WORCESTER COUNTY — The Libertarian Party of Worcester County, set to help Libertarian candidates win election, recently took time out to usher a quadrupedal friend into “office,” according to a press release. On Sunday, Feb. 20, a North Quabbin contingent of the LPWC gathered in ceremony to proclaim “Greggie the hedgehog” Mascot of the LPWC.
Quilled animals, namely the hedgehog and porcupine, have served to symbolize this country’s half-century-old third party, which espouses individual freedom and nonaggression, yet a ready self-defense.
The fact that Greggie is actually a guinea pig who donned a hedgehog costume custom-made for the occasion did not detract from the majesty of the half-minute ceremony. Wearing a dark suit and bow tie, Charles Larkin, of Athol, read aloud from a scroll the proclamation inducting the “esteemed hedgehog … whose title and honor as Mascot shall be enjoyed fettered by neither term limit nor condition.” Should Greggie ever become unavailable to fulfill his duties, the more diminutive Elaine, also pictured in costume, has been designated to serve as his understudy, according to a provision.
Perched in the arms of pet owner and hostess, LPWC Secretary Vivian Eliza Nichols, formerly of Orange, the little jolly good fellows quietly looked on until the end of the ceremony, when they shed their regalia. Tea cups, cupcakes and two-thirds of a carrot were raised in a toast.
Human Libertarians wishing to connect with the greater Worcester affiliate may phone Larkin at 978-248-9899. Some of LPWC’s dozen members reside in the local towns of Athol, Petersham, Orange and Barre.
Members meet monthly, usually remotely, on first Thursday evenings.