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Brooks Firestone
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| When Brooks Firestone comes to the California Republican Reformers Weekend on August 26, he will bring a long, rich, and impressive history of leadership and public service.
First is Firestone's history in public office, where he represented Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties in the State Assembly during 1994-1998. He returned to office as a Santa Barbara County Supervisor from 2005-2009 to help build bridges in a very divided county.
His Santa Ynez Valley neighbors know well how Brooks Fireston was a pioneer in the wine business, opening Firestone Vineyard as the first winery in the valley, back when California wines were just beginning to be established on the world market. Today, there are numerous wineries in the area.
The LA Times described Firestone: "He was a pioneer, an inspirer, an expander of possibilities; he took a chance on an untried wine area, then stuck with it and made it pay."
Longtime state Republican Party activists remember when he answered the call to run for California Republican Party vice-chairman and subsequently chairman in 1999 and 2001. Firestone lost both races but continued to lead a movement of Republican volunteers who worked to bring new energy
to the State Party.
Brooks and his wife Kate graciously hosted an annual Republican retreat, known as the Firestone Alumni Weekend, on their lovely property near Los Olivos, nestled among the grape vines.
Brooks had gotten to know the Santa Ynez Valley as a youngster, hiking and riding horses when his family vacationed there.
He went to college in the East, and met Catherine Boulton, a buoyant ballet dancer with England's Royal Ballet. Kate has a fascinating story of her own, as a Brit growing up in India and travelling with the ballet company, before eventually marrying Brooks.
Brooks' career with Firestone Tire and Rubber Company took them to Rome and London before he reached the conclusion that he would prefer to leave the family business and branch out on his own.
Over the years they have also been very active in the community. They have assisted numerous causes. Kate has worked with Direct Relief, an organization that provides medical supplies to poor countries. They and other family members have helped preserve historically significant buildings.
In 1999 Brooks was quoted saying he wants "to restore fun, excitement, productivity and electability to the party." Those are still very relevant goals for this month's Reformers Weekend.
credits quote1 quote2 photo |
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| August, 2011 | Luis Buhler, Publisher |
Our Republican Opportunity in 2012
In July, California's redistricting commission voted to approve new district lines for Assembly, State Senate and Congress. Many Bay Area GOP volunteers were actively involved in providing input to the commission. They deserve our gratitude for the hours of work they invested.
The best way I have seen to summarize the result is to look at Carly Fiorina's 2010 vote for U.S. Senate by district. Here is the analysis:
- 31 new assembly districts were created that were carried by Carly Fiorina in 2010. We currently have 28 GOP members of the State Assembly.
- 17 new state senate districts were carried by Carly. We currently have 15 elected GOP members of the State Senate.
- 21 new congressional districts were carried by Carly. We currently have 19 elected GOP members of Congress.
In short, these districts provide an opportunity to expand our GOP representation in the Assembly, State Senate and Congress.
It will take thoughtful candidate recruitment, financial resources and a strong grassroots effort to take advantage of this opportunity. Click here for contact information for Bay Area Republican organizations where you can get involved now.
If we can focus all our efforts on electing Republicans, we can succeed.
Best regards,
Luis
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| California Republican Reformers Weekend in Monterey: Friday-Sunday, August 26 - 28 |
 In the tradition of the Firestone Retreat, the California Republican Reformers will hold its Summer Conference to discuss issues impacting the Republican Party and the 2012 Election.
Discussions during the weekend include:
* The Impacts of Redistricting, Open Primaries and the Election in 2012
* Discussion of the 2012 CRP Platform
* Rebranding and Improving Communication Problems of the Republican Party
* What's Coming Up at the Next CRP Convention in September 2011
Special guests include Brooks and Kate Firestone, former Lt. Gov. Abel Maldonado, former Rep. Mike Castle, and Charles Munger Jr. Other confirmed guests include Sen. Anthony Canella and Bruce McPherson.
Hotel: For hotel reservations call Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa at 831-372-1234. Mention the Ca. Republican Reformers Weekend Event conference rate of $185/night single/double. 2 night minimum. Please reserve by August 1.
Tickets: Registration fee $200/person. Please register by August 15. Contact Kyle with questions at caGOPreformers@gmail.com or (831)277-5063.
Location: Hyatt Regency Monterey, 1 Old Golf Course Road,
Monterey, CA
Program
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Platform Drafting Committee Recommends Platform for California's Future
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On Saturday, July 30 the Platform Drafting Committee of the California Republican Party recommended a draft platform and amendments for consideration by the full CRP Platform Committee.
The initial draft was presented by San Ramon Mayor Abram Wilson and GOP Assembly nominee Rob Bernosky from San Benito County. The draft outlines Republican proposals on Jobs, Fiscal and Political Reform, Family and the California Dream. "This is a conservative platform that will help Republican candidates win in 2012," said Wilson.
You can read the draft platform together with the recommended amendments by clicking here. Comments can be sent to platform@bayareagop.com. All comments will be communicated to the authors.
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| Conservative Forum hosts Dr. Paul Gregory: Tuesday, August 2, 6:15 PM |
 The Conservative Forum of Silicon Valley presents Dr. Paul Gregory. Topic: "Stalin and the Dictator's Playbook: Interpreting Modern Russia, China, and the Arab Spring".
Paul Gregory, a Hoover Institution Research Fellow, holds an endowed professorship in the Department of Economics at the University of Houston, Texas, and is a research professor at the German Institute for Economic Research in Berlin.
He is the author or coauthor of twelve books and many articles on economic history, the Soviet economy, comparative economics, and the secret Soviet Archives.
Doors open at 6:15 PM. Program starts at 7:00 PM.
Cost: Members free; Non-Members $10; first time guests $5. Location: IFES Portuguese Hall, 432 Stierlin Road, Mountain View
Details and Registration
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| Jack London Liberty on the Rocks: Tuesday, August 2, 2011 - 6:30 PM |
 Come to the Warehouse, a few blocks inland from Jack London Bar, and share drinks and discussions with Libertarians and Conservatives of all political stripes. Hosted by Marilyn.
No cost. Bay Area Liberty on the Rocks is an informal social group whose purpose is to connect limited government supporters in the nine county Bay Area through social activities such as drinking at bars and other fine establishments. Location: The Warehouse, 402 Webster Street, Oakland, CA
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| Nob Hill Republican Women Luncheon with Tony Hall and Mike Myatt: Thursday, August 11, 11:30 AM |
The Nob Hill Republican Women's Club, Federated holds its traditional Chinese luncheon meeting. The speakers will be Tony Hall, mayoral candidate and former supervisor, and Maj Gen Mike Myatt, USMC (ret), President & CEO of the Marines' Memorial and Chairman of FleetWeek 2011.
Cost: Members $35, Non-members $45(includes tax and gratuity).
For reservations, please send check payable to NHRWCF to Marilyn Zygmunt, 2398 Pacific Avenue, #408, San Francisco, CA 94115 to be received no later than August 4. Include RSVP form. Due to space limitations, only the first 45 paid rsvp's can be accepted. For questions, contact Joan Leone at jleone@sonic.net or 415-567-7424.
Location: Tommy Toy's Restaurant, The Gold Room, 655 Montgomery Street, San Francisco
Flyer with Menu and Reply Form
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| SVGOP Cocktail Reception with Local Elected Officials: Friday, August 12, 6PM - 8PM |
The Santa Clara County Republican Party of Silicon Valley invites you to network with fellow Republicans and local elected officials!
Cost: $15 (Appetizers included. No host bar.) To RSVP or for more information, please email director@svgop.com. Location: The Santa Clara Network Meeting Center, 5201 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara
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| SVGOP Summer Campaign School: Saturday, August 13, 9 AM - 4 PM |
The Santa Clara County Republican Party of Silicon Valley invites you to its Summer Campaign School. If you are a candidate, interested in running for office, or intend to work on a campaign this year or in 2012, this is the workshop for you.
Cost: $100 (includes lunch and cocktail reception on Friday, August, 12th). To RSVP or for more information, please email director@svgop.com. Location: The Santa Clara Network Meeting Center, 5201 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA
Flyer with Reply Form | Register Online
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| Blackhawk Republican Women Summer Social: Saturday, August 13, 4-8 PM |
Join the Blackhawk Republican Women for some fun at their Summer Social. Blackjack - Poker - Bar-B-Que. Enjoy a taste of the Old West. Bring your friends. Casual attire.
Cost: $35.00 per person. For reservations, mail your check payable BRW to: Marilyn Bradley, 116 Sedgefield Ct., San Ramon, CA 94583. Or contact Marilyn for more information at marebradley@aol.com or 925-828-2360.
Location: 4W Ranch, 2000 Victorine Road, Livermore
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| CWLA Redistricting Panel: Monday, August 15, 6:00 PM |
 The California Women's Leadership Association, San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, hosts a panel discussion on Redistricting. The day of the panel is the day of the release of the final maps by the Redistricting Commission. Carol Hehmeyer, Larry Molton and Christopher Bowman have been instrumental in Bay Area Redistricting discussions and will report on the results.
Appetizers will be served. No Host Bar.
Cost: Members $15; Non-members $20 (includes tax and gratuity). RSVP to laura@laurapeter.com.
Where: Izzy's Steak and Chops, Second Floor, 3345 Steiner Street (at Chestnut Street), San Francisco, CA. (There is 1 1/2 hours validated parking at the carpark above the Post Office on Lombard Street, near Webster.)
Invitation
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| SMGOP Jazz, Politics and Wine Reception with Leo Lacayo: Wednesday, August 17, 6 - 8 PM |
 The San Mateo County Republican Party invites you to a Jazz, Politics and Wine Reception featuring Guest Speaker Leo Lacayo.
Leo Lacayo is a third generation San Franciscan. He was head of the American Nicaragua School when he was kidnapped by the Sandinistas in 1981, and he worked with the Nicaragua Resistance. Leo was the Bay Area Hispanic Chair for Bush-Cheney in 2000. He has served as a media surrogate of the Republican National Party. His company, Lacayo & Associates, provides a variety of immigration and non-immigration services.
Tickets: $35 regular tickets, $20 Young Republicans. Please purchase your tickets online here.
Location: The home of Carlos & Lynne Santamaria, 517 Crescent Avenue, San Mateo, CA
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| Tim Pawlenty Los Altos Hills Reception: Wednesday, August 17, 6:00 PM |
The Northern California Finance Leadership Team along with Mary & Doug Scrivner invite you to a reception in support of Governor Tim Pawlenty, Republican candidate for president.
Tickets: $1,000 per person. To RSVP, please contact Ann Kramer at ann.kramer@comcast.net or 916-941-1977.
Location: The Scrivner Home, 25461 W. Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, CA
Invitation and Reply Form
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| Sen. Mitch McConnell Atherton Reception: Thursday, August 18, 5:30 - 7:00 PM |
 Linda & Skip Law, Martha & Greg Ryan, and others invite you to join them for a reception with U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY).
Co-Host: $2,500 per Couple; Individual: $1,000. RSVP to Julie Westlake at julie@liquidllc.net or (707)968-5463.
Location: Law Residence, 128 Atherton Avenue, Atherton, CA
Invitation & Reply Form
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| Contra Costa Republican Party Campaign Boot Camp and Reception: Friday & Saturday, August 19-20 |
 The Contra Costa Republican Party invites you to their Third Annual "Candidate Boot Camp" and Reception honoring Contra Costa Republican Elected Officials.
Reception: Friday, Aug 19, 6 to 8 PM. Keynote Speaker: Abram Wilson.
Boot Camp: Friday, Aug 19, 8 to 9 PM and Saturday, Aug 20, 9 AM to 5 PM. If you are a candidate, thinking about running for office, or interested in working on a campaign, this is the workshop for you! Sessions include strategy, speaking, fundraising, and more.
Cost: $15 (Reception Only, no fee for Campaign School students); $100 (Boot Camp and Reception). Questions: Email Darcy Linn at dplinn@aol.com .
Location: San Ramon Community Center, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon
Flyer | Online Registration
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| Sonoma County Republican Party Summer BBQ: Saturday, August 20, 4:00 - 7:00 PM |
Join the Sonoma County Republican Party for their Summer BBQ. Meet the local Party Leadership team as they honor three newly appointed honorary lifetime members: Audrey Thompson, Barbara Stidham and Bill Pisenti.
Tickets: Adults $15; children age 10 & under $6. Register online. Location: Lanterman Residence, 5844 Mathilde Drive, Windsor, CA 95492
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| Rising Tide Summer Gala: Sunday, August 21, 1 - 5 PM |
 Rising Tide is the premier Summer Gala that brings together record numbers of GOP activists and Republican-leaning individuals from across Northern California to socialize, celebrate, and have fun. The annual event will take place at a beautiful location in Palo Alto, and includes delicious food and wine as well as entertainment and dancing. BBQ luncheon, speakers, Bluegrass.
Confirmed speakers include: Tom Del Beccaro - Chairman, California Republican Party; Joe Lonsdale - Co-founder, California Common Sense
Cost: $40 before August 10; $50 from August 11-17.
For more information, see the website or contact Lisa at blcohen@sbcglobal.net or 650-814-2309.
Location: Private Estate, Address sent upon paid RSVP, Palo Alto
Website | Flyer |
SPARC Summer Picnic with Rev. Jesse Lee Peterson: Sunday, August 21, 2011, 5-8 PM
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 The South Peninsula Area Republican Coalition invites you to their Summer Picnic featuring Rev. Jesse Lee Peterson.
Peterson is an outspoken critic of the liberal left and the "black leadership" in America today. His new book, SCAM, explains how black leaders have let down African Americans in America. Copies will be available for purchase.
SPARC will provide hotdogs, hamburgers, buns, condiments, paper and plastic ware, ice and water. Bring your own drink. (Beer & wine permitted.) Bring a chair or a blanket to sit on.
The famed Peninsula Banjo Band will perform from 5 - 6 PM, so come early to enjoy!
Registration: Advance registration is required! SPARC Members free, but you must register in advance and bring a potluck dish to share. Non-Members: $10 at door with reservations (or join SPARC and it's free!).
Please reserve by Friday, August 19, at www.SparcGop.org, Reserve@SparcGop.org, or (650)917-9125. NO tickets "at the door."
Location: Patriot Corner, Shoup Park, 400 University Avenue, Los Altos
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| Marin Forum presents "A Frank Debate About Amnesty": Monday, August 22, 7:00 PM |
  The Marin Forum presents "A Frank Debate About Amnesty".
On the "FOR" side is Juan Carlos Arauz, noted presenter on immigration, youth and education.
On the "AGAINST" side is Rick Oltman. He has worked for immigration reform and secure borders for twenty years.
Tickets: Please note this meeting is FREE to all dues paying members. Suggested donation at the door is $20 or give what you can. Please RSVP as space is limited.
For information and registration, see the website or call 415-884-4482. Location: Four Points Sheraton, 1010 Northgate Drive, San Rafael
Details
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| SF Log Cabin Republicans Monthly Meeting - SF Election Endorsements: Wednesday, August 24, 7:00 - 9:00 PM |
The Log Cabin Republicans of San Francisco hold their 4th Wednesday monthly meeting. Endorsements for the November elections in San Francisco will be considered. Contact: Daniel Brown at daniel.brown@alumni.usc.edu or 415-763-5513. Location: Martuni's, 4 Valencia Street, San Francisco
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| CYRF Inaugural State Convention: Friday - Sunday, August 26-28 |
 Attend the California Young Republican Federation Inaugural State Convention. Speakers: Ann Coulter, John Yoo and more. Topics: Prosperity, Liberty & Empowerment. Fun: Awards Gala, Live Entertainment & Dancing
Hotel: Reserve your room today at the enchanting Marines' Memorial Hotel. Call (800) 562-7463 (mention "Young Republican"). CYRF has secured an amazing price of only $169 to stay in the heart of the San Francisco Union Square District. This special price, which includes extra amenities, is only good for a limited time.
Register now at www.cyrf2011.com . Contact: Matthew Del Carlo, Convention Director, at president@sfyr.org or 415-300-0632.
Location: Marines' Memorial Club & Hotel, 609 Sutter Street, San Francisco
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| Tri-Valley RWF Annual BBQ with Charley Freedman: Saturday, August 27, 2:00 - 7:00 PM |
Join the Tri-Valley Republican Women Federated for their Annual BBQ. Speaker: Charley Freedman, radio host of the lively "Happy Hour" on KSCO Santa Cruz since 2007. Charley is a life-long Republican and teacher. Patriotic Dessert contest, bean jar guessing contest.
Tickets: $20 per person includes a meal catered by Cabana Dave's, drinks and loads of fun. Advanced reservations only - mail checks to TVRWF, c/o P.O. Box 1901, Pleasanton, CA 94566. Questions: 925-462-4931.
Location: Behind the Aquatic Center, 4301 Black Avenue, Pleasanton
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CYRF & KSFO present Ann Coulter: Saturday, August 27, 4 PM
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The California Young Republican Federation invites you to an evening of discussion with conservative icon Ann Coulter and Brian Sussman from KSFO. Enjoy listening to contemporary political topics with the right perspective! A portion of the ticket proceeds will be donated to Palo Alto Fisher House.
Cost: $39.99. Register online here.
Location: Marines Memorial Theatre, 609 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA
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| Conservative Forum Bus Trip to SF Ann Coulter Program: Saturday, August 27, 2:30 PM |
The Conservative Forum of Silicon Valley is renting a bus to attend the program with author Ann Coulter. Just park at the IFES Portuguese Hall by 2:30pm, board a plush touring bus, and ride to the city in comfort with light snacks and conservative camaraderie. Arrive in time for the Ann Coulter presentation and sit together. Brian Sussman will be the Master of Ceremonies.
Ann Coulter speaks at 4:00 PM at the Marines Memorial Theatre, 609 Sutter Street, San Francisco.
Cost: The entire package is $60 per person, which includes admission to the Ann Coulter program, the bus trip, and light snacks and refreshments to and from the event.
If you would be interested in attending, please email 1hmyers1@comcast.net promptly, so they can plan arrangements.
Meeting Place: IFES Portuguese Hall, 432 Stierlin Road, Mountain View, CA
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| SVARW Stars and Stripes Gala: Saturday, August 27, 5 PM - 10 PM |
 The Silicon Valley Association of Republican Women invite you to enjoy a spectacular gourmet dinner with wine included. Dance to live music. This event provides a fun and informal way for Republicans to meet. It regularly attracts elected officials and individuals running for office, giving them the opportunity to meet potential supporters.
Tickets: The prices are $55 for SVARW members and $65 for non-members. You can purchase tickets online. For questions, call Lisa Marshik at 408-358-0828.
Location: The Beautiful Saratoga estate of Suzanna Cody and her husband Rob Hills, 18588 Woodbank Way, Saratoga, CA
Register
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| SF Republican Party VIP Reception with Ann Coulter: Saturday, August 27, 6:00 - 7:30 PM |
 Author and commentator Ann Coulter is making a rare visit to San Francisco, and the San Francisco Republican Party will be hosting a VIP reception with her at the Marines' Memorial Club. Guests will be entitled to a personal photograph with Ann and the opportunity for her to sign a copy of her just-released book, Demonic.
Tickets: $150 per person, $250 per couple and up. Tickets are only available in limited quantity to ensure the exclusive nature of this rare opportunity. Availability is first come, first served, so don't wait. Register online. Questions: Daniel Higa at daniel.higa@sfgop.org or 415-830-7558.
Location: Marines' Memorial Club, 609 Sutter Street, San Francisco
Register Online
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Calendar
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Sonoma County Republican Fair Booth: Wednesday-Sunday, July 27 - August 14
If you are available to volunteer for any of the open slots, please email deaconheath@comcast.net or call Matt at 510-326-9369. There are many open slots to fill.
SFGOP Central Committee General Meeting: Wednesday, August 3, 6:30 PM
Monthly meetings are usually held the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 PM. They frequently have a featured speaker. Where: Auditorium of the Hiram Johnson State Office Building, 455 Golden Gate Avenue (between Polk and Larkin), San Francisco
Santa Clara County Republican Party Committee Meeting: Wednesday, August 10, 7 PM
The monthly meeting of the Santa Clara County Republican Party. Questions? Contact HQ at director@svgop.com or 408-246-6600. Location: Santa Clara County Administration Building, 70 W. Hedding Street (at First Street), San Jose, California
San Mateo County GOP Committee Meeting: Thursday, August 11, 7:00 PM
Join the San Mateo County Republican Party for their monthly committee meeting. Location: American Legion Hall, 130 South Blvd., San Mateo
Alameda County Republican Central Committee Meeting: Tuesday, August 16, 6:30 PM
Meetings occur every third Tuesday of the month. The meetings start at 6:30 PM, but there is time to socialize beforehand. They are currently open to all Republican voters in Alameda County, but only Members may vote. These meetings are a great opportunity to meet many of the involved volunteers. Where: Alameda County Party Headquarters, 1039 MacArthur Blvd., San Leandro
Napa County Central Committee Meeting: Tuesday, August 16, 6:30 PM
The Napa County Republican Central Committee normally meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month. Social 6:30 PM; meeting 7:00 PM. Location: Coldwell Banker Real Estate Office, 1775 Lincoln Avenue, Napa, CA
Solano Republican Party Committee Meeting: Wednesday, August 17, 7:00 PM
Meetings normally occur the third Wednesday of the month.
Contact: info@solanorepublicans.org
Marin County Republican Central Committee Meeting: Thursday, August
25, 7:00 PM
Usually the last Thursday of the month. Contact: 415-446-4111. Location: Jason's Restaurant, Community Room, 300 Drakes Landing Road, Greenbrae. |
Save the Date!
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SFRA Dinner with Joseph Russoniello: Thursday, September 8, 6 PM
The San Francisco Republican Assembly hosts the Hon. Joseph Russoniello, Former U.S. Attorney for Northern California. For more info, contact Alan Smith at 415-771-8694. Location: S.F. Italian Athletic Club
CRP Fall Convention: Friday-Sunday, September 16-18The California Republican Party holds its fall convention. For more information, see the convention website. Where: The JW Marriott Los Angeles at LA LIVE, 900 W. Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles
The Independent Institute's Gala for Liberty: Tuesday, November 15, 6:30 PM
 A Gala for Liberty 25th Anniversary Dinner and Presentation of the Alexis de Tocqueville Award. We will honor Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and former President of Poland, Lech Walesa, Nobel Laureate Mario Vargas Llosa, and Dr. Robert Higgs with the Alexis de Tocqueville Awards in recognition of their exceptional contributions to humanity in advancing the ideas and ideals of individual liberty, entrepreneurship, personal responsibility, civic virtue, and the rule of law. More Information
Location: The Ritz-Carlton, 600 Stockton Street, San Francisco, CA
Tickets: $350 per person and up. For more information, please contact Sarah Tarvin, Development Manager at (510) 632-1366 x152 or Send Email. Reception at 6:30; Dinner and Ceremony at 7:30 PM
CRP Spring 2012 Convention: Friday-Sunday, February 24-26, 2012
For more information please contact Jasmine Megrabyan at jmegrabyan@cagop.org. Where: Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport, 1333 Bayshore Highway,Burlingame, CA 94010
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Be sure to visit my website for the latest information:
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