By Ron VandenBoom
Brian Schweitzer, former Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, will be the keynote speaker this Saturday during the annual Democratic Woman's Club dinner.
The annual fund-raising event will start at 5 p.m. with a cocktail hour at the VFW Club in Havre. The dinner is set to start at 6 p.m.
Schweitzer was born in Havre and raised on a farm near Goldstone north of Rudyard. His parents later moved their farming operation to a location near Geyser.
Schweitzer, who had not been active in politics before, became a nationally known figure in Democratic circles during the last campaign due to his much publicized push for a national prescription drug benefit plan for senior citizens. His organization of bus trips to Canada to obtain cheaper prescription drugs for seniors made state wide and national news.
Schweitzer's high energy level and exuberance for the issues almost upset two-term Republican Senator Conrad Burns during the 2000 U.S. Senate race.
Local Democratic legislators Sen. Jon Tester of Big Sandy, Rep. John Musgrove of Havre, Sen. Greg Jergeson of Chinook, and Rep. Matt MaCann of Harlem also are scheduled to present reports on the recently concluded 57th Legislature at the dinner.
A Republican Auction will also be held to raise funds for the party.
Tickets for the dinner are $12 and can be obtained at the door or from any Woman's Club member. Tickets also can be obtained by calling 265-4908 or 265-1009.
