Breakfast in Onaway

Yesterday morning we staged a political breakfast meeting at Onaway.  The idea for morning get-togethers popped into view last fall at one of our early gatherings intended to breathe new life into the Presque Isle County Democratic Party.  People with jobs usually can't meet during the day, while older people are sometimes reluctant to attend night meetings, especially in winter.  So we decided to alternate day and night meetings.

The first breakfast at Rogers City — held July 31st, just before the primary election — was a great success for our struggling organization.  We had about 20 people in attendance, picked up several new members, heard stump speeches from several candidates, and had a great time to boot.

We gathered at Woodwinds Restaurant in Onaway.

Onaway, located near the western end of the county, seemed the best venue for our next breakfast adventure.  The restaurant is easily accessible and very accommodating.  We had only a couple people from the Onaway area, but that's a start!  Two candidates attended: Joe Lukasiewicz, who is running for State Senate, and Bob Kennedy, who is running for the State House.  We also welcomed two staff people who are working on the campaign to elect Jerry Cannon to the U.S. House of Representatives for the 1st District (the entire UP and Northern Lower Peninsula).

Sharon, county chair, guided us through the routine business.  I reported on the Michigan Democratic Party nominating convention at Lansing, held Aug. 23-34.  Then the candidates filled us in on their campaigns.

One cause for celebration was the parade at the Posen Potato Festival this past Sunday.  Democrats had two floats and one car forming a unit, with 70 people marching or riding in support of our candidates.  Those walking handed out stickers, literature, and candy.  The Republicans, including the Tea Party float, mustered only about a dozen folks.

Joe ("Go Joe" for those who can't pronounce Polish names)
talked about running in his sprawling senate district.

Bob, a retired teacher, stressed the importance of funding
for education.  He is not accepting donations from groups
(read "lobbyist money"), unlike his incumbent opponent.

Pat Hart (left) with husband Bill listen to the table talk.
Pat is a PI Township Trustee and an inspiration to us all.

Ryan, field director for the Cannon campaign, surprised me by saying that we are very well organized.  It doesn't feel like it.  In so many ways we are making this up on the fly.  But Ryan is impressed by the enthusiasm we are developing among Democrats in this part of the state.  That's good to hear.  But it also makes me wonder about the enthusiasm level elsewhere.

The truth is, Michigan is a very Democratic state, but many Dems stay home on election day, especially at mid-term elections.  That means we lose many elections due to our own apathy, not the quality of the competition.  Bottom line: If you don't vote, don't complain about the results!

Ryan (left), Margie Kennedy, Joe, Bob, and a local member
listen as Sharon discusses our plans.

It remains to be seen if our enthusiasm can translate into an improved voter turnout in Presque Isle County.  In fact, we may simply be laying a foundation for 2016.  But we have good candidates for this year's election and will do what we can to get them into office. •••