Candidates for NC Democratic Party chair in Boone Friday

The two men running to be chairman of the North Carolina Democratic Party will appear and speak at the "Mid-Winter Meet 'n' Greet" hosted by the Watauga County Young Democrats Friday, Jan. 25, at Char restaurant in downtown Boone.

The event begins at 7 p.m. Admission will be $20 at the door. A cash bar will be available, as well as food from the Char restaurant menu.

Former state Sen. Eric Mansfield, who is a Navy veteran and a medical doctor, and Randy Voller, chairman of the Chatham County Democratic Party and mayor of Pittsboro, will speak about their competing visions for the state party.

The election of the new state party chair will be Saturday, Feb. 2, at the Durham Convention Center at the winter meeting of the state Executive Committee. Watauga County has four votes on that committee.

"This is a great opportunity for many of our young Democratic Party activists here to meet some rising stars from across the state, as well as mingle with some of our great veterans in state government," said Jocelyn Hunt, president of the Young Democrats.

County, district and statewide elected Democrats are also expected, including members of the North Carolina Council of State.

"This event is not just for young people," Hunt said. "We want all our good Democrats to come out and mingle."

The Young Democrats will honor some of their mentors in the local Democratic Party, as well as provide a chance for prospective candidates to network and test the waters.

Donors of $100 or more are invited to a prereception at a private residence where the Young Democrats will bestow their annual "Golden Donkey" award on the local Democrat who has most helped or inspired young people or who has offered an example of outstanding leadership in political activity.

For more information, email (Jocelyn@wataugadems.com)