Journalist and President Emeritus of the Better Government Organization Andy Shaw Inspires Community to be Government Watchdogs

King-Bruwaert House and The Community House were pleased to host Andy Shaw, long-time head of the Better Government Organization (BGA), on Tuesday, April 17th at 11:30 am for a luncheon presentation in Hinsdale. Andy Shaw inspired the crowd to stay informed about our government because we have a right to ensure that our elected officials use our tax dollars fairly, wisely and ethically.

K-B House and TCH have teamed up over the last four years to bring entertainment and education to the active adults in their communities. “One of our goals is to bring quality programs to our residents that will keep them in touch with current event,” said Terri Bowen, CEO of King-Bruwaert house. “Andy Shaw did a great job discussing government and important issues.”

Kate Vogts, TCH Active Adult Director, welcomed the crowd and announced that donors, Anderson/Scott who have underwritten the speaker series at TCH. Assistant Administrator of K-B House, Julie Ryan, thanked co-sponsors Midwest Geriatrics LLC, Rytech, and Symbria for helping to bring this high-level speaker to our community. Bonnie Kohout, Director of Marketing at K-B House, introduced Andy Shaw to the record crowd of over 150 people.

The educated and engaged audience was eager to hear what Andy Shaw thought about the state of the government in Illinois and the upcoming election for Governor this fall. Andy Shaw reported that he has seen incremental changes in our elected officials and that in general, they make a better effort. In his nearly 10 years as President of the BGA, they have headed up 700 investigations and conducted 50 lawsuits, which has resulted in 200 changes being made to government in Illinois. The Governor race will be one of the most expensive races ever run with over $300 million spent on the primary alone. During these times of “fake news,”Andy Shaw encouraged attendees to check facts that politicians claim on bettergov.org before making any political decisions.

Andy Shaw remarked that his goal for the BGA is to have better government for their 100th anniversary, which is in 5 years. This is a worthwhile goal for him to pursue in his “retirement.”

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