(Bartow) --- Electorial and activist experience along with stability were the words to describe Monday evening's election to fill four vacant positions among the leadership of Polk County's Democratic Executive Committee.

Former Polk County School Board member Nancy Simmons of Winter Haven was elected as the organization's new chairperson. She replaces attorney and fellow Havenite Richard Blank, who resigned in September for personal reasons.

Replacing Carol Franklin as State Committeewoman will be Camille Wright-Rudici of Winter Haven. Only a member of the DEC since early this year, Ms. Wright-Rudici brings extensive activist experience within the party to the table. She has served in a variety of positions on the local and state level in Michigan and Nevada, including a stint as Secretary of the Nevada Democratic Party.

Christine Bush of Lakeland was elected as Secretary, replacing Barbara Stampfl, who resigned for health related reasons in August.

And Dr. Paul Anderson of Auburndale was elected Sergeant-At-Arms. The longtime member served as chairman of the Campaign Committee during the last two elections, and is currently chairman of the Issues and Events Committee.

To learn more about the Democratic Party and it's candidates, drop by campaign offices in Lakeland at 5351 South Florida Avenue in the Outback Steakhouse shopping center, and in Winter Haven at 223 Third Street, Southwest in the downtown area. You can also phone 298-9707 or 646-1250. Campaign signs and other related material is available at both locations.