2025 KFDW OCTOBER NEWSLETTER
From the Presidents Desk
October marks the last month for Canvassing in 2025. We’ve got School Boards, City Councils, Mayors, Water Board and JCCC Traustees who need your vote THIS YEAR. Please volunteer for your favorite candidate to call, text, drop lit – everything you do for them, they don’t have to do! For more info, contact your local Dems office or contact that campaign.
Cassie Woolworth, President
"Do as much as you can, as long as you can, then pass the baton and rest; We will need you tomorrow too!"
SPECIAL EVENTS – KFDW @ DEMOCRACY FEST
KFDW is heading out all over the state to meet Kansas Democrats where they are, build up our local Democratic groups, and prepare for the next elections with the Kansas Democratic Party. Join us for food, fun, and fellowship. All three events are free to attend. https://kansasdems.org/democracyfest/
KFDW had the BEST TIME in Colby, Kansas!
Colby, KS was full of energy this weekend as community members came together to stand up for democracy! The Kansas Democratic Party hosted Democracy Fest, joined by the Kansas Federation of Democratic Women. Over 60 attendees gathered to discuss policies, best practices, and strategies for taking Kansas back.
October 11th next stop: Democracy Fest – Destination Dodge City!
Program Chair Needed
We are currently looking for Program Chair for KFDW’s board. Please contact Kat Hooley-Lickteig at kat.hooleylickteig@outlook.com if you are interested in Program Chair.
IN MEMORIAM
Reminding us all to lead with compassion, help a neighbor, and make sure the squirrels are well fed, Kathleen Allen Duncan said goodbye and began her next journey on September 10, 2025 at the age of 73. Kathy was known for running late – something she herself joked about – but her final goodbye came much too early.
She was a fierce advocate for others, insisting that civility and treating others with respect – regardless of differences – was essential in life. If someone needed a hand, Kathy was there, never asking for anything in return. People always knew they could count on her, and she often made you part of the family in her own way.
Kathy was a longtime board member and enthusiastic champion of Ballet Midwest and dance in Topeka, President of the Capital Area Democratic Women, a committed Democrat, and took her turn running the Pepper Tree Homeowners Association. For two decades she served as a democratic precinct committeewoman, and at one point, she and Tuck held opposite positions, as he was the republican precinct committeeman – a testament to her belief that differences need not stand in the way of working toward shared success.
Kathy Duncan, President of Capital Area Democratic Women, will be sorely missed. ❤❤❤❤
For now, we grieve, we celebrate her life, we remember her for all she was and gave us.
UP COMING EVENTS & PROGRAMS
Capital Area Democratic Women (CADW)
CADW meets Wednesday, October 8. We will have Evan Gates from Kansas United for Impartial Courts to talk about the constitutional amendment that will be on the August 2026 ballot. We will also have Spencer Duncan, a candidate for Mayor of Topeka and we will discuss how the club plans to honor our President, Kathy Duncan, who passed away earlier this month.
We also broadcast via Facebook live. Find CADW on Facebook
Johnson County Democratic Women (JCDW)
We had an excellent turn-out for our discussion on Constitutional Law with
Mark P. Johnson, Constitutional Law Professor and advisor to Governor Kelly! Mr. Johnson assisted our understanding of both Redistricting, and the ballot amendment around Judges.
A hearty THANK YOU to Mark!!
Thank you to Candidate Anne Parelkarr for droping by JCDW tonight to speak to our group – it was education, informative and OH SO FUN!
Anne is a Kansas attorney and aspiring public servant running for U.S. Senate (AGAINST ROGER MARSHALL). She believes elected officials should answer to the people. Not to party leaders. Not to political donors. Just to the people.
NOTE: All state-wide candidates are invited by KFDW to speak at all our Chapters.
Thursday, October 2nd, join JCDW for our Social at The Bar in Prairie Village from 6-8pm – we’re still talking School Board & City Council races and will have some candidates for you to meet!
Then, join JCDW on Thursday, October 16th when we host Christie Peterson & Christina McKenna from 50501 – we’ll discuss de-escalation, protestor safety, & bystander protocol. 6-8pm, Black Bear Diner Olathe at 119th & Strang Line Road.
Find JCDW on Facebook
Reno County Democratic Women
The RCDW women will meet Tuesday, October 14th at 11:30am at the Airport Steakhouse, 1100 Airport Road, in the private meeting room to the north as you enter the restaurant. Please join us. The speaker will be Donna Davis, Capital Campaign Director for the Reno County Food Bank. Donna is a key figure at the Food Bank and has been involved in the organization’s effort to establish a new facility and secure funding for its renovation. In September she took top prize at the United Way of Reno County’s Spark Tank event. A crowd of more than 200 people packed into the 1861 Club at the Kansas State Fairgrounds for the inaugural Spark Tank Live!!
Consider becoming a member of the Reno County Federation of Democratic Women for only $15/year! Contact Betty Taylor for details taylorinhutch@yahoo.com.
Saline County Democratic Women (SCDW)
On October 18th at Martinellis Little Italy, Saline County Democratic Women will host their monthly meeting. Candidates are welcome! Feel free to bring literature to pass out.
3rd Saturday of every month at 10:45 AM at Martinelli’s located at 158 S Santa Fe, Salina. Next meeting is October 18th. Hope to see you there!
Membership
Annual membership dues are $17. You can join or renew by emailing Emma Doherty at doherty2085red@gmail.com
Sedgwick County Democratic Women (SCDW)
Sedgwick County Democratic Women unites local women of the Democratic Party; to promote the cause of the Democratic Party and to encourage full participation of women in every level of the Democratic Party structure. Our priority is to raise money to contribute to the campaign funds of pro-choice women candidates. Some years, contributions also are made to pro-choice male candidates who become associate members of the club. The amounts and parameters vary depending on the number of candidates and the amount available for distribution.
Our next meeting is October 9th (2nd Thursday) at SEIU, 3340 W Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS 67203. Doors usually open at 6p, meeting begins at 6:30p.
“When women vote, Democrats win,” because Democrats support the social issues so important to families and communities and healthy societies.
Find SCDW on Facebook
Wyandotte Progressives
WE THE PEOPLE Demonstrations: Join us every Saturday from noon to 1:30pm at the Legends. (Village West & Prairie Crossing) . This event is sponsored by WYCO Indivisible.
The Wyandotte County Democratic Party is hosting a celebration of 40 years of Democratic Governors on Sunday, October 19th at the Venue located on 3150 N. 91st Street. Featured special guests are Governor Laura Kelly, former Governor Kathleen Sebelius, former Governor John Carlin and Jill Docking representing the Docking family. Tickets are $75; sponsorships are available. This event is the best Wyandotte fundraiser in decades!
SPOTLIGHT ON CRAWFORD COUNTY YOUNG DEMS
The Crawford County Young Democrats are a small, but growing organization based in Pittsburg Kansas. Our main activity near elections is canvassing for democrat candidates, but we also have planned several protests, including a No Kings protest that drew over 400 attendees, and have held several fundraisers. Also, Jackson Bertoncino and Isaiah Harris, two of our members, are currently running for the Pittsburg City Commission. We aim to continue to support local candidates, and empower young people to be politically engaged.
2025 KFDW SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER
SPECIAL EVENTS – 2025 FOREVER THE FREE STATE GALA
On Saturday, August 16th, the Forever the Free State Gala again returned to the Overland Park Convention Center and we were thrilled to welcome over 500 people to support the efforts of the Johnson County Democratic Party. Their generous donations will keep our local office open year-round, allow us to hire and maintain a professional full-time staff, and fund our get-out-the-vote efforts.
To celebrate our 10th anniversary, this year’s event featured a 360 Video Photo Booth by your Unforgettable, and an After Party with a DJ, dancing, and open bar all the way up to midnight.
SAVE THE DATE FOR 2026!
The Forever the Free State Gala will return for an eleventh year on Saturday, August 15, 2026.
KFDW THANK YOUs!
Special SHOUT OUT to David Hogg and the Crawford County Democrats,
Crawford County Young Dems, the KDP, & Kansas Young Dems (WHEW!)
for the Rally for Young Democrats at Pitt State University.
I do believe this next generation will be a FORCE!
Program Chair Needed
We are currently looking for Program Chair for KFDW’s board. Please contact Kat Hooley-Lickteig at kat.hooleylickteig@outlook.com if you are interested in Program Chair.
UP COMING EVENTS & PROGRAMS
Capital Area Democratic Women (CADW)
Our meetings have transitioned to a hybrid meeting style. For those who are interested in joining us in person our chapter meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 6pm at the Celtic Fox located at 118 SW 8th Ave, #202, Topeka, KS 66603. Please arrive at 5:30 to order dinner and/or drinks before the meeting starts.
We also broadcast via Facebook live.
You can find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CapAreaDemocraticWomen
Johnson County Democratic Women (JCDW)
A BIG THANKS to the Olathe Fire department! Last month JCDW had them assist with our CPR and ran thru “Stayin-Alive” practice at the event. If you are looking for a CPR class check with your local Police/Fire – most are offered for free or a nominal charge.
On September 4th, join us for our Social at The Bar in Prairie Village from 6-8pm – we’re talking School Board & City Council races. Then on September 18, from 6-8 at the Black Bear Diner we’re hosting Mark P. Johnson, Constitutional Law Professor and advisor to Governor Kelly. We’ll talk about the unconstitutionality of the current regime both in Kansas and the nation.
Reno County Democratic Women
Reno County Democratic Women will not have a regular monthy meeting Tuesday, September 9th, which lands during Kansas State Fair week, September 5-14th, in Hutchinson KS. We invite you instead to visit or participate at the State Dem’s booth, usually, located in the Meadowlark Building on the Kansas State Fair grounds. Connect with like-minded others!! Join us at our next meeting, Tuesday, October 14th at Airport Steakhouse, 1100 Airport Road, Hutchinson, KS, 11:30am to 1pm.
Thank you to our August speakers, USD308 Superintendent, Dr. Dawn Johnson, and the USC308 Director of Marketing & Communications, Stacy Goss. They presented the master plan for the proposed $109 million bond issue that will be on November’s ballot for voters to consider that addresses the school district’s need for a 6th, 7th and 8th grade attendance center or middle school. Members asked good thoughtful questions and appreciated the preparation and consideration done by the USD308 school board and district staff.
Saline County Democratic Women (SCDW)
THEN: Parade entry for Women’s Suffrage early 1900s.
NOW: Parade entry for Saline County Democratic Women at the August Saline County Fair Parade and the September Smoky Hill Museum Street Fair.
On September 20th at Martinellis Little Italy, join the Saline County Democratic Women as we meet meet our candidates for the Salina City Commission. Starting at 10:45 join SCDW and ask questions and gather information.
Sedgwick County Democratic Women (SCDW)
Sedgwick County Democratic Women invite all our local candidates to our dinner/meeting at Felipe’s Mexican Restaurant. Our next meeting is September 11th at 6pm at the SEIU, 3340 W Douglas, Wichita. Doors open at 6p, meeting begins at 6:30pm. We will have a table for the candidate information & will allow each candidate to speak.
“When women vote, Democrats win,” because Democrats support the social issues so important to families and communities and healthy societies.
Wyandotte Progressives
WE THE PEOPLE Demonstrations: Join us every Saturday from noon to 1:30pm at the Legends. (Village West & Prairie Crossing) . This event is sponsored by WYCO Indivisible.
The Wyandotte County Democratic Party is hosting a celebration of 40 years of Democratic Governors on Sunday, October 19th at the Venue located on 3150 N. 91st Street. Featured special guests are Governor Laura Kelly, former Governor Kathleen Sebelius, former Governor John Carlin and Jill Docking representing the Docking family. Tickets are $75; sponsorships are available. This event is the best Wyandotte fundraiser in decades!
.https://www.facebook.com/WyandotteProgressiveDemocraticWomen
SPOTLIGHT ON KANSAS YOUNG DEMOCRATS
(KDP STYLE)
- What We Do: At the high school, college, and county level, Kansas Young Democrats chapters help connect young Democrats and enable them to contribute to the huge collective effort of electing Democratic candidates on the local, statewide, and national stage.
- KANSAS YOUNG DEMOCRATS
At its most fundamental level, Kansas Young Democrats is an organization that helps facilitate and coordinate the efforts of local chapters and the young progressives who comprise them. The most efficient way to affect change is to organize activists in your local community, and that is precisely what our chapters do.
- Where We Work: We are active in all corners of Kansas. Don’t see your high school, college, or county listed on our website? Grab four of your friends and make one! The chatering process is intuitive and easy to follow – just navigate to the “Get Involved” tab on our website menu to get started.
2025 KFDW August Newsletter
Program Chair Needed
We are currently looking for Program Chair for KFDW’s board. Please contact Kat Hooley-Lickteig at kat.hooleylickteig@outlook.com if you are interested in Program Chair.
SPECIAL EVENTS – SALINE COUNTY!
On July 31st, we’re marching in a parade!
The Saline County Democratic Women will participate in the Tri Rivers Fair Parade in Salina on Thursday, July 31.
Date: Thursday, July 31st
NEW Time: 6:30 pm
Route: Santa Fe Ave., from Elm St. to Prescott
We march for Saline County Dem Women and all women!
KFDW THANK YOUs!
The Johnson County Democratic Women held its annual FLIP IT BLUE Fundraiser on July 13th at Sar-Ko-Par park. We had the KDP Chair Jeanna Repass pump us up, silent auction with lunch with the next Governor, Cindy Holscher, and Icees and Music. Thank you all who came to make this one our our all time HIGH FUNDRAISERS – A Great time was had by all!!
UP COMING EVENTS & PROGRAMS
Capital Area Democratic Women (CADW)
Our meetings have transitioned to a hybrid meeting style. For those who are interested in joining us in person our chapter meets the 2nd Wednesday of the month at 6pm at the Celtic Fox located at 118 SW 8th Ave, #202, Topeka, KS 66603. Please arrive at 5:30 to order dinner and/or drinks before the meeting starts.
We also broadcast via Facebook live.
You can find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CapAreaDemocraticWomen
Johnson County Democratic Women (JCDW)
FOR A JCDW ENDORSEMENT ALL CANDIDATES MUST FILL IN THE ENDORSEMENT FORM
BEFORE AUGUST 1ST
In August join us for our Social on the 1st Thursday at The Bar in Prairie Village from 6-8pm – we’re talking School Board races. Then on the 3rd Thursday meeting at Black Bear Diner in Olathe from 6-8pm – we’re brushing up on our CPR. The Olathe Fire department will give us a CPR overview – like the Girl Scouts we like to be prepared.
Last Month JCDW had Sheriff Byron Roberson – A special thank you to Sheriff Roberson for an enlightening discussion of policing in the age of ICE. Lots of good info on how not to get arrested – call the police!
Reno County Democratic Women
Sharing is Caring: In July the Reno County Democratic Women (RCDW) invited J.K. Vann, the new Human Relations Officer for the city of Hutchinson, to speak at their July meeting. In this role, Mr. Vann administers the Human Relations Ordinance, addressing anti-discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodations. Mr. Vann is well-equipped to lead efforts in creating a more diverse and welcoming Hutchinson. “We need to rethink how we engage (our citizens) in Hutch.” Mr. Vann has served in several ministerial roles and is currently a Pastor of Foundation of Life Ministries.
JOIN US in AUGUST!!!: RCDW will help host along with the Reno County Dems (RCD) at their Sunday, August 10th Ice Cream Social fundraiser by providing some tasty dainty and decadent desserts. RCDs then share part of the proceeds. The event will be held in Carey Park at the fully air-conditioned Home Builders building, 2 to 3:30pm.
The next RCDW meeting is August 12th at the Airport Restaurant. at 11:30. The speaker will be Dr Dawn Johnson, superintendent of USD308 schools, Hutchinson, KS. She will speak on the upcoming $109.5 million bond issue that will be on the November 4th ballot.
Saline County Democratic Women (SCDW)
The Saline County Democratic Women will participate in the Tri Rivers Fair Parade in Salina on Thursday, July 31. Throughout the month of August, we will conduct the No Sale Garage Sale Fundraiser, collecting money to support local Democratic candidates. (We’re learning something new: using VENMO as a form of payment.)
We’re planning our August 16 meeting as a come-and-go event at The Temple in Salina with snacks and a Survey to help determine the future direction of the SCDW.
Congrats to Janice Morris who was a panelist for the July 19 REAL KANSANS TOWN HALL at the Salina Public Library sponsored by the Kansas Coalition of Accountability; attendance was good and the discussion was lively! The SCDW are beginning a focus on Voter Registration.
Sedgwick County Democratic Women (SCDW)
In July, the Sedgwick County Democratic Women invited the local office candidates to our dinner/meeting at Felipe’s Mexican Restaurant. We had a table for their information and each candidate was given 3 minutes to talk about their campaign. It was fun for us to get to know them, and they enjoyed getting to practice speaking in front of a candidate-friendly audience.
Our next meeting is August 14th at 6pm at the SEIU, 3340 W Douglas, Wichita. Doors open at 6p, meeting begins at 6:30p.
“When women vote, Democrats win,” because Democrats support the social issues so important to families and communities and healthy societies.
Wyandotte Progressives
WyCo progressives meet the 3rd Wednesday of each month @ 6:30PM at West Wyandotte Library, 1737 N. 82nd St, Kansas City, Kansas.
In August we’re Planning to have lots of candidates for School Board, City Council, Mayors and others all vying for elected office – help us help the progressive candidates take America back for EVERYONE!! https://www.facebook.com/WyandotteProgressiveDemocraticWomen
SPOTLIGHT ON – KANSAS HIGH SCHOOL DEMOCRATS
The Kansas High School Democrats have been working tirelessly! Under the Chair, Caroline Toland, within the past two years, the KSHSD increased total membership by over 400%, rural membership by 90% and established KSHSD as an official voting Caucus of the Kansas Democratic Party.
Strategies include:
Innovation-Based Campaign Strategies – Kansas High School Democrats work to bring tested campaign innovations to the strategies of under-resourced Democratic candidates.
Efficient Fieldwork Technologies – Campaigns we support rely on our field analysis to make the most out of every dollar.
Tailored Political Messaging – Kansans are not a monolith, which is why we created an index of issues, district-by-district. We know that Olathe issues aren’t Garden City issues, so campaigns must know how to effectively message to win.
https://secure.actblue.com/donate/kshsdems
2025 KFDW July Newsletter
Welcome to KFDW’s first newsletter! We’re hoping to engage you thru strategic actions, purposeful conversations and outreach. Take a look around – we’ve got lots going on in the state of Kansas!
2025 NEW KFDW BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Cassie Woolworth
Vice President: Kat Hooley-Lickteig
Treasurer: Becca Peck
Communications Secretary: Tracy Styer
Recording Secretary: Cheri Thummel
Auditor: Anthony Marie Johnson
Parliamentarian: Phyllis Kelly
Outreach Coordinator: Candace Ayars
Program Chair: <OPEN>
Legislative Chair: Elizabeth Bishop
Fundraising: Janice Norlin
Please contact Kat Hooley-Lickteig at kat.hooleylickteig@outlook.com if you are interested in Program Chair.
SPECIAL EVENT – THE FUTURE IS OURS TO DEFEND!
JCDW’s biggest annual fundraiser is back
– our 5th year helping our JOCO Candidates shape the future of our democracy. ALL Proceeds from Flip it Blue go directly to candidates such as those running for school board or city council who are trying to put a stop to radical groups like Moms for Liberty.
TACO THANK YOUs!!
SALINE COUNTY: A special think you from the Saline County Democrats for coming to our TACO/NO Kings Day Fundraiser! We raised over $500 for democrats running for office. WAY TO GO SALINE COUNTY!!
JCDW & JOCO Young Dems: Thank you all for coming to our Taco’s and Trivia event with the Young Dems – had a BLAST and The Quizzards of Oz won with a total of 275 points. And we left full and fully satisfied! Same time next year!!!
UPCOMING
Capital Area Democratic Women (CADW)
In June Capital Area hosted our 2025 candidates: John Williams, ShaNoah Emory, Chris Tanner, Adam Angelini, Ty Dragoo, and Ashley Beason – School Board
City Council/Mayor – Ed Patton, Jolie Lippitt, Karen HIller, Will Naeger, Daisy Karimi, Sylvia Ortiz, Michelle Bradberry, and Michelle Hoferer.
At our July 9th meeting, our special guest will be Cindy Holscher, who is running for Governor of Kansas in 2026.
We also broadcast OUR MEETINGS via Facebook live.
You can find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CapAreaDemocraticWomen
Johnson County Democratic Women (JCDW)
Last Month JCDW held Candidate Conversations – A special thank you to our current and future candidates for coming to Candidate Conversations. It was fun, entertaining, and enlightening. Special thanks to our ‘judges’, Allison Hougland, Clair Reagan, and Mari-Lynn Poskin for loaning us their gumption. Looking forward to a SWEEP!
Next Month join us for our Social on the 1st Thursday at The Bar in Prairie Village from 6-8pm OR our 3rd Thursday meeting at Black Bear Diner in Olathe from 6-8pm In July we’re talking to Sherrif Roberson. He’s going to discuss local, regional, and ICE policing.
Reno County Democratic Women
Reno County Democratic Women installed their new 2025-2026 officers at the June 10th noon meeting. Left to right is: Betty Taylor, Immediate Past President, Peggy Hughes, Incoming President, Tammy Smith, Vice President & Program Chair, Judy Langley, Treasurer & Cynthia Landon, Secretary
In July, Reno County will welcome JD Vann, City of Hutchinson’s Human Relations Officer. He’s been invited to share information and update us about his initiatives. As a relatively new
hire in this position we look forward to meeting him.
Saline County Democratic Women (SCDW)
Last Month SCDW held a TACO Fundraiser – A very special time was had by all with our TACO Fundraiser on No Kings day! We raised over $500 to support local democrats.
Next Month we’re talking about the importance of running for an office (School Board, Organizations) by being involved in community activities affecting all age ranges and how to be involved. The SCDW has monthly meetings on the 3rd Saturday of each month at Martinell’s Restaurant 11-1pm.
Sedgwick County Democratic Women (SCDW)
In June, Sedgwick County Democratic Women hosted an attorney who spoke about the legality of the new administration & also worked No Kings day with Indivisible.
In July, join us on July 4th at the Veterans Memorial Park for the Board Commemoration at 9AM. This is not a protest – we’ll pause our usual protest to attend a peaceful commemoration hosted by the veteran’s memorial park board. No trump signs, bullhorns, nor noisemakers, The ceremony include a Color Guard, Guest speakers and 3 Volley Salute with Taps.
And, we have at least 5 weekly rallies: Saturday 10am at Broadway & Douglas, Monday, 10 am, for a Climate rally at Delano, Wednesday, 10am at Estes’ office & one at ICE office in Delano, and Friday at the crossover near Kellogg and Hillside. You can come to our July 10th meeting early (430 or so) and make your rally signs. We’ll meet at Service Employees International Union prior to our 6:30 meeting.
Wyandotte Progressives
WyCo progressives meet the 3rd Wednesday of each month @ 6:30PM at West Wyandotte Library, 1737 N. 82nd St, Kansas City, Kansas. Last month we
In July we’re Planning – we have lots of candidates for School Board, City Council, Mayors and others all vying for elected office – help us help the progressive candidates take America back for EVERYONE!! https://www.facebook.com/WyandotteProgressiveDemocraticWomen
SPOTLIGHT ON SALINE COUNTY YOUNG DEMS
The Saline County Young Democrats are a growing group of young leaders working to bring progress, and positive change to our community. We’re committed to empowering young voices, increasing civic engagement, and advocating for Democratic values at every level of government. Right now, we’re focused on voter registration and campaign education ahead of the upcoming election season. Connect with them on Facebook