The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
The Republicans gave their Henderson County Central Committee Chair - Charlie McChesney - a day he'll remember last Wednesday as party members (even some that weren't) gathered at the Crystal Lake Club outside Gulfport.
They came late afternoon to salute him for his leadership, commitment, and drive over the years.
Henderson County Central Committee Vice Chairman, Chuck Neff of Stronghurst conducted the salute to a man who had shared many talks with his father, the late C.E. Neff, one of the most respected State Representatives that served in Springfield.
Chuck said that Charlie was an inspiration to him as he watched and assisted him as Vice Chairman since his father died.
"My father had selected Charlie as Vice Chair, " Chuck said, "because he knew it would be left in good hands."
Senator Laura Kent Donahue talked of her mother, the late Mary Kent working with C. E. Neff before turning to Charlie and thanking him for keeping her in tune of what she needed to know in Henderson County.
"Route 34 wouldn't be where it is without your work," she told him. "And you spearheaded so many things."
Charlie, said of Senator Donahue: "You put your money where your mouth is - and I think that's what makes politics go.
State Representative Rich Myers said eight years ago when campaigning for this his job, he had a very tough race, but always remembers the support of Charlie and Henderson County.
"He's always out there letting me know the issues, and where I ought to be on them," he said.
Myers read a letter from Governor Ryan that told of all the work Charlie had done for this part of the state and for Illinois and gave his salute to him.
Neff presented Charlie with a gavel/plaque in appreciation for his years of service to the party. McChesney will retire in April as County Chair, but will always remain a supporter of the party.
McChesney, a little tearful yet with a grin, thanked his secretary, Barb Kidder, for all the help she had given him. "She is a democrat and a lot of you got your republican meeting notices from her," he said.
Neff said flowers that were purchased were to go to Charlie's wife, Edith for her support and it was mentioned how Charlie was also a key in getting the new Big River Bridge constructed and without toll.
"You will be receiving a letter from President Bush," Neff said, "for doing a good job for the Republicans on the National Committee."
McChesney thanked the many supporters who gathered on his behalf, told a few stories, and said he would still be around to help.
"I'm down, but I'm not out," he said, referring to his parakinesis.
The family are looking at some recently approved treatments by the FDA in hopes something can be done this spring to help improve his speaking ability.
Pictured at right top last Wednesday are:
Terry Avery and friends greeting McChesney.
At Crystal Lake Club near Gulfport March 13th, many gathered at a reception put on by Republicans to honor long-time Republican Henderson County Chairperson Charlie McChesney. McChesney faces retirement from the position after 18 years as chair and many before that as Vice Chair under Clarence Neff. Helping with the salute were Representative Rich Myers (above), and Senator Laura Kent Donahue and others who brought flowers, cards, and gifts. Myers is reading a letter of appreciation from Ill. Governor George Ryan. Chuck Neff and Tom Doran stand in the background.