Jean Marie introduced everyone there and had
something
wonderful to say about each one.
When Terra Kram stood up and was introduced, she said she was a
long-time student.
Someone asked her to explain and when Terra explained
that she studying engineering and gave a most impressive brief
synopsis,
I watched the faces of these men and I will say they were impressed.
The owner of The Steakhouse spoke at the end
about the people in Pierce County because that
is the largest portion of the District 2.
I will not go into what he said, but this man is a retired
military man and has been a staunch Republican.
Yes. Republican. He fully supports Jean Marie
and what she stands for.
Jean Marie went into her campaign an unknown and she garnered 45% of
the votes.
This is a great statement for a newbie!
During the next two years, she is going to ask for your support
and perhaps your time and donations.
She has a wonderful opportunity to forge ahead
in the arena of politics to make a difference.
I hope you will join me in honoring a great student,
a great woman and a great politician whose
platform has been honorable intentions.
Bettye Johnson
continued from "here's how it happened"
The beautifully decorated room was packed, and the event was electric with anticipation, energy, lots and lots of contributed auction items, and good food. Speaker of the House Frank Chopp, State Auditor Brian Sontag, Thurston County Democratic Vice-Chair Jerry Muchmore, and so many political VIP’s it would fill this page to mention them all, were there to support the Baron family. I had one of the best tables in the house, and was joined by my friends from the Democratic Party, “Jim’s U-Fish” in Spanaway, and “The Survival Center” in Yelm.
After the silent auction closed, and before the live auction opened, State Representative Tom Campbell took a few minutes to give a special recognition to one individual who had sooo generously contributed to this event that it warranted special notice. This individual was JZ Knight!
Representative Campbell spoke about how unique and special it was that someone would give so much … and then he paused. With the entire room totally captured with anticipation, Representative Campbell asked if Jean Marie Christenson would please join him in front, and say a few words on behalf of JZ Knight and her foundation.
As I walked toward him I was so aware of what a moment this was … and after he handed me the microphone I spoke:
“I stand here humbly today because I am representing a woman who has been so generous on so many occasions, JZ Knight.
Today, once again she is showing her incredible generous nature by contributing so much to this cause.
It is with great pleasure that I, on behalf of JZ Knight and the JZ Knight Humanities Foundation present to you a check for $5,000!”
The crowd went wild, applauding, and applauding, and applauding.
JZ’s contribution was the most generous single contribution of the entire event.
After I sat back down at my table, Representative Tom Campbell spoke. He said, “Well, this is just about as bi-partisan as any event can be!” He walked over to me, and as he hugged me, we were both holding back tears, realizing how, in that one amazing contribution, JZ Knight had brought together both Democrats and Republicans as a team.
Thank you JZ for all you do, and for all you are. Please know how very much you are appreciated!
Sincerely,
Jean Marie Christenson
1st vice-Chair, LD2