Volume 21 . Issue 5 . May 2020

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE Susan Dollar Well, these are indeed, strange times. I’ve been home now for 58 l-o-n-g days. This is surely a world’s record for me, and probably for many of you. Each night, as I watch the news, I experience all kinds of emotions. Sadness at seeing the memoirs to those that have died, hopefulness when listening to the scientists who are making progress towards a vaccine, and anger. Lots of anger at the way the administration has handled this crisis, at the way they are destroying our country.  Thinking about this the other night reminded me of several workshops I attended under the tutelage of Dr. Ben Bissell, a noted psychologist who taught about dealing with change and transition. When faced with a significant life-changing event, people go through specific stages of grief. Also, all change produces fear. Whether it’s a good change or a bad change, there is a resulting level of fear – fear of the unknown in new territory. That lead me to thinking about how this pandemic is a significant life-changing event for everyone around the world. The stages of grief: My first reaction to the initial pronouncement about the possibility of a pandemic was shock and denial. No way, not here, it’s somewhere else, it can’t be that bad. I have things to do, trips to take! This was followed by a flood of emotions – surprise, confusion, disappointment, distress, sadness, fear, anger. Then came the bargaining stage. Maybe this isn’t so bad, right…? If we just take care and do…. It’s probably still okay to...I’ll just do this…and it will be okay, right? This stage is followed by depression - the realization of reality. The blunt truth that life as we knew it will probably never return. Eventually comes the stage of acceptance. It is what it is. It’s our new life and we have to figure out how to deal with it and move on. Moving on is the key. Dr. Bissell always stressed that the key to emotional health was to get through the significant life-changing event. People (including me!) can cycle through all these stages of grief several times a day or a week or a month. It’s normal – and necessary. It helps to recognize these emotional stages that we all go through. To alleviate some of the stress and move on, Dr. Bissell recommends three things: first, keep some things familiar. As much as possible, maintain something familiar, whether that is your morning routine or your favorite walk or eating your favorite dessert. Having something familiar makes us feel grounded, that everything will be okay. Second, in times of change, perceptions are often distorted so it’s really important to increase the flow of information. Communicate with those you love and people who are important to you. Selectively watch the news to keep up with the latest scientific pronouncements. Get on the web and reach out to friends and family. And third, it’s critical to take time out and play, enjoy your favorite activity, relax, take a break from being an adult and do something really crazy and fun.   So…with those thoughts in mind, I’m focusing on the future. Thee will come a time when we get to kick into gear and get back to work as Democrats. We have a lot to do – turning Texas blue is our ultimate goal this year and as soon as we can begin gathering in person, our BAD club meetings will focus on campaign activities and candidates. Don’t lose your fighting spirit and enthusiasm! We’re going to need everything we’ve got to win in November. In the meantime, we’ll get together via Zoom this Thursday at noon for a virtual meeting! Directions and the link to join will be sent out Tuesday morning. Until then, stay safe, stay healthy, and stay home!

FUTURE BAD MEETINGS Thursday, June 11 6:00 p.m. via Zoom Thursday, July 9, Noon

MAY MEETING Thursday, May 14 Noon via Zoom We will hold our May meeting via Zoom. A link to join the meeting will be sent to all paid BAD members on Tuesday; if others would like to join the meeting, please email bad@boerne-area-democrats.com and we'll send you a link to join in.

NEW TO ZOOM? It's easy to download the free version of Zoom! Just go to this web site and follow the directions: https://zoom.us/

APRIL MEETING SUMMARY Judy Dewey, Secretary & Newsletter Chair Still no meeting!! Still sad that we don't get to see each other and that our lives and the political process are on hold. But - we will stay strong, read a lot, stay in touch and be ready to get back to work supporting our beliefs and trying to help our county heal (and elect a new leader!).

Speaking of Judy Dewey...and Stacey Gilfillan...

A huge thank you to both Judy and Stacey for making dozens of Democrat masks! We asked for a $10 per mask donation and so far, we've raised well over $750 for Hill Country Family Services!

We received a thank you note from Stacey Almager at HCFS. We still have 8 masks left, so If anyone would like one, email bad@boerne-area-democrats.com and one will be delivered to you!

Also, thank you to all our generous members, many of whom donated way more than the $10 asking price. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!

The orange buckets are still available to pick up any Tuesday or Thursday at HCFS Corner Cupboard in Boerne between 9:00 and Noon. Drop off at either day/time filled with non-perishable food items. I've been sneaking in some toys also, to keep our community's kids at home amused (bowling set, frisbee, books, whatever HEB has!!).

AMY LAMBIASE Vice-President

BROOKE ORR Membership While we are consistently gaining new members, we deleted some members who have moved or who failed to renew. Currently, we are 162 members strong! It is time to renew your dues for May. You can join as a new member or renew your current membership on our website via PayPal or by mailing a check to P.O. Box 2132, Boerne, 78006. Dues are $40 for individuals or $25 for individuals 60 years of age and older. Remember that as a paid member, you can vote on club issues, receive the monthly meeting minutes, and run for club offices. Join us! Thank you all for your participation!

SHARON NOACK Treasurer  The club is financially in good shape. We are paying bills and receiving members' dues. The State Franchise Tax report is due and will be filed this month.

No activities for now but plans are in the works for future gatherings and get-togethers, so stay tuned!

BRENDA SCHMIDT Activities

LAURA BRAY Publicity Keep reading the local papers to keep up with what is going on in the community and what our progressive thinkers are contributing!

MEET KRISTA My husband and I moved to Boerne 4 years ago. We are originally from El Paso, Texas. I am a Physician Assistant in the Emergency Department and my husband is a Middle School Athletic Coordinator in San Antonio. We have five rescue cats and one crazy Australian Cattle dog. In our free time (Pre-Pandemic) we love to hike and travel. We spent last year hitting up two National Parks, Big Bend and Yellowstone, among other travel destinations.  I have my grandfather and mother to thank for my progressive views. I was raised at an early age to be inclusive, independent, and aware of social justice. I was ecstatic when I discovered the Boerne Area Democrats, because I didn’t think any Democrats existed out here ;). I am honored to be your new Social Media Chair and grateful to be a part of such an amazing group!

KRISTA BERMEJILLO-VASQUEZ Social Media Some good news from Krista about the Boerne Methodist Emergency Department, where she works:  The love and support from our Boerne community has been above and beyond! The local Boerne Methodist Emergency Department has been showered with donations since the beginning of the Pandemic. Local restaurants have donated many lunches and dinners. The local Starbucks has donated coffee numerous times. Many citizens have donated cloth masks, baked goods, and meals. Local contracting businesses have donated their N95 masks and other personal protective gear. The local hotel chains have even offered rooms to our medical staff in the event that they cannot go home.  The amount of love we have received at the ER has been overwhelming, to say the least. We are forever grateful to our Boerne family and we are proud to call Boerne our home. Wishing our community good health and safety. Together, we will get through this. Stay safe and well!  Krista Marie Bermejillo-Vasquez, MPAS, PA-C

KEVIN HENNING County Chair, KCDP Leadership is very much about setting an example. If you say wear a mask you should wear a mask not only for safety’s sake but show you mean what you say. Trump tells the world he won’t wear a mask sitting behind the “Resolute Desk”. He heads to an Arizona mask factory (really a campaign event) and doesn’t wear a mask. Pence goes to the Mayo Clinic and is the only one in the publicity picture without a mask. He says that he’s been tested so doesn’t need one, lucky him. Perhaps they should start to worry about the folks who can’t get tested. This lack of understanding a basic principle of leadership is reprehensible but I bet you already knew they are both despicable, ego-maniacs who need to be replaced. What do they do to cover their incredibly inept performance, they buy TV adds saying what a good job they are doing – alternate facts. Nino Vitale, who serves in the Ohio’s House of Representatives, says he’s not planning to follow guidance from Republican Governor DeWine, who first tried to order that masks be worn as the state reopens, but later softened that to a recommendation. Here’s Vitale’s quote: "This is the greatest nation on earth founded on Judeo-Christian Principles. One of those principles is that we are all created in the image and likeness of God. That image is seen the most by our face. I will not wear a mask." To quote a great philosopher, Forest Gump: “Stupid is as Stupid does.” The Democratic Party Runoff Election is now scheduled for July 14, 2020.   Here are some important dates to note: Monday, June 15, 2020 - Last day to Register to Vote Friday, July 3, 2020 - Last day to apply for ballot by mail (Received, not postmarked) Monday, July 6, 2020 - First day of Early Voting Friday, July 10, 2020 - Last day of Early Voting Tuesday, July 14, 2020 - Election Day VOTE BY MAIL INFO The Texas Democratic Party (TDP) has taken legal action to clarify and expand the use of vote by mail for individuals who fear contracting Covid 19 at a polling place. We have prevailed in the first phase of the legal effort but Attorney General Paxton is challenging this order and there is no definitive answer yet. Late last week, Paxton issued a warning to County officials not to jump the gun and start implying that vote by mail will be expanded. So, no conclusion yet just lots of wrangling. The next hearing is Friday, May 14.   One thing for sure, anyone over 65 can vote by mail in Texas. If you are at all concerned about voting in person in July and are not already doing vote by mail, you should request a mail-in ballot. Go here to request an application - txdem.co/VBMApp   UPCOMING VIRTUAL EVENTS There are a number of upcoming events worth your time to virtually attend:   Wendy Davis Birthday Fun Raiser, May 16 at 4:00 p.m. (see announcement below). Casteneda/Alonzo TRC Runoff Forum hosted by the Hill Country Democratic Coalition on May 20 at 6:00 p.m. (see announcement for details). These two candidates for the Texas Railroad Commission (regulates the oil and gas industry) will face off in the July Democratic runoff election. Chrysta Castaneda is an engineer and a lawyer who says, “The Trump administration is rolling back our environmental protections across the board. Without a functioning EPA, we will need our state agencies to carry a heavier load to protect our environment, including clean air and water.” Roberto Alonzo is a former Texas State Representative who believes, “Oil, gas, and mining interests cannot be allowed to poison the citizens of Texas, and that includes by acts of negligence or profiteering.” Either one of these folks would be great additions to the TRC, an agency currently controlled by the industry they regulate. Check out the forum to help you decide who to vote for. West/Hegar US Senate Runoff Forum hosted by the Hill Country Democratic Coalition on June 13 at 2:00 p.m. (announcement will be out soon) One of these two candidates will take on incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn in November. Royce West is a Texas State Senator, serving Dallas County since 1993. He holds a law degree from the University of Houston. His policy priorities have been education, criminal justice reform, fair wages for workers and gun sense legislation, such as banning assault weapons and universal background checks. He is also a strong defender of women's and immigrant's rights. MJ Hegar is the other Democratic candidate in the runoff election. She is a combat veteran and recipient of the Purple Heart who served as a helicopter pilot in Afghanistan. She holds an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. She's also a mom with two young sons and is a dynamic campaigner. Again, either one of these folks would be great so please check out the forum to help you decide who to vote for.   Please Stay Safe and Stay Engaged.

League of Women Voters Guide and Vote 411 Be informed! Compare candidates! Find what is on your ballot! It is easy to  Be a Texas Voter  with the League's famous nonpartison Voters Guide, available in print or online at  VOTE411.org .   It is the ideal tool to prepare yourself to vote.  With  VOTE411.org , you are able not only to compare the candidates for each race, but also to create your own personalized ballot.  Simply compare candidates and mark the candidate you plan to vote for in each election. Review all the races and choose all your candidates. Then click finish to print your personalized ballot. ·         The 2020 Texas Primary Election Runoff Voters Guide online  VOTE411.org  (available by July 1) ·        The 2020 Texas Primary Election Voters Guide in  English   ·        The 2020 Texas Primary Election Voters Guide in  Spanish Please share the League's nonpartisan Voters Guide with your friends and family and visit the  LWV-Hill Country website  for more local voting and election information.

Congratulations to Alexandra Purchatzke, our 2020 Civic Engagement Scholarship winner! Aleandra is a senior at Champion High School and plans to attend The University of Texas at Austin in the fall, majoring in biochemistry/pre-med. Her essay on the lack of healthcare was printed in the Boerne Star and the Hill Country Weekly. newslpapers. You can view her video here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FkGJR_k91LcQF58GhIksyjM5QkCOqDhb/view

April 28 was "Carla Heath Day" Congratulations, Carla!

VOLUNTEER HELP NEEDED The San Antonio Food Bank is returning to Boerne for another food distribution WHEN: SATURDAY MAY 16TH WHERE: CHAMPIONS HIGH SCHOOL PARKING LOT VOLUNTEERS need to arrive at 7:45am to begin unloading and packing food to prepare for distribution at 10 am We don't have this part nailed down yet, but we are working on taking some of this food to Comfort. We need people with pickups or vans to help deliver food to a distribution point in Comfort. CALL HILL COUNTRY FAMILY SERVICES AT 210.218.1330 TO SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER

TEXAS DEMOCRATIC STATE CONVENTION The Texas Democratic Party Convention will be done virtually via the web. We have fifteen official delegates for Kendall County. The Convention is always exciting and educational and I know that the TDP will do its best to make the digital version as close as possible to the real thing. You do not need to be an official delegate to tune in and see the happenings.

BAD BOOK CLUB Stacey Gilfillan Book Club Leader We are going to have a Zoom book club meeting on May 13th at 5:30. If you are a current book club attendee, you should have received an invite from Stacey. Give it a try folks, it will be nice to see everyone but without masks! If you have not attended before, but wish to do so, email Stacey: stazzinaro@gmail.com

QUARANTINE CRAZY!! Here is what some of the BAD members have been up to during this quarantine...

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Sharon is "armed and ready" for healthy walking on old #9 trail. Remember those tiny baby chicks Amy Lambiase told us about in the previous newsletter? Well here they are a month later! so.... that's what Amy has been doing during quarantine. J udy has been planting trees. Those pots in the background are baby Bois d'arc trees started a few years ago from the "horse apples" that fell from the parent trees. Since she can't travel, Susan has been busy working on photo books. This is NOT Brooke, but this is one of the many lost pets she works to help find new families! She was doing this before the quarantine and hasn't stopped yet. Thanks, Brooke! Kevin is trying to train those goats to be politically correct!

KENDALL COUNTY DEMOCRATIC HEADQUARTERS 518 East Blanco Road (behind Mary's Tacos) Phone: 830-331-0672 Ugh!! Our office is closed until further notice!

Click on any of these icons to be taken to their web pages.

GET INVOLVED - VOLUNTEER AT THESE ORGANZATIONS!

MEALS ON WHEELS Would you like to be there for your fellow man/woman. Do you enjoy helping people who really appreciate your efforts. Delivering Meals on Wheels to home-bound individuals in need within Kendall County may be just for you. Meals are ready to be delivered at 10:30 A.M. Routes average 1 to 1 1/2 hours to deliver. We are in need of drivers who can commit to 1 day per week. Contact Josue' Romero mealsonwheels@rainbowseniorcenter.com 830-249-2114 HILL COUNTRY FAMILY SERVICES Volunteer at the Corner Cupboard Grocery and Nutrition Center Whether for an hour, a day or a regular, recurring slot, HCFS needs volunteers at the Corner Cupboard. Volunteers are trained in order to best interact with our clients. Contact Rhonda McNeill 830.249.8643  Volunteer at the Random Hangers Hangers provides for families in need and generates retail sales for local and out-of-town shoppers where 100% of the proceeds support HCFS programs. Contact Jill Ramsey 830.331.2219 

CENTER FOR REFUGEE SERVICES Volunteer Opportunities   Scheduled activities typically take place during office hours:  Mon – Fri, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. No evening hours except for tutoring and citizenship classes. Homework help/tutoring takes place Monday evenings, 7 – 8:30 p.m., when school is in session. No tutoring during summer, Spring Break or holidays. Volunteer opportunities include office administration, transportation, teaching classes, assiting in the World Mosaic Market, and many more. Contact CRS 8703 Wurzbach Rd #A1 San Antonio, TX 78240 Phone:  (210) 949-0062 BOERNE COMMUNITY COALITION The heart of our organization is our volunteers.  Together, wecan accomplish more than we could ever do individually. We have volunteer opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Volunteer opportunites include Hearts of Love weekend food bags prer, Pop-Up community dinners, after school programs, community workdays and many more. Contact BCC via email at info@boernecommunitycoalition.com

GET INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY! Let your voices be heard by attending these community meetings. Click on any of the icons for more information.

Boerne City Council meets at 6:00 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at 9 Topperwein Road, Boerne.

The Kendall County Commissioner's Court meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday at 9:00 a.m. in the County Courthouse, 201 E. San Antonio Street, 3rd floor. The Planning and Zoning meetings are held on the 1st Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Boerne Police/Municiap Court, 124 Old San Antonio Road.

The Fair Oaks City Council meets on the 1st Thursday at 9:30 a.m. and the 3rd Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the FOR City Hall, 7286 Dietz Elkhorn Road, FOR.

The Comfort ISD Board of Trustees meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the CISD Central Office, 327 High Street, Comfort.

The Boerne ISD Board of Trustees meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 5:00 p.m. in the Administrative Offices, 235 Johns Road.

The Cow Creek Groundwater Conservation District meets on the 2nd Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m. at 9 Topperwein Road, Boerne.

BOERNE AREA DEMOCRATS BOARD President: Susan Dollar Vice President: Amy Lambiase Secretary/Newsletter: Judy Dewey Treasurer: Sharon Noack Membership: Brooke Orr Activities: Brenda Schmidt Publicity: Laura Bray Social Media: Krista Bermejillo-Vasquez Ex Officio member: Kevin Henning, KCDP

Connect with us! JOIN THE BOERNE AREA DEMOCRATS Membership Form Email: BAD@ boerne-area-democrats.com Web: boerne-area-democrats.com Facebook: facebook.com/boerne.area.democrats Notice Regarding Photography and/or Audio/Video Recording The Boerne Area Democrats captures photographs and/or audio/video recordings during our events. Such photographs and recordings may be used in BAD's advertising and social media relations to klet others know of our events. In addition, local news organizations may hear of our evengts, and BAD may allow them to record events for news reporting. If youdo not wish to bein photos/videos, please let the photographer/videographer know in advance. This newsletter is intended for people interested in the work of the Boerne Area Democrats and the Democratic Party in general. To be removed from this mailing list, please click on Unsubscribe below or email us at bad@boerne-area-democrats.com.