Nellie Tayloe Ross 2010
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Mar 1, 2010
Every year during the legislative session we gather for meetings and the Nellie Tayloe Ross (NTR) Banquet. This past weekend was our 2010 NTR and I think it turned out to be a success. We had a number of great speakers, folks from all around the state, and a lot of enthusiasm.
Our county chairs had a meeting that helped to evaluate what the basic function of a county party is and how they can expand, shape and fill that role. The central committee had a successful meeting that included topics ranging from fundraising and fiscal stability to the current legislative session and the great work of the state marketing committee. The rough cuts of four more really exciting ads were debuted and the group was able to give feedback. Also there was a wonderful presentation from Brian Kuehl regarding opposition research and how it can be utilized in the upcoming campaign season.The main event was in the evening and there were simultaneous cocktail parties upstairs and down. A local musician played piano and there was lots of mingling and great discussion. At the dinner we heard some great speakers. Gov. Freudenthal stood and delivered a wonderful address, followed by the Terrance Carroll, Speaker of the Colorado House. Other speakers included Paul Hickey who was commerating the 50th anniversary of the 1960 election of JFK, WY House Minority Floor Leader Patrick Goggles, and WY Senator Mike Massie.
Speaker Carroll said one thing that really stuck with me and that was regarding Sarah Palin asking "How's that hopey, changey thing workin' for ya?". He asked where we would be without hope and where our country would be without hope. Hope, he said, is something we should never lose and I wholeheartedly agree. Don't lose the hope!
The NTR Award was given to Chuck Herz, WDP State Treasurer, for his tireless and dedicated service to the party. He is currently dedicated to helping county parties across the state and has recently traveled to meet with local leaders and gain a better sense of the need across the state.
This year we added an exciting dimension to our gathering by including a service project to give back to Laramie County. Some very dedicated volunteers joined us on Sunday morning to assemble charts and packets for the Medication Donation Program of the Laramie County Centralized Pharmacy. It is a great program that works to provide mediations to the un/underinsured around the state. They accept unopened medication in sealed packages so if you have unused medications consider donating to them. Criteria for enrollment in the program are: Wyoming resident, doesn't have prescription insurance, has an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Spread the word. For more information call 307-637-7000 or visit them online at http://wdh.state.wy.us/healthcarefin/pharmacy/MedicationDonation.html.