Lincoln Day event held in Palmyra

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by Mark Cheffey

The Marion County Republican Central Committee broke from tradition and held its annual Lincoln Day event in Palmyra Saturday.

More than 100 people attended the dinner and auction, a fund raiser for the committee at the American Legion Hall in Palmyra.

For the previous decade, the event has normally been held as a breakfast in Hannibal, but according to Larry Craig, committee chairperson, it was moved to Palmyra due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions at the regular venue.

“And, we wanted to allow Palmyra to be able to host it for a change,” said Craig, who indicated the Legion Hall provided a great place to hold it, and its location in the center of the county made it easier for all in Marion County to attend.

Besides enjoying a catered dinner, those attending heard from several office holders including District 5 State Rep. Louis Riggs, District 4 Rep. Greg Sharpe, 18th District Sen. Cindy O’Laughlin and Marion County Sheriff Jimmy Shinn, who served as the keynote speaker.

Yet, just as important to Craig was the chance for area Republicans to be under one roof.

“It’s great to be able to visit and share ideas,” Craig said.

This year’s Lincoln Day Dinner took on the theme of “Back the Blue” with extra meaning.

Special tribute was paid to law enforcement officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians, which was extra poignant considering the event was held on the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

“We also wanted to remember those who gave their lives in Afghanistan, including the 13 who died most recently,” Craig said.