Weber County Republican Party Blog

OCPD Officer Fatally Wounded in Drug Raid

2012-01-09T21:50:00.001-07:00

Many of you have already heard of the Ogden Police Officer who was shot and killed in Ogden last week. For those of you who are unfamiliar with it, here are a few links to some articles about it. Hopefully we can find out more about the details as they are released. OCPD Officer, Jared Francom's funeral services will be held Wednesday at the Dee Event Center. Governor Herbert and Senator Mike Lee will be in attendance.

6 police officers shot in Ogden neighborhood; suspect wounded.
Ogden police: fallen officer was family.
Prosecutors plan to seek death penalty in Ogden shootout
Injured officer 'devastated' by Ogden shootout.
Father: Suspect in deadly Utah shootout had PTSD.
Some people are even blogging about it. Drug War in Utah.
Police suspect Army vet in shooting of six officers.

Mark Your Calendar

2012-01-09T17:08:00.000-07:00

This year our Lincoln Day Celebration will be much like it has been the past couple years. Rather than doing a formal dinner and listening to a bunch of speeches, we will be having light refreshments, allowing you to mingle with and speak to your elected officials, party leaders, current Republican Candidates, and other Weber County Residents.

In other states and event like this could cost you as much as $10,000. Not to worry though, we will be keeping the costs very low due to very generous donors.

More details to come, but for now mark your calendar for February 22nd from 6-9pm. See you there!

Rights vs Privileges

2011-12-06T01:28:00.001-07:00

What is the difference between a right and a privilege? Is there a difference? Or are they the same thing?

A right is defined in most legal dictionaries as an entitlement, which is far different than a privilege or a license which are granted from a legal authority such a law or statute made by a state legislature, or the the Congress.
Rights, by definition, cannot require a license.

So, who gives us our rights? Do they come from government, or from our creator? Does our Constitution GIVE us rights? Or is the Constitution supposed to PROTECT our rights?

You might be a Statist if...

2011-11-17T20:31:00.003-07:00

This was posted on facebook by the Bastiat Institute

You might be a Statist if...

...you think your neighbor, or some guy on the other side of town, should be restricted from owning a firearm, since he might be a psychopath, while simultaneously assuming that some other guy, who also might be a psychopath, can be armed because a third guy or group of people – none of whom you have ever met – authorizes it.

If you like Frédéric Bastiat you can get a free download of "The Law" and a free download of "The Candle Maker's Petition" at www.freeaudio.org/fbastiat/

Summary of WCGOP's Central Committee Meeting 11/15/11

2011-11-17T20:20:00.003-07:00

This is not the official report, but just a summary. When the minutes are approved they will be posted on http://www.wcrgop.org/

(1)In accordance with the new state law, the Central Committee will select any replacement for elected officers who have to step down from their office.

(2)The number of county delegates was increased from 500 to 650.

(3)The 18 members of the County Executive Committee will no longer come with and ex-officio delegate position.

(4)Every precinct will be allocated at least (1) state delegate and (1) county delegate. The rest will be allocated using the Republican Strength Formula.

(5)The extra SCC position will be chosen by the County Executive Committee.

2011-11-07T23:09:00.001-07:00

Here are the links to the new districts.

Senate: http://www.redistrictutah.com/maps/senate-maps/final
House: http://www.redistrictutah.com/maps/house-of-reps/hb3001enrolled
School Board: http://www.redistrictutah.com/maps/hb3002enrolled
Congressional Map: http://www.redistrictutah.com/maps/sb3002s19 

Oct 12th - Dan Liljenquist

2011-10-06T15:25:00.004-07:00

Weber County Republicans are having Senator Dan Liljenquist come speak to us about the financial future of Utah and why his medicaid reform was necessary to prevent a financial disaster.

Senator Dan Liljenquist has a history of doing what other say can not be done. When he joined the Utah Senate in 2009, he was told to wait for 20 years or so before he tackled any substantive pension reform. After all, he was told, no freshman could make that kind of difference. He ignored that "advice" and figured out a way to pull the state back from the brink of bankruptcy. The pension reforms he conceived, championed, then passed are now considered model legislation by states around the country.

Next, he heard that nothing could be done about out-of-control Medicaid spending, but again, he ignored those voices and came up with substantive reforms to Medicaid spending, helping Utah become the first state in the nation to cap its Medicaid spending. The extensive reforms passed unanimously - a testament to Senator Liljenquist's tenacity and ability to solve complex problems.

Come listen to Senator Liljenquist as he gives the straight scoop on the fiscal realities we face - and what we can do about them.

Join us:
October 12, 2011 7:00 pm
Pleasant Valley Library
5568 S Adams Ave
South Ogden, UT

Utah Monetary Summit

2011-10-06T14:55:00.003-07:00

Dear Utah Monetary Summit participants,

Thank you for joining us last week to deliberate and discuss the vital topic of sound money. We are encouraged by the results of the conference and the feedback we have received. Included for you are a copy of the Utah Monetary Declaration signed by nearly all at the summit's end, as well as an op-ed in today's Deseret News recapping the event and expanding on the meaning of it.

Soon you will be able to find speaker presentations at UtahMonetarySummit.com, and several sponsor websites are uploading extended video footage. Speeches by Sean Fieler, Richard Ebeling, Olivier Ledoit, James Turk, and others are already on YouTube.Please stay in touch, as we look forward to continuing to work with you to advance the cause of sound money in Utah and beyond.

Sincerely,

Rich Danker & Larry Hilton

Senator Mike Lee Debating the Reid Ceiling Bill

2011-07-30T15:08:00.002-07:00

Is Our US Government Too Big?

2011-07-20T14:34:00.005-07:00

When the states got together and formed a Federal Government they empowered it with very specific, enumerated powers defined in our Constitution. It was not designed as a top down government, but a bottom up government with the power coming from We the People. When did this change, and why do we allow it?

Here is a link to a website showing an A-Z Index of U.S. Government Departments and Agencies. Browse through the list and see how many you would do away with if you had the choice. How many of these agencies are even Constitutional? How many of these would be more appropriate and more successful if implemented at a state level? Where in the Constitution does it empower the Federal Government to establish a Department of Education? Did the Constitution give them the power to establish a Housing and Urban Development Department? What about the Transportation Security Administration?

So, where exactly is the line that determines what the Federal Government can and cannot do? And how can we stop their tyrannical power grab? Did you know the Utah’s state legislature defined where the line is during the 2011 legislative session? They defined where the "constitutional line" is. They did it by statute and they formalized a mechanism to monitor the line and challenge the federal government every time it crosses the line. To find out more visit http://wheresthelineamerica.com.

Ride for the Sheriffs - July 16th 2011

2011-07-11T00:17:00.002-07:00

It’s time for the third annual Ride for the Sheriffs. Weber County and Davis County are once again teaming up to do a motorcycle ride and a Dutch oven dinner. Everyone is invited to be a part of the event. There are some great prizes, a drawing for a gun, and an auction for another gun.

Tickets are available through either sheriff, Kevin McLeod or Brad Slater. Tickets will be available up through the event, however, a few days before we will be trying to get a count for dinner.

If you know of others who would be interested in the ride and/or the dinner please forward this information on.

If you want to help out we are looking for some volunteers to help on the breakfast, support on the ride, and preparations at the park for dinner.

For more information click here.

Arnold Gaunt for State Party Chair

2011-06-16T12:08:00.005-07:00

Weber County's Arnold Gaunt will be running for Utah State Republican Party Chair. Arnold has served Weber County very well in many positions. Arnold has studied Robert's Rules and our state party bylaws and knows them very well. In 2004 he worked with several other grassroots members of the Weber County Republican Party to bring the Party’s Bylaws into compliance with the rules and end automatic and appointed state delegates. He would like to see the state party do the same.

Please take time to learn about Arnold and the other candidates so you will be prepared to vote at the convention Saturday. Make sure you find Arnold before the convention and talk to him.

Are You Ready for Convention

2011-06-12T19:06:00.003-07:00

The Republican Party State Organizing Convention is coming up fast. Do you know who is running for state party office? You can find out here.

Are you familiar with the proposed resolutions and amendments that you will be voting on? You can review resolutions here And amendments here.

One of the resolutions calls for the repeal of HB 116. Here is a link to the website of those proposing the Repeal HB 116 resolution https://repeal116.com

Here is a link to HB 116, along with its proposed amendments (mostly clarifications) http://hb116.info/hb116.pdf

Here is a link with more information from the defenders of HB 116 (make sure you enter legally) http://hb116.info

Registration for the convention will start as early as 7 am at the South Towne Convention Center. The convention will start at 10:00 am. Click here for more details.

2011 State Organizing Convention - June 18th

2011-05-18T20:19:00.002-07:00

June 10th
IMPORTANT DEADLINE - Delegate Replacement Deadline
By Midnight - to resign or be replaced as a state delegate
If you are not able to keep your commitment as a state delegate to attend the convention, please let your Precinct Chair know before June 8th so they can find a replacement before the June 10th deadline.
If you are the Precinct Chair, please notify either the County Party Chair or Vice-Chair ASAP.

June 17th - 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Red, White, and Blue Jeans Family BBQ
Located at Creekside Park 4800 South (Murray-Holladay Road) 1664 East, Holladay
Spend your summe evening mingling with your elected officials and Republican friends!
Entrance Fee: Single $15/Couple $25/Family(5) $55
Cash/checks accepted at the event
RSVP by June 15th to Sarah Nitta 801-369-2399 or utgopwomen@gmail.com

June 18th - 2011 State Organizing Convention
South Towne Expo Center
9575 South State Street
Sandy, UT 84070
Candidates have access to Convention Facilities at 6:30 AM
Call to Order Starts at 10:00 AM

2011 Weber County GOP Post-Organizing Convention Report

2011-04-25T03:45:00.000-07:00

Please find below the following information concerning Saturday's (4/23/11) Weber County Republican Party Organizing Convention:

1) Meeting Minutes:

2011 Convention Minutes

2) Standard-Examiner story:

In Weber, the GOP Supports Romney

3) Ricky Hatch Special Report:

2011 Organizing Convention-Notes

We'll continue to update this page, if and when additional information rolls in.

April 23, 2011 Organizing Convention - UPDATED

2011-04-06T13:35:00.035-07:00

Attention Weber County Delegates!

We're delighted to announce the scheduling of our 2011 Weber County GOP Organizing Convention, which will be held on the following date, at the below-designated time and place:

Date: Saturday, April 23, 2011
Time: Registration 9:00 a.m.; Opening Gavel: 10:00 a.m.
Place: South Junior High School
Special note: Convention credentials will be denied unless you're registered by 10:00 a.m.

Please take note that the following candidates have announced their candidacies for the following County Party Administrative Offices:

Weber County Party Chair
Matt Bell
Warren Vaughn

Weber County Party Vice Chair
Elizabeth Carlin
Noall Knighton

Weber County Party Secretary
Matt Gwynn

Weber County Party Treasurer
Suzanne Ellison-Ferre
Lynda Pipkin

County Legislative District positions will be nominated and filled during our Legislative District Caucuses, which will be held following our main meeting.

We're also informed that there will at least two resolutions which will be considered for approval by Weber County delegates, details of which we'll post here as soon as they're available.

Update 4/7/11 4:00 a.m.: Please click the link below to view the official Call to Convention:

2011 Call to Convention

Update 4/13/11 6:30 p.m.: Please review the following convention documents, which delegates should print out and bring along to the convention:

2011 convention agenda and rules (MS-Word)
2011 convention agenda and rules (Adobe PDF)
2010 convention minutes (Adobe PDF)

An Invitition to a 2011 Lincoln Day Celebration

2011-02-12T11:27:00.009-07:00

The Weber County Republican Party’s Annual Fundraiser - February 24, 2011

You are invited to

Weber County Republican Party’s

Annual Fundraiser:

A Lincoln Day Celebration

Featuring

Senator Mike Lee

February 24, 2011

Ogden Eccles Conference Center and Peery’s Egyptian Theater

6:30 p.m. Reception at the Conference Center:

Refreshments, Music, Silent Auction,

Opportunities to visit with elected officials

Suggested donation: $10

For reservation, email or call Christie Moore

Chrisim001@aol.com, 801-510-6634

8:00 p.m. in the Egyptian Theatre:

Keynote Speaker, Senator Mike Lee

Free!

Get tickets from your precinct chair or at the Theatre ticket office.

Special Guests:

Senator Orrin G. Hatch

Governor Gary Herbert Attorney General Mark Shurtleff

State Senator Scott Jenkins State Senator Allen Christensen

State Senator Stuart Reid Representative Brad Galvez

Representative Ryan Wilcox Representative Gage Froerer

Representative Jeremy Peterson Representative Dixon Pitcher

Representative Brad Dee Representative Richard Greenwood

County Commissioner Craig Dearden County Commissioner Jan Zogmaister

County Commissioner Kerry Gibson County Sheriff Terry Thompson

County Clerk/Auditor Ricky Hatch County Treasurer John Bond

County Assessor John Ulibarri County Recorder/Surveyor Ernest Rowley

And National Republican Committeeman Bruce Hough

State Central Committee (SCC) Meeting - January 22, 2011

2011-02-03T10:32:00.005-07:00

Thomas Wright, former Salt Lake County Party Chair was elected to the State Chair position with 84% of the vote

By: Ricky Hatch

Cold and clear came Saturday morning, a sunny setting for a spirited State Central Committee meeting. Even though over 2 months have lapsed since the general election, it felt a bit like deja vu as I walked into the SLCC Miller Campus in Sandy, with tables and a few small banners touting candidates running for leadership of the state GOP, at least until the organizing convention in June.

Yes, Dave Hansen, the State Party Chair, resigned. Vice Chair Kitty Dunn, and Secretary Christy Achziger, resigned as well. No, this was not a coup or some massive abdication due to the great success of the GOP in November. Mr. Hansen resigned because he is going to work on Senator Orrin Hatch's campaign (Senator Hatch officially announced last week that he is running).

Now I'm no big GOP insider guy, but I try to go to all of the meetings, to be prepared, to participate, to evaluate, to vote, and to report all of it in a way that doesn't cure insomnia. What I've seen from Dave Hansen, I've liked. Sure, he's stitched to a long-standing Senator, but I thought he did a good job. I like the results of November's elections, which he influenced for good. I like how he ran the meetings. I really like his informal, no-nonsense, catchy and witty writing style. I also like that he didn't dip into any partially-populated hot tubs, or discover that he actually lives outside of Utah.

So the SCC had to elect Mr. Hansen's replacement, and a Vice Chair and Secretary as well. It's kind of a big deal, because, as Christy Achziger put it, the next few months mark the busy season for the state party, mostly spent preparing for the Organizing Convention in June, where 3,500 delegates will elect party leadership for the next two years. These are the same 3,500 delegates who ousted Senator Bennett last May, so I'd recommend coming to this convention. Bring a notepad, because it should be really interesting.

78% of the 180 SCC members showed up, which is very strong attendance for this statewide group. There were a lot of big names there. Fred Lampropoulos opened the front door for me. I almost waved to Orrin Hatch. I talked with Morgan Philpot, shook hands with Rob Bishop, and saw Mark Shurtleff's broad shoulders and Jason Chaffetz's pearly-whites. National Committeeman Bruce Hough and National Committeewoman Enid Greene sat across the aisle from me in the audience. And, of course, our good Governor Herbert was there. That man believes in being involved in the party—he always attends. Most notably, but understandably absent was Mike Lee. Actually, he might have been there and I couldn't see him, because I'm only 5'8” (try being me and standing next to 6'2” Orrin Hatch, or Bob Bennett for that matter, who wasn't at the meeting, but who was the tallest standing Senator at 6'6”).

After the pledge, a respectful prayer, and thankfully brief thank-you comments from the outgoing leadership, we got right to the elections.

The candidates for Chair were Carlos Tavares, Dave Duncan, Thomas Wright and James O'Neal.

One candidate spent 3 ½ of his 4 minutes reading a book about a tiger (I'm not joking), one candidate was actually nominated by another candidate, and one candidate had endorsements from pretty much every elected official still breathing. The results can be found here:

Holly Richardson Elected as New District 57 Representative

But the young-looking and clean-shaven (from neck to crown) Thomas Wright, the Salt Lake County Party Chair was elected with 84% of the vote. While there may be cries of insidership, I was impressed at the things Mr. Wright did for the SL Party, including taking 3 elected seats from the Democrats, raising over $400K for candidates, and providing candidate training. These are the fundamental duties of a state party chair. See his pic and other info on Facebook. For an article he wrote about the benefits of our Caucus system (which I think is a great system), see this:

Keep party caucuses

The candidates for Vice Chair were Ben Smith, who talked about party unity and settling the automatic delegate debate once and for all, and Christy Achziger, who talked about hard work and the upcoming busy season, as mentioned above. Mrs. Achziger won with 85% of the vote.

The Secretary position pitted Lowell Nelson, who gave quite a compelling speech, in my opinion, against Dana Dickson, who gave the wittiest quote of the day, “The air is full of speeches and vice versa.” Mr. Dickson received 77% of the vote.

I had to leave at this point for a family event, but others from our Weber County contingent told me that all of the proposed resolutions and amendments failed.

Next up: the State Organizing Convention on June 11 at the South Towne Expo Center. It will be warmer outside and hotter inside, I'm sure!
--
Carpe Diem

State Central Committee Meeting Notes

2010-12-12T04:46:00.007-07:00

December 4, 2010
Salt Lake Community College, Miller Campus

Prepared by: Arnold Gaunt

Chairman’s Report

Chairman Dave Hansen will resign to manage Sen. Hatch’s reelection campaign, effective at the end of the next meeting. Vice Chair Kitty Dunn will also resign. Television news coverage was provided by Channel 5. Elections to fill the two positions to be vacated will occur at the next meeting on January 22nd.

Enid Mickelsen moved a resolution in support of Chairman Hansen’s service. Resolution passed.

Early Delegation Report

U.S. Senator elect Mike Lee spoke briefly prior to catching a plane.
Senate Republican Conference recently adopted a series of resolutions. The resolution addressing earmarks had the most discussion.

Constitution & Bylaws (C&B) Committee Report

Article X Amendment Empowering State Central Committee to Reject Party Constitutional Amendments Approved by the State Convention Delegates by a Two-Thirds Majority

Arguments for: It is a self evident check & balance. State Central Committee (SCC) has continuity that convention delegates lack. The SCC is a better forum for detailed discussion of constitutional issues.
Arguments against: The SCC should not have the power to silence the will of delegates expressed by two thirds or greater vote at Convention. Proponents are unable to provide any examples of actions by the Convention delegates that should be or should have been rejected by the SCC. Protection against rash actions by the Convention delegates is established by the two thirds requirement and experience. Grassroots delegates that have been asked about this change are opposed to it.

Roll call vote requested by Lisa Shepherd. Motion defeated.

First vote taken: 47 for, 26 against. Motion fails to get two thirds.
Second vote taken: 50 for, 25 against. Amendment advances to State Convention for ratification.

Article XII Constitutional Amendment requiring web site disclosure of national, Utah, and county party rules.

Overwhelmingly defeated.

Bylaw 1.3 Amendment removing provision establishing the C&B Committee as the “guardian of the Party Constitution & Bylaws.”

Overwhelmingly defeated.

Bylaw 7.5G Platform Amendments and Resolutions and 7.5H Constitution, Bylaws, and Rules Amendments: Requires amendments and resolutions received by the Platform/Resolutions Committee to be forwarded to the Convention for consideration and creates a Rules Committee to administer and propose amendments to Convention Rules.

Overwhelmingly defeated.

Resolution

Don Larsen moved resolution addressing illegal immigration. A motion to postpone indefinitely consideration of the resolution was made and was passed by a large margin.

Delegation Reports

Greg Bell

Most issues at state level aren’t political
Negotiations with Education for no cuts
Utah has a stable tax and regulatory situation
Utah is one of five states with an ordinary budget situation

Rob Bishop

He continues to advocate allowing the Border Patrol access to National Parks and the like
He has introduced an amendment that would allow states to veto federal legislation. It is about federalism, not states rights.

Dave Clark

17 Democrats are incoming, all are from SL County except one
Advice to Democrats: When riding a dead horse dismount, don’t call a veterinarian.
Motion was made and approved thanking the Speaker for the past two years

Enid Mickelsen

She is on RNC redistricting committee
Approximately 35 state houses switched to Republican
Informal poll of SCC members indicated almost unanimous support for a new direction in RNC, something that Enid supports
The names of some RNC Chairmen candidates were mentioned

Bruce Hough

Enid occupies a very important spot through her membership on redistricting committee
RNC consisting of 168 members has two functions: Manage Party and conduct convention
Steele hasn’t done a good job with major donors; they haven’t been asked to contribute
No. 1 job of a Party Chairman is to ask for dollars
Wisconsin State Party Chairman will announce his candidacy for RNC Chairman on Monday
RNC Chairman and other officers will be elected in January, see http://brucehough.blogspot.com/2010/12/rnc-to-elect-new-officers-in-january.html for more information
Bruce strongly supports replacement of RNC Treasurer

UT Federation of Republican Women

A Utah Valley group is being formed

Young Republicans

Wish to get additional clubs started
Dan Thatcher won a State Senate seat

Closing

Next meeting will be held Jan. 22.

Salt Lake Tribune: Hatch, Lee Push Balanced Budget Amendment

2010-11-12T15:08:00.003-07:00

At least Hatch is moving politically in the right direction, no?

Good news from the Salt Lake Tribune this morning:

• Hatch, Lee push balanced budget amendment

Great to see that Senator Hatch is taking the lead from the fiscal conservatives in our GOP Party, and adapting his Washington beltway ways to the economically tight-fisted attitudes of the Tea Party Movement.

Whether this will save Hatch's US Senate candidacy in 2012 in light of recent polls, we don't know. But at least Hatch is moving politically in the correct direction, no?

Who will be the first to comment on this subject?

2010 Utah/Weber County Election Results

2010-11-03T13:25:00.031-07:00

It's definitely a good time to be a Republican in America, no?

Weber County Republicans scored a stunning victory last night, with the most remarkable election performance that your blogmeister has ever witnessed during his 16 years in Weber County GOP "leadership."

Here are the results of yesterday's election, wherein EVERY SINGLE WEBER COUNTY GOP CANDIDATE (100%) prevailed in his or her individual race:

• Official Weber County 2019 General Election Interim Tallies

This magnificent Weber County GOP victory didn't occur in a vacuum however, by the way.

Check out this CNN story, to learn how national USA GOP leadership plans to go forward from yesterday's crushing GOP national victory, wherein Republican candidates took back the US House of Representatives by a wide margin, and left the US Senate in Democrat control by only a narrow "hair's breadth":

• Boehner says Obama health plan on the block after GOP wins

It's definitely a great time to be a Republican in America, no?

Update 11/4/10 8:00 a.m.: The Deseret News reports this morning on seats that GOP candidates picked up in the Utah Legislature:

• GOP gains 5 seats in Utah House, 1 in state Senate

Weber County 11/2/10 Polling Place Utilities

2010-10-28T18:16:00.016-07:00

Attention Weber County Republican voters!

Unsure of your voting precinct and/or polling place? Follow the instructions below:

Instructions:

Step One:

1) Click on the highlighted link: Find your voting precinct. (This will open a new page.)
2) Click on the "Geocode Tool" icon (right column under "Precinct Locator Tools")
3) Enter your street address and city or town (e.g., 214 Maple Lane Ogden)

The Precinct Locator* utility will then automatically generate a map, plotting your residence within your indicated voting precinct.

Step Two:

To find your precinct polling place, enter your indicated polling precinct number generated above via the handy web utility here:

• Polling Places in Weber County

Yeah. We know this may seem overly complicated, but we nevertheless need to have all able-bodied Weber County Republicans voting on Tuesday, right?.

If all else fails, call the Weber County Clerk/Auditor's Office @ 399-8400, for further instructions.

Constitutional Amendment D

2010-10-22T06:42:00.003-07:00

Resolution on Legislative Ethics Commission

By Jan Zogmaister
Weber County Commissioner

As you have seen in your Voter Information Guide there is a ballot question to amend the State Constitution to establish a five-member legislative ethics commission.
I spoke with several legislators and an independent person who is very familiar with the process and the information that I obtained is provided below.
I think that it is important to clarify how this came about and also who it came from.
There was a real concern coming from the citizens as to the ethics of our legislators because of actions of a few. There was a committee with membership from both parties that met to form a new system to address these concerns. (This idea precedes the UEG initiative) and was worked on though the summer of 2009 and approved 2010.
The goal was to create an independent body to judge, that did not conflict legally with the state constitution. The committee actually created in rules an independent commission that is already up and operating today.
There was concern from both parties that this independent commission could at some time just go away because it was just in rules. They were comfortable putting it into the actual article of the state constitution making it impossible for the legislature to not have a functional Ethics Commission.
Something interesting about how this has all come together is that the “cart was actually before the horse” In this particular case, the rule was already in place and the commission formed before it became Law. Usually the law is passed and then rules established to put it into action. This is a real advantage to the people because they can actually see how the law will be enacted before it becomes law.
You can ask why do we want to put this requirement into the constitution? Can you really expect to be able to legislate ethics? What this does is sets a very high expectation within the state constitution of conduct and ensures that an independent Ethics Commission will remain in place. It also ensures that in cases where enough evidence is presented to the independent commission that it will be announced publicly.
Please note that this has bi-partisan support from Speaker Dave Clark and Minority Leader David Litvack it passed the Senate 25 to 4 and the House 70 to 3

I would encourage you to get the resolution on the Legislative Ethics Commission and read it.

Lt. Governor Bell Set to Speak on the WSU Campus 10/26/10

2010-10-22T06:03:00.003-07:00

Here's a quick note about a 2010 Gubernatorial Election event scheduled for next week, via Weber County GOP Chairman Matt Bell:

A Weber State University student group, Pi Sigma Alpha, has booked Lt Gov Bell to come and speak on campus: Oct 26th, 6:00-7:30 PM, Ballroom A.

We hope Weber County political wonks will mark their calenders and plan to attend.

Abigail Adams Project Topic: Four Amendments to Utah's State Constitution

2010-10-20T09:44:00.005-07:00

By Christie Moore
Weber County GOP Vice-chair

Attention Weber County Republicans:

The four constitutional amendments that are on the 2010 General Election ballot have had little play and most voters don't know about them. In that connection, here's some information which might be helpful:

The best online explanation I've found is here:

Abigail Adams Project Topic: Four Amendments to Utah's State Constitution

It covers the intent of the legislature briefly and accurately, I believe.

Early Voting Starts In Weber County Tomorrow

2010-10-18T13:18:00.007-07:00

Vote early and often

Are you eager to cast your GOP voter ballot right now? Tired of waiting in long lines at your Weber County polling place? Are you aware that early Weber County voting goes underway tomorrow?

Find out how you can cast your Weber County ballot in your own neighborhood, starting 10/19/10 (Tuesday):

• Weber County Elections - Early Voting

Remember, Weber County voters (as Chicago Mayor Richard Daley used to say):

Vote early and often.

"Fear the Boom and Bust" a Hayek vs. Keynes Rap Anthem

2010-10-13T22:05:00.014-07:00

Hey folks! Check this great video out, wherein The idiot Lord Keynes dramatically battles it out, "rap" style, with the brilliant Austrian economist, FA Hayek:

As an added bonus, here's the story about how the Obama administration (along with the US banking industry) intend to reject Hayek and apply Keynesian principles to turn US Dollars into trash in November (after the 11/2/10 election):

• The Fed's Magic Money-Printing Machine, Act 2

Reader comments are invited, of course.

Republican AD for 2010---- WOW!

2010-10-11T10:51:00.002-07:00

Ricky Hatch Weber 9/12 Group Meet the Candidates Night Speech

2010-10-04T04:35:00.003-07:00

For those readers eagerly following the 2010 General Election runup, we're delighted to link this mp3 audio file, which contains the speech which GOP Weber County Clerk/Auditor candidate Ricky Hatch delivered to the Weber 9/12 Group during their Meet the Candidates Night on September 22:

• Weber 912 Speech Ricky Hatch.mp3

For those readers unable to download the audio file, we also present Ricky's remarks in full text form:

• Ricky Hatch Weber 9/12 Group Meet the Candidates Night Speech

We thank Ricky for this informative submission, and further extend the invitation to all other 2010 General Election GOP candidates to submit their own election-related material for publication on our Weber County GOP Blog.

A 31 year old video clip- Just a Reminder

2010-09-10T13:27:00.012-07:00

Query: is it true that political self-interest is superior to economic self-interest?

Nobel prize winning economist Milton Friedman fries and dumbfounds leftie socialist Phil Donohue in this classic 1979 interview:

See, e.g., Adam Smith

File this under Fundamental GOP Values.

Obama Approval On Economy Drops To New Low In CNN Poll

2010-07-25T06:02:00.005-07:00

Despite best efforts, the seepage continues

Via Hot Air.Com:

So much for Recovery Summer. The entire idea of this new PR campaign was to stimulate recovery in the trending on Barack Obama’s approval ratings, but it’s been as effective at that as Obamanomics has been at reviving the economy. CNN is the latest to notice that the trend continues:

• CNN Poll: Obama's approval on economy drops to new low

Jay Leno On Saving Jobs

2010-07-19T17:39:00.005-07:00

h/t to Holly on the Hill

Obama Bumper Sticker Removal Kit

2010-07-18T11:02:00.004-07:00

(Even works on a Prius...)

State Central Committee (SCC) meeting 6/12/10 – Provo

2010-07-16T14:48:00.007-07:00

By Ricky Hatch
Weber County GOP Treasurer
2010 Weber County Clerk/Auditor Candidate

Sorry in advance for such a long report. If I had more time, I’d make it shorter. Several candidates came, including Bridgewater and Lee, who spoke to the county party leaders before leaving for parades. The main meeting started with reports from several of our elected officials.

Jason Chaffetz started out saying, “We currently have the most undemocratic Congress in history.” And then he got mad. He said the 111th Congress will have gone through 2 full years with NO bills in “Open Rule.” This means that none of the bills can have amendments proposed and added on the floor. There has not been a budget yet this year in Washington, and the Democrats won’t touch it until after the November elections. Hmmm…I wonder why. Mr. Cot-side Chat closed by saying, “It’s a great day to be a Republican, but we need to stay true to our core principles.” True dat.

Morgan Philpot discussed how the federal government’s spending is typically about 18% of the GDP. The Democrats are trying to push that ratio higher until it’s clear there’s a crisis. When the crisis is evident, they can “resolve” it by taking the “unfortunately necessary” step of implementing a VAT tax. Gee, thanks! Mr. Philpot mentioned that his campaign will be unconventional (or should I say, “unconphentional”), and will go through the summer.

Rob Bishop assured us that this will be a good year for us IF the intensity, anger and anxiety that citizens are now feeling continue through November. He quoted John Spratt, “If you can’t budget, you can’t govern.” Our country is still in a financial world of hurt. We’re at 89% comprehensive debt as a % of GDP. How’s that for change? Two things Representative Bishop is working on:

1. He is on the Task Force on 10^th Amendment (state’s rights/federalism). They are moving forward, and even liberals are finding this issue to be important. This Task Force should help make the Fed smaller. If you want choices, you have to empower local government, not federal. I think there were some people living on the East Coast about 220 years ago who felt the same way.

2. Border control – 40% of land from San Diego to El Paso is owned by the federal government. Because much of this border contains endangered species, our Border Patrol cannot use motorized vehicles and in many cases can’t even go onto the land. But the drug cartels can, and do. Surprisingly enough, this same problem exists on the northern border – it’s not just as bad. House Bill 5016 will solve this problem. It’s a common-sense bill. FYI – There are no Latino groups who oppose this bill.

Governor Herbert – A recent article asked “Which state is the least like California?” You guessed it, Utah. Now, Which state is the least like Washington DC? Good! 2 for 2. Steve Forbes said that Utah is the best state in terms of our debt ratio, which is about 1/5th of what the federal government’s ratio is. But we’re not yet where we need to be in terms of economic development. The Governor took umbrage when Peter Coroon said that the Governor has no plan. We not only have a plan, but we have implemented a plan (with 10 points) that involved tourism, research and development, education, natural resource development, etc. This plan has worked remarkably well. Utah has led the nation in job growth creation. Before the recession, we had the lowest unemployment rate in our state’s history. Gov. Herbert recently rolled out the Utah Energy Initiatives & Opportunities Plan. This comprehensive, 10-year plan is detailed on the Governor’s web page. We have the 5th lowest per-kilowatt electricity cost in the nation. The Governor recently visited Fresenius, who manufactures about 80% of the world’s kidney dialysis equipment right here in Weber County. They have 1,500 employees, and since they opened in 1984, they have never laid off anyone. They originally came to Utah because of the climate, but they are absolutely sold about establishing business in Utah. This is private enterprise at work. The economy is his #1 focus.

Lt. Gov. Bell mentioned how he had earned the nickname “outlaw” because he recently determined that electronic signatures would not be recognized. This decision is currently in litigation. There is also a federal lawsuit that is seeking to keep private the names of those who have signed the Ethics initiative. This violates the sovereignty of our state. Early voting is a game changer. The Senate election will probably be decided by about 10% of Registered Republicans.

Chairman’s Report – Dave Hansen talked about what a great tool Voter Vault is for candidates. The State Convention was one of the funnest things he’s ever done in his life. There was great energy and dedication with 3,452 (98.6%) of the 3,500 delegates showing up. Even more impressive, most of them stayed for the entire day. A big reason it went well was because the county leaders provided delegate names and information to the state party in time to prepare for the convention. Thank you county leaders for cooperating and making it possible for as many candidates to attend as many conventions as possible.

Starting June 23, we’ll have an online newsletter, “Countdown to Victory” on a weekly basis until the election. One item will be a schedule of events throughout the state, so be sure to communicate your upcoming events to the state party. Early voting is increasing and is becoming important.

Regarding Utah’s Caucus/Convention system vs. Direct Primary Elections – Utah’s system is great – the delegates are knowledgeable, engaged, and know the candidates much better. In order for this to change, it would have to be done at the state convention. There will likely be challenges to this process in the future. (Personally, I wholeheartedly agree with Chairman Hansen.)

C&B Committee Report – Chair Dana Dickson gave the results from the state convention. They will provide a status of each of 7 proposed amendments at the next SCC meeting. A motion was made to table discussion of these amendments until after the elections. It passed. (My personal opinion – we shouldn’t delay SCC business until after the elections, especially things like amendments.)

Enid Mickelsen discussed three things about the Republican National Committee (RNC):

1. Presidential nominating procedure-the special committee has come back with their recommendation. It doesn’t recommend sweeping changes, but it is a good start, and probably as much change as they could recommend right now. So what does it do? Most states will not be allowed to have a Presidential primary before March 1^st (currently, it’s Feb. 1). Four states can have primaries before then: New Hampshire, South Carolina, Nevada and Iowa. There shouldn’t be any exceptions, but again, this is a start. Any other state that tries to hold primaries before March 1st will be forced to allocate the votes, based on the actual votes, so they can’t have a disproportionate impact on the candidates (like “winner take all”). If these changes work well this time, they’ll consider making more changes after the next presidential election. The RNC must vote up or down on this proposal, there is no possibility for the amendment. Enid will vote yes – it’s a good first step.

2. Enid is a co-chair of the Rules Committee. They are beginning their 4-year review of the RNC. The rules are on the RNC web site. If you have suggestions or /concerns, tell Enid and she’ll forward your thoughts on.

3. The RNC national convention bid went to Tampa, but thank you to those who helped on the bid for Salt Lake. The committee members who came to Utah were very pleasantly surprised at our ability to host. Our least competitive advantage is financing – the host city is required to come up with $40 Million as a backstop. Tampa was successful after 12 years working on getting the convention, partly because four wealthy people ponied up $10 Million each. When Republicans control the White House, the President decides where the convention is held. But when we don’t hold the White House, it’s a competitive process.

Under our current administration’s setup, by the year 2020, our national debt will be $20 trillion dollars.

Resolutions, discussions, and reports.

Don Larsen’s Resolution regarding “pseudo-Republican candidates” was postponed indefinitely. People liked the intent of the resolution, but not the wording. Dana Dixon indicated that he would work with Mr. Larsen on the wording.

Question: Why are we selling our caucus attendee lists to our candidates instead of giving it for free? Answer: Party rules allow us to charge a nominal fee (depending on size of the list), which we do, to cover the cost of producing the list. Voterlink costs $10K per year. We don’t charge for the State Delegate list.

Question: Is a person required to sign a caucus attendee list? Answer: No. We hope they do, and it is required if they are elected to a position. We do not share the email addresses with anyone.

Tom Clay of Davis County tried to present a resolution and because of its sensitive nature, to go into a SCC-only session. It was resolved that the resolution would be included in the next meeting.

Young Republicans – Jeff Morton, Vice Chair, thanked the youth for their help at conventions. The Yrs are established from Cache County to St. George. They had over 320 people at the state convention. www.utahyoungrepublicans.com. There’s an opening for the Treasurer position. Contact the Chair or Vice Chair.

Teenage Republicans – JayLynn Gilette is the new Chair for the state, elected before the state convention. They are trying to get a chapter in every county. They provided a lot of help at the convention, and had a booth as well. If you want to help, contact Christy Achziger.

--
Carpe Diem

MSNBC Poll: Do you support Arizona's Tough New Law on Illegal Immigration?

2010-07-07T09:52:00.004-07:00

Scroll down and vote

By: Frank Maughan

MSNBC has been viciously critical of conservative Americans, and conservative causes. They have an online poll asking if Arizona's immigration law should be on the books. I think MSNBC will be shocked at America's response... You'll see the total after you vote!

If you don't do anything else today, please answer this MSNBC poll question and forward it on to as many people as you can. The silent majority must not be silent on this one.

Answer This ONE Question! - Then Pass It Along!

• Do you support Arizona's tough new law on illegal immigration?

Thanks!

Good News For Friends of the Second Amendment!

2010-06-28T11:13:00.016-07:00

In striking down the Chicago gun ban today, the Supreme Court breathed new vigor into the Privileges or Immunities Clause, the resuscitation of which, as you may know, continues to be much needed in America

Read the Institute of Justice Press release:

• Important U.S Supreme Court Victory For the Second Amendment

Will this important 2d Amendment victory stand; or will it be wiped out in upcoming days by pending SCOTUS Obama appointees like Elena Kagan?

Comments, Please.

Some Brief Information Regarding Tuesday's GOP Primary

2010-06-20T13:46:00.005-07:00

For those voters who appreciate the opportunity to wield magnified political clout, Tuesday's Primary is made to order for you

We'd like to offer a quick reminder of our upcoming Utah GOP Primary, which is set for Tuesday, June 22 2010 from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The 2010 Primary Election consists of just one race, the US Senate. This Primary is Closed Republican Primary, which means that only registered Republicans will be issued a ballot.

The two Republican contenders are Tim Bridgewater and Mike Lee. For more particular information about these candidates, we link their individual campaign websites below:

• Tim Bridgewater
• Mike Lee

Unsure of your voting precinct? Visit Lieutenant Governor Bell's Voter Information Webpage, enter your name, birthdate, county of residence and house number, and the polling place locator utility will automatically generate your precinct number and the address of Tuesday's polling place:

• Polling Place Locator Utility

Please contact the Weber County Clerk at (801)399-8034 for further information.

And remember, Weber County Republicans, due to the short candidate slate, it's likely that Tuesday's primary will have a relatively low voter turnout, which means that your vote will have a much greater impact on Tuesday than in the General Election in November. For those voters who appreciate the opportunity to wield magnified political clout, Tuesday's Primary is made to order for you.

Utah Federation of Republican Women Press Release

2010-06-19T09:22:00.003-07:00

We welcome all Republican women and their spouses to join us tonight in a celebration of Republican Women

Utah Federation of Republican Women

Contacts:
Darcy Kruitbosch, President, UFRW 801-510-2349
Kathleen Handy, President, WRC of SLC 801-755-9795

Dear Republican Women,

We received a copy of the Mike Lee campaign statement regarding his withdrawal from the U.S. Senate debate scheduled for this evening 6 p.m., June 19, 2010 at Merit Medical, 1600 Merit Parkway, South Jordan, Utah.

Because we have received many questions about the discrepancies in our news release and the Lee campaign statement, we wanted to clear up the confusion.

Here is the Lee campaign statement:

"In regards to the UFRW debate, the campaign has had eight joint appearances and debates with the opponent this week alone, including four today. The UFRW changed the venue location from the neutral location of the University of Utah to our opponent's finance chairman's business. We were not allowed to insert a campaign volunteer into the question vetting process. As such, we have determined not to attend the debate, but welcome voters to attend public debates either tonight at UVU or on in Bountiful on Saturday. Details on the debates are on our website http://www.mikelee2010.com/events

Since the event location, moderator, and questions screeners were all endorsee's of the Bridgewater campaign, and we were not allowed to participate in any of this, along with the fact that there have been 8 other debates this week alone, the campaign decided to cancel this debate.

I hope this does not cause you too much inconvenience, but it was the only choice we could make given our situation.”

The event sponsors, UFRW and the RW of SLC, did not change the venue. The event was originally scheduled at the Merit Medical, a location generously provided by Fred Lampropoulos to many community organizations. The candidates confirmed their appearance at this event through their schedulers.

Neither the Bridgewater nor the Lee campaigns requested a volunteer to be involved in the “question vetting process.” An email went out to the presidents and board members soliciting suggestions. The moderator, former Governor Olene Walker, was organizing those questions.

The event organizers have not publicly endorsed either candidate.

We have extended an apology to Governor Olene Walker for any inconvenience this change may have caused. We welcome all Republican women and their spouses to join us in a celebration of Republican Women. Tim Bridgewater will be there to meet with us and to answer questions from 6 until 7:30 p.m. We look forward to seeing you tonight. Please RSVP to one of us or on our Facebook page.

Darcy and Kathleen

Fox News Poll: Ban Old Glory in U.S. Schools?

2010-06-14T10:14:00.017-07:00

We can't wait to hear from the radical leftie Anti-America fringe

Just in case you haven’t heard yet, Fox News has a poll... "Should the Flag Be Banned at Schools?”

Moveon.org Organizing for America, and SEIU have been twittering today to go to Fox Poll and vote to ban the Flag... and as of now... it is working.

Let's flip those numbers and show the lefties we are organized and on the ball....flip the numbers now... and FLIP THE HOUSE in November!

GO HERE NOW:

• Should the American Flag Be Banned -- in America?

Ask yourselves Weber County Republicans. Isn't this the flag which REALLY ought to be banned in America?

Reader comments are invited as always. We especially can't wait to hear from the radical leftie Anti-America fringe.

Another Tea Party Upset

2010-05-18T22:55:00.008-07:00

Ron Paul's kid wins in Kentucky Primary by a 2/3 margin!

Looks like the neoCON drones in the federal legislature have awakened a sleeping giant.

Go figure.

About Bob Bennett

2010-05-13T19:14:00.004-07:00

True to our Weber County Party webmaster principles, we're delighted to report on the outcome of last Saturday's Utah GOP convention, albeit possibly a few days late. We hardly know where to start.

Okay. For people who want to read the official 5/8/10 convention results... check this out:

2010 Decisions: Final Vote Counts

Airport Security

2010-04-21T11:39:00.010-07:00

Let's stop the political correctness games of anti-war liberals and focus "Airport Security" on those who truly threaten our nation

Via Move Amarica Forward

Just a thought...

Comments, anyone?

Junction City, Colorado. Ya Gotta Love 'Em

2010-04-12T15:15:00.000-07:00

Submitted by: Dorothy Littrell

Click image to enlarge

Quick and Dirty Weber County Nominating Convention Report

2010-04-11T10:27:00.017-07:00

Submitted by: Chairman Matt Bell

Here are the official numbers and percentages for each of the contested races and the non-binding "straw poll" from yesterday's Weber County Convention:

April 10, 1010 Total / %
1) Contested Convention Races:

Treasurer
John Bond 328 / 65.08
Darcy Kruitbosch 176 / 34.92

Clerk/Auditor
Alan McEwan 183 / 36.24
Ricky Hatch 322 / 63.76

Sheriff
Brett Haycock 167 / 33.2
Terry Thompson 336 / 66.8

Commissioner
Ken Bischoff 126 / 25.05
Kerry Gibson 377 / 74.95

Leg. 6
Brad Galvez 68 / 58.96
Craig Call 37 / 31.09
Brent Ropelato 11 / 9.5

2) Straw Poll:

US SENATE
Robert F. Bennett 106 / 22.75
Tim Bridgewater 48 / 10.3
Cherilyn Eagar 129 / 27.68
David Y. Chiu 0 / 0
Leonard J. Fabiano 29 / 6.22
Jeremy Friedbaum 0 / 0
Mike Lee 150 / 32.19
Merrill Cook 4 / 0.86

1st Congressional
Rob Bishop 428 / 91.65
Mike Ridgway 39 / 8.75

Governor
Gary R. Herbert 421 / 90.7
Richard Martin 9 / 1.94
Daniel Van Oaks Jr. 32 / 6.9
Superdell 2 / 0.43

Update: 4/22/10: Check out the link below, for a complete list of GOP candidates who survived our 4/10/10 County Nominating Convention:

• 2010 Post-Weber County GOP Convention Candidate Roster

BackTo the Future Redux

2010-04-07T14:18:00.011-07:00

Deja Vu All Over Again?

Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

George Santayana
Spanish-American philosopher
1863-1952

Timely 1934 cartoon submission from 2010 Weber County GOP Clerk/Assessor candidate Ricky Hatch, who rightfully believes this Great Depression Era cartoon is "pretty poignant" in our modern Great Recession era:

Click to enlarge image

Is it Deja Vu All Over Again?

Comments, anyone?

The Philosophy of Liberty

2010-03-19T21:10:00.015-07:00

This will be on the test.

Terry Thompson Candidate Statement: Thompson For Weber County Sheriff

2010-03-16T10:22:00.007-07:00

By Terry Thompson
Candidate: Weber County Sheriff

Greetings!

I am seeking your support as a candidate for the office of Sheriff in Weber County. I have served with the Weber County Sheriff’s Office for over 20 years. Nearly three years ago, Sheriff Brad Slater invited me to become a member of his Executive Command Staff as his Chief Deputy. Working closely with Brad on a daily basis has been an immense privilege for me. I have learned to love and respect his steady leadership, wisdom, and knowledge of law enforcement and related issues. This opportunity to provide leadership at the highest level of the Weber County Sheriff’s Office has prepared me to serve as your Weber County Sheriff.

I am currently serving as the Enforcement Division Chief Deputy. I am responsible for managing a $10 million budget, 120 employees, law enforcement contracts with eight cities, 17 schools, and quality law enforcement services to approximately 100,000 Weber County residents. The Enforcement Division encompasses Patrol functions, Investigations, Community Resource Officers, Professional Standards and Training, Crime Scene Investigations (CSI), Emergency Management, Animal Control, Search & Rescue, Marine Patrol, etc.

For the last three years as Chief Deputy over the Corrections Division, I have been responsible for managing a $22 million budget, 230 employees, two jail facilities, and an average of 1,150 offenders comprised of County, State, US Marshal, and Immigration inmates. I have overseen the 2nd District Courts, Juvenile Courts, and Ogden and Weber Justice Courts. I certified with the first group to successfully complete the Utah Sheriff’s Association “Jail Commander Certification Academy” in Utah. I have been privileged to serve in virtually every capacity within the Sheriff’s Office over my two decades of service.

Throughout my tenure with Weber County, and most recently as an Executive Command Staff member, trust of public funds has been essential to operations of the Sheriff’s Office. Society is experiencing difficult times. As the slowdown in the economy has affected Weber County, the Sheriff’s Office has taken bold steps to remain healthy. Over the last three years, we have anticipated the need to reduce overall expenses, thus eliminating over $1 million of the Sheriff’s Office budget. Due to our successful forecast of challenging times, we have been proactive and stayed ahead of the game. In spite of a reduced budget, we were able to retain all existing staff without reducing pay or rank, and staff has continued to demonstrate a firm professionalism.

Finally, as a Weber County resident, your safety and security will continue to remain my focus. Your quality of life will continue to remain my top priority. I am committed to do the right thing to continue to move forward to provide for the safety and security of Weber County residents.

I invite you to visit my website at www.thompsonforsheriff.us

And be sure to check out my companion article: The Constitution - Foundation of Freedom

Terry Thompson
Candidate For Weber County Sheriff
(801) 940-7266
Email: terry@thompsonforsheriff.us

The Constitution - Foundation of Freedom

2010-03-16T10:11:00.008-07:00

By Terry Thompson
Candidate: Weber County Sheriff

Throughout my life and Law Enforcement career, I have supported, upheld, and defended constitutional principle. The freedom and liberty inherent in this inspired document that governs our country is a God-given foundation for a free people. Our founding father’s purpose on this earth was to produce a form of government that would allow a free people to exist without subjugated rule of an oppressive few. The courage of early colonial patriots forged this country, and with the hand of the almighty, successfully established a free country and a free people—with a government that does not give fundamental rights, but recognizes God-given rights dispersed equally to all men.

At a young age, I toured our nation’s Capitol with my family and felt a deep patriotic love of country through the example of my parents. The awe inspiring edifices proclaiming our liberties, our founding fathers, and our nation’s presidents, made me eternally proud to be an American. Colonial patriots, many with personal wealth, risked their lives, fortunes, and all that they possessed for love of God and Country. Battles fought by brave soldiers, fitting memorials in remembrance of sacrifice in defense of God and Country, sparked a love for our military, veterans, and fallen, that grips my soul to this day. Revolutionary conflict and civil war sites rendered a solemn, grateful appreciation for the struggle, even an internal struggle, of so many to establish and maintain this free Nation.

As a young Sheriff’s Deputy with five years experience, I testified in legislative committee hearings chaired by a high ranking Law Enforcement Official and personal friend at our State Capitol. I believed that submitting my testimony was the right thing to do in defending constitutional principle, although in opposition to him. I knew I was potentially risking my law enforcement career that had just really begun, but mustered the courage to let the chips fall where they may. I will always respect this Official, who never allowed my public opposition to his position, affect our relationship or my career.

Over the years, I have written numerous articles, guest commentaries and letters to the editor, in support of Constitutional principle; primarily in opposition to attempts to diminish our God-given right to self preservation guaranteed by the 2nd Amendment. While some within the law enforcement community have occasionally scoffed at my “activism”, I have not allowed the nay-saying to sway my commitment to defending Constitutional principle. I have not allowed myself to place my own ambitions above doing the right thing. I truly believe that my success in my chosen profession is largely due to this commitment. Far too many law enforcement administrators allow what I call “administrator’s disease” to affect their judgment; losing focus of what is right due to the subtle seduction of political correctness.

“The Sheriff’s job is an integral part of the American dream. If you do your job with honesty and fidelity, keeping your oath to your citizens, the dream is kept alive and America will survive!”
-Sheriff Richard Mack-

I become a catalyst for the enduring freedom enshrined in our Constitution by having the courage to do the right thing. I commit today to accept nothing less than supporting, upholding, and defending the Constitution. As Sheriff, I will use my influence to protect and defend the rights of the people enumerated in our Constitution and Bill of Rights. The number one priority and mission of any righteous government instituted by man is the safety and security of the people. Safety and security of the people is the Constitutional mandate of the Sheriff. I have pledged my sacred honor to the people for whom I serve, and, as Sheriff; I will serve the people.

“One man with courage makes a majority”
-Andrew Jackson-
Be sure to read my Introductory Greeting, posted on the blog page directly above: Terry Thompson Candidate Statement: Thompson For Weber County Sheriff

Terry Thompson
Candidate For Weber County Sheriff
(801) 940-7266
Email: terry@thompsonforsheriff.us
Website: Campaign Website

2010 Weber County GOP Neighborhood Caucus Meeting Locations

2010-03-09T13:38:00.021-07:00

In response to several recent requests, we're pleased to provide information on our upcoming March 23, 2010 (7:00 p.m.) Weber County Neighborhood Precinct Caucus Meeting Locations. Click your preferred link below to find the name and address of your Neighborhood GOP Caucus Host:

• 2010 Weber County Neighborhood Caucus Locations (Excel format)
• 2010 Weber County Neighborhood Caucus Locations (PDF format)
• 2010 Weber County Neighborhood Caucus Locations (HTML format)

Unsure of your voting precinct? Follow the instructions below:

Instructions:

1) Click on the highlighted link: Find your voting precinct. (This will open a new page.)
2) Click on the "Geocode Tool" icon (right column under "Precinct Locator Tools")
3) Enter your street address and city or town (e.g., 214 Maple Lane Ogden)

The Precinct Locator* utility will then automatically generate a map, plotting your residence within your indicated voting precinct.
_____
*Courtesy of Weber County Clerk/Auditor Alan D. McEwan

Weber County Caucus Chair Training

2010-03-04T13:57:00.014-07:00

Important Caucus Chair Training Session now set for 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 11, 2010

Attention all Weber County GOP Precinct Chairs, Vice Chairs, appointed Neighborhood GOP Precinct Caucus Hosts, and registered Weber County Republicans in general:

Please be advised, that in preparation for our March 23, 2010 Neighborhood Caucus meetings, the Weber County Republican Party Executive Committee has now calendered a full Caucus Meeting Host Training Session as follows:

What: Caucus Chair Training Session & Precinct Packet pick-up
Where: Ogden Preparatory Academy, 215 E 22nd St, Ogden, UT
When: Thursday, March 11, 2010, 6:00 p.m.

The scheduling of this event presents an opportunity for all Weber County GOP Caucus Hosts to kill two birds with one stone, i.e.:

1) To receive an hour's worth of Caucus Chair training; and,
2) To pick up Precinct Caucus Packets at a central location.

Experience dictates that these training sessions, which Weber County GOP Executive Committee leadership has been successfully conducting for the last several years, will allow our Weber County GOP Neighborhood Caucus Chairs to conduct their upcoming 2010 meetings with the utmost confidence.

We do hope all Weber County Caucus Hosts will put this on their calenders, and plan to attend.

(The Executive Committee will meet immediately following the training. )

Your questions and comments are invited, of course.

Weber County GOP Lincoln Day Celebration

2010-02-03T15:39:00.015-07:00

A slightly "toned down" Weber County Republican Lincoln Day Event

A few words for warhorse Republicans from Weber County, for whom we are pleased to announce our upcoming annual Lincoln Day Fund-raising event.

Unlike past years however, our County GOP Executive Committee, which is fully attuned to the current meager economic times, has decided to stage an event that will save our County GOP Party thousands of dollars this year. Consequently there will be no Lincoln Day Dinner this year. Instead of spending thousands of dollars in "overhead" on a "Big Fancy Dinner" this year, our conservative and financially prudent Weber County Executive Committee has set up an alternate-style event. Read all about it here, courtesy of WCGOP Vice-Chair, Christie Moore:

• A Weber County GOP Lincoln Day Celebraton

Even though the Weber County Republican Party won't be serving up an expensive "rubber chicken dinner" this year, we urge all Weber County Republicans to put his year's slightly toned-down shindig on their calenders.

Here are the particulars:

What: Lincoln Day celebration
Where: Ogden Eccles Conference Center and Peery’s Egyptian Theater
When: 2/16/10 - 6:00 p.m. – 7:15 p.m.

As always, we predict it'll be lots of fun.

(And word has it that even though we won't be served dinner, the pre-event Hors d’oeuvres will be really great, too!)

America Rising: An Open Letter to Democratic Pols

2010-02-02T15:58:00.007-07:00

By Ricky Hatch
Weber County GOP Treasurer

A pretty interesting and effective video, I believe:

-----
Carpe Diem

1/23/10 State Central Committee Meeting Report

2010-01-26T12:52:00.003-07:00

A series of tasty treats from the SSC smorgasboard

By Ricky Hatch
WCRGOP Treasurer

As a small and probably unflavorful appetizer, I want to include a brief personal note about these quarterly meetings: After having attended almost every one of these meetings for about 4 years, I feel comfortable stating that the party leadership really tries hard to keep the meetings moving along. Still, sometimes we consider some pretty important issues that are fundamental to being a citizen and voter. These kinds of issues should not be hurried along, and State Central Committee ( SCC ) members should be prepared to spend several hours, if necessary, to get them resolved. I was bothered that there were 3 attempts to adjourn this meeting prematurely. I am puzzled at why people would want to prematurely end these meetings, and commend Chairman Hansen for summarily dismissing these proposals. Yes, we’re all busy, and Saturdays are such good days for getting stuff done, but SCC members are elected by fellow party members, and should be expected to get the job done, even if it cuts into our afternoon naps. We only meet 4 times a year – let’s stay until the job’s finished!

And now for the main course. Bon Appétit!

Audit Committee Report – The audit has been completed, but the report has not yet been finalized. They will present it at the next SCC meeting. Or you can look for it on the NY Times Bestseller list.

Election of Vice Chair – Morgan Philpot, elected as Vice Chair at the last organizing convention in 2009, has elected to resign so that he can focus on getting elected to the 2 nd District Congressional position (currently held by Jim Matheson). Three individuals were nominated to fill this vacancy: Kitty Dunn, Chad Bennion, and Mike Ridgeway.

The results? Kitty Dunn, who has been the State Party’s Political Director for several years, was elected by 70% of the vote (of about 120 members). Chad Bennion received about 25% of the vote, and Mike Ridgeway received 5 votes, about 4%. I know, I know, that adds up to 99%. So sue me. Kitty Dunn gave an exceptional speech and will continue to serve the party well.

Three Proposed Amendments to the State Party Constitution – They all passed , although the 3 rd amendment got most of the attention. 1) The first slightly amendment shortened the deadline that the counties have to submit their final list of state delegates before the convention, and would prevent counties from presenting last-minute replacement delegates. It should be noted, however, that if a delegate dies, or for some compelling reason cannot attend the convention, the delegates at the convention have never, at least in the past 8 years, forbid the request by a county for a replacement/alternate delegate. See? Even politicians can be reasonable sometimes. J This amendment cleans up the credentials process a little bit. 2) The 2nd amendment changed the balloting method of election of National Committee Representatives so that it was consistent with other state party election methods for single seats. 3) The 3 rd amendment removed the details of the multiple ballot process used to elect party nominees. This deals with IRV and MRV voting. If that sounds foreign to you, let me welcome you as a fellow semi-clueless citizen, and introduce you to Google. Really, what this amendment does is give the SCC the authority to fine-tune (a.k.a. change) the details of the multiple ballot voting process. This is done partly to allow for electronic voting methods, when they become affordable and reliable. Note that this change will NOT affect the upcoming nominating convention, because any changes to the voting method must be approved 6 months prior to the convention. This amendment generated a spirited debate, and was narrowly approved, 53% to 47%. Because it wasn’t passed by 2/3 of the SCC , it will require 2/3 of the state delegates to approve it at the state nominating convention, using the old voting methods, of course.

Two Proposed Amendments to the State Party Bylaws – Neither passed . 1) The first proposed that the state party “shall post on its Web site” the rules of the National Republican Party, the state party and each of the 29 county parties. Everyone there agreed that these rules should be easily obtainable by anyone, but concern was expressed over the terms used, such as what the governing rules are (constitution and bylaws are no brainers, but does this also include convention rules?). Enid Greene-Mickelson was concerned that the word “shall” might open the party up to lawsuits that could hinder the state conventions. In the end, the amendment was referred to the Constitution and Bylaws (“C&B”) Committee for further revisions. 2) Morgan Philpot submitted an amendment that related to how the C&B Committee could review and alter platform amendments and resolutions before state conventions. Here’s a primer on the process: someone creates a proposed amendment or resolution. The C&B Committee reviews the document and forwards it to the State Platform/Resolutions Committee for review. Only then is it presented to the Convention delegates, and sometimes the resulting document does not even resemble the document that was originally submitted. Mr. Philpot’s desire was to “bring the power back to the delegates” by allowing the original documents to go directly to the state convention. There was a lot of spirited discussion, and the SCC narrowly voted to send this proposal to the C&B Committee as well, which, as our own Christie Moore correctly stated, is like “sending your mouse to visit the cat.” Well said, Christie – five bucks say that the C&B Committee will not give this amendment even a wiggle of their whiskers.

Are you full yet?

Report from Governor Herbert – When he was the Lieutenant Governor, Mr. Herbert always attended these meetings. Now that he’s the big guy, well…he still attends them. This man genuinely cares about supporting this party. He spoke briefly. He had just returned from the Sundance Film Festival, which is additional evidence to him that there really is a lot of interest in what is going on in Utah. He said that his office is preparing for the upcoming legislative session, and has presented a budget that he feels is fair, reasonable, and does not raise taxes. He knows that there will be a vigorous debate on the budget, and that he most likely won’t get everything he wants, and that’s OK. The Governor also mentioned that his upcoming “State of the State” speech is 23 ½ minutes long, not counting applause. Then he made an interesting, poignant statement that evoked heavy and sustained applause: “I want you to know that it is important that we have a Republican Governor.” He explained that this is crucial right now because of Washington’s encroachment and overreach into areas of our lives where they should not be overreaching or encroaching. The states need to say “no more!”

Attorney General Mark Shurtleff’s 15-second speech created a similar response. He said that the state is legally “going after” the Federal Government on health care and public lands.

Newly elected Speaker of the Utah House of Representatives David Clark gave an eloquent discussion of the current Ethics initiative. Nobody doubts the extreme need for ethics reform, but we have to do the right things in the right way, or we’ll be in worse shape. The current ethics initiative, as currently worded, creates an ethics board that is not elected, and that is subject to absolutely nobody else’s review, even by the judicial branch. Republican leaders have instead introduced five pieces of legislation that will establish good ethics reform, but that maintain the checks and balances set forth by the Founders. Among these are lowering from $50 to $10 the limit of contributions that elected officials can accept, and setting up a truly bipartisan, independent board to handle ethics complaints. Speaker Clark also commended the Governor as having the most open door and “let’s work hard together” spirit of the past 4 Governors.

The Recruiting and Nominating Committee is looking for a few good people to run for the State School Board . We all care about our state’s children and their education, and Stan Lockhart, who sits on this committee, said that it is time to nominate good people who don’t bow to union pressure. Contact your county or state party leadership to see if there’s an opening in your district – there are a lot of openings for nominations.

Senators Bennett and Hatch were excused, as was Senator Michael Waddoups. Rep. Chaffetz had to leave the meeting early. He didn’t bring his cot to the meeting, either. Weber County’s own Darcy Kruitbosch , president of the Utah Federation of Republican Women , talked about how these women know how to work and to benefit the local parties. There are only 7 groups in Utah, and there used to, and needs to be, a lot more. Another Weber Countonian (I know, it’s not a real word, but I’ll bet you understood what I meant), Joe Reyna, is the president of the Hispanic Assembly , and he said that most Hispanics are Republican at heart, they just don’t know it yet. He described how Obama is losing the support of the Hispanic community. The Young Republicans are having several strong membership drives and are setting up new clubs throughout the state. The College Republicans , who are younger than the Young Republicans, have made great progress in the past 9 months. They have 12 active chapters in Utah. Finally the Teenage Republicans , who are even younger than the College Republicans, are working on their numbers as well. Christy Achziger, State Party Secretary, will be contacting the counties to strengthen this fun and rewarding group.

Finally, debate and voting on one proposed resolution regarding amnesty to illegal aliens was informally tabled until the next SCC meeting. After, but not because of, several disruptions from growling stomachs, the meeting adjourned shortly before 1 PM.

There, wasn’t that just tasty?

--
Carpe Diem

Chirpy Obama Showtunes

2009-08-29T18:19:00.012-07:00

The big spending attitude celebrated in song

By Tom Owens
Utah GOP State Delegate, Farmington

The personal theme song of Obama, Reid, and that toothy old broad from California:

• Tim Hawkins - The Government Can

I invite you all to sing along!

Spend Two Trillion Bucks and Whattaya Get...

2009-08-19T15:01:00.013-07:00

You owe your soul to the welfare state

Here's a great video sent to us from one of our stalwart Weber County Republican readers:

Gotta say it's great to hear great new lyrics from Tennessee Ernie Ford again, after all these years!

Hell's bells! We'd thought old TE Ford had already been called by St. Peter, some years ago!

And who knew he was also a savvy and fiscally conservative economist?

Gubernatorial Inauguration Report

2009-08-12T14:00:00.001-07:00

Ogden City Councilwoman Jeske reports on yesterday's Capitol Hill ceremonies

By Dorrene Jeske
Ogden City Council

I'd just like to share the wonderful experience I had at the State Capitol yesterday.
Hundreds of people were already seated and milling around the Capitol Rotunda a few minutes after 11:00 AM. It made one wonder if the seating was opened early. Even at that early hour, there were no seats available. The occasion was Ambassador Huntsman’s farewell speech and the inauguration of Lt. Gov. Gary R. Herbert as the 37th Governor of Utah. As I looked around, I saw Rep. Brad Dee, Rep. Kerry Gibson, Rep. Curt Oda, Rep. Neil Hansen, Sen. Scott Jenkins, Sen. Allen Christensen, Sen. Jon Greiner and many other members of the Legislature. I also saw former Ogden Councilman Robert DeBoer.

The Utah National Guard was in charge of the meeting. They did a very professional job, and the federal government would have been hard pressed to improve on the quality of the program. National Guard Adjutant General Brian L. Tarbet performed the duty of Master of Ceremony with dignity and preciseness. He acknowledged Greg Bell, the soon-to-be Lt. Governor, Speaker of the House, Representative Waddoups, and Utah Chief Justice Christine Durham. Carmen Herbert, daughter of Gary and Jeanette Herbert, sang a beautiful rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner.”

After Bishop Wester of the Salt Lake Catholic Church, gave the invocation, the Rotunda was filled with the melodic and beautiful strains of “America, the Beautiful,” sung by the American Festival Choir, accompanied by the Utah National Guard Orchestra.

Ambassador Huntsman stated that his decision to accept the position as U.S. Ambassador to China had left him with a feeling of emptiness. He said that he was leaving the most enjoyable and rewarding job that he had ever held. He praised Lt. Gov. Herbert and said that Utah is the best prepared state in the nation. Lt. Gov. Herbert has spent the last five years going throughout the State, meeting with local officials and business leaders promoting the joint “Are You Ready?” program. He wished continued success for a state that deserves the very best. He said that he was turning over to Governor Herbert a significant treasure and told him that it was his job to enhance its luster. “Serving has been a privilege and I felt your support. We are all Utahns working hard and with integrity for the greatest state in the nation. We represent the attitude of our great nation working together for the future.” The crowd was on its feet giving Ambassador Huntsman a standing ovation. The applause, whistling and cheering was loud and very long. A twenty-one gun salute paid tribute to him.

Governor Gary Herbert was sworn in as the 37th governor of Utah. The orchestra played John Phillip Sousa’s arousing “Stars and Stripes Forever” as the National Guard gave a 21-gun salute to our new governor. He received the same standing ovation, loud and long applause, whistling and cheering before and after he spoke.

“Hi, Mom! Hi, Dad!” were his first words as Utah’s governor. “I cannot take the oath of governor without asking for help from a greater being.” He acknowledged Ambassador Huntsman’s skill and efforts by saying that Utah is the best managed state in the nation. He thanked Ambassador Huntsman for his service and economic dynamics as he assumes “this most important assignment. The State of Utah is most likely to be the first state to recover from the recession.”

“It is time for unprecedented partnerships to create economic stability. When we get the economy right, other things fall into place.” He mentioned companies like Winder Dairies of West Valley, and Gossner Cheese of Cache Valley. “They are successful entrepreneurs, and we must work with them, and with local businesses for continued success. We must recruit new businesses to come to Utah like Proctor & Gamble and EBay. We will make it happen.” He considers it “free enterprise” and free enterprise is freedom. “We need to work to promote free enterprise.”

“We place great value on education. Early pioneers sacrificed to make sure that their children had an education. Our success depends on our quality of education. We need to have a seamless education for our children. . . it is their passport to the world. It will help formalize a ‘Hands-on approach to working with all Stakeholders.’”

Energy will be his third issue to emphasize. “Utah has great resources. We must develop them wisely and responsibly. We need to be concerned with clean air and clean water.” He used the geo-thermal plant, the solar plant and other alternative energy sources as examples. “We must do our part to help the United States to be energy independent.”

He said that he had gratitude for our freedoms and that we must never take for granted the sacrifices of others that make it possible to live in peace and freedom today. “As government grows, liberty contracts.” (He received approval of that statement loudly and strongly.)

He said that we must live prudently. “We should not spend more than we earn, but live within our means. We should demand of government what we can pay for, and we should only pay for what we demand! Governments were created for the people and not the other way around. We should build from the bottom up so that we’re not top heavy.” (He received a long and loud applause at this point.)

He said that during the five and a half years, he has travelled throughout the state, and he will continue to travel listening and communicating with people. He said that the pioneers “made the desert blossom as a rose by working together. We need to follow them to make Utah successful. We can make Utah’s light shine as it never has before. We need to pledge to work together.”

Ambassador Huntsman and Mary Kay left the Rotunda and said a few goodbyes. He removed his suit jacket, rolled up the sleeves of his white shirt, donned a helmet and climbed aboard a big Harley Davidson. He took his place beside a Highway Trooper and led the motorcade off the Capitol premises.

President Thomas S. Monson gave the benediction. His first sentence was: “We are grateful for the opportunity to attend these ceremonies.” That was precisely how I and many others felt. The National Guard conducted everything with dignity and the proper décorum. The music was superb and more than once brought tears to my eyes and lodged a lump in my throat. The American Festival Choir sang their final song, “God Bless America.” I will close as they did:

“God Bless America, my home, sweet home!”

Editor's addendum: The Standard-Examiner has an associated press story on this topic up on its "live" website, along with a couple of interesting slideshows.

Special Weber County GOP Central Committee Meeting -- June 2, 2009

2009-05-19T16:00:00.030-07:00

The Weber County Treasurer's slot suddenly needs to be filled

Interesting development in Weber County GOP politics. If your read the Standard-Examiner's May 15, 2009 story, you'd already know that Weber County Treasurer Nila Dayton has retired from her Weber County Treasurer's seat, after 14 years of exemplary public service.

As a result of Ms. Dayton's sudden retirement, the Weber County GOP Central Committee will be called upon to fill this office between elections.

Here is the date, time and location of the next special Weber County GOP Central Committee meeting, which is now being convened for the sole purpose of filling the Treasurer's spot.

Date: June 2, 2009
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Ogden Preparatory Academy

The Weber County Central Committee is composed of Weber County GOP Precinct Officers (Chairs and Vice chairs), and voting Executive Committee members, including Administrative County GOP officers.

We hereby provide the current list of Weber County Central Committee members, just so all committee members can be sure their names are on the official list:

• Weber County GOP Central Committee Members

In the event that some Weber County GOP Central Committee members may somehow miss it, here's your Call to a Special Central Committee meeting, which you should be receiving by "snail mail' any day now.

We'll post the meeting Agenda and Rules here on this page as an update, as soon as they are available.

Update 6/1/09 4:00 p.m.: Please take notice that the following four individuals have submitted letters of intent to the Party Chair to run for County Treasurer at tomorrow's 6/2/09 Emergency County Central Committee Meeting. Click the highlighted text for more information:

• John Bond
• Elizabeth Carlin
• Greg Haws
• Darcy Kruitbosch

Update 6/1/09 9:30 p.m.: We are delighted to be able to finally provide our 2009 Special County Central Committee Meeting Agenda and Rules. To view this document, click the link below:

• Central Committee Meeting Agenda & Rules

We'll see you all tomorrow at the meeting.

Post Meeting Update 6/2/09 8:35 p.m.: Here are the final voting results from tonight's Special Central Committee meeting, along with the vote tally for three top three Weber County Treasurer candidate finalists:

John Bond- 61 votes
Darcy Kruitbosch - 49
Greg Haws - 20

These top three finishers will now go through the interview process, with the final selection to be made by our Weber County Commissioners.

Update 6/23/09 1:35 p.m.: the Standard Examiner reports that John Bond has been appointed by the Weber County Commission as our new Weber County Treasurer:

• Bond appointed to Weber County Treasurer position

We heartily congratulate Mr. Bond on his new appointment, and thank all candidates and County Central Committee members for their dedicated and robust participation in this important governmental process.

3/28/09 Central Committee Notes

2009-04-25T20:00:00.001-07:00

State Central Committee Meeting - Dixie Center - St. George

By Ricky Hatch
Legislative Chair, District 6

The weather couldn't have been nicer as we shuffled into the large windowless conference room at the Dixie Center in St. George. But the first SCC of 2009 was definitely worth it. Here's the scoop:

Chairman Stan Lockhart gave an open and even personal Chair Report, which was well received. He referred to a couple of well-written emails that he had sent out over the past couple of weeks.

Lowell Nelson submitted some proposed Constitution and Bylaws changes, which will be on the agenda at the Q2 SCC meeting.

Business: Two resolutions were passed. The first related to Employment Verification, by Don Larsen and Robert Wren. It basically supported a recommendation that Utah employers be diligent in verifying the legal status of potential employees. This was a much nicer and cleaner resolution than one written back in February. It passed by about 80% to 20%.

The second resolution gave official support the HJR8 (Here's a short refresher for those of you who are as ignorant as I am: A resolution is basically a statement of principle – it doesn't really do anything other than that. “HJR” stands for “House Joint Resolution” which means that the House and the Senate worked on this resolution together. It lends a little more credibility to the resolution.) It appears that labor unions spent about $1 Billion on national elections in '08, and now they're looking for payback. If someone wants to form a union at a business, they need to get 30% of the employees to state that they want a union, and then all employees vote by secret ballot to create a union or not. The national union leaders and our donkey friends want to replace the secret ballot with a very non-secret “Card Check,” which puts pressure on employees to vote for a union, so they don't get their shins bashed in if they vote against having a union (OK – I am kidding – those days are long gone, unless your name is Nancy Kerrigan). The bill that the Dems are trying to pass is called the “Employee Free Choice Act.” Don't be fooled by the flowery words – this “Card Check Bill” promotes anything but Free Choice. I'm guessing Tonya Harding's boyfriend supports it. The Utah State House and Senate passed, along party lines, a resolution opposing this bill, during the '09 session, and the State Republican Party wanted to demonstrate their support for the resolution by passing their own resolution. And they did – 52 to 1.

National committeeman Bruce Hough was not present, due to Party business. He's been placed on the Governor's Commission on Democracy, and National Committeewoman Enid Mickelsen was also excused, because she was on assignment for the party. Actually, most every elected official was not at the meeting. But Gary Herbert was. Here's what he had to say:

He reaffirmed that the State is in good shape. They cut the budget by the same amount that unions spent on the national elections (Ha! I knew you'd have to go back and look.) without having to touch the Rainy Day fund. He felt that this was one of the best legislative sessions that he remembers. Although there was a 9% overall cut in the budget, education only got a 5.2% decrease. He ended his legislative comments by saying, “Give your Republican legislators a hug.” Kerry and Scott, will you settle for a handshake and a pat on the back? Seriously, our elected representatives did a great job – thank you!

Lt. Governor Herbert feels that the US populace, in general, is right of the center, but that Washington and the media either don't or won't recognize that. He said that President Bush's record has been “significantly maligned and distorted,” and he listed 5 myths about Bush's term, and why they are myths. You want them in detail? Go get elected and come to the SCC meetings, or just come anyway – everyone is welcome, even the press. The 5 myths were about the economy, tax cuts, foreign policy, and the environment (I know, that's only 4 topics. I can't remember the 5^th one. So sue me.).

Only one Auxiliary report: Ed Cox is graduating, so a young man named Randy is the newly elected chairman of the Young Republicans. He said that the age range for Young republicans is 18-40 years. They have their own new Facebook page with almost 200 members already (although Mark Shurtleff is a member, and I think he just might be a little over the age limit).

Phil Fauver from Emery County presented some interesting statistics: of the 6,436 registered voters in Emory county, 2,824 were registered Republicans, 337 were Democrats, and 3,185 were unaffiliated. He suggested we obtain the voter registration documents from our own counties and check them out – we might learn something.

There was some discussion about a reallocation of delegates. The number of delegates representing rural areas is decreasing, and some ideas were tossed around about how to ensure that these important areas are properly represented in the State Party. No decisions were made, except the decision to discuss it more in the future.

The meeting was adjourned and Stan Lockhart held an open, honest Q & A session. Then several candidates for State Chair, Vice Chair, and other state party offices introduced themselves. Then we were back out in the sweet Southern Utah sun.
--
Carpe Diem

Weber County Organizing Convention: April 30, 2009

2009-04-17T12:57:00.017-07:00

The full array of convention documents is available here

Weber County Convention Delegates Please Take Note:

Our Weber County GOP Organizing Convention has been calendered for the following date, time and location:

Date: April 30, 2009
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Ogden Preparatory Academy

County delegates can click the link below to view your Call to Convention, County Convention 2009 Agenda and Rules and County Convention 2008 April Minutes:

2009 Organizing Convention Documents

Be sure to print out your own copies for reference at the convention.

Summary of Our 3/3/09 Lincoln Day Dinner

2009-03-04T16:20:00.001-07:00

Good food, good company, good principles – sounds like a Weber County GOP Lincoln Day Dinner

By Ricky Hatch
Treasurer - Weber County Republican Party

Once again Weber State University was the site for our Lincoln Day Dinner. Rather than go into detail about the meaningful flag ceremony by the WSU ROTC Color Guard, the scrumptious food, shimmering decorations, and scintillating dinner conversations, I’ll get right to the point – some great speakers.

Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert talked about the strength of the State of Utah. He pointed out that for the past 20 years, this state has always been recognized as one of the best financially managed states in the Union. Is it then a coincidence that, for the most part, this state has had Republican leadership during that same time period? He thinks not and neither do you. He said that it’s easy to legislate when the coffers are full. Unfortunately, this year’s environment can’t quite be described that way. But the Lt. Governor stressed that during our last legislative session, our Weber County elected officials were FANTASTIC.

He cited The Economist magazine, which said America has led in every major category in the 21st century. Why? Because freedom works. Capitalism is not a dirty word. In Utah, we will live within our means, balance our budget, adhere to the principles of the Republican Party, and we will keep government off your backs and out of your wallets. We need to do more “missionary work” about capitalism and the free market.

National Committeeman Bruce Hough talked about the race for the Republican National Committee Chairman. It was considered one of the most rigorous races in memory. All 6 of the candidates visited Utah, and Mr. Hough went to Minnesota undecided. Michael Steele, Chairman of the South Carolina State party was elected after 6 rounds of voting, and is very capable of articulating the party’s message.

Mr. Hough talked about how one of the most important purposes of the RNC is the get Republicans elected. He also confirmed that he is in fact the father of the two Hough dancers on “Dancing with the Stars.”

The keynote speaker of the night was economic futurist Jeff Thredgold, who believes that God created economists to make astrologers look good. Actually, Jeff was very entertaining and enlightening. He caught our attention by stating that the period we’re in is the stuff our grandkids will read about in textbooks, but the basic message is “we will get through this-we always have.”

He gave plates full of statistics, and then listed 4 silver bullets on how we can get through this recession (Hmm…I wonder how many he would need to say before being thrown out of a Democratic fundraising dinner): 1) Limited Government, 2) Individual Responsibility, 3) Reduced Taxes, 4) Investment in the Stock Market. He said national unemployment will hit 9%, and that the recovery will start in Q4 of ’09.

Other “powerful” numbers: in 1980, the average college grad earned 25% more than the average high school grad. Today, he or she earns 90% more. If you have strong computer skills, you earn 15-20% more than a non-techno-dork. One out of every 3 college students is over 40 years old. 65,000 new web sites are created every minute. A universal language voice translator will be available on the market by the summer of 2010. C’est chouette!

Jeff said the Federal Reserve is more concerned about deflation than inflation. Twelve to 14 years ago, the US was a “bloated dinosaur.” But now we’re powerful, more innovative, flexible and dominant. The three guaranteed growth sectors are 1) Health care, 2) Financial Planning, and 3) Leisure and Entertainment (think of a wave of Baby Boomers getting ready to retire). Seven critical industries of the future: Technology, Transportation, Telecommunications, Financial Services, Energy, Entertainment, and Bio-medical.

He closed by saying that economics can be boiled down to one statement: “People respond to incentives.” That’s why Communism and Socialism are imploding, and that’s why the US will get through this recession.

Good food, good company, good principles – sounds like a Weber County GOP Lincoln Day Dinner.

Weber County Republican Party Lincoln Day Dinner -- March 3, 2009

2009-02-12T19:39:00.015-07:00

After numerous inquiries, we're delighted to finally announce the calendering of this important upcoming Weber County Republican Party annual event:

The Weber County Republican Party cordially invites you to attend our annual Lincoln Day Dinner.

Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Time: 6:00 PM Social; 6:30 PM Dinner
Where: Weber State University, Shepherd Union Ballroom B
Dress: Business
Special Guest Speaker: Jeff Thredgold, Economic Futurist

Each guest will receive a copy of Mr. Thredgold’s On the One Hand... The Economist’s Joke Book.

Sponsor the Event:

“Lincoln” Table: $1500 *
“Reagan” Table: $1000
8 seats to a table

Couples: $75
Individuals: $50

RSVP by Feb. 20, 2009

Tickets and Info:

Matt Bell: 725-8771, mattbell@xmission.com
Christie Moore: 510-6634, Chrisim001@aol.com
----
*”Lincoln” level sponsors may choose an elected official to sit with them, if available

The 2008 Election Aftermath: The National GOP Flails For Answers to the Tuesday Bloodbath

2008-11-06T12:33:00.009-07:00

No simple-minded Scapegoats: Arizona's House Rep Jeff Flake "cuts through the crap," and throws the beleaguered U.S. GOP a life raft.

In the wake of John McCain's defeat, and the Tuesday night clobbering of GOP legislative and gubernatorial candidates across the USA, Sarah Palin seems to have been selected by some nitwits as the "scapegoat." From this morning's (London Daily) Mail Online:

'Palin didn't know Africa was a continent': McCain aides begin Republican mud-slinging in wake of defeat

The most savvy and ethical members of what remains of the Republican congressional delegation in Washington know better. Be sure to read Arizona U.S. House Representative Jeff Flake's fine Washington Post analysis, reprinted in today's Standard-Examiner. It's a simple plea to get back to basics:

A way out of the wilderness for the GOP

Food for thought for all Republicans, including those from Utah whom, for the most part, dodged the "Bush backlash bullet" at least this year. Once formerly-connected folks like Hatch, Bennett and Bishop have their offices banished under the Obama administration to Washington linen closets however, the great tide of money which has flowed from our Washington legislators into the Utah party, and to various county parties within Utah will be severely diminished. Don't think for a minute, Utah Republicans, that Tuesday's Obama landslide won't affect Utah politics in the long run.

And an additional note in passing. If Washington GOP legislative leadership doesn't elect fresh new leadership this year, and if it fails to oust the neoCON Faction, I think a strong argument can be made that our beloved GOP party, the party of Abraham Lincoln, is doomed, at least as a national party.

Lodge your pro and con views in our comments section below.

Washington Times: Lawsuit Questions Obama's Eligibility for Office

2008-09-09T21:38:00.005-07:00

This is interesting:

Lawsuit questions Obama's eligibility for office

From the 8/28/08 Washington Times article:

Pennsylvania's former deputy attorney general and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton supporter Philip J. Berg has filed a lawsuit in federal court in Pennsylvania accusing presumptive Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama of lying about his U.S. citizenship, which would make him ineligible to be president.
Mr. Berg is one of a faction of Clinton supporters who haven't heeded the party's call for unity, filing the suit just days before the opening of the Democratic National Convention, which will nominate Mr. Obama as the party's presidential candidate.
The suit, filed in U.S. District Court in Philadelphia last week, also names the Democratic National Committee and the Federal Election Commission and says Mr. Obama´s mother went to Kenya late in her pregnancy and ended up giving birth there. It also claims that later in life, Mr. Obama declared himself a citizen of Indonesia.

More information is available here.

I don't recall this item being reported anywhere in the traditional national press. Of course the things ordinary citizens such as your blogmaster don't know about would definitely fill libraries.

The 2008 general election gets more interesting by the moment, doesn't it?

Comments, anyone?

Sarah Palin: The Woman of the People

2008-09-05T13:00:00.009-07:00

GOP VP candidate more popular than either John or Barack

This is very interesting. Here are few few lead paragraphs from this afternoon's Yahoo News story, in the wake of the GOP National Nominating Convention:

A week ago, most Americans had never heard of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin. Now, following a Vice Presidential acceptance speech viewed live by more than 40 million people, Palin is viewed favorably by 58% of American voters. The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 37% hold an unfavorable view of the self-described hockey mom.

The figures include 40% with a Very Favorable opinion of Palin and 18% with a Very Unfavorable view. Before her acceptance speech, Palin was viewed favorably by 52%. A week ago, 67% had never heard of her.

The new data also shows significant increases in the number who say McCain made the right choice and the number who say Palin is ready to be President. Generally, John McCain's choice of Palin earns slightly better reviews than Barack Obama's choice of Joe Biden.

Perhaps most stunning is the fact that Palin's favorable ratings are now a point higher than either man at the top of the Presidential tickets this year. As of Friday morning, Obama and McCain are each viewed favorably by 57% of voters. Biden is viewed favorably by 48%.

Read the full story here: Palin Power: Fresh Face Now More Popular Than Obama, McCain

Gotta hand it to John McCain for this great off-the-wall selection. His maverick instincts once again shake up the U.S. political establishment, as per usual.

If in doubt, pick a "hottie", I suggest.

Looks to be a VERY interesting U.S. presidential campaign season, no?

Archive photo: Sarah draws a bead on U.S. liberals (Click to enlarge image):

Is there anyone who has anything negative to say about this?

Ha-ha. I didn't think so...

Is Barack Obama the Messiah?

2008-09-04T13:44:00.010-07:00

It's hard to conclude whether this is a serious website... or merely a spoof:

Is Barack Obama the Messiah?

Either way, it certainly captures the mindless and heavily emotional "spirit" of the Democratic Party 2008 presidential campaign however, doesn't it?

Well....?

Don't forget to contribute your own comment.

8/7/08 GOP State Committee Meeting Notes

2008-08-31T10:56:00.006-07:00

The Gop 8/7/08 GOP State Central Committee meeting, as interpreted by a GOP insider from Weber County

By Ricky Hatch
Legislative Chair, District 6

Intrigue, innuendo, implications, inferences, and "intertainment" - they were all there on Saturday August 23 at the State Central Committee (SCC) meeting at the Merit Medical Building in South Jordan.

The cause? Mitt Romney's request to release all of Utah's national delegates so they could vote for John McCain. In 1,000 words or less, I'll try to give you an accurate picture of this surprisingly complex issue.

Fact: Our state party's bylaws state: "On the first ballot, the national delegation shall be bound to vote for the candidate who has received the most votes in the Republican Presidential Primary...." This seems pretty clear, especially since Mr. Romney received 90% of Utah's Republican votes in February.

Now add a dash of confusion: Mitt Romney sent a letter to the State Party asking to have the delegates released, as he is "no longer a formal candidate."

And a teaspoon of controversy: At the State Convention, a motion was made to do something similar to releasing the delegates. Keep in mind that Mr. Romney had already withdrawn from the race at this point. The state delegates overwhelmingly rejected this motion by tabling it indefinitely.

Sprinkle with perceived condescension: Does the Utah GOP State Central Committee have the authority (let alone the gall) to go against the 3,000+ state delegates and 265,000 primary Republican voters and release these delegates?

Mix all of this in a room with 92 committee members (and at least 92 opinions) and you've got a raucous Republican Ratatouille.

Here's how Stan Lockhart presented it: The word "candidate" in the bylaws is ambiguous. Does it mean that the delegates are bound to the candidate who at the time of Utah's primary election got the most votes? Or does it mean that they are bound to the candidate at the national convention who got the most votes during the Utah primary?

The first interpretation (a primary-election candidate) binds them to Mitt without exception. The second interpretation (a convention-election candidate) leads to another not-so-simple question: Will John McCain be the only nominee at the national convention? Even though Mitt Romney withdrew from the race, is he still considered a candidate? FYI, the RNC's Rule # 40 states that in order to be a candidate, you must "demonstrate the support of a majority of the delegates from each of 5 or more states." Romney certainly had that in the 11 states he carried before withdrawing. Does he have the authority to remove himself as a candidate, or are the delegates bound to follow their state bylaws and vote for him?

Let's look at this through 1968 lenses and pretend, for argument's sake, that Mr. Romney were Robert Kennedy (it's just pretend, so calm down). Robert Kennedy was the presumptive Democratic nominee, but was assassinated before the national convention. How much sense would it make to cast the votes for someone who was not even alive? Yet, that is what this first interpretation says the delegates must do. Using Robert Rules of Order, that would be considered an "absurd result."

Thankfully, Mr. Romney is alive and kicking somewhere between Denver and Minneapolis. But should our delegates be bound to him? Using the "absurd result" argument, the state party wrote a "standing rule," which is basically a band aid used to clarify ambiguity in our bylaws until the bylaws can be changed. This was reviewed by the party's legal firm and submitted to the SCC. The standing rule clarified that the candidate referred to in our bylaws meant the candidate at the time of the national convention. This means that if Mitt Romney is still considered a candidate the first week in September, our delegation will be bound to vote for him. If he is not considered a candidate, the delegation must vote for John McCain, who got the 2nd most votes (15,000) in Utah.

There was a lot of discussion about whether this was using a back door, circumventing the rules of the party and the desire of the state delegates and voters. Some argued that this was changing the bylaws, which can only be done at the State Convention. Others said that standing rules like this are used only to clarify the bylaws, and therefore are under the jurisdiction of the SCC. Some said that we should focus on giving support to Sen. McCain. Others said that if we don't follow our own rules, how can anyone trust us. Both sides had meritorious arguments, and I'll admit I changed opinions at least once.

After 20 minutes of pro/con debates, the SCC voted 70 – 12 to pass the standing rule. Now the real question is whether or not Mitt Romney is considered a candidate. I guess we'll find out in September.

I'm sure Stan Lockhart had been getting a lot of heat from the RNC to release these votes, and I'm sure many people think he came up with this "candidate" ambiguity as an excuse to release the votes. I can't question his motives or his methods. But as I read the rules, they weren't clear to me. Regardless of this standing rule, I sure hope we get them clarified before the next presidential election.

I had to leave the meeting a little early, but I heard Lt. Governor Herbert say that Jon Hunstman will be speaking at the National Convention. This is the first time in Mr. Herbert's memory that a Utah Governor has spoken at a national convention, and is quite an honor.

Oh, and I accidentally stole State Senator Curt Bramble's seat in the middle of the meeting. Oops!

Articles about the releasing of delegates:

GOP central committee to meet about Romney delegates

State GOP Convention: Party chairman wants delegates to back McCain

It's the rules: Utah to vote for Romney

State Central Committee Meeting - 6/14/08

2008-06-20T21:22:00.008-07:00

Not a meeting to attend if you were in need of sleep

By Ricky Hatch
House Legislative District 6 Chair

I told my friend Tiffany who came with me to the State Central Committee meeting that she should probably bring a book to read, because sometimes these meetings can be real yawners. I was wrong.

The Constitution and Bylaws Committee has a new email, cb@utgop.org, where you can submit your thoughts and ideas for all of them to read. This is helpful, because a new section, Section 7.5 of the Bylaws, "Standing Convention Rules," was given to the SCC in draft format on Saturday. They want us to read it, comment on it, and vote on it before November.

Lt. Governor Herbert spoke about the Presidential race being a race of personality (Obama) versus principles (McCain). He thanked everyone for their support in the Governor's re-election campaign, and stated that they'll be focusing primarily on the economy, especially on how they can help enable the private sector to succeed mostly by getting out of its way. He also talked about the controversy over the State Treasurer's race. I'll summarize his comments below.

We voted to fill a vacant position of the Constitution and Bylaws Committee. Jack Powers was elected with 30 votes. Mike Thompson got 23 votes and Kristin Chevrier (French for "goat raiser" - I'm serious) got 18 votes. There were a lot more than 71 people there.

A few amendments to the Bylaws and Resolutions gave the meeting its verve. If you want to see them, click here: Every one was voted down, after some lively debate on both sides. Our own Weber Country GOP Chairman Matt Bell made a good point in one of the debates.

Rob Bishop gave a relaxed one-minute speech from the back of the auditorium, sitting down. He mentioned that on July 2nd, the Republicans in office will make a Declaration of Energy Independence, introducing legislation to reduce our dependency on foreign oil.

National Committeewoman Nancy Lord talked about the fundamental proposed reform on when presidential primaries can be held. The Republican Rules Committee passed the Ohio Plan, which is a hybrid of a couple of different plans, and which is (surprise, surprise) the least controversial plan out there. It breaks the states out into 5 pods. 1-The "First States," (Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, and 1 or 2 more I can't remember) which would have their primaries on February 1st. 2-The "Small States," including all territories, and states with 3-5 electoral votes. They'll vote anytime after the Monday of the 3rd week of February. Pods 3-5 are the Rotating Pods, which are made up of the following:

X – Utah and several other states

Y – California and other "medium-sized states"

Z – New York and other "large states"

The order of these states' voting will be determined by a lottery in 2012, and then will rotate for the next presidential 2 election cycles. i trying to get Utah (& 3 other states) added to the first pod, which would put our elections earlier than most?

The Utah Republican Women spoke about the upcoming conference at the SLCC Larry H. Miller campus in Sandy. The conference is called, "From Sea to Shining Sea," and looks to be excellent. It's on Saturday, June 28th. For more info, click here and go down to the April 29th entry. You'll be glad you did.

The Republican Hispanic Assembly raised $25,000 for John McCain, the highest donation amount by any Hispanic Assembly in the 50 states!

The Teenage Republicans are sending 7 kids to Washington DC next week, the most kids they've ever sent. They need an advisor for their Weber County chapter. Please, someone step forward and help these great kids make a difference!

Lt. Governor Herbert's discussion of the Treasurer controversy:

A complaint was filed about an alleged election code violation by Mark Walker. The Lt. Gov's office's responsibility is to gather the information and make a determination as to whether or not the alleged wrongdoing warrants an investigation by the Attorney General's office. The Lt. Governor is a friend of both Republican candidates and stated repeatedly that his first duty is to the public, and that he is being completely neutral in this information gathering.

LG Herbert said that there's a lot of information to gather and process, and he can't possibly have it resolved prior to the primary elections. Some people, Enid Greene included, feel that she should make his decision prior to the primaries. He and his attorney said that even if they could have gathered all of the info in time, they legally cannot resolve the issue before the general election. Why? - you'll have to get the non-Cliff Notes version of the committee meeting, probably by calling the Lt. Gov's office. There are options and possible resolutions other than going through the Lt. Gov's office.

The Utah State Supreme Court decided on Friday that Lt. Gov. Herbert did NOT have to reveal his findings and opinion prior to the primaries. Herbert said this was a victory for the Separation of Powers of the State.

A couple of articles on this issue: Utah court enters election flap; and High court to weigh alleged election-code breach.

--
Carpe Diem

An Open Letter From Weber County Republican Party Chairman Matt Bell

2008-06-10T09:42:00.004-07:00

My Friends from the Weber County Republican Executive Committee and Weber County elected officials,

In the recent past I made a decision to have a debate among candidates who are running for office. The only contested race in Weber County is Legislative District 7. I had decided to have a debate in Legislative District 7 where Representative Donnelson lost to the challenger Ryan Wilcox by one vote in the Weber County convention. WOW, did this push some folks over the edge. I was in the process of setting up this debate when I received a call from the Utah Republican Party. They said I should not be holding this debate because it is a NO-NO to have an incumbent participate in a debate and this has not been done anywhere in the state of Utah; and if I did I could be censured by my Weber County Central Committee. My response to the state party was, “BRING IT ON”. The state party also told me that it was irresponsible to hold a debate with a sitting elected official. You can look in the Salt Lake Tribune and read more of the articles on this subject. There are about 5 articles in the last week. There was also a story on this topic in this morning's Standard-Examiner.

This is my response: IT IS A ONE HOUR DEBATE!!!!! Hello, we are a party with a wide tent and we welcome differing views. I have been accused of being biased, and that I would not sponsor a debate with other CERTAIN elected officials, which is ABSOLUTELY NOT true. We will have debates among our Republicans that are elected and their challengers. I want to say this one more time IT IS A ONE HOUR DEBATE. Rep. Donnelson has called me and told me he will not attend. The debate WILL go on without him.

Regarding debate rules, this was another point of contention. I made the decision that I will make the rules fair for both involved. We will have 6-7 topics and we will take questions from the floor.

As of now we, the Weber County Republican Party, DOES NOT have a nominee in Leg. 7. We will have a nominee at the primary election on June 24th and at that time the Republican Party will put 100% support behind this nominee. I would appreciate any feedback and support regarding this decision.

Thanks

Matthew
725-8771
I will be out of town until Wednesday late afternoon.

Weber County GOP 2008 Lincoln Day Dinner

2008-05-15T13:18:00.006-07:00

Leg. 6 District Chair Ricky Hatch delivers his full report

An absolutely gorgeous spring day got us all in the mood for an equally gorgeous Lincoln Day Dinner, held on May 8 in Ballroom B at Weber State University's Shepherd Union Building. Do you feel bad that you missed it? Good – you should. It was a great event.

After the invocation and a moving presentation of Old Glory by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the Pledge of Allegiance, our own lovely Miss Utah Julia Marie Bachison (say that 5 times fast...in French) sang a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Then it was off to the races to see who could get to the excellent buffet first. I lost, but I eventually got some tasty chicken with the best mashed red potato concoction I've ever tasted.

As we dined on fluffy chocolate mousse cheesecake and skyscraper caramel apple pie, we listened to three interesting speakers. First, Lt. Governor Gary Herbert talked about the wit and wisdom of Abraham Lincoln. During a debate, Lincoln's opponent accused him of being two faced. Lincoln replied, "I can prove that this is not true. If I really had two faces, would I have worn this one?" But the Lincoln quote that Lt. Gov. Herbert talked the most about was, "Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle." He said that The Republican Party is made up of people who hustle. He thanked us, encouraged us, and sat down after speaking for only about five minutes. Short and sweet.

Richard "Dick" Richards, who was the head of the Republican National Committee during the Reagan years, spoke next. Mr. Richards, who is from Weber County, and who was the Weber County Party Chairman three times, talked about several of his experiences with The Great Communicator, about President Reagan's visit to Hooper, and about how Pres. Reagan thought America was "the promised land" and that the US Constitution was written by men who were brought to earth for that very purpose.

The concluding speaker was Josh Romney, Mitt Romney's son. He is young, tall, and looks a lot like Dad. Mitt asked David McCullough, a great historian and writer, what time period in our nation's history was the most critical? Mr. McCullough, who has written several excellent books on events and people around the time of the American Revolution, responded surprisingly, "From 9/11 to now." Josh spoke of three key issues that his father focused on: strengthening the economy, keeping the military strong, and fortifying the family and our great, god-fearing culture. He said that after leaving the campaign trail, Mitt spent almost every weekend skiing in Utah. There is a very small chance that Mitt will be selected as the VP candidate, and Mitt has not yet answered the question, "Will you run in 2012?" Josh said that the key to Mitt's success in life, and in government, has been his supportive wife. While campaigning, Mitt would get antsy when she wasn't with him. When she was by his side, he was much more comfortable. Further proof of why I feel that beside every great man is a great woman...and a very surprised mother-in-law.

So that's the scoop. Thank you to the many sponsors, our county party leadership, and especially to committee members Christie Moore, Pat Iannone, Bea Cardwell, and Event Chairwoman Suzanne Ellison-Ferre for creating an event as gorgeous as a spring evening in Weber County.

Yours,

Ricky Hatch

-
Carpe Diem

Gag on 2nd Amendment Is City’s Aim in Guns Suit

2008-05-11T22:24:00.008-07:00

Interesting story from Friday's New York Sun:

"Gag on 2nd Amendment Is City’s Aim in Guns Suit"

From the NYSun story:

Lawyers for Mayor Bloomberg are asking a judge to ban any reference to the Second Amendment during the upcoming trial of a gun shop owner who was sued by the city. While trials are often tightly choreographed, with lawyers routinely instructed to not tell certain facts to a jury, a gag order on a section of the Constitution would be an oddity.
“Apparently Mayor Bloomberg has a problem with both the First and the Second amendments,” Lawrence Keane, the general counsel of a firearms industry association, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, said.
The trial, set to begin May 27, involves a Georgia gun shop, Adventure Outdoors, which the city alleges is responsible for a disproportionate number of the firearms recovered from criminals in New York City. The gun store’s owner, Jay Wallace, says his store abides by Georgia and federal regulations and takes steps to avoid selling firearms to gun traffickers. Mr. Wallace’s store is one of 27 out-of-state gun shops sued by New York City, and the first to go to trial.
City lawyers, in a motion filed Tuesday, asked the judge, Jack Weinstein of U.S. District Court in Brooklyn, to preclude the store’s lawyers from arguing that the suit infringed on any Second Amendment rights belonging to the gun store or its customers. In the motion, the lawyer for the city, Eric Proshansky, is also seeking a ban on “any references” to the amendment.
“Any references by counsel to the Second Amendment or analogous state constitutional provisions are likewise irrelevant,” the brief states.

This, from John Renzulli, attorney for defendant Adventure Outdoors, a Georgia gun ship which apparently sold a firearm which wound up in the State of New York:

“If you can’t discuss the Bill of Rights in a court of law, where should we discuss these issues? Should we reserve it for the tavern?”
Mr. Renzulli said the city’s lawsuit did implicate the Second Amendment: “The politics involved here is whether the city has the power to go into another state and control the lawful sale of firearms.”

Strangely, however, Attorney Renzulli doesn't intend to oppose The City of New York's motion to exclude reference to the Second Amendment (and we are NOT making this up) :

Mr. Renzulli, who has defended suits against the gun industry in Judge Weinstein’s courtroom before, said that in the past the defense has struck a deal with the plaintiffs on the matter: Lawyers for the gun industry won’t mention the Bill of Rights to the jury, if the plaintiffs don’t mention the National Rifle Association [Emphasis added].

Seems like a strange procedural stalemate to us.

Gun rights activists around the country anxiously await the US Supreme Court's decision in District of Columbia v. Heller, which was argued before SCOTUS in March of this year, wherein the high court is expected to resolve the constitutional question of whether the Second Amendment right to "keep and bear arms'' covers all people or only those affiliated with a National Guard or other state-run militia. The Supreme Court has never squarely addressed that question.

The Supreme Court decision, expected in June, can't come soon enough, we say.

5/10/08 Utah GOP Convention Podcast

2008-05-09T20:34:00.006-07:00

Live blogging from the convention floor

For the convenience of Weber County Republicans who are unable to attend our May 10, 2008 Utah GOP State Nominating Convention, we've embedded the video player below. According to the somewhat sparse information we received from the Utah Republican Party just a few minutes ago, Ric Cantrell will be live blogging from the convention floor, and originating a podcast which should appear in the player. It's all experimental, we're told; but we nevertheless invite everyone to check it out. If all goes well, this should be a fine resource for home-bound Utah Republicans who'd like to listen to this event.

According to our understanding, the podcast/live blogging will also appear on the Utah GOP Blog Site. We'll add that until just a few minutes ago we didn't even know that the Utah GOP had a blog site.

We invite our readers to enter their comments to let us know how this exercise works out.

Special Event: From Sea to Shining Sea

2008-04-29T12:33:00.009-07:00

Conference

Presented by the Utah Federation of Republican Women
for Federation Members and the General Public Adults 18 and Older
Saturday June 28, 2008 11 AM - 4 PM
Larry H. Miller Campus 9750 S. 300 West, Sandy; UT
Miller Free Enterprise Center

Understanding Middle Eastern cultural complexities and how interaction with these divergent cultures affects America; how we have affected them, including assisting them in change, helping immigrants, and refugees and more. Learn about the history, current conditions and where the Middle East might be headed. We will be taught to better understand and respect differences and similarities in thought, culture and philosophy and what the relationship to our troops is.

10:15 - 10:50 Registration / Check-in

11:00 - 11:10 Welcome

11:10 - 12:00 Key Note Speaker: Vickie McCall. Ms. McCall will address her eyewitness observations in Southwest Asia as she was part of a contingency of civilian military to current political circumstances.

12:05 - 12:50 Barbara Melendez, Immigration Law Attorney: Kirton & McConkie. Ms. Melendez will address problems facing the immigrant struggling to enter and gain American citizenship.

12:55 - 1:45 Luncheon buffet (casual dining)

1:50 - 2:40 Professor Donna Lee Bowen, PhD, Near Eastern Languages & Civilizations, Author, renown speaker, expert in Muslim political policy, women and traditions; Director, Middle East/ Arabic, BYU. Dr. Bowen will share her latest tour of the Middle East, finished just days prior to this conference.

2:45-3:30 Professor Victor Ludlow, PhD, Coordinator, Near East Studies, BYU; Expert in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies, and Comparative Studies, as well as scholarly research on Judaism; renowned speaker, author and scholar. Dr. Ludlow will address the historical foundation of the Middle East and relate to modern behavior and trends.

3:35-4:00 Acknowledgements / Awards

AFFILIATED CHARITY: Landstuhl Hospital Care Project (LHCP) a Non-Profit action care program designed to provide injured discharged military with appropriate clothing and other necessities for their return home. Visit them at landstuhlhospitalcareproject.org.
(This is a 501(c)(3) organization and cash donations are accepted)

(Click to display mail-in registration form)

PREPARATION FOR THE CONFERENCE

The Conference Center at the Larry H. Miller Campus of the Salt Lake Community College campus is located west of the freeway and can be accessed from 300 West by either taking the 90th South exit, then going South on 300 West to the campus, or the 106th South exit West under the overpass, turning North onto 300 West to the campus.

All the lectures will be held in the Auditorium of the Miller Free Enterprise Center, in very comfortable theater style seating where participants will have a view of the speakers and any visuals. The building’s striking façade of tall plate glass decorates the largest bldg. in the complex and closest to parking for your convenience. Seating is limited, 300 maximum occupancy. It is therefore highly recommended that you pre-register as early as possible. At door registration is not guaranteed and the UFRW sponsor and all its affiliate charities are indemnified in the event that seating fills to capacity prior to door ticket purchases. It is suggested that if you plan to purchase tickets on the day of the conference, you email ahead to determine availability of seats, mailto:lebeauxtrois@yahoo.com@yahoo.com.

The Showroom is approached as you walk into the structure and features all the glass that is so striking from the outside. This will serve as both the luncheon buffet service with limited dining area and a display area.

Because space is limited in the Showroom as to the number of tables for eating, please be prepared for picnic style dining outside in Utah’s traditionally beautiful June weather. Participants are welcome to bring a blanket for picnic style eating. Eating is also allowed in the auditorium. And while that is the case, we would ask that respect be given the speakers and eating not be done during lectures. Nice dress casual or dress casual attire is appropriate. No holey jeans, bare feet, bare chests, or other inappropriate attire that may be distracting. No babes in arms please. If you have any questions about clothing, please inquire in advance of the conference by emailing lebeauxtrois@yahoo.com.

AFFILIATTED CHARITY: Landstuhl Hospital Care Project (LHCP) a Non-Profit action care program designed to provide injured discharged military with appropriate clothing and other necessities for their return home is being sponsored as part of this conference. This is a 501(c)(3) organization and donations are accepted. Donations can be sent to paypal.com, ufrw@hotmail.com; enter LHCP in the comments section.

Press Releases:

Utah Federation of Republican Women kick off Anticipated Conference With Landstuhl Hospital Care Project Goodwill Drive

Utah Federation of Republican Women Sponsors Landstuhl Hospital Care Project to kick off Conference Goodwill Drive

Lincoln Day/Patriot Dinner - 5/8/08

2008-04-26T13:49:00.003-07:00

The Weber County Republican Party
Invites You To Our
Lincoln Day/Patriotic Dinner
May 8, Thursday, 2008
6:00 PM
Weber State University, Ballroom B
Beautiful Buffet Dinner
With
Josh Romney
Special Guest Speaker

During the evening you will have an opportunity to have pictures taken with officials from our
county, state and national congressional delegations
Tables will be: Ronald Reagan $1,500; : John McCain $1,000; (8 seats to a table)
Couples:$75; Individuals: $50.
For More Information Contact/Tickets
Matt Bell: 801 725-8771 - mattbell@xmission.com;
Suzanne Ellison Ferre 801 745-3098 - suzhvl@hotmail.com;
Christie Moore, 801 510-6634 - chrisim001@aol.com

Response to a Standard-Examiner Editorial: “Government by the Few”

2008-04-18T12:25:00.006-07:00

An invitation to the Standard-Examiner to waive advertising fees, and to actively promote the existing Utah political process

By Christie Moore
Weber County Republican Party
Vice Chair

Every citizen can attend a precinct caucus of one party or another. How can the process be more open? The people who attend their caucus choose the delegates who choose the candidates. It is not the fault of those who attend caucuses that their neighbors care more about the results on “Dancing with the Stars” than about who will represent them in governing bodies.

From Wednesday's (4/16/08) Standard lead editorial:

Political parties, presently constituted, serve mainly as incumbent-protection rackets. There are exceptions, but they’re rare.

That claim may have merit in some counties, but it does not in Weber County. Our county Republican organization has open, transparent processes. Each challenger is given the same access to information and the same opportunity to contact delegates as the incumbent is given. The Weber County Republican Party is cited as an example of openness and fairness by citizens and challengers in other Utah counties and newspapers.

More from the editorial:

Government does belong to the people—the few people who go to the caucus meetings.
We hate to sound so cynical about it, but that leaves everyone else to watch from the sidelines.

Again, I must emphasize: THESE ARE PUBLIC MEETINGS! Anyone who wants to go can attend. No one is excepted. We publish the locations in the Standard-Examiner. We supply phone numbers for inquiries if someone does not know in which precinct they reside. This is a fair, grassroots process—pure democracy!

What could make the process more open? Perhaps the Standard-Examiner could deign to publish the caucus locations as a public service, just as it has historically done in the past, eliminating the hardship on the Parties of raising the money to advertise this democratic obligation.

State Central Committee Highlights

2008-01-17T09:32:00.000-07:00

Saturday, Jan. 12, 2008 – Bountiful City Hall

By Ricky Hatch
Chair - House Legislative District 6

A balmy, sunny Saturday welcomed about 150 State Central Committee members to Bountiful City Hall. The free donuts and juice didn't hurt either. Not too much on this meeting's agenda – mostly reports. So here's a report of the reports.

Audit Committee report: The state party is audited once every two years. This year, we got audit bids from four different local CPA firms. James & Co. was selected and completed the audit in December. As in the past, we received an unqualified opinion (a good thing). The party runs a pretty lean ship (again, good).

Chairman Stan Lockhart's report: Four things. 1) Fundraising is going well and will remain a focus. 2) Stan had an op-ed piece in the 12/30/07 Tribune (see Salt Lake Tribune -- Republicans represent the morals and ideals of Utahns. 3) The state party is solvent continues to reduce overhead. 4) The Central Committee feels more cohesive and is focusing less on petty things and more on more important things, like elections. 5) We need to hold good caucuses this spring. OK, that's 5 things. So sue me.

Senator Bob Bennett's report: 35 Senate seats are up for grabs this year: 23 of them are Republican and 12 are Democrat. That doesn't bode well. He thinks we can steal a couple of seats from “them Dems,” but we’ll probably lose some as well. Demmit!

Lt. Governor Gary Herbert's report: Utah is bucking the national trend by maintaining a strong economy, leading the states in various economic indicators, such as personal income growth (9% last year), unemployment (2.8%) and job creation. The slowest growth sector in the state is the Government, which is a good thing. Our net population increased 85K last year. He and Governor Huntsman will run for reelection in 2008. But don't tell anyone...it's still a secret. OK, if it just happens to slip out, you probably won’t get in any trouble. They are focusing on three key issues right now: 1) Health care – they're trying to come up with ways that it can be handled by the state, not the federal government (not quite sure where the U.S. Constitution gives the Feds the right to “help” us in health care…). 2) Education – with the voucher bills defeated, there are still plenty of opportunities for reform, like giving more local control to principals. 3) Natural resource development – Utah just got a $60 million grant on finding more environmentally friendly ways to use coal. He pushed for a strong turnout on February 5th (Presidential Primary).

Congressman Rob Bishop's report: Four bills show how bad it is, and how good it can be, in Washington. 1) Defense Authorization bill – apart from a 7-month Democratic delay, it is a good, fair, bi-partisan bill. 2) S-CHIP – In the House, no Republicans were allowed to participate in this. The Dems wanted it to remain open so it could be an election issue. Yuck. 3) Alternative Minimum Tax – The Dems waited until the last day of the session to address this, and then tried to increase taxes. The “PAYGO” solution that is currently being pushed is (and I quote), “a crappy accounting scheme to raise taxes.” The Washington Post, the Washington Times, ipi.com, heritage.org, Paul Ryan, Larry Kudlow, and the Republican Committee on the Budget agree. 4) Safety and Mining Act – It gives a competitive advantage to surface mining (stronger on the East Coast) and union mines (stronger on the East Coast). I smell Hillary.

Attorney General Mark Shurtleff's report: He's campaigning for reelection this year, and wants to rent booths/tables at your functions (call 877-488-2008). They just formed a mortgage fraud task force. I liked what he said here, “The best consumer protection is a vibrant free market.” He says that the Utah AG office does not believe in being suit happy, like many other states have become.

Senator John Valentine spoke about “Why Am I a Republican?” Utah is one of only three states with a AAA bond rating. This is due to intelligent, conservative, Republican fiscal policy. He talked about the upcoming legislative session. Items to be addressed: health care reform, property tax reform, transportation, natural resource development, and educational funding and reform (like differential pay and possibly repealing tenure, so “bad” teachers can be removed).

Utah Republican Women report: Weber County’s own Darcy Kruitbosch is the President of the Utah Republican Women. As membership has been decreasing over the years, they are focusing on being visible in the community and at events. The leadership team is focused, unified, and charged for the future.

Ed Cox of the College Republicans spoke about fundraising. Lucas Johnson of the Teenage Republicans spoke about a Constitutional Convention being held this spring and about Teen Day at the Capitol.

We adjourned, had a light brunch, and then a power nap. OK maybe I was the only one who had a power nap, but I saw some people who needed one!

See you on February 5th (Presidential Primary) and March 25th (Caucuses)!

11/3/07 State Central Committee Report

2007-11-11T21:27:00.000-07:00

Another installment of As the State Central Committee Turns

By Ricky Hatch
Chair - House Legislative District 6

The State Central Committee met last Saturday, 11/3/07. Short agenda, fairly short meeting, unbearably long report. Don't believe me? Read on....

State party Chair Stan Lockhart said that he will begin a campaign to promote the party's platform. I just finished reading 1984, so every time I type “The Party,” I feel a little uncomfortable. However, as I researched the Utah Republican Party Platform a few years back, I was thoroughly impressed. It hits SOOO many critical principles right on the head. From the first sentence (which declares a belief in God, the only author of our rights), it is evident that this document was written by good, wise people. You should read it – it's only 3 pages long. It's available for reading here. A hat was passed around, collecting $350 and a little dandruff to get the campaign started.

The party's accountant has left to be a full-time mom. Her duties are now being split by Maria Uboldi, and Mike McCauley, the current Treasurer. Now, you fellow auditors out there need not be alarmed, Mike's check signing ability has been removed to avoid funding any potential purchases of small tropical islands with party funds.

Information Access Policy: We discussed a proposed change to the party's Information Access Policy. In the past, the state party has put the contact info of all delegates on the web site. Making these names available is required by the party's constitution and bylaws, although these documents do not specify HOW these names must be made available. Apparently, these lists have been sold in the past, and some counties have been hesitant to give the names of their delegates to the state party for fear of being contacted too much by the buyers of these lists. The proposed change would require anyone who gets the list to sign a non-disclosure agreement. This option, thankfully, was met with quite a bit of skepticism and concern. Our own Christie Moore brought up a good point that the Weber County party has all of our delegate names available on the web site, and we've never received a complaint from any of them. Another gentleman commented that if someone is going to be elected to be a delegate, having their contact information available is part of the job. One alternative to the non-disclosure agreement is to copyright the contact lists, which would make it illegal to sell them without permission. This seems like a good idea, and the party has decided to look into this and other options before taking and further action. Whew!

Resolution Regarding School Vouchers: We discussed a resolution to give official support to the School Voucher Referendum. Surprisingly, there wasn't much debate, and our own plucky Paul Skeen stepped forward to express some valid concerns about the bills' constitutionality. I shared his concern, but Carl Wimmer, one of the bill's sponsors, allayed this concern by mentioning how the US Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of the Cleveland voucher program. With a couple of good alterations, the resolution passed overwhelmingly, with only about 3 “nay” votes.

Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert talked about how true Republicans support public education, and how the voucher bills support public ed. He mentioned how great it is that we live in a Republic. He said that Dan Jones is predicting close to a 50% turnout in Tuesday's election. Yeah, dismally low. Utah's Presidential Primary will be on February 5th.

Representative Rob Bishop spoke quite passionately about some of the amazing junk that is happening in Washington right now. Those now in charge of the House & Senate are “running fast and loose,” doing things that have never been done there before (because they shouldn't be done). Examples: Invoking Closed Rules, which prohibit amendments to bills, and having the Rules Committee ad taxes to the Farm Bill (the Rules Committee has no authority to do that). Every appropriation bill passed by this Democrat-controlled Congress has exceeded the White House's recommended spending amounts, except for one bill – national defense. Hmmm...I smell bacon.

Representative Chris Cannon talked about the ineffectiveness of the multitude of oversight hearings, which have found no administrative improprieties.

National Committeewoman Nancy Lord said that the Republican National Committee will discuss this week the party's penalty for state parties holding presidential primaries prior to the RNC's mandated dates. Two plans are being discussed: 1) the Delaware plan, which will have the primaries held first in the small states, and 2) the American Plan, which uses a lottery system to determine which states hold their primaries first.

The head of the Utah Federation of Republican Women told a great story about how President & Laura Bush both asked her to thank the Utah Republican Women for all their service and support. The Hispanic Assembly has new leadership and is having great success in registering more Latinos to vote. The Hispanic Assembly's national convention was recently held in Utah. The College Republicans have new leadership at most of the universities in Utah.

So that's it – a long report of a short meeting – we were done within an hour and a half.

Yours,

Ricky Hatch.

9/8/07 State Central Committee Report

2007-09-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

Summary of the State Central Committee Meeting – Saturday, Sept. 8, 2007 – Provo

By Ricky Hatch
Legislative District 6 Chair
Weber County Republican Party

Yes, here's an exciting summary of the most recent State Central Committee Meeting. Warning: don't read this while lying in bed, or after 8 PM, unless sleep is your goal.

The new State Party Chairman, Stan Lockhart, reported on the status of the state party. His report was upbeat, especially in the area of finances. With the help of a recent golf fund raiser and Lt. Governor Herbert, the state party has raised almost $200K since June. It is out of debt & keeping very tight controls of expenses. This is good.

The Central Committee confirmed Ivan Dubois as the Executive Director. He acted as the interim Exec. Director under Enid Greene for the past while, and interned with the State Senate before that. We also confirmed Kitty Dunn, a long-time volunteer and campaign professional, as the Political Director. So the State party office is fully staffed with very capable people, including a new in-house Counsel, prominent SLC attorney Mark Crapo.

The Professional Republican Women and the Republican Women (who, I'm sure, are also professional) are creating an endowment for the party, which will donate all interest earned from the endowment to the state party's often-light coffers. This too is good, and received unanimous support of the Committee.

The main purpose of this meeting was the election of three different committees:

1) Executive Committee. It was explained to me that this committee kind of acts like a board of directors to the state party. The committee consists of two individuals from each Congressional District (at the risk of being too obvious, I'll say that Weber County is in the 1st District, under Rep. Rob Bishop). Only two candidates ran for our district, and therefore were elected by acclamation (verbal approval): Ben Horsley and James Evans. Ben is the County Chair of Davis County and James is the County Chair of Salt Lake County. They both wish they were as good as Matt Bell. They're not.

2) The State Audit Committee. This committee...um…well…audits the state party (thank you, Captain Obvious). There were originally seven candidates for the 5-seat committee, but two of the candidates withdrew, and the remaining, five candidates breathed a sigh of relief and were elected by acclamation: Chris Herrod, Ricky Hatch (yeah, that's me – I'm a sucker for punishment), Michael Cragun, Gary Ott, Ted Pierce, and Marco Diaz.

3) The Constitution and Bylaws Committee. This committee of seven members takes suggested changes to the state party constitution and bylaws, reviews them, usually alters them, and then presents them to the Central Committee for approval, sometimes providing recommendations for or against the proposed amendments. Many Central Committee members have felt that this committee has used more influence than it should have. There were 15 candidates for the seven seats, including our own Christie Moore, who gave a great speech (and who does a fantastic job at whatever she touches, I might add). In the end, several incumbents were reelected, and the committee now stands as follows: Ivan Keller, James Evans, Clair Ellis, Duard Pedersen, Wade Farraway (go ahead, have fun with his last name. I did.), Chad Bennion, and Mark Barton.

Chairman Lockhart did a pretty good job at keeping the meeting under control and running smoothly. It didn't last all day, which was nice. It started just after 10 AM and ended around 1 PM. Overall, it was an enjoyable meeting with very little dissent, controversy or drama. Lt. Gov. Herbert gave some nice remarks, including some discussion about the upcoming voucher bills. He stated that both he and the Governor support the Voucher bills AND public schools—that it's OK to support both—they don't have to be mutually exclusive. Attorney General Mark Shurtleff spoke briefly about the upcoming Warren Jeffs trial. Nancy Lord, the National Committeewoman for the Republican Party, spoke about the crazy race to hold early presidential primaries. And Representative Chris Cannon spoke about his recent visit to Kazakhstan, and several other "Stan"s (Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, etc.).

The Utah County Republican Party and Parents for Choice in Education provided donuts, bagels, drinks, and plenty of brochures and yard signs (nothing comes free, right?).

The next meeting is in November in SLC—anybody who dares is welcome to attend. If you're like me, you'll learn quite a bit about how the party runs, and you just might get some donuts!

"Quick and Dirty" 2007 Utah GOP Convention Report

2007-06-09T18:02:00.000-07:00

2007 Utah GOP Nominating Convention Results

In response to several reader inquiries, re the outcome of today's 2007 Utah GOP State Nominating Convention, we're posting this "quick and dirty" report, summarizing the most important results of today's event:

Elected Party Executive Officers
Chairman-Stan Lockhart
Vice Chairman-Todd Weiler
Secretary-Patty Johnson
Treasurer-Mike McCaulley

Article XII, Section 2C proposed constitutional amendment
Failed

Update 11:02 p.m. MT: Check out the state party site, for more newly-updated information.

2007 GOP State Organizing Convention Update #3

2007-06-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

Weber County Republican Party Vice-chair Moore urges rejection of one proposed state party constitutional amendment

By Christie Moore
Weber County Republican Party Vice Chair

Dear State Delegates:

A Party constitutional amendment (Article XII, Section 2C) that was passed by the State Central Committee is on the agenda for the State Convention tomorrow. PLEASE VOTE AGAINST IT, if you agree, after reading the analysis, that it can deny precincts their proper allocation of county and state delegates.

When I first read it, I thought it was a good idea to help small precincts. That is why I voted for it at the State Central Committee meeting last month. After further examination, I see that it could be used by people with ulterior motives to limit a precinct's representation to one delegate and allow County Officers to appoint the rest. Please refer to the "Constitutional Amendment on Caucus and Convention Procedures, Section 2, C" for the full text. I encourage you to look at www.grassrootsGOPdelegates.org for more information.

I'm sorry I let this get by me at the State Central Committee, but this need not happen to either you or me at the State Convention. I will try to evaluate proposals more thoroughly in the future.

Thank you for your service on behalf of your Republican neighbors,

Christie Moore
Weber County Republican Party Vice Chair

Update 6/8/07 5:19 p.m.: All state delegates are urged to check out this flier, which succinctly frames the issues involved in this ill-designed proposed constitutional amendment.

2007 Utah GOP State Organizing Convention Update #2

2007-06-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

"One Stop Shopping" for Organizing Convention information

With a mere two days remaining before our Saturday convention, we're posting this update, just to be sure web-savvy State Delegates have as much information as possible, readily at hand, on the eve of this important convention.

First, we direct our State Delegates' attention to the Utah State GOP Website, where general information is available on the "Utah Gop Organizing Convention Page," containing a brief Candidate Roster, Official Call & Convention Rules, proposed Constitution and Bylaws Amendments, and proposed Resolutions, etc.

Next, in the interest of fleshing out the Candidate Roster data, we also provide links below to all candidate statements we've solicited, received and posted previously here on our Weber County Republican Party Blog pages. In this connection, we also thank all candidates who've devoted their time and energy to helping us out, to our mutual benefit, with this somewhat ambitious information gathering project:

Chairman Candidates:

5/29/07 - Aaron Bludworth

5/17/07 - Chris Laurence

5/25/07 - Steve Harmsen

5/18/07 - Ronald H Levine

Stan Lockhart (No information submitted - yet)

Nancy Lord (Withdrawn)

Vice-chairman Candidates:

5/23/07 - Drew Chamberlain

5/26/07 - Grant Mischbach

5/19/07 - Jack A. Powers

5/25/07 - Todd Weiler

Secretary Candidates:

Carolyn Jeppsen-Smith (Withdrawn)

5/24/07 - Patty Johnson (Unopposed)

And for those State Delegates who are truly inclined to roll up their sleeves, and thoroughly prepare for the convention, we also provide a link to our website index below, containing every significant 2007 Convention-relevant northern Utah print media article published within the past month or so, together with the candidate statement links above. As an added bonus we've included a couple of candidate questionaire projects, and a few other random "goodies."

We call it our 2007 Convention Delegates' Special Article Collection...

Our readers might however alternatively choose to call it One Stop Shopping for GOP delegates' convention information.

We hope Utah Republicans (Delegates in particular) will find this information to be useful.

All of this information is also available in our right sidebar, of course.

See you at the convention, fellow Utah Republicans!

And don't forget to check back here for convention updates.

We expect to post at least one more update before Enid brings down the gavel on Saturday, inasmuch as there remain two items still on our information "back burner;" and you also never really know what might pop up at the last minute.

2007 GOP State Organizing Convention Update #1

2007-06-03T11:53:00.000-07:00

Two executive officer candidates withdraw from the race; two Chairman candidates meet with Weber County GOP delegates

We confirmed on Friday that two Utah GOP executive officer candidates have now withdrawn their candidacies, and will not be on the ballot for our June 9 State Organizing Convention.

Nancy Lord has dropped out of the race for State Party Chairman, narrowing the field of contested candidates for the party's top office to five. Carolyn Jeppsen-Smith, who had filed as a candidate for Party Secretary, has also taken herself out of contention, leaving Patty Johnson unopposed, and thus the next apparent candidate to fill the Secretary office seat.

Steve Harmsen, Utah GOP Party Chairman candidate, has asked us to announce his invitation to all Weber and Box Elder County State Delegates to attend a "Meet and Greet Social" on Wednesday, June 6, 7-8:30 pm, at Maddox Ranch House Restaurant. We hope our Weber County delegates will take advantage of this convenient opportunity to meet Mr. Harmsen, and to familiarize themselves with his platform and views.

We'll also note that Aaron Bludworth, another candidate for the Utah GOP Chairman's office, hosted a similar event for Weber County state delegates last Friday. Many Weber County delegates were in attendance, and Mr. Bludworth graciously took questions, affording members of our Weber County delegation an excellent opportunity to acquaint themselves with Mr. Bludworth and his vision for the future of the Utah State Republican Party.

We salute Mr. Bludworth and Mr. Harmsen, for "going the extra mile," and affirmatively reaching out to our Weber County Republican Party state delegates. It's our continuing hope that the Weber County Party will increase its level of influence in State Party affairs during the next 2-year Utah GOP executive officer term; and we view the recent actions of these two candidates as encouraging evidence that at least Mr. Bludworth and Mr. Harmsen are attentive to the concerns of Weber County Republicans.

We'll also take the risk of speculating that these two candidates' extra efforts may indeed reflect the kind of work ethic which seems to have been recently lacking in our State Party.

Kudos to these two gentlemen for including Weber County venues in their 2007 pre-convention campaigns.

Aaron Bludworth - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Chairman

2007-05-29T13:29:00.000-07:00

One Utah GOP Party Chairman candidate submits supplemental candidate information:

Novembers ahead will be harder than Novembers past. We need to be prepared, strategic, focused, and well-financed as a party to ensure our greatest impact in getting candidates elected and re-elected that represent Utah’s Republican values. I am committed to these objectives and will put in the time and effort to make it happen! Below are some important thoughts related to my candidacy and the party. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me.

Independent and Objective
Uniquely, I have been involved in the party for a long time, yet I am not an insider. I have no conflicts or obligations that could in reality or perception interfere with my loyalty to the Republican Party. This will allow me to administer and lead effectively based on the merits of each situation and the needs of the party rather than being inclined to make decisions based on past biases or obligations to individuals or special interests.

Grassroots
I will work to achieve increased levels of participation from all Republicans. We need to work together to reach all who share our ideas and values if we are to achieve our maximum potential. I will focus, with the counties, on voter turnout - we need strong participation at the polls and the grassroots is where friends and associates are inspired to act and get involved.

Business
I am a leader in the Utah business community and will use the connections and relationships developed through my business experience to enhance the party’s fundraising and business participation efforts. I have contributed personally and through my business for many years and can make a compelling argument to other business leaders as to the value in investing in the party – I have done it myself! Republican officials constantly work to maintain a healthy business climate for Utah’s businesses – under my leadership, Utah’s business community will increase their support for the party. Additionally, as a business leader and an employer, I know how to administer the business affairs of the party, deal with employment matters, and oversee a budget.

Candidates
We must prepare early for the difficult races ahead. We need to constantly be recruiting and inspiring potential candidates. I will work tirelessly with the counties to identify and motivate candidates. In my first 90 days as chairman, I will begin working with the county party leadership to recruit candidates for legislative seats where the party can have the highest level of success at extending our majority on Utah’s capitol hill. I will also work diligently to ensure that Republicans always maintain our strength in the delegation we send to Washington.

I hope you will contact me if I may answer questions and to share your ideas for the future of the party, after all this is your party, and mine! I respectfully ask for your vote on June 9th and commit to you that I will be a fair, inclusive, and committed leader – always working for Republicans!

801-231-2225
Email: aaron@aaronbludworth.com
Website: http://www.aaronbludworth.com/

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Legislative District 6 Questionaire

Steve Harmsen - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Chairman

2007-05-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

A Fourth Utah GOP Chairman candidate joins our roster

WHO has the Strong Resume to Run the Place, Avoid Problems, and Get Results?

WHO has the business track record to restore financial health, organize and deliver a hard working staff?

WHO has successfully run a major state wide Utah private sector business for over 30 years?

WHO has the experience of holding and serving in City County and Statewide party positions?

WHO has the track record as an accounting graduate, attorney and businessman?

IS that person Utah State GOP Chairman Candidate Steve Harmsen -- Yes!

If you have ever asked these questions?

The difference is business leadership — that’s why the Utah Republican Party needs Steve Harmsen as Chairman.

If you have any grass-roots suggestions for making our party better, please call Steve @ 550-2300.

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from University of Utah, Salt Lake City
Juris Doctorate from George Washington University Law Center, Washington, D.C.

A WORKING REPUBLICAN

Salt Lake County Council – At Large
Member UAC – Utah Association of Counties Special Tax Committee
Republican National Convention Delegate
Republican County and State Delegate
Former Republican State Finance Chair
Former Salt Lake City Commissioner of Streets and Public Improvements
Former President of the American Public Works Association – Utah Chapter
Former Salt Lake City Prosecutor
George Romney for President campaign coordinator

FAMILY-BACKGROUND

Steve is a 6th generation Utahn and a resident of Utah his entire life. His mother taught school for 27 years and his wife Kelly taught high school English. All of their Children attended public schools in Utah.

A COMMUNITY WORKER

Board of Directors Utah Youth Village
Rotarian – Salt Lake City Club
Team 2002 – Salt Lake Olympic Volunteer
Past Member of Board of Directors of Salt Lake Community Services Council
Past Boy Scout Council Fund Raising Chairman
Literacy Volunteers of America Board Member
An active participant in Church affairs

PROFESSIONAL CAREER

President/Owner, Steve Regan Company, Farm and ranch supply wholesaler for 25 years. Main office in Salt Lake City with 10 stores in Utah and Idaho. The Company employs 80 with sales of $30 million.
Rancher, cow/calf operation – Southern Utah/Nevada 25 years
President, West American Finance Company. Utah, Idaho and Nevada business and real estate, and Hydro Electric Properties.

Weber-Box Elder Special Event Update 6/3/07 5:04 p.m.: Mr. Harmsen extends his invitation to all Weber and Box Elder County GOP State Delegates, to attend his "Meet and Greet Social" on Wednesday, June 6, @ 7-8:30 pm, at Maddox Ranch House Restaurant. We urge all Weber County State Delegates to attend.
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Legislative District 6 Questionaire
Utah Conservative Questionaire

Grant Misbach - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Vice-chairman

2007-05-25T21:00:00.000-07:00

The fourth and final Utah GOP Vice Chairman candidate checks in, and completes our VP Candidate Roster:

EXCELLENCE IN GOVERNMENT -- April 2006 -- RAISING THE STANDARD (not voted upon at the State Republican Convention May 13, 2006)

Government in our great state of Utah has been handled well on all levels, local, county and state. And performance has been definitely above average in comparison to elsewhere. Officials for the most part have been hardworking, dedicated and competent.

However polls have shown that confidence in elected officials (i.e. politicians) both nationally and locally is low, very low. And there have been some serious problems this past year, mainly nationally, but also locally which has adversely affected politics generally, and specifically the Republican Party. We could lose control of possibly the Senate and also the house in Congress. And our influence in the State Legislature could also be diminished.

Therefore it is felt that NOW is the time to recommend to the State Legislature that there should be COMPREHENSIVE AND MEANINGFUL REFORM in lobbying, campaign finance, transparency and ethics. IT IS NEEDED NOW MORE THAN EVER.

Some of the areas that should be considered are:

LOBBYING: Legislators should not be lobbyists at the same time. Have a one or two year period before legislators or their staff could become lobbyists. Have easy access to all names of lobbyists, how much they are being paid and by whom, and TIMELY, and detailed information on expenses.

GIFTS: Allow only a minimal amount for gifts or meals (eliminate sporting events, trips, etc.) with only a few special exceptions; and with TIMELY, DETAILED reporting.

CAMPAIGN FINANCE: Lobbyists should be prohibited from being campaign managers or being in similar positions. More strict restrictions on how much corporations and Political Action Committees can contribute to campaigns or related activities and there should be full, detailed and timely reporting.
TRANSPARENCY: Open all legislative, committee and planning meetings to the public with better publicity and opportunity for public input.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST: Full disclosure by legislators on all potential or actual conflicts of interest on pending legislation and allow legislators to abstain from voting (not now allowed).
ETHICS: Set up an independent commission on ethics with more clear and complete rules and penalties.

Avoiding even the appearance of wrong-doing is important. By your vote it is hoped that we may send a strong message to the Legislature that COMPREHENSIVE AND MEANINGFUL reform is needed and that it is needed NOW.

Grant Misbach, State Delegate
Vice Chair Legislative District 62
Phone: 801-373-8009
e-mail: grant@misbach.org

Todd Weiler - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Vice-chair

2007-05-25T06:30:00.000-07:00

Yet a third Utah GOP Vice-chair candidate submits his information

Who is Todd Weiler? I am a 40 year old political junkie. My wife, Elizabeth, and I have four children. During my free time, I practice law. I have lived in Woods Cross for ten years. You can call me on my personal cell phone (801-599-9823) or e-mail me at toddweiler@parrylaw.com.
My Experience. I currently hold the following positions within the Republican party: State Party Vice Chair (February 2007 – present); State Party Executive Committee (September 2005 – present); State Central Committee (2003 – present); and Convention Rules Committee Chair (2005 & 2007). My other experience includes:

Davis County Republican Party Chair (2003-2007)
State Conventions Committees: Rules Chair (two times), Credentials Committee and Arrangements Committee
State Party Committees: Executive Committee, Central Committee, Constitutional and Bylaws
County Party Committees: Constitution and Bylaws, Ethics, and Lincoln Day Dinner Committee
Davis Chamber of Commerce Vice-Chair, Executive Committee, and Board of Directors
Rob Bishop for Congress 2002 & 2006 Finance Committees
Authored Political Op-Ed’s for Salt Lake Tribune, Standard Examiner, Davis Clipper and Daily Herald
BYU Law School Alumni Board & Executive Committee
2004 Alternate Delegate, Republican Nat’l Convention
Board of Directors, Utah League of Cities & Towns
BYU Business Degree (‘90) & Law Degree (‘96)
Republican Candidate for State Legislature
Woods Cross City Council (1999-2003)
Worked on countless campaigns
Raised money for the party
Lifelong Republican
County and State Delegate

Why I am running. I love the Republican Party and politics is my hobby. I very much enjoyed my tenure as Davis County Republican Party Chair, and want to bring my experience and leadership skills to the state party. My re-election as state party vice chair will preserve some continuity and institutional knowledge during a difficult time of change and turbulence. I am a Ronald Reagan conservative. I am an avid reader and a student of history. The party’s primary purpose is to elect and support solid Republican candidates who share Republican ideals and values. The Republican Party in Utah is a big tent and there is room enough for us to differ on some issues. I choose, however, to focus on the 95 percent of things that we agree upon, instead of the five percent where there may be some conflict. We must build on commonalities instead of focusing on differences. The party process must be squeaky clean. When I read media accounts of Republicans (locally or nationally) involved in ethical violations or scandals, I am disappointed and embarrassed. The party must learn from our prior mistakes to be stronger in the future. We must mend fences where necessary. Everyone should be treated fairly – especially people who may disagree with my viewpoint. Meetings should be productive and efficient. The party should support its elected officials and candidates, and vice versa as well. We cannot allow our core Republican values to be compromised.

My duties as vice chair. The vice chair needs to be able to raise funds for the party, conduct meetings in an orderly manner in the chairs’ absence, act as a liaison between the party and its elected officials, and communicate with county party leadership. As the current vice chair, I have met with the Legislature, the Governor’s office, and criss-crossed the state to participate the various county conventions. I have also used my legal skills to assist the party in a variety of matters. Since being elected as vice chair three months ago, I have accomplished the following:

Canceled a commissions-based contract for fundraising for the state party
Legally incorporate the Utah Republican Party (at no cost to the state party)
Chaired the Rules Committee for the 2007 Organizing Convention
Secured other arrangements (canned food drive, color guard, national anthem) for the 2007 Organizing Convention
Traveled across the state to represent the state party at numerous county conventions from St. George to Logan
Met with Gary Herbert two times to discuss state party affairs
Attended all officer and executive committee meetings
Secured RSVP’s from over 30 potential new members of the Ronald Reagan Club to an event with Sen. Bennett
Testified before the Legislature regarding the sunset provision on allowing unaffiliated voters to affiliate as Republicans at the primary polls
Attended a planning meeting in Orem for the May 10 Huntsman/Herbert fundraising event
Made plans to host fundraising breakfasts with the Lt. Gov.
Promptly responded to every inquiry I have received from delegates, county officers and members of the SCC
Published Op-Ed pieces regarding Vice President Dick Cheney’s visit to BYU, and Al Shapton’s comments about Mitt Romney and his religion
Regularly communicated with County Party Chairs to coordinate their activities with those of the state party
Reviewed county party governing documents to ascertain compliance with state law and state party documents
Met with five of the six candidates for state party chair to ensure a smooth transition after the convention
Continued to provide pro bono legal services to the Salt Lake County Party
Made preliminary arrangements for a state party fundraiser in August of 2006

What are my strengths? I am open, accountable, fair and approachable. I am a leader who is not afraid to tackle difficult issues. I am a good communicator.

What challenges are facing the Utah Republican Party? Building trust, mending fences and regaining lost confidence. I plan to address them with openness and honesty. In regards to fundraising, I believe that the party chair, vice chair, National Committeeman and National Committeewoman should report their fundraising efforts and activity on a quarterly basis to the State Central Committee.

I believe in fairness. As vice chair, I will ensure that all Republican candidates receive an equal amount of timely information and support from the state party.

My plans to keep the Party out of debt. The party will be out of debt before the June 9th convention. Therefore, the question really is what should be done to keep the party out of debt in the future. This can and will be accomplished by keeping costs down and increasing revenue. My job as vice chair will be to help raise enough money to ensure the party remains debt free. This can and will be accomplished by resurrecting the Ronald Reagan Club, improving relations with elected officials, and sponsoring more events such as the Legislative Breakfast and Golf Tournament. I will also ask state party officials (including the National Committeeman and Committeewoman) to report each quarter to the State Central Committee on their fundraising efforts and activities.

The GOP needs to be more competitive! We first need to recognize that inner-city residents in large metropolitan areas like Salt Lake City and Ogden generally vote with the Democrats. Accordingly, we need to target the races that make sense and use our resources where they will make the most difference. Considering everything, I think we were competitive in Salt Lake County in 2006. Lohra Miller won, and the race for sheriff was unfortunately lost on the golf course. There are still some fences that need to be mended in Salt Lake County due to prior scandals. We need targeted advertising campaigns and town meetings to reach out to the so-called “Matheson Republicans”. The prior election cycles have shown that moderate Republicans in Salt Lake County are not embracing conservative candidates like Swallow and Christensen – but they are embracing candidates like Gov. Huntsman and Mark Shurtleff. If we fail to learn from our mistakes, we will keep repeating them.

My vision for the Party. My vision is for a strong and financially stable state party that earns the respect and admiration of elected officials and voters. My vision is for a party where delegates will focus on the 95 percent of issues they agree upon, instead of the five percent that they disagree. My primary goals are to create a more stable framework to meet the party’s financial needs, and to held Jim Matheson find new employment. The new party leaders need to rebuild trust, and regain some lost confidence. We need to streamline the process to ensure that substantive and meaningful debate can take place on important issues. The process needs to be simple and effective, and must be squeaky clean.

The role of delegates in the Party. I believe in preserving the authority in the grassroots. The “average delegate/activist” ought to have direct access to party leaders and to suggest changes to governing documents. Although I believe that every delegate has a voice within the party, I will not support the efforts of a few attention-seeking individuals to hold large numbers of delegates hostage to their own agenda. If the chair refuses to recognize someone to speak, however, the delegates should be given the opportunity to override that decision with a simple up or down vote.

I appreciate your support and ask for your vote on June 9th!

Todd Weiler
801-599-9823
toddweiler@parrylaw.com
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Legislative District 6 Questionaire
Utah Conservative Candidate Questionaire

Patty Johnson - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Secretary - UNOPPOSED

2007-05-24T09:14:00.000-07:00

A first Utah GOP Secretary candidate submits information:

Patty Johnson

State Party Secretary

Accurate Records
Accessible Organizational Documents
Detail Oriented
Highly organized
Technologically savvy

Currently serving as:

President, Women’s Republican Club of Salt Lake City, Inc. Board, Utah
Federation of Republican Women
Board, National Federation of Republican Women
Auxiliary Member, Salt Lake County Central Committee
Chairwoman, Cottonwood Club Cotillion
Member, Salt Lake Council of Women
Member, Women’s State Legislative Council
Member, National Association Parliamentarians

Email: pjohnson@wrcofslc.org

Drew Chamberlain - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Vice-chairman

2007-05-23T05:22:00.000-07:00

A second Utah GOP Vice-chairman candidate submits candidate information

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR CANDIDATES FOR STATE PARTY VICE CHAIR

1. (Profile info)

a. Your age:
I am 45 years young.

b. Current positions you hold within the Republican party:
I am a three term State Central Committee member and County Delegate.

c. Your occupation / principal sources of livelihood:
I own Alpine Copier Service since 1992 and own Liberty Auto Sales in West Jordan.

d. Your spouse's occupation / principal sources of livelihood:
Home Maker

2. What are the duties of the state party vice chair?
Vice-Chair. The State Party Vice-Chair shall serve, as Vice-Chair of the State Central Committee, and as Vice-Chair of the State Executive Committee. The Vice-Chair shall assist the Chair in his or her duties and perform the Chair's duties in the Chair's absence. The term of office shall be two years.

1. Chair. The State Party Chair shall serve, as Chair of the State Central Committee, and as Chair of the State Executive Committee. The Chair may appoint, subject to the approval of the State Central Committee, Party personnel and the General Counsel. The State Party Chair shall serve as liaison with the Lieutenant Governor of the State of Utah on all matters relating to state election laws. The term of office shall be two years.

2. 2A. Do you support Amendment and Resolution filtering by the State C&B committee?
No I do not! For more than 20 years state delegates have exercised their right to submit party constitution amendments and resolutions to the convention. In just the last 4 years this right has been removed. Now certain party members believe that only the C&C committee can submit these amendments. Simply put, if 4 people on this committee do not like you then they will stop your amendment or resolution and you loose your right. 2 years ago the convention voted to re-affirm this right, the State Central Committee and leadership completely ignored this. At this convention you will be asked to give up your right to submit resolutions by filtering them through the appointed Platform committee. Don't do it! I will do all I can to re-affirm this delegate right.

2B. Do you support the practice of appointing or automatic delegates?
No, This practice is in violation of the State Constitution.

2C. Will you protect our Republican state charter?
Yes. Salt Lake County leadership recently passed a resolution denying a member from running for or holding party office. This resolution violates or bylaws and state law. As a result we may lose our state charter and our ballot access. This is a BIG deal. I will protect our charter.

3. Why do you wish to be state party vice chair?
I want to elect Republicans and promote the republican principles and values of our Platform that make us great.

4. Please share with us those things from your background--including positions held within the party, activities you have engaged in, and so forth--that you believe qualify you to be state party vice chair.
I am a practicing entrepreneur. I believe we can do anything we aspire to in this life. I am active in the LDS church and love Prosperity.

5. What do you believe are the strengths, abilities, and attitudes that make you particularly well suited to serve as state party vice chair?
I organize well, I am a successful businessman, I have been happily married for 24 years, I believe we can do better.

6. If elected state party vice chair, what do you wish to accomplish during the time you serve?
I will promote the principles of prosperity in our party.

7. Do you have, and are you willing to devote, the time and money required to fulfill the duties of this office?
Yes.

8. What do you see as the top challenges facing the Utah Republican Party, and how do you intend to address them?
The UEA has infiltrated our party and have weakened it considerably. I am alarmed that as of late we seem to be allowing our party to be more liberal so we may be more popular. I believe we must hold fast to our values and our conservative roots. I will promote Republicanism and usher in new prosperity for all Utah citizens.

9. (If not answered in the previous question:) How do you propose to deal with the party's approximately $90,000 debt?
I never spend money that I do not have. I will pay the debt by raising the money then only spend the money we have.

10. What steps will you take to maintain a level playing field for all Republican candidates until the party has chosen its nominee?
I will follow our party rules. I have studied our Constitution, Bylaws and Robert's Rules. I will be fair to all republicans.

11. How would you deal with delegates who persist in making motions to suspend rules in convention in order to reorder the agenda, or in proposing resolutions that party leadership does not favor?
Our rules require us to listen to all members. Healthy discussion is good for our party. A good chairman will allow everyone his or her rights and move the meeting along. Any delegate has the right to submit amendments and resolutions to the convention. I support these long held rights of the Delegates.

12. In dealing with improper conduct and violation of party rules, will you apply the same standard to your friends as to your foes?
Yes.

13. Is there anything else relative to your candidacy, not addressed in the previous questions, that you would like to say to the delegates?
I want to promote our platform far and wide. I love that document and feel that by following those principles and values we will become better people. I want to organize gatherings in every county to promote the party. I want billboards on the freeway promoting our party. We can do so much better!!! We can be so much more!!!

14. How can delegates get more information about you and your candidacy?
Just call me at 801-282-4877 your comments and participation are always welcome. With your help we will BUILD this party.

Thanks,

Drew Chamberlain
801-282-4877
TheNoLightRailGuy@juno.com
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Legislative District 6 Questionaire

Jack A. Powers - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Vice-chairman

2007-05-19T20:06:00.000-07:00

A fourth article in our 2007 Utah GOP convention candidate series:

Current Outlook for the Utah Republican Party

The Utah Republican Party has a bright future. But, in order to get there we need to strengthen 2 areas of political organizations: Management and Fiscal Health.

Party Unity

Our Conventions and State Central Committee Meetings have changed dramatically since the mid-1990s. We have lost our focus. We have gone from a strong focus on the expenditure of funds, party operations and training County Leadership to debating over how to cross T’s, dot I’s and what font to use. Over the years that loss of focus at the State Central Committee has flowed down through the Counties to the local levels.

Barry Goldwater said, “To disagree, one does not have to be disagreeable.” As Vice-Chair, I will restore focus and promote disagreeing without being disagreeable.

Management of the Party:

Problem #1 - Party Headquarters Staffing
Party Headquarter Staffing has been rudderless. Turn over has been high. Transition of institutional knowledge has been virtually non-existent. Defined duties of positions are vague, if at all. Improper training of what duties can be performed by staff and what must be performed by volunteers has already led to an FEC investigation and possible fines.

Solution #1
With my management background I can make major improvements and accelerate gaining control over our staffing problems. After analyzing the jobs, I will over see a written list of duties for each position, including a Desk Operating Procedure so transitions of institutional knowledge is retained, and make sure each staff member is trained in their duties, including legal compliance with the FEC.

Problem #2 - Tracking of Resources
Tracking of Resources such as data files, inventory, lists, et cetera has been done by searching when it is needed. There is no data library. No inventory control. No tracking of when lists can be compiled, released, where they are located or their generation. For years no one has known exactly what was due when, where it was, why it was due then, how it needs to be presented or in what format.

Solution #2
I have over 40 years of system analysis experience and over 30 of organizing departments in corporations. I will walk into Party Headquarters on June 11th and immediately start identifying and organizing data, hard inventories and resources.

Problem #3 - Utilization of Grass Roots
Grass Roots are the most valuable resource to the Party. If money is the “Mother’s Milk” of politics, Grass Roots is the womb which nurtured it and the container that holds the milk. The more activated the Grass Roots, the less milk is necessary to achieve the same, if not better, results. Grass Roots are the volunteers that save money, willingly sacrifice their time, do tons of free work, and in some cases, the only ones that can legally do the work. Grass Roots need to have the proper respect.

Solution #3
Grass Roots have good ideas. They have opinions. They have a good feel of the pulse of the electorate. I will promote Grass Roots: 1- Greater Respect; 2- Training Opportunities and 3- A Voice for feedback to leadership.

Financial Long Term Health

Problem #4 - Lack of Fiscal Discipline
This last election debt showed the Party lacked Fiscal Discipline. Not so much in the size of the debt generated (which was unacceptable) but in how the debt was generated. At any given time no one knew just how much the Party was in debt. There was no tracking at the time of creating the debt. The size of the debt became known only adding up the invoices as they rolled in each month.

Solution #4
The best goal is to be pro-active and solve problems before they happen, not reactive after they happen. Working with the Chair, Party Officers will develop and implement improvements such as:

Creating a reasonable budget,
Tracking debt as it is generated,
Inserting visible benchmarks that trigger closer scrutiny, and
Make sure financial resources are targeted to priority expenses.

Problem #5 – Fund Raising Resources
Fund Raising is an important duty of Party Leadership. While I believe the debt will be eliminated and the Party in the Black by June 9th, the way that debt will be eliminated is not a good long term solution.

The debt will mostly be eliminated by a combination of a large personal donation by Chairwoman Enid Green, special political functions already in the works before the February election, a rather large donation by a current elected official, and some County Parties forgiving the State Party of its debt to them. Recycling old donors and expecting to keep up with increasing costs is as illogical as recycling the dollars in from one pocket to the other and expecting them to increase.

Solution #5
The best method to generate new funds is to find new donors. In the early 1990s I traveled nearly every county in the State of Utah for the Aerospace Industry. I visited hundreds of Utah Businesses, gave tens of Seminars to thousands of businessmen and women. Many of those who once worked for me or with me moved from Boeing to other corporations within and without the state.

As State Vice-Chair I will go to new sources and generate new funds from new donors to lighten the financial burden of increased costs on all of us.

My list of qualifications and experience for the position is long. The short list includes:

Political Experience

1993-1995 - 1st Congressional District Chairman- Utah Republican Party
Only Write-In Candidate to ever win a State Party Office
1992-Present - Multiple Terms on the State Central Committee
Representing Davis (1990s) and Salt Lake (2000s) Counties
2002-Present - Chairman (4)/Member (4) Convention Rules Committees
Salt Lake County & State Organizing/Nominating Conventions
1998-2006 - Senate and Regional Chairman- Salt Lake County
1992-2006 - Various Precinct Term- Chairman and Vice-Chairman
1990s - Chairman of 2 State Fund Raiser Organizations
1959-Present - Hundreds of Campaigns- Manager (State to Local), Advisor, Volunteer
Managing, Fund Raising, Mailings, Literature Distribution, Events, etc.

Business Experience

Boeing Aerospace/McDonnell Douglas (MDC) Management
Investor- Real Estate, Stocks, Bonds, Precious Metals
College Instructor - Business Statistics

Public Service

2004-Present Chairman- Draper’s Police Citizen’s Advisory Board
2003-2004 Chairman- Sheriff South Patrol Citizen’s Advisory Board
1993-1998 2 Terms- Utah Aeronautical Committee
Literally Saved the Tax Payers Millions in budget oversight

Thank you for your consideration,

Jack A. Powers
801-495-9392
LifesEz@Hotmail.com
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Legislative District 6 Questionaire

Ronald H. Levine - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Chairman

2007-05-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

A third candidate for State GOP Party Chair submits his candidate information:

Please ask me questions and tell me your concerns. I will be responsive. Contact information below.

What do you believe the Republican Party must do win elections? And, what will you do to bring this about if you are elected?

Our identity, as defined by our platform, is the party that can best keep The American Dream, our Land of Opportunity, alive. It's the key to wins of real Republicans, which will lead to more wins. In campaigning door-to-door I say: "Vote for Morgan Philpot our Republican candidate for State Representative." People say: "Why should I vote for a Republican -- they raise taxes and create bigger and more intrusive government!" The votes are there for real Republicans! Getting them is what I've been doing. Imagine how effective I will be at promoting our platform as our official spokesperson!

What do you believe is the proper way to deal with dissidents within the Party? And, what, if anything, would you do to foster greater unity?

Let's have them speak! As one of the "dissidents" and proudly so, I identify with our platform created by elected delegates instead of a party run by "high-ups." That's not against our party -- it's for it! The irony is even greater with the craftily created and fostered image of dissidents successfully getting the body voting to not hear opposing ideas to save time and be rid of contention when that is almost all we do. My loyalties are not to "high-ups" in our Republican Party. That's backwards! "Support The Republican Movement Within Our Republican Party" That's my campaign slogan.

Why are you a Republican? And, what are your guiding principles in politics?

Our Utah Republican Party platform is my answer to both. We should be proud of it. But, indicative of what is wrong in our party, it is not even on the website! I would proudly put it up on our website and promote it many ways. It mirrors the principles of our founding of our United States of America where rugged individualists have created great prosperity and enjoyed freedom that belongs to our posterity. I will facilitate the precinct elected representatives of the Republican grassroots. "Government is not a solution to our problem, government is the problem." -- Ronald Reagan

What are your motivations for seeking this position? And, what do you hope to accomplish while in office?

Love of our future generations is my motivation. It is our duty to not become the generation reviled as the one that failed to pass on our heritage of our United States of America, with freedom and prosperity intact, to all of our future children and grandchildren as millions, from our Founding Fathers on, have done for us at great personal sacrifice. As the official spokesperson of our party, I will reach out to the Republican people for them to be empowered to get platform adherent candidates on the ballot and vote them to be our public servants.

Email: RonaldHLevine@aideq.com

Ronald H Levine
1042 E Fort Union Blvd #231
Midvale, Utah 84047-1800
801-566-2112 at work, but call after 5 P.M.
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Legislative District 6 Questionaire

Chris Laurence - Candidate for Utah Republican Party Chairman

2007-05-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

A second Utah party chair candidate submits information - and a blog link

Greetings from the far north of Utah.

I would like to introduce myself to Weber County Republicans. I am a Cache Valley attorney. In this election, we have a real opportunity to mess things up. It’s not a foregone conclusion that Utahn’s will vote Republican. If the state party is in disarray, we will lose some of our credibility. That loss could translate into loss of some races. We don’t want that to happen.

We don’t need a new chairman whose first impulse is to clean house. We’re not looking for a revolution, just a new chairman. I think that the party could benefit from the calming influence of those of us in Rob Bishop’s district. We’ve got it together up here. Down there in Salt Lake, they can’t even field a candidate to beat Jim Matheson. In Utah! They need our help, and badly.

I spent four years in Provo while attending BYU. Fine people down there. As my dad, the Utah State Aggie always tells me, BYU’s dairy program was developed by Aggies. I don’t know the truth of that statement, but I wouldn’t be surprised. Sounds like they need our help again. And I need your help.

I’d love to meet the state delegates from Weber County. I’m pretty new to this whole campaigning business, so I’m interested in advice as well. Please check out my blog and please feel free to contact me at my office (435) 755-0036.

Thanks,

Chris Laurence
(435)755-0036
Email: chrislaurence@comcast.net
Read my Campaign Blog
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Legislative District 6 Questionaire
Utah Conservative Candidate Questionaire

Aaron Bludworth -- Candidate for Utah GOP Chairman

2007-05-15T08:06:00.000-07:00

One GOP party chair candidate submits his information:

I am Aaron Bludworth and am running for State Party Chair. I welcome any questions or comments from all, I can be reached at: aaronbludworth@comcast.net or 801-231-2225. I am also looking for people that are willing to help put together meetings with delegates in Weber Co. (or others). Following is copy of a letter I sent to delegates this week. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your participation in the process.

----

5 May 2007
Dear Delegate,

My name is Aaron Bludworth and I am writing to introduce myself and to seek your support for the position of State Party Chairman at the June 9th Organizing Convention. The State Party urgently needs a Chairman who will raise money for operations and to finance campaigns, manage responsibly, and energize grassroots members into greater participation, higher voter turnout, and exceptional results for Republican candidates at the polls. There is no question the party has some challenges ahead and achieving these objectives will take a lot of work. I will put in the time and am committed to making it happen!

I live in Holladay with my wife, Holly, and our four children. I am a senior officer in a Utah-based display company where I have been employed for 15 years. I am active in my community, having participated in leadership roles with chambers of commerce, convention and visitor’s bureaus, charitable and other community organizations.

On the political front, I have been an active Republican at all levels for many years. Starting with high-school grassroots participation in local and statewide campaigns, through campaign and Ronald Reagan Club fundraising, numerous campaign committees, and as a delegate and current member of the State Central Committee.

My strong suite is solid management skills, extensive community and business relationships, and a history of effective participation. Most importantly, I will be constantly engaged to bring the party success. My independence from special interests and my lack of conflicts or obligations to individuals or organizations will enable me to administer effectively and fundraise without constraint. As a Chair coming in from the outside, I will bring a fresh perspective to this position and a management style committed to fairness and inclusion for all.

Thank you for your participation in this important process. Together we can accomplish great things for the State Republican Party and our candidates throughout Utah.

My contact information is below. I welcome your communication and will promptly respond to questions or concerns. Over the next few weeks I will be visiting many counties throughout the state and hope to visit with you on one of my trips. Please contact me if you would like me to visit you in your area.

Sincerely,
Aaron Bludworth
801-231-2225
aaronbludworth@comcast.net

May 12, 2007 State Central Committee Meeting Notes

2007-05-13T19:24:00.001-07:00

Report of State Central Committee Meeting, Saturday, May 12, 2007 (Facts in straight type, opinion in italics)

By: Christie Moore
Weber County Republican Party Vice-chair

Weber County Central Committee members attending: Junior Shupe, Leg. 9, Ricky Hatch, Leg. 6, and Christie Moore, County Vice Chair

The Party has been running, since the departure of Jeff Hartley and Abby Balfour (unrelated to Jeff Hartley's departure; she simply found a better job), with help from Chair Enid Greene, Secretary Carrie Dickson, volunteer Christy Achziger, temporary employee Ivan DuBois, and Land Reay, on loan from Salt Lake County Republican Party. Many other volunteers have been helping also.

After the prayer and pledge and approval of the minutes, we voted to close the meeting so Chairman Greene could discuss with us the personnel issues involving Jeff Hartley. She asked the Press to leave, but there weren't any members of the Press there. We voted to eliminate recording devices also, but none were operating.

Vice Chair Todd Weiler missed his flight from California, so Secretary Dickson gave his report and hers.

The State Organizing Convention will be Saturday, June 9, 2007 at the South Towne Expo Center. At 8:00 a.m. registration and booths open. The Convention begins at 10:00 a.m. Registration Closes at 10:30 a.m. Delegates are invited to bring a nonperishable food item for the Utah Food Bank.

Candidates
Chair:
Aaron Bludworth(Salt Lake County)
Steve Harmsen (Salt Lake County)
Chris Lawrence(Cache County)
Ronald Levine (Salt Lake County)
Stan Lockhart (Utah County)
Nancy Lord (Salt Lake County)

Vice Chair:
Drew Chamberlain (Salt Lake County)
Grant Misbach (Utah County)
Jack Powers (Salt Lake County)
Todd Weiler (Davis County), incumbent

Secretary:
Patty Johnson (Salt Lake County)
Carolyn Jeppsen-Smith (Utah County)

Treasurer:
Mike McCaulley (Salt Lake County), incumbent

Convention info available at http://home.utgop.org and from:
Christy Achziger
Convention Coordinator
christy@achziger.org

Ivan DuBois
State GOP Staff
idubois@utgop.org
801-533-9777

If you have general party questions unrelated to the convention, contact:
Land Reay
land@utgop.org
801-533-9777
800-320-8824

If all else fails, visit out our Weber County Republican Party Website. Once you've visted our site, we swear you'll wonder why we didn't steer you there first.

The Constitution and Bylaws Committee Reports took the bulk of the meeting.

State Party Officers' proposed new Standing Rule regarding county party governing documents that conflict with state law: We voted in favor of a new Standing Rule regarding provisions for filling a State Legislator Vacancy. This rule applies to all counties until each county amends its bylaws to comply with state law.
Resolution supporting retaining the ability of voters to affiliate with the Party at the Primary election polls: The State Central Committee voted in favor of a Resolution to the State Legislature supporting retaining the ability of voters to affiliate with the Party at the primary election polls. The Republican Legislators had requested the SCC take this up and send a recommendation to them. (The current law allowing affiliation at the polls is due to expire, which would leave us with a truly closed Primary, since people would have to affiliate prior to election day.)
Allocation and Binding of National Delegation: After much discussion, we defeated a proposed bylaw change that would have allowed Utah National Delegates to divide their votes among candidates on the first ballot at the Republican National Convention, based on the percentage each candidate receives in our Utah Republican Presidential Primary. Our delegation will continue to vote en masse on the first ballot.
Eligibility for the Republican Presidential Primary: Only voters who are registered Republican will be able to vote in the Presidential Primary, and (after cajoling from Lt. Gov. Herbert) unaffiliated voters may affiliate at the polls.
Bylaw Section 7.5 Amendment A. Combine Resolutions and Platform Amendments: Resolutions and Platform Amendments will be combined and may only be made during the time specified in the agenda approved by the Convention. The Convention can decide in what order. Only 5 minutes will be given for discussion unless a majority votes for more time, then there will be alternating periods of one minute pro and con. The 7th minute is for sponsor summation.

The intent of this bylaw change is to make the platform discussions and the convention in general run more smoothly, with less discord. Personally, I worry about the possibility for the Party officials to control the discussion through this rule. Sometimes a free exchange of ideas, though messy, can bring better results.

Bylaws Section 7.5 Amendment B, Define the Role of the C&B Committee: This adds language setting up the Constitution and Bylaws Committee as the sifting committee through which all proposed changes must go. No longer would delegates be able to make proposals in a timely manner to the State Party and get them on the agenda for the State Convention. Everything would go through C&B. It gives the C&B power to decide whether to take things to the State Central Committee or to the State Convention.

An amendment to this proposal, that would have prevented the C&B Committee from vetoing submissions, failed to get enough votes. This is a disaster, in my opinion, because the problem with the C&B Committee has been their lack of respect for delegate proposals. They always change them to fit their own will, not that of the author. The C&B Committee will always chose the State Central Committee to get their proposals passed because they so easily control the SCC. The State Convention, with 3500 delegates, is much harder to control the outcomes.

Central Committee member Don Guymon argued that this change violates Constitution language that allows both C&B and Bylaw changes at conventions.

Bylaws Section 7.5 Amendment C. Allow Balloting for Other Business: We voted for a bylaws amendment to allowing some balloting, other than the election of candidates, other than just voice votes. This passed unanimously, since we actually already had to use a paper ballot at the last State Convention to determine a vote that became impossible to count by voice or standing.
Delegates and Caucuses: We voted for a bylaw change allowing for Party affiliation at caucus meetings.
Constitution Article XII Caucus and Convention Procedures, Section 2, State and County Nominating Conventions: We voted to amend the State Party Constitution to allow County Parties to set a minimum number of registered Republicans to warrant a delegate in a precinct. The minimum cannot exceed 50 (in other words, it can be less, even 1). Precincts under that number may elect delegates at a combined precinct meeting, a legislative district meeting or a county level meeting.

The couple of damaging things that made it through were a result of not allowing discussion. I think every delegate from Utah County must have been there. Whenever some of us wanted to discuss questionable proposals, someone from Utah County would call question, effectively ending discussion. I believe had we had more discussion, some of us could have pointed out some flaws and persuaded enough delegates to result in a different vote outcome.

It seemed to have been well planned. The chair of the C&B (Dana Dickson, SLC) only recognized the folks from Utah County (C&B member Becky Lockhart was sitting with them) calling question, not the people who wanted discussion. Of course, not enough of the rest of us were present to vote for discussion. THAT IS WHY IT IS SO IMPORTANT FOR MEMBERS OF THE STATE CENTRAL COMMITTEE TO ATTEND THEIR MEETINGS.

This was the last act of the present C&B Committee. Hopefully, we can get better members next time around. Weber County needs to be represented. We have a very evenhanded, everyone-gets-to-be-heard attitude here. I really think some representative(s) from Weber County to help the C&B have a more fair vision. The Party would be better off for it. The people involved in the top down, heavy-handed approach think it is necessary to maintain order and help Republicans win. If they could only understand it can be even more helpful to Republican Candidates for the State Party to be less controlling (but more efficient).

Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert reported to us, as did Congressman Chris Cannon. The only auxiliary report was from Federated Republican Women State Chair, Cheri Hendrix.

Focusing on the June GOP Convention

2007-05-11T01:36:00.000-07:00

Whether attributable to former Utah GOP chair/party insider Joe Cannon's recent ascension to the Deseret Morning News editor's slot we do not know, but the D-News is the first of the northern Utah print media this morning to report on the final slate of declared candidates for the four executive offices in the Utah Republican Party. Here's this morning's scoop:

Six people have filed to be chairman of the Utah Republican Party.

The filing deadline was 5 p.m. Thursday, and outgoing party chairwoman Enid Greene said candidates were accepted by e-mail, fax and in person until that time.
As reported earlier by the Deseret Morning News, two well-known Republicans filed several days ago: former Salt Lake County Councilman Steve Harmsen and former Utah County party chairman Stan Lockhart.

Thursday they were joined by current GOP national committeewoman Nancy Lord.

The following candidates will appear before the June 9 state convention delegates: Harmsen, Lockhart, Aaron Bludworth, Ronald Levine, Chris Lawrence and Lord.

The vice chairman candidates are: current vice chairman Todd Weiler, Jack Powers, Grant Misbach and Drew Chamberlain.

Secretary: Patty Johnson and Carolyn Jeppsen-Smith.

Current state party treasurer Mike McCawley seeks re-election unopposed.

Notably, six candidates have declared their candidacy for the office of GOP State Party Chair, despite the suggestions of some people that nobody wants the job.

With the June 9, 2007 state party organizing convention fast approaching, we will be making a special effort here at our Weber County Republican Party Blog, to closely monitor local print media and web resources during the period between now and the convention. We'll make every effort to provide our readers -- and Utah state delegates in particular -- with a full and robust collection of articles and links relevant to the upcoming convention.

In truth, we've actually gotten a slight head-start on this project, with earlier articles here and here.

Keep your eye on this blog during the next few weeks, state delegates and fellow Utah Republicans.

Find your convention information here.

We'll do our level best to keep you informed.

Comments are welcome as always.

We'd love to hear our readers' input, especially re the current slate of party officer candidates.

A First Candidate Enters the Chairman's Race

2007-05-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

Veteran Republican throws his hat into the ring

Utah GOP state convention delegates have been sitting on the edges of their seats this month, wondering who would throw their hat into the ring for the office of Utah GOP party chair.

In the wake of last week's news, wherein we learned of our state party's "delicate" financial condition, some of us have been wondering: "Who would even want the job?"

With our June, 9, 2007 state nominating convention looming a little over four weeks hence, we learn from the Salt Lake Tribune's Paul Rolly however that there's at least one Utah Republican who wouldn't mind occupying the seat of Utah GOP party chair:

[Steve] Harmsen to Run for State Chairman

Reader comments are invited, as always.

Update 5/9/07 3:35 p.m.: Within the span of a mere two days, the Deseret Morning News reports that the candidates' list has expanded to four. And one Utah blogger/Republican state representative is already touting his candidate favorite.

Invitation to a Greene/Hartley Topic Discussion

2007-05-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

The Salt Lake Tribune's Paul Rolly broke the story yesterday on his blog that there has been another "shakeup" in the State Republican Party:

Utah State Republican Chairman Enid Greene walked into party headquarters this morning and fired executive director Jeff Hartley, who was hired just last April by former Chairman Joe Cannon.

While the move appeared shockingly sudden (Greene gave Hartley an hour to move his stuff out of the office and leave) Greene says it has been brewing for some time.

"Jeff and I just strongly disagree on fundamental principles of how things should be run in the party," Greene told me after I learned of the firing.

The party has been carrying a fairly significant debt and Greene said that was one of the main issues. She said she and Hartley disagree on how much debt should be carried.

The Deseret Morning News fleshes out the story a little bit more this morning, with this additional interesting information:
Greene said she had expressed her concerns to Hartley several times about state party finances since taking over for former party chairman Joe Cannon last November. Cannon resigned as chairman knowing he would soon be named editor of the Morning News. Greene was then vice chairwoman of the party, and party leaders named her to fill out Cannon's term. Greene will not run for her own chairmanship in June.

"I was told (in November) that the party was $180,000 in debt," Greene said. It is not uncommon for a political party to end a campaign season with some debt. "But come February, suddenly it jumped to double that," Greene said.
Especially intriguing to us is this story nuance, plucked from the above-linked Deseret News Story:

But Hartley called his termination "a personal, petty, mean, vindictive act by someone who has a reputation for doing such things" and who doesn't understand political party finances.

He hopes his termination is temporary. Hartley, who is married with children, said he had talked to several top GOP officeholders Tuesday, and they all ensured him that they would persuade the new party chairman to reinstate him.

"I was told to just ride it out, and (party leaders) say they will make sure I'm back in," Hartley said.

For our own part, we would we would be interested in knowing exactly which so-called party leaders are making such extravagant promises, six weeks prior to our June 9, 2007 Organizing Convention.

Moreover, we have some additional questions: Were Chairman Greene's actions entirely without merit, as Jeff Hartley contends; or is there more to this story than has been revealed so far? Can Enid Greene's heretofore lack of awareness of the State Party's true financial condition be attributed purely to her own inattention, or were there other factors in play?

And Tom Grover raises what we think to be the fundamental question for Utah GOP officers and state delegates who will convene at the June Organizing Convention:

"I am a state delegate and I am interested to see how this effects the race for Chair, if at all."

We are certain that many other state delegates share this interest. And it's in this connection that we post this article. Who knows? Perhaps our June convention will be another one wherein Utah delegates actually show up more than slightly informed of the otherwise internecine interworkings of State Party insiders.

If there is anyone "in the know" who can explain to us what's actually going on at Utah GOP Headquarters, this forum would be an appropriate place to do it, we think.

Chime in, Utah Republicans; please tell us your theory about "what's up!"

Your savvy comments are invited.

Update 5/4/07 12:11 p.m.:The Deseret Morning News is running a followup story this morning: GOP spat isn't dying down:

"Few fights are as bitter as one within a large family — and Utah GOP leaders are experiencing a doozy of a battle right now," begins the Bob Bernick Jr. lead paragraph.

Ruffled feathers and accusations abound.

It would appear that Joe Cannon got out while the "gettin' was good," and Enid Greene wound up "takin' the rap."

We also think it's safe to predict that we're going to have a doozy of a convention in June.

Never a dull moment in the Utah Republican Party. Who wants to be the next Utah GOP Party Chair?

Don't all speak up at once...

Update 5/7/07 8:35 p.m.: Paul Rolly has been a doing an excellent job following up on this story. According to information he reported yesterday, the State Party's present financial woes long precede Enid Greene's "promotion" to the Party Chair position.

What Is Weber County Government?

2007-04-27T12:09:00.000-07:00

By Nila Dayton, CMFA
Weber County Treasurer

We are the meat and potatoes of local government.
We build and run the jails and provide law enforcement.
We operate the courts, in which our judges make difficult, sometimes momentous decisions.
We prosecute criminals.
We provide clothing, food, medical, prescription drugs, dental work, psychiatric evaluations, and work release programs for jail inmates.
We settle civil disputes, from small claims to million dollar cases.
We investigate child and spouse abuse.
We offer counseling to the abused and the abusers.
We provide search and rescue for winter activities, water activities, mountain hiking and climbing.
We provide a Justice Court.
We take care of wild fires in the mountains, and provide fire protection to the unincorporated areas of the county.
We keep the official community records for property, probate, liens and marriages.
We perform marriages.
We provide county planning, business licences, building inspections, and zoning regulations.
We provide economic development, through the Weber County Industrial Park.
We deal with juvenile delinquents, drug addicts and the mentally ill.
We provide help to the very poor, and we bury the indigent.
We provide public health, mental health, substance abuse, and aging programs.
We feed the elderly meals on wheels.
We provide transportation for the elderly.
We operate parks, camp grounds, build and maintain bridges and roads.
We are charged with protecting and maintaining the rivers.
We manage and maintain the David Eccles Conference Center and the Peery Egyptian Theater.
We provide recreational facilities such as the Ice Sheet - the Ropes Course - Golden Spike Arena - Fair Grounds - North Fork Park -- Soccer and Baseball fields
We provide animal control and shelter.
We provide paramedic and contract ambulance service.
We are responsible for emergency services, in the event of natural disasters.
We support agricultural extension services.
We provide and monitor emission testing.
We survey, record, assess, and set the tax rate of your real property.
We are assigned to collect taxes for: Ogden & Weber School Districts, fifteen cities, water, sewer, cemetery districts, and Redevelopment districts.
We collect, bank, invest, and disburse approximately $200,000,000 a year.
We budget, account, and audit.
And we invite 200,000 people every year to a party we call the Weber County Fair

And we do this all on a lean budget with very dedicated county employees.

Editor's Note: We're compelled to comment that Weber County Government seems to operate with prudence and fiscal responsibility, for the most part. Unlike some other local government entities, our Weber County Government thankfully doesn't operate with the "Borrow and Spend" mentality.

Security and Liberty

2007-04-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

By U.S. House Rep. Ron Paul (R-TX)
Via Texas Straight Talk

April 23, 2007

The senseless and horrific killings last week on the campus of Virginia Tech University reinforced an uneasy feeling many Americans experienced after September 11th: namely, that government cannot protect us. No matter how many laws we pass, no matter how many police or federal agents we put on the streets, a determined individual or group still can cause great harm. Perhaps the only good that can come from these terrible killings is a reinforced understanding that we as individuals are responsible for our safety and the safety of our families.

Although Virginia does allow individuals to carry concealed weapons if they first obtain a permit, college campuses within the state are specifically exempted. Virginia Tech, like all Virginia colleges, is therefore a gun-free zone, at least for private individuals. And as we witnessed, it didn’t matter how many guns the police had. Only private individuals on the scene could have prevented or lessened this tragedy. Prohibiting guns on campus made the Virginia Tech students less safe, not more.

The Virginia Tech tragedy may not lead directly to more gun control, but I fear it will lead to more people control. Thanks to our media and many government officials, Americans have become conditioned to view the state as our protector and the solution to every problem. Whenever something terrible happens, especially when it becomes a national news story, people reflexively demand that government do something. This impulse almost always leads to bad laws and the loss of liberty. It is completely at odds with the best American traditions of self-reliance and rugged individualism.

Do we really want to live in a world of police checkpoints, surveillance cameras, and metal detectors? Do we really believe government can provide total security? Do we want to involuntarily commit every disaffected, disturbed, or alienated person who fantasizes about violence? Or can we accept that liberty is more important than the illusion of state-provided security?

I fear that Congress will use this terrible event to push for more government mandated mental health programs. The therapeutic nanny state only encourages individuals to view themselves as victims, and reject personal responsibility for their actions. Certainly there are legitimate organic mental illnesses, but it is the role of doctors and families, not the government, to diagnose and treat such illnesses.

Freedom is not defined by safety. Freedom is defined by the ability of citizens to live without government interference. Government cannot create a world without risks, nor would we really wish to live in such a fictional place. Only a totalitarian society would even claim absolute safety as a worthy ideal, because it would require total state control over its citizens’ lives. Liberty has meaning only if we still believe in it when terrible things happen and a false government security blanket beckons.

2007 Organizing Convention Report

2007-04-21T13:55:00.000-07:00

Eager county delegates show up en masse

By TL Feeny
Leg. Dist. 8 Chair
Weber County GOP Webmaster

In the aftermath of our Thursday 04/19/07 Nominating convention, we've had a little lag in the compilation of the final results. There is a lot of post-convention work that goes on after a convention; but we're finally able to provide an accurate and comprehensive report on Thursday's convention business -- after lots of data-crunching.

Our Organizing Convention convened when Chairman Bell brought the gavel down promptly at 6:30 p.m. The county delegate turnout was tremendous. Out of a total of 525 elected county delegates -- 235 of them registered for this Organizing Convention. Standing room only, folks! This, we think, has to be a new off-election year record for our party. The turnout for Thursday's Organizing Convention is unprecedented, for a convention of this type, we think.

We had a fine array of Republican officials who addressed the packed assembly and offered their reports:

Weber County GOP Treasurer Darcy Kruitbosch: "We're in great financial shape, according to our recent audit."

Utah GOP Vice Chair Todd Weiler delivered the State Party report. Todd is top-notch, we believe, providing hope for our recently-languishing State Party.

"The State Party is now on the upswing," he told us.

He mentioned his affinity for his "one-billionth condominium share" at Wolf Creek (Ogden Valley,) and his appreciation for the sheer wonderfulness of Weber County.

That makes Todd W. One of Us, we think, whether he realizes it or not.

We are hopeful that Todd Weiler will see fit to throw his hat into the ring for Utah Party Chair. The Utah GOP Party helm desperately needs a smart guy like Todd in the wheelhouse, we think.

State Senator Scott Jenkins, who delivered the Utah Legislative Report to our convention, mentioned last year's legislative session, during which our legislature devoted record cash to our public school system, along with an unprecedented tax cut.

"Well... we beat that this year by a long margin," House Rep. Jenkins said. Now we have TWO tough acts to follow, we guess, during the 2008 legislative session.

One of the subtle nuances of his speech occurred when Representative Jenkins proudly proclaimed that he'd sprung from from a family of life-long democrats.

A female voice from the crowd in back of your blogmeister intoned: "Well THAT explains it."

We have absolutely no idea what that means. It did however provoke a wave of "tittering" through the audience.

Weber County Commissioner Ken Bischoff delivered the Weber County Government Report. He noted that Weber County bond ratings are now AAA, the best in the municipal bond market. Only three other counties in Utah share this distinction, he said.

He also confirmed that there would be no Weber County-compelled tax increases in the coming year -- an announcement that nearly brought down the house with raucous cheering and applause.

Commissioner Ken also had a smart take on the new frenzy of economic development in Weber County and environs: "It started in Salt Lake County," he noted. "from there it eventually moved to Davis County. "Now the focus is on Weber County." "Along with the development, come the problems," he noted. Weber County government will have to devote its attention to fundamental solutions to water, sewer and other infrastructure and service problems" he said.

Unlike Senator Jenkins, who hinted that the current Weber County "boom-times" were attributable to some extent to the intervention in the market by certain un-named local government officials, Commissioner Bischoff wisely attributed the recent economic growth in Weber County to basic free-market forces.

Lt. Governor Herbert was the closing speaker, who emphasized the State of Utah's great management and teamwork. Likening Utah government to the "Strack Troops" he met aboard a U.S Navy carrier, he attributed Utah's great reputation for good government to our state's old-fashioned, "conservative" political team-work.

Chairman Matt Bell capably officiated, of course, cracking jokes at regular intervals, and keeping the convention atmosphere light and convivial.

We'll cut to the chase now, and set forth the real business of Thursday night's convention:

Weber County GOP elected Administrative Officers:

Chair: Matt Bell
Vice Chair: Christie Moore
Secretary: Debbie Deem
Treasurer: Darcy Kruitbosch

Leg 12 Utah House Representative:

Richard Greenwood

Legislative District Elections:

Check out our full elected GOP Legislative District Officer slate here.

Lots of fresh faces on the Weber County GOP Executive Committee, which bodes well for our party, we think.

We thank everybody who contributed to our fantastic 2007 Organizing convention, and especially congratulate those who were elected to party offices.

We also welcome our readers' anticipated comments and retorts.

At the special request of chairman Bell, by the way, we invite our readers to post their remarks regarding Thursday night's convention. What went well; and what didn't? We urge our readers to post their constructive comments here.

Don't let the cat get your tongues, fellow Weber County Republicans.

Click "comments" to enter your remarks.

The DC Gun Ban

2007-03-12T09:45:00.001-07:00

By Ron Paul
U.S. House Representative (R-TX)
Via Texas Straight Talk

Last Friday a federal appeals court in Washington DC issued a ruling that hopefully will result in the restoration of 2nd Amendment rights in the nation's capital. It appears the Court rejected the District of Columbia 's nonsensical argument that the 2nd Amendment confers only a "collective right," something gun control advocates have asserted for years.

Of course we should not have too much faith in our federal courts to protect gun rights, considering they routinely rubber stamp egregious violations of the 1 st, 4th, and 5th Amendments, and allow Congress to legislate wildly outside the bounds of its enumerated powers. Furthermore, the DC case will be appealed to the Supreme Court with no guarantees. But it is very important nonetheless for a federal court only one step below the highest court in the land to recognize that gun rights adhere to the American people, not to government-sanctioned groups. Rights, by definition, are individual. "Group rights" is an oxymoron.

Can anyone seriously contend that the Founders, who had just expelled their British rulers mostly by use of light arms, did not want the individual farmer, blacksmith, or merchant to be armed? Those individuals would have been killed or imprisoned by the King's soldiers if they had relied on a federal armed force to protect them.

In the 1700s, militias were local groups made up of ordinary citizens. They were not under federal control! As a practical matter, many of them were barely under the control of colonial or state authorities. When the 2nd Amendment speaks of a "well-regulated militia," it means local groups of individuals operating to protect their own families, homes, and communities. They regulated themselves because it was necessary and in their own interest to do so.

The Founders themselves wrote in the Federalist papers about the need for individuals to be armed. In fact, James Madison argued in Federalist paper 46 that common citizens should be armed to guard against the threat posed by the newly proposed standing federal army.

Today, gun control makes people demonstrably less safe-- as any honest examination of criminal statistics reveals. In his book "More Guns, Less Crime," scholar John Lott demolishes the myth that gun control reduces crime. On the contrary, Lott shows that cities with strict gun control--like Washington DC--experience higher rates of murder and violent crime. It is no coincidence that violent crime flourishes in the nation's capital, where the individual's right to defend himself has been most severely curtailed.

Understand that residents of DC can be convicted of a felony and put in prison simply for having a gun in their home, even if they live in a very dangerous neighborhood. The DC gun ban is no joke, and the legal challenges to the ban are not simply academic exercises. People's lives and safety are at stake.

Gun control historically serves as a gateway to tyranny. Tyrants from Hitler to Mao to Stalin have sought to disarm their own citizens, for the simple reason that unarmed people are easier to control. Our Founders, having just expelled the British army, knew that the right to bear arms serves as the guardian of every other right. This is the principle so often ignored by both sides in the gun control debate. Only armed citizens can resist tyrannical government.

2007 Lincoln Day Dinner

2007-02-24T20:09:00.001-07:00

By TL Feeny
Leg. Dist 8 Chair
Weber County GOP Webmaster

An event adding new meaning to the phrase "Weber County Republican Party"

The Weber County Republican Party held another gala event last night -- the annual Weber County GOP Lincoln Day Dinner. This one will definitely be a tough act to follow.

The Lincoln Dinner has become the GOP social event of the winter season these past few years under Chairman Matt Bell's capable leadership. Surpassing last year's event, entertainment-wise, was a tough challenge. Our party chair pulled that task of off with seeming effortlessness, however. I've been attending these dinners for many years. This one was the first within memory where the entire audience in attendance transformed from "teary-eyed" to "rolling in the aisles in mirth," within a mere few minutes. More about that in the succeeding paragraphs.

The event started off with a flag ceremony, presented by an elegantly dress-uniformed combined color guard composed of WWII, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans from the four branches of the military services, recruited by GOP stalwart Frank Maughan from a VFW post in Brigham City. The 250 Republicans in attendance were filled with pride as the honor guard presented the flag to the podium, and the commander of the honor guard explained the subsequent flag-folding ceremony , which was then conducted center-stage. There was not a dry eye in the house. Not anyone. Not even the colorguard.

After that, the event suddenly carromed off into a rollicking good time, as Weber County Commissioner (and former Weber County Sheriff and Past WCGOP Chair) Craig Dearden and Weber County Chief Chris Zimmerman (second in command in the Weber County Sheriff's Office) stepped to the podium, surprised everyone in attendance -- and proceeded to "hotly roast" our Republican Sheriff Brad Slater -- in a manner that hasn't been seen publicly at staid Weber County Republican events -- EVER. The two of them regaled the audience with a chain of anecdotes happening during the course of Sheriff Slater's notable law enforcement career, forever depriving Brad of any future claim to dignity.

My personal favorite was this one, delivered by the very funny Captain Zimmerman:

As a young Sheriff's Deputy, Brad was deployed to Huntsville's Cemetery Point, to break up a typical drunken Cemetery Point melee. Arriving there, his dispatcher radioed him, asking whether he needed "backup. " He radioed back that "The Point" was "infested with roaches" (a technical law enforcement term for "the criminal element," we assume.) He told the dispatcher that what he actually needed was "an air strike from Hill Air Force base." The dispatcher, apparently very diligent and wholly unfamiliar with Brad's quirky sense of humor, solemnly did her duty. Within minutes there was an angry HAFB squadron commander calling back, demanding to know who had the authority to call in an air strike.
That anecdote should give our readers who missed the event "the drift." Friday night's event was anything but a stuffy GOP event. The Weber County Republican audience was in stitches for most of the night.

Next on the agenda was the surprise Master of Ceremonies, a well known natural and local favorite stand-up comic by the name of US House Representative Rob Bishop. Donning a bathrobe that had been secreted in a plastic bag, he did a campy eight-minute impression of Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert:

"If elected I will make it safe for women to walk the Utah streets," he intoned.

"Of course you will," yelled a scripted heckler from the audience, "you'll be doing business with them later!"

"I'll sponsor legislation to support fatherless kids," Representative Bishop pleaded, (still relentlessly playing the Lt. Gov. Herbert character.)

"Sure you will," responded the heckler. "Most of them are yours!"

And so it went. The grateful Weber County GOP audience ate it up.

I'll note in passing that both Sheriff Slater and Lt. Governor Herbert were in attendance at the event. Each of them took their turn at the microphone and got their just revenge. Each of them had glib comebacks. For the sake of saving internet bandwidth, I won't quote them here. Whether these fellows had been warned in advance that they were to be roasted last night we do not know. If not however, we'll just say they were exceptionally quick on their feet.

I talked with Gloria Froerer, House District 8 Rep. Gage Froerer's lovely wife, after the event. She said, with a big smile on her face, she'd attended the Salt Lake County Party's Lincoln Day Dinner the previous Friday, and "it was nothing like last night's Weber County Republican event. "

Go figure.

We're the Weber County Republican Party

Definitely NOT the Salt Lake County one...

nor the Utah County..."party."

'Nuff said, " eh, fellow Weber County Republicans?

For those gourmands amongst our readership, I'll say a few words about last night's menu. The dinner was preceded by a luscious buffet, featuring thumb-sized shrimp, a multitude of fancy hors d'oevres and even a California roll sushi tray. The appetizers were so sumptuous in fact, that for a moment there, several of our fellow Weber County Republicans believed they'd arrived at the Beverly Hills Lincoln Dinner by mistake.

The entre was surf and turf; and GOP attendees were gratified that at least some of the Eccles Center servers were somewhat fluent in the English language this year.

There were still smiles all around as everyone exited Eccles Center Ballroom #2 at about nine p.m. The odds are that everyone in attendance will be back next year, if only to find out what new tricks Chairman Bell has up his sleeve.

A Weber County Republican tip o' the hat goes out to everyone who planned, organized and participated in last night's exceptional event.

Special thanks to Pat Iannone and Bea Cardwell, a committee of two who worked out the major details of the event, and also solicited and assembled a nice array of door prizes.

I'm sure I left a few details out.

Reader comments are invited as always.