Union Grove Distillery: Arkville: Democratic Party Fundraiser

Delaware County Democrats Hold Fundraiser at Union Grove Brewstillery

by Robert Brune

     ARKVILLE — Supporters of the Delaware County Democratic Committee gathered Saturday afternoon at Union Grove Brewstillery for a fundraising event that combined live music, a silent art auction, and an opportunity for voters to meet local and state candidates ahead of the June 23 primary elections.

     This event featured performances by Adam Ippolito, Andy Cahill, and Loren Daniels. Guests also had the opportunity to bid on artwork donated by local artists as part of a silent auction benefiting the county party organization.

     The afternoon opened with music from Ippolito before Delaware County Democratic Committee Second Vice Chair Judith Maguire welcomed attendees and introduced candidates and party leaders.

     Maguire praised the efforts of committee volunteers and encouraged attendees to participate in the auction and enjoy the gathering.

      Among those recognized were Delaware County Democratic Committee Chair Kathleen Hayek, Middletown Town Supervisor Glen Faulkner, Tom O’Brien, Michele Frazier, and Janet Tweed, a candidate seeking the Democratic nomination for New York State Assembly in the 102nd District.

     Hayek thanked supporters for their continued involvement and encouraged members to remain active in local politics and community affairs.

      Tweed spoke about her political journey, noting that her early involvement with the Delhi Democratic Committee and the Delaware County Democratic Committee helped inspire her decision to seek public office.

     “The training that we need starts at the local level,” Tweed said. “You have to start somewhere.”

      She emphasized the importance of local political organizations in preparing residents to run for office and discussed how state government can support communities through infrastructure funding, grant programs, and assistance for local municipalities.

     Faulkner, who is running unopposed for another term as Middletown supervisor, focused his remarks on cooperation and communication in local government. Known to many residents through his leadership role at Margaretville Telephone Company, Faulkner said he has worked during his first term to build relationships across party lines and earn a position on the Delaware County Budget Committee.

     The fundraiser marked the second Democratic Party fundraising event in Delaware County within the past month. Organizers said the gathering was intended not only to raise funds but also to provide voters with an opportunity to engage directly with candidates before heading to the polls later this month.

Primary elections in New York are scheduled for June 23.