Rutland County Democrats - News & Events
March-April, 2010

Edited by Bob Soule

At Town Meeting time we notice that the sun is starting to warm up, the sap is running, and the snow is melting away - at least down here in the valley.  So we know that "spring" will probably be here sometime in the next couple of months!  While some are planning their gardens, we are busy planning our organization and fund-raising events for the campaigns this summer and fall. 

As we've noted before, the off-year election right after a big presidential victory is often a time for the losing party to rebound.  One of the most striking examples in recent years was the 1994 takeover of the House by Newt Gingrich and his conservative majority following President Clinton's victory in '92.  With their "do anything to defeat President Obama" strategy, the Republicans and their media mouthpieces are working hard to set the stage for a similar comeback.  One of their tactics is to make this outcome look inevitable - to discourage Democrats and other progressive voters from putting in the effort necessary to help our candidates to win this November. 

The way we can overcome this is to remind ourselves of the hope that helped us to elect President Obama, and to follow his example.  If he can continue to forge ahead unbowed, with all of the lies and attacks he has had to endure, then surely we can gather up our strength again to follow his lead and see that he gets a Congress that will work with him.

Likewise, on the state level this will be a crucial election.  Given the difficult and principled stands that our Representatives and Senators have taken on issues like marriage equality and the budget battles, the Republicans will be pulling out all the stops to win back the majority in Montpelier.  It will be up to us to help our incumbents defend their seats.  Last but not least, this year presents a great opportunity to take back the governor's office, as Governor Douglas rides off into the sunset.

So think seriously about ways that you can help us continue the momentum of the last couple of elections, to keep our state and our country moving forward in a positive direction.  For a couple of suggestions, read on...

1)  2010 Election Kickoff Meeting - Wednesday, March 10, 6-8 pm, Rutland Free Library, Court Street, Rutland

We are inviting all Town Democratic Chairs, Officers, and Delegates (and any other interested Democrats), to join us for this very important meeting.  In the first part, we will hear from Jesse Bragg, Director of Vermont's chapter of Organizing For America (OFA) - about this grassroots organization which grew out of Obama For America after the 2008 election.  Also, Robert Dempsey, Executive Director of the Vermont Democratic Party, will provide an update on strategies for the upcoming election, including how OFA and VDP will coordinate with each other and with county Democratic committees.

The second part of the meeting is a critical part of our organization for this election.  Specifically, we are providing a training session on "How to have a list party for your town."  One of the most important functions of our local committees is bringing together local folks to update voter lists and identify others in their towns who might be Democrats.  (In cities like Rutland, this may need to be done separately for each ward.)  We will provide instructions to help you organize and run your list party – we’re aiming for every town to hold one in April.

All Town Chairs should attend this meeting if at all possible.  If you cannot make it yourself, please be sure to arrange for at least one officer or other individual to represent your town at this meeting.

2)  Rutland County Democratic Committee meeting - Monday, April 5, 6:15 pm refreshments and 6:30 pm meeting, at Proctor Free Library, 4 Main St., Proctor

At this meeting we will hear from more of our Democratic candidates for statewide offices.  We have already heard from several candidates for the offices of Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Secretary of State, and we have invited candidates who couldn’t be here last time.  We will also hear updates on the ongoing session in Montpelier, from our current representatives. Finally, we will be updating the committee on our planning for all the great summer events, like the Brandon 4th of July, our Family Picnic at the "Pittsford Rec," our booth at SolarFest, and more.

3)  Democrats Serving the Community - (1st Tuesday of the month) April 6, 5:30-7:00 pm, Park Street Mission, Rutland

For several months now, a small band of local Democrats have served dinner at the Mission one day a month, and we plan to continue this through the year.  Next month, our day will be Tuesday, April 6.   The meals are already prepared, so we just serve, then clean up afterward.  Those who have participated have enjoyed the opportunity to help out fellow Vermonters, while sharing some interesting conversation.  This does not require an ongoing commitment, and even if you can only do it once, it is a help!  Please contact Mark Skakel at:  msforester@msn.com  or 773-3733 if you have questions or would like to help.

4)  5th Annual Women's Brunch - Sunday, April 25, 11:00 am., at the Rutland Country Club, Grove Street, Rutland

"Women Making a Difference" has been the theme of this event since its inception, and this year we will once again honor three outstanding women who have made positive contributions here in Rutland County, and beyond.  This year's honorees will be:  Joan Aleshire, poet/ teacher/Shrewsbury Librarian; Bonnie Hawley, florist/ Rutland Downtown business leader; Carol Tashie, community organizer/ organic farmer.  We will have the opportunity to hear each of these individuals share her thoughts about women having an impact in the community.  And of course, we also have a great time sharing a meal and conversation with other interesting women!

Cost (suggested donation) for women over age 25 is $32 ; the special rate for women age 25 and under is $15.  Please RSVP to Marcy Tanger:  tanger@vermontel.net , or by phone 259-2344.  Checks to reserve your seat may be sent to:  Rutland County Democratic Committee, P.O. Box 933, Rutland, VT  05702.

For a printable PDF - Click Here

5)  Recent Events and Coming Attractions -

Democratic Candidates for Governor Forum - Tuesday, May 18, 6:15 pm refreshments and 6:30 meeting, at Rutland Free Library, Court St., Rutland - We have confirmation from several candidates for this event already, and we will update you when we get closer to the day.  Mark it on your calendar....

Summer Fun!  (more details to follow... watch this space!)                                                                 

          Brandon 4th of July Parade - Saturday, July 3, Brandon

          Solarfest Booth - July 16-18, Tinmouth

          Rutland County Democrats Family Picnic - TBA, Pittsford Recreation Area

 

6)  Last, but not least - check out our website, http://www.rutland-democrats.org/, for information on Democratic happenings, including links to the websites of our candidates for statewide office.