GOING AFTER THE WOMEN'S VOTE?

When Sen. Al Franken (Dem., Minnesota)offered an amendment to the Defense Appropriation Bill, he sought to protect employees of contractors hired by the U.S. There had been several instances of sexual harassment and assault of women working for these companies in Iraq. In one horrendous episode a woman was gang-raped, told she would lose her job if she left to receive medical treatment and was banned from any criminal or civil court proceedings under the terms of her employee contract which only allowed private arbitration in cases if this nature.

Franken's proposal would deny the awarding of any U.S. contracts to companies that insisted on this kind of limitations on the legal rights of women who suffered such assaults. The amendment passed with only 30 Senators voting against it - ALL REPUBLICANS - including Kansas' own Pat Roberts and gubenatorial candidate Sam Brownback! I leave it to Kansans to decide if this is the kind of "Christian" leadership we want in Topeka.

Newly announced candidate for 1st District U.S. House Representative, Alan Jilka engaged in a conversation with RCDem Bill Rogers during the Demofest luncheon on Saturday. Governor Mark Parkinson gave an inspiring speech encouraging Democrats to remain positive during the upcoming election. But the most enthusiastic response from the crowd came when current State Representative Raj Goyle from Wichita took the stage. Goyle's efforts in the legislature and his successful unseating of an incumbant have inspired high hopes for his successful bid for the open seat in 4th District, formerly held by Todd Tiahrt.

Later in the day Democrats from Pratt, Reno and McPherson county met with Kenny Johnston to discuss plans to renovate the State Fair Booth. Staffing of the booth and increased cooperation from KDP were among items addressed as needing improvement. There will be further discussion and presentations made at Democrat Washington Days in February of 2010. Watch for more details in coming months and make plans to attend this important event.

T-BAGGERS A NO-SHOW AT DEMOFEST

Despite encouragement from rightwing bloggers, protesters failed to appear at the showing of "What's the Matter With Kansas", a documentary inspired by Thomas Frank's book. A theater filled with Kansas Democrats was welcomed by the Sedgwick County Chair. The film consisted primarily of interviews with conservatives which in retrospect did illustrate the problems facing the state. There was a segment following a family to the Creationist Museum that proved to be unintentionally humorous. More sobering were the revelations of numerous followers of Reverend Terry Fox and the ill-fated affiliation with Wild West World. One couple lost $300,000 to developer Etheridge when the project failed. There are increasing instances across the country of the trusting faithful being fleeced by a few unscrupulous charlatans seeking to take advantage of the "religious right".

RENO COUNTY DEMOCRATS TRY SOMETHING NEW

After taking the summer months off it was back to work for the Democratic Party in Reno County. There were many familiar faces on hand to discuss plans for the future. There will be a meeting with KDP representatives at Demofest in Wichita to discuss improvements for the Kansas State Fair Booth. The prime location and public relations opportunity of this event cannot be ignored. Democrats are encouraged to step up if asked to volunteer their time to staff the booth next year. We will be deep into the election season by then and your efforts are vital to success.

It was reported that Salina native Alan Jilka will definitely be running for Kansas 1st District Representative. Alan's credentials are impressive and he will need our full support as time goes on.

Following a lengthy discussion it was decided that the "LAST WEDNESDAY" meeting will become the "LAST SATURDAY MORNING" meeting. Reno County Democrats are encouraged to gather at the Go Plaza (truck stop just outside of South Hutchinson) for a breakfast meeting at 8:30 AM. This will leave the rest of the day for weekend activities and it is hoped, will allow more to attend. Mark your calendar for Saturday October 31st, 8:30 AM and join us at the Go Plaza for breakfast!