WIND ENERGY SUPPORTED BY RENO COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY MEMBERS

The gathering of around 300 sent the message loud and clear at a Clean Energy Rally in Topeka.

Representatives from a variety of groups rallied in favor of renewable energy sources that would both protect the environment and enhance economic opportunities in Kansas. Among the supporters was RCDem Curt Miller, mayor of Pretty Prairie and member of the Reno County Wind Energy Task Force. Following the rally Miller, Kathie Moore, Dorothy Burnett and her two daughters visited District 101 Representative Seiwert at his office to discuss the advantages of wind energy over coal-fired plants.

RENO COUNTY DEMOCRATS HELP OUT AT KPTS

RCDems, Young Democrats and friends spent Monday evening March 16th on the phones for pledge breaks during a documentary featuring the landmark 1958 Dockum Street sit-in in Wichita. A favorite viewing choice of many RCDems, KPTS features information and viewpoints not readily available from other sources. This PBS affiliate has produced a number of quality pieces covering people and events of interest to Kansans along with programs such as Ask Your Legislator and Kansas Week which keep viewers up to date and in touch with happenings in Topeka. Speaking for myself I would encourage everyone to make a pledge to support this valuable source of information and entertainment.

DEMOCRATS COMING ON STRONG

I went to Washington Days in Topeka (February 27-28) thinking the mood might not be the brightest. To my surprise I found energized, hopeful Democrats from across Kansas ready to move ahead. The Friday night banquet marked what turned out to be Governor Sebelius' last appearance at this annual event as our state's leader. Though the official announcement was not made, the guest speaker, Governor Brian Schweitzer of Montana, hinted at what was to come when he spoke of the sacrifices that must be made in support of the Obama administration's plans . An incredible oil portrait of President Obama was auctioned off raising over $4,000 for the state party. Governor Sebelius was confident that an autographed certificate from Obama would also be made available to the winning bidder. Schwietzer's bolo tie also went on the auction block bringing a winning bid of several thousand.

Legislators were encouraged by the failure of the House of Representatives to muster a veto-proof number of votes in support of the Holcumb coal-fired plants. The battle is far from over but legislators with an eye to future economic development and energy independence are standing strong. The Reno County Wind Energy Task Force will be meeting at the Hutchinson Library on Tuesday, March 10 in the evening to discuss support and progress in bringing wind to our county. New supporters are welcome to become involved in this critical endeavor.

The HHS Young Democrats were a big hit at the event. Elected officials and members of various caucus met with them. Supporters contributed generously to their cause when they set up a display on Saturday. The support and efforts of their sponsor Kam McEwen with help from husband Randy is much appreciated. There is talk of a new goal of attending the national convention for Young Democrats in Chicago. Work is underway to help establish a chapter of the organization at Hutch JuCo in the near future. This is really what it's all about - the future. We will have much to do in the upcoming elections in 2010. Make sure you're part of the effort to support Democrats in Kansas.