This meeting will feature visits from Judy Bevans, the new Chair of the Vermont Democratic Party, and also Sen. Susan Bartlett, who has expressed her intention to run for governor in the 2010 election.  We are also hoping that the session in Montpelier will be finished by then, and we will have some of our legislators to give us a short wrap up.  Lastly, we will be presenting updated information on community service, fundraising, and social events planned for this summer.  Refreshments will be served, and there will be time for questions. Come find out what is going on, and how we can all help our legislators and statewide officials prepare for next year's elections....
 

2)  Early Summer Fundraiser - Rutland County Democrats Celebrate Governor Dean!

Gov. Howard Dean, who recently completed a wildly successful term as leader of the Democratic National Committee, will be coming to meet with us soon.  The County Committee is planning a festive gathering to welcome him back to the Rutland area.  We are all thankful to him for his 2004 Presidential campaign, which electrified the country and inspired those who admired his courage in standing up against the dishonesty and excesses of the Bush administration. 

Carrying the momentum from that run into his term as DNC Chair, Howard implemented his "50 State Strategy" to help Democrats rebuild our strength as a party, recapturing the Congress in 2006 and the White House in 2008!  This event is a "can't miss" opportunity to hear from Gov. Dean, and we hope everyone will plan to attend.  More details coming soon....

3)  Brandon 4th of July Parade - Saturday, July 4 - Come march with us!

Once again this year, the Rutland County Democrats will have a contingent marching in this parade, which is not only a "command performance" for the state's prominent politicians, but also a lot of fun!  We will be organizing any and all Democrats who would like to march as a group in this parade, to show our support for the party and for our elected officials.  The parade gets organized at noon, for step off at 1:00 pm.  We will provide more detailed information on our plan (what to wear, etc.) to all who let us know of your interest in participating.  To get more information or to volunteer, email Anne Lezak-  alezak@comcast.net

4)  Democratic Potluck/Potlatch Summer Party - Sunday, August 9, 12 noon- , at the Pittsford Recreation Area

This event will be an outdoor gathering for families and adults, to include a potluck picnic and social gathering, possibly with some candidates for governor in attendance!  Also featured will be "fun and games" for those who wish to partake, such as bocce, swimming, volleyball, and other activities to be announced.  Curious about the "potlatch" part?  Stay tuned.

5)  Rutland County Democrats Caring for our Community - Volunteer Opportunity

A small band of R.C.D. volunteers served dinner at the Park Street Rescue Mission in Rutland last week.  This was much appreciated by the guests and the staff at the mission, and we plan to continue this on a monthly basis.  When we serve dinner, volunteers need to be at the shelter from 5:30 pm until approximately 7:00 pm, when cleanup is completed.  As we continue this project, we may also prepare some dishes for the meal as well.  Right now we need volunteers who are willing to commit to helping serve at our night in May (and hopefully beyond).   Please contact organizer Mark Skakel at msforester@msn.com or 773-3733 for dates and details if you’d like to help.