Election Watch: Tuesday, February 28th, 2006:

Election Watch: Tuesday, February 28th, 2006:
* Early Voting
* 7 days until Primary Election Day

Supreme Court Deals VictoryTo Abortion-Clinic Protesters

A WALL STREET JOURNAL ONLINE NEWS ROUND UP February 28, 2006 11:03 a.m.

The Supreme Court ruled federal extortion and racketeering laws can't be used to ban antiabortion demonstrations in front of abortion clinics. Justices also backed the ability of two large oil companies to set uniform prices without violating federal antitrust laws. MORE

Emails no longer FREE?

Interest Groups Fight Fees for Bulk Email
Associated Press February 28, 2006 9:58 a.m.

WASHINGTON -- A variety of interest groups have joined forces to fight a proposed bulk emailing fee they claim strikes at the heart of online communication -- a level playing field for rich and poor.

Time Warner Inc.'s America Online plans to introduce a service that would charge businesses and other bulk emailers a fee to route their email directly to a user's mailbox without first passing through junk mail filters. Yahoo Inc. has announced similar plans.
"The creativity and ingenuity that have driven the Internet have always relied on an open platform where the haves and have-nots get treated equally," said Eli Pariser, executive director of MoveOn.org Civic Action. "This email tax system is a big step toward dismantling that system."

The alliance protesting the move includes liberal activist group MoveOn, the conservative activist group RightMarch.com, the U.S. Humane Society, labor and environmental groups and online medical communities.

AOL spokesman Nicholas Graham replied: "No matter what the political rhetoric is, AOL will remain resolute in our pursuit of improving email safety and security in doing what is right for our members. That simply is not going to change.

Gilles Frydman of the Association of Cancer Online Resources said bulk email charges will cause problems for organizations like his. "We cannot pay for the service, we don't have the money," Mr. Frydman said. "We have been doing this for 11 years based on the standards of Internet communication. Those standards do not include paying for service. This one company is trying to transform unilaterally how the Internet works."

Mr. Frydman said some patients with rare forms of cancer may have trouble receiving updated information on a timely basis. The campaign is focused more on AOL than Yahoo because AOL "is going full speed ahead" with its plans, while Yahoo has been more tentative, said MoveOn spokesman Adam Green.
Email senders that pay the fee will be guaranteed their messages won't be filtered and will bear a seal alerting recipients they're legitimate. The plan, while it's optional and would apply to only a fraction of people sending email, amounts to a reversal in the economics of the Internet because it would charge message senders rather than those receiving them.

The current model has led to the proliferation of spam because the people sending it can turn a profit even when only a minority of recipients respond, analysts say.

Opponents of the plan complain that those who pay a fee will have guaranteed email delivery, while those who don't are likely to run into increasing problems with timely delivery -- because AOL would naturally spend more time and effort looking after its paying customers.

"We're a grassroots organization," said William Green, president of RightMarch.com. "We're not funded by big donors. If we're sending two to three million emails a week, paying a penny per email will price us out."
Copyright © 2006 Associated Press

Signs on highways pulled

It looks like the highway department came through Waxahachie and cleared out all signs in the wrong place. As you know, many of the main thorougfares are state highways in Waxahachie. If you're looking for lost signs I'd call the local highway office.

The government junkets you fund

Feb 8, 2006 by Michelle Malkin

$1,401,104,263.

That's how much of our hard-earned money has gone to subsidize the spring break-style trips and conferences of the federal government over the last five years. Spending on bureaucracy boondoggles has increased some 70 percent in that time period.

We wouldn't know anything about this binge if Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., hadn't asked. Last summer, the pork-busting chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Federal Financial Management, Government Information and International Security surveyed all federal departments and agencies and directed them to document their conference, meetings and travel expenses since 2000. At a hearing on Tuesday, Sen. Coburn unveiled his findings.

You'll be happy to know that the government junkets your tax dollars have funded include:

CLICK

Texas Republican PrimaryEarly Voting through March 3rd

Even though the Primary is Tuesday, March 7th and the General Election is not until November...I'm asking for your vote TODAY! Early voting for the Primary is already underway, and you can vote today!

Will you be out of town on March 7th?
Do your kids have a soccer game or dance recital that night?
Are the lines at your local polling place always out the door in the morning?

Whatever the reason, don't chance missing this election. Cast your vote during early voting which runs through Friday, March 3rd. Remember that Texas law allows any registered voter to take advantage of early voting in your home county. Early Voting in person is open to everyone, not just senior citizens or students.

You can find locations and times for early voting in your county by calling your local elections office.
Click here to find contact information for your local elections office

Thanks again for your continued support! I'm counting on you and other friends to turn out for this Republican Primary.

Sincerely,
David DewhurstLieutenant Governor

CANCELLED - February25th Meeting of The Republican Breakfast Club

RE: February Meeting of The Republican Breakfast Club


This month's Republican Breakfast Club's speaker must reschedule. As such, this Saturday's event is cancelled. Given this and the number of political events already scheduled for everyone to attend I am cancelling the meeting for this Saturday, February 25th. I apologize for any inconvenience this cancellation may cause.

Midlothian U.S. 287 Bypass/Loop Dedication Ceremonies

All are invited to:

Event: Midlothian U.S. 287 Bypass/Loop Dedication Ceremonies with Governor Rick Perry (confirmed)

When: Thursday, March 2nd at 3:00pm

Where: Midlothian Conference Center

Host: FOCUS 287 TEAM and Transportation Committee of the Midlothian Chamber of Commerce


Paula Baucum - FOCUS 287 TEAM

Campaign Signs & Calls

This is just a quick reminder for each candidate as we get closer to the primary. Last push calls are flooding the phone lines this week, please be respectful of the times you send calls out. It is a good practice to NOT call after 8:30 p.m.

Candidates we are recieving calls at Headquarters about candidate signs being placed on private property without owner's permission. Each candidate is responsible for contacting the property owner BEFORE placing your sign on their property. EVEN IF OTHER CANDIDATES HAVE SIGNS UP AT THAT LOCATION!

This is a reminder. If you have signs missing from areas this may be the reason. Property owners that have called removed signs of candidates that did not get permission. Also everyone needs to show respect for other candidates signs. Please do not move someone eles's sign without permission from the candidate or property owner.We still have signs here at the office if you need to get them out.

Clarification about the march 5 training for all poll workers.

It will be for ALL workers. March 5th at 2:00 p.m. on the 2nd Floor Courtroom at Courthouse. All workers, judges & alternates. This is the training session where workers qualify to be paid $7 per hour versus $5.15 for attending.

Due to programming limitations the automark (the new on site vote counting machine) will not be used at the early voting locations. So Early voting ballots will be handled as in the past. The cards can only be programmed to handle up to 5 precincts.

Republicans see more contested primary races

Republicans see more contested primary races
By R.A. DYER
STAR-TELEGRAM AUSTIN BUREAU
AUSTIN - Dozens of Republican state House members face tough challenges in their own political primaries; competing GOP factions on the State Board of Education are going for each other's throats; conservative activists have gone on the offensive against conservative lawmakers.
From Fort Worth to Fredericksburg, the GOP has gone to war with itself -- with internecine battles sweeping unabated in campaign after campaign in the run-up to the March 7 primaries. And the stakes in these battles are high: Analysts say that not just political careers stand in the balance, but also major tax and education initiatives. Click for the rest of the article....

March 7, 2006 Prmary voting locations & Judges

If you see a mistake or something that needs addressed please call me or Debbie garvin (972-938-9383). This listing is only of the locations & Judges. Please make sure you have your alternates & workers.


March 7, 2006 Prmary voting locations & Judges

Precinct number Primary Location Election Judges


101,102 - Midlothian Church of Christ 1627 N Hwy 67 Midlothian - Jennifer Evans
103 - Ovilla City Hall 105 Cockrell Hill, Ovilla - Charlie Morton
104 - Ole Elementary School 100 Methodist red Oak – Jody Charles
105, 140 - Eastridge Elementary 725 E. Ovilla Rd. red Oak – Jody Charles
106,143 - Ink Group 108 Church St. Ferris – Sue Turner
107,142 - Conference Center 1 Community Circle Midlothian – Becky Corbin
108,136 - Cowboy Church 2374 Hwy 287 Bypass W Waxahachie – Marilyn Barnes
109 - Red Oak City Hall 200 Lakeview Parkway Red Oak – Margaret Comer
111 - Waxahachie Bible Church 621 N. Grand Waxahachie – Don Wilson
112,118 - Church of Christ 6091 FM 66 Maypearl – Anita Blackwell
113,115 - Graham Street Church of Christ 304 Graham Street Waxahachie – Wayne Ballard
116, 128 - Fundamental Baptist Church 220 W. Jefferson Palmer – Elizabeth Penny
117 - Bristol Community Center Bristol – John Waters
119 - Frontier Church 2032 S. Hwy 77 Waxahachie – Jan Gares
120,145 New Life Worship Center Church of God 1320 Brown Waxahachie – Brenda Adams
121,127 - Refiner’s Fire Ministries 1611 E. Ennis Ennis – Rosemary Washburn
123,141 - Bright Morning Star Baptist Church 1007 Daffan Ennis –Mona Loera
124 - Trinity United Methodist Church 1500 S. Hall Ennis – Stephanie McGehee
125 - IOOF 2309 S. Kaufman Ennis – Geri Callendar
129 - Shackleford Elementary 1001 Butcher Waxahachie – Karen Lips
130 - Milford Community Center111 S. Main Milford – Marjorie Miller
131 - Italy Community Center 120 Main Italy – John Phillips
132 - Avalon High –Library 111 E. Main – Tommie Worthy
133 - Bardwell Community Center 504 Waxahachie Ave. Bardwell – Jody Early
134 - 1st United Methodist Church Family Life Center 505 W. Marvin Waxahachie – Melna McCutchin
135 - Ferris Heights Methodist 108 Center Waxahachie – Debbie Turner
137 - Longbranch Community Church 200 Longbranch Midlothian – Jack Hood
138 - Oak Leaf City Hall 301 Locust Oak Leaf – Don Maples
139 - Park Meadows Baptist 3350 Hwy 77 Waxahachie – Jay Benton
144 - Living Hope Church of Nazarene 2420 Brown Waxahachie – Floy Poe

Training sessions on the new Electronic Voting Machines

Jane Anderson will be holding ADDITIONAL training sessions on the new Electronic Voting Machines on the following dates:
Feb. 21, 23,25, 27 and March 2.
Anyone that will be working the election on March 7, and have not received the training need to attend. Seating is limited to 20 people.
You must call Jane Anderson at 972-923-5195 to reserve your spot to train.
All sessions will be from 1:30 p.m.-approx. 4:00 p.m.
The location for the training is 109 W, Franklin (Curtis Polk's old court room) Waxahachie.

The March 5 training at 2:00 p.m. is for election judges and alternates only!

For more information contact Debbie at headquarters 972-938-9383.

We need more clerks and alternate judges in a few locations, please call with any help you can provide.
Pct. 109 at Red Oak City Hall needs 2 clerks
113,115 needs one clerk/Alternate at Graham Street Church of Christ.
Stephanie McGehee needs an alternate and 2 clerks at Pct. 124 at Trinity United Methodist in Ennis.

21 days left till election day

The Ellis County Republican Candidates forum went very well last night. The attendance was arguably the largest ever and the candidates plentiful. I wish to once again recognize Neal White of the Waxahachie Daily Light & Ken Roberts of KBEC Radio for their support and broadcast of the event. Additionally, thank you to all the volunteers and the Republican Women's Club for your hard work.

As you know, there are 21 days left till election day. I want to remind the candidate's that we all have one common goal; and that's to lead the republicans to victory in November. So let's keep working hard, get out your message, and not get too nasty because we all will need to work together after March 7th.

Have a great day,


Rusty Ballard, Chairman
Ellis County GOP

Thank you

Thank you for your participation in the success of the Ellis County Republican Candidates Forum last night. With over 200 people in attendance, it was a great opportunity for candidates to get their message out and all feedback has been positive. Special thanks go out to Ken Roberts of KBEC Radio and Neal White of the Waxahachie Daily Light for moderating the event. Thank you to Rusty Ballard and the Ellis County Republican Party for their support and promotion of the event. Another thank you to the Ellis County Republican Women, who again provided the opportunity for Republican candidates to shine in Ellis County. I am proud to serve with you.

Most of all we appreciate qualified Republican candidates willing to go through the rough and tumble process of a primary. Elected office can be a thankless job…keep up the good fight and remember we will all need to shake hands in the end and work together in the fall elections. Together we stand tall.

Warm Regards,

Paula Baucum
ECRW, President

Texas Permanent School Fund to be plundered?

The Permanent School Fund is a fund set aside for the education of the school children of Texas. Fortunately, this money can not be touched by the Texas Legislature. Hoever, that has not kept them from trying over the years. Does the following describe another attempt on the PSF?

In the annual charge to the Senate, the Lt. Gov. has asked the Senate Education Committee to: #3. "Review the operation of the State Board of Education, including its oversight of the Permanent School Fund, and make recommendations, if necessary, for appropriate legislature oversight and review".

This appears to be an ill disguised legislative attempt to assume control and management of the $20 Billion PSF. Without the oversight by the State Board of Education (SBOE) the PSF would not be a $20 billion fund generating over $800,000 a year. From 1854 to1876...the "School Fund" was under the legislature and was almost depleted by 1876. Our forefathers, created the Permanent School Fund to be solely managed by the SBOE. Separation of powers! Dedicated to the school children of Texas for free textbooks each year.

Forum Question Answered!

This Mondays forum will present questions to each candidate. Well, the commissioner candidates have one question already answered for them

1). Would you vote to re-open the Red Oak tax office?

The Red Oak tax office will be having a ribbon cutting ceremony this coming Thursday. The public is invited to attend.

Candidate event

MEET YOUR CANDIDATE

CATHY BEER
For District Clerk

Meet and Support Your Candidate
At the MIDLOTHIAN CIVIC CENTER
on E. Hwy 287
February 14, 2006
5:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Light Refreshments
For directions call 972-937-8882

Pd. Pol. Adv. for Cathy Beer Campaign
Gwen Hood Treasurer

Voter Fraud Must Stop

By Greg Abbott
Attorney General of Texas

The Iraqi people have reminded the world that democratic elections are still possible, even in a country that until very recently was pinned under the thumb of total, murderous rule.
America has helped make those elections happen, and we should be proud. But while we work to ensure that the polls in other countries are free of corruption, we shouldn't forget about our own.
In Texas, an epidemic of voter fraud is infesting the electoral process, and it's time we rooted it out.
Of course, voter fraud is no newcomer to the Lone Star State. Six decades ago, the votes "found" in Jim Wells County's infamous Ballot Box 13 helped squeak Lyndon B. Johnson into the U.S. Senate. Other instances of "election irregularities" -- although perhaps none quite so dramatic-- on both sides of the political aisle have plagued Texas since that 1948 primary.
And the fraud continues. Since last summer, the attorney general's office has been involved in several voter fraud cases across the state.
In January, the mother of a March 2004 primary candidate for Reeves County sheriff and another woman were indicted on charges of illegally possessing and transporting election ballots of several voters.
In Nueces County, four women are accused of targeting elderly voters during last year's local school board elections, going door to door soliciting votes and then taking ballots and carrier envelopes to the post office.
A Hardeman County commissioner pleaded guilty to illegally collecting mail-in ballots during the 2004 elections that put him in office.
And in Bee County, a Beeville resident pleaded guilty to mailing an absentee ballot in the name of her deceased mother during the November 2004 elections.
Local prosecutors are dealing with voter fraud, too. The week before Christmas, the Hidalgo County district attorney obtained indictments against nine people in connection with the McAllen city election in May.
At first glance, these might seem like isolated events in far-flung towns. Step back, though, and the picture looks just as sinister as it did 60 years ago. Texas has long been a haven for paid political operatives who target seniors and the disabled for mail-in ballot schemes. Many of the cases referred to my office by the Texas secretary of state fall into this category.
Some try to claim that these folks are simply helping seniors make their voices heard, but that's a smoke screen to hide the fact that this manipulation is simply another form of elder abuse.
The fact is, voter fraud allegations are surfacing in communities from the Rio Grande to the Red River, from the Pecos to the Piney Woods.
For too long, Texas has turned a blind eye to these crimes, thinking that everyone does it. Or that it is too hard to prosecute. Or that it's not really a serious crime, that it's always taken place, or some other excuse.
Voter fraud is occurring on a large scale when viewed statewide, and our state elections are being affected to a significant extent.
As the March primary elections approach, we must redouble our efforts to stem this epidemic. I have asked my office's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) to work with police departments, sheriff's offices, and district and county attorneys to successfully identify, investigate and prosecute voter fraud offenses.
Officers from the SIU, working through a $1.5 million grant from the governor's office, will visit key counties across the state to conduct voter fraud training. Included among these counties are the 14 where my office has previously investigated or prosecuted allegations of election code violations. In addition to those mentioned above, the list includes Bowie, Comal, Floyd, Harris, Jim Wells, Parker, Robertson, Tarrant and Waller.
SIU officers also will visit the 34 Texas counties with populations of at least 100,000. Together, these 48 counties contain more than three-quarters of the state's eligible registered voters.
With more law enforcement officers and prosecutors on the alert, we hope that those who would commit fraud will think twice. If they do it anyway, let this be their notice that we will come after them.
We must do all we can to ensure the validity of our elections. Voter fraud strikes at the heart of our democratic process, and it must stop.

Questions for KBEC/WDL candidates forum

Questions for KBEC/WDL candidates forum
(Only two questions will be drawn in each race from the list below)

State Rep. District 10 1). What do you feel are the biggest challenges facing the state of Texas and what initiatives can the Legislature enact to meet those challenges? 2). What legislation would you propose or support to address the problems posed by illegal immigration in Texas? 3). In terms of generating revenue, how do you plan to come up with funding improvements to public education? 4). What is the next major transportation project that needs to be addressed in the district? 5). Should gambling be expanded in the state to fund programs such as education?

District Judge, 40th Judicial District 1). What are your qualifications to serve as a district judge and how would the 40th Judicial District benefit from your experience? 2). Do you believe the jury has both the right to judge the law and the facts, or just the facts presented in the case?3). Do you believe freedom of religious expression applies equally to every religious organization?

District Clerk 1). Why are you running for district clerk and what qualifications do you have for the office? 2). What are the biggest challenges facing the clerks office, and what initiatives do you have to improve the office? 3). What is your stance on providing information to the public and making that information easily accessible? 4). How will you improve customer service in the clerk's office?

County Judge 1). Regarding population growth, what can the county do to plan for future growth and the costs that come with it? 2). As the county becomes more urbanized, do you see the need for more stringent building codes and enforcement for development projects in unincorporated areas? 3). In terms of county facility needs, address how you feel the county should handle planning for both immediate and future needs. 4). Do you think the county budget is adequate?

County Treasurer 1). What do you see as the role of the county treasurer and what qualifications do you bring to the office? 2). Are you in a position to dedicate your full attention to the office and duties of county treasurer? 3). Given the opportunity, would you accept the responsibility for administration and oversight of human resources, personnel and benefits for the county the office of county treasurer?

County Commissioner (SAME QUESTIONS FOR BOTH RACES) 1). Would you vote to re-open the Red Oak tax office? 2). In planning for growth, how do you think the county should plan for the future expansion of our courts and jail? 3). On transportation needs, would you consider a tax increase to handle a growing demand for improvements to county roads and bridges? 4). Do you think the current budget and the way the money is divided among the precincts is fair to all taxpayers in the county? 5). In terms of county facility needs, address how you feel the county should handle planning for both immediate and future needs. 6). Have you ever voted in a Republican primary? 7). What future impact will the non-attainment designation have on Ellis County?

Justice of the Peace 1). Why are you running for Justice of the Peace and what qualifications do you bring to the office? 2). What measures have you, or will you enact to improve services to the residents of the precinct? 3). Are you in a position to dedicate your full attention to the office and duties of justice of the peace?

Precinct Chair 1). Why are you running for precinct chair? 2). What has been your involvement with the Republican Party, including your participation in past elections. 3). How can you help the Republican Party expand its base in Ellis County?

 

REMINDER: NOTICE OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

REMINDER: NOTICE OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

This meeting of the Ellis County Republican Executive Committee has been called for February 16, 2006, Thursday, at 7:00pm. The location is the Party HQ at 204 S. Elm Street, Waxahachie, Texas. 972-938-9383

FEATURED SPEAKER:
Ms. Gina Parker, Former Candidate for RPT State Chair. Parker is CEO of Dental Creations and a private practice attorney. She formerly served as city attorney for Robinson, assistant county attorney for Bell County and assistant district attorney in Waco. She is a member of the State Bar of Texas and the McLennan County Bar Association. Parker received a bachelor’s of business administration in marketing and entrepreneurship degree from Baylor University and a law degree from Baylor Law School.

Items to be discussed:

- Early voting starting February 21st.
- Upcoming poll workers training class March 5th, Sunday.
- Does everyone have workers, etc?
- Anything else to prepare for primary election.

This will be an extremely important meeting. Please be sure to mark this event on your calendar.

Rusty Ballard, Chairman
Ellis County Republican Party

Reminder!

GOP Primary Forum on February 13th @ 7:00pm

A Forum will be held for primary candidates of the Republican Party of Ellis County. Program facilitators will be Neal White (Publisher, Waxahachie Daily Light) and Ken Roberts (KBEC Radio Manager).WHEN: February 13th, Monday.WHERE: Ellis County Woman's Building (on Jefferson near downtown Waxahachie).WHO: Republican Primary Candidates & the PublicWHY: Because we need to get to know our primary candidates better.This is a FREE event and open to the publicFor more Information call: 972-938-9383

DallasBlog: Tom Pauken, Former State Republican Party Chair

TEXAS GOP IN DEBT AS CAMPAIGN SEASON BEGINS by Tom Pauken
The Dallas Morning News has a front page story by Christy Hoppe on a matter we wrote about on DallasBlog a few weeks ago – the financial woes of the Texas Republican Party.

To read more click here.....

TODAY'S SCHOOL LESSON: You can break the law!

Apparently the DISD feel if they're needs are great enough they have the right to break the law. The DISD is having problems finding enough bi-lingual teachers so they propose to hire Illegal Aliens! Obviously, governmental needs out way the law.

To read more go to: http://cbs11tv.com/texaswire/TX--BilingualTeachers-dn/resources_news_html

Voting and Precinct Convention Locations

March 7, 2006 Primary Election
Voting and Precinct Convention Locations

Precinct Location


101& 102 Midlothian Church of Christ
1627 N. Hwy. 67
Midlothian, Texas


103 Ovilla City Hall
105 Cockrell Hill
Ovilla,Texas

104&110 Old Red Oak
Elementary School
100 Methodist St.
Red Oak, Texas

105&140 Eastridge Elementary
725 E. Ovilla Rd.
Red Oak,Texas

106 &143 Ink Group
108 S. Church St.
Ferris,Texas

107 &142 Midlothian Conference Center
1 Community Circle
Midlothian, Texas

108 & 136 Cowboy Church
2374 Hwy 287 Bypass West
Waxahachie,Texas

109 Red Oak City Hall
200 Lakeview Parkway
Red Oak, Texas

111 Waxahachie Bible Church
621 North Grand
Waxahachie, Texas


112 & 118 Church of Christ
6091 FM66
Maypearl, Texas

113 & 115 Graham Street Church of Christ
304 Graham Street
Waxahachie, Texas


114 First Baptist Church
315 N. Rogers Street
Waxahachie, Texas


116 & 128 Fundamental Baptist Church
220 West Jefferson Street
Palmer, Texas

117 Bristol Community Center
100 Church Street
Bristol, Texas

119 Frontier Church
2032 South Hwy 77
Waxahachie, Texas

120 & 145 New Life Worship Center
Church of God
1320 Brown Street
Waxahachie, Texas

121 & 127 Refiner’s Fire Ministries International
1611 W. Ennis Avenue
Ennis, Texas

122 & 126 Gilmer Baldridge Church of Christ
1503 Country Club Road
Ennis, Texas

123 & 141 Bright Morning Star Baptist Church
1007 Daffan
Ennis, Texas



124 Trinity United Methodist Church
1500 South Hall Street
Ennis, Texas

125 IOOF
2309 South Kaufman Street
Ennis, Texas

129 Shackelford Elementary School
1001 Butcher Rd
Waxahachie, Texas

130 Milford Community Center
111 South Main
Milford, Texas

131 Italy Community Center
120 Main Street
Italy, Texas


132 Avalon High School-Library
111 East Main Street
Avalon, Texas

133 Bardwell Community Center
504 Waxahachie Avenue
Bardwell, Texas

134 & 136 First United Methodist Church
Family Life Center
505 West Marvin
Waxahachie, Texas

135 Ferris Heights Methodist Church
108 Center Street
Waxahachie, Texas

137 Longbranch Community Church
200 Longbranch
Midlothian, Texas

138 Oak Leaf City Hall
301 Locust Dr.
Oak Leaf,Texas

139 Park Meadows Baptist Church
3350 Hwy. 77 North
Waxahachie, Texas

144 Living Hope Church of Nazarene
Family Life Center
2420 Brown Street

Waxahachie, Texas

Precinct Chairs we have walk-lists available!

Precinct chairs please contact me about obtaining a walk-list of your precinct. I can provide these lists in walk-list and call-lists formats. I can email these in PDF format, as well.

Rusty Ballard
972-938-1415

RULES FOR THE KBEC/DAILY LIGHT CANDIDATE FORUM

RULES FOR THE KBEC/DAILY LIGHT CANDIDATE FORUM FOR THE ELLIS COUNTY REPUBLICAN PRIMARYPARTICIPATION

1). All Republican candidates running for Ellis County offices will be invited to the forum and be provided with a list of questions that may be asked during the event. 2). The forum is primarily for contested races, however, Ellis County GOP candidates running unopposed will also be provided with the opportunity to make introductory remarks after the session for contested races.3). All candidates are encouraged to visit with the audience at the conclusion of the forum.4). Candidates unable to attend may have a proxy deliver the one (1) minute introductory remarks, but WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO RESPOND DURING THE QUESTION PORTION OF THE PROGRAM. ONLY CANDIDATES WILL BE ALLOWED TO RESPOND TO QUESTIONS AND DELIVER CLOSING REMARKS. NO EXCEPTIONS.

FORUM FORMAT 1). Candidates for contested races are to be at the Women¹s Building at 6:45 to draw for speaking order.2). The forum will begin at 7 p.m. Candidates in for a specific race will complete their portion of the program before the next set of candidates is introduced.3). For each contested race, candidates will be given one (1) minute for introductory remarks (order will be determined by draw at prior to the program). 4). At the conclusion of the introductory remarks, the last candidate will remain on stage and be asked the first question for that race (questions will be drawn from a hat from a list provided to all candidates in advance). The remainder of the candidates will answer the same question, in reverse order of the introductory remarks. Each candidate will be given two (2) minutes to present their response.5). The last candidate to answer the first question will remain on stage at which time a new question will be drawn from a hat. The remainder of the candidates will answer the same question, in reverse order of the first question. Each candidate will be given two (2) minutes to present their response.6). The last candidate to answer the second question will remain on stage, at which time they will be given one (1) minute for closing remarks. The remainder of the candidates will be given equal time for closing remarks, again, speaking in reverse order.

ORDER OF RACES 1). State Representative, District 102). District Judge, 40th Judicial District3). District Clerk4). County Judge5). County Treasurer6). County Commissioner, Precinct 27). County Commissioner, Precinct 48). Justice of the Peace, Precinct 49). GOP Precinct Chair 10210). Any unopposed candidates may give one (1) minute introductory remarks.

FORUM QUESTIONS 1). Ken Roberts of KBEC and Neal White of the Daily Light will compile the final list of questions that may be asked of the candidates. 2). Candidates (and constituents) may submit questions for consideration by e-mailing them to Ken and Neal at kenr@kbec.com and neal.white@waxahachiedailylight.com by 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9. 3). On Friday, Feb. 10, Ken and Neal will select up to five questions that may be asked to candidates (separate questions will be asked in each contested race).4). Those questions will be made available to candidates by 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10 and will be distributed via e-mail. Candidates who do not have e-mail or anyone wanting to pick up the questions in advance may also pick them up at the Daily Light, KBEC or through the Ellis County GOP.5). Only two questions will be asked in each of the contested races. Those questions will be drawn randomly the night of the forum from the list submitted in advance.

FORUM TIMING: Our goal is to provide a forum to allow candidates an opportunity to present their platforms. We realize that six minutes is not a lot of time.With the number of contested races and candidates, time is a major issue. With everyone¹s participation, under the rules above, 132 minutes (two hours and 12 minutes) has been allotted for candidates in the contested races. In order to give every candidate equal opportunity to present their platform in a limited amount of time, candidates will be limited to the predetermined time above for their remarks. During each timed portion of the program, candidates will be told in advance the time allotted and will be given a thirty (30) second cue, followed by a fifteen (15) second cue, followed by a ³TIME² cue. While we have been courteous in the past in allowing candidates to complete their sentence after the ³TIME² cue has been given, we respectfully ask that candidates wrap up their comments as quickly as possible after ³TIME² has been called to ensure that everyone has equal opportunity to speak.

GOP Primary Forum on February 13th @ 7:00pm

A Forum will be held for primary candidates of the Republican Party of Ellis County*.

Program facilitators will be Neal White (Publisher, Waxahachie Daily Light) and Ken Roberts (KBEC Radio Manager). *Special thanks to the Ellis County Republican Women's Club for all of their hard work & efforts towards this event.

WHEN: February 13th, Monday.
WHERE: Ellis County Women's Building (on Jefferson near downtown Waxahachie).WHO: Republican Primary Candidates & the Public
WHY: Because we need to get to know our primary candidates better.

This is a FREE event and open to the public. For more Information call: 972-938-9383

Reagan's Birthday Remembered

February 6 marks the birthday of one of America's greatest presidents -- Ronald Reagan.
Today we remember President Reagan for restoring America's faith and optimism. We note his efforts to reduce the size and influence of government while expanding economic freedoms here at home. We shall never forget his efforts to bring down communism and end the "Evil Empire."

To reflect upon the greatness of Ronald Reagan or learn more go to his official Presidential Web Site http://www.reaganfoundation.org/welcome.asp

2006 Republican State ConventionFind out more about the 2006 State Convention

March 7th will be the precinct Conventions; Which leads to the County Convention on March 25th; which leads to the Republican State Convention. Here's a link to more information about this year's state convention in San Antonio.

2006 Republican State ConventionFind out more about the 2006 State Convention
How to take part in the Convention Process
The Delegate Selection Process
FAQ's

33 Days and Counting......

Open Letter to the candidates of the Ellis Republican Primary Election:

Dear Candidates,

As you know, we have about 33 days left until the primary election in Texas. Up to this point you (or your volunteers) have walked at least 500 homes in your precinct/district; put out at least 500 signs; and have attended every single function (OK, most of the functions) that's occurred in Ellis County since December 3rd.

No? You haven't? Well, as someone who has been in a number of campaigns over the years I'd like to be the first to inform you that you may be behind. This is quite possibly the most competitive Ellis County Republican primary election in 150 years; and I'm not certain how many are showing up for the race. Many of you are doing great!

Just a thought..........

Gov. Perry Awards $3.8 Million More for Border Security

Gov. Perry Awards $3.8 Million More for Border Security
AUSTIN - Gov. Rick Perry today announced an additional $3.8 million to detect and deter border-related criminal activities, bringing to nearly $10 million the total amount he has dedicated to border security since December.» Read more…

GOP Primary Forum on February 13th @ 7:00pm

A Forum will be held for primary candidates of the Republican Party of Ellis County. Program facilitators will be Neal White (Publisher, Waxahachie Daily Light) and Ken Roberts (KBEC Radio Manager).

WHEN: February 13th, Monday.
WHERE: Ellis County Women's Building (on Jefferson near downtown Waxahachie).
WHO: Republican Primary Candidates & the Public
WHY: Because we need to get to know our primary candidates better.

This is a FREE event and open to the public

For more Information call: 972-938-9383

Rep. John Boehner House majority leader

Rep. John Boehner of Ohio was elected House majority leader to replace indicted Rep. Tom DeLay. Boehner defeated Rep. Roy Blunt of Missouri, 122-109.

The Next House Majority Leader?

WSJ: On Thursday, House Republicans will chose among Rep. Roy Blunt of Missouri, Rep. John Boehner of Ohio and Rep. John Shadegg of Arizona to serve as House majority leader. Blunt, who now serves as interim majority leader, is considered the frontrunner with 94 public supporters. Boehner has just 55 public backers, and Shadegg just a few dozen. If Mr. Blunt doesn't win a majority -- 117 votes -- on the first ballot, he will face either Boehner or Shadegg on the second ballot. --Brody Mullins

State Of The Union Address

State Of The Union Address

As Prepared For Delivery Mr. Speaker, Vice President Cheney, Members of Congress, Members of the Supreme Court and diplomatic corps, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens:

Today our Nation lost a beloved, graceful, courageous woman who called America to its founding ideals and carried on a noble dream. Tonight we are comforted by the hope of a glad reunion with the husband who was taken from her so long ago, and we are grateful for the good life of Coretta Scott King. Read more click here....

“Windfall” Taxes Not the Solution to Energy Challenges

Texas Public Policy Foundation: February 01, 2006
Innovation, Investment, Free Market Keys to Success
By Bill Peacock

High winter heating bills are hitting homeowners in their pocketbooks while analysts are warning motorists of $3-per-gallon gasoline next summer. At the same time, oil companies are reporting record profits amidst press accounts of low royalty payments to the government.
Everyone is taking this opportunity to make political hay. Democrats, wanting to use the issue to re-take control of Congress, call for taxing “windfall profits.” Anxious Republicans press the oil companies to lower their costs. So-called consumer advocates urge increased federal oversight to end “price gouging.” Read More......

STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION VOTES 10-5 TO NIX NATIONAL DUES

DallasBlog - GUEST VIEWPOINT: STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION VOTES 10-5 TO NIX NATIONAL DUES by Terri Leo
SBOE withdraws from the National Association of State School Board because of liberal stance of national organization.
Click to read more …