Hopson to run for house seat

Hopson

State Rep. Chuck Hopson has made it official. He is running for re-election in 2008.

And from the events of this summer, he is clearly moving full-steam ahead -- and with a good outlook, as well.

"Over summer I welcomed my seventh grandchild into the world. I got to celebrate my birthday and another successful year with family and friends," Hopson said. "I figured, what better time to announce that we"re ready to make another and get back to Austin to work for East Texas."

Two fundraisers were held over the summer for Hopson, both of which were wellattended and showcased Hopson's support from both political parties.

The first event was at the home of Dr. Yasser Zeid and Dr. Brenda Vozz-Zeid in Henderson.

It was the second event this summer in Henderson that indicates a solid and powerful block of support for Hopson in Rusk County.

In September, Hopson was given the Key to the City of Henderson and a plaque honoring his work on behalf of Henderson and Rusk County.

At Hopson's annual birthday bash, at the 3G's Ranch in Jacksonville, Rep. Tommy Merritt, a Republican from Gregg County, presented Hopson with a certificate of achievement, not only for being an outstanding legislator but also being a successful small-business owner. That weekend saw the 50th anniversary of Hopson's pharmacy, May Drug.

"Chuck and I go to Austin to represent East Texas, not party politics," Merritt said, after presenting the certificate. "Chuck knows about business and about people. We've been friends a long time and I look forward to both of us getting back down to Austin next year."

Hopson was also honored this summer by two important statewide groups.

The Texas Pharmacy Association named Hopson "Pharmacist of the Year" and the Texas Retailers Association named him "Best Legislator for 2007."

When asked about his top issues going forward Rep. Hopson said that guaranteeing East Texas' right to control its water resources, private property rights, education, and continuing to strengthen our border security and immigration laws.

These are just a few areas that he believes can be addressed in the 2009 legislative session.