2010 COPE Endorsing Convention
May 21-23, 2010
Friday, May 21 11am Met with Resolutions Committee
We discussed and voted on resolutions submitted by members who want the Florida AFL-CIO to take official positions on issues and policies. Some of the resolutions proposed included support of absentee Ballots; Support of vote by mail, and opposition to off shore drilling. Several resolutions were tabled for a joint meeting with the executive board. We adjourned at 12 noon and agreed to meet again at 5pm immediately after the General session.
General session began at 1pm
Mike Williams, President opened with remarks and introductions
Russell Harper, president of North Florida CLC welcomed everyone to Jacksonville
We heard from Representative Audrey Gibson
The CLC’s gave their reports
Guest speakers included:
Senator Tony Hill
Governor Charlie Crist
Arlene Holt Baker, AFL-CIO Executive Vice-President
Representative Ron Saunders, Democratic House Leader
We heard remarks from Brian Dempsey, Secretary-Treasurer of the Florida AFL-CIO
Dylan Sumner, Senior Vice President of Mack Crounse political Consulting group gave a presentation on Florida’s political landscape.
Closing remarks by Mike Williams who adjourned the meeting at 5pm
The resolutions committee re-convened and met with the executive board to finish discussion and voting on the remaining resolutions. Meeting adjourned at 5:45pm
Evening event celebrating and honoring Hazel Ziegler and “Dub” Fowler took place from 6pm-7:30pm
Saturday, May 22 General Session
Opening remarks and announcements by Mike Williams, President
CLC president’s reports
Guest speakers included Scott Maddox, candidate for commissioner of Agriculture
U.S. Congressman Kendrick Meek
Presentation on Good Jobs Now Campaign by Keith Maddox AFL-CIO office of the President, strategic campaigns center
Senator Nan Rich, Senate Democratic Leader
US congressman Ted Duetch
General session adjourned at 12 noon
A candidate reception was held from 6pm-8pm to honor Florida’s statewide, congressional and legislative candidates.
Sunday, May 23
Endorsing convention began at 9am with a call to order, a moment of silence, and a presentation of the colors by the boy scouts of America troop 101 and the pledge.
A roll call of the officers was taken followed by reports from all the standing committees.
Ballot issues were considered for votes to support or oppose.
Consideration of candidate endorsements proceeded. All of the Florida Central labor councils Stood to propose their suggestions for endorsed candidates.
West Central Florida suggested and approved 9 local candidates.
Endorsing convention adjourned at 1pm
