serves, especially the etiquette and what
they should be used for. The committee will keep us informed.
Committee volunteers more than welcome.
Mike Feinstein, Green Mayor of Santa Monica CA, reported on cyberspace
developments. There are all kinds of developments going on at <www.greens.org/election>
Everyone should check it out, help keep it updated, and lookat all the
new developments and data bases found there. Every State Party needs a
password for posting to the site. Check with Michael. It is also time
to convene a network of State Party webmasters. Someone want to take
responsibility for this??? Green pages is transferring from Michael's
complete care into the ASGP. ASGP will take over financial
responsibilities and subscriptions and Michael will become part of the
editorial collective with ????(Please help me here), and a design team
will develop. Individual subscriptions and state party drops expected.
Michael is also looking for people to create a list of media outlets
in their neighborhood that should receive
GreenPages. Each State Party should be responsible for its
development, and many of them have these lists now.
International committee Report John Rensenbrink ME, Anne Goeke PA.
Reports on a variety of international meetings from Lima to Stockholm
that members of Int. Comm attended. Looking to be a link so that
Greens in the US can understand the Global Green network and be
connected to it. Network is one of people and ISSUES. If we network,
we inform policy. Global Green Gathering in Australia April 14 to 16.
Let the international committee know if you are planning to go.
Raphaël Thierrin of the Green Party of Canada then gave a speech on
the situation in Canada, a place where the Green Party is really
growing. Raphaël Thierrin suggested various avenues of collaboration
between U.S. and Canadian Greens.
Adjourned until Sunday.
Many informal meetings took place and a good time was had by all on
Saturday Night. Music, fun and festivities in the Georgia
Mountains.
12/10 00 AM Session
First order of business: Planning the next meeting. There were
relatively severe issues this time around people not registering on
time, and just showing up at the last minute. This creates real
planning havoc and facilities issues. As we grow, our needs become
larger and the financial considerations of meetings, more important.
Thee were too many of us for Enota to properly handle. We need to pay
more attention, with the excuse this time of the election and our
growth a start, but a complete explanation.
For variety of reasons, geographic balance, politics, and whatever, at
least a few folks have previously hinted that we would appreciate it
if CA would host the next gathering/CC meeting, preferably in June
2001. John Strawn, one of the delegates from CA has discussed this
with Greens in CA, and the discussion seems to be favorable. The CA
delegation agreed to forward a concrete proposal to the CC by Jan 15
for a Solstice meeting in CA. Of course more discussion will ensue
then. We expect a different type
of meeting, more media, more publicity and public visitation. The
focus will be more external than this time, when we focused on
building internal strength and the development of our infrastructure.
Steve Schmidt Platform co-chair and member of the Green Party of FL
reported for the Platform Committee. The presentation focused on
making the Platform into a useable document and improvements in the
process. Steve took extensive notes on the responses of the delegates,
and is requested to put out a report sometime on developments.
Diversity Caucus, presented by Amy Mondloch WI and convener of caucus.
Primary focus was on the proposal from the DC Statehood Green Party on
the Florida situation. You have all seen various drafts of that
document. everyone agreed the issues were important, but unsure of the
best way for ASGP to respond. It was agreed that a proposal of this
nature could not come to the body at this time, and that the best way
to deal with this was through the State Parties. There are many other
things that are on the agenda for the Diversity Caucus, but due to
time constraints, they did not get discussed. Diversity Caucus has
asked for plenary time at the next Cc meeting and for a Diversity
training workshop. When the agenda for the next plenary is being set,
that will be discussed, and I assume will be approved in some
fashion.
Greg Gerritt made the initial presentation on ASGP Committees.
We brainstormed and group memories what is currently going on and
suggestions for new committees. There was a consensus to call back to
order the Presidential Exploratory Committee, so that we can start now
to look at what to do in 2004. The committee will be restructured, and
will present a restructuring proposal in June. It is hoped the
committee will convene shortly after the first of the year. David Cobb
has been the convener, though that may change. I will present a chart
of current committees and their convenors at the end of the minutes,
along with a listing of some of the other committees that we might
need that was developed on the flip chart. Committee membership,
whether open or closed, size limitations, and structure vary from
committee to committee, depending upon how and why they were
convened.
The Convention Credentials Committee was going to make a report, and
had a variety of proposals on how to continue its work. De to time
constraints, and the fact that the wording of the proposals was
complex, even if simple in context, it was decided to hold off on the
CredComm report and to present its findings and proposals through the
email. Greg Gerritt will be responsible for getting that material out
to the CC relatively soon for
email discussion and vote.
Anne Goeke and Tony Affigne present a report based on the recent IPPN
meeting in DC. At the IPPN meeting there was agreement to go forward
with a Pro Democracy agenda, with a series of events around, and just
prior to Inauguration Day, Jan 20. The ASGP was unsure how strongly to
participate as an organization, but highly recommended that the State
Parties participate as they see fit. Anne and Tony can provide more
information, and info is from global exchange at 415-255-7296
<nick@globalexchange.org> and 202-234-9383 ext 238 <a-quinn@mindspring.com>
Anne Goeke made a report on Global Green Gathering in Canberra April
14-16. There will be a vote on the Global Green Charter that was
passed around and many other green discussions. Contact the
International committee if you want to attend.
Thank you to the host, Enota Resort , and the Host Georgia Green
Party, and to Kerrie dickson for putting on the event.
Adjourn.
Committees and Contacts
International "John Rensenbrink" <rensen@gwi.net>
"Nathalie Paravincini" <nathalie@greens.org>
Bylaws"Tom Sevigny" <capeconn@rcn.com>
Platform "Steven Schmidt" <sjs@nets.com>
Media "Nancy Allen" <nallen@acadia.net>
"Scott McLarty" <scottmclarty@yahoo.com>
Endorsements/Screening no current convenor
Internal communications "Nathalie Paravincini" <nathalie@greens.org>
Transition "Rick Lass" <ricklass@newmexico.com>
Diversity "Amy Mondloch" <searching71@yahoo.com>
Presidential Exploratory "David Cobb" <cobbweb@greens.org>
Convention Credentials "Greg Gerritt" <gerritt@edgenet.net>
Accreditation "Tony Affigne" <affigne@home.net>
Finance/Fundraising "Robbie Franklin" <Rafaglobo@aol.com>
Potential Committees
Legislative
Green Papers / Policy probably a subcommittee of Platform comm would
be the best place for this.
Legal We have a legal advisor but there is way more to do that any one
or two people can handle, and more of us need familiarity with this.
Speakers Bureau one already exists, but needs energy
Campus Greens Corey Eastwood is doing some work on this.
Public Relations
