The Event
On the evening of March 19, the eve of the Spring Equinox, we held Spring Into Democracy, a public, social fundraising event. Members and nonmembers alike streamed into the East Side Club to the melodic sound of SUBTERRANEAN JAZZ PROJECT, who provided music during social hour . . .
Silent Auction
. . . while attendees bid on 38 silent auction items provided by local businesses, organizations and individuals.
The Raging Grannies
took the stage and kicked off the program with tunes of justice, voting and liberty.
Outstanding Voter Service Award
Host Joy Cardin then welcomed Voter Service Director Beth Fultz to the podium, where she presented Madison West Civics Club with the Outstanding Voter Service Award. Civics Club member Alexa Peacock joined Beth onstage to accept the award and spoke to the crowd about the importance of involving students in the voting process. The award is presented to a person or group outside the League who has demonstrated a commitment to voter education and registration.
Defender of Democracy Award
Our president, Sue Jennik, then took the stage and presented LWVDC member Laura Gottlieb with the Defender of Democracy Award. Laura spoke to the crowd about her early experiences with her activist mother during the Civil Rights Movement and how it shaped her ideas and ideals. Gottlieb and husband Peter managed the kiosks at the DMV, which are available to help residents register to vote when they get their driver’s license. Laura also recently planned the Democracy Weekend Extravaganza Weekends with Annette Czarnecki. The Defender of Democracy Award is presented to a member who displayed a love for our democratic process and engaging voters. Sue pointed out that as a board member, Peter was ineligible for the award.
Keynote Address: Lydia McComas
Lydia McComas, keynote speaker for Spring Into Democracy, told the group about her experience in Minnesota, as well as her goals and responsibilities as Madison City Clerk. A short question-and-answer followed and included concern over all absentee ballots being secure and counted and the presence of ICE or military at the polls.
