July 20, 2026
Benton County Republican BPOU Board Meeting Minutes,
July 20, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones at St Cloud Sky Central Airport. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance Followed.
Executive committee members present: Joshua Jones, Julie Johnson, Sam Olson, Heidi Montag, Alysia Thumma, Kevin Arnold, Evan Windahl and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Heather Bondhus, Chad Erdmann, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Andrew Scherbing, Ella Leabch, Christine Scherbing, Michael Lewandowski, Mary Lewandowski, Walker Olson and Sophia Diaz.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Evan Windahl to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Mary Lewandowski, candidate for county auditor/ treasurer spoke and listed her credentials and why she should be elected.
Christine Scherbing, current auditor/treasurer spoke seeking reelection and listed her experience and why she should be reelected.
Sophia Diaz spoke on behalf of Congressman Emmer’s office and gave an update on what’s going on in Washington DC and said they had received 1000 “bag” signs for the campaign and will provide candy for parades. She will be working Tuesdays and Thursdays in the newly opened Victory Office provided by CD6 in Waite Park. That location is one of eight that CD6 is funding in specifically targeted areas around the state.
Aaron Brutger, endorsed candidate for SD13 spoke and said his campaign is going well.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Evan Windahl to approve the minutes from the June meeting. Motion approved.
Julie Johnson, treasurer, gave her report and resigned from the board due to her increased work load. She will pass on the WinRed passwords to Joshua and Carol. She will complete the required FEC reports that are due at the end of this month.
Joshua Jones announced that nominations for her replacement will be received at the August meeting of this committee.
Carol Rupar presented a bill for $219.68 for expenses for the fair booth. This included the flag flown over the US Capitol in honor of 250th anniversary of the US, 288 miniature flags to be given away, a frame for signed JD Vance photo and copies of the form for the drawing at the fair. A motion was made by Alysia Thumma and seconded by Sam Olson to pay the bill. Motion approved.
It was mentioned that Pamela Bernick discovered larger (10” X 16”) Minnesota original design stick flags available from Coil’s Flag Store at a reasonable cost. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Heidi Montag to purchase 50 to be available at the fair booth for a $10 donation each. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold requested that a continuity committee be formed which he will chair. Other members of the committee are Todd Waytashek, Evan Windahl, and Alysia Thumma.
Todd Waytashek reported that there will be a special state convention in St Cloud in the spring of 2027 to specifically address the MNGOP constitution and by-laws which consistently get ignored at state conventions due to time restraints.
A motion was made by Evan Windahl and seconded by Julie Johnson to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 PM.
July 20, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones at St Cloud Sky Central Airport. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance Followed.
Executive committee members present: Joshua Jones, Julie Johnson, Sam Olson, Heidi Montag, Alysia Thumma, Kevin Arnold, Evan Windahl and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Heather Bondhus, Chad Erdmann, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Andrew Scherbing, Ella Leabch, Christine Scherbing, Michael Lewandowski, Mary Lewandowski, Walker Olson and Sophia Diaz.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Evan Windahl to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Mary Lewandowski, candidate for county auditor/ treasurer spoke and listed her credentials and why she should be elected.
Christine Scherbing, current auditor/treasurer spoke seeking reelection and listed her experience and why she should be reelected.
Sophia Diaz spoke on behalf of Congressman Emmer’s office and gave an update on what’s going on in Washington DC and said they had received 1000 “bag” signs for the campaign and will provide candy for parades. She will be working Tuesdays and Thursdays in the newly opened Victory Office provided by CD6 in Waite Park. That location is one of eight that CD6 is funding in specifically targeted areas around the state.
Aaron Brutger, endorsed candidate for SD13 spoke and said his campaign is going well.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Evan Windahl to approve the minutes from the June meeting. Motion approved.
Julie Johnson, treasurer, gave her report and resigned from the board due to her increased work load. She will pass on the WinRed passwords to Joshua and Carol. She will complete the required FEC reports that are due at the end of this month.
Joshua Jones announced that nominations for her replacement will be received at the August meeting of this committee.
Carol Rupar presented a bill for $219.68 for expenses for the fair booth. This included the flag flown over the US Capitol in honor of 250th anniversary of the US, 288 miniature flags to be given away, a frame for signed JD Vance photo and copies of the form for the drawing at the fair. A motion was made by Alysia Thumma and seconded by Sam Olson to pay the bill. Motion approved.
It was mentioned that Pamela Bernick discovered larger (10” X 16”) Minnesota original design stick flags available from Coil’s Flag Store at a reasonable cost. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Heidi Montag to purchase 50 to be available at the fair booth for a $10 donation each. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold requested that a continuity committee be formed which he will chair. Other members of the committee are Todd Waytashek, Evan Windahl, and Alysia Thumma.
Todd Waytashek reported that there will be a special state convention in St Cloud in the spring of 2027 to specifically address the MNGOP constitution and by-laws which consistently get ignored at state conventions due to time restraints.
A motion was made by Evan Windahl and seconded by Julie Johnson to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 PM.
June 15, 2026
Benton Republican BPOU Board Meeting Minutes,
June 15, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM, by Chairman Joshua Jones, followed by invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. Executive members present: Alysia Thumma,Judy Hackett, Evan Windahl, Heidi Montag, Carol Rupar, Kim Christen-Mattson. Kevin Arnold, Julie Johnson, Sam Olson and Joshua Jones.
Full committee members and guests present: Aaron Brutger,Jim Zitzmann,Todd Waytashek,Philip Kameo,Beth Schlangen and David Hansmeier.
A motion was made by Kevin Arnold and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the meeting agenda.Motion approved.
Aaron Brutger,endorsed candidate for SD13 spoke. He is participating in parades, door knocking and has ordered 100,000 lit pieces. Jacob Ringstad is his campaign manager. Jared Gapski has filed to challenge Aaron in the August 11 primary.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the minutes of the May meeting. Motion approved. A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Heidi Montag to approve the treasurer's report. Julie reported that $9,000 was transferred to savings today.
In regard to Foley parade on Wednesday, June 17th, begins at 6 PM. Line up begins at 5 PM. Benton BPOU is unit #22 just after the 2nd band. Park in the high school parking lot. Line up on Norman as parade runs down Norman Avenue N. There are 106 units.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Julie Johnson to give $2,000 each to campaigns of Sue Ek and Bernie Perryryman. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Alysia Thumma and seconded by Judy Hackett to give $1,000 each to campaigns of AG candidate Ron Schutzut, Auditor Nate George and SOS candidate Tad Jude. Motion approved.
There was lengthy discussion of the recent MNGOP convention in Duluth. No one is happy. If one's candidate was endorsed there is anger that the others are going to the primary. If one's candidate did not get endorsed, there is also anger. State Central took 3 hours to complete registration. There was no consistent plan to seat alternates at the convention. $48,000 was the cost to the company that provided the clickers. There was a plan in place to use paper ballots. Some were angry because the clickers weren't working and some angry because the vote was to continue using the clickers over paper ballots so that count should have been accepted. Republicans are more divided than ever.
There is a plan to hold a special state central committee meeting between March and May of 2027 for the purpose of discussing the constitution and bylaws. The plan is to hold it in St Cloud.
Republicans must keep fraud and the"Learing Center" in the forefront for this election.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Julie Johnson.
The meeting adjourned at 8:17 PM.
June 15, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM, by Chairman Joshua Jones, followed by invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. Executive members present: Alysia Thumma,Judy Hackett, Evan Windahl, Heidi Montag, Carol Rupar, Kim Christen-Mattson. Kevin Arnold, Julie Johnson, Sam Olson and Joshua Jones.
Full committee members and guests present: Aaron Brutger,Jim Zitzmann,Todd Waytashek,Philip Kameo,Beth Schlangen and David Hansmeier.
A motion was made by Kevin Arnold and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the meeting agenda.Motion approved.
Aaron Brutger,endorsed candidate for SD13 spoke. He is participating in parades, door knocking and has ordered 100,000 lit pieces. Jacob Ringstad is his campaign manager. Jared Gapski has filed to challenge Aaron in the August 11 primary.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the minutes of the May meeting. Motion approved. A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Heidi Montag to approve the treasurer's report. Julie reported that $9,000 was transferred to savings today.
In regard to Foley parade on Wednesday, June 17th, begins at 6 PM. Line up begins at 5 PM. Benton BPOU is unit #22 just after the 2nd band. Park in the high school parking lot. Line up on Norman as parade runs down Norman Avenue N. There are 106 units.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Julie Johnson to give $2,000 each to campaigns of Sue Ek and Bernie Perryryman. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Alysia Thumma and seconded by Judy Hackett to give $1,000 each to campaigns of AG candidate Ron Schutzut, Auditor Nate George and SOS candidate Tad Jude. Motion approved.
There was lengthy discussion of the recent MNGOP convention in Duluth. No one is happy. If one's candidate was endorsed there is anger that the others are going to the primary. If one's candidate did not get endorsed, there is also anger. State Central took 3 hours to complete registration. There was no consistent plan to seat alternates at the convention. $48,000 was the cost to the company that provided the clickers. There was a plan in place to use paper ballots. Some were angry because the clickers weren't working and some angry because the vote was to continue using the clickers over paper ballots so that count should have been accepted. Republicans are more divided than ever.
There is a plan to hold a special state central committee meeting between March and May of 2027 for the purpose of discussing the constitution and bylaws. The plan is to hold it in St Cloud.
Republicans must keep fraud and the"Learing Center" in the forefront for this election.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Julie Johnson.
The meeting adjourned at 8:17 PM.
May 18, 2026
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
May 18, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Vice Chairman, Judy Hackett
Pledge of allegiance and invocation followed.
Executive Committee members in attendance: Julie Johnson, Heidi Montag, Alysia Thumma, Kevin Arnold, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett and Carol Rupar- via phoned in
Full committee members and guests in attendance: Jim Zitzmann, Todd Waytashek, Phil Kameo, Evan Windahl, David Hsansmeier, Beth Schlangen, and Nate George
Motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson, and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the agenda
Motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Heidi Montag to approve last month’s meeting minutes.
Motion was made by Alysia Thumma and seconded by Heidi Montag to approve the Treasures report.
Julie went over the Treasures report, including results of Denim and Diamonds fundraiser. Julie suggested we move money from checking to savings. No objections. Carol wanted to note to make sure we have funds easy accessible for campaign contributions since it is an election year.
Carol talked about upcoming parades. Shared that Emmer campaign will sponsoring/supplying water and candy for parades. First parade is Foley on June 17th. Isaac will have Truck and trailer. Should be early in line up. Line up at 5pm, Parade starts at 6pm. Who can attend. Julie -yes/ Alysia- if not working, Heidi- Maybe
Other parades dates will be discussed again and looking for volunteers.
Paula Christianson, looking for volunteers for the Granite City Days parade.
Carol Rupar made motion to contribute to John Jose campaign 14A - $1000 and to Tanja Goering 13A- $1000 . Kim Christen-Mattson seconded the motion.
Carol Rupar made motion to contribute up to $4000 to Bernie Perryman and Sue Ek Alysia Thumma- discussion - suggested / made new motion of up to $2000 each instead if their campaign needs it. This was tabled until June Mtg.
New Business- Motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson to add Even Windahl as a new board member at large position. Approved
Kevin Arnold had brought a couple pieces for new business-
-money that was available for Mail chimp previously and if we should cancel this now or if Blake needs to cancel this
-Continuity of Government- Electronic files – Treasurer- Secretary -Records of everything including minutes and forms. Kevin manages Website. – Further discussion of records at June meeting.
Guest speaker: Nate George running for State Auditor spoke of his experience and qualifications for the position, Including local government experience, auditing and compliance of public funds and standards to follow
Nate currently does investigations and audits as the licensing investigating director for the Mille lacs Band of Ojibwe where he follows chain of custody, and he builds cases for prosecutions. He is also the current Mayor of Braham. Also just earned his Law degree in May 2026. Recently wrote a bill, a risk assessment bill.
Can learn more at nategeorgeformnstateauditor.com
Received a thank you from Aaron Brutger for the BPOU’s campaign contribution.
Evan Whidahl spoke about Young Republicans and his hopes to get more of the younger generation involved.
Julie Johnson made a motion to adjourn mtg, seconded by Alysia Thumma
May 18, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Vice Chairman, Judy Hackett
Pledge of allegiance and invocation followed.
Executive Committee members in attendance: Julie Johnson, Heidi Montag, Alysia Thumma, Kevin Arnold, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett and Carol Rupar- via phoned in
Full committee members and guests in attendance: Jim Zitzmann, Todd Waytashek, Phil Kameo, Evan Windahl, David Hsansmeier, Beth Schlangen, and Nate George
Motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson, and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the agenda
Motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Heidi Montag to approve last month’s meeting minutes.
Motion was made by Alysia Thumma and seconded by Heidi Montag to approve the Treasures report.
Julie went over the Treasures report, including results of Denim and Diamonds fundraiser. Julie suggested we move money from checking to savings. No objections. Carol wanted to note to make sure we have funds easy accessible for campaign contributions since it is an election year.
Carol talked about upcoming parades. Shared that Emmer campaign will sponsoring/supplying water and candy for parades. First parade is Foley on June 17th. Isaac will have Truck and trailer. Should be early in line up. Line up at 5pm, Parade starts at 6pm. Who can attend. Julie -yes/ Alysia- if not working, Heidi- Maybe
Other parades dates will be discussed again and looking for volunteers.
Paula Christianson, looking for volunteers for the Granite City Days parade.
Carol Rupar made motion to contribute to John Jose campaign 14A - $1000 and to Tanja Goering 13A- $1000 . Kim Christen-Mattson seconded the motion.
Carol Rupar made motion to contribute up to $4000 to Bernie Perryman and Sue Ek Alysia Thumma- discussion - suggested / made new motion of up to $2000 each instead if their campaign needs it. This was tabled until June Mtg.
New Business- Motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson to add Even Windahl as a new board member at large position. Approved
Kevin Arnold had brought a couple pieces for new business-
-money that was available for Mail chimp previously and if we should cancel this now or if Blake needs to cancel this
-Continuity of Government- Electronic files – Treasurer- Secretary -Records of everything including minutes and forms. Kevin manages Website. – Further discussion of records at June meeting.
Guest speaker: Nate George running for State Auditor spoke of his experience and qualifications for the position, Including local government experience, auditing and compliance of public funds and standards to follow
Nate currently does investigations and audits as the licensing investigating director for the Mille lacs Band of Ojibwe where he follows chain of custody, and he builds cases for prosecutions. He is also the current Mayor of Braham. Also just earned his Law degree in May 2026. Recently wrote a bill, a risk assessment bill.
Can learn more at nategeorgeformnstateauditor.com
Received a thank you from Aaron Brutger for the BPOU’s campaign contribution.
Evan Whidahl spoke about Young Republicans and his hopes to get more of the younger generation involved.
Julie Johnson made a motion to adjourn mtg, seconded by Alysia Thumma
April 20, 2026
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
April 20, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Executive committee members in attendance: Sam Olson, Julie Johnson, Joshua Jones, Heidi Montag, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests in attendance: Sophia Diaz, Sonia Eizenhoefer, Walker Olson, Jim Zitzmann and Evan Windahl.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Sonia Eizenhoefer, candidate for ISD742 school board spoke. If elected, she will bring a unique life experience to the board as she went from being a high school dropout to earning a master’s degree and authoring three books. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve Sonia recommended status and give her a campaign contribution of $600. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the March meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Sam Olson to approve the treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Sophia Diaz from the Emmer Campaign Office gave an update on what is going on in Washington DC. Swalwell, Gonzales and McCormack are resigning, and Dick Durben is not running for reelection.
The nominations for this executive board made last month were Kevin Arnold and Alysia Thumma. The board voted to accept these two to become at-large members of the executive committee.
Evan Windahl nominated himself to become a board member.
Reminder of Denim and Diamonds fundraiser at Wapicada on Friday, April 24th.
Reminder of CD6 convention at Elk River HS on Saturday, May 2nd.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to adjourn the meeting. Motion approved.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 PM.
April 20, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Executive committee members in attendance: Sam Olson, Julie Johnson, Joshua Jones, Heidi Montag, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests in attendance: Sophia Diaz, Sonia Eizenhoefer, Walker Olson, Jim Zitzmann and Evan Windahl.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Sonia Eizenhoefer, candidate for ISD742 school board spoke. If elected, she will bring a unique life experience to the board as she went from being a high school dropout to earning a master’s degree and authoring three books. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve Sonia recommended status and give her a campaign contribution of $600. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the March meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Sam Olson to approve the treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Sophia Diaz from the Emmer Campaign Office gave an update on what is going on in Washington DC. Swalwell, Gonzales and McCormack are resigning, and Dick Durben is not running for reelection.
The nominations for this executive board made last month were Kevin Arnold and Alysia Thumma. The board voted to accept these two to become at-large members of the executive committee.
Evan Windahl nominated himself to become a board member.
Reminder of Denim and Diamonds fundraiser at Wapicada on Friday, April 24th.
Reminder of CD6 convention at Elk River HS on Saturday, May 2nd.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to adjourn the meeting. Motion approved.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 PM.
March 16, 2026
Benton County Republican BPOU Minutes,
March 16, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Executive committee members present: Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Sam Olson, Joshua Jones, Carol Rupar. Julie Johnson by remote.
Full committee members and guests present: Alysia Thumma. Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Chad Erdmann, Jim Zitzmann, Evan Windahl, Kevin Arnold, David Hansmeier and Beth Schlangen.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to move agenda items up that needed voting on. Motion approved.
The chairman asked if there were any nominations to fill the open positions on the executive committee. Alysia Thumma nominated herself. Kevin Arnold had previously told both Joshua Jones and Carol Rupar that he would like to be on the board.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to approve payment of $300, not to exceed $500 payable to Wapicada Golf Club as deposit to secure the venue for Denim and Diamonds fundraiser. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattsosn and seconded by Sam Olson to approve payment not to exceed $600 payable to Minuteman Press for postcard mailing of invitations to Denim and Diamonds fundraiser scheduled to be mailed on March 23, 2026.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to approve submitting the application by April 1st to secure the booth at the Benton County Fair which opens at noon on Tuesday, August 4th and ends at 5 pm on Sunday, August 9th to be in the same location as has been in the past. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to reserve Benton BPOU units in the parades on June 17 in Foley, June 26 in Sauk Rapids, July 26 in Gilman and August 15 in Rice. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to issue checks in the amount of $1,000 to the campaigns of each of the following endorsed local candidates representing Benton County: Bernie Perryman SD14, Sue Ek HD14B, Aaron Brutger, SD13, Dawn Loberg, HD13B, Nathan Wesenberg, SD10 and Isaac Schultz, HD10B. Motion approved.
Julie Johnson announced that Michele Tafoya will hold a meet and greet on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 4 PM at Iron Street Distillery in East St Cloud.
There was a lengthy discussion on the caucus and recent BPOU and endorsing conventions. There were no notions made but main points discussed regarding caucus: microphone is imperative, caucus forms were confusing and redundant, letters read need to be condensed due to time restraint. Regarding conventions: all conventions had issues with balloting, must have printed ballots, better access to ballot counting, low turnout at endorsing conventions.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM.
March 16, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Executive committee members present: Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Sam Olson, Joshua Jones, Carol Rupar. Julie Johnson by remote.
Full committee members and guests present: Alysia Thumma. Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Chad Erdmann, Jim Zitzmann, Evan Windahl, Kevin Arnold, David Hansmeier and Beth Schlangen.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to move agenda items up that needed voting on. Motion approved.
The chairman asked if there were any nominations to fill the open positions on the executive committee. Alysia Thumma nominated herself. Kevin Arnold had previously told both Joshua Jones and Carol Rupar that he would like to be on the board.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to approve payment of $300, not to exceed $500 payable to Wapicada Golf Club as deposit to secure the venue for Denim and Diamonds fundraiser. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattsosn and seconded by Sam Olson to approve payment not to exceed $600 payable to Minuteman Press for postcard mailing of invitations to Denim and Diamonds fundraiser scheduled to be mailed on March 23, 2026.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to approve submitting the application by April 1st to secure the booth at the Benton County Fair which opens at noon on Tuesday, August 4th and ends at 5 pm on Sunday, August 9th to be in the same location as has been in the past. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to reserve Benton BPOU units in the parades on June 17 in Foley, June 26 in Sauk Rapids, July 26 in Gilman and August 15 in Rice. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to issue checks in the amount of $1,000 to the campaigns of each of the following endorsed local candidates representing Benton County: Bernie Perryman SD14, Sue Ek HD14B, Aaron Brutger, SD13, Dawn Loberg, HD13B, Nathan Wesenberg, SD10 and Isaac Schultz, HD10B. Motion approved.
Julie Johnson announced that Michele Tafoya will hold a meet and greet on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 4 PM at Iron Street Distillery in East St Cloud.
There was a lengthy discussion on the caucus and recent BPOU and endorsing conventions. There were no notions made but main points discussed regarding caucus: microphone is imperative, caucus forms were confusing and redundant, letters read need to be condensed due to time restraint. Regarding conventions: all conventions had issues with balloting, must have printed ballots, better access to ballot counting, low turnout at endorsing conventions.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM.
February 16, 2026
No Meeting
January 19, 2026
Benton Co Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
January 19, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm by Chairman Joshua Jones. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Executive committee members in attendance: Kim Christen-Mattson, Heidi Montag, Julie Johnson, Judy Hackett, Carol Rupar and Joshua Jones.
Full committee members and guests in attendance: David Hansmeier, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Rep. Bernie Perryman, Tyler Ireland, Evan “Randy” Morris, Beth Schlanagen, Sonia Eizenhofer, Evan Windahl, Alexandra ?, Dawn Loberg, Jodi Welsh.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda.
Motion approved. .
Sue Ek, candidate for HD14B spoke. Her fundraising is going well. She is working hard and her opponent with be Dem Zach Dorholt.
Dawn Loberg, candidate for HD13B spoke. Her fundraising is going well. Only 8 states tax social security and Minnesota is one of them. The new Paid Family Leave law is hurting small businesses. She is working hard on her campaign.
Rep. Bernie Perryman, candidate for SD14 spoke. Her fundraising is going well. Her race is one of the top 3 targeted in the state. St Coud is the third highest taxed city behind Minneapolis and St Paul. The Dems want to focus on ice. We Republicans need to focus on fraud. Republicans need 1 senate seat.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the minutes. Motion approved.
There was no Treasurer report because Julie could not access the bank records and could not call the bank because they were closed due to the national holiday, but there was no change from last month.
Carol Rupar presented two bills one payable to herself for $201.55 for caucus printing and supplies and the other payable to City of Sauk Rapids in the amount of $250 for rental of Sauk Rapids Community Room for February 14th BPOU convention. A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Heidi Montag to pay those bills. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to set up square to receive donations at the Gubernatorial forum on January 29th and to accept registration payments for the BPOU convention on February 14th. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to do radio ads for the Gubernatorial forum. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to spend $500 on radio advertising for the forum. Motion approved. Heidi will contact KNSI to execute the ad.
For the gubernatorial forum, Julie Johnson will have change. Julie Johnson and Judy Hackett will handle soliciting donations at the entrance. Kim Christen-Mattson will pass out the cards for the straw poll.
The Benton BPOU Convention will be held on February 14th at the Sauk Rapids Government Center. Door will open at 8 am. Registration will open at 8 am and close at 9:30 am. Convention will open at 9 am.
The following committees for the convention have been assigned:
Registration: Judy Hackett, Julie Johnson
Rules: Jodi Welsh, Joshua Jones, Kim Christen-Mattson and Carol Rupar
Resolutions: Beth Schlangen, Jodi Welsh, Carol Rupar and Joshua Jones
Sargeant-at-Arms: will check with Jim Howe
Parliamentarian: TBD
Timekeeper: TBD
Tellers to be appointed at convention
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to adjourn the meeting. Meeting adjourned at 8:22 PM.
January 19, 2026
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm by Chairman Joshua Jones. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance followed.
Executive committee members in attendance: Kim Christen-Mattson, Heidi Montag, Julie Johnson, Judy Hackett, Carol Rupar and Joshua Jones.
Full committee members and guests in attendance: David Hansmeier, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Rep. Bernie Perryman, Tyler Ireland, Evan “Randy” Morris, Beth Schlanagen, Sonia Eizenhofer, Evan Windahl, Alexandra ?, Dawn Loberg, Jodi Welsh.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda.
Motion approved. .
Sue Ek, candidate for HD14B spoke. Her fundraising is going well. She is working hard and her opponent with be Dem Zach Dorholt.
Dawn Loberg, candidate for HD13B spoke. Her fundraising is going well. Only 8 states tax social security and Minnesota is one of them. The new Paid Family Leave law is hurting small businesses. She is working hard on her campaign.
Rep. Bernie Perryman, candidate for SD14 spoke. Her fundraising is going well. Her race is one of the top 3 targeted in the state. St Coud is the third highest taxed city behind Minneapolis and St Paul. The Dems want to focus on ice. We Republicans need to focus on fraud. Republicans need 1 senate seat.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the minutes. Motion approved.
There was no Treasurer report because Julie could not access the bank records and could not call the bank because they were closed due to the national holiday, but there was no change from last month.
Carol Rupar presented two bills one payable to herself for $201.55 for caucus printing and supplies and the other payable to City of Sauk Rapids in the amount of $250 for rental of Sauk Rapids Community Room for February 14th BPOU convention. A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Heidi Montag to pay those bills. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to set up square to receive donations at the Gubernatorial forum on January 29th and to accept registration payments for the BPOU convention on February 14th. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to do radio ads for the Gubernatorial forum. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to spend $500 on radio advertising for the forum. Motion approved. Heidi will contact KNSI to execute the ad.
For the gubernatorial forum, Julie Johnson will have change. Julie Johnson and Judy Hackett will handle soliciting donations at the entrance. Kim Christen-Mattson will pass out the cards for the straw poll.
The Benton BPOU Convention will be held on February 14th at the Sauk Rapids Government Center. Door will open at 8 am. Registration will open at 8 am and close at 9:30 am. Convention will open at 9 am.
The following committees for the convention have been assigned:
Registration: Judy Hackett, Julie Johnson
Rules: Jodi Welsh, Joshua Jones, Kim Christen-Mattson and Carol Rupar
Resolutions: Beth Schlangen, Jodi Welsh, Carol Rupar and Joshua Jones
Sargeant-at-Arms: will check with Jim Howe
Parliamentarian: TBD
Timekeeper: TBD
Tellers to be appointed at convention
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to adjourn the meeting. Meeting adjourned at 8:22 PM.
December 15, 2025
Benton Co Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
December 15, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones, followed by an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance.
Executive committee members present: Julie Johnson, Sam Olson, Heidi Montag, Kim Christen-Mattson, Joshua Jones and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Walker Olson, Jim Zitzmann, Dawn Loberg, Beth Schlangen, David Hansmeier and Sonia Eizenhoefer.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Sam Olson to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Dawn Loberg, candidate for HD13B seat being vacated by Rep. Tim O’Driscoll spoke. She has a business background, works with state agencies, has been involved in campaigns, lives in the Rice area, has 4 daughters and her husband has his own business. She has been very active in MCCL and her church, St Francis Xavier, in Sartell.
A motion was made by Heidi Montag and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the minutes of the November meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Heidi Montag to approve the Treasurer’s report as presented. Julie Johnson will prepare a budget for 2026.
Sonia Eizenhoefer announced that she is a candidate for District 742 school board.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to approve $250 facility rental plus up to an additional $200 for other expenses involving the caucus on February 3rd at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve $250 facility rental plus up to $200 additional expenses each for the gubernatorial debate on January 29th at the Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School and the BPOU convention on February 14th at the Sauk Rapids Community Center. Motion approved.
Carol Rupar will request Certificates of insurance from the MNGOP for the events at the Sauk Rapids schools.
It was decided that Heidi Montag would start a new BPOU Facebook page as the passwords have been forgotten.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson to adjourn the meeting. Meeting adjourned at 7:45 PM.
December 15, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones, followed by an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance.
Executive committee members present: Julie Johnson, Sam Olson, Heidi Montag, Kim Christen-Mattson, Joshua Jones and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Walker Olson, Jim Zitzmann, Dawn Loberg, Beth Schlangen, David Hansmeier and Sonia Eizenhoefer.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Sam Olson to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Dawn Loberg, candidate for HD13B seat being vacated by Rep. Tim O’Driscoll spoke. She has a business background, works with state agencies, has been involved in campaigns, lives in the Rice area, has 4 daughters and her husband has his own business. She has been very active in MCCL and her church, St Francis Xavier, in Sartell.
A motion was made by Heidi Montag and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the minutes of the November meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Heidi Montag to approve the Treasurer’s report as presented. Julie Johnson will prepare a budget for 2026.
Sonia Eizenhoefer announced that she is a candidate for District 742 school board.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to approve $250 facility rental plus up to an additional $200 for other expenses involving the caucus on February 3rd at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve $250 facility rental plus up to $200 additional expenses each for the gubernatorial debate on January 29th at the Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School and the BPOU convention on February 14th at the Sauk Rapids Community Center. Motion approved.
Carol Rupar will request Certificates of insurance from the MNGOP for the events at the Sauk Rapids schools.
It was decided that Heidi Montag would start a new BPOU Facebook page as the passwords have been forgotten.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson to adjourn the meeting. Meeting adjourned at 7:45 PM.
November 17, 2025
Benton Co Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
November 17, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Joshua Jones followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation.
Executive board members present: Julie Johnson, Heidi Montag, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, Joshua Jones, Sam Olson and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Todd Waytashek, Philip Kameo, Jim Zitzmann, Renee Zitzmann, Jessica Olson, Walker Olson, Isaac Schultz, David Hansmeier and Beth Schlangen.
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Julie Johnson. Motion approved.
Rep. Isaac Schultz spoke. Legislative session starts February 17th and ends in May. It is expected that not much will get accomplished. We need to focus on getting a good ticket to win and retire Walz and the other top officials. The paid medical leave program that goes into effect the first of the year is the most loosey goosey in the nation and ripe for fraud. One board member referred to it as a BS program. Minnesota spends 5 to 6 billion dollars more than other states, many more heavily populated than our state.
A motion to approve the October meeting minutes was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson. Motion approved.
Chairman Jones reported that the treasurer’s report showed no change from last month.
Carol Rupar reported that instead of CD6 meeting in November and December there will be one meeting on December 2nd. The state central committee meeting scheduled for December 13 in Bemidji has been moved to Medina, same date. The first state central committee meeting in 2026 will be in June. The date for the CD6 convention has not been set but the window is April 4th to May 9th. The state convention will be in Duluth May 29-31.
Julie Johnson nominated Judy Hackett to fill the vacant Vice Chair position. A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Heidi Montag to suspend the rules of waiting until next month and elect Judy Hackett for that position immediately and authorize her as a signer on the bank account. Motion approved unanimously.
Carol Rupar nominated Julie Johnson to fill the vacant Treasurer position. A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Heidi Montag to suspend the rules of waiting until next month and elect Julie Johnson for that position immediately. Motion approved unanimously.
Chairman Jones announced that at the next meeting in December, nominations will be accepted to fill the two at large vacancies on the board.
Chairman Jones announced that Kevin Arnold has been helping him with BPOU business and working on the website and Kevin will continue managing the website. Heidi Montag will work on Facebook and link that to X, twitter and possibly other social media platforms. The governor candidate debate will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Sauk Rapids Rice Middle School. Caucus will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the Sauk Rapids Rice High School.
Julie Johnson volunteered to contact Tim Hennigar of the Sauk Rapids Herald to ask if he would write an article on caucuses.
Carol Rupar volunteered to get the required caucus forms printed when they are available. Board members will meet one half hour before the January BPOU meeting and stuff the caucus envelopes.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Sam Olson to send a campaign donation to Rep. Bernie Perryman in the amount of $2500. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to adjourn. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 7:46 PM.
November 17, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Joshua Jones followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation.
Executive board members present: Julie Johnson, Heidi Montag, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, Joshua Jones, Sam Olson and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Todd Waytashek, Philip Kameo, Jim Zitzmann, Renee Zitzmann, Jessica Olson, Walker Olson, Isaac Schultz, David Hansmeier and Beth Schlangen.
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Julie Johnson. Motion approved.
Rep. Isaac Schultz spoke. Legislative session starts February 17th and ends in May. It is expected that not much will get accomplished. We need to focus on getting a good ticket to win and retire Walz and the other top officials. The paid medical leave program that goes into effect the first of the year is the most loosey goosey in the nation and ripe for fraud. One board member referred to it as a BS program. Minnesota spends 5 to 6 billion dollars more than other states, many more heavily populated than our state.
A motion to approve the October meeting minutes was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Julie Johnson. Motion approved.
Chairman Jones reported that the treasurer’s report showed no change from last month.
Carol Rupar reported that instead of CD6 meeting in November and December there will be one meeting on December 2nd. The state central committee meeting scheduled for December 13 in Bemidji has been moved to Medina, same date. The first state central committee meeting in 2026 will be in June. The date for the CD6 convention has not been set but the window is April 4th to May 9th. The state convention will be in Duluth May 29-31.
Julie Johnson nominated Judy Hackett to fill the vacant Vice Chair position. A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Heidi Montag to suspend the rules of waiting until next month and elect Judy Hackett for that position immediately and authorize her as a signer on the bank account. Motion approved unanimously.
Carol Rupar nominated Julie Johnson to fill the vacant Treasurer position. A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Heidi Montag to suspend the rules of waiting until next month and elect Julie Johnson for that position immediately. Motion approved unanimously.
Chairman Jones announced that at the next meeting in December, nominations will be accepted to fill the two at large vacancies on the board.
Chairman Jones announced that Kevin Arnold has been helping him with BPOU business and working on the website and Kevin will continue managing the website. Heidi Montag will work on Facebook and link that to X, twitter and possibly other social media platforms. The governor candidate debate will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Sauk Rapids Rice Middle School. Caucus will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the Sauk Rapids Rice High School.
Julie Johnson volunteered to contact Tim Hennigar of the Sauk Rapids Herald to ask if he would write an article on caucuses.
Carol Rupar volunteered to get the required caucus forms printed when they are available. Board members will meet one half hour before the January BPOU meeting and stuff the caucus envelopes.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Sam Olson to send a campaign donation to Rep. Bernie Perryman in the amount of $2500. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to adjourn. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 7:46 PM.
October 20, 2025
Benton Co Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
October 20, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones followed by
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance.
Executive board members present: Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Julie Johnson, Kim Christen-Mattson, Heidi Montag, April Doten and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Rep, Bernie Perryman, Jim Howe, Beth Schlangen, David Hansmeier, Jim Zitzmann and Shelby Novotny.
Blake Paulson called into the meeting from Washington DC. With National Guard every half block, the city is safer and cleaner. He is on the president’s Legislative Affairs team and works between the house members and the cabinet, back and forth between white house and the capitol.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Rep. Bernie Perryman spoke. Their session goes to May 18th. There have been 836 calls received on the whistle blower hotline. BCA now investigates fraud rather than DHS. ISD 742 is #5 for worst fraud. It appears that there will be many retirements coming in the state legislature and we need to be looking for good candidates. Dorholt is running for the Wolgamott seat in HD14B. Governor Walz is a fraidy cat when confronted with issues.
A motion to approve the minutes from September was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson.
April presented the treasurers report and a motion was made by Heidi Montag and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the report. Motion approved.
Shelby Novotny, from the Emmer office spoke. The government is still shut down with no end in sight. The Democrats that decided the subsidies to health care put in place during the Covid shutdown would end September 30, 2025 and have voted for this continuing resolution 13 times are now demanding these subsidies be extended and are refusing to open the government unless the Republicans agree. The fact that AZ Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva has not been seated that the Democrats are making a big scene about is not unusual as in the past many have waited to be seated and the Republicans are not going to cave to seat her.
April Doten announced that she and Paul are resigning their positions as Treasurer and Vice Chair as they are moving out of the county by September 30th.
Joshua announced that nominations for these positions will be in order at the November meeting with election in December.
Joshua is working on the Governor candidate debate scheduled for January 29, 2026. Suggestions were made to contact the College Republicans, Young Republicans and Turning Point USA groups to invite them to the debate and become involved in our events.
Carol Rupar reported that the Community Room at the Sauk Rapids Government Center has been reserved for Benton BPOU Convention on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
There are meet and greets scheduled for governor candidate Rep. Kristin Robbins on November 13th in Sauk Rapids at the Clearing from 10 am to noon and in St Cloud at International Harvester Square from 2 pm to 4 pm.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to reserve Wapicada for the annual Denim and Diamonds event to be held on Friday, April 24, 2026. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett. Meeting adjourned at 8 pm.
October 20, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones followed by
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance.
Executive board members present: Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Julie Johnson, Kim Christen-Mattson, Heidi Montag, April Doten and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Rep, Bernie Perryman, Jim Howe, Beth Schlangen, David Hansmeier, Jim Zitzmann and Shelby Novotny.
Blake Paulson called into the meeting from Washington DC. With National Guard every half block, the city is safer and cleaner. He is on the president’s Legislative Affairs team and works between the house members and the cabinet, back and forth between white house and the capitol.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Rep. Bernie Perryman spoke. Their session goes to May 18th. There have been 836 calls received on the whistle blower hotline. BCA now investigates fraud rather than DHS. ISD 742 is #5 for worst fraud. It appears that there will be many retirements coming in the state legislature and we need to be looking for good candidates. Dorholt is running for the Wolgamott seat in HD14B. Governor Walz is a fraidy cat when confronted with issues.
A motion to approve the minutes from September was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson.
April presented the treasurers report and a motion was made by Heidi Montag and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the report. Motion approved.
Shelby Novotny, from the Emmer office spoke. The government is still shut down with no end in sight. The Democrats that decided the subsidies to health care put in place during the Covid shutdown would end September 30, 2025 and have voted for this continuing resolution 13 times are now demanding these subsidies be extended and are refusing to open the government unless the Republicans agree. The fact that AZ Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva has not been seated that the Democrats are making a big scene about is not unusual as in the past many have waited to be seated and the Republicans are not going to cave to seat her.
April Doten announced that she and Paul are resigning their positions as Treasurer and Vice Chair as they are moving out of the county by September 30th.
Joshua announced that nominations for these positions will be in order at the November meeting with election in December.
Joshua is working on the Governor candidate debate scheduled for January 29, 2026. Suggestions were made to contact the College Republicans, Young Republicans and Turning Point USA groups to invite them to the debate and become involved in our events.
Carol Rupar reported that the Community Room at the Sauk Rapids Government Center has been reserved for Benton BPOU Convention on Saturday, February 14, 2026.
There are meet and greets scheduled for governor candidate Rep. Kristin Robbins on November 13th in Sauk Rapids at the Clearing from 10 am to noon and in St Cloud at International Harvester Square from 2 pm to 4 pm.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to reserve Wapicada for the annual Denim and Diamonds event to be held on Friday, April 24, 2026. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett. Meeting adjourned at 8 pm.
September 15, 2025
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
September 15, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Vice Chairman Paul Doten who led the Pledge of Allegiance. Invocation by Carol Rupar.
Executive committee members present: Heidi Montag, Sam Olson, Paul Doten, Carol Rupar and Kim Christen-Mattson.
Full committee members and guests present: Philip Kameo, Renee Zitzmann, Jim Zitzmann, Todd Waytashek, Walker Olson, Jodi Welsh, Laila Welsh, Mary Kay Huhne, Sandy Klocker, Helena Halverson, Beth Schlangen and Jim Howe.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to add discussion of recent state central meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to add CD6 meeting update to agenda. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to approve the agenda as amended. Motion approved.
Jodi Welsh introduced Helena Halverson who spoke about the newly formed Central Minnesota Republican Women Club that is being organized within SD 12, 13, and 14. Membership meeting will be September 30 at 6 pm at Shady’s in Albany. Taco Bar will be $30 with a $5 discount for new members joining. Annual dues are $50. Speaker will be Kelly Jahner Byrne, MN Federation of Republican Women President. Topic of her speech will be “How to Win.” The club will focus on attracting young Republicans, recruiting candidates, especially women and educate them on how to campaign. Their focus will be to get people involved encouraging them to do one thing-one time.
There was discussion on the recent state central meeting, mainly objection to how the meeting was conducted without the MNGOP paying attention to input from delegates and amount of time spent on arguing rules, general lack of transparency including information on the lawsuit against the previous administration and general dysfunction and lack of anything getting accomplished by MNGOP. It was mentioned that Sen. Wesenberg announced he is proposing a statue of Charlie Kirk be erected at U of M campus.
A motion was made by Heidi Montag and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the August BPOU meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the Treasurer’s report as presented with no change from last meeting.
Phil Kameo reported on the August CD6 meeting. BPOU representatives gave reports on their individual BPOUs. It was business as usual, no major announcements were made.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to contact SRRHS to reserve for February 3, 2026, caucus. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to hold Benton BPOU convention at Sauk Rapids Community Center on February 14th with a back-up date of February 21st. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to hold a governor candidate debate at Sauk Rapids Rice High School on Thursday, January 28, 2026 from 6:30 to 9 PM and contact Tom Hauser of KSTP tv to moderate as he did in the last one. $10 admission. Motion approved.
September 15, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Vice Chairman Paul Doten who led the Pledge of Allegiance. Invocation by Carol Rupar.
Executive committee members present: Heidi Montag, Sam Olson, Paul Doten, Carol Rupar and Kim Christen-Mattson.
Full committee members and guests present: Philip Kameo, Renee Zitzmann, Jim Zitzmann, Todd Waytashek, Walker Olson, Jodi Welsh, Laila Welsh, Mary Kay Huhne, Sandy Klocker, Helena Halverson, Beth Schlangen and Jim Howe.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to add discussion of recent state central meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to add CD6 meeting update to agenda. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson to approve the agenda as amended. Motion approved.
Jodi Welsh introduced Helena Halverson who spoke about the newly formed Central Minnesota Republican Women Club that is being organized within SD 12, 13, and 14. Membership meeting will be September 30 at 6 pm at Shady’s in Albany. Taco Bar will be $30 with a $5 discount for new members joining. Annual dues are $50. Speaker will be Kelly Jahner Byrne, MN Federation of Republican Women President. Topic of her speech will be “How to Win.” The club will focus on attracting young Republicans, recruiting candidates, especially women and educate them on how to campaign. Their focus will be to get people involved encouraging them to do one thing-one time.
There was discussion on the recent state central meeting, mainly objection to how the meeting was conducted without the MNGOP paying attention to input from delegates and amount of time spent on arguing rules, general lack of transparency including information on the lawsuit against the previous administration and general dysfunction and lack of anything getting accomplished by MNGOP. It was mentioned that Sen. Wesenberg announced he is proposing a statue of Charlie Kirk be erected at U of M campus.
A motion was made by Heidi Montag and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the August BPOU meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the Treasurer’s report as presented with no change from last meeting.
Phil Kameo reported on the August CD6 meeting. BPOU representatives gave reports on their individual BPOUs. It was business as usual, no major announcements were made.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to contact SRRHS to reserve for February 3, 2026, caucus. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to hold Benton BPOU convention at Sauk Rapids Community Center on February 14th with a back-up date of February 21st. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to hold a governor candidate debate at Sauk Rapids Rice High School on Thursday, January 28, 2026 from 6:30 to 9 PM and contact Tom Hauser of KSTP tv to moderate as he did in the last one. $10 admission. Motion approved.
August 18, 2025
Benton Co Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
August 18, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Joshua Jones at 7:00 PM. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members present: Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Sam Olson, Kim Christen-Mattson and Carol Rupar.
Full board members and guests present: Brian Lauer, Philip Kameo, Jim Zitzmann, David Hansmeier and Beth Schlangen.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the minutes of the July meeting as presented. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Judy Hacket to approve the Treasurer’s Report as presented. The only change was a deposit of $878.00 receipts from the Benton County Fair. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Judy Hackett to pay Carol Rupar $159.89 for expenses associated with the fair booth. Motion approved.
Carol Rupar presented a report on the recent fair booth and thanked Brian Lauer for volunteering every day, every shift. The Benton BPOU unit in the Gilman parade on July 27th due to lack of participation. The unit in the Rice parade on August 23rd had good participation.
A motion was made to adjourn the meeting by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson. Meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM.
August 18, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Joshua Jones at 7:00 PM. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members present: Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Sam Olson, Kim Christen-Mattson and Carol Rupar.
Full board members and guests present: Brian Lauer, Philip Kameo, Jim Zitzmann, David Hansmeier and Beth Schlangen.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the minutes of the July meeting as presented. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Judy Hacket to approve the Treasurer’s Report as presented. The only change was a deposit of $878.00 receipts from the Benton County Fair. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Judy Hackett to pay Carol Rupar $159.89 for expenses associated with the fair booth. Motion approved.
Carol Rupar presented a report on the recent fair booth and thanked Brian Lauer for volunteering every day, every shift. The Benton BPOU unit in the Gilman parade on July 27th due to lack of participation. The unit in the Rice parade on August 23rd had good participation.
A motion was made to adjourn the meeting by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Sam Olson. Meeting adjourned at 7:14 PM.
July 21, 2025
Benton Co Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
July 21, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones and followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation.
Executive board members present: Joshua Jones, April Doten, Paul Doten, Sam Olson, Julie Johnson, Heidi Montag and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Shelby Novotny, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, David Hansmeier, Beth Schlangen, Brian Lauer, Mary Lauer, Jim Zitzmann, Renee Montes-Zitzmann, Isaac Schultz and Judy Sommers.
A motion to approve the Treasurer’s report was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Heidi Montag. Motion approved.
A motion to approve the minutes from the June meeting was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Heidi Montag. Motion approved.
Heidi Montag volunteered to be the BPOU photographer so photos can be taken at events and posted on the website.
Volunteers are needed for the Gilman Days Parade on Saturday, July 26. Line up at 11:30 AM, parade begins at 12:30 PM.
Brian Lauer presented a petition against HF3239 to be available for signing at the Benton County Fair Booth. It was noted that we are not anti-vax, just against the government mandating vaccinations without any provision for opting out and no provision to sue if one is injured or dead from complications thereof. A motion to allow the petition was made by Paul Doten and seconded by April Doten. Motion approved.
Rep Isaac Schultz supports our petition against HF3239. This calls attention to the issue. No Republicans signed onto HF3239. Rep. Schultz also pointed out that kid’s test scores in Minnesota have tanked under Gov. Walz. It would be good for Republicans to prioritize improving education in Minnesota.
Shelby Novotny, from the Emmer Campaign Office, said they are in the process of updating the website. US Congress passed the Genius Act, the Clarity Act and the Anti-CBDC bill. Many DOGE cuts were codified into law. Rep. Emmer worked on the Veterans Death & Burial Bill which passed, and mandates death certificate be signed within 48 hours. Rep. Emmer has recently appeared on national media and calls into KNSI’s “The Ox” every other week. Game Fair in Anoka is scheduled for August 8, 9, 10 and August 15, 16 & 17. She also advised that Republican State Sen. Bruce Anderson of Buffalo passed away this morning.
There was discussion of possibly having this BPOU host a gubernatorial debate early next year after the caucus and before the state convention. Republican candidates that have announced for governor thus far are Kendall Qualls, Jeff Johnson (former St Cloud City Councilman, not former Jeff Johnson candidate), Scott Jensen and Brad Kohler.
A motion to adjourn was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Paul Doten. Meeting adjourned at 7:48 PM.
July 21, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones and followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation.
Executive board members present: Joshua Jones, April Doten, Paul Doten, Sam Olson, Julie Johnson, Heidi Montag and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Shelby Novotny, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, David Hansmeier, Beth Schlangen, Brian Lauer, Mary Lauer, Jim Zitzmann, Renee Montes-Zitzmann, Isaac Schultz and Judy Sommers.
A motion to approve the Treasurer’s report was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Heidi Montag. Motion approved.
A motion to approve the minutes from the June meeting was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Heidi Montag. Motion approved.
Heidi Montag volunteered to be the BPOU photographer so photos can be taken at events and posted on the website.
Volunteers are needed for the Gilman Days Parade on Saturday, July 26. Line up at 11:30 AM, parade begins at 12:30 PM.
Brian Lauer presented a petition against HF3239 to be available for signing at the Benton County Fair Booth. It was noted that we are not anti-vax, just against the government mandating vaccinations without any provision for opting out and no provision to sue if one is injured or dead from complications thereof. A motion to allow the petition was made by Paul Doten and seconded by April Doten. Motion approved.
Rep Isaac Schultz supports our petition against HF3239. This calls attention to the issue. No Republicans signed onto HF3239. Rep. Schultz also pointed out that kid’s test scores in Minnesota have tanked under Gov. Walz. It would be good for Republicans to prioritize improving education in Minnesota.
Shelby Novotny, from the Emmer Campaign Office, said they are in the process of updating the website. US Congress passed the Genius Act, the Clarity Act and the Anti-CBDC bill. Many DOGE cuts were codified into law. Rep. Emmer worked on the Veterans Death & Burial Bill which passed, and mandates death certificate be signed within 48 hours. Rep. Emmer has recently appeared on national media and calls into KNSI’s “The Ox” every other week. Game Fair in Anoka is scheduled for August 8, 9, 10 and August 15, 16 & 17. She also advised that Republican State Sen. Bruce Anderson of Buffalo passed away this morning.
There was discussion of possibly having this BPOU host a gubernatorial debate early next year after the caucus and before the state convention. Republican candidates that have announced for governor thus far are Kendall Qualls, Jeff Johnson (former St Cloud City Councilman, not former Jeff Johnson candidate), Scott Jensen and Brad Kohler.
A motion to adjourn was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Paul Doten. Meeting adjourned at 7:48 PM.
June 16, 2025
Benton Republican BPOU Board Meeting Minutes,
June 16, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones. The Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members present: Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, Joshua Jones, Carol Rupar, Julie Johnson and Sam Olson.
Full board members and guests present: Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, David Hansmeier, Beth Schlangen, Heidi Montag and Walker Olson.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the May meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the Treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Carol Rupar presented a bill for payment in the amount of $178.93 for 20 books by JD Vance that have been received to use for the fair booth.
Nominations were open for the at-large board position. The only applicant was Heidi Montag. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to suspend the rules of waiting until next month to take a vote and vote by acclamation to approve Heidi Montag to fill the spot. Motion approved. Heidi is newest board member.
Joshua Jones will have Sign-up Genius installed on the website so people can sign up to volunteer at the fair booth.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to order 200 small American flags to pass out at the fair booth. Motion approved. Julie Johnson will order and present the bill at the next meeting.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Sam Olson. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 7:20 PM.
June 16, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Joshua Jones. The Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members present: Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, Joshua Jones, Carol Rupar, Julie Johnson and Sam Olson.
Full board members and guests present: Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, David Hansmeier, Beth Schlangen, Heidi Montag and Walker Olson.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the May meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the Treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Carol Rupar presented a bill for payment in the amount of $178.93 for 20 books by JD Vance that have been received to use for the fair booth.
Nominations were open for the at-large board position. The only applicant was Heidi Montag. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to suspend the rules of waiting until next month to take a vote and vote by acclamation to approve Heidi Montag to fill the spot. Motion approved. Heidi is newest board member.
Joshua Jones will have Sign-up Genius installed on the website so people can sign up to volunteer at the fair booth.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to order 200 small American flags to pass out at the fair booth. Motion approved. Julie Johnson will order and present the bill at the next meeting.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Sam Olson. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 7:20 PM.
May 19, 2025
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes
May 19, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Joshua Jones at 7 PM. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation by Chairman Jones followed.
Executive board members in attendance: Joshua Jones, Paul Doten, Julie Johnson, Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests in attendance: David Hansmeier, Beth Schlangen, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Jim Howe, Heidi Montag and Dylan Riedinger.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the minutes of the April BPOU meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the Treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Nominations opened for vacant Vice-Chair position. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to nominate Paul Doten. Motion approved. Considering no other nominations a motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to vote by acclamation to approve Paul Doten as Vice-Chairman. Motion unanimously approved.
Next month nominations will be opened for vacant at-large executive committee position.
Upcoming events listed are:
June 18, 2025 Foley parade, line up 5 pm, parade start 6 pm
July 27, 2025 Gilman parade, line up 11:30 am, parade start 12:30 PM
August 16, 2025 Rice parade, line up 11:00 am, parade start noon
Benton County Fair: Set up July 28, 2025 noon to 5 pm and 9 to noon on July 29th.
Fair opens Tuesday, July 29th noon to 9 pm
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday July 30–Aug 2: 10 am to 9 pm
Sunday, August 3, 2025: Noon to 5 pm
Take Down: Sunday, August 3, 2025: 5 pm
Carol will check on registering for parades and check with legislators to participate.
Joshua Jones will handle registration for the fair booth. Jim Howe will contact Jim Sutton to use his construction trailer to transport booth. We are in possession of 151 assorted caps to use for BPOU donations. Sign-up Genius will be set up by Joshua Jones to recruit volunteers for the fair booth. The remaining balloons and helium will be used until current leftover helium supply is depleted. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Paul Doten to purchase 20 copies of the JD Vance “Hillbilly Ellegy” book for the fair booth.
May 19, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Joshua Jones at 7 PM. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation by Chairman Jones followed.
Executive board members in attendance: Joshua Jones, Paul Doten, Julie Johnson, Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests in attendance: David Hansmeier, Beth Schlangen, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Jim Howe, Heidi Montag and Dylan Riedinger.
A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the minutes of the April BPOU meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the Treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Nominations opened for vacant Vice-Chair position. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to nominate Paul Doten. Motion approved. Considering no other nominations a motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Judy Hackett to vote by acclamation to approve Paul Doten as Vice-Chairman. Motion unanimously approved.
Next month nominations will be opened for vacant at-large executive committee position.
Upcoming events listed are:
June 18, 2025 Foley parade, line up 5 pm, parade start 6 pm
July 27, 2025 Gilman parade, line up 11:30 am, parade start 12:30 PM
August 16, 2025 Rice parade, line up 11:00 am, parade start noon
Benton County Fair: Set up July 28, 2025 noon to 5 pm and 9 to noon on July 29th.
Fair opens Tuesday, July 29th noon to 9 pm
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday July 30–Aug 2: 10 am to 9 pm
Sunday, August 3, 2025: Noon to 5 pm
Take Down: Sunday, August 3, 2025: 5 pm
Carol will check on registering for parades and check with legislators to participate.
Joshua Jones will handle registration for the fair booth. Jim Howe will contact Jim Sutton to use his construction trailer to transport booth. We are in possession of 151 assorted caps to use for BPOU donations. Sign-up Genius will be set up by Joshua Jones to recruit volunteers for the fair booth. The remaining balloons and helium will be used until current leftover helium supply is depleted. A motion was made by Julie Johnson and seconded by Paul Doten to purchase 20 copies of the JD Vance “Hillbilly Ellegy” book for the fair booth.
April 21, 2025
Benton County Republican Executive Meeting Minutes,
April 21, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM at the St Cloud Regional Airport by Chairman Joshua Jones. The Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance by Joshua followed.
Executive board members present: Julie Johnson, Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, April Doten, Joshua Jones, Sam Olson, Kim Christen Mattson and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Judd Mowry, Pam Benoit, Todd Waytashek, Philip Kameo, Beth Schlangen, David Hansmeier, Jim Zitzmann and Heidi Montag.
Judd Mowry introduced himself as the newly elected CD6 Deputy Chair.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Joshua Jones reported that Blake Paulson resigned as chairman of this organization effective April 1, 2025, as he has accepted a position with the White House. Joshua Jones, as vice chairman steps up to the roll of chairman. At the meeting of this organization in May, nominations will be accepted to fill the vice chairman vacancy.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by April Doten to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion was approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the treasurer’s report. April reported that the check in the amount of $1,000 issued to Paul Wikstrom for the special election in 40B has been returned and voided due to the candidate reaching the maximum he could receive from BPOUs.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Julie Johnson to issue payment to Minuteman Press in the amount of $301.18 in payment of postcard mailing for Denim and Diamonds event. Motion was approved.
The Benton County Fair will be held July 29th through August 3rd. A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the payment for the fair booth rental as soon as the application is available, and the rental amount announced. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson.
The meeting adjourned at 7:29 PM.
April 21, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM at the St Cloud Regional Airport by Chairman Joshua Jones. The Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance by Joshua followed.
Executive board members present: Julie Johnson, Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, April Doten, Joshua Jones, Sam Olson, Kim Christen Mattson and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Judd Mowry, Pam Benoit, Todd Waytashek, Philip Kameo, Beth Schlangen, David Hansmeier, Jim Zitzmann and Heidi Montag.
Judd Mowry introduced himself as the newly elected CD6 Deputy Chair.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Julie Johnson to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Joshua Jones reported that Blake Paulson resigned as chairman of this organization effective April 1, 2025, as he has accepted a position with the White House. Joshua Jones, as vice chairman steps up to the roll of chairman. At the meeting of this organization in May, nominations will be accepted to fill the vice chairman vacancy.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by April Doten to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion was approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the treasurer’s report. April reported that the check in the amount of $1,000 issued to Paul Wikstrom for the special election in 40B has been returned and voided due to the candidate reaching the maximum he could receive from BPOUs.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Julie Johnson to issue payment to Minuteman Press in the amount of $301.18 in payment of postcard mailing for Denim and Diamonds event. Motion was approved.
The Benton County Fair will be held July 29th through August 3rd. A motion was made by Sam Olson and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the payment for the fair booth rental as soon as the application is available, and the rental amount announced. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson.
The meeting adjourned at 7:29 PM.
March 21, 2025
No Meeting
February 17, 2025
Benton Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
February 17, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM at the St Cloud Regional Airport by Chairman Blake Paulson followed by Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, April Doten, Paul Doten, Judy Hackett, Kimberly Christen Mattson, Sam Olson and Carol Rupar.
Full Committee members and others present: Phil Kameo, David Hansmeier, Beth Schlangen, Jonny Engmark, Vicki Engmark, Mike Engmark and Jodi Welsh.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
The Treasurer’s report indicated no change from the last report.
Chairman Paulson reported that the Benton BPOU Convention will be held on March 1, 2025, at the Sauk Rapids Government Center. Blake will chair the convention. April Doten will be the secretary. Tellers will be appointed at the convention. Carol Rupar will provide the coffee pot. Judy Hackett and Kim Christen-Mattson will order and pick up the rolls. April will bring change for registration. There have been no proposed BPOU constitution changes. Carol Rupar and Jodi Welsh will go over final rules as the board has approved the few required changes. Tonight was the deadline for submitting your name to the nominating committee if you want to run for a board position or state central delegate. Blake will send the list of declared candidates with the convention call.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the convention call as presented. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that the recall against HD14B Rep. Dan Wolgamott has been filed.
Chairman Paulson also reported that the HD40B special election will be held the middle of March. This is the seat where the Democrat who won was disqualified because he did not live in the district. The Democrat candidate has already raised $80,000 for his campaign. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to contribute $1,000 to Republican candidate, Paul Wikstrom. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 7:49 PM.
February 17, 2025
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM at the St Cloud Regional Airport by Chairman Blake Paulson followed by Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, April Doten, Paul Doten, Judy Hackett, Kimberly Christen Mattson, Sam Olson and Carol Rupar.
Full Committee members and others present: Phil Kameo, David Hansmeier, Beth Schlangen, Jonny Engmark, Vicki Engmark, Mike Engmark and Jodi Welsh.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
The Treasurer’s report indicated no change from the last report.
Chairman Paulson reported that the Benton BPOU Convention will be held on March 1, 2025, at the Sauk Rapids Government Center. Blake will chair the convention. April Doten will be the secretary. Tellers will be appointed at the convention. Carol Rupar will provide the coffee pot. Judy Hackett and Kim Christen-Mattson will order and pick up the rolls. April will bring change for registration. There have been no proposed BPOU constitution changes. Carol Rupar and Jodi Welsh will go over final rules as the board has approved the few required changes. Tonight was the deadline for submitting your name to the nominating committee if you want to run for a board position or state central delegate. Blake will send the list of declared candidates with the convention call.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the convention call as presented. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that the recall against HD14B Rep. Dan Wolgamott has been filed.
Chairman Paulson also reported that the HD40B special election will be held the middle of March. This is the seat where the Democrat who won was disqualified because he did not live in the district. The Democrat candidate has already raised $80,000 for his campaign. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to contribute $1,000 to Republican candidate, Paul Wikstrom. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 7:49 PM.
January 30, 2025
Benton Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
January 30, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson via Zoom at 7:00 PM.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Kim Christen-Mattson, April Doten, Paul Doten and Carol Rupar.
All others present were: Jodi Welch, Phil Kameo, Sam Olson, Jim Zitzmann, Todd Waytashek, Kevin Arnold, and Julie Johnson.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by April Doten to add discussion of state central committee meeting to the agenda. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the minutes of the last meeting which was held on November 18, 2024. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve a check in the amount of $250 payable to City of Sauk Rapids to be available at the February meeting for the purpose of paying the rental fee for use of the community room at the government center for the Benton BPOU convention to be held on March 1st. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve an additional $250 for convention expenses. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve a check in the amount of $300 payable to Wapicada Golf Club for the purpose of downpayment on the Denim and Diamonds fundraiser to be held there on April 25th. Motion approved.
Treasurer’s Report was presented.
For the upcoming BPOU convention, the following committees are:
Constitution: Blake Paulson (chair) Beth Schlangen, Todd Waytashek
Nominations: Joshua Jones (chair) Jodi Welch
Rules: Carol Rupar (chair) Jodi Welch
Credentials: Judy Hackett (chair) Kim Christen-Mattson, Julie Johnson, Jodie Welch
Kevin Arnold volunteered for all committees where needed.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones to open registration at 8 AM and end registration at 9:15 AM. The convention will convene at 9 AM.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to charge a $10 registration fee for delegates and guests. We will not require advance registration, nor will we push PCRs but we will promote our upcoming Denim & Diamonds fundraiser in April.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones to apply the rule that was passed at the board meeting following the last BPOU convention which states: “in the future when holding election for BPOU board members, candidates must declare their candidacy and meet with a nominations board by an agreed date and the list of candidates along with their contact information be included in the convention call.” A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones that a candidate for BPOU executive committee or state central delegate must declare by 7 PM on February 17. 2025 and report to the nominating committee. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that Ruth Gruba informed him by text message that she was resigning as a board member effective immediately. The chairman will call a special meeting by zoom, text or email to fill this position.
The nominations to fill that spot were:
Sam Olson, nominated by Judy Hackett and seconded by April Doten
Todd Waytashek, self-nominated and seconded by Jodi Welch
Jodi Welch, self-nominated and seconded by Kevin Arnold
Julie Johnson, nominated by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kevin Arnold.
Blake Paulson reported that at the December state central committee meeting new MNGOP officers elected for a 2-year term were:
Alex Plechash, Chair
Donna Bergstrom, Deputy Chair
Joy Orvis, Secretary
There was some discussion about that December state central committee meeting and it seems no one was happy.
The meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM.
January 30, 2025
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson via Zoom at 7:00 PM.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Kim Christen-Mattson, April Doten, Paul Doten and Carol Rupar.
All others present were: Jodi Welch, Phil Kameo, Sam Olson, Jim Zitzmann, Todd Waytashek, Kevin Arnold, and Julie Johnson.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by April Doten to add discussion of state central committee meeting to the agenda. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the minutes of the last meeting which was held on November 18, 2024. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve a check in the amount of $250 payable to City of Sauk Rapids to be available at the February meeting for the purpose of paying the rental fee for use of the community room at the government center for the Benton BPOU convention to be held on March 1st. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve an additional $250 for convention expenses. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve a check in the amount of $300 payable to Wapicada Golf Club for the purpose of downpayment on the Denim and Diamonds fundraiser to be held there on April 25th. Motion approved.
Treasurer’s Report was presented.
For the upcoming BPOU convention, the following committees are:
Constitution: Blake Paulson (chair) Beth Schlangen, Todd Waytashek
Nominations: Joshua Jones (chair) Jodi Welch
Rules: Carol Rupar (chair) Jodi Welch
Credentials: Judy Hackett (chair) Kim Christen-Mattson, Julie Johnson, Jodie Welch
Kevin Arnold volunteered for all committees where needed.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones to open registration at 8 AM and end registration at 9:15 AM. The convention will convene at 9 AM.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to charge a $10 registration fee for delegates and guests. We will not require advance registration, nor will we push PCRs but we will promote our upcoming Denim & Diamonds fundraiser in April.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones to apply the rule that was passed at the board meeting following the last BPOU convention which states: “in the future when holding election for BPOU board members, candidates must declare their candidacy and meet with a nominations board by an agreed date and the list of candidates along with their contact information be included in the convention call.” A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones that a candidate for BPOU executive committee or state central delegate must declare by 7 PM on February 17. 2025 and report to the nominating committee. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that Ruth Gruba informed him by text message that she was resigning as a board member effective immediately. The chairman will call a special meeting by zoom, text or email to fill this position.
The nominations to fill that spot were:
Sam Olson, nominated by Judy Hackett and seconded by April Doten
Todd Waytashek, self-nominated and seconded by Jodi Welch
Jodi Welch, self-nominated and seconded by Kevin Arnold
Julie Johnson, nominated by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kevin Arnold.
Blake Paulson reported that at the December state central committee meeting new MNGOP officers elected for a 2-year term were:
Alex Plechash, Chair
Donna Bergstrom, Deputy Chair
Joy Orvis, Secretary
There was some discussion about that December state central committee meeting and it seems no one was happy.
The meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM.
December 16, 2024
No Meeting
November 18, 2024
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
November 18, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation.
Board members present: April Doten, Paul Doten, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Blake Paulson and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Judd Mowery, Beth Schlangen. Philip Kameo, Kevin Arnold, Sam Olson, Rep. Isaac Schultz, Jodi Welch, Jim Zitzmann, Kip Christianson and Terrance Pfahl.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the Treasurer’s Report as presented. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that the pre-general election finance report was submitted in a timely manner to the State of Minnesota.
Blake also reported that State Central Committee meeting will be held in Wayzata on Saturday, December 14th. Benton BPOU delegates are Blake Paulson, Kevin Arnold and Carol Rupar. At that meeting elections will be held to elect an MNGOP Chair, Deputy Chair and Secretary. Five candidates have filed for Chairman, three have filed for Deputy Chair and three have filed for Secretary. Filing deadline is December 1st.
Plans are progressing to hold another Denim & Diamonds fundraiser on Friday, April 25, 2025 with a dinner, live auction and possibly a silent auction.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten to hold the spring Benton BPOU Convention at the Sauk Rapids Government Center on Saturday, March 1, 2025, with a back-up date of March 8th. Motion approved. This convention will be for the purpose of electing a BPOU board and reviewing the current BPOU constitution.
Chairman Paulson gave a recap on the election. Basically, Minnesota is slowly turning red except for some blue strongholds.
The next meeting of this organization will be on Monday, December 16th at the St Cloud Regional Airport. At that time we will confirm BPOU convention details.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM.
November 18, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation.
Board members present: April Doten, Paul Doten, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Blake Paulson and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Judd Mowery, Beth Schlangen. Philip Kameo, Kevin Arnold, Sam Olson, Rep. Isaac Schultz, Jodi Welch, Jim Zitzmann, Kip Christianson and Terrance Pfahl.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the Treasurer’s Report as presented. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that the pre-general election finance report was submitted in a timely manner to the State of Minnesota.
Blake also reported that State Central Committee meeting will be held in Wayzata on Saturday, December 14th. Benton BPOU delegates are Blake Paulson, Kevin Arnold and Carol Rupar. At that meeting elections will be held to elect an MNGOP Chair, Deputy Chair and Secretary. Five candidates have filed for Chairman, three have filed for Deputy Chair and three have filed for Secretary. Filing deadline is December 1st.
Plans are progressing to hold another Denim & Diamonds fundraiser on Friday, April 25, 2025 with a dinner, live auction and possibly a silent auction.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten to hold the spring Benton BPOU Convention at the Sauk Rapids Government Center on Saturday, March 1, 2025, with a back-up date of March 8th. Motion approved. This convention will be for the purpose of electing a BPOU board and reviewing the current BPOU constitution.
Chairman Paulson gave a recap on the election. Basically, Minnesota is slowly turning red except for some blue strongholds.
The next meeting of this organization will be on Monday, December 16th at the St Cloud Regional Airport. At that time we will confirm BPOU convention details.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to adjourn. Meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM.
October 21, 2024
Benton Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
October 21, 2024
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson at 7:00 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
A motion was made to approve the agenda by April Doten and seconded by Paul Doten to add Judd Mowry representing Republican Seniors as Item #4 to the agenda. Motion approved on amended agenda.
Mr. Mowry reported that The Republican Seniors group is the most active affiliate in the Republican Party of Minnesota. Attendance is usually 100 at the monthly meetings held at 9:30 AM the second Tuesday at Knights of Columbus Bloomington Event Center located at 1114 American Blvd. West in Bloomington MN 55420. All Republican seniors are invited to become involved.
Chair Paulson reports there are 15 days before election day. Our share of early votes is up 25%. An absentee ballot must be received by election day. 100,000 contacts have been made to low propensity voters. Callers are needed to chase 10,000 ballots. Also, Blake reported that 20,000 campaign signs have been given out from the Waite Park Victory Office.
There was discussion to hold another Denim & Diamonds fundraiser in 2025. Carol Rupar is to contact Wapicada Golf Club about reserving the next event for Friday, April 25, 2025.
Next spring there will be no caucus, but BPOU convention will be held in the spring with the main purpose of electing BPOU officers.
A motion to approve the minutes of the September 16th BPOU meeting was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the Treasurer’s Report and pay Blake Paulson $689.00 for digital media ads. Motion approved.
Blake also reported that he sat down with Holly from KNSI to produce additional ads to run on YouTube, streaming services for TV, audio ads on podcast streaming. These are 15 and 30 second ads. A motion to approve $6500.00 for this purpose was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by April Doten. Motion approved. These ads will begin running September 17 and run through election day.
A motion to approve up to another $5,000.00 for additional campaign media ads that Blake and KNSI find beneficial. Motion by Paul Doten and seconded by Carol Rupar was approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that the bentonmngop.com website has been updated to include the endorsed and recommended candidates running in Benton County.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to approve a $1,000.00 donation to SD32 for GOTV purposes. Motion approved.
The Waite Park Victory Office will be open until the polls close on election day.
MNGOP coverage of the election (Minnesota Republican official election coverage site) will be held at the Radisson Mall of America Hotel beginning at 7 PM on election day. There are no plans for an election night party at the Waite Park Victory Office.
Minnesota GOP attorneys have a hotline 612-416-1244 to report any issues that concern you during the election. Remember one person can vouch for 8 persons and must live in the same precinct as person being vouched for.
Amotion to adjourn was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson. Meeting adjourned at 8:33 PM.
October 21, 2024
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson at 7:00 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
A motion was made to approve the agenda by April Doten and seconded by Paul Doten to add Judd Mowry representing Republican Seniors as Item #4 to the agenda. Motion approved on amended agenda.
Mr. Mowry reported that The Republican Seniors group is the most active affiliate in the Republican Party of Minnesota. Attendance is usually 100 at the monthly meetings held at 9:30 AM the second Tuesday at Knights of Columbus Bloomington Event Center located at 1114 American Blvd. West in Bloomington MN 55420. All Republican seniors are invited to become involved.
Chair Paulson reports there are 15 days before election day. Our share of early votes is up 25%. An absentee ballot must be received by election day. 100,000 contacts have been made to low propensity voters. Callers are needed to chase 10,000 ballots. Also, Blake reported that 20,000 campaign signs have been given out from the Waite Park Victory Office.
There was discussion to hold another Denim & Diamonds fundraiser in 2025. Carol Rupar is to contact Wapicada Golf Club about reserving the next event for Friday, April 25, 2025.
Next spring there will be no caucus, but BPOU convention will be held in the spring with the main purpose of electing BPOU officers.
A motion to approve the minutes of the September 16th BPOU meeting was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the Treasurer’s Report and pay Blake Paulson $689.00 for digital media ads. Motion approved.
Blake also reported that he sat down with Holly from KNSI to produce additional ads to run on YouTube, streaming services for TV, audio ads on podcast streaming. These are 15 and 30 second ads. A motion to approve $6500.00 for this purpose was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by April Doten. Motion approved. These ads will begin running September 17 and run through election day.
A motion to approve up to another $5,000.00 for additional campaign media ads that Blake and KNSI find beneficial. Motion by Paul Doten and seconded by Carol Rupar was approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that the bentonmngop.com website has been updated to include the endorsed and recommended candidates running in Benton County.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to approve a $1,000.00 donation to SD32 for GOTV purposes. Motion approved.
The Waite Park Victory Office will be open until the polls close on election day.
MNGOP coverage of the election (Minnesota Republican official election coverage site) will be held at the Radisson Mall of America Hotel beginning at 7 PM on election day. There are no plans for an election night party at the Waite Park Victory Office.
Minnesota GOP attorneys have a hotline 612-416-1244 to report any issues that concern you during the election. Remember one person can vouch for 8 persons and must live in the same precinct as person being vouched for.
Amotion to adjourn was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson. Meeting adjourned at 8:33 PM.
September 12, 2024
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
September 12, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson at the Victory Office in Waite Park. Invocation was by Chairman Paulson.
Executive Board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Kevin Arnold, Sam Olson, Kirk Olson, Jim Howe, Philip Kameo, Jim Zitzmann, Mark Johnson, Scott Brodeen, Jodi Welsh, and Anthony Pappenfus.
Kevin Arnold requested than the item of Trump campaign update by Blake Paulson be added to the agenda. Motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the agenda adding the item as requested. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the July BPOU meeting. Motion approved.
In the absence of the Treasurer, Chairman Paulson presented the Treasurer’s report. Motion to approve the report was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
Blake Paulson reported from the Trump campaign that 1300 captains have been trained. Fourteen full-time employees have been hired and there are 13 field offices in the state of Minnesota. There are also 4 full-time election integrity personnel placed by the RNC. On the targeted list, Hennepin County, CD2, Bemidji, Moorehead and Alexandria, 20,000 contacts have been made. First time voters are also included in the low propensity voter count.
Because Benton BPOU and SD13 BPOU meeting dates are the same, Blake asked about possibly changing our meeting dates. A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones that Carol Rupar would send out notice to the executive board members to take a vote on changing the date. “No change” could also be a legitimate choice. This vote would be taken by email between now and midnight September 19th. Motion approved.
Candidates for St Cloud City Council, Mark Johnson and Scott Brodeen both spoke and asked for our support and funds for their campaigns. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve $600 payment to the campaigns of Scott Brodeen and $600 payment to Mark Johnson. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to recommend Joel Novak for 7th Judicial District court judge. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve $1000 for a postcard sample ballot listing endorsed and recommended candidates to be mailed to Benton County residents. This will include Trump, White, Emmer, Novak state representatives and local candidates that appear on the local ballot. Motion approved.
A motion to approve spending $1500 on digital marketing adds was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM.
September 12, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson at the Victory Office in Waite Park. Invocation was by Chairman Paulson.
Executive Board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Kevin Arnold, Sam Olson, Kirk Olson, Jim Howe, Philip Kameo, Jim Zitzmann, Mark Johnson, Scott Brodeen, Jodi Welsh, and Anthony Pappenfus.
Kevin Arnold requested than the item of Trump campaign update by Blake Paulson be added to the agenda. Motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the agenda adding the item as requested. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the July BPOU meeting. Motion approved.
In the absence of the Treasurer, Chairman Paulson presented the Treasurer’s report. Motion to approve the report was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
Blake Paulson reported from the Trump campaign that 1300 captains have been trained. Fourteen full-time employees have been hired and there are 13 field offices in the state of Minnesota. There are also 4 full-time election integrity personnel placed by the RNC. On the targeted list, Hennepin County, CD2, Bemidji, Moorehead and Alexandria, 20,000 contacts have been made. First time voters are also included in the low propensity voter count.
Because Benton BPOU and SD13 BPOU meeting dates are the same, Blake asked about possibly changing our meeting dates. A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones that Carol Rupar would send out notice to the executive board members to take a vote on changing the date. “No change” could also be a legitimate choice. This vote would be taken by email between now and midnight September 19th. Motion approved.
Candidates for St Cloud City Council, Mark Johnson and Scott Brodeen both spoke and asked for our support and funds for their campaigns. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve $600 payment to the campaigns of Scott Brodeen and $600 payment to Mark Johnson. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to recommend Joel Novak for 7th Judicial District court judge. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve $1000 for a postcard sample ballot listing endorsed and recommended candidates to be mailed to Benton County residents. This will include Trump, White, Emmer, Novak state representatives and local candidates that appear on the local ballot. Motion approved.
A motion to approve spending $1500 on digital marketing adds was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:46 PM.
August 8, 2024
No Meeting
July 11, 2024
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
July 11, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members in attendance: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, Ruth Gruba and Carol Rupar.
Full committee and guests in attendance: Heidi Montag, Judy Sommers, Jodi Welsh, Philip Kameo, Kevin Arnold, Jim Zitzmann, Adam Schlangen, Rep. Isaac Schultz and Rep. Tim O’Driscoll.
Rep. Tim O’Driscoll spoke and thought the Legislative update event held in June and sponsored by Benton, Sd13 and SD14 went well. There is a possibility that there might be 3 senate seats up for election and Republicans will hopefully take 2 of them.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the minutes of the May meeting. (No meeting in June). Motion approved.
As the Treasurer was unable to be present and there was no change from the last report, a motion to table the Treasurers report until next month was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Carol Rupar to give $1,000 to the re-election campaign of HD14A Rep. Bernie Perryman. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten to give $3,000 to the campaign of HD14B Candidate Sue Ek who is running against current DFL Rep Dan Wolgamott. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Joshua Jones to donate $500 to the campaign to re-elect 14B Rep. Tim O’Driscoll. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Ruth Gruba to donate $500 to the campaign to re-elect 10B Rep Isaac Schultz. Motion approved.
Chair Paulson reported that the Benton County Fair booth is in the same location in Ice Arena East as in the past. He will have a flag flown over the capitol for a drawing; have the Trump cut-out for display, Trump gear for donations, yard signs, possible wheel to spin. We will push voter registration, early voting and be able to tell people where to vote.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to allow $300 to purchase helium for the balloons to hand out at the fair.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones to give Mike Conway recommended status as candidate for Mayor of St Cloud.
A motion to adjourn was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved. The meeting was adjourned at 8:43 PM.
July 11, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members in attendance: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, Ruth Gruba and Carol Rupar.
Full committee and guests in attendance: Heidi Montag, Judy Sommers, Jodi Welsh, Philip Kameo, Kevin Arnold, Jim Zitzmann, Adam Schlangen, Rep. Isaac Schultz and Rep. Tim O’Driscoll.
Rep. Tim O’Driscoll spoke and thought the Legislative update event held in June and sponsored by Benton, Sd13 and SD14 went well. There is a possibility that there might be 3 senate seats up for election and Republicans will hopefully take 2 of them.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the minutes of the May meeting. (No meeting in June). Motion approved.
As the Treasurer was unable to be present and there was no change from the last report, a motion to table the Treasurers report until next month was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Carol Rupar to give $1,000 to the re-election campaign of HD14A Rep. Bernie Perryman. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten to give $3,000 to the campaign of HD14B Candidate Sue Ek who is running against current DFL Rep Dan Wolgamott. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Joshua Jones to donate $500 to the campaign to re-elect 14B Rep. Tim O’Driscoll. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Ruth Gruba to donate $500 to the campaign to re-elect 10B Rep Isaac Schultz. Motion approved.
Chair Paulson reported that the Benton County Fair booth is in the same location in Ice Arena East as in the past. He will have a flag flown over the capitol for a drawing; have the Trump cut-out for display, Trump gear for donations, yard signs, possible wheel to spin. We will push voter registration, early voting and be able to tell people where to vote.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to allow $300 to purchase helium for the balloons to hand out at the fair.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones to give Mike Conway recommended status as candidate for Mayor of St Cloud.
A motion to adjourn was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved. The meeting was adjourned at 8:43 PM.
June 13, 2024
No Meeting
May 9, 2024
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
May 9, 2024
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson at 7:01 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was followed by an invocation by Chairman Paulson.
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
A motion to approve the Secretary’s Report was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that we still need to pay for the trips that were sold at the Denim and Diamonds auction. He will check with Isaac Schultz on the details.
Chairman Paulson also reported that Mail Chimp would likely cost $51.50 per month and he would like to continue to use it.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to authorize Mail Chimp for the next nine months at $51.50 per month or a total of $463.50. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to give $3,000 to Sue Ek for House campaign. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Judy Hackett to establish a Petty Cash Fund of $300. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that the new website, bentonmngop.com is up and running.
Discussion of Denim and Diamonds event was positive and the consensus was that we should repeat this event annually.
Chairman Paulson reported that the 10B Endorsing Convention lasted 45 minutes and Isaac Schultz was endorsed for reelection.
There was discussion of the CD6 Convention and Benton BPOU had a full delegation.
Chairman Paulson announced that there will be a Legislative Review jointly sponsored by Benton, SD13 and SD14 to be held at the Sauk Rapids Government Center in the Community Room on Monday, June 3rd beginning at 6:30 PM. Senators Jeff Howe and Nathan Wesenberg, Representatives Lisa DeMuth, Tim O’Driscoll, and Bernie Perryman will be attending along with Candidate Sue Ek. There will be no charge and no refreshments served, but a free will collection will be taken at this event. Receipts and expenses will be split between Benton, SD13 and SD14.
Nicolas Lengyl, candidate for St Cloud City Council spoke. It was a unanimous board decision to recommend Nicolas Lengyl as a candidate. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Carol Rupar to give $600 to his campaign. Motion approved.
Upcoming events include parades in Foley and Sauk Rapids, Gilman and Rice, along with the Benton County Fair.
There was discussion about the CD6 Convention and Carol Rupar who was on the Nominations Committee explained the process of declaring candidates qualified, qualified with reservations and unqualified and how the committee arrived at their decisions. CD6 Nominations Committee was made up of one person from each county in CD6.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to adjourn. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:55 PM
May 9, 2024
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson at 7:01 PM. The Pledge of Allegiance was followed by an invocation by Chairman Paulson.
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
A motion to approve the Secretary’s Report was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that we still need to pay for the trips that were sold at the Denim and Diamonds auction. He will check with Isaac Schultz on the details.
Chairman Paulson also reported that Mail Chimp would likely cost $51.50 per month and he would like to continue to use it.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to authorize Mail Chimp for the next nine months at $51.50 per month or a total of $463.50. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to give $3,000 to Sue Ek for House campaign. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Judy Hackett to establish a Petty Cash Fund of $300. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that the new website, bentonmngop.com is up and running.
Discussion of Denim and Diamonds event was positive and the consensus was that we should repeat this event annually.
Chairman Paulson reported that the 10B Endorsing Convention lasted 45 minutes and Isaac Schultz was endorsed for reelection.
There was discussion of the CD6 Convention and Benton BPOU had a full delegation.
Chairman Paulson announced that there will be a Legislative Review jointly sponsored by Benton, SD13 and SD14 to be held at the Sauk Rapids Government Center in the Community Room on Monday, June 3rd beginning at 6:30 PM. Senators Jeff Howe and Nathan Wesenberg, Representatives Lisa DeMuth, Tim O’Driscoll, and Bernie Perryman will be attending along with Candidate Sue Ek. There will be no charge and no refreshments served, but a free will collection will be taken at this event. Receipts and expenses will be split between Benton, SD13 and SD14.
Nicolas Lengyl, candidate for St Cloud City Council spoke. It was a unanimous board decision to recommend Nicolas Lengyl as a candidate. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Carol Rupar to give $600 to his campaign. Motion approved.
Upcoming events include parades in Foley and Sauk Rapids, Gilman and Rice, along with the Benton County Fair.
There was discussion about the CD6 Convention and Carol Rupar who was on the Nominations Committee explained the process of declaring candidates qualified, qualified with reservations and unqualified and how the committee arrived at their decisions. CD6 Nominations Committee was made up of one person from each county in CD6.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to adjourn. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:55 PM
April 11, 2024
Benton Co. Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
April 11, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. The Pledge of Allegiance
was followed by an invocation by Blake.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Carol Rupar, Judy Hackett, Ruth Gruba, Paul
and April Doten.
Guests present: Todd Waytashek, Phil Kameo, Jim Zitzmann, Jodi Welsh, Kevin Arnold, Dan Starry,
Julie Johnson, Beth Schlangen and Joel Novak (candidate for 7th Judicial District Judge)
Joel Novak spoke. Of the 30 seats in the 7th Judicial District, 28 are held by Democrats. A judicial
candidate cannot ask for campaign money, but can accept money, He is currently presenting
cases before the judge he is running against. He also talked about plea bargains and how Michelle
Fischbauck was successful in running her congressional campaign against Colin Peterson.
Chairman Paulson reported that we must opt in to receive text messages from Benton County GOP.
Click on the red button in the email that Blake sent on Wednesday, April 10th. Tomorrow at noon, we
can start setting up at Wapicada. At 3 PM, Mike Bray from Bray Leather Studios will bring in his
saddle collection for the enjoyment of the attendees, He will provide a tooled leather item for the
auction.
A motion to approve the minutes from the March 13th BPOU meeting was made by Paul Doten and
seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the Treasurer’s
report. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Paul Doten to approve $4,000 for upcoming
expenses including paying for the event at Wapicada on Friday, Benton County Fair rental, parade
fees, Foley High School bill from the BPOU Convention. These bills can then be paid as soon as
presented.
Kevin Arnold reported that the website is caught up after the BPOU convention. The names of the
Delegates and Alternates are posted.
There was no CD6 meeting in February due to caucus and no meeting in March due to the weather.
The CD6 Convention Calls have now been sent out. The 10B Endorsing Convention will be on April
20th at Pierz High School. Rep. Isaac Schultz is the only candidate.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to have the Benton County
Republican BPOU pay for and manage the booth at the Benton County Fair. Motion was
unanimously approved. We will still, as in the past, welcome participation by SD14 and or SD13 if
they wish to volunteer in the booth.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 8:53 PM.
April 11, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. The Pledge of Allegiance
was followed by an invocation by Blake.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Carol Rupar, Judy Hackett, Ruth Gruba, Paul
and April Doten.
Guests present: Todd Waytashek, Phil Kameo, Jim Zitzmann, Jodi Welsh, Kevin Arnold, Dan Starry,
Julie Johnson, Beth Schlangen and Joel Novak (candidate for 7th Judicial District Judge)
Joel Novak spoke. Of the 30 seats in the 7th Judicial District, 28 are held by Democrats. A judicial
candidate cannot ask for campaign money, but can accept money, He is currently presenting
cases before the judge he is running against. He also talked about plea bargains and how Michelle
Fischbauck was successful in running her congressional campaign against Colin Peterson.
Chairman Paulson reported that we must opt in to receive text messages from Benton County GOP.
Click on the red button in the email that Blake sent on Wednesday, April 10th. Tomorrow at noon, we
can start setting up at Wapicada. At 3 PM, Mike Bray from Bray Leather Studios will bring in his
saddle collection for the enjoyment of the attendees, He will provide a tooled leather item for the
auction.
A motion to approve the minutes from the March 13th BPOU meeting was made by Paul Doten and
seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the Treasurer’s
report. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Paul Doten to approve $4,000 for upcoming
expenses including paying for the event at Wapicada on Friday, Benton County Fair rental, parade
fees, Foley High School bill from the BPOU Convention. These bills can then be paid as soon as
presented.
Kevin Arnold reported that the website is caught up after the BPOU convention. The names of the
Delegates and Alternates are posted.
There was no CD6 meeting in February due to caucus and no meeting in March due to the weather.
The CD6 Convention Calls have now been sent out. The 10B Endorsing Convention will be on April
20th at Pierz High School. Rep. Isaac Schultz is the only candidate.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to have the Benton County
Republican BPOU pay for and manage the booth at the Benton County Fair. Motion was
unanimously approved. We will still, as in the past, welcome participation by SD14 and or SD13 if
they wish to volunteer in the booth.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 8:53 PM.
March 13, 2024
Benton County BPOU Meeting Minutes,
March 13, 2024
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson followed by Pledge of
Allegiance and Invocation also by Blake.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, April Doten, Paul
Doten, Jim Sutton, Judy Hackett, Kim Christen-Mattson, Ruth Gruba and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Helena Halverson, Paula Christianson, Sen. Nathan Wesenberg, Rep.
Mike Wiener, Sue Ek, Anthony Pappenfus, Sam Olson, Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek,
Gary Gruba, Dan and Hazel Starry, Lawrence Thell, Judy Sommers, Kevin Arnold, Jodi
Welsh, Beth Schlangen, Julie Johnson, Heidi Montag, Jim Howe, Janelle Gudim, and
David Hanson
A motion was made by Jim Sutton and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the
agenda by adding “discussion of Crow Wing County BPOU” as final item. Motion
approved.
Anthony Pappenfus, candidate for HD14B seat spoke. He is concerned about the
homeless in the area and security of our neighborhoods and does not like the direction
the State of Minnesota is heading.
Sue Ek, candidate for HD14B spoke. She is concerned about supporting small
businesses and law enforcement, protecting the rights of parents and the pro-life vs
abortion issue.
Helena Halvorson, Chair of SD14 announced that Benton residents of HD14B would
only be charged $5 for Saturday, March 23rd convention and after the endorsement of
candidate for HD14B, Benton residents would be dismissed to Foley to attend the
Benton County BPOU convention. She said she would send out an email to Benton
HD14B delegates to address some issues she has with the endorsement process.
Chairman Paulson announced that caucus went well, and information was transmitted
to the MNGOP in a timely manner. Caucus expenses totaled $98.02. BPOU
Convention is scheduled for March 23rd . Todd Waytashek requested that the forms in
the packets be made available for review before caucus in 2026.
Vice Chairman Joshua Jones announced that Congressman Tom Emmer is scheduled
to speak at St Cloud Christian School on Tuesday, March 26th from 7-8:30 PM. The
public is invited, no charge, but they will accept donations.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the
minutes of the February 8th regular monthly meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and approved by Jim Sutton to approve the
minutes of the special meeting following caucus on February 27 th . Motion approved with
one correction changing number of Foley precinct delegates from 3 to 2 for a total of 71
Delegates.
A motion to approve payment of $383.02 to Carol Rupar for expenses was made by
Ruth Gruba and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved. Expenses of $83.02 was
for caucus supplies plus $300.00 for required downpayment to Wapicada Golf Club for
fundraising event on April 12th .
A motion to approve payment of $15.00 to Sauk Rapids-Rice High School for use of the
facility for caucus was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson.
Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Ruth Gruba to approve the
Treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that the website continues to grow and there are links to all
documents and a link to the Minnesota State Capitol.
Chairman Paulson reported that the CD6 convention will be held at Mayer Lutheran
High School in Mayer, Minnesota on May 4th . The MNGOP convention will be held at the
St Paul River Center on May 17 & 18.
Chairman Paulson reported that the forms for the BPOU convention on March 23rd have
all been posted on the website including the proposed amendments to the BPOU
constitution. Changes can also be proposed from the floor.
Benton has been allotted 21 Delegates to CD6 and state Conventions.
The following Benton BPOU convention committees have been established:
Credentials:
Joshua Jones
Todd Waytashek
Julie Johnson
Rules:
Joshua Jones
Kevin Arnold
Paul Doten
Blake Paulson
Resolutions:
Beth Schlangen
Ruth Gruba
Kim Christen-Mattson
Kevin Arnold
David Hanson
Tech Advisor and Parliamentarian:
Kevin Arnold
Sargeant at Arms:
Jim Howe
April Doten
Tellers:
To be appointed at convention.
Secretary:
April Doten
Chairman Paulson reported that the HD14B from Benton County will attend the HD14B
endorsing convention at Apollo High School in St Cloud first and after the endorsement
has been completed for that candidate, the delegates will come to Foley High School for
the Benton County BPOU Convention. The convention at Apollo will begin at 9 AM.
The convention in Foley will begin at 10 AM. Although registration closes at 10:30 AM,
those from 14B will be allowed in if they are a few minutes late.
Also, RSVPs must be in by April 5th for our “Denim and Diamonds” fundraiser at
Wapicada on April 12th as April 5th is the date we must provide the number of meals to the
facility.
A motion to adjourn was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion
approved.
Meeting adjourned at 8:33 PM
March 13, 2024
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson followed by Pledge of
Allegiance and Invocation also by Blake.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, April Doten, Paul
Doten, Jim Sutton, Judy Hackett, Kim Christen-Mattson, Ruth Gruba and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Helena Halverson, Paula Christianson, Sen. Nathan Wesenberg, Rep.
Mike Wiener, Sue Ek, Anthony Pappenfus, Sam Olson, Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek,
Gary Gruba, Dan and Hazel Starry, Lawrence Thell, Judy Sommers, Kevin Arnold, Jodi
Welsh, Beth Schlangen, Julie Johnson, Heidi Montag, Jim Howe, Janelle Gudim, and
David Hanson
A motion was made by Jim Sutton and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the
agenda by adding “discussion of Crow Wing County BPOU” as final item. Motion
approved.
Anthony Pappenfus, candidate for HD14B seat spoke. He is concerned about the
homeless in the area and security of our neighborhoods and does not like the direction
the State of Minnesota is heading.
Sue Ek, candidate for HD14B spoke. She is concerned about supporting small
businesses and law enforcement, protecting the rights of parents and the pro-life vs
abortion issue.
Helena Halvorson, Chair of SD14 announced that Benton residents of HD14B would
only be charged $5 for Saturday, March 23rd convention and after the endorsement of
candidate for HD14B, Benton residents would be dismissed to Foley to attend the
Benton County BPOU convention. She said she would send out an email to Benton
HD14B delegates to address some issues she has with the endorsement process.
Chairman Paulson announced that caucus went well, and information was transmitted
to the MNGOP in a timely manner. Caucus expenses totaled $98.02. BPOU
Convention is scheduled for March 23rd . Todd Waytashek requested that the forms in
the packets be made available for review before caucus in 2026.
Vice Chairman Joshua Jones announced that Congressman Tom Emmer is scheduled
to speak at St Cloud Christian School on Tuesday, March 26th from 7-8:30 PM. The
public is invited, no charge, but they will accept donations.
A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the
minutes of the February 8th regular monthly meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and approved by Jim Sutton to approve the
minutes of the special meeting following caucus on February 27 th . Motion approved with
one correction changing number of Foley precinct delegates from 3 to 2 for a total of 71
Delegates.
A motion to approve payment of $383.02 to Carol Rupar for expenses was made by
Ruth Gruba and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved. Expenses of $83.02 was
for caucus supplies plus $300.00 for required downpayment to Wapicada Golf Club for
fundraising event on April 12th .
A motion to approve payment of $15.00 to Sauk Rapids-Rice High School for use of the
facility for caucus was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson.
Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Ruth Gruba to approve the
Treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that the website continues to grow and there are links to all
documents and a link to the Minnesota State Capitol.
Chairman Paulson reported that the CD6 convention will be held at Mayer Lutheran
High School in Mayer, Minnesota on May 4th . The MNGOP convention will be held at the
St Paul River Center on May 17 & 18.
Chairman Paulson reported that the forms for the BPOU convention on March 23rd have
all been posted on the website including the proposed amendments to the BPOU
constitution. Changes can also be proposed from the floor.
Benton has been allotted 21 Delegates to CD6 and state Conventions.
The following Benton BPOU convention committees have been established:
Credentials:
Joshua Jones
Todd Waytashek
Julie Johnson
Rules:
Joshua Jones
Kevin Arnold
Paul Doten
Blake Paulson
Resolutions:
Beth Schlangen
Ruth Gruba
Kim Christen-Mattson
Kevin Arnold
David Hanson
Tech Advisor and Parliamentarian:
Kevin Arnold
Sargeant at Arms:
Jim Howe
April Doten
Tellers:
To be appointed at convention.
Secretary:
April Doten
Chairman Paulson reported that the HD14B from Benton County will attend the HD14B
endorsing convention at Apollo High School in St Cloud first and after the endorsement
has been completed for that candidate, the delegates will come to Foley High School for
the Benton County BPOU Convention. The convention at Apollo will begin at 9 AM.
The convention in Foley will begin at 10 AM. Although registration closes at 10:30 AM,
those from 14B will be allowed in if they are a few minutes late.
Also, RSVPs must be in by April 5th for our “Denim and Diamonds” fundraiser at
Wapicada on April 12th as April 5th is the date we must provide the number of meals to the
facility.
A motion to adjourn was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion
approved.
Meeting adjourned at 8:33 PM
February 8, 2024
Benton County BPOU Meeting Minutes,
February 8, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Chairman Blake Paulson. The Pledge of Allegiance was followed with an invocation by Carol Rupar.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Joshua Jones, April Doten, Paul Doten, and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Julie Johnson, Philip Kameo, Ed Popp, Kevin Arnold, Beth Schlangen, Sam Olson, Jim Zitzmann, Todd Waytashek, Jodi Welsh, and Rep. Isaac Schultz.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the minutes of the January BPOU meeting with amendments. Motion approved.
Treasurer April Doten reported that we currently have funds of $5,791.96. 2023 year-end report shows we raised $13,798.81 and disbursed $10,036.66. including $1,000 to Rep. Lisa DeMuth and $5,000 to Rep. Bernie Perryman
Chairman Paulson announced that the 2023 BPOU PCR contest winners have not yet been announced. For 2024 the PCR is $75 per person, $150 per couple.
Chairman Paulson announced that we can access the SRRH, Door 1 at 5:45 p.m. on caucus night, February 23rd. For caucus purposes, there are 25 precincts. Everyone signs in twice, once on a single form for each person and once on a master list. Allocations of delegates are based on a 60:1 ration.
Looking back, caucus attendees in 2022 were 102; 2020 attendees numbered 81 and in 2016 attendees were 204. Chairman Paulson recommended preparing for 200 attendees in 2024.
Watab township has the most delegates with 19. The cost of using the SRRH will be $90. Blake has secured conveners for most of the precincts.
A motion to print some caucus forms in colored paper was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten. Carol Rupar reported that she had found a printer that would do colored paper forms for 11 cents per copy. Jodi Welsh suggested that we contact Crown Press in Sauk Rapids to see if we could get a lower price.
Convention Calls for the BPOU Convention on March 23rd will be handed out at the caucus.
“Caucus finder” is up and running on the Minnesota Secretary of State website. Please note that all Republican residents of Benton County will caucus in one location at the Sauk Rapids Rice High School, 1835 Osauka Rd NE, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379.
The Benton Co Republican BPOU Convention will be held at the Foley High School in Foley, MN, on Saturday, March 23, 2024, registration beginning at 9:00 a.m, Convention beginning at 10:00 a.m. with registration closing at 10:30 a.m.
The cost for rental of facility will be $90. Blake Paulson will chair the convention and appoint required convention positions.
Any proposed changes to the Benton County Republican BPOU Constitution must be submitted in writing to Chairman Blake Paulson by March 3, 2024.
A motion to charge a $10 convention registration fee was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that “Win Red” is up and running on the Benton BPOU website. The website is bentonmngop.weebly.com. There is no cost for this website.
Leadership Institute was held on Monday, February 5th at the Sartell Community Center. Blake Paulson, Beth Schlangen and Carol Rupar attended from Benton County.
Rep. Isaac Schultz reported that Rep. Lisa Demuth was very successful in fundraising for the HRCC, broke records in fundraising. GOP state candidates have record high cash on hand funds. Rep. Bernie Perryman has record high fundraising amounts in the area. But…..the DFL candidates have more.
Chairman Paulson encouraged everyone to vote in the Presidential Primary on March 5th. You must request your party ballot. The Republican ballot will have six or seven names of candidates including Pence, Ramaswamy, Christie that have dropped out after the ballot was printed.
CD6 Convention will be held on May 4th at Mayer Lutheran High School in Mayer, MN.
The Minnesota State Convention will be held May 16-18 at St Paul River Center.
Zoom Caucus training will be available on Saturday, February 10th from 1-3 p.m. There is an in-person training on February 19th in Chanhassen.
There will be endorsing conventions for HD13B (Rep. Tim O’Driscoll current Rep. there may be an opponent); HD14B (current Wolgamott seat) Anthony Pappenfus and Sue Ek and one other candidate are interested; HD10B (current Rep Isaac Schultz). Blake Paulson is keeping in contact with those three BPOU chairs regarding those endorsing conventions.
Motion to adjourn was made by Caol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.
February 8, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Chairman Blake Paulson. The Pledge of Allegiance was followed with an invocation by Carol Rupar.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Joshua Jones, April Doten, Paul Doten, and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests present: Julie Johnson, Philip Kameo, Ed Popp, Kevin Arnold, Beth Schlangen, Sam Olson, Jim Zitzmann, Todd Waytashek, Jodi Welsh, and Rep. Isaac Schultz.
A motion was made by Kim Christen-Mattson and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the minutes of the January BPOU meeting with amendments. Motion approved.
Treasurer April Doten reported that we currently have funds of $5,791.96. 2023 year-end report shows we raised $13,798.81 and disbursed $10,036.66. including $1,000 to Rep. Lisa DeMuth and $5,000 to Rep. Bernie Perryman
Chairman Paulson announced that the 2023 BPOU PCR contest winners have not yet been announced. For 2024 the PCR is $75 per person, $150 per couple.
Chairman Paulson announced that we can access the SRRH, Door 1 at 5:45 p.m. on caucus night, February 23rd. For caucus purposes, there are 25 precincts. Everyone signs in twice, once on a single form for each person and once on a master list. Allocations of delegates are based on a 60:1 ration.
Looking back, caucus attendees in 2022 were 102; 2020 attendees numbered 81 and in 2016 attendees were 204. Chairman Paulson recommended preparing for 200 attendees in 2024.
Watab township has the most delegates with 19. The cost of using the SRRH will be $90. Blake has secured conveners for most of the precincts.
A motion to print some caucus forms in colored paper was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten. Carol Rupar reported that she had found a printer that would do colored paper forms for 11 cents per copy. Jodi Welsh suggested that we contact Crown Press in Sauk Rapids to see if we could get a lower price.
Convention Calls for the BPOU Convention on March 23rd will be handed out at the caucus.
“Caucus finder” is up and running on the Minnesota Secretary of State website. Please note that all Republican residents of Benton County will caucus in one location at the Sauk Rapids Rice High School, 1835 Osauka Rd NE, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379.
The Benton Co Republican BPOU Convention will be held at the Foley High School in Foley, MN, on Saturday, March 23, 2024, registration beginning at 9:00 a.m, Convention beginning at 10:00 a.m. with registration closing at 10:30 a.m.
The cost for rental of facility will be $90. Blake Paulson will chair the convention and appoint required convention positions.
Any proposed changes to the Benton County Republican BPOU Constitution must be submitted in writing to Chairman Blake Paulson by March 3, 2024.
A motion to charge a $10 convention registration fee was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that “Win Red” is up and running on the Benton BPOU website. The website is bentonmngop.weebly.com. There is no cost for this website.
Leadership Institute was held on Monday, February 5th at the Sartell Community Center. Blake Paulson, Beth Schlangen and Carol Rupar attended from Benton County.
Rep. Isaac Schultz reported that Rep. Lisa Demuth was very successful in fundraising for the HRCC, broke records in fundraising. GOP state candidates have record high cash on hand funds. Rep. Bernie Perryman has record high fundraising amounts in the area. But…..the DFL candidates have more.
Chairman Paulson encouraged everyone to vote in the Presidential Primary on March 5th. You must request your party ballot. The Republican ballot will have six or seven names of candidates including Pence, Ramaswamy, Christie that have dropped out after the ballot was printed.
CD6 Convention will be held on May 4th at Mayer Lutheran High School in Mayer, MN.
The Minnesota State Convention will be held May 16-18 at St Paul River Center.
Zoom Caucus training will be available on Saturday, February 10th from 1-3 p.m. There is an in-person training on February 19th in Chanhassen.
There will be endorsing conventions for HD13B (Rep. Tim O’Driscoll current Rep. there may be an opponent); HD14B (current Wolgamott seat) Anthony Pappenfus and Sue Ek and one other candidate are interested; HD10B (current Rep Isaac Schultz). Blake Paulson is keeping in contact with those three BPOU chairs regarding those endorsing conventions.
Motion to adjourn was made by Caol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.
January 11, 2024
Benton County BPOU Meeting Minutes,
January 11, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7PM. The Pledge of Allegiance and an Invocation by Ruth Gruba followed.
Present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, April Doten, Ruth Gruba, Paul Doten, Kim Christian-Mattson, Kevin Arnold. Absent: Carol Rupar & Jim Sutton. Guests: Rep. Isaac Schultz, Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Jim Zitzmann, Jim Howe, Beth Schlangen, & Gary Gruba.
Chair Blake Paulson recounted highlights of 2023.
(There was MUCH discussion between the subjects of the Agenda, so I took the liberty to include info between the Chair’s Report, Old Business and New Business and combined pertinent information between them to save space. RG)
Chair’s Report: Blake Paulson updates on Caucus mtg
Leadership Institute SD13 & 14 Campaign Feb 5, @ 6-9 PM Sartell Comm. Center.
Caucus Updates: All attend sign-up sheet. Absentee list. The secretary needs to fill out a Form. All Board Members stay present until the last person leaves. Caucus Delegate Absentee Nomination Form. Needing signage, poll finder, assign who is conveners, will go through at Feb mtg. Caucus on Feb 27, 2024, at 5:30 0r 6:00 PM until dismissed. We will set up & pick-up our things and leave together. A list of speakers by next mtg. Discussion of limiting speaker’s time before caucus mtg with city and townships. Needing to get info out about Caucus mtg out with time and date and put in stores info boards, newspaper’s, churches etc. Blake will investigate Benton Co. News; Ruth is supposed to contact Morrison County paper. If you want to be a poll challenger need to sign up or check the box at caucus night. Also, if you have amendments that need to be brought on caucus night have them written up prior to caucus night as there is not time to write your thoughts together at the caucus mtg.
Benton County Convention updates: March 23, 2024, at Foley High School. Registration at 9AM – with 10:00 AM Start. 10:30AM is cut off for registration. Motion: Paul Doten and seconded by Ruth Gruba and carried.
Votify App. update: Create Acct. All look it up and get back to Blake by next mtg.
Amend Constitution Committee includes Blake, Carol, Joshua, and Judy will present at Convention on March 23 meeting. Anyone can recommend changes at least 20 days prior to the convention by March 3rd. No presenting to Board as they do not vote only at convention.
Motion to approve minutes of December BPOU meeting was made by Joshua Jones, second by Kim
Treasurer April Doten: $3,464.67 (ck) + $2,177.29 (sav) =$5,641.96 with a donation of $250.00.
Tech committee: Kevin Arnold Discussion on front Page. Talked about flow charts and how to use the web page. Kevin is still creating and updating and has future info coming that is in his mind but will be on the web page when he gets them set up. Thanks Kevin.
New business: Election Judges needed for your voting places.
Kevin reported that Minden Township has gone to Benton County to count the mail in ballots and Minden was granted approval. If interested contact Kevin for your township ballots for election information.
Blake dismissed all guests, and they left the mtg. Blake then proceeded with an Executive Session with a motion by Josh and seconded by Kim to continue in the Executive Session.
We discussed absenteeism, it is written two consecutive misses could lead to dismissal. 1. mtg to consider. 1. mtg for removal, then a notice given with time for response (Sec. 6: 2/3 vote with 10- day notice). There was much discussion on subjects to improve relationships. Adjourned Motion by Joshua, & 2nd Paul.
January 11, 2024
The meeting was called to order at 7PM. The Pledge of Allegiance and an Invocation by Ruth Gruba followed.
Present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, April Doten, Ruth Gruba, Paul Doten, Kim Christian-Mattson, Kevin Arnold. Absent: Carol Rupar & Jim Sutton. Guests: Rep. Isaac Schultz, Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Jim Zitzmann, Jim Howe, Beth Schlangen, & Gary Gruba.
Chair Blake Paulson recounted highlights of 2023.
(There was MUCH discussion between the subjects of the Agenda, so I took the liberty to include info between the Chair’s Report, Old Business and New Business and combined pertinent information between them to save space. RG)
Chair’s Report: Blake Paulson updates on Caucus mtg
Leadership Institute SD13 & 14 Campaign Feb 5, @ 6-9 PM Sartell Comm. Center.
Caucus Updates: All attend sign-up sheet. Absentee list. The secretary needs to fill out a Form. All Board Members stay present until the last person leaves. Caucus Delegate Absentee Nomination Form. Needing signage, poll finder, assign who is conveners, will go through at Feb mtg. Caucus on Feb 27, 2024, at 5:30 0r 6:00 PM until dismissed. We will set up & pick-up our things and leave together. A list of speakers by next mtg. Discussion of limiting speaker’s time before caucus mtg with city and townships. Needing to get info out about Caucus mtg out with time and date and put in stores info boards, newspaper’s, churches etc. Blake will investigate Benton Co. News; Ruth is supposed to contact Morrison County paper. If you want to be a poll challenger need to sign up or check the box at caucus night. Also, if you have amendments that need to be brought on caucus night have them written up prior to caucus night as there is not time to write your thoughts together at the caucus mtg.
Benton County Convention updates: March 23, 2024, at Foley High School. Registration at 9AM – with 10:00 AM Start. 10:30AM is cut off for registration. Motion: Paul Doten and seconded by Ruth Gruba and carried.
Votify App. update: Create Acct. All look it up and get back to Blake by next mtg.
Amend Constitution Committee includes Blake, Carol, Joshua, and Judy will present at Convention on March 23 meeting. Anyone can recommend changes at least 20 days prior to the convention by March 3rd. No presenting to Board as they do not vote only at convention.
Motion to approve minutes of December BPOU meeting was made by Joshua Jones, second by Kim
Treasurer April Doten: $3,464.67 (ck) + $2,177.29 (sav) =$5,641.96 with a donation of $250.00.
Tech committee: Kevin Arnold Discussion on front Page. Talked about flow charts and how to use the web page. Kevin is still creating and updating and has future info coming that is in his mind but will be on the web page when he gets them set up. Thanks Kevin.
New business: Election Judges needed for your voting places.
Kevin reported that Minden Township has gone to Benton County to count the mail in ballots and Minden was granted approval. If interested contact Kevin for your township ballots for election information.
Blake dismissed all guests, and they left the mtg. Blake then proceeded with an Executive Session with a motion by Josh and seconded by Kim to continue in the Executive Session.
We discussed absenteeism, it is written two consecutive misses could lead to dismissal. 1. mtg to consider. 1. mtg for removal, then a notice given with time for response (Sec. 6: 2/3 vote with 10- day notice). There was much discussion on subjects to improve relationships. Adjourned Motion by Joshua, & 2nd Paul.
December 14, 2023
Benton Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
December 14, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. Pledge of Allegiance was followed with invocation by Carol Rupar.
Board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Ruth Gruba, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, April Doten, Paul Doten and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Marcy Jones, Sam Olson, Jim Zitzmann, Renee Montes Zitzmann, Gary Gruba, Kevin Arnold, Beth Schlangen, Ed Popp, Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Rep. Bernie Perryman, Rep. Lisa Demuth, and Nick Demuth.
Motion was made to approve agenda by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Guest speakers were Representatives Bernie Perryman and Lisa Demuth. Tami Calhoun has announced that she is seeking the DFL endorsement for HD14A seat. Abdi Hassan has not yet officially announced. Bernie won the last election by 198 votes. Bernie has worn many hats in her life but is taking the hats off and is putting on the gloves and ready to focus on fighting for area residents in the next session which begins on February 12 and ends on May 21st or 22nd.
Lisa Demuth is the House Minority Leader and head of HRCC. Our lowest tax rate in Minnesota i higher than the highest tax rate in 23 other states. When you hear “structural imbalance” it is just what Democrats call a deficit. Check out “Minnesota House War Room as it has a lot of information that you won’t hear from the media.
Chair Paulson reported that $10,000 is the maximum amount that a candidate can receive from all BPOUs.
A motion to donate $4,000 from Benton BPOU to Rep. Bernie Perryman was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion passed.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the Secretary’s report. Motion passed.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the Treasurer’s report. Motion passed.
Chairman Paulson reported that caucus for all of Benton County is booked for 7 p.m. on February 27, 2024, at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School and the Benton Co Republican BPOU Convention has been confirmed to be held on March 23, 2024, at the Foley High School in Foley, event costing approximately $90. Blake is working on changes to the BPOU Constitution to be presented at the convention.
There was some discussion about the State Central Meeting held this past Saturday.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Carol Rupar. Motion passed.
The meeting adjourned at 8:39 p.m.
The next meeting will be held on Thursday January 11, 2024.
Respectfully submitted,
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Carol Rupar. Motion passed.
The meeting adjourned at 8:39 p.m.
December 14, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. Pledge of Allegiance was followed with invocation by Carol Rupar.
Board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Ruth Gruba, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, April Doten, Paul Doten and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Marcy Jones, Sam Olson, Jim Zitzmann, Renee Montes Zitzmann, Gary Gruba, Kevin Arnold, Beth Schlangen, Ed Popp, Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Rep. Bernie Perryman, Rep. Lisa Demuth, and Nick Demuth.
Motion was made to approve agenda by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Guest speakers were Representatives Bernie Perryman and Lisa Demuth. Tami Calhoun has announced that she is seeking the DFL endorsement for HD14A seat. Abdi Hassan has not yet officially announced. Bernie won the last election by 198 votes. Bernie has worn many hats in her life but is taking the hats off and is putting on the gloves and ready to focus on fighting for area residents in the next session which begins on February 12 and ends on May 21st or 22nd.
Lisa Demuth is the House Minority Leader and head of HRCC. Our lowest tax rate in Minnesota i higher than the highest tax rate in 23 other states. When you hear “structural imbalance” it is just what Democrats call a deficit. Check out “Minnesota House War Room as it has a lot of information that you won’t hear from the media.
Chair Paulson reported that $10,000 is the maximum amount that a candidate can receive from all BPOUs.
A motion to donate $4,000 from Benton BPOU to Rep. Bernie Perryman was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion passed.
A motion was made by Ruth Gruba and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the Secretary’s report. Motion passed.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the Treasurer’s report. Motion passed.
Chairman Paulson reported that caucus for all of Benton County is booked for 7 p.m. on February 27, 2024, at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School and the Benton Co Republican BPOU Convention has been confirmed to be held on March 23, 2024, at the Foley High School in Foley, event costing approximately $90. Blake is working on changes to the BPOU Constitution to be presented at the convention.
There was some discussion about the State Central Meeting held this past Saturday.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Carol Rupar. Motion passed.
The meeting adjourned at 8:39 p.m.
The next meeting will be held on Thursday January 11, 2024.
Respectfully submitted,
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Carol Rupar. Motion passed.
The meeting adjourned at 8:39 p.m.
November 9, 2023
Benton Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
November 9, 2023
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson at 7:00 PM. Pledge of Allegiance was followed by invocation by Nathanial Martin.
Executive board members in attendance: Joshua Jones, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, Blake Paulson and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests in attendance: Marcy Jones, Jim Howe, Brian Kitzberger, John Ulrick, Philip Kameo, Alan Fones, Jodi Welsh, Renee Montes Zitzmann, Jim Zitzmann, Beth Schlangen, Nathanial, Allison and Daniel Martin, MNGOP Chairman David Hann.
Motion to approve agenda was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Jodi Welsh commented that she was at the October meeting and her name was missing as an attendee. Motion was amended to include the fact that Jodi was in attendance at the October meeting. Motion approved.
Motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Carol to approve payment to Blake Paulson in the amount of $198.00 for 300 stamps purchased for the fundraiser mailing we did in October. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that Sauk Rapids-Rice High School has been confirmed as the venue for February 27th, 2024 caucus. Blake has also requested use of Foley High School for our 2024 Benton County BPOU Convention and is waiting for confirmation.
Motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Carol Rupar to approve $1000 payments each to Rep. Bernie Perryman and Rep. Lisa Demuth as a result of the Women’s Brunch fundraiser held in October. Motion approved.
MNGOP Chairman David Hann spoke advising PCR amount was raised to $75.00 per person for 2024. State Central Committee Meeting will be held on December 9th at Minnehaha Academy beginning at noon. The Republican Party of Minnesota has been confirmed major party status until December, 2025. The party will be focusing on the close district races.
Motion to adjourn was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned a 7:42 PM.
Next meeting of this BPOU will be held on December 14, 2023
This meeting was followed by caucus training until 9:10 PM.
November 9, 2023
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson at 7:00 PM. Pledge of Allegiance was followed by invocation by Nathanial Martin.
Executive board members in attendance: Joshua Jones, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, Blake Paulson and Carol Rupar.
Full committee members and guests in attendance: Marcy Jones, Jim Howe, Brian Kitzberger, John Ulrick, Philip Kameo, Alan Fones, Jodi Welsh, Renee Montes Zitzmann, Jim Zitzmann, Beth Schlangen, Nathanial, Allison and Daniel Martin, MNGOP Chairman David Hann.
Motion to approve agenda was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Motion to approve the minutes of the last meeting was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Jodi Welsh commented that she was at the October meeting and her name was missing as an attendee. Motion was amended to include the fact that Jodi was in attendance at the October meeting. Motion approved.
Motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Carol to approve payment to Blake Paulson in the amount of $198.00 for 300 stamps purchased for the fundraiser mailing we did in October. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson reported that Sauk Rapids-Rice High School has been confirmed as the venue for February 27th, 2024 caucus. Blake has also requested use of Foley High School for our 2024 Benton County BPOU Convention and is waiting for confirmation.
Motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Carol Rupar to approve $1000 payments each to Rep. Bernie Perryman and Rep. Lisa Demuth as a result of the Women’s Brunch fundraiser held in October. Motion approved.
MNGOP Chairman David Hann spoke advising PCR amount was raised to $75.00 per person for 2024. State Central Committee Meeting will be held on December 9th at Minnehaha Academy beginning at noon. The Republican Party of Minnesota has been confirmed major party status until December, 2025. The party will be focusing on the close district races.
Motion to adjourn was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned a 7:42 PM.
Next meeting of this BPOU will be held on December 14, 2023
This meeting was followed by caucus training until 9:10 PM.
October 12th, 2023
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes,
October 12, 2023
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson. That was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and invocation by Rev. Dale Witherington.
Executive board members present: Ruth Gruba, Blake Paulson, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Sam Olson, Todd Waytashek, Jim Howe, Janelle Gudim, Beth Schlangen, Philip Kameo, Gary Gruba, Dale Witherington, Kevin Arnold and Jim Zitzmann.
Motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Blake reported that he was one of he BPOU chairs that were invited to attend the Republican National BPOU Chairs Convention in Kansas City, MO. He received a lot of helpful information.
Motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the last meeting with correcting the replace Dan Wolgamott website to read RepDanWolgamott.com. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson gave an overview of the Treasurer’s Report as the Treasurer was unavailable.
Kevin Arnold of the Tech Committee reported that John Ulrick of Morrison Co BPOU is hosting a Liz Collin event on October 26 at 7:00 PM at the Little Falls VFW Post #1112 in Little Falls.
Kevin also reported that the MNGOP state party platform is now on the website. The CD6 Constitution will be coming shortly. There is a separate WinRed button also.
There is a link on the website to register for the Women’s Brunch to be held on Saturday, October 28th. $600 has been received and 20 people are registered.
After this meeting tonight, we will be stuffing envelopes for a fundraising letter and will send to the hard Republicans in Benton County with a note about the things Rep. Dan Wolgamott has voted for that we disagree with.
At the next meeting on November 9. 2023, we will be including caucus training.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to contact the Foley High School to reserve the auditorium for our 2024 spring BPOU convention. 1st choice date is March 23, 2nd choice date is April 6th.
Motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson. Meeting adjourned at 7:33 PM.
October 12, 2023
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson. That was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and invocation by Rev. Dale Witherington.
Executive board members present: Ruth Gruba, Blake Paulson, Kim Christen-Mattson, Judy Hackett, and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Sam Olson, Todd Waytashek, Jim Howe, Janelle Gudim, Beth Schlangen, Philip Kameo, Gary Gruba, Dale Witherington, Kevin Arnold and Jim Zitzmann.
Motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Blake reported that he was one of he BPOU chairs that were invited to attend the Republican National BPOU Chairs Convention in Kansas City, MO. He received a lot of helpful information.
Motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to approve the minutes of the last meeting with correcting the replace Dan Wolgamott website to read RepDanWolgamott.com. Motion approved.
Chairman Paulson gave an overview of the Treasurer’s Report as the Treasurer was unavailable.
Kevin Arnold of the Tech Committee reported that John Ulrick of Morrison Co BPOU is hosting a Liz Collin event on October 26 at 7:00 PM at the Little Falls VFW Post #1112 in Little Falls.
Kevin also reported that the MNGOP state party platform is now on the website. The CD6 Constitution will be coming shortly. There is a separate WinRed button also.
There is a link on the website to register for the Women’s Brunch to be held on Saturday, October 28th. $600 has been received and 20 people are registered.
After this meeting tonight, we will be stuffing envelopes for a fundraising letter and will send to the hard Republicans in Benton County with a note about the things Rep. Dan Wolgamott has voted for that we disagree with.
At the next meeting on November 9. 2023, we will be including caucus training.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson to contact the Foley High School to reserve the auditorium for our 2024 spring BPOU convention. 1st choice date is March 23, 2nd choice date is April 6th.
Motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Kim Christen-Mattson. Meeting adjourned at 7:33 PM.
September 14th, 2023
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes
September 14, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7:02PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. The Pledge of allegiance and Invocation by Joshua Jones followed.
Motion to approve the agenda was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
Chair’s report: Blake reported that Win Red is set up online and one must check a box for an item to be included; there are no boxes that are pre-filled. Blake announced that Andy Aplikowski and Jordyn Berwald have both resigned their positions with MNGOP. Anna Mathews has been hired as the new political director. The next state central committee meeting will be held on December 9, 2023. Aaron Henning has unofficially indicated that he will not be a candidate for HD14B.
Motion to approve minutes of August BPOU meeting was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
The Treasurer was not present. Blake reported that the website for Campaign Finance reports has been updated and it will be easier to submit the reports and one no longer needs a special computer or subscription to an app to make those reports.
Tech Committee: Kevin Arnold reported that there is now a button for Win Red on the website. Below that is a slide show of events going on in the area. Shortly, MNGOP constitution and CD6 constitution will be available on the website. CD6 meeting information will also be available.
There is a new website: repdanwolgamott.com. This is by an organization Renew Minnesota in an effort to replace Dan Wolgamott and lists all the things Wolgamott has voted for that we do not approve of.
Motion to send fundraising letter to 696 hard Republicans in Benton County to raise money to defeat HD14B Dan Wolgamott was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Carol Rupar. Motion passed.
Motion was made to approve funds of $500 for this mailing was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion passed.
Motion was made by Blake Paulson and seconded by Judy Hackett that Carol Rupar proceed with plans for a Victorian Brunch-Women Supporting Area Women Republican Legislators to be held in Benton County. Ticket price for event to be $20. Motion approved.
Motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Ruth Gruba to reserve Sauk Rapids Rice High School for caucus on February 27, 2024. Motion passed.
There was discussion of possibly holding a caucus convener meeting during the first hour of the November 9th meeting of this committee.
Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM
Next meeting of this committee will be on October 12th.
September 14, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7:02PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. The Pledge of allegiance and Invocation by Joshua Jones followed.
Motion to approve the agenda was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
Chair’s report: Blake reported that Win Red is set up online and one must check a box for an item to be included; there are no boxes that are pre-filled. Blake announced that Andy Aplikowski and Jordyn Berwald have both resigned their positions with MNGOP. Anna Mathews has been hired as the new political director. The next state central committee meeting will be held on December 9, 2023. Aaron Henning has unofficially indicated that he will not be a candidate for HD14B.
Motion to approve minutes of August BPOU meeting was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
The Treasurer was not present. Blake reported that the website for Campaign Finance reports has been updated and it will be easier to submit the reports and one no longer needs a special computer or subscription to an app to make those reports.
Tech Committee: Kevin Arnold reported that there is now a button for Win Red on the website. Below that is a slide show of events going on in the area. Shortly, MNGOP constitution and CD6 constitution will be available on the website. CD6 meeting information will also be available.
There is a new website: repdanwolgamott.com. This is by an organization Renew Minnesota in an effort to replace Dan Wolgamott and lists all the things Wolgamott has voted for that we do not approve of.
Motion to send fundraising letter to 696 hard Republicans in Benton County to raise money to defeat HD14B Dan Wolgamott was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Carol Rupar. Motion passed.
Motion was made to approve funds of $500 for this mailing was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion passed.
Motion was made by Blake Paulson and seconded by Judy Hackett that Carol Rupar proceed with plans for a Victorian Brunch-Women Supporting Area Women Republican Legislators to be held in Benton County. Ticket price for event to be $20. Motion approved.
Motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Ruth Gruba to reserve Sauk Rapids Rice High School for caucus on February 27, 2024. Motion passed.
There was discussion of possibly holding a caucus convener meeting during the first hour of the November 9th meeting of this committee.
Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM
Next meeting of this committee will be on October 12th.
August 10th, 2023
Download these minutes in PDF
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes
August 10, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 PM by Charman Blake Paulson. The Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Paul Doten, and Carol Rupar. By remote: Joshua Jones, Ruth Gruba and Judy Hackett.
Others present: April Doten, Jim Howe, Lawrence Thell, Beth Schlangen, Cocoa Robertson, Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Kevin Arnold and Jim Zitzmann.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the agenda after moving “Appointment of treasurer and Appointment of At-large board member to item #4. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to allow Chair Paulson to appoint Kevin Arnold and Beth Schlangen as tellers to count ballots for treasurer and at-large positions. Election was conducted by secret ballot with the remote board members texting their choice to tellers. Motion approved.
Ballot count revealed April Doten is the new treasurer and Kim Christen-Mattson is the new at-large member.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Carol Rupar to table review of recent events. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the Secretary’s Report. Motion approved.
A bill was presented by Carol Rupar to be reimbursed for allotted expense of $150 toward helium. A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the Treasurer’s Report and pay to Carol Rupar the $150.00 helium allowance. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 7:23 PM.
Next meeting of this committee will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023.
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes
August 10, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 PM by Charman Blake Paulson. The Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Paul Doten, and Carol Rupar. By remote: Joshua Jones, Ruth Gruba and Judy Hackett.
Others present: April Doten, Jim Howe, Lawrence Thell, Beth Schlangen, Cocoa Robertson, Kimberly Christen-Mattson, Kevin Arnold and Jim Zitzmann.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the agenda after moving “Appointment of treasurer and Appointment of At-large board member to item #4. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten to allow Chair Paulson to appoint Kevin Arnold and Beth Schlangen as tellers to count ballots for treasurer and at-large positions. Election was conducted by secret ballot with the remote board members texting their choice to tellers. Motion approved.
Ballot count revealed April Doten is the new treasurer and Kim Christen-Mattson is the new at-large member.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Carol Rupar to table review of recent events. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the Secretary’s Report. Motion approved.
A bill was presented by Carol Rupar to be reimbursed for allotted expense of $150 toward helium. A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Paul Doten to approve the Treasurer’s Report and pay to Carol Rupar the $150.00 helium allowance. Motion approved.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 7:23 PM.
Next meeting of this committee will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023.
July 13th, 2023
Download these minutes in PDF
Benton BPOU Minutes,
July 13, 2023
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson at 7:05 PM. Pledge of Allegiance and invocation followed.
Board members in attendance: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, Ruth Gruba, Jim Sutton, and Carol Rupar.
Guests in attendance: April Doten, Kim Christen-Mattson, Kevin Arnold, Judy Sommers, Marcy Jones, Pam Benoit, Beth Schlangen, Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Jim Zitzmann, Pamela Bernick and Rep. Isaac Schultz.
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved.
Chairman Blake Paulson reported that he is building a relationship with SD13 and SD14. He reported that he was on KNSI’s The Ox show on Friday July 1 and it replayed on Monday and Tuesday, July 4th and 5th. He will be on The Ox show again on Friday July 7th from 4 to 5 PM. Scott Presler will call into the show on Friday.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett to approve the Secretary’s report seconded by Paul Doten with the correction of adding Ruth Gruba as board member present at the June meeting. Motion approved with correction.
Ruth Gruba asked that we revisit the process of texting by board members when making decisions between meetings.
The Treasurer’s report was presented.
Kevin Arnold reported that he has been working to update the website and now you will find a listing of area legislators, Benton BPOU Constitution, minutes of previous meetings, RSS news feeds, links to CD6 and other BPOUs.
Blake announced that the Gilman parade will be held on Saturday, July 29th and begins at 12:30 PM.
Carol Rupar presented a possibility of shirts to be ordered for interested parties with BPOU logo. Todd Waytashek suggested checking with Krillan.
In regard to the fair booth, a motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve $150 for helium for balloons for the fair booth. Motion approved. Blake announced that a flag flown over the US Capitol will again be given by Congressman Tom Emmer for a drawing at the fair. A Presidential Preference 2024 straw poll will be conducted at the fair both. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Carol Rupar to approve the banner presented by Pamela Bernick for the fair booth showing photos of Congressman Tom Emmer, Senators Jeff Howe and Nathan Wesenberg, Representatives Lisa DeMuth, Tim O’Driscoll and Bernie Perryman. Motion approved. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the banner presented by Pamela Bernick for the front of the fair booth saying, “We The People”. Motion approved. Pamela also presented buttons, as we have done in the past, for the fair booth for a donation of $2 each or 3/$5.
A motion was made by Jim Sutton and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the bill for payment in the amount of $1,123.28 to Carol Rupar for caps purchased for the fair booth. This is for 80 “Trump 2024’ caps and 96 ’Retire Biden’ caps which should arrive in time for the July 22nd Scott Presler event and also for the fair booth.
Blake Paulson announced that Sandra Brakstad has resigned as Treasurer and Janell Jordan has resigned as at-large executive board member. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten to accept the resignations.
Blake announced that nominations were open for both positions. April Doten nominated herself for Treasurer and Kim Christen-Mattson nominated herself for at-large position. A motion by Carol Rupar to suspend the rules and appoint both nominees to the positions as they were the only two nominated. Motion was not approved and several expressed interest in nominating others that were not there. A nomination was made for Jodi Welsh for Treasurer. Nominations for as-large executive board were made for Cocoa Robertson and Todd Waytashek. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Jim Sutton to hold the vote at the next meeting. Motion approved.
Motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM
The next meeting of this committee will he held On Thursday, August 10th, 2023, same time and location.
Benton BPOU Minutes,
July 13, 2023
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Blake Paulson at 7:05 PM. Pledge of Allegiance and invocation followed.
Board members in attendance: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, Ruth Gruba, Jim Sutton, and Carol Rupar.
Guests in attendance: April Doten, Kim Christen-Mattson, Kevin Arnold, Judy Sommers, Marcy Jones, Pam Benoit, Beth Schlangen, Phil Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Jim Zitzmann, Pamela Bernick and Rep. Isaac Schultz.
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved.
Chairman Blake Paulson reported that he is building a relationship with SD13 and SD14. He reported that he was on KNSI’s The Ox show on Friday July 1 and it replayed on Monday and Tuesday, July 4th and 5th. He will be on The Ox show again on Friday July 7th from 4 to 5 PM. Scott Presler will call into the show on Friday.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett to approve the Secretary’s report seconded by Paul Doten with the correction of adding Ruth Gruba as board member present at the June meeting. Motion approved with correction.
Ruth Gruba asked that we revisit the process of texting by board members when making decisions between meetings.
The Treasurer’s report was presented.
Kevin Arnold reported that he has been working to update the website and now you will find a listing of area legislators, Benton BPOU Constitution, minutes of previous meetings, RSS news feeds, links to CD6 and other BPOUs.
Blake announced that the Gilman parade will be held on Saturday, July 29th and begins at 12:30 PM.
Carol Rupar presented a possibility of shirts to be ordered for interested parties with BPOU logo. Todd Waytashek suggested checking with Krillan.
In regard to the fair booth, a motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve $150 for helium for balloons for the fair booth. Motion approved. Blake announced that a flag flown over the US Capitol will again be given by Congressman Tom Emmer for a drawing at the fair. A Presidential Preference 2024 straw poll will be conducted at the fair both. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Carol Rupar to approve the banner presented by Pamela Bernick for the fair booth showing photos of Congressman Tom Emmer, Senators Jeff Howe and Nathan Wesenberg, Representatives Lisa DeMuth, Tim O’Driscoll and Bernie Perryman. Motion approved. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the banner presented by Pamela Bernick for the front of the fair booth saying, “We The People”. Motion approved. Pamela also presented buttons, as we have done in the past, for the fair booth for a donation of $2 each or 3/$5.
A motion was made by Jim Sutton and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the bill for payment in the amount of $1,123.28 to Carol Rupar for caps purchased for the fair booth. This is for 80 “Trump 2024’ caps and 96 ’Retire Biden’ caps which should arrive in time for the July 22nd Scott Presler event and also for the fair booth.
Blake Paulson announced that Sandra Brakstad has resigned as Treasurer and Janell Jordan has resigned as at-large executive board member. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten to accept the resignations.
Blake announced that nominations were open for both positions. April Doten nominated herself for Treasurer and Kim Christen-Mattson nominated herself for at-large position. A motion by Carol Rupar to suspend the rules and appoint both nominees to the positions as they were the only two nominated. Motion was not approved and several expressed interest in nominating others that were not there. A nomination was made for Jodi Welsh for Treasurer. Nominations for as-large executive board were made for Cocoa Robertson and Todd Waytashek. A motion was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Jim Sutton to hold the vote at the next meeting. Motion approved.
Motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion approved. Meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM
The next meeting of this committee will he held On Thursday, August 10th, 2023, same time and location.
June 8th, 2023
Download these minutes in PDF
Benton BPOU Minutes,
June 8, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7:06 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members attending: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Sandra Brakstad, Ruth Gruba, Carol Rupar and Janell Jordan (remotely).
Guests attending: Dan Stephenson, Cocoa Robertson, Jim Howe, Marcy Jones, Jim Zitzmann, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Judy Sommers, Kevin Arnold, and Beth Schlangen.
Blake Paulson reported that 70 people attended the legislative wrap up session that Benton sponsored on June 5th. Contributions totaled $628.00 and the only expense was $75.00 for rental of the facility.
Blake Paulson also reported that the MNGOP is planning to hold a state central meeting along with a Reagan-style dinner along with a state convention to discuss changes to the constitution. A date has not yet been set but is expected to be held some weekend this summer.
Blake Paulson also reported that the MNGOP is not likely to have funding to help candidates in 2024.
Blake Paulson has been on Ox and Friends on KNSI lately and these programs are now available on the Benton BPOU website.
A motion was made by Kevin Arnold and seconded by Ruth Gruba to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Blake Paulson and seconded by Joshua Jones to pay Carol Rupar $75.00 for facility rental for the June 5th legislative event to be paid from the receipts received at that event. Motion approved.
A motion by Blake Paulson and seconded by Carol Rupar to pay $10.00 cash to Jim Howe for shredding old treasurer documents at Docu-shred. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Jim Howe and seconded by Carol Rupar to approve the Treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that he was able to refresh our old domain name and that the website is up and running. Submit items to put on the calendar. He is adding articles all the time.
Blake Paulson announced that the BPOU can elect two delegates to CD6. Volunteers for the position were Todd Waytashek and Phil Kameo. Motion to appoint these two to CD6 was made by Sandra Brakstad and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion passed.
Blake Paulson has been in contact with Jodi Henry of Foley about the possibility of ordering shirts for the BPOU board members and caps for the Benton fair booth. He brought samples. A committee was formed to decide on what to purchase as time is of the essence. Committee members are Kevin Arnold, Beth Schlangen, Blake Paulson and Judy Sommers. Carol Rupar will check with Becker Printing where we ordered from last time.
Phil Kameo suggested purchasing a cap and make patches available which can be attached with Velcro to change the message. Some suggestions are: Patriot, Trump 2024, Walz Failed, We the People are PO’d.
Blake Paulson reported that the BPOU has entered a unit in the Foley parade for Wednesday June 23rd. Line up is at 6 PM. Participating will be Congressman Emmer, Sen. Wesenberg and Rep. Schultz
Motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones to skip the Sauk Rapids parade on June 23rd. Motion approved.
Blake Paulson announced that our next event will feature Scott Pressler on Saturday, July 22nd from noon to 2 PM at Rollies. Tables will be available to legislators and interested groups for $500 per table. They can invite their staff. General admission is $20.
Beth Schlangen brought to our attention that on Sunday at the Kelly Inn in St Cloud there will be a Drag Brunch being advertised as appropriate for 4-year-olds to attend.
Motion to adjourn was made by Kevin Arnold and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion adjourned at 8:30 PM.
Benton BPOU Minutes,
June 8, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7:06 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson. Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation followed.
Executive board members attending: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Sandra Brakstad, Ruth Gruba, Carol Rupar and Janell Jordan (remotely).
Guests attending: Dan Stephenson, Cocoa Robertson, Jim Howe, Marcy Jones, Jim Zitzmann, Philip Kameo, Todd Waytashek, Judy Sommers, Kevin Arnold, and Beth Schlangen.
Blake Paulson reported that 70 people attended the legislative wrap up session that Benton sponsored on June 5th. Contributions totaled $628.00 and the only expense was $75.00 for rental of the facility.
Blake Paulson also reported that the MNGOP is planning to hold a state central meeting along with a Reagan-style dinner along with a state convention to discuss changes to the constitution. A date has not yet been set but is expected to be held some weekend this summer.
Blake Paulson also reported that the MNGOP is not likely to have funding to help candidates in 2024.
Blake Paulson has been on Ox and Friends on KNSI lately and these programs are now available on the Benton BPOU website.
A motion was made by Kevin Arnold and seconded by Ruth Gruba to approve the minutes of the last meeting. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Blake Paulson and seconded by Joshua Jones to pay Carol Rupar $75.00 for facility rental for the June 5th legislative event to be paid from the receipts received at that event. Motion approved.
A motion by Blake Paulson and seconded by Carol Rupar to pay $10.00 cash to Jim Howe for shredding old treasurer documents at Docu-shred. Motion approved.
A motion was made by Jim Howe and seconded by Carol Rupar to approve the Treasurer’s report. Motion approved.
Kevin Arnold reported that he was able to refresh our old domain name and that the website is up and running. Submit items to put on the calendar. He is adding articles all the time.
Blake Paulson announced that the BPOU can elect two delegates to CD6. Volunteers for the position were Todd Waytashek and Phil Kameo. Motion to appoint these two to CD6 was made by Sandra Brakstad and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion passed.
Blake Paulson has been in contact with Jodi Henry of Foley about the possibility of ordering shirts for the BPOU board members and caps for the Benton fair booth. He brought samples. A committee was formed to decide on what to purchase as time is of the essence. Committee members are Kevin Arnold, Beth Schlangen, Blake Paulson and Judy Sommers. Carol Rupar will check with Becker Printing where we ordered from last time.
Phil Kameo suggested purchasing a cap and make patches available which can be attached with Velcro to change the message. Some suggestions are: Patriot, Trump 2024, Walz Failed, We the People are PO’d.
Blake Paulson reported that the BPOU has entered a unit in the Foley parade for Wednesday June 23rd. Line up is at 6 PM. Participating will be Congressman Emmer, Sen. Wesenberg and Rep. Schultz
Motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Joshua Jones to skip the Sauk Rapids parade on June 23rd. Motion approved.
Blake Paulson announced that our next event will feature Scott Pressler on Saturday, July 22nd from noon to 2 PM at Rollies. Tables will be available to legislators and interested groups for $500 per table. They can invite their staff. General admission is $20.
Beth Schlangen brought to our attention that on Sunday at the Kelly Inn in St Cloud there will be a Drag Brunch being advertised as appropriate for 4-year-olds to attend.
Motion to adjourn was made by Kevin Arnold and seconded by Joshua Jones. Motion adjourned at 8:30 PM.
May 11th, 2023
Download these minutes in PDF
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes.
May 11, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, and invocation by Cocoa Robertson.
Board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Carol Rupar and Ruth Gruba (by remote)
Others present: Cocoa Robertson, Daniel Stephenson, Sam Olson, Beth Schlangen, Kevin Arnold, Philip Kameo, Jim Zitzmann and John Ulrick.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to move items regarding the fair booth, committees and appointment of 2 more Reps to CD6 be moved to #4 on the agenda and table current item #4 until later. Motion approved.
Blake reported that he had the paperwork completed to submit for the fair booth. Charge for the double booth, same location as in the past, is $425 plus a fully refunded deposit of $100 provided we maintain booth open until 5 PM on Sunday. If the booth is closed early, we forfeit that $100. Motion by Carol Rupar, seconded by Josh Jones to approve $525 payable to Benton County Fair Board. Motion approved.
The motion was made by Josh Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to table appointment of BPOU representatives to CD6. Motion approved.
Blake appointed the following committee chairpersons:
Events and Fundraising: Carol Rupar
Public Relations and Media: Kevin Arnold. Josh Jones.
Candidate Research and Campaign: Beth Schlangen
Motion made by Josh Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the above committee chairpersons. Motion approved.
There was a discussion on caucus training and information.
It was noted that summer parades are coming up. Congressman Tom Emmer will participate in the Sauk Rapids parade and we can join that unit. For the Foley parade Benton will have their own unit at a cost of $75.00. Others we will participate in are Gilman and Rice.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Josh Jones to approve the Secretary’s report with the correction requested by Sandra Brakstad to read: “all banking may now be conducted online as well as in person”. Motion approved with correction.
Blake reported that the Treasurer’s Report showed that $3,693 as total receipts from April 12th fundraiser less expenses of $2,014.84 (books, food and space rental) yielded a net profit of $1,678.16. Balance is checking account is $702.80 and savings is $2976.41 for a total balance of $3,679.21. A motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Josh Jones. Motion approved.
There was mention by Blake of the following items:
Ideas for the fair booth
Items available from Henry’s in Foley
Shirts for Benton BPOU
End of Session Wrap-Up to be held the Tuesday or Wednesday after Memorial Day. Carol Rupar to check on availability of Sauk Rapids Government Center. Check on Thursday, June 1 or Monday June 5th. It was consensus to invite Rep. Wolgamott and Sen. Putnam.
Possible speakers mentioned for future events were Jason Lewis, Kendall Qualls, Parents Alliance, Kids over Politics, Tik Tok.
SD14 will hold Rick Weibel for an event in June.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones.
Motion adjourned at 8:05 PM.
Benton County Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes.
May 11, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Blake Paulson followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, and invocation by Cocoa Robertson.
Board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Judy Hackett, Carol Rupar and Ruth Gruba (by remote)
Others present: Cocoa Robertson, Daniel Stephenson, Sam Olson, Beth Schlangen, Kevin Arnold, Philip Kameo, Jim Zitzmann and John Ulrick.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones to move items regarding the fair booth, committees and appointment of 2 more Reps to CD6 be moved to #4 on the agenda and table current item #4 until later. Motion approved.
Blake reported that he had the paperwork completed to submit for the fair booth. Charge for the double booth, same location as in the past, is $425 plus a fully refunded deposit of $100 provided we maintain booth open until 5 PM on Sunday. If the booth is closed early, we forfeit that $100. Motion by Carol Rupar, seconded by Josh Jones to approve $525 payable to Benton County Fair Board. Motion approved.
The motion was made by Josh Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to table appointment of BPOU representatives to CD6. Motion approved.
Blake appointed the following committee chairpersons:
Events and Fundraising: Carol Rupar
Public Relations and Media: Kevin Arnold. Josh Jones.
Candidate Research and Campaign: Beth Schlangen
Motion made by Josh Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the above committee chairpersons. Motion approved.
There was a discussion on caucus training and information.
It was noted that summer parades are coming up. Congressman Tom Emmer will participate in the Sauk Rapids parade and we can join that unit. For the Foley parade Benton will have their own unit at a cost of $75.00. Others we will participate in are Gilman and Rice.
A motion was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Josh Jones to approve the Secretary’s report with the correction requested by Sandra Brakstad to read: “all banking may now be conducted online as well as in person”. Motion approved with correction.
Blake reported that the Treasurer’s Report showed that $3,693 as total receipts from April 12th fundraiser less expenses of $2,014.84 (books, food and space rental) yielded a net profit of $1,678.16. Balance is checking account is $702.80 and savings is $2976.41 for a total balance of $3,679.21. A motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Josh Jones. Motion approved.
There was mention by Blake of the following items:
Ideas for the fair booth
Items available from Henry’s in Foley
Shirts for Benton BPOU
End of Session Wrap-Up to be held the Tuesday or Wednesday after Memorial Day. Carol Rupar to check on availability of Sauk Rapids Government Center. Check on Thursday, June 1 or Monday June 5th. It was consensus to invite Rep. Wolgamott and Sen. Putnam.
Possible speakers mentioned for future events were Jason Lewis, Kendall Qualls, Parents Alliance, Kids over Politics, Tik Tok.
SD14 will hold Rick Weibel for an event in June.
A motion to adjourn was made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Joshua Jones.
Motion adjourned at 8:05 PM.
April 17th, 2023
Download these minutes in PDF
Benton Co Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes
April 17, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Bake Paulson.
Pledge of Allegiance was followed with invocation by Blake.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Ruth Gruba, Janell Jones, Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, Sandra Brakstad, and Carol Rupar.
Others present: Kevin Arnold, April Doten, Marcy Jones, Kim Christen-Mattson, Beth Schlangen, Phil Kameo and Gary Gruba.
Motion by Carol Rupar, seconded by Sandra Brakstad to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Sandra Brakstad, Treasurer, reported that all banking will be online and authority has been assigned to new signers.
Blake reported that update to google drive has been completed. All board members will have access to email and information. We are teammates and this BPOU will operate in a culture of mutual respect.
Motion was made by Sandra Brakstad and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the minutes of the March BPOU meeting and the minutes of the convention by correcting the spelling of Brakstad in several spots. Motion approved.
Sandra Brakstad, Treasurer, reported that the balance in Checking is $1,167.26 and Savings is $2,976.41 for a total of $4,143.67. A motion to approve the Treasurer’s report was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Sandra Brakstad reported that there is the ability to enter records online for CFB reports but it is not user friendly. The first quarterly report was filed by Jim Howe on April 15th. The next report is due July 15, 2023.
Sandra reported that it is required that Treasurer reports must be kept for four years. She has done an extensive review of the Treasurer reports and brought documentation of the items she questioned. Carol Rupar was asked to check on the items in question.
All items in question by Sandra Brakstad were confirmed to be valid approved expenditures upon checking items by Carol Rupar..
Sandra Brakstad offered several suggestions for procedures going forward in regard to BPOU expenditures.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Janell Jordan to adopt recommendations made by Treasurer, Sandra Brakstad.. Motion approved.
There was discussion about the information required on sign-up sheet during an event with required information by various board members, Treasurer, Chairman, media person and others.
Kevin Arnold volunteered to provide capture in software program.
There was discussion regarding old archive disposal of Treasurer reports going back more than four years. Motion was made by Janell Jordan and seconded by Paul Doten, to use WACOSA as the resource whereby Jim Howe can have documents shredded from archives that are older than four (4) years from his past Treasurer records. He will submit a bill for the shredding charge from WACOSA. Motion passed.
There was a discussion on campaigning procedures for BPOU board candidates. Blake reported that the lists of delegates and alternates are the property of MNGOP and in order to access that information, one must sign a list agreement with MNGOP, agree to use the list only for that particular campaign and approval for releasing the list to each individual is subject to MNGOP approval.
Motion by Ruth Gruba seconded by Sandra Brakstad that in the future when holding election for BPOU board members, candidates must declare their candidacy and meet with a nominations board by an agreed date and the list of candidates along with their contact information be included in the convention call. Motion approved.
There was discussion on who should be allowed to speak on behalf of a candidate for a BPOU board position at a BPOU convention. That is a subject for the Rules Committee for the next convention.
Expenses in the amount of $165.62 for BPOU Convention on March 30th were presented by Carol Rupar. Motion to approve payment made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved. Expenses in the amount of $298.84 for the Chili Supper/Liz Collin & Bob Kroll event on April 12th were presented for payment by Carol Rupar. Motion to approve payment made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion approved.
Motion by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten that future monthly meetings of this organization be held on the second Thursday of each month. Motion approved.
Motion to adjourn made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 9:21 PM.
Benton Co Republican BPOU Meeting Minutes
April 17, 2023
The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by Chairman Bake Paulson.
Pledge of Allegiance was followed with invocation by Blake.
Executive board members present: Blake Paulson, Joshua Jones, Ruth Gruba, Janell Jones, Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, Sandra Brakstad, and Carol Rupar.
Others present: Kevin Arnold, April Doten, Marcy Jones, Kim Christen-Mattson, Beth Schlangen, Phil Kameo and Gary Gruba.
Motion by Carol Rupar, seconded by Sandra Brakstad to approve the agenda. Motion approved.
Sandra Brakstad, Treasurer, reported that all banking will be online and authority has been assigned to new signers.
Blake reported that update to google drive has been completed. All board members will have access to email and information. We are teammates and this BPOU will operate in a culture of mutual respect.
Motion was made by Sandra Brakstad and seconded by Joshua Jones to approve the minutes of the March BPOU meeting and the minutes of the convention by correcting the spelling of Brakstad in several spots. Motion approved.
Sandra Brakstad, Treasurer, reported that the balance in Checking is $1,167.26 and Savings is $2,976.41 for a total of $4,143.67. A motion to approve the Treasurer’s report was made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Sandra Brakstad reported that there is the ability to enter records online for CFB reports but it is not user friendly. The first quarterly report was filed by Jim Howe on April 15th. The next report is due July 15, 2023.
Sandra reported that it is required that Treasurer reports must be kept for four years. She has done an extensive review of the Treasurer reports and brought documentation of the items she questioned. Carol Rupar was asked to check on the items in question.
All items in question by Sandra Brakstad were confirmed to be valid approved expenditures upon checking items by Carol Rupar..
Sandra Brakstad offered several suggestions for procedures going forward in regard to BPOU expenditures.
A motion was made by Paul Doten and seconded by Janell Jordan to adopt recommendations made by Treasurer, Sandra Brakstad.. Motion approved.
There was discussion about the information required on sign-up sheet during an event with required information by various board members, Treasurer, Chairman, media person and others.
Kevin Arnold volunteered to provide capture in software program.
There was discussion regarding old archive disposal of Treasurer reports going back more than four years. Motion was made by Janell Jordan and seconded by Paul Doten, to use WACOSA as the resource whereby Jim Howe can have documents shredded from archives that are older than four (4) years from his past Treasurer records. He will submit a bill for the shredding charge from WACOSA. Motion passed.
There was a discussion on campaigning procedures for BPOU board candidates. Blake reported that the lists of delegates and alternates are the property of MNGOP and in order to access that information, one must sign a list agreement with MNGOP, agree to use the list only for that particular campaign and approval for releasing the list to each individual is subject to MNGOP approval.
Motion by Ruth Gruba seconded by Sandra Brakstad that in the future when holding election for BPOU board members, candidates must declare their candidacy and meet with a nominations board by an agreed date and the list of candidates along with their contact information be included in the convention call. Motion approved.
There was discussion on who should be allowed to speak on behalf of a candidate for a BPOU board position at a BPOU convention. That is a subject for the Rules Committee for the next convention.
Expenses in the amount of $165.62 for BPOU Convention on March 30th were presented by Carol Rupar. Motion to approve payment made by Judy Hackett and seconded by Paul Doten. Motion approved. Expenses in the amount of $298.84 for the Chili Supper/Liz Collin & Bob Kroll event on April 12th were presented for payment by Carol Rupar. Motion to approve payment made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Ruth Gruba. Motion approved.
Motion by Joshua Jones and seconded by Paul Doten that future monthly meetings of this organization be held on the second Thursday of each month. Motion approved.
Motion to adjourn made by Joshua Jones and seconded by Judy Hackett. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 9:21 PM.
March 15,2023
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The meeting was called to order by Chairman Dan Stephenson at 7 PM.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
Executive board members present: Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, Carol Rupar, Dan Stephenson, and Jim Howe.
Others present: Kim Christen-Mattson, April Doten, Beth Schlangen, Jodi Welsh, Philip Kameo, Alan Fones, John Ulrick and Kevin Arnold.
Motion was made by Jim Howe and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the minutes of the February meeting. Motion approved.
Motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the treasurer’s report. Motion approved. There was no change in the treasurers report since October with $700.26 in checking and $1,114.86 in savings for a total of $1,815.12 in funds.
As the BPOU Convention is set for Saturday, March 25, 2023, a motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to wait until after the new board is in place to set the BPOU meeting dates and schedule of full committee meetings for the rest of the year. Motion approved.
There was discussion of disbursement of lists of delegates to the BPOU board candidates. Motion passed to table this for future discussion.
Blake Paulson reported that the DOJ has made a determination of how funds from FTX donations to candidates can be returned.
Motion to adjourn by Judy Hackett and seconded by Jim Howe. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 7:40 PM.
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Dan Stephenson at 7 PM.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
Executive board members present: Judy Hackett, Paul Doten, Carol Rupar, Dan Stephenson, and Jim Howe.
Others present: Kim Christen-Mattson, April Doten, Beth Schlangen, Jodi Welsh, Philip Kameo, Alan Fones, John Ulrick and Kevin Arnold.
Motion was made by Jim Howe and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the minutes of the February meeting. Motion approved.
Motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to approve the treasurer’s report. Motion approved. There was no change in the treasurers report since October with $700.26 in checking and $1,114.86 in savings for a total of $1,815.12 in funds.
As the BPOU Convention is set for Saturday, March 25, 2023, a motion was made by Carol Rupar and seconded by Judy Hackett to wait until after the new board is in place to set the BPOU meeting dates and schedule of full committee meetings for the rest of the year. Motion approved.
There was discussion of disbursement of lists of delegates to the BPOU board candidates. Motion passed to table this for future discussion.
Blake Paulson reported that the DOJ has made a determination of how funds from FTX donations to candidates can be returned.
Motion to adjourn by Judy Hackett and seconded by Jim Howe. Motion approved.
Meeting adjourned at 7:40 PM.
February 15, 2023
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The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Dan Stephenson.
The Pledge of Allegiance was followed by an invocation.
Executive board members present: Dan Stephenson, Joshua Jones, Jim Howe, Jim Sutton, Cocoa Robertson, Judy Hackett, and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Kim Christen-Mattson, Greg Telste, Blake Paulson, Renee Montes-Zitzmann, Jim Zitzmann, John Ulrick, Lester Ulrick, Phil Kameo and Beth Schlangen.
Blake Paulson reported from Congressman Tom Emmer’s office that the event held at the St Cloud Library two weeks ago was well attended. The U.S. government spends $1.29 for each $1.00 it takes in. Ilhan Omar has been removed from the Foreign Relations Committee. Vice President Kamala Harris recently visited New Flier in St Cloud and spoke for 11 minutes. There is not much going on in policy making at this time. There were funds approved for updates to Mayhew Lake Road. When asked about the FTX contribution to the Emmer campaign, Blake said that there has not been an avenue set up yet to return the funds as that is still in process.
John Ulrick reported that he was just elected as Morrison County BPOU Chair.
Beth Schlangen reported that the Benton County Commissioners approved that absentee ballots will be counted by election judges.
Motion by Jim Howe and seconded by Josh Jones to approve the minutes of the January meeting. Motion passed.
Motion by Jim Sutton and seconded by Josh Jones to approve the Treasurer’s report showing no change from last month. Motion passed.
Motion by Jim Howe and seconded by Jim Sutton to continue the election rather than appointment of the BPOU treasurer. Motion passed.
For the upcoming BPOU convention, Blake Paulson will head the Constitution Committee along with Judy Hackett, Greg Telste, Kim Christen-Mattson and Carol Rupar.
Dan Stephenson announced that he will not seek re-election as Chairman as he will be going back to school.
An event sponsored by this BPOU will be a chili supper on April 12th at 6:00 PM featuring Liz Collin of Alpha News and her husband, Bob Kroll, former head of the Minneapolis Police Union. Event will be no charge but donations accepted. Liz will have her books for sale. Event will be at the Sauk Rapids Government Center.
Motion by Carol Rupar and seconded by Jim Sutton to adjourn the meeting passed. Meeting adjourned at 8 PM.
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Chairman Dan Stephenson.
The Pledge of Allegiance was followed by an invocation.
Executive board members present: Dan Stephenson, Joshua Jones, Jim Howe, Jim Sutton, Cocoa Robertson, Judy Hackett, and Carol Rupar.
Guests present: Kim Christen-Mattson, Greg Telste, Blake Paulson, Renee Montes-Zitzmann, Jim Zitzmann, John Ulrick, Lester Ulrick, Phil Kameo and Beth Schlangen.
Blake Paulson reported from Congressman Tom Emmer’s office that the event held at the St Cloud Library two weeks ago was well attended. The U.S. government spends $1.29 for each $1.00 it takes in. Ilhan Omar has been removed from the Foreign Relations Committee. Vice President Kamala Harris recently visited New Flier in St Cloud and spoke for 11 minutes. There is not much going on in policy making at this time. There were funds approved for updates to Mayhew Lake Road. When asked about the FTX contribution to the Emmer campaign, Blake said that there has not been an avenue set up yet to return the funds as that is still in process.
John Ulrick reported that he was just elected as Morrison County BPOU Chair.
Beth Schlangen reported that the Benton County Commissioners approved that absentee ballots will be counted by election judges.
Motion by Jim Howe and seconded by Josh Jones to approve the minutes of the January meeting. Motion passed.
Motion by Jim Sutton and seconded by Josh Jones to approve the Treasurer’s report showing no change from last month. Motion passed.
Motion by Jim Howe and seconded by Jim Sutton to continue the election rather than appointment of the BPOU treasurer. Motion passed.
For the upcoming BPOU convention, Blake Paulson will head the Constitution Committee along with Judy Hackett, Greg Telste, Kim Christen-Mattson and Carol Rupar.
Dan Stephenson announced that he will not seek re-election as Chairman as he will be going back to school.
An event sponsored by this BPOU will be a chili supper on April 12th at 6:00 PM featuring Liz Collin of Alpha News and her husband, Bob Kroll, former head of the Minneapolis Police Union. Event will be no charge but donations accepted. Liz will have her books for sale. Event will be at the Sauk Rapids Government Center.
Motion by Carol Rupar and seconded by Jim Sutton to adjourn the meeting passed. Meeting adjourned at 8 PM.
December 11th, 2013
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7:09 pm meeting called to order
Jim H, Ron B, Jason K, Peter M, Clinton W, Christina C, Kevin A, Lawrence J, and Joe H. present
Guests Chris Dahlberg, Carol Rupar, Pamela Bernick, Bobby Benson
Ron B led the invocation
Chris Dahlberg spoke regarding his candidacy
Minutes approved as submitted
Total ending balance of treasury report accepted as $3427.66
Dates and times discussed for upcoming caucuses
Ron B mentioned husking black walnuts
Ron B presented information regarding state central
Bobby B. provided information regarding the Tom Emmer Christmas party
Kevin A mentioned open seat at CD6 dinner fundraiser
Christine C made motion to adjourn, Jim H seconded, motion passed
Meeting Adjourned 8:55 pm
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7:09 pm meeting called to order
Jim H, Ron B, Jason K, Peter M, Clinton W, Christina C, Kevin A, Lawrence J, and Joe H. present
Guests Chris Dahlberg, Carol Rupar, Pamela Bernick, Bobby Benson
Ron B led the invocation
Chris Dahlberg spoke regarding his candidacy
Minutes approved as submitted
Total ending balance of treasury report accepted as $3427.66
Dates and times discussed for upcoming caucuses
Ron B mentioned husking black walnuts
Ron B presented information regarding state central
Bobby B. provided information regarding the Tom Emmer Christmas party
Kevin A mentioned open seat at CD6 dinner fundraiser
Christine C made motion to adjourn, Jim H seconded, motion passed
Meeting Adjourned 8:55 pm
November 13th, 2013
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Jim S, Peter M, Christine C, Kevin A, Jason K, Lawrence J, Clinton W, and Joe H present
Rhonda Sivarajah, Tom Emmer, Pamela Bernick, Carol Rupar, and Jim Newberger present as guests
Rhonda Sivarajah spoke regarding her candidacy
Tom Emmer spoke regarding his candidacy
Minutes accepted as presented
Income from Oktoberfest estimated to be $2000.00
Kevin A presented information regarding caucus and convention information
Discussion pertaining to immediate reimbursement of board donations in lieu of PCR wait time
Kevin A proposed that the board pay $30.00 per chair at a table to be sponsored in part by the Benton county republican BPOU, for a total of $240.00. Christina C seconded motion, motion passed.
Discussion of electronic billboard placed on east side of river in St. Cloud discussed
Meeting adjourned 9:06 p.m.
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Jim S, Peter M, Christine C, Kevin A, Jason K, Lawrence J, Clinton W, and Joe H present
Rhonda Sivarajah, Tom Emmer, Pamela Bernick, Carol Rupar, and Jim Newberger present as guests
Rhonda Sivarajah spoke regarding her candidacy
Tom Emmer spoke regarding his candidacy
Minutes accepted as presented
Income from Oktoberfest estimated to be $2000.00
Kevin A presented information regarding caucus and convention information
Discussion pertaining to immediate reimbursement of board donations in lieu of PCR wait time
Kevin A proposed that the board pay $30.00 per chair at a table to be sponsored in part by the Benton county republican BPOU, for a total of $240.00. Christina C seconded motion, motion passed.
Discussion of electronic billboard placed on east side of river in St. Cloud discussed
Meeting adjourned 9:06 p.m.
October 9th, 2013
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7:02 Meeting called to order
Peter M, Clinton W, Christina C, Jason K, Kevin A, Ron B, Jim H, Lawrence J, and Joe H present
Guests: Carol Rupar, Jim Newberger, Alex Ricci, Sen. Jon Pederson
Jon Pederson spoke regarding his candidacy
Jim Newberger provided an update on state capital activities, committee hearings.
Jim Newberger also provided update on organization by the name of Beyond Coal, a group receiving funding from Bloomberg and targeting local coal and nuclear power plants.
Joe H. presented minutes
Ron B. made motion to accept minutes as presented, Jim H seconded, motion passed
Jim H presented treasurers report, total balance of $1789.71
Jim Newberger suggested a pie auction, with all candidates being asked to sell an auction item.
Christina C made motion to charge $20 for candidate’s staff, and $10 for candidates for Oktoberfest fundraiser. Jim H. seconded motion.
Ron B. made amendment to motion to lower price of staff to $15, Kevin A seconded motion to amend amendment failed
Joe H made motion to amend limiting discounts to no more than 2 people per candidate, amendment passed
Motion passed
Clinton W. made motion to end discussion regarding different price points, Peter M seconded, motion passed
Carol Rupar provided information regarding Caucasus’s at the Sauk Rapids high school
Kevin A made motion to form committee to handle operations and organization of caucuses, Christina C seconded, motion passed
Carol Rupar, Peter M, Lawrence J, and Kevin A formed committee to head up caucus organization and operation
Jim Newberger offered suggestion on how to manage precincts
Jim Newberger stressed importance of running strong candidate against Zach Dorholt, name of Nancy Gohman
Kevin A mentioned that call from home feature should be functional this week
Meeting Adjourned 9:13pm
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7:02 Meeting called to order
Peter M, Clinton W, Christina C, Jason K, Kevin A, Ron B, Jim H, Lawrence J, and Joe H present
Guests: Carol Rupar, Jim Newberger, Alex Ricci, Sen. Jon Pederson
Jon Pederson spoke regarding his candidacy
Jim Newberger provided an update on state capital activities, committee hearings.
Jim Newberger also provided update on organization by the name of Beyond Coal, a group receiving funding from Bloomberg and targeting local coal and nuclear power plants.
Joe H. presented minutes
Ron B. made motion to accept minutes as presented, Jim H seconded, motion passed
Jim H presented treasurers report, total balance of $1789.71
Jim Newberger suggested a pie auction, with all candidates being asked to sell an auction item.
Christina C made motion to charge $20 for candidate’s staff, and $10 for candidates for Oktoberfest fundraiser. Jim H. seconded motion.
Ron B. made amendment to motion to lower price of staff to $15, Kevin A seconded motion to amend amendment failed
Joe H made motion to amend limiting discounts to no more than 2 people per candidate, amendment passed
Motion passed
Clinton W. made motion to end discussion regarding different price points, Peter M seconded, motion passed
Carol Rupar provided information regarding Caucasus’s at the Sauk Rapids high school
Kevin A made motion to form committee to handle operations and organization of caucuses, Christina C seconded, motion passed
Carol Rupar, Peter M, Lawrence J, and Kevin A formed committee to head up caucus organization and operation
Jim Newberger offered suggestion on how to manage precincts
Jim Newberger stressed importance of running strong candidate against Zach Dorholt, name of Nancy Gohman
Kevin A mentioned that call from home feature should be functional this week
Meeting Adjourned 9:13pm
September 11th/18th, 2013 Minutes
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Meeting minutes of Benton County Republicans on September 11th, 2013
Meeting called to order 7:04 pm
Jim H, Christina C, Kevin A, Jason K, Clinton W, Peter M, Lawrence J, and Joe H in attendance
Guests, Jim Newberger, Jim Abler, and Phil Krinkie
Jim Abler spoke about his candidacy
Phil Krinkie spoke about his candidacy
Jim Newberger provided update on activities at the state level
Lawrence J. made motion to accept minutes as presented
Jim H presented treasury information. Total accounts balance of 1530.01 accepted
Checks in previously agreed upon amounts to be paid.
Oktoberfest, candidate search, and new business discussion tabled until next meeting.
Jason K made motion to adjourn, Joe H seconded
9:41 meeting adjourned
Meeting minutes of Benton County Republicans on September 18th, 2013
Meeting called to order 7:03pm
Kevin A, Peter M, Clinton W, Jason K, Jim H, Christina C, Ron B, Lawrence J, and Joe H in attendance
Oktoberfest discussed. Price paid per plate to be $11.95, meal will be chicken breast. Price includes tax and tip. Honey glazed carrots, cheesy potatoes and a tossed salad will be served with the meal. ( Due to motion being made and passed)
Price for fundraiser will be set at $35 per person, with PCR donation of up to $50 per person.
Entertainment prices for concertina player discussed, price of $70 mentioned to include price of travel and entertainment.
Joe H. made motion to authorize payments of up to $70 for entertainment, motion passed.
Motion made to adjourn, motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 8:37 pm
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Meeting minutes of Benton County Republicans on September 11th, 2013
Meeting called to order 7:04 pm
Jim H, Christina C, Kevin A, Jason K, Clinton W, Peter M, Lawrence J, and Joe H in attendance
Guests, Jim Newberger, Jim Abler, and Phil Krinkie
Jim Abler spoke about his candidacy
Phil Krinkie spoke about his candidacy
Jim Newberger provided update on activities at the state level
Lawrence J. made motion to accept minutes as presented
Jim H presented treasury information. Total accounts balance of 1530.01 accepted
Checks in previously agreed upon amounts to be paid.
Oktoberfest, candidate search, and new business discussion tabled until next meeting.
Jason K made motion to adjourn, Joe H seconded
9:41 meeting adjourned
Meeting minutes of Benton County Republicans on September 18th, 2013
Meeting called to order 7:03pm
Kevin A, Peter M, Clinton W, Jason K, Jim H, Christina C, Ron B, Lawrence J, and Joe H in attendance
Oktoberfest discussed. Price paid per plate to be $11.95, meal will be chicken breast. Price includes tax and tip. Honey glazed carrots, cheesy potatoes and a tossed salad will be served with the meal. ( Due to motion being made and passed)
Price for fundraiser will be set at $35 per person, with PCR donation of up to $50 per person.
Entertainment prices for concertina player discussed, price of $70 mentioned to include price of travel and entertainment.
Joe H. made motion to authorize payments of up to $70 for entertainment, motion passed.
Motion made to adjourn, motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 8:37 pm
August 7th, 2013 Minutes
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Meeting called to order 7:04pm
Kevin A, Peter M, Clinton W, Jason K, Jim S, Lawrence J, and Joe H in attendance
Senator Dave Brown and Pamela Bernick attending as guests
Minutes accepted as presented
Peter M presented treasurers’ information. Total balance of $1579.93 currently
Fair expenses of $25.60 for Judy Sommers, and $121.78 to Kevin A
Senator Brown provided update on anti-bullying measures being taken at the state capital. Stated that the bill will require a central authority in all schools to address bullying issues. Stated that it is suggested that private schools also participate with this program, although not currently required.
Judy Sommers acknowledged by the board for her tremendous efforts in ensuring the success of the fair booth
Pamela Bernick commended by the board for her effort and generous donation to ensure the success of the mid-summers night soiree fundraiser
Lawrence J provided update on Oktoberfest fundraiser, date is set on Oct 24, at Westside learning center from 5-8pm
Clinton W discussed possibility about CCW class in Brainerd
Jim S provided update on wheelage tax vote from county commissioners
Board discussed importance of endorsing candidates for county commissioner seats
Ron B provided update on the speaker in Little Falls
Ron B made motion to adjourn, Kevin A seconded, motion passed
Meeting adjourned 8:45
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Meeting called to order 7:04pm
Kevin A, Peter M, Clinton W, Jason K, Jim S, Lawrence J, and Joe H in attendance
Senator Dave Brown and Pamela Bernick attending as guests
Minutes accepted as presented
Peter M presented treasurers’ information. Total balance of $1579.93 currently
Fair expenses of $25.60 for Judy Sommers, and $121.78 to Kevin A
Senator Brown provided update on anti-bullying measures being taken at the state capital. Stated that the bill will require a central authority in all schools to address bullying issues. Stated that it is suggested that private schools also participate with this program, although not currently required.
Judy Sommers acknowledged by the board for her tremendous efforts in ensuring the success of the fair booth
Pamela Bernick commended by the board for her effort and generous donation to ensure the success of the mid-summers night soiree fundraiser
Lawrence J provided update on Oktoberfest fundraiser, date is set on Oct 24, at Westside learning center from 5-8pm
Clinton W discussed possibility about CCW class in Brainerd
Jim S provided update on wheelage tax vote from county commissioners
Board discussed importance of endorsing candidates for county commissioner seats
Ron B provided update on the speaker in Little Falls
Ron B made motion to adjourn, Kevin A seconded, motion passed
Meeting adjourned 8:45
July 10th, 2013 Minutes
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Meeting called to order at 7:11 p.m.
Board members in attendance were Kevin A. Lawrence J. Ron B. Jim H. Jim S. and Joe H.
Guests attending: John Dvorak Jr., Christina Colen, Jason Kruger, and Judy Sommers
Lawrence J. made motion to accept June minutes as presented, Kevin A seconded motion, motion passed
Jim H presented treasurers report, with checks paid of $100.00 to state party, and $22.05 in fair related expenses paid to Judy Sommers, total remaining balance is $599.97
Kevin A provided update from Jim Neuberger, and asked for volunteers to help with Foley ice cream social
Discussion ensued pertaining to local candidates for CD6, and whether or not the BPOU would have to follow a state party endorsement
Kevin A and Judy Sommers provided updates on the county fair. The solicitation of PCR classified donations was encouraged. Discussion was held regarding the solicitation of gift cards to be given away during the fair from local business. It was suggested that these cards should be sought on a donated basis
Adding the ability to accept credit card payments was proposed
Joe H. provided update on concealed carry permit classes fundraiser and the usage of the Sauk Rapids VFW for future fundraisers
Kevin A provided update on fundraising activities pertaining to the usage of the Severson’s riverside property. The possibility of a joint fundraiser with SD 14 which may include payments made to the candidate speakers was discussed. Contact was planned for board members during the month to further investigate this possibility
Kevin A asked for volunteers to act in the capacity of outreach liaison in assisting the search for candidates
Two potential candidates to fill the board vacancy were questioned by members of the board.
Motion made to temporarily suspend board rules stating that prospective board member appointees should be interviewed in one meeting and voted on in another meeting.
Ron B. made motion to temporarily expand the board to 10 members, and fill both vacancies with the two potential candidates. Kevin A seconded, motion failed.
Lawrence J made motion to appoint Christina C only to the board, Jim S seconded, motion failed.
Joe H. made motion to temporarily expand the board to 10 members, and fill both vacancies with the two potential candidates, Jim H seconded, motion passed.
Joe H. made motion to adjourn, Lawrence J seconded, motion passed
Meeting ended 9:15
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Meeting called to order at 7:11 p.m.
Board members in attendance were Kevin A. Lawrence J. Ron B. Jim H. Jim S. and Joe H.
Guests attending: John Dvorak Jr., Christina Colen, Jason Kruger, and Judy Sommers
Lawrence J. made motion to accept June minutes as presented, Kevin A seconded motion, motion passed
Jim H presented treasurers report, with checks paid of $100.00 to state party, and $22.05 in fair related expenses paid to Judy Sommers, total remaining balance is $599.97
Kevin A provided update from Jim Neuberger, and asked for volunteers to help with Foley ice cream social
Discussion ensued pertaining to local candidates for CD6, and whether or not the BPOU would have to follow a state party endorsement
Kevin A and Judy Sommers provided updates on the county fair. The solicitation of PCR classified donations was encouraged. Discussion was held regarding the solicitation of gift cards to be given away during the fair from local business. It was suggested that these cards should be sought on a donated basis
Adding the ability to accept credit card payments was proposed
Joe H. provided update on concealed carry permit classes fundraiser and the usage of the Sauk Rapids VFW for future fundraisers
Kevin A provided update on fundraising activities pertaining to the usage of the Severson’s riverside property. The possibility of a joint fundraiser with SD 14 which may include payments made to the candidate speakers was discussed. Contact was planned for board members during the month to further investigate this possibility
Kevin A asked for volunteers to act in the capacity of outreach liaison in assisting the search for candidates
Two potential candidates to fill the board vacancy were questioned by members of the board.
Motion made to temporarily suspend board rules stating that prospective board member appointees should be interviewed in one meeting and voted on in another meeting.
Ron B. made motion to temporarily expand the board to 10 members, and fill both vacancies with the two potential candidates. Kevin A seconded, motion failed.
Lawrence J made motion to appoint Christina C only to the board, Jim S seconded, motion failed.
Joe H. made motion to temporarily expand the board to 10 members, and fill both vacancies with the two potential candidates, Jim H seconded, motion passed.
Joe H. made motion to adjourn, Lawrence J seconded, motion passed
Meeting ended 9:15
June 12th, 2013 Minutes
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Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m.
Board members in attendance was Kevin A. Ron B. Peter M. Clinton W. Lawrence J. and Joe H.
Guests attending: Senator Dave Brown, Christina Colen, Alex Kharam, and Kay Steiner
Dave Brown provided update on senate activities and other state offices. Reported on the stoppage of gun control, and how final tax increases were lower than the DFL had hoped for
Alex Kharam provided update on party activities and data utilization pertaining to the identification of high intensity voters. Explained how new data management techniques might offer increased odds of successful campaigns and how data can be used to help candidates.
Minutes accepted with revisions
Peter M presented information pertaining to treasury, final balance of $722.02
Ron B provided update of CD6 activities
Kevin A announced that Jon T resigned from the board
Kevin A provided update on Benton County Fair activities
Kevin A provided information on the opportunity provided by Cathy Jo Severson as it pertains to fundraising and the use of their property to provide entertainment
Clinton W provided update on candidate search committee and updates on several local issues pertaining to the usage of four-wheelers within the city boundaries of Foley
Clinton W and Kevin A suggested the concept of precinct ownership
Ron B made motion to pay $100.00 over the course of three months to the state party in response to the benefits presented by new data management abilities. Joe H seconded with split decision motion carried
Motion made to adjourn
Meeting ended 9:07
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Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m.
Board members in attendance was Kevin A. Ron B. Peter M. Clinton W. Lawrence J. and Joe H.
Guests attending: Senator Dave Brown, Christina Colen, Alex Kharam, and Kay Steiner
Dave Brown provided update on senate activities and other state offices. Reported on the stoppage of gun control, and how final tax increases were lower than the DFL had hoped for
Alex Kharam provided update on party activities and data utilization pertaining to the identification of high intensity voters. Explained how new data management techniques might offer increased odds of successful campaigns and how data can be used to help candidates.
Minutes accepted with revisions
Peter M presented information pertaining to treasury, final balance of $722.02
Ron B provided update of CD6 activities
Kevin A announced that Jon T resigned from the board
Kevin A provided update on Benton County Fair activities
Kevin A provided information on the opportunity provided by Cathy Jo Severson as it pertains to fundraising and the use of their property to provide entertainment
Clinton W provided update on candidate search committee and updates on several local issues pertaining to the usage of four-wheelers within the city boundaries of Foley
Clinton W and Kevin A suggested the concept of precinct ownership
Ron B made motion to pay $100.00 over the course of three months to the state party in response to the benefits presented by new data management abilities. Joe H seconded with split decision motion carried
Motion made to adjourn
Meeting ended 9:07
May 8th, 2013 Minutes
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Meeting called to order at 7:00 P.M.
Ron B. led invocation and pledge.
Kevin A., Lawrence J., Ron B., Peter M., Clinton W., Jon T., Jim H. and Joe H. present.
Rosella Dambowy and Christina Collen present as guests from the Central Minnesota Republican Women. Jim Newberger present as guest speaker.
Minutes accepted as printed.
Treasurer’s report accepted as read. Total amount in checking; $593.64 Savings; $53.38 Total: $647.02.
Rosella Dambowy presented check in the amount of $75.00 for fair booth.
Ron B. presented information regarding county fair. Christina C. suggested a prize wheel.
Jim Newberger provided update on activities at the state capital.
Rosella provided update on fundraising activities.
Joe H. provided update on fundraising activities.
Clinton W. discussed candidate search committee activities.
Jim Newberger offered suggestions regarding candidate search operations: suggested that activity be directed towards county commission level, and that endorsements of candidates can provide name recognition and a boost over non-endorsed candidates on the city and school board levels
Motion to adjourn meeting made by Lawrence J., seconded by Clinton W. motion carried
Meeting adjourned 8:30 pm
Meeting called to order at 7:00 P.M.
Ron B. led invocation and pledge.
Kevin A., Lawrence J., Ron B., Peter M., Clinton W., Jon T., Jim H. and Joe H. present.
Rosella Dambowy and Christina Collen present as guests from the Central Minnesota Republican Women. Jim Newberger present as guest speaker.
Minutes accepted as printed.
Treasurer’s report accepted as read. Total amount in checking; $593.64 Savings; $53.38 Total: $647.02.
Rosella Dambowy presented check in the amount of $75.00 for fair booth.
Ron B. presented information regarding county fair. Christina C. suggested a prize wheel.
Jim Newberger provided update on activities at the state capital.
Rosella provided update on fundraising activities.
Joe H. provided update on fundraising activities.
Clinton W. discussed candidate search committee activities.
Jim Newberger offered suggestions regarding candidate search operations: suggested that activity be directed towards county commission level, and that endorsements of candidates can provide name recognition and a boost over non-endorsed candidates on the city and school board levels
Motion to adjourn meeting made by Lawrence J., seconded by Clinton W. motion carried
Meeting adjourned 8:30 pm
April 12th, 2013 Minutes
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Meeting was called to order at 7:10 pm
In attendance was Kevin Arnold, Peter Minor, Jim Howe, Ron Baert, Clinton Wruck, Lawrence Johnson, Joe Henke, Judy Sommers, Shawna Minor, and Senator John Pederson was our guest speaker.
Clinton W. made motion to skip reading of minutes, Joe H. seconded, motion passed.
Jim H. read treasurers report. Total balance of $647.02 reflected interest gains of $0.04, and payments to Ron B. and Benton County Ag Society in the amounts of $67.50 and $375.00, respectively.
Treasurers’ report accepted.
Kevin A. requested research into area banks from members of committee.
Clint W. reported on candidate search committee activity.
Judy S. gave report on Benton County Fair.
Peter M. made motion to approve expenses of up to $200.00 towards Benton County fair expenses, Kevin A. seconded, motion passed.
Peter M. discussed website
Discussion held pertaining to State central elections.
Peter M. made motion to appoint Joe H. as Chairman of fundraising committee, Clint W seconded, motion passed.
Kevin A. spoke about CD6, suggested that position be left open that was vacated by Carol Rupar, as she is already of executive committee, be used by members of BPOU executive committee.
Motion to adjourn made by Lawrence J. seconded by Clint W. motion passed.
Meeting Adjourned 8:35 pm.
Download these Minutes in PDF
Meeting was called to order at 7:10 pm
In attendance was Kevin Arnold, Peter Minor, Jim Howe, Ron Baert, Clinton Wruck, Lawrence Johnson, Joe Henke, Judy Sommers, Shawna Minor, and Senator John Pederson was our guest speaker.
Clinton W. made motion to skip reading of minutes, Joe H. seconded, motion passed.
Jim H. read treasurers report. Total balance of $647.02 reflected interest gains of $0.04, and payments to Ron B. and Benton County Ag Society in the amounts of $67.50 and $375.00, respectively.
Treasurers’ report accepted.
Kevin A. requested research into area banks from members of committee.
Clint W. reported on candidate search committee activity.
Judy S. gave report on Benton County Fair.
Peter M. made motion to approve expenses of up to $200.00 towards Benton County fair expenses, Kevin A. seconded, motion passed.
Peter M. discussed website
Discussion held pertaining to State central elections.
Peter M. made motion to appoint Joe H. as Chairman of fundraising committee, Clint W seconded, motion passed.
Kevin A. spoke about CD6, suggested that position be left open that was vacated by Carol Rupar, as she is already of executive committee, be used by members of BPOU executive committee.
Motion to adjourn made by Lawrence J. seconded by Clint W. motion passed.
Meeting Adjourned 8:35 pm.
March 13th, 2013 Minutes
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Meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm.
Present were Kevin Arnold, Lawrence Johnson, Jim Howe, Jon Theis, Clinton Wruck, Ron Baert, Jim Sutton, Peter Minor, and Joe Henke.
The minutes were read, and approved with minor spelling corrections.
Jim Howe presented the Treasurers report. Our total Balance is $1089.41.
Ron B presented bills totaling $67.58 related to convention expenses. Clinton W. made motion to approve payment in full of bill, and turn remaining unused supplies (21 forever stamps) over to current secretary. Jim S. seconded, motion passed.
Discussed options for fundraising.
Peter M. gave report on website.
Ideas suggested to recruit legislators to write articles, accept articles from the board, build an email list for use with future email newsletters, and other ideas to expand website usage.
Clinton W. reported on candidate search committee. Ron B. initiated discussion regarding use of executive board members to help search committee. Clinton W. appointed as chair of search committee, Ron B. and Peter M. also appointed as members of search committee.
Jim H. initiated discussion over public usage of City fire truck equipment in political pictures.
Jim H. mentioned local success over the day of resistance. Discussion ensured regarding possible shooting outings as venues to raise funds.
CD6 report read by Ron B. additional commentary provided by Peter M.
Ron B. gave report about state central. Emails regarding Keith Downey, Bill Paulson, and Bonn Clayton discussed. Cross seating at the convention discussed.
Ron B. talked to Carol Rupar about continuing service as representative to CD6. Motion to elect her made by Lawrence J., seconded by Clinton W. motion passed.
Benton County Fair booth will be shared with women’s group. They have agreed to contribute $75 towards booth cost. Total booth price is $375.00 motion made by Peter M. to pay for booth as soon as possible, Ron B. seconded, motion passed.
Jon T. volunteered to co-chair Benton County Fair board.
Motion made to request presence of John Pederson at next board meeting to explain his recent actions. Motion passed
Ron B. will be conducting video conference at library March 14, 2013 at 7:00 pm
Café Renaissance will be hosting a Central Minnesota Tea Party guest speaker on Tuesday March 19, 2013 at 7pm. Speaker will be president of the Taxpayers league of Minnesota, Phil Krinkie.
Radio talk show host Jason Lewis will be at the Riversedge Convention Center on March 30 at 7pm Event cost is $5.
Ron B. read an article from “New American” magazine
Clinton W. initiated discussion regarding changing status of the BPOU to that of a 501(3)c. There was no consensus reached on benefit, or examples of other BPOU’s operating under same tax guidelines.
Lawrence J. made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Jon T. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 9:10
Download these Minutes in PDF
Meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm.
Present were Kevin Arnold, Lawrence Johnson, Jim Howe, Jon Theis, Clinton Wruck, Ron Baert, Jim Sutton, Peter Minor, and Joe Henke.
The minutes were read, and approved with minor spelling corrections.
Jim Howe presented the Treasurers report. Our total Balance is $1089.41.
Ron B presented bills totaling $67.58 related to convention expenses. Clinton W. made motion to approve payment in full of bill, and turn remaining unused supplies (21 forever stamps) over to current secretary. Jim S. seconded, motion passed.
Discussed options for fundraising.
Peter M. gave report on website.
Ideas suggested to recruit legislators to write articles, accept articles from the board, build an email list for use with future email newsletters, and other ideas to expand website usage.
Clinton W. reported on candidate search committee. Ron B. initiated discussion regarding use of executive board members to help search committee. Clinton W. appointed as chair of search committee, Ron B. and Peter M. also appointed as members of search committee.
Jim H. initiated discussion over public usage of City fire truck equipment in political pictures.
Jim H. mentioned local success over the day of resistance. Discussion ensured regarding possible shooting outings as venues to raise funds.
CD6 report read by Ron B. additional commentary provided by Peter M.
Ron B. gave report about state central. Emails regarding Keith Downey, Bill Paulson, and Bonn Clayton discussed. Cross seating at the convention discussed.
Ron B. talked to Carol Rupar about continuing service as representative to CD6. Motion to elect her made by Lawrence J., seconded by Clinton W. motion passed.
Benton County Fair booth will be shared with women’s group. They have agreed to contribute $75 towards booth cost. Total booth price is $375.00 motion made by Peter M. to pay for booth as soon as possible, Ron B. seconded, motion passed.
Jon T. volunteered to co-chair Benton County Fair board.
Motion made to request presence of John Pederson at next board meeting to explain his recent actions. Motion passed
Ron B. will be conducting video conference at library March 14, 2013 at 7:00 pm
Café Renaissance will be hosting a Central Minnesota Tea Party guest speaker on Tuesday March 19, 2013 at 7pm. Speaker will be president of the Taxpayers league of Minnesota, Phil Krinkie.
Radio talk show host Jason Lewis will be at the Riversedge Convention Center on March 30 at 7pm Event cost is $5.
Ron B. read an article from “New American” magazine
Clinton W. initiated discussion regarding changing status of the BPOU to that of a 501(3)c. There was no consensus reached on benefit, or examples of other BPOU’s operating under same tax guidelines.
Lawrence J. made a motion to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Jon T. Motion passed.
Meeting adjourned at 9:10
Febuary 7th, 2013 Minutes
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The Feb. 7, 2013 Benton County Republican BPOU meeting was called to order at 7:00 P.M. at the St. Cloud Regional Airport.
Present were Lawrence Johnson, Jim Sutton, Jim Howe, Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, and Judith Sommers. Guests were A. J. Kern, Mike Reinert, Kevin Arnold, and Steve Jansma.
The Pledge of Allegiance followed an invocation by Judy Sommers.
Lawrence J. chaired the meeting and introduced everyone.
The minutes were read and approved.
Jim Howe presented the treasurers report. Our total is 1021.31. His report was approved.
A.J. Kern met Clinton Wruck who will work with her on a "candidates committee". She also talked about issues presented to the Education committee at the State Capital.
Judy S. reported on the progress of the nominating committee.
We have 8 new interested candidates for the Board. We invited the guests to tell us about themselves.
Convention plans were covered, Tom Emmer will be the main speaker. Ron has Conv. calls to be mailed. He will be reimbursed for the stamps and ink. Carol R. will get the key and be at S. R. City Hall at 7:30. Registration starts at 8:00 A.M.
We received notice that we are allotted 2 State Central Delegates and 6 alternates.
Jim Howe shared information about the MN. Health Care Exchange, how it will cost Millions for the computer program The Gov. has full choice who will be on the board. He also said there are 5 bills in Committee aimed to limit gun rights- one even authorizing confiscation.
Feb. 19 at Michaels Rest. (Hwy 10) Dave Borgert , Gov't Relations expert, will give a presentation on "What will Obamacare do to your health?
March 2 is the CD6 Convention at Elk River H.School at 9:00 A.M.
March 7 there will be a Rally and Lobby Day for Marriage 2-5:00 at the Capital Steps.
On Feb 23 there will be a rally in St Cloud for the 2nd Amendment.
Meeting adjourned at 8:20.
The Feb. 7, 2013 Benton County Republican BPOU meeting was called to order at 7:00 P.M. at the St. Cloud Regional Airport.
Present were Lawrence Johnson, Jim Sutton, Jim Howe, Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, and Judith Sommers. Guests were A. J. Kern, Mike Reinert, Kevin Arnold, and Steve Jansma.
The Pledge of Allegiance followed an invocation by Judy Sommers.
Lawrence J. chaired the meeting and introduced everyone.
The minutes were read and approved.
Jim Howe presented the treasurers report. Our total is 1021.31. His report was approved.
A.J. Kern met Clinton Wruck who will work with her on a "candidates committee". She also talked about issues presented to the Education committee at the State Capital.
Judy S. reported on the progress of the nominating committee.
We have 8 new interested candidates for the Board. We invited the guests to tell us about themselves.
Convention plans were covered, Tom Emmer will be the main speaker. Ron has Conv. calls to be mailed. He will be reimbursed for the stamps and ink. Carol R. will get the key and be at S. R. City Hall at 7:30. Registration starts at 8:00 A.M.
We received notice that we are allotted 2 State Central Delegates and 6 alternates.
Jim Howe shared information about the MN. Health Care Exchange, how it will cost Millions for the computer program The Gov. has full choice who will be on the board. He also said there are 5 bills in Committee aimed to limit gun rights- one even authorizing confiscation.
Feb. 19 at Michaels Rest. (Hwy 10) Dave Borgert , Gov't Relations expert, will give a presentation on "What will Obamacare do to your health?
March 2 is the CD6 Convention at Elk River H.School at 9:00 A.M.
March 7 there will be a Rally and Lobby Day for Marriage 2-5:00 at the Capital Steps.
On Feb 23 there will be a rally in St Cloud for the 2nd Amendment.
Meeting adjourned at 8:20.
January 14th, 2013 Minutes
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The Jan. 14, 2013 Benton County BPOU Republicans meeting opened at 7:00 P.M. at the St. Cloud Airport.
Present were Jim Howe, Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, Ron Baert, Lawrence Johnson, and Judy Sommers. Jim Howe gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Rachel Horn from Michele Bachmann's office was a guest. She gave a brief summary of what is happening in the 6th District, including Michele remaining on two committees. John Pearson ,who is interested in running for the board, was also a guest.
The minutes for Dec. were approved after spelling corrections.
Ron Baert attended the Environmental Meeting held at Atwood, SCSU. He was able to get a clicker for commenting on items.
He said they blamed the Moose decline on Climate change.
The Treas.'s report showed $1019.92 plus .04 interest. Two checks ($26.65 and $7) were issued. Our balance is $986.31.
We received a check from Rosella Dombowy for $35. The report was approved.
We will hold off on a candidate search until after the convention.
Ron Baert gave a State Central meeting report. A resolution addressing the change of Rules (rules 12 and 16) at the Ntn'l Rep. Convention passed. This change had prevented Ron Paul from addressing the convention. The Judicial Retention legislation addressing elimination of voting for Judges was also discussed.
Steve Gottwalt has resigned as Representative for District 14A. Tamma Theis received the endorsement at a special
convention for 14A.
Our County Convention will be at the S.R. City Hall on Feb. 16th at 9:00 A.M..We will elect a chair, vice-chair, sec., Treas.,
and 5 at-large members. We will vote for one State Central Delegate and 3 Alternates. We will also address any other business necessary. Convention calls will go out around the First of Feb. Cost is $5. We will serve coffee, rolls, juice and water (convention should be done around noon). Jim H will get doughnuts, Judy the beverages. Carol Rupar will provide 50 cup percolator. The Rules and Constitution will be on the web site. Discussion of possibly using post cards for the call will be looked at. Ron will get that together. Glenice Mehrwerth will be our Sec., Lawrence J. temp. chair, Ron B. - Parliamentarian, Judy S., Jim H and Clinton W. - registration and credentials, Judy S. Carol R. , and Teresa B.-Tellers, Rules - Clinton W., Ron will check on someone for the Invocation. Suggestions for Speakers were open. All the Reps. and Sen. will be invited and will be able to address the Convention, as well as past Reps. Dan Severson and King Banaian.
Our next meeting will be Feb. 7 at the Airport.
Meeting adjourned at 8:55.
Following the meeting, John Pearson told us about himself.
The Jan. 14, 2013 Benton County BPOU Republicans meeting opened at 7:00 P.M. at the St. Cloud Airport.
Present were Jim Howe, Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, Ron Baert, Lawrence Johnson, and Judy Sommers. Jim Howe gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Rachel Horn from Michele Bachmann's office was a guest. She gave a brief summary of what is happening in the 6th District, including Michele remaining on two committees. John Pearson ,who is interested in running for the board, was also a guest.
The minutes for Dec. were approved after spelling corrections.
Ron Baert attended the Environmental Meeting held at Atwood, SCSU. He was able to get a clicker for commenting on items.
He said they blamed the Moose decline on Climate change.
The Treas.'s report showed $1019.92 plus .04 interest. Two checks ($26.65 and $7) were issued. Our balance is $986.31.
We received a check from Rosella Dombowy for $35. The report was approved.
We will hold off on a candidate search until after the convention.
Ron Baert gave a State Central meeting report. A resolution addressing the change of Rules (rules 12 and 16) at the Ntn'l Rep. Convention passed. This change had prevented Ron Paul from addressing the convention. The Judicial Retention legislation addressing elimination of voting for Judges was also discussed.
Steve Gottwalt has resigned as Representative for District 14A. Tamma Theis received the endorsement at a special
convention for 14A.
Our County Convention will be at the S.R. City Hall on Feb. 16th at 9:00 A.M..We will elect a chair, vice-chair, sec., Treas.,
and 5 at-large members. We will vote for one State Central Delegate and 3 Alternates. We will also address any other business necessary. Convention calls will go out around the First of Feb. Cost is $5. We will serve coffee, rolls, juice and water (convention should be done around noon). Jim H will get doughnuts, Judy the beverages. Carol Rupar will provide 50 cup percolator. The Rules and Constitution will be on the web site. Discussion of possibly using post cards for the call will be looked at. Ron will get that together. Glenice Mehrwerth will be our Sec., Lawrence J. temp. chair, Ron B. - Parliamentarian, Judy S., Jim H and Clinton W. - registration and credentials, Judy S. Carol R. , and Teresa B.-Tellers, Rules - Clinton W., Ron will check on someone for the Invocation. Suggestions for Speakers were open. All the Reps. and Sen. will be invited and will be able to address the Convention, as well as past Reps. Dan Severson and King Banaian.
Our next meeting will be Feb. 7 at the Airport.
Meeting adjourned at 8:55.
Following the meeting, John Pearson told us about himself.
December 6th, 2012 Minutes
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The Dec. 6, 2012 of the Benton county Republican BPOU opened at 7:00 P.M. at the St Cloud Airport. Present were Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, Jim Sutton, Lawrence Johnson, Ron Baert, Jim Howe, Teresa Baert, and Judy Sommers with Justin Kowski and Gary Gross absent. Teresa B. led the invocation followed by the Pledge.
The minutes were approved after correcting Mike Scovill's name.
Jim Howe presented the Treas.'s report, including specifics on the fundraiser.
We collected $1014 with expenses of $286.37. Net $726.63. Although Rosella Dombowy could not attend, she will be sending a check for $35. We had no expenses paid in Nov. Ron will get check to Carol Ruper for Victory Office expenses. Our Balance is $1019.92. The report was approved.
We are starting a candidate search for our Feb. convention. Teresa will talk to someone from Foley. Teresa B., Ron B., Peter M. and Judy S. will call delegates and if necessary, Alternates to see if any are interested in running for the Board. Karen Miller from M. Bachmann's office is also interested.
Jim Newberger arrived and said he knew some people who are anxious to get involved. He will get us the information. We opened the floor to him. He informed us Sherburne County is having their Convention Feb. 2. State Central will be meeting Dec.8. Dec. 12 at 7:30 there is an environmental hearing which was moved to Atwood Center because of the increased interest shown.
Peter M. obtained 200 business cards for our Web site for $7. Paid tonight.
Jim S. will check out availability and cost for new Sauk Rapids' City Hall for the County Convention. We will try for Feb. 16 or 23. Lawrence J. will be the Temp. Chair. We will serve rolls, coffee, juice, and water. The convention cost will be determined by the cost of renting City Hall. Sen. Brown and Rep. Newberger will definitely be there. Invites will be sent to the other Reps. and Senators. Suggestions for speakers included Emmer and a local businessman affected by Gov't. spending, taxes, and regulations.
Jim S. will not be at Jan.'s meeting which will be Jan. 3 at the airport.
Meeting adjourned at 8:12P.M.
The Dec. 6, 2012 of the Benton county Republican BPOU opened at 7:00 P.M. at the St Cloud Airport. Present were Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, Jim Sutton, Lawrence Johnson, Ron Baert, Jim Howe, Teresa Baert, and Judy Sommers with Justin Kowski and Gary Gross absent. Teresa B. led the invocation followed by the Pledge.
The minutes were approved after correcting Mike Scovill's name.
Jim Howe presented the Treas.'s report, including specifics on the fundraiser.
We collected $1014 with expenses of $286.37. Net $726.63. Although Rosella Dombowy could not attend, she will be sending a check for $35. We had no expenses paid in Nov. Ron will get check to Carol Ruper for Victory Office expenses. Our Balance is $1019.92. The report was approved.
We are starting a candidate search for our Feb. convention. Teresa will talk to someone from Foley. Teresa B., Ron B., Peter M. and Judy S. will call delegates and if necessary, Alternates to see if any are interested in running for the Board. Karen Miller from M. Bachmann's office is also interested.
Jim Newberger arrived and said he knew some people who are anxious to get involved. He will get us the information. We opened the floor to him. He informed us Sherburne County is having their Convention Feb. 2. State Central will be meeting Dec.8. Dec. 12 at 7:30 there is an environmental hearing which was moved to Atwood Center because of the increased interest shown.
Peter M. obtained 200 business cards for our Web site for $7. Paid tonight.
Jim S. will check out availability and cost for new Sauk Rapids' City Hall for the County Convention. We will try for Feb. 16 or 23. Lawrence J. will be the Temp. Chair. We will serve rolls, coffee, juice, and water. The convention cost will be determined by the cost of renting City Hall. Sen. Brown and Rep. Newberger will definitely be there. Invites will be sent to the other Reps. and Senators. Suggestions for speakers included Emmer and a local businessman affected by Gov't. spending, taxes, and regulations.
Jim S. will not be at Jan.'s meeting which will be Jan. 3 at the airport.
Meeting adjourned at 8:12P.M.
November 1st, 2012 Minutes
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The Nov. 1 Benton County BPOU meeting was called to order at the Bachmann Victory Office at 7:00 P.M. Present were Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, Teresa Baert, Ron Baert, Lawrence Johnson, Judy Sommers with guests Carol Rupar and Mike Scoville. Invocation by Judy Sommers was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Sec. report was approved.
Although Jim Howe was not able to attend the meeting, he sent a Treasurer's report. $500 was returned from Sen. Peterson and Rep. Banaian. We sent an additional $500 to Kurt Bills' campaign. Our balance is $1019.92. The report was approved.
Carol Rupar gave a report on the Waite Park Victory office. She also submitted a bill for $26.65 to cover cost for our BPOU for food for the CD6 debate invite. The motion to approve paying Carol passed.
Peter Minor will check out cost of Business cards for our web-site and has been approved to spend up to $20. He will check out VISTAPrint where we may possibly get 200 free.
The "Octoberfest" was attended by 30 people including Legislators and candidates. We were not able to sell all the Auction items, however they did bring in $269, $65 going directly to King Banaian. We brought in over $700 after expenses. Len Zylla, the speaker, received a standing ovation. Jim Howe will give a more accurate report at the next meeting of the amount raised.
The Waite Park office took in at least $141 in donations. Motion was approved to let SD14, and SD13 keep the money since they did the majority of the work and covered most of the cost. There will be a reception at the Holiday Inn following the elections. Jim Newberger will host an appreciation party Nov. 19 in Becker.
Our BPOU Convention will be in March. We will elect a new board, officers, and State Central delegates.
A nominating committee will include Ron Baert and Judy Sommers.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40.
Next months meeting will be Dec. 6.
The Nov. 1 Benton County BPOU meeting was called to order at the Bachmann Victory Office at 7:00 P.M. Present were Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, Teresa Baert, Ron Baert, Lawrence Johnson, Judy Sommers with guests Carol Rupar and Mike Scoville. Invocation by Judy Sommers was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Sec. report was approved.
Although Jim Howe was not able to attend the meeting, he sent a Treasurer's report. $500 was returned from Sen. Peterson and Rep. Banaian. We sent an additional $500 to Kurt Bills' campaign. Our balance is $1019.92. The report was approved.
Carol Rupar gave a report on the Waite Park Victory office. She also submitted a bill for $26.65 to cover cost for our BPOU for food for the CD6 debate invite. The motion to approve paying Carol passed.
Peter Minor will check out cost of Business cards for our web-site and has been approved to spend up to $20. He will check out VISTAPrint where we may possibly get 200 free.
The "Octoberfest" was attended by 30 people including Legislators and candidates. We were not able to sell all the Auction items, however they did bring in $269, $65 going directly to King Banaian. We brought in over $700 after expenses. Len Zylla, the speaker, received a standing ovation. Jim Howe will give a more accurate report at the next meeting of the amount raised.
The Waite Park office took in at least $141 in donations. Motion was approved to let SD14, and SD13 keep the money since they did the majority of the work and covered most of the cost. There will be a reception at the Holiday Inn following the elections. Jim Newberger will host an appreciation party Nov. 19 in Becker.
Our BPOU Convention will be in March. We will elect a new board, officers, and State Central delegates.
A nominating committee will include Ron Baert and Judy Sommers.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40.
Next months meeting will be Dec. 6.
October 4th, 2012 Minutes
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The Oct. 4 meeting came to order at 7:00 P.M. at the St. Cloud airport.
Present were Ron Baert, Jim Howe, Teresa Baert, Peter Minor, Gary Gross, Judy Sommers, Jim Sutton, and Clinton Wruck. Excused was Lawrence Johnson.
Following the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, the minutes were read and approved.
The Treasurer's report showed a balance of $1454.67 after bills were paid. Report approved.
Next contributions for the candidates were discussed. King Banaian and John Peterson have been targeted. Kurt Bills should be prioritized. Dave Brown is doing pretty well. Carol Rupar's report from the 6CD meeting was read. They have donated $1000 to Kurt Bills. We decided to donate $1200- $250 each to King, Peterson, Newberger, and Bills. We will donate $200 to Senator Brown.
Clinton M. and Teresa B. have volunteered to work on a search committee with A. J. Kern. Teresa will be the chairwoman.
Jim Howe will check out PayPal for donations on our website. Peter has done a great job setting it up! Thank you from all of us on the board. Gary G. will check out the cost for business cards for the web site.
The fundraiser for Brown/Newberger was quite successful. Dave Brown gave a report on Agenda 21.
Special thanks to Carol Rupar for all her work on this fundraiser! 12-18 people attended and food and beverages were donated minimizing the expenses.
SD 14 is requesting help from us at the Waite Park office.
Ron Baert will be there Fri.
Jim Sutton will bring Jim Newberger signs to the Bachman office.
The final costs for the fair were taken care of.
New business:
Signs for Romney are now available .
There will be a fundraiser for John Pederson on the 16th.
The fundraiser (Octoberfest) was overviewed. We reconsidered the cost for candidates and their spouses. They will no longer be required to pay. Please let Teresa know what your items are for the silent auction. We will very likely have a meeting after the "Octoberfest" to finalize donations, evaluate the fundraiser, and discuss any new business. The next meeing will be Nov. 1 at the airport.
Meeting adjourned at 8:40.
A short meeting followed the fundraiser on Oct. 18.
King Banaian and John Pederson had to return their donations from
our BPOU because they had reached their maximum donation allowed by groups.
Judy announced the the cash from her auction items would go directly to King B. and not to the BPOU.
Teresa's item also went to King. He received $65 from them. We took in another $184 from the auction, $640 in tickets, and $150 in donations. The cost of the meals and use of facility was $226.37, and $60 for the music. The BPOU made $647.63 if my math is correct. We decided to donate $500 to Kurt Bills (this is the $500 returned by King and Pederson).
The Oct. 4 meeting came to order at 7:00 P.M. at the St. Cloud airport.
Present were Ron Baert, Jim Howe, Teresa Baert, Peter Minor, Gary Gross, Judy Sommers, Jim Sutton, and Clinton Wruck. Excused was Lawrence Johnson.
Following the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, the minutes were read and approved.
The Treasurer's report showed a balance of $1454.67 after bills were paid. Report approved.
Next contributions for the candidates were discussed. King Banaian and John Peterson have been targeted. Kurt Bills should be prioritized. Dave Brown is doing pretty well. Carol Rupar's report from the 6CD meeting was read. They have donated $1000 to Kurt Bills. We decided to donate $1200- $250 each to King, Peterson, Newberger, and Bills. We will donate $200 to Senator Brown.
Clinton M. and Teresa B. have volunteered to work on a search committee with A. J. Kern. Teresa will be the chairwoman.
Jim Howe will check out PayPal for donations on our website. Peter has done a great job setting it up! Thank you from all of us on the board. Gary G. will check out the cost for business cards for the web site.
The fundraiser for Brown/Newberger was quite successful. Dave Brown gave a report on Agenda 21.
Special thanks to Carol Rupar for all her work on this fundraiser! 12-18 people attended and food and beverages were donated minimizing the expenses.
SD 14 is requesting help from us at the Waite Park office.
Ron Baert will be there Fri.
Jim Sutton will bring Jim Newberger signs to the Bachman office.
The final costs for the fair were taken care of.
New business:
Signs for Romney are now available .
There will be a fundraiser for John Pederson on the 16th.
The fundraiser (Octoberfest) was overviewed. We reconsidered the cost for candidates and their spouses. They will no longer be required to pay. Please let Teresa know what your items are for the silent auction. We will very likely have a meeting after the "Octoberfest" to finalize donations, evaluate the fundraiser, and discuss any new business. The next meeing will be Nov. 1 at the airport.
Meeting adjourned at 8:40.
A short meeting followed the fundraiser on Oct. 18.
King Banaian and John Pederson had to return their donations from
our BPOU because they had reached their maximum donation allowed by groups.
Judy announced the the cash from her auction items would go directly to King B. and not to the BPOU.
Teresa's item also went to King. He received $65 from them. We took in another $184 from the auction, $640 in tickets, and $150 in donations. The cost of the meals and use of facility was $226.37, and $60 for the music. The BPOU made $647.63 if my math is correct. We decided to donate $500 to Kurt Bills (this is the $500 returned by King and Pederson).
September 6th, 2012 Minutes
Download these Minutes in PDF
The Sept. 6th meeting of the Benton County BPOU was called to order at the St. Cloud Airport at 7:00 P.M.
Present were Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, Jim Sutton, Ron Beart, Judy Sommers, Teresa Baert, and Lawrence Johnson.
Excused was Jim Howe. Absent were Gary Gross and Justin Kowski.
Jim Sutton gave the invocation followed by the Pledge.
The Sec.'s report for Aug. was approved after correcting spelling for Dombovy.
The Treas. was absent but we received an invoice from Jim Sutton for Fair Costs of $12.84.
Ron will ask candidates at forum on Sept. 11 about need for donations.
A J Kern as well as 2-3 more members are needed to serve on the search committee for candidates to run for boards and other positions.
We are asked to keep ourselves aware and suggest persons or inquire around. Teresa B. said she would be interested in helping.
Paige Duncan's name was mentioned.
The web site page and calendar are up. (http:/bentoncountymnrepublicans.weebly.com) It includes candidate pictures and info, Board member info., a constitution page.
Peter is working on the donations aspect and also requests info from board members for calender activities and front page posts..
He has been able to do this at no cost to the Benton Co. BPOU.
After computing costs, Sd 14 will be billed $301 toward Fair costs.
The Octoberfest is moved to Oct. 18th due to a double booking. The cost to us is $7/person with beer and wine donated by Bernicks and Bob Fueling.
We will serve Lasagna with and without meat, breadsticks, and salad. Ron will print up tickets. Judy will invite legislators and candidates.
Candidates' cost will be $10, (free for M. Bachmann if she comes?), and $35 for others.
We will again have music, the Century Players, speaker Lynn Zylla, and a Silent Auction (each board member to supply 3 items).
We decided to give $225 to Sd14 toward cost of Victory office. We will deduct from their cost of Fair and request check for $76.
SD 14 is having a social Sept. 14 at Victory Office with Century Players.
Jim Sutton will be having a fundraiser for Sen. Brown and Candidate Jim Newberger. Suggested cost is $25.
Verified Rosella Dombovy will share our Fair booth next year.
Karen Miller was suggested as becoming a new board member (reminder that Justin will not run again).
Meeting adjourned at 8:40.
Next meeting Oct. 4 at airport.
The Sept. 6th meeting of the Benton County BPOU was called to order at the St. Cloud Airport at 7:00 P.M.
Present were Peter Minor, Clinton Wruck, Jim Sutton, Ron Beart, Judy Sommers, Teresa Baert, and Lawrence Johnson.
Excused was Jim Howe. Absent were Gary Gross and Justin Kowski.
Jim Sutton gave the invocation followed by the Pledge.
The Sec.'s report for Aug. was approved after correcting spelling for Dombovy.
The Treas. was absent but we received an invoice from Jim Sutton for Fair Costs of $12.84.
Ron will ask candidates at forum on Sept. 11 about need for donations.
A J Kern as well as 2-3 more members are needed to serve on the search committee for candidates to run for boards and other positions.
We are asked to keep ourselves aware and suggest persons or inquire around. Teresa B. said she would be interested in helping.
Paige Duncan's name was mentioned.
The web site page and calendar are up. (http:/bentoncountymnrepublicans.weebly.com) It includes candidate pictures and info, Board member info., a constitution page.
Peter is working on the donations aspect and also requests info from board members for calender activities and front page posts..
He has been able to do this at no cost to the Benton Co. BPOU.
After computing costs, Sd 14 will be billed $301 toward Fair costs.
The Octoberfest is moved to Oct. 18th due to a double booking. The cost to us is $7/person with beer and wine donated by Bernicks and Bob Fueling.
We will serve Lasagna with and without meat, breadsticks, and salad. Ron will print up tickets. Judy will invite legislators and candidates.
Candidates' cost will be $10, (free for M. Bachmann if she comes?), and $35 for others.
We will again have music, the Century Players, speaker Lynn Zylla, and a Silent Auction (each board member to supply 3 items).
We decided to give $225 to Sd14 toward cost of Victory office. We will deduct from their cost of Fair and request check for $76.
SD 14 is having a social Sept. 14 at Victory Office with Century Players.
Jim Sutton will be having a fundraiser for Sen. Brown and Candidate Jim Newberger. Suggested cost is $25.
Verified Rosella Dombovy will share our Fair booth next year.
Karen Miller was suggested as becoming a new board member (reminder that Justin will not run again).
Meeting adjourned at 8:40.
Next meeting Oct. 4 at airport.
August 13th, 2012 Minutes
Download these Minutes in PDF
The Aug. meeting of the Benton County BPOU was called to order at 7: P.M. at the Victory Office in Waite Park.
The Invocation by Ron Baert was followed by the Pledge of Allegience.
The July minutes were approved after correcting Tues. to Mon.
A preliminary Treas. report showed $1277.24 balance. Motion to approve $49.58 to Judy S. to pay for her Fair expenses.
Jim Sutton needs to submit his expenses. Once a total is reached, we will submit an invoice to
SD15 for up to $350 to share expences.
Ron B. will contact candidates to see where the greatest needs are for donations and will
inform us at Sept. meeting.
Ron read e-mail from A J Kern on candidates for school board elections, and we will invite her to be
on a committee to seek out candidates.
Peter M. is on vacation in Yellowstone so we did not have a web-site report.
Jim Knobach showed up and gave a report on the Victory Office and the open house to be
held on the 30th of Aug. Bring your own food and drink.
Judy read the fair report which had been e-mailed to board. It was an overall success,
including a visit by Michele Bachmann on Sat.
Twice as many petitons were signed as last year. All area candidates spent time at the booth.
Many volunteers made this a success. Jim Knobach is storing the booth. Donations totaled $44.16.
Lawrence Johnson gave a preliminary report on the "Octoberfest".
It will be held at the Westside Learning Center. Each board member is asked to bring 3 items for the silent auction.
Speaker is to be decided later. The Board approved to pay Jarod Schreifels $65 to play again.
Tickets will be $35 with candidates and spouse only charged $10.
Or next meeting will be Sept. 6 at the Airport.
We approved to pay no more than $200 towards the victory Office.
Ron B. gave a report on the Parades in the Area. The Parade on Aug. 19 has competition
with the Antique Auto show at the Fairgrounds.
Rosella Dambovy requested to share our booth in the future. She will man it every day of the Fair
as well as contribute $75 for cost in exchange for advertising the Republican Women.
Motion approved to accept her proposal.
Meeting adjourned at 8:35.
Present were Judy S., Ron Baert, Clinton W., Justin K (who informed us he will not seek
re-election next term, Jim H., Teresa B., Lawrence J.
Absent were Gary G., Jim S., and Peter M.
The Aug. meeting of the Benton County BPOU was called to order at 7: P.M. at the Victory Office in Waite Park.
The Invocation by Ron Baert was followed by the Pledge of Allegience.
The July minutes were approved after correcting Tues. to Mon.
A preliminary Treas. report showed $1277.24 balance. Motion to approve $49.58 to Judy S. to pay for her Fair expenses.
Jim Sutton needs to submit his expenses. Once a total is reached, we will submit an invoice to
SD15 for up to $350 to share expences.
Ron B. will contact candidates to see where the greatest needs are for donations and will
inform us at Sept. meeting.
Ron read e-mail from A J Kern on candidates for school board elections, and we will invite her to be
on a committee to seek out candidates.
Peter M. is on vacation in Yellowstone so we did not have a web-site report.
Jim Knobach showed up and gave a report on the Victory Office and the open house to be
held on the 30th of Aug. Bring your own food and drink.
Judy read the fair report which had been e-mailed to board. It was an overall success,
including a visit by Michele Bachmann on Sat.
Twice as many petitons were signed as last year. All area candidates spent time at the booth.
Many volunteers made this a success. Jim Knobach is storing the booth. Donations totaled $44.16.
Lawrence Johnson gave a preliminary report on the "Octoberfest".
It will be held at the Westside Learning Center. Each board member is asked to bring 3 items for the silent auction.
Speaker is to be decided later. The Board approved to pay Jarod Schreifels $65 to play again.
Tickets will be $35 with candidates and spouse only charged $10.
Or next meeting will be Sept. 6 at the Airport.
We approved to pay no more than $200 towards the victory Office.
Ron B. gave a report on the Parades in the Area. The Parade on Aug. 19 has competition
with the Antique Auto show at the Fairgrounds.
Rosella Dambovy requested to share our booth in the future. She will man it every day of the Fair
as well as contribute $75 for cost in exchange for advertising the Republican Women.
Motion approved to accept her proposal.
Meeting adjourned at 8:35.
Present were Judy S., Ron Baert, Clinton W., Justin K (who informed us he will not seek
re-election next term, Jim H., Teresa B., Lawrence J.
Absent were Gary G., Jim S., and Peter M.
July 9th, 2012 Minutes
Download these Minutes in PDF
The July 9, 2012 meeting opened at 7:00 P.M. at the airport.
Present were Ron B., Jim H., Lawrence J., Gary G., Jim S., Judy S., Teresa B., Peter M., and Clinton W.
Absent was Justin K. Guests were Paige Duncan and Teresa's daughter.
An invocation by Judy S. was followed by the Pledge of Alleg..
The minutes from June 11 were read and approved.
The treasurers reports for June and July were read and approved.
We have a balance of $1545.51. We have not received a check from SD14 for fair booth.
We will continue to meet the 2nd Tues. of the month..
Peter will set up a web site at weebly.com. We would like a calendar, links to Benton county Representatives,
pay pal, board members, a link to g-mail accounts, and ability for board members to add items.
It's name will be: Bentoncountymnrepublicans.weebly.com.
The Foley social had about 50 attendees and was well represented by our candidates.
The fair report included info on the drawings, voter surveys, skit performances, need for a place to store the booth next year,
petitions,and money needed for Flag, printing and drawing.
A motion to have daily drawing for $35 gas cards from First Fuel Bank passed. Jim S. will get them.
Our Fall fundraiser will be Oct. 4 at the same place as last year. We will again have a silent auction.
Judy S. will check on Jarod again for music.Food choices will be decided later.
Plans for a Victory office are pending.
There are still parades to walk in.
Teresa's name will be added to the list for invocations.
Dave Brown will be giving a presentation on Agenda 21 on July 10 at CMTP
and plans to introduce legislation against Agenda 21.
There will be a fund raiser for King Banaian on July 17.
Meeting adjourned at 8:40.
The next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 13.
The July 9, 2012 meeting opened at 7:00 P.M. at the airport.
Present were Ron B., Jim H., Lawrence J., Gary G., Jim S., Judy S., Teresa B., Peter M., and Clinton W.
Absent was Justin K. Guests were Paige Duncan and Teresa's daughter.
An invocation by Judy S. was followed by the Pledge of Alleg..
The minutes from June 11 were read and approved.
The treasurers reports for June and July were read and approved.
We have a balance of $1545.51. We have not received a check from SD14 for fair booth.
We will continue to meet the 2nd Tues. of the month..
Peter will set up a web site at weebly.com. We would like a calendar, links to Benton county Representatives,
pay pal, board members, a link to g-mail accounts, and ability for board members to add items.
It's name will be: Bentoncountymnrepublicans.weebly.com.
The Foley social had about 50 attendees and was well represented by our candidates.
The fair report included info on the drawings, voter surveys, skit performances, need for a place to store the booth next year,
petitions,and money needed for Flag, printing and drawing.
A motion to have daily drawing for $35 gas cards from First Fuel Bank passed. Jim S. will get them.
Our Fall fundraiser will be Oct. 4 at the same place as last year. We will again have a silent auction.
Judy S. will check on Jarod again for music.Food choices will be decided later.
Plans for a Victory office are pending.
There are still parades to walk in.
Teresa's name will be added to the list for invocations.
Dave Brown will be giving a presentation on Agenda 21 on July 10 at CMTP
and plans to introduce legislation against Agenda 21.
There will be a fund raiser for King Banaian on July 17.
Meeting adjourned at 8:40.
The next meeting is scheduled for Aug. 13.
