CLIFTON — Clifton Civic Center was the location for the Nov. 17 Bosque County Republican Club dinner meeting catered by Teresa Carrier. Attendees were seated at tables with a fall theme decorated by club members Sue Megarity and Linda McDowell.

The meeting was called to order by club President Tom Bratcher. Pledges to the U.S. Flag and the Texas Flag were led by club member James Kidd. Invocation was given by member David Megarity.

Chief Justice Tom Gray and Justice Felipe Reyna 10th Court of Appeals had petitions available for signatures for the purpose of getting statewide candidates on the ballot.

Janet Jackson spoke briefly regarding the <www.gopisforme.ning.com> website for the McLennan county Hispanic Republican Club. Jackson also spoke about toys being collected for children of deployed servicemen stationed at Ft. Hood. Members had already donated a nice collection of toys at the club meeting, but Jackson stated she would continue to receive toy donations at her office.

County Chairperson Helen Dozier introduced Republican candidates who were in attendance, including Dave McIntyre for U.S. Representative 17th District, Darren Yancy for State Senator district 22, Rob Orr for re-election State Representative District 58, Judge Tom Gray for re-election Chief Justice 10th Court of Appeals, Atty. Phil Robertson for District Judge, Judge David Christian for Judge County Court at Law, and Juanita Miller for District Clerk.

Dozier, saying that she has served as county chairperson for 20 years, will not seek re-election. She will serve through May 3. Attendees gave Dozier a standing ovation in honor of her service. Bratcher will run for the office of Republican County Chair.

Member Joe Holmes announced that Dr. Dave McIntyre will be guest speaker at VFW Post 8559 in Iredell for a family night program on Dec. 19.

Bratcher introduced first-time guests. Minutes of the Oct. 20 meeting and the treasurer’s report were provided to all members. These reports were approved as presented.

Jo Ann St. Clair, chairperson of the nominating committee (which included Midge Hammock and Walt Lewis), presented their recommend slate of officers for the new year: President Jean Lewis, Vice-President Rick Richards, Secretary Sue Fielden, and Treasurer Mattie Derryberry, who were elected by acclamation.

President Bratcher introduced the speaker for the evening, Judge David Christian, County Court of Law, who spoke about the powers of the county court.

Bratcher stated he will begin to organize the campaign structure to help get local candidates elected.

State Rep. Rob Orr and his chief-of-staff Verlie Edwards were present  and invited members to endorse Orr for re-election.

Jean Lewis presented gifts acknowledging the service of Secretary Fielden, Treasurer Derryberry, and out-going President Bratcher. Also recognized with gifts were Linda McDowell and Sue Megarity for table decorations.

After a drawing for a free meal at next meeting scheduled for Jan. 19, the meeting was adjourned.