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The Blair County Democratic Committee has filled most of its executive positions but is still looking for a sergeant-at-arms.
Gillian Kratzer, who was elected for a second term as chairwoman, said she is hoping to fill the position before or at the committee's July 9 meeting. The sergeant-at-arms is responsible for maintaining order at meetings.
"I'm really hoping to find a woman to fill that role," Kratzer said. "We have a lot of men on our executive board right now. I'm absolutely thrilled by all of their help and all of their expertise. But it's important to us to make sure we have a diversity of voices in the room."
The committee elected Kratzer as chair at its June 11 meeting. Members also elected Ned Kratzer as 79th District vice chair and Leslie Long as 80th District vice chair.
"Civic engagement is essential to the survival of our democracy," Long said. "It's really exciting to see so many people passionate about getting involved."
Tom Patterson was nominated as treasurer, Josh Aboud as recording secretary, Jason Imler as parliamentarian, Tim Miller as labor representative, Donna Cohen as Blair County Federation of Democratic Women representative, Frank Rosenhoover as state committee member and Ryan Showers as corresponding secretary.
Gillian Kratzer said the committee has a "really solid executive team" this year that is dedicated to filling vacant committee seats and recruiting for Democratic candidates.
"I think having people in your local community working toward electing people in office, bottom up is one of the most important things in politics," Gillian Kratzer said. "This year, I'm especially excited to have a number of people who worked in committee seats decide they wanted to take a step in those positions."
She pointed out that this year, there are more Democratic candidates vying for seats, referring to the 80th House, 30th Senate and 13th Congress positions. Gillian Kratzer said she feels more people from her party are getting involved because to the "political turmoil" from the current administration.
She also wished the new Republican committee members "best of luck."
Those interested in the sergeant-at-arms position, can call 505-4546 or email chair@blairdems.org.
Mirror Staff Writer Shen Wu Tan is at 946-7457.