Stephen Souza steps back from club presidency

Because of circumstances beyond his control, Stephen Souza has to step back from the club and will not be running for a 10th term as president of the Davis Democratic Club. The club has benefited from his leadership for many years and his leadership is only equaled by Arun Sen, who successfully led the club for 12 years. We hope that circumstances improve and Stephen will be able to resume the duties in years to come.

The by-laws state that the DDC elects its officers every two year. The slate of officers is set, although any member may run for any office on the executive board of the Davis Democratic Club. So we are asking for a DDC member to step up to lead the club as President over the next two years. The by-laws state that we need to send a 30 day notice to the club.  We currently hold the club election general meeting before the first Tuesday monthly board meeting.  We have in the distant past held the election on the 3rd Thursday of the month and even served food at this general meeting event.  We have had elections once as late as May, and several times in April due to circumstances, but we would like to hold the election on Tuesday, March 3rd. If you'd like to run, you need to make a decision for a February 1st announcement.  

Also, we need a Recording Secretary, because Jan Agee has agreed to remain in that position only until November 2026, the midterm elections. The importance of this office is that minutes record most importantly attendance, committee reports, the state of the treasury by Treasurer, the state of membership by the membership chair, the planning of club newsletter/website communications, event planning and development by the board and the motions and votes of the board.  

The offices and officers nominated for 2026 to 2028 are:

President - vacant
Vice President - Rick Gonzales
Membership - Gary Hopkins
Recording Secretary - Jan Agee
Publicity & Corresponding Secretary - Giles Giovanazzi

  
A note on the Office of President. Any person who takes over the reins of the club just has to familiarize themselves with the by-laws.  On the executive board, we have the office of past president, who can help advise or recommend courses of action.  Right now, we will still be able to rely on Stephen Souza and Bob Bockwinkel in this advisory role.  And, you will also have the board to help you navigate into the future. 

You can contact any board member.  The easiest to contact are:

G Richard Yamagata at yamagata@dcn.org,  530-848-8634

Stephen Souza at sasouza55@gmail.com,  530-400-2222

Rick Gonzales at 530-758-2331