Cottonwood Arizona-(August 28 2010)–Verde Valley Republicans opened their 2010  campaign headquarters on the corner of Cherry and Main Streets in Cottonwood. Numerous Republican candidates attended as well as the Presidents of all three of the Verde Valley Republican Clubs.

A barbecue and potluck was enjoyed in an atmosphere of jubilant celebration, as Primary rivalries were buried and the attendees looked forward to the upcoming General election.

Jan Smith, President of the Yavapai County Republicans, cut the ribbon and spoke to the ‘power of numbers.’  Jan’s birthday is November 2nd and she asked the Republican party to give her a grand birthday present of Republican victory.

Arizona Republican Senator John McCain’s birthday is the 29th so the crowd sang Happy Birthday to him and served a birthday cake in his honor at the event..

Bryan Detwiler, President of Mingus Mountain Republicans was the Master of Ceremonies. Carol Gandolfo, President of Verde Valley Republican Women Federated talked about the heightened enthusiasm, growth and commitment of her club.

Charlie Christenson, President of Sedona Republican Men pointed out the “we are all in this together” and he was glad to see such a large gathering.

Senator John McCain talked about the fine group of Republican candidates who made it through the crowded primaries. Senator McCain says that he wants to support a Balanced Budget Amendment and repeal of the Healthcare  Bill if he is returned to the Senate in November 2010.

Paul Gosar, a CD1 candidate, spoke of the importance of the family and drew upon the analogy that it takes a family to win in politics. Gosar spoke of his former rivals in the primary as family members, each bringing their own strengths and talents to the race, and ultimately to any future victory..

Ken Bennett, candidate for Secretary of State, spoke to the power of one vote as repeatedly one vote has made the difference in the history of our country. In Arizona, even more so, Bennett shared the story of an actual case of a decision that was made after three tie votes, and finally resolved with a game of five card draw; eights paired beat queen high. Bennett also pointed out that nationwide, many of the other Secretaries of State regard Arizona as a leader in clean and efficient elections, and he intends to continue that trend.

Steve Pierce, candidate for State Senate and Andy Tobin, LD1 candidate, both made remarks to the crowd and since both men are so well-known and popular amongst the party faithful, that as would be expected with old friends, the majority of their remarks were made over congratulatory hugs and handshakes.

Article by Joni Dahlstrom, sedonaeye.com Staff Writer    Have an upcoming event for Joni to cover?  Email Publisher@sedonaeye.com.  

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