The meeting was called to order by Joyce Akins at 10:10 a.m.

Several candidates spoke―Toni Martinez Ingversen, Lee Harper Wilson, and a representative for Ellen Cohen.

Representatives for the City of Houston REEP program spoke about the program which is free weatherization of homes for senior citizens and others, homeowners or renters who qualify based on 200% of the poverty income. The application is on the site www.REEPHouston.net and services can include insulation, a new refrigerator, solar screens, light bulbs, etc. The REEP contractor, Ben Mendez, can be reached at 713-875-2717 or 713-880-2626. A link will be added to the Club's website.

Joyce introduced our guest speaker―Robert B. Hinsley who is a lawyer specializing in helping people solve their credit problems. He talked about the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act and how there is much misinformation from the media and much abuse from the debt collectors. The outstanding credit card debt of the US is huge. The companies used the period between May 2009 and February 2010 when the new law went into effect to raise rates, use scare tactics and lie to consumers.

Bob emphasized that bankruptcy is not a do-it-yourself option and that consolidation of debts is not a good idea and that consumer credit counseling services of all kinds do not use good practices for the consumer. The new law did not set a cap on interest rates and all states' usury laws were struck down by the US Supreme Court. The average bounced check in the US is only $20, but by the time interest and fees are added, the average penalty ($27) is extremely high and out of line. Bob suggested we Google “credit card revolt” and see a YouTube video of an irate consumer, Ann Munch.

He advised consumers to not bother calling the credit card companies as it does no good. A good lawyer can send letters and help you at less cost than anything the companies would arrange with you. “Every balance of every client has disputable charges, but if you negotiate on your own, you will end up in court”. Do not allow “overdraft protection” to be charged to you on a credit card―a common predatory practice. Hinsley's firm offers presentations on Tuesdays and Thursdays to those needing help with credit card issues. He advised that you record conversations from collectors as they often use illegal and scary threats. Citibank is the most difficult to deal with.

Q & A followed Mr. Hinsley's presentation.

The minutes from March were read and approved. Our treasurer was not present, but Joyce announced our club balance is about $650.

Joyce then talked about our budget and that we need paying members and we needed to reduce our costs, especially that of mailing out fliers for monthly meetings. Most of those present indicated that emails would be suitable. Other ideas for reducing costs included limiting the JRR tickets to only one free one and combining our table with another club; having every member bring another person; and asking those not coming to meetings if they are still interested in the club. There was not much interest in having a garage sale except by two people who Joyce encouraged to talk together.

Pat Powers spoke about his precinct (256) and how he has evaluated the voters registered by age, culture, and life issues, such as the ones raising children, the “earned it” group, the “broad shoulders” group, etc. He plans to walk his entire precinct to meet the people and he needs volunteers.

There was a lot of discussion about the June 26 Democrat Senate District Convention in Corpus Christi; several members plan to attend. Our club purchased a full page ad in the senate district convention brochure; we needed the publicity. Because of this convention, we need to move our June meeting to another date and place. Suggestions were to meet June 19 at a local restaurant. Joyce will check out some places.

Bert Anson spoke of the committees needing help at the HCDP―working group, communications, young Democrats, clubs and organizations, fund raising, grassroots, etc.

It was suggested club members contact Al Green if we had things to say about the Goldman Sachs hearings.

Our next meeting is May 22 and Joyce is working on securing a female military speaker. Members are encouraged to bring military memorabilia if desired.

The meeting adjourned at 12:10 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Mary Haper, Secretary