Message from the Chair:

Andy Brown, TCDP Chair

Map confusion, but it’s still the holidays!

December 12th, 2011

Fellow Democrats,

Well, it looks like our Thanksgiving miracle was a mirage. I’m sure you heard the startling news late Friday that the Supreme Court has granted the Republican request for a stay on the court-drawn redistricting maps.

At this point, confusion reigns, so we’re waiting and hoping that Travis County will not once again be sliced up into five Congressional districts. I hope that at least five Supreme Court justices will side with the San Antonio court, rather than allow the activist extremists like Justice Scalia to do something crazy. The San Antonio court has set a status conference for 10 a.m. today (Tuesday) to discuss election deadlines, so we will keep you posted on our web site, Facebook page and Twitter.

Despite this setback, I hope you will come to the TCDP & OFA Holiday Party at my house on Thursday evening from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Our hosts include State Senator Kirk Watson and State Representatives Dawnna Dukes, Donna Howard, Elliott Naishtat, Mark Strama and Eddie Rodriguez. Remember, as we celebrate the holidays, we are also helping the homeless through our charity drive to benefit Trinity Center, which serves thousands of our downtown neighbors year-round. Thanks to the Draconian budget cuts by the Republican-dominated legislature, Austin’s homeless population is growing, and the winter weather is making life even harder for them.

Please take a look at Trinity Center’s very modest wish list and consider donating generously to our neediest neighbors:

*Sleeping bags (new or gently used)
*Sweatshirts/jackets (L or XL)
*Knit gloves/hats
*Tube socks
*Checks (made out to Trinity Center)

These items can be dropped off at the TCDP office (1311 E. Sixth Street)or brought to the party on Dec. 15. No need to wrap them. And if you want to bring something to the party to share with fellow revelers, bring beverages. Dress up, dress down or wear a holiday sweater. I’m looking forward to seeing all of you Thursday evening!

Sincerely,