RUMFORD – The Oxford County Democrats held a grand opening celebration at the Rumford Democratic Office on Aug. 2 with Tom Allen as the guest of honor, accompanied by his wife, Diana.

Allen spent the day in Western Maine, attending the Blueberry Festival in Wilton, Andover Old Homes Days and a veterans’ reception in Jay. Diana Allen was the guest of honor at the grand opening of the Farmington Democratic office. Congressman Allen offered remarks and fielded questions.

Commissioner of Economic and Community Development John Richardson of Brunswick spoke on the importance of effecting change through the election.

Rep. Janet Mills introduced the House candidates present, including Rep. Sheryl Briggs, Rep. Tim Carter, and Matt Peterson, who is running for the House in District 92. the seat currently held by Rep. John Patrick, who is prevented from seeking re-election due to term limits.

Patrick is seeing the position of county commissioner in District 2 and spoke about his campaign and that of District 1 candidate Charleen Chase of Bethel. County Chairwoman Cathy Newell offered greetings from Sen. Bruce Bryant’s re-election campaign. Jarrod Dumas spoke on behalf of the Paul Dumas for probate judge and the Bruce Rood for register of probate campaigns.

Coordinated campaign field director Mark Henson and Maine Democratic Party Vice Chairwoman Marianne Stevens of Kingfield brought greetings from the Maine Democratic Party. Jimmy Cook also attended.

The office was decorated by Michelle Beaudin, regional field director, Zeke Davisson, field organizer, Megan Arsenault, intern, and Benton Shattenberg, volunteer.

The Democratic presence at Andover Old Home Days parade included stiltwalker Benton Shattenberg, a delegation of 10 walkers carrying signs, the county committee decorated vehicle driven by Jimmy McHugh, the John Patrick for Commissioner and Matt Peterson for House truck driven by Bob Duplessie, and the Re-elect Rep. Tim Carter truck driven by Zeke Davisson. Paul Dumas was accompanied by his son, Jarrod.

The Democratic booth on the common was staffed by Ken and Pam Pace and Cathy Newell.

Upcoming events include a yard sale at the Dixfield Summer Market from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 17. Pam Pace of Andover is organizing the effort and would like to have donations brought to the booth next to the post office on the day of the sale. She may be contacted for pick-up if necessary at 357-0307.

The annual summer Family Fun Day and Barbecue will be held on Sunday, Aug. 24, at the University of Maine’s 4-H Camp and Learning Center, formerly the Maine Conservation School in Bryant Pond.