October 19, 2022
Pocatello, ID–Conservatives from all over Southeast Idaho gathered at the newly-renovated Purpose Building (formerly the Petersen Building) in Old Town on Saturday evening to hear Idaho GOP Chairwoman Dorothy Moon speak at Bannock County’s First Annual Washington Day Dinner. Early arrivals enjoyed snacking from charcuterie boards while browsing the sponsor tables upstairs, or chatting with friends and admiring the raffle and auction items on the main floor.
Dignitaries in attendance included State Representatives Christy Zito and Chad Christensen. Local legislative candidates David Worley and Jake Stevens were also present, as were several members of the Bannock County Republican Party leadership.
Pastor Stephen Yadon of Pocatello’s Christ Church opened the formal portion of the program in prayer. All present joined in pledging allegiance to the American flag. The Angel Tones, a local trio, treated the attendees to beautifully harmonized renditions of both the National Anthem and “God Bless America”.
After a buffet-style dinner featuring three meat choices, a variety of hot and cold sides, and a custom-made dessert, Master of ceremonies David Worley introduced Idaho GOP Chairwoman and keynote speaker Dorothy Moon.
In a 30-minute speech, Moon spoke of her concern about the leftist, woke ideologies infecting Idaho. She pointed out that Idaho was the first Republican state to lock down in 2020 out of fear of COVID and was one of the last to end its emergency orders. She also expressed her frustration at the 16,000 Democrats who switched parties before the 2022 Republican Primary, preventing at least two strong conservatives from winning their races. Unlike many Idahoans, though, she doesn’t blame Californian political refugees for Idaho’s problems. “They’re the ones who are going to save our state,” she said.
While Idahoans have no shortage of things to concern them, Moon believes there is hope for the future. “I don’t like what I’m seeing,” she said, “but I do see a path forward.” She then shared the Republican Party’s new We. Are. Idaho. video (available here). She emphasized the need for citizens to work together at the local level to bring about needed changes. “You have to be responsible for how you leave this country, or this state, for your kids–you have to be involved,” she said.
During the course of the evening, a drawing, a live auction, and a silent auction were held. All dinner attendees received one complementary ticket for the drawing, and additional tickets were available for purchase. Items for the drawing included coasters and 3D art by local laser artist Rusty Gates, a watch, a wall hanging inspired by Washington’s crossing of the Delaware, and a framed replica of the Declaration of Independence. Auction items included an antique copy of Locke’s Essay on Human Understanding, a framed portrait of Washington, a variety of historical newspapers, and a vintage rifle.
Like the monthly Liberty Dinner, the Washington Day Dinner is hosted by the Pocatello Chubbuck Observer.
