The White Mountain Democrats are working to increase voter registration and more recently Permanent Early Voters among local Democrats. Callers contact Democrats to ask if they want to be on the Permanent Early Voter List (PEVL). Application forms are then delivered to all who are interested and then sent to the Navajo County Recorder.

The WMD presents educational programs open to the public. For example, in September, Steve Campbell spoke about Global Warming and its effects on the White Mountains. In October an Education Forum was presented with State Superintendent of Public Instruction candidates Penny Kotterman and Jason Williams.

One step toward enlarging the membership has been an email entreaty to support local clubs sent to all Democrats in the area who have shown interest in WMD activities. Follow-up phone calls will be made to those who don’t respond to the email.

Many of the WMD members participate in activities which benefit our community, working with others who share our mission and values. The Love Kitchen Garden is a good example of this involvement in the local community. Volunteers are creating a garden behind the Love Kitchen to raise fresh food for the meals which feed hundreds of people in need every week.

The White Mountain Democrats meet the second Wednesday of the month, at the Pinetop-Lakeside Town Hall (1360 N. Niels Hansen Lane in Lakeside) at 7:00, unless otherwise noted. Officers for 2010 include President – Holly Hanson, Vice-President – Tuula Bouquet, and Secretary – Ginny Dotson. Board members are Margaret Bobbitt, Don Wise, April Olivar, Jerry Helm, and Jan Newton who is Membership Chair.

The first meeting of 2010 will be held on Wednesday, January 13 at 7:00, at the Pinetop-Lakeside Town Hall. The White Mountain Democrats will start the process of strategic planning to increase our effectiveness.