Oquawka: On Sunday, Democrats enjoyed good weather, good food, and good attendance at their 49th Annual Henderson County Democrat Fish and Chicken Fry at Delabar State Park.
The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
by Dessa Rodeffer, Quill Publisher/Owner
Oquawka: On Sunday, Democrats enjoyed good weather, good food, and good attendance at their 49th Annual Henderson County Democrat Fish and Chicken Fry at Delabar State Park.
They also met Illinois State Comptroller Dan Haynes (D) running for the U.S. Senate, State Senator John Sullivan (D), Congressman Lane Evans (D). They also visited with local county board members Gail Russell (D), Marty Lafary (D), Hugh Pence (D), Mike Thompson (D), and County Chairman Marion Brown (D), Curt Eisenmayer (R), Barb Lumbeck (R), and Sheriff Mark Lumbeck (D).
Bill and Diane Brown of Carman who help their party organize the event, reported around 450-500 were in attendance.
Congressman Lane Evans who's attended the fry since 1982 when he was elected said Parkinson's Disease had slowed his walking, but he still knew which way to go.
"My fondest saying is I'd rather have RFD in a wheel chair than Ronald Reagan on a horse."
"Don't be afraid to call and ask us to help you. That's what we are there for," Evans said.
(see more on the fish fry next week)
Senator John Sullivan (D)
The Bob Russell Fish Frying Gang were interrupted by Illinois State Comptroller Dan Haynes (left front) and Congressman Lane Evans (seated right) who wished to thank them for the delicious fish and chicken they prepared as well as their years of service. County Precinct Chair Richard Bigger, Jr. (far back) joins in commending the fryers for their annual contribution to the party. Those helping above are: Ed Bailey (50 yrs.), Nile Olson (50), Bob Russell (50), Hugh Pence (50), Larry Russell (35), Dick Hopson (20), Linda Brownlee (30), young Linda Brownlee (20), Dee Holford (10), and first year helpers Ron Slawek, Jeff Noel, Scott Lox, and not pictured Josh Bigger.