93 Counties

Last night I traveled to Fairbury, Nebraska in Jefferson County for the only convention of the day, which also happened to be the last convention of the 2010 county convention season. Chairman Ron Schwab and his wife coordinated the evening's activities, electing 2 delegates and alternate to state, including Ralph Knobel, former chairman of the NEGOP. Jefferson County will have a fair booth this year staffed by the Republican Women and will also be holding a fundraiser later this fall.

It has been a delight traveling around the state, visiting, in my case 11 counties. The people of Nebraska as always are extremely hospitable and welcoming, and I am delighted to have been a citizen of the greatest state in the Union. While there is still much to do as we prepare to "give Ben the boot" in 2012, we are well on our way to having a solid 93 county structure to serve him a clear defeat when he runs for reelection.

If you didn't get elected as a delegate or alternate to state convention or just didn't have time to participate in the county convention process, please consider registering for state convention. There will be many opportunities for anyone, delegate or otherwise, who attends the state convention. Speakers from across the nation will be teaching voter and candidate training workshops. Stay tuned for a special announcement about a keynote speaker shortly!

- Taylor

York and Seward County Conventions

The York County Republican Convention convened on June 7th in the county courthouse at 7:00 p.m. About a dozen were in attendance, including former State Senator Elaine Stuhr. County Chairman Kurt Bulgrin introduced Governor Dave Heineman who spoke to the audience about upcoming budget deficits and the need for fiscal responsibility even when it is not the easy choice to make. The delegates elected a new county chair, Kenneth Thorne, and resolved to become more active by resurrecting their tradition of bi-monthly meetings with a 12-member central committee.

The Seward County Republican Convention was gaveled in at 7:00 p.m. on June 8th at the Seward Civic Center. Interim County Chairman Lloyd Sommerer was formally elected as the county chair, along with a full slate of leadership, including a brand new vice chair, an office which had lain vacant for years. State Senator Tony Fulton from Lincoln addressed the convention, stressing the important of involvement in the party process, and impressing upon the attendees that lack of involvement in 2010 could possible lead to end of America as our political policies uniformly take on the character of Obama's progressive liberalism.

- Taylor

Lincoln and Dawson County Conventions

The Lincoln County Republican Convention was held at Margie’s in a meeting room overlooking the golf course at the Country Club in North Platte. The convention was called to order at 6 p.m. this evening. It began with the introduction of various local school board and city council candidates leading to the key note speaker Don Stenberg, republican candidate for State Treasurer. Once Don was done speaking, dinner was severed. They then elected county party officers and Delegates to represent Lincoln County at the State Convention.

Dawson County Republicans also held their convention tonight in the county court house. After being inactive over the past few years, they elected new county party officers as well as Delegates to represent their county at the State Convention. Throughout the meeting they produced numerous ideas, which are now in the works, including starting a facebook group and web site for Dawson County Republicans. Don Stenberg was also the key note speaker at this convention. He addressed numerous issues our state and nation as a whole are facing. Both county conventions were a success tonight and I am exciting to see what they do next.

-Jenna

Sioux and Keith County - June 7

Yesterday, I traveled to Harrison in Sioux County for their Republican Convention. The Sioux County Republican Convention was held in a meeting room inside their courthouse.


Congressman Adrian Smith was in attendance and spent a majority of his time answer questions and hearing concerns from the people in attendance. Sioux County re-elected their chairman and chairwoman and will also be represented by one delegate at the state convention.


Last night, Keith County Republicans also held their county convention. It was held in a Valentino’s meeting room. The room was decorated with campaign signs and an array of red, white and blue décor. State Senator Ken Schilz was the key note speaker. He did an amazing job at updating attendees on the legislature and what they will be focusing on once back in secession. There was also your choice of cheese and crackers or vegetables and dip. The Keith County Republican Convention was a success. The re-elected their chairman Herb Knudsen and elected chairwoman, secretary and treasurer. Keith County will also be represented by two delegates at the state convention.

- Jenna

Douglas and Dodge Conventions - June 5

The Douglas County Republican Convention convened at 9:00 a.m. at Mercy Hall in Omaha. County Chairwoman Nancy McCabe gaveled the convention in, announcing the presence of about 108 delegates. Dawn Krogh sang the national anthem after City Councilwoman Jean Stothert offered the invocation. Congressman Lee Terry warmed up the crowd, speaking about fiscal responsbility and his upcoming battle for reelection in the 2nd Congressional District which encompasses all of Douglas County and portions of Sarpy.

Governor Heineman spoke about his upcoming reelection campaign, and the importance of campaigning like he's down thirty points even when success seems inevitable at the moment. The convention then took a break for district causes where delegates and alternates were elected to the state convention along with State Central Committee members and Douglas County Central Committee members.

Held in Fremont--home to the State Convention this year--the Dodge County Republican Convention was preceded by a social hour starting at 2:00 p.m., after which constitutional scholar and professor Glenn Freeman (pictured left) spoke on the current state of the Constitution in American politics. After the convention elected 7 delegates and 7 alternates, the convention was gaveled out, and several of the attendees retired to J's Steakhouse and Winery down the street for appetizers, drinks, and conversation.

- Taylor

(Building) Bridges in Madison County - June 3

The Madison County GOP is one of Nebraska’s strongest county parties and the convention on Thursday June 3 reflected their momentum. Turnout was more than 75 strong, nearly double the turnout of the last county convention in 2008.

The convention program featured speeches from County Chairman Mike Long, who made a strong case for the value of party unity and working together to elect strong Republicans throughout the state, and Speaker of the Legislature Mike Flood. Speaker Flood shared his thoughts on the accomplishments of the most recent legislative session, which included legislation for the expansion of Nebraska’s wind energy industry, and the passage of Speaker Flood's priority bill to prohibit abortions after 20 weeks.

In addition to the election of delegates to the state convention, the agenda also included passage of a county constitution, which included a healthy and spirited discussion, and the election of a 23-member county central committee, which should help the county party there stay very active and organized for several elections to come.

- Jordan McGrain

Clay County GOP Convention - June 6

This evening I attended the Clay County Convention at the Clay County Courthouse in Clay Center. Interim Chairwoman Sallie Barbee led the meeting, and very appropriately used parlimentary procedure might I add. Nearly 20 attended the meeting - a success compared to the only 5 who attended the Clay County Democrat Convention. Michael Boyd was elected as the new county chair, and all 3 other offices were re-elected to their position. Michael is currently a city councilman and a candidate for Mayor of Harvard, bringing experience and motivation to the table to help keep Clay County solidly Republican. Unfortunately the 2 keynote speakers who planned to attend were unable to make it, so Sallie asked that I fill in. The meeting ended with tea, cookies, and 2 new delegates from Clay County to attend the State Convention.

-Rebecca

Updates from the 3rd District

Scotts Bluff (June 1) - County Chair Marylin Dodge called to report that while their convention location had been advertised as being at the Prime Cut Steakhouse, due to a last minute conflict, the convention was moved down the street. About 20 Republicans were in attendance and Congressman Adrian Smith addressed the convention. They elected 6 delegates for the state convention, one of the largest allotments for the 3rd District.

Hamilton (June 1) - Hamilton County held its convention at the Bremer Center (the photo to the right is actually of the county courthouse). Republican candidate Doug Peterson addressed the convention briefly and those present agreed to get a county fair booth to promote local and statewide Republican races.

Franklin (June 4) - The Franklin County Convention convened in the Extension Room on the main floor of the Franklin County Courthouse in Franklin, Nebraska. Home to the annual Posthole Digging Competition, this county is chaired by Vernon Duncan who has held the position for 40 years. County delegates elected 2 representatives to the state convention.

As I drove from Franklin to Gosper on Friday, I had a little extra time, so I stopped to snap a photo of this iconic city sign. Republican City, a small town of about 200, lies in Harlan County between Franklin and Furnas, and is notable for giving us the writer Patrick Hadley and Kelli Lutjeharms Colón, wife of a LABL baseball player.

Gosper (June 4) - After driving through the ghost town of Edison, the county seat of Elwood seemed like a breath of fresh air! Their vice county chair, Todd Wilson, who also serves Gosper as the County Attorney stood in for the evening. While the county needs a little more organization, they have young leadership and will certainly be supportive when surrounding counties put together a multi-county event in the near future!

- Taylor

Cherry County - June 4

Last night, I had the opportunity to travel to Valentine, Nebraska for the Cherry County convention. The convention started out with a tour of the new justice facilities, delicious burgers, potato chips and ice cream. The tables filled as the meeting began.

The County Chair, secretary and treasurer were re-elected. A new Vice Chair was also elected. Cherry County will now be represented by two delegates and two alternates at the state convention. The convention was a success. We had the opportunity to hear from State Senator Deb Fischer and numerous candidates from around the county.It was evident that everyone who spoke truly has the best interest of Cherry County in mind.

I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to meet so many people who truly care about what is happening in the county and state. Cherry County has been an active county and I look forward to seeing what else they do.

- Jenna

Merrick County - June 3

Last night I traveled to Central City for the Merrick County Convention. Despite dark clouds looming to the Northwest, a dedicated crowd met to listen to Legislative District 34 candidate Brandon Hunnicutt as well as Merrick County Attorney Candidate Lynelle Homolka. Hunnicutt focused on the economic situation facing the State of Nebraska and outlined his "tell it as it is" approach to government and public office. Homolka is currently running unopposed but stressed the importance of continuing her campaign as there could be an opponent by November.

The Convention was quite successful, with the election of two delegates to State Convention as well as the election of two alternates. All county officers were re-elected and are looking forward to growing the Republican Party in Merrick County. Before adjournment, County Chairman Norm Krug led a discussion of the Nebraska Republican Party Platform. They plan to offer amendments to the Platform Committee regarding a stronger stance against drugs as well as to encourage the support of "ease of transportation" for ethanol and biodiesel, which is inline with legislation supported in Congress by Congressman Adrian Smith.

Refreshments were provided following the meeting and the dark clouds rolled in. Delegates dashed to their cars in hopes of missing the downpour and I headed back to Omaha.

-Erin

Boone and Keya Paha County Conventions

Last night I had the privilege of traveling to Boone County, where we now have a new county chair. She is very excited and is already approaching her new position with many ideas for Boone County Republican events. She is moving forward with a fresh look on getting people involved, and we are looking forward to helping them reach their goals. Be on the look out for not only Boone County events but multi-county events as well! Boone County is planning on having a booth at the County Fair and will also have a delegate representing them at the State Convention.

Today, I ventured to Keya Paha County. Many great ideas were shared at the meeting. Despite all the work that needs done and all the events coming up in the county, the people of Keya Paha are well aware of what’s happening not only in our state but also in our nation. Keya Paha is ready to get people elected who really do represent and speak for the people. Keya Paha is sending a delegate to the State Convention as well.

Both of these conventions were held in the local courthouse, but conventions across the state are being held in a variety of venues such as restaurants, meeting halls and much more. We are well on our way to reaching all 93 counties across Nebraska in 2010.

- Jenna

Hall County Convention - June 3

Last night the Hall County Republicans held their convention at the Saddle Club on 1 Kuester Lake in Grand Island, Nebraska. County Chair, Gerry Piccolo serves as the Public Defender for the county as one of only three Republican Public Defenders in Nebraska. The convention opened with an address from Secretary of State John Gale on improvements to the election system and remarks on why Secretary of State races are being targeted by Democrats nationwide to help decide close races. Gale noted that two races in Nebraska this year had already been decided by pulling a name out of a hat because the primary election had resulted in a tie!

As the delegates continued to eat the fantastic desserts provided by the Saddle Club, State Senator Mike Gloor addressed the audience, advising them on how the state legislature was handling the $600 million shortfall in education spending and other issues facing the senators in the upcoming legislative session. Following Senator Gloor, State Treasurer candidate Don Stenberg (pictured right) spoke to the convention about problems facing the nation, ranging from illegal immigration to massive spending deficits. As the convention came to a close, 6 delegates and 6 alternates were elected to the state convention in Fremont, along with county officers including the reelection of Gerry Piccolo and Doris Mason as chairman and vice chairwoman along with the election of a new treasurer, Marty Klein.

- Taylor

Custer County Convention - June 2nd

On June 2nd, 2010 about 50 faithful Republican activists gathered at the Vet's Center in Broken Bow to elect 3 delegates and 3 alternates to the state convention. County Chair Craig Safranek, who also serves as the 3rd District Chairman on the State Central Committee, announced several events for the fall including a fundraiser and a social event. This crowd represented an increase in attendance over the 2008 convention--unusual for a gubernatorial election. Congressman Adrian Smith spoke about the Republican strategy to defeat the Democrat agenda in Washington and then took questions on subjects ranging from the healthcare bill to cap and trade.

As of June 2nd, almost a third of the counties in the state had already held a county convention, including approximately two dozen counties in the sixty-nine county member 3rd Congressional District. As our party staff, elected officials, and candidates criss-cross the state, these conventions are held in many locations, sometimes Legion lodges, restaurants, or even fitness centers! Most often, however, they are held in the county courthouses, like the one pictured to the right in Nelson, the county seat of Nuckolls County. These buildings represent the lifeblood of each county's political and social structure, and also contain a deep, rich architectural heritage.

- Taylor

Fillmore County Convention - June 3

Tonight I ventured to historic Strang, Nebraska, for the Fillmore County Convention with special guest, U.S. Congressman Adrian Smith. Approximately 25 joined the Congressman and County Chair Judy Glassburner for dinner at "Bubba's Anytime", a cafe that's famous county-wide. Fillmore County re-elected Judy Glassburner as County Chair along with 3 new officers including Frank Heinisch (Vice-Chair), Lorelei Edwards (Secretary) and Jeff Johnson (Treasurer), along with two delegates to attend State Convention. Congressman Smith answered questions regarding the healthcare bill, partisanship in Congress and his take on the 2010 elections. The meeting adjourned just as dark clouds rolled in - my sign to head back to Lincoln

- Rebecca

Leave a Message!

If you have a questions or comment about or even a reaction to your county convention experience, please feel free to leave us a message using this new feature delivered by the Google Voicemail service. We'll be happy to respond to any concerns or suggestions that you have for us!

Lancaster County Convention - June 1

Today I had the pleasure of not only attending the Lancaster County Convention but also participating as a delegate and a caucus chair. My first time at a county convention, I walked away impressed and enthused as we enter the prime of election season. Lancaster boasted over 200 delegates in attendance! Participants included long-time party activists and many 'first-timers' who are so frustrated with the Obama administration, they thought County Convention would be a great way to get involved.

Guest speakers included U.S. Senator Mike Johanns accompanied by his lovely wife Stephanie, Governor Dave Heineman, U.S. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry, and State Treasurer candidate Don Stenberg. Many other electeds attended as either guests or delegates including Attorney General Jon Bruning, Regent Tim Clare, State Board of Education Member Bob Evnen, State Senator Tony Fulton along with our Republican legislative candidates Nancy Russell, Chad Wright, Tom Dierks, and John Knabe. A round of applause for Lancaster Chair Paul Zoz, Convention Coordinator Andre Mick and Executive Director Joe Murray for a successful evening!



-Rebecca

Saunders County Convention - June 1

Of the 15 conventions today, our staff hit up 6 of them, promoting our candidates, recruiting volunteers, and dispersing campaign literature. Pictured above, Secretary of State John Gale addressed the Saunders County Convention which NEGOP Executive Director Jordan McGrain also attended. Lancaster County reported a packed house at their convention in Lincoln to hear Governor Heineman and Senator Johanns address the crowd. Though severe weather suppressed turnout in a few counties in Southeast Nebraska, our convention cycle is off to a strong start. More updates to come!

On the Road

Our staff has been hitting the road one-by-one today as the first county conventions begin. McPherson County had the honor of going first earlier today, electing their delegate and alternate to the state convention. The Nebraska Republican Party will have staff at approximately 50 of the 93 county conventions.

Jordan McGrain (Executive Director), Taylor Gage (Convention Coordinator), Jenna Carson (Convention Assistant), Rebecca Weber (Finance Director), and Erin Bottger (Finance Assistant) will be present at conventions from Harrison to Pawnee, supporting the grassroot efforts of the NEGOP. As we travel around the state, we will bring information and literature to the local organizations.

Look for each of us on the convention trail and be sure to ask us about how you can get involved in the legislative and statewide races this year as we seek to retain our Republican advantage in all our races up and down the ballot. If you have any questions about your convention, give us a call at 402.475.2122 and we would be happy to fill you in. See you on the road!