Meeting of the Antrim County Republican Party on Monday, November 20th, 2017 at Forest Home Township Hall called to order at 7:35 pm by Chairman Randy Bishop who opened the meeting with pledge and invocation. Randy announced this was to be the last meeting of the year.

Treasurer Report given by Gregg Valerio. ACRP has 17 family and 36 single memberships for a total of 53. Motion to accept by Sherry Combden, 2nd Brenda Rickgers, all approved.

Secretary report given by Cherie Hogan. Motion to accept by Bob Rickgers, 2nd Barb Bradford, all approved.

Randy reported the following;

Sandy Pensler announced for U.S. Senate joining John James, Bob Young, and Bob Carr. Brief history on Pensler who is a successful businessman, 61, two children, slogan ‘Make Michigan First’, turnaround advisor, for deregulation, against unfair trade, pro charter school and believes in making public schools more competitive, and pro reforming entitlements. He is PRO-ABORTION. Website is https://penslerforsenate.com/

Fred Upton is out.

Lt Governor Calley to announce for Governor, soon.

Much discussion on our upcoming fundraiser for 2018. Randy will look for facilities to hold 200 and will be inviting Republicans from the surrounding counties. Names considered; Steve Bannon, Sean Hannity, Mike Pence. Ag-A-Ming is out as their new facility will not be built due to money being redirected to the Charlevoix Country Club which they purchased.

Much discussion about how to increase membership in the ACRP.. If we could get 1% of the population of the county we would have 230 members. If we can get a big name for our June fundraiser free memberships could be used as an incentive to both increase membership and encourage attendance at the event.

Michigan Fair Tax Association has endorsed Senator – Patrick Colbeck for Governor. Colbeck has identified over a billion in waste in Michigan government. Discussion of bringing Ron Babin to speak. Ted Cruz to endorse Colbeck November 21st.

Congressman Jack Bergman doing well. Not being primary challenged.

Debbie Stabenow has $7.5 million in her war chest.

Discussion on dues-decision was made to leave them the same.

Next meeting Monday, January 15th same time same location. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Motion from Jim Gurr, 2nd Gregg Valerio to adjorn at 8:45pm

Respectfully submitted,
Cherie Hogan

Secretary