It was an evening of fun and celebration for Starke County Democrats as they gathered together on Saturday, October 24th for the 2009 Jefferson Jackson Day Dinner. Candidates for state offices made an appearance asking for support in their quest for upcoming elections in 2010.
Local office holders and other Starke County Democrats were treated to an inspiring speech from 2nd District Congressman, Joe Donnelly. Thanking his many supporters in Starke County, Donnelly stressed the importance of supporting President Barack Obama. “He (President Obama) has inherited a myriad of problems facing our country; credit/banking crisis, a war, economic woes that have not been so critical since the depression, and a health care costs leaving millions of Americans without health care coverage…. only together can we resolve these issues,” Donnelly said.
Kenny Wallace, Chairman of the Starke County Democrat Party recognized Mrs. Sara Wright for her 50+ years of service with the Democrat Party. Mrs. Wright has volunteered as a precinct person, poll worker, Central Committee officer along with many other activities in the Party.
On a lighter note, the crowd was entertained with a friendly “roast” of State Representative Nancy Dembowski. Mike Lintner, CEO for Marshall Starke Development Center, sang a ballad to Representative Dembowski, crooning that Starke County’s gain has caused Nancy pain but her devotion to service has made Republicans nervous.” Other roasters included: Judge Marvin McLaughilin, Mark Smith, Linda Berndt, Becky Czarnecki, Jennifer Davis and Marcia Hayes.
Wallace was pleased with the evening’s activities. “It was a fun evening for everyone. I appreciate all of the work the committee did to make this so successful.” An auction capped off the evening raising more than $2,000 for the treasury.
Note: I’m still uploading pictures, I’ll post again when I have all of them uploaded. In the meantime, please enjoy the pictures from the Starke County JJ Dinner I have uploaded.
-- Richard June
