Even in on “off year” the local party works to establish the funding and infrastructure for the next election cycle. It’s an opportunity to sustain connections and hear from candidates already working hard toward that next cycle. And it’s a chance to enjoy an afternoon of good company, good food, and fundraising for the cause.

Courtney Cole, Democratic Party candidate in the 121st Legislative District, speaking with Johnson County office holders.

A reminder e-mail sent out to local Democrats:

Festival of Soups — this Sunday, 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm, Warrensburg Community Center at Gay & Mitchell Streets.

Funds raised will be used for Democratic headquarters in 2010, and to support local candidates.

You won’t want to miss the delicious variety of soups (a dozen in all, from Italian wedding soup to Chinese hot & sour), the assortment of breads and muffins, the yummy desserts (15), or the opportunity to vote for your favorite soup and dessert (or the cook :-). We’ll have background music, good company, and comments by local candidates about 4 pm.

The silent auction features many household decorative items, from framed prints to quilts and political mugs that change from red to blue when heated. Bidding will close about 4 pm, and we’ll announce the buyers after brief political comments.

Doors open at 2:30 (please don’t come early unless you’re helping set up), and close at 5 pm. You are welcome to come late–there’s plenty of food, and the soups will be kept warm….

I had the good fortune to taste a variety of great cuisine and visit with old and new Democratic Party friends. I also spent some money on a couple of items at the silent auction.

A few college Democrats joined the quest for good food and politics.

Other good Democrats from Pettis and Lafayette Counties joined local folks at the event.