September 22, 2023     Friday File Donate Now KSGOP CLICK HERE     Guest Column by Cheryl Reynolds KSGOP Vice Chair After the Storm Hey, fellow Kansans, have you ever been to a pony pull? I used to go to the ones at the annual county fair near my grandparents’ house. Forget tractor pulls, pony pulls are where it’s at. It was a misnomer – because it was actually at a draft horse pull. And, it was fun, but at that point in my childhood, I didn’t realize it was also a life lesson. One of the things that sticks in my mind from the many management books I’ve read over the years is the concept of synergy. The best illustration of the concept came from a fabulous book called EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey. If you haven’t read it and you are interested in business or well-performing teams in any arena of life, I highly recommend it. The concept that really hit home is that you can have teams… and then you can have TEAMS! I know many of us that work with teams are probably familiar with the concept of Form, Storm, Norm, and Perform. Teams are formed – and the next step is the storm. Team members have to figure out their place and their role, so there is some storming. Once that settles, the team can norm – normalize – and begin taking care of business. If they work hard and work together, they will eventually reach the performing stage where the team is functioning as a super team. Part of that is learning not just to coordinate with one another, but to be synergistic. To illustrate synergy, Ramsey used the example of the Belgian Draft Horse, a superman of strength among horses. Belgian horses are so strong that a single horse can pull 8,000 pounds. Yep, four tons. Amazingly, if you put two Belgians together, they don’t just pull 16,000 pounds – they can pull 24,000 pounds. The team is stronger than the sum of its parts. And, even more amazingly, if you put together a team that has been raised and trained together from an early age, horses who think alike, they will be able to pull 32,000 pounds – 16,000 pounds each. That is the power of synergy. We need synergy to save our country, to keep our state red, to protect liberty, and to be the America our forefathers imagined and created. The Kansas GOP is a team. We have formed through the election process in February, but we are struggling to get past the storm to the form. If we allow ourselves to do that, synergy will allow us to accomplish tremendous things. If we don’t, none of us are living up to our potential or our duty to serve the members of the Kansas GOP. We need to focus on what we agree on. What we can do together. As Ronald Reagan reminded us, our 80% friend is not our 20% enemy. Can we do that and allow our team to norm? Can we reach a portion of the potential of synergy? We might not be the team that can pull 32,000 pounds, but we can do better. Let’s find that common ground and plant some seeds for the future.     Note: From time to time, the Friday File Guest Column has been and will be made available to all Republican candidates for President of the United States. Candidates are offered this space as a service to Kansas Republicans to hear from those who desire to be our Republican nominee and to lead the free world. The KSGOP does not endorse or support any candidate for any office over another in a contested Republican primary election.     1776 Club Join Now and Become a Card-Carrying Kansas Patriot! Join the “1776 Club” and Stand for Liberty and Patriotism! Are you ready to take a stand for liberty, patriotism, and the future of our great nation? Join your fellow Kansas Republican Party (KSGOP) members and become a proud member of the prestigious "1776 Club." By joining the "1776 Club," you'll become a card-carrying member of the KSGOP and join a passionate community of like-minded individuals committed to upholding conservative principles and ensuring a prosperous future for Kansas and the United States. Together, we can make a difference and save America from the threats that loom over our values and freedoms. As a member of the "1776 Club," you'll actively participate in shaping policies that align with our core beliefs, and you'll have the chance to be eligible for exciting "pop-up perks" as fabulous opportunities become available. The perks program offers random winners the chance to attend unique and exclusive events, giving you the opportunity to be part of the "cool kids club"! The "1776 Club" represents the embodiment and foundation of our nation's founding principles and the spirit of independence. By joining this exclusive club, you'll gain access to a network of influential leaders and dedicated activists who are working tirelessly to protect our constitutional rights and preserve the American dream. Joining the KSGOP and the "1776 Club" is not just about being a member; it's about being part of a movement that stands firm against the forces that threaten our American values. Together, we will promote limited government, individual liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all Americans. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a real impact. Join the Kansas Republican Party and the "1776 Club" today, and be part of the solution. Together, we will build a stronger, more united America and Kansas for generations to come. Signup now to become a "1776'er" and get yourself in the hunt for amazing perks. The opportunities are out of sight, so you don't want to miss out! Thank you for your support and commitment to our shared values.     Conservatively Speaking by KSGOP Chairman Mike Brown Chairman Brown Appointed to RNC Election Integrity Committee and Voting Systems and Technology Subcommittee KSGOP Chairman Mike Brown, who also serves as a member of the Republican National Committee (RNC), recently accepted an appointment to serve on the RNC Election Integrity Committee. Additionally, Brown accepted an appointment to the RNC Subcommittee on Voting Systems and Technology. The Subcommittee aims to research and evaluate voting systems and technology used in the United States to identify potential vulnerabilities, make recommendations to improve election administration and bolster Americans’ confidence in our elections. “I look forward to serving on the Committee and Subcommittee. Safe and secure election processes and machinery rebuild confidence in our elections. This is an area of serious concern and I’m ready to begin reviewing the election methods and tools available to determine what provides the highest confidence and most accurate outcomes in our precious elections, said Brown. “Everything must be on the table. Nothing in American government and society is more critical than our elections. Fast returns may be preferred, but accuracy is paramount.” Brown will update on the progress of these committees on a regular basis.   Southern Border Must Be Closed or Biden Jailed The humanitarian disaster at the Southern Border is profoundly concerning and calls for immediate and decisive action. The call for permanent and complete border closure is an obvious national security, rule of law, and American citizen's safety concern. Concerns about President Joe Biden's handling of border security are not limited to one political perspective. Some Republicans believe that he has failed in his constitutional duty to protect the country from all threats, foreign and domestic. Accusations of treason and corruption are serious and merit careful investigation and scrutiny. We have people walking into America who are unknown, undetected, and bringing illness and disease to states across the USA. Some diseases outbreaks have occurred in Kansas and are connected to illegal immigrants being injected by Joe Biden into our communities and schools. Ten thousand encounters according the CBP, occurred in one day this week. We are under assault and invasion yet our President simply doesn't care. Tragically, multiple incidents involving three children drowning while attempting to cross the border illegally against the background of others coming into America legally by safely walking across the river bridge above them. This is a stark reminder of the human cost and completely avoidable suffering of a wide open border. These deaths are a tragedy that never should have occurred. Their blood is on the hands of our failed POTUS and his derelict Administration. The composition of illegal immigrants crossing into America from Mexico, including individuals from countries like Venezuela, China, Haiti, and others (and to be precise, they didn’t walk from China), highlights the dangerous international nature of this challenge. While it is vital to maintain a compassionate approach to legal immigration, it is equally essential to ensure that immigration laws are enforced consistently and fairly and that our borders are genuinely closed to all illegal immigration. The estimated 230,000 illegal border crossings last month, as reported by CBP, is a staggering number that poses significant security and logistical challenges. A nation's ability to control its borders is fundamental to its sovereignty and security. Strong border security is essential to a strong America. Rebuilding and maintaining the integrity of the US immigration system is paramount. In conclusion, the call for a permanent and complete closure of the Southern Border is driven by a commitment to national security and the rule of law. The tragic loss of life, the diverse composition of illegal immigrants, and the overwhelming number of illegal border crossings demands a comprehensive and effective response. The growing number of accusations and pointed fingers is coming from Democrats and Republicans. The charges against President Biden are serious and legitimate. The president must be held accountable to his Oath of Office. This is especially critical as relates to border security. Joe Biden has failed by every measure. His failure has compromised American Citizens, cities, counties, and states. His intentional negligence has compromised the country he swore to defend. And that alone should have Joe Biden behind bars.     The Parallel Universe News & Opinion Stories You May Have Missed This Week Healthcare nonprofit foundations and others dump $1 million into Kansas elections for “peer pressure with a purpose” Source: The Voter Network - History and Financials Paxton aquitted, now a GOP battle for control of Texas Source: New York Times Dallas mayor leaves Democratic Party, switches to GOP: 'American cities need Republicans' Source: Fox News Commercial plane that flew Chinese delegation to UN General Assembly parked at Joint Base Charleston Source: NBC/WCBD News The era of Ukraine’s blank check from Congress is over Source: Fox News Support for Haley doubles in lowa, putting her in top three Source: Fox Business Six GOP candidates have qualified for second debate Source: Axios NY GOP sues to block Gov's law expanding early voting Source: Fox News What’s in Republicans’ proposed deal to prevent shutdown Source: The Hill Biden has let 221,456 migrants fly into the US in past year Source: New York Post Biden gives $6B to Iran in exchange for detained Americans Source: Fox News Hunter Biden to plead not guilty to charges Source: New York Post Lawmakers bipartisan push on competitiveness with China Source: Axios House cancels weekend votes, puts members on 'standby' Source: Washington Examiner Brazil warns United Nations of coup risk in Guatemala Source: Reuters A direct and compelling headline     KSGOP Store Get Your Gear! ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️ CLICK HERE to Shop Now!     Texas AG Paxton Acquitted, Talk of Retribution Comes Swiftly Ken Paxton’s impeachment trial escalates Texas Republican civil war ~ The Texas Tribune   Hours after his acquittal in the Texas Senate, Attorney General Ken Paxton’s far-right supporters doubled down on their promises for swift retribution against fellow Republicans who supported his removal from office. In particular, they vowed a scorched-earth campaign against House Speaker Dade Phelan, casting him as the ringleader responsible for the impeachment process and calling for him to resign immediately. Meanwhile, prominent conservatives — including Trump — excoriated “RINOs” in the House and called for Phelan’s resignation. Paxton’s acquittal, some argued, was proof that the far right was the Texas GOP’s true standard bearer. And they promised that dramatic changes would consequently follow. “Speaker Dade Phelan and his leadership team should be embarrassed for putting Texas through the time and expense of this political sham of an impeachment,” Matt Rinaldi, the chair of the Republican Party of Texas, said in a statement. “We invite the House Republican Caucus to choose leadership moving forward who will unify a Republican coalition behind our common goals, instead of sharing power with Democrats.” Standing outside the Senate chamber on Saturday, Steve Toth, R- Spring, TX said he expects there to be "retribution" by voters for his fellow Republicans who supported Paxton's impeachment. And he agreed that the party's internecine conflict has no end in sight. "It's a mess," he said. Read the entire article CLICK HERE.   Note: If you have a Republican event you would like to tell folks about, please email the details for inclusion consideration to: [email protected] Please Include: date, time, address, and event description Kansas Republican Calendar of Events September 23, 2023 9am to 5:30pm Morningstar Church Foundation for Applied Conservative Leadership Training This event will equip you to be more effective in the political realm. If you have a desire to influence our leaders for good and inject common sense and personal integrity into our system, please seriously consider investing some time and money. It’s only $45 if you pay by September 1. This group came to Lawrence in 2021 and it was a catalyst in our area for people to start working together and making a difference. The Big First GOP is excited to be able to partner with the Leadership Institute for an upcoming specialized training for our Big First activists and school board candidates! We will be hosting a three hour school board and education webinar on topics such as: campaigning, activism, governing, and support. We will be joined by special guests: Bridget Ziegler, Vice President of School Board Leadership Programs for the Leadership Institute, Byron Clarke, Trainer for the Leadership Institute School Board Programs, and Kansas State Board of Ed Member- Cathy Hopkins. All participants of this webinar will graduate from this special class and walk away with the skills needed to win elections and serve on these education boards. This opportunity is open to anyone that would like to learn from one of the best conservative national training organizations in the country. Please join us on September 23rd! Click to Register! September 23, 2023 Kansas Black Republican Council 13th Annual Freedom Shoot Start 9am Check-in 8:30am Ravenwood Lodge 10147 SW 61st Street Topeka, KS 66610 RSVP NOW CLICK HERE KSBLACKREPUBLICANS.COM/EVENTS #KSFREEDOMSHOOT September 23, 2023 4 pm Montgomery County GOP annual chili/chicken noodle fundraiser $5.00 per person/$20.00 per family Come meet and hear from Kris Kobach, Dan Hawkins and Tony Mativi Silent Auction and 50/50 Raffle 2615 W. Main Street Independence, KS 67301 Questions? Call Jamie Clubine at (620) 331-9727 September 30, 2023 10 am - 1230 pm KSGOP State Committee Summer Meeting Paola, KS Due to limited space, only about 30 observers will be accommodated on a first-come/first-serve basis. Alternate Delegates are encouraged to check with the district chair to see if they might be seated. A space specifically for media/press only will be provided on a first-come/first-serve basis. All State Committee Members and Alternates have been notified with complete details. October 13th, 2023 6:00pm – 10:00pm Franklin County Republicans are having a “DENIM & DIAMONDS HOEDOWN” Nelson Farms 1981 Stafford Rd Ottawa, KS 66067 ADULTS:$25.00 CHILDREN (12 & under): $15.00 (Dinner, dessert, drinks and line-dancing included!) PLEASE RSVP to 913-485-3727 Grab your boots ladies, and guys get ready to do some scootin'!! Join us for a fundraiser the whole family can enjoy! Dancing will be under the stars so ** Don’t forget your lawn chair! **     “The road to Socialism, abject poverty, human suffering, and the end of freedom on earth runs through the middle of a divided Republican party.” ~ Mike Brown     Donate Now KSGOP CLICK HERE     About KSGOP Donate 1776 Club KSGOP Leadership     Mailing Address: P.O. Box 4157 Topeka KS 66604 Phone: 785-234-3456 Email: [email protected] Website: www.kansas.gop   Kansas Republican Party Platform   Paid for by the Kansas Republican Party, Inc. Mike Brown, Chairman Alan Townsend, Treasurer   Kansas Republican Party | P.O. 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