NORWAY – Democratic National Committeeman Sam Spencer of Portland was the featured speaker at the March 25 meeting of the Oxford County Democrats at the Fare Share Common.

Spencer spoke about the changes at the national level resulting from the commitment of Party Chairman Howard Dean to a 50-state strategy, and he reported on the 2008 presidential campaign.

There was a discussion, facilitated by Spencer and County Chairwoman Cathy Newell, on the personal preferences of those in attendance.

Myra Bethell of Fryeburg announced that Sen. John Edwards will be the speaker at the Carroll County Democrats’ Cleveland Dinner on May 12 in Bartlett, N.H. Nancy Willard of Woodstock reported on a good turnout of more than a dozen Oxford County Democrats at Sen. Hillary Clinton’s town hall meeting in Berlin, N.H.

Sen. Bruce Bryant, Rep. Terry Hayes and Rep. Tim Carter reported on activities in the legislature, highlighting the bond package hearings, the status of school administration consolidation and tax reform proposals.

All extended a personal invitation from themselves and Rep. John Patrick and Rep. Larry Sirois for Democrats and friends to visit the State House on Thursday, April 26, for Oxford County Democrats’ Day.

The legislators will be working with House and Senate leadership to line up special meetings during the day. Anyone interested in more information may contact Newell at 875-2116 or [email protected].

Updates were given on the March Democratic State Committee meeting by Nancy Willard and on the Lightbulb Project by Toni Seger. Brandon Maheu, field director for central and western Maine, updated the committee on activities planned by the state party, and he and Newell reported on the schedule of events for the coming months.

Newell reported that the Web site updating has begun and features a photo gallery of Oxford County Democrats over the past few years and updated links to elected representatives. Additional features are planned, including a blog and links to presidential campaigns. The site is www.oxforddems.org.

She gave credit to Vice Chairman Roy Gedat for his work on the e-newsletter. Those wishing to be added to the e-newsletter list may contact Newell at [email protected].