Assemblyman Honored at Lincoln Day Dinner

Members of the political action committee “Real Democrats for Hoboken” gathered on Monday night to honor Assemblyman Ruben Ramos Jr. at the Lincoln Day Dinner. The dinner, which used to be an annual tradition, returned this year.

The last honoree—who was also present on Monday night at Clinton Social—was City Clerk Jimmy Farina. The tradition, which commemorates President Abraham Lincoln, was started in the 1980s, with the goal to honor a local politician.

Other notables included majority Council members Teri Castellano, Beth Mason, Michael Russo, Tim Occhipinti and Nino Giacchi. Former freeholder Maurice Fitzgibbons and Hudson County Sheriff Frank Schillari were also present. Freeholder Anthony Romano, who was supposed to introduce Ramos, did not attend.

Interrupting cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, Chairwoman Ines Garcia Keim of the Real Democrats introduced Ramos, saying that he has a “great political future.”

“It’s a real honor for me,” Ramos said. Ramos’ parents, sister and his wife were present too.

The fundraiser was under some scrutiny when the Hoboken Democratic Party sent out a press release before the weekend, alleging that the fundraiser was illegal.

“Everything is on the up and up,” said “Real Democrats” treasurer Eduardo Gonzalez. He added that on Monday, before the fundraiser, the PAC was registered with the Election Law Enforcement Commission.

“We’re not trying to hide anything,” Gonzalez said, adding that that’s what the Democratic Party insinuated. “Everything is legal.”

Vice Chairman of the Hoboken Democratic Party Phil Cohen said he was disappointed in the “Real Democrats’” reaction to the press release, which he called “surprising.” Cohen said political fundraising needs to be as transparent as possible.

“People tried to rain on our parade,” Ramos said.

After Ramos was handed a large photo of Lincoln, Farina—joined by Hoboken veteran Vince Wassman—sang “Grand Ole Flag” and “I Was Born in Hoboken.”