The Central Committee of the El Paso County Democrat Party met January 31, 2009 at the Hillside Community Center to elect their leaders for the next two years. In the belief that it was important to keep the party energized and allow fresh, new ideas to flourish, John Morris and the other county officers who have held office for the last four years, stepped aside. The new slate of officers are: Jason DeGroot, Chair; Judy Ingelido, 1st Vice Chair; Lois Fornander, 2nd Vice Chair; Alice Hines, Secretary; and Bill Martin, Treasurer.

As Pat Waak, Chair of the State Democratic Party, confirmed, everyone now knows how importantly El Paso County Democrats have figured in the statewide elections. Local Democrats are excited about building upon recent successes that include electing two state representatives, one state senator, and making it possible for the state to send two Democratic Senators to Washington and contributing to President Obama’s win in Colorado.

DeGroot has identified bolder plans for local Democrats now: I believe that the changes that affect us the most will come from our school boards and County Commissioners, not from Washington, DC. Change will come from our local Boards & Commissions, City Councilors, and State Legislators. Our community has many forward-thinking, Democratic leaders who would be proud to serve. Our task in the El Paso County Democratic Party is to devise and execute a strategy to identify, support and elect these leaders at all levels."

DeGroot also noted that there has been a great resurgence of energy and passion for our nation and our communities. This wave of energy brought about more than just the election of President Obama, Senator Udall, Representatives Apuan and Merrifield, and other wonderful public servants. It also acted as a collective call to service, and as a reminder that We the People is still the most important constituency group in our land."

There will be a special installation celebration for the new officers on Thursday, February 12th at Patty Jewett Golf Course. It will begin at 6:30 pm and light appetizers will be served. $30.00 per person. All proceeds will be used to fund the activities of the local Democratic party. For more information, see the EPC Democratic Party’s website at www.peakdems.org.

Media Contact:
Lois A Fornander,
El Paso County Democratic Party Publicist
(719) 651-4577
lois@peakdems.org

• Defending all of the human rights guaranteed in the Bill of Rights.
• A clear separation of Church and State.
• Swift and appropriate punishment for criminal behavior.
• Freedom from undue government interference in our private lives and personal decisions.
• Fiscal responsibility in government.
• Equal opportunity for all citizens.
• A quality education that gives all individuals the opportunity to reach their potential.
• A quality environment in which to raise our children.
• The value of diversity within the community.
• Rewarding honest, hard work with a living wage and fair taxation.
• Community support for strong families.
• Security in our homes, our communities and our nation.
• A nation that will serve as a model of economic and social justice to the rest of the world.