By By MARCIA STEFFENS / Dowagiac Daily News
EDWARDSBURG -- The colors red, white and blue were as abundant as past and present elected State and county officials at the annual Cass County Republican Party Lincoln Day Dinner Saturday night at the American Legion in Edwardsburg.
Attorney Dale Blunier helped fill in for fellow Edwardsburg attorney and Cass County Republican Chairman, William L. Labre, who needed to go to Ann Arbor for tests. Cass County Road Commission Chairman Bob Powers acted as master of Ceremonies.
Before her moving rendition, Randi Pickley of Edwardsburg explained how the words of the "Star Spangled Banner" came into being.
Even President George Bush spoke, via a television provided by County Commissioner Carl Higley's appliance store.
State Representatives Rick Shaffer and Neal Nitz joined State Senator Ron Jelinek at the head table.
U.S. Congressman Fred Upton introduced Major Clark Hinga, the guest speaker, the Deputy Commander, 51st Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team.
Upton spoke about the importance of an Amber Alert for every state and praised Cass County Sheriff Underwood and others who helped bring the 14-year-old Lindsey Ryan home to Jones.
Ardith Higley of Edwardsburg was surprised to be welcomed as a Diamond Member, especially when her husband Carl was on the nominating committee. Other Diamond members include County Clerk Ann Simmons, Dale Blunier, Louise Cox and Margaret Stanley.