Lake County Gazette

Mary Cole, a candidate for the Lake County State’s Attorney position, has announced a fundraising event at Anastasia’s Restaurant located at 950 Hillside Avenue in Antioch. The event is slated for Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

"We are hosting a fundraiser on Wednesday, Jan. 17, from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. at Anastasia’s Restaurant in Antioch!" Cole said on Facebook. "Sponsorships are available; host committee sponsorships available."

Cole further provided contact details for more information about the event. 

"For more information, send an email to the campaign at info@maryforlakecounty.com or Lee Filas at lfilas@filasmedia.com," she stated.

The candidate expressed her anticipation of the gathering by saying, "Hope to see you there!"

Prospective attendees can register for the fundraiser by visiting MaryForLakeCounty.com. The event organizers have outlined various contribution options: $50 per person, $75 per couple, and a $100 Host Committee. In addition to these options, there are sponsorship opportunities available at different levels—Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Personal checks will be accepted at the door and contributions can also be sent by mail to the campaign’s address at 1197 Griffith Road, Lake Forest, IL 60045.

In November, Cole formally filed to run for Lake County State’s Attorney, solidifying her candidacy. Expressing commitment, she pledged compassion and accountability for the office. During the broader Illinois election season starting on Sept. 5, candidates, including Cole, gathered signatures actively. As a vocal critic of opponent Eric Rinehart, she emphasizes a dedication to a safer future, differing from controversial policies in his tenure.

Cole, a former assistant state’s attorney in Lake County, has underscored her commitment to addressing issues such as low morale and inadequate attorney training in the office during her campaign for the November 2024 election. She criticized incumbent Rinehart, saying that prosecutions have decreased, crime rates have increased, and the office is in chaos under his leadership, Lake County Gazette reported.