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Republicans connect at dinner

JANELLE PATTERSON The Marietta Times Ohio Rep. Keith Faber, R-Celina, speaks on government efficiency and the need for locals to vote in all elections Tuesday at the annual spring Lincoln dinner held by the Washington County Republican Party.

Local elected officials joined with state officials and their representatives Tuesday to welcome approximately 175 local Republicans to the annual spring Lincoln dinner at the Marietta Shrine Club.

The crowd had originally gathered to see Jane Murphy Timken, the current chairwoman of the Ohio Republican Party but a last-minute change saw Timken in Washington D.C. and former state Senate president and now Rep. Keith Faber, R-Celina, as keynote speaker for the night.

“It’s still about fellowship tonight though and laughter and making acquaintances and meeting candidates,” said Washington County Republican Party Chairman Mike Webber. “Jane sent her apologies and we understood and we’re real happy that Keith’s experience in the senate gave us a smooth pathway for Frank Hoagland to get in the senate and we’re happy to connect with him here.”

Faber, spoke on efficient, effective and transparent government and how the most recent election can influence coming elections, including primaries next week.

“We’re moving in the right direction and the federal government needs to get out of the way of the states and allow for local governments to efficiently rule,” said Faber. “I encourage everyone to stay vigilant and involved in government at all levels. Local elections are just as important as national elections.”

Marietta City Council at-large candidates Stephen Harper, Austin James and Cindy Oxender all made an appearance, alongside third ward candidate Stan Lang.

“This evening’s dinner was a wonderful opportunity to talk with constituents about a variety of city issues and meet other legislators from the state,” said Oxender.

Many other elected officials, including Ohio Sen. Frank Hoagland, Fourth District Court Judge Matthew McFarland, Ohio Rep. Andy Thompson and county officials were also present.

But the group was also graced with visits from two Secretary of State hopefuls looking for support in the 2018 primary election: Ohio Rep. Dorothy Pelanda, R-Marysville, and Ohio Sen. Frank LaRose, R-Hudson.

“I still live on the farmland where I was raised and have been a champion of small business,” said Pelanda to the crowd.

Likewise, LaRose championed the position both are vying for as Ohio’s economic doorway. He also encouraged people to get out to vote, especially for primary elections like the one coming next week.

“But one the things I’m really passionate about is elections,” he said. “Just think, any of us that have ever supported a campaign, signed a petition, run for office or gotten involved in politics, have plotted to overthrow the government, albeit in a peaceful and lawful manner.”

All in all, between a silent auction, drinks, dinner, desert and company Leslie Haas, former chair of the county party, said the night was a success.

“People came to enjoy each other and meet the candidates and other officials at the state level and it’s gone well,” she said.

At a glance

≤ 175 people gathered Tuesday for the annual spring Lincoln dinner held by the Washington County Republican Party.

≤ Former state Senate president and now Rep. Keith Faber, R-Celina, served as keynote speaker for the night and announced his plans to run for state auditor in 2018.

Source: Times research.

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