Cherokee County Democratic Club

Don't Forget -- Picnic is Thursday May 26th

2011-05-25T22:39:00.000-05:00

The annual Cherokee County Democratic Club picnic is THIS WEEK! Thursday, May 26^th Join us for good food, fun, fellowship, and lots of laughs! Location: Jim Hogg City Park in Rusk. East on U.S. 84 at the intersection of 84 and 69 to the Park Road sign on your right. Rain or shine, we will start the picnic at 6:00 PM. Coke, Dr. Pepper, sweet tea, unsweetened tea and ice are provided by the club. So bring a covered dish, snack tray, chips, BBQ, fried chicken, etc., and a guest or two. See you there!

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From Suzanne Morris –

Many of you are aware of the movement to stop the TransCanada Keystone XL pipeline from being extended down through East Texas to the Gulf Coast, crossing our streams, rivers and Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer.

On Saturday, May 28th, we will have a booth at the Fair on the Square in Rusk, and we need some help passing out post cards petitioning the State Department to reject TransCanada's request for a Presidential Permit for this pipeline extension. The deadline for comment is June 6th.

Some of you have expressed an interest in this issue. If you could help by passing out postcards during the Fair, we would greatly appreciate it.

We'll see you at the meeting next Thursday night, and Mary will have a few postcards for our members who wish to sign at that time.

The movement is growing to stop this toxic crude oil from being transported down through our state to get to the open commodity market. It is a threat to our water supply and our environment, and our State Department needs to know we care.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call or email me.

Many thanks.

Suzanne Morris

(903) 683-9525

Texas Observer Notes What Defunding Planned Parenthood Will Cost Us

2011-05-12T08:45:00.000-05:00

• The Texas Observer reported yesterday that the LBB says the move to take money out of family-planning programs could be very expensive for the state: “The cuts to family planning programs approved in the Texas House budget—part of conservative lawmakers’ efforts to defund Planned Parenthood this session—would lead to more than a quarter million low-income women losing essential reproductive health services and birth control, according to a recent analysis. … The House version of the budget would divert about $62 million—two-thirds of total funding—from birth control and other women’s health services to programs like autism services, early childhood intervention and crisis pregnancy centers. A recent analysis by the Legislative Budget Board estimates the family planning cuts contained in the House budget would result in almost 284,000 fewer women receiving services. With a lack of birth control come more unplanned pregnancies, and possibly more abortions. The LBB analysis—which hasn’t been made public, but was obtained by the Observer—also estimates that the state’s Medicaid program would have to cover approximately 20,511 more births. That would cost almost $100 million in state dollars over the next biennium.” This came from Austin American Statesman online

Keeping Up With The Legislature

2011-04-27T20:15:00.000-05:00

Hope you've been keeping with the Legislature in Austin. Not an easy thing to do. But as you know the House passed the Committee Substitute to HB 1 which cuts billions from education and would force many nursing homes to shut down and leave grandma without a home. Some who voted for it seemed to say that this was not the real budget and that it would get better.

Well the bill went to the Senate and they came up with their own version of HB 1. The Senate Finance committee bill is on the calendar in the Senate and they must have 21 votes to bring it up for debate. At this point they are having difficulty doing that. Both progressives and conservatives are telling Senators to vote no on bringing up the bill. The conservatives do not like the idea that there is Rainy Day money in the bill and the other side thinks that there are still too many cuts and not enough Rainy Day money or new revenue in the bill. Seems some senators want to move it on saying that it can be changed/fixed in conference committee. But the buck will stop somewhere. We can't keep passing it on and hoping that someone else will fix it.

April 28 -- Cherokee Democratic Meeting

2011-04-27T19:47:00.000-05:00

The Cherokee County Democratic Club will meet on Thursday, April 28, at Lupe's at 7 p.m. The Women's Group will meet at 6:30 p.m. Come a little early if want to order supper.

The group will discuss the county redistricting among other concerns. Come join us and share you views about what is happening in the county, state and nation.

Check Out These Articles Today

2011-04-04T10:58:00.000-05:00

If you are interested in the Pipeline discussion and the possibility that it will move through East Texas, you might check out the New York Time Editorial against the pipeline. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/03/opinion/03sun1.html

This is the topic which was the subject of the Cherokee County Democratic Club meeting in February.

The Texas Observer has a good article on the Budget Debate.
http://www.texasobserver.org/floor-play/the-budget-superlatives-the-best-and-worst-moments-of-the-budget-debate
Two Republicans voted against the Budget Bill and one is a Tea Party Republican. Seems he is getting a little disillusioned about how things work in Austin.

House Reconvenes to Complete Discussion on CSHB 1

2011-04-03T21:49:00.001-05:00

It is 9:10 p.m. on Sunday, April 3, and the House is nearing completion on CSHB 1. They are down to Article 11 which is the last section to be considered. Article 11 is a compilation of amendments which are "wish lists' from Representatives. They are not funded. They will not a part of HB 1 unless they get picked up, passed and funded in the process as the bill goes through the Senate and the probable conference committee. This is a process which is not completely understood by the Representative, even those who have been there for several sessions.

In the next few days hopefully we will see some analysis of what is still in the bill and what has been changed. This is the second reading of CSHB 1. So it will have to be passed after a third reading. The Senate will then have their say so we are long way from having a budget. It may not be done until even a special called session.

Rep. Sylvester Turner seems to be the expert on the Article 11 process. He is speaking to the body and explaining and answering questions about how this all works. The House is getting ready to vote on all the amendments in Article 11 at once. They voted by not objecting to the motion to pass Article 11. They have until Tuesday to register opposition to any of the amendments in writing.

It is now 9:45 p.m.and the Democrats are making their final speeches against CSHB 1. These are speeches you might want to listen to some time. They are archived on the House website. The vote will come after the speeches are completed.

House Debate on CSHB 1 Continues

2011-04-02T22:54:00.000-05:00

House debate on CSHB 1 (committee substitute for HB 1) came to a temporary end at 12:30 a.m. on Saturday morning. They will reconvene on Sunday at 4 p.m. Any political nerds or information junkies can listen to the archived video of the session by going online to http://www.house.state.tx.us/
There are over 400 pages of amendments to complete. You can see the text of these amendments on the Texas Tribue website -- http://www.texastribune.org/. Many of the amendments on Friday dealt with moving money from one fund to another. Many of those were moving money from family planning to other human service areas. The Democrats found this frustrating as both area considered were of great need and value but they were being forced to choose. Many felt this was a political maneuver--raiding family planning (which is interpreted as "abortion" to many) to give to other area. All the while many were also complaining of too many abortions. It was pointed out that taking away family planning money would lead to more unplanned pregnancies and to potential for more abortions. All amendments passed which took money from family planning.

You can also follow the debate when it begins again on Sunday through twitter.com. The hashtag for this discussion is #txlege. Use that to search for what is being said as the debate moves along.

Keeping Up With Those Legislators in Austin

2011-03-28T16:24:00.001-05:00

Voter ID SB14 bill has been approved by the House. Since it was amended it will be sent back to the Senate and they will either approved as amended or send it to a conference committe of both houses. So we have not heard the last of this bill.

The House has also passed HB 1, the Budget Bill. It is actually CSHB1 (committee substitute for HB1). It added back some of the money the original bill took out but I don't think it is enough to get excited about. There are graphs of both versions on http://www.cppp.org/. Check it out if you want to see more about where the legislature is in the process.

Public Education and The Budget Topic of Monthly Meeting

2011-03-24T22:07:00.001-05:00

       Kathy and Eldridge Moak presented a great program to the Cherokee Democrats at their monthly meeting on March 24. The Moaks attended the recent rally in Austin that centered on Public Education and concerns about budget cuts. Given the difficult situation the state (and nation) are in financially, we wondered what can we do?
      Suggestion 1: Write, call, fax or email Representative Chuck Hopson and Senator Robert Nichols and let them know that education is your top priority and you want it to be their top priority also.
                           Rep. Hopson, PO Box 2910, Austin, 78768-2910; 866.233.5100, Fax 512.463.8792
                           chuck.hopson@house.state.tx.us
                           Senator Nichols, PO Box 12068, Austin, 78711; 800.959.8633, Fax 512.463.1526
                           robert.nichols@senate.state.tx.us

    Suggestion 2: Contact Hopson and Nichols and asked them to sponsor a local forum on education during the session. We are concerned/scared about what will happen to our schools and we need to hear from them with ideas on what they are doing to help repair the problems with public education.

     Suggestion 3: Write to local newspapers with your concerns. Let's get our letters in the newspaper.

Cherokee County Democratic Meeting Thursday, March 24

2011-03-22T11:09:00.001-05:00

The Cherokee County Democrats

will meet next

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Lupe’s restaurant in Jacksonville, the private room

6:30 p.m. – TDW

7:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Cherokee County Democrats

As always, dinner will be available before or during the meeting.

Kathy & Eldridge Moak will lead a discussion of the state of public education in Texas (budget cuts, manipulation of the curriculum, etc.). Whether or not you have school age children or grandchildren, how the Legislature addresses the current crisis will affect all Texans for years to come.

Keeping Up With The Legislature

2011-02-22T22:13:00.000-06:00

Did you know: Leo Berman has filed almost 2000 anti-immigration bills this session?

That Rep. Lyle Larson has filed House Bill 684 that would allow counties to house prisoners in tents?

That Texas may allow firearms on college campuses?

That Texas ranks first in children withous health insurance?

That Texas ranks third in the highest teen birth rate?

That Texas has the 5th most regressive tax system?

That Texas ranks 6th in the most children in poverty?

But we are 40th in college degrees and 49th in mental health spending. (from Texas Observer)

So much to be proud of.

Cherokee County Demeocratic Club Meeting -- Thursday, February 24

2011-02-22T21:45:00.000-06:00

This Thursday the Club will meet at 7 p.m. at Lupe's Restaurant. The Women's group will meet at 6:30 p.m. Come anytime after 6 p.m. if you wish to eat. The meeting will be information concerning the pipeline that is scheduled to come through the county.

In preparation for the 7:00 program and discussion, Mary Decker sends along the following information about the TransCanada pipeline.

The following URL links to a report just released today on risks associated with tar sands pipelines, co-authored by Sierra Club, National Wildlife Federation, Natural Resources Defense Council, and most key, the independent group Pipeline Safety Report.

http://www.sierraclub.org/dirtyfuels/downloads/2011-02-safety.pdf

A local news story about the proposed pipeline - http://www.blogger.com/goog_1657905538

House Makes Committee Assignments

2011-02-12T19:44:00.000-06:00

The House has made their meeting assignments and committee meetings have begun. You can check out the make up of any committee by going online to http://www.house.state.us.tx/. The committee meetings can be watched on the internet live or archived. This is a good way to know what is happening. News outlets don't always report things acurately. Hearing it first hand is good idea.

With that in mind you might want to listen to the State Affairs Senate hearings on the Sonagram Bill. The bill as it was filed and the bill that was passed are not the same after amendments. Listening to Senator Patrick is also an interesting way to spend some time.

The Senate Finance Committee is having hearings on each part of the Senate Budget Bill. Each section has invited testimony and public testimony. If there are parts you are particularlly interested in, you can see what the Committee is being told by the people and by the people they want to hear from. The hearing on Human Services was interesting as the Senators must sit and listen to people from many of the MR facilities tell why they want funding to be continued to the facilities in which they live. Mothers bring their children who are in danger of loosing services and show how difficult their lives will be without the programs their children need.

The Legislature Is Moving On -- What Do You Think About What's Happening

2011-02-05T16:05:00.000-06:00

Well the Senate is not waiting around to get to work this session. They have named their committees and are at work. The Finance committee is meeting Monday through Thursday with invited and public testimony. They began discussing Health and Human Service issues and will continue through each section of the budget. The Committee on Education has also begun hearings. If you want to watch any of these committees you can do so online at http://www.senate.state.tx.us/ and look at the list of sessions available. Texas Impact has posted short snippets of pertinent information on their web page each week -- www.texasimpact.org . Other ways to keep up with what is happening in Austin: http://www.texastribune.org/ and http://www.statesman.com/.

2011-01-27T18:15:00.001-06:00

Keeping Up With The Legislature

2011-01-26T21:41:00.001-06:00

Aren't you glad that the 2011 session of the legislature began early in January since we have a voter emergency going on. But Governor Perry has stepped in to save the day. He put Voter ID legislation on the fast track and the senate has been debating it as a committee of the whole. No time to wait for a real committee and no time to wait for the word to get out to the those living outside of Austin or way up here behind the Pine Curtain. So no time for the public to travel to Austin to give testimony.

So today Wednesday, January 26, the Senate passed a bill that would require voters to have a photo ID in order to vote. It will now move to the House. Since this is a Republican backed bill and the Republican Governor put it on the fast track, it is probable that the 101 Republican in the House will be able to push this bill past the 49 Democrats. Many feel that there is no fraudulant voting crisis which a photo ID will fix. Others will say that there are many people voting who should not be voting but during hearings in the past about this issue, very few cases were presented to prove this assumption. The implication is that undocumented persons are coming in droves to vote.

FEAR. That is the watch word for our times. Be afraid, be very afraid. So let's be aware of what is being said and do some research of our own and share our views with Senator Nichols and Representative Hopson.

January Meeting for Cherokee Democrats

2011-01-26T21:20:00.000-06:00

Thursday, January 27, at 7 p.m. the Cherokee County Club will meet at Lupe's restaurant. The Women's group will meet at 6:30 p.m. Come join the group and see what everyong is thinking about the first days of the Texas Legislature.

Come Join Us!!!

Texas Legislature Begins Tuesday, January 11

2011-01-08T18:03:00.000-06:00

Tuesday, we are off to the races. The newly elected member of the State House and the new members of the Senate will be sworn in. The election of the next speaker will be one order of business.

Remember that you can keep up with all the in and outs and ups and downs of the Texas legislative session by tuning into chamber sessions and legislative hearings of the House (http://www.house.state.tx.us/) and of the Senate (http://www.senate.state.tx.us/).

Explore these websites and keep up with bills and their progress through the legislature and learn about the state's legislature.

Speaker of the House Race

2010-11-30T21:05:00.000-06:00

Have you noticed that the new Republican House in Texas is having a family fight over who will be the Speaker of the House when the Legislature convenes in January. Current Speaker Joe Straus says he has over 100 pledges for the upcoming vote. There are 99 Republicans so there are Democrats in those pledges. As we get closer to January there are other Republicans who also want his job so there is an active race going on. The most conservative of the Republicans don't want Straus to continue in this position. They claim he is too LIBERAL. Those in opposition to Straus want only the Republicans to elect the Speaker. It has been reported that one Republican representative has told Straus supporters that they will be targeted in the next primary season for supporting him. Turns out this and other concerns about the speaker race were taken to the Ethics Committee. Do you now who chairs the Ethics Committee??? Our own Cherokee County former Democrat who moved to the dark side last year--Rep. Chuck Hopson. He is chair because Speaker Straus gave his that position last session while he was still a Democrat. Perhaps that is one of the reasons Republicans are not happy with Speaker Straus -- he appointed too many Democrats to significant committees.
Another interesting point is that the Vice Chair of the Ethics committee is the person who threatened another Rep with a primary fight if he supported Straus. Seems nothing signicant beyond this came from the committee's meeting, but Rep. Hopson's name keeps coming up in the speaker's race discussions. He issued an email warning to Representatives to be careful of how they participated in the speaker's race as they should beware of possible bribery charges and other acts of misconduct. Some took this as a warning to not listen to their constiutents and have said that Hopson and others want only the insiders to elect the next speaker. The Quorum Report web site has a couple of videos being used in the speaker's race. Check it out if you are interested. These videos are under the Daily Buzz tab and are dated November 30. You'll have to scroll down to find them.

Wondering About All Those Pre-filed Bills????

2010-11-22T13:11:00.000-06:00

If you've been hearing about the 500 or so pre-filed bill in the Texas Legislature that begins in January, you might wonder just what they are all about. You can check and see if bills that are of special interest to you have been filed. Go to the Texas Legislature Online and type in a key word that reflects the topic you are interested in, such as immigration, education, taxes, banking, and etc. If Bills in that category have been filed then a list will appear. Be sure to choose 82 (R) 2011 in the box beside Legislature. If you wish to see bills from past legislative sessions, then choose that legislative session, such as 81 (R) and so on. The numbers such as 81(1) or 79 (3) reflect the session number and the special session. R refers to the regular session. The coming session of the Texas Legislature in Austin will be number 82.

While you are looking online be sure to become familiar with both the House and Senate sites so you'll be ready when the session starts to tune in to committee hearings and broadcasts of the sessions live. You can also check on hearings and sessions after the fact as they are all recorded and archived. During 2010 committees have been meeting and discussing the Interim Charges so you might find that of interest.

State Board of Education Continues Assault on School Children of Texas

2010-11-21T19:23:00.000-06:00

If education is one of your key issues, you will want to read this email from the Texas Freedom Network about the current decisions of the State Board of Education (SBOE). This particular article lays out what the Board recently decided but also gives a list of suggested actions citizens might take to combat the Board.

Creationists Are Preparing for a New Assault

on Science Education in Texas

Help Ensure that Texas Students Get an Education Based on Sound Science

The religious right is preparing for the second stage in its reckless campaign to push junk science into Texas public school classrooms. The State Board of Education voted today to adopt new instructional materials for science classes this coming spring. Those materials will be based on new science curriculum standards the board adopted last year – standards that promote creationist arguments against evolutionary science in our children’s classrooms.

Find out below how you can stop efforts to undermine science in Texas schools and ensure that students get a sound education that prepares them to succeed in college and a 21st-century economy!

What Has Happened So Far

Last year the Texas Freedom Network and other supporters of sound science education succeeded in removing from the new science standards a requirement that students learn phony “weaknesses” of evolutionary theory. But the state board’s far-right faction rejected appeals from distinguished scientists, including Nobel laureates, not to water down instruction on science in other ways. In fact, the board passed new standards based on creationist arguments against evolution: one challenging the core scientific concept of natural selection and another questioning overwhelming evidence in the fossil record that supports evolutionary science.

What’s Up Next

The state board has asked publishers to submit instructional materials that cover the new science standards, and 18 publishers have agreed to do so this spring. The Texas Education Agency is now accepting applications from teachers, scholars and other citizens to review those materials. The state board will then consider those reviews when it decides which materials to adopt in March (for high school classes) and July (for classes in Grades 5-8).

What Can You Do?

It’s critical that supporters of sound science take action to prevent far-right pressure groups and extremists on the state board from hijacking the adoption of these new instructional materials for Texas classrooms.

Volunteer to serve on a panel that will review instructional materials submitted by publishers in the spring. Review panels typically meet over the course of one or two days in Austin. The Texas Education Agency will cover the travel and lodging costs of review panelists. Click here to access the State Review Panel Nomination Form.

Sign on to the Texas Freedom Network’s Just Educate campaign to reform the State Board of Education and keep the personal agendas of state board politicians out of classrooms.

Stay informed by subscribing to TFN News Clips and by reading our blog, TFN Insider.

Donate to the Texas Freedom Network and help us stop the far right’s well-funded assaults on the education of Texas schoolchildren.

Looking Ahead to the 2011 Legislative Session

2010-11-20T16:55:00.001-06:00

Looking ahead to January and the 2011 legislative session of the Texas Legislature is somewhat of a grim view. Like other sessions before, this one begins with a large budget deficit. Budget deficits usually mean even less money for healthcare for children, less money for poor families. And it often means increasing regressive taxes (sales tax) and many other punitive measures for those without means and a voice to be heard. The budget will likely drive the session in many ways.

Now is not too early to begin looking at what the budget deficit will mean for us this year especially when you factor in the Texas House is now 99 Republicans and 51 Democrats. The Dallas Morning News recently published an article on the budget which you might find interesting and helpful as we try to understand where we are headed in 2011.

Another issue that seems to be of great concern to our legislators is immigration. More than 20 of pre-filed bills deal with immigration. Some are classifed as similar to the Arizona bill and other are concerned with law enforcement, benefits, and employer enforcement. A listing of these bills is found in this article from The Burnt Orange Report. A Part II is promised so you can keep your eye out for that.

Other links that might help you keep up with what is coming to Texas next year:
The Texas Tribune
Texas Impact (this is a group that lobbies for issues of concern to mainline churches)
Texas Freedom Network
TFN Insider
Center for Public Policy Priorities

Leave you comments and let us know what you are thinking.

Club Helps HOPE Backpack Program for School Children

2010-11-19T15:24:00.000-06:00

As we approach Thanksgiving, the Democrats of Cherokee County want to share with those in our county who are in need. The Club voted to sponsor a Backpack for a public school student through the HOPE Backpack program. Students on this program take home a backpack of meals for the weekend each Friday. The students are selected for this program by school counselors in their school.
Cherokee Democrats are ready to help their community in all ways possible.

Election Results In Cherokee County

2010-11-19T14:51:00.003-06:00

Mid-Term elections were not exactly what Democrats had hoped for. On the county level we have some success: Patsy Lassiter and Leverne Lusk did not have opponents and will be serving another term. Vera Foreman, Justice of the Peace Precinct 4, narrowly won re-election as did Precinct 4's Commission, Byron Underwood. We celebrate these rays of sunshine in a political climate that looks gloomy in many ways.

Thersa Phifer, Justice of the Peace for Precinct 2, sadly was not re-elected. This is a very disappointing result for all Cherokee Democrats. Perhaps a result of our failure to get out the vote in the southern part of the county. Others Democrats who were not successful were Marlene Jowell, candidate for County Judge, Dr. Richard Hackney, candidate for State Representative of District 11 and Preston Meador, candidate for Justice of the Peace precinct 3.

But Democrats in Cherokee County are not letting these defeats keep up down. We are continuing to spread the word that Cherokee County Democrats are here still growing and going.

Join us each month as we continue to meet and share ideas and strategies.
We meet on the fourth Thursdays and do move the meeting spot around the county. Check with us on where the meetings will be.

Vera Foreman Announces For Re-Election as Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4

2009-11-20T19:14:00.004-06:00

Judge Vera Foreman announces her campaign for re-election as Justice of the Peace, Cherokee County Precinct 4. Judge Foreman, 52, is a longtime resident of Cherokee County and attended Jacksonville schools. She began her public service as the court clerk for the late Judge Polly Kite. In consideration of Judge Foreman’s education and legal training received as court clerk, and her demonstrated abilities and dedication to her duties and responsibilities, the Commissioners Court of Cherokee County unanimously votes to appoint her to complete the unexpired term of Judge Kite upon her death after an extended illness. At the conclusion of that term, the voters of Cherokee County expressed their confidence in Judge Foreman by electing her to a full term as Justice of the Peace for Precinct 4. In addition to her duties as J.P., Judge Foreman was also recently honored to be appointed as the municipal judge for the City of New Summerfield, upon the retirement of Judge Bobby Caveness.

Judge Foreman brings excellent qualifications and extensive experience to her position. “Having served as court clerk, both Judge Kite and Judge Caveness introduced me to the duties and responsibilities of the Court and to the day to day business of maintaining a court’s busy schedule” Judge Foreman said. “With the experience that I have gained over the last three years as your Justice of the Peace as well as my continuing legal training as judge uniquely qualifies me to be Justice of the Peace. When elected, I promised that everyone who appears before my court will be met with professional behavior, honesty, understanding and fairness. I have devoted full time to the position and will continue to be available to those whom I serve. I thank you in advance for your continued support and consideration.

Patsy Lassiter Announces for County Treasurer--2010

2009-11-19T14:17:00.004-06:00

I would like to take this opportunity to announce my bid for re-election in the March 2, 2010 Democratic Primary election. I have served for 2 terms as County Treasurer.

During my time as County Treasurer I have served on the County Treasurer’s Association (CTAT) Education Committee for 5 years. The education committee is responsible for program format and content of seminars required by State law to maintain continuing education credits for County Treasurers. CTAT also provides legislative updates and is a general support system for County Treasurer’s across the State of Texas.

In 2003 I earned a County Investment Officer Certification in compliance with Section 2256.008 of the Texas Public Funds Investment Act which qualifies me to oversee the investment of public funds. A County Official who is certified under standards adopted by the Texas Association of Counties demonstrates to the public a commitment to ensure the safety of County funds and earn the maximum interest allowed through prudent and legal investing of the County funds.

I have maintained the 20 hours of Treasurer’s continuing education and 10 hours of Public Funds Investments Act and 20 hours of County Investment Officer training that is required per year.

I feel that I have accomplished a great deal in the 7 years that I have been in office.
I have worked with the Commissioner’s Court to get the best Health Plan for employees and to keep costs as low as possible for the County.
Direct deposit has been implemented to better serve the employee’s and reduce the County’s costs.

The Treasurer’s office worked with Commissioner’s Court to revise our Policy and Procedure Manual, which was approved by Commissioner’s Court September 2009.

It has been very fulfilling to serve the citizens of Cherokee County as its Treasurer and I look forward to the next 4 years.

First Republican Challenger to Hopson says he'll announce next week

2009-11-10T20:57:00.002-06:00

Michael Banks, Jacksonville dentist, states he will run for the Republican nomination for District 11 State Representative slot currently held by Rep. Chuck Hopson in the spring. Rumor has it that one or two other candidates may also announce for the primary. Check out the Burnt Orange Report: www.burntorangereport.com

PRESS RELEASE from JOANNA REAGAN

2009-11-08T21:10:00.001-06:00

JOANNA REAGAN: HOPSON SHOULD GIVE BACK EVERY DEMOCRATIC DOLLAR

Below is a statement from Texas Democratic Women President-Elect Joanna Reagan of Cherokee County, TX regarding the need for Rep. Chuck Hopson to return campaign funds he’s raised as a Democrat from Democrats and questioning his word to his rural constituents:
“As an official of the Texas Democratic Women and Cherokee County neighbor, I call on Chuck Hopson to return every dollar he has raised from his former fellow Democrats, who believed and trusted in him.
“It’s bad enough that Chuck Hopson gave us his word he wouldn’t switch parties, but it’s even worse that just two weeks ago he took our money at a fundraiser and didn’t bat an eye.
“If he won’t keep his word to us, what about the children in our schools, our senior citizens, our private property rights, the Neches River, the East Texas Railroad – all causes and values he has also claimed in the past. Will he be as quick to throw those over and if he claims no, can we believe him?”
We deserve an elected official we can trust – and no matter what party Chuck Hopson belongs to, it’s clear his word isn’t worth a dime.”

Chuck Hopson Jumps to Republican Party

2009-11-08T20:27:00.003-06:00

"President Obama and the Democrats in Congress just don't reflect the values of this district,"

Hopson says. (The Texas Tribune)

Hopson said,"My personal values seem to line up a little more with the Republican Party's than the Democrats right now, when we talk about family values, guns and God and land."(Tyler Morning Telegraph.)

Cathie Adams, the new chairman of the Republican Party of Texas, said, "I think it's very exciting. We will take people to our winning team and encourage them." She didn't immediately know of plans to help Hopson get a "safe" primary without major opponents, but others in the party are already working on that. (The Texas Tribune)

http://www.texastribune.org/stories/2009/nov/06/hopsons-choice/

Check out what the TFN Insider says about Cathie Adams. http://tfninsider.org/2009/10/27/bigotry-and-cathie-adams/

From the Quorum Report:

They report that Chuck Hopson's new high-risk decision may bring a primary challenge.
"Local dentist and former Jacksonville school board member says he will decide on possible GOP primary challenge next week."

While the Republican Party of Texas embraced the switch, it is suggested that not all on the right were so happy.

Check out the Burnt Orange Blog and other newspaper accounts for more information.

November Meeting of the Democrats -- November 19

2009-11-08T20:17:00.003-06:00

Cherokee County Democrats will sponsor a potluck supper in the Fellowship Hall of Shady Grove Church of Christ in Rusk at 6:30 p.m. The word “delicious” doesn’t even begin to describe the supper.

We have so much to be thankful for – bring your family and all of your friends!!! Everyone is welcome! There will be no meeting of the Cherokee County Democratic Club in December.

Directions: Hwy 69 to Rusk, turn east on Hwy. 84, toward Reklaw. Drive approximately 7 ½ miles and turn right on Farm Road 2962. Shady Grove is about half a mile down FM 2962 on the left in the trees.

Coming Events: August meeting & September Banquet

2009-08-22T15:00:00.004-05:00

NEW LOCATION!!! NEW LOCATION!!! NEW LOCATION!!! NEW LOCATION!!!

Hope you have Thursday, August 27, at 6:30 and 7 p.m. on your calendar for meetings of the Cherokee Democratic Club. The Women meet at 6:30 p.m. and the whole club meets at 7 p.m. at Sadlers in downtown Jacksonville. We had a month off in July so it is good to get back together and focus on the coming fall and then the mid-term elections of 2010. We'll catch up on what's happening in Washington with Health Care and other issues and what is happening on the Texas front. Come join us.

September 20, Sunday afternoon, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Cherokee County Texas Democratic Women
Fall Banquet and Silent Auction
Sunday, September 20
2 p.m. — 4 p.m.
Lon Morris College, 800 College Avenue
Wilson Administration Building
2nd Floor Community Room
Keynote Speaker
Mrs. Andrea White
(wife of Houston Mayor, Bill White,
Candidate for U.S. Senate)

Tickets $35.00 each; Students—$15.00
Reserve tickets: Cherokee County Texas Democratic Women
P.O. Box 467, Rusk 75785
Joanna Reagan 903.825.6613 & Craig Caldwell 903.683.6209

Are You Keeping Up With Congress This Summer?

2009-07-14T21:45:00.004-05:00

There are two big hearings going on right now on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

n Confirmation Hearings for Supreme Court Nominee Judge Sonia Sotomayor
n Mark up sessions for the Health Care Legislation

Both of these events will give you an insight into how it works on Capitol Hill. See who asks what questions, who is interested in substance, and who likes to twist what is being said. You'll get a better view of the facts if you hear them first hand.

Stay out of the heat and keep up with what is going on.

June 25 -- Next Club Meeting

2009-06-20T16:16:00.006-05:00

The next meeting of the Cherokee County DemocratsThursday, June 25 at the Methodist Church in New Summerfield (behind the high school which is on the will be southwest corner of the intersection of 79 and 110).

We will continue our series of outreach meetings to encourage citizens from all around Cherokee County to voice their concerns about the economy here in East Texas and what is most on their minds. Rep. Chuck Hopson will speak at the meeting Thursday.

The Club meets the fourth Thursday of the month - the Texas Democratic Women at 6:30 PM followed by the CCDems at 7:00 PM.

Reminder - Dues for the Club are $100 sustaining membership, $10 regular memberships and $5 for fixed income, students and seniors. The Texas Democratic Women dues are $20. For further information, contact Marlene Jowell at 903-586-1465.

Hope to see everyone there! Help spread the word!

Leave a comment. Let us know that you are coming to the meeting.

Tomato Fest Report | June 25th Club Meeting

2009-06-14T18:58:00.004-05:00

Cherokee County Democrats had a good time at the Tomato Fest on Saturday in Downtown Jacksonville. Lots of people came back the booth and picked up one of our special fans. The fans listed the Democratic Office Holders in Cherokee County. Lots of well wishers and thumbs up.

Bill White had a booth at the event also. He dropped by during his swing through East Texas . Mr. White is looking to run for the Senate when Kay Bailey Hutchinson vacates her seat to run for Governor.

Plans are under way for the next club meeting on June 25 in New Summerfield. Chuck Hopson will be our speaker. So put that on your calendar now. Join us for Summer fun and let's learn about what happened in the last legislative session and see what's on the agenda for a called special session expected in July.

Let us know what you are thinking. Leave a comment.

Tomato Fest - June 13 -- Join Us

2009-05-31T17:42:00.003-05:00

Tomato Fest is coming up on June 13 in downtown Jacksonville. Come join us in the Democratic Party booth. Greet you friends and neighbors; share your appreciation for your Cherokee County Democratic Officials.

June 25 -- Monthly meeting for all Democrats in New Summerfield. 6:30 p.m. for Democratic Women and 7 p.m. for the Club. Mark your calendar. More information coming soon.

MARCH MEETING: MARCH 26 AT KING WOK

2009-03-26T12:17:00.003-05:00

Join your fellow Cherokee County Democrats at King Wok on South Jackson at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 26. Democratic Women will meet at 6:30 p.m.

Craig Caldwell is the new Club president. Come support him in this endeavor and visit with your friends as we make plans for the future.

(New policy at the Wok is that everyone must purchase at least a drink)

Inauguration Celebration

2009-01-18T21:48:00.002-06:00

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

10:30 a.m.

Norman Activity Center

Jacksonville, Texas

Come join us for Senate Bean Soup, Cornbread, and cookies

and watch the inauguration on a large screen.

Celebrate with friends.

Early Voting Almost Over -- VOTE NOW!

2008-10-30T12:36:00.004-05:00

We are on the brink of an historic national victory –

Let’s make it happen here in Cherokee County as well!

Remember that Early Voting ends Friday, Oct. 31! (see specifics below).

Each of us should check with fellow Democrats, both friends and family, to be sure they have gotten to the polls. Offer to take them if they have not! Turnout has been heavy so far, and the lines next Tuesday (Nov. 4) are likely to be very long. It is going to take each of us to help get out the vote.

Voting Information: County Clerk,

Elections Administrator: Cherokee County County Clerk

Laverne Lusk P.O. Box 420, Rusk 75785 (903) 683-2350 Fax: (903) 683-5931

PHONES: County Democratic Chair, Caesar Roy 903-586-6193 (cell 903-253-5419) Democratic Club Pres., Joanna Reagan 903-825-6611 (cell 903-539-0499)

Voting Ends October 31st

Jacksonville Senior Center

Alto Methodist Church

Rusk Courthouse Basement

(Polls Open 8:00-5:00 M-F)

*Election Day, November 4th * (Polls Open 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM)

*Democratic Election Watch Party

Tues., Nov. 4, 7:00 PM, Best Western Motel, Hwy. 69S, Jacksonville.

Bring a party snack to share.

Politics is like driving. To go backward, put it in R. To go forward, put it in D.

http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/10/28/161745/43/836/644961 (click the video) or you can go directly to YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TW-6DpC-mj8&eurl=http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/10/28/161745/43/836/644961

Early Voting Started Today-- October 20

2008-10-20T19:55:00.004-05:00

Have you voted yet?

Early voting began today! October 20--October 31.

Where: Senior Citizen's Center, Jacksonville
Courthouse, Rusk
A.Frank Smith United Methodist Church -- Alto

Check to see if you are registered to vote in Texas, here.

Early voting in Texas

Be sure to VOTE early. If there are any problem with your registration, you have time to get it fixed. Remind your Democratic friends and family to vote early also.
If you vote a straight Democratic ticket, don't add emphasis by voting again for Democrats individually. Your vote will not be counted correctly if you do that.

We will have our pre-Election meeting of the Cherokee County Democratic Club on Thursday, October, 23rd, at Campaign Headquarters, 402 College Ave., Jacksonville at 7:00 PM. Cherokee County Texas Democratic Women will meet at 6:30 PM. Everyone is encouraged to attend and participate in our ramped up campaign activities. Bring a lawn chair for additional seating.

We've also arranged for an Election Watch Party, on Election night, Nov. 4th, from 7-10 PM at the Best Western motel in Jacksonville. Please bring a party snack to share.

Voting Information: Registration Deadline October 6

2008-09-18T05:13:00.005-05:00

TexasDeadline for registering to vote is Monday, October 6, 2008. Texas On-Line voter registration form, here.

Sign, print out the form and mail it to the county voter registrar. The County Voter Registrar's address can be found at the top of the online outputted voter registration application once you have submitted your information from the fill-in-the blanks screen.

Check to see if you are already registered to vote in Texas, here. List of county voter registration offices, here.

Early voting in Texas

Early voting in person may be easier than you think. You don't have to stand in long lines on Election Day. Registered voters may vote early at a location convenient to them within their political subdivision. Early voting in person generally starts 17 days before each election and ends 4 days before each election. Early voting for the May uniform election date begins 12 days before the election and ends on the 4th day before the election. If you can drive or if you have a friend or relative who can drive you, you don't even have to get out of the car. Call ahead to notify the early voting clerk that you want to vote from your car. This procedure is called "curbside voting" and is available to any voter who has difficulty walking or standing for long periods. The election official will bring your ballot to your car outside the polling place. Curbside voting is available during early voting and on Election Day. State and Federal law requires all early and Election Day polling locations to be physically accessible to voters with disabilities. Call your election official for information on your particular voting sites.

Vote early in person (you don't need to vote in your precinct, you can cast your ballot at any early voting site in your county which is convenient to YOU) or vote early by mail (this is done by requesting an application for a ballot to be mailed to you or downloading an application form). Voting early in person is convenient and, unlike early voting by mail, you don't need an excuse.

Early Voting dates are October 20-October 31, 2008.

Contact your county registrar for voting locations. To request an application ballot to be mailed to you (ABSENTEE), click here

Or request an application for a ballot (absentee) by mail, here.

Contact Information:Texas Secretary of State 1.800.252.VOTE (8683)

Unity Dinner Rescheduled

2008-09-18T05:13:00.002-05:00

Cherokee County Democratic Club Meeting and Unity Dinner Notice

We hope that all our Club members came through Hurricane Ike without too much damage and loss.

Cherokee County Democrats will meet on Thursday, September 25th at 7:00 PM, at the new Campaign Headquarters, 402 College Ave., Jacksonville, TX. The Texas Democratic Women will meet at 6:30 PM at the same location. We will be reviewing the campaign calendar and signing volunteers up to help with a Visibility Event, Phone Banks and Neighborhood Walks. Bring a lawn chair for seating and your Silent Auction Items for the rescheduled Unity Dinner.

UNITY DINNER and Silent Auction is rescheduled for Sunday, October 5,at 2:00 PM, Eagles Bluff Country Club in Bullard. Our speaker is Chuck Hopson and we are working with the Noriega Campaign and the Texas Democratic Party to fill out our program with additional statewide speakers.

Unity Banquet Postponed

2008-09-12T16:40:00.003-05:00

Due to the impending weather coming our way, the Cherokee County Democratic Club has postponed the Unity Banquet Scheduled for Saturday, September 13. Eagle's Bluff, where the banquet was to be held, has also closed its operations for that evening also.

We do hope that the hurricane will disapate quickly and that the predictions are worse than the reality.

Take care, keep dry, and Vote Democratic.

Cherokee County Democrats Open Headquarters

2008-09-10T09:48:00.004-05:00

Exactly two months before the November Election, Cherokee County Democrats opened their campaign headquarters at 402 College Ave. in Jacksonville; officially kicking off the fall campaign. “We are enthusiastic about our entire Democratic ticket, their experience and East Texas values” said Caesar A. Roy, County Democratic Chair.

With Cherokee County residents going without: without money for gas; without jobs, without health care, it is the Democratic candidates who will fight hardest for you and your family. We’re in this fight together. The historic Texas Primary, in which millions of Texans voted, showed that this year, Texans can make a difference - a big Texas size difference.

The deadline for registering to vote is October 6, and Early Voting is Oct. 21-31.

Democratic Ticket for 2008

2008-09-10T09:40:00.003-05:00

Vote! The 2008 Democratic Ticket

Barack Obama, for President of the United States of America

Joe Biden, for Vice President of the United States of America

Rick Noriega, U.S. Senate Candidate

Mark Thompson, Railroad Commissioner

Jim Jordan, Texas Supreme Court, Chief Justice

Linda Reyna Yanez, Texas Supreme Court, Place 8

Sam Houston, Texas Supreme Court, Place 7

Susan Strawn, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 3

J.R. Molina, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 4

Chuck Hopson, Texas House District 11 Representative

Dwight L. Phifer, District Judge – 2nd Dist.

Craig D. Caldwell, Cherokee County Attorney

Elmer Beckworth, Cherokee County District Attorney

Deborah Shreve, Cherokee County Tax Assessor/Collector

Moody Glass Jr., Cherokee County Commissioner Precinct 3

Jamie Beene, Cherokee County Constable Precinct 4

Mark W. Green, Cherokee County Constable Precinct 2

Paid For by the Cherokee County Democratic Club, Craig D. Caldwell, Treasurer, P.O. Box 467, Rusk, TX 75785

Don't Forget Unity Banquet this Saturday

2008-09-10T09:20:00.003-05:00

We are getting ready for the Unity this Saturday at Eagle's Bluff in Bullard, Texas
I hope you have your ticket and will join in the celebration.
We will welcome Chuck Hopson, Lenora Sorola-Pohlman, and Melissa Noriega as our speakers.
And don't for get we'll have a silent auction to help raise money for our fall campaigning.
See you there.

Cherokee Democratic Unity Dinner

2008-07-16T11:53:00.004-05:00

Mark your calendars for the September 13, 2008 Unity Dinner sponsored by the Cherokee County Democratic Party. It will be at Eagle's Bluff Country Club at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person and $20 for students.

Invited speakers are: Boyd Richie, State Party Chair; Chuck Hopson, State Representative; Rick Noriega, Senatorial Candidate; and others to be announced later.

You will want to be a part of this fun evening. Bring a friend. Share the excitement as we build to the November election.

(Eagle's Bluff is located on Lake Palestine. From Hwy 69 take 344 West through Bullard and Teaselville. From Teaselville go 1 mile to the sharp left on CR 187. Entrance is 2 miles on the right.)

To reserve a ticket for a table ($240) contact Joanna Reagan 903.825.6611

June 26: Next Cherokee Democratic Club Meeting

2008-06-17T21:29:00.003-05:00

Cherokee County Democrats to meet, Thursday, June 26th at The King’s Wok in Jacksonville on Hwy. 69 S. The Texas Democratic Women will meet at 6:30 PM, the Cherokee County Democratic Club will meet at 7:00 PM.

The Club members will report on the Texas Democratic Convention
Plan for a Candidate’s Workshop scheduled for the afternoon of July 12th
A summer Voter Registration Drive
September 13th Unity Dinner at Eagle’s Bluff Country Club.

For information, contact Caesar Roy, 903-253-5419.

This Week for Cherokee County Democrats

2008-06-09T21:08:00.002-05:00

Wednesday, June 11, at 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Goodbye gathering for Jeana Brooks. Drop by and wish her well. At Chuck Hopson's office on Main Street. She has moved to Crockett and we will miss her.

Saturday, June 14, Tomato Fest. If you signed up to work be sure to bring water, a chair, and sun screen. It is going to be hot. We are in booth #30 between Norman Activity Center and Ricky Richards office. We look forward to seeing everyone.

Cherokee County Democrats Meet April 24

2008-04-15T19:54:00.001-05:00

On Thursday, April 24, 6:00 PM, at the Jim Hogg Park in Rusk off Hwy. 84 E., the Cherokee County Democratic Club will hold a picnic and combined meeting with the Texas Democratic Women (TDW), celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the local chapter. Those democratic women and men who founded and have been strong supporters of the TDW will be honorees: Susie Blackmon, Craig Caldwell, Madeline Ross, Teresa Phifer, Forrest Phifer, Patsy Lassiter, Sammi Attaway, Patsy Morehead, Lillian Duffie, Cyndi Reed, Joan Pace and Laverne Lusk. Please join us in honoring these democratic women and men. Bring a picnic dish to share and folding chair to the celebration. All Democrats are invited and encouraged to attend!

For information contact Joanna Reagan at 903-825-6611.

Run Off Election Set April 8

2008-04-05T14:11:00.002-05:00

If you didn't vote in this past week of Early Voting, don't forget to vote on Tuesday, April 8.

Not all voting boxes will be open. There will be 8 boxes open through out the county. Four boxes will be open in Commissioner's Precinct 3 where there is a local run-off between Moody Glass and F.E.Hassell for Commissioner.

There is one State run off in the race for Railroad Commissioner -- Dale Henry and Mark Thompson.

Voting Boxes open for April 8:

Tyler Street Bapt Church, Jacksonville Voting boxes 12,14,15
Jacksonville Public Library Voting boxes 42,43,44,45,46,47,48
Cherokee Cive Theatre Voting boxes 10, 11, 13, 16, 23, 24, 28
Alto Fire Station Voting boxes 25,26,27, 29
Mt. Selman Baptist Church Voting boxes 32 and 34
Cove Springs Community Church Voting boxes 33 and 35
New Hope Baptist Church Voting boxes 36 and 37
Recreaton Center (behind LMC) Voting boxes 38

Next Cherokee County Democratic Meeting

2008-04-05T13:56:00.003-05:00

Cherokee County Democrats Honor Texas Democratic Women with Covered Dish Supper

Host: Joanna Reagan <joannareagan05@embarqmail.com>

Time: Thursday, April 24 at 6:00 PM - 1 1/2 hours

Location: Jim Hogg Park Hwy. 84 East, Reklaw Hwy. Rusk, TX 75785

Directions: From Hwy.69 and Hwy. 84 intersection in Rusk, take Hwy. 84 East and follow signs to Jim Hogg Park.

Cherokee County Democratic Club Meeting

2008-03-24T20:04:00.001-05:00

The Cherokee County Democratic Club will meet on Thursday evening, March 27, 2008 at 7:00 PM at The Wok on Hwy. 69 in Jacksonville. The Texas Democratic Women will meet at 6:30 PM at the same location.

At the meeting, we will review the historic Texas Primary. We will also discuss delegate information and convention rules in preparation for the Saturday, March 29th Democratic County Convention conducted by the Democratic Party and to be held in the District Courtroom on the Second Floor at 10:00 AM at the Rusk Courthouse. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

For further information, contact: Joanna Reagan 903-825-6611

Comments from Joanna Reagan, Cherokee County Club President

2008-03-11T12:51:00.009-05:00

Two Cherokee County Democratic Club members and Cherokee County Texas Democratic Women (TDW)were elected to office at the 2008 TDW Convention in Austin last weekend. Susie Blackmon was elected President Elect and Joanna Reagan was elected Vice President.(pictured left to right)

Cherokee County acting Democratic Chair, Caesar A. Roy, easily won election to a full term as County Chair in the Texas Primary Election, March 4, 2008. (photo of CA Roy following election results)

The Cherokee County Democratic Club met on Feb. 28, 2008 to discuss the upcoming historic Texas Primary and declare their support of the democratic candidates. Mrs. Sammy Attaway hosted the club meeting and covered dish supper at the Shady Grove Church of Christ. Messages from both Senators Clinton and Obama were shared with the group.

ELECTION DAY IS HERE!!!! VOTE AND CAUCUS!

2008-03-04T07:40:00.004-06:00

If you voted --early or today March 4-- you can and should go to the voting place in your voting precinct (precinct number is on your registration card) at 7:15 p.m. THIS EVENING. This is the second part of presidential primary voting in Texas. You cannot participate in a caucus if you did not vote. You must participate in the caucus of the party in which you voted in the Primary.

If you show up for the precinct caucus and there is no one there for the meeting, ask the election judge or worker for the Democratic Party Precinct Convention packet. The election judge or worker is required to have this packet, which is a large envelope containing forms outlining EXACTLY how to conduct the precinct caucus. Included in the packet will be the sign-in sheet for individuals to sign and state their preference for the presidential primary. If no one else is willing to take charge, simply call the meeting to order and proceed with the meeting as outlined in the packet. Don't let the forms scare you. The minutes are pre-written with blanks to be filled in and that also helps you conduct the meeting. There is a sheet of EZ math so you will know how to calculate how to divide up the delegates.

If, during your caucus Tuesday evening, you have ANY questions at all, about anything, call Eldridge Moak. He went through the volunteer attorneys training to monitor election day voting and precinct caucuses. His cell phone number is 903-721-3349.

Election Night Poll Watch Party for Cherokee County Democrats!!!

Tuesday, March 4, immediately after you attend your 7:15 p.m.(be there at 7:00) precinct primary meeting (caucus) at your polling place
Where: Best Western Hotel (Jacksonville, Hwy 69 south), breakfast room (big screen TV there)
Why: Because we are PROUD to be DEMOCRATS, this is a very exciting year for us…………..and we love to have a good time!!!

Coffee will be provided. Bring other goodies to share if you wish.

Remember that we are all Democrats so regardless of who is selected to be the Presidential Candidate for November, we want to pull together and support that candidate. Having a Democrat in the White House is a must!

Cherokee County Democratic Club Meeting February 28

2008-02-22T15:48:00.002-06:00

Cherokee County Democratic Club Meeting, February 28, 2008, 7:00 PM Parish Hall, Shady Grove Church of Christ on Farm Road 2962 off 84 East Rusk, Texas

The Cherokee County Democratic Club will meet on Thursday, February 28, 2008 7:00 PM and hold a Covered Dish Supper at the Parish Hall in the back of Shady Grove Church of Christ on Farm Road 2962 off 84 East in Rusk, Texas. Our hostess, Mrs. Sammi Attaway, will be preparing beans, cornbread and her renowned peach cobbler. Please bring a dish to share. This meeting is just before the historic March 4 Texas Primary so all Democrats, independents and interested Republicans are invited to attend. Club members will select a representative to speak on behalf of their Democratic candidate for President and we will have training for Primary Day Precinct and Convention Workers.

Special messages to voters in Cherokee County from Senator Barack Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton will be read.

The Texas Democratic Women will meet at 6:30 PM at the same location and will discuss the upcoming Convention of the Texas Democratic Women taking place that weekend in Austin.

Everyone is invited to attend these important and exciting meetings. At the close of the meeting we will have a door prize drawing.

For further information contact Joanna Reagan 903-825-6611.

Join Us Thursday, January 24, at King Wok

2008-01-24T09:10:00.000-06:00

The next meeting of the Cherokee County Democratic Club will be at King Wok on Thursday, January 24, at 7 p.m. Candidates for races on the Primary Ballot for March 4 have been asked to attend and give short speeches. This is your first chance to hear the candidates. Come join us.

The Democratic Women will be at 6:30 p.m. at the Wok also.

Cherokee County Candidates File for Primary

2008-01-13T18:55:00.000-06:00

Three races have multiple candidates in the Cherokee County Democratic Primary. In the race for County Commissioner, Precinct 3: Randy Bonner, Moody Glass, F.E. Hassel; Precinct 2 Constable: Mark Green and Jeremy Jackson; and Precinct 4 Constable: Jamie Beene and Joe Self. Whoever wins the precinct 4 primary race will be the Constable for Precinct 4 as there is no Republican opponent for that race.

In other races two candidates have no primary nor general election opponents: Craig Caldwell, County Attorney and Elmer Beckworth, District Attorney.

Others have no primary race but do have a Republican opponent in the November election:
State Representative Chuck Hopson; District Judge Dwight Phifer; County Tax Assessor Debbie Shreve.

The Cherokee County Primary election is set for March 4. Be sure to vote.

Caesar A. Roy Elected Chair of the Cherokee County Democratic Party

2007-11-28T20:33:00.000-06:00

At a special meeting of the Cherokee County Democratic Executive Committee, Saturday, November 10, 2007, Caesar A. Roy was elected Chairman of the County Democratic Party. The State Democratic Party in Austin has confirmed Mr. Roy’s election. He will serve out the un-expired term of former chair, Eric Penn, who has submitted his resignation. Roy, now retired, is a former senior manager of the Food & Drug Administration, former director at FEMA’s National Emergency Training Center and former laboratory management consultant. Roy stated that as county chair, “my first priority will be to grow the Democratic base and strengthen the party’s grass roots structure, and I look forward to welcoming new democrats and interested independents to our group.” The Cherokee County Chair, heads the Executive Committee and is responsible for the statutory functions of the party; including, running primary elections, collecting filing fees, appointing poll watchers, determining the order of names on the ballot, canvasses primary election results, and sets and publicizes times and places for precinct and county conventions. In addition to these responsibilities, the Cherokee County Executive Committee, which he heads, has primary responsibility for planning and coordinating the general election campaigns of the Democratic Party's nominees within the county. This responsibility includes raising funds for assisting local candidates, supporting the statewide effort for the entire ticket, producing materials and coordinating local services for all Democratic campaigns.
In Cherokee County, the party chairman works closely with the local County Democratic Club in carrying out these non-statutory duties to assure that the party remains a viable and influential political voice in the community.
The 2008 Election Schedule is underway and all interested democrats should file now for Precinct Chair slots before the Jan. 2 deadline. Those interested in attending the Party Convention in Austin on June 6-7 or the National Convention in Denver, Aug. 25-28 can participate in the Dec. 1st training session in Tyler. For location and times go to www.txdemocrats.org.Persons wishing to file for elected positions in the Democratic Party Primary should contact Roy at 406 Woodhaven Circle, Jacksonville Texas 75766; caesararoy@aol.com; 903-253-5419.

November Meeting: Nov. 15 at King Wok Jacksonville

2007-11-01T12:24:00.000-05:00

Put the date on your calendar -- November 15. The Cherokee Democrats will meet at King Wok. The Women's group will meet at 6:30 and the entire club at 7 p.m.

We will elect new officers and share plans for the coming primary season.

Don't forget to vote on or before Nov. 6. Sixteen amendments are calling you. Check out these web sites and learn more about the amendments:
Texas Legislative Council
House Research Organization

Club Meeting October 25 in Rusk

2007-10-23T17:37:00.000-05:00

The Cherokee County Democratic Club will meet on Thursday, October 25th in the restaurant (private room) at the Southern Motor Inn in Rusk (Hwy. 69) at 7:00 PM. There is a buffet available for those who wish to eat. (The Southern Motor Inn is located in Rusk on the east side of Hwy 69, south of the intersection of 84 and 69.)

The Texas Democratic Women will meet at the same location at 6:30 PM, prior to the full committee meeting. Everyone is invited. The meeting will be your opportunity to re-up your membership or join the club for the upcoming 2008 Elections. The Club will be discussing the Constitutional Amendments vote on November 6th, 2007. There will be a drawing for a door prize at the conclusion of the meeting and a Silent Auction for Presidential Candidate T-shirts.

Come Join Us!!! We are moving toward the primaries and we want to be ready.

Next Club Meeting: THIS WEEK

2007-09-25T18:07:00.000-05:00

Join the Cherokee County Club when they meet on Thursday, September 27, at King Wok.
The Democratic Women will meet at 6:30 p.m. with the whole club meeting at 7 p.m. The group will be looking toward the March Primaries and looking at what offices are up for election this time. If you are thinking about running for office this is the meeting for you.

We will get a report on the Fall Banquet and look at coming meetings.

Join us for a time of fun and fellowship at the Wok this Thursday. Bring a friend with you.

Pictures From Chuck Hopson's Birthday Bash

2007-09-17T09:34:00.000-05:00

Joanna Reagan, president of the Cherokee Democratic Club, sends these pictures from the annual Birthday Bash for Chuck Hopson, State Representative District 11.

Below are pictures of Chuck and Bille Hopson, County Commissioner, Byron Underwood, visits with Sheriff Campbell and County Commissioner, Precinct 3, Moody Glass

Banquet and Auction--GREAT FUN!!!!

2007-09-10T21:39:00.000-05:00

Nearly 100 Cherokee County Democrats gathered on Saturday evening -- September 8 -- at Lon Morris College for the first Club Banquet. Boyd Richie, Texas Democratic Chair, spoke to the group. Presidential Candidates sent their greetings and Gov. Howard Dean, National Democratic Party Chair, sent a video greeting telling Cherokee County that we are on the party's radar screen as we move toward 2008 elections.

In addtion to Cherokee County Democrats friends from surrounding counties also joined the fun and everyone competed for the silent auction items donated by club memebers.

We will share pictures of the fun we had very soon.

What's On Your Mind?

2007-08-23T21:35:00.000-05:00

Share your thoughts on what's happening in Washington, in Austin, in Cherokee County. The news is full of events here and in Iraq. Here is your chance to say what you think.

Click on the word comment at the bottom of this post. You can add your comment by signing in if you have a Google account, you can sign up for a Google account, or you can choose the anonymous option and leave your comment without signing in. Feel free to sign your name even if you use the anonymous option.

If others have left comments, you can read them and find out what other Democrats thinks.

Also check out the poll on the right and vote for your favorite presidential candidate. Let's see how Cherokee County is leaning. The Poll feature is new and sometimes doesn't work well so be patient and if your vote doesn't register the first time, then try the next time you visit.

Mark Your Calendars

2007-08-14T17:13:00.000-05:00

Meeting 1--

Open to all Cherokee County Democrats
On Saturday, August 18th, 10:00 AM, Precinct 3 will hold their meeting at my home (Johanna Reagan) in Bullard, 118 Dogwood Lakes Circle (Eagle's Bluff on Lake Palestine). Caesar Roy, our Precinct Chair, has invited the Editor of the Jacksonville Daily Progress to speak to us that morning, he also extends an invitation to all members of the Cherokee County Democratic Club living in other precincts to attend and bring guests with you.

Meeting 2

On Thursday evening, August 23rd, at 6:30 PM the Texas Democratic Women will meet at the Wok in Jacksonville and at 7:00 PM the full Cherokee County Democratic Club will meet. Please be prepared to turn in your money for tickets at that time. We need to let the Lon Morris caterer know how many people will attend the dinner. Our deadline is Labor Day. Also plan to bring your Silent Auction items for the dinner.

Auction Information

Dear Fellow Cherokee County Democrats,
We hope you have made plans to attend the Cherokee County Democratic Club’s Fall Banquet set for Saturday, Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. in the Wilson Administration Bldg. at Lon Morris College.
We have set a goal of raising $5,000 from ticket and table sales and a silent auction to fund our Get-Out-The-Vote effort for local candidates and the Democratic ticket in the upcoming 2008 elections.

We are asking each club member to donate an item for the silent auction.
Ideas for auction items are: something homemade like pickles, a pie or a quilt, a gift basket, a gift certificate for an area restaurant or a service like a massage or manicure, an item from your business, collectible Democratic memorabilia, art, crafts or maybe even an item you own that someone else would like.

Please e-mail Cyndi Reed at cyndireed@netzero.com or call 903-539-2632 and tell her:
1. What you are donating
2. An estimated retail value
3. If you are bringing it to the Aug. 23 regular meeting or are going to leave it with Mary Brown by Aug. 23 at the counseling office at 703 South Main in Jacksonville. They are open 8 to 5 most days. Mary recommends you call first (903-586-6736) if you are going during lunch or after noon on Fridays.

Thank you in advance for helping us put more Democrats in office.

Sincerely,
The banquet auction committee
Joseph and Cindy Steagall,
Joan Pace
Cyndi Reed

Democratic National Committee Sanctioned Debates

2007-08-06T21:30:00.000-05:00

August 19, 2007: ABC in Des Moines, IA
September 26, 2007: NBC News?MNBC** in Hanover, NH
October 30, 2007: NBC News/MNBC** in Philadelphia, PA
November 15, 2007: CNN* in Las Vegas, NV
December 10, 2007: DBS in Los Angeles, CA

* Debate will be simulcast on CNN en Espanol.
** Telemundo will re-broadcast both debates.

(www.dnc.org)

Democratic Candidates are:

Sen. Joe Biden www.joebiden.com
Sen. Hillary Clinton www.hillaryclinton.com
Sen. Chris Dodd www.chrisdodd.com
Sen. John Edwards www.johnedwards.com
Sen. Mike Gravel www.gravel2008.us
Rep. Dennis Kucinich www.kucinich.us
Sen. Barack Obama www.barackobama.com
Gov. Bill Richardson www.billrichardsonforpresident.com

from Joanna Reagan, Club President

September 8, 2007 -- Boyd Richie to Speak at Banquet

2007-07-29T19:50:00.000-05:00

Boyd Richie, Chair of the Texas Democratic Party, will be in Jacksonville September 8, 2007 as the keynote speaker at the the Cherokee County Democratic Banquet. The banquet will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Wilson Administration Building on the Lon Morris Campus. Get your tickets now! You don't want to miss out on this fun evening of celebrating being a Texas Democrat.

All East Texans Welcome!
Blue Dog Sponsors $25.
Yellow Dog Sponsors - $50.
Backbone of the Party - $100.
Students $12.
For Additional Information and Reservations, contact:
Craig Caldwell @ 903-683-6209
Joanna Reagan @ 903-825-6613