WV YRs Attend National Convention

Press Release
Monday, July 13, 2009
For Immediate Release

WV Delegation Returns from Young Republicans National Federation Convention
National Committeeman Elected to Regional Position
　
The West Virginia Young Republicans Delegation returned from the Young Republican National Federation Convention that was held in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Kevin Noe, WVYR National Committeeman was elected Sunday as Secretary for the Southern Region Association.

“I’m honored to serve, and I am determined to work to build a better network of Young Republicans that will continue to work to strengthen our core values,” said Noe.

The YRNF Convention activities included board meetings, the election of officers, establishing dates for future national meetings, appointment of positions, and establishing a statement for the YRNF.

“It was a privilege to be part of WV’s full delegation to be seated at the convention which is the first time in recent history that WV carried full voting power.” added Mike Howerton, WV YR chairman.

The convention began Wednesday, July 8th and concluded Sunday, July 12th. The WVYR Delegation consisted of 5 YR’s allowing WV to have full representation. The Delegation include Mike Howerton, Chairman; Kevin Noe, National Committeeman; Lisa Peana, Executive Director; Matt Clay, Secretary; Jamison Jeffrey, delegate.

For more information about the WVYR visit http://www.wvyr.org/

McKinney says WVGOP laying groundwork for 2010 victories

WEST VIRGINIA REPUBLICAN PARTY

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Doug McKinney
Thursday, June 18, 2009 304-641-1205

McKinney says WVGOP laying groundwork for 2010 victories

Summer state committee meeting affirmed independent primary participation; search for new E.D. underway

CHARLESTON, W. Va. – State GOP Chairman Doug McKinney said today that the search for a new executive director for the West Virginia Republican Party is well underway and will be one of several developments leading to election victories in 2010 and beyond.

“Last weekend’s state committee meeting in Martinsburg featured two days of motivational presentations, an enthusiastic outlook, a focus on the next generation of Republican leaders, and an air of excitement and anticipation about the future of the GOP,” said McKinney.

State committee members approved, by voice vote, the recommendation of a subcommittee to continue the practice of allowing non-affiliated voters to cast ballots in the Republican primary. Begun in the 1980s, the practice was reexamined by the subcommittee, but most committee members agreed on the need to continue keeping the primary election open to non-affiliated voters.

McKinney said he has already received six applications for the executive director position, and he intends to interview them and others and eventually select an individual with the experience, knowledge and skills to oversee the day to day operation of the party in the crucial months and years to come.

Last weekend’s GOP meeting was chockfull of exciting events and presentations, from the Friday night Berkeley County reception featuring Grover Norquist, longtime anti-tax advocate, to former Sen. John Sununu, who addressed Saturday’s luncheon event. Among the VIP attendees were Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito and former Secretary of State Betty Ireland.

On Saturday morning, special guest Jan Larimer, co-chairman of the Republican National Committee, offered a recap of RNC activities and future plans of the national party.

McKinney said the weekend focused on the next generation of Republican leaders, with state Young Republican Chairman Mike Howerton offering a presentation during Saturday morning’s county chairs meeting, and Shane Wilson updating committee members on the activities of the five interns currently serving the party through the Cecil H. Underwood Intern Institute.

McKinney said he was also excited about a fundraising drive headed by Delegates Craig Blair and Jonathan Miller. Blair addressed committee members on Saturday, describing plans to increase the party’s monthly credit card contribution program and generate more support from elected officials.

McKinney also named South Charleston businessmen John Burdette II and Denver McCallister as finance chairmen for the state party.

“We’re bringing new blood into the party to continue building our financial coffers, while setting the stage for a strong, vibrant party organization for years to come,” said McKinney.

Also during the weekend, committee members and guests heard presentations from:

· Treasurer Marti Riggall, who reported that the party saw a net gain of $12,000 from January through May of this year, compared to a net loss of $200 during the same period last year.
· Summers County Chairman Joe Garcia, who serves as chairman of the county chairs, and who discussed election changes and challenges in the coming months.
· Outgoing executive director Gary Abernathy, who thanked the committee for the privilege of serving the party over the years.

McKinney also expressed his thanks to Berkeley Chairman Mick Staton and his wife, Lynn, for handling onsite arrangements for the state meeting.

“Traveling to the Eastern Panhandle is always a beautiful drive and a great experience,” said McKinney. “The Statons made sure we had a great event both Friday and Saturday, and we deeply appreciate their efforts in working to ensure a quality meeting and a motivational gathering of Republicans from around the state.”

WVGOP Summer Meeting at Martinsburg

Several Republicans from Wood County made the trip to Berkeley County Saturday for the West Virginia GOP Summer meeting. Mike Howerton, State Young Republican Chairman and Wood County YR Chair gave a presentation to the County Chair meeting prior to the State meeting. Below is a link to photos form the event.

State GOP Summer Meeting

Rocky Peck, Mike Howerton and Louie Rexroad also attended the Harrison County Club Dinner Monday evening 15 June 2009. Chairman McKinney and many others were in attendance. A link is also provided to those pictures.

Harrison County Club

Wood County Young Republicans Picnic 2009

State YR and Wood County Chairman, Mike Howerton presents Shane Wilson a check for $300.00. The donation will help sponsor one of the Cecil Underwood intern positions for the State GOP. More pictures at the link.

http://profile.imageshack.us/user/WoodCountyGOP

Photos courtesy of Louie Rexroad

Comish Has Change of "Heart"

County Commissioner Rick Modesitt announces run for reelection.

Gary Abernathy Leaving WVGOP

Executive Director of the WV GOP has posted a video Farewell. Good Luck Gary!

UPDATE: Obama's Change Agents Are Here!

OFA West Virginia - Listening Tour Stop in Parkersburg (Listening Tour)
The purpose of this tour is to reconnect, reengage, and reenergize volunteers to continue the spirit and community action started with President Obama’s campaign. We want to hear from you on how best to move OFA - West Virginia forward from both a statewide and local perspective. These events are a crucial part of laying the groundwork needed to recreate a strong volunteer network designed to support President Obama and his broad agenda of change.
Time: Thursday, May 14 from 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Host: Meagan Gardner
Location: Judge Black Annex (Parkersburg, WV)
319 Market St.Parkersburg, WV 26101

Directions:
across from Blennerhassett Hotel; Listening Tour will begin directly after county executive meeting

Parkersburg and Wood County are on their list of future "Town Hall Meetings". The OFA (Organizing for America) kicked off their propaganda and reeducation campaign specifically tailored to West Virginians in Charleston this week. You can read about it at Vic Spouse's Blog by clicking on the link on the right. The group promises future meetings around the State.

Here is a link to their plan.

AMERICAN RECOVERY AND REINVESTMENT PLAN: THE IMPACT FOR WEST VIRGINIA

Here is a listing of meetings I could find so far:

April 22nd, 7 p.m., Kanawha County Public Library, Charleston

April 23rd, 6:30 p.m., Old Stone Church, Lewisburg

April 26th, 2:00 p.m., Home of Sue Thorn, Wheeling

April 29th, 7:00 p.m., Marshall University Student Center, Huntington

May 5th, 7:00 p.m., Marion County Courthouse, Morgantown

May 6th, 7:00 p.m., Home of John Lozier, Morgantown

May 13th, 6:00 p.m. Fairmont State Caperton Center, Clarksburg

Time: Saturday, May 2 from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Host: Meagan Gardner
Contact Phone: 1-304-728-2829
Location: Home of Robert and Virginia Graf (Charles Town, WV)
2054 Kabletown Rd.Charles Town, WV 25414

Wood County Tea Party

I will have more shortly.

Local Tea Party Photos

Third World Tactics in America

This is something you would expect in Venezuela, not the USA.

U.S. seeks expanded power to seize firms
Goal is to limit risk to broader economy

updated 3:10 a.m. ET, Tues., March. 24, 2009

WASHINGTON - The Obama administration is considering asking Congress to give the Treasury secretary unprecedented powers to initiate the seizure of non-bank financial companies, such as large insurers, investment firms and hedge funds, whose collapse would damage the broader economy, according to an administration document.

WCREC Hosts Michael Zak

Michael Zak

Beverly Lockhart, Chairman of the Wood County Republican Party; Doug Mckinney, Chairman of the West Virginia Republican Party; and WV state Senator Donna Boley

Michael Zak was the Keynote speaker for the Wood County Republican Executive Committee sponsored Lincoln Day Dinner held Saturday evening at the Parkersburg Country Club.

Here are links to the local media coverage so far.

Looking Back for Guidance WTAP

Republicans reflect on history, future of party Parkersburg News & Sentinel

Stay in School and be a Legislator

It doesn't matter how long some people stay in school, this article proves that college can't teach common sense or good judgement. I would think that this would require the State Constitution to be amended, but that just a small issue for big thinkers, after all we have to do what is best for the State! Cake anyone?

Age change gets mixed reactions

Wood County Lincoln Day Dinner

WVGOP Executive Director Visits Town

Local Republicans gathered last evening to welcome Gary Abernathy, our new West Virginia GOP Executive Director to Wood County. Gary made the rounds to WTAP-TV and the News & Sentinel yesterday before addressing a group of 40 at the River City Tavern and Grill at 6:00pm. Gary gave a brief inspirational overview of the State GOP and his plans for the next election cycle. Gary says on his web page the Republican Gazette, that $1500.00 was contributed by the generous group, sometime all you have to do is ask.

Wood County News: State GOP Meeting Info

I haven't felt it necessary or have I been inclined to update the blog recently. This blog primarily focuses on political activity in Wood County WV, and well there just hasn't been anything to say as of late.

That all changes staring tonight.

Gary Abernathy, the WVGOP Executive Director will be in town today. He will be conducting several interviews around town including WTAP-TV and the News & Sentinel. Gary's visit will conclude with an informal get together at the River City Grill on Murdoch Avenue at 6:00 pm.

Activites of WVGOP Chairman Doug McKinney since summer 2006

Interesting WV Blogasphere Articles

I will comment on these as I have time later in the day and week but I wanted to put up a few snipits and links to the articles. Keep up the fight Vic and Gary!

Tommy Phillips new chairman in Harrison County

Phillips, of Bridgeport, said Monday, "I want to continue on the national success that Harrison County has had in the past two presidential elections, and get the Democrats and independents that trust our national ticket to join us to elect a Republican county commissioner in 2010 and to gain a seat in the House of Delegates in the 41st District."

Fight for House leadership stems from Republican frustration

This whole idea of being buddy-buddy with the Democrats and having the Democratic leadership pat the Republicans on the heads for being good girls and boys must stop. It will never get us anywhere.

McKinney Should Move to Wood County

If Doug lived here we would have a celebration. It's all in your priorities and perspective.

Bear gets state GOP on Nov. 4

"Winning is everything and losing is absolutely nothing for political parties. It is the prime directive for hacks and hangers on who live by political fortunes."

"Maybe it's unfair to blame chairmen. If voters wanted to elect more Republicans, they would vote for them.
But someone has to take the blame. That's the rule in politics."
Jess Mancini: Parkersburg News

In just a few months Democrat candidates will be lining up to take a shot at our remaining Republican office holders after their recent success. Wayne Dunn will be looking for a viable partner to serve with him on the county commission which will be vacant do to the retirement of Commissioner Modesitt and embolden hopefuls will see the possibility of taking our State Senate seat to the Democrat side in 2010 especially if Senator Deem chooses not to run. The Democrats have tasted victory and folks who wouldn’t have considered running will now give it a second look. Changes in direction or modifications of strategy are meet with a litany of time tested excuses and those who would dare speak of such things are made out to be the problem for questioning people who mean so well. Isn’t politics fun; I can’t wait to see what happens next!

Open Thank You Letter

Fellow Republicans,

I would like to personally thank each and every one of you for your efforts the last few months. Our hard work and dedication to our Party carried Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin to one of the highest, if not the highest margins of victory in West Virginia, 63.38% and 10,224 votes. We also made the race for Attorney General very close by delivering 61.13% for a 7478 margin in favor of Dan Greear, a truly great candidate and leader.

We have a lot to do the next 2 years to prepare our Party and our message for the 2010 mid term elections. Party building is an ongoing and often thankless effort, but it is essential if we are to maintain offices, regain lost ground and move our beliefs in government forward. Again, I want to thank you and let you know that I appreciate all that you do!

Greg Smith


McCain/Palin Wood County Chairman
Greear for Attorney General Wood County Chairman

Governor Palin Arrives with Husband Todd

Palins plane touches down in West Virginia

Todd Palin heads to Marietta

Everyone wanted tickets to Sarah Palin

Road to Victory Rally with Sarah Palin

Road to Victory Rally with Sarah Palin

Where: Marietta College

Dyson Baudo Recreation Center

215 Fifth Street

Marietta, OH 45750

When: Sunday, November 2nd

Doors Open: 11:30am

Event Scheduled to Starts at 1:30

Tickets available at the Wood County HQ Saturday starting at 9:00 am

RNC Victory Tour Visits Parkersburg

***MEDIA ADVISORY***

RNC Chairman & Co-Chairman Join “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Through OH & WV

WASHINGTON – Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan and Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson will join the “Victory 2008” bus tour swing through Ohio and West Virginia.


Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Batavia, OH
WHO: RNC Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan
RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Clermont County Victory Center
WHEN: Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Clermont County Victory Center
197 East Main Street
Batavia, OH 45103

Cincinnati, OH
WHO: RNC Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan
RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Hamilton County (Kenwood) Victory Center
WHEN: Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Hamilton County (Kenwood) Victory Center
8260 Northcreek Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45236

Cincinnati, OH
WHO: RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Hamilton County (West Side) Victory Center
WHEN: Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Hamilton County Victory Center
3339 Harrison Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45211


Thursday, October 30, 2008

Dayton, OH
WHO: RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Greene County Victory Center
WHEN: Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. EDT

WHERE: Greene County Victory Center
3317 Seajay Drive
Dayton, OH 45430

Springfield, OH
WHO: RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Clark County Victory Center
WHEN: Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. EDT

WHERE: Clark County Victory Center
1 S. Limestone Street
Springfield, OH 45502

Dublin, OH
WHO: RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Franklin County (Dublin) Victory Center
WHEN Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Franklin County (Dublin) Victory Center
4784 Frantz Road
Dublin, OH 43016

Columbus, OH
WHO: RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Franklin County (Westerville) Victory Center
WHEN: Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 3:30 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Franklin County (Westerville) Victory Center
2424 Home Acre Drive
Columbus, OH 43213

Columbus, OH
WHO: RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Franklin County Victory Center
WHEN: Thursday, October 30, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Franklin County Victory Center
240 N Fifth Street
Columbus, OH 43215


Friday, October 31, 2008

Heath, OH
WHO: RNC Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan
RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Licking County Victory Center
WHEN: Friday, October 31, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. EDT

WHERE: Licking County Victory Center
1006 Hebron Road
Heath OH 43056

Zanesville, OH
WHO: RNC Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan
RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Muskingum County Victory Center
WHEN: Friday, October 31, 2008 at 12:00 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Muskingum County Victory Center
1207 Maple Avenue
Zanesville OH 43701

Parkersburg, WV
WHO: RNC Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan
RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Wood County Republican Headquarters
WHEN: Friday, October 31, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Wood County Republican Headquarters
409 Eighth Street
Parkersburg WV 26101

Charleston, WV
WHO: RNC Chairman Robert M. “Mike” Duncan
RNC Co-Chairman Jo Ann Davidson
WHAT: “Victory 2008” Bus Tour Stops At Charleston Victory Center
WHEN: Friday, October 31, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. EDT

WHERE: Charleston Victory Center
111 Hale Street
Charleston WV 25301