KERRY, JOHNSTON JOIN MASS DEMS FOR EXCITING WEEKEND

Whew! Democrats across Massachusetts were busy this weekend, holding several events across the state. With a swing through Western Mass, Party leaders kicked off trainings for Democratic committee chairs in anticipation of the February 4 caucuses. The winter caucuses will determine who is sent to the state convention as a delegate June 2 and 3. During the trainings, chairs were also introduced to the party's Mass Victory '06 Coordinated Campaign--the largest Democratic grassroots campaign effort in state history! Matt Kennedy was the featured speaker at the trainings, and spoke about the importance of re-electing Sen. Ted Kennedy next year and ensuring a Democratic victory down the '06 ballot. Chair trainings will continue throughout the month in Gloucester, Lowell, Framingham, Worcester, and Boston.
Following the trainings Chairman Phil Johnston joined Congressman Jim McGovern at the first in a series of forums on the Iraq War. The event was quite a draw, as panelists discussed exit strategies, costs, and politics of the war. Two more forums will be held this month featuring Congressmen Barney Frank and John Tierney. Read more about Saturday's forum at http://www.recorder.com/Headlines/today_basic.htm
Sunday was another busy day as Sen. John Kerry joined College Democrats and Young Democrats for a chat about grassroots campaigning, GOP corruption in Washington, and other news of the day at Tufts University. The senator took time to answer a few questions and reminded the young audience about its very important role in the campaign. Read more about the event at http://news.bostonherald.com/localPolitics/view.bg?articleid=110765
Following that gathering, Kerry joined Chairman Johnston back at Party Headquarters in Charlestown, where about 100 activists and leaders gathered to kick off the Victory '06 Campaign. Kerry and Johnston encouraged the crowd to become leaders in their community to ensure victory next year.
The weekend was the first of what will be many invigorating days ahead. Stay tuned for more updates and check out our website (www.massdems.org) for current news!