* The 2024 Wordslinger Golden Horseshoe Award for Best CapitolFax.com Commenter goes to Stephanie Kollmann…

“Stephanie Kollmann is always brilliant, always bold, and doesn’t even hide behind a fake name like the rest of us cowards.”

I would like to add my name to the ranks of “Cowards for Stephanie Kollmann.”

In a world of self-righteous loudmouths [double thumbs pointing back at himself], she’s a source of genuine subject matter expertise and her virtuous advocacy has never been more necessary (and admirable).

We’re all better for her participation.

– MrJM

[From Rich: That was one heck of a nomination from a previous Wordslinger award-winner. Congrats, Stephanie, you earned it.]

* Congratulations to everyone who won this year…

Best Place to Gather for Dinner During Session Weeks: Saputo’s

Best Place to Gather for Drinks, Etc. During Session Weeks: JP Kelly’s

Best Senate Republican Legislative Assistant/District Office Manager: Dana Hooven

Best Senate Democratic Legislative Assistant/District Office Manager: Thera Bond

Best House Republican Legislative Assistant/District Office Manager: Breeann Steinacher

Best House Democratic Legislative Assistant/District Office Manager: Caitlin Anderson

Best Republican State Senate Staff Member: Bill Schneider

Best Democratic State Senate Staff Member: Mary Hanahan

Best Republican State House Staff Member: Dane Thull

Best Democratic State House Staff Member: Kat Bray

Best Statehouse-Related Public Relations Spokesperson: Bridget Shanahan and Becky Carroll

Best Government Spokesperson/Comms: Jordan Abudayyeh

Best Republican Illinois State Representative: Rep. Jeff Keicher

Best Democratic Illinois State Representative: Rep. Lindsey LaPointe

Best Republican Illinois State Senator: Senate Republican Leader John Curran

Best Democratic Illinois State Senator: Sen. Patrick Joyce

Best Contract Lobbyist: Liz Brown-Reeves and Litesa Wallace

Best In-House Lobbyist: Frances Orenic

Best Legislative Liaison: Wendy Butler

Best Do-Gooder Lobbyist: John Amdor

Best Statewide Staffer: Anne Caprara

Best State Agency Director: Kristin Richards

Best Statewide Officer: Auditor General Frank Mautino

Best US Representative: Lauren Underwood

Wordslinger Golden Horseshoe Award for Best CapitolFax.com: Commenter Stephanie Kollmann