The annual Jefferson Jackson brunch and fundraiser for the Washoe Democratic Party was not only a huge success last Sunday but it was fun too!  Jessica Sferrazza did a great job MCing the event and Thom Hartmann wowed the audience with his knowledge of Thomas Jefferson.  But it was what was in the air that amazed everyone.  The mood was high, positive and absolutely fabulous as everyone and I mean everyone enjoyed the fruits of our labor this past legislative session.

There were numerous great quotes from speakers all during the event.  My favorite came from former Attorney General Frankie Sue Del Papa who was introducing Clark County Commission Chairman Rory Reid.  “You make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give.”

Speaker Buckley was kind enough to purchase a table for the Stonewall Democrats and when I thanked her she was very gracious.  This was our first meeting and while Julie Wedge was there when I thanked her for her herculean efforts on SB283 the Domestic Partnerships bill and when I said that she couldn’t imagine what it meant to me she said to me something in return that was so heartfelt.  I found the Speaker generous, engaging, humorous and genuine.

I also spoke with Kate Marshal our State Treasurer about SB283.  She was curious as to my take on getting SB283.  You know that conversation about it is progress but it’s not marriage.  And that many of the younger folks don’t get it and I think its because they weren’t there for Anita Bryant, Proposition 6 and Harvey Milk.  History binds us if we let it.  Baby steps will get us to the Supreme Court on the Marriage issue.

Last but not least, Speaker Buckley came over to visit the Stonewall table and we all got our picture taken with her.  When she delivered her remarks during the event she brought up the victory of SB283 and the whole table stood-up and cheered.  I couldn’t have been any prouder that day.  I truly felt connected to my Democrat brothers and sisters.