June 27, 2018
Your Weekly News from the CCDP and Political Clubs
Greetings!
How to Get a "Letter to the Editor" Published:
Tips from a Successful Writer
 
Cathy Mangarelli's letters to the editor are regularly published by the Dallas Morning News . We asked her to "share her secrets" with WOWDems members and Democrats across the county, and below is the response.
 
A  Letter to the Editor (LTE)  can reach an audience broader than your family and friends. I believe that more folks should be writing these letters! It's another way in which your voice can be heard.
 
I don't have all the answers to how or why or when to write an LTE, but I have been published often (even in other states where I've lived)! In fact, in the last 6 months,  my letters to the Dallas Morning News (DMN) have been published about once a month!  I'd like to share some of my insights with those of you who are interested.
  • PASSION: I've had a passion for civic issues most of my adult life. In my mind I've been successful because of this passion. I'm also willing to massage my message to remove any vitriol and keep the letter compact and factually accurate.
  • CLARITY: Whatever issue you choose to write about, make it clear from the start what the problem is and where you believe it's off the mark. Articulate your point of view clearly and concisely. After writing your letter put it aside for a couple of hours. Then revisit it with fresh eyes and a calmer demeanor.
  • LENGTH: Keep it short and sweet. The DMN requires letters to be 200 words or fewer; however, 100 words or less is even better. See other DMN tips here.  
Once you're comfortable with your letter do the following:
  • To submit a letter to the DMN editor, go here 
  • Scroll down that page to 'Submission Form', fill it out, submit it, and wait for your letter to be published! 
I've usually gotten my letters published within one week. After two weeks without publication, the likelihood is that it won't be. For the record, I also write to my government representatives to let them know my thoughts on issues important to me. It is especially important here in Texas because the loudest noise seems to come from the political right.
 
A SPECIAL OFFER : I'd be happy to answer questions, edit or proofread letters for first-timers! That's what friends are for!  Contact me

-Cathy Mangarelli, Member of WOW Dems Legislative Committee
Paint for Progress
June 30th
You are invited to refuel your creative spirit at a hosted Paint for Progress Fundraiser to benefit the vital civic work of the Liberal Women's Action Network.
We provide all your artist needs - an easel, canvas, brushes, and paint. We also supply the energy, ideas, and support for you to tap into your inner artist and create your very own masterpiece.
Secure your ticket today and invite your friends! This night out will be fun and relaxing while having the added bonus of funding the important work of Liberal Women's Action Network members.

Final Friday with the Party Chair THIS FRIDAY
Please join us for Final Friday with the CCDP Chair, Mike Rawlins. Have questions about how the party works or what it's doing, suggestions, or observations? Want to hang out with some other Democrats, eat, drink, talk politics, or just chat about the latest movie you watched? 

When: Friday, June 29, 6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.

Where: Northside Drafthouse & Eatery, 3000 Northside Boulevard suite 800, Richardson, TX 75080, USA ( map )

This is in the new Northside development that's just north across Synergy Park Blvd from the University of Texas at Dallas. Look for us on the patio, and ask for the Rawlins table if you don't see us.

Please sign up on the Facebook event so we'll know about how many people to plan for.

#Im4Julie Community Canvas
Saturday, June 30th
Talking to voters is how we WIN in November and Turn Collin County Blue! Join Julie Luton's #TeamPurple for our next HD70 block walk. We're excited to knock on doors, reach out to more voters, and educate voters on our incredible slate of Democratic candidates! No experience necessary--seeking walkers and drivers. Join us to let everyone know why #Im4Julie in 2018!

Please sign up here .

Who: Anyone who can drive or knock on doors--we will train you.

When: July 30, 2018
Please arrive at 1:30 p.m. for training and pairings. We will send teams out by 2:00 p.m. and wrap up around 5:00 p.m. or when all turfs are completed.

Where: 5928 Cranbrook Lane, McKinney, TX 75070 ( map ).
McKinney Area Democratic Club
Meet the Candidates
Saturday, July 7th
The McKinney Area Democratic Club is excited to have Leslie Lester Osborne, Bill Pederson, and Amanda Reichek, Democratic candidates for the 5th District Court of Appeals. They will provide insight into the 5th District Court of Appeals and what role this court has on our judicial system in Texas.

When: July 7, 2018 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Where: Collin College Conference Center-Central Park Campus, McKinney (SE corner of Taylor Burke Dr & Community Ave in Room F-122)
Heritage Ranch Gerrymandering Guest Lecture
Wednesday, August 8th

The Democratic Club at Heritage Ranch cordially invites you to join us on Wednesday, August 8, at 6:30 p.m. in the Heritage Ranch clubhouse ballroom (465 Scenic Ranch Circle, Fairview, Texas- map ) to hear Joan Ridley discuss Gerrymandering and what can be done to eliminate this problem.

Ms. Ridley is an active member of the following groups:
·        League of Women Voters
·        Common Cause
·        Independent Texas Redistricting
·        Fair Maps  

As a volunteer she devotes considerable time to educating voters about the need to establish an independent redistricting commission in Texas.

Both Democrats and Republicans have been guilty of gerrymandering when in power. There is now a movement around the country to find ways to stop this practice which, as its by-product, reduces the value of minority party votes.

This event is free. Please RSVP to: cathymang813@gmail.com no later than August 5th.

Mastering MiniVAN!

Please click here for instructions on how to use MiniVAN, the Democratic party's voter database! It's so handy to use in canvassing for the party. If you don't have an action ID, please come on down to the office to get involved with a block walk. You can access the party calendar here for blockwalking dates.
Collin County Democratic Party | 972-578-1483 | Website