San Martin – More than 50 people – including families with children – made the most of the weather and the food Sunday during the South County Democratic Club’s barbecue and also had a chance to hear insurance commissioner John Garamendi, who is running for lieutenant governor, as well as Jerry McNerney, who is running for Congress.
The picnic was held at the San Martin Country Park.
Club President Kristine Dillon said the event was a success, despite the last-minute change of venue.
“We were thrilled with the guests, the opportunity to talk with them in a relaxed, informal setting,” she said. “We like to look at events like this as an opportunity to create a handshake between the club and the community.”
Garamendi and other speakers urged club members to get out into the community and motivate voters to visit the polls on election day, Nov. 7.
The Democratic Party, Garamendi said, needs to “take back” Congress. “If we don’t take back Congress, we put this not only the nation, this community, this state, but also the world in which we live in great risk,” he said.
He said issues that need to be addressed immediately include health insurance, global warming and education.
“(Republicans) want a flag-burning amendment, like that’s going to help this nation,” he said, accompanied by a burst of applause.
Anna Caballero, who is campaigning for a seat in the state Assembly, told club members she is focusing on getting young people to vote and getting them involved in issues.
McNerney, Caballero and Garamendi were joined by Karen Sinunu, who is in the running for the Santa Clara County District Attorney.
Local dignitaries enjoying the opportunity to mingle were Mayor Dennis Kennedy, City Councilmembers Greg Sellers and Larry Carr and Morgan Hill School Board Trustee Kathy Sullivan. City Council candidate Alex Kennett and School Board candidate Bart Fisher also attended the barbecue.
Marilyn Dubil covers education and law enforcement for The Times. Reach her at (408) 779-4106 ext. 202 or at [email protected].
