I stopped by the first Vermont meeting of those interested in seeing U.S. Sen. Barack Obama run for president last night. I was interested in seeing how many people were interested.

About 25 turned out, much to the surprise of organizer Zephyr Teachout, the young Vermont lawyer who helped create Howard Dean's presidential Internet presence. She thought maybe five would show up and they'd have a cozy little discussion about how to get started.

It was a surprise to owners of the Euro Gourmet Cafe too, who had no idea the event was being held there but were nonetheless efficient and gracious in serving Pilsner Urquells and panini sandwiches.

The group was a mix of those all ready to leap on the Obama bandwagon and those curious about the charismatic up-and-comer but wondering whether he's really the perfect candidate or if he tends to vote pro-establishment.

Participants filled out Vermont-scene postcards, to be sent to Obama, urging him to run. Dear Barack: See the wintery scene on the front of this card? It's December and 50 degrees, no snow on the ground, and we're wondering if our picture postcard future is dead. Can you help? I don't know if anyone actually wrote that, but it seemed viable.

There will be more such meetings - perhaps once a month, as the group is looking to raise about $100 for a draft Obama campaign.

Anybody out there looking to draft anybody else? Is Obama the commonsense, charismatic leader many assume he is?

- Terri Hallenbeck