ACTIVISTS TAKE IT TO MORAN

A number of long-time Democrats met at the home of Linda Laird to discuss current issues. As a result several attendees visited the Hutchinson office of Sen-elect/Representative Jerry Moran to voice their concerns. Items addressed included the "Millionaire Bailout"/repeal of DADT/rising costs of health care. Local, state and national officials need to know that we are constituents as well and demand their attention. Actions such as this, writing a letter or making a phone call have an impact. Spurred on by rant radio/FOX and the Tea Party, extremists have used these tactics to make their presence known. It's time for Progressive, Liberal Democrats to take up these tools and learn to use them effectively.

MEET THE ENERGIZED DONKEY

We're here! We're motivated! We're not going away! It's very likely voters will soon suffer from a huge case of election remorse. The reality of the results of the 2010 election will become clear and we're going to be ready for the fallout. An effort is already underway to recruit candidates and events are in the planning stage to make Reno County Democrats bigger and better than ever. The odds may be against us but when you know your principles are right you just don't quit. The Kansas 101st District Representative from Reno County has given the public a good look at just what the GOP and extreme conservatives are all about with his actions, spreading lies and discrimination via an e-mail. Watch for coming events and attend the monthly meetings to stay informed and involved as we move forward.

GOP WINS - KANSAS LOSES

It wasn't the results we had hoped for. Across the state, across the nation the power of money from special interests, a sorry lack of accurate information and a combination of voter apathy and anger shook the foundations of government and incumbants. We can be proud of the campaigns mounted by Kansas Democrats. Obviously being on the right side of issues doesn't always translate into winning. In an interesting development several of the GOP candidates booked space at the Anchor Inn alongside the Election Night Democratic Party. They ate and left as the reporters and photographers from the Hutch News stayed on to talk with RCDems. Best lesson of the night, hold your head high and be proud of standing up for what you believe in. Our congratulations to the fine Democratic candidates we supported - our sympathies to Kansas at the loss of outstanding public servants that served the state and the political process so well.

IN IT TO THE END!

Democratic headquarters was a beehive of activity on the last Saturday prior to the election. About a dozen volunteers showed up to make last minute calls in support of candidates and to encourage voters to go to the poles. Though the reports from polls don't look promising, Reno County Democrats don't give up easily. And there's always that next opportunity on the horizon.

TIME TO TAKE ACTION

Let's add "OF BEING A DEMOCRAT IN KANSAS"! It's not going to be an easy election but one way to make sure the opposition is successful is to sit back and do nothing. There are calls to be made to get out the vote; doors to be knocked on to encourage and inform voters; signs to be displayed to show support. Don 't let this election pass you by without making the effort to make a difference. Watch for opportunities to get involved. In the short time before November 2 there will be a chance for you to do your part. To find out how and when contact Reno County Democrats at renodemo@earthlink.net or call 620-200-0279. Your efforts matter and can make the difference.

RCDEMS WELCOME LT. GOVERNOR CANDIDATE KULTALA

An unexpected call the day of the Holland/Brownback debate and the hospitality of Jon Powell added up to a pleasant evening for RCDemocrats as they gathered to watch the spectacle with Holland's running mate, Kelly Kultala. Kultala had joined the RCDems earlier this summer to march in the Emancipation Day parade. Attendees at the improptu event were pleased with Holland's appearance at the debate. None are surprised that Senator Sammy doesn't wish to appear side by side with him in further debates.

MILLER AND MACE AT CANDIDATE FORUM

Jack Mace (KS House District 104) and Curt Miller (KS House District 101) appeared at the forum sponsored by Hutch CU, Hutch News and Young Professionals at the Ramada Inn to answer questions submitted by voters. Both did an outstanding job and are deserving of all the support we can muster. Signs for both candidates and others are available at the Reno Co Democratic HQ.

DEMOCRATS SUPPORT MACE AT BUHLER FROLIC

It was a cool, crisp autumn morning, perfect for a parade. About a dozen Reno Co Democrats joined Jack Mace, candidate for KS house district 104 to show their support. Mace is a frequent substitute teacher in the Buhler schools and has gained the support of teachers throughout the county. It was interesting to note that his incumbant opponent was on hand as well but only to drive his vehicle with no supporters in sight.

BETTY AND JAMES TAYLOR HOST RECEPTION

Numerous voters were invited to get acquainted with Gubenatorial candidate Tom Holland. A sizable crowd including Independents and Republicans came to the Dillon Nature Center to hear Mr. Holland speak. The event was sponsored by the Taylors and included an impressive assortment of refreshements provided by volunteers. Both Holland and his staff were impressed with the success of the event and the hospitality shown them.

SUCCESS

(Proof positive if I can manage the Internet then anybody can) A new crop of Young Democrats joined in the large crowd on hand to support Tom Holland in his debate with Senator Sam. Forgive me for stooping to partisan sniping but when I saw the stickers favored by the yellow-shirted group reading "I'm a Brown-backer" couldn't help thinking it should instead read "I'm a Brown-noser". This because those who showed up were treated to free transportation, free shirts, free lunch and free admission to the fair - all courtesy of our Senator Sam. Money can indeed buy a lot of things. Let's just hope Kansas isn't for sale in November. It's up to us, people!

WHAT WE'RE AIMING FOR

According to all volunteers who worked throughout the fair, this was a common remark: "I don't want Brownback for governor" (and some even stronger comments from members of his own party). Whether or not this negative response can bring moderate voters into Tom Holland's camp is largely dependent on us. Talk to undecided or waivering voters. Acquaint yourself with Tom's positions, history and accomplishments at working in a bipartisan effort to improve Kansas. He's working hard to defeat the extremism that's invading our state. We need to pitch in and help him in that effort.

DUE TO TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES...

Having a hard time getting some of my photos from the fair transferred. They are worth the wait and hope to have them up for your enjoyment soon. Thanks for your patience. This one that I miraculously managed to download does give a great view of the KDP side of the booth where mainly state and federal candidates were featured. Check the blog again soon as I struggle to conquer the challenges of Techno-world!

VOTE MODERATE - ELECT DEMOCRATS!

Following a well attended Last Thursday meeting of Reno County Democrats, ideas were thrown around for a slogan or sign that might help spread the truth about this election season's Democratic candidates. Putting their heads together Frances Garcia and James Taylor came up with the catch phrase above. In this time when the GOP is rushing to embrace the extremism of candidates such as Huelscamp, Kobach and Senator Sam, Democrats do indeed appear to be the party of moderation. This is the message that needs to get out. Write a letter, talk to a friend and let Kansans know that Democrats have the sensible answers to the problems the state is facing. Then volunteer and vote to put them in office!

OUR FUTURE LEADERS?

Is this the new face of political leadership? One can only hope it's a fad like pet rocks or cabbage patch kids but the attention being paid to psuedo celebrities such as Sarah Palin, Glenn Beck, Rand Paul etc. is alarming. There are signs of hope as a recent report indicated that moderate Kansans are showing some skepticism towards such TB notables as Kris Kobach. I am reminded of the hype accompanying a new book/movie/soap - the media is blanketed with news of the item. People hear the brand name repeatedly and the psychology of salesmanship works is magic. Only after the money's spent (vote is cast?) do they discover they've been had. The promises were empty; the product doesn't perform; the candidate is a front for special interests. The solution is to become as informed as possible and encourage others to do the same. Used up tea bags belong in the trash.

JUST THE BEGINNING!

This is how it starts. One yard sign at a time. One phone call to a friend. One afternoon helping a candidate share their message by phone or by knocking on doors. It would be wonderful if Democrats could just sit back and let the prevailing winds blow them into office but it just won't work in Kansas. I've talked to enough moderate Republicans to know that the support is there. We just have to earn it!

It's a sad state of affairs when Kansans say they can't run for office because it might hurt their business; when employees are literally afraid for their job if they "go public" with their support of a Democratic candidate; when eligible voters stay home because "you can't win against the Republicans". These are direct quotes I have heard over the past few years.

Unless you are ready to accept the extremism represented by Birthers, the Tea Party and believers of Beck, Limbaugh and their ilk, it's time to realize that YOU CAN make a difference. As important as it is to vote, it's just not enough. There's nothing radical in the positions held by our Democratic candidates. They are moderate and practical in their common sense approach to addressing the challenges faced in Kansas and the United States. But they can't succeed without our full support. Resolve today to do all you can in this critical election year - or live with the consequences.

DEMOCRATS HONOR EMANCIPATION DAY PARADE

Candidates for Lt. Gov. Kelly Kultala, US House of Rep. Alan Jilka and Ks House of Rep. Jack Mace (not pictured) all turned out to participate in Saturday's parade along with an army of supportive Democrats. Somehow an old joke came to mind: How do you keep an "elephant" away? Since the GOP candidates were conspicuous in their absence the answer must be, celebrate Emancipation Day!

LT. GOV. CANDIDATE IN HUTCHINSON

Kansas State Senator and running mate for Tom Holland, Kelly Kultala will join Reno County Democrats to appear in the August 7 Emancipation Day Parade. This is Kultala's second trip to Hutchinson recently as she was the featured luncheon speaker at the Democratic Women's convention in late June. Reno County is calculated by some to be key to victories by several of this year's candidates. It's up to us not to disappoint when called upon to support them.

JILKA ON CAMPAIGN TRAIL

Temperatures were a little cooler as Reno County Democrats gathered in the shade at the courthouse to hear KS 1st District candidate Alan Jilka. Jack Mace running for state 104th district representative greeted Jilka and discussed campaign plans. Most agree Jilka's Republican opponent Heulscamp is at the far right fringes of politics potentially making him easier to defeat. There are several opportunities for Democratic gains in Kansas this fall but it will take a whole hearted effort.

RCDEMS HEADQUARTERS TO OPEN SOON

A large enthusiastic crowd turned out for ice cream, baked goods and to hear from candidates at the unofficial kick-off of the Democratic election headquarters. Continuing a growing trend there were several new faces in the crowd. Two candidates competing for the US Senate seat made presentations to the group. Lisa Johnston is shown answering questions after her talk. Judge Randy McEwen (shown) and Trish Rose, both running for District Court judge shared their views on the office. Most notable was the respectful tone set by the candidates especially when contrasted with the charges of lying and distortion seen in ads from GOP candidates.

The headquarters will open officially on September 1st, Tuesday-Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Signs, buttons and literature will be available through the general election. There will be fundraisers, monthly meetings and other activities in the coming months so there's no excuse not to be informed and active as the season progresses. All Reno County Democrats are encouraged to do their part to help our candidates succeed.

GREAT TURNOUT FOR PATRIOT PARADE

Clouds, sprinkles and competintion from the TEA-Baggers' entry couldn't keep loyal Democrats from making an outstanding showing at the Hutchinson celebration honoring America's birthday. If you include the many other Democrats that helped with entries from Democratic candidates Jack Mace, Trish Rose and Randy McEwen the response was even more impressive. Many thanks to all who turned out in support. There will be other opportunities during this election season for everyone to get involved.