LACONIA - The promise of a chance to participate in a conference call with former Governor Jeanne Shaheen, an evening of inspirational speeches, and free pizza attracted a group of about twenty people to a Convention Watch Party at the Laconia House of Pizza last evening.

"We'd originally hoped to hear Gov. Shaheen speak at the convention," said Jon Arsenault, a Shaheen supporter in attendance.  "But the schedule was changed and she won't be appearing until Wednesday."

"I don't think anyone was terribly disappointed in the change of schedule," said Ron Tunning, Chair of the Laconia Democratic Party. "People are pretty excited about hearing Hillary's speech."

Similar events were held across the state despite the change in convention plans.  "There's a lot of enthusiasm among voters right now," observed Rep. Beth Arsenault of Laconia, who was accompanied to the party by two of her sons.  "Everyone's been waiting for the convention for what seems like forever.  For those of us in New Hampshire who voted over seven months ago it's been a long wait."

A group of dedicated Democrats gathered Tuesday evening for a Convention Watch Party at the Laconia House of Pizza on Union Avenue that was hosted by the Shaheen for Senate campaign.

Several more Convention Watch Parties are scheduled throughout the area for Thursday night when Senator Barack Obama is scheduled to deliver his acceptance speech at Invesco Field at Mile High in Denver.  "Since we can't all be there with the 70,000 people who are expected to attend, the next best thing is to watch the event with family and friends," Tunning said.  "We're all going to be working together over the next couple of months to insure Barack Obama is elected."