It is true that membership has its privileges.

Elected officials scored big Thursday night in the selection of Democratic delegates in Congressional district caucuses held in St. Louis.

In the First Congressional district caucus, four of the five members of a slate backed by Congressman Lacy Clay won spots to represent Barack Obama at the National Democratic Convention in August.

First Ward Committeewoman Yaphett El-Amin, 5th Ward Alderman April Ford-Griffin, Creve Coeur Committeeman Burton Boxerman, and Clay’s own chief of staff, Darryl Piggee all won delegate spots. But the final spot went to one of Obama’s most dedicated St. Louis volunteers.

Jennifer Haro calls 2008 “the best year of her life.” She was was so inspired by Senator Barack Obama that she quit her job as a marketing analyst to volunteer full-time with campaign. If you ever inquired about volunteering with the Obama campaign before the Missouri primary, you probably got a call from Jennifer.

Jennifer’s donation of countless hours of her time and energy (not to mention more than $4,000 in cash) was rewarded Thursday when she was elected to be one of five people — and arguably the only “regular person” — to represent the 1st Congressional District at the Convention in Denver.

Haro beat out several elected officials for the coveted spot, including State Rep. Robin Wright-Jones, Committeewoman Mattie Moore, and County Council-member Hazel Erby.

In the 3rd Congressional District caucus, in south St. Louis, things were a little different. Youthful energy won the day.

Sixth Ward Alderman Kacie Starr Triplett, the city’s youngest elected official, and college student Matt Adler beat out Democratic Chairman Brian Wahby and former Clayton Mayor Ben Uchitelle.

Jefferson County Committeewoman Tammy Vent was elected as the third delegate.

Perhaps we’ll report more on the chaotic and very long (3 and a half hours) 1st District meeting Friday after we get some rest. But if you attended, feel free to share your stories in the comments section.