Thanks to all who attended our convention February 19th, with keynote speaker Tom Emmer. We also heard from RNC Committee candidates Pat Anderson, Janet Beihoffer, Pamela Punt, Jeff Johnson and Ben Golnik. Rep. Erik Paulsen's spokesman John Paul Yates gave the latest news on national legislation, and MNGOP Deputy Chair Michael Brodkorb gave an update on coming elections.

2010 candidates Nick Petersen (45 Senate) and Reid Johnson (45B House) also addressed the group, and Johnson announced his intent to run again in 2012.

Congrats to re-elected Chair Candace Oathout, A-side Chair Dennis Holman and B-side Chair Red Bartholomew. Elected Vice Chairs for the A-side are Andrew Richter and Colin Schulte; B-side Vice Chairs are Jason Bradley, Mike Leach, Chris Moorman and Tom Mathias. Secretary and Treasurer positions will be filled by Executive appointments.

Also elected are Full Committee Delegates Blair Tremere and Fred Axelson, and Derek Brigham for CD3. Elected for State Central Committee Delegates in CD3: Derek Brigham; and for CD5: Nancy LaRoche, Candace Oathout and Dennis Holman. State Central Alternates are Reid Johnson, Blair Tremere and Fred Axelson.

Special thanks to Carleton Crawford who served as Convention Chair and was honored with an appreciation award for his years of service, and to ALL volunteers who helped with the convention!

Next up, Congressional District conventions: CD5 on March 19 and CD3 on March 26.