Glorious Conservative Country of North Georgia Chairman's Corner        WELCOME| ABOUT THE 9TH | NEWS-EVENTS | DISTRICT  CHAIR | COUNTY NEWS |CALENDAR |CARTOONS|CONTACTS             Click on date and topic to advance:   § 9th district Elections 2008 § 2008 District Picnic another Huge    Success7/28/08 § Pickens County to host 2009 District   Convention § April 3 - Friday Night Banquet and    Convention § April 4 - Nominating Committee § Feb. 9 - District Meeting in    Gainesville § Feb 9th - District Convention § February 9, 2008 - District Resolution § Jan. 27-  Rescheduled District Meeting 2/9/08 § Catoosa County Training Workshop 2/7/08 § Dec. 10-Preparing for Conventions 2008 § Nov. 16, 2007 - Tusk to Tusk News § Follow Up to October 13, 2007 Meeting § Sept. 29, 2007 - Oct. 13 Dade Meeting § Sept. 29, 2007 - Chairman's Corner § Aug. 4, 2007 District Picnic Big Success! § June 30, 2007 Chairman's Corner § April 25, 2007 Chairman's Message § June 7, 2007 Regional Directors Named § Pre Order District Shirts § June 19, 2007 Georgia Democrat      LegislatorSwitches to GOP                         Chairman's Corner 2009 District Convention Wrap-up by Kevin Harris, Chairman April 27, 2009 As 9th District Republicans gathered for the 2009 Return to Principles Banquet and the Saturday convention last weekend, we entered with the most Republican elected officials in our party’s history. The weekend was a time to reflect on our recent success, celebrate our current status, and prepare for the 2010 election cycle that is much closer than any of us would like to imagine. On Friday night, State Republican Chair Sue Everhart began the event with her remarks by thanking the crowd and congratulating the 9th District for its leadership and recent success. A host of legislators and statewide candidates address the crowd. The evening concluded with a fantastic keynote address delivered by Congressman Nathan Deal. Candidates or their spouses joined members of the 9th District delegation to reminding attendees The primary purpose of the 2009 convention was to elect the officers and state committee members for the next two years. Congratulations to each officer and state committee member that was elected to represent the 9th District. Even with all of the official events that were conducted, the 9th District took time to honor one of our closest friends, Mary Ellen Childree. Mary Ellen was a true friend and mentor to so many people across our district. There are so many people to thank for a successful convention. Larry Toney and the Pickens County Republican Party hosted a wonderful weekend, which included several record marks. Sally Forest and the Credentials Committee did a fabulous job sifting the necessary documentation to ensure that the convention was legal and within the rules of the Georgia Republican Party. Clint Bearden (Resolutions), Judy Grammer (Rules), Larry Toney (Nominations), and Bill Murphy (Registration and Welcome) and Wesley Clark and Bobby Valentine (Finance) With the weekend’s activities over, it is now time for North Georgia Republicans to roll up our sleeves and continue to serve our communities and area with conservative principles and real solutions to Georgia’s challenges. It is truly an honor to serve each of you, and I appreciate the confidence that you placed in me at our recent convention     Read: Call for the next full District Committee meeting  - January 31, 2009 January 19, 2009   Hello, District Committee Members:    The call for the next full District Committee meeting is attached, including the Proposed Agenda and Proxy form.  The meeting will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2007, at the Bordertown Roadhouse.   Please make every effort to attend the meeting, since it is the last meeting prior to the 2009 9th District Convention. Several key officials have already confirmed their attendance! The Bordertown Roadhouse is located right off of Highway 515/Zell Miller Parkway. If you are coming North on 515 from Ellijay, go past the 1st red light entering Blue Ridge (June Walker Chevrolet will be on the right). Drive over the bridge on Highway 515, and you will see Bordertown Roadhouse on the left, along with Cadence Bank and Cohutta Mountain Feed and Seed.   There are several items that need to be addressed before and at the meeting:  1.              During the meeting, we will be finalizing details of the 2009 9th District Convention.  2.              If you have suggestions for the interim committees for the 9th District Convention, please forward your suggestions to Kevin Harris at (706) 455-9200 or via email kevin@integritypublicaffairs.com ASAP. 3.              Due to the amount of details, please bring notebooks and pens as well as calendars/palm pilots/schedules to the meeting. As always, everyone is welcome to this meeting. Due to the training that will be provided by the State GOP, any person from your county not on the district committee that will be involved in registration or as the temporary convention chair would particularly benefit from this training. Upon receipt, please confirm that this email was received. Also, for planning purposes, please let us know if you will be attending the meeting. As always, thank you for what you are doing to grow the Republican majority in North Georgia. Kevin Harris, Chairman 706-900-3000 (H) 706-455-9200 (C) Sally Forest, Secretary 706-698-3257 (H) 706-889-1284 (C)   Elections 2008 in the 9th Congressional District 9th District Friends- As District Chairman, I would like to thank each of you for your incredible time and work that was placed into this election cycle. Your investment into your community has paid huge dividends, and the results in our communities across North Georgia were evident following last night’s returns. Despite a long night nationally, there were some very positive signs in our area. State and national Republicans swept our area, and the margins in our District assisted state and national candidates in more competitive areas. Even in tough local losses, Republican candidates in counties like Murray and Union County fought an incredible battle throughout the 2008 election campaign. Aggressive campaigns were fought in seats and precincts where Republicans had not been competitive before at the local level. The moment this email is being written, it appears that Saxby Chambliss (49.8 percent) and Lauren “Bubba” McDonald may be headed to a runoff. For almost two years, we have stressed the importance of grassroots politics in the 9th District. Last night, the 9th District was the most successful congressional district for the Republican team in the state of Georgia because we remembered and applied  Republican principles in our communities. Again, thanks for all you have done to grow the Republican majority in Georgia! Kevin J. Harris Chairman, 9th District GOP (706) 455-9200 www.gagop9.org   Brief Overview of the 9th District: Congressman Nathan Deal earned more the 75 percent of the vote and will return to Washington D.C. The Ninth Congressional District becomes the ONLY district in the state with an entire Republican legislative delegation. All incumbents won reelection, Tom Weldon won Ron Forster’s open seat, and Blairsville’s Stephen Allison beat well-known Democrat Charles Jenkins to “sweep” the 9th. In our very aggressive “8 in 08” campaign, 6 of the 8 formerly Democratic seats that were targeted by the 9th District GOP were won by the Republican candidate In 15 counties, EVERY incumbent Republican on the ballot last night will return to office in January. In 6 counties (Dawson, Fannin, Forsyth, Gilmer, Lumpkin, and Pickens) no Democrat was elected in the 2008 election cycle. In addition, the Republican Challenger (Scott Clements) is beating the Democratic incumbent Tax Commissioner in Gordon County with paper ballots remaining to be counted. In 2 additional counties (Dade and Catoosa), Republicans did not lose a single contested race-the only returning Democrats will be those who did not have Republican opposition. In 2 counties (Whitfield-Sherriff and Hall-Commission seat) only 1 Democrat was elected at the local level. 84 Republican candidates won election/re-election without facing Democratic opposition. In comparison, only 21 Democrats were re-elected without Republican opposition. Even with tough losses in Murray County against incumbent Democrats, Republican took the Sole Commissioner and all three school board seats There is not a single county in the 9th District that does not have at least ONE Republican at the local level. Republican wins colored in BLUE Democrat win colored in YELLOW   HEAD-TO-HEAD RACES NINTH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICTS CATOOSA COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS CHAIRMAN (R) KEITH GREENE LYNN LONG BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 3 (R) JIM CUTLER GEORGE DUNCAN CHIEF MAGISTRATE (R) DONALD “SONNY” CALDWELL   (Incumbent)   JOAN KOPLAN         DADE COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC INDEPENDENT COUNTY EXECUTIVE (R) TED RUMLEY   DON TOWNSEND     BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS        DISTRICT 3 (R) ROBERT GOFF     CARY CARTER   BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 3 (R) RONNIE PAGE    DAVID MOON     BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 4 (R) CAROLYN BRADFORD     (Incumbent)   RICKEY MURDOCK     BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 5 (R) DAVID SWADER   MACKIE McBRYAR     SHERIFF (R) PATRICK CANNON      (Incumbent) NATHAN BAKER MIKE NORRIS                 FANNIN COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC INDEPENDENT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS    CHAIRMAN (R) BILL SIMONDS     JERRY PROCTOR   BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS  POST 1 (D) GARNETT WEBB     TOM LEDFORD (Incumbent)     SHERIFF (D) DANE KIRBY GEORGE ENSLEY (Incumbent)     CORONER (D) DUSTIN LONG BECKY CALLIHAN (INCUMBENT)                   FORSYTH COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 4 (R) Patrick Bell   Jon Flack BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 4 (R) Darla Sexton Light Sheila Elliott         GILMER COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS POST 2 (R) J.C. SANFORD   GERALD L. DAVIS TAX COMMISSIONER (D) MELBA BENNETT FRANK “THE MILKMAN” ELLIOTT  (Incumbent)           GORDON COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 1 (R)                             JUDY WEBB BAILEY  (Incumbent)   GERALD BROWN BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS                          DISTRICT 3 (R) ALVIN LONG  (Incumbent)   RICKY E. SMITH BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 5 (D) GEORGE “DUCK” TOWNSEND   PHIL GARNER (Incumbent) SHERIFF (D) MITCH RALSTON RODNEY GLASS TAX COMMISSIONER (D) SCOTT CLEMENTS PEGGY SMITH (Incumbent) CORONER (R) JAMES CARVER (Incumbent) COREY COCHRAN         LUMPKIN COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC INDEPENDENT COMMISSION CHAIR (R) JOHN RABER   EMILY LEWY   TAX COMMISSIONER (R) RACHEL ELLEN PRUITT LANA PRUITT                    MURRAY COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   SOLE COMMISSIONER (D) DAVID RIDLEY   GREG HOGAN BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 2 (R) KAY LYNN McCURDY ANTHONY GALLMAN BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 3 (N) REBECCA WHALEY JERRY E. DAVIS BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 4 (R) GREG SHOEMAKER RAY KEENER CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT (D) RITA HAWKINS CONNIE REED SHERIFF (D) BENNY DAVENPORT HOWARD ENSLEY (Incumbent)   PICKENS COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN INDEPENDENT SOLE COMMISSIONER (R) ROB JONES    (Incumbent)   VINCENT McPHERSON   CORONER  (R) KEVIN ROPER (Incumbent) LONNIE WATERS     UNION COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   SOLE COMMISSIONER (D) HAROLD COOK   LAMAR PARRIS     (Incumbent) CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT (D) HERBERT  KELLY JUDY ODUM SHERIFF (D) TOM JONES SCOTT STEPHENS (Incumbent) TAX COMMISSIONER (D) JESSE LEE KNIGHT J.W. PAYNE (Incumbent)   WALKER COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   SOLE COMMISSIONER  (R) Bebe Heiskell (Incumbent) P.J. Wilson BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 4 (R) Patty Debord Hart   (Incumbent)   Heather Pickard   CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT (D) Carter Brown   Debbie Lawrence SHERIFF (D) Billy Dewayne Mullis   Steve Wilson (Incumbent) CORONER (R) W. Dewayne Wilson (Incumbent) Ronald Cabero             WHITE COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS              CHAIRMAN (R) TRAVIS TURNER    JOE HATCHER BOARD OF EDUCATION CHAIR (R) KENDALL BROCK    (Incumbent)   DAN LILES           WHITFIELD COUNTY OFFICE: REPUBLICAN DEMOCRATIC   BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 1 (R) THOMAS BARTON   MITCH HASTY CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT (R) MELICA KENDRICK    (Incumbent) SUSAN MILLER SHERIFF  (D) CLAUDE H. NIX SCOTT CHITWOOD (Incumbent) TAX COMMISSIONER  (R) DANNY SANE     (Incumbent) JIM MILLER             2008 9th District Picnic Another Huge Success July 28, 2008 by Kevin Harris, 9th District Chairman What a weekend! The annual 9th District picnic and quarterly committee meeting was hosted by Chairman Larry Toney and the Pickens County GOP. For the second consecutive year, it was one of the better attended and most enjoyable picnics in the history of the party. Congressman Nathan Deal, State GOP Chair Sue Everhart, DOT Board Member Steve Farrow, Senator Chip Pearson, and Representatives Roger Williams, Tom Dickson, David Ralston, and Martin Scott were among the federal and state officials in attendance. In addition, a number of elected officials and candidates seeking local office were also available to meet and discuss the issues with the voters. Many thanks to the Chairman Toney and Pickens County GOP team for such a great day!   Prior to the picnic, Pickens County was awarded the 2009 9th District GOP Convention in a unanimous vote following a detailed presentation by Mary Ellen Childree. Last year, Chairman Josh Turner and the White County GOP did a wonderful job, and Pickens County will be challenged to meet the high expectations for next year’s district convention. Congratulations to Pickens County and we look forward to partnering with their   Leading up to the 2008 election cycle, the 9th District GOP has partnered with local parties and concluded its strongest candidate recruitment and ticket-building effort in the history of the district. In all, there were 52 meetings with elected officials and perspective candidates in the five months prior to qualifying.  These efforts were done in conjunction and partnering with the local county chairs/ leadership. One of the results of these efforts was a total of 10 former Democratic elected officials across North Georgia qualified as a Republican in 2008.   Following the completion of qualifying, a 9th District Election Task Force was created to provide a comprehensive overview of each race in the fifteen counties across North Georgia. From the report, the district committee during our meeting unanimously approved the 2008 strategy that included the “8 in 08 Campaign”. The committee reviewed and identified the races that could need assistance during the 2008 campaign season.  In the “8 in 08 Campaign”, eight local races in the fifteen counties where Democrats were elected in 2004 were identified and reviewed. Due to a variety of reasons, however, the identified races this year should be competitive and the Republican nominee should have an excellent opportunity to present their case for change directly to the voters.   While there is much work to be done before November, the results of our efforts thus far have exceeded expectations. As a district we have completed much work, but there are 100 days left to ensure that our energy and momentum are not in vain. This election cycle, there are 157 local positions that will be on the ballot in November across the 15 counties. While it is a lofty goal, I personally believe we can work to ensure that Republican incumbents and candidates win 75 percent of the positions available in North Georgia in November with just a little extra effort this year. Thank you for what each of you do to grow the Republican majority in North Georgia! In November, we look forward to another record setting year in the 9th District GOP. Kevin Harris 9th District Chairman   Pickens County Awarded Bid to Host 2009 9th Congressional District Republican Convention At its regularly scheduled District Committee meeting on July 26, 2008, the 9th District Committee selected Pickens County to host the 2009 GOP District Convention. The Convention is scheduled to be held on April 17 and 18, 2009. “Given the success of Republican candidates in Pickens County, it should be no surprise that committee members across North Georgia unanimously chose Jasper for our 2009 banquet and convention”, stated District GOP Chairman Kevin Harris. “I would like to congratulate Commissioner Rob Jones, GOP Chair Larry Toney, and the entire Pickens County GOP for this team effort to bring this event to Pickens County. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the area and I look forward to working with the local party and volunteers to ensure that this will be a successful event.”  By hosting the convention, Pickens County will become the center of attention for North Georgia Republicans in 2009. On Friday evening, the traditional banquet will serve to kick off the weekend activities. On Saturday, delegates and alternates from fifteen counties in North Georgia will officially convene the 2009 GOP District Convention.  One of the primary functions of the convention will be to elect district officers for the next two years. In addition, the district conducts its regular business following into the 2008 election cycle. Statewide elected officials, members of the Georgia General Assembly, and additional special guests will be part of the weekend’s activities. Pickens County GOP Chair Larry Toney was pleased with the District Committee’s selection process:  "The Pickens County Republican Party is delighted to be selected as the site of the 2009 9th District convention. We welcome all fellow Republicans from across north Georgia to our county and trust they will have a wonderful visit as well as a productive convention here. We are proud of our county and its wonderful citizens and look forward to sharing the best of what we can offer to our colleagues from the District. " Prior to the selection, Pickens County has been well represented on the district committee. The proposal to host the 2009 Convention was presented by 9th District Regional Director Mary Ellen Childree and District Committee Chair Larry Toney.  Pickens County GOP Chair Larry Toney is also a member of the district committee, and was Chair of the 2008 9th District Election Task Force. Each year, the Pickens County GOP traditionally hosts the annual 9th District GOP picnic. At each activity and event, residents of Pickens County traditionally have among the strongest attendance of any of the 15 counties of the 9th Congressional District. The 9th Congressional District of Georgia covers 15 counties that include all or parts of: Dade, Walker, Catoosa, Whitfield, Murray, Gordon, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Lumpkin, White, Dawson, Hall, and Forsyth Counties.     For additional information, visit the Ninth District website at www.gagop9.org or contact Chairman Kevin Harris at (706) 455-9200 or via email at kevin@integritypublicaffairs.com.     4Tusk to Tusk: The 9th District GOP Newsletter for our County Chairmen   April 8, 2008   Due to health concerns, Bill Adams will be unable to continue to serve as interim Rules Chair. We will continue to have Bill and Diane in our prayers with his continued situation, and completely understand how difficult this decision was for Bill. For those of you who know Bill, this decision was made followed on AFTER his doctor’s recommendation J Bill has service the 9th District well over the years. With this in mind, Mary Ellen Childree has been asked to assume the interim Rules Chair for the 9th District Convention. Mary Ellen is a member of the Pickens County Republican Party, and one of the most dedicated Republicans in the 9th District.  She has graciously accepted, and has selected Doug Grammer to fill her vacated position as member of the interim Rules Committee. Mary Ellen and Doug are well-known throughout the district and have served in a number of capacities through the years. We welcome both members in their new interim roles.   Please distribute this information to interested parties attending the banquet that evening.  In advance, we would like to thank Chairman Evans for hosting this great event. The 2008 9th District weekend is going to be a great event.  Thanks for what each of you do to grow the Republican majority in North Kevin J. Harris Chairman, 9th District GOP PO Box 1 Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559 (706) 455-9200 Cell www.gagop9.org Back to top   April 3, 2008   9th District Banquet and Convention - April 18 - 19, 2008   Several items:   The reservations for the banquet have hit an official record! Over 200 people have confirmed their attendance for the April 18 Friday evening banquet.  The banquet facility will only hold 250 people, and it appears that we will have a maximum crowd by that evening. If you could, please let people know that there less than 50 seats now available for the Friday evening event. It is going to be a great night! Since they are first-come, first serve, make sure your county party members know about this event. If there is someone you know wanting to attend the banquet, please touch base with them to let them know that seats are running out!     Please consider forwarding the sponsorship opportunities (see the attachment) to potential businesses and individuals to friendly contacts in your area.  As you know, the sponsorships help with paying for the banquet.  Once the banquet is paid for, ALL proceeds that are received will be split with the county parties on an EQUAL basis.  Ideally, if enough sponsorships are secured, Friday evening when the individuals write their checks/donations, they will fill in their county. That county will receive half of that donation in a timely manner. While you are helping the district, you are also helping your home county as well! There have been many inquiries into running as a delegate or alternate for the National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. If someone is interested, they need to inform Dr. Mary Jones, Chair of the Nominations Committee, as they can. She may be contacted at joneswmkj@ellijay.com.    Just in 4/3/08: Nominations Chairman Mary Jones has announced that the Nominations Committee will be available from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at Black Bear Resort on Friday, April 18, and Saturday morning April 19, at 9:15 a.m. prior to the actual convention for people interested in running for National Delegate or Alternate positions. She encourages all interested persons to forward resumes and other information to her attention so the committee will have the information in a timely manner to review for their recommendation that will be made to the Convention on Saturday during the actual convention. To be considered as a Delegate or Alternate by the Nominations Committee, interested parties need to go before the committee before its recommendation is released to the convention to be considered for one of the 6 available positions. The Nominations Committee will select 3 Delegates and 3 Alternates (6 total people) to represent the 9th District GOP at the Republican National Convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota that will begin September 1, 2008. Read more about the convention, committees, etc. on our web site: www.gagop9.org - column one.  § Road to Victory Banquet  4/18/08 - See Menu  § District Convention Delegate  Forms - Alternate Forms  § Convention Agenda Kevin Thank you for growing the Republican majority in North Georgia. You are making a difference! Kevin J. Harris Chairman, 9th District GOP PO Box 1 Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559 (706) 455-9200 Cell www.gagop9.org Back to top February 9, 2008 Dear 9th District Members Thank you for a very successful meeting in Gainesville this afternoon.  For the third consecutive meeting, there was excellent attendance, with thirteen of the fifteen counties being represented. Also, we would like to send a special thanks to Paul Stanley and the Hall County GOP for assisting with the logistics of the meeting. In addition, we would like to thank Mike Evans, Senator Jack Murphy, Senator Lee Hawkins and Jim Pilgrim (on behalf of Rep. Carl Rogers) for visiting the meeting and sharing their thoughts and comments. Finally, we are especially grateful to State GOP Treasurer Bob Mayzes for helping us to prepare for the 2008 convention cycle. During the meeting, District Chairman Kevin Harris announced the following committee chairmen for the upcoming district convention: Bill Adams (Rules), Josh Turner (Registration and Welcome), Judy Grammar (Credentials), Wesley Clark (Finance), Bill McDonald (Resolutions), and Speaker’s Bureau (Brad Scott). In addition, Larry Toney was named as the official liaison to chair to work with potential candidates and incumbent Republicans going into the July primaries and November election cycle. Please contact the committee chairman or Kevin Harris if you know someone who would like to be considered for a particular committee. Due to district rules, the district committee approved the following people to serve as the Nominations Committee: Mary Jones (Chair), Lurline Argo, Don Hutelin, Blake Collins, Susan Ellis, Andrew Miller, Truett Moss, Al Chang, and Jim Pilgrim. The 2008 District Convention will be the best yet! I look forward to seeing each of you at Black Bear Resort at the 9th District banquet on April 18, 2008. Kevin J. Harris Chairman, 9th District GOP PO Box 1 Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559 (706) 455-9200 Cell www.gagop9.org Back to top ================================================== Mark your calendar for the 9th District Convention April 18 - 19, 2008 -- Hosted by the White County Republican Party Joshua Turner, Chairman Friday night Road to Victory Banquet at the Black Bear Dinner Theater. Half way between Cleveland and Helen www.blackbeardinnertheatre.com/public (currently advertising their Valentines Day Special.) Helen Black Bear Lodge & Cabins  - 310 Black Bear Ridge, Sautee, GA 30571 http://helenblackbear.com/ - Get Directions     Friday night lodging will be available at the Ramada Inn in Helen or at the     Black Bear Lodge and Cabins. Saturday Convention at White County High School 2600 Hwy. 129 North, Cleveland -- one mile out of Cleveland More specific information and schedule to follow soon. Watch for flyer at top of column one on our website - coming soon.  www.gagop9.org Joshua Turner, White GOP Chairman Post Office Box 515 Cleveland, Georgia 30528 Home: (706) 219-3719 Cell: (706) 892-7747 Back to top ==================================================== 9th DISTRICT RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the Ninth District Congressional District contains the strongest Republican delegation in the state of Georgia, with 23 of the 24 legislators carrying the Republican banner, and WHEREAS, the Ninth District Republican Party proudly supports each of the twenty-three House and Senate members to act in the best interest of their districts and to represent the voters in their individual districts, and WHEREAS Mike Evans was reappointed to serve a 5-year term as the 9th Congressional District’s representative to the state board of the Georgia Department of Transportation and WHEREAS, many House and Senate members received emails, letters, phone calls, and resolutions from elected officials, community leaders, party leaders, and voters to support Mike Evans, and WHEREAS, individual Representatives like Tom Graves, Martin Scott, John Meadows, Doug Collins, and Mark Hamilton should be encouraged and supported for listening to their constituents as their representative in a Republic form of government, and WHEREAS, the voters and the people residing in the Ninth District lost eight separate leadership positions because of the actions taken following the vote, and WHEREAS, recent election cycles which have led to a Republican Revolution in Georgia were largely because of the perceptions and antics of the former Democratic political machine and its leaders, and WHEREAS, we embrace Reagan’s 11th Commandment that “Thou shalt not speak ill of a fellow Republican”, Be it resolved, that the Ninth District Republican Party denounce the action of removing these Representatives from their leadership positions within their respective committees and all other forms of retaliation by Speaker of the House Glenn Richardson and impel Speaker Richardson to rescind his decision and reinstate these Representatives immediately to all positions of power and privilege to which they were appointed at the beginning of the session, and Be it further resolved that the Ninth District Republican Party encourages all of its leaders to embrace the qualities of statesmen and make every effort to work together for a conservative agenda that will make Georgians and our party activists proud. This 9th day of February, 2008 by the District Committee of the 9th District Republican Party. Back to top         January 27, 2008 Official Meeting Call - Rescheduled District Meeting 2/9/08 Hello, Ninth District Committee Members: We have an important District Committee meeting upcoming on Saturday, February 9, 2008, in Gainesville, GA.  The meeting will be held at Ryan's Family Steak House starting at 11:30 am.  The official meeting call, proposed agenda, proxy, and location information are attached.  (reminder - we will be electing an Assistant Secretary at this meeting) Chairman Kevin Harris wants to stress the following things to everyone for this upcoming meeting: Notice the slight time change.  The meeting will start promptly at 11:30am.  This will allow us to complete all business in one single meeting.  In an effort to save time, everyone is asked to order or go through the buffet before the meeting starts at 11:30 am.  Please plan your arrival time accordingly.  The only way we can get through the meeting in the allocated time is to have ordered or gone through the buffet by 11:30am.  This should allow us to adjourn by 2:15 pm (or hopefully earlier).   The guest speaker at the meeting is Bob Mayzes.  Bob is a long-time Republican activist and current State GOP Treasurer. He is going to do a detailed overview of the 2008 convention cycle and how to run your county convention.  Please feel free (you are encouraged) to invite individuals from your party -- the more people who understand the process, the better!   With the 2008 Republican National Convention coming up, the State and National GOP will be watching closely how we conduct our conventions. The convention training in item #2 is critical to accomplishing this goal.  The leadership team of the 9th District expects that we will, in all cases, without fail, abide by the established rules of our party.   Ryan's Family Steak House is providing the meeting room at no charge.  They do ask that we eat while we are there.   We will be filling the vacancy of Assistant Secretary Phyllis Forster for the remainder of the term at the February 2008 meeting.  An email on Phyllis's resignation was sent in early January.   County Chairs -- When you are giving your regular report, Kevin would like you to please include a status report of the current office and partisan makeup of the local elected officials that are up in the 2008 election cycle (e.g. Commission Chair, Commission Board, School Board - if partisan, Clerk of Court, Tax Commissioner, Sheriff, Magistrate and Probate Judges - if partisan, etc.)  If the County Chair is unable to attend the meeting, please make sure a representative of your county is ready to give the report.  This will be used to finalize district goals for the 2008 election cycle.     This web site has a map to get to Ryan's Family Steak House. It also links to directions that allow you to type in your specific address and provides that map to Ryan's.   http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF-8&q=Ryan%27s&near=Gainesville,+GA&fb=1&cid=34274808,-83860328,17214136306735521605&li=lmd&z=14&t=m Also attached are the Minutes and Roll Calls from the October 13, 2007 Regular District Meeting, and the October 13, 2007 Appeal Meeting.  These will be on the agenda for approval.  The attachments to these Minutes will be available at the meeting, but if anyone wants a copy before then, give me a call.  Bettye will have meeting information posted on the website as well.  Travel safely.    Kevin Harris, Chairman (706) 455-9200 cell  Sally Forest, Secretary (H) 706-698-3257 (C) 706-889-1284 (notice to Blake Collins and Louise Little by phone) Back to top   January 27, 2008 -- If county chairs know someone running or thinking about running, make sure they find out about this great opportunity! FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:      The Catoosa County Republican Party, in conjunction with the (9th District Republican Party) to host “Grassroots Candidate Workshop” Ringgold, GA,. The Catoosa County Republican Party and the 9th District GOP are proud to announce that they will be hosting a candidate grassroots workshop on Saturday, February 2, 2008. The workshop will start at 9:00 AM, at the Ringgold City Hall; Ringgold, GA. All Republican incumbents and candidates in the 9th Congressional District are welcome.  This workshop is designed to help our candidates prepare for the 2008 election cycle. The topics will include: yard signs, door to door, phone banking, GOTV, media relations, fundraising, qualifying information, and much more. Political experts from all across Georgia will be teaching in each of the areas of topics. For further information and to RSVP contact Brad Scott, 423-779-2459 or bradscottgop@comcast.net.   Back to top     December 10, 2007 In less than one month, the primary and caucus season will finally arrive!  The next year is a critical time in the life of our nation. More quickly than imaginable, voters will begin to formulate opinions on the candidates and the direction that our country will be taking for the next four years. During the last eight months, the leadership team of the 9th District Republican Party has worked with each individual county to prepare for the 2008 election cycle.  While attention tends to focus on Presidential politics, the Executive Committee of the 9th District GOP understands that the battle for the direction of our country begins not in Washington D.C. but in each person throughout North Georgia.  In 2008, the counties that make up the Ninth Congressional District of Georgia will experience the strongest Republican ticket that has ever been presented to its voters. There have been unprecedented efforts to ensure strong candidates for sheriff, school board, commission board, clerk of court, tax commissioner, surveyor, and coroner.  At the state level, it is critical to increase our legislative majority by one to ensure that EVERY state house and state senate member from our area is a Republican. Before 2008 rolls around, however, let’s take a moment to enjoy the time we have with family and our individual communities. From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas. May the peace and love of the holiday season surround each of you with His love and grace.  Kevin Harris 9th District Chairman Back to top November 16, 2007 For your review, I have forwarded the periodic newsletter from me to the 9th District County Chairs. This is another way we are attempting to communicate with the individual counties. TUSK TO TUSK: THE 9th DISTRICT GOP NEWSLETTER FOR OUR COUNTY CHAIRMEN In a moment of decision the best thing you can do is the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing. Theodore Roosevelt 2008 County Conventions: Be Prepared Last week, the Georgia GOP forwarded the 2008 Georgia Republican Convention Planning Manual.  In a separate email to District Chairs, the Georgia GOP has asked that we begin to schedule county convention training for the prior to the end of this year. In a joint effort, the state has extended the deadline for the required training so it can be during our regularly scheduled district meeting on January 19, 2008. Prior to our next meeting, PLEASE be aware of the dates that every County GOP Chair must comply: Short-Term Convention Time Line December 1, 2007                     Deadline for UNDER 80,000 counties to notify State Committee its                                                       plan to hold Precinct Mass Meetings on February 16, 2008                                                      (GRP Rule 5.2) January 2, 2008                         Deadline for Over 80,000 Counties  to request Precinct                                                        Consolidation (GRP Rule 5.1) January 17, 2008                     Deadline for State Executive Committee to respond to Rule 5.1                                                      request. If there is no response, County may implement consolidation Before February 1, 2008                  All counties meet to issue Call or adopt GRP call Form convention committees and make arrangements Review GRP Call and Planning Manual Make copies of all necessary forms Obtain voter lists for credential verifications at meetings Contact GRP for assistance with Voter Vault lists if necessary                                                                        February 1, 2008                   OVER 80,000 counties and any Under 80,000 Counties that hold                                                    their precinct meetings on February 16 publish newspaper legal notice                                                    to announce precinct, county and district meetings   *      (NOTE: THE COMPLETE LIST OF DUE DATES WILL BE INCLUDED IN A SEPARATE EMAIL)    Next 9th District Meeting January 19, 2008 Don’t forget the regular scheduled district meeting that will be held on January 19, 2008 in Gainesville.  There are a number of items (including planning for the District Convention in White County) that will be discussed.  In addition, State GOP Treasurer, Bob Mayzes, will be the special guest speaker during this important meeting.  For those who are not familiar with Bob, he has a long and experienced resume in Georgia politics. Bob’s expertise and knowledge-base through years of Republican politics and convention cycles will provide hands-on advice and wisdom during this portion of our meeting.  His presentation is much needed for the upcoming county convention cycle.   While district members are expected to attend, any interested county officers and local Republicans are welcome to attend as well. Convention Committees As you are completing your list of committee members for your county conventions, be thinking of people to suggest for service to the district convention to be held in April. There are a number of suggested committees that need to be by the GOP Chairs at the county and district level:  Arrangements, Registration, Credentials, Nominating, Rules, Sergeant-at-Arms, and Resolutions. While I have the authority to make the appointments to the district convention committees, I ask and would appreciate any input from the each of you.  I would personally like to have the interim committee members announced for the district by the end of this year.  Please provide suggestions in the next month to help me fill these committee slots. Candidate Recruitment: The District is Here to Serve You Qualifying for the 2008 election cycle will be here before we know it! During the next five months, it is CRITICAL that we ensure that there are qualified Republican candidates that will represent our party in the general election next year. We have set an aggressive goal of having a Republican candidate for every partisan position in all 15 counties.  Too often, people want to vote against a Democratic incumbent at the local level, but we fail to have candidates ready to run for public office during qualifying week. As your district chair, I want to help grow your party.  If there is an interested person thinking about running as a Republican, I would love to talk with them. If there is a Democrat incumbent or an open seat, we need to make sure that a viable Republican is ready to seek that office. Already, we have worked with many of you to ensure that the Republican ticket is the strongest team we have ever presented to the voters in North Georgia. 9th District Weekly Column Growing Throughout the District For those who haven’t heard, we have teamed up with the 9th District Democratic Chair (Bob Barton) to produce a weekly column for local newspapers in North Georgia. Each week a column is written that represents a Republican perspective that one of our members would like to share. Currently, the articles run in seven counties. Several of you have already written columns (or made the commitment to write a column in the future). I encourage each of you to take the opportunity to use this vehicle to spread the Republican message from your perspective. Also, if our column is not running in your area, take a chance to talk with your local editor and see if they would be interested in running the weekly columns. Outside the Box: Local Cable TV Each newsletter, we will be highlighting an activity or idea that a local party will attempt or has already implementing.  The concept behind this segment is to get local chairs and officers to think “outside the box”.  Please send any and all suggestions to kevinh@etcmail.com for future newsletters. The Walker and Catoosa County GOPs have teamed up with its local cable company to have a weekly TV program that is broadcast throughout Northwest Georgia. Each Thursday evening, hosts Steve Ellis and Brad Scott have a 30 minute show with a “call-in” format. In many of your counties, there is a local television station or cable company that is looking for quality programming. Have you considered the possibility of working with your local company to see if you could “host” a weekly Republican TV show.  It would be a chance to advertise our party, events, elected officials, and educate the voters on the issues.  Many local, and state elected officials would love the opportunity to talk to the voters and discuss the issues in a more “friendly” environment. VARIOUS NOTES AND REMINDERS Thanks to US Senator Saxby Chambliss’ 9th District Chairman, Larry Toney, and the Whitfield County GOP (especially Judy McNelley and Janet Cochran) for working so hard to ensure a successful visit by Senator Chambliss to Dalton, Georgia. Please mark April 18 and 19 on your calendar.  The annual banquet, held on Friday evening, is the major fundraiser for the 9th District GOP for 2008. We will be asking for suggestions and sponsorships within the next 3 weeks, so be ready with ideas from your county. Thanks to Larry Toney and the Pickens County Republican Party, the date for the 9th District Annual Picnic has been confirmed for Saturday, August 2, 2008.  Last year’s picnic was among the highest number of participants in the history of the district, and we hope to expand on its success in 2008. We have moved to that date to avoid a conflict with the Governor's annual event on the second Saturday. OTHER DATES AND EVENTS Just to keep everyone in the “loop”, I will attend the following activities and events in the next month: White County will be hosting State Senator Chip Pearson on Monday, November 19, 2007, at 6:30 p.m. at West Family Restaurant. Lumpkin County will be hosting DOT Board Chair Mike Evans at on Wednesday, November 28, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. at the United Community Bank Community Room. The Dade County Republican Party will have a float in the annual Christmas Parade on December 1, 2007. The Union County Annual Christmas Dinner (December 4, 2007 at the UCB-Brackett Room) For additional information contact Chuck Honaker at charles.honaker@us.army.mil. Don Hutelin will have a float for the Catoosa County GOP and his candidate for President, Fred Thompson, in the Christmas Parade on Friday evening, December 7. Gilmer County GOP will be hosting a book signing on Friday, December 14, 2007 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for J. Tom Morgan’s new book Ignorance is No Defense: A Teenagers Guide to Georgia Law at the Bobcat Den at the Gilmer County Bank. For additional information contact Linda Wright at wrightlinda@hotmail.com. The Fannin County GOP Christmas Dinner will also be on Friday, December 14, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. at the Appalachian Community Bank Community Room. For ticket information, contact Bill Simonds at bsim@etcmail.com or 706-492-4002. If you would like me to attend one of your events, just let me know! Thanks for your service to the Republican Party and the communities in North Georgia.  Be a part of the growing majority party in Georgia-come grow with us!  Kevin J. Harris Chairman, 9th District GOP PO Box 1 Mineral Bluff, Georgia 30559 (706) 455-9200 Cell ACTION ITEMS: 1.      Read the Convention Planning Manual.  Know the important due dates! 2.      Forward the Convention Planning Manual to your County Officers, committee members, and any additional people who may be involved in your 2008 county convention. 3.      If your county doesn’t carry the district weekly column, contact your local newspaper to see if they will join the other counties in carrying this column. 4.      Let me know if there is an event/meeting you would like me to attend!  As District Chair, I want to be an active partner in growing your party. 5.      Don’t forget to let everyone know about the January 19-the Quarterly District Committee meeting in Gainesville, Georgia (location TBD).  Back to top Follow Up to October 13 Meeting Thank you to each of you attending the Dade County Appeal, the 9th District Committee meeting, or the state GOP training following the full committee meeting.  Following a FULL day, TWELVE counties were represented at the training!  A special thanks goes from the 9th District to Ben Fry and Doug Reineke for meeting with us in Dalton on Saturday afternoon. During the Georgia GOP training in Dalton on Saturday, a request for the contact information to various Presidential candidates was mentioned to the state GOP staff members. Following this request, GOP State Political Director Ben Fry forwarded the following spreadsheet below regarding the various campaigns.  The sheet contains the national contact information.  Keep in mind, there are various organizations and contacts in Georgia (i.e. NW Georgia for Fred www.nwgaforfred.com ; Sean Donnelly with Rudy Giuliani, Sam Teasely with Mike Huckabee, or any other official or unofficial regional or state contacts) but there are the national contacts to allow you to reach and/or establish the grassroots network in your area. Once our primary is over, it is important to remember Ronald Reagan’s 11th Commandment:  “Thou Shalt not speak ill of a fellow Republican.” There will be an intense race to become our party’s nominee, and that is always an enjoyable (but stressful!) period.  Once the primary is over, we MUST unite behind our nominee.  Currently, Democratic Presidential candidates are out raising Republican candidates by almost 3-1, and virtually every poll show Democrats with an edge in November 2008.  To win, we must have clear, conservative, principled leadership and be united behind our nominee. In November 2008, North Georgia will see the strongest Republican ticket it has ever experienced.  We will be competitive from Coroner, Sheriff, Commission Boards, State House, Congress, the White House, and every office in between.  Be a part of the majority party in North Georgia-come grow with us! In kindest regards, I remain,  Kevin J. Harris Chairman, Ninth District GOP P.O. Box 1 Mineral Bluff, Georgia  30559 (706) 900-3000 Home (706) 455-9200 Cell   RNC 2008 Presidential Contact Information CANDIDATE   Sen. Sam Brownback Brownback for President, Inc 2436 SW Camelot Place Topeka KS 66614 703-549-3050 www.brownback.com     Mayor Rudy Giuliani Rudy Giuliani Presidential Exploratory Committee Inc. 295 Greenwich Street Box 356 New York, NY 10007 www.joinrudy2008.com 212-835-9449     Huckabee for President                Exploratory Committee, Inc. P.O. Box 2008  Little Rock, Arkansas 72203 www.explorehuckabee.com 501-324-2008     Congressman Duncan Hunter Hunter For President, Inc. 9340 Fuerte Drive Suite 302 La Mesa, CA 91941 www.gohunter08.com 619-463-3896     Sen. John McCain John McCain 2008 1235 South Clark Street M Floor Arlington, VA 22202 www.johnmccain.com 703-418-2008     Congressman Ron Paul Ron Paul 2008 Presidential    Campaign Committee Suite 122 Arlington, VA 22203 www.ronpaul2008.com 703-650-9559     Governor Mitt Romney Romney for President, Inc.                                       585 Commercial St. www.mittromney.com 857-288-6400 Romney for President, Inc. P.O. Box 55899 Boston, MA 02205-5899     Tom Tancredo Tancredo for a Secure America 501 Church Street, Suite 212 Vienna, VA 22108 www.teamtancredo.com 703 255-9898     Fred Thompson Friends of Fred Thompson, Inc. P.O. Box 128349 Nashville, TN 37212-8349 www.imwithfred.com Back to top   September 29, 2007 Fellow 9th District Republicans: In preparation for our next activities, please officially mark October 13, 2007 on your calendar.  The appeal that has been forwarded from Dade County will be reviewed beginning at 11:00 a.m.  Following the appeal, a full District Committee meeting will be held.  Further, after several months of discussion, the state GOP has agreed to provide training primarily targeted for Republican chairmen, party officers, and other active Republicans. This training will begin upon adjournment of the 9th District Committee meeting.  All activities will take place at the Western Sizzlin Restaurant, 501 Legion Drive, in Dalton, Georgia.  The Western Sizzlin has graciously agreed to host the event, but encourages everyone to eat while we are there.  Please get the word out regarding this critical event.  Other than your meal, there is NO COST to attend the District meeting or the Georgia GOP training. See map to Western sizzlin A tentative timeline is listed below: 11:00 am. - Dade County Appeal (all 9th District County Chairs and District Committee members) 12:00 pm.  - 9th District full Committee Meeting (all 9th District County Chairs and District Committee members) 2:00 pm.-  Georgia GOP statewide training (all interested Republican activists-even outside the 9th District GOP).  Training tentatively should last about 1 1/2 - 2 hours.  Attached for your review is the official Meeting Call Notice with the Proposed Agenda and the Proxy form for the October 13 full District Committee Meeting.  The proposed Minutes from the August 4 meeting are also attached.  During the next couple of days, there will be two additional emails - one regarding the Dade County appeal that will contain the relevant information for the Dade County hearing, and another email regarding additional information on the special training that the Georgia GOP has agreed to provide following our district activities.  All 9th District Committee members are encouraged to attend all three events, but the statewide training is for any Republican in your community who is interested in growing the Republican majority.    Click here to read the official call and the Proposed Agenda and the Proxy. Again, prior to the 9th District Committee which will begin at 12:00,  there will be a hearing regarding the appeal from Dade County.  This appeal will begin at 11:00 am.  If you are unable to attend either meeting, please forward a proxy to one of the committee members that is planning to attend the October 13th meeting.  Important -- the Proxy form that is attached is a proxy for both the appeal meeting and the full District Committee meeting.  Please use this one.   If there are questions, contact Kevin Harris or Sally Forest for additional information, and please email Kevin and Sally to confirm if you will be attending.  Thank you.   Kevin Harris, Chairman 9th District GOP PO Box 1 Mineral Bluff, GA  30559 (706) 455-9200 cell (706) 900-3000 home Back to top Chairman’s Corner - August 30, 2007 The Ninth District GOP continues to grow and thrive.  As I have traveled the area, it has become clear that the Republican Party is the only party that can represent the majority of voters in our area.  The Republican Party is expanding on so many levels in our area.  Ricky Barrett, the Coroner in White County, recently announced his decision to switch to the Republican Party.  While at Truett McConnell College, I had the opportunity to teach one of Ricky’s sons.  Barrett is a welcome addition to the Republican Party.  I believe our 2008 District Convention in White County will be among the best we have ever experienced. For years, Democrats were able to say “I’m a Georgia Democrat”.  That was supposed to indicate that they were more conservative than their national allies.  With the election of Jane Kidd as Democratic State Party Chair, Georgia Democrats have decided to embrace their national colleagues and move the state party to the left (again). While Jane is a wonderful lady, Georgia Democrats have made a conscience decision to neglect conservative areas like North Georgia. As voters begin to understand that there is no difference between Georgia Democrats and their national counterparts, I can imagine that Mr. Barrett’s decision will not be the last announcement we will see in the Ninth District. This week, the Chairmen of the Ninth District Republican and Democratic Party began writing a column for The Sentinel, a paper with a weekly distribution in Fannin, Union, and Towns County. While they are three separate entities, the columns will run in Fannin and Union.  Most of the people familiar with the local papers in those counties will strongly agree that any coverage will be a welcome addition.  They are great communities, and it will be interesting to see if our friends on the other side will be willing to engage in the issues or resort to the typical name-calling and running from their actual position. Have a safe and well-deserved Labor Day weekend.  Keep planting the seeds of freedom, smaller government, and individual responsibility.  I appreciate all of the work each of you contributes to our cause.  The fruits of your labor are beginning to pay off in the Ninth District of Georgia! Kevin Harris 9th District Chairman Back to top August 4, 2007 THANK YOU! THANK YOU! 9th DISTRICT GOP PICNIC HUGE SUCCESS! To those of you who attended the picnic today, a huge thank you to all those involved.  A particular “thank you” goes out to Larry Toney and the Pickens County Republican Party.  Each and every person who came enjoyed good BBQ and fellowship with folks from across North Georgia.  Fourteen of the fifteen counties were represented at the annual event.  With 2007 being a non-election year, many expected a lower turnout.  Initial estimates show the crowd exceeded the announced goal and doubled the previous year’s attendance.  During the picnic, Fred Thompson was followed by Newt Gingrich, Rudy Giuliani, Mitt Romney, Mike Huckabee, and others to win the presidential straw poll. Some of the elected officials attending included:  District Attorney Joe Hendricks, Sole Commissioner Robert Jones, Commission Chairman Ben Brandon, Commissioner David Young, Representative John Meadows, Representative Tom Graves, Representative Mark Hamilton, Senator Jack Murphy, Senator Chip Pearson,  Superior Court Judge Harry Doss (non-partisan), and Georgia PSC member Angela Speir.  In addition, Lieutenant Governor Casey Cagle’s representative Dennis Pitts and Senator Johnny Isakson’s representative Denise Clopton were in attendance.  Due to the continued congressional action over the weekend, Congressman Nathan Deal unfortunately was unable to return to Jasper in time for the picnic.  Mike Evans, State DOT Chairman, did a fantastic job providing the keynote address. In a District meeting held prior to the meeting, a number of items were accomplished. The District Committee approved the “Ninth District Republican Revolution”, a list of principles that allows the 9th District to become the first district in the nation to discuss the issues leading into the 2008 election cycle.  A special congratulations goes out to Josh Turner and the White County GOP for their winning bid to host the 2008 District Convention.  In addition, the Rules Committee, chaired by Bill Adams, presented its report and the District approved the necessary changes. With the committee’s work complete, the Rules Committee has been dissolved. Press releases will provide additional details regarding actions taken at today's picnic.  None of the success would have been possible without you.  Again, thank you for making this year’s picnic one of the most memorable in a number of years. _________ August 4, 2007 Kevin Harris, Ninth District Chairman Back to top   Kevin Harris Chairman's Message June 30, 2007   “An army of principles can penetrate where an army of soldiers cannot”   -Thomas Paine Friends: During the past couple of weeks, I have pondered what our Founding Fathers would have thought if they were exposed to our modern democracy.  I’ve watched as liberal politicians have defended the intentions of the terrorists who are attacking our country rather than protecting our life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.  At the national level, the Democratic Congress has returned to power and quickly started adding earmarks, re-naming bridges, and passing resolutions regarding the “sovereignty of the Principality of Liechtenstein” (HR 233) and Grand Valley State University Football Team (HR 62).   I am fairly certain that all of these actions do not promote our nation’s prosperity, and well as our posterity.  Today’s Congress can’t even garner the votes to pass a bill to support our troops overseas without first needing to slip a federal minimum wage law into the final version of the bill.  It is safe to say that voters and citizens in general have been disengaged while our national debt continues to skyrocket and our children and grandchildren face will face increasing challenges because of our action, or lack thereof. Immigration This week, millions of Americans engaged their system of government during the immigration debate.  Initially, it appeared that both Georgia Senators were going to support the “comprehensive reform” package that was being proposed.  According to reports from Senator Isakson’s office, over 21,000 calls were taken asking him to oppose the legislation.  The Senate took action that virtually killed the immigration bill in its current form. I applaud Senators Isakson and Chambliss for their procedural motions during the immigration debate.  I can’t help but think the Founders would breathe a sigh of relief after the way our two Senators listened to citizens throughout Georgia and handled this difficult issue with their actual vote.  Now that the fate of the bill has been determined, I agree with Senator Isakson:  it is time to secure our nation’s borders.  Georgians have lost confidence in our government’s commitment to securing our border.  We can’t afford to return to the status quo and simply refuse to enforce our laws which are already on the books!  Communication Is Key In any organization, communication must be a key component to thrive and succeed. At the district level, delegates at the last convention selected Wesley Clark as First Vice-Chairman, Brad Scott as 2nd Vice-Chairman, Sally Forest as Secretary, Phyllis Forster as Assistant Secretary, Bobby Valentine as Treasurer, and Louise Little as Assistant Treasurer.  As Chairman, I have taken the privilege appointed Josh Kinsey of White County as the Sergeant-at-Arms and Paul Stanley as Parliamentarian.  In addition, Clint Smith, Dr. Mary Jones, Reva Jennings, and Regina Parris have been named Regional Directors.  In addition, the District Committee selected Bettye Chambers to return as the Communications Director.  Bettye has been working with the Ninth District as Communications Director for a number of years and will provide the consistency that our new Board needs going into 2008. I can tell you without their help, nothing would be possible.  I look forward to working with the talented group of people, and we have already accomplished several items heading into next year’s election cycle.  This is a team that the 9th District GOP can be proud of for the next two years! During the last convention cycle the air of change was evident in our grassroots organizations, with Republicans choosing new Chairmen in 13 or our 15 counties.  This doesn’t even include the Vice Chairmen, Treasurers, Secretaries, and all other critical officers at the county level.  Since that time, the newly elected chairmen have quickly gelled into a cohesive group.  During the past three months, it has become common to see elected officials and party leaders from one county attending an event or meeting in adjacent counties.  It is so encouraging to see new blood and eager volunteers throughout North Georgia.  While interest and ideas in the Democratic Party continues to decline, Republicans are solidifying their majority with strong candidates and common-sense solutions. By November 2008, our 15 counties are going to have the most effective political organization in the history of our district.  The first week after the district convention, I called the state GOP and requested that copies of training manuals be forwarded to the new Chairmen in the 9th District.  Originally, Senator Chip Pearson had created an extensive manual when he was an officer of the state party to assist county chairman.  It was a comprehensive resource that contained everything that a county chairman would need to know.  During a recent GOP meeting in Dawson County, Party Chairman Sue Everhart announced that an effort was underway to revise the manual.  When the revision is complete, we will make sure every county party has a copy of this book.   U.S. Army Ground Forces Concert Band to Perform in Jasper The Ninth District is home to many events and activities during the time around the 4th of July, but I would like to mention one particular event being hosted in Jasper, Georgia.  For those of you who have not heard, the Pickens County GOP is hosting the Army Ground Force Band.  This concert will be held at the Appalachian Technical Center located on Burnt Mountain Road from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Chairman Larry Toney, Lurline Argo, and many members of the Pickens GOP have worked very hard on this event, and this is an excellent opportunity to see one of the premier ensembles in the country.    District Picnic Faces Date Change Last week, I was made aware that Governor Perdue will announce that his annual Fish Fry has been scheduled for the same day as the Annual 9th District GOP picnic.  Due to this conflict, we are looking at the possibilities of moving the date to the previous weekend (August 4).  Regardless of the decision, our location will remain at the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce/Lee Newton Park in Jasper, Georgia. Celebrate Your Independence This week, take an opportunity to spend some time with your family and friends.  During all the cookouts, fireworks, and parades, reflect on this national holiday and the opportunity that each of us have been afforded by being American citizens.  We live in a nation that is the beacon of hope and freedom throughout the world.  God has richly blessed America! Back to top 9th District Picnic -- August 4, 2007 July 3, 2007 Hello all - Due to circumstances beyond our control, the 9th District GOP Picnic has been rescheduled to August 4 at the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce at 11:30 a.m. The full District Committee will meet at  10 a.m. prior to the picnic. The official call will be sent shortly.  I apologize in advance for any inconvenience this will cause.  Several of the state party leaders and elected officials confirmed that they would not be able to attend unless the date was changed.   I truly appreciate Larry Toney and the Pickens County GOP's willingness to work with the District to resolve this problem.    Thanks! Kevin Back to top Kevin Harris Chairman's Message April 25, 2007 This weekend, the 9th District GOP Convention was held in Catoosa County.  This was the first time in the history of our district that the Catoosa County Republican Party had hosted the convention, and they did an outstanding job.   The folks in Catoosa County did an exceptional job preparing for the banquet and convention, and they definitely raised the level of expectations for future conventions.  Based on reports from the other district conventions, it appears that our attendance was among the highest in the state. The Ninth District has established a strong tradition of dedicated Chairmen, and I do not take this position lightly.  Judy Grammer has served as the Chairman of the 9th our district well for the past five years.  On behalf of the Republicans throughout North Georgia, I would like to express our gratitude to Judy for her service and dedication to the 9th District.  It was also great to see our former District Chairman, Pete Castello, serve as the Convention Chairman for Saturday’s activities.  Now that the leadership for the 9th District has been established, it is time to focus on the 2008 election cycle.  We must be determined to provide leadership that will fight for common-sense, conservative values that Georgians know and understand. As long as we hold true to these principles and promote candidates that uphold these standards, the 9th District GOP will continue to prosper. The concept that has ensured success for our district up to this point is grassroots politics and local control. Republicans should be the party that is willing to fight for less government, lower taxes, and accountability of our government and our elected officials. The newly elected Executive Committee must fight for common-sense, conservative values that Georgians know and understand. As long as we hold true to these principles and promote candidates that uphold these standards, the 9th District Republican Party will continue to prosper. Thank you for placing your trust and allowing the opportunity to serve as your Chairman.  I, along with the newly elected Executive Committee, look forward to partnering with each of you as we build a strong, county-by-county, grassroots effort in every county in the 9th District.  Feel free to call me any time.  Let’s get to work-together!  Kevin J. Harris Chairman (706) 455-9200 cell Back to top   Regional Directors Named for Ninth District GOP June 7, 2007   With the majority of the Ninth District GOP team in place, several remaining key assignments were recently unveiled. Chairman Kevin Harris has announced the Regional Directors for the Ninth District Republican Party.  Regional Directors are appointed by and serve at the discretion of the District Chairman.   The position serves the purpose of representing and being the liaison for the District Chairman with the fifteen counties within the Ninth District.  The term of the Directors will coincide with the Chairman of the District.  Regional Directors are members of the Ninth District Committee and will be a key part of the Ninth District strategy and leadership team. The following people have accepted the duties and responsibilities in the respective regions for the next two years: Dade County resident Regina Parris has been named the Director for the Northwest Region.  Regina has been active in her community and politics for a number of years. In her community, she is on the Board of Directors at the Dade County Chamber of Commerce and a Past President Dade County High School Band Boosters Club.  In addition, she has served as the County Campaign Manager for Sonny Perdue, Johnny Isakson, Jeff Mullis, and Casey Cagle for Dade County in recent election cycles.  Regina will be responsible for partnering with the local parties in Dade, Walker, Catoosa, and Whitfield Counties. In the Central Region, Gilmer County’s Dr. Mary Jones has agreed to accept the appointment.  Mary is a retired administrator from the Gilmer County School System and has served the Republican Party in a number of capacities at the county, district, and state level.  Among her most recent positions in the party is the immediate Past President of the Gilmer County Party and the 9th District Republican Party Treasurer.   Mary’s long-term service to North Georgia and the Republican Party will allow her to immediately step into a regional position and work with Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Gordon, and Murray Counties. In the newly created Mountain Region, Clint Smith has been selected as the Regional Director.  For 27 years, Smith has served the Republican Party in numerous positions.  He served in the Georgia House of Representatives for 8 years.  Currently, Smith is chair of the Dawson County Republican Party.  He also chairs the Georgia Faith-Based and Community Initiatives Task Force.  Smith has served in the Georgia Air National Guard for 22 years.  He is assigned to State Headquarters at Dobbins Air Reserve Base.  Smith’s region will include Union, White, Lumpkin, and Dawson Counties. In the Southeast Region, Reva Jennings will bring invaluable experience as she works with the two largest counties of the district:  Hall and Forsyth.  Reva helped start the Forsyth County Republican Party and has been active at the local, state, and national level as a volunteer, grassroots activist, and a leader.  A few of the highlights of Reva’s extensive background include: Delegate to the National Republican Convention in 2004, Past President of the Georgia Federation of Republican Women, past Regional Director, and Forsyth County Chair.  In addition, Reva Jennings was honored at the recent 2007 District Convention as the recipient of the prestigious Dr. Charles W. Donaldson Award.  “We are fortunate to have obtained the services of these talented individuals,” stated Chairman Harris in a prepared statement. “The Regional Directors will be key components as we begin to coordinate the efforts of local communities with the district level.”  For additional information contact Kevin Harris at kevinh@etcmail.com or by cell at (706) 455-9200. Back to top LAST CHANCE TO PRE-ORDER 9th District SHIRTS Be proud of the 9th District Republican Party. The 9th District is pre-ordering royal blue polo shirts that will have “9th District GOP” embroidered on the front. The shirts will cost between $20 and $22 dollars, depending on the number ordered. The shirts will be available prior to our annual district picnic in Jasper! Orders are coming in quickly, so make sure and don’t get left out! Please contact Kevin Harris via email at kevinh@etcmail.com  or via cell at (706) 455-9200. We need a final count by this Thursday, June 21, 2007, to complete the order. Back to top   Georgia Democrat Legislator Switches to GOP   June 19, 2007-   Earlier this morning, Republicans in Georgia received some excellent news.  Georgia General Assembly Representative Mike Jacobs, who represents part of North DeKalb County, announced his decision to switch to the Republican Party.   This will again increase the Republican majority in the state House.  Republicans now control the State House with a 107 to 73 majority.    During the past several years, I’ve had the opportunity to observe Mike Jacobs at the Georgia Capitol.  The district that Representative Jacobs represents leans Democratic, so this is not a decision that was made lightly. This is a decision that required reflection and an honest assessment of the associated risks and the party where Mike believed he could make the biggest difference personally and for the citizens living in House District 80.  As a Democrat this year, Mike Jacobs broke party lines and voted for Republican Glenn Richardson to become Speaker of the House.  As a Democrat, Mike Jacobs advocated the elimination of property taxes. He has established a consistent voting record that will continue as he joins our party. Mike is also a man of honesty and integrity.  One of the most impressive things with Representative Jacobs is his ability to search for common ground.  Instead of focusing on the issues or items he doesn’t agree with you, he searches for areas where progress can be found.   While I personally am more conservative on several social issues, he has always been committed listening to all sides before he casts his final vote.  And, again, his commitment to fiscal responsibility has been evident throughout his tenure.  Now that he is a member of the GOP, I look forward to his participation in the Republican Caucus. You may read Mike’s statement regarding his decision at the following link: http://meetmikejacobs.wordpress.com/   As Chairman of the Ninth District Republican Party, I would like to take the opportunity to welcome Representative Jacobs to the majority party in Georgia.  He is genuine and the type of statesmen that will be an excellent addition to our party.    Kevin J. Harris Chairman 9th District GOP Back to top       Click on photos to view nature's grandeur in North Georgia's 9th District         WELCOME| ABOUT THE 9TH | NEWS-EVENTS | CHAIRMAN |  CALENDAR | LINKS-ARCHIVES| CONTACTS          The Ninth District Republican                   Party OF GEORGIA                                                    Email Acting Chairman    Email Webmaster       ©2003 The 10th District Republican Party of Georgia. All rights reserved           Paid for by the 9th District  Republican Party, not authorized by any candidate or any candidate committee.