When we invited Dr. Amy Acton to attend our February meeting, we anticipated drawing a few more folks than our regular space in the Orange Library would allow.

Shifting to the larger space at Chagrin Falls Township Hall would mean we could accommodate over 100 with room to spare. When the meeting kicked off at 6:30pm, a standing room only crowd of over 300 flowed onto the street outside—the largest gathering in club history.

Inside, Dr. Acton outlined her plans, hopes and aspirations for the state of Ohio and detailed what she, as Governor, would do to ensure our children inherit a state on the rise—making it possible for them to stay here to pursue their dreams.

Acton spoke for nearly 25 minutes before taking questions from the audience for another half-an-hour, but the most impressive part was her insistence on staying longer to meet each and every guest who wanted the chance to personally greet her.

Nearly 45 minutes after the event concluded—long after every chair was folded and stacked—Acton was still there answering questions, listening to stories and taking selfies with anyone who wanted one. We literally turned out the lights as she stepped out of the building.

It was a wonderful event and we are grateful to her for making the Chagrin Gateway Democrats one of the first events—and certainly the largest—of her campaign.

Thank you also to our neighbors to the south—the Solon Democratic Club—for co-sponsoring and providing cookies along with the extra energy.

The Chagrin Gateway Democrats are proud to present an early entrant into the Ohio Gubernatorial race, Dr. Amy Acton.

Acton is a physician and community leader who has spent 35 years pursuing her passion for public health and wellness.

The event will be Thursday, February 6 – 6:30pm at Chagrin Falls Township Hall, 83 N. Main St., Chagrin Falls, 44022

Acton’s leadership and guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic, as Director of the Ohio Department of Health earned her a Profile in COVID Courage Award from the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation.

In 2022, she was named Woman of the Year (Ohio) by USA Today. Today, she is one of the first entrants into the 2026 statewide races, declaring her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for Governor of Ohio.

Because of the anticipation of a larger crowd, this regular meeting of our club is being moved from Orange Branch Library to Chagrin Falls Township Hall. While RSVPs are not required, they are appreciated.