A large group of Jefferson County's most dedicated Democrats gathered at Judi Butz' house in Wheat Ridge on the evening of Friday, Dec. 28 for the annual Champagne and Chocolates fundraiser.

It wasn't ALL chocolate; there were some vegetables, sausage, cheese and crackers, too, for those who hadn't had dinner yet (or who were, for some reason, watching their calories). For the nibbling, there was everything from chocolate-covered cherries to chocolate cake to truffles to gluten-free brownies (which suited this writer perfectly!) to a veritable styrofoam tree stuck with dozens of chocolate-covered strawberries! There were also wraps, cookies and corn chips just for variety.

Heated political discussions abounded throughout the evening, and so did smiles. The event was attended by elected officials, as well as supporters. In attendance were Ed Perlmutter, Colorado's 7th Congressional District Representative; Cheri Jahn, Colorado Representative from House District 24; Sara Gagliardi, Colorado State District 27 Representative; Colorado State Senator from District 21, Betty Boyd; Former Jefferson County Democrats' Chairman Cal Johnston; as well as current Chair, Dick Barkey. Linda Rockwell, newly elected House District 25 Chair, was also circulating during the evening.

If you'd like to join the fun and participate with the Jefferson County Democrats, they are a welcoming group. There are numerous activities coming up in the next few months, including the monthly Second Saturday Breakfasts (The meeting on Jan. 12 will teach people how to participate in the caucus process), and the annual Italian Feast fundraiser on Jan. 26 at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, which honors local Democrats, and features great food and entertainment. More information can be found on the Jefferson County Democrats' Web site, www.jeffcodems.org.