GOP fundraiser celebrates Lincoln, Oregon birthdays

Gazette-Times, COMMUNITY, February 10, 2009

Republicans in Linn and Benton counties are planning a celebration of two birthdays on Saturday, March 14: the 200th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln (Feb. 12, 1809 to April 15, 1865); and Oregon’s 150th birthday, Feb. 14, 1859. The event is scheduled to take place at the Teen Challenge Willamette Valley Training Center, 31700 Fayetteville Drive in Shedd. The public is invited. The event includes the presentation of the colors and the Pledge of Allegiance and the Star Spangled Banner, with a social hour at 5 p.m. followed by a sitdown dinner with a choice of entrée, beverage and dessert. The Teen Challenge Choir will perform patriotic music and auctioneer Reece Hrizuk will preside over verbal and silent auctions. Reece will be assisted by Miss Oregon USA and Miss Oregon Teen USA.

U.S. Rep. Greg Walden and Oregon House Republican leader Bruce Hanna will be the honorary speakers.

Tickets are $30 a person or $225 for a table of eight. RSVPs are needed by March 6 because seating is limited. Donations of items for auction are being accepted through March 1. The event is a fundraiser for the Republican committees in both counties. Proceeds will be used to support GOP candidates, community service projects and upkeep Republican headquarters.

For more information, contact Benton County Republican Headquarters, 754-9155, Stella Guenther, Benton County Republicans, 929-5382 or Deborah Barrett in Linn County at 541-818-0171.