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Minutes

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS 

March 21, 2023 

Alamosa County Central Committee Meeting 

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Kitchen at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on March 21, 2023. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:44 p.m.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Michael Dominguez of the River of Life Church on Clark Street in Alamosa.

 Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by veteran Jerry White and recited by all.      

Opening:  Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting.  Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Central Committee members:  Secretary Gary Goodwin, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Lori Laske, County Commissioner Arlan Van Ry, County Assessor Sandra Hostetter, County Clerk/Recorder Mari Felix, Elaine Goodwin, Pastor Michael Dominguez, Jerry White, Alan McFadden, Mark Hammond, Terry Hammond, Linda Custer, Vella Owens, Allan Haverfield, Patti Haverfield, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaardem, Larry Crowder, Tom Burke, Dennis O’Dowd, Larry Dixon, Dwaine Catalano, John Bradshaw, Larry Brown, Ruthie Brown, Martin Felix, Daisy Ortega, Dathan Jones, Sue Robinson. In addition, Cathy Simpson representing State Senator Cleave Simpson and Conejos County Vice-Chair Matt Lobato. Thus, a total of 33 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for February 7, 2023 (Reorganizational Meeting) were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today’s meeting.   With a motion and second by Bob and Daisy, the minutes were approved. 

Treasurer Report:  In John’s absence, Chair Cheryl stated that the final 2022 financial report from the February meeting has not changed.

Vice-Chair Report:  Denise reported the Lincoln Day Dinner is scheduled for April 29th at the Ski Hi Complex.  Tickets are available for $50 for the 6:00 to 8:00 evening with $75 tickets available for the VIP meeting from 5:00 to 6:00.  All events will be at the one location at the Ski Hi Complex.

Secretary Report:   Gary encouraged everyone to get involved in financial support of our Alamosa GOP as we approach the 2024 election cycle.  The funds will be used for candidates and a SLV GOP office (preferably in Alamosa).  The ACH method is easily done with funds automatically withdrawn from your bank account.  We do appreciate those who support us with a monthly donation in the collection jar.

Chair Report:  Was presented later in the evening.

Elected Official’s Report:

Cleave Simpson---CO State Senator: [Presented by Cathy Simpson] The Colorado Legislature, with a democratic majority in both houses, are pushing four new “gun control” bills.  The minority Republicans are continuing to resist the passage of these bills.  The democratic majority in both houses are also pushing for an additional abortion bills (i.e. A No Reverse Pill). The State of Colorado budget has grown immensely.  In the 14 years, from 2009 to the present, our budget has increased from 9 billion to this year’s request of 39 billion.  In addition, 288 new state agencies have been created.  Cleave has stated that “the environment in the state legislature is not fun.”   He is looking forward to May 8th when this session is finished.

Arlan Van Ry---County Commissioner:  Arlan has completed his first three months of the “steep learning curve.”  The commissioners have approved a new housing project on Hwy 17 for 6 buildings with 32 apartment units.  A proposed “concert venue” at the intersection of CR4 S and CR116 S was denied by the Alamosa Land Use Board and ultimately denied unanimously by the Alamosa Board of Commissioners.  The County Building Code may see changes due to the State’s focus on requiring energy efficiency.  Arlan also asked that the Wednesday Commissioner’s meetings begin with prayer.    

Lori Laske---County Commissioner:  Lori reviewed the Land Use procedures.  Once the application is filed, the commissioners are not allowed to speak with any interested parties.  They are ruled by “quasi-judicial role” in their position of County Commissioners. This allows their decision to be based solely on competent and substantial evidence.  The issue for neighborhood blight of neighbors can be accomplished by filing a form, which prompts a review by the Land Use Board. The submission cannot be an anonymous referral.  A question was asked about the use of a storage container on property west toward Monte Vista.

Sandra Hostetter---County Assessor:  Sandra’s staff is continuing the 2023 property reappraisals.  Anyone may question their properties’ reappraisal and can request a time for a review.  A question was asked how Valley values can differ from the Front Range higher values.  Sandra stated that the reassessment of the SLV is based on our market values.

Mari Felix---County Clerk/Recorder:  Mari is continuing training of employees.  She does have a full staff and a comment from the audience that they were impressed by the friendly atmosphere in the Clerk’s office.  Larry presented a situation of home deed (and title) being stolen using an electronic signature.  He suggested looking at “Home Title Lock,” an organization that monitors home titles and gives alerts of any unauthorized changes.  The cost is said to be minimal.  Mari said there is a way to verify signatures and she will be looking for a vendor that can discover possible fraud.

Amy McKinley---County Treasurer:  Amy was not able to attend.  In her written statement, she said that business is going well with the collections of the yearly taxes.  It seems more people are paying their taxes with a credit card.  The Treasurer’s office is looking ahead to Tyler-Eagle, a new software update for the Treasure’s county business.

StepUp Committee Report:                                                                                                                                                                                    

Sue presented her Legislative Update.  She acknowledged the mess in our state legislature due to the democratic majority in both houses, stressing how important it is to be informed.  There are four gun control bills before the legislature.  They are as follows: Being able to sue the manufacture and seller of guns; Raising the age from 18 to 21 to buy handguns; Extending Red Flag Law to enable other persons to make referrals; Extend the waiting period to 3 days before delivery of guns; and lastly and most serious is the banning of assault weapons (as if everyone can agree on a definition of an “assault weapon.”  In addition, the legislature is considering establishing “safe injection sites” for druggies.  They argue that this will be primarily for the Denver area, but Governor Polis may not be willing to sign the bill.  Suggestion: This website is recommended…CompleteColorado.com…a conservative website with many credible columnists to read and follow. Our new Colorado State Republican Chair is Dave Williams who was on Peter Broyles talk show announcing his plan to unite the GOP and determine what is most important to Colorado voters.  Sue suggests you subscribe to the website, DailyWire, for good political commentary.     

New Business:

Turning Point USA is needing volunteers to establish a conservative organization on campus.

Our newly elected Colorado State Republican Executive Committee is Chair Dave Williams; Vice-Chair Priscilla Rahn; and Secretary Anna Ferguson.

The Democrats chose to introduce the proposed gun bills on Saturday during our State Republican Reorganization Meeting in order to keep the Republican legislators from attending our State Reorganizational meeting.

“Poison” is a booklet depicting the deteriorating condition of our schools.  See Vella for a copy.

Key topic by Chair Cheryl: “Establishment versus Maga…and how do we come together and is it possible?”

Cheryl opened it by letting people know that she might upset them and asked them to please hang in there until she was done. We are a divided party, yet we see the democrats are united.  She asked how many people really disliked Trump when he came on the scene? They hate Trump probably more now than they did in 2016.  But God was working thru Donald Trump…just like the Israeli King Saul.  For four years Trump rubbed people wrong.  Yet, his “Tweets” were his only way to communicate with his supporters.  She indicated that she believes Trump was probably the greatest President of all time, his record was substantial with employment low, and the job market was high, his record is undeniable. Can you imagine what would have happened if the republican party had supported him?

What is a Rino it stands for Republican in Name Only (such as Mitt Romney and many other establishment Republicans) often they work with the Democrats to accomplish their agenda.  What are Magas, they are patriots that believe in making America Great Again! So why are Maga’s frustrated with the Establishment or Rino’s as so many are called.  Because they see that for the last several years they have bended to the left in order to not have conflict, which has led to a passive Congress and Senate and see that we are losing our country.  Why are the Establishment so frustrated with the Maga’s.  Because they see them as outspoken, loud and sometimes brazen. Maga’s have several patriots that fall into this category. Lauren Boebert, plus many others like Marjorie Taylor Green and Matt Gaetz, who are outspoken and trying to set things right. 

There are the “election deniers” who believe the 2020 election was rigged and stolen from Donald Trump and other Republicans.  The Dinesh D’Souza documentary, “2000 Mules,” vividly shows that our election did indeed have dishonest actions and fraud during the 2020 election.  However, the media and the liberals call this the “big lie.”  If you haven’t watched the movie you owe it to yourself to see why so many totally believe what they are watching.  We hear of many who express the thought…” why vote if our vote doesn’t really count?”  Trump filled arenas with 30 to 40 thousand of supporters while Biden could only muster a hundred or so.  So, how does this situation get solved? We need to start putting America First.  It starts at the grass roots level. Our schools, from elementary to college, need to have accountability, and stop being allowed to indoctrinate our children. Please remember we need to save our country and state, in order to do so we need to come together (not just in trying to avoid conflict or pacifying) .

The Democratic Party works together even if they don’t like the people running.  If we are going to save our country we have to do more. Therefore, what is your response to these thoughts?  I suggest…we must be informed and be involved!!

Dates to Remember:  March 25-Town Hall at Society Hall from 6:00 to 8:00.

April 6---SLV Republican Women meet monthly at Juanitos at noon.

                                           April 18---Alamosa GOP monthly meeting at Juanitos Mexican Kitchen at 5:30 pm.

                                           April 29---Lincoln Day Dinner

Meeting Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 6:48 pm by the Chair.

                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of ACRCC

Minutes

    MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS 

February 7, 2023 

Alamosa County Central Committee REORGANIZATIONAL Meeting 

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Kitchen at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on February 7, 2023. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 6:01 p.m.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Greg Bervig of the Living Water Bible Fellowship on Clark Street in Alamosa.

 Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by veteran Michael Yohn and recited by all.          

Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting.  Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Central Committee members:  Treasurer John Adams, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd.

In addition, Chair Cheryl read a summary of the Colorado GOP Reorganization’s instruction for county elections.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, County Commissioner Lori Laske, County Commissioner Vern Heersink, County Commissioner Arlan Van Ry, County Coroner Joe Dzuris, Deputy Coroner Doris Burke, County Assessor Sandra Hostetter, President Alamosa School Board Heidi Richardson, JD 12 District Attorney Anne Kelly, County Clerk/Recorder Mari Felix, Michael Yohn, Janet Yohn, Elaine Goodwin, Jerry White, Alan McFadden, David Von Mills, Chris Lease, Shauna Lease, Greg Bervig, Cindy Bervig, Terry Hammond, Linda Custer, Vella Owens, Ron Stoeber, Geoff West, Stacey Benavidez, Julie Benavidez, Larry Richardson, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Allan Haverfield, Patti Haverfield, Tom Burke, Mary Dzuris, Dennis O’Dowd, Larry Dixon, Lisa Dixon, Dwaine Catalano, Frank Peek, Darius Allen, Daisy Ortega, Jay Robinson, Sue Robinson, illegible signee, youngsters Jasmine Felix and Miss Adams. In addition, Cathy Simpson representing State Senator Cleave Simpson, Cathy Garcia representing Congresswoman Lauren Boebert; plus, RG GOP guest Carol Riggenbach and Ronnie Vigil.  Thus, making a total of 53 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for January 17, 2023, were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today’s meeting.   With one correction from Commissioner Laske, using the word “enhanced snow removal equipment” instead of “current equipment,” in her January 17th report.  With a motion and second by Tom and Dennis, the minutes were approved as corrected. 

Treasurer Report:  Treasurer John gave a year-end financial report for the Alamosa Republican Central Committee.    The 2022 Income Statement showed income of $29,288.08 and expenses of $28,286.10.  The beginning balance as of January 1, 2022, was $11,160.10 with an ending balance on December 31, 2022, of $12,162.08.  Thus, showing net income for the 2022 fiscal year was $1,001.98.

Vice-Chair Report:  Denise gave a summary of the parades and other SLV events our Alamosa GOP were involved in the past two years.

Secretary Report:   Gary gave a summary of the election results of this past general election.  In 2021, Alamosa was one of 10 statewide school districts who flipped from liberal to a conservative majority.  The 2023 elections will be school boards and city council.  A large effort will focus on the 2024 election which involves the Presidential and some local, state and the important CD3 race with Lauren Boebert.  The US Senate will see 10 Republican and 20+ Democrat seats up for election.  The Colorado Senate has 35 seats, with 15 Republicans and 20 Democrats.  The State House has 65 seats with 41 Democrats and 24 Republicans.  Colorado Republicans need to work toward electing Republicans to these offices.

Chair Report:  Cheryl cited Weld County and Fort Collins schools having 200 books in elementary school showing adults having sex with children and animals.  In Fort Collins, recruiting and transitioning is happening to younger kids without parent knowledge or permission.  CSU-Fort Collins is building a multimillion-dollar complex for research on bats and transmission of virus’ to humans.  We have made good progress in the last 2 years; however, we need more help.  Please see Cheryl if you are willing to volunteer for one of our StepUp committees.

Elected Official’s Report:

Lori Laske---County Commissioner:  The Colorado legislature has 316 proposed bills dropped.  Of those, 36 can impact our county.  The Car Rental vendor is no longer available at the airport, but a replacement vendor is being sought.  SNAP emergency allocation will cease in March.  There are land issues to be presented to the commissioners.  The Wednesday meeting agendas are available prior to the commissioner’s meetings.

Vern Heersink---County commissioner: The Alamosa Commissioners continue to watch the 1041 planning regulations which addresses the protection of the Valley’s water resources from exportation to other areas.  Vern asked for wisdom and prayer for all those carrying out the duties of their office.

Arlan Van Ry---County Commissioners:  Arlan’s time is being used to “learning the ropes.”  Training is available in Denver for newly elected commissioners in the state.  

Joe Dzuris---County Coroner:  Joe stated his new position is an “adventure.”  The county staff has been very supportive.  He has 5 deputy coroners and has had 7 calls in the last week.  He thanks all for the support.

Amy McKinley---County Treasurer:  Amy was out of town.

Dan Russell---County Surveyor:  Dan was out of town.

Sandra Hostetter---County Assessor:  Sandra’s staff is doing 2023 property reappraisals.  This will show a substantial increase in values of county properties.

Mari Felix---County Clerk/Recorder:  She is continuing to have staff training.  She noted that a $29 fee has been added in the registration of vehicles for a Colorado State Park Permit.  It is possible to ask for an exemption of this fee.  The pass is for State Parks and not for National Parks.

Heidi Richardson---President Alamosa School Board:  Army Stars is a military club that is being considered for the school district.  Five security guards will be in each of the buildings by March 1st.  A district committee is working on the 4-day week for the 2023-24 school year.  It will be a shortened day and a longer school year.  The NWEA academic scores are down for the school district but are showing a trend up.  The BEST Grant monies will put air conditioning in some of the buildings.  There is discussion of a Day Care for district teachers.  The district will be looking for grants to build a new Transportation Building to replace the present older building.  They have also signed a contract with Smart Rain to install an irrigation monitoring system to save the district dollars and save water.

Anne Kelly---Judicial District 12 District Attorney:  She has hired a very good Administrative Assistant, as well as a Diversion officer, and several lawyers.  She was pleased with the increase in the DA’s budget from the SLV counties.  There has been serious crime since she was elected.  She is pleased with the support of the Valley Law Enforcement officers.  The case load of 300 has been cut to 150…with some due to statue of limitations.  An agreement signed by former DA Payne for monitoring of the District 12 office is presently being enforced by the CO Attorney General Weiser.  She is resisting the enforcement of this agreement along with the support of all six of the SLV County Commissioners Board. Her office is very busy, and the office staff is happy for Ms. Kelly’s leadership!

Cleave Simpson---CO State Senator: [Presented by Cathy Simpson]  The Colorado Legislature has been in session for 30 days…one-fourth completed.  The Colorado State budget was presented as 39M as compared to 32M last year.  The Governor and Democrats want to hire 13,000 new employees.  It was reported that presently there are 64,510 state employees.  Due to the small number of Republicans in the Senate, Senator Simpson is serving on 5 committees instead of the normal 3 committee assignments.

Lauren Boebert---CD3: [Presented by Cathy Garcia] “Thanks for your votes and support for Congresswoman Boebert.”  You may sign up for a weekly newsletter from Representative Boebert.  She is serving on the Natural Resources and the Oversight and Accountability Committees which includes 6 other subcommittees.  She also is a member of several Caucuses.  Cathy stressed the importance of calling her for any issues with VA, SS, or IRS problems.  She will be hosting town meetings in Del Norte, Center, and Saguache during the day of February 22nd.     

StepUp Committee Report:                                                                                                                                                                                 

Sue presented her Legislative Update.  She stressed how important it is to be informed.  Two important sources of information are Advanced Colorado Rundown.  Another is the KNUS AM radio presenting a variety of broadcasts, but one presenter is George Brauchler, a former Denver area DA who brings insight, experience, and a strong opinion to the table.

New Business:

The Colorado State Republican Chair is being contested by Eric Aadland and Casper Stockham.  This election will be held on March 11, 2023, at the Loveland Convention Center.

The Credentials Report for the Reorganizational Meeting was given by Secretary Gary. Our quorum for the meeting is 18 and we have 19 eligible voters present with 4 proxy votes for a total of 23.  Therefore, we have a quorum and can continue to conduct the business of election of the Alamosa Executive Central Committee members.

Chair Cheryl read the standard rules and agenda for the reorganizational election.  A motion and second by Darius and Lori to accept the rules was passed.

A motion and second by Terry and Doris were made to suspend the rules. The election of Cheryl O’Dowd for Chair, Denise Witherspoon for Vice-Chair, and Gary Goodwin for Secretary of the Alamosa Republican Executive Central Committee was declared to be “elected by acclamation” by the Alamosa Central Committee eligible voters.

A motion and second by Jerry and Shauna to review our Alamosa County GOP bylaws and conduct our future elections according to the bylaws.

The Alamosa Republican Vacancy Committee was introduced:  Mike Yohn, Terry Hammond, Janet Yohn, Sue Robinson, and Cheryl O’Dowd.  A motion and second by Cindy and Larry to ratify membership of the Vacancy Committee was passed.

The Alamosa Republican Executive Committee will make any corrections to this Reorganizational meeting.

Carol Riggenbach announced a February 17th Town Hall Meeting with Senator Cleave Simpson-R and Representative Matt Martinez-D at the Society Hall from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

Dates to Remember:  March 2---SLV Republican Women meet monthly at Juanitos at noon.

                                           March 21---Alamosa GOP monthly meeting at Juanitos Mexican Kitchen at 5:30 pm.

Meeting Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 7:29 by the Chair.

                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of ACRCC                                                                                                                                 

Minutes

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

January 17, 2023

Meeting called to order: The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Kitchen at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on January 17, 2023. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:50 p.m.

Invocation: Invocation was given by Pastor Brad Hance of the SLV Baptist Church on State Street in Alamosa.

Pledge of Allegiance: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Richard Roberts and recited by all.

Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Central Committee members: Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd. Denise Witherspoon was absent due to illness.

Those Present: Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, County Commissioner Lori Laske, County Coroner Joe Dzuris, Michael Yohn, Janet Yohn, Elaine Goodwin, Pastor Brad Hance, Jerry White, Alan McFadden, Mark Hammond, Terry Hammond, Bob Van Iwaarden, Carol Van Iwaarden, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Dennis O’Dowd, Larry Brown, Ruthie Brown. Thus, making a total of 20 attendees.

Minutes: The minutes for November 15, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today’s meeting. With no corrections, a motion and second by Carol and Terry, the minutes were approved.

Treasurer Report: Treasurer John gave a year-end financial report for the Alamosa Republican Central Committee. The 2022 Income Statement showed income of $29,288.08 and expenses of $28,286.10. The beginning balance as of January 1, 2022, was $11,160.10 with an ending balance on December 31, 2022 of $12,162.08. Thus, showing net income for the 2022 fiscal year was $1,001.98.

Vice-Chair Report: No report.

Secretary Report: Just an update on the MAGA movement. The democrats are recognizing the impact of the MAGAs by describing them as the “MAGA Republicans” versus the RINO Republicans. The impact of the 20 MAGA Republicans who were able to bargain for concessions from the future Speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy, was in play. Fifteen or so changes in the House rules will make a decided difference in how our federal government business will be conducted. For example: Two important changes in the rules were a 72-hour time for the reading of the bills by congress[wo]men before votes can be taken, rather than the Pelosi shortened 24-hour allotment for perusal of the proposed bill. A second important change of rules is no more omnibus bills [combining of all budget spending] to be lumped into one bill for passage. Now each department of governmental spending will be considered with debate and amendments being offered and each part voted on by the House. This provides transparency of how our government conducts its financial affairs. The House of Representatives can now return to the mode of operation practiced in past decades. MAGA is alive and well!

Elected Official’s Report:

 Lori Laske---County Commissioner: Newly elected officials were sworn in on the morning of January 10th. Our four newly elected officials…Arlan Van Ry, Anne Kelly, Mari Felix, and Joe Dzaris, plus those re-elected…Amy McKinley, Sandra Hostetter, Dan Russell took their oath of office. For the coming year, the county staff met to set priorities for the county. The Alamosa Airport now has added responsibilities of snow removal of the air strips and fire firefighting. The process of funding for the housing of the equipment will be ongoing. A new hanger for overnight layovers is also a new need. The present buildings are not warm, and the wind is a present problem. The county will be looking for fed money for these projects. There have been 107 bills presented to the Colorado State legislature. Glad to report the Right of Passage Building sale will be closed soon. The county has owned the building and the selling price will cover the last 3-4 years of expenses in maintaining the property.

Joe Dzuris---County Coroner: Joe stated he has completed his first week as Coroner. It was a little hectic but was able to complete the tasks required of him.

Amy McKinley---County Treasurer: In her absence, Cheryl read a statement from Amy. We have 99.95% of taxes collected for the 2022 year. This is the highest in 3 years. The tax sale in November yielded 100% of properties being sold. The tax bills for 2022 property taxes are presently being sent out.

Sandra Hostetter---County Assessor: In her absence, Cheryl read a statement from Sandra. The office in presently doing reappraisals for Alamosa County. She states that unfunded mandates are coming down from the State.

Congressional District 3 report: Due to the resignation of Joyce Rankin, Stephen Varela of Pueblo was chosen by a Republican vacancy committee to represent CD3 on the Colorado State Board of Education.

StepUp Committee Report:

Our Alamosa GOP is always looking for volunteers to help with monthly reporting of news and events from various areas of interest to the GOP members as well as the community.

Sue R. is absent from her legislative action committee report.

Heidi reported to Cheryl that the Alamosa School Board voted to approve a 4-day school week beginning in the 2023-24 school year. A security company has been engaged for the balance of the school year.

Janet reported that the Veterans Memorial have T-shirts [available in all sizes] from the fundraising event for a $10 donation. The Memorial committee will sponsor a car and motorcycle show at the Alamosa County Building on July 8th. Newly elected Arlan Van Ry [County Commissioner] is now on the Veteran Memorial Committee. The committee meets on the 1st Thursday of each month at 4:00 pm. Their 5k and 10k run fundraiser was successful in raising funds.

Cheryl reports that there are only 3 contributing by ACH to our SLV Federal Bank with 3 more sending their donation to the First SW Bank. Also, thanks to those who each month support the GOP “JAR” on our information table. We encourage everyone to join in building our funds for the next election cycle, including the 2024 presidential campaign which will call for the added expense of a SLV GOP office in Alamosa.

New Business:

Each county must conduct a Reorganization Meeting every two years during the window of Feb 1-15. We will have our Reorg Meeting on Feb 7th at 6:00 pm at Juanito’s. The offices of the Alamosa County Executive Central Committee are Chair, Co-Chair, and Secretary which are the three voting members on any order of business at the Colorado State Central Committee. If you are interested in one of these positions, please submit your name and office to Cheryl before

the February meeting.  In addition, our By-laws may be reviewed and a Vacancy Committee will be selected.

The Colorado State Republican Chair is being contested by Eric Aadland and Casper Stockham. This election will be held on March 11, 2023, in the Loveland Convention Center.

Jan 20th  -  Lauren Boebert at Society Hall at 8:30am.

Feb 2nd and Mar 2nd-  SLV Republican Women meeting at Juanito’s at noon.

Feb 7th- Monthly Alamosa GOP meeting and Reorganizational meeting at 5:30 at Juanito’s. Mar 21st-  Alamosa County GOP Monthly Meeting at Juanito’s at noon.

Meeting Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:05 by the Chair.

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS 

November 15, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Kitchen at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on November 15, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:46 p.m.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Chester Jones of the Calvary Bible Chapel of East Alamosa.

 Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Tom Burke and recited by all.      

Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Central Executive Committee members:  Secretary Gary Goodwin, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd.  Denise Witherspoon and John Adams were excused.  It was noted that our Alamosa GOP represents the “Government of the People.”                                                                          

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Mike Yohn, State Senator Cleave Simpson, Cathy Simpson, Janet Yohn, Elaine Goodwin, Vella Owens, Pastor Chester Jones, Kay Jones, Pastor Ezequiel Solis, Jerry White, Alan McFadden, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Tom Burke, Dolores Burke, Dennis O’Dowd, Dwayne Catalano, Daisy Ortega, Doris Erskine, Mary Dzuris, Richard Gritz, Judith Gritz, Greg Bervig, Cynthia Bervig, guest Carol Riggenbach-RG County. In addition: Candidate-elect Joe Dzuris-Alamosa Coroner; Candidate-elect Ann Kelly-Judicial 12 District Attorney.  Thus, making a total of 29 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for October 18, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today’s meeting.  A motion and second by Doris and Janet, with the minutes being approved. 

Treasurer Report:  Chair Cheryl gave a shortened financial report in John’s absence.  We have $11,221 in the SLV Fed account and $580 in the First Southwest account.

Vice-Chair Report:  No report.

Secretary Report:   No report

Elected Official’s Report:

Cleave Simpson---State Senator:  There are 35 senators in the Colorado State Senate.  His present District 35 now consists of the Valley and east to Kansas border. Due to redistricting, on January 1, he will represent District 6 which encompasses the Valley and west to the Colorado-Utah border.  In the 2023 legislative there will be 12 Republicans and 23 Democrats.  Cleave said…” Not fun but rewarding opportunity.”                                                                                                                                                                    

Michael Yohn---County Commissioner: Mike stated it was a privilege to serve the people of Alamosa County.  There have been many changes in Colorado and the United States during his tenure in office.  However, Alamosa County is in strong shape going into the future.  We have a preliminary county budget of 50M with 21M to Human Services, with Justice taking a big chunk.  A public comment time will be scheduled.

Joe Dzuris---Candidate-elect County Coroner:  Thanks again for your support.  He has met with Lori Laske and the county administrator on budgeting for the coroner’s office.  He has an in-depth training scheduled for December 12-16 to be ready for assuming office in January.  He announced that Delores Burk will be a Deputy Coroner in his office.

StepUp Committee Report:  Our Alamosa GOP is always looking for volunteers to help with monthly reporting of news and events from various areas of interest to the GOP members as well as the community.

Cheryl stated that no one was surprised at the Colorado election results.  The state went totally to the Democrats while Alamosa County is entirely Republican.                                                                                                                                                           Sue is absent from her legislative action committee report.

Heidi reported to Cheryl that there were no updates from the Alamosa Schools. 

Janet and Cynthia reported on the November 12th Veteran’s Memorial’s 5K and 10K race, conducted as a fundraiser for their Memorial project.  They had 72 participants on a beautiful Saturday, and no wind.  The Alamosa HS military club presented the colors at the opening.  On December 1st, a public review of the Memorial project will be held at the Commissioner’s room.  They have T-shirts [available in all sizes] from the event for a $15 donation…”and you don’t have to run!”  There were two news articles promoting the fundraiser found in the Alamosa Citizen and the Valley Courier.

Ann Kelly, the candidate-elect for the Judicial 12 DA office gave an update.  She recounted her move to Alamosa to help with the issues in the DA’s office.  She remembered the support of the Alamosa Republicans and was truly overwhelmed by that backing.  She has now hired 2 new attorneys, as her biggest challenge is to get an appropriate staff.  She will open a Diversion position as soon as possible.  She is pleased with the full support of the Valley law enforcement.  She was pleased that the vote was a 62% margin, with Costilla County being the only county she did not carry.

Cheryl reports that there are only 3 contributing by ACH to our SLV Federal Bank with 3 more sending their donation to the First SW Bank.  Also, thanks to those who each month support the GOP jar on our information table. We encourage everyone to join in building our funds for the next election cycle, including the 2024 presidential campaign which will call for the added expense of a SLV GOP office.

Also, thanks to the SLV Republican Women for their efforts in giving the “Constitution” booklets to 5th graders around the Valley.  Our young people need to know the truths that guarantees the freedoms we hold sacred to our lives.

Cheryl spoke of “What is wrong with our elections?”  There are so many negative ads which should be reported to the FTC.  The media is the biggest hinderance to honest elections and of voter suppression.  For example, the bias reports on Lauren Boebert and Joe O’Dea were lies.  The curing of the ballots is presently being done by asking voters to remedy their ballots, with no signature or signature discrepancy.  There were 93 ballots in Alamosa County needing to be cured.  We see no loyalty of some Republicans, like Coram from Montrose supporting Frisch.  We are still awaiting nationwide election results in giving the House majority to the Republicans.  Remember, the 2024 election will be beginning, and we need to begin focusing on this coming presidential election.

Tom spoke of ASU students arriving at the clerk’s office, registering and casting their vote.  They stated that they would receive classroom extra-credit for making this effort.

Carol is walking to help cure ballots for Lauren Boebert.  She suggested we evaluate our campaign practices and determine to organize our campaigning for maximum results.

Gary spoke of questioning the 2022 election results.  First, the Dems could not allow the Republicans to win seats in the House or Senate, thus losing their control.  Therefore, Republicans could initiate investigations into the Jab, Hunter, the Biden family, the weaponizing of the DOJ and FBI, Homeland Security, and the border.  This would reveal the crimes of this administration…and they could not let that happen…along with the corruption of Dominion machines and extended voting times.  They could not allow Kari Lake, AZ gubernatorial candidate to win since she would become the face of the national MAGA movement.  Likewise, this would enhance the realizability of the Donald Trump 2024 presidential candidacy.  The fix was in, the election was stolen…our votes and voices were negated.  What can we do?  Talk to people.  Educate them to what is happening.  Ask them to get involved.  Let them know MAGA is still out there and will continue to be heard.  Can we meet the challenge?  

New Business:  We will not meet in December but will plan to meet on January 17, 2023, at Juanitos Mexican Kitchen.

A party will be held to honor Mike Yohn for his service to Alamosa County on Dec 21st after the Commissioner’s meeting.

Meeting Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 7:23 by the Chair.

                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS 

October 18, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Kitchen at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on October 18, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:50 p.m.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Ezequiel Solis of the Church of God Cristo Salva west of Alamosa.

 Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Tom Burke and recited by all.      

Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Secretary Gary Goodwin, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd.  It was noted that our Alamosa GOP represents the “Government of the People.”                                                                         

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Mike Yohn, County Commissioner Lori Laske, Alamosa Mayor Ty Coleman, Janet Yohn, Elaine Goodwin, Vella Owens, Pastor Ezequiel Solis, Anna Solis, Pastor Jeff Day, Lisa Day, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Jerry White, Jay Robinson, Sue Robinson, Alan McFadden, Andrea Malouff, Larry Dixon, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Tom Burke, Delores Burke, Terry Hammond, John Geruntho, Yolanda Geruntho, Dennis O’Dowd, Dathan Jones, Dwayne Catalano, Shawnee Turner, Daisy Ortega, Joe Santisteven, Sandra Santisteven, Jim Defee, Erma Defee, Doris Erskine, Goeff West, Linda Custer, Beth Quintana, Michelle Howard, David Howard, Mary Dzuris, Blain Decker, Kim Decker, Alan Marquez, Gary Malmberg, Pam Malmberg, Edward B.  Also, guest Debra Bannerman-Costilla County.   In addition: Joe Dzuris-Alamosa Coroner candidate; Arlan Van Ry-County Commissioner candidate.  Thus, making a total of 53 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for September 20, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today’s meeting.  A motion and second by Dennis and Janet, the minutes were approved. 

Treasurer Report:  In Treasurer John’s absence, there was no financial report.

Vice-Chair Report:  No report.

Secretary Report:   No report

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                     -

Michael Yohn---County Commissioner: Mike thanked everyone for the last 12 years of his time in office.  During his tenure in office, he determined to do the best for Alamosa County.  And Alamosa is in good shape going into the future.  The election is coming soon and so is his retirement.

Lori Laske---County Commissioner:  Lori noted that every voter votes for a County Commissioner regardless of the district you live in.  The Commissioners are working on the 2023 budget.  There are many needs from the budget with taxes being the funding source.  Statewide action against the opioid crisis to be fought with help from various grants.

Amy McKinley---County Treasurer:  In Amy’s absence, Cheryl read her report.  Amy wrote she is absent due to a conference she is attending.  We have 98.2% of Alamosa County property taxes have been paid.  The office is presently taking bids ahead of the November 1-3 tax sale.

Ty Coleman---Alamosa City Mayor:  Greetings to all!  He offered a commendation to Mike Yohn for his time as Alamosa County Commissioner [followed by applause].  The city has just introduced 3 new City Police Officers.  The City of Alamosa has pledged $40,000 to the Judicial District 12 DA’s office budget.  The Mayor remarked that “together everyone can achievement more.”  Captain Don Chapman and Assistant Chief Tony Bobicki are retiring from the Alamosa Fire Department.  The city owns the Walsh and will soon be demolished.  The old Oscars restaurant will be converted to a Boutique Hotel in the future.  There will be a new eating establishment at the Golf Course Clubhouse.   The Blessed Brews shop will be housed in the Kirby Building.  And lastly, 4.7M has been allocated for a walk bridge north of the Adams State campus.

StepUp Committee Report:  Our Alamosa GOP is always looking for volunteers to help with monthly reporting of news and events from various areas of interest to the GOP members as well as the community.

Sue gave an update on Legislative matters.  A Podcast [Ted Cruz] episode 147 reveals Biden crime family deals made for $40M with the CCP.  Joe Biden as well as his son and brother have used the office of vice-president and now the presidency to garner millions and billions of dollars of dishonest dealings.  This Podcast is a must view.  Sue reported the inflation rate in Colorado is 15% and the nation at 8%.  The website advancecolorado.org discloses the concerns that voters have this election cycle.  Tonight on 710 KNUS at 7:00 pm, a live stream of all the state candidates will air.  The program is titled “Rescue Colorado.”

Gary gave a report on MAGA issues in the nation.  We need to be aware of the many races across the country that are being waged by MAGA candidates.  The MAGA movement comprises a large segment of the Republican party that believes and promotes conservative values contrary to the RINO [Republican in Name Only] practices.  Gary urges all to become aware of MAGA candidates, supporting them in their efforts to rescue our Republic from the Democrats, many whom support socialist principles.

On November 12th at 10 o’clock, the Veterans Memorial will sponsor a 5K and 10K race as a fundraiser for their project.  The 5K will be $20 pre-register and $30 on race day.  The 10K is $30 pre-register and $50 on race day.  The event will be held at the Alamosa Rec Center.  T-shirts will be available for runners.

Cheryl suggested pointers to consider regarding the coming election.  She encourages using blue ink on your ballot.  It is a long ballot with 11 amendments to consider as well as local and state candidates.  A voter guide from the Centennial Institute from Colorado Christian University is a reliable source of voter information.  From a Fox poll, 89% of voters consider inflation the top issue with 74% concerned with political division.  73% deem the Russian-Ukraine war to be of importance.  Gasoline was $2.49 per gallon and is now edging to $5. The US House and Senate must be taken back.  The proposed 87M IRS agents must be stopped.  Danielle N has 20,000 FB friends and 1400 Instagram while Heidi G has 30,000 FB friends and 14,000 Instagram.  The disappointment in this race is Danielle splitting the Republican vote and she has no regrets.  Heidi Gahnal was impressive in her last debate with Polis, proclaiming conservative values.

Old Business:  

Dates to remember:                                                                                                                                                                                  

November 8th ---National Election Day and Watch Party at St Ives at 6:30.

November 15th ---Our next GOP Monthly Meeting at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Kitchen.                                                

November 12th---The Veterans Memorial’s 5K and 10K run at 10 o’clock at the Alamosa Rec.

Republican candidates were given time to introduce themselves:

Arlan Van Ry---Candidate for County Commissioner District 2.  It will be good to have 3 Republicans on the Alamosa Commission.  He has been attending the Commissioners meetings for several months with several veteran issues on his list of priorities.  He appreciates advice from Commissioner Mike and thanks everyone for their support.

Joe Dzuris---Candidate for County Coroner says, “thanks for the support.”  He is unopposed and is anxious to get started on the job.

Jerry asked for support for Carol Riggenbach who was at another campaign function.    Anne Kelly was busy working this evening on the overwhelming caseload in the DA’s office.  Remember Mari Felix and Lauren Boebert when you vote.   

Meeting Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 7:10 by the Chair.

                                                                          Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP          

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

September 20, 2022

Meeting called to order: The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanita's Mexican Kitchen at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on September 20, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O'Dowd at5:48p.m.

Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members: Secretary Gary Goodwin and Chair Cheryl O'Dowd

Invocation: Invocation was given by Pastor Jeff Day of the Bible Believers Community Church in East Alamosa.

Pledge of Allegiance: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Those Present: Chair Cheryl O'Dowd, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Mike Yohn, County Commissioner Lori Laske, County Treasurer Amy McKinley, County Clerk/Recorder Mari Felix, Alamosa School Board President Heidi Richardson, County Assessor Sandra Hostetter, Larry Richardson, Alan McFadden, Janet Yohn, Elaine Goodwin, Vella Owens, Pastor Jeff Day, Lisa Day, Bob Vanlwaarden, Carol Vanlwaarden, Bonnie Belle, Jerry White, Larry Crowder, Alan Haverfield, Jay Robinson, Sue Robinson, Andrea Malouff, Larry Dixon, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Tom Burke, Delores Burke, Terry Hammond, Mark Hammond, Dennis O'Dowd, Greg Carpenter, Dathan Jones, Dwayne Catalano, Shawnee Turner, Daisy Ortega, Ron Hartman, Ann Hartman, Greg Bervig, Cynthia Bervig, Tim Johnston, Darius Allen, student Jasmine Felix. Also, Cathy Simpson-State Senator Cleave Simpson rep, Jay Misany-Lauren Boebert rep, Ron Vigil-guest RG County, Trooper Moses Heredia, Trooper Victor Enriquez, Trooper Lance Sanchez. In addition: Anne Kelly- 12th Judicial District DA candidate; Carol Riggenbach-House District 62 candidate; Joe Dzuris-Alamosa Coroner candidate; Thus, making a total of 53 attendees.

Minutes: The minutes for August 16, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today's meeting. A correction to the minutes by replacing the word "gym" with "jail" in Commissioner Yohn's report were noted before a motion and second by Bob and Janet, with the correction and minutes being approved.

Treasurer Report: In Treasurer John's absence, there was no financial report.

Vice-Chair Report: In Denise's absence, there was no report.

Secretary Report: No report

Elected OfficiaL's Report:

Anne Kelly---lnterim 12th Judicial DA: She stated she was glad to be in Alamosa and to be a candidate for Judicial 12.  The DA's budget request is in the works. There is a large number of backlogged cases to work on. Bob Willett has declared to be the democrat candidate for the DA position. There are 300 old cases approaching statutory limits. Her office is working through Colorado Victim Rights Statue board. It is the obligation of the Colorado AG office to monitor all VRS complaints. There are still many volunteers wanting to come help with the DA's office, many being seasoned veterans with lots of prosecutorial experience. The present case load in the Judicial 12 office is overwhelming. Anne understands the ethical responsibility to serve the public of Judicial 12.

Jay Misany---CD3 Lauren Boebert spokesman: We are seeing democrats show a modernist stance on many issues. The Congresswoman wants to see federal spending stop, since 90% is waste. Closing the border is imperative with the fentanyl drug being deadly to the American public. She sees the management of our forests as critical, and the issue does seem to appeal to unaffiliated voters. We must get out the vote and an app on smart phones can be used to make phone calls.

Cathy Simpson---State Senator Simpson spokeswoman: Cleave had a busy legislative session in 2022 and will be ready to tackle the coming session in January 2023. Cleave has noted that of the contested Colorado Senate seats, they need to hold 7 seats and pickup 4 competitive seats in order to gain a majority.

Michael Yohn--County Commissioner: The 2022-23 budget hearing is coming the end of September. On October 4th at 3:00 pm, a ribbon-cutting will be held for the repaving project on County Road 6 North. Mike stated he is willing to help the DA's office but there is just so much money available.

Lori Laske---County Commissioner: The Alamosa Airport will beclosed 3 days to do a resealing of the runway. Enplanements are trending up, but flight schedules may have to be adjusted in the future. A "139 permit" is required in order to reseal (fog seal) the runway to acquire our airport certification.

Amy McKinley---County Treasurer: Just conducting our routine business this time of year. The publishing of delinquent taxes on real estate has taken place. The office hours are 8:00 to 4:15 for tax payment either over the phone or online. We are finding 70% taxes are being paid by credit card. At this point in time, 97.99% of taxes have been collected. Buyer registration for the Alamosa County lien sale can be done from October 3-28 with the lien sale being held November 1-2 online and November 3 in-person. Those using a credit card for any office business will be assessed a fee of 2 ½% by the county.

Sandra Hostetter--County Assessor: Business as usual in the Assessor's office. We are in the process of doing reevaluations of county properties.

Mari Felix---County Clerk/Recorder: Since Mari was appointed to the clerk/recorder office, she has been busy hiring staff and coming up to speed with the county's business. They have been getting ballots approved and sent to the printer company. They have deadlines for the coming election business, while conducting normal clerk/recorder business. She has achieved a full staff now with some new people and some previous staff returning. She announced

that the General Election ballots will be mailed out October 1?.

Heidi Richardson---Alamosa School Board President: The Alamosa High School had a hoax call that brought lots of excitement as the response by APO was within one minute. The result was a lockdown by all district school buildings. The 4-day week is under consideration and is recruiting committee members to work on details of the schedule change. School personnel and school board members are reviewing performance of all grade levels. A strategic plan is being made to raise the performance levels of all students. The K-8 staff have developed a theme of "Capturing Their Hearts" for the task of helping students' achievement. The district is also comparing their scores with the student scores from across the entire state. The BEST Grant will beused to install air conditioning in district school building as well as asbestos abatement.

StepUp Committee Report:

The direction of the Alamosa GOP is focused on the "Government of the People."

Gary gave a report on MAGA issues in the nation. For example, there were 150 Republicans (RINOs) who pledged to vote for the Democratic governor in Michigan and against the Republican candidate. This is disloyal and unacceptable. MAGA candidates around the nation are leading in many races. In Biden's speech to the nation, he declared war on the conservative MAGA Republicans. Those words were directed to many of our group here tonight.

National Registration Day was noted for September 4th of every year. We have many people in our county and country who do not vote and are apathetic toward the affairs of our Republic.

On November 12th at 10 o'clock, the Veterans Memorial will sponsor a SK and 10K race as a fundraiserfor their project.

A T-shirt will be given v ith an entry fee of $35. The event will be held at the Alamosa Rec Center.

Sue mentioned that Chase Woodruff of the Colorado News and Colorado Sun has presented the topic of election dark money under the title of "Bias."

Old Business:

Dates to remember:

October 18th ---Our next GOP Monthly Meeting at 5:30 pm at Juanita's Mexican Kitchen.

On October 5th ---The Alamosa GOP wi!! host Lauren Boebert for a "Eat and Meet" at 8;30 at Cavi!!o's, Breakfast burritos

will be available.

Republican candidates were given time to introduce themselves:

Arlan Van Ry---Candidate for County Commissioner district 2 was absent due to the death of his grandson.

Amy McKinley--Candidate for County Treasurer says she will not be doing signs due to her not having an opponent in the race. She enjoys the job and plans to continue to stay involved in the Colorado County Treasurer and Public Trustee Association, which has a membership of 64 county treasurers. She was elected to the 2022-2023 CCTPTA Board of Directors. She appreciates the support and vote of confidence from the Alamosa GOP.

Sandra Hostetter--Candidate for County Assessor has worked in the Assessor's office for 30 years. She is also unopposed and will have not signs. She also appreciates the vote of confidence.

Joe Dzuris---Candidate for County Coroner says, "thanks for the support.;; He is unopposed and is anxious to get started on the job.

Carol Riggenbach---Candidate for State House District 62. She thanks all for the support of her candidacy. She believes this is the year for the Republicans to take control of the state house. In her campaigning, she has found the unaffiliated and many Democrats will vote for her. And she will participate in the Alamosa Chamber of Commerce debate on October 11th at 6:30 at Society Hall on Ross and 4th Street in Alamosa. She asked any who want to help with campaigning to see her about a digital application on their cell phone to call voters on their cell phone. Please see Carol afterward for details. Lastly, she stated..." Get out to vote!"

Meeting Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:14 by the Chair.

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS    

August 16, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Kitchen at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on July 19, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:54 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                         Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Thomas Burke of the Calvary Bible Chapel in Alamosa.                   

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.                                                          

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, County Commissioner Mike Yohn, County Treasurer Amy McKinley, County Clerk/Recorder Mari Felix, Alamosa School Board President Heidi Richardson, Alamosa Mayor Ty Coleman, Larry Richardson, Alan McFadden, Janet Yohn, Elaine Goodwin, John Geruntho, Vella Owens, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Cameron Miller, Christy Miller, Bonnie Belle, Jerry White, Geoff West, student Gabe West, Kay Kahler, Ted Smith, Alan Haverfield, Patti Haverfield, Courtney Arthur, Larry Dixon, Tom Burke, Delores Burke, Lance O’Dowd, Terry Hammond, Lani Welch, Dennis O’Dowd, student Elizabeth Adams, student Zanessa Spencer.  Also, Larry Heersink-GOP Chair RG County, Wyoma Hansen-GOP Chair Saguache County, Gigi Dennis-MV City Manager, Luella Crowther-GOP Vice-Chair Conejos County, Pam Stewart-GOP Secretary Conejos County,  Ron Vigil-guest RG County, Charles Stillings-GOP Vice-chair RG County, Marshall Boyd-GOP Vice-chair RG County,  In addition: Anne Kelly-12th Judicial District DA staff; Arlan Van Ry-Alamosa County District 2 County Commissioner candidate;  Carol Riggenbach-House District 62 candidate; and Terry Witherill-Mineral County Sheriff candidate.  Thus, making a total of 49 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for July 19, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today’s meeting.  With a motion and second by Larry and Janet, the minutes were approved. 

Treasurer Report:  Treasurer John reported the Alamosa GOP bank account total was $15,493.16.  There has been a total of $3750 in donations.

Vice-Chair Report:  No report.

Secretary Report:   No report

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                     -

Ty Coleman---Alamosa Mayor:  Commented on the combined effort toward the recall drive.  Funding 4.7M for a pedestrian bridge to be constructed from ASU campus to north side of Rio Grande River. Budget meeting next week for the city budget.  Announced that Don Chapman is retiring from the Alamosa Fire Department.  The city has hired a counselor to aid responders involved in emergency situations. 

Michael Yohn---County Commissioner: Mike stated that $270,000 supplemented the Gym.  A ribbon cutting for the Alamosa Airport.  The resurfacing of County Road 6N is continuing.  There are 1041 regulations for the Valley with requests for our water basin.

Amy McKinley---County Treasurer:  It’s business as usual this time of year.  Delinquency taxes will be advertised in September with the tax sale on November 1-3.  The Treasurer’s office has two new employees.

Mari Felix---County Clerk/Recorder:  Since receiving the appointment, it has been like a roller coaster.  We have 7 new staff members and are doing training.  The office is open during the lunch hour and are asking for patience for patrons are we get the office back to normal operations.  The office is completing the primary election and the recent recount went well.

The direction of the Alamosa GOP is focused on the “Government of the People.”

StepUp Committee Report:

In the absence of Sue, Cheryl stated an email explanation of the Roe vs Wade can be received.  It is good to  understand the government checks are not coming from Polis but instead as a result of the Colorado TABOR law.  This is a refund to taxpayers due to excess tax collected from them.

Heidi Richardson---Alamosa School Board President:  A Colorado BEST grant was awarded to Alamosa Schools for 10M.  There is a 24% matching funds from the school district.  It will be used for asbestos abatement and air conditioning in all district schools.  A Safer School grant for 340K will be used for radio connection to 911 and law enforcement.  A new strategy plan is being conducted with teachers, students, and parents.  The Alternate School has 37 high schoolers, 5 middle schoolers and 26 students on live internet.  The district has 18 new teachers this year.  Research is being conducted on the 4-day week.  Issues to be addressed is earnings of the hourly wages of bus drivers and cafeteria workers.  The Alamosa School District Administration is now housed at 403 Santa Fe, next to the Rio Grande Hotel.  The district has a new payroll clerk.  Heidi wanted to give a shout out to the Superintendent and the Assistant Superintendent on a job well done.  A question of masks for the school brought on a definite no from Heidi.

Old Business:

The Alamosa GOP has been asked to submit a list of 12-15 names of people who would be willing to serve as Election Judges for the coming November 8th election.  If you are interested, please see Tom Burke or Gary.

Gary spoke of the movement in the Republican party nationwide that is supportive of those candidates who advocate small government, lower taxes, term limits, strong military, 2nd Amendment Rights, and other conservative issues.  He mentioned Kari Lake (AZ) and John Getts (MI), both MAGA candidates, winning their primary races against big money and the establishment Republicans.  The MAGA candidates are winning across America.  We are in a war with those who want to control the people.  He encouraged everyone to become informed and talk to people, helping them to become involved in saving our families and our Republic.

Janet reported that ground was broke for the Veteran Memorial with a concrete pour next spring.  There is a prototype at the Alamosa State Bank.  Donations are continuing to be solicited.

Dates to remember:                                                                                                                                                                                            September 1---SLV Republican Women at noon and Juanito’s.                                                                                                                        September 9---2000 Mules to be shown at Society Hall at 6:00 pm.                                                                                     September 10---Fall Freedom Festival at Sangre De Cristo Ranches.  Covered dish plate, friends, and music.  Meet at                       Visitor Center in Fort Garland at 11:00 am for directions.                                                                                                         September 20---Next GOP Monthly Meeting at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Kitchen.   First-responders will be   recognized and honored                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             September 24---SLV GOP Potluck with Speaker Stephanie Luck on “State of our State.”

Chair Cheryl adjourned the business portion of our August monthly meeting at 6:35 pm.

Candidates were then given an opportunity to present themselves to the audience.

Carol Riggenbach---Colorado House District 62:  She has received several endorsements.  Posters and banners are available.  You are asked to possibly sponsor a banner for $100.  She asked you to go to FB and follow Carol.  She will be at the Colorado State Fair all week.  A debate between HD62 candidates, Carol Riggenbach and Matt Martinez, will be held in Pueblo Tuesday, September 6th at 5:00 pm.  The debate will be held in the Hoag Theater on the Pueblo Community College Campus. The debates will be televised on Xfinity through Pueblo PCC channel 19 by the Center for New Media.  It will also be shared through social media and YouTube.

Anne Kelly---Judicial District 12 DA staff:  Anne is working to be appointed as the interim DA for Judicial District 12 and possibly become a candidate for the position in the November 8th General Election.  She must comply with all the paperwork requirements to be eligible as a Republican candidate.

She spoke of her 11 years as a prosecutor in several judicial districts.  She loves being a prosecutor and the challenge of bringing justice to the people.  She discussed several different law issues regarding the 500 plus files of criminal activities left from the prior district attorney. There was a Q&A session with the members and our guest, Anne Kelly.    

Meeting Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 7:32 by the Chair.

                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

July 19, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on July 19, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:43 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                         Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Jaron Parkins of the Living Water Bible Fellowship in Alamosa.               

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.                                                          

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, County Commissioner Mike Yohn, County Commissioner, Vern Heersink, County Commissioner, Janet Yohn, Elaine Goodwin, Vella Owens, Pastor Jaron Parkins, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Phillip Pautler, Sandra Ortega, Daisy Ortega, Jerry White, Larry Crowder, Larry Dixon, Tom Burke, Delores Burke, Terry Hammond, Dennis O’Dowd, Mindi Van Ry, Greg Carpenter, David Von Mills, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts.  Also, Larry Heersink-GOP Chair RG County, Wyoma Hansen-GOP Chair Saguache County, Bill Lamphere-guest Rio Grande County, Ron Vigil-guest RG County, James Gallegos-guest RG County, Colin Schmidt-guest Jefferson County. In addition: Robert Willett-12th Judicial District DA candidate; Arlan Van Ry-Alamosa County District 2 Commissioner candidate; John Kellner-Colorado Attorney General candidate; Carol Riggenbach-House District 62 candidate.  Thus, making a total of 37 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for June 21st, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today’s meeting.  There was no action on the June minutes. 

Treasurer Report:  Treasurer John reported the Alamosa GOP bank account total was $17,804.72.  There were three outstanding checks totaling $1012.86.  John also asked for “1776” participants to transfer their ACHs from First Southwest to SLV Federal Bank.  The SLV Fed account and routing numbers can be gotten from John or Gary.

Vice-Chair Report:  No report.

Secretary Report:   No report

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                     -Michael Yohn---County Commissioner: On July 7th, Mari Felix was sworn in as the interim Alamosa County Clerk /Recorder.  A new Road Grader was purchased for the Road and Bridge Department. On July 26th, the Alamosa CC will host the SLV Commissioner’s Meeting representing all 6 counties.  On Wednesday, July 27th the Alamosa Commissioners will have their first July monthly meeting at 8:30 pm in the Commissioners Meeting Room.  A resource group for helping business growth will be led by Mike Gonzales.

Vern Heersink---County Commissioner: The foreclosure auction scheduled for the San Luis Rio Grande Railroad has been postponed till a later date.  Ridership on the Denver Air Connection, Alamosa’s passenger jet service, is operating at a high level.  The Rental Car service is now operating at the Alamosa Airport.

StepUp Committee Report:

Chair Cheryl gave the sequence of events of the Alamosa Clerk’s office.  The 2020 elected office holder, Nicole Jaramillo, resigned her County Clerk’s position effective June 30th which was two days after the June 28th Primary Election.  After consultation and deliberation, the County Commissioners appointed Mari Felix as the interim County Clerk and Recorder until the swearing in of a newly elected Clerk and Recorder in January 2023.  Mari is our Republican candidate for the position she has now been appointed to fill.

Cheryl gave the 2022 election winners of contested ballot candidates for State and Alamosa County:  Joe O’Dea-Colorado Senate, Lauren Boebert-Congressional District 3, Heidi Ganahl-Colorado Governor, Pam Anderson-Colorado Secretary of State, Carol Riggenbach-Colorado House District 62, and Arlan Van Ry- Alamosa County Commissioner.   

Terry Hammond---Recall Payne Committee:  Terry spoke to the events that have transpired with the July 13th resignation of Alfonso Paine and the appointment of an interim District Attorney for the 12th Judicial District.  Accolades were given to Terry for her continued effort to push and lead in the recall election in securing petition signatures.

Janet Yohn---Veteran Memorial Committeeperson:  Janet spoke of the Veteran Memorial that is to be located on the south edge of Alamosa by the Alamosa County Annex which houses several county offices.  They are in the process of raising money to finance the endeavor.  They are taking donations, soliciting various organizations, City Market donates 5% of a customer’s grocery bill, and Amazon “Smile” is a similar program for raising needed funds.  Also, a Facebook page is available for perusal.

Old Business:

The sustainability of the Alamosa GOP was again reiterated by Chair Cheryl.  Our Alamosa GOP must be sustained by our “1776 monthly donation,” and other fundraisers and donations.  We can promote our candidates and our conservative and constitutional values in order to aid in the preservation of our Republic.

Members were invited to sign a petition for the Colorado Abortion Ban Initiative (2022) giving citizens a voice [yea or nay] in opposition to the Reproductive Health Equity Act passed by the State Legislature and signed into law April 4, 2022. 

Chair Cheryl adjourned the business portion of our June monthly meeting at 6:10 pm.

Candidates were then given an opportunity to present themselves to the audience.

Robert Willett---Robert presented himself as a candidate for the 12th Judicial District DA position.  Since Alonzo Paine resigned his position on July 13th, the governor has appointed AG Weiser to be the interim District Attorney until the November General Election.  Mr Willett spoke of his background in the judicial arena, his experience in the 12th Judicial District position, and his desire to be elected to that position again.  He then entertained a Q & A session with the audience.

John Kellner---Republican candidate for the Colorado Attorney General position.  His Democratic opponent is the incumbent Philip Weiser.  John is presently the 18th Judicial District DA in Arapahoe County.  He is a Marine Corps veteran, graduate of the University of Colorado Law School and desires to bring his experience in fighting back the crime wave prevalent in Colorado.  He mentioned the Colorado Unemployment scam costing Colorado taxpayers 73 million taxpayer dollars in addition to the present “nation leading” auto thefts in Colorado.  He then entertained a Q&A session.

New Business:

 San Luis Valley Republican Women meet the first Thursday of each month at 12:00 pm at Juanito’s.

The SLV Ski Hi Stampede Parade will be held on Friday and Saturday, 23rd and 24th.  The SLV GOP will participate in the Saturday parade.  Please meet at the Safeway Parking Lot in Monte Vista at 8:45 am.  The parade begins at 10:00 am and you are asked to bring candy for distribution to the kids along the parade route.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be August 16th at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.                                                                   Meeting Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 7:02 by the Chair.

                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

June 21, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on June 21, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:46 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                         Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Anthony Bowden of the College Heights Baptist Church in Alamosa.               

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.                                                          

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Mike Yohn, County Treasurer Amy McKinley, County Assessor Sandra Hostetler, State Senator Cleve Simpson, Susan Greenwood, Linda Cordova, Janet Yohn, Alan McFadden, Elaine Goodwin, Vella Owens, Pastor Anthony Bowden, Bry Anne Bowden, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Roy Van Horn, Karol Van Horn, John Bradshaw, Richard Gritz, Judith Gritz, Phillip Pautler, Mareea Pautler, Darius Allen, Cameron Miller, Christy Miller, Daisy Ortega, Khrystyne Ferreri, Lynnette Witt, Kay Risdahl, Katie Risdahl, Christi Risdahl, Ruthie Brown, Cathy Simpson, Geoff West, Dwayne Catalano,  Lani Welch, Jerry White, Bonnie Belle, Larry Crowder, Mary Dzuris, Serenity Richardson, Cody Richardson, Larry Dixon, Lisa Dixon, Judith Kawanabe, Anika Kawanabe, Tom Burke, Delores Burke, Terry Hammond, Susan Robinson, Jay Robinson. Also, Linda Reynolds-guest RG County, Julie Gritz-guest El Paso County, Ernie Rivale-guest RG County, Eunice Rivale-guest RG County, Richard Pasco-guest Saguache County, Sandra Pasco-guest Saguache County, In addition: Robert Willett-12th Judicial District DA candidate; Arlan Van Ry-Alamosa County District 2 Commissioner candidate; Tom Maestas-Alamosa County District 2 Commissioner candidate; Carol Riggenbach-House District 62 candidate; Ryan Williams-House District 62 candidate; and Joe Dzuris-Write-in candidate for Alamosa County Coroner.  Thus, making a total of 65 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for May 17, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier with copies available at today’s meeting.  With a motion and seconded by Jerry and Janet, the minutes were approved.                                                                                                                  

Treasurer Report:  In John’s absence, there was no treasurer’s report.  Cheryl did state that the Lincoln Day Dinner added a significant amount to our Alamosa Republican account.

Vice-Chair Report: We will participate in the Alamosa 4th of July parade.  We will have a trailer for signage, cars, and walkers in the parade.  Please help by bringing bags of candy plus we will hand out our red, white and blue beads.    The Pioneer Days parade will be in Manassa on July 16th with MV Stampede parade will be July 23rd.  More information will be coming with details for those parades. Please call Denise for further information.

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                     -Michael Yohn---County Commissioner: The Denver Air Connection with a 30-50 passenger jet service is now operating and doing well.  Michael also stated that he was glad to see Tom and Arlan, both candidates for the Alamosa District 2 commissioner seat, have been attending the commissioner’s meetings.

Sandra Hostetter---County Assessor: The office is doing well.  They are in the process of new personal property values.  In 2023, revaluation of property values will be conducted.

Amy McKinley---County Treasurer:  Collection of property taxes is ongoing with 78.87% completed.  Still receiving credit card for payments with $150,000 paid with credit cards in May.  Also, there has been an increase in foreclosures statewide. 

StepUp Committee Report:

Terry Hammond---Recall Payne Committee:  The recall petitions are in the Secretary of State’s office to have each signature validated.  When completed and the petitions are recognized as “sufficient,” the present DA Payne has five days to rebut the recall.  Then the governor has 60 days to call for the special election to recall Payne as the 12th Judicial District DA. The Payne recall required 3996 validated signatures out of 5924 petition signatures submitted. A former 12th Judicial District DA Robert Willett has stepped forward as the only candidate for the position.  His name will be included on the recall ballot as a candidate in the case of a successful recall of Alonzo Payne.

Janet Yohn---Veteran Memorial Committeeperson:  Janet spoke of the Veteran Memorial that is to be located on the south edge of Alamosa by the Alamosa County Annex which houses several county offices.  They are in the process of raising money to finance the endeavor.

Chair Cheryl---Voter Integrity:  She reported that the Dinesh D’Souza documentary, “2000 Mules” was shown June 17th, Thursday evening, at Society Hall at 6:30.  It will be shown in other Valley towns, and we plan to have other viewings here in Alamosa possibly once each month.  Watch for coming announcements and invite friends to join you.

Also, there was an error in the election directions sheet included in the ballot envelop.  It instructed voters to “include a copy of your ID…and if not, your vote would not be counted.” The County Clerk admitted this was done in error and was an incorrect statement.  A letter was to be sent to all Alamosa County voters to disregard those directions.

Old Business:

The sustainability of the Alamosa GOP was again reiterated by Chair Cheryl.  Our Alamosa GOP must be sustained by our “1776 monthly donation,” and other fundraisers and donations.  We can promote our candidates and our conservative and constitutional values in order to aid in the preservation of our Republic.

Chair Cheryl adjourned the business portion of our June monthly meeting at 6:30 pm.

Candidates were then given an opportunity to present themselves to the audience.

Unopposed incumbent candidates present at this June meeting were first given an opportunity to once again introduce themselves to the group.  Sandra Hostettler, County Assessor, introduced her candidacy, as well as Amy McKinley, County Treasurer.  Both asked for the support of the Alamosa Republican party members.

Chair Cheryl informed the group that due to a planned trip to Mexico, Mari Felix, Alamosa Clerk/Recorder candidate, was not able to attend this month’s meeting.

Terry Hammond, area campaign manager for Tina Peters, announced to the meeting of Tina’s candidacy for Colorado Secretary of State.  She spoke of Tina’s aim to clean up the voter rolls in Colorado.  She asked for your vote for Secretary of State candidate, Tina Peters.

Joe Dzuris---Alamosa County Coroner candidate:  Joe seeks support for the Coroner office as a write-in candidate.  He asks for our support and remember to use the correct spelling of Joe’s name when completing your ballot.  Joe asked for our vote in the coming election.

Robert Willett---Robert is a candidate for the 12th Judicial District DA position in the coming recall election.  In the case that Alonzo Payne is successfully recalled in the coming special election [yet to be announced], Mr. Willett’s name will be on the same ballot to be a candidate for the newly vacated District Attorney’s seat.  He spoke of his background in the judicial arena, his past experience in the 12th Judicial District position, and his desire to be elected to that position again.  He then entertained a Q & A session with the audience.

Contested races were given the opportunity to introduce themselves to the audience and then audience questions were asked with each candidate responding.

Tom Maestas---Alamosa County Commissioner District 2 candidate: Tom told of his Alpine Electrical Contractor business of 25 years.  He has experience in construction, contracts and permitting in the building industry.  He asked for the vote of the GOP in his bid for commissioner.

Arlan Van Ry---Alamosa County Commissioner District 2 candidate:  Arlan stated his experience in local government on the Alamosa School Board as well as his involvement with his family construction company in Alamosa for many years.  He also asks for the vote for his candidacy for county commissioner.

The audience then asked questions of the two commissioner candidates with each responding.

Ryan Williams---CO House District 62 candidate:  Presented his candidacy plus his qualifications and strengths to be a candidate for the Colorado House District 62 seat.

Carol Riggenbach---CO House District 62 candidate: Presented her candidacy plus her qualifications and strengths to be a candidate for the Colorado House District 62 seat.

The audience then asked questions and made comments to the two candidates for the House District 62 seat. 

New Business:

Our 2022 Watch Party will be held at St Ives on Tuesday, June 28th from 7 to 9 o’clock.  Hors d’oeuvres will be served during the evening.  A large screen TV will allow the election results to be viewed.  Also, we will be zoomed into the watch party in MV at the Rain Brews.

San Luis Valley Republican Women meet the first Thursday of each month at 12:00 pm at Juanito’s.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be July 19th at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.                                                                       Meeting Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 7:50 by the Chair.

                                                                                              Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP

  Minutes for Alamosa Republicans

May 17, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on May 17, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:40 p.m.    Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Brother Bob VanIwaarden of the Alamosa Christian Reformed Church in Waverly.                    

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.                                                          

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Mike Yohn, County Commissioner Lori Laske, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Janet Yohn, Alan McFadden, David Von Mills, Elaine Goodwin, Vella Owens, Andrea Malouff, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Lani Welch, Jerry White, Mary Dzuris, Larry Dixon, Tom Burke, Delores Burke, Terry Hammond, Jasmine Felix, Dennis O’Dowd, plus Mari Felix-Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder candidate; Arlan Van Ry-Alamosa County District 2 Commissioner candidate; Tom Maestas-Alamosa County District 2 Commissioner candidate; and Joe Dzuris-Write-in candidate for Alamosa County Coroner, thus making a total of 28 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for April 19, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier.  With a motion and seconded by Tom and Terry, the minutes were approved.                                                                                                                  

Treasurer Report: In John’s absence, there was no treasurer’s report.

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                     -Michael Yohn and Lori Laske---County Commissioners:  Business as usual at the commissioner’s office.  Landscaping is being done at the Annex.  With the 6 North $20M repaving project ongoing, there may be closures at times.  Emergency vehicles will still be able to use 6 North.  Beginning June 8th, the new replacement air service to Alamosa will be Denver Air Connection with a 30-50 passenger jet service with 12 flights weekly at a cost of 5M per year.  A rental car concessionaire at the Alamosa Airport will soon be available from a rental company from La Junta. The county has concern for uptick in covid cases.  A reminder that County Commissioners do meet the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.  There is quite a bit of county road work occurring around the county. A new Veteran’s Memorial on south Hwy 285 will soon be erected with an 8-foot serviceman holding a child.  The commissioners gave congratulations to the SLV GOP for the successful Lincoln Day Dinner.    

StepUp Committee Report:

Terry Hammond---Payne Recall Committee:  At the present time we have 4556 recall signatures with the goal over 6000 desired.  The final day of collections and return of petitions will be May 23rd.  Terry introduced her daughter, Lani Welsh, who has been at the forefront of the recall drive.  She thanked everyone for their help and strongly stated that this was a nonpartisan effort throughout Judicial District 12, encompassing all six San Luis Valley counties.

Time was given to several GOP members presenting their review of the Lincoln Day Dinner held May 14th at Ski Hi Complex in Monte Vista.  Many favorable comments were expressed, and we will surely see the value of the joint effort of all six counties in making this event memorable and effective in the coming 2022 Primary and General elections.  A big “Thank You” to all who had a part in making this GOP Valley event a success.

Old Business:

The sustainability of the Alamosa GOP was again reiterated by Chair Cheryl.  The introduction of WinRed as another way to give financial support to the conservative arm of the GOP efforts.  Please see Cheryl or John for more details.

Candidates present at this May meeting were given an opportunity to once again introduce themselves to the group.

Mari Felix---Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder candidate is asking for your support.  She is putting up campaign signs around the county.  She is receiving supportive calls and is available to speak of her candidacy.

Tom Maestas---Alamosa County Commissioner District 2 candidate spoke of his family and 35-year marriage before telling of his Alpine Electrical Contractor business of 25 years.  He has experience in construction, contracts and permitting in the building industry.  He asked for the support of the GOP in his bid for commissioner.

Arlan Van Ry---Alamosa County Commissioner District 2 candidate stated his experience in local government on the Alamosa School Board as well as his involvement with his family construction company in Alamosa for many years.  He also asks for the support of his candidacy for county commissioner.

Mike Yohn spoke to the districting of Alamosa County commissioner seats.  We have 3 districts, and a candidate must live in their respective district to be a candidate for that district but voting by the electorate is “at large” voting.  Everyone votes for commissioner(s) regardless of where the voter may live.

Joe Dzuris---Alamosa County Coroner candidate seeks support for the Coroner office as a write-in candidate.  He asks for our support and there must be a concerted effort for all voters to have the correct spelling of Joe’s name.  To be accepted as a legal vote, the precise spelling of the candidate’s name must be clearly hand-written on the Primary ballot. 

New Business:

San Luis Valley Republican Women meet the first Thursday of each month at 12:00 pm at Juanito’s.

June 3-4th will be Alamosa’s “SummerFest 2022.”  Being an All-Valley event, we will have 2 booths for meeting the public and promoting the candidacy of any and all GOP candidates.  A signup will be passed around for anyone interested in helping during the 2-day event.  Call Cheryl if you can help in manning the booths.

Our annual July 4th Day Parade will be observed in Alamosa.  Interested GOPers are encouraged to participate as a rider on our trailer-float, be a walker passing out candy, drive your automobile or 4-wheeler, ride a bicycle…any way you want to be involved… you are invited to join us!

For those who have joined the “1776” Alamosa GOP fund plan, we have changed our financial institution from First Southwest to SLV Federal Bank.  You must get our bank account number and routing number so transactions can be properly completed each month.  Please call or see Gary for those numbers.

A 3-minute video of “the ISMS” that pervade our world today was presented by journalist John Stossel.  Also, a new video by Dinesh D’Souza titled “2000 Mules” is available on Rumble exposing the fraud of the 2020 nationwide elections.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be June 21st at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                          Meeting Adjournment:  The meeting was adjourned at 6:50 by the Chair.

                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

                                  April 19, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on April 19, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:49 p.m.   Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Chester Jones of the Calvary Bible Chapel in Alamosa.                    

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.                                                          

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Mike Yohn, County Assessor Sandra Hostetter, County Treasurer Amy McKinley, Alamosa School Board President Heidi Richardson, Alamosa City Council President Ty Coleman, Carol VanIwaarden, Elaine Goodwin, Janet Yohn,  Vella Owens, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Alan McFadden, Greg Bervig, Cindy Bervig, Jerry White, Jay Robinson, Susan Robinson, Mary Dzuris, Bonnie Belle, Chrystal Summers, Hunter Jack, Larry Crowder, Cheri Crowder, Phillip Pautler, Mareea Pautler, Pastor Chester Jones, Larry Dixon, Tom Burke, Delores Burke, Larry Brown, Ruthie Brown, Terry Hammond, Dennis O’Dowd, Andreas Maes, plus Mari Felix-Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder candidate; Arlan Van Ry-Alamosa County District 2 Commissioner candidate; Tom Maestas-Alamosa County District 2 Commissioner candidate; Joe Dzuris-Write-in candidate for Alamosa County Coroner; Carol Riggenbach- Colorado House 62 candidate; plus guest(s)Ronnie Vigil and Bill Lamphere-Rio Grande County thus making a total of 44 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for March 15, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier.  With a motion and seconded by Doris and Cindy, the minutes were approved.                                                                                                                   

Treasurer Report: In John’s absence, there was no treasurer’s report.

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                     -

Michael Yohn---County Commissioner:  Business as usual at the commissioner’s office.  The 6 North $20M repaving is progressing.  There may be closures at times.  The pursuit of a replacement air service to Alamosa is taking place with Denver Air Jet Service a very appealing alternative.  The SLV commissioners will meet on Monday in Alamosa.  The county is needing employees.  The county website will list the information for the opening positions.

Sandra Hostetter---County Assessor: The Assessor’s office is conducting business as usual also.  There are more new constructions than in the past.  They are also seeking fulltime employees and the county website will list the openings.

Amy McKinley---County Treasurer:  This is the month of big tax collections, since April 29th the total property tax is due.  Alamosa County received the Homestead payment of $408,000 which was approved by the state appropriations committee.  At this date, collections are at 36%.  People are paying with credit cards with $106,00 paid as of this year compared to $82,000 last year.

Ty Coleman---Alamosa City Council President:  Ty began by leading the group with a verse of “If You’re Happy and You Know It.”  He reminded us that there are many moving parts to the management of a city and/or county.  There is a plan to recoat Main Street and remarking to solve the lane confusion for drivers.  An effort to slow traffic on Main is being affected with new signage and double fines for violators.  Also, flashing pedestrian crossings will be installed on San Juan Street.  There will be an educational phase for enforcing the 25 MPH for drivers on Main and 6th Streets prior to their enforcement. The State Street project is progressing even though a buried tank was discovered, unknown to the city workers.  The city is working on ways to promote parks and bikes and walkers.  The city has 21 miles of trails and more portable eating seating on main is being constructed. Terry Hammond has spearheaded the recall effort of DA Alonzo Payne with the city now leading the drive.  Petitions will available tomorrow, Wednesday, April 16th. Ty encouraged the group to get involved in the electoral process and to call him with any concerns you may have.  He ended by stating…VOTE, VOTE, VOTE…your vote does matter.

StepUp Committee Report:                                                                                                                                                                  

Sue Robinson---Sue reports that during the past months she has informed us of “What Does It Mean To Be Conservative.”  She recommended Bill Bennett’s latest book, “American the Strong” with five points in the book labeled as the F-L-I-N-T factors.  They are:  Free Enterprise, Limited Government, Individual Liberties, National Defense, and Traditional Values.  She recommended a talk show on Denver radio station KNUS from 9-10 am featuring George Brauchler, a former Republican Denver district attorney.  She also suggested a Podcast with George Brauchler and Mike Fields from the Advance Colorado Rundown organization on current legislative action.  Another recommendation is a Podcast by Dennis Prager on Tuesday featuring Julie Hartman, a Harvard grad who has transformed her liberal values to a very conservative stance. In addition, Daily Wire/Townhall has YouTube presentations that are worth watching.

Heidi Richardson---The primary issue of the Alamosa School District is the possible adoption of the “4-day week.”  The community has been surveyed with a large majority favoring the change.  Issue to be addressed is the structuring of the school year to meet state 1080 hours of instructional time.  Parents are also faced with childcare on the no-school schedule for Fridays.  Bus drivers and food service workers are affected by the loss of one day of work.  Also, the Alamosa Education Association need be involved in a contract involving the new hours.  This will not take place until the 2023-24 schoolyear.

Alan McFadden---A reminder that April 18th is Patriots Day which commemorates some of the first battles of the American Revolutionary War.  Alan asked for volunteers that want to engage in strategies to inform the voters the constitutional conservative ideals that we stand for.  This is the most important election of our lifetime.

Tom Burke---Being a voting delegate at the State Assembly was rewarding and very exciting.  Seeing 5000 or so delegates and alternatives all together is quite a sight highlighted by the patriotic atmosphere.  He stated he would like to be able to attend again.

Bonnie Bell---Bonnie would like to start up a conservative newspaper in the Valley like the San de Cristo Sentinel published in Westcliffe.  The challenge now is to find someone capable and willing to print the paper.  She has included Mareea to help with the project.  She asked for anyone with the right connections to contact her.

Old Business:

Our annual SLV GOP Lincoln Day Dinner will be held on May 14th at the Ski Hi Complex in Monte Vista.  This is a primary fundraiser for our county GOP committees.  The meal ticket is $50 with the VIP (including meal) is $75.  The LDD tickets can be paid by credit card with a 4% fee.  The 5:00 pm VIP gathering will be held at the Rain Brews on Adams Street and Hwy 160 with the meal/program beginning at 6:30 pm.  The SLV Republican Women will have a table of sale goods.  We will allow petitions to be available for signing at the dinner.  Our CD3 Rep, Lauren Boebert, will be the guest speaker.  In addition, State Senator Cleave Simpson; gubernatorial candidates, Greg Lopez and Heidi Gahnal; U.S. Senatorial candidates, Ron Hanks and Joe O’Dea; Secretary of State candidates, Tina Peters and Mike O’Donnell; State Board of Education candidate Dan Maloit; and State House 62 candidates, Carol Riggenbach and Ryan Williams will be given a few minutes to introduce themselves to the dinner guests.                                                                                                                                                                                         

New Business:

Cheryl listed the candidates we will be voting on in the June 28th Republican primary.  County Treasurer, Amy McKinley; County Assessor, Sandra Hostetter; County Clerk/Recorder, Mari Felix; Alamosa County Commissioner Dist. 2, Tom Maestas and Arlan Van Ry; State House 62, Carol Riggenbach and Ryan Williams; Governor, Greg Lopez and Heidi Gahnal; Colorado Secretary of State, Tina Peters, Mike O’Donnell and Pam Anderson; Colorado Congressional District 3, Lauren Boeberet and Don Coram; U.S. Senate, Ron Hanks and Joe O’Dea.   

Gary recalled the State Assembly CD3 voting for Lauren Boebert versus Marina Zimmerman.  Also, he gave a report of the event at our County Assembly where we did not have a candidate for County Coroner.  We have had Joe Dzuris come forward interested in the coroner’s office.  He has had to complete paperwork, background check and fingerprinting to become eligible to be a write-in candidate for the Primary Election on June 28th.  We will support Joe by a write-in vote with the exact spelling of his name.

The recall of DA Alonzo Paine was detailed by Terry by the reading of the petition statement of the reason for the recall.  Please contact City Hall or Terry to receive petitions for circulation for signatures.  The recall drive is allowed 60 days from today, April 19th.  There must be 3996 verified signatures to further the recall.  Six thousand is the goal and Terry believes 10,000 are possible from the 12th Judicial District which includes all Valley counties.

A motion and second by Cindy and Mari to allow the Alamosa Republicans to submit a letter to the Valley Courier supporting the recall of the DA Payne.  Motion was approved unanimously.                                                                                                                                                                                           

San Luis Valley Republican Women meet the first Thursday of each month at 12:00 pm at Juanito’s.

The direction of the new GOP is the emphasis on “constitutional conservativism.”

For those who have joined the “1776” Alamosa GOP fund plan, we have changed our financial institution from First Southwest to SLV Federal Bank.  You must get our bank account number and routing number so transactions can be properly completed each month.  Please call or see Gary for those numbers.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be May 15th at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                         

 Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned at 6:41 by the Chair.

Meet the Candidates:                                                                                                                                                                             

Joe Dzuris introduced himself to the Alamosa Republicans and expressed his desire to run as a write-in candidate.  He is a member of the Mosca Fire Department and has EMT training.  He asks for your support of his candidacy.

Mari Felix made a brief statement of her desire to become the Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder.  She asks for your support.

Carol Riggenbach presented her candidacy for State House 62 seat.  She listed her background and desire to become the representative for the Valley in HD62.  Since 3 votes out of 8 total district votes are from Pueblo, she has been supported by Steve Rodriquez, a past candidate, and has proven to be a help in campaigning in the Pueblo area.

The April GOP monthly meeting was adjourned at 7:26.

                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of Alamosa GOP

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS  

    March 15, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on March 15, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:30 p.m.     Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, and Secretary Gary Goodwin.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Michael Dominguez of the River of Life Church in Alamosa.               

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.                                                          

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Lori Laske, County Commissioner Vern Heersink, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Elaine Goodwin, Vella Owens, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Frank Peek, Jerry White, Jay Robinson, Susan Robinson, Bonnie Belle, Hunter Jack, Larry Crowder, Phillip Pautler, Mareen Pautler, Pastor Michael Dominguez, Larry Dixon, Tom Burke, Andrea Malouff, Linda Custer, Terry Hammond, Dennis O’Dowd, Lance O’Dowd, Martin Felix, Ron Rivale; plus Mari Felix-Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder candidate; Arlan Van Ry-Alamosa County District 2 Commissioner candidate; and guests Marina Zimmerman-Congregational District 3 candidate and Wes Zimmerman-Archuleta County; thus making a total of 34 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for February 15, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier.  With a motion and seconded by Terry and Tom, the minutes were approved.                                                                                                                  

Treasurer Report: In John’s absence, there was no treasurer’s report.

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                      

Lori Laske & Vern Heersink-County Commissioners:  With the withdrawal of SkyWest air service between Denver-Alamosa, the county commissioners are in search of a replacement air service.  Both Denver Air Connection and Boutique Air have expressed an interest in being the new air service to Alamosa.  It was cited that many property taxes are being paid by credit card.  This is legislation time in Denver and of great interest to our county commissioners.  It was noted that our House Rep Donald Valdez voted yea on the HB1279 Reproductive Health Equity Act which will proceed to the State Senate for their vote.  Some counties are considering a “Harbor Sanctuary” for the unborn.  The Commissioners are staying on top of the actions of the RWR trying to move our water to Douglas County.  The CCI state organization helps our commissioners to be aware of any legislative action that have a physical impact to our county.  

StepUp Committee Report:                                                                                                                                                                  

Sue Robinson---Sue reports that during the past months she has informed us of “What Does It Mean To Be Conservative.”  She recommended Bill Bennett’s latest book with five points in the book labeled as the F-L-I-N-T factors.  They are:  Free Enterprise, Limited Government, Individual Liberties, National Defense, and Traditional Values.  Her comment on National Defense was that Obama allowed China and Russia to enlarge their military while he downsized our military. She recommended a talk show on Denver radio station KNUS from 9-10 am featuring George Brauchler, a former Republican Denver district attorney.  She also suggested a Podcast with George Brauchler and Mike Fields from the Advance Colorado Rundown organization on current legislative action.  The Jefferson District School Principals have decided to eliminate the Valedictorian honor at high school graduations.  Interesting to see how students and parents react to this action.  Sue also recommended a good reading of Viktor Frankl’s book, Man’s Search for Meaning, based on his gruesome experience of Auschwitz and what the primary purpose of life was for him and others who survived this atrocity. 

Jerry White---Jerry gave a spiel of the real and bold news presented by the Epoch Times, which reports important news other media ignore.  It presents clear, fact-base journalism without spin or hidden agendas.  A sample copy is available on the back table, and/or you can subscribe any time for your personal weekly copy.

Old Business:                                                                                                                                                                                            An update from our March 1st Caucus meeting.  New Precinct Chairs and Co-Chairs were chosen in each precinct meeting.  Also, a designated number of delegates to the March 22nd County Assembly were chosen from each precinct by those desiring to be a voting delegate.  The duty at the County Assembly, is to vote for county candidates who must receive 30% of the votes to be eligible for placement on the June 28th Primary Election ballot.  You must be a County Assembly delegate in order to become a State Delegate whose selection will be at the County Assembly on March 22nd.                                                                                                                                                                                               

New Business:                                                                                                                                                                                         The Alamosa County Assembly will be held at the Alamosa County Commissioner’s building at 8900-A Independence Way.  Registration will begin at 6:00 pm with the meeting to commence at 7:00 pm.  Voting will be for the county offices of County Clerk/Recorder, County Treasurer, County Assessor, County Surveyor, County Coroner plus County Commissioner District 2.  Also, the last order of business will be the election of delegates and alternates to the State Assembly on April 8-9th.  Also, a straw poll of state candidates will be conducted.                                                               The Colorado Republican State Assembly will begin in Colorado Springs at the Double Tree Hotel on Friday, April 8th, with a scheduled session voting for Congressional District 3 candidate(s) to be placed on the Primary ballot.  In addition, another scheduled session will be conducted for balloting of House District 62 candidate(s) for their placement on the Primary Ballot.  Each candidate must receive 30% of the vote to be placed on the June 28th Primary Ballot.  Those petitioning onto the June Primary must have presented their petitions to the Secretary States office for perusal and acceptance for placement onto the ballot.                                                                                                                                                                

On April 9th, the State Assembly, of some 5000 delegates, will meet at the Broadmoor World Arena for selecting ballot candidates for State Executive offices (i.e., Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, Attorney General, Colorado Board of Education, and University of Colorado Regents).                                                                                                               The cost for badges required of voting delegates at the State Assembly is $60 for delegates and $45 for alternates.  The Alamosa GOP will pay ½ of the badge fee this year.                                                                                                                                                                 

Save the Date: May 14th is the date for our annual SLV GOP Lincoln Day Dinner at the newly built Ski Hi Complex.  $50 general admission and $75 VIP tickets will be available soon.

San Luis Valley Republican Women meet the first Thursday of each month at 12:00 pm at Juanito’s.

The direction of the new GOP is the emphasis on “constitutional conservativism.”

For those who have joined the “1776” Alamosa GOP fund plan, we have changed our financial institution from First Southwest to SLV Federal Bank.  You need to get our bank account number and routing number so transactions can be completed each month.  Please call or see Gary for those numbers.

We are glad to report that the Alamosa City Council has joined in the recall of the Valley District Attorney, Alonzo Payne, by contributing $10,000 to the cause.                                                                                         

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be April 19th at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.                                                                                                 Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned at 6:25 by the Chair.

Listing of two of our local candidates making presentations with a Q&A following:

Mari Felix- candidate for Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder; and                                                                              

 Arlan Van Ry- candidate for Alamosa County Commissioner District 2.                                                                                                                                                                                                            

                   Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Sec of Alamosa GOP                                                                                                                                                                                                            

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

 February 15, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on February 15, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:36 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                               Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, and Secretary Gary Goodwin.

 Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Brad Hance of the San Luis Valley Baptist Church in Alamosa.

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.                                                          

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Michael Yohn, County Treasurer Amy McKinley, County Assessor Sandra Hostetter, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Greg Bervig, Cindy Bervig, Janet Yohn, Cathy Simpson, Vella Owens, Alan McFadden, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Heide Richardson,  Larry Richardson, Jerry White, Susan Robinson, Daisy Ortega, John Bradshaw, Bonnie Belle, Darius Allen, Larry Brown, Ruthie Brown, Larry Crowder, Phillip Pautler, Mareen Pautler, Mario Linares, Doris Erskine, Pastor Brad Hance, Larry Dixon, Tom Burke, Delores Burke, Andrea Malouff, Jim Defee, Erma Defee, Linda Custer, Larry Crowder, Terry Hammond,  Lance O’Dowd, Martin Felix, Jasmine Felix,   plus guests: Daryl Moore-Costilla County Chair; Cindy Moore-Costilla County; Carol Riggenbach-Colorado House District 62 candidate; Bill Lamphere-Rio Grande County; Mari Felix-Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder candidate; Mike O’Donnell-Colorado Secretary of State candidate; Gigi Dennis-Rio Grande County; Lois Trenholm-Conejos County; Naomi Trenholm-Conejos County; Ron Erickson-Huerfano County; making a total of 54 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for January 18, 2022, were presented by online email sent earlier.  With a motion and seconded by Terry and Tom, the minutes were approved.

Treasurer Report: In John’s absence, Cheryl reported $30,517 for 2021 income with $17,756 expenses leaving a $12,761 net balance.  After December expenses, our balance today is $11,172.  Cheryl announced that the Alamosa GOP were needing to move their checking account to another financial institution.  With a motion and second by Bob and Jerry to approve the move to another financial institution, the motion passed.  John will report the details of the move next month.

Vice-Chair Report: Denise announced the Alamosa Republican Caucus will be held March 1st at Alamosa HS.  The Alamosa Republican County Assembly will be held March 22nd in the County Commissioner’s Room at 8900 Independence Building A.  The Caucus and County Assembly will begin at 7:00 pm with registration to begin at 6:00 pm.

Secretary Report:  Due to changing our banking account from First Southwest Bank to SLV Fed Bank, members participating in the “1776” fundraiser will need to get our new account number as well as the routing number of SLV Federal and report the change to your financial institution.  Everyone is invited to join an internet streaming forum titled “Voter Integrity” on Saturday from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm.  The website invitation will be sent to all Alamosa GOP Wednesday morning.

Social Media Report:  In the absence of Mark, Cheryl stated the new website is up and running.  The new website is listed on the Resource Sheet and can be found at http://wwwalamosarepublicans.org.

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                   Cathy Simpson for Cleave Simpson-State Senator District 6: Cathy stated that Cleave is involved in state water issues.  The RWR organization is making plans to move our SLV water to the Douglas County area for growth needs.  The Douglas County Commissioners will be in the Valley on April 26th.  Further details will be forthcoming.  Cleave has also done traveling in his district which ranges from La Vita Pass to the Utah border of SW Colorado.

Mike Yohn-County Commissioners:  The Alamosa County Commissioners have introduced a letter in support of the SLV water and against the Renewable Water Resources organization with plans to buy and move SLV water to the front range.  The Alamosa Commissioners will be visiting with the CCI (Colorado Counties, Inc) group in Denver to review possible bills introduced to the state legislature affecting our county.  Redistricting in Alamosa County is ongoing for the next election cycle, to be completed by February 28th. 

Sandra Hostettler-County Assessor:  The Assessor’s office is reviewing new construction in the county.  Their audit report was received with a favorable review.  The Senior Exemption for property tax was presented as a definite advantage for any person over 65 and having lived in their primary home for at least 10 years.

Amy McKinley, County Treasurer:   This is a busy time of year collecting property taxes.  Past notices of taxes are presently being sent out.  Of interest is the number of taxes being paid by credit card.  In 2020, 46M was paid with a credit card.  2021 saw 84M paid by card and 2022 received 146M on a card.  It seems times have changed in how people do business.  This has resulted in the elimination of one half-time position in the Treasurer’s Office.

StepUp Committee Report:

Sue Robinson---Sue wants to give a listing of “talking points” to help in visiting friends and family regarding the issues of the day.  Good information regarding issues of the day can be found on PragerU by registering as a user and password.  We must be concerned about protecting the First, Second and Fourth Amendments.

Heidi Richardson---As the President of the Alamosa School Board, Heidi reviewed the resolution introduced and passed by the school board removing mask requirements as well as making quarantines optional for parents.  The School board is determining where to best spend a $4.3 million federal grant provided due to the Covid pandemic.  Possible projects include: an upgrade of ventilation systems in district buildings and air conditioning in all buildings.  A BEST grant of 10M would complete the projects with the district responsible for 24% of the total project.  A state approval will be known by April.  Another possible project is revival of the Alamosa Alternate School as well and an in-school day care for staff.  A possible location is the “Right of Passage” building [next to county jail] to house the alternate school and the District Administration on that site and using the present Admin Building housing the Preschool mandated by state law for 2023.  Lastly, a survey was taken for instituting a 4-day week.  Eighty-four percent of respondents were favorable and could possibly be instituted for the 2023-24 school year.

Ron Erickson offered a concealed carry class tomorrow night, February 16th.  The cost would be $45.  

Old Business:                                                                                                                                                                                               Cheryl spoke of the GOP being recognized as “Government of the People.”  The cost of vying for public office is expensive and everyone is encouraged to participate by donating to our Alamosa GOP funds.  There is a scheduled “Training for a Caucus” to be offered February 17th at 7 o’clock.

New Business:                                                                                                                                                                                       An announcement for our annual SLV GOP Lincoln Day Dinner was made for May 14th at the newly built SLV Ski complex.  Additional information will be forthcoming.

*San Luis Valley Republican Women meet the first Thursday of each month at 12:00 pm at Juanito’s.                                                    *A Caucus Training will be held online for anyone interested in the workings of a caucus on Feb 17th.                                  *The Alamosa Republican Caucus will be held on March 1st at 7:00 pm.  Location to be announced.                                              *The Alamosa Republican County Assembly will be held March 22nd at 7:00 pm at the Alamosa County .Commissioner’s Chambers.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be March 15th at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                              

Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned at 6:17 by the Chair.

We then heard from local, state and national candidates, either in person, letter read by representative, or by a short video statement.

Listing of those making presentations: Amy McKinley-incumbent candidate for Alamosa County Treasurer; Sandra Hostetter-incumbent candidate for Alamosa County Assessor; Mari Felix-candidate for Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder; Arlan Van Ry-candidate for Alamosa County Commissioner District 2; Coral Rigginbach-candidate for State House District 62; Mike O’Donnell-candidate for Colorado Secretary of State; Pam Anderson-candidate for Colorado Secretary of State; Greg Lopez-candidate for Colorado Governor; Danielle Neuschwanger-candidate for Colorado Governor; Ron Hanks-candidate for Colorado U.S. Senator; Eli Bremer-candidate for Colorado U.S. Senator; Geno Campana-candidate for Colorado U.S. Senator; and Heidi Ganahl-candidate for Colorado Governor.

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of the Alamosa GOP                                                  

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

January 18, 2022

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on January 18, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:47 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                 Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Secretary Gary Goodwin, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, 

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Assoc. Pastor Greg Bervig of the Living Water Bible Fellowship in Alamosa.

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, County Commissioner Lori Laske, County Commissioner Michael Yohn, County Surveyor Dan Russell, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Assoc. Pastor Greg Bervig, Cindy Bervig, Vella Owens, Alan McFadden, Richard Roberts, Doris Roberts, Jerry White, Dathane Jones, Larry Dixon, Tom Burke, Arlan Van Ry, George Malouff Jr, Andrea Malouff, Jim Defee, Erma Defee, Ron Hartmann, Ann Hartmann, Linda Custer and Hunter, Larry Crowder, Terry Hammond,  Lance O’Dowd, Dennis O’Dowd, plus guests: Cathy Garcia and Jay Misany-both Lauren Boebert associates, thus making a total of 33 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for November 16, 2021, were presented by online email sent earlier.  Correction(s) noted were an error in the reporting by Commissioner Yohn regarding the cost of the CR 6N repaving to be $20M instead of $40M.  Also, Treasurer Amy reported that the minutes stated, “more taxes have been collected by the Treasurer’s office than any time before” should have read, “From the tax lien sale there was a record premium overbid collected, more than any year before, but this was a state-wide trend, probably due to the pandemic.” With a motion and seconded by Terry and Larry, the minutes, with noted corrections, were approved.

Treasurer Report: In John’s absence, Cheryl reported $30,517 for 2021 income with $17,756 expenses leaving a $12,761 net balance.  After December expenses, our balance today is $11,172.  Cheryl announced that the Alamosa GOP were needing to move their checking account to another financial institution.  With a motion and second by Bob and Jerry to approve the move to another financial institution, the motion passed.  John will report the details of the move next month.

Vice-Chair Report: Denise announced the Alamosa Republican Caucus will be held March 1st at either Ortega MS or Alamosa HS.  The Alamosa Republican County Assembly will be held March 22nd in the County Commissioner’s Room at 8900 Independence Building A.  The Caucus and County Assembly will begin at 6:00 pm.

Secretary Report:  Gary reported on the December swearing-in ceremony for the four new school board members.  Heidi Richardson was elected Board President; Alan Colvin was elected Vice-President; and Amanda Wilkinson won the Treasurer’s position.  Their first act of business was a resolution to not require masks but let it be optional for all grade levels.  Also included was that quarantines were to be at the option of the parents.

Social Media Report:  In the absence of Mark, Cheryl stated that the new Alamosa GOP website has been launched and encouraged everyone to look at the new website for our county GOP.  The new website is listed on the Resource Sheet and can be found at http://wwwalamosarepublicans.org.

Elected Official’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                   Cathy Garcia, area representative for Lauren Boebert: Cathy was in attendance to greet us and on the road back to Pueblo, having been keeping office hours for Lauren’s regional offices.

Jay Misany, field director for Lauren Boebert:  Jay reported that Lauren is working very hard for Republican candidates in different states for their election to the House of Representatives in the November 8 general election.  He also informed us that Lauren had been invited to join the Freedom Caucus, a group of conservative House representatives, who lobby for the causes of conservative legislative issues.  Lauren has also received a 100% score on the Liberty Score Rating.

Mike Yohn and Lori Laske, County Commissioners:  The Alamosa County budget was presented on December 8th to the County Commissioners, elected officials, and Citizens of Alamosa County.  The 2022 revenue is projected to be $55.9M while $55.4M is budgeted in expenditures.  The 2022 budget projects an increase of $10.45M.  Expenditures have also increased $8.5M.  Alamosa County will receive approximately $1.5M in American Rescue Plan funding.  Also, the Lane 6N repaving project will finally begin in 2022 and expected to be completed by December 31, 2025.  In addition, Sheriff and Deputies are budgeted for $4.5M, Sales tax to Road and Bridge will be $3.5M, and Dept of Human Services is budgeted for $20,787,032 with food assistance at $10,000,000.  The budget was submitted by Roni Wisdom, Alamosa County Controller.                                                                                                                                                                                     Lori stated that Alamosa County is financially sound with thanks to the leadership of Michael Yohn.  There have been 111 bills introduced in the State House and Senate with an expected 700 bills submitted during this legislative session.  The legislation is monitored by CCI (Colorado Counties Inc).  We have named Roni Wisdom as our new County Administrator.                                                                                                                                                                                         Mike announced that after serving 3 terms, he will not be seeking reelection for a fourth term but did introduce Arlan Van Ry, who was in attendance at this month’s meeting.                                                                                                                                                 

Arlan then took the floor and announced his intention to run for Alamosa County Commissioner District 2.

Amy McKinley, County Treasurer:    Being absent from the meeting, Amy asked Denise to read her statement:  "I am sorry I am not able to attend the meeting tonight.  I want to thank the entire GOP for all the support I have been given since my first bid for election in 2018, with all of your help I was able to run a successful campaign and ultimately be elected.  I had big shoes to fill by replacing Lois Widhalm, who ran a great, efficient and effective office, but I feel like I have held up to those standards as well as made a few tweaks to continue the efficiency and effectiveness of the County Treasurer's Office.  My favorite part of serving the community is serving the taxpayers and going above and beyond to assist them in any way I can.  I will be running for re-election, and I hope I can once again have wonderful support from each and every one of you. I hope to be able to see all of you at the next meeting, but if anyone has questions before then please feel free to contact me on my personal email at amymckin70@gmail.com.  Related to the office:  Everything is running smoothly and thanks to the great work of the Assessor's office my office was able to receive the tax roll from the Assessor before the end of December and get the tax notices out by January 6th and we are already seeing a great turn around in receiving payments.  It is a pleasure to work with our county assessor and our county commissioners."

Dan Russell, County Surveyor:  Dan stated that he has not decided whether he will seek reelection as the County Surveyor.

StepUp Committee Report:

Sue Robinson---Sue sent a statement that many people are assuming a more conservative stand and the numbers show that a percentage of democrats are changing their political affiliation to the Republican party.

Larry Dixon---Larry stated that he will decline to lead his “college campus” StepUp position at this time.

Cindy Bervig---Cindy gave a quick update on the Alamosa School happenings.

Ron Hartmann brought up the topic of several states joining a coalition of states totaling 270 electoral votes with each state committing all their delegates to vote for the candidate with a majority of the national popular vote.  There are presently only 13 states out of some 19 needed to enact this unpatriotic action.  Colorado is one of the 13 states.

Jerry White recommended 2 videos available at the Alamosa Library describing the fraud of the 2004 and 2006 elections.

Old Business:                                                                                                                                                                                               Cheryl spoke of the efforts of the Douglas County Commissioners to secure water for their growth developments at the expense of the San Luis Valley water.  A Zoom meeting held today was attended by our three commissioners to better understand the people involved and what their plans are to steal our Valley water.

Presentation of the “1776” Fundraiser again encouraged members to donate $17.76 monthly to the Alamosa GOP by using ACHs. 

New Business:                                                                                                                                                                                           An announcement for our March meeting was made that we will honor all our county first-responders.  Please show support by attending as we recognize our brave and honorable folks who serve our counties’ citizens.

*Greg Lopez will be at the Rain Brews in Monte Vista on Saturday, Jan 22nd at 8:30 am.                                             *Gubitorial and senatorial debate at Society Hall in Alamosa on Monday, Jan 24th at 6:00 pm                                                          *Senatorial debate with 6 candidates at Society Hall in Alamosa on Tuesday, Jan 25th at 6:00 pm.                                              *San Luis Valley Republican Women will meet on Thursday, Feb 3rd at 12:00 pm at Juanito’s                                              *An organizational meeting for all Costilla County Republicans at the Rendezvous BBQ, Fort Garland, Feb 6th at 1:00 pm.     *A Caucus Training will be held online for anyone interested in the workings of a caucus on Feb 17th.                                  *The Alamosa Republican Caucus will be held on March 1st at 6:00 pm.  Location to be announced.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be February 15th at 5:30 pm at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                              

Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned at 6:40 by the Chair.

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of the Alamosa GOP                                                 

                                                  MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS                                       

November 16, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on November 16, 2021. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:43 p.m.   Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. We will first have our business meeting with special guest speaker, Eli Bremer, candidate for Colorado U.S. Senate, to follow. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Secretary Gary Goodwin, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, 

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Assoc. Pastor John Harr of the Living Water Bible Fellowship in Alamosa, Colorado.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, State Senator Cleave Simpson, County Commissioner Lori Laske, County Commissioner Michael Yohn, County Treasurer Amy McKinley, Robert McKinley, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Assoc. Pastor John Harr, Vella Owens, Jerry White, Larry Dixon, Larry Crowder, Elaine Goodwin, Terry Hammond, Arlene Miller, David Mize, Frank Peek, Janet Yohn, Lance O’Dowd, Dennis O’Dowd, plus guests: Stephen Jiron-Valley Courier, Eli Bremer-Colorado U.S. Senatorial Candidate, Riley Scott and Wayne Bromley-both Eli Bremer associates, Cathy Garcia and Clarice Navarro-both Lauren Boebert associates, thus making a total of 29 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for October 12, 2021, were presented by online email sent earlier. With a motion and seconded by Terry and Larry, the minutes were approved.

Treasurer Report: In John’s absence there was no report.

Vice-Chair Report: Denise announced the Alamosa GOP Christmas Party at The Reeds (Alamosa Golf Course) to be held on December 12th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. This will be a “Meet and Greet” with several state-wide candidates present.

Secretary Report:  Gary thanked everyone for their support and help in getting all four conservative school board candidates elected.  The winners were Justin Rilling- District 1, Amanda Wilkinson-District 3, Heidi Richardson-District 6, and Alan Colvin-District 7.  Also, we congratulate Kyle Woodward, having been elected to the Alamosa City Council representing Ward 2.   

Social Media Report:  In the absence of Mark, Cheryl stated that the new Alamosa GOP website will be launched next week.

Elected Official’s Report:

Cathy Garcia, area representative for Lauren Boebert: Cathy reports that Lauren voted against the 1.2 trillion Biden bill and has called out the 13 RINOs for supporting the bill.  She still has sponsored or co-sponsored 21 bills in the House.  Lauren has been appointed to the Leadership committee of the House Freedom Caucus.  She has been traveling on the western slope supporting better forest management. Her most formidable democratic candidate has dropped out due to redistricting boundary changes. Yet, there are still 8-9 democratic candidates for CD3. Our Colorado caucus date was announced as March 1, 2022. Also, Lauren has introduced Articles of Impeachment against Joe Biden, which will see no action in the democratic controlled House. After January 1st, Lauren Boebert’s CD3 Representative’s monthly office hours will be announced for every Valley town.

Cleve Simpson, State Senator: He gave thanks for the opportunity to represent Senate District 35. The state senatorial re-districting brings a change to the area he represents. His new District 6 will encompass the San Luis Valley plus most of southwestern Colorado. He thinks the redistricting plan may cause the Senate to flip red. The coming big concern is the governor’s 2022 budget of 40 billion (for FY 2022-23) compared to last year’s 34 billion budget. The state has hired many new employees during the past two years. The new legislative session will begin in 8 weeks with the governor pushing more gun control, electric cars, and many other liberal causes. 

Mike Yohn and Lori Laske, County Commissioners:  The present issue and commissioner’s work time is being spent on the 2022 budget.  There is a county worker shortage, needing 20 some employees. The aim is to find good people to fill the needed positions. The County Road 6N, $40 million project, will begin after January 1st. There will be a need to replace certain culverts on county roadways. CCI (Colorado Counties, Inc.) helps county commissioners know and better understand possible legislation submitted to the Colorado Legislature and how it affects our county.  Lori remarked of her enjoyment of marching in the Veteran’s Day parade and seeing all the young school students waving handmade signs (Thanking Veterans) and enjoying the moment of honoring our veterans.   

Amy McKinley, County Treasurer:  She is glad to report the annual tax sale held November 1-3 was a success.  This was the lowest number of tax properties to be sold at auction.  There were 236 parcels sold for $203,151.45 to 41 investors.  There have been more taxes collected by the treasurer’s office than any time before.  Amy attended the Colorado State Treasurer’s meeting in October. During the meeting, she was appointed to the Legislation Committee of the State Treasurer’s group. 

StepUp Committee Report:

Arlene Miller---our StepUp Coordinator emphasized the great opportunity we have in getting volunteers to work on active and critical issues facing our community.

Frank Peek---our Voter Integrity Connection is keeping his attention on the Colorado voting process and coming lawsuits.

Sue Robinson---our State Legislative Connection was out of town but left a hand-out regarding “What Does It Mean To Be A Conservative?”  This month was part 1—Free Enterprise, with other topics to be presented in future months.

Larry Dixon---our ASU Connection stated he had connected with a conservative organization, Turning Point USA, founded by Charlie Kirk.  Mr. Kirk is a conservative activist and radio talk show host who serves as its executive director.  He concentrates on rallies on college campuses across America, offering a conservative agenda to college students.  He will follow-up on his contact to entertain a possible campus visit by Charlie Kirk and his Turning Point staff.

Jim Hazzard---our SdC School and Hooper Connection was absent, but it was reported that Stacy Eskew and Lance Curtis were elected to the two SdC School Board At Large seats.

Heidi Richardson---our Alamosa School Connection was at tonight’s school board work session meeting.

Tom Boynton---our Publication Connection was absent but his latest article, “The Democrat call to defund the Police,” was published in the Valley Courier and sent by email to all Alamosa GOP members.

Old Business:   

A Resource Sheet is available for anyone needing information and available GOP resources.

Presentation of the “1776” Fundraiser again encouraged members to donate $17.76 monthly to the Alamosa GOP by using ACHs.  Cleave Simpson stated he is making his monthly donation of $18.76 in honor of our Colorado statehood (in the year 1876).

New Business:

An announcement for our First Annual Christmas Party at the Alamosa Golf Course on Sunday, December 12th from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.  Hors d’oeuvres will be served, with a cash bar available. Currently, we are expecting Greg Lopez and Danielle Neuschwanger, gubernatorial candidates, as well as Eric Aaland, candidate for the U.S. Senate to attend.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be January 18th at 5:30 pm at Juanitos Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.

Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned at 6:27 by the chair with our special speaker to follow.

Postscript:  Our guest speaker was Eli Bremer, declared candidate for the Colorado U.S. Senate in the coming November 8, 2022, election. Eric lives in Colorado Springs, CO with his wife of 18 years, who is a county commissioner in El Paso County. He moved to the Colorado Springs area in 1981 at the age of 3.  His dad was an attorney and his mom an educator.  Growing up, he had animals to tend to, was involved in swimming and played the piano.  At age 17, he was nominated to the Air Force Academy by Ben Nighthorse Campbell, Colorado Representative to CD3.  He attended the AFA graduating with a degree in Economics.  During his studies, he was impressed by the classical book, “Wealth of Nations” by Adam Smith, first published in 1776, as the book offers one of the world's first collected descriptions of what builds nations' wealth and is today a fundamental work in classical economics.  After graduation he was first stationed at Schriever Air Base in Colorado Springs and began an involvement with Olympians at the Olympic Training Center.  As a competitive swimmer, he won medals at the Pan Am Games and World Championship in Beijing, China.  Having qualified for the 2008 Olympic Games, he had an accident and was unable to compete.  He then was enlisted as an associate with NBC network acting as a spotter of celebrity athletes and attended the Olympic Opening and Closing Ceremonies.  In 2009, he was impressed to get involved in government activities in order to make a difference in our world. Subsequently, he was elected to the El Paso County Republican Chair in 2011. He has been active in the Sponsorship of Olympians and aiding with their finances during their training times in Colorado Springs.  He also worked with election committees for President Trump during the 2020 campaign season.  After the 2020 election, he stated that “a fire was ignited within me” with a resulting passion for public service.  So, after declaring for the opening Colorado U.S. Senate seat, he is actively campaigning with the goal of becoming one of our Colorado Senators.

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary of the Alamosa GOP                                                 

                                                          MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS                                          

October 12, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on October 12, 2021. The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:44 p.m.      Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business of this meeting. We will first have our business meeting with special guest speaker, Eric Aadland, candidate for Colorado Senator, to follow. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Treasurer John Adams, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, and Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, 

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Chester Jones, of the Calvary Bible Chapel in Alamosa, Colorado.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd; Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, County Assessor Sandra Hostetter, State Senator Cleave Simpson, County Commissioner Vern Heersink, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Pastor Chester Jones, Kay Jones, Vella Owens, Jerry White, Larry Dixon, Jake Burris, Larry Crowder, Dora Gay Anderson, Elaine Goodwin, Terry Hammond, Sue Robinson, Jay Robinson, Ruben Romero, Irene Romero, Thomas Burke, Delores Burke, Kim Sloan, Arlene Miller, David Mize, Carol Smead, Frank Peek, Janet Yohn, Lance O’Dowd, Dennis O’Dowd, Lee Griffitts, Carolina Rodriguez, Judith Gritz, Richard Gritz, John Moore, Justin Rilling- School Board Candidate, Jennifer Rilling, Heidi Richardson- School Board Candidate, Larry Richardson, Darrel Cooper-City Council Candidate, Amanda Wilkinson- School Board Candidate, George Wilkinson, Donnie Bautista-City Council Candidate, Kyle Woodward-City Council Candidate, Michelle Woodward, plus guests: Trish Slater-RG GOP, Teri Jennings-RG GOP, Mike Cowan-Saguache GOP, Ty Coleman-Alamosa Mayor, Erik Aadland-Colorado Senatorial Candidate, Patrick Davis-Erik Aadland associate, Cathy Garcia-Lauren Boebert associate, thus making a total of 55 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes for September 10th and September 14th of 2021, were presented both by online email sent earlier. With a motion and seconded by David and Jerry, the minutes were approved.

Treasurer Report: Treasurer John, stated the ending checkbook balance was $13,192.36.

Secretary Report:  Gary introduced the School Board Candidates and City Council Candidates present tonight. The task before us is to help get these good conservative people elected. Please talk to friends and relatives how important these races are for our kids. The issues facing our community and especially our schools are critical to our way of life. We are in a war and the battles are before us. In addition, please consider joining our “1776” project by doing a monthly ACH from your bank account to our Alamosa Republican account at First Southwest Bank. The necessary ACH forms are available for anyone desiring to do so.

Social Media Report:  In the absence of Mark, there was no report.

Elected Official’s Report:

Cathy Garcia, area representative for Lauren Boebert: Reports that Lauren has sponsored or co-sponsored some 150 bills to the House of Representatives. She supported the completion of the Doppler weather reporting station as well as presenting legislation to help mitigate disastrous forest fires. A letter was sent on her behalf to the DOJ speaking against the labeling of parents as domestic terrorist. Also, Lauren has introduced Articles of Impeachment against Joe Biden, which has been co-sponsored by several other representatives.

Cleve Simpson, State Senator: He gave thanks to the support he has received. The state senatorial re-districting brings a change to the area he represents. He gave kudos to the school board and council candidates for stepping up and running for office. It is critical for our state to flip the CO Senate and/or CO House in the 2022 election.  A one-party rule is not healthy for our government.

Vern Heersink, County Commissioner:  The present task before the county commissioners is the yearly budget. Trying to fund all areas is a difficult task. He reported that SkyWest Airlines, Alamosa’s Essential Air Service provider, has doubled the enplanements over what was recorded for 2019.

Sandra Hostetter, County Assessor:  She is glad to report she is fully staffed and presently doing certification of properties. New constructions are being visited for assessments. Sales of residential properties are down due to the small inventory of available properties.

Ty Coleman, Alamosa Mayor: He emphasized the importance of work and involvement of all to have a functioning community. It takes many to make it successful. The Downtown is a mess. A solution is now being performed. As stated before, there is a housing shortage. There is a definite need for more affordable housing in our city. An effort is being made to step up support for our law enforcement department. There is a need to recruit officers for the department.

StepUp Committee Report:

Frank Peek, our Voter Integrity Connection, gave a demonstration of the networking in the county clerk’s office, who manages our elections. He illustrated how 25 ballots, having been marked, were first…hand-counted and then put through the tabulating hardware, thus comparing both results. This is done to validate the accuracy of the machines. These machines do the count on election night to determine the local winners as well as transmitting the county totals to the Secretary of State’s office for state-wide tallies. He mentioned other issues that will be addressed in the future.

Sue Robinson, our State Legislative Connection, reported on current state-wide ballot issues. She spoke of Amendment 78, which governs the custodial money from Feds to the state. This amendment requires the legislators, in conjunction with the governor, on how to spend the monies. She suggested a “YES” vote. Proposition 119 creates a program to provide out-of-school learning for children aged 5-17. While the motive is good, it does create another bureaucracy and would be outside the control of the local board of education. Again, she suggested a “NO” vote on this issue. The last Proposition 120 on the ballot is a change to the Colorado Revised Statutes concerning property tax reductions. According to the Blue Book, this does not lower residential property taxes. It will only affect multi-family and lodging properties. Comments from the floor suggested that rural areas will be hurt due to less available funding for essential services (i.e., all emergency services). There was not a consensus of how to vote on 120.

Larry Dixon, our ASU Connection, acknowledged knowing a possible faculty advisor and he sees the need for a time and place allowing conservative students to express their personal views and values without aggravation of the college leftist denying tolerance for all opinions.

In Jim Hazzard’s absence, Carol reported Stacy Eskew, Kristin Lane, and Lance Curtis were candidates for two Sangre de Cristo School Board At Large positions.

Heidi reported the Alamosa School Board mandated masks for grades k-8 for an initial 14 days with a review to follow.

Vella Owens was awarded the Lifetime State GOP award at the Colorado GOP fall meeting in Pueblo on September 18th.   

Old Business:   

A Resource Sheet is available for anyone needing information and available resources.

Declaration of Independence booklets are available with a small donation requested for replacement costs.

Meet Your Neighbor will meet on November 4th at Marty’s Maintenance at 6750 Cramer Rd at 7:00 p.m.

Recall Payne will have a future meeting TBA.

New Business:

Darrel Cooper- Candidate for Alamosa City Council [Ward 2] stated there are many issues facing the city council. The elephant in the room is the driving lanes on Main Street. He expressed a need for affordable housing in Alamosa.

Kyle Woodward- Candidate for Alamosa City Council [Ward 2] asked why is he running for city council? He is a business owner with good food and good service. The Alamosa citizens are like his customers. Providing good service is the task of a councilman. Alamosa needs economic development, utilizing the Industrial Plaza. Clean up the city and deal with the homeless problem.

Donnie Bautista- Candidate for Alamosa City Council [At Large] moved to Alamosa 6 years ago and owns Sand Dune Recreation north of Hooper. He has had 22 employees but presently has 70 workers. He will bring his work ethic to the city council and sees funding law enforcement, housing, and the homeless as primary issues to be addressed.

Justin Rilling- Candidate for Alamosa School Board [District 1] …has been a citizen of Alamosa for 5 years. He is intent on addressing the issues facing the district such as not allowing elementary students in the buildings on cold days and the present masking mandates.

Amanda Wilkinson- Candidate for Alamosa School Board [District 3] …feels the board should present ways to stand up for kids and teachers alike. She will do her best to represent her district on the board.

Heidi Richardson- Candidate for Alamosa School Board [District 6] …is concerned for the education of the students. Teachers and staff are stressed due to having to deal with the covid virus, masking, and quarantining.

Alan Colvin- Candidate for Alamosa School Board [District 7] …was unable to attend our meeting.

The Colorado GOP will list our Council and School Board candidates on their state mailings, with emails to all Republican Party members, supporting their candidacy at the local county level.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting will be November 16th at 5:30 pm at Juanitos Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.

Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned by the chair with our special speaker to follow.

Postscript:  Our guest speaker was Eric Aadland, declared candidate for Colorado Senator in the November 8, 2022, election. Eric lives in Baily, CO and married with three girls. We are seeing the destruction of our economy and family. He says we must rely on the human spirit to empower each of us to defeat the enemy. Our empire has a constitution and our inalienable rights come from God. Yet, power comes from “We the People.”  Our country is having a crisis of ideology and we see it awakening the American people. The Republicans or the right versus left cannot save our country.  The primary problem is that government is not serving the people. Eric is a grad of the Air Force Academy and is a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan. After leaving the military, he entered the energy field for 10 years, spending the last 4 years in Israel on a 300-million-dollar project. Now that Biden has ceded our energy independence, there is a need for a senator with energy background. Our country is the “Shining City on the Hill.”  It seems rural citizens are awakening and are intent on not losing what we once had. They are responding with action as candidates are running to take our country back. Eric believes that running for office is a righteous act. You can’t sit around and do nothing…this requires all to act. The establishment is exploiting, and the media is the pusher of deceit. We must stand up for our constitutional rights. The government mandates and the border situation are wrong. We must take back our government. There is no excuse for letting it go. Our future generations are at stake. Know that it takes money. Candidates of your choice need help. I appreciate your support for my candidacy. You can find Eric at aadlandforcolorado.com. Q & A followed with considerable discussion.  

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary                                     

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

September 14, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on September 14, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:42 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                         Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business at this meeting. We will have our business meeting with special guest speaker, Greg Lopez, candidate for Colorado governor, to follow.  Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, and Gary Goodwin, Secretary. 

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Jeron Parkin, of the Living Water Bible Fellowship, in Alamosa, Colorado.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd; Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon; Secretary Gary Goodwin; Dennis O’Dowd, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Pastor Jeron Parkin, Vella Owens, Jerry White, Larry Dixon, Larry Crowder, Dora Gay Anderson, Elaine Goodwin, Terry Hammond, Sue Robinson, Anna Mae Lindsey, David Lindsey, Thomas Burke, Delores Burke, Ann Hartman, Ron Hartman, David Mize, John Bradshaw, Linda Custer, Frank Peek, Cindy Bervig, Greg Bervig, Julie Gunsaulis, Frank Gunsaulis, Daisy Ortega,  plus guests: Howard Rheinjans, RG GOP; Trish Slater, RG GOP; Jordan Shackelford, ASU student; Joshua Roies, ASU student; and Greg Lopez, Colorado gubernatorial candidate;  thus making a total of 35 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes of August 17, 2021, were presented both by online email sent earlier and a hard copy made available at the meeting.  With a motion and seconded by Terry and Cindy, the minutes were approved.

Treasurer Report:   In the absence of Treasurer John, Chair Cheryl gave the account balance of $12,800.

Secretary Report:  All are urged to join our “1776” project by doing a monthly ACH from your bank account to our Alamosa Republican account at First Southwest Bank.  The necessary ACH forms are available for anyone desiring to help.

Social Media Report:  In the absence of Mark, there was no report.

Elected Official’s Report:  With no elected officials in attendance, no reports given.

StepUp Committee Report:

Sue Robison reported on current state legislation. She made a comparison of the WW2 budget of 4.2 trillion with the current Bernie Sanders proposed 4.2 trillion.  A Wall Street Journal article described the tax increases being suggested.  Bennett is pushing the Child Care Credit with some 80 new programs now in Colorado.  Heritage Foundation has presented 14 concepts of what constitutes a conservative.  An article from Fort Lewis College presented an opinion piece by Bari Weiss, a staff editor and writer of politics at the New York Times.

The issue of voter integrity is in the news and the Arizona audit is reported to be moving forward.  Frank Peek has volunteered to keep us abreast of happenings in our local and state elections.  The State GOP will offer LAT training for voting observation at the polls on October 6th.  Frank cited documentation of Dominion machines being connected to the internet in the Alamosa County Clerk/Recorders office.  It shows after 3:53 a.m. the presidential votes were switched.  The Colorado Secretary of State has ordered Dominion to do a “Trusted Upgrade” to their machines which wipes out all voter data for the 2020 election.  State law requires this data to be retained for two years.  Discussion of the future voting in Alamosa County.  How can Dominion machines be eliminated?  The County Clerk/Recorder would determine whether new vote tabulating machines were to be purchased followed by a request of County Commissioners to allocate the funds.  Many voiced their opinion that the best solution was to return to paper ballots.

Larry Dixon, our ASU Connection, spoke of creating a new focal point for college students with many people waking up to the new reality.  In attendance tonight were interested students, Jordon and Joshua, from Adam State University.  After finding a faculty advisor, a student politically sponsored organization could very well begin functioning at ASU.

Old Business:   

A Resource Sheet is available for anyone needing information and available resources.

Declaration of Independence booklets are available with a small donation requested for replacement costs.

There will be an All-Valley County Commissioner’s meeting on September 27th at 9:30 a.m.

Meet Your Neighbor will meet on October 1st at the Elks Lodge on Hunt and 4th Street at 7:00 p.m.

New Business:  None

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s next monthly meeting is October 12th at 5:30 pm at Juanitos Mexican Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.   

Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned by the chair with our special speaker to follow.

Postscript:  Our guest speaker was Greg Lopez, declared candidate for Colorado Governor in the November 8, 2022 election.  He is a former mayor of Parker, CO at age 27, as he beat his 2 opponents by 33 votes.  He was a democrat until he realized that he believed and lived by Republican values.  He was a member of the Denver Hispanic C of C.  He also served as the Director of Small business Administration of Colorado.  During the pandemic, of 6000 small businesses in Colorado, 30% will not open.  There are 64 counties I will serve, not the 9 in the metro area.  We need a candidate who will connect with all the people.  It is “We the People” not the people bowing but government bowing to the people.  Kids are being taught that America is evil.  The Republican establish may not support his candidacy.  Money is needed to run a campaign.  He will concentrate on the 1.5 million unaffiliated voters with 1.0 million democrats and 980 thousand republicans making up the balance of the voting public.  The Critical Race Theory is absolutely wrong.  His candidacy will focus on Polis and his missteps of No Meat Friday, Initiative 13, Intro of Wolves, and other nonpopular issues. He supports School Choice and Vocational Training.  Small Businesses are a key to our economy and need our support.  Greg asked all to join him in the fight for our state and country.  It is time to make a change and he plans on that becoming a reality as he wins the governorship of Colorado.    

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary                                                 

Minutes for Alamosa County Republicans 

September 10, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on September 10, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 12:06 p.m. Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business at this meeting. We will have our business meeting with special guest speaker, Danielle Neuschwanger, candidate for Colorado governor, to follow. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Cheryl O’Dowd, Chair and Gary Goodwin, Secretary.  Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon and Treasurer John Adams were excused due to illness.

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Richard Adams, of the Hooper Baptist Church, in Hooper, Colorado.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Dennis O’Dowd, Vella Owens, Jerry White, Elaine Goodwin, Terry Hammond, Sue Robinson, Jay Robinson, Alan McFadden, Maria McFadden, Pastor Richard Adams, David Broyles, plus guests: Jon George, Area Representative for Lauren Boebert; Danielle Neuschwanger, candidate for Colorado Governor; Trish Salter, Rio Grande GOP; thus, making a total of 16 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes of August 17, 2021, were presented both by online email sent earlier and a hard copy made available at the meeting.  With a motion and seconded by Sue and Jerry, the minutes were approved.

Treasurer Report:   In the absence of Treasurer John, we did not have account balances.

Secretary Report:  All are urged to join our “1776” project by doing a monthly ACH from your bank account to our Alamosa Republican account at First Southwest Bank.  The necessary ACH forms are available for anyone desiring to help.

Social Media Report:  In the absence of Mark, there was no report.

Elected Official’s Report:  With no elected officials in attendance, there was no reports given.

StepUp Committee Report:

Sue Robison reported on current state legislation. She made a comparison of the WW2 budget of 4.2 trillion with the current Bernie Sanders proposed 4.2 trillion.  A Wall Street Journal article described the tax increases being suggested.  Bennett is pushing the Child Care Credit with some 80 new programs now in Colorado. 

Larry Dixon is the ASU Connection.  There is a need to find a faculty advisor on ASU campus.

The issue of voter integrity is in the news and the Arizona audit is reported to be moving forward.  Frank Peek has volunteered to keep us abreast of happenings in our local and state elections.  October 6th, the vote tabulating machines will be tested.  Poll watchers and election judges are involved.  State GOP training for voting observation is available.

Old Business:  None

 New Business:  Vella Owens will receive the GOP Lifetime Achievement Award next Saturday, Sept 18th in Pueblo.  This award is given to individuals who have contributed in many ways toward supporting the Republican party and the election of its candidates.  Vella has been a patriot and has contributed her time and efforts for the cause.

The SLV Republican Women will meet at noon, October 7th.

Meet Your Neighbor’s next meeting is October 1st at the Elks.

Jon Jackson, area representative for Lauren Boebert give an update on Lauren’s work in Washington D.C.  She has co-sponsored 101 bills and 19 of her own to the Congress.  She has proposed to kill all Biden’s energy restrictions as well allowing the Forest Service to manage without restrictions.  She introduced a bill to fund beetle kill in our Colorado forest.  She is continuing to work in keeping the BLM office in Grand Junction.  You may sign up for a newsletter for the happenings in the Congress.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP’s will conduct its next monthly meeting on October 12th at Juanitos Restaurant at 5:30 p.m.   

Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned by the chair with a special speaker to follow.

Postscript:  Our guest speaker is Danielle Neuschwanger, candidate for Colorado governor.  She is focusing her campaign on leadership.  Good campaign issues are needed but can only be advanced with good leadership.  A strategy must be employed using new ways to reach out to all voters.  Door knocking is difficult in today’s market.  It is a must to raise money for election campaigns and there must be a plan on how to spend the funds so as not to have wasteful spending.  Using YouTube, Google, and Instagram as well as any multi-media is beneficial.  One must be bold and let them know we are the party of law and order.  There are coming lawsuits to combat the growing list of mandates. You don’t have to get the injection.  And if they threaten your job, make them fire you…don’t resign.  She enlists your support for her campaign for the governor’s position.   

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary                                                 

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

August 17, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on August 17, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:45 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                         Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business at this meeting. We will have our business meeting with special guest speaker, Emily Brake, to follow. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Cheryl O’Dowd, Chair; Denise Witherspoon, Vice-Chair; Gary Goodwin, Secretary; John Adams, Treasurer; and Mark Smead, social media director.  

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Anthony Bowden, of the College Heights Baptist Church on Victoria and Church Avenues in Alamosa.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd; Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon; Secretary Gary Goodwin; Treasurer John Adams; Media Director Mark Smead; Lori Laske, County Commissioner; Mike Yohn, County Commissioner; Vern Heersink, County Commissioner; Sandra Hostetter, County Assessor; Amy McKinley, County Treasurer; Janet Yohn, Dennis O’Dowd, Heidi Richardson, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Pastor Anthony Bowden, Vella Owens, Jerry White, Larry Dixon, Larry Crowder, Cheri Crowder, Lance O’Dowd, Clayton Southway, Dora Gay Anderson, Elaine Goodwin, Richard Gritz, Christine Gritz, Terry Hammond, Mark Hammond, Sue Robinson, Alan McFadden,  Maria McFadden, Justin Rilling, Anna Mae Lindsey, David Lindsey, Darius Allen, Carol Colvin, Alan Colvin, Thomas Burke, Delores Burke, Karen Wilkinson, Amanda Wilkinson, David Broyles, Kristaly Higareda, Karla Heredia, Ann Hartman, Ron Hartman, Carolina Rodriguez, Andreas Maes, Larry Brown, Ruthie Brown, plus guests: Jon George, Lauren Boebert Rep; John Freeburg, Huerfano GOP Chair; Mitchell Wardell, Huerfano GOP Vice-chair; Cherish St Denis, Darcy Schoening, thus making a total of 56 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes of July 13, 2021, were presented both by online email sent earlier and a hard copy made available at the meeting. A correction to the minutes for spelling of Alfonso Payne’s name plus there is no recall website but instead “Recall Payne” is on Facebook.  After a motion and second by Vern and Jerry, the corrected minutes were approved.

Vice-Chair Report:  Our SLV GOP sponsored the Valley Lincoln Day Dinner in June; a group of Youth for America teens participated and helped by serving at the LDD; we had a vehicle in the Manassa Pioneer Day parade; also had a vehicle in the Monte Vista Stampede Parade and Del Norte Covered Wagon Day Parade; had a meet and greet with Eric Aadland, candidate for our Congressional Senate seat; several SLV GOP members attended the Conejos County LDD; we will participate in the Veteran’s Day Parade in Alamosa in November; and we will begin working with precinct chairs with training to gear up for the coming 2022 election cycle.

Secretary Report: Everyone has been encouraged to help with the financial needs of our Alamosa GOP.  Our candidates have expenses of campaigning, and we want to help.  Thanks to all who contribute to the “kitty” on the information table each month but also encouraging others to join our “1776” project by doing a monthly ACH from your bank account to our Alamosa Republican account at First Southwest Bank.  An appreciation to all who are already doing the “1776.”  The necessary ACH forms are available for anyone desiring to help.

Treasurer Report:   In the absence of Treasurer John, there was no report.

Social Media Report:  An advanced showing of the new Alamosa Republican webpage was displayed.  A preview of all the possible ways in which information can be disseminated to anyone seeking to know more about the local Republican party.  Mark also is seeking someone who has the skills to help in making the new webpage accessible and keeping it current with all events, dates and relevant information.  This tool is invaluable in reaching out to the younger generation.

Elected Official’s Report:

County Commissioners Mike Yohn, Lori Laske, and Vern Heersink:  Alamosa County is in good hands with our three Republican County Commissioners, a Republican Treasurer, a Republican Assessor, a Republican Surveyor, and a Republican Coroner.  There was a ribbon-cutting at US Highway 160 and State Highway 17 for the reconfiguration of this busy intersection.  It took 6 years before it happened at a cost of 16 million dollars.  In 2022, work will begin on County Road 6 North [Sand Dunes Road] at a cost of 20 million.  The commissioners report that the emergency 911 number now has text capabilities.  There is the need of a 4H agent in the Alamosa County and you can contact Larry Brown for more information.  The report of the Alamosa Airport is glowing.  Enplanements are up with full seating on many flights.  Discussion of how the Opioid settlement monies are to be spent is ongoing.  There is a continual search for good employees for positions in the county government.  The Redistricting Commission is progressing toward determining the boundaries for our state legislative districts as well as the important Congressional District 3.  These decisions will affect the San Luis Valley.

 County Assessor Sandra Hostetter:   All is well in the Assessor’s office.  The reappraisals are complete, and any possible property owner hearings are also nearing completion.  There is legislation to change the business and personal property tax levels from $7900 to $50,000.

County Treasurer Amy McKinley:  The office is busy as usual.  The last property tax due date was July with mobile home due date in September.  Advertisement of delinquent taxes will be forthcoming.  There is a need for one position to be filled in the Treasurer’s office.

StepUp Committee Report: 

Sue Robison reported on current state legislation.  A proposed Initiative 25 would provide out-of-school learning opportunities for Colorado children aged 5-17 plus creating an independent state agency to administer the program.  Funding the program would be by increasing the retail marijuana sales tax by 5%.                                                            

Larry Dixon is looking at ways to reach the Adams State and high school youth.

Janet Yohn is the Vice-chair of the SLV Republican Women.  They meet on the 1st Thursday of the month at noon.  They serve 16 schools and homeschoolers with copies of the US Constitution given to each student yearly.

A StepUp Committee meeting will be held on September 2nd at 5:30 pm at the All Valley Café on Main Street.

Old Business:   

“Step Up to Save Colorado” action encourages volunteers to commit time and energy to sign up and be involved in the happenings of our community.  This entails monitoring the Colorado legislature for educational issues, legislative issues, voter integrity, and adherence to our state constitution.  Please see Cheryl if you have an area of interest.

Gary reviewed the crisis in the educational system.  November 3, 2021 is election day for the Alamosa City Council and Alamosa School Board plus the Sangre de Cristo Schools, the northern school district in Alamosa County.  Alamosa School Board will elect board members in districts 1, 3, 4, 6, and 7.  He has recruited Justin Rilling, a candidate for district 1 to run.  Another candidate recruited was, Amanda Wilkinson, for a district 3 position.  District 6 position will be sought by Heidi Richardson and lastly, Alan Colvin, will be a candidate for district 7.  All four candidates are completing the required paperwork and petitions requiring 50-70 signatures.  Everyone was encouraged to help by signing a petition and then committing to helping them be elected in the November 3rd election.  There is a need to replace present liberal board members with conservative voices.

Terry Hammond presented an update on the Recall of the SLV District Attorney, Alonzo Payne.  The recall is a bi-partisan effort due to the DA not following his oath of office, violating victim’s rights and wanting to defund the police.   A well-attended meeting was held August 13th to better organize the drive.

There will be no Meet Your Neighbor meeting for September due to Labor Day. 

New Business:

There is debate in the state GOP regarding an open or closed primary election for 2022.  Due to a bill passed in 2018, Colorado has an “open to unaffiliated voters” primary.  The State GOP have an option to opt out of this type of primary and instead have a delegate assembly to choose their party candidate.  This will be determined by a vote at the Colorado Republican State Central Committee fall meeting to be held September 18th at the Pueblo Convention Center.

Jon George, a spokesman for our CD3 representative Lauren Boebert, stated that she has submitted 19 bills for consideration.  Closing tax loopholes, the beetle kill problem, redistricting issues are a few of the bills.  There are 9 democrats declared for the CD3 office.  Q&A included the events in Afghanistan and the southern border, plus the push for vaxxes for all Americans.  

John Freeburg, Chair for Huerfano GOP, spoke on his concern for winning State House District 62.  Efforts, in the past, have been fruitless due to the vote of the Pueblo area in District 62.  His appeal was for the Republicans to recruit a conservative Republican living in the Pueblo area that would carry the vote and thus win the election.  He is enlisting the Valley to support such a plan.  Discussion followed.

David Broyles, an Alamosa City Council member, was asked about the realignment of the traffic lanes on Main Street.  Several comments were made regarding the safety and danger of the new design.  David stated that all regulations were met in the new design, and the primary purpose was to help the downtown merchants and slow traffic down.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP will hold two meetings next month.  September 10th at noon and September 14th at 5:30. Both will be held at Juanito’s Restaurant.   

Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was adjourned by the chair with a special speaker to follow.

Postscript:  Emily Blake representing the “Colorado GOP Election Integrity Operations Network” spoke concerning the need for vigilance in the voting process in our state.  They are striving to have a representative from each county.  Frank Peek will be our delegate to this group.  She spoke of the Arizona and Georgia voting discrepancies and the current incident in Mesa County Clerk and Recorder, Tina Peters, who is under investigation by the Colorado Secretary of State for misuse of voting machine passwords.  This puts Colorado in the national news.  Many counties are also looking into the 2020 election for irregularities.  This organization was formed to be vigilant of our elections and encouraged to recruit members to be on alert during future elections.  A bootcamp for training how to be on guard during local elections will be held August 30th.  An email address will be made available for those interested.  The Colorado SOS, Jena Griswold, is part of the current problem.  Attorneys are weighing in on how to stem her abuse of power in actions she has taken in the last several months.

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary                                                 

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

           July 13, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on July 13, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:35 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                         Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding the order of business at this meeting. We will have our business meeting with special guest speaker, Michelle Gardner, to follow. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Cheryl O’Dowd, Chair; Denise Witherspoon, Vice-Chair; and Gary Goodwin, Secretary.  John Adams, Treasurer and Mark Smead, social media director, were absent.  

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Pastor Michael Dominguez, of the River of Life Church on Clark Street and Thomas Avenue in Alamosa.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Lori Laske, County Commissioner, Mike Yohn, County Commissioner, Janet Yohn, Dennis O’Dowd, Heidi Richardson, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Pastor Michael Dominguez, Vella Owens, Jerry White, Larry Dixon, Larry Crowder, Lance O’Dowd, Clayton Southway, Joan Doudna, Calvin Doudna, Elaine Goodwin, Richard Gritz, Terry Hammond, Jay Robinson, Sue Robinson, Alan McFadden, Wyoma Hansen, Saguache County Chair, Charles Stillings, Rio Grande County Vice-Chair, thus making a total of 27 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes of both April 14, 2021, and April 18th, 2021, were presented either by online email sent earlier or a hard copy was made available. The current hard copy meeting agenda was also obtainable.  After a motion and second by Janet and Terry, the minutes and agenda were approved.

Treasurer Report:   In the absence of Treasurer John, there was no report.

Social Media Report:  In Mark’s absence, there was no social media update.

Elected Official’s Report:

County Commissioner Mike Yohn:  The proposed legislative form for future state legislation in the 2022 session is due July 16th. The CCI, an association to assist county commissioners, works together on common county issues for the next legislative session.  On July 8th, Governor Polis ended the state emergency orders, stating that orders no longer were needed.

 County Commissioner Lori Laske:    Alamosa hosted a disaster simulation [a possible plane crash] for Alamosa County and the San Luis Valley.  The Alamosa Airport is rated the same as DIA (Denver) with the same regulations required for any emergency.  Ambulance, Fire, Law enforcement, and Sky West emergency personnel and equipment were involved.  A lawsuit involving the State of Colorado against pharmaceutical companies was awarded a $150,000 settlement to the SLV for the next 18 years.     

StepUp Committee Report:  Sue Robison reported on current state legislation.  A nation-wide movement of Critical Race Theory is being promoted.  It is good to have an answer for questions regarding CRT.  Colorado may push this into the state’s school districts.  NEA has stated their plan to push and promote CRT in all 16,000 nation’s school districts.  FYI: Centennial Institute.org is a good source with talking points for the CRT issue.

Chair Cheryl announced a recent interpretation of GOP to be…” Government Of the People”.

Old Business:   

A reminder that a Resource Sheet is available at each meeting with important information for Colorado and local issues that can affect each of us.

“Step Up to Save Colorado” action encourages volunteers to commit time and energy to sign up and be involved in the happenings of our community.  This entails monitoring the Colorado legislature for educational issues, legislative issues, voter integrity, and adherence to our state constitution.

To maintain the sustainability of our Alamosa GOP, a reminder was offered for our “1776 Fundraiser.”  Forms are available having an ACH made from members account into the Alamosa County Republican Party bank account at First Southwest Bank.

The San Luis Valley GOP:  The SLV GOP was created to unite the 6 counties and make our voices heard in the Valley.  We had close to 300 in attendance at our Lincoln Day Dinner which was deemed to be a huge success.  The Alamosa 4th of July Parade had several entrees under the SLV GOP banner.  Future parades include Pioneer Days in Manassa on July 17th and MV Stampede parade on July 24th.  The SLV GOP encourages everyone who can to participate.  

 Gary reported on the crisis in education.  November 3, 2021, is election day for the Alamosa City Council, Alamosa School Board plus the northern school district in Alamosa County, the Sangre de Cristo Schools.  Alamosa School Board will elect board members in districts 1, 3, 4, 6, and 7.  We need help in recruiting potential candidates for these districts.  There are many sources to help interested people understand the position and how it works.  The focus is to see school board members elected [as constitutional conservatives] to resist national movements, such as Critical Race Theory [dividing students into two groups as either the “Oppressors” or the “Oppressed”]; 1619 History [asserting that American was founded on slavery and not religious freedom]. Other issues to be confronted could be diversity training, equity-inclusion, co-ed locker rooms and bathrooms, transgender issues, mandatory “jabs” [referred to as vaccines] for school kids and school staff, as well as mandatory mask wearing of school age kids. We must promote social studies curriculums to include civics or government.  Lastly, Colorado state law, Mature Minor Doctrine, allows 15-year-olds to make medical decisions without parent’s knowledge.

New Business:

Reminder that the SLV Republican Women meet on the 1st Thursday of each month.

Reminder that the next “Meet Your Neighbor” will be held August 13th at the Elks in Alamosa.

Terry Hammond presented the Recall of the SLV District Attorney, Alonzo Paine.  It is a bi-partisan effort due to the DA not following his oath of office.  The recall group is soliciting statements of individual victims who feel wronged by the actions of the DA’s office.  A Recall Paine website can be viewed at www.recallpaine.com.

Notice that the School Board, City Council, and County Commissioners meetings are online, and some meetings will be held in person.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP will hold its next meeting August 13th at Juanitos.

Meeting Adjournment:  The business meeting portion was declared adjourned by the chair with a special speaker to be announced.

Postscript:  Michelle Gardner, from Otero County, gave a presentation on the Redistricting of the congressional and state legislative districts for Colorado.  An independent commission, made up of 4 democrats, 4 republicans, and 4 unaffiliated, was enacted by the voters in 2018 to conduct the state remapping.  The Valley is represented by Jason Kelly, Alamosa County Attorney.  We, the people, do have opportunity for public comment on August 6th in Alamosa.  People must sign up and submit the forms beforehand.  Items to discuss is communities of shared interest such as agriculture and water.  There should not be comments related to incumbents and favorite candidates. The purpose of redistricting is to equalize the population for each district with a deviation of + or – 2.5%.  The ultimate goal, however, is to create competitive districts.  A Q&A followed the presentation and concluded the meeting.

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary                                                  

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

May 18, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on May 18, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 5:47 p.m.                                                                                                                                                                                                Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding our monthly meetings. We will have our business meeting with special guest speakers to follow. Introductions were made of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Cheryl O’Dowd, Chair; Denise Witherspoon, Vice-Chair; and Gary Goodwin, Secretary. John Adams, Treasurer and Mark Smead, social media director, were absent.  

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Brad Hance, pastor of the SLV Baptist Church on State Avenue and 10th Street.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Lori Laske, County Commissioner, Mike Yohn, County Commissioner, Amy McKinley, County Treasurer, Sandra Hostetter, County Assessor, Janet Yohn, Dennis O’Dowd, Larry Richardson,  Heidi Richardson, Bob VanIwaarden, Carol VanIwaarden, Pastor Brad Hance, Vella Owens, Jerry White, Larry Dixon, Tomas Boynton, Geoff West, Joshua Puente, Darius Allen, Larry Crowder, Lance O’Dowd, Doris Roberts,  Clayton Southway, Dave Mize, Melanie Woodward, former County Clerk, plus guests Gary Ford, Costillo County, Pat Ford, Costillo County, XXXXX, Conejos County, Cathy Garcia, Lauren Boebert’s Pueblo Office, and Marina Zimmerman, declared candidate for CD3, thus making a total of 32 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes of April 14, 2021 were presented by online email sent earlier. A handout of the April 14th minutes, and current meeting agenda were also made available.  After a motion and second by David and Janet the minutes and agenda were approved.

Treasurer Report:   Treasurer John reported a balance of $3661.01 no outstanding checks. With a motion and second the treasurers report was approved.

Social Media Report:  In Mark’s absence, Cheryl reported that there will be future changes coming to the FB page and the website.

StepUp Committee Report:  Sue reported on HB1295 which would disallow Charter School organizers having recourse, with an appeal process, to the CO State Board of Education, if their Charter School application to the local BOE is rejected.  If passed, the local Board of Education would have the final decision.

Elected Official’s Report:

County Commissioners Mike Yohn and Lori Laske:  There are three positions open in Human Resource and Public Health.  Starting salary is between $40,000-$90,000.  Current information on the homeless encampment.  Lori participated in a clean-up of the area.  There is a Friday morning meeting for the homeless to discuss issues.

County Assessor Sandra Hostetter: This is a busy time of year.  Property values have increased, and letters have been sent to property owners presenting the increased values.  Owners can make a request to review the numbers.  There is a Senior Property Tax discount available for seniors at least 65 ears old, owned the home for at least 10 consecutive years and occupied the home as a primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years. 

County Treasurer Amy McKinley:  Good to see new faces at the meeting.  The Treasurer’s office is fully staffed.  A new software conversion will be installed in July.  Tax collections are about 62% completed.  There has been an increase in foreclosures due to the current economic state.  The Senior Property Tax Discount was discussed, with the program being funded year-to-year, could be discontinued in future years by a vote of the Colorado Legislature.

 Old Business:

“Step Up to Save Colorado” action encourages volunteers to commit time and energy to sign up and be involved in the happenings of our community.  This entails monitoring the Colorado legislature, K-12 educational decisions at Alamosa and Sangre de Cristo school boards, the city council, the county commissioners, planning commissions as well as other city and county boards.  Election integrity must be a primary focus of our county GOP to guarantee free and honest elections.  Precinct Chairs will be able to promote the issues to their neighbors in their individual precincts.

Gary presented the “1776 Plan.”  Since the Colorado State Republicans do not support our candidates and other efforts, our Alamosa GOP members are encouraged to give on a regular basis to help with maintaining our Alamosa County GOP as well as helping future candidates with campaigning.  ACH paperwork is available for every bank in Alamosa for anyone desiring to have an automatic monthly withdrawal (ACH) from their financial institution to our Alamosa GOP account at FSWB.  We realize that campaigning is costly, and this is a way we can all pitch-in to help our worthy candidates win their races.

A reminder that a Resource Sheet is available at each meeting with important information for Colorado and local issues that can affect each of us.

Cheryl, once again, described the formation of the SLV GOP coalition and the purpose of our counties joining together.

The SLV GOP is sponsoring the annual Lincoln Day Dinner for June 12th.  Lauren Boebert will be the featured speaker.  We will also hear from Cleve Simpson, our District 35 State Senator, Kristi Burton Brown, the Colorado Republican Party Chair, Greg Lopez, a declared Republican candidate for governor of Colorado as well as Danielle Neuschwanger, also a declared Republican candidate for governor of Colorado. The event will be held at the Monte Vista Nazarene Church.  Tickets are available today!  Tickets are $75 for a 5:00 pm VIP meeting with Lauren (prior to dinner) and $50 for the dinner and auction beginning at 6:30. A sign-up sheet was passed around for help in setting up on Friday afternoon, June 11th.

New Business:

Reminder that the SLV Republican Women meet on the 1st Thursday of each month.

Reminder that the next “Meet Your Neighbor” will be held June 18th (for June and July) at the Elks in Alamosa.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP will hold a August meeting with date, time, location TBA.

Meeting Adjournment:  A motion and second by Dennis and Dave, the business meeting was adjourned at 6:18 p.m.

Postscript:   Our first guest speaker was Melanie Woodward, former Alamosa county Clerk/Recorder.  She discussed the process of voting in Colorado.  Ballots are mailed to each eligible voter with each returned envelope signature verified.  Those with invalid signatures are contacted and corrected or turned to the District Attorney.  Ballots are machine tested by representatives from both parties for validation.  On election day, ballots are removed from envelopes and scanned for the totaling of votes. Poll watchers can be available, but Poll Judges chosen at Caucus are be trained for their role in the voting process. 

Our second guest speaker was Marina Zimmerman, a declared gubernatorial candidate.  She is a resident of Arboles, CO in the southwest area of the state.  She joined the race for CD3 due to her perception of theatre by the present GOP.  She stated that there are 780 thousand unaffiliated voters in the state, prompting the need to appeal to this bloc of voters.  In her opinion, this will bring the GOP back. She wants to redo the Rio Grande Compact so Colorado can keep a larger portion of our Colorado water.   She wants to give attention to the 28 trillion national debt, illegal immigration, and making welfare a “work for welfare.”  Questioned about her stand on the Electoral College.  She explained how the US could erase all the state boundary lines to vote “a popular vote.”  However, she tried to defend her stance by saying she does not advocate for the abolition of the Electoral College but could not convince the audience.                            

Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary    

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

                                             Two Meetings for May (trying to get more people involved)                                          

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

May 14, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on May 14, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 12:06 p.m.

Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding our monthly meetings and how she would like to structure them, as well as an introduction of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Cheryl O’Dowd, Chair; Denise Witherspoon, Vice-Chair; and Gary Goodwin, Secretary, and John Adams, Treasurer.  

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Jeff Day, pastor of the Believer’s Bible Community Church in East Alamosa.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, Vern Heersink, County Commissioner, Elaine Goodwin, Callie Adams, Alan McFadden, Sue Robinson, Jay Robinson, Dennis O’Dowd, Terry Hammond, Terry Wiley, Bob VanIwaarden, Jim Hazard, Rev and Mrs. Jeff Day, Vella Owens, Jerry White, Alex Toth, Tomas Boynton, Larry Brown, Larry Gardiner, Lance O’Dowd, Doris Roberts, Amanda Wilkinson, Clayton Southway, Julie Gunsaulis, Dave Mize, Frank Peek, Larry Heersink, RG GOP Chair, Wyoma Hansen, Saguache GOP Chair, Albert Warren, RG member, Larna Warren, RG member, Leroy Fuchs, RG member, plus guests: Ben Nicholas, Adams County GOP member, and Peg Cage, Boulder County GOP member, thus making a total of 37 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes of April 14, 2021 were presented by online email sent earlier. A handout of the April 14th minutes, and current meeting agenda were also made available.  After a motion and second by Bob and David, the minutes and agenda were approved.

Treasurer Report:   Treasurer John reported a balance of $3414.49 with two outstanding checks. With a motion and second by Terry and Vella, the treasurers report was approved.

Social Media Report:  In Mark’s absence, Cheryl reported that there will be future changes coming to the FB page and the website.

StepUp Committee Report:  Sue reported on HB1295 which would disallow Charter School organizers having recourse, with an appeal process, to the CO State Board of Education, if their Charter School application to the local BOE is rejected.  If passed, the local Board of Education would have the final decision.

Elected Official’s Report:

County Commissioner Vern Heersink:  The America Rescue Plan has been forwarded to Alamosa County.  The task will be to understand the government program, since receiving approximately 3 million dollars, and how to best spend it for the good of the county.  A good report was given for the Boutique Air service marking ridership up on the Alamosa-Denver service.  A question was asked of when the Alamosa Library would be fully open.  Vern suggested a call to the city government since the library is under their management.

 Old Business:

“StepUp Colorado” action will encourage volunteers to commit time and energy to sign up and be involved in the happenings of our community.  This entails monitoring the school boards, the city council, the county commissioners, planning commissions as well as other city and county boards.  We have had 19 people sign up to be involved in several different areas.

Gary presented the “1776 Plan.”  GOP members are encouraged to give on a regular basis to help with maintaining our county GOP as well as helping future candidates with campaigning.  ACH paperwork is available for every bank in Alamosa for anyone desiring to have an automatic monthly withdrawal (ACH) from their financial institution to our Alamosa GOP account at FSWB.  We realize that campaigning is costly, and this is a way we can all pitch-in to help our worthy candidates win their races.

Gary reminded the group of the coming city council elections as well as the school board elections on November 3rd.  Issues being brought before school boards nationwide are 1619 Project (rewriting our history), Critical Race Theory, Diversity staff workshops, History curriculum, Sex education in conjunction with Planned Parenthood involvement, LGBQ issues, same-sex bathrooms and locker rooms, masks and injections for school kids, and the Common Core curriculum.  We must involve ourselves in holding our school board accountable for socialist agenda issues being foisted upon our kids, our future generation.

Cheryl, once again, described the formation of the SLV GOP coalition and the purpose of our counties joining together.

The SLV GOP sponsored Lincoln Day Dinner is scheduled for June 12th.  Lauren Boebert will be the featured speaker.  We will also hear from Cleve Simpson, our District 35 State Senator, Kristi Burton Brown, the Colorado Republican Party Chair, Greg Lopez, a declared Republican candidate for governor of Colorado as well as Danielle Neuschwanger, also a declared Republican candidate for governor of Colorado. The event will be held at the Monte Vista Nazarene Church.  Tickets are available today!  Tickets are $75 for a 5:00 pm VIP meeting with Lauren (prior to dinner) and $50 for the dinner and auction beginning at 6:30.  A sign-up sheet was passed around for help in setting up on Friday afternoon, June 11th.

New Business:

An appeal was again made for anyone desiring to be involved in the StepUp Colorado committee.  Sue Robinson and Thomas Boynton were introduced to the meeting as writers of Editorials and Letters to the Editor to our local Valley Courier.  We appreciate their efforts to inform citizens the issues of importance to our community, state, and nation.

Reminder that the SLV Republican Women meet on the 1st Thursday of each month.

Reminder that the next “Meet Your Neighbor” will be held June 18th (for June and July) at the Elks in Alamosa.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP will hold two meeting in May.  Today was our first meeting with the second one next Tuesday, May 18th at 5:30 pm to be conducted in the meeting room at Juanitos.  Our August meeting is TBA.

Meeting Adjournment:  With a motion and second by Jim and Doris, the business meeting was adjourned at 12:41 p.m.

Postscript: After the regular business meeting was adjourned, Cheryl introduced our two guests, representing My Colorado GOP.  Our guests were Ben Nicholas from Adams County and Deb Cage from Boulder County.  They spoke against the Prop 107 and Prop 108 allowing Colorado to conduct open primary elections.  We were encouraged to join MyColoradoGOP.org to read and become involved in the reversing of these two Propositions.  They presented various issues relating to the future elections and how the Republican Party must step up and become more vocal and active in issues affecting the state of Colorado during the reign of the Democratic party.  A couple of resources given were USEIP.org, the United States Election Integrity Plan, a group organized to restore election integrity to our state.  Also, IEC to be used in the distribution of political funds.  Another reliable source for election happenings and developments is frankspeech.org.  Much appreciation to these two patriots for their time and effort informing our local GOP of outcomes in our state affairs. 

                                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS 

April 16, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on April 16, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 12:06 p.m.

Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding our monthly meetings and how she would like to structure them, as well as an introduction of the Alamosa GOP Executive Committee members:  Cheryl O’Dowd, Chair; Denise Witherspoon, Vice-Chair; and Gary Goodwin, Secretary, John Adams, Treasurer, and Mark Smead, Social Media Director.  

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Greg Bervig.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, Michael Yohn, County Commissioner, Lori Laske, County Commissioner, Amy McKinley, County Treasurer, Elaine Goodwin, Callie Adams, Janet Yohn, Marie McFadden, Alan McFadden, Sue Robinson, Larry Dixon, Dennis O’Dowd, Terry Hammond, Terry Wiley, Bob VanIwaarden, Lance O’Dowd, Sandra Wagner, Anna Mae Lindsey, David Lindsey, Cindy Bervig, Greg Bervig, Judith Gritz, Richard Gritz, Doris Roberts, Amanda Wilkinson, Clayton Southway, Marty Husmann, Dave Mize, Wendy Davidson, Tim Davidson, Geri Curtis, Marty Husmann, Geoff West, Gabriel West, Carol Smead, plus Juli Henry (candidate for Colorado Senator) and Kendra Thye, guests from Colorado Springs, thus making a total of 40 attendees.

Minutes:  The minutes of March 12, 2021 were presented by online email sent earlier. A handout of the March 12th minutes, and current meeting agenda were also made available.  After a motion and second by Doris and Cindy, the minutes and agenda were approved with a correction, noted by Commissioner Michael, that County Road 6N (Sand Dune Road), instead of County Road 4N, will be resurfaced in the future.

Treasurer Report:   Treasurer John reported a balance of $3441.73 with no outstanding bills.

Social Media Report:  Mark Smead highlighted possible changes and upgrades to our social media Facebook and website.

Step up Committee Report:  Sue presented several podcasts for pertinent information.  State Bill 182 to reduce some police action was defeated.  Healthcare 21137, if passed, will take over all health care and point toward a “single-pay system.”  A source to track bills is: coloradofreedomforce.com.  Other sources on her handout were Bill Bennet, Ted Cruz, Charley Kirk, Prager U, Hillsdale College, plus 1776 Unite with Bob Woodson who advocates “NO Victimization.”  He highlights the accomplishments of many Black American citizens. 

Elected Official’s Report:

County Treasurer Amy McKinley:  Have had some short staff due to the covid19.  At this point, we have 37% collection of property taxes.  There are no prepayments, so business is as usual.  April 30th is the deadline for full payment of taxes.

County Commissioner Michael Yohn:  A quip by Mike regarding meetings: A big turnout is “good”, but a bigger turnout is “bad.”  All our county offices are occupied by Republicans except Sheriff and County Clerk/Recorder.  For 2022 elections, seven positions will be open and good candidates need to be recruited.  Alamosa County is doing well except the Clerk’s office who has had to fill several office positions.  Previously curtailed office hours have now resumed regular hours.  The airport construction is starting again which is 2-3 years in the making.  The county has 38 covid cases today and the state has opened today with the county commissioners determining allowances and restrictions.

 County Commissioner Lori Laske:   Lori gave thanks to Commissioner Yohn for mentoring her.  Lori reported that commissioners adopted the following resolution regarding non-medical face coverings: (1) that Alamosa County citizens exercise good judgment and take necessary precautions; (2) that Alamosa County citizens be mindful of the rapid nature of knowing that color levels may change; (3) that Alamosa County has not issued any local public health order and therefore the standing mask requirements are still in force.  The color dial has been deleted and issues will be made from local authorities.  In addition, she reports 102 bills have been introduced in the State Legislature possibly affecting all county finances.    

Old Business:

“Step Up Colorado” action will encourage volunteers to commit time and sign up to be involved in the happenings of our community.  This entails monitoring the school boards, the city council, the county commissioners, and the planning commissions.  This is one way we can affect our community by holding those entities accountable.  A sign-up sheet is available after our meeting.  Larry Dixon and Arlene Miller have volunteered and suggested ways to enhance our GOP standing in Alamosa County.  The UAF (Young American Federalists) is an organization being used to draw young people into the political process and particularly the GOP.

Since the state GOP does not support our county GOP financially, we are looking for ways to sustain our Alamosa GOP.  A jar is available on the check-in table each meeting for any donations that may be made. 

Gary presented the “$17.76 Plan.”  ACH paperwork is available for every bank in Alamosa for anyone desiring to have an automatic monthly withdrawal (ACH) from their financial institution to our Alamosa GOP account at FSWB.  We realize that campaigning is costly, and this is a way we can all pitch-in to help our worthy candidates win their races.

Marty Husmann reminded the group of his “Meet Your Neighbor” meeting on May 7th at the Elks at 6:00 pm.

Lincoln Day Dinner is scheduled for June 12th.  Lauren Boebert will be our featured speaker.  In addition, we will hear from Cleve Simpson, our District 35 State Senator, Kristi Burton Brown, the Colorado Republican Party Chair, and Greg Lopez, a declared Republican candidate for the governor of Colorado.  The event will be held at the Monte Vista Nazarene Church.  Tickets will be available soon.  Tickets are $75 for a VIP meeting with Lauren prior to dinner and $50 for the dinner and auction.  We will need help in setting up for the evening.  Our success will depend on our efforts in selling tickets.  Additionally, please begin to find items for the silent and live auction during the evening.  This is a major fundraiser for the valley GOP (aka the SLV GOP).

New Business:

A new idea has been born.  After last fall when we opened our SLV GOP office on Main Street, we have begun the informal organization of a SLV GOP.  This will be a coalition of all six county GOP groups into a Valley-Wide effort.  This will give us a bigger voice, more visibility, and a stronger message to our constituents in the San Luis Valley as we unite in our efforts to push for constitutional conservative candidates and win elections.

Constitution Day will be observed on September 17th.  The SLV Republican Women go into many valley schools to give a Constitution booklet to each 5th grade student.  Schools were excited to have the distribution of the booklets.

David Lindsey spoke of the importance of the Bill of Rights and that the 2nd Amendment guarantees the 1st Amendment.

Our special speaker for the day was Juli Henry from Colorado Springs who is vying for the Senator’s office presently held by Michael Bennet.  She spoke briefly outlining her reason for running and some of what she stands for and against.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP will hold two meeting in May.  May 14th at noon and May 18th at 5:30 pm.  Locations will be announced via email.

Meeting Adjournment:  Chair Cheryl declared the meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.  

                                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

 March 12, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The monthly meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at First and Victoria Streets, Alamosa, CO on March 12, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by newly elected Chair Cheryl O’Dowd at 12:04 p.m.

Chair Cheryl made some opening remarks regarding our new meeting and how she would like to structure it, as well as an introduction of the Alamosa GOP Executive members:  Cheryl O’Dowd, Chair; Denise Witherspoon, Vice-Chair; and Gary Goodwin, Secretary.  

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cheryl and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Chris Creech.

Those Present:  Chair Cheryl O’Dowd, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Treasurer John Adams, Michael Yohn, County Commissioner, Janet Yohn, Thomas Boynton, Jay Robinson, Sue Robinson, Larry Dixon, Dennis O’Dowd, Vella Owens, Rob Oringdulph, Alex Toth, Jo Anne Eberhart,  Lance O’Dowd, Arlene Miller, Vonya Miller, James Miller, Josiah Miller, Alan McFadden, Marie McFadden,  Terry Hammond, Doris Roberts, Amanda Wilkinson, Marty Husmann, Chris Cheech, Dylan Brown, Master Brown, Geoff West, Gabriel West, Luther Waldroupe, Marsha Waldroupe,   and Clayton Southway, thus making a total of 34 attendees.   

Minutes:  The minutes of November 2, 2020 and February 9, 2021 were presented in an online email sent earlier. A handout of the current meeting agenda was made available.  After a motion and second by Terry and Dennis, the minutes and agenda were approved.  There were no minutes from December or January due to no monthly meetings. 

Treasurer Report:   Treasurer John reported a balance of $3494.24 and no outstanding bills.  With a motion and second by Janet and Rob, the treasurer’s report was approved.

Elected Official’s Report:

County Commissioner Michael Yohn:  The other county commissioners, Lori Laske and Vern Heersink were on county business and not able to attend today’s meeting.  The BOCC elected Lori Laske as the Vice-Chair during their initial meeting.  Each commissioner has become a member of ten different governing boards, representing both county and state issues.  The Alamosa BOCC passed a resolution for a MEAT-IN day on March 20th in response to the governor’s meat-out measure. Alamosa County will once again have a full-time County Veteran’s Officer.  The Alamosa County Clerk/Recorder is in reorganizational mode due to several staff vacancies.  Therefore, office hours have been restricted by being closed daily from 12:00-1:00 pm and closing for the day at 3:00 pm.  The new Animal Shelter will open March 25th.  County Road 4N (road to the Great Sand Dunes) will be resurfaced with construction to begin next year.  A question was asked about the new air service.  Many favorable comments were made, and everyone is pleased with the quality of the new airline service.  

Old Business:

The Alamosa County Republican Central Committee bylaws must be reviewed, updated and submitted to the Colorado State Republican Party every two years.  Vice-Chair Denise and the bylaws committee presented 3 revisions for consideration:

1.      The monthly Alamosa County Republican Central Committee (ACRCC) meetings are open to the public, but voting can only be by registered Republican members.

2.      ACRCC members must be present to vote in person or by electronic means but cannot vote by proxy.

3.      The ACRCC executive committee (Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary) shall serve a two-year term.  In the event of a vacancy, a special meeting is to be held to fill that term of the office.

With a motion and second by Doris and Rob, the Chair called for discussion.  After discussing and amending the original motion, an amended motion by Rob and John was passed with a majority of votes to approve the 2021 ACRCC bylaws.

New Business:

Our guest speaker, Cathy Garcia of Pueblo, the area coordinator for Lauren Boebert, was unable to attend our meeting due to the pending snowstorm.

Chair Cheryl gave a short narration of her family background and becoming convinced that all citizens need to become involved in the political process.  She stated this is her first time at becoming a political activist.

Marty Husmann recounted the Alamosa County Commissioner’s meeting last Wednesday.  He gave a review of several items on their agenda.  One of our goals this year is to have local citizens attend the meetings of the commissioners, the city council and the school board and report back to our ACRCC monthly meetings.  Our purpose is to let them know we are interested, and they are accountable to their constituents.  Commissioner Mike Yohn did respond with a clarification of one item.

Janet invited all women to a meeting of the SLV Republican Women on the first Thursday of each month.

Discussion of how funds raised by our ACRCC can be used for campaign purposes:  

**We plan to have a GOP office to be visible and available to the public for all SLV counties.

**We do not receive national campaign funds so we must raise our own monies.

**Introduction to the “1776” fund raising project.  If everyone would participate in donating to the ACRCC monthly, we could have ample funds to support our GOP candidates with their campaigns.  The monies would be controlled and meted out by a vote of all members of the county central committee.  Gary suggested a $17.76 contribution be made monthly to the Alamosa GOP and he pledged to be the first to begin this monthly fundraising effort.

**A prepared envelope will be made available to citizens and promoted to help with campaign finances.

**A jar will be available at our monthly meetings for donations to the Alamosa GOP.

On March 20th, Alamosa citizens are encouraged to participate in a Colorado MEAT-IN to counter the proclamation from the governor’s meat-out proposal which denigrates the livestock business, Colorado’s 2nd largest industry.

A recently formed community meeting, “Meet Your Neighbor, has met the previous 2 months and will be held again on April 2nd at the Elks Building.  Hamburgers at 6:00 pm and the general meeting at 7:00 pm.

Discussion of having our ACRCC meetings at noon one month and in the evening the next month. 

The annual Lincoln Day Dinner is scheduled for May 15, 2021.  Due to the china virus, last year’s dinner was cancelled.  We hope to be able to have one this year.  It has been proposed that we have a valley-wide event with all 6 counties participating.  We are looking for an adequate venue, tickets must be printed, and auction items solicited.  Lastly, our special speaker will be Lauren Boebert, our CD3 representative to Washington D.C.

We would like to have special speakers each month.  Sue mentioned that Randy Corporon, a constitutionalist attorney from Denver, has offered to visit Colorado counties this year.  He is a national delegate to the GOP national convention and conducts a daily talk-show on KNUS AM710 from 9:00 to 12:00 am.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP will be held on April 16th at Juanito’s Mexican Restaurant at 12:00 noon.

Meeting Adjournment:  Chair Cheryl declared the meeting adjourned at 1:20 p.m.  

                                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary

MINUTES FOR ALAMOSA COUNTY REPUBLICANS

2021 GOP Reorganizational Meeting 

 February 9, 2021

Meeting called to order:  The Reorganizational Meeting of the Alamosa Republicans was held in Society Hall at Ross Ave and 4th Street, Alamosa, CO on February 9, 2021.  The meeting was called to order by Chair Terry Hammond at 7:01 p.m.

Pledge of Allegiance:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Denise and recited by all.

Invocation:  Invocation was given by Greg Bervig.

Those Present:  Chair Terry Hammond, Secretary Gary Goodwin, Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon, Treasurer John Adams, Michael Yohn, County Commissioner, Janet Yohn, Lori Laske, County Commissioner, Vern Heersink, County Commissioner, Amy McKinley, County Treasurer, Sandra Hostetter, County Assessor, Joan Doudna, Cindy Bervig, Greg Bervig, Susan Robinson, Cheryl O’Dowd, Dennis O’Dowd, Lance O’Dowd, Cathy Simpson, Marty Husmann, Clayton Southway, Larry Crowder, Geoffrey West, Gabriel West, Bob VanIwaarden, Larry Brown, Alex Toth, and Stacy Benevides, thus making a total of 27 attendees.   

Minutes:  The minutes of the last Alamosa GOP meeting, November 2, 2020, were not presented.

Treasurer Report:  Treasurer John reported the Alamosa GOP bank account has a balance of $3310.10.  A $500 deposit from Century 21 office deposit has yet to be deposited.

Elected Official Report:

County Commissioner Michael Yohn:  No comment

County Commissioner Vern Heersink:  No comment

County Commissioner Lori Laske:  No comment

County Clerk/Recorder Amy McKinley:  No comment

County Assessor Sandra Hostetter:  No comment

New Business: 

Chair Terry read the County Reorganizational meeting dialog from the CO State Republican Office.

Two videos were presented by candidates for CO State GOP Chair.

A quorum (50% of voting delegates) was ascertained by Chair Terry after we had attained 15 of our 28 voting delegates.

The 2019-21 Alamosa GOP officers were introduced by Chair Terry.

Treasurer John Adams gave his report for the last two years in office.

Secretary Gary Goodwin gave his report for the last two years in office.

Vice-Chair Denise Witherspoon gave her report for the last two years in office.

Chair Terry Hammond gave her report for the last two years in office and declared to the Alamosa GOP that she was declining to be a candidate for the GOP Chair for the next two-year term.

Nomination of Gary Goodwin for secretary by Janet and by acclamation, Gary was elected Alamosa GOP Secretary.

Nomination of Denise Witherspoon for Vice-Chair by Cindy and by acclamation, Denise was elected Alamosa GOP Vice-Chair.

Nomination of Cheryl O’Dowd for Chair was made by Dennis.

Nomination of Geoff West for Chair was made by Geoff.

Nominations were closed and a secret ballot vote was taken.  Cheryl O’Dowd received a majority of votes cast and was declared the newly elected Alamosa Republican Party Chair.

The two Alamosa County Vacancy Committees were named:  Sandra Hostetter, Terry Hammond, Amy McKinley, Mike Yohn, and Cheryl O’Dowd will comprise those two committees.

An announcement was made regarding election of Colorado State Republican Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary and will be held March 27, 2021, by remote voting.

Next Meeting:  The Alamosa GOP March meeting will be announced by email to all Alamosa Republicans.

Meeting Adjournment:  It was moved and seconded to adjourn at 8:15 p.m.  

                                                                                                                    Minutes submitted by Gary Goodwin, Secretary