The Independent View: NYC Independence Clubs Host the 17th Annual Anti-Corruption Awards

Awardees and presenters (L to R): Michael Drucker, Cathy Stewart, Chad Peace, Alvaader Frazier, Harry Kresky, Ronald Topping, Stephanie Harris, Dee Clayton, Jackie Salit, Steve Hough, Allen Cox, Kipp Lyle, Dr. Lenora Fulani.

The New York City Independence Club hosted the 17th Annual Anti-Corruption Awards, entitled Builders for the Future, on October 2nd in Manhattan. The Fundraiser and Awards Ceremony Honors those Risk-Takers and Truth-Tellers who are Leading the Fight for Structural Reform and a Change in our Political Culture by Fighting Political Corruption.

Honorees included:

Ronald Topping, President of the John Adams Tenants Association in the Bronx and Spokesman for Committee for Independent Community Action (CICA).

Steve Hough, Director of Florida Fair and Open Primaries (FFAOP) and Leader of the Campaign to Lobby the Florida Constitution Revision Commission to put a Top-Two Nonpartisan Primary Initiative on the 2018 Ballot.

Chad Peace, Founder and President of IVC Media LLC and a Nationally Recognized Leader in Election Law and Voter Rights.

Bonnie Reiss, Global Director, USC Schwarzenegger Institute for State and Global Policy.

I received my Anti-Corruption Award in 2008.

Kipp Lyle, which I had the privilege of presenting to Kipp, and Dee Clayton were also Honored with the Nicholas S. Johnson Independent Spirit Award. The Award is named after former Bronx Chair Nicholas Johnson, who was a good friend, and a Dedicated Leader of the New York City independence Organizations, a Union Activist, and a Passionate Advocate for the Development of New Independent Leaders.

One hundred and twenty-five Supporters attended the Annual Fundraiser, Cocktail Reception, and Awards Ceremony, which was Dedicated this year to the People of Puerto Rico and Las Vegas. Guests Donated Items to add to Relief Supplies being sent to Puerto Rico. Carmen Quinones, President of the Frederick Douglas Tenant Association, gave a First-Hand Account of the Recent Hurricane in Puerto Rico.