Local Democrats Gather For Gala in Northville

Each year since its inception three years ago, the local Democratic Spring Gala has grown.

This year, the Northville, Plymouth, Livonia, Community and West Oakland Democratic Clubs met Saturday night at the Meadowbrook Country Club in Northville.

"This event really brings together Democrats in an area that is usually not thought of as a Democratic area at all," said Scott Craig, president of the Northville Democratic Club. "It has really become a known event statewide."

More than 30 local Democrats running for first-time office or re-election on the local, state and national levels were in attendance. Proceeds from the event, which cost attendees $50-$100, is split between the clubs. Craig said the groups use the money to support various candidates.

More than anything else, he said, the event gives candidates an opportunity to meet with members of the community.

"We encourage the candidates and elected officials to walk around and meet people one-on-one," Craig said.

Among the officials in attendance was keynote speaker U.S. Rep. Hansen Clarke (D-13th District).

Jim Amar, president of the Community Democratic Club, which has members in Plymouth, Canton, Northville and Livonia, said the event has grown through the years.

"it enabled us to meet people from other clubs that we didn't know," he said. "It created a bond that's very important."