5-31-18 Briefs

Congressman Andy Biggs “Salute to Veterans and Service Members is scheduled at 6:30 pm, this evening at the Without Walls Church in Mesa. RSVP to AZ05.VetsEvents@mail.house.gov or 480.699.8239 for seating.

US Reps Martha McSally and David Schweikert will host Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen at multiple locations along the U.S.-Mexico border in Arizona today. The officials will take an operation tour of the Port of Nogales DeConcini Crossing in Nogales, AZ. They will participate in a roundtable with border stakeholders to include members of the business community, ranchers, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Arizona National Guard. Additionally, they will take a line tour to view enforcement challenges, border fencing, terrain features and threats, and spotter lookout points. The trip comes a day after McSally conducted a field hearing in Phoenix to examine the opioid epidemic and the illicit flow of opioids across our southwest border.

Phoenix Mayoral candidate Moses Sanchez will be featured at an appetizers and cocktails vevent between 5:30-7:30, Wed., June 6 at the Casablanca Rooftop Lounge, 1734 E Stetson Drive in Scottsdale hosted by Bret King, Cody King, Marcelle Costello, Eric Crown, Cheryl Hintzen-Gaines, Ira Gaines, Jason DiFrancesco, Robin Macy, Erik Anderson, Rene Kyl and Tom Speaks. Suggested contrbutions: host committee-$500, supporter - $250, and friend - $100. RSVP by Fri., June 1 to Laura Minter at 541-272-1125 or laura@lovasco.com or Corinne Lovas at 623-218-6616 corinne@lovaco.com

With Seth Leibsohn retirement from radio to run for congress, 960 The Patriot is bringing former AZGOP Chairman Robert Graham to the air on the new Buskirk and Graham show. Graham served two terms as Chairman of the Arizona State Republican Party. In 2015, Governor Doug Ducey appointed Graham to the Arizona Commission of African-American Affairs. He has been seen on national television.Buskirk & Graham will air between 3-6 pm weekdays. This weeks guests include: Corey Lewandowski and Congresswoman Martha McSally. Photos below, left to right: Graham, Lewandowski, McSally

Newly elected Congresswoman Debbi Lesko staff in Washington, DC and Phoenix currently (she’s still rounding out her staff) consists of

Washington D.C. Office

Abby Gunderson-Schwarz (Chief of Staff)

Matthew Simon (Legislative Director)

Annie Clark (Legislative Assistant)

Bobby Bravo (Legislative Correspondent)

Johnny Zwaanstra (Staff Assistant)

District Office ( Phoenix)

Lisa Gray (District Director)

Chelsea Lett (Deputy District Director)

Abby Gunderson-Schwarz served the past four years as Legislative Director for Congressman Lamar Smith. She brings over a decade of experience on Capitol Hill. Simon, was a former policy advisor at the Arizona Senate and Goldwater Institute, and Gray is the former Operations Manager of the Arizona Registrar of Contractors and the Executive Assistant to the Director.

Central Republican Women Of Phoenix invites all Republicans to their monthly meeting at 6:15 pm., Thurs., June 7 at Aunt Chilada's Squaw Peak, 7330 N. Dreamy Draw in Phoenix. 5:30 pm social. Speakers are incumbent Secretary of State Michele Reagan and candidate Steve Gaynor. $20 includes appetizers. Happy hour prices. RSVP to reservations@CRWOP.org

Dr Robert Branch, Supt of Public Instruction candidate, will speak at the Arizona Breakfast Club at 8:30 am., Sat., June 2 Denny’s at 7000 E. Mayo Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85054. Branch will address “Dismantling the U.S. Department of Education” and “Making Education Great Again”. $15 fee, including breakfast. The Arizona Breakfast Club was formed in 1968 (50 years ago) and has hosted many legendary speakers including Barry Goldwater. Make a contribution and volunteer for the Branch’s campaign at: www.Vote4Branch.com

The Chips N Salsa Show Broadcasts Saturdays LIVE At 4pm on Center Right Radio with Hispanic hosts George Ortiz & Alice Lara offering a Republican review of headlines and politics. On June 1st they welcome back Krav Maga instructor Charlie Powell who has taught many youngsters the art of self-reliance and defense. Recommended online viewing as he'll bring his teen son Jacob and there may be live demos. The COCOTASO and WHOLE ENCHILADA awards will be featured along with the weekly Prather Point - Fast & Furious Whistleblower Jeff Prather's report on the dark state. livestream or http://centerright.live/

The AZRA Scottsdale/Fountain Hills Chapters will have an informal "living room" conversation with two Supt of Public Instruction front runner candidates Frank Riggs and Dr. Robert Branch, at 6:15 pm., Thur., June 7 at Via Linda Sr. Center, RM7, 10440 E Via Linda, Scottsdale. This will be an interactive conversation with these two candidates, according to President Lynne Breyer. RSVP required for non-members for seating purposes. Email azra.nem.chapter@gmail.com to reserve your seat at the table.

Attention Republican Group Leaders: If your event announcement is not posted within 24 hours from the time you submitted it - Briefs did NOT receive it. Please resend it to either frostytaylor@cox.net or repcomm@cox.net. – Editor Frosty Taylor

ATTN Candidates/Campaign Managers: Briefs posts candidate announcements, but does not endorse candidates, nor do we post endorsement statements. – ft

Americans for Prosperity Foundation and Constitution in the Classroom is being offered beginning June 2 and continuing every Saturday for the month. This five-week training will impart everything future freedom lovers need to know to appreciate and defend the values that have made our nation to prosperous and successful. Space is limited. Constitution in the Classroom is a volunteer group that will educate you, your kids and your grandkids about essential concepts such as free enterprise, rule of law, checks and balances and all the rights laid out in the Constitution. There's even a session on the Founders and the Declaration of Independence. Register Here. Contact AFP Grassroots Director Leslie White at lwhite@afphq.org 480.290.2286 lwhite@afphq.org | t: @ArizonaAFP

The Sun City West Republican Club will meet at 8:30am., Sat., June 2 in the Quail Room of the SCW Foundation, 14465 RH Johnson Blvd. Doors open at 8am Coffee and donuts will be available - a $2 donation, please, to help defray the cost of the room rental. All Republicans and Independents from the Sun Cities and surrounding areas are welcome to attend. Since 2018 is an election year, they are sponsoring forums thru June where Republican candidates for state offices will be given an opportunity to present an opening statement and then we will have a Q&A. Candidates speaking at this meeting will be John Heep, incumbent Maricopa County College Board member; Clair Van Steenwyk, Crossroads with Van radio talk show host; Kellie Pawluk, a pediatric nurse who advocates for safe quality care, and Mathew Bullock, a business owner who has created hundreds of jobs. More information at vanscrossroads1@gmail.com or 623+322-9979. Contact: Jean Goncalves, Publicity Chair Lady SCW 623+214-8010. Photos below, left to right, Heep, Van Steenwyk, Pawluk, Bullock

NOTES FROM READERS

Opinions expressed by readers are not necessarily those of the Briefs. Commentary running over 400 words is subject to editing. Briefs posts candidate announcements, but does not endorse candidates, nor do we post endorsement statements. - ft.

Dave Kopp, President, Arizona Citizens Defense League: I wanted to reach out and personally thank you for the activism that helped us fight Gov. Ducey’s Firearms Confiscation Bill, SB 1519. Because of the nearly 37,000 emails you sent, and the calls you made to your legislators, AzCDL was able to work with the Governor’s office to make significant changes to the bill. Donate to help us continue our fight. Even after our modifications, SB 1519 was still flawed, and did not pass, but that doesn’t mean your rights are now safe. Ducey has already expressed interest in introducing similar legislation next year, and many of our left leaning representatives are urging him to call a special session. We need your help to prepare for what another attempt at this proposal could bring—another blatant and outrageous attack on your firearms freedoms. Will you donate $20 to help us get ready for another battle for your rights? You’ve proven that our voices—when sounded together as one—are heard by our representatives. Don’t let the momentum you worked so hard to give us be lost! Please continue to make your voice heard. Thank you.

Lynne Breyer, President AZTA Scottsdale: The Education System across America is in turmoil. Is there anything more important than Arizona's kids who deserve and need a proper education, but too often are not getting one? We think the Superintendent of Public Instruction race is among the most important elections for 2018. Who we elect to run that agency matters. That is why we will have an informal "living room" conversation with two front runner candidates: Frank Riggs and Dr. Robert Branch.This will not be a forum or debate with some moderator asking the questions. This will be an interactive conversation with these two candidates. The goal is to hear their positions and thoughts on issues but also to see how they handle themselves when challenged, their personalities and their credentials for this job. These are two very different candidates in many respects. This is the time to get "a feel" for each of these candidates beyond political chatter. We invite AZRA members and non-AZRA members to come participate in this conversation. Vote Smart in this election. Reservations a must for those who are not members of our AZRA Scottsdale Chapter as space is a smaller, more personal setting. Please email to azra.nem.chapter@gmail.com to reserve your seat at the table. Meeting at 6:15 pm., Thurs., June 7 at Via Linda Sr. Center, Room 7, 10440 E via Linda, Scottsdale. azra.nem.chapter@gmail.com

Dale Gohr of Clarkdale: In the May 30, 2018 Verde Independent, page 5 Governor Doug Ducey absolutely contradicts himself; and shows partially why things like evolution need to be taught in schools; however, teaching Evolution as scientific fact is ludicrous, preposterous and nonsensical. To claim evolution as science is to deny any existence of Godorintelligentdesign to anything in all of creation. Although the evolution theory should definitely be taught and discussed; to allow and encourage opportunities for the students to learn through “in depth study and critical thinking”. As it stands today in probably over 90% of public and nearly as bad in some private schools; the children are not being educated, they are being programed or propagandized. This is nothing new, the education system has progressed in this manner since at least the early 1900’s. If you care to check you can find the changes in the Ivy League Universities from their Christian roots to the secular norms; occurred graphically during the era of 1910 through 1940. Now critical thought and questioning the status quo is vilified as heresy. How dare you question science?

I consider evolution to be near absolute insanity; however, I want evolution to be taught alongside creation; both as theories. I want them discussed in class, I want evolution and creation to be critically compared by the students. In other words, I believe:students should be taught how to think, not what to think - which is the way it looks to be going today. Know it all, teachers and professors need to honestly re-evaluate their own knowledge and instructional styles; as in spending time on the many factors they do not know for sure and less on foolishly trying to make students believe they know everything. I learned a long time back that the more I learn, the less I know. Each new thing I learn opens areas that expand the depth of things I had no way of knowing even existed; thus I learn one thing and realize there are three more things to learn about, of which I was previously unaware. Electronic gadgetry is replacing intellectual dialog at an alarming rate and instead of the Individuals controlling the electronics; the individuals are becoming Slaves to the device masters and their 1gadgets and contraptions. Good educators will encourage thoughtful dialog and expand the minds of those they teach. You do not need any examples of those who stymie individual thoughts.

CANDIDATE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Editor’s Note: Please keep announcement to 400 words. If extended, they will be subject to editing. Opinions expressed below are not necessarily those of the Briefs. Briefs does not endorse candidates. – ft

Seth Leibsohn signed off his show on 960am/KKNT in order to file his petition signatures to run for Congressional District 9 House of Representatives. 960am/KKNT General Manager Jim Ryan stated, “While we are so sad to see Seth leave our airwaves as a host, we are delighted to see him run for office, something I and our listeners have long encouraged him to do.”
Leibsohn’s family has lived in the CD-9 are for over 80 years. His father was a physician, his mother a social worker. Born and raised here, Leibsohn graduated Arcadia High School before commencing a long career in academia, public policy, and communications. He received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in political science from the Claremont Colleges, studying under the renowned conservative scholar Harry V. Jaffa. After law school, he worked in Washington, DC for as the Chief of Staff to Jack Kemp and William J. Bennett, running their and Jeane Kirkpatrick’s think-tank, Empower America. Before becoming the Vice President of the Claremont Institute think tank, he had formed Americans for Victory Over Terrorism and ghost-wrote several books and speeches for several political leaders and public policy experts. In his own name, he co-authored The Fight of our Lives with William J. Bennett and American Greatness with Chris Buskirk.
Leibsohn is the former Chairman of the Board of NotMYKid, an Arizona-based non-profit dedicated to substance abuse prevention and the inspiring of positive life choices for our state’s children.
Debbie Moak, Leibsohn Campaign Chair, stated, “I’ve come to know and work with a lot of dedicated and really smart people, but nobody more dedicated and smarter than Seth, especially on the most important of issues—we in District 9 are so fortunate to have a candidate and Congressman of his caliber.”
Leibsohn is an Arizona native who has dedicated his career to commonsense conservative policy. In addition to serving as the Vice President and Senior Fellow for The Claremont Institute he is the author of several books and op-eds on issues related to education, drug abuse, foreign policy, and the economy. He has been a radio host with Bill Bennett in Washington D.C. and locally. In 2016 he was awarded the Arizona Capitol Times Volunteerism Award for his dedication to work in substance abuse prevention www.seth4congress.com

CANDIDATE COMMENTARY

Editor’s Note: Please keep opinion pieces to 400 words. If extended, they will be subject to editing. Opinions expressed below are not necessarily those of the Briefs. Briefs does not endorse candidates. – ft

LD22 candidate Clair Van Steenwyk: I turned in my signatures on May 25, and my name is now on the ballot. I'm running in LD 22 for the Senate. As the only non-career politician I'm looking forward to adding my perspective and platform to the race for the LD 22 Senate Seat. I want to thank all of you for your help in attaining ballot access, especially my wife Jean, Ron Gosselin and other friends as well who helped collect the 1,996 signatures guaranteeing our place on the ballot won't be challenged, we call them the Senior Brigade. We couldn't have done it without their help and support. I also want to say thanks you to the hundreds of wonderful people of LD 22 who took the time to stop and sign my petitions. It was great to hear your thoughts and encouraging comments. We're excited to officially begin my campaign for the Senate Seat in LD 22. Van's inviting all to check out the website for more information and ways to get involved at http://vote4van.com/, and looking forward to hearing from all of you. - Clair & Jean Van Steenwyk

US Senate candidate Kelli Ward: Fake Jeff Flake recently told Harvard Law School graduates that "our presidency has been debased." And this week he said that President Trump is "just totally wrong" and claimed he is in the process of organizing a so-called "constitutional crisis." Give me a break...The fact that Flake is vacating his seat is truly a cause for conservatives to celebrate. As a junior senator, he devoted his time almost entirely to combating President Trump and siding with the left on things like DACA and the Iran Deal. But with Flake on his way out, Arizona is at a crossroads... between me — an America First conservative — and my opponent, Martha "McAmnesty" McSally. I'm giving my all to win this race and maintain our first-place position, but with the month drawing to a close I am reaching out to ask you for your immediate support. Will you chip-in As your senator, I'll stand with President Trump and fight for the things we both believe in:

· We'll secure our borders and build the Wall

· We'll propose sound budgets and slash government waste

· We'll fight for free-market health care solutions

· And, most of all, we'll put America First!

So please help me and my team kick our campaign into overdrive by making a special end-of-month contribution today. With NeverTrumper Jeff Flake leaving Washington, it's our time to lead! Thanks for running with me to victory — together we'll beat the opposition and begin to set things right again.

Arrowhead JP candidate Craig Wismer: As you know I currently serve as the Judge of the Arrowhead Justice Court and am running for re-election. More information about me may be found at: wismerforjp.com or facebook.com/wismerforjp or simply type my name into any Internet search engine. Below is a link to an article that appeared in the May 30, 2018 edition of "The Phoenix New Times" concerning the campaign for election as the Arrowhead Justice of the Peace. Phillip-Woolbright,Disgraced Arizona-Justice-Of-The-Peace, Wants Job Back

US Senate candidate Kelli Ward: Last week, Fortune magazine published my latest op-ed on the opioid epidemic and our current border crisis. It’s a strong case for the Wall and why Congress needs to act. I encourage you to read it here. Now, I understand this doesn’t come as “news” to you. You know that I’m for strong borders and common-sense, America First immigration laws...And the American people are calling on the House and Senate to step up and do their duty to secure our borders—especially the southern border between the United States and Mexico…Of course, Arizona knows that—unlike Sanctuary Senator Jeff Flake and my opponent Martha McAmnesty—I’ll work with President Trump to build the Wall...That’s why I’m asking you to help me continue to fight for these things we both so strongly believe in. Can our team count on you to stand with us? Help me build the Wall, Patriot. Together, we’ll get this done!

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

May 31

A fundraiser, hosted by Steve Nannini, Jeff Utsch, Alex Dely, Barney Brenner, Dr. Mark Russell, Carol Dart, Carol Ann Whigham and Randy Graff for Supt of Public Instruction candidate Frank Riggs is scheduled from 6-7:30 pm., Thurs., May 31 at 7777 N Via Bellini in Tucson. Light refreshments will be served. Suggested donation: $50 per person or $75 per couple. RSVP to 480-437-1032 or riggsforaz@gmail.com Checks to Riggs for Arizona, PO Box 1690, Cave Creek, AZ 85327

June 2

The Thunder Mountain Republican Women will host a brunch with GOP candidates at 9:30 am., Sat., June 2 at the Windemere Hotel in Sierra Vista. $10 per person, cash only, payable at the door. RSVP to Cathy Duarte 610-704-6554 or a76erfab@centurylink.net or Jane Strain 520-249-4057 or jstrain810@gmail.com by May 22.

The Arrowhead Republican Womens Candidates’ Forum is scheduled from 2-5 pm., Sat., June 2 at Briarwood Country Club, 20800 N. 135th Ave, Sun City West. 20 candidates are confirmed to participate including newly elected US Congresswoman Debbie Lesko, gubernatorial candidate Ken Bennett, Treasurer candidate Kimberly Yee, US Senate candidate Kelli Ward, LD21 and LD22 candidates, along with the Supt of Public Instruction and Secretary of State candidates, campaign chairman Jan Martinson reports. She urges attendees to arrive early to get photos with their favorite candidates. Drawing tickets available. Light refreshments will be served at this adult only gathering. Republicans welcome to this free event. Contact Jan Martinson, Campaign Chairman 623-546-3753--jlmart15102@aol.com

The Sun City West Republican Club will meet at 8:30am., Sat., June 2 in the Quail Room of the SCW Foundation, 14465 RH Johnson Blvd. Doors open at 8am Coffee and donuts will be available - a $2 donation, please, to help defray the cost of the room rental. All Republicans and Independents from the Sun Cities and surrounding areas are welcome to attend. Since 2018 is an election year, they are sponsoring forums thru June where Republican candidates for state offices will be given an opportunity to present an opening statement and then we will have a Q&A. Legislative 22 Candidates speaking at this meeting will be John Heep, incumbent Maricopa County College Board member; Clair Van Steenwyk, Crossroads with Van radio talk show host; Kellie Pawluk, a pediatric nurse who advocates for safe quality care, and Mathew Bullock, a business owner who has created hundreds of jobs. More information at vanscrossroads1@gmail.com or 623+322-9979. Contact: Jean Goncalves, Publicity Chair Lady SCW 623+214-8010.

JUNE 7

Mesa Republican Women will host candidates for Secretary of State Steve Gaynor and incumbent Michele Reagan at 11:30 am., Thurs., June 7 at the Silver Star Theater, 5247 E. Brown Rd in Mesa. Doors open at 11:00 am and the program begins at 11:30. Other candidates wishing to speak may do so for 2 minutes. Contact Nancy Cottlenancy@thebrandedimage.com to reserve a spot. Lunch is $15 for members and $17 for non-members/guests. RSVP to mesarepublicanwomen@hotmail.com

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SEEING RED AZ

· Will-Gov-Ducey-Gift-His-Former-Boss-The Az-Senate-JobQuestions Swirl Around Mccain’s Senate Seat As Arizonans Go Unrepresented

· Major-Reason-To-Steer-Clear-Of-Deceptive-Az-Republic

· All-Roads-Lead-To-McCain

AMERICAN FREEDOM BY BARBARA

· AZGOP Needs To Learn What The Word Memorial Means-Happy Is Not Appropriate

· Today We Honor All The Men and Women Who have Served in The US Armed Forces

· ICYMI: President Trump Participates IN US Naval Graduation Ceremony-Shakes Hands With All VIDEO

ARIZONA FREEDOM ALLIANCE

· Lock ‘Em Up: New Bill Would Put Sanctuary City Politicians in Jail

· The Statewide and Federal Election Field as We See It in 2018 Primary