In this year of mid-term elections, the Hamblen County Republican Women did its best to rally the faithful Friday afternoon at its picnic at Cherokee Park.

A dinner consisting of barbecue, slaw, potato salad and baked beans was fed to all in attendance. A silent auction was held consisting of gifts given by various candidates and officials, which proved to be a popular event. Among the prizes were a recliner donated by former State Rep. Jerry Sexton (R-Bean Station).

Hamblen County Republican Women President Gail Pedigo discussed the United States Semiquincentennial, or 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. She said that this summer is more than that.

“This is a country whose citizens and party members are celebrating our country’s Independence,” she said. “ The fact that is the first time that we were referred to as the United States of America. This is also a good time to reflect on the principles that our country was founded on.”

She asked those gathered if they thought the principles were reflected on by the Republican party, to which applause was made.

Pedigo referred to President Ronald Reagan’s quote that “Independence Day is a time to be appreciative of the Great Experience of Democracy.”

The Joint Morristown-Hamblen County Honor Guard, formed in 1926 and consisting of members of both the Morristown Police Department and the Hamblen County Sheriff’s Office, presented the colors, followed by Caroline Brady singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Hannah Starnes led the Pledge of Allegiance.

The National Republican Party was formed in 1859. The Tennessee Federation of Republican Women was formed in 1955, with the Hamblen County Republican Women founded shortly thereafter.

The picnic was highlighted by remarks from Second District Congressman Tim Burchett (RKnoxville).

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