51st State Senate District candidate Eric Ball; Rebecca Harvey, the campaign manager for Jamie Cheney, who is running for the 19th Congressional District; New York State Comptroller incumbent Tom DiNapoli; Chenango County Democratic Committee Chairperson Patti Giltner; and 19th Congressional District candidate Josh Riley at the Chenango County Democratic Committee Fundraiser held on Saturday, August 13 at the Bohemian Moon. (Photo by Sarah Genter)

CHENANGO COUNTY — The Chenango County Democratic Committee held their annual Democratic fundraiser and Person of the Year ceremony on Saturday, August 13 at the Bohemian Moon in Norwich.

The event drew in over 100 attendees, both Democrats and Republicans alike. Food was provided by the Bohemian Moon as well as the Phatty's BBQ food truck.

Gift baskets full of items donated by Chenango County businesses were raffled off, and the Chenango County Democratic Committee announced their Person of the Year, Bruce Meyers.

"This person is retired from active duty in the party, but we thank him for all his years of service. He was always passionate about politics. After moving to Chenango County 25 years ago, he accompanied his wife to a meeting of the Chenango County Democratic Committee. At the time he was actually an Independent, and unable to participate or vote on any of the issues. This prompted him to switch parties and become a Democratic Committee member," said Democratic Committee Chairperson Patti Giltner.

"As a new member of the committee, not only did he meet his responsibilities as a representative of his township, but then he went on to assist other representatives in their townships. His previous career experience enabled him to guide others, and made him a valuable resource and asset to the committee."

Meyers also served as second vice chair of the Chenango County Democratic Committee, and filled in as the committee chairperson on several occasions, according to Giltner.

After the announcement of raffle winner and the Person of the Year, attendees had the chance to hear from Democratic candidates in upcoming elections.

First up was incumbent New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, followed by candidate for the 51st State Senate District Eric Ball; Rebecca Harvey, the campaign manager for Jamie Cheney, who is running for the 19th Congressional District seat; and finally Josh Riley, who is also running for the 19th Congressional District seat.

Candidates touched on number of topics such as Roe v. Wade and women's rights, COVID, inflation, infrastructure bills, drug prices, and LGBT rights, and emphasized the need to support the agriculture industry, local farmers, small businesses, and the working class.

Candidates also stressed the importance of voting. The primary election for the 19th Congressional District is on Tuesday, August 23, and early voting has already begun. A full list of early voting dates and times can be found at www.co.chenango.ny.us/elections/. The general election will be held on November 8.