The Freestone County Retired Teachers Association (FCRTA) welcomed Republican and Democratic Candidates to their Forum and chili supper on Thursday evening, October 3, 2024, held at Fairfield High School.

President of FCRTA, Terry Dunlap, welcomed candidates and guests, followed by an invocation given by member Lola Myers, and the Pledges to American and Texas flags, led by Alicia Smith, Legislative Chair.

Local radio personality, Buzz Russell served as Emcee for the night. He began by saying, “Though we be not many, we are powerful. I am glad that we can meet here tonight in with civil discord to be able to discuss these issues. I’m sure we will find we are probably more alike than not.”

First candidates on the program were State Board of Education, District 10 – Tom Maynard and Raquel Saenz Ortiz.

Tom Maynard
–“I have nothing but love and respect for all retired teachers.”
–Grew up at a boys’ ranch where they all had certain life circumstances but says they had hope because of their teachers.
–Previously served as a classroom teacher and on the Board of Trustees. Currently serves on the State Board of Education.
–“Our list of teaching standards is too long, so much so that it’s difficult for teachers to actually complete the list by the end of the school year. We are currently in review of this process.”
–Fighting for accurate history to be taught in schools.

Raquel Saenz Ortiz
(Not able to attend due to Covid – Represented by Dem. Chair, Opal Oliver)
–Has served as a teacher of Social Studies, guidance counselor, and school administrator.
–Earned a degree in Curriculum and Instruction.
–Spent past four years training future educators.
–Is passionate about revising Social Study standards that are centered on analytical skills so students can apply their knowledge in the real world.
–Wants to make sure all students feel prepared and ensure all teachers’ voices are heard.

Next to speak was Albert Hunter, candidate for State Representative, District 13.

Albert Hunter
–Has been an educator for the past 26 years, served on school board, and is currently a substitute teacher.
–Very passionate about public education.
–Feels that the school vouchers system is a scheme that the Governor is trying to pass which is not beneficial to students and is disrespectful to the educational system, teachers, and students. The funds in Austin should not be allocated for private use.
–Believes that Women’s Rights should not be legislated.
–Feels that mental health issues are not addressed appropriately, and the government should do better.
–Believes that voters need do research on candidates before voting to ensure that they vote for someone whose words and actions match and who are PRO education.

Court of Criminal Appeals candidates were up next; Holly Taylor and David J Schenck.

Holly Taylor
–Is a Fifth Generation Texan whose family is devoted to public education, serving on several organizations and committees in their school districts.
–“I wouldn’t be in my current position if it weren’t for my government teacher, Mrs. Frazier and many other public-school teachers I had over the years.”
–Has 25 years of experience in criminal as a prosecutor, served as staff attorney and rules attorney for the Supreme Court.
–Works with a team that reviews cases where there is a question of accurate verdicts and when a problem is found, they work to ensure it is righted.

David Schenck
(Not able to attend due to prior engagement. Represented by Repub. Chair, Keith Turchi)
–Has 25 years of experience in law.
–Worked for Texas Attorney General’s Office and in the 5th Court of Appeals.
–Is endorsed by Trump and Paxton.

County Candidates running unopposed include Treasurer – Mandy Chavers, Attorney – Brian Evans, Sheriff – Jeremy Shipley, Tas Assessor/Collector – Daniel Max Ralstin, Commissioner, Pct. 1 – Andy Bonner, and Constable, Pct. 1 – Buck Bonner.

Mandy Chavers introduced herself, saying “I am excited about this opportunity and look forward to serving the County. The previous treasurer left big shoes to fill, and I will work hard to do just that.”

Buck Bonner did not speak but was in attendance. It was mentioned that this may be his last term.

No other candidates were in attendance.

Buzz concluded by saying, “Be sure to exercise your responsibility to vote! Freedom is not free without us utilizing this privilege.”

Early Voting begins October 21, 2024. Click here for more information.