Lyons Township Democrats celebrate public support at annual fundraiser

Officials of the Lyons Township Democratic Organization celebrated their growing public support at a fundraiser Thursday at the American Legion Hall in La Grange.

Lyons Township Democratic Committeeman Steve Landek and Township Supervisor Christopher Getty welcomed the attendees at the event, which was themed to celebrate the annual Kentucky Derby, which was held the same weekend.

Landek and Getty praised the organization’s effort to support Democratic candidates and causes and noted the dozens of elected officials from across the township and region who attended as an example of “our ability to serve the public’s interest.”

“We had a very good election night on April 1st, wasn’t it first? And we carried a lot of local people. A lot of us were all elected. It shows you, the organization, that we didn’t go out as Democrats. We just worked hard for the people because that’s what we do. That’s why our Democratic Party exists to deliver services to the people. And that makes a big, big difference,” Landek said, noting the local election victories contrasted the national party’s loss in the presidential elections last November.

“You can’t beat that service that you give to the people. And that’s what Democrats, especially in Lyons Township, are noted for doing. So, thank you because without you, none of this happens.”

Getty thanked the Township Democrats for their “hard work” and “dedication” to the goals of the organization.

“We had resounding success last month, just one month ago today, whether it was a mayor, trustees, the township slate, the school board slates at the high school level, at the local elementary level, we saw success across our region,” Getty said.

“This is a tribute to each and every one in this room. The people that work all year round, they don’t just come out when it’s election time. They work all year round in their jobs and their various duties. And we appreciate, and we thank you for that.”

Village of Lyons President and Lyons Township Supervisor Chris Getty

Getty praised the work of State Senator Mike Porfirio and Township Clerk Elyse Hoffenberg, who both addressed the gathering, and he acknowledged a list of officeholders who attended both from the organization and from neighboring organizations.

“Congratulations to the Lyons Township Democratic Party Committeeman Steve Landeck, Supervisor Chris Getty, Clerk Elyse Hoffenberg, Assessor Pat Hines, our team of trustees, and our new trustees. Congratulations to all the mayors and public servants here tonight,” Porfirio said, noting it has been the organizations mission to recognize that providing “good government” is “good politics.”

“That includes delivering service to people. Giving good government for the people, by the people is what people want. They want a return on their tax dollars. They want investment in their community. We are hard workers. We roll up our sleeves. We’re public servants. We work and fight for our communities. It’s my honor to be part of the organization. Keep charging.”

Bridgeview Mayor and Lyons Democratic Committeeman Steve Landek

Hoffenberg thanked the officials and guests and introduced the Township officials.

“Thank you for all the candidates and the elected officials who grace us with our presence tonight. It’s so nice to see you. It’s so good to come together. Everybody looks fabulous. So let’s give a round of applause for everybody here. Thank you for coming.” Hoffenberg said before introducing all of the Township’s officials and trustees.

Assessor Patrick Hynes thanked the attendees for their support and announced his plans to run for the position of Countywide Assessor in next year’s Democratic primary contest.

“I love fighting to make sure that they get a fair shake in the county tax system. And I wouldn’t have the chance to pursue my vocation, my love, without everyone here in this room. I wouldn’t be anywhere without the support of Lyons Democrats,” Hynes said, announcing his plans to run for the countywide Assessor’s position.

Attendees at the annual fundraiser also included County Commissioner Frank Aguilar, Judge Koula Fournier, Judge Patrick Heery, Judge Michael Chvatal, Mayor Mark Kuchlar of La Grange, Mayor Sergio Rodriguez of Summit, Mayor Sean McDermott of Countryside, MWRD Commissioner’s Teresa Flynn, Beth Kirkwood, Yolanda Brown, Judge Phillip Fowler, and Cameron Davis, who all joined in celebrating the annual Kentucky Derby that followed the same weekend.

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