“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” Mt. 10:16.
On Saturday, May 6th, the COS Maryland team held their annual strategy session at the Mission BBQ in Ellicot City. Over twenty citizen activists were in attendance both in-person and online, including State Director Michael Rilee, State Communications Coordinator Maria Bedard, State Grassroots Coordinator Paul Macri, State Information Analyst Bob Betz, and many other district captains and volunteers.
Several members of the National team were also present, including Regional Director Monica Sellers and veteran Maryland COS’er Steve Patten.
After a meet-and-greet with both new and familiar faces, a prayer was conducted to ask for guidance and blessing from GOD, followed by the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance. Mike Rilee then spent a few minutes reviewing the successes and challenges of the previous year, including the legislative session in Annapolis.
Maria Bedard was then given the (figurative) microphone, and handed out several awards and honors to patriots who went above and beyond, including Jim McQueen and Mary Jane Perraut, who between them gathered several hundred petition signatures. A new award was also revealed in the form of the Convention of States challenge coin!
After a break for lunch, provided by the restaurant, the meeting was renewed with the Battle Rhythm and 2024 Legislative Strategy, two tactics that give the COS team an activist map and steps to follow for gathering signatures, recruiting volunteers, attending events, and of course, convincing legislators to pass the COS resolution in the General Assembly.
Next came a brainstorming session led by Paul Macri about the most important aspect of COS: the grassroots! Everyone had input on how to reach out to potential new Article V supporters and building the activist army, especially regarding veterans, schools, under-30 groups, and the Eastern Shore.
After a short break, the group heard a National message from none other than Mark Meckler, who gave an encouraging and inspirational message, and commended the Maryland team for all they’d accomplished over the year.
After a recap of the Battle Rhythm and plans for the year ahead, the meeting was concluded, and the 20 patriots dispersed once more to the four corners of Maryland, eager and revitalized to get their state across the COS finish line!
Strategy meetings such as this are extremely important to the Patriot Cause, because not only do they provide vital information for future battles and campaigns, but they can also bring encouragement, recognition of achievement, and a feeling of unity and camaraderie with people who all share the common goal of preserving liberty and self-governance.
Millions of Americans share these goals all across the country. If you want to join their ranks, sign the petition and get involved in Convention of States!
