Clovis Democratic Club April 16, 2026 Meeting Minutes
Clovis Democratic Club
April 16, 2026, Seven Restaurant, Clovis, CA
- Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 6:15 p.m.
- Welcome
President Jeni-Ann Kren welcomed members and guests.
- Flag Salute
The flag salute was led by Virginia Simms.
- Remembrances
A moment of remembrance was held for Barbara Thomas and Nancy Witlow.
- Candidate Presentations
The following candidates addressed the club:
- Michele Cantwell-Copher, Fresno County Superintendent of Schools
- Steven Ueltzen, Judge Seat 6
- Guest Speaker
Dr. Tom Holyoke, Professor of Political Science, CSU Fresno, presented on the current state of affairs in the U.S., Iran and the world. Key points included:
- Democratic candidates have won several federal and state offices in close elections
- President Trump’s overall approval rating at 40%
- Democrats slowly creating a gap where more voters support Democrats
- Emerson College poll indicates Xavier Becerra picked up most support from Eric Swalwell
- Old Business
- Big Hat Days: The booth was successful and received positive feedback from visitors. Thank you to everyone who contributed time. Kathy Tigchelaar did a wonderful job running the committee.
- Scholarship Committee: The Scholarship Committee awarded scholarships to three students;
Chaheti Mathur, Madeleine Menz, and Isabella Sandoval. The Scholarship Brunch will be held Sat. June 13th 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at David Rowell’s home. Thank you to Carol Bence and her committee for all the work they put into this important effort.
- Reports
City Council/Board of Supervisors Report:
President Jeni Ann Kren reported on:
- City Council to set up a system for developing affordable housing
- Board of Supervisors hired a consultant to audit the Department of Social Services, voted to prohibit use of human compost in certain areas, and James Kus, Fresno County Registrar, spoke about the two-part ballot.
- Budget: The Budget is balanced. Motion to Approve: Karol Seabolt, Second: Rich Caputo. Motion Carried. Opposed: None, Abstain: None
- Club Secretary Position: Robert Kelleher volunteered to fulfill the Secretary position. Motion to approve: Cynthia Sterling, Second: Mary Benarth. Motion Carried. Opposed: None, Abstain: None
- Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 8:18 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Robert Kelleher