Press Release
Maryland Federation of Republican Women

For IMMEDIATE Release
February 12, 2009
For further information, contact: Diana Waterman 410-490-0227 or PR@mfrw.org

Annapolis, MD - The Maryland Federation of Republican Women (MFRW) held its Annual "Red Scarf" Legislative Day on Tuesday, February 10. Republican women from across Maryland came together to observe their state government in action.

Red Scarf Day was started four years ago under the leadership of the MFRW President Patt Parker and the MFRW Legislative Chairman Ella Ennis. Each year between 75 and 125 members participate in Red Scarf Day activities. Over the years the MFRW has actively provided input on important legislative issues by providing members the opportunity to observe and meet with their legislators.

Wearing their Red Scarves proudly, the members began the day by attending the Senate or House Republican Caucus meetings. Following this, they joined the Senate and House caucus members for a press conference announcing the Taxpayers Protection Act.

During the General Assembly session, they were introduced from the floor and received a warm welcome from Senate President Mike Miller, "thanking them for being active and involved in the political arena." The MFRW then held a brunch to honor and hear from Republican legislators at the Calvert House. During this brunch, members met with their Legislators, networking and discussing important legislative issues. Senate Minority Leader Allan Kittleman and House Minority Leader Tony O’Donnell thanked the Republican Women for their enthusiastic support and encouraged them to continue the fight.

The day’s events concluded with a tour of the state house, legislative committee hearings and visits to legislator's offices.

Red Scarf Day received its name from the elephant-design red scarves that all members participating in the Legislative Day wear to make it easy to recognize the MFRW at the Session and at hearings.

"This is a great opportunity for our members to interact with their legislators, see the legislative process in action, and make their voices heard." said MFRW President Patt Parker. "MFRW training sessions and events like our Red Scarf Day help prepare our members to take an active role in their government."

In addition, the 1700 strong members of the MFRW write letters, e-mail, and call legislators on specific issues adopted at the Annual Convention of the MFRW. We are very proud of our support for Jessica's Law and amendments and our support for restraint in government spending. This year the members of the Federation will continue supporting efforts to protect our children from sexual predators and will work to promote the Republican Alternative Budget and Republican Energy programs, to require Photo ID for voting, and to require proof of residency for driver’s licenses.

Anyone interested in additional information on MFRW Legislative activities can contact MFRW Legislative Chairman, Ella Ennis at eee437@comcast.net.

The Maryland Federation of Republican Women is a member of the National Federation of Republican Women, headquartered in Arlington, VA with organizations in all 50 states and US Territories. For more information about the Maryland Federation or the National Federation, visit www.mfrw.org or www.nfrw.org.

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MFRW Committee Information

1. Americanism
   
   
2. Armed Services
   
   
3. Campaign
   
   
4. Caring for America
   
   
5. Leadership
   
   
6. Literacy

   Literacy Committee Book Selection Policy (MELP/Barbara Bush)

   READERS BECOME LEADERS

   Thank you for your support of the NFRW Mamie Eisenhower Library Project. Attached is the 2006 Bookplate Policy adopted by the Literacy Committee with the assistance of NFRW President Beverly Davis. We feel this policy will allow us to have a much clearer picture of the titles and numbers of books donated by NFRW clubs across the country. Please contact any member of the committee with your questions.
   
   Carol Meny, Chairman, NFRW Literacy Committee
   970-352-7048, 970-352-1191 (fax)

7. Voter Registration
   
   
8. Website
   
   

Follow these links to express you support and thank our troops: www.uso.org, Operation Dear Abby, and the Dept of Defense.

Awards

Marjorie S. Holt Public Relations Award announcement. The deadline for club submissions to be received is October 10, 2009.

Awards Check List for Local Clubs (members only)

MFRW AWARDS Program

MFRW State Awards - Due to MFRW
Click on Award title for detailed information and application. Please note deadline dates.

• Local Club - Teacher of the Year Award - past
• Local Club Achievement Award Submission - State January 19, 2008

NFRW National Awards - Endorsed by MFRW to National

• NFRW Local Club Achievement Award - past
• Local Club Campaign Volunteer Award - past
• NFRW Local Club Caring for America Award - past