BCRW Celebrates Abigail Scott Duniway, Oct. 2015

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Monday, September 28, 2015 - Benton County Republican Women met at King Tin Restaurant, 1857 NW 9th Street in Corvallis at 11am for a no-host luncheon, a short business meeting and a speaker at 12 Noon. The topic was "Celebrate Abigail Scott Duniway, women's rights advocate from Albany, Oregon!" Dunaway was a driving force in winning women's right to vote in Oregon in 1912. Sharon Thorne, docent from the Oregon Historical Society, gave an exciting presentation on Mrs. Duniway's most productive life. Read More......

2015 Constitution Day Flag Rally, Corvallis, OR

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On Thursday, September 17th, Benton County Republican Women hosted a non-partisan flag rally in celebration of Constitution Day. The event was held in front of the beautiful Benton County Courthouse on the 228th anniversary of the signing of The U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, in Philadelphia, PA. The sign-holding, flag waving participants were BCRW President Carolyn Webb, Bob Webb, Stella Guenther, Kim Rowe, Arden Ray, Birdie Reetz, Jeri Schmidt, Jane Buck, Charles Nelson, Andrew Decker, Doug and Louise Salmons, PJ Hunter and Cathy Connor. Read More......

Benton GOP Float in 2015 Philomath Frolic Grand Parade

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LIBERTY rides again! On Saturday, July 11, 2015, the Benton County Republican Women participated with the Benton County Republicans in the Grand Parade in Philomath, Oregon during the Philomath Frolic & Rodeo. Sorry to say we didn't get photos of everyone but we had a wonderful time happily stressing "Liberty" throughout the parade and getting lots of thumbs up all along the route. Nic and Louanna Oliver pulled the float and Chairman Jerry Jackson and his grandson Stephen walked and passed out candy. Riding the float were Jean & Charles Nelson, Stella Guenther, John Detweiler, Garland & PJ Hunter with Zumi (the dog). Read More......

4th of July Parade, Corvallis, Oregon

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The Benton County Republican Women helped decorate the Benton County Republican's "Liberty' float in the Corvallis All-American Anyone-Can-Join, Fabulous, Fantastic 4th of July Parade. Pulling the float were Nic and Louanna Oliver in their handsome truck decorated with USA flags. Kim Rowe came early to help decorate but couldn't stay to ride the float. Showing enthusiasm for this special American holiday were Jean & Charles Nelson, Stella Guenther, John Detweiler, Garland & PJ Hunter with grandson Ty Sisson and Zumi the Republican Labrador. Benton GOP Chair, Jerry Jackson, walked with the float and passed out candy to children. Riders wished all a "Happy 4th of July" and called out "Happy Birthday, America!" Read More......

2015 Flag Day Rally

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On Saturday, June 13, 2015, Benton County Republican Women sponsored a flag rally to celebrate Flag Day, as recognized each June 14th in the United States. This event was held from 12 Noon to 1:00 p.m. at the intersection of 9th Street and Circle Boulevard in Corvallis, Oregon, and was open to the public. Flag wavers were met with honks and cheers as cars passed by. BCRW President Carolyn Webb provided a candy dish and wonderful chocolate-chip cookies. It was a gorgeous sunny day with a light wind that kept the flags flying beautifully. Thank you to all who participated. Patriotism is alive and well. Read More......

May 2015 BCRW Honor Flight Presentation

L to R: Jack Stephens, Mike Pungercar and Harry Lagerstedt
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On Tuesday, May 26th, Mike Pungercar, Director of South Willamette Valley Honor Flight, explained 'A promise kept,' to see that every veteran gets to see the monuments and memorials in Washington D.C. that were created and dedicated to honor THEIR service in the United States Armed Forces. In World War II, 16.1 million served; over 408,000 were killed in action; and now, 750-800 WWII veterans are passing away daily. WWII Veterans take priority over all others and so SWV Honor Flight is fulfilling its promise with flights and full tours taking place each May and October for veterans of Benton, Linn, Lincoln and Lane Counties at absolutely no cost to the veterans. The trips are funded through donations, of which, 99% goes to travel, food, lodging, busses and serving all the veterans needs on the trip. Mr. Pungercar was accompanied by WWII Veterans, Harry Lagerstedt (2013 Honor Flight) and Jack Stephens (2015 Honor Flight), who spoke briefly about their service and Honor Flight experiences. To donate, please visit the website for details. If you know a WWII Veteran who would like to make the trip, please help him or her get in touch with Mike Pungercar, (541) 746-3469. Read More......

2015 Armed Forces Day Flag Rally

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On Saturday, May 16, 2015, the Benton County Republican Women held a non-partisan Armed Forces Day Flag Rally to pay tribute to all the brave men and women who serve to protect the USA. The rally was held at the National Guard Armory, 1100 NW Kings Blvd., from 12 Noon to 1:00 p.m. The minute the flag wavers started unfurling their flags, drivers started honking their horns and waving. There was much enthusiasm and the event was a very nice recognition of our troops. Thank you to all who participated and special thanks to BCRW President, Carolyn Webb, who brought wonderful refreshments. Thank you, most especially, to all members of the Armed Forces. Read More......

2015 OFRW District III Meeting

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On Friday, May 15, 2015, six members of BCRW attended the OFRW District III Meeting at Novak's Hungarian Restaurant in Albany, Oregon. District III clubs are Benton, Linn, Polk and Capitol City (Salem). Following a lovely lunch, the meeting was conducted by retiring director Diane Tillotson. After the invocation and flag salute, the ladies sang the National Anthem. Oh my! They sounded wonderful! Pam Kniffin was elected as the new District III Director. Each club's president reported on their organizations' activities and Ande Hofmann and Joyce Waggoner gave inspirational talks. We offer our appreciation to Diane for serving as Director. She attended most of BCRW's monthly meetings and kept in close and friendly contact. Read More......

BCRW Christmas Wreath & Swag Sale

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The Benton County Republican Women’s hand decorated Christmas wreaths and swags are made of fresh Douglas and Noble Fir with mixed evergreens, pinecones, chestnuts, a lovely large bow and much more. No two are alike! These beautiful pieces will add the perfect touch to your holiday décor! The price is $30 each. Proceeds go to the BCRW's “Caring for America” projects, primarily the Dictionary Project. CONTACT PERSON: Stella Guenther | h: (541) 929-5382, m: (541) 602-1737. Get BCRW 2014 Christmas Wreaths & Swags Order Form.
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2014 Gun Show

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The Benton County Republicans & Republican Women conducted voter registration, handed out campaign literature and sold raffle tickets at the annual ARPC Gun & Sportsmen Show on September 27 & 28 at the Linn County Expo Center in Albany, Oregon. Ken Kurth chaired this event and was joined by Stella Guenther, Jerry Jackson, Nic & Louanna Oliver, Kim Rowe, Ken McCracken, Kristie Hernandez and PJ Hunter, who took shifts manning the table. It was a very successful event. Read More......

2014 Constitution Day Ceremony, Corvallis, Oregon

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On September 17, 2014, the Benton County Republican Women were pleased to sponsor a Constitution Day civic event in honor of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. The event was held on the south lawn of the Benton County Courthouse. BCRW President, Stella Guenther, emcee, opened the ceremony and welcomed all.  Corvallis Mayor Julie Manning spoke about the rights of the people that the U.S. Constitution protects and Adair Village Mayor Bill Currier focused on how blessed we are and that it is up to us to insure that future generations enjoy the same freedoms.  The Young Marines of Albany posted the colors and conducted a flag-folding demonstration, while Stella read the meaning of each fold. Soloist Ellen Demarest, accompanied by Tom Demarest, sang the National Anthem and the Battle Hymn of the Republic. Senator Betsy Close and Mayor Currier called off the States as representatives of Boy Scout Troop 3 placed the States on the map in order of their statehood. Jeff Kropf, former legislator, 5th generation Oregon farmer from Sublimity, former Director of the Oregon Chapter of Americans for Prosperity and current Executive Director of the Oregon Capitol Watch Foundation, spoke passionately about the constitution to the rapt attention of attendees. No people have accomplished so much to improve the living standard of man and champion freedom the world over as the free people of America thanks to the persistence and sacrifice of our founders, who in their wisdom fashioned a constitution they hoped would allow generations hence to live in freedom. The forces of tyranny are always present. What happens if we loose faith in the U.S. Constitution and fail to protect it? Read More......

2014 GOP Booths at Benton County Fair

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2014 Benton County Republican BBQ

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2014 BCRW Summer Picnic

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On July 21, 2015, Benton County Republican Women held their annual summer potluck picnic at the lovely home of Charline King in Adair Village, Oregon. Surrounded by hanging baskets spilling over with beautiful flowers, members and guests enjoyed a fabulous potluck luncheon on the patio. After a few announcements, the gathering was very 'social.' Later, the festivities moved inside for a game suggested by Pat Dysart. Participants were to anonymously submit a 'headline' describing a fun, unique, astounding, or memorable life experience for the group to guess "Who Did It?" The game was a real hit and we all discovered a little something special about each other. Our thanks to Charline for offering her home and patio for this event. Read More......

2014: Benton GOP at Philomath Frolic Parade and Booth

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The Benton County Republican Women assisted the Benton County Republican Party with their booth and in the Philomath Frolic Grand Parade in a float designed to support our statewide and local Republican candidates running in the 2014 election. With flags waving and shouting, "Liberty" riders enthusiastically hoisted giant letters spelling "LIBERTY" to parade watchers, who showed their approval with applause! Jacob Vandever, candidate for Oregon House, Dist. 16, and Jerry Jackson, candidate for Benton County Commissioner walked with the float passing out candy to youngsters and greeting voters. Sen. Betsy Close, candidate for Oregon Senate, also participated in the parade riding in a beautiful white Corvette with her fabulous campaign team afoot (we borrowed her photos from Facebook). Louanna Oliver pulled the float… and expertly, we might add. On board were Kristie Hernandez, daughters Ronnie and Alexia with friend Erick, John Detweiler, Stella Guenther and PJ Hunter with Zumi (the dog). Garland Hunter walked the parade route and took pictures. The float won the Grand Marshal's Award trophy. Read More......

2014 Benton GOP 4th of July Parade Float

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On Independence Day 2014, the Benton County Republicans participated in the Downtown Corvallis "All-American Everyone Can Join, Fabulous, Fantastic 4th of July Parade" on the Benton GOP float featuring our fabulous, fantastic Republican Candidates! Thank you to Nic Oliver for pulling the float and Louanna Oliver for taking the shotgun seat to help. Thank you to Kim Rowe, Ken McCracken, Garland Hunter, who helped set up the float, and to Stella Guenther, PJ Hunter, John Detweiler, Susan Newby, Birdie Reetz, Danny Gonzales, Ronnie Hernandez and Charles and Jean Neslon, who also helped set up and who showed great enthusiasm riding the float, waving flags and promoting LIBERTY and our wonderful candidates! Al and Kathi Hutchinson drove the always classy Sen. Betsy Close in their very classy 1940 Ford convertible. Candidates Jacob Vandever and Jerry Jackson walked the parade route.

Candidates featured: Dr. Monica Wehby for U.S. Senate, Art Robinson for U.S. Congress (Dist. 4), Tootie Smith for U.S. Congress (Dist. 5) Dennis Richardson for Oregon Governor, Sen. Betsy Close for Oregon Senate (Dist. 8), Andy Olson for reelection to the Oregon House (Dist. 15), Jacob Vandever for Oregon House (Dist. 16), Mike Nearman for Oregon House (Dist. 23) and Jerry J. Jackson, Sr. for Benton County Commissioner.

Photos courtesy of Garland Hunter Read More......

June 2014: Chana Cox speaks on 'Common Core' at BCRW General Meeting

Chana Cox
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On Monday, June 23rd, Chana Cox spoke at the General Meeting of the Benton County Republican Women at King Tin Restaurant in Corvallis, Oregon. A Senor Lecturer Emerita from Lewis and Clark College, Ms. Cox is well qualified to speak on Common Core and how it is affecting the education of our children and grandchildren. Chana taught at Lewis and Clark for over twenty years after receiving her Ph.D. in philosophy from Columbia University. She taught courses in the departments of philosophy, history, political science, the business department, and the freshman core. She is the author of several books and other writings, including a book on the history of classical liberalism, Liberty, God’s Gift to Humanity. She is currently a member of the board of U Choose and is director of its Speakers Bureau and Writers Club.

Gazette-Times, June 21, 2014: 'Common Core' is topic for GOP women Read More......

2014 Flag Day Rally, Corvallis

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A public flag rally, organized by Carolyn Webb, Immediate Past President of the Benton County Republican Women, was held on Flag Day, June 14, 2014, from Noon to 1:00 p.m., in Corvallis, Oregon. Flag wavers were greeted with honks and waves by drivers and passersby's at the intersection of NW Circle Boulevard and NW Ninth Street. Some inquired as to why the rally was being held and, when told that it was to celebrate Flag Day, the most often heard response was, "Oh, I forgot. I'll put my flag out as soon as I get home!" The rally was mentioned in Corvallis Gazette-Times article, Flag Day events honor Stars and Stripes, featuring the Corvallis Elks Flag Day Ceremony.

About Flag Day
On this day in 1777, during the American Revolution, the Continental Congress adopted a resolution stating that "the flag of the United States be thirteen alternate stripes red and white" and that "the Union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new Constellation." According to Wikipedia, "In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day; in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress." Flag Day, however, in not an official federal holiday. Read More......

May 2014: Sen. Betsy Close Speaks at BCRW General Meeting

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On Tuesday, May 27, 2014, Senator Betsy Close was the guest speaker at the Benton County Republican Women's General Meeting. Sen. Close was appointed to serve the remainder of Sen. Frank Morse's term and is now running to maintain her seat as State Senator for Oregon's Senate District 8. Sen. Close spoke on her experiences at Senator to date. She has been extremely consistent in voting against government expansion and for fiscal restraint. Read More......

2014 Armed Forces Day Flag Rally

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The Benton County Republican Women held a non-partisan flag rally to celebrate Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 17, 2014, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in front of the National Guard Armory, 1100 NW Kings Blvd., in Corvallis, Oregon. It was a pleasure to honor the men and women serving in the U.S. Military. It was a gorgeous day. The wind blew lightly to keep the beautiful USA flags waving and the sun came out to warm this patriotic event. Drivers and passengers honked, waved and cheered in their support of those who serve in our Armed Forces. Thank you to Carolyn Webb, BCRW's Immediate Past President, for organizing the rally. Read More......

2014 BCRW April Meeting

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On Monday, April 28, 2014, the Benton County Republican Women held their April meeting at King Tin Restaurant in Corvallis. Speakers were Cynthia Kendoll and Jerry J. Jackson, Sr.

Cynthia Kendoll is president of Oregonians for Immigration Reform and the authorized agent for the petition that put “Protect Oregon Driver Licenses” on the November 2014 ballot. She told the group that she had never spearheaded a ballot initiative before and she credited leaders from around the state and many volunteers for their help. She described the process and talked about her experiences throughout the successful effort. Jerry Jackson is the Republican candidate for Benton County Commissioner. He gleaned leadership experience serving on the Philomath City Council becoming the body's chair. He also served as the city's chief financial officer and Philomath is a model for fiscal responsibility. Benton County would be well served if voters elect Mr. Jackson for County Commissioner in November. Read More......

2014 Tax Day Tea Party - Corvallis, OR

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On Saturday, April 12th, local citizens gathered for a tea party style rally in front of the Benton County Courthouse in Corvallis, Oregon to celebrate liberty and protest government over regulation and taxation. The non-partisan event was organized by Carolyn Webb. See article at Corvallis Gazette-Times Read More......

BCRW March 2014 Showing of "Chosen"

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The Benton County Republican Women met at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library on Monday, March 24th, where they showed the film "Chosen," an expose on child sex trafficking by Shared Hope International. Letetia Wilson, Director of the area Center Against Rape and Domestic Violence (CARDV), was the guest speaker. There is much work to be done through law enforcement, schools and organizations to educate students, parents, teachers, administrators and the community about sex trafficking; what to watch for and what to do when a vulnerable child appears to be in the process of being led astray by a predator. For girls (and boys) who have been lured into prostitution, getting out can be dangerous. Therefore, safe houses --in a different location-- are essential. Convincing young girls and boys to say something if they see that a friend might be in the process of being lured by an older 'new friend' is also essential. BCRW has recently joined the Benton-Linn Coalition Against Human Trafficking (CAHT). Read More......

2014 BCRW Presidents' Day Library Display

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Every February since 2010, the Benton County Republican Women have submitted a poster with display materials for Presidents' Day for exhibition on the main floor of the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library. The 2014 presentation features quotes by Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln as well as selections of interesting historical facts (see PDF showing selected text for 2014). We hope you'll visit the library and view our presentation, which will be on display February 1-15. Constructing this display is a labor or love-- for country and respect for these most honorable presidents. Read More......

2013 BCRW Christmas Party

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The Benton County Republican Women held their 2013 Potluck Christmas Party on December 16th in the Fireside Room at Kings Circle Assembly of God Church in Corvallis. The food was fabulous, the Christmas music by Dan Vickers, Pastor of Cowboy Church, was beautiful and the party stood as a wonderful wrap-up for the year. Our special guests and speakers were Oregon Federation of Republican Women (OFRW) President Sally MacLeod and  Treasurer Eleanor Boese. Charlotte Vicker presented the book The Founding Conservatives: How a Group of Unsung Heroes Saved the American Revolution to Corvallis-Benton County Public Library Director Carolyn Rawles-Heiser. The installation of BCRW's 2014-2015 Officers was presided over by Eleanor Boese as outgoing BCRW President Carolyn Webb thanked her officers and board and the torch was passed to new president Stella Guenther, 1st Vice President Patricia Dysart, 2nd Vice President Jean Nelson, Recording Secretary Susan Newby, Corresponding Secretary Vonnie Noble and Treasurer Kim Rowe. President MacLeod shared uplifting words for the future focusing on education and political education. Following the potluck luncheon, a gift exchange was enjoyed by those participating. Merry Christmas to all! Read More......

Susan Newby wins gun raffle!

Susan Newby of Corvallis wins Benton COP Gun Raffle!

BCRW member, Susan Newby, wins the The Benton County Republicans AR-15 Raffle.  The raffle ran from July 31, 2013 through November 21, 2013 and the drawing was held at the Benton County Republican "We the People" Appreciation Dinner.  Shown with husband Rex Newby at Philomath Gun Shop, Susan shows off her new Stag Arms AR-15 firearm. Congratulations Susan! Read More......

2013 Republican "We the People" Appreciation Dinner

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Many members of the Benton County Republican Women attended the Benton County Republican's annual "We the People" Appreciation Dinner on Thursday, November 21, 2013 at the Clubhouse in Adair Village with a wonderful buffet dinner by Valley Catering. Joining the guest list were members of the Oregon State University College Republicans and special guest speakers, Bill Currier, Oregon Republican Party Vice-Chair; W. Scott Jorgensen, author of Reflection and Deputy Communications Director for the Oregon House Republican Office; and District 8 State Senator Betsy Close. Mark Callahan, Republican primary candidate for U.S. Senate also attended the dinner. Following a fun social hour and delicious dinner, Jerry Jackson, Chair of the Benton County Republicans, turned the evening program over to 1st Vice Chair Stan Baker, an inspiring speaker in his own right, to introduce the speakers. Read More......

2013 Veterans Day Parade, Linn & Benton GOP Float

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The Linn and Benton County Republicans participated in the Albany Veterans Day Parade on Monday, November 11th to show their appreciation and respect for the Veterans who have served our country so honorably. Republican Primary candidates joining us in this tribute were Rep. Andy Olson for reelection to Oregon House District 15, Mark Callahan for U.S. Senate, State Representative Jason Conger for U.S. Senate and Dr. Monica Wehby for U.S. Senate. Rep. Olson graciously volunteered his beautiful red truck and a driver to pull the Republican float. Those walking the parade route passed out candy to children and patriotic buttons to veterans. 1,850 buttons were made and contributed by the Benton County Republican Women. Float riders displayed alternating messages, "We love you Vets" and "Thank You" to the veterans with flip cards. We offer our gratitude to the Veterans Commemoration Association for this wonderful event and, most importantly, we offer our thanks to the Veterans.

Participating Republicans from Benton County were Chair Jerry Jackson, John Detweiler, Charles and Jean Nelson, Ken McCracken and Kim Rowe, Stella Guenther, Kristie Hernandez with daughter Alexia, and Garland and PJ Hunter. Participating Republicans from Linn County were Chair Michael Wyhausen, Julie Hetterle with sister Mindi and Mary Grimes. Thank you all! Read More......

2013 Constitution Day Library Display

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The Benton County Republican Women have presented a Constitution Day display at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library since 2009.  The 2013 presentation appeals to young citizens to study the U.S. Constitution; to know it, and to protect it.  The display runs September 3-15.

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2013 Republican Booths at the Benton County Fair

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We're having a blast at the Fair! The Benton County Republicans and Benton County Republican Women have side-by-side booths at the 2013 Benton County Fair, July 31st through Aug. 3rd! The Benton County Republicans are selling raffle tickets for an AR-15. Tickets are $5 each and the drawing will be held on Nov. 21, 2013 at the organization's "We the People" Appreciation Dinner (need not be present to win). Featured again this year in the booth is the "World's Smallest Political Quiz," a fun way to find out where you stand in the political spectrum. John Detweiler, who manages and analyzes the results claims that Benton County has a libertarian streak... will that be evident this year? The Benton County Republican Women are selling fun patriotic and political buttons and patriotic jewelry. Drop by the booths for ice-cold spring water and take part in the activity.

Thank you to all who volunteered to man the booths. Your participation is truly appreciated. Read More......

2013 Benton GOP at Philomath Frolic & Parade

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On July 11-14, the Benton County Republicans once again participated in the super fun and friendly Philomath Frolic & Parade with the help of the Benton County Republican Women. Those manning the Republican "Floats 'n Votes" booth sold Root Beer floats, lemonade, bottled water, and BCRW buttons; conducted voter registration and collected signatures for petitions, while making friends in Philomath. Our thanks to Andrew Decker, Louanna Oliver, Jessica Paulsen, John Detweiler, Kim Rowe, Susan Newby, Kristie Hernandez and Alexia, Lou and Don Copes, Stan and Glenda Baker, Stella Guenther, PJ and Garland Hunter for helping with setup, takedown or taking shifts in the booth. On the morning of Saturday, July 13th, volunteers descended on our blank parade float and had it decked out in Stars & Strips and shouting LIBERTY in no time. Nic Oliver pulled the float. Nic's wife, Louanna Oliver and granddaughter Janaiah Paulsen rode with him playing patriotic music. Enthusiastic riders on the float were Carolyn Webb, John Detweiler, Kristie Hernandez and daughters Alexia and Veronica (Ronnie) with friends Danny and Tiffany, Jessica Paulsen with baby Trinity, PJ Hunter and Zumi (the dog). Walking with the float and passing out candy were Stan and Glenda Baker, Stella Guenther and Garland Hunter. All helped decorate the float plus Jerry Jackson, Kim Rowe and John & Myrna Bell. With great appreciation, we thank you all! Read More......

2013 Flag Day Rally & Flag Ceremony

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June 14, 2013 - The Benton County Republican Women organized a Flag Day Rally from 11:30am to 12:30pm in front of the Benton County Courthouse in Corvallis, Oregon. Patriots lined 4th Street with flags billowing and were greeted with waves, cheers and horn honking from drivers passing by in celebration of Flag Day. Then, at 1:00pm the Benton County Republican Women held a ceremony in the main meeting room of the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library. Club president Carolyn Webb presented a special United States flag to Library Director Carolyn Rawles-Heiser. The flag, which was flown over the U.S. Capitol on Armed Forces Day this year and was purchased through the office of Congressman Greg Walden, will remain in the Library for community use and public enjoyment for years to come. Dignitaries Mayor Julie Manning and Sheriff Diana Simpson kindly spoke and participated in the ceremony. Guest soloist, Debbie Graeber, entertained with patriotic songs. A reception followed.

Click image above for more photos of the Flag Day Presentation at the Corvallis-Benton Public Library

For more pictures, see the Corvallis Gazette-Times article "Cheers for the red, white and blue" and the Corvallis TidBits artlce "Flag Day Celebration Corvallis Oregon" (includes a video). Thanks to both for the coverage; we appreciate it! Read More......

2013 Armed Forces Day Flag Rally

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The Benton County Republican Women annually sponsor an enthusiastic non-partisan flag rally to honor all who serve in America's Armed Forces. The 2013 rally was held on Saturday, May 18th on the grounds of the Nation Guard Armory, 1100 NW Kings Blvd. in Corvallis, Oregon. BCRW members provided snacks and beverages.  Carolyn Webb notes, "This is how our family and others from the Benton Co Republican Women celebrated Armed Forces Day." Read More......

2013 Dorchester Conference

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Carolyn Webb, President of Benton County Republican Women is shown with Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Republican Congresswoman from the 7th District of Washington State.

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New Oregon Republican Party Officials for 2013-2015

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Left to Right: Solomon Yue, Jr., National Committeeman; Chris Barreto, Secretary; Suzanne Gallagher, Chair; Bill Currier, Vice Chair; Ken Taylor, Treasurer; Donna D. Cain, National Committeewoman.

Salem, OR (Feb. 4) – At the 2013 Biennial Organization Meeting on Saturday, members of the Oregon Republican State Central Committee elected Suzanne Gallagher of Tigard, Oregon as the new Chair of the ORP. Gallagher’s slate swept the other three officer positions as well. “Our slate of officers won these contested elections because the Central Committee wanted a team of officers which shared the same Constitutional values, worked together effectively and would turn our Party’s focus to attracting voters to the Party’s candidates,” Chair Gallagher said. Bill Currier, the new ORP Vice Chair and Chris Barreto, the new ORP Secretary, both won contested races for their offices. Ken Taylor, the new ORP Treasurer won by acclamation. See article at www.OregonRepublicanParty.org. Read More......

2013 BCRW Presidents' Day Library Display

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Every February since 2010, the Benton County Republican Women have presented a Presidents' Day poster for a two-week display in the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library. Alternating between two graphic backgrounds, we include pertinent quotes from President George Washington and President Abraham Lincoln each year that suit current happenings in America. See our Presidents' Day display album. Read More......

Sen. Betsy Close Joins Oregon Senate

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Oregon State Capitol, Salem, OR - Republican Betsy Close was sworn in as Senator for District 8 on Friday, October 26, 2012. Senate President Peter Courtney presided over the ceremony and the oath of office was administered by Chief Justice Tom Balmer. Betsy's husband, Christopher, held the Bible that was used when the couple was married 40 years ago. Attending the ceremony were three of the four Close children, Betsy's 100-year-old mother, Ruth Willard of Spokane, Washington, and friends. Carolyn Webb and Stella Guenther represented the Benton County Republican Women on this special day. Cake was served at a reception that followed. Close now fills the remaining two years of retiring Sen. Frank Morse's term.

Photos by Carolyn Webb
See article: Statesman Journal Read More......

2012 Republican Barbecue

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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. Read More......

2012 Republican Booths at the Benton County Fair

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The Benton County Republicans and Benton County Republican Women ran side-by-side booths at the Benton County Fair, August 1st through 4th, 2012. John Detweiler conducted the popular World's Smallest Political Quiz and volunteers conducted voter registration, promoted our Republican candidates, answered questions, passed out stickers, advertised the upcoming Republican Picnic & BBQ (August 9th) and the Republican Women sold tee-shirts and buttons during the fair. Candidates visited the booths to talk with fair goers. It was reported that there were many young people visiting the booths, who identified themselves as Republicans or as planning to vote for Mitt Romney for President. Thank you to all who volunteered to man the booths! Your participation was very much appreciated.

If anyone has photos from the booths and would like to share them here, please contact PJ Hunter. Read More......

2012 Republicans at the Philomath Frolic & Parade

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The Benton County Republican Women assisted the Benton County Republican Party at the Philomath Frolic in Philomath, Oregon on July 12th through 15th, with the Republican booth and float entry. In the "Floats 'n Votes" booth, volunteers sold Root Beer floats, conducted voter registration and the Benton County Republican Women sold patriotic buttons. The decor of the Republican float entry in the Saturday parade celebrated the Declaration of Independence, America's founding and featured Republican candidate signage. Andrew Decker, candidate for State Representative, rode the float along with local Republicans and members of the BCRW. Roman Guenther pulled the float. It is always a pleasure to take part in the Philomath Frolic. Read More......

2012 4th of July Parade, Corvallis

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Benton County Republicans participated in the Corvallis "Everyone-Can-Join, Fabulous, Fantastic, 4th of July Parade." The GOP float featured the Declaration of Independence and Republican Candidates' campaign signs. County Commissioner candidates, Jerry Jackson, walked with the float and Betsy Close rode with Al and Kathleen Hutchinson in Al's gorgeous antique auto. BCRW 4th Grade Essay Contest winner Trinity Smith of Franklin School and her brother rode the float with Stella and PJ. Bob and Linda Bartcher pulled the float. Corvallis TidBits posted parade video (GOP float at 1:01). Read More......

2012 Republican 4th of July Breakfast

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The Benton County Republicans held their eighth annual 4th of July Breakfast at the Lion's Kitchen in Avery Park, Corvallis, Oregon. What a wonderful way to start out celebrating Independence Day! Jerry Jackson, Republican candidate for Benton County Commissioner, chaired this fun event. Benton County Republican Women helped with various tasks. Read More......

June 2012 BCRW Meeting: Living History with Peggy Lynn

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History came alive at the Monday, June 25th General Meeting of the Benton County Republican Women as Peggy Boquist, wife of State Senator Brian Boquist, assumed the persona of Peggy Lynn, best friend of Edith Roosevelt, wife of President Theodore Roosevelt. In period speech and dress, Peggy Lynn took us back in time for a peek into the lives of TR and Edith, their story, their pain, their love, their adventures and their family. Read More......

Flag Day, June 14, 2012

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Not many showed up for the BCRW's patriotic flag waving on Flag Day 2012 at 53rd Street and Philomath Blvd. but there was no lack of enthusiasm in celebrating our flag and the freedoms it stands for! Many thanks to these patriots: (L to R) Stella, PJ, Betty, Mark & Jane. Also, many thanks to all who honked and waved! Read More......