6-15-17 Briefs

Republican Briefs

Sen. John McCain Denied Monday that he said U.S. leadership under President Donald Trump is worse than when Barack Obama was in office. “I never said such a thing. A thousand times I said, ‘Look at the world in 2009 and look at it today.’ Of course, I never said [that]. If I did I was joking,” McCain told The Daily Caller.The Guardianpublished an interview with McCain Sunday that quoted him as saying American leadership under Obama was better than it is now under Trump. The statement was in response to when he was asked about President Trump’s criticism of London Mayor Sadique Khan. See more McCain-Never-Said-US-Leadership-Was-Better-Under-Obama-Than-Trump/

LD14 Vice Chair Bruce M Piepho: I would have preferred giving Lines some time to straighten out the AZGOP suspicious acts by his predecessor Graham. I asked Lines before he was elected AZGOP Chairman, what he knew about questionable expenses by Graham at the GOP National convention and a trip to Hawaii. Lines (Treasure at the time) said he did not know anything about the two matters. I asked if the AZGOP books were ever audited and he said at that time one was in progress. I asked if it was CPA firm, he stated he did not know, but stated a CPA firm does do an audit. I asked for the name of the CPA firm, Lines stated he did not recall. I have served as a Treasurer of several organizations. I had the books or worked with the book keeper and signed off on expenditures or when required checks for purchases. I also attended meetings with prospective CPA firms and all CPA audit reports were provided the Treasure before presentations to the Board of Directors. Now, after we the State Committee people elect Lines and a new Treasurer Bob Lettieri the (cloak and hide secret procedures) financials remain a secret. Treasurer Bob Lettieri has not been granted permission to see the financial records? That refusal should and would be in the corporate world, grounds for dismissal – “you’re fired” so said Trump. I find the operations of the AZGOP Executive Committee (ExComm) completely inappropriate. The (ExComm) should be electing - from their own ranks - a Executive Committee chair and the ExComm meetings should NOT be run by Chairman Lines. The leaders of the Arizona Republican Party must take the reins of leadership and open the AZGOP to a transparent organization. There must not be any suspicion of corruption or inappropriate financial transactions. Piepho is also a Cochise County Republican Committee (CCRC) Precinct Committeeman and State Committeeman.

AZGOP Treasurer Bob Lettieri: Red Curve is not replacing me as Treasurer for I am irreplaceable. Joking aside, the focus of the time I spend at the AZGOP office is to review information not to perform accounting functions. The more accurate and reliable the information I work with makes the reporting I am responsible for more timely and reliable. It is critical that the required FEC and State reporting be timely and accurate to prevent penalties for late and inaccurate filing. While in the process of reviewing the accounting information I have made recommendations that improvements were needed for me to have more reliance in the information I needed from accounting. Thus, changes, have been made that will result in improvements to both the quality of accounting information and meeting required filing deadlines. Red Curve was hired with my concurrence as Treasurer base on careful consideration with Chairman Lines and Matthew Kenny. As mentioned our accounting and compliance operations needed to be overhauled by a professional firm. As experts in Political Compliance (which there are few in the country that are), Red Curve only makes recommendations to the Party and helps us establish that best professional practices to make the Party more efficient and compliant. Chairman Lines, Matthew Kenney and I had several very productive conversations about this, and we agreed to find a new firm. Red Curve manages hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of accounts, including 29 other State parties, President Trump's PAC and several of the RNC’s joint victory accounts. They are loyal Republicans, that are competent in providing services at a fraction of the price of our former compliance team. Please contact me with your concerns or if you need additional information about RedCurve. I believe that the AZGOP is making great strides to demonstrate transparency and these posts are counterproductive to our efforts to bring unanimity to the Party.

Arizona Town Crier Jim Ehl: Has the chairman of our AZ GOP ever supported Senator McCain or hired a Senator McCain supporter? Has Senator McCain ever supported our AZ GOP chair? In spite of being censured by the AZ GOP state committeemen in a formal session, Senator McCain still won reelection. What does that say about AZ GOP leadership (and voters)? The point being, in AZ GOP do we have two masters?? Our chairman says, “And here in Arizona, they look for any opportunity to drive wedges between Republicans.” And he went ahead to say, “Well as I've said before, I won't be a part of it. You'll note that I never...NEVER...attack a fellow Republican. That's not my job, and that's not the job of the party.” Apparently he considers a RINO a ‘fellow Republican. And, considering the interface with the state committeemen, and the county chairmen it is suspect that our chair even knows the job of the party. For example is it part of the job of the party to keep up with what the Democrats are doing? He says, “Part of beating the opposition is knowing what they're doing.” Really?? Just a thought! Seems that acting as an interface between the party and the elected elite doesn’t come to mind. He further notes, “We want to help you find more precinct committeemen who serve as party activists.” HOW?? The AZ GOP bylaws do not provide for a Precinct Committeemen recruitment committee, so if one exists it must be appointed. Does anyone have a knowledge of one? Speaking of appointed committees, we are still waiting for an update on the bylaws committee fiasco by the state chair. Oh well, so far it hasn’t affected my pay or liberty. Do the voters really need a ‘secondary campaign committee’ or a party leadership that will represent them and provide leadership, information, and guidance??

Peter Lee, Manager Of The GOP Office In Sun City (condensed): The final vote on the EPCOR Waste Water consolidation case was taken during the June 13 Arizona Corporation Commission meeting. Commissioners Andy Tobin, Doug Little, Boyd Dunn and Tom Forese voted yes; Robert Burns voted no. Full consolidation of the five water districts will occur over the next five years. My observations of the 5 hour and 40 minutes of consolidation discussion:

1. 16 of the 22 parties involved in the 5 Waste Water District (consisting of 7 waste water systems) entered into an agreement to support full consolidation.

2. RUCO - Residential Utility Consumer Office, and the Sun City Home Owners Association, and PORA did not sign onto the agreement.

3. Judge Sarah H wrote a 231 page opinion that recommended full consolidation. None of the 5 Commissioners challenged her findings.

4. LD 21 Sen Debbie Lesko, LD21 Rep Kevin Payne, Youngtown Mayor Michael Levault, land surveyor Helmut P, Fred Botha and a letter from Congressman Trent Franks opposed the consolidation.

5. LD22 Rep Ben Toma spoke, but took no stand on the waste water proposal

6. SCHOA Governmental Liaison Greg Eisert, sat through the entire proceedings.

7. Mike McKay, Cynthia Swick, Rebecca Blue, Robert (?), Daniel L., Jeff W., Diane S., Roger W., Fran N., Doug Edwards, AIC and others spoke in favor of full consolidation as soon as possible.

8. Craig Patterson placed comments in the record - "Reviewing pages 200-215 in the law judge's findings - 73% of the comments were opposing consolidation - It is a 76% rate increase for Sun City residents - Sun City residents will provide $22M in subsidies over 5 years - over 10 years Sun City residents will provide $51M in subsidies and over 20 years the subsidy figure is $136M. Consolidation is not in the public interest.

9. The Commissioners spent about 90 minutes discussing various aspects of the negotiated settlement agreement, voting to make 3 or 4 changes. (Note: EPCOR will submit their 2016 taxes to the IRS in September 2017.)

Maricopa County Republicans Chairman Chris Herring: We all know elections have consequences. That's why we can't let up in Maricopa County, even when it's 100 degrees outside. As an example of some of the consequences, I present the City of Phoenix. In many ways an economic anchor of Maricopa County, the economic health of the city impacts all cities in the valley. The Democrat majority city council are once again mortgaging the financial future of the city. And they are trying to do this as quietly as possible, with little public input, and they hope we won't notice.

What's at stake? The council will be meeting on June 21st to decide on a $2.6 billion dollar increase in unfounded liabilities. Specifically they want to re-amortize a 20-year debt into a 30-year debt. The penalty? A 72% increase in the debt from the original principle. Think of it this way. It's like you have a million dollar home that you can't afford. But you really want to buy a new car. So you refinance your house, lower your payment, and take the money you "save" each month to buy your car. Now you'll have pay $1,720,000 instead of just $1 million to pay off the house, but hey, you got the new car. Unfortunately, we aren’t talking about $1 million or $1,720,000, we are talking about $2.6 BILLION. This is a terrible deal for the city and the impact will be felt for decades.
What can you do?
First, talk to your Republican neighbors. Tell them that their public services are being put at risk with this massive debt. Use this as an opportunity to encourage them to get involved as a PC. WE NEED THEM!
Second, contact MCR Member-at-Large Wes Harris. He is organizing a group to attend the June 21st meeting. We need numbers to show up so the council knows they aren't doing this in secret. Email Wes at wwharris@msn.com
We need to all be on board to fight back against the left wing radicals who are more organized and energized than ever. Don't waste the summer. Recruit, fight back. Editor’s Note: Borrowed from Herring’s MCR newsletter.

The Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairwoman released the following statement in response to this evening’s story in the Washington Post: "This unfounded accusation against the president changes nothing,” said Chairwoman McDaniel. "There’s still no evidence of obstruction, and current and former leaders in the intelligence community have repeatedly said there's been no effort to impede the investigation in any way. The continued illegal leaks are the only crime here.”

Cindy-McCain-To Work For President-Donald-Trump’s-State-Departmentreads recent headline. In the meantime, her husband Sen John McCain continues to shred Trump at every opportunity. – ft

Philip Haney author of, "See Something, Say Nothing": A Homeland Security Officer Exposes the Government’s Submission to Jihad will address the Arizona Project, at 6:30 pm., Thurs., June 22 at 3375 E Shea Blvd #2B, Phoenix, 85028. The public is invited. – Chairman Ron Ludders 602.677.1496

Kellyanne Says Mueller's Legal Team Is Anti-Trump The remark from the counselor to the president came as she promoted a CNN story that highlighted how three lawyers Mueller hired all donated to Democrats. “FEC report: Mueller’s team includes big Democrat donors. Some maxed out, none wanted Trump to be POTUS,” Conway wrote.

CNN-Cuts-Away-As-Graham-Questions-Independence-Of-Muellers-Legal-Team-Member

Petition To Congress:Ask President Trump To Fire Robert Mueller Now!

North Korea On Thursday Said It Released Otto Warmbier“on humanitarian grounds,” after holding the American university student captive for 17 months, state media reported, according to Reuters. The decision to release the prisoner came after a court ruling on Tuesday, the report said. Student-Was-Terrorized-And-Brutalized-By-North-Korea-Dad-Says

The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), in partnership with the Dolly Steamboat and Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society, is offering a two-part opportunity on June 23-24 to view and learn about desert bighorns. The Dolly Steamboat offers both open-air decks and air-conditioned viewing areas during the 3-hour cruise. Bald eagles, deer, and other wildlife are often also seen on Canyon Lake from the boat. The special event is broken up into two days—a morning cruise and a pre-cruise evening informational workshop (optional).

· Friday, June 23 pre-workshop, 7-9 p.m. at the AZGFD regional office at 7200 E University Drive, Mesa, AZ. To register for the free workshop session, contact Amy Burnett at (480) 324-3548.

· Saturday, June 24 Canyon Lake bighorn viewing tour on the Dolly Steamboat, 8-11 a.m. The three-hour boat tour led by AZGFD wildlife specialists leaves from Canyon Lake Marina at 8 a.m. Cost is $35 adults, $33 seniors (plus fees). Space is limited to 139 passengers. The boat has restrooms and is accessible. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable light clothing and bring a camera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and binoculars. To register call Dolly Steamboat at (480) 827-9144 or book online at www.dollysteamboat.com.

Palo Verde Republican Women’s Club will hold its next luncheon at 11:30 am., Wed, June 21 at Grayhawk Golf Club, Fairway House, 8620 E Thompson Peak Parkway . Check in at 11 am. Az Secretary of State Michelle Reagan and AZ Federated Republican Women President Lorraine Pellegrino will be addressing the group. Reservations required by midnight, Thurs 16 at pvrwlunch111@yahoo.com Check, cash or credit card at the door.

The Republican Party of Mesa (LD-25) will meet at 7 pm., Thurs., June 15 to hear a representative from the City of Mesa Police Department at The Charles K Luster Building (formerly the Mesa Utilities Building) 640 N. Mesa Dr., Mesa, AZ. Contact Chairman Ian Murray at Ian@DesignedForLife.com (602)524-7786.

The 10 am., Thurs., June 15 Family Health Talk Show will feature Dr. Isabel Kozak’s presentation on “Veggies for Veterans” and an appearance by Maricopa County Sheriff Paul Penzone and his future plans for the department. Radio Station – KXXT 1010 AM. Online – www.familyvaluesradio1010.com Call-in phone number: 602.977-1010.

Salvation Army Heat Relief Stations Open across the Valley. With the return of 100-degree temperatures, the Salvation Army is setting up heat relief stations across the Valley. Read full article »

The Pinal County Republican Committee has changed its regular meeting from Sat., June 17 to 10 am., June 24 at the Old Court House (in the rear of the building), 135 N Pinal Street Florence, AZ to hear CD1 Senate candidate Steve Smith. Contact: Secretaru Gilberto Mendezsecretarypcrcaz@gmail.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

JUNE 15

The Colorado River Tea Party will meet at 6 pm., Thurs., June 15at the Community Christian Church, 6480 E Hwy 95 in Yuma. Mystery speaker. Contact: Chr Sally Kizer atcoloradoriverteaparty@yahoo.comwww.coloradoriverteaparty.org

Commissioner Andy Tobin plans water workshops June 15 July 25, July 27 and July 28 that address responsible water policy for Arizona. See Commission’s website at www.azcc.gov and click eDocket. The docket number is WS-00000A-17-0094. All the workshops will take place at the Arizona Corporation Commission at 1200 W. Washington Street in Phoenix at 10 am. The workshops will also be live online at www.azcc.gov.

LD24 will meet at 6:30 pm., Thurs., June 15 at the AZGOP Headquarters, 3501 N. 24^th St in Phoenix. Barry Goldwater Jr, former California Congressman, will speak to the group about growing up with his famous father – five-term Sen Barry Goldwater. Contact: Cor Sec Carole Joyce paddywagon@cox.net

JUNE 17

The Pinal County Republican Committee has changed its regular meeting from Sat., June 17 to 10 am., June 24 at the Old Court House (in the rear of the building), 135 N Pinal Street Florence, AZ to hear CD1 Senate candidate Steve Smith. Contact: Gilberto Mendezsecretarypcrcaz@gmail.com - Secretary, Pinal County Republican Committee.

The Fountain Hills Republican Club will meet with Maricopa County Attorney Bill Montgomery at 9 am., Sat., June 17 at the Fountain Hills Community Center, 13001 N La Montana Dr, F.H. 85268. Contact: Sec Boe JamesFHRepublican@gmail.com or visit http://www.fhrepublicanclub.org/

The Coconino County Republican Committee will host the 9 am, June 17 AZGOP State Committee meeting at the Oakmont, 2380 N Oakmont Dr in Flagstaff, according to CCRC Chairman Jeff Oravits. Details tba.

The Arizona Republican Party Executive Committee Meeting is scheduled at 9 am., June 17 at The Oakmont, 2380 N. Oakmont Dr. Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Call to Action: Activist are neededto attend the June 21 Phoenix City Council meeting to oppose the proposed increase to the Public Safety Debt. See memos from Councilman Sal DiCiccio andlong-time GOP Activist Wes Harris in the June 10 Briefs6-10-17-briefs

June 20

Bill Gates, District 3 Maricopa County Supervisor will host a “County Coffee” between noon and 2 pm., Tues., June 20 for New River / Desert Hills / Anthem Area constituents at the Daisy Mountain Fire Department, 43814 N New River Road in New River, AZ 85087. (602) 506-7349 District3@mail.maricopa.gov

Senate candidate Dr Kelli Ward will be featured at the 9:30 am., Tues. June 20 “Coffee & Politics” at the Maricopa County GOP office, 10050 W Bell Road #49 in Sun City. She will address her campaign for the US Senate, followed by a questions/answer period. Her nominating petitions will be available to sign. Campaign swags will also be available. Contact/RSVP: Carolyn Leffevents@kelliward.com

June 21

JUNE 22

Grassroots Conservative Activists are being “called to action” to attend the 9:30 am., Thur., June 22 Clean Elections Commission meeting to testify and encourage the Commissioners to put a stop to clean elections candidates donating taxpayers monies to the Democratic Party. The meeting is scheduled at the CCRC Meeting Room, 1616 W Adams, Phoenix AZ 85007. (602) 364-3477. See:

· Tom-Chabin-Donates-$25,000-Of-Clean-Election-Money-To-Democrat-Party

· Democrats Lose But Party Wins With Clean Money Turned Dark ...

· Clean-Elections-Has-Reached-A-Dead-End

Prescott Mayoral candidate Mary Beth Hrin will meet with residents between 5-7 pm., Thurs., June 22 at Far From Folsom, 214 S Montezuma St., in Prescott. RSVP: Brenda Dickinson, campaign manager by noon, June 21 at 928---772-2835 or 928-925-1549.

The Pima County Republican Women’s Movie Night is scheduled at 6 pm., Thurs., June 22 at the Road house Cinema, Crossroads Festival, 4811 E Grant Road #150 ion Tucson. $25; RSVP by June 10 to TianaSmith@cox.net

Arizona Project will meet at 6:30 pm., Thurs., June 22 instead of its regularly scheduled Mon., June 19 meeting date due to the opportunity to host Philip B Haney, founding member of the Dept of Homeland Security & Border Protection. Haney is the lead author of “See Something, Say Nothing” a bestselling expose of Obama’s submission to Muslim Brotherhood; and Recipient of inaugural American Freedom Award, according to AP chairman Ron Ludder. See Haney's videos at Philip Haney 2017 AFA Honoree Video - YouTubeorhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bD6nZ3fpSxY . Haney has given extensive testimony and briefings before the US House and Senate and has made over 375 appearances on TV/radio shows. Contact: Chr Ronald Ludders at 602.677.1496