The Dorn-Derrick Dinner
This year's Dorn-Derrick Dinner was quite a success. One hundred twenty Democrats gathered in political fellowship and enjoyed a wonderful meal by Culinary Expressions to benefit the Aiken County Democratic Party. We were very fortunate to have two candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives and a member of the Democratic National Committee as guests.
Shantay Evans opened the evening with leading us in singing the National Anthem. Reverend Robert Bryant gave the invocation.
Friday, March 14, 2008
John Brecht, left and Blaine Lotz
State Rep. Bill Clyburn on left with
Waring Howe, Jr., the keynote speaker of the Dorn-Derrick Dinner
Left to right, John Brecht, Jane Dyer, and Richard Johnson.
Waring Howe, Jr. and
John Brecht
In his address to the gathering, The Second Congressional District candidate, Blaine Lotz -- a 26-year in the Air Force veteran, an intelligence officer, husband, family man, and deacon at his church -- spoke of the many issues that Rep Joe Wilson has enabled the Bush Administration to enact that have hurt our country. Mr Lotz brought forth his vision and expressed his innovative thinking to help resolve issues, such as our nation's security, No Child Left Behind, health care, and our environment. Mr Lotz said, "Joe has to go!"
For the 3rd Congressional District, Jane Dyer, a Federal Express Pilot and former USAF pilot, mother, wife, concerned citizen and Candidate for the U.S. House seat in the Third Congressional District spoke of being a fighter and always up for a challenge.
Born and raised in Pickens County, a graduate of Clemson University, with a BSME, Ms Dyer said she is ready for this challenge.
She explained her reason for stepping up to serve the people of this district -- the lack of
leadership, integrity, diplomacy and basic respect for American citizens by the Bush Administration. She said she wants the United States to be the great nation it once was. Her belief is that we shouldn't settle for good public schools, but GREAT public schools. Some of the other issues she addressed are health care and good jobs.
Our keynote speaker, was Waring Howe, Jr, a lawyer from Charleston, SC, a Democratic leader in South Carolina, and a member of the DNC. Because of the primary in SC, he said more people are getting involved. His speech included a very detailed explanation of the super delegate issue.
He remarked that he is "a father, a husband, a lawyer, a Christian, a man and a Democrat. It's that basic. ... We are a community-minded party that understands it is not just about me."
Executive Committee Woman, Peggy Franklin presented the "Richard Johnson, Jr Award" to Ronald A. Maxwell and Chairman, John Brecht presented the "Elise O. Curtis Award" to Goldie Randle. Both awards are presented to honor exemplary service the the Aiken County Democratic Party.
The elected officials of Aiken County that were present at the event were State Rep Bill Clyburn, and his wife, City Councilwoman, Beverly Clyburn. New Ellenton's Mayor Vernon Dunbar was there, as well as Rosemary English, Aiken County School Board member.
Rev Robert Bryant gave thanks at the end of our memorable Dorn Derrick Dinner.
We hope to see you for next year's Dorn Derrick Dinner.