AUGUSTA – The Maine Democratic Convention smashed all records for such events in Maine, with 3,700 attendees and a record 150 from Oxford County, said County Chairwoman Cathy Newell of Greenwood.

She reported that following the upgrade of alternates to delegates, 98 percent of delegate slots were filled. “This is certainly a record, as was the number of delegates elected at the February caucuses who are under the age of 21. Despite graduations and athletic commitments, five of our young delegates were able to participate in the convention, and others are committed to participation during the campaign,” Newell stated.

The Oxford County delegation favored Sen. Barack Obama over Sen. Hillary Clinton by 12 percentage points, and Newell reported that there was a strong feeling of unity among the attendees along with support for both candidates.

Oxford County held elections for positions on the Democratic State Committee, re-electing Roy Gedat of Norway and electing Steve Hayes of Buckfield and Rose Rogers-Wells of Brownfield, as well as alternate member Julie Peterson of Norway.

State Rep. Terry Hayes of Buckfield served on the Credentials Committee for the convention. Newell received the Joe Mayo Award presented by Maine Attorney General Steve Rowe.

The Oxford County Democrats have moved their Rumford office from Route 108 to Hancock Street and will soon open their Main Street office in Norway.

Volunteer help is welcome and those interested may contact Michelle Beaudin at 364-4201 or Newell at 875-2116.