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The Benton County Republicans held their annual Republican Barbecue on Thursday, August 9, 2012 at Les Wheeler's beautiful farm on Kiger Island in Corvallis, Oregon. Sandy McHenry and volunteers spent the day grilling Tri-tip beef and chicken for a wonderful dinner entrée. Republican candidates for the 2012 General Election took the opportunity to talk with attendees in a casual setting and later spoke as the sun began drop in the western sky (apologies for the horrible photos). The singing group Silver Bells entertained and Chairman, John Bell, served as Master of Ceremonies. Our speakers were Betsy Close, candidate for Benton County Commissioner (Position 3), Jerry J. Jackson, Sr., running for Benton County Commissioner (Position 1), Andy Olson, for reelection as State Representative (District 15), Andrew Decker for State Representative (District 16), Jim Thompson for reelection as State Representative (District 23), Dr. Knute Buehler for Secretary of State, the fiery James Buchal for Oregon's Attorney General, and Art Robinson for U.S. Congressional District Four. We thank our speakers and all who attended this event and offer a special thank you to Les Wheeler for his hospitality and to the Benton County Republican Women for their assistance.
Addendum: In September, Republican Central Committee members in Senate District 8 voted to recommend Betsy Close and two others to the County Commissions in SD-8 to serve the remainder of retiring State Senator Frank Morse's term of office. In October, the Linn and Benton County Commissioners voted to appoint Close to the seat. We welcome Sen. Betsy Close as our new state senator.
