Hometown democracy debate set

LAKEWOOD RANCH — Manatee County Republican Commissioner Joe McClash and Sarasota County Republican Commissioner Jon Thaxton are set to debate the merits of Amendment 4, a proposed change to the Florida Constitution that will be on the ballot Nov. 2.

The Florida Hometown Democracy Land Use Initiative would require voter approval of all changes to a community’s comprehensive plans.

The commissioners’ discussion will be before the Lakewood Ranch Democratic Club at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Lakewood Ranch Town Hall, 8175 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

The meeting is open to the public.

Domestic terrorism topic of luncheon

EAST MANATEE — Richard Cohen, president of The Southern Poverty Law Center, will speak on domestic terrorism to the Southeast Manatee County Democratic Club at its luncheon 11;30 a.m. March 19 at The Peridia Country Club.

For reservations, call Paul Dain at (941) 756-4050 or e-mail pdain@tampabay.rr.com.

Karl Rove to speak at Sarasota dinner

SARASOTA — Republican Party of Sarasota County 2010 Lincoln Day Dinner will feature keynote speaker Karl Rove on March 24 at Hyatt Sarasota, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts in Sarasota.

A private reception will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., a cocktail reception 6-7 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. Seating by pre-paid reservation only. Tickets are available at https://www.donationtickets.com/donationticket/eventTicket.asp?guidEvent=57585A.

— Herald staff reports