NORWAY – Oxford County Democrats gathered more than 200 signatures on nominating petitions for Rep. Mike Michaud and several legislative candidates before meeting at the Fare Share Commons for a pizza party.

Rep. John Patrick won the prize for the most signatures. The prize was an original button commemorating the inauguration of President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore.

Participants in the Petition Day and Pizza Party came from Otisfield, Norway, Waterford, Brownfield, Fryeburg, Lovell, Bethel, Woodstock, Greenwood, Rumford, Mexico and Dixfield. Additional signature-gathering is ongoing in all towns in the county and will continue through the caucuses on Sunday, Feb. 8.

Michaud addressed the group, thanking supporters in Oxford County for their support in his election in 2002, and asking for their help in the upcoming campaign. Other candidates spoke, including Marge Medd of Norway for State Senate District 13; Rep. John Patrick of Rumford, House District 92, also spoke on behalf of Senator Bruce Bryant, who is seeking re-election in Senate District 14; Marlee Turner of Brownfield, House District 96; and Linda Petrie of Mexico, House District 93 . All will be making formal announcements within the coming weeks.

County Chairwoman Cathy Newell reminded attendees of the caucus on Sunday, Feb. 8. Meetings are held at locations throughout the county at times ranging from 1 to 7 p.m. The caucus meetings are Maine’s method of selecting a presidential nominee. Provisions will be made for voter registration and/or party enrollment prior to the caucus meeting at all locations.

This year for the first time a provision has been made for participation by absentee ballot. Anyone wishing to participate by absentee ballot may contact the Maine Democratic Party at P.O. Box 5258, Augusta, ME 04332 or 622-6233. A complete list of municipal caucuses, times, locations and convenors is available at www.mainedems.org, or by calling Newell at 875-2116.