News & Events


September 18, 2019
An eye for irony.
The other day, a news item that struck me as especially absurd reminded me of one my favorite Bob Newhart “man on the telephone” routines. It’s set in the early 1600’s. One of King James’ staff is receiving a phone call from Sir Walter Raleigh, calling from America.
 
It went something like this:
“Hello, Walter. How’s your exploration going?”… “It’s going great? That’s good to hear.” … “Have you found any gold, yet?”… “You haven’t….but you’ve found something that going to be big — worth a fortune”.… “What’s that Walter?… It’s called tobacco? What’s tobacco?”… “It’s a leaf? -- Ahh, Walter, we have leaves in England.”… “But this is a special leaf? -- What makes it special?”… “You roll it up and put it in your mouth?”… “And then what do you do?”… “Your set it on fire!”… “Walter, I don’t think that’s going to be big…”
 
Newhart’s routine pointed out how ridiculous the smoking habit really is. (I can speak to this with authority, having been a smoker for 25 of my younger years.) You put a paper tube filled with dried leaves in your mouth, set fire to it and breath in the smoke. …Seriously!?
 
And yet this completely counterintuitive, self-destructive activity has made billions of dollars for tobacco corporations like Altria (Marlboro). And now as profits from cigarettes in the western world have fallen they are pursuing new avenues to profits. Altria’s Juul vaping devices are being marketed to deliver nicotine to nicotine addicts in a “healthier way” while helping them break their unhealthy cigarette habit. Of course Altria’s Philip Morris Co. will continue marketing cigarettes to smokers around the world while Juul users are being saved from the worst evils of nicotine addiction. — Talk about a “win win” situation! — It’s a scenario that could have been written by Joseph Heller or Jonathan Swift.
 
And here’s what disturbs me the most. This surreal balancing act is being presented in Juul advertising, in serious business articles and in the mainstream news without a hint of the irony it represents. — At least I haven’t seen any comments on it.
 
Why isn’t such irony being recognized? Perhaps in these convulsive times the American public has simply become inured to language and behavior that contradicts itself.
 
In some states we have public safety spokespersons recommending that the solution for reducing gun violence is a greater distribution of guns. We have our nation’s Environmental Protection Agency stopping California from enacting stricter clean air standards. We have a Secretary of Education, responsible for our public education system, vocal in her support for private education systems. And yesterday, President Trump nominated a man to lead U.S. human rights policy who was a proponent for torture under George W. Bush.
 
Early in its operation, Trump’s White House introduced the practice of presenting “alternative facts,” repeatedly leaning on that concept. Since then, with the endless barrage of tweeted lies coming from our President, I’m starting to wonder if such Orwellian “double speak,” combined with a complete indifference to the appearance of ironic behavior, is becoming accepted by the pubic as normal.
 
We know that critical thinking is no longer emphasized in many school curriculums. And when it is absent, recognizing irony is much less likely. Having that ability, as we critique the language and behavior of political figures, has always been a valuable tool for voters. — And by they way, such scrutiny should include the Democratic presidential candidates we are now in the process of choosing for 2020.
 
When irony is presented on the stage of Second City, it can be great entertainment. But when you spot it on the political stage (or in the business world), you should weigh what you see very seriously.

Nels Howard
NTD Member Since 1973
New Trier Democrats' Events
New Trier Democrats’ Annual Dinner
With Featured Speakers
Rep. Lauren Underwood (IL-14)
& Rep. Sean Casten (IL-6)

Sunday, October 20, 2019
Reception 5:00pm - Dinner 6:15pm

Lauren Underwood
New Trier Democrats are excited and honored to welcome U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and U.S. Rep. Sean Casten (IL-6) as Featured Speakers at our Annual Dinner and fundraiser. Reps. Underwood and Casten are the newest Democratic representatives from Illinois and they flipped their congressional districts from Red to Blue in 2018.
If you have any questions, please contact our office at [email protected] or 847-446-8030.
Other Events of Interest
Inclusion in our "Other Events of Interest" List – whether it’s a fundraising event for a specific candidate or an event concerning a particular issue – does not mean that the New Trier Democrats have endorsed that candidate or adopted that position on an issue. 
Tomorrow, September 19, 2019: Lunch Reception with Vice President Joe Biden

When : Thursday, September 19, 2019
Where : Chicago address provided upon RSVP
What : A lunch reception with Vice President Joe Biden, a candidate for President of the United States. RSVP required. To RSVP or for more information, email Jeremy Hallahan at [email protected] or call 609-501-4687.
This Friday, September 20, 2019: Global Climate Strike – Wilmette & Evanston

When : Friday, September 20, 2019 – Wilmette event 4:00pm to 5:00pm; Evanston event begins at 3:00pm
Where : Wilmette – Trinity Church, 1024 Lake Avenue, Wilmette; Evanston – Fountain Square, 700 Davis Street, Evanston
What : This September, millions of us will walk out of our workplaces and homes to join young climate strikers on the streets and demand an end to the age of fossil fuels. Our house is on fire — let’s act like it. We demand climate justice for everyone.

Wilmette : Come join students from Wilmette schools for their “peaceful and positive rally.” There will be rallying, crafts, youth speakers and information about climate change solutions.

Evanston : Come join ETHS students in an intergenerational strike to demand action against climate change at the local, national and global level. For more information,  visit their event page .
Michael Cabonargi
This Sunday, September 22, 2019: Reception for Michael Cabonargi, Candidate for Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County

When : Sunday, September 22, 2019 from 2:00pm to 3:30pm
Where : Address provided upon RSVP
What:  Please join John & Nicole Borovicka, Bill Brandt & Patrice Bugelas-Brandt, Pedro DeJesus, Susan Gallagher, Dan Johnson, Michelle Jordan, Eamon Kelly, Dave Lundy & Jen Jobrack, Richard Saines, Hon. Debra Shore, Regina Stilip, and Eric Sussman for an afternoon reception supporting Mike Cabonargi in his race for Cook County Circuit Clerk of Courts. For additional information, contact Eric at [email protected].  RSVP online .
Bob Morgan
This Sunday, September 22, 2019: Re-Election Kickoff For State Rep. Bob Morgan

When : Sunday, September 22, 2019 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm
Where : Warehouse Eatery, 833 Deerfield Rd., Deerfield
What : Join State Rep. Bob Morgan as he officially begins his re-election campaign. Enjoy some refreshments, hear about Bob’s work in Springfield and his vision for our state, and learn about ways to help the effort.  Link to register for this event.
This Sunday, September 22, 2019: Brad Schneider’s 2nd Annual Pro-Choice Event With State Sen. Melinda Bush

When : Sunday, September 22, 2019 from 6:00pm to 7:30pm
Where : Highland Park home of Dana Gordon. Address provided upon RSVP.
What : Join special guest, State Senator Melinda Bush, in recognizing Congressman Brad Schneider’s 100% record on Choice and Women’s Issues. For additional information or to RSVP, email Emanuela Frankel at [email protected] or call 312-213-3588.
Monday, September 23, 2019: Personal PAC Annual Awards Luncheon

When : Monday, September 23, 2019, Registration and reception at 11:00am; luncheon at 12:00noon
Where : Chicago Hilton and Towers, 720 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago
What : Personal PAC holds its Annual Awards Luncheon that will highlight the group’s efforts and raise funds to elect pro-choice officials. Pro-choice activist Cecile Richards is the keynote speaker. For additional information or to RSVP,  register online .
Monday, September 23, 2019: Democratic Party of Illinois 2019 Fall Reception

When : Monday, September 23, 2019 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Where : Sheraton Grand Chicago Ballroom, 301 E. North Water St., Chicago
What : Democratic Party of Illinois 2019 Fall Reception. For more information, please call 312-578-1554 or email [email protected].
Kristine Schanbacher
Tuesday, September 24, 2019: Highland Park Reception for Kristine Schanbacher, Democratic Candidate for Congress in Illinois’s 7th District

When : Tuesday September 24, 2019 from 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Where : JAC Office, Highland Park (RSVP for full location details)
What : Please join local supporters for a reception in Highland Park for Kristine Schanbacher, Democratic Candidate for Congress in Illinois’s 7th District. Learn more about Kristine here:  votekristine.com . RSVP to [email protected] or  Purchase tickets here.
Tuesday, September 24, 2019: Indivisible Evanston’s September Meeting

When : Tuesday, September 24, 2019 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Where : Lorraine H. Morton Civic Center, Parasol Room, 4th Floor, 2100 Ridge Ave, Evanston
What : At their September monthly meeting, Indivisible Evanston will discuss “The Path to 2020: Flipping Wisconsin and Keeping the House Blue.” Want to hear about why flipping our neighboring WI is the path to removing Trump from the White House? Felesia Martin, 1st Vice Chair, WI Dems will speak to the WI Dems strategy to flip WI and how YOU can help with Indivisible Evanston’s “Reach Up Wisconsin” program of canvassing, voter registration, phone banking, postcards etc – Indivisible Evanston needs YOUR help. Plus, Marie Newman, Congressional candidate for IL – 3, is running against incumbent Rep. Dan Lipinski. Marie will talk about how she will make the House Blue(r) in 2020 and how Indivisible Evanston can help her do that!
Thursday, September 26, 2019: Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz’s Campaign Kickoff Celebration

When : Thursday, September 26, 2019 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm
Where : Ten Ninety Brewing Co., 1025 N. Waukegan Rd, Glenview
What : Join State Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz for her reelection Campaign Kickoff Celebration fundraiser. Co-hosts for her Campaign Kickoff Celebration include Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Congressman Brad Schneider, State Sen. Laura Fine, State Sen. Ram Villivalam and State Rep. Robyn Gabel. For more information or to RSVP,  please visit her event webpage .
Friday, September 27, 2019: Wilmette Reception for Rep. Lauren Underwood and Betsy Dirksen Londrigan

When : Friday, September 27, 2019 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm
Where : Wilmette address provided upon RSVP
What : Reception to meet and support two outstanding Democratic women, Rep. Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and Betsy Dirksen Londrigan, candidate for Congress in IL-13. For more information contact Madeline Doctor (574) 286-9964 or [email protected].  Register online .
Lauren Underwood
Saturday & Sunday, September 28 & 29, 2019: Weekend of Action With Team Underwood

When : Saturday & Sunday, September 28 & 29, 2019 from 10:00am to 1:00pm each day
Where : Sign up for more details on location
What : Team Lauren Underwood is hosting a Weekend of Action on Septemeber 28th and 29th in IL14. They’ll be gathering petition signatures to get Lauren on the ballot for this election – and they need YOUR help. Will you join them? For more information,  sign up here .
Wednesday, October 2, 2019: New Trier Township Education Forum on Immigration Rights and Domestic Violence

When : Wednesday, October 2, 2019 at 6:30pm
Where : New Trier Township Office, 739 Elm Street, Winnetka
What : New Trier Township Education Forum Presents “Meet the North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic: Know Your Rights and Red Flags of Domestic Violence.” Identify the red flags of domestic violence. Learn to stay safe, be informed and aware of this issue. They will also discuss immigration issues. Learn what your rights are in case Immigration and Customs Enforcement knocks on your door. Seating is limited, please RSVP to Jack Macholl [email protected] by Sept. 27, 2019.
Thursday, October 3, 2019: Community Defense Forum With Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz and Ram Villivalam

When : Thursday, October 3, 2019 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm
Where : Skokie Public Library, Petty Auditorium, 5215 Oakton, Skokie
What : Join State Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz and State Sen. Ram Villivalam to learn how to protect yourself and be an effective advocate for your neighbors with respect to immigration rights. They will share “know your rights” information for individuals and parents. As the only immigration attorney in the Illinois General Assembly, Jennifer will be there to answer questions, provide legislative updates, and share resources for our community. For more information, please contact Allie at 872.208.5199 or [email protected].
Sunday, October 6, 2019: Stevenson Center On Democracy Presents “Climate Change and What It Means to our Children”

When : Sunday, October 6, 2019 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Where : Stevenson House, 25200 N. St. Mary’s Rd., Libertyville (on St. Mary’s Road south of Rt.60)
What : The Stevenson Center on Democracy presents “Climate Change and What it means to our Children” featuring Adele Simmons, President, Global Philanthropy Partnership. For additional information and to RSVP,  register online .
Sunday, October 13, 2019: Democrats of Northfield Township Luncheon With Sen. Dick Durbin

When : Sunday, October 13, 2019 from 12:00pm to 2:00pm
Where : The Glen Club, 2901 West Lake Avenue, Glenview
What : Democrats of Northfield Township hold their third annual fall fundraising luncheon, featuring Keynote Speaker U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and Congresspersons Jan Schakowsky and Brad Schneider. For additional information or to RSVP,  register online .
Sunday, October 13, 2019: Indo-American Democratic Organization Annual Benefit

When : Sunday, October 13, 2019, 5:30 Networking, 6:30 Program.
Where : Holiday Inn Northshore, 5300 Touhy Avenue, Skokie
What : Indo-American Democratic Organization (IADO) 40th annual banquet. IADO represents Illinois’ 270,000+ South Asian Americans. Since 1980, IADO has engaged South Asian Americans in the political process, and recruited and endorsed candidates who champion progressive policy solutions.  Register online .
Thursday, October 17, 2019: We Will Legislative Luncheon

When : Thursday, October 17, 2019 from 11:00am to 1:30pm
Where : Maggiano’s Little Italy, 4999 Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie
What : Join WE WILL’s 5th Annual Fundraiser celebrating their accomplishments, legislative collaborations and women having a voice and being heard. This year’s panel is about Women of Color with confirmed panelists Donna Miller, Cook County Board Commissioner; Xza Higgina, MommyCon Founder, coalition builder; Sol Flores, Illinois Deputy Governor and Josina Morita, Commissioner, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. For additional information or to RSVP,  register online.
Looking For Something To Do Now?

Help Text Bank For Democratic Candidates In Virginia State House Races With Sister District

Text Banking is here!

You can sign up at  this form . They expect high demand for texting lists.
Please sign up to text ONLY for the two candidates, Alex Askew and Ghazala Hashmi, that our local Sister District is supporting!

Some things to know:

You need to do some reading and training on your own. This is done online. Texting will be done at specified times. You will sign up for a texting “event” and at the scheduled time, a batch of numbers will be released. Sign-up is available now. Texting began August 17 and will continue through Election Day. You must sign up and complete all training steps at least one week before your first texting event.

More details can be found in this Sister District/Red2Blue  Texting Guide .
Need help contacting your
representatives in government?

Visit our website for a complete list of everyone who represents the residents of New Trier Township - from Federal to Village level - and links to contact them.
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will make a difference. Come join us!

When you're a member of the New Trier Democratic Organization, you have an active role in affecting the political process by: participating in grassroots campaigns, staying in touch with elected officials, and playing a role in deciding which candidates are endorsed. You'll also gain  free admission  to select forums and events throughout the year.    

Come be a part of New Trier Township's grassroots political community.    
New Trier Democrats memberships are on a calendar year basis. We encourage our members to renew their dues annually every January.
Paid for by the NTDO-FED and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. A copy of our report filed with the State Board of Elections is available on the Board’s official website (www.elections.il.gov) or for purchase from the State Board of Elections, Springfield, Illinois.