Sherrie Matula, who gave Rep. John Davis a run for his money in HD129 last year, is back for an encore. Here’s her press release:
Sherrie Matula, long-time educator and community activist, announces today her candidacy for State Representative District 129. Matula is committed to improving the community’s economic health and vitality and will focus her efforts on: fighting for better public education; addressing environmental concerns impacting quality of life; and providing relief from the skyrocketing cost of living in Texas.
Matula’s passion for public education stems from her years as a science teacher and advocate. Having lobbied on the state and federal level for public schools, she brings an in-depth understanding of the problems facing school districts and can provide smart solutions to public school financing. “Our educational system is part of the infrastructure of the community,” states Matula. “The quality of our schools directly impacts our quality of life and economic viability. We need effective legislation to ensure adequate funding and strategic improvements. An investment in education is an investment in our future.”
From years of active community involvement, Matula knows the people of the district. She shares their concerns and she understands the complexities of the issues impacting the community. Both a leader and a doer, she has the critical thinking and analytic skills to develop and enact smart solutions.
“I am encouraged by the support I already am receiving throughout the district” says Matula. “It’s time for change. The people want a representative who will listen to them and fight for their interests. Texas voters want action, and they are interested in seeing the results that I can deliver.” Matula captured over 42% of the vote when she ran for the office in 2006, demonstrating her appeal to voters interested in seeing a change in leadership.
“Sherrie has the education and experience to bring about positive change and smart representation in government,” states Matula’s campaign manager, Martha Griffin, who was instrumental in Melissa Noreiga’s successful bid for a seat on Houston’s City Council. “Sherrie’s amazing support throughout the district demonstrates a community tired of the current government and seeking a change. Her knowledge of the issues combined with her dedication to the community makes her the smart choice for State Representative.”
A graduate of the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Education and a dedicated teacher for 25 years in the Clear Creek and Pasadena school districts, Matula is a highly respected education consultant. She earned a reputation for her leadership skills and collaborative efforts while serving two terms on the Clear Creek ISD School Board. She was a Board member on the Texas State Teachers Association Board and she has worked as a citizen lobbyist for children and schools at the Texas Legislature since 1978. Active in her community for over 30 years, Matula is involved in many community and civic organizations and serves as president of the Clear Lake Symphony Society and of the Middlebrook Community Association.
Matula and her husband have lived in District 129 since 1974. The district includes a significant portion of southeast Harris County from Friendswood and Pearland to Pasadena, Seabrook and the Clear Lake area.
Matula’s been busy raising money and garnering institutional support. She’s put this district on the map for the Democrats. You’ll be hearing a lot more about her as we go.
Meanwhile, the Dems have a serious contender for HD144 with the filing of mortgage broker Joel Redmond. We know that Amber Moon, the communications director for the Texas Democratic Party and a Pasadena native, had been looking at this race, but in the end she decided to stay in Austin. I look forward to meeting Redmond and talking to him.
Finally, it looks like we’ll have a contested primary for Harris County Sheriff, as 2004 candidate Guy Robert Clark has paid his filing fee. I’m fairly confident he won’t be the candidate in November, but he’ll be on the ballot in March.