HCDC Minutes 11/17/05 Monthly Meeting Dexter Bellows conducted meeting in John Knutson's absence Agenda approved without comment. Minutes approved without comment. Treasurer's report approved.   Platform Committee member Par Kettis, reported the HCDC draft platform was being well received by the full state committee and is being used as the model for the state platform.  The draft appears on the HCDC website.  The committee encouraged input, keeping in mind the goal of brevity. Also noted was an additional opportunity for input, the state party's questionnaire on the platform, found on the state party website. Rep. Jim Schatz reviewed his first term in the legislature and invited HCDC members to the holiday party at the Blue Hill Farm Inn on Dec 15 at 6PM. Sen. Damon reported on election results that revealed Hancock County leading the way. He complimented HQ Coordinator Heather Martin-Zboray and the room responded warmly.   Heather reviewed the campaign, the positive results, and immediate future at HQ.  There will be a post-election clean-up day at HQ on Nov. 19, members are encouraged to attend. The group took up a collection for the Emmaus Center to support their efforts in bringing holiday dinners to area residents in need. More than $250 was collected.   Dexter Bellows reviewed the opportunity to expand our office to occupy half of the front area. Many people have commented on the cramped quarters. The officers have reviewed the situation, negotiated with the landlord and based on current and projected donations are recommending the expansion. The commitment will increase the rent but will allow us to have enough room for the next election cycle. The group approved the office expansion by a unanimous voice vote.   It was noted that we are looking for candidates at all levels, from state office down to local Select boards, planning and school boards. The guest speaker was Rep Sean Faircloth who exhorted the gathering to oppose the Alito nomination to the US Supreme Court. He emphasized the need for letters to the editor and offered to send talking points promptly. Meeting adjourned at approx. 8:45. Next meeting: Holiday Party!  Thursday, Dec. 15.  Special Invited Guests include: Gov. John Baldacci, Rep. Mike Michaud, State Sen. Dennis Damon, Rep. Pingree, Schatz, and Koffman.