ILLINOIS GOVERNOR Pat Quinn (at left) and Josh Weger, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Southeast Regional Manager, talk about issues of the state and local government during his visit to Lawrence County on Saturday.

Governor visits Lawrence County

Brandy Wambeke - Reporter
October 29, 2009 - Bridgeport Leader

Democrats are ramping up efforts in Lawrence County. Governor Pat Quinn delivered the keynote speech at the annual Jefferson-Jackson dinner, which was held this past Saturday at the Central Christian Church Banquet Hall in Lawrenceville.

In addition, the Illinois Democratic County Chairman's Association President, Alan Pirtle, was also present. Joe Weger, chairman of the Democratic party of Lawrence County, and Jim Akers, vice-chairman of the local Democratic party were instrumental in organizing the event with great success. When asked what all was involved in coordinating such a major event, Joe Weger modestly said, ''there were many of us who worked very hard on this.''

The event began with Agnes Robinson leading the Pledge of Alliegance. Joe Weger then recognized and individually thanked the committee personnel. He also recognized Mayor Guite of St. Francisville, Mayor Heather Blasingame of Russellville and Mayor Brian Straub of Lawrenceville. Laughter broke out when Weger said ''we have an enemy among us'' and recognized Charles Gillespie as someone that he very much enjoys working with on the U.S. Rt. 50 Coalition.

Many more people were recognized, some of which were county board members and Sheriff Russell Adams. Weger boasted on County Treasurer Mark Carrithers by letting everyone know that the records show the treasurer's office is under budget and adding that he will be running for re-election. He recognized Lawrence County State's Attorney Lisa Wade and didn't leave out the fact that Wade beat out the Republican incumbent.

Weger then introduced Mike Bolin, the state representative for eight terms from Rock Island County (Quad City area) as a Lt. Governor candidate. Bolin introduced himself and said he grew up in a low-income family and paid his way through college to become a school teacher of 30 years in public schools.

He was one of the founders of the Citizens Utility Board (CUB), the largest consumer advocacy group in the state of Illinois. During his ten years of volunteer service on the CUB board, consumers won billions of dollars in rebates, refunds, and defeats of outrageous utility rate hikes

Bolin spoke about the Illinois Military Family Relief Fund Act which he is the original sponsor of. He was also the lead sponsor of legislation that created the Veteran's scratch off lottery ticket which helps fund Veterans programs in Illinois. He spoke on the Green Buildings Act which is legislation that will lower energy use, fight global warming, and save tax dollars.

A good example of the many topics he talked about legislation he passed which involves replacing incandescent light bulbs in all State Buildings with florescent Energy Star bulbs. This saves tax dollars and directly impacts against high and rising electric rates.

Another example involves the purchase of all vehicles purchased by the State of Illinois. They must now be hybrids, bio-diesels, or flex-fuel. This legislation has already resulted in the purchase of hybrid vehicles, helping to save tax dollars, while fighting global warming and climate change.

Another important piece of information was that all green jobs are to be union labor. From topics such as green economy, education, wind energy, job creation and much more, Bolin has worked hard on many issues and succeeded with getting legislation passed time after time.

Joe Turner then took to the podium in representation of brother, State Representative Arthur Turner, as a candidate for Lt. Governor who could not attend the event. Turner let everyone know that his brother has 29 years of service in the House. Arthur Turner is Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and represents the Ninth Legislative District.

He made mention that Turner focuses on the needs of not just his constituents, but of all Illinoisans. He has chaired the Housing Committee, served as Vice-Chair of the Higher Education Committee and worked as a member of the Labor and Commerce, Energy and Environment, Consumer Protection and Insurance Committees.

He also emphasized how Turner has reached across the aisles and has shown to have no problems working with Republicans.

Another key note is that he has a real life understanding of small businesses and small business owners. In reflection and honor of his commitment and hard work, Turner has received numerous public service and civic awards.

Weger then proceeded to introduce the next guest as the best U.S. Congress candidate, Dr. David Gill. Dr. Gill introduced himself as an Emergency Room Doctor out of Bloomington, Ill. Before speaking on his topics, he asked everyone to give a round of applause for the people who prepared the dinner. He has been a doctor for 20 years and said he personally bears witness to the problems in the health care system. He said that he has seen the pain in mothers' eyes who can't afford the medical care they wish for their children. He also gave an example of a man in his mid-30s who died of a heart attack. He had been suffering from chest pains days prior, however didn't seek medical care because he didn't think he could afford it.

Dr. Gill stated that he was not born into wealth. He began working in his early teen years and has been every since, putting himself through college and medical school. He has a very informative and common sense take on a universal health care plan that he would work for making a reality.

He has been a member of Physicians for a National Health Program for the last 17 years. The plan endorsed by this group and 126 members of Congress calls for universal coverage for all Americans.

The program would cover all medically necessary services, from primary care to dentistry and everything in-between. Patients would also have their choice of physicians, providers, hospitals, clinics, and practices. It is a single-payer insurance plan that saves money by cutting down on HMO and insurance industry profits and overhead expenses. It is stressed that the plan is not socialized medicine, therefore the Federal Government would not dictate how medicine is practiced. The plan would cost businesses no more than a five percent payroll tax. Currently, business owners pay an average of 8.5 percent of payroll salaries for employee health care plans and small businesses can pay up to 25 percent of payroll expenses. It is much less expensive for individuals. A two percent tax paid by individuals would cost the average family approximately $1000 per year. This would mean big savings for Americans on quality healthcare.

Dr. Gill spoke on other topics such as speaking out against invading Iraq, global warming as a problem that needs address, green technology and education. He also informed everyone that he does not take money from lobbyists.

Carol Steinman, the regional superintendent of schools, spoke briefly and thanked Governor Quinn for making it possible to get the education grants back up to around 90percent. She also spoke in some detail of the importance of education.

Alan Pirtle, the Illinois Democratic County Chairman's Association President, attended the dinner for the first time. He thanked everyone for support and efforts for the Democratic Party. He stated that the democrats represent the working families, the disadvantaged and the disabled. He said, ''We will win in November, because we have to. After the primaries, we will come together and stand behind our candidates. Remain united, stay positive, work hard, know why we work hard and win.''

Nearing the close of the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner event, Josh Weger took to the podium to announce the lifetime achievement awards. He eloquently spoke when honoring three individuals. He began by stating the three people were different in many ways. He described one as a trailblazing businessman and philanthropist. Another was described as a tireless working class champion and the third as a life-long public servant and political leader. He said ''But they all have two things in common, they're all true Democrats and Lawrence County is a much better place because of them''.

Weger announced the first recipient of the Democratic Party of Lawrence County's Lifetime Achievement Award as Frank Ladner. He stated that Ladner is one of the pioneering forces behind the Golden Rule Insurance Company. Golden Rule has been and continues to be one of the largest employers in Lawrence County. He said ''Throughout their lives Frank and his wife Julia have been enormously generous in support of efforts to improve the community and the quality of life in Lawrence County''. The Lawrence County Medical Center, the Lawrenceville hospital's state-of-the-art emergency room, the new Lawrence County Vocational-Technical Training Center, are just a few of the many assets the community would not have if it were not for Mr. and Mrs. Ladner.

Frank Ladner serves as chairman of the Bi-State Authority, the governing board of Mid-America Airport. Josh stated that Ladner recognizes the economic potential of the airport and has been working hard to bring that potential to life to bring more good jobs to the community.

The second recipient of the Democratic Party of Lawrence County's Lifetime Achievement Award was Harold Benson. Weger informed everyone that Benson worked all his life at the Texaco refinery in Lawrenceville. He was an active member of the refinery's union, the Oil, Chemical & Atomic Workers union. Eventually, he became chairman of the union's bargaining committee, and later became president of the union. He has served in local government his whole life as a die-hard Democrat. He was a school board member for 22 years. During that same time, he spent 28 consecutive years (seven terms) as the Russell Township Supervisor. He was also a Lawrence County Board member for many years and served as board chairmen for several years until he retired. He has been active in his church his whole life at Allison Prairie Church of the Bretheren. When asked, Benson agreed to assume responsibility for Russell Township during the 2008 state's attorney race. He knocked on doors, made phone calls, distributed fliers, and put out signs. When the votes came in, the state's attorney candidate Lisa Wade had received 70percentof the vote in Russell Township, which was her widest victory margin in the county.

Benson has been a key player in that fight for justice for the union workers of the refinery who tragically died from asbestosis. He is still fighting to this day to help widows get the benefits they deserve from their husbands' wrongful deaths. Weger said ''He has spent his entire life helping others. He is a true champion for working class people and families''.

Judge Philip Benefiel was the final recipient of the Democratic Party of Lawrence County's Lifetime Achievement Award. Josh informatively mentioned some of Judge Phil Benefiel's successes beginning in 1948 when Judge Benefiel was elected state's attorney. In 1958, he became the Lawrence County Democratic Party Chairman and was a driving force behind George Shipley's election to congress. In 1964, Judge Benefiel was elected to the Illinois State Senate. The next year, he received the state's outstanding legislator award. In 1968, Senator Benefiel was appointed an associate judge of the 2nd judicial circuit. In 1970, Judge Benefiel was elected outright as Judge of the 2nd judicial circuit. In 1971, he founded the Cra-Wa-La youth probation alternatives program. In 1975, he was elected by his fellow judges as the Chief Judge of the 2nd judicial circuit. Later that year, he was also elected by his fellow judges as President of the Illinois Judges Association.

Weger said ''Judge Benefiel is a giant figure in Lawrence County politics; when he talks, people listen. There's a reason for that. He is known throughout every corner of Lawrence County as a man who gave the people of Lawrence County and in fact all of Southeastern Illinois four decades of honest, decent, ethical public service as a party leader, a prosecutor, a state legislator, and as a judge.'' At 86 years old, Judge Benefiel is one of the party's most active and effective precinct committeemen and intends to run for re-election as Democratic precinct committeeman in 2010.

Joe Weger began to finalize the event and expressed how great it was to have Governor Quinn, Alan Pirtle, David Gill, Mike Boland and Joe Turner to make the trip to Lawrence County for this Year's Jefferson-Jackson Dinner. The event was finished up with door prize drawings and items that were auctioned. In closing, Weger quoted the Iowa Governor, Chet Culver and said ''Politics are like driving a car, you put it in D and go forward or you put it in R and go backwards''.by Brandy Wambeke

Democrats are ramping up efforts in Lawrence County. Governor Pat Quinn delivered the keynote speech at the annual Jefferson-Jackson dinner, which was held this past Saturday at the Central Christian Church Banquet Hall in Lawrenceville.

In addition, the Illinois Democratic County Chairman's Association President, Alan Pirtle, was also present. Joe Weger, chairman of the Democratic party of Lawrence County, and Jim Akers, vice-chairman of the local Democratic party were instrumental in organizing the event with great success. When asked what all was involved in coordinating such a major event, Joe Weger modestly said, ''there were many of us who worked very hard on this.''

The event began with Agnes Robinson leading the Pledge of Alliegance. Joe Weger then recognized and individually thanked the committee personnel. He also recognized Mayor Guite of St. Francisville, Mayor Heather Blasingame of Russellville and Mayor Brian Straub of Lawrenceville. Laughter broke out when Weger said ''we have an enemy among us'' and recognized Charles Gillespie as someone that he very much enjoys working with on the U.S. Rt. 50 Coalition.

Many more people were recognized, some of which were county board members and Sheriff Russell Adams. Weger boasted on County Treasurer Mark Carrithers by letting everyone know that the records show the treasurer's office is under budget and adding that he will be running for re-election. He recognized Lawrence County State's Attorney Lisa Wade and didn't leave out the fact that Wade beat out the Republican incumbent.

Weger then introduced Mike Bolin, the state representative for eight terms from Rock Island County (Quad City area) as a Lt. Governor candidate. Bolin introduced himself and said he grew up in a low-income family and paid his way through college to become a school teacher of 30 years in public schools.

He was one of the founders of the Citizens Utility Board (CUB), the largest consumer advocacy group in the state of Illinois. During his ten years of volunteer service on the CUB board, consumers won billions of dollars in rebates, refunds, and defeats of outrageous utility rate hikes

Bolin spoke about the Illinois Military Family Relief Fund Act which he is the original sponsor of. He was also the lead sponsor of legislation that created the Veteran's scratch off lottery ticket which helps fund Veterans programs in Illinois. He spoke on the Green Buildings Act which is legislation that will lower energy use, fight global warming, and save tax dollars.

A good example of the many topics he talked about legislation he passed which involves replacing incandescent light bulbs in all State Buildings with florescent Energy Star bulbs. This saves tax dollars and directly impacts against high and rising electric rates.

Another example involves the purchase of all vehicles purchased by the State of Illinois. They must now be hybrids, bio-diesels, or flex-fuel. This legislation has already resulted in the purchase of hybrid vehicles, helping to save tax dollars, while fighting global warming and climate change.

Another important piece of information was that all green jobs are to be union labor. From topics such as green economy, education, wind energy, job creation and much more, Bolin has worked hard on many issues and succeeded with getting legislation passed time after time.

Joe Turner then took to the podium in representation of brother, State Representative Arthur Turner, as a candidate for Lt. Governor who could not attend the event. Turner let everyone know that his brother has 29 years of service in the House. Arthur Turner is Deputy Majority Leader of the House of Representatives and represents the Ninth Legislative District.

He made mention that Turner focuses on the needs of not just his constituents, but of all Illinoisans. He has chaired the Housing Committee, served as Vice-Chair of the Higher Education Committee and worked as a member of the Labor and Commerce, Energy and Environment, Consumer Protection and Insurance Committees.

He also emphasized how Turner has reached across the aisles and has shown to have no problems working with Republicans.

Another key note is that he has a real life understanding of small businesses and small business owners. In reflection and honor of his commitment and hard work, Turner has received numerous public service and civic awards.

Weger then proceeded to introduce the next guest as the best U.S. Congress candidate, Dr. David Gill. Dr. Gill introduced himself as an Emergency Room Doctor out of Bloomington, Ill. Before speaking on his topics, he asked everyone to give a round of applause for the people who prepared the dinner. He has been a doctor for 20 years and said he personally bears witness to the problems in the health care system. He said that he has seen the pain in mothers' eyes who can't afford the medical care they wish for their children. He also gave an example of a man in his mid-30s who died of a heart attack. He had been suffering from chest pains days prior, however didn't seek medical care because he didn't think he could afford it.

Dr. Gill stated that he was not born into wealth. He began working in his early teen years and has been every since, putting himself through college and medical school. He has a very informative and common sense take on a universal health care plan that he would work for making a reality.

He has been a member of Physicians for a National Health Program for the last 17 years. The plan endorsed by this group and 126 members of Congress calls for universal coverage for all Americans.

The program would cover all medically necessary services, from primary care to dentistry and everything in-between. Patients would also have their choice of physicians, providers, hospitals, clinics, and practices. It is a single-payer insurance plan that saves money by cutting down on HMO and insurance industry profits and overhead expenses. It is stressed that the plan is not socialized medicine, therefore the Federal Government would not dictate how medicine is practiced. The plan would cost businesses no more than a five percent payroll tax. Currently, business owners pay an average of 8.5 percent of payroll salaries for employee health care plans and small businesses can pay up to 25 percent of payroll expenses. It is much less expensive for individuals. A two percent tax paid by individuals would cost the average family approximately $1000 per year. This would mean big savings for Americans on quality healthcare.

Dr. Gill spoke on other topics such as speaking out against invading Iraq, global warming as a problem that needs address, green technology and education. He also informed everyone that he does not take money from lobbyists.

Carol Steinman, the regional superintendent of schools, spoke briefly and thanked Governor Quinn for making it possible to get the education grants back up to around 90percent. She also spoke in some detail of the importance of education.

Alan Pirtle, the Illinois Democratic County Chairman's Association President, attended the dinner for the first time. He thanked everyone for support and efforts for the Democratic Party. He stated that the democrats represent the working families, the disadvantaged and the disabled. He said, ''We will win in November, because we have to. After the primaries, we will come together and stand behind our candidates. Remain united, stay positive, work hard, know why we work hard and win.''

Nearing the close of the Jefferson-Jackson Dinner event, Josh Weger took to the podium to announce the lifetime achievement awards. He eloquently spoke when honoring three individuals. He began by stating the three people were different in many ways. He described one as a trailblazing businessman and philanthropist. Another was described as a tireless working class champion and the third as a life-long public servant and political leader. He said ''But they all have two things in common, they're all true Democrats and Lawrence County is a much better place because of them''.

Weger announced the first recipient of the Democratic Party of Lawrence County's Lifetime Achievement Award as Frank Ladner. He stated that Ladner is one of the pioneering forces behind the Golden Rule Insurance Company. Golden Rule has been and continues to be one of the largest employers in Lawrence County. He said ''Throughout their lives Frank and his wife Julia have been enormously generous in support of efforts to improve the community and the quality of life in Lawrence County''. The Lawrence County Medical Center, the Lawrenceville hospital's state-of-the-art emergency room, the new Lawrence County Vocational-Technical Training Center, are just a few of the many assets the community would not have if it were not for Mr. and Mrs. Ladner.

Frank Ladner serves as chairman of the Bi-State Authority, the governing board of Mid-America Airport. Josh stated that Ladner recognizes the economic potential of the airport and has been working hard to bring that potential to life to bring more good jobs to the community.

The second recipient of the Democratic Party of Lawrence County's Lifetime Achievement Award was Harold Benson. Weger informed everyone that Benson worked all his life at the Texaco refinery in Lawrenceville. He was an active member of the refinery's union, the Oil, Chemical & Atomic Workers union. Eventually, he became chairman of the union's bargaining committee, and later became president of the union. He has served in local government his whole life as a die-hard Democrat. He was a school board member for 22 years. During that same time, he spent 28 consecutive years (seven terms) as the Russell Township Supervisor. He was also a Lawrence County Board member for many years and served as board chairmen for several years until he retired. He has been active in his church his whole life at Allison Prairie Church of the Bretheren. When asked, Benson agreed to assume responsibility for Russell Township during the 2008 state's attorney race. He knocked on doors, made phone calls, distributed fliers, and put out signs. When the votes came in, the state's attorney candidate Lisa Wade had received 70percentof the vote in Russell Township, which was her widest victory margin in the county.

Benson has been a key player in that fight for justice for the union workers of the refinery who tragically died from asbestosis. He is still fighting to this day to help widows get the benefits they deserve from their husbands' wrongful deaths. Weger said ''He has spent his entire life helping others. He is a true champion for working class people and families''.

Judge Philip Benefiel was the final recipient of the Democratic Party of Lawrence County's Lifetime Achievement Award. Josh informatively mentioned some of Judge Phil Benefiel's successes beginning in 1948 when Judge Benefiel was elected state's attorney. In 1958, he became the Lawrence County Democratic Party Chairman and was a driving force behind George Shipley's election to congress. In 1964, Judge Benefiel was elected to the Illinois State Senate. The next year, he received the state's outstanding legislator award. In 1968, Senator Benefiel was appointed an associate judge of the 2nd judicial circuit. In 1970, Judge Benefiel was elected outright as Judge of the 2nd judicial circuit. In 1971, he founded the Cra-Wa-La youth probation alternatives program. In 1975, he was elected by his fellow judges as the Chief Judge of the 2nd judicial circuit. Later that year, he was also elected by his fellow judges as President of the Illinois Judges Association.

Weger said ''Judge Benefiel is a giant figure in Lawrence County politics; when he talks, people listen. There's a reason for that. He is known throughout every corner of Lawrence County as a man who gave the people of Lawrence County and in fact all of Southeastern Illinois four decades of honest, decent, ethical public service as a party leader, a prosecutor, a state legislator, and as a judge.'' At 86 years old, Judge Benefiel is one of the party's most active and effective precinct committeemen and intends to run for re-election as Democratic precinct committeeman in 2010.

Joe Weger began to finalize the event and expressed how great it was to have Governor Quinn, Alan Pirtle, David Gill, Mike Boland and Joe Turner to make the trip to Lawrence County for this Year's Jefferson-Jackson Dinner. The event was finished up with door prize drawings and items that were auctioned. In closing, Weger quoted the Iowa Governor, Chet Culver and said ''Politics are like driving a car, you put it in D and go forward or you put it in R and go backwards''.

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