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Montgomery County Democratic Headquarters
704 N. Thompson St. #195
Conroe, Texas 77301
936-703-5841
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Click on the Contribute button to help turn Montgomery County Blue!
Please consider becoming a sustaining member at $10 per month (or more!).
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November 15, 2023
Newsletter
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Please note: our newsletters contain a lot of links to make viewing the source easier - just click on images or linked text to explore
IN THIS ISSUE:
- Office Closures in November and December
- TDP Talking Points - Ready to Run?; Beat Cruz War Room; Dem Convention
- Follow Special Session 4 Legislation
- Team Tidal Wave - Learn All About It!
- Convention Committee Volunteers Needed!
- Precinct and County Chair Applications
- Blue Tide Rising Virtual Auction
- Blue Tide Rising Sustaining Donor Program
- In Memory of Theola Fay Yarborough
- Bridge Issues - Handgun Registration
- Friday Night Football
- Final Friday Takes a Holiday Break
- Democratic Party Events Around the County
- Magnolia ISD School Board Meeting Report
- Joe and Kamala's Corner (click on an image to open)
- Tweets (click on an image to open)
- Texas Blue Store - new arrivals for the holidays and more!
- Democratic Party Calendar of Upcoming Events
- Other Groups and Community Events
This newsletter is published on or about the 1st and the 15th of every month.
Email content for consideration to communications@mcdptx.org
no later than 3 days before publication.
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The Montgomery County Democratic Party Headquarters will be closed for November and December holidays on the following dates:
November 17 - November 27
December 15 - January 2
We wish you and yours Happy Holidays and Peace to all!
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🔥Candidate Filing Period Nov 11- Dec 11🔥
The Candidate Filing Period for the 2024 Democratic Primary has now opened!
If you are interested in running for office contact the Montgomery County Democratic Party at 936-703-5841.
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To follow the legislation being considered during the fourth(!) special session click here.
Please, please call your State Representatives to tell them you are (still!) against school vouchers. Thank your Democratic Rep for standing against vouchers and tell your Republican Rep you are watching to see if they will vote to destroy our public schools.
Our calls and outreach efforts have worked! That's why the 4th special session was convened. The fight continues!
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Team Tidal Wave (of Democracy)
My Fellow Democrats, it is with great pleasure I would like to introduce myself, Laurie McSpadden, as the brand new Volunteer Coordinator for the Montgomery County Democratic Party. Woot!
As we all know, this upcoming election season is of paramount importance as our country's Democracy hangs in the balance!
Like myself, I'm hoping that many will step up and outside of their comfort zone to keep our precious democracy intact. The purpose of the email is to inspire as many as possible to fill out the volunteer form that will help us determine all the your strengths and interests, and when you are available to volunteer. There are so many opportunities that I am sure you will find something of interest!
Please fill out the form asap because the 2024 election year is barreling down upon us. https://forms.gle/jvf2npfGLUzF78Rn9
Our ultimate goal is to compile a master list of everyone who has been and wants to be a volunteer. The form will provide us information about your talents and interests and possibly any other task or idea not included on the form that you would be interested in sharing. There is a comment section...please feel free to use it!
Let's get this (Save our Democracy) Party started,
Laurie McSpadden
Volunteer Coordinator MCDP
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It’s Time for Us to Plan the County Convention
and We Need Your Help!
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In March of the even numbered years, after the Primary Election, the Texas State Democratic Party mandates that the County Party hold a County/Congressional District (CD) Convention. The Convention is held on the same day of the week, across the whole state, for the purpose of selecting Delegates to the State Convention, and fulfilling the duties of the Credentials, Rules, Nominations, and Platform and Resolutions Committees.
2024 is a Presidential Election year. In presidential years, delegates are elected proportionately to the number of supporters for a presidential candidate or uncommitted status at the County/CD Convention and if there are remaining slots unfilled, those may be filled by any presidential preference. The Delegates selected at the County/CD Convention will be eligible to go forward as Montgomery County delegates to the State Democratic Convention at the El Paso Convention Center on June 6-8, 2024.
This year, the County Convention is set for March 23, 2024.
Because it is a Presidential Election Year, this year will be an especially exciting and interesting year to serve on the County/CD Convention committee. Any Democratic voter in our County can register to come to the County Convention and we hope to have at least 300 attendees. We need to organize guest speakers, select a venue, prepare a program, provide for convention officers, solicit chairpersons for each of the required convention committees, setup registration and credentialling, arrange for refreshments, signage, media, and a myriad of other details. Serving on this Committee is a great way to learn about Party operations and contribute to a critical County event.
If you are interested in joining the Convention Committee, send an email to office@mcdptx.org or call at 936-273-5841. If you have never served on a committee with us, this will be a great place to start. We need every curious, talented, eager, interested Democrat we can muster to help with this amazing event!
Join the Team! Yes, We Can!
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Precinct Chair and County Chair Application Process
Apply Now Until December 11th
Applications for precinct chairs are being accepted now until December 11th at 5 pm. Every two years precinct chairs must apply for the term that begins after the primary or runoff and lasts until after the next primary. If two or more apply for the same precinct, then they are listed on the primary ballot in that precinct. If only one person applies in a precinct, then they are elected without being on the ballot.
The County Chair is elected for the same term and is listed on the ballot in all precincts.
Remember the applications must be notarized. Most banks have a notary and do not charge for the service. You must be present with a valid ID and sign the notary's book.
Click here to download the application, fill it out, get it notarized and turn in to the office.
Hope to see you next year as a Precinct Chair continuing to fight for our Democracy!
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Please consider reviewing the flyer below and becoming a sustaining donor of MCDPTX and TDP. To incentivize you please watch this video of Diane Whiteley, Social Media Chair, interviewing Wit Forke, a 17 year old volunteer with MCDPTX. Watch the video here. | |
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In Memory of Theola Fay Yarborough
Long-time Montgomery County Democrats are saddened to hear of the passing of Theola Fay Yarborough, beloved wife of Thad Yarborough. Thad served for many years as a Precinct Chair, activist, and election worker and Theola was always by his side to help. It was not until 2010, when Theola’s health began to fail that they had to curtail their volunteer activities, but Thad still volunteers from time to time and is famous for the wooden windchimes that he has frequently contributed to our Silent Auction fundraisers.
Theola passed away at age 85 at her home in South Montgomery County. She was born in the Heights, was raised in a rural area of north Houston called Recreation Acres and graduated from Klein High School. After she and Thad became empty-nesters, she became a teacher’s aide in the child care facility at McCullough High School in The Woodlands and was thrilled when her first granddaughter was enrolled in the program at age three.
She will be remembered for her kindness and her dedication to her family and friends. May she rest in peace.
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Bridge Issues
Remember the days when Democrats and Republicans could agree on issues and have civil discussions? We do and we miss them. We believe a strong two-party system is critical for Democracy to thrive and even survive.
We believe there are still issues on which we can agree, and we would like to use the newsletter to talk about them. We call this Bridge Issues! Let us know if you have ideas about bridge issues that we can talk about here.
The Positives of Registering Handguns
Gun ownership is a topic that has long sparked passionate debates, with advocates on both sides of the issue. One aspect of gun ownership that garners considerable attention is the registration of handguns. While this subject is often divisive, there are several positive aspects to consider when it comes to registering handguns. In this article, we will explore some of the benefits associated with this practice.
Enhanced Public Safety
One of the primary advantages of registering handguns is the potential to enhance public safety. By keeping a record of who owns a handgun, law enforcement can more effectively trace firearms involved in criminal activities, recover stolen weapons, and prevent gun trafficking. This information helps authorities identify and apprehend individuals who may pose a threat to public safety, and it can also assist in solving crimes.
Responsible Ownership
Handgun registration encourages responsible gun ownership. When individuals are required to register their firearms, they are more likely to prioritize safety and proper storage. This can reduce the risk of accidents, especially when children are present in households with firearms. Responsible gun ownership means that gun owners are more likely to follow safety guidelines, keep firearms out of the reach of unauthorized individuals, and use their weapons responsibly.
Deterrence of Criminal Activity
Handgun registration can serve as a deterrent to criminals. Knowing that their weapons can be traced back to them, registered gun owners are less likely to use their firearms for illegal purposes. Criminals may think twice before attempting to steal or misuse a registered handgun, as the risk of getting caught and facing legal consequences increases.
Lost and Stolen Gun Recovery
When handguns are registered, it becomes easier for law enforcement to recover lost or stolen firearms. If a registered gun is reported as lost or stolen, it can be entered into a database, making it more likely that the gun will be returned to its rightful owner when recovered. This helps reduce the circulation of firearms in the illegal market and contributes to public safety.
Facilitating Background Checks
Handgun registration is valuable in the context of background checks, especially for individuals purchasing firearms through licensed dealers. When potential buyers undergo a background check, the registered status of a handgun can assist authorities in verifying the legality of the sale and ensuring that the buyer is eligible to possess the firearm.
Conclusion
While the debate over gun control continues, the positive aspects of registering handguns should not be overlooked. Enhanced public safety, responsible ownership, deterrence of criminal activity, lost and stolen gun recovery, and facilitating background checks are all compelling reasons to consider the benefits of handgun registration. By finding common ground on this issue, society can work towards a safer and more responsible approach to firearm ownership.
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Calling All Friday Night Football Fans!
Are you there for your kids? Are you there for your hometown?
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If you firmly believe that school spirit and pride in your local community is good for your children, your family, and your hometown (big or small), then please join us in a show of support for our local schools. We have a plan.
YOU CAN BECOME A FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL SUPER FAN!
YOU DON’T EVEN HAVE TO GET OUT OF YOUR CAR!
Call 936-704-5841, email OFFICE@mcdptx.org
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Final Friday Takes a Holiday Break
Final Friday falls right in the middle of the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays so we will be taking a break for a couple of months. But you can look for us again in January when we will be back and full of energy and information for the New Year.
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Democratic Party Activities Around the County
psst: you're missing a lot of fun if you aren't joining us!!
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Behind the Scenes at Election Central
Ann Milton and Ginger Blair in the Tabulation Room at Montgomery County Election Central on Election night, November 7, 2023, as seen through the Livestream Webcam on election night. The public can watch the votes being returned to Election Central as the Precinct Chairs return the ballot boxes in their cars, and the public can watch the whole tabulation process via a total of 8 webcams. Ginger Blair, as Democratic Party County Chair, and her Republican counterpart sign off on the final tally at the end of the night.
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Montgomery County Young Dems
November Meeting - Movie Night!!
On November 11th, five Young Dems met at headquarters (and seven joined by Zoom) for a fun meeting. They watched the Barbie movie. In addition they scheduled the next meeting for December 9th and at that meeting will be taking nominations and holding elections for the Executive Board and will screen the movie Across the Spiderverse!
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Blue Magnolia Holiday Event
December 13, 2023
5 - 7 pm
Blue Heron Farm
29625 Bunting Rd, Waller, TX 77484
Please join Magnolia and Waller County Dems for a fun evening at Blue Heron Farm's Beer Garden. We welcome Dems from around the county to join us to celebrate the holidays in a unique way.
The farm has goats that may still be up for petting (they put themselves to bed at dusk so come early)! Santa and Mrs. Claus just might drop by!
You will be responsible for purchasing your own food and beverages which include goat cheese made on the farm and s'mores! Check out the Beer Garden and its offerings here.
Come by for a fun, relaxing evening and meet Dems from Montgomery and Waller Counties!
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Magnolia ISD Board Meeting – 11/13/23
Magnolia Event Center @ 6:30 PM
The meeting began with recognitions:
Teachers of the month – two teachers were recognized. Teachers/Paraprofessionals: Scholarships – There are thirteen $1,000 scholarships available for teachers and paraprofessionals to obtain additional education. Several teachers and paraprofessionals were recognized.
Students: Students from Magnolia High School and Magnolia West High School were recognized for their College Board and National Merit achievements. (Note: College board recognition can lead to full ride scholarships.)
Veterans in attendance were recognized.
There are currently three new campuses under construction Audubon Elementary; Intermediate #3; Junior High #3. All are on schedule.
Adjustments to boundaries are made to address school capacity. District held “thought exchange” forums to get feedback from the public. Surveys were also done to get additional information regarding public opinions, i.e., would they move to keep child in same school?
Delinquent Tax Collection –
Most residents pay taxes in a timely manner.
Residents over 65 may choose to defer delinquent taxes until sale of property. Seventy percent of owners of properties in litigation agree to establishing a payment plan to pay delinquent taxes. Some delinquencies will never be collected due to four year statute of limitations on filing suit. These, however, will remain on the rolls for a period of ten years.
Construction of CT additions to high schools –
Both Stewart Builders and BNC Constructions have been used satisfactorily in the past and will be used for this new construction.
MISD is allocated 330 votes for persons to serve on MC Appraisal District. There are 5,000 total votes split between taxing entities. MISD has one of the largest blocks of votes with Conroe ISD having the largest block. No one on the board seemed to have any personal knowledge of the candidates nor had performed any information gathering. It was stated that one of the candidates, Frank Smith, had been recommended (it was not stated by whom). The board decided to give all 330 votes to this person; however, one board member chose to abstain from voting because he had not had an opportunity to research the candidates.
Submitted by Diana Walker
Chair of Precinct 91
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JOE and KAMALA'S CORNER !
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Blue Texas Store
Consider shopping for holiday gifts and ornaments at our own Blue Texas Store! Visit headquarters to shop and check out what's available and where the store has been on Facebook. Thanks to Judy Trosvig for the creation of the Blue Texas Store and of many of the beautiful items available in it!
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Other Groups & Community Events | |
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Recurring meetings, and related events
FRI, NOV 17 - ISLAMOPHOBIC/XENOPHOBIC HARASSMENT, 12:30pm, webinar
TUE, DEC 05 - MOCO COMMISSIONERS COURT, 9:30am, 501 N. Thompson 77301
TUE, DEC 12 - CONROE ISD BOARD, 6:00pm, 3205 W. Davis Street, Conroe 77304
TUE, DEC 12 - LS GROUNDWATER CONSERVATION BOARD, 6:00pm, 655 Conroe Park
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Monday, November 27, 2023 at 7:00 pm
Thank you for your continued advocacy and support to our Democratic values. There are many ways — big and small — that you can support your community and our local Democratic Club. Join us on Facebook and come to the upcoming meetings to find ways you can get involved.
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Democrats and Progressives of Montgomery County
Attend a Wednesday Evening Meetup – Dinner with Friends
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM CST
3091 College Park Dr #290
The Woodlands, TX
Morning Breakfast MEETUP
Saturday, December 9, 9:00 am
The Whistle Stop Cafe
11133 Interstate 45 S · Conroe, TX
Hosted by Karen Cavanagh
RSVP
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Chair: Ginger Blair
Deputy Chair: Kimberly Valdez
Secretary: Carmen McZeal
Treasurer: Natalie Ward
Sergeant At Arms: Marc Meyer
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Paid for by the Montgomery County Texas Democratic Party, www.mcdptx.org. This communication is not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. | | | | |
