Thursday, August 22, 2013
CANFIELD
Less than two weeks after local businessman Bruce Zoldan had a private fundraiser for Republican Gov. John Kasich at his Canfield house, his residence will be the location for Monday’s $500-a-person event to raise money for the Mahoning County and Ohio Democratic parties.
Democratic National Committee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz will headline Monday’s dinner, starting at 6 p.m., with the proceeds split between the county and state parties. So far, 110 people have committed to attend the event with 125 to 150 people being “the ultimate goal,” said county Democratic Party Chairman David Betras.
Attending Monday’s event is Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald, a Democrat who plans to run next year for governor against Kasich.
Zoldan, chief executive officer of B.J. Alan Co. fireworks and one of the Mahoning Valley’s most prominent political donors, said he doesn’t pick sides when it comes to raising money for Republicans and Democrats.
“If I can host a high-level political person either from the state or national level who can help the Mahoning Valley, I’m going to roll out the red carpet and welcome them here,” Zoldan said.
Just last week, Zoldan said he had a private event for Kasich, who attended the fundraiser, at his home.
“I’m happy to promote our Valley to anyone who can help us,” he said. “I embrace people from both sides” of the political aisle.
It’s “important for the area when we can bring in a national figure” like Schultz, Betras said. “It showcases the area and draws attention to us.”
Schultz campaigned twice in the Mahoning Valley last year for President Barack Obama.
In addition to Schultz and FitzGerald, Betras said most — and perhaps all — of the 2014 statewide Democratic ticket will be at Monday’s event as well as Ohio Democratic Party Chairman Chris Redfern, and U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles, D-13th.
Those wanting tickets can call Betras at 8 00-457-2889, or John Vivo, the party’s secretary, at 330-719-3869.