Highland County Republicans hold annual dinner; name Ward Republican of the Year

The Highland County Republican Party held their annual Lincoln Day Dinner Tuesday, March 30 at the First United Methodist Church in Hillsboro, and named Highland County Sheriff Ron Ward Republican of the Year. 

Dr. Larry Dukes welcomed the group. Highland County Treasurer Vicki Warnock led the pledge of allegiance and Dr. Dan Lamb, pastor of the Hillsboro Bible Baptist Church gave the blessing. 

The evening's speaker was State of Ohio Auditor Candidate David Yost, who spoke about the importance of Republican leadership.

Highland County Commissioner Shane Wilkin introduced Ward as Republican of the Year. The honor is voted on by the county's Republican Central Committee, and goes to an individual "who is always a leader, not just in an election year, but all years," according to Wilkin.

"Regardless of what duty it was called upon (Ward) to do, he did his best to do what was right," Wilkin said.

Executive committee chairperson Kay Ayres presented Ohio 86th District Rep. David Daniels and Ohio's 17th District Sen. John Carey with plaques of appreciation for their services, saying, "We are extremely fortunate in Highland County to have two of the best representatives the state of Ohio can have."

Carey and Daniels cannot run for their current positions due to term limits, but are seeking seats in the state House and Senate, respectively. 

Highland County Commissioner Tom Horst introduced elected county and city officials, and county engineer Dean Otworth introduced former officeholders and out-of-town guests.

Local Republicans who are appearing on this year's ballot were also recognized, including, candidate for Ohio's 86th House District Cliff Rosenberger; county commissioner candidate Jeremy Shaffer and incumbent county auditor Bill Fawley.