A large crowd of Democrats gathered for a festive holiday party at Hidden Falls restaurant in Meadowlakes.

Christmas music played in the background while members and guests visited. A silent auction was held with more than $600 raised for the scholarship fund.

After dinner, Nettie Ruth Bratton installed the Highland Lakes Democratic Women officers for 2010, Marti Pogue, president; Annette Ussery, vice president; Mary Ann Raesener, secretary; and Marjorie Dearmont, treasurer.

Two Democrats up for election in 2010 were introduced. Daniel Boone is running for the State Board of Education, and Cynthia Chisolm is seeking the Burnet County clerk’s position.

Everyone brought donations of food for area food banks in Llano and Burnet counties and unwrapped toys for children.