Oxford County Democrats

The Oxford County Democrats held their annual Summer BBQ and fundraiser at the University of Maine 4-H Camp and Leadership Center on the shores of Lake Christopher in Bryant Pond on Sunday, August 29, with a capacity attendance enjoying picture-perfect weather. Headlining the event were gubernatorial candidate Libby Mitchell and Congressman Mike Michaud who is seeking re-election. The event provided attendees with the opportunity to visit informally with the top-of-ticket candidates, and the local candidates for legislative and county offices, during a social time on the waterfront.

The BBQ meal was enjoyed in the dining hall and was prepared by the camp staff, followed by a program. Oxford County Democratic Chair Cathy Newell of Greenwood welcomed the crowd, and thanked the lead sponsors, W.J Wheeler Insurance of South Paris, and McTeague, Higbee, Case et al of Topsham, and many hosts for the event. She introduced Congressman Michaud who greeted many old friends and supporters and spoke about the recent developments in Congress on veterans issues. Jay Hardy of Bethel introduced Libby Mitchell, with whom he worked at Maine Housing Authority. Mitchell described the challenges facing Maine in moving to a new economy and emphasized her confidence that she, as Governor, would be able to bring a diverse and effective group to the table to work together to address these challenges.

Vice-chair Mike Broderick of Bethel introduced other legislators present, several of whom are seeking leadership positions, including Assistant Majority Leader Seth Berry, Rep. Sharon Treat, Rep. Mike Carey, Rep. Terry Hayes, and Senator Seth Goodall. Former legislators present included Rep. Tim Carter and Rep. Bob Duplessie .

Oxford County candidates spoke including Chad McGrew, District 91, Rep. Matt Peterson, District 92, Rep. Sheryl Briggs, District 93, Rep. Terry Hayes, District 94, Russ Newcomb, District 95, Rep. Helen Rankin, District 97, Oxford County Treasurer Roy Gedat, Patricia Shearman, Register of Deeds-East, and Bob Kirchherr, County Commissioner 3. Newell spoke on behalf of Sheriff Wayne Gallant, who is unopposed for re-election, and was on vacation and unable to attend, and on behalf of Lisa Villa, District 98 and Colin O’Neill, District 100, who were unable to attend due to work commitments.

The evening concluded with an update on the offices in Rumford, Norway, and Bridgton, and plans for upcoming community events and fairs. The Oxford County Democrats web site is www.oxforddems.org and the committee has an active Facebook presence. To volunteer contact Cathy Newell, 875-2116 or cscnewell@gmail.com.

The Bridgton Democrats will sponsor a Spaghetti Supper on Saturday, August 28 at 5 pm at the Community Center on Depot St. Gubernatorial candidate Libby Mitchell will be in attendance as will Maine Senate candidate Laura Ordway, House candidates Lisa Villa and Rep. Helen Rankin. Tickets may be reserved by e-mailing Cynde LaPierre, cynde1969@gmail.com

Proceeds from the supper will go to support the Democratic office at 260 Main Street, a joint project of the Oxford County Democrats and the Bridgton Democrats. The office will open by Labor Day.

Congressman Mike Michaud and Libby Mitchell, candidate for Governor, will be the guests of honor at the Oxford County Democrats Annual BBQ at the University of Maine 4-H Camp and Leadership Center on Lake Christopher in Bryant Pond. The event will be held on Sunday, August 29, starting at 4:30. County Democratic Chair Cathy Newell announced that Maine Democratic Party Chair Marianne Stevens of Kingfield and House Majority Whip Seth Berry are among the party leaders who are planning to attend. “We are looking forward to conversation with our guests and to honoring our own legislative and county office holders and candidates,” Newell stated. “Our annual BBQ is a great time for Democrats to enjoy a traditional summer event and a wonderful kickoff to the many activities leading up to November 2 in this important election year.” Candidates attending, in addition to Libby Mitchell and Mike Michaud, include John Patrick, Senate 14, Laura Ordway, Senate 13, Chad McGrew, House 91, Matt Peterson, House 92, Sheryl Briggs, House 93, Terry Hayes, House 94, Russ Newcomb, House 95, Helen Rankin, House 97, Lisa Villa, House 98, Colin O’Neill, House 100, as well as Roy Gedat, County Treasurer, Patricia Shearman, Register of Deeds, and Bob Kirchherr, County Commissioner 3.

The facilities of the University of Maine 4-H Camp and Leadership Center are open to attendees, including excellent swimming in a classic Maine lake, and hiking trails. Those planning to swim or hike may arrive anytime after 2 PM. The program will begin with a Meet & Greet Social Time at 4:30, followed by a cookout meal with all the fixings including Carters’ corn, at 5:30 in the dining hall. There will be an introduction of guests and candidates following the meal.

Hosts for the BBQ to date include John and Claire Patrick, Diana & Ed Cundy, Bruce Bryant, Marden Seavey, Larry and Marlene Engdahl, Marge and Bill Medd, Bob Duplessie, Jane Rich, Nancy Willard, Jim and Rosemary McLean, Miriam Laster, Nancy Willard, Helen Rankin, Jon Albrecht, Neria Douglass, Sharon Treat, Severin Beliveau, Seth Berry, Bill Kieffer, Paul and Cindy Dumas, Roy Gedat & Julie Peterson, Colin O’Neill, Trey Ourso, Cathy Newell and Jan Stowell. The County Democrats are grateful for the host contributions that allow the event price to be kept affordable while raising essential funds for the campaign. Additional hosts and sponsors will be announced at the event.

Tickets are $20 per person including the meal and donation to the Oxford County Democrats. Tickets for children under 10 are $5. To reserve tickets call 875-2116 or e-mail cathyn@megalink.net.

The Oxford County Democrats have opened two offices for the 2010 campaign, in Norway and Rumford. While grand openings will occur later in the summer, the offices are functioning at 310 Main Street in Norway and 432 Hancock Street in Rumford. According to Oxford County Democratic Chairperson Cathy Newell of Greenwood, both offices have interns organizing activities with Chloe Bergman-Ray of West Paris assigned to the Norway office and Lydia McHugh of Mexico and Lanette Bryant of Dixfield assigned to the Rumford office. All are college students and will be busy training interns for the fall from local high schools as well as working with volunteers of all ages. For information about the intern program or volunteering in the offices, visit Oxford County ME Democrats on Facebook, or contact Cathy Newell at 875-2116.

Plans are in the works for the annual Oxford County Democrats BBQ fundraiser at the University of Maine 4-H Camp (formerly Maine Conservation School) on Lake Christopher in Bryant Pond. The event will run from 4:30-7:30 on Sunday, August 29 and will feature a social time and a traditional cookout menu with all the fixings in the dining hall, followed by a program. Local candidates and state party leaders are expected to attend. Tickets are $20 per person, with children under 10 at $5. Attendees are welcome to come earlier and enjoy the opportunities for hiking and swimming. Please reserve tickets by calling 875-2116.

For information about the Oxford County Democrats, visit the Facebook Page or the website, www.oxforddems.org.

The Oxford County Democrats presented an active face at Fourth of July Weekend events from Jay to Hiram, and Otisfield to Bethel, Bridgton to Waterford, including five parades, a concert and participation in a dramatic production at the Bethel Art Fair. On July 3, House 91 candidate Chad McGrew of Bethel led a group of 25 supporters, including State Senate 14 candidate John Patrick of Rumford, in the Porch Play production held at the Kaufman home on Mechanic Street in Bethel. Patrick later joined the Franklin County and Jay Democrats in a large parade through Jay and Livermore Falls.

On July 4, Rep. Helen Rankin of Hiram was the speaker at the Independence Day commemoration in her hometown, joined for the parade by County Treasurer Roy Gedat of Norway and Oxford County Democratic chair Cathy Newell of Greenwood, as well as local supporters driving a decorated truck. Sheriff Wayne Gallant was also present and joined the group in visiting with those gathered on the common. Also on the Fourth, Senate 14 candidate John Patrick of Rumford and House 91 candidate Chad McGrew of Bethel attended the Fourth of July Picnic and concert at the Bethel Historical Society, while House 100 candidate Colin O’Neill of Oxford and Register of Deeds candidate Patricia Shearman of Norway teamed up, joined by former State Representative Kelley Simpson, in the Otisfield parade. Senate 13 candidate Laura Ordway of Bridgton and House 98 candidate Lisa Villa of Harrison marched with supporters in the Bridgton parade and Ordway ran in the road race.

Winding up the weekend, the Waterford parade attracted a delegation led by House 95 candidate Russ Newcomb of Norway, accompanied by County Chair Cathy Newell of Greenwood, County Treasurer Roy Gedat of Norway, Register of Deeds candidate Patricia Shearman of Norway, House 91 candidate Chad McGrew of Bethel, and County Democratic Vice-chair Mike Broderick and Eileen Broderick of Bethel. Shelley Newcomb drive the decorated truck accompanied by grandsons Preston and Avery.

“Our team, including candidates and supporters, put in a great effort to provide visibility for our candidates at the top of the ticket Libby Mitchell for Governor and Congressman Mike Michaud. We look forward to continuing to greet Oxford County voters throughout the summer and fall at many events.” County Chair Newell stated. “ Information about the Oxford County Democrats is available on Facebook or our web site, www.oxforddems.org.”

Robert Kirchherr of Paris was selected as the Democratic nominee for Oxford County Commissioner in District 3 at a special meeting of the Oxford County Democratic Committee held on July 1 at the Paris Town Office. District 3 includes the towns of Otisfield, Oxford, Hebron, Paris, Buckfield, West Paris, Woodstock, Greenwood, Albany Township, and Stoneham. Maine Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap declared a vacancy after Kim Waite of Paris withdrew as the candidate following the June Primary Election. Kirchherr is the current chair of the Paris Planning Board, and has served on the Planning Boards of both Paris and West Paris. A former educator in MSAD 17, Kirchherr is retired from a 20 year career as an instructor and administrator at Central Maine Community College.

John Patrick presents the Edmund S. Muskie Award to Senator Bryant

State Senator Bruce Bryant of Dixfield was honored for his years of legislative service by 100 friends, legislative colleagues and family members at a dinner at the Rumford Eagles Club on June 24. Senator Bryant is not seeking reelection due to term limits. He received the Edmund S. Muskie Award for Legislative Service from the Oxford County Democrats, presented at the dinner by former Representative John Patrick of Rumford, who is the Democratic nominee for Senate District 14. County Treasurer Roy Gedat of Norway presented a thank you gift on behalf of the Oxford County Democrats, and County Chair Cathy Newell conducted the program.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate and Senate President Libby Mitchell was the featured speaker highlighting Senator Bryant’s hard work for his district, and his leadership on the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife Committee. Legislative colleagues also speaking were Senators Bill Diamond of Windham and Barry Hobbins of Saco as well as Maine Attorney General Janet Mills and Rep. Mark Bryant of Windham, brother of Senator Bryant. Lanette Bryant, daughter of the Senator, and Lovina Bryant, his mother, provided remarks from the Bryant family, and Jean Doherty of Rumford spoke as a constituent about the assistance provided for dialysis services in the area. Senator Bryant concluded the program with his own remarks, thanking those who attended and supported his election efforts over the years.

Oxford County Democratic candidates in attendance were County Treasurer Roy Gedat of Norway, Rep. Terry Hayes of Buckfield, Rep. Sheryl Briggs of Mexico, Rep. Matt Peterson of Rumford, Chad McGrew of Bethel, candidate for District 91, John Patrick of Rumford, candidate for Senate 14, Lisa Villa of Harrison, candidate for District 98, Pat Shearman of Norway, candidate for Register of Deeds, and Bob Kirchherr of Paris, who is seeking the nomination for County Commissioner District 3 at a special nominating meeting to be held on July 1. Rep. Sharon Treat of Hallowell, candidate for legislative leadership also attended.

Supporting the event as hosts were Congressman Mike Michaud, Colby Davis of Canton, Roy Gedat of Norway, Rep. Mark and Diane Bryant of Windham, Cathy Newell of Greenwood, former Rep. Bob Duplessie of Andover, former Rep. Tim Carter of Bethel, former Rep,. John Patrick of Rumford, Senator Elizabeth Schneider of Orono, Rep. John Martin of Eagle Lake, Register of Deeds Jane Rich of Andover, Ed Roach of Dixfield, Jim Case of Topsham, Senator Phil Bartlett of Gorham, Senator Barry Hobbins of Saco, Mary and Herb Adams of Center Lovell, Senator Bill Diamond of Windham, Senator Justin Alfond of Portland, Attorney General Janet Mills, Senator Libby Mitchell, Senator Stan Gerzofsky of Brunswick, and Rep. Matt Peterson of Rumford.

Information regarding the Oxford County Democrats is available on Facebook or at the website, www.oxforddems.org

The Oxford County Democrats will honor the legislative service of Senator Bruce Bryant of Dixfield at a dinner at the Rumford Eagles Hall on Thursday, June 24, beginning at 5:30. Elected to the Senate in 2002, following three terms in the House, Bryant is completing his final term due to term limits.  Democratic gubernatorial nominee Libby Mitchell will be a special guest.

A BBQ chicken dinner will be served prior to a program highlighting Senator Bryant’s service with remarks by friends and fellow legislators. Proceeds from the dinner will benefit the Oxford County Democrats.

Tickets may be reserved by calling 875-2116 and will be sold at the door. Reservations are really appreciated to help with meal planning. The charge is $15, with seniors and students at $12. Hosts for the event are Congressman Mike Michaud, Roy Gedat, John Patrick, Cathy Newell, Tim and Jodi Carter, Jane Rich, Ed Roach, Colby Davis, Herb and Mary Adams, Robert Duplessie, Senator Elizabeth Schneider, Rep. John Martin, Rep. Mark Bryant, Senator Barry Hobbins, Senator Bill Diamond, Senator Justin Alfond, Rep. Matt Peterson and others.

Additional information is available on the Facebook event page “Oxford County Dems Honor Sen. Bruce Bryant” or at www.oxforddems.org

The Oxford County Democrats enjoyed an excellent supper, social time, and program at the Jackson Silver Post in Locke Mills on April 20. The event attracted over 70 and was attended by candidates for office on the June primary ballot including Patrick McGowan, Libby Mitchell, John Richardson all running for Governor, Laura Ordway of Bridgton for Senate 13, John Patrick of Rumford for Senate 14, Rep. Terry Hayes of Buckfield running for re-election in House 94, Chad McGrew of Bethel, candidate for House 91, Russ Newcomb of Norway, candidate for House 95, Colin O’Neill of Oxford, candidate for House 100, Pat Shearman of Norway and Daniel Eichorn of Hebron, both seeking the nomination for Oxford County Register of Deeds/East, and Oxford County Treasurer Roy Gedat, seeking nomination on the June ballot. Other dignitaries present included Rep. Sharon Treat of Hallowell, Amanda Rowe of Portland, representing her husband Steve Rowe, Greg Olson, campaign manager for Congressman Mike Michaud, and Donna Dion, former mayor of Biddeford who is seeking write-in votes for Governor.

A highlight of the event was the attendance of three of the visiting Rotarians from India who enjoyed getting a sense of grassroots political activity in Maine. They were introduced by Steve Wight of Newry.

The program was organized by County Chair Cathy Newell, Roy Gedat and Colin O’Neill, who moderated the forum. A series of questions on issues of importance to Maine’s youth were drawn from a hat. Libby Mitchell, Patrick McGowan, John Richardson and Amanda Rowe each gave opening and closing statements and answered two questions each during the 45-minute program. Following the forum, there was additional time for visiting with candidates and for participation in the traditional silent auction.

Assisting at the event were Eileen Broderick of Bethel, Anita Pottle of Hartford, and Nancy Willard of Woodstock. Hosts and sponsors included Nancy Willard, Miriam Laster, Cathy Newell, Roy Gedat, Colby Davis, John Patrick, Rep. Seth Berry, Stefi Hastings, David and Anne Stanley, Hilary Ware, Bob Duplessie, Marge and Bill Medd, Bruce Rood, Rep. Sharon Treat, Jon Albrecht, and Laura Ordway.

There will be a Pizza with Congressman Michaud fundraiser at Sam’s in Rumford on Monday, May 3 from 5:30-7. Those wishing to attend may RSVP to Greg Olson at (207) 786-0220 or Greg@michaudforcongress.com. Following the party there will be a brief Oxford County Democrats County Committee meeting for the purpose of filling any vacant delegate slots for the Maine Democratic Party Convention on May 21 and 22 in Lewiston. Questions regarding the county meeting should be addressed to County Chair Cathy Newell, 875-2116 or cathyn@megalink.net.

Maine Democratic Candidates for Governor will highlight the Oxford County Democrats Supper and Meet the Candidates event on Tuesday, April 20 at 5:30 at the Locke Mills Legion Hall in Greenwood, just off the Gore Road. The event will also highlight the legislative and county Democratic candidates for 2010. Hosts include Nancy Willard, John Patrick, Roy Gedat, Cathy Newell, Colby Davis and Miriam Laster, with a complete list to be acknowledged at the dinner. The event will feature a social time from 5:30 to 6:00 and a lasagne dinner prepared by the Legion at 6:00, and a forum on youth issues. Ticket prices are $10 and tickets will be sold at the door. Advance reservations would be appreciated by calling 875-2116.

County Democratic Chair Cathy Newell has received confirmation from the following gubernatorial candidates: Patrick McGowan, Libby Mitchell and John Richardson. Steve Rowe and Rosa Scarcelli will either attend in person or will be asked to be represented. Donna Dion who is seeking write-in votes for the primary will also be in attendance. There will be a forum featuring the gubernatorial candidates following the dinner.