Monthly Meeting Minutes
Below you can find our minute from previous meetings.
Meetings are held on the third Thursday of every month unless otherwise announced.
April 17, 2025
April Monthly Meeting
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm at the Browne Recreation Center Community Room located at Heritage Park in Coldwater, Michigan.
Secretary, Sue Fillmore, advanced copies of the minutes for the March meeting. Chair Hoyt asked for a motion to approve the minutes as presented which was made by Jay Ritter and seconded by Paul Brower.
Treasurer, Vaughn Svoboda, presented the account balances for the Administrative account as well as the State account. The treasurer then reported that the cash donations from the past two meetings was enough to pay for April and Mays’ rent cost at the Browne Community Room. Treasurer Svoboda also updated the members that the new web site for the BCD’s will have a cost of $276 as well as a fee of $29 for the domain name “Branch Dems.org.” The treasurer then reminded the members that the cost for meeting at the fairgrounds meeting room for June through December will be $75 each month. Chair Hoyt added that the capacity of the room is 100 people. The Treasurer’s report was placed on file.
Chairperson Hoyt explained the need for liability insurance and that an additional fee for all political parties will have an additional cost of $500. The insurance will protect the officers and the Executive Board members from being sued up to two million dollars.
The chairperson then gave the floor to the members. It was announced that the rally at the four corners park sponsored by the BCDs on Saturday, May 3rd will be held 10am to noon. Others mentioned that members may bring signs and that supplies may be purchased at Dollar Tree and Walmart.
Chair Hoyt congratulated Catherine Barnes on the two designs for T-shirts that are now available to be ordered by members and will be ready for the May 3rd rally. A “Conflict Resolutions” class will be given to members at the Biggby Restaurant Monday, April 28th 1pm to 3pm as well as Tuesday, April 29th from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:27pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
May 15, 2025
May Monthly Meeting
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm at the Browne Recreation Center Community Room located at the Heritage Park in Coldwater, Michigan.
Secretary, Sue Fillmore, advanced copies of the minutes for the April meeting. Chair Hoyt asked for a motion to approve the minutes as presented which was made by Jay Ritter and seconded by Gayle Groshko. The motion was voted on and passed by the members present.
Treasurer, Vaughn Svoboda, presented the account balances for the Administrative account as well as the State account. The treasurer then reported the various donations made during the month as well as the expenses. Of note, the donations made during the month were enough to pay for the cost of rent at the Fair Grounds 4H Cabin through November. Bing Johnson made a motion to accept the Treasurers Report as presented and seconded by Genie Bullard. The motion was voted on and approved by the members present.
Chairperson Hoyt introduced the new “Friendship Table” at the entrance of the meeting room. Two BCD members taking charge of the table are Karen Sobeske and Linda Bowers. The table will be present at all further meetings.
The schedule of events was presented by Chair Hoyt. Anita stated that volunteering for Strawberry Fest was available online.
Chairperson Hoyt emphasized the need for more Democrats to run in the next election to become a Precinct Delegate. Also, explaining the need for Democrats to be INVOLVED!
In the Open to Members conversation Gayle Groshko suggested and made mention that the demonstrations to be held can be publicized by several websites. Other members agreed and suggested other means of an informational forum.
June 19, 2025
June Monthly Meeting
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6:08pm the 4H Cabin at the Fair Grounds in Coldwater, Michigan.
Mark Totten, candidate for Michigan Attorney General, introduced himself to the attendees. Mr. Totten stated he was the United States Attorney for the Western District of Michigan until his resignation January 2025. The two main objectives for his candidacy are (1) Stop Donald J. Trump’s annihilation of the US Constitution and his total disregard of middle America, and (2) “Fill in the Gaps” The programs for middle America that have already been decimated by Trump that can be challenged legally by Michigan’s Attorney General plus the AG’s of all 50 states. Mr. Totten accepted the questions from the attendees.
Secretary, Sue Fillmore, provided copies of the minutes from the May meeting. Chair Hoyt asked for a motion to accept the minutes. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Janette Shell and seconded by Paul Brauer. The motion to accept was voted and approved by the members.
Treasurer, Vaughn Svoboda, presented the account balances for the Administration account as well as the State account. Treasurer Svoboda detailed the donations made during the month as well as the expenses. The Treasurer next explained future expenses. Janette Shell made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s report as presented and seconded by Bill Furry. The motion was voted and approved by the members present.
The schedule of the coming events was presented by chair Hoyt. Detailed were the Strawberry Fest, Branch County Fair, Apple Fest, and Highway Clean Up; also, reminding members of Post Card Thursdays. Anita Hoyt announced Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has agreed to speak at the demonstration July 12th sponsored by the Branch County Democrats.
Anita and Vaughn announced Mike Cilla has been making great progress designing Branch County Democrats web page.
Chairperson Hoyt closed the meeting and then opened the floor for Public Comment.
Respectfully Submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
July 17, 2025
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm at the 4H Cabin at the Fair Grounds inColdwater, Michigan.Secretary, Sue Fillmore, provided copies of the minutes from the June meeting. Chair Hoyt asked for
a motion to accept the minutes. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Genie Bullard and
seconded by Linda Cilla. The motion to accept the minutes was voted on and approved by the
membership.
Treasurer, Vaughn Svoboda, presented the account balances for the Administration account as well
as the State account. The Treasurer stated that $210 was the amount needed for the T-shirts
ordered. The cost paid to the Fair Board was $225. Future expenses were then explained by the
Treasurer. Della Smith made a motion to accept the Treasurer’s report as presented and supported
by Mike Cilla. The membership voted and approved the report on file.
Chairperson Hoyt detailed the upcoming events on the BCD’s calendar of which are the Branch
County Fair August 3-9 and also, Applefest September 27 th reminding the members of the need for
volunteers. Highway cleanup and Postcard Thursdays were also mentioned as future events. Chair
Hoyt announced that tickets were still available for the Hillsdale Truman Dinner being held August 9 th .
A change of meeting date for August has been made due to a previous paid engagement to the
meeting place. The August meeting has been rescheduled to August 14 th at the 4H cabin at 6pm. See
you there!
Mike and Linda Cilla gave an update on the Branch County website. They suggested we visit the site
and give suggestions.
During the Public and Concerns members mentioned future rallies by the Democratic Party. Also,
various podcasts and websites that are available.
Respectfully Submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
August Monthly Meeting
August 14, 2025
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm at the 4H Cabin at the Fair Grounds in
Coldwater, Michigan.
Speaker for a Michigan Constitutional Amendment for “Rank Choice Voting” Sam Cole, presented a
visual and verbal explanation of the amendment. Voters will be able to rank their choices in 2029 (or
the first election after 2029) for the following offices and general elections:
US President, US Senate & House, Michigan Governor, Michigan Attorney General, Michigan
Secretary of State.
As of April 2025, 52 American jurisdictions have Ranked Choice Voting in place, reaching
approximately 14 million voters. This includes the states of Alaska and Maine, 3 counties, 47 cities,
and military/overseas voters in federal runoff elections in 6 states. The website is RankMIVote.org.
Secretary, Sue Fillmore, provided copies of the minutes of the July meeting. Chair Hoyt asked for a
motion to accept the minutes as written. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Genie Bullard
and seconded by Bing Johnson. The motion to accept the minutes was voted on and approved by the
membership.
Treasurer, Vaughn Svoboda, presented the account balances for the Administration account as well
as the State account. The Treasurer stated that in the next month the yearly charge of $188 for the
post office box will be paid as well as $852 for the yearly insurance policy. Bing Johnson made a
motion to place the treasurer’s report on file and seconded by Janette Shell.
Anita Hoyt reminded the membership of Applefest September 20 th from 9am to 3pm and volunteers
were needed. A demonstration is being planned for October 4 th at the Four Corners Park in
Coldwater. The topic is being discussed.
Chairperson Hoyt then opened the floor for public comments and concerns. The meeting was
adjourned at 6:56pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
September Monthly Meeting
September 18, 2025
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, opened the meeting introducing guest speaker Barb Byrum Ingham County Clerk running for Michigan Secretary of State.
Ms. Byrum introduced herself, reiterating the most important duties as County Clerk. The accuracy of elections and the final tally explaining the process of election results. Also stating that some duties of the County Clerk have been eliminated and the trepidation she and other County Clerks have felt. Clerk Byrum also explained with pride she presided a same-sex marriage. Ms. Byrum mentioned her college career and the family hardware business, also, served as the Representative for the 67th House District from 2007 to 2012.
Secretary, Sue Fillmore, provided copies of the minutes of the August meeting. Chair Hoyt asked for a motion to accept the minutes as written. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Jay Ritter and seconded by Janette Shell. The motion to accept the minutes was voted on and approved by the membership.
With the absence of Treasurer Vaughn Svoboda, Chairperson Anita Hoyt gave the account balances.
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, announced that Amaryllis Thomas has resigned her position as Vice-Chairman because of health issues and that the matter will be discussed by the Executive Committee.
Chairperson Hoyt reminded the members of the activities already on the calendar and introduced two new activities. A “Trunk or Treat” is sponsored by the BCD’s October 18th at the Fairgrounds giving candy to children. BCD members are asked to donate candy. A “Turkey Trot” is being hosted by the Coldwater High School National Honor Society and are in need of sponsors. Depending on the dollar amounts collected the sponsors’ names will be listed on T-shirts advertising the race.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
October Monthly Meeting
October 16, 2025
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm at the 4H Cabin at the Fair Grounds in Coldwater, Michigan.
Secretary, Sue Fillmore, provided copies of the minutes of the September meeting. Chair Hoyt asked for a motion to accept the minutes as written. A motion to accept the minutes was made by Della Smith and seconded by Jay Ritter. The motion to accept the minutes was voted on and approved by the membership.
Treasurer, Vaughn Svoboda, presented the balance of the Administration Account then gave a preview of the next year detailing necessary costs and projected receipts. Treasurer Svoboda also gave the balance of the Federal Account stating that the fund can be used to pay the rent of an election headquarters next year then gave the balance of the State account. Bing Johnson made a motion to place the Treasure’s report on file and supported by Linda Cilla.
Chair Hoyt introduced Naomi Harris a spokesperson for “Campaign Legal Center.” Ms. Harris explained the three main objectives of the organization as the following:
Ban contributions by Energy corporations and Insurance companies whose aim is to influence and distort the election process.
Ban contributions by the Board of Directors, Officers, Families, and lobbyists of corporations whose aim is to influence and distort the election process.
Prohibit GOVERNMENT CONTRACTORS to donate $250,000 or more for “pay to play.” IN OTHER WORDS: To assure voters that taxpayer-funded government contracts are not for sale. Total ban of “pay to play” for Health Care. Fifteen states have passed a bill to this ban on Health Care.
Advertisements via SOCAIL MEDIA to voters at a cost of $5000 or more to disclose donors.
Naomi Harris brought a petition for members to sign to put on the state’s ballot an amendment to the state’s constitution titled “Money Out of Politics.”
Chair Hoyt announced she was in possession of petitions that members can read and sign.
Respectfully Submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
November Monthly Meeting
November 20, 2025
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm at the 4H Cabin at the
Fair Grounds in Coldwater, Michigan.
Chair Hoyt introduced guest speaker Christian Vukasovich who is a candidate for CD5
US Representatives. Mr. Vukasovich described himself as a teacher, college professor,
union organizer, and most of all, a son of immigrants on his father’s side and ministers
on his mother’s side. The subject most accentuated was the revival of local economy
such as farms and small businesses. Another local necessity is small town hospitals
and general health care. Mr. Vukasovich also prioritized more funding for roads, bridges,
and watershed conservation. The candidate accepted several questions from members
and topics of discussion.
Secretary, Sue Fillmore, provided copies of the October Monthly Meeting. Chair Hoyt
asked for a motion to accept the minutes as written. Linda Cilla made a motion to
accept the minutes and seconded by Vicky Hargrove. The motion to accept the minutes
was voted on and approved by the membership.
With the absence of the Treasurer Svoboda Chairperson Hoyt gave the account
balances of the treasury and the report would be placed on file.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:03pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
December Monthly Meeting
December 18, 2025
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm at the 4H Cabin at the Fair Grounds in Coldwater, Michigan.
Chair Hoyt introduced the guest speaker Eli Savit who is running for Michigan attorney general. The Washtenaw County Prosecutor Savit worked for the city of Detroit as a senior legal counsel under Mayor Mike Duggan, suing the opioid industry and directing the city’s efforts in winning a $100 million settlement for Detroit schools in a right-to-literacy lawsuit against the state of Michigan. After law school, Savit clerked for two U.S. Supreme Court justices – Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Sandra Day O’Connor. Since he was first elected prosecutor in 2020, Savit established an economic justice unit focused on issues such as worker and consumer protection. He has also sought to eliminate the use of cash bail in criminal cases, saying a defendant’s financial resources should not dictate whether they remain free pending trial. In more recent topics Savit mentioned consumer protection regarding Artificial Intelligence, Voters Rights, the erection of Data Centers, and Voters Rights.
Secretary, Sue Fillmore, provided copies of the November Monthly Meeting. Chair Hoyt asked for a motion to accept the minutes as written. Janette Shell made a motion to accept the minutes and seconded by Tony Pawloski. The motion to accept the minutes was voted on and approved by the membership.
Treasurer, Vaughn Svoboda, gave the balances of the Administration Account, State Account, and Federal Account. The treasurer mentioned that most of the deposits were donations.
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, announced that the County Democratic Convention will be held January twenty-fourth at the public library. Chair Hoyt asked for a vote to delay the election of officers to the January monthly meeting. The vote was unanimous. The meeting was adjourned at 6:55pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
January Monthly Meeting
January 15, 2026
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm at the 4H Cabin at the Fair Grounds in Coldwater, Michigan.
Chair Hoyt announced the first order of business was to elect officers for the next two years also mentioning there has been a vacancy in the Vice-Chair position for the last three months. Vaughn Svoboda made a motion to elect Karen Sobeske as Vice-Chair. No other nominations were made for the position. The members voted resulting in the passing of Ms. Sobeske as Vice-Chair by consensus. The current officers Chairperson Anita Hoyt, Secretary Sue Fillmore, and Treasurer Vaughn Svobod announced they would like to continue their positions. No other nominations were made for the three positions. Jim Bilsborrow made a motion to elect the three current officers to their positions. Mike Cilla seconded the motion: the members voted, passing the motion unanimously.
Chairperson Hoyt reminded members that a Branch County Democrat Convention will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 11am at the Coldwater Library meeting room on the fourth floor. Members are encouraged to write resolutions that are meaningful to the party. More importantly: the endorsement of the candidates running for the Democratic party November 2026.
Chair Hoyt opened the floor for public comment. ALL members resounding that POTUS had gone too far sending ICE agents to Minneapolis, Minnesota, threatening, gassing, and harassing citizens to rid the city of “bad people.” Also, a threat by POTUS to invade the country of Greenland. Many members asked if a protest can be held soon to voice our camaraderie with Minneapolis and Greenland. Chair Hoyt suggested that February 7th after the BCD Board Meeting at 11am weather agreeable.
Guest speaker Karen McDonald, Attorney General candidate, was introduced to members by Chair Hoyt. Ms. McDonald is currently serving as the prosecuting attorney of Oakland County, Michigan, and formerly as a judge on Michigan’s 6th Circuit Court in Oakland County. After graduating high school Karen earned her B.A. in English and political science from Alma College then becoming a public school English teacher. After graduating Wayne State University Law School in 1998 McDonald joined the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office as an assistant prosecuting attorney. In 2004, Ms. McDonald joined a law firm where she specialized in civil and family law. In 2018, she was the recipient of the Oakland County Domestic Violence Prevention Award and the Joan E. Young Champion of Children Award. McDonald was unopposed in her 2018 re-election bid and was elected for a second six-year term on the 6th Circuit Court. During her term as prosecuting attorney: November 30, 2021, the Oxford High School shooting took place. McDonald led the prosecution against the shooter. The shooter pled guilty to all charges. Karen’s projects: THE PARTY NEEDS TO CHANGE & GUNS KILL KIDS
Chair Hoyt adjourned at 7:23pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
February Monthly Meeting
February 19, 2026
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm located in the 4H Cabin at the Fair
Grounds
In Coldwater, Michigan.
John Denning, Quincy Schools Superintendent, spoke to the members regarding a bond proposal
of 4.55 mills to be voted on May 5, 2026. Mr. Denning explained the needs and costs of each of the
three buildings which are Jennings Elementary, Middle School, and High School. He provided pages
of photos,” Cost Estimate of Project” and Capital Millages: Branch County.
Paul Flynn, Coldwater Schools Superintendent, spoke to members concerning a 30 year, 64 million
bond proposal to be voted on May 5, 2026. Expansions of the High School and the Max Larson
Elementary School that are needed were explained. Also, a new entrance for the high school that
It would provide a much better flow of school buses plus a larger maintenance barn and parking area
for buses.
Both Superintendents reiterated the age of buildings and the lack of funds over several years to
maintain the needs of students.
Chair Hoyt asked for a vote for the BCD to participate in the city of Coldwater for Strawberry Fest
June 20th, and Apple Fest September 19 th . Both proposals passed unanimously by voice vote.
The Branch County Fair is to be held August 9-15, 2026. Anita Hoyt asked for a vote for the BCD
to participate. A voice vote was taken which passed unanimously.
Chair Hoyt reminded members to sign up with the county clerk by May 5 th to file for Precinct Delegate.
Hoyt also asked members to consider becoming an Election Inspector. The Democratic Party
MUST have an equal number of inspectors as the Republican Party.
Chair Hoyt announced a Branch County Democratic Convention will be held Saturday, January 24 th at
11am in the Meeting Room at the Coldwater Library. The purpose is to pass resolutions that we want
the
MDP to address.
Anita Hoyt announced a Meet & Greet with Secretary of State Candidate, Suzanna Shkreli, Friday 27,
2026 from 1:00 to 2:00pm at Biggby’s in Coldwater. The floor was then opened for public comment.
The meeting adjourned at 7:13pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary
March Monthly Meeting
March 19, 2026
Chairperson, Anita Hoyt, brought the meeting to order at 6pm located in the 4H Cabin at the Fair
Grounds in Coldwater, Michigan.
Anita Hoyt introduced Jesse Love Campaign Manager to Suzanna Shkreli who is running for the
Secretary of State of Michigan. Mr. Love presented the importance of elections in the state of
Michigan to be accurate, safe, ease, and without discrimination. The rules of obtaining a Michigan
driver’s license for students and immigrants was discussed and several questions were asked by
members. Mr. Love reminded members of the importance of running for Precinct Delegate and to sign
up to become an Election Inspector; also mentioning March 20 th is the last day to sign up to be a
delegate to the Michigan Democratic Convention.
Anita Hoyt asked for a motion to accept the minutes of the February meeting provided by Secretary,
Sue Fillmore. Paul Brauer made the motion to accept the minutes and seconded by Genie Bullard.
Members approved the motion with a verbal vote.
Treasurer Vaughn Svoboda gave the account balance of the Administration Account, State Account,
and Federal Account stating there was no activity of the three accounts and balances remained the
same as last month.
Vaughn Svoboda informed members that detainees being held at the Baldwin Detention Center are in
need of sponsorship which would be a commitment of $75 which would not have to come from one
person.
Chair Hoyt reminded members of the “No Kings” March being held in Coldwater March 28 th at 9:30.
Also, a Meet & Greet is being held with LG Garlin Gilchrist March 29 th . The MDP Endorsing
Convention will be held Sunday, April 19 th . At the next general meeting a vote by attending members
will be taken for the office of Attorney General and Secretary of State. A highway cleanup is
scheduled for April 18 to April 26.
A reminder was given to members by Hoyt that the deadline to file for Precinct Delegate is May fifth.
Election Inspectors are also needed.
Linda Bowers announced the Faith and Christian series will begin Match 28 at 2pm at the Community
Center. Karen Sobeske updated members the fund raiser will be held Friday, May 1 st with a cost of
$40. The committee is currently searching for a guest speaker.
Respectfully Submitted,
Sue Fillmore, Secretary