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More than 50 Republicans attended the Kosciusko County Republican Hall of Fame Dinner Thursday night.
The Republican Central Committee sponsored the dinner at Stonehenge Golf Course.
Those who attended had the opportunity to listen to speakers Third District U.S. Rep. Mark Souder, Allen County Republican Chairman Steve Shine and Winona Lake Clerk-Treasurer Retha Hicks.
Souder encouraged citizens to vote, and said there is a competitive race this year.
"This is a challenging year and we need to realize this year has brought a competitive election," Souder said.
Souder faces candidate Tom Hayhurst in the Nov. 7 race.
Souder described Hayhurst as a decent man, physician and city council member, but said it's imperative that the Republican party stand strong.
"This is not a battle between Hayhurst and myself, but a decision that will decide who will run America," Souder said.
"We need to base this race not on personality, but on principles."
He addressed issues such as homeland security and the economy.
"We have improved security within our borders and there hasn't been attacks on our soil since 9/11," Souder said.
He said if taxes are cut, the tax deficit could be cut in half by 2009.
Souder said low unemployment and tax rates have helped contribute to a better economy.
Shine, Fort Wayne, was the keynote speaker and spoke about the importance of this year's election.
"Souder has a serious challenge for getting votes in Allen County so people need to encourage their friends and neighbors to vote because we may need twice as many votes this year," Shine said.
Hicks spoke about a plan called Hometown Matters that has been developed by the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns. The plan aims to reduce property taxes and establish alternatives for funding local government services.
Hicks said local government could reduce property taxes and generate funds for public services through a local sales tax, a supplemental income tax, an innkeeper's tax or a local food and beverage tax.
Also during the dinner, Harold Jones was awarded with the Gentlemen's Republican Hall of Fame Award and Hicks was awarded the Women's Republican Hall of Fame Award. County Commissioner Avis Gunter was awarded with a plaque for her service to the county.
