Spring Branch Democrats
CONTACT INFO: SBDems, C/O S. SADA Date and venue MAIN VENUE: Unitarian Fellowship of Houston, Check back on this site.
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Senator John Whitmire. With over 27 years of service in the Texas Senate, Senator Whitmire ranks first in seniority as the "Dean of the Texas Senate." The Senator serves as Chair of the Senate Criminal Justice Committee, and as member of the Senate Government Organization Committee; Administration Committee; Finance Committee; and Texas Sunset Commission. Since 1996, Senator Whitmire has served on the Pension Review Board which oversees all Texas public retirement systems. |
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PRIOR MEETINGS:
September 26th Meeting:
~ MEET 2012 CANDIDATES ~
Stop by for a Q/A Session, with our Panel.
Jim Dougherty for US CONGRESS
www.jimdoughertyforcongress.com/
Traci Jensen for Texas Board of Education
website: http://jensen4stateboard.com/
Diane Trautman for Harris County School Board Trustee
website: dianetrautman.com/index/Home.html
...And Learn More about the 2012 Ballot
Weds. 9/26, 6:30 pm Sign-In, 7:00 Program
at Unitarian Fellowship, 1504 Wirt Rd, .77055
RSVP: crow_2004vote@hotmail.com
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******** DATE CHANGE ******
___ AUG. 29TH Meeting ......
GOTV* and HISPANIC OUTREACH MEETING
Join Us in Welcoming
STATE REPRESENTATIVE, Hon. ANA HERNANDEZ LUNA
When & Where: 6:30 PM Sign-In. 7:00 Meeting.
Unitarian Fellowship of Houston, 1504 WIRT RD. (at Westview), 77055
Agenda: Our speaker & Her Story:
Every elected official has a story. She'll share her story, from immigrant to elected official.
Reasons to vote: Ana will discuss the Impact of Election Results, on Our Everyday Lives.
May 23rd, 2012 Meeting
The Mayor will delay putting this issue on the Agenda for City Council, allowing time to further address community questions and concerns, later this year.
Visitors Welcome, for this Panel Discussion: |
 |
DATE: Wednesday, May 23rd, 2012
TIME: 7:00 PM; .... 6:30 sign in.
VENUE: Unitarian Fellowship of Houston
1405 Wirt Road , Houston 77055
RSVP: To crow_2004vote@hotmail.com
Or to Ann, at 713-468-5121
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OUR PANEL:
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COMMUNITY:
Jane Cahill, Super Neighborhood Leadership,
List of Concerns & Recommendations from SN Alliance
Led by Jane Cahill, SN 22 Chair
Other SN Leaders participating. Jane Cahill is Chair of SN 22 and the SN Alliance Committee on Ch 42. She also serves as secretary of the Old Sixth Ward Neighborhood Association, and former Chair of the Old Sixth Ward TIRZ &Redevelopment Authority.
CITY OF HOUSTON:
Brian Crimmins, COH PLANNING DEPARTMENT,
A liaison from the Mayor's office, Lindsay Lanagan, will be on hand. Lindsay is Constituent Services Coordinator, Mayor's OfficeChief of Staff and Senior Planner for the City of Houston’s Planning & Development Department.
INDUSTRY:
Jenifer Pool, Construction Permitting Consultant, & Commissioner on Building & Standards Board
& Former C.Council candidate
----------------------------------------A longtime resident of Houston, Pool has worked in the construction industry since 1980, owning a consulting company that specializes in construction permitting, licensing, and project management. She currently serves as a city commissioner on the Building & Standards Commission, an appointment made by former Houston mayor Bill White. Pool also serves on the Police Advisory Commission, an appointment of Mayor Annise Parker. On October 6, Mayor Parker named Pool to a Blue Ribbon Task Force on Building & Standards.
Georgia's Farm to Market, 12171 Katy Freeway ~~
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Weds. APRIL 25, 2012
6:30 PM
and how it will and is already affecting our lives.
------------------------------
Cheasty Anderson
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In this session we will go over
what is currently in effect,
what will be happening when the law is fully implemented in 2014
and how the Supreme Court proceedings may impact the future of the law.
This session is put on by Texas Well and Healthy, a grassroots campaign to promote the health and well being of Texans. Texas Well and Healthy is a collaboration of Texans Care for Children, the Center for Public Policy Priorities, the Children's Defense Fund, and Engage Texas. Engage Texas is a 501c(4) nonprofit organization committed to developing the strength and infrastructure of the progressive movement in Texas and supporting other progressive nonprofit organizations.
Spring Branch Democrats Meeting
Weds. March 28, 2012
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Guest Speaker:
LANE LEWIS
Harris County Democratic Party Chair
Meet Lane, & Hear about the 2012 Election Season
Date....... Weds. March 28, 2012
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Time...... 6:30 Sign-In, & Meet/Greet ... 7:00 PM Program
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Location:
Unitarian Fellowship of Houston
1504 Wirt Road / Houston, Texas 77055
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will be held right here, in HOUSTON
For the 2012 Presidential Election Year!
http://www.txdemocrats.org/2012/stateconvention.html
NOTE: there will be NO Precinct Conventions This year.
Become a State Delegate at your DISTRICT Convention, April 21.
Check back, or Attend Meetings for More Info!
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FEBRUARY 22nd MEETING:
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OBAMA'S Decision on Pipeline
Sparks Debate Anew:
President will not go forward without impact study.
Understanding Tar Sands - Join us for a Discussion,
Considerations & Recommendations
With Air Alliance's Executive Director, Matthew Tejada and
Houston Hydrologist and Atty., Larry Dunbar on
Transport & the Refining of Tar Sands
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ROUND TABLE
Join us for a Membership Discussion Session
on recent elections, the upcoming 2012 season,
current events, and what you want to see from
SBDems this coming year. Bring your Input!
Political Blogger STACE MEDELLIN
of Dos Centavos will join us
to discuss the newly Re-Districted Lines, and
the impact to filing dates, elections, runoffs.
SPRING BRANCH DEMOCRATS
HOLIDAY PARTY !
We return to our first holiday venue,
AWARD-WINNING
OTILIA'S MEXICAN RESTAURANT
7710 Longpoint Road
Houston, Texas 77055
(between Wirt and Antoine)
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* * MUSICAL GUESTS * *
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Democrats, We've got Talent !
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Houston ~Hot Shots~
lead by former candidate
Bruce Mosier
(and Silver D's President).
4 member ensemble playing
Bruce plays banjo and harmonica,
Diane Mosier plays percussion
and a washboard with "knockers",
Dick Jeffers will be on a Hawaiian Bass
and Uke and Selma Smith on electric piano.
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If you play -- Bring an
instrument and jam with the band !
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PRIOR MEETINGS
Join Us, Weds. OCTOBER 26, 2011
6:30 P.M.
Texas State Representative, District 148
Will Provide a Lege Recap ...
LOCATION: Unitarian Fellowship of Houston
1504 Wirt Road (near Westview) 77055
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*** Review from 2011 Lege Session:
The Not-So-Good, the Bad, and the Ugly ...
Plus a few high points, & some courageous fights !!!
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*** We will also review Propositions on the Nov. 8 Ballot:
Proposed Amendments to Texas Constitution;
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State Representative Farrar serves as
Leader of the House Democratic Caucus,
and is the founder and Vice-Chair of the
Women's Health Caucus. www.jessicafarrar.org
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September 28, 2011 (4th Wednesday)
CANDIDATE FORUM --- MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS, 2011
Candidates have confirmed for the following races. Candidates who have a history
of support for the Democratic Party are on our agenda for this Non-Partisan election.
FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS
__ At-Large 4, Councilmember C.O. "Brad" Bradford
Challenger Louis Molnar
__ At-Large 2, Several Candidates
Questions: Due to time constraints and multiple candidates,
questions posed to candidates will be prepared and the
number of questions will be limited. Questions will address
random City issues.
Meet & Greet: The public may have an opportunity to address
candidates with their own personal questions either -before- and
-after- the meeting, for those candidates who are
present during that time.
August 31, 2011 (5th Wednesday)
CANDIDATE FORUM --- MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS, 2011
Candidates have confirmed for the following races. Candidates who have a history
of support for the Democratic Party are on our agenda for this Non-Partisan election.
FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS
__ Controller, Honorable Ronald Green
__ At-Large 3, Councilmember Melissa Noriega
__ At-Large 5, Councilmember Jolanda Jones
__ District A, Bob Schoellkopf
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A PUBLIC MEETING
HAS BEEN CALLED BY TIRZ-17 TO REVIEW THIS
NEW DEVELOPMENT:
~~~~~~~~ PLEASE ATTEND ~~~~~~~~
TIRZ-17 board has agreed to construction of a new
detention basin, a significant component of the
flood remedy specified in the original TIRZ-17 plan.
This meeting is YOUR opportunity to be
advised of the plans, and ask questions:
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Weds. June 29, 2011, 6:00 P.M.
Houston Community College’s Spring Branch Campus’
Performing Arts Center, in Theater 2.
We anticipate the following schedule:
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PRIOR MEETINGS
Wednesday May 25, 2011
"Round Table" Discussion:
Please take this opportunity to provide
Your Input on the Club.
This will be a short meeting.
Stop by to visit, chat, and join the discussion.
We'll touch briefly on some small upcoming
Club projects.
No Speaker Scheduled for this Meeting.
YOU are the Program ! PLease stop by to visit, and share.
Support the club with your donation in exchange for tamales!
Make your selection below by April 15th.
Tamales will be delivered at April and May 2011 meeting.
Weds. April 27, 2011 6:30 PM
Join us in Welcoming Environmental Attorneys
Jim Blackburn &
Larry Dunbar
to Discuss the Findings from a Hydrology Study Done
for citizens of Spring Branch & Memorial Areas, and Subsequent Actions.
Memorial City District Drainage Coalition (MCDDC), founded in 2009 after the flooding of private properties .
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
https://dl.dropbox.com/u/9361152/Dunbar%20Report/Executive%20Summary.pdf
MCDDC DUNBAR REPORT:
https://dl.dropbox.com/u/9361152/Dunbar%20Report/Dunbar_Report_101910.pdf
Visit SBDems for This Month’s Round-Table Discussion
on Local Issues and Upcoming Events!
- Issues: Chat regarding Local Issues for Upcoming Meetings & City elections
- Activation of Precincts: By Chair or by surrogate - bring your discussion
- Upcoming fundraiser
Enjoy Refreshments and good company !
DATE .......... Weds. March 23rd
TIME ........... 6:30 sign in and social; 7:00 Meeting
LOCATION..... Unitarian Fellowship of Houston
1504 Wirt Road, Houston, TX, 77055-4919 (Near Westview)
Join us in Welcoming:
Noted political blogger Charles Kuffner ("Off the Kuff"),
to Preview 2011 City Elections,
and Redistricting. (More Details, below).
.... He will then take your questions.
for February Election of 2011 Officers.
Program begins: 7 PM.
VENUE: Unitarian Fellowship of Houston,
1504 Wirt Road, Houston, TX 77055
ONE block NORTH of Wirt & Westview Intersection
~ REFRESHMENTS SERVED ! ~
OUR SPEAKER:
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Mr. Kuffner will discuss who will be involved in drawing the new lines, and what offices
will be affected by it; and also provide a review of might throw their hat into which race, for city offices, expired or unexpired.
Born and raised in New York, Charles Kuffner got to Texas as fast as he could by enrolling at Trinity University in 1984. After graduating with a degree in math, he came to Houston where he was briefly a graduate student at Rice. Since then, he was worked in the IT industry, where he is currently a BlackBerry administrator. He has been a resident of the Heights for ten years, where he lives with his wife and two daughters. Since 2002, Mr. Kuffner or “Kuff” as he is known in political and media circles, has published Off the Kuff, now the state’s longest continuously published progressive political blog; his other blog, Kuff’s World, has also been featured on the Houston Chronicle’s website.
WEDS. JANUARY 26th, 2011
Our January meeting will be held in the LAST week of January.
We'll reconvene with our Democratic Neighbors, and gather for
"Round Table" discussion with YOUR input, comments,
from the past election season, and rolling out the
New Year for SBDems.
SPRING BRANCH DEMOCRATS
HOLIDAY PARTY !
Thursday December 9th, 2010
6:00 PM - 8:30 P.M.
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SPECIAL GUESTS !
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STATE SENATOR JOHN WHITMIRE
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STATE REPRESENTATIVE JESSICA FARRAR
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LIVE MUSIC / BLUES
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Razzano Zamorano Trio * (Details at end)
NO cover charge for members.
5.00 Cover Charge for Non-Members.
New memberships accepted at the door.
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Zen5 Japanese Restaurant
1330 Wirt Road, 77055
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Attire: Casual or Festive. - Silent Auction Will be Held.
RSVP by Tues, Nov 30th for reservation. Space Limited.
crow_2004vote@hotmail.com -or- (713) 468-5121
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All Checks Separate. - Dinner Buffet – $15.00 (plus tax and gratuity),
payable directly to Zen 5 Restaurant . Proprietor prefers cash or check.
BIO: OUR GUESTS
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Senator John Whitmire With over 27 years of service in the Texas Senate, Senator Whitmire ranks first in seniority and is the "Dean of the Texas Senate." Senator Whitmire serves as Chair of the Senate Criminal Justice Committee, and as member of the Senate Government Organization Committee; Administration Committee; Finance Committee; and Texas Sunset Commission. Since 1996, Senator Whitmire has served on the Pension Review Board which oversees all Texas public retirement systems. |
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Representative Jessica Farrar Jessica Farrar is currently in her 8th term as State Representative of District 148. First elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1994, she is the longest serving Hispanic from Harris County in the Texas House of Representatives. She serves as the Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Land and Resource Management, and on the House Committee on Environmental Regulation. |
OUR BLUES TRIO:
ROZZANO ZAMORANO has received countless nominations for best bassist in the Houston Press and won the honor in 2002. Rozz plays acoustic and electric bass with a style that turns the art of bass into a lead soloist vehicle. Bass Guitar - Rozzano Zamorano; Guitar - Steve Olson; Drums - Ronnie Zamorano.
Rozzano has performed as a solo bassist on bills with such greats as: Stanley Jordan, Eric Johnson, Johnny Winters, Eric Sardinas and the Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey. His local band Fondue Monks has played opening bills for: Little Feet, Yes, Jimmy Buffet, Van Halen, BB King, Buddy Guy, Tito and Tarantula, Iron Butterfly, Lenny Kravitz, Smashmouth, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, 38 Special, Cheap Trick and Eric Burden.
Weds. Sept 29, 2010
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ANDREA WHITE
Wife of BILL WHITE
for TEXAS GOVERNOR !
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For Our
CANDIDATE FORUM MEETING
With
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The DEAN of the TEXAS Senate - Hon. Senator Whitmire
for State Rep, House District 138 - Kendra Yarbrough Camarena
for County Judge - Gordon Quan - for Tax Assessor/Collector - Diane Trautman
for County Clerk - Ann Bennett
Our Current District Clerk - Hon. Loren Jackson
for Texas State RR Commissioner - Jeff Weems and
for Texas Atty. General - the Barbara Radnofsky Campaign (www.suewallstreet.com!)
And... An great write-in candidate
for US Congress in District 7 - Lissa Squiers
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DATE: Wednesday, September 29, 2010, 6:30 PM sign-in
VENUE: Unitarian Fellowship of Houston,
1504 Wirt Road, Houston, TX 77055-4919
REFRESHMENTS SERVED.
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August 25
CAMPAIGN NIGHT!
For Bill White for Governor, &
Kendra Yarbrough Camarena for State Rep !
The santuary will be turned into a campaign
headquarters for the evening, and we hope to see
ALL Spring Branch Democrats
join us there, for food, fun, and campaigning!
July 28,Monthly Meeting:
TOPIC: DRAINAGE
May 26: NO SBDems meeting. (See our June 3 event).
JUNE 23: NO SBDems meeting. (STATE Convention).
JUNE 3:
Bill White speaks to Democratic Clubs
on Houston's west side: Weds 6/3:
S.B.Dems participating: Venue: Cy-Fair's Bear Creek Community Center:
6:30 pm Sign-In /Social. 7PM Meeting. 3055 Bear Creek Dr, Houston, 77084
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April 28, 2010
and our Candidate's plans to better ensure voters' rights
with Candidate DIANE TRAUTMAN & Attorney NILE COPELAND
6:30 PM Sign-In.
Where: Venue: Unitarian Fellowship, Houston
1504 Wirt Road / Houston, TX 77055-4919
ONE block NORTH of Wirt & Westview intersection
March 24, 2010
Voter Registrar Training --- and RENEWAL !
... A-L-L voter-Registrar certifications EXPIRED in DEC 2008.
... If you have not renewed in 2009, come by to renew.
... The SAME class is used for newcomers and for renewals:
... A review of all the basics and legal questions.
... If you did renew in 2009: It's beneficial to come by for a review.
... This may be the ONLY training we offer here at the Club, this year.
... If you have to miss it, contact sbdems for other locations:
crow_2004vote@hotmail.com
We ALWAYS have fun when our trainer, MARTY MORRISON
comes by !
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Primary Election Analysis !
Demographer extraordiaire,
Max Beauregard
Demographer Max Beauregard will provide analysis of
both Democratic and Republican Primaries.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Max is an HCC Instructor in Public Administration,
Government, Geography, & GIS
Providing Demographics & GIS Consulting Services
February 24, 2010
KICKOFF Party
for our
State Rep candidate,
in HOUSE DISTRICT 138:
Kendra Yarbrough Camarena
It will also be out LAST meeting beofore the primaries, and last chance
to meet candidates on the ballot.
We'll have handouts on those PRIMARY BALLOTS...and for upcoming conventions.
DATE:
Weds FEb 24
6:30 PM: Sign-In, Meet and Greet (or come early to chat with our candidates..)
7:00 PM: Meeting Convenes
January 27, 2010
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Come by for a MEET-Up, for
POLITICS, WINE & CHEESE,
... & GET READY for 2010 !
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Chairman Birnberg
Gerry Birnberg, Chair of the Harris County Democratic Party
Will be on hand to discuss 2010 PRIMARIES and 2010 CONVENTIONS
...........and will take your questions.
Councilmember Jolanda Jones
Will be addressing Current Events in the City near and dear to her, and to ~ YOU ~
...........and will take your questions.
After which,
The State of the Union will be televised.
Come by for a Watch Party, along with your fellow Democrats
Weds. January 27th
6:30 Meet-and-Greet, Sign-In
7:00 Program
UNITARIAN Fellowship Church, Houston
1504 Wirt Road / 77055-4919
This is ONE block NORTH of the Wirt & Westview intersection.!
ON THE AGENDA:
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--- MARCH PRIMARIES (Early Vote starts in February!)
--- ON THE BALLOT: What races and candidates are on ballot for 2010
--- Precinct Conventions........The evening of the Primary Elections
--- District and State Conventions:
This year, it will be easier to get a spot as a DELEGATE
or you can go as a vistor.
The CONVENTIONS ....are where the PARTY BEGINS!
Literally: This is where you can make an IMPACT in your
PARTY at the grassroots level....platform, and more.
Figuratively: PARTY with other area Dems -- for the FUN of it
--- 2010 TX HOUSE RACE: Discuss the exctment of our HD 138 race
--- REHASH of the MAYORAL RACE...It's our
first chance to recap since the elections...and Dems love to
talk about our wins !!!)
/
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NEW PHOTOS... !
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We've received -more- new photos from the December Holiday Party.
Lots of folks are featured with our New Mayor, Annise Parker!
Copies will be on-hand ... At the meeting, if you see a photo you
'are featured in, you are free to take one, or request a jpg.
December 17, 2009
Join Our New Mayor
The Honorable
ANNISE PARKER
in Celebrating !!!
at the
SPRING BRANCH DEMOCRATS
HOLIDAY PARTY !
Thursday Evening,
December 17, 2009
from 6:00 - 8:30 P.M
LIVE MUSIC
Classical Spanish Guitarist
Jeremy Garcia
with Flamenco Dance Performer
Edith Nino ~ Bailaora
Dinner Tickets: $25.00
~ Dinner & Entertainment ~
RSVP TO RESERVE TICKETS
OR ADVANCE PURCHASE by MAIL:
crow_2004vote@hotmail.com or 713.467.9020.
Hosted by SBDems at La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
11623 Katy Fwy, @ Kirkwood / 77079
Cash or Check Only, for Tickets.
Please Respond by Sunday, Dec. 13th. Space Limited.
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CONGRATULATIONS! Go out to the candidates endorsed by the SPRING BRANCH DEMOCRATS Club on Wednesday night, August 26th. The following endorsements were made in the 2009 MUNICIPAL RACES -- by a threshold of 75% majority.
MAYOR: ANNISE PARKER
CONTROLLER: RONALD GREEN
CITY COUNCIL, District A: LANE LEWIS
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CITY COUNCIL, AT-LARGE:
Pos. 1: KAREN DERR
Pos. 2: SUE LOVELL
Pos. 3: MELISSA NORIEGA
Pos. 4: NOEL FREEMAN
Pos. 5: JOLANDA JONES
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ENDORSEMENT PROCESS: Candidates earning an endorsement by the Spring Branch Democrats participated in an endorsement process by enlisting with the Club by a specified cut-off date prior to the endorsement meeting; responded in detail to questionnaires covering 23 issues or categories; and participated in verbal screening interviews, all prior to attendance at our Club endorsement meeting. The endorsement threshold was a 75% majority.
AS LISTED ON POLITICAL BLOGS:
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OFF THE KUFF:
http://offthekuff.com/wp/?p=21275
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October 28, 2009
Que Nos Busquen en el Patio!
[You can find us on the Patio!] at...
Mambo's Restaurant
Spring Branch Democrats Meeting
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Weds. Oct. 28th
6:00 - 8:30 PM
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Mambo Seafood / Mexican Restaurant
10002 Long Point Drive / Houston, 77055
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Stop by for some great food and conversation, with
Democratic Neighbors. The Patio is climate-controlled. We'll also
have a handout and discussion on proposed Amendments on the ballot,
meet a few candidates, and discuss current events.
~See you there !!
RSVPs: / Questions: crow_2004vote@hotmail.com or Anne/713.467.9020.
September 29, 2009
Senator John Whitmire
We've all seen that Republican candidates' discussion of the issues in thestate of Texas doesn't cover much. Most often that begins -- and ends withtalk about taxes. The problem is it doesn't cover much else. There's a whole lot of other concerns to address, and we covered a lot of that ground at our Sept 29 meeting. So many of these needs and concerns have been run into the ground under the Republican leadership of the governor and legislature in Texas -- it's difficult anymore to find anything left in Texas that works right.
If you have any kind of confusion about what ISSUES or VALUES the Democratic Party supports, you heard about it loud and clear -- with an unequivocal voice on where he stands, the Sen. Whitmire brings to us atremendous amount of knowledge on the issues facing Texas; in education, & teacher compensation; transportation, health care issues, as well as treatment of people with mental illnes, and concerns related to and crime and incarceration. He also talked frankly about about the demagoguery on the part of Republicans, with hateful messages towards various groups that result in claims and propsosals that make no sense.
For an overview of the recent legislative session, see the link below!
Click below for Sen. Whitmire's 2009 Report: (PDF Format):
http://www.senate.state.tx.us/75r/senate/members/dist15/pdf/nl2009.pdf
~~~~
SENATOR JOHN WHITMIRE represents the 15th Senatorial District
comprised of north Houston and north Harris County. With over 20 years
of service in the Texas Senate, Senator Whitmire ranks first in seniority
and serves as the "Dean of the Texas Senate."
HCC President, Zach Hodges also presented a discussion on how the proposed HCC Annexation works, and what it means to you. Scroll down for (HCC) Details below! A link for FAQs is provided, as well as the text for the ballot language, which is provided to us by Dr. Hodges, and Houston political consultant Marc Campos.
We had visits from Municipal Candidates Rick Rodriguez (At Large Pos 1) the Lane Lewis Campaign (District A), and Noel Freeman (At Large Pos 4), Kendra Camarena for Dem. State Rep, House District 138;
addressed the group; and Dem. candidate Jeff Weems discussed the office
of RR Commissioner !
August 26, 2009
CITY ELECTION / CANDIDATE FORUM to meet and hear from
Municipal candidates on the November 2009 ballot,
and VOTE on Club endorsements of city candidates.
July 22, 2009
Camille Miller
Founder and CEO, Texas Health Institute (THI)
We'll discuss CITIZEN LOBBYING:
How to effect a change in policy, or sustain current gains: Input on what's effective, whether
trekking to Austin, or working an issue from here in Houston; within a Club, or coalescing among different Clubs across the county. Bring your questions!
OUR SPEAKER
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Camille Miller is the CEO of the TEXAS HEALTH INSTITUTE (THI), based in Austin, Texas. Prior to founding the institute: Miller has held leadership roles in Texas state agencies including the Department of Community Affairs and Department of Protective and Regulatory Services. She also served as an adviser to former Texas Governors Dolph Briscoe and Preston Smith and to former Texas Lieutenant Governors Bill Hobby and Bob Bullock. With a long history in analyzing the effectiveness of public policy, she offers us insights on a variety of different ways to get involved. Come by to listen to a description of the various options, and you may get a better feel for which avenues might appeal to you. We'll get input that goes beyond the standard 'lobby-day training,' as well as strategies for participating from right here in Houston.
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Richard Shaw June 30. 2009
Secretary-Treasurer:
Harris County AFL-CIO
at
SPRING BRANCH DEMOCRATS
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Newest Obama Admin Proposals
Affecting Quality of Life for all.
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Prospects for Middle Class jobs, in global economy; the state of benefits for those who do, or don't attend college; Labor's role in the new immigration bill. He'll give a brief overview, then open to questions.
May 27. 2009
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TRANSPORTATION:
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Karen Marshall,
Director, Community Outreach
Metropolitan Transit Autority
------------------------------------------------
Jon Boyd,
Advocacy Chair
Citizens‘ Transportation Coalition (CTC)
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Transit-ion to the Future
As we head into Houston’s municipal elections -- stop by for an informative discussion on the state of TRANSPORTATION, presented by our guests from METRO and from CITIZENS‘ TRANSPORTATION COALITION (CTC).
April 22. 2009
Meeting Program: DISCUSSION AMONG CLUB MEMBERS !!
FOCUS GROUP: Conducted by Democracy for Houston
Club members will be contributing our own views in a discussion
of local issues.
Democracy for Houston (DFH) is the local group affilicated with:
Democracy for America (DFA), our nation's largest, and fastest growing progressive, grass-roots political action community. DFA is a grassroots powerhouse working to change our country and the Democratic Party from the bottom-up. We provide campaign training, organizing resources, and media exposure so our members have the power to support progressive issues and candidates up and down the ballot.
March 25. 2009
Meeting Topic: Focus on Immigration
Presenter: Houston Immigration Lawyer &
Former City Council Member GORDON QUAN
Question & Answer session to follow!
"...Immigration...What's to Know ?!..."
OUR PRESENTOR:
Gordon Quan
Former Houston City Council Member Gordon Quan grew up in Houston's East End, a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood. After working as a teacher in an inner-city school, Quan, whose dad ran a grocery store on the East End when he was growing up, has built one of the most successful immigration firms around. His political career officially took off when he was elected to the Houston City Council in 2000. Quan was later unanimously approved by the Council to serve as Mayor Pro-Tem in 2002.
Quan has been a recipient of recognition including Best Lawyers in America; Who's Who in American Law; Texas Super Lawyers, Texas Monthly; and also has served on Board of Directors, University of Houston Center for Immigration Research; as an Advisor, Mayor's Office for Immigration and Refugee Affairs, (Board Certified, Immigration and Nationality Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization).
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OUR PROGRAM:
Gordon Quan will discuss immigration issues that we face today.--- What problems exist, how do we define them, what might we expect in terms of reform?....What are the various statuses of immigration, citizenship, and what might an immigrant expect to experience. We'll also consider some of the current "talking points" that surround us ------- and see what the research and the facts say about many assumptions - and myths - we hear. .Do these sound like a lot of "leading questions" ..?...)
Please join us for a FRANK DISCUSSION......and bring your own questions, too !
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Be Sure to TUNE IN TUESDAY EVENINGS to GORDON QUAN's informative radio Program on
90.1 KPFT: Coming to America -
Produced by former KPFT Assistant News Director Valarie Torres and hosted by former Houston City Council member and immigration attorney
Wednesday February 28, 2009
Meeting Program: Focus on Current
Legislative Session:
DIALOGUE Featuring Harris County / PBS Channel 8's
DAVID JONES & GARY POLLAND
SPECIAL Venue for this Month's Program:
HOUSTON COMMUNITY COLLEGE -
Town & Country Performing Arts Center
Wednesday January 28, 2009
Our Speaker was CHRISTINE ADAMS,
Board Member, & officer with “HEALTH CARE FOR ALL TEXAS”
HEALTH CARE FOR ALL TEXAS promotes single payer,
universal health care through community education and policy setting.
We spend twice as much on health care per person compared
to all other developed countries.........why aren't we getting
more for our dollars? And why do so many go uninsured.
Come by to find out the answers to this and many more
concerns -- about universal healthcare.
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Is national health insurance “socialized medicine”? * Won’t this raise my taxes? * Won’t this result in rationing? * Who will run the health care system? * What about medical research? * What about alternative care, will it be covered? * Isn’t a payroll tax unfair to small businesses? * Can a business keep private insurance if they choose? * What will happen to all of the people who work for insurance companies? * Won’t competition be impeded by a universal health care system? * Why not make people who are Higher Risk pay Higher Premiums?
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And .... How will we keep costs down if everyone
has access to comprehensive health care ?
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December 10 Holiday Party
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Weds. Nov. 19
Spring Branch Democrats Champagne CELEBRATION !
On Nov. 19, SBDems met for Champagne, and more.
Weds. Oct. 22
SPRING BRANCH DEMOCRATIC NEIGHBORS will meet candidates on the November ballot. Bring your questions! Please join for our final opportunity to MEET THE CANDIDATES on the NOVEMBER Ballot, before this HISTORIC ELECTION! Bring your questions! SPECIAL GUESTS !
DAVID MINCBERG, For County JUDGE
http://www.mincbergforcountyjudge.com/
MICHAEL SKELLY, -New Energy- For CONGRESS
http://www.skellyforcongress.com/home
GINNY McDDAVID, For STATE REP, Distr. 138
http://www.votemcdavid.com/
VINCE RYAN, For County ATTY.
http://www.votevinceryan.com/
C.O. Bradford, for DA
http://www.cobradford.com/
From the RICK NORIEGA CAMPAIGN:
(Melissa Noriega's mother Connie Meisgeier!
http://www.ricknoriega.com
And MORE !
Our Sept. 24 has been canceled due to on-going efforts to recover from the hurricane. Our thoughts are with all of our neighbors during this recovery time, and we are hoping your lives will return to normal very soon. We hope to see you for our next meeting, Weds. October 22nd. In October, we will have our last opportunity to meet many of our Democratic candidates on the ballot in Harris County, including David Mincberg, for County Judge, Vince Ryan for County Atty .....and more, to be announced soon.
Wed Aug 27nd Meeting:
CONVENTION WATCH PARTY!
We will be tuned into CONVENTION COVERAGE for the DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION in DENVER, COLORADO !
Wed July 23rd Meeting:
ENERGY PRICING: PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION
...& Ice cream social that same night
'Gasoline Prices & Energy Conservation'
(Did we get your attention!)
Tom Rowan, President of Rowan Marketing, an industrial consulting firm, will be our guest speaker. Tom first published a 'World Energy Forecast' way back in 1974 at the height of the Arab Embargo. Over the years, he has updated his projections with new research into the many Alternative Energy Sources, focusing on Renewables and Conservation. Mr. Rowan is also a long-term active Democrat, having been first elected as an Election Judge back in 1965. He currently is the Democratic Chair of Pct 399 in Harris County. Tom is active in several local Democratic clubs, and has assisted HCDP as a campaign trainer, and served on their Voter Fraud Committee. Most recently, Tom was one of the energy experts invited to speak at the OilPatch Democrats' Energy Caucus at the 2008 State Democratic Convention in June, where he addressed 'Conservation and Efficiency'. Tom also campaigned for a comprehensive energy platform, most of which was adopted in this year's Texas Party Platform.
LAST MONTH:
Thurs. June 26
...When asked what it's like to work with Jim Henley,
Lt. Col. Rick Noriega replied: "It's GRUELING!"......."Did you say,
'Groovy?' " Henley asks. ....."No, GRUELING!" confirms Noriega.
(1) Special Guest Speaker: JIM HENLEY
(2) Grass-Roots Organizing: Discussion & Planning: How to get involved.
Jim Henley speaks on the escalating war against Public Education: On JUNE 26th, we were visited by JIM HENLEY, Democratic candidate for County School Trustee, Position 7, at large. Jim knows the area well from prior campaign work in Spring Branch as a Congr. candidate.
Jim Henley is also working closely with Rick Noriega, our next U.S. Senator, as well as Congr. Candidate Michael Skelly, on their campaigns; and worked closely with RICK on his CONVENTION DAY SPEECH for the TEXAS STATE CONVENTION in Austin, in June ....... At our June meeting: Who else but winning DEBATE COACH Henley could make a discussion on a DEPT. OF EDUCATION race sound riveting ..... But that he did ... Our Club Secretary, Agelia Durand will provide details, discussing the ASSAULT on PUBLIC EDUCATION which has advanced in the wake of the Republican Primaries: The incumbent (and more moderate) REPUBLICANS were pushed out, and were replaced by more extremist candidates for the Republican ticket. These new candidates who emerged from the Republican Primaries appear with plans to drain the lifeblood out of all but the religious-oriented, private, charter schools.
"There has been a concerted state-wide campaign opposing public education in Texas in the past few years. I am a strong supporter of public schools because 90% of Texas children are enrolled in them! I do not support the status quo in public education."
"The Republican nominees Stan Stanart (my opponent) and Mike Riddle (Debbie Kerner's opponent) have indicated that they may favor the elimination of the agency (Harris County Dept. of Education). The election will revolve around this question."
In addition to his fight for the School Board Trustee position, Jim is known locally as an area hero for grass-roots organizing, and particularly: for his efforts for engaging hundreds of young people to enter into the political process, to learn hands-on what it means to work on a campaign, an experience they will carry with them throughout their lives. These grass-roots lessons are beneficialto ALL local activists. As a Debate Coach at Lanier Middle School, Jim has been an Award-Winning Debate Coach for national level competitions on several occasions.
Also running alongside Jim Henley for Dept. of Education:
Democratic candidate Debra Kerner.
http://www.henley4winningschools.com
http://www.debrakerner4education.com/
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PRIOR MEETINGS
Wed. May 28th
6:30 PM Social Event:
Tia Maria's Restaurant
4618 Dacoma St / Houston, TX 77092
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Drop by and visit with like-minded neighbors at
our newly-formed west-side Club.... And, as
usual, a couple of special visitors may stop in....
Voter Registration TRAINING EVENTS:
Provided By Roadwomen Democratic Club:
Tuesday, May 20th:
St. Stephen's Episcopal Church
1805 W. Alabama • Houston, Texas 77098
Voter Registration TRAINING EVENTS:
Provided By Roadwomen Democratic Club:
Wednesday, May 21th:
411 Calvaldade (near Fulton)
(Look for the banner that says, 'Houston Votes')
PRIOR MEETINGS
April 23, 2008
6:30 PM: Meet and Greet
7:00: Meeting
Our Speaker will be RANDALL MORTON,
from Houston's Speaker Series, the PROGRESSIVE FORUM.
...Progressive Forum: ...."Presenting the great minds who we believe are moving humanity and life towards success, speakers from all the fields of human endeavor—the sciences and humanities as well as politics and public affairs. Our progressive viewpoint is rooted in the mainstream constitutional, enlightenment, and egalitarian values of America's founding fathers, moderate values that need affirming, now more than ever."
YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO BRING ---SUGGESTIONS--- FOR SPEAKERS
YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE BROUGHT TO HOUSTON, AND
TO BRING QUESTIONS REGARDING PRIOR SPEAKERS
PRIOR SPEAKERS WHO HAVE APPEARED AT THE PROGRESSIVE FORUM
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Robert Redford/Coal Wars......Jared Diamond......Al Gore......Ken Burns
Seymour Hersh.......Tim Flannery .........Molly Ivins.....Joe Klein
Garrison Keiller.......George Soros.......Edward O. Wilson,
Robert F. Kennedy, Jr........Frank Rich.......Anna Deavere Smith
March 26, 2008
6:00 PM: VOTER REGISTRAR TRAINING - Begins promptly at 6:00 PM, in order to be deputized (or renew your status).
This Training will allow you to participate in Voter Registration EVENTS.
6:30 PM: Meet and Greet.
7:00 - 7:30 PM: DEMOGRAPHER MAX BEAUREGARD:
Presents election results, and democraphics, tailored for our precincts.
This will help the Club to see the areas in which we can be most effective
in helping elect our Democratic candidates in the Fall.
7:30,,,,Vistors; Discussion of Precinct Caucuses
7:45....
Kris Graham & Charlie Mauch; Presentation relating to their Resolution on
...........Public Funding/Elections
...........and Club Discussion of upcoming District Conventions
Training Event - Tues. February 19, '08
6:00 - 7:00 PM TRAINING to be Deputized as a VOTER REGISTRAR ...or, Update Your Prior Training status, if your "Registrar" status has expired. This Voter Registrar Training LOCATION: Zen 5 Japanese Restaurant and Steakhouse (in meeting room) at Corner of Wirt and Westview .
Wed. February 27, '2008 Meeting
KEYNOTE SPEAKER:
Visit with Candidate
MICHAEL SKELLY,
Democratic Candidate for
Congressional District 7!
Other Important Dates:
Friday Feb. 29! LAST day of Early Voting for March 4 Primary
Tues March 4: Democratic Primary Elections.Tues March 4: Precinct CONVENTIONS, 7:15 PM At -ALL- Polling locations: All voters who voted in the Democratic Primary are encouraged to attend their Precinct conventions beginning at 7:15 p.m at each polling location. Delegates to the Senate District conventions will be choosen at the precinct conventions. Contact Martha at Harris County Dem Party at 713-802-0085 or martha@hcdp.org; or Spring Branch Club: crow_2004vote@hotmail.com, for further information.
January 23 Meeting
We were visited by January 23rd visit by DARLENE EWING,
Chair of the Dallas County Democratic Party, where DEMOCRATS experienced a SWEEP in 2006, from CHRIS BELL on down the ballot. If you have not already received a review with notes from this important presentation, you may contact crow_2004vote@hotmail.com.
SEN. WHITMIRE'S RECENT VISIT
for DECEMBER HOLIDAY PARTY:
If you were there....you are probably glad you made it! The FIRST ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY of the SPRING BRANCH DEMOCRATS CLUB has come and gone. SENATOR JOHN WHITMIRE not only paid a visit -- he engaged visitors with a riveting speech. Took some questions too....If you have heard our Texas Senator speak and you aren't prepared to go out and walk-a-block, then you haven't got a Democratic pulse. (And - here we are, featured at the BIG BLUE BUTT again - along with our Guest, Senator Whitmire: http://www.kissmybigbluebutt.com/#dec13server). It was a very casual style of visit between the Senator and guests, and he was able to stay a little longer than we originally anticipated.
SENATOR WHITMIRE...discussed tollways, and the state of transportation in Texas; the state of prison system, rates of incarceration in Texas, and the successes and challenges to passing meaningful legislation, too often against Republican opposition, that would take into consideration factors such as health, mental illness, drug use and rehab, and in general, programs that will allow us in turn to focus most effectively on protection from the most violent offenders;
...expressed his support that night for Lt. Col. RICK NORIEGA, Democratic candidate for U.S. Senator from Texas, as the right man for the job, to take on the Republican incumbent;
...was asked to comment on his recent move to protect our Texas Parks as he stepped in to appeal to the Land Commissioner to prevent the sale of Christmas Mountains, part of Texas' Big Bend National Park. Sen. Whitmire has made it clear he feels the sale would "send a dangerous message to anyone who is considering donating wilderness land or parks to the State of Texas."
The room was FULL of spirited Democrats who thoroughly enjoyed his talk that night. It feels like a good year is upon us for Democrats --- and we're ALL ready to be IN on it.
STATE REP Candidate GINNY McDAVID said a few words -- she's getting ready to take-out BOHAC in HD 138; DAVID MINCBERG, a former Chair for the Party in Harris County, jumped up and gave a piece of his mind about his route to the seat of COUNTY JUDGE; and we had a very special visit from GALVESTON county JUDGE, SUSAN CRISS, a Democrat who is running for a seat on THE TEXAS SUPREME COURT who laid it on the line about our civil rights getting crossed-off the list, one by one.
The food received RAVES.......(can anyone figure out how the waiters managed to keep all the individual orders straight?) The holiday party spilled out of the big room but that WAS OKAY with Luis, the manager of OTILIA's family restaurant on Longpoint.......He pulled up a few more tables every so often from the small room...while waiting for an extra seat, everyone present was a GOOD SPORT. OTILIA's management and staff did an UNbelievable job handling this crowd, in the same jovial mood as our visiting Democrats.
The room was buzzing, and the mood was all good cheer.
~ ¡ OLÉ ! ~
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DONATION TAKEN UP AT HOLIDAY
PARTY DELIVERED TO MISSION YAWEH:
For over 43 years The Mission has empowered homeless and abused women and their children. We not only give food, clothing and shelter, but we're also committed to rehabilitating women to become self-sufficient, productive members of society. 10247Algiers Houston, TX 77041 Tel(713)466-4785
http://www.missionofyahweh.org/
NOVEMBER MEETING REPORT
In our most recent meeting on November 28th, despite the holidays and colds we found another full house......A number of new members and new visitors found their way to the meeting for an outstanding presentation from Harris County Democratic Chair GERRY BIRNBERG, who provided a collection of election results that indicated just how narrow a margin we realized in the most recent elections; and an overview of the upcoming steps in Harris County Coordinated Campaign to close that gap.
Among our first-time visitors were Loren Jackson, Dem. candidate for District Clerk, who discussed the current, utter lack of efficiency in the District courts and County Criminal courts, and how he plans to put this on track; judicial candidates Shawna Reagin/candidate 176th Criminal District Court; Ruben Guerrero, who served as head of the Small Business Administration under Clinton, candidate 174th Criminal District Court; and returning visitors who are judicial candidates working tirelessly to prepare for changes in our court system: Bert Mosier, 14th Court of Appeals-Place 4; FRED COOK, for Judge in 214th Civil District Court (we have also met his Democratic Challenger STEVE KIRKLAND on other occasions); three contenders for 80th District Court (Civil): Marc D. Isenberg, Larry Weiman, and Tanner Garth.
Political door-prizes were a hit and conversation pieces which the new Spring Branch Democrats will be encouraged to wear to upcoming CONVENTIONS at all levels! Anne Weedman discussed participation in the various upcoming conventions.
Candidate info for all upcoming elections on March 4: http://www.hcdp.org/upcoming_elections.html
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