Minutes - April 17, 2021
Meeting began at 4:00pm via zoom. President Helen Brock welcomed everyone to the meeting.
Helen asked everyone to mute their audio while the the guest speaker was talking.
Helen introduced Shawn Lassiter, a candidate for Congress District 6. She spoke of her background as an educator, community organizer and single Mom and her priorities if she wins the seat.
All pledged allegiance to the flag.
Tina Williams read the March 20th meeting minutes . Vivian Gibson corrected the Early Voting dates
Becky Cockerham gave the Treasury report in the absence of Lynda Begnaud. The total balance is $5109.88
Old Business
Scholarship Committee-Vivian Gibson reported
New Business
Helen discussed continuing to support Red Cross to help the migrant children housed in the Dallas Convention Center. Becky mentioned the Catholic Charities are also helping.
Tina Williams offered to call hotels to ask for donations of amenities.
Barbara Fudge made a motion to send $200.00 to Red Cross to be designated for migrant children
Becky Cockerham seconded.
Tina Williams talked about collecting aluminum cans and how the money could be designated for TDW Ellis County. Tina mentioned she would organize the auction again for November.
There was some discussion whether it would be feasible to plan the Afternoon Tea for fall. General consensus was it would still be too early because of the pandemic .
Helen made a motion to adjourn at 4:30pm and Tina Williams seconded it.
Respectfully submitted by Tina Williams, Secretary .
Minutes March 20, 2021
Meeting began at 4:00 PM via zoom because of COVID restrictions. Vivian Gibson acted as Recording Secretary in the absence of Tina Williams. Helen Brock welcomed everyone to the meeting.
*All pledged allegiance to the flag.
Mary Lou Shipley gave an update on what the Waxahachie City Council has accomplished during her tenure on the council. She also spoke of her hopes of reelection. Her remarks were followed by a question/answer session.
Jana Sanchez introduced her Communications Chair, Kendyll Locke. Afterwards, Jana spoke about her campaign and hopes for reelection. There was a question/answer period that followed.
Lynda Begnaud gave the treasury report. The total balance in the treasury is $4,218.82. It was motioned and seconded that Lynda become the treasurer.
Old Business
Scholarship Committee - Vivian Gibson reported that two scholarships will be given this school year----one to Global High School and one to Waxahachie High School. The deadline is April 9th.
Community Outreach - Helen stated she is happy about the ongoing community outreach project.
New Business
It was decided that the April 17th meeting will be held via zoom. Bruce Wilson emphasized the importance of this organization continuing to practice COVID-19 precautions.
Nancy Cannaday reported that Tommie Cannaday stated the Friday coffee group will begin meeting again on March 26th at the headquarters.
Kelly Blackburn, Democratic County Chair, said she would like to improve the looks of the headquarters. Election is May1, 2021. Early voting is April 17th-29th.
Lynda stated she and other members will be at Waxahachie High School on Friday, March 26, 2021 at 8:40 AM to register students to vote.
Lynda motioned that the meeting be adjourned. Jake Hibbard seconded. The meeting ended at 5:00 PM
Respectfully Submitted,
Vivian Gibson (acting secretary for Tina Williams)
*Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited prior to old business.
Minutes February 27, 2021
Texas Democratic Women of Ellis County
President Helen Brock called the meeting to order at 4:00pm. This meeting is being held via Zoom due to attendance restrictions of COVID-19. All pledged the flag.
Helen welcomed all attending.
The first order of business was the reading of the January meeting minutes by Lynda Begnaud who also read the Treasurer report. Each item was approved.
Helen introduced Lillie Jenkins Walker who discussed proverbs and their use in everyday life. Ms. Walker invited the members to share their favorite proverbs and sayings.
Old Business
There was discussion of the merits of collecting aluminum cans for recycling. No decision was reached and the matter put on hold until next meeting.
New Business
Report from the Scholarship Committee showed the deadline for applications would be April 09. No applications have been received at this time.
An earlier discussion had been held regarding sponsorship of Jana Sanchez however it was determined TDW of Ellis as an organization, would not be able to make a donation to her campaign. Instead TDW would suggest members donate as individuals.
Mary Lou Shipley spoke about her hopes for reelection to Waxahachie City Council
Chuck Beatty also spoke about his campaign for reelection.
It was agreed to contribute $100.00 to each campaign. $100.00 is the maximum allowed without a full vote of the membership as was voted on in the January meeting.
The mailout program was discussed and it was agreed to continue as the membership felt there had been a good return.
The meeting was then closed by Helen Brock at 5:00pm
Minutes November 21, 2020
Texas Democratic Women of Ellis County
President Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4pm. This meeting is being held via Zoom due to attendance restrictions of COVID-19. All pledged the flag.
First order of business was the reading of the October meeting minutes by Secretary Tommy Cannaday. Treasurer Helen Brock read the financial report. Each item was approved.
Old Business
Lynda thanked Haley Kayzen, Terri Crouch, Emma Wilson and Tina Williams for helping with the social media accounts.
Lynda explained that we are still supporting North Ellis County Outreach. Last month she mailed them a check for $200. Checks can be sent to Lynda who will send a TDW check for the combined amount to NECO. You may also click the donation link in emails from TDW.
We voted last month to use the leftover stamps from voter registration for 2021 TDW membership renewals. She also mailed out TDW membership applications with the stamped return envelopes for submitting the application and the check for the dues. She said response was very good. We have gotten applications back from about 3/4 of our membership.
New Business
Lynda called for committee reports.
Vivian Gibson reported on the Scholarship Committee. They are to meet soon, and the scholarship will go to Waxahachie High School this year. This needs to be mentioned in the newsletter. She reported that the Scholarship Committee is excited about the online auction Tina Williams has organized as a fund-raising project.
Tina reported that the auction will be held from noon on Tuesday Dec. 1st to noon Tuesday Dec. 15th. online and a link will be sent out to all members. The items submitted for auction will be brought to Democratic Headquarters on Saturday 5th from 10am to 4pm.If you have any questions concerning the auction, email Tina Williams at maxnmaisy@hotmail.com. We sincerely thank Tina for all her hard work organizing and conducting this auction. Plans are being made to place items in the papers and to send emails to all on the Ellis County Democratic email roll.
Our December meeting is usually the Christmas Party which advisably will not be held this year. A vote was taken and passed that the December meeting would not be held.
Lynda happily reported that the Curtis Polk issue which was on all local media has been resolved.
We were asked to write letters to our commissioners about the Confederate statue at the courthouse
Barbara Fudge will be in charge of auditing the Treasurer’s books as per usual at the end of the year.
Page two
TDW Minutes November 21, 2020
Nancy Cannaday presented the slate of new officers. There were no nominations from the floor. Bruce Wilson moved the slate be elected by acclamation. Barbara Fudge seconded the motion and the motion carried. The newly elected officers are as follows:
President – Helen Brock
Vice President – Becky Cockerham
Treasurer – Rhonda Shaw
Secretary – Tina Williams
General discussions followed and the meeting adjourned at 4:44pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas Cannaday
Secretary:
Minutes September 19, 2020
Texas Democratic Women of Ellis County
President Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4pm. This meeting is being held via Zoom due to attendance restrictions of COVID-19. All pledged the flag.
Our guest speaker was Greg Alvord, a candidate for the State Board of Education, District 14. He spoke of the eight seats up for election. If the Democrats win three it will give them the majority position on the board.
First order of business was the reading of the August meeting minutes by Secretary Tommy Cannaday. Treasurer Helen Brock read the financial report.
Lynda thanked everyone for the success of the Hope Clinic Baby Shower September 5th. An article about the event appeared in the Waxahachie Sun.
We are still supporting North Ellis County Outreach. Checks can be sent to Lynda who will send a TDW check for the combined amount to NECO.
Lynda thanked Haley Kayzen, Terri Crouch and Tina Williams for helping with the social media accounts.
The virtual and safe Democratic National Convention was held. Lynda said lt it was a huge success.
Lucinda Windsor presented a history of the Women’s Suffrage movement at the Senate District 22’s Celebrating the 100th Year Anniversary of Women’s Right to Vote. A link will be in the newsletter this coming week.
The next order of business was committee reports however no committees had met recently.
The RideShare to Vote needs drivers. Contact Mary Brooks or Kelly Blackburn if you could assist.
The first Presidential debate will be held October 7th. The second, October 15th and the last October 22nd. The only Vice-Presidential debate will be on October 7th. October 9th is the debate between M.J. Hegar and John Cornyn, candidates for the U.S. Senate.
Lynda announced that Chester Cole, long time TDW member and faithful Democrat, died August 19th.
Sample ballots are on the Ellis County Elections website.
We need to elect new officers for TDW for next year. The nominations will be made at the next meeting and voting will be at the November meeting. Members step up if you feel you could serve.
You can drop off mail ballots at Ellis County Elections Office and it’s very important to vote early.
Lucinda and Lynda went to Waxahachie High School to register voters. We are also continuing to register voters at East Main Grocery and Fingers to the Bone BBQ on Wyatt Street.
General discussions followed and the meeting adjourned at 5pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas Cannaday
Minutes August 15, 2020
Texas Democratic Women of Ellis County President Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4pm. This meeting is being held via Zoom due to attendance restrictions of COVID-19. All pledged the flag.
Our guest speaker was Liz Espie, County Extension Agent for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. She spoke on proper diets during the pandemic.
The Minutes of the TDW July meeting were read by Secretary Tommy Cannaday. Helen Brock, Treasurer, read the Treasurer’s report.
Old Business: We are continuing to support the North Ellis County Outreach. Please send your checks to Lynda. Your donation will be used to provide food for those who are hungry.
Lynda reported on the mail out effort by TDW members to register voters. We will be able to judge how effective our efforts were after the election.
New Business: The National Democratic Convention begins August 17th. The proceedings will be virtual of course.
Nancy Cannaday reported on the Women’s Caucus and the Rural Caucus being held during convention next week. She said Joann Jenkins said Dallas County is desperate for poll workers. She asked TDW members in Ellis County to contact any friends in Dallas County and urge them to volunteer to serve.
Lynda reminded everyone to observe the 100th Anniversary of Women’s Right to Vote. Lucinda Windsor spoke on the Women’s Suffrage Movement at the Senate 22 district’s celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Women’s Right to Vote via Zoom on August 18.
Helen Brock reported on the Census work. She is working as a census taker and she said more workers are needed if anyone was interested.
Lynda said the first Presidential Debate will be held on September 29th. The Vice-Presidential Debate will be October 7th.
Lynda reminded everyone that there will be a drive-by baby shower for Hope Clinic on September 5th from 10am till noon. No one will have to get out of the car as she and Jerome will come to the cars to receive the gifts.
Lucinda Windsor is to organize high school voter registration via zoom. Jennifer Venable will do the training.
Lynda asked members to email the commissioners about removing the Confederate monument at the Courthouse.
The meeting adjourned at 4:58pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas Cannaday
Minutes July 18, 2020
President Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4 pm. This meeting is being held via Zoom due to attendance restrictions of COVID-19. All pledged the flag.
Out guest speaker was Robert Vick, candidate for State Senate. His opponent is Republican incumbent, Brian Birdwell. There is to be a "meet the candidate" in support of Robert. In attendance will be Gilberto Hinojosa, State Chair of Texas Democratic Party and Beto O'Rourke, former U.S. Representative and former candidate for U.S. Senate. Details about location and times will follow. Robert is a good friend from Hood County and has assisted Ellis County in functions and activities in the past.
The minutes of the TDW June meeting were read by Secretary Tommy Cannaday. Helen Brock, Treasurer, read the financial report.
Old Business: A meeting was held at the Ellis County African American Hall of Fame. A registration booth was set up at the event and everyone was encouraged to register now in order to vote in November.
Lynda reported monetary contributions for North Ellis County Outreach are coming in nicely. Keep it up as there is still much need for food distribution in Ellis County.
New Business: Lynda also reported about 2,000 unregistered voters have moved into Ellis County who are likely Democratic voters. Lynda is planning to send letters to those voters along with registration forms. We are asking these folks to complete the registration and return it to the Elections Office. Lynda asked TDW members to volunteer to write letters to these newcomers, help address envelopes, stuff envelopes and/or contribute money for the purchase of paper, envelopes and stamps. After the election, these names will be matched to actual voters to measure the success of this TDW project.
Robert Vick said that young people should be contacted on the web. This would be the best way to persuade them to register and vote.
Kelly Blackburn, County Chair, reported on the Ellis County Democratic Party. The upcoming election is of course top of mind. More people are needed to serve as poll workers. At the runoff she said that Jana Onyon did a good job. Precautions necessary due to COVID-19 were observed to protect poll workers and voters. It is anticipated that early voting time will be extended for the November General Election. This year 16 year olds are eligible to serve as poll workers.
We need more social media contact made due to COVID.
Lynda reported that the Democratic National Convention will be help in August. We will be advised of dates and speakers. A few minutes of open group discussion followed.
Lynda adjourned the meeting at 4:47 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas Cannaday
Minutes June 20, 2020
Texas Democratic Women of Ellis County
President Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4 PM. This meeting is being held via Zoom due to attendance restrictions of COVID-19. All pledged the flag.
Lynda reported that we have two new members: Welcome Nancy Post and Jake Hibbard-Vineyard.
Our speaker was Stephen Daniel, candidate for a seat in Congress in the House of Representatives. He spoke before the TDW business items were addressed.
The Minutes of the May meeting were read by Tommy Cannaday, Secretary.
Helen Brock, Treasurer, read the Financial Report.
Old Business:
Several protests were held in Ellis County advocating removal of the Confederate Statue on the courthouse lawn.
Other Black Lives Matter protests against police violence were held.
A Juneteenth celebration is planned with voter registration being held at the African American Hall of Fame in Waxahachie.
Two members attended the on-line Leadership conference. Lynda said more information would be forthcoming on-line. Emma Wilson Agreed to assist.
The State Democratic Convention will be held on Zoom this year.
Republican and Democratic Joint Primary Runoff Election will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2020. Early voting is June 29 - July 2 and July 6 - 10. Everyone was encouraged to vote.
New Business:
Vivian Gibson reported on the next Scholarship Fund and encouraged donations for the next award. The award will go to a student from Waxahachie High School.
Lynda appealed for cash contributions for the North Ellis County Outreach as the need is great at this time for assistance.
Barbara Fudge reported on contributions to Democratic candidates from TDW of Ellis County:
$500 Stephen Daniel
$300 Robert Vick
$1,000 Curtis Polk, Jr.
$500 Greg Alvord
Ellis County Chair Kelly Blackburn reported on county activities. She has been busy coordinating with the protests for removing the Confederate statue and police reforms. Further, members are encouraged to attend the Commissioners' Court meeting when the statue status will be addressed. She said attendance at the rallies has been good. She will try to arrange a zoom meeting by Royce West. She also asked that everyone vote in the Runoff Election.
There was a general discussion about conditions facing the nation at present.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:53 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Tommy Cannaday
Secretary
Minutes May 16, 2020
Texas Democratic Women of Ellis County
President Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4 PM. The meeting is being held via Zoom due to attendance restrictions because of Covid-19. All pledged the flag.
Our scholarship recipient, Madison Rea, attended the meeting and read the essay she submitted for her scholarship application. She will attend UT Austin.
There were no minutes read from April's meeting as TDW wasn't able to meet due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Helen Brock, Treasurer, read the financial report.
Vivian Gibson reported on the Scholarship Fund. The awards ceremony was help May 10th and the award this year went to Red oak High School senior, Madison Rea. Donations are now being accepted for the 2021 scholarship.
Lynda reminded members to pay their dues and said that 38 members had renewed their memberships.
Voter registrations in high schools has been cancelled due to the virus threat.
This year's TDW retreat has been cancelled for the same reason.
Pat Paige reported on the North Ellis County Outreach in Red Oak. Due to current conditions, the manager has requested that any donations be in cash rather than our past food donations. Checks should be written to TDW of Ellis County and Helen will present one check to NECO.
Lynda reported on the committee recommendations to political candidates this year. The donations made by TDW of Ellis County to Democratic candidates were as follows:
$500 Stephen Daniel
$300 Robert Vick
$1,000 Curtis Polk, Jr.
$500 Greg Alvord
Kelly Blackburn, Ellis County Democratic Party Chair, reported on the county party. She said she did not know how the State Democratic Convention will be held. She will report further information on social media.
Lynda reported on President Obama's upcoming speech.
There was general discussion concerning the election this year.
The meeting adjourned at 4:55.
Respectfully submitted,
Tommy Cannaday,
Secretary
Texas Democratic Women of Ellis County minutes February 15, 2020
President Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4:05 pm. All pledged the flag. Secretary Thomas Cannaday read the minutes of the previous meeting. Treasurer Helen Brock read the financial report. The reports were approved and accepted.
Lynda gave a report of the TDW Convention which was held in Austin, February 7th – 9th.
• Lucinda Windsor received the Star Award from the Ellis County TDW Chapter.
• There were a number of 2020 candidates presented at the convention and each spoke briefly on behalf of their campaigns. Lynda said the group was very impressive.
Other events and information of interest to TDW members begin with the Martin Luther King, Jr. parade held in Waxahachie and several TDW members attended the celebration.
Early voting for the Democratic Primary begins February 19 and sample ballots are on the TDW website. The Democratic Candidate Debate will be held that evening.
Lynda said our upcoming TDW of Ellis County newsletter is still in need of a title and members are encouraged to submit ideas.
Members should sign up for refreshments for meetings in need of a hostess this year.
There are still outstanding 2020 dues – please check with Helen Brock after the meeting.
Jerome Begnaud reported voter registrations. He and Lynda have been calling to remind voters who received mail ballots about the election.
Barbara Turner has tickets for the TDW Tea to be held April 12th. There are a number of ideas as to where the proceeds of the event shall be used.
Lynda stated 7 million Americans did not vote in 2016. There is an urgent need to change this.
The TDW Retreat this year will be held in Decatur on July 31st – August 1st.
TDW received a thank you note from the Hispanic church which received the Thanksgiving Turkey Boxes donated by Ellis County members.
Reminder to members: each month TDW members lunch at the Reservation at Waxahachie High School and welcome everyone to attend.
The meeting was adjourned and refreshments were provided by Doug and Becky Cockerham.
The speaker for our meeting, Jesse Gibson, was introduced. In observance of Black History Month he told us of the history of Pea Island Station in North Carolina. Stations were set up to rescue seamen and cargo from damaged ships along the eastern seaboard. Pea Island Station was captained by Richard Etheridge, first African American assigned as a station Chief. On his retirement Benjamin Bowser succeeded him, who was the great grandfather of TDW member, Vivian Gibson. We enjoyed this presentation and are proud of these men who saved many lives.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas Cannaday
Secretary
January 17, 2020 Meeting Minutes
Texas Democratic Women of Ellis County
President Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4:03pm. All pledged the flag. Twenty-six members were present.
Lynda read the Minutes of the November meeting and read the Financial Report as well.
She reminded members to pay dues and sign up for refreshments. Lynda reported on the Nominations Committee. She introduced Kelly Blackburn, the newly elected Ellis County Chair.
There was a report on the Christmas party.
The TDW Convention will be in Austin, Feb. 7th – 9th.
The newly elected officers for TDW were installed by former County Chair Nancy Cannaday.
Vivian Gibson reported on the Scholarship Fund. The Awards Ceremony will be held May 10th and the awards this year will go to Red Oak High School.
Pat Paige reported on the food drive for Red Oak outreach.
Jerome Begnaud made a report on the Get Out the Vote and the Martin Luther King Parade for January 20th. People will be able to register to vote at the Courthouse and Gym Church.
County Chair Kelly Blackburn gave a report on the party. She said more would come later. She also shared the new tee shirts the Democratic Party will sell.
Jody Johnson reported on the Senate Race. The need for people to register to vote is very important this year. We will be launching a program to get people to the polls.
Early voting begins February 18th and the Primary will be March 3d.
ECTDW is in the process of beginning a newsletter and suggestions for a name are being requested.
Reminder that training for Registrars is Tuesday and Thursday at the Elections Office.
Barbara Turner suggested that we have a spring tea and volunteers were requested to assist with this event.
Nancy Cannaday has agreed to do the scrapbook for the 2021 Convention.
Lynda reported on Washington D.C. Women’s March on March 26th.
The meeting was adjourned, and refreshments served.
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas Cannaday
Secretary
October 2019 Meeting Minutes
Saturday, October 19, 2019
1. Call to Order ─ President, Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4:06 P.M., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
2. Elected Officers
President: Vice-President: Treasurer: Secretary:
Lynda Begnaud Emma Wilson Sharia Lassiter Lana Turner
Present Present Present Present
3. Minutes ─ September meeting minutes were read and accepted.
4. Treasurer Report ─ September report was read and accepted. Current balance is $4,373.57.
5. Old Business
a) Fall Fundraiser – thank you to everyone. Approximately 49 people were in attendance.
b) Brown Bag Lunch. 10 members attended and discussed upcoming Christmas party.
c) Voter’s registration table at Navarro Community College (Midlothian). Registered 25 people.
Making plans to visit other high schools throughout Ellis County.
d) New member, Craig Beasley joined at Luncheon.
e) Don Mitchell is having health issues. Cathy ask that we please keep him in our prayers.
6. New Business
a) Scholarship Committee in contact with Red Oak High School counselors. Committee will start meeting again early next year.
b) Outreach Committee (Pat Paige – Chair) will deliver donated items to Ellis County Food Pantry on 10/21/19.
c) Christmas Party Committee (Nancy Cannaday – Chair). Propose to hold Christmas party at the Ellis County Democratic office instead of the Women’s Center. Also instead of full meal, will replace with finger foods and appetizers. A motion to make these changes were made and second by the members.
d) 12/2 - Clean-up day for the Christmas Party.
e) 12/6 – Christmas Party set-up
f) 12/7 – Christmas Party; tickets now on sale for $12 per person.
7. Adjournment ─ Meeting adjourned at 4:53 P.M.
8. Guest Speaker ─ Aubrey Reinhardt (Nancy Cannaday’s granddaughter)
September 2019 Meeting Minutes
Saturday, September 21, 2019
1. Call to Order ─ President, Lynda Begnaud called the meeting to order at 4:03 P.M., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Membership was introduced to Ms. Lauri Brook, a visitor, and
2. Elected Officers
President: Vice-President: Treasurer: Secretary:
3. Ms. Diana Melcher, a new member.
Guest Speaker: Jana Sanchez introduced Stephen Daniel, Democrat running against Congressman Ron Wright (R) for the U.S. Congressional District 6 seat in the upcoming 2020 Elections. Stephen Daniel is an attorney (personal injury lawyer) at Clay Jenkins & Associates and is a resident of Ellis County. He discussed the following platform: Medical Care, Immigration, Citizenship, holding politicians accountable, and having an economy that work for everyone. Before leaving he answered questions and listened to the opinions of the membership.
4. Minutes ─ Minutes from the August 17, 2019, meeting were read and accepted.
5. Treasurer Report ─ Financial information dated September 20, 2019, was read and accepted. Current balance is $3,110.45, and includes: $1,137.00 for the Scholarship Fund, $424.01 for the 2020 CandidateFund,and$1,549.44 inoperatingfunds.Thereis$397.52 istheBuildingFund.
6. Old Business
a) T-shirts are $20.00
b) Brown Bag Lunch. 7 members attended and discussed Fall Luncheon along with building clean
up.
c) 3 members attended Women’s Equality Day.
d) 8 members were in attendance at the Waxahachie High School Culinary Day.
e) Remember, when providing refreshments please bring snacks and not a full meal.
f) The proceeds from the Fall Fundraiser Luncheon will be donated to Democratic candidates after
the primaries.
7. New Business
a) Scholarship Committee will give an update after October meeting.
b) Outreach Committee will make their next donation in October.
c) Haley Kayzen composed a letter that will be mailed to Senator John Cornyn. There is a sheet
that will be attached with signatures. Please read the letter and sign. We will send a letter to
the Senator’s office every month.
d) Next Brown Bag Lunch will be on Monday, October 14, 2019, at 11:00 A.M. at headquarters. e) October 15, 2019, is the next Democratic Debate. Jana Sanchez will organize a watch party. f) Thank you, to Larry Wilson for the generous donation towards the scholarship fund.
g) Fall Luncheon. We need volunteers and a few items: tea, ice, and deserts (banana pudding).
There is a sign-up sheet available and please prepare for 50-60 people. The building can
accommodate 67 and 47 tickets have been sold.
h) If you know anyone who would like to be a member of TDW please let us know.
8. Other Reminders
Thank you, to Helen Brock and Nancy Canaday for providing refreshments for the Baby Shower for the Hope Clinic.
9. Adjournment ─ Meeting adjourned at 4:50 P.M.
10. Guest Speaker ─ Ms. Barbara Clark, Director of the Hope Clinic
June 2019 TDW Meeting Minutes
Date: June 15, 2019
The meeting was called to order at 4:04 p.m. followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Sharia Lassiter – June 2019 Treasurer’s report was read and accepted. Lana Turner – the June 2019 meeting minutes were read and accepted.
Old Business:
A $500 scholarship check was mailed to Liberty University and Texas Tech on behalf of Scholarship winners: Madeline Shepherd (Midlothian High School) and Samantha Harris (Midlothian Heritage High School). TDW participated in the Crape & Myrtle parade, which turned out to be a successful event. Reminder: In September TDW will host its annual baby shower fundraiser for Hope Clinic. Please start collecting your items you plan to donate. Some suggestions for donated items: diapers, baby food, baby formula, clothes and cared for used furniture. TDW Trailer – the title was successfully transferred to the Ellis County Democratic Party. July Brown Bag lunch, held in the Ellis County Democratic office. Seven attended Discussed the possibility of holding a fundraiser in the fall College professor, Haley Kayzen continues to write articles on the behalf of TDW for the Waxahachie Daily Light newspaper. She also updates our Instagram and Facebook page.
New Business:
Committee Updates: Scholarship Committee: Chair, Vivian Gibson, no updates to report. Outreach Committee: Chair, Pat Paige, no update, chair was on vacation. Christmas Party: Chair, Nancy Canaday, no updates to report. Fundraiser Committee: Chair, Sharia Lassiter, no new updates. JR - the state requested we put together a folder/notebook. Southern Border: Email from ACLU encouraged individuals and party organizations to draft letter outlining our concerns and disagreement on how the border immigration of splitting children from their parents. Sign and mail letters to: Texas Senators, Ted Cruz and John Cornyn and Texas State Representative, Ron Wright. Van training and block walking on 7/22 at 6:30 p.m. Next Democratic Presidential debates: 7/30 & 7/31 central time. Next Brown Bag luncheon/Ellis County Democratic Office: Will be held on 8/12. Ellis County Democratic T-shirts available for purchase ($12 each). Jimmie E. Ray passed away, and his service will be held on 7/19 at the Waxahachie Texas Civic Center. Former WISD coach/teacher and administrator Ellis County Constable Guest Speaker: Bob McShane The meeting was adjourned at 4:32 p.m.
TDW of Ellis County Meeting April 20, 2019
The meeting was called to order at 4;06 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Emma Wilson read the minutes in Lana Turner’s absence and they were accepted. Lynda Begnaud read the Treasury Report in Sharia’s absence. Treasury report was accepted. Lynda asked those who wanted to be members to see her after the meeting.
Old Business: Blue Ribbon Lobby Day-Two of our members went, Lynda Begnaud and Emma Wilson. It was a very good experience. There was a rally for equal pay and several female legislators spoke about different women’s issues. Jeanetta Flores went to the Washington DC for Women in Blue Day.
Thanks to Joe Gatlin for selling tickets for the Fish Fry. Thanks to Sharia Lassiter for collecting the money. Lynda asked if we wanted to use the Fish Fry money for the scholarship fund. Barbara Fudge thought we should keep the money for campaigns.
New Business: The Scholarship Committee chair, Vivian Gibson reported that the committee met twice since the last meeting. There were six candidates in total from both Midlothian high schools. The winner from Midlothian Heritage was Samantha Harris. We will present the scholarship to her on May 23, 2019 at 6:30. The winner for Midlothian High was Madeline Shepherd and her scholarship will be presented on May 21, 2019 at 6:30. Each winner will receive $500. There is $900 left over for next year.
Pat Paige reported about the Outreach Committee. The North Ellis County Outreach in Red Oak received help for their organization from us. They didn’t seem to have had as much help as the other towns to whom we have donated. Pat suggested that we donate to them the next time also and then go to the other towns afterward. Barbara moved to do this and Emma seconded. This will occur in July 2019. We will include food and personal items.
Lynda reported that Rebecca Cockerham’s daughter has volunteered to be TDW’s publicity person. She will be setting up Instagram.
A check was mailed from TDW to the Cook County Illinois Alzheimer Association chapter in memory of Verlie Cambric, Verlie Mc Broom’s mother.
Rebecca Cockerham’s father, Von Gene Stanford, passed away on March 25, 2019. Rebecca said that he was a lifelong Democrat so she asked that the donation go to the Ellis County Democratic Party.
Early voting begins April 22, 2019. May 4th is election day. Things on the ballot include Proposition A, having to do with annexation. Edith Finley is running for the WISD School Board and Chuck Beatty and Mary Lou Shipley are running for Waxahachie City Council.
We now have a TDW website, www.elliscounty.tdw.org
It was suggested that we limit refreshments to snacks instead of meals.
On May 25, 2019, JR Phillips is planning a big showing for the democrats at the Ennis Polka Festival. We will have three booths. One is for voter registration, another for LULAC and for membership opportunity. We will be trying to be in the parade. JR also said that Cat Sanders talked at the CEC meeting about how to reach out to rural communities. He had lunch with Lupe Valdez in reference to the homeless situation.
Meeting was adjourned at 4:45.
Speaker was Chuck Beatty.
ELLIS COUNTY TDW MINUTES March 16, 2019
The meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m., by President, Lynda Begnaud and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. All board members were present, except for Treasurer, Sharia Lassiter. Lana Turner – February 2019 Secretary meeting minutes were read and accepted. Lynda Begnaud – February 2019 Treasurer’s report was read and accepted.
Old Business
Texas Democratic Women State Convention (2/22-2/24): Several TDW members attended, including Barbara Fudge, Lynda & Jerome Begnaud. March 6, 2019: Several TDW members met for lunch at “Reservations”, the restaurant operated by the culinary student program at Waxahachie High School.
New Business
April 18, 2019: Roundtable Meeting at Democratic Office, Waxahachie. Ruthie Self, reported the loss of TDW family members: Barbara Turner (sister) and Verlie McBroom(mother). Ruthie Self moved for TDW to donate $50 to an organization selected by the family member, 2nd by Emma Wilson. Verlie selected Illinois Alzheimer Association, Cook County, Barbara Turner’s donation is pending her choice. Reminders April 13, 2019: Fish Fry Fundraiser, held at Sardis Point Cafe April 2, 2019: Blue Ribbon Lobby Day New Business Scholarship Committee: Chair, Vivian Gibson, reported that we have a balance of $1,900 earned through fundraising and individual donation efforts. Outreach Committee: Chair, Pat Paige. Still accepting donations. Christmas Party Nancy and Tommy Cannady volunteered to chair the Christmas Party. Training J.R. Phillips, beginning to train volunteers (i.e., walkers and phone representative). Working on the Democratic t-shirts to wear while performing volunteer duties. The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m.
ELLIS COUNTY TDW MINUTES February 16, 2019
ELLIS COUNTY TDW MINUTES January 19, 2019
ELLIS COUNTY TDW MINUTES November 17, 2018
The meeting was called to order at 4:06 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Kathy Kincaid spoke to us and pointed out that this is the last meeting of the year and her last year altogether. Jana Lynn Sanchez spoke to us about the election. We had a large amount of candidates this year and were quite visible. We dramatically changed the future of elections and learned a lot from this experience. The minutes were read and accepted. Linda Begnaud read the treasury report and she acknowledged that Larry Wilson gave TDW a generous donation. She also mentioned the need for scholarship donations. The treasury report was accepted.
Linda Begnaud with the Christmas committee had a sign up sheet to see what food people could bring to avoid duplications. The Christmas party will have a dessert contest and a silent auction. We will have a guest speaker, Jana Lynn Sanchez.
Vivian Gibson with the Scholarship committee announced the Linda Begnaud has joined the committee along with Pat Paige, Francine Jackson, Emma Wilson, and Kathryn Mossom. The next meeting will occur after the holiday. This year we gave two scholarships to Ennis High School students and in 2017, we gave one scholarship to a Waxahachie High School student. This coming year the scholarships will be awarded to high school students in Midlothian. There are two high schools there so our goal is to award a $500 scholarship per school in May. Pat Paige from the Service and Outreach committee told us that we should be proud of TDW accomplishments serving the different communities. We started with Waxahachie Care, then the Ennis Food Pantry and then Manna House in Midlothian. We will return to service Waxahachie Care in 2019. We may go with serving Red Oak after that.
There was a request for $100 worth of stamps for the Bakeless Bake Sale and funds that could be used to pay for twenty tickets to the Christmas Party for people selected by the Christmas committee. Each of those requests were accepted.
The Election Committee which includes Ruthie Self, Verlie McBroom, and Jerome Begnaud gave the 2019 Nomination Report. The nominations include:
Linda Begnaud-President
Cathy Mitchell and Emma Wilson-Vice President
Sharia Lassiter-Treasurer
Lana Turner-Secretary
There was a vote for Vice-President and Emma Wilson will serve in that capacity in 2019.
The speaker was Jim Schermbeck who is the director of Downwinders At Risk which is a non-profit, volunteer-run, grassroots group who is fighting for cleaner air in our area since 1994. The meeting was adjourned at 5:01.
ELLIS COUNTY TDW MINUTES
October 20, 2018
The meeting was called to order at 4:09 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Kathy KinKaid gave thanks to all those who are helping with the elections. The minutes and treasury reports were read and accepted. Lynda let people know about the dues, that it is better to pay after November 1st so it's effective through next year.
Old Business:
The TDW Christmas party will be held on December 1, 2018 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. There is a sign-in sheet created to help with the party. We need a committee. We couldn't get information from the Woodmen of the World, so went ahead and booked the Woman's Building.
TDW headquarters will be open during the Bob Phillips Texas Country Reporter event since the Beto people will be at headquarters. There are no other plans concerning the event. Kathryn Mossom informed us that a petition to stop involuntary annexations by Ellis County cities received enough signatures to put forth the referendum on the May 2019 ballot. On the May ballot, voters can decide if they wish cities to be required to call a vote that will determine if an area will be annexed.
New Business:
Ruthie Self is the head of the Elections Committee along with Verlie McBroom and Jerome Begnaud. The election of the officers will be held during the November meeting. The nominees are Lynda Begnaud for President, Cathy Mitchell for Vice-President, and Sharia Lassiter for Treasurer. There was no nomination for secretary.
Pat Paige spoke about starting the cycle for food donations with Waxahachie Care. We need to get a time frame for when to give Thanksgiving dinner items. There was a discussion about other towns that could be included in the cycle. It will be a quarterly cycle. At the next meeting, we can look at the framework as to what towns would receive help.
The refreshment sign-up sheet is going around for next year.
Vivian Gibson brought up the scholarship committee so we can get started for 2019. Midlothian will be the next town to receive our scholarship. They have two high schools. Lynda Begnaud volunteered for the committee as she had an idea for fundraising.
Nancy Cannaday informed us about Beto's rally at the Midlothian Conference Center on Thursday, October 25, 2018. The event will be at 5:30. Meeting was closed at 4:50.
The speaker was Jody LaFleur, an attorney with Winborne & LaFleur attorneys & counselors at law.
ELLIS COUNTY TDW MINUTES
September 15, 2018
The meeting was called to order at 4:06 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Kathy KinKaid opened the meeting with words of encouragement. The minutes were read and accepted. The treasury report was read and accepted. We have $586 in our Scholarship Fund.
Old Business:
A member, Lynne Wilson died. A motion was made and accepted to donate $50 as a memorial to her. After discussion, it was decided to send the donation to Ann Richard’s School for Young Women Leaders in Austin.
Barbara Fudge shared how the campaign money TDWEC allocated to candidates was distributed. A $100 donation was allocated to Jana Lynne Sanchez, Lupe Valdez, Kim Olson, Justin Nelson, Joi Chevalier, Curtis Polk Jr., and Sharon Levingston. Beto wouldn’t accept our donation because we are a PAC. The campaign Donations Committee decided to split the funds allocated for Beto to J.R. Phillips and Vicki Spaniel making the donation to each of them $200.
National Voter Registration Day is September 25.
Beto’s mother and sister were at Ellis County Democratic headquarters on Friday, September 14.
New Business:
Mike Collier will be here on Monday, October 15 at Ellis County Democratic headquarters for the Ellis County Young Democrats meeting. Kathy, Lynda, and Gayla will help prepare for the meeting. An article needs to be sent to local papers to announce his coming.
t’s time to elect new TDW officers. TDW elections chair is Ruthie Self. Not all officers are leaving. Existing officers can serve again.
Beto and Cruz will have their first debate on Friday, September 21 at 6 pm. It will be on domestic policy and will be held at SMU. There will be a debate watch party at headquarters.
Gayla reminded us the Hillary Clinton will be on the Rachel Maddow show on Tuesday, September 18.
The Bob Phillips festival is October 27. We decided to postpone discussion of whether to open headquarters during that until the next meeting.
We discussed where to have the Christmas party this year. Ruthie will find out about the Woodman of the World location.
Kathy KinKaid suggested setting up a mock voting booth to help people feel more comfortable about voting.
Becky Folse talked to the group about being a poll greeter, and asked for volunteers on election day and for early voting at all locations.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:52 PM.
Gladys Burns with Meals on Wheels of Johnson and Ellis County spoke to us about their mission and told us about volunteer opportunities.
ELLIS COUNTY TDW MINUTES
August 18, 2018
The meeting was called to order at 4:03 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The treasury report was read and accepted. We have $556 in the scholarship fund as of today. Thirty- seven members have paid their dues.
Nancy Cannaday spoke about the Vote by Mail program. Over 2,000 people would qualify in Ellis County. Because it’s something new, the recipients will need to be called to have it explained. We need volunteers to sign up to make phone calls.
Old Business: Scholarship recipients, Emma Howard and Marissa Feller received their money. Pat Paige gave a report of the TDW food donation on July 23rd at Manna House in Midlothian. We were asked what organization we represented multiple times and they were very pleased with the donations. Manna House works with the police and fire departments and with churches. We are donating $1200 to candidates. A committee was formed to make the decisions as to how to distribute. The committee includes Barbara Fudge, Kathy Mitchell, Ruthie Self, and Nancy Cannaday. Women’s Equality Day is August 22nd in Dallas at City Hall at 12:00 pm on the 6th floor. Turning the Page is the theme. Wear white.
Tommy Cannaday announced that Lynn Wilson has been very ill. She is in hospice care and is not responding.
New Business: Donations are needed for the Hope Clinic, like diapers and other baby things. Nancy suggested that we have a “baby shower” in the next meeting to collect the donations. We could name it Baby Shower for Hope Clinic.
Our speaker was Robert Ray Smith who spoke to us about the two main ways to get your Medicare coverage. Those are the original Medicare and the Medicare Advantage Plan.
Meeting was adjourned at 4:43.
Ellis County TDW Miinutes
July 21, 2018
The meeting was called to order at 4:05 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The treasury report was read and accepted. Lynda Begnaud conducted the meeting in Kathy KinKaid's absence.
The $510.00 made from the fish fry was given to 8 candidates per Jana Sanchez. Each candidate received $56.00. The Scholarship Fund now has $1536.00. We asked for more donations and discussed membership dues.
Old Business: Food donations will be for Manna House in Midlothian. Pat Paige will be taking the food there soon. TDW summer retreat will be in Dallas. Many speakers will be there August 3rd and 4th.
New Business: We need new committees and the volunteers to head them. Committees could meet once a month. For the Get Out the Vote fundraiser, see Lynda Begnaud after the meeting. Kathy KinKaid suggested we make banners indicating things for which liberals stand. For example, liberals support DACA. This can be discussed in the next meeting. TDW has a new website. Each chapter has the ability to have one also. Lynda showed everyone the different pages of the website. Photos could be included. It was asked if the minutes of the meeting could be included in the websites and we agreed to do that. Also, we discussed if the bylaws and committees should be included and we decided not to include those. We discussed a possible mission statement.
Per the upcoming election, a list of judges were needed by Jana Onion by July 31st. Gayla Gatling provided those. On August 13 and 14, Jana will be having input to modernize the voting equipment. They have had difficulties getting parts.
The speaker is Barbara Clark, the CEO of the Hope Clinic. Kevin Crouch was her co-speaker.
Meeting was adjourned at 4:30.
Ellis County TDW Miinutes
June 16, 2018
The meeting was called to order at 4:10 followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
The minutes and the treasury report were read and accepted.
Kathy KinKaid's introduction concerned the DACA program and the situation on the border with children being separated from their parents.
Marissa Feller, the second scholarship recipient, spoke about her college plans and answered questions from the members.
Our speakers, Juana Ayala and Yuridia Salazar, spoke to the members about their experience with DACA. They informed us about the process to apply for DACA, the costs involved and how it has to be renewed every two years. Each time it's renewed, they have to do the full application process anew, and they have to pay once again. They have to give quite a bit of information and they have to be fingerprinted so they are easier to track. Therefore, they worry they would be more easy to deport.
Old business: Slate cards which have the information about the Democratic candidates could be helpful when doing block walks. Ruthie Self suggested that TDW donate the money from the Fish Fry to Jana Sanchez in order to contribute toward the slate cards. Barbara Fudge suggested that we earmark the money for the slate cards and figure out to whom the check would be given. It was decided that Lynda Begnaud will do what will be appropriate after talking to Jana. Beto signs and bumper stickers are at headquarters. The July 4th parade's theme is Ride the Blue Wave with the Young Democrats working on that. Kathryn Mossum asked for information about the state convention and whether or not we would be meeting and going together. The answer to that was no. The SD22 caucus is mandatory for delegates and they should sit together in order to vote. Juneteenth information was given.
New Business: It is time to start thinking about the Christmas party. The city council meets July 2nd in was anyone wants to attend. Liberal Lunch will be July 14th. We will try to have on in Red Oak at that time along with Waxahachie and Ennis.
Meeting adjourned at 5:40.