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MICHIGAN'S 13TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT
Republican 'Fix Michigan Center' Launched
In Pointe Plaza Shopping Center at Mack & Moross
“We're open for business,” said 13th district Republican chairman, Ed Joseph, announcing launch of the “Fix Michigan Center” located at 19165 Mack Avenue in the Pointe Plaza Shopping Center - between Buddy's Pizza and Barnes & Noble Books.
Grand opening of the eastside/Grosse Pointe campaign headquarters was held August 21, with the appearance of local Republican candidates, refreshments, activation of phone banks and other campaign activities.
Joseph encouraged supporters, “Come in anytime during the day to assist with voter canvassing and to pick up campaign literature.”
“Free two-hour parking is in front of the Plaza, or visitors may park in the ramp directly behind the Plaza,” he added.
The center will be the area's headquarters for campaign phone calls, literature distribution, door-to-door campaigning, event hosting, and other volunteer activities.
For more information, contact center manager Diana Bates by email or call (517) 574-2627.
GOP Director Larry Ward Addresses 13th District Session
Larry Ward, spoke May 5 at the 13th district Republican Executive Committee meeting in Detroit.
Also making a presentation to the Committee and guests was Michigan Republican Party deputy director, Norman D. Shinkle, pictured in top photo with Ed Joseph (center) and Larry Ward. Status of candidate and precinct delegate recruiting was the topic.
A dozen GOP candidates seeking election in November 2010 from throughout the 13th District were introduced. Ed Joseph, chairman of the 13th district Republican executive committee, presided. See group photo, below.
Among those introduced was John Hauler, candidate for U.S. Congress from the 13th congressional district of Michigan. The incumbent, a Democrat, is best known as the mother of a former Detroit mayor. Hauler is pictured in the adjacent photo in front of the American flag with precinct delegate Shirley Nagle and John Chouinard. Chouinard is the Republican candidate for Michigan Senate district 2.
Hauler is a businessman who was born in Detroit and has lived in the Eastpointe, Harper Woods , and Grosse Pointe areas throughout his life. >> haulerforcongress.com.
Hauler said, "I am not a career politician and in this case, that is an advantage. It is easy to be dismissed because I'm new to the game. But my rejection of the 'game' for true advancement of all our entire region is what is critical."
The meeting was held at They Say Restaurant, 267 Joseph Campau, Detroit.
Congressman Pete Hoekstra Headlined District Fundraiser in Bricktown
Introduced by Ed Joseph, chairman of the 13th district Republican executive committee, Hoekstra said, "It is expensive to do business in Michigan."
The event was the committee's annual fund raiser, and was held at They Say Restaurant, in Detroit's downtown Bricktown/Riverfront area. >> See Hoekstra dinner photos.
Campaigning on the theme, "Michigan's future belongs to us," the former Fortune 500 business executive said, "Michigan residents deserve better jobs, better schools and better lives." >> Hoekstra for Governor. 
Speaking about the Detroit Metropolitan/Wayne County Airport the Holland congressman said, "We have one of the best airports in the world."
Addressing Detroit's international trade bottleneck, and he added, "We need a new rail tunnel!"
Hoekstra said he is committed to eliminating Michigan's current complex and costly business tax.
"As I talk with job creators around the state, they all say that we need to make it easier to do business here. Michigan leads the nation in unemployment because employers recognize the business climate in Michigan and understand the incredible difficulties in attempting to create jobs," he said. 
Wayne County 'Fix Michigan' Action Center Announced
Ed Joseph, chairman of the 13th district Republican executive committee, announced opening of Wayne County's “Fix Michigan” Action Center in Livonia.
Grand opening of the center will be from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, December 14. The center is located at 29531 Plymouth Road, Livonia, in the Wonderland Mall shopping center between Verizon and Hallmark.
Joseph invites area activists to attend the event. He said, “That's the best way to learn what they can do to direct the future of Michigan and return it to the pathway to prosperity.”
Joseph added, “With the 2010 elections just months away, now is the time to join the fight for lower taxes and limited government.”
“Now is the time to fix Michigan,” he said.
Joseph explained, “The purpose of the Fix Michigan initiative is to become a part of the solution, and the Republican Party is beginning its yearlong effort to provide opportunities for citizens to become engaged in the political process.”
For more information contact Christie Kiesel, director of the Wayne County Fix Michigan Center, at (517) 993-8745 or ckiesel@migop.org.
Annual District Christmas Party
Chairman Ed Joseph of the 13th district Republican executive committee invites metro Detroit Republicans and friends to the annual district Christmas party, Sunday afternoon, December 6, 2009. 
Announcing the event sponsored by three Republican organizations in Wayne and Monroe Counties, Joseph said, “You're invited to our annual Christmas party sponsored by the 13th, 14th, and 15th districts.”
He said this year's Christmas party will be at the Crystal Gardens Banquet Center's VIP Room, 16703 Fort Street, Southgate, Michigan. The event begins with hors d'oeuvres at 3 p.m., and continues with dinner at 5 p.m.
Those planning to attend should confirm by contacting Darlyn Vigh at (734) 692-5740. Cost is $27.50 per person, and the reservation deadline is Friday, November 27.
An added feature of the Christmas party will be a silent auction with proceeds going to the U.S. Veterans' Holiday Fund.
Wednesday Meetings Set
District Republican chairman Ed Joseph announces, "We will continue to use the first Wednesday of the month as our meeting date for the fall. Meetings start at 6:30 p.m."
Location for these monthly executive committee meetings is They Say Restaurant (upstairs), 267 Joseph Campau, Detroit. He invites members to arrive early to socialize or to have dinner.
Joseph reports that plans are underway for a District fall fundraiser. "Please consider volunteering a few hours to help with the planning and outreach for the fundraiser," he said.
He reminds members that the fundraiser will take the place of either the October or November meeting, and that the date will be determined after the speaker is confirmed. Stay tuned for more details.
Southeast Michigan 'Showdown in Motown'
Ed Joseph, 13th district GOP chairman, invites fellow Republicans to the Southeast Michigan "Showdown in Motown” featuring three candidates vying for the 2010 GOP Michigan Attorney General nomination.
He reports that the free event is a town hall forum set for 7:30 p.m., Monday, May 4, 2009, at the Trott Financial Center, 31440 Northwestern Highway, Farmington Hills.
The location is on the east side of Northwestern Highway, between 13 Mile and Middlebelt Roads, and the former McCain-Palin '08 Great Lakes regional headquarters.
Joseph said, “Come and bring your friends!”
The three candidates are Senate majority leader Mike Bishop (R-Rochester Hills), Senator Bruce Patterson (R-Canton Township) and former Judge Bill Schuette.
Each will take audience questions during the live town hall panel discussion focusing on statewide issues and which of them can be the strongest candidate.
A complimentary 6:30 p.m. social hour will include refreshments and precede the 7:30 p.m. Forum, which is sponsored by the 8th, 9th, 11th, 12th, 13th, and 14th district executive committees.
Joseph also issued a special action alert to area Republicans, inviting them to come early and volunteer to work a pre-forum GOP phone bank beginning at 5 p.m. 
He notes that the meeting area is in the extreme back/right of the building and that signs will be posted.
Derek Moss to Speak at 13th District Session
Michigan Republican Party vice chair, Derek Moss, will speak Wednesday, May 6, at the 13th District Republican Executive Committee meeting.
The meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. at They Say Restaurant, 267 Joseph Campau, Detroit.
Plans for Monthly District Meetings Announced
Chairman Ed Joseph has announced, “For the 2009-2010 term we have changed both our meeting location and day.”
Starting April 1, monthly district meetings will be held on the first Wednesday at “They Say” restaurant, 267 Joseph Campau, just below East Jefferson Ave. at Franklin in Detroit's Bricktown district. Meetings will continue to start at 6:30 p.m. >> 13th district events calendar.
In addition to avoiding some scheduling conflicts, Joseph said, “With the critical election year we have in 2010, many of the candidates will be speaking at our upcoming meetings.”
“Our April 1st meeting will feature newly elected Michigan GOP Youth Vice-Chair, Pete Vitale, who will bring us up-to-date on youth activities in our district, along with ideas on how the youth can assist us in grassroots efforts,” he said. 
Joseph said, “Raising adequate funds, along with having a network of precinct delegates and community activists throughout our district, is crucial to securing a Republican victory next year.”
He added, “That's why we've launched three critical subcommittees within the 13th District: fundraising, community outreach, and precinct delegate recruitment.”
State and District Leaders Elected
Ron Weiser was elected Michigan Republican Party chairman during the Republican State Convention in Lansing, February 20-21.
In addition, District officers elected were Ed Joseph, chairman, Krista Haroutunian, vice chairman, Dave Haugan, treasurer, and Micaela Reardon, secretary. District members elected to the State Committee were Thomas R. McCleary, Jr., Jermain Jones, David Dudenhoefer, Therese Joseph, Mary Treder Lang and Donzell Green.
Beckmann to Speak at Michigan GOP Convention
Popular Detroit radio personality Frank Beckmann will be guest speaker at the opening session of the 2009 Michigan Republican Party convention at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, February 20, in Lansing.
Beckmann hosts The Frank Beckmann Show every weekday on Detroit's WJR-760AM.
Also addressing the Friday evening session will be Mississippi Governor, Hailey Barbour.
Following the Friday opening session, the 13th Congressional District Caucus is scheduled to convene at 8 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel.
In advance of the session, registration and credentialing begins at 4 p.m. Friday. Potential attendees not already designated as delegates or alternates should call Ed Joseph at 417-0244 for more information. >>Convention details.
Chairman Joseph Issues Official Call to 13th District Republican Convention
Ed Joseph, chairman of the 13th Republican District, issued the following call to convention.
There shall be a meeting of the duly elected Republican precinct delegates and at-large delegates to the 13th District convention at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, January 29, 2009, at St. John's Church located at 50 E. Fisher Freeway/Woodward Ave., Detroit.
Purpose of this meeting shall be to elect delegates and alternates to the February 20-21, 2009, Republican State Convention, to be held at the Lansing Center in Lansing.
Only precinct delegates elected at the August 5, 2008, Primary Election, the last recent Republican nominees for County and State legislative offices, and precinct delegates elected on a permanent basis at the August 2008 convention can vote at this convention. All 13th District Republicans are invited.
Joseph said, "This is a very important year, and we would appreciate your attendance." Doors open and registration begins at 7:00 p.m.
Edward J. Gubics Fights to Represent 13th District
Campaigning for the U.S. House of Representatives in Michigan's 13th District, Edward J. Gubics declares, “I believe that you can make better decisions for yourself and your family than the government does!”
Gubics, of Wyandotte, is traveling the district meeting voters and offering voters a conservative alternative to the district's incumbent representative, Carolyn Cheeks-Kilpatrick (D).
He tells audiences throughout Detroit, Harper Woods, the Grosse Pointes, Wyandotte, Lincoln Park, River Rouge, and Ecorse, that he favors lower taxes so that they can keep more of the money they have already earned. >> Gubics' position on issues is here. 
District Caucus Selects Delegates to 2008 National Convention
Caucusing in Lansing on February 15, delegates from Michigan's 13th congressional district selected three delegates and three alternates to the 2008 Republican National Convention.
13th District Delegates
Ed Joseph
Marti Miller
David Haugan
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13th District Alternates
Andrew Richner
Cheryl Costantino
Julie Corbett
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The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held in Saint Paul, Minnesota, at the Xcel Energy Center from September 1-4, 2008. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, members of the media and other guests are expected to participate in the convention. >> More here. 
District Convention Held in Detroit
Edward J. Joseph, district chairman, presided over a convention of Republican 13th district precinct delegates and at-large delegates on February 7, 2008, at St. John's Episcopal Church, Detroit.
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Chairman Ed Joseph opens District 13 Convention, February 7, 2008, in Detroit.
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Elexus Brown and Catherine Costantino offer a snack to Andrew Richner at District 13 Convention, February 7, 2008.
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The district convention was called to elect delegates and alternates to the 2008 Michigan Republican Convention set for February 15 and 16, in Lansing.
Joseph explained, “The purpose of the State Convention will be to elect delegates to the 2008 Republican National Convention, and to elect our National Committeeman and Committeewoman.” In addition, the State Convention will elect 12 at-large National Convention delegates and alternates.
In Lansing, the delegates from Michigan's 13th congressional district will caucus to select three delegates and three alternates to the 2008 Republican National Convention. This district caucus will take place at 7 p.m., Friday, February 15.
The Michigan Republican State Convention convenes at 9 a.m. Saturday, February 16, in the Lansing Center in Lansing.
The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul's Xcel Energy Center from September 1-4, 2008. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, volunteers, members of the media and other guests are expected to participate in the convention.
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Sen. John McCain poses with eastsiders during a January 12 campaign stop in Warren. From left, Palmer T. Heenan, Andrew C. Richner, Charles S. "Terry" Davis III, McCain, unidentified, Gregory P. Theokas, John Stempfle and Thomas R. McCleary, Jr.
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According to Maria Cino, National Convention president, the official convention web site, www.GOPConvention2008.com, is live and serves as a one-stop shop for information on the four-day event.
Promoting the September event, Cino states, “The convention will showcase the unity and momentum of the Republican Party and our optimistic vision for America, as well as the vitality of the host cities.”
Minneapolis and St. Paul are neighboring Minnesota cities.
The first official Republican Convention was held on July 6, 1854, in Jackson, Michigan, following an earlier, informal meeting in Wisconsin. Antislavery activists and individuals who believed that government should grant western lands to settlers launched the new Party.
The name "Republican" was chosen because it alluded to equality. At that Jackson convention, the new party adopted a platform and nominated candidates for office in Michigan. >> Read an Early History of Detroit GOP.
13th District Officers Selected
Officers elected on February 20, 2009, to serve the 13th executive committee (pictured at right) were:
- Vice-Chair: Krista Haroutunian
- Secretary: Micaela Reardon, Grosse Pointe Woods
- Treasurer: David Haugan
Selected to represent the 13th district at the Republican State committee for a two-year term were:
- David Dudenhoefer
- Donzell Green
- Jermain Lee Jones
- Therese Joseph
- Mary Treder Lang
- Tom McCleary
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District Events
Michigan's 13th Congressional District
Tuesday, September 7
6:30 p.m. 13th District Republican Executive Committee meeting
Fix Michigan Center
19165 Mack Ave.
Detroit, MI 48236
Tuesday, October 5
6:30 p.m. 13th District Republican Executive Committee meeting
Fix Michigan Center
19165 Mack Ave.
Detroit, MI 48236
Tuesday, November 2
State General Election
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Richard Durant, 1918-2008
Richard Durant, 89, of Grosse Pointe Farms, a leader in local, state, and national Republican Party activities for more than 20 years, died January 17, 2008.
In 1950 and 1952, Durant ran spirited though unsuccessful races for a seat in the U.S. Congress to represent the 14th congressional district, a traditional democratic seat. At the time, the district included all of the Pointes and large sections of the eastside of Detroit, stretching to Hamtramck. 
Durant popularized the case against inflation and for lower taxes with his famous "over the fence" talks using a bag of groceries to demonstrate the impact of the excessive spending, higher taxes, and inflation of the Truman years. He sought to lower taxes and increase freedom, at home and abroad.
Throughout the '50s and '60s, Durant remained active in politics, particularly working to broaden the base of the Republican Party and encouraging young people to understand and get involved in politics and the ideas underlying the workings of a free society.
For many years he was the chairman of the 14th District and a delegate to two national conventions. In 1964 he was one of the "rebellious 8" of Michigan's 48 national delegates at the Cow Palace in San Francisco who voted to nominate Barry Goldwater. In 1968 he supported Ronald Reagan's first try for the presidential nomination at the Republican National Convention in Miami.
"Richard Durant was the first real champion of the conservative movement in Michigan. Many entered and stayed in politics because of his work," said his brother-in-law Palmer Heenan, mayor of Grosse Pointe Park and a delegate to the 1968 Republican National Convention.
Annual District Christmas Party Held at Beautiful Detroit Yacht Club 
Wayne County Republicans held their annual Christmas Party December 3, 2006, at the Detroit Yacht Club on Belle Isle.
Michigan Republican chairman Saul Anuzis was on hand to share his outlook and graciously answered questions from other leaders and grassroots members.
Hosts for the social event were leaders of both the 13th and 14th congressional districts. Both districts are in Wayne County. See photos at right.
An added feature included a silent auction sponsored by the 14th district, and the collection of toiletries and other personal items being assembled for shipment to U.S. troops in Iraq.
According to 13th district party coordinator Jim Miller, “The Detroit Yacht Club's beautiful Christmas decorations are an added reason for coming.”
Michigan GOP Chairman Visits Executive Committee Session
Chairman Ed Joseph introduced a pair of distinguished visitors to the executive committee at its November 13, 2006, meeting in Detroit.
Michigan Republican Party chairman Saulius "Saul" Anuzis, offered a report on the 2006 election cycle and some of the challenges encountered in several districts throughout Michigan. His bid for reelection as chairman has been challenged by at least one other hopeful, Dave Dishaw. 
Dishaw, who was first to speak to the group, outlined his views on the recent election and his credentials as a party activist. The Kent County real estate broker most recently served as finance chairman in the reelection campaign of Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land. [Update: >> Dishaw withdraws, endorses Anuzis.]
Meetings of the 13th district Republican executive committee are held at the Town Pump Tavern (behind the Fox Theatre), 100 West Montcalm, in downtown Detroit. All Republican precinct delegates are invited to attend.
Due to the Christmas holiday no December meeting will be held, and the next meeting is scheduled for 6:30 P.M., Monday, January 8, 2007.
This district leadership group meets on the second Monday of each month. Any questions about meeting may be directed to Joseph at (313) 343-2900.
Campaign Planning and Candidate Support Topics of September Meeting
Campaign activities, endorsements, and volunteer opportunities led the agenda and the 13th district executive committee meeting held September 11 at the new Eastside Campaign Headquarters.
Ed Joseph, Republican chairman, introduced Paul E. Sophiea, Republican candidate for Michigan State Senate, district 3. “A strong Michigan economy means strong families and a secure future for us all,” said Sophiea.
The Dearborn resident said he has been a strong campaigner for the Dick DeVos gubernatorial candidacy because he will do more for the State's economic future. >> More Sophiea.
All Republican precinct delegates are invited to attend executive committee meetings. This district leadership group meets on the second Monday of each month. Any questions about meeting may be directed to Joseph at (313) 343-2900.
Grand Opening of Eastside Office Held Saturday, September 9
Chairman Ed Joseph and State Representative Ed Gaffney welcomed eastsiders at the official grand opening of the Eastside campaign office on Saturday, September 9, 2006. 
Located just below Moross at 18495 Mack Ave., Detroit (corner of Opal/Cloverly), the office has been provided by the Gaffney campaign with the assistance of the 13th Republican District and other supporters. Assisting Gaffney is Tom McCleary, who asks that potential staffers contact him to volunteer.
In addition to Representative Gaffney, a number of other local GOP candidates were on hand at the grand opening event to greet potential voters.
The office will be a distribution point for Republican candidate campaign material, other campaign activities, and a meeting place for the 13th District Executive Committee. Office hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 882-4550.
Candidate & Volunteer Recruitment Success Topic of May Meeting at Detroit's Town Pump
A very favorable reception was reported by Donzell Green, who recounted her experiences representing the Republican party at both the April 30 Detroit NAACP banquet and the 2006 Cinco de Mayo festival in Detroit's MexicanTown. 
Green's report was made at the May 8 meeting of the 13th Republican district executive committee meeting. In addition to Republican visibility at he NAACP banquet, Green reported that at the two-day MexicanTown event hundreds of pieces of literature were distributed and volunteers were recruited for future activities.
A similar success was reported by Cheryl Costantino on the April 26 “Pizza & Politics” event held in Detroit where a number of people volunteered to serve as GOP precinct delegates and workers. 
Ed Joseph, 13th district Republican chairman, introduced two prospective Republican candidates. Shirley A. Lamar will be running for State Representative, District 3, and De'Andre Anderson is a likely candidate for Wayne County Commission, District 1.
This district leadership group meets on the second Monday of each month. All Republican precinct delegates are invited to attend. Any questions about meeting may be directed to Joseph at (313) 343-2900.
Stepped-Up GOP Outreach Activities Outlined
With a focus on the future, Ed Joseph, 13th district chairman, presided over a discussion of candidate recruitment, precinct delegate recruitment, and other activities designed to reach deeper into the local community to identify voters who share Republican values. 
To facilitate outreach, participation in a number of upcoming events was encouraged. Guyla Dedinas, GOP field director, outlined the value of door-to-door solicitation and telephone canvassing.
From their own experience working in the City of Detroit, Donzell Green and Bryan Strong offered their perspectives and encouraged continued outreach.
Corktown Memorial Service
Held for Connie McConnohie
Parish pastor Rev. Russell E. Kohler presided. The church is located in the near-Westside community known as "Corktown."
McConnohie was a Republican loyalist who sought public office as a Republican and faithfully attended GOP events throughout Detroit and Michigan. In August 2002 she was a candidate in the Republican primary for State Representative, 12th District. >> Read Detroit Loses a Loyal Republican.
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Meetings of the 13th district Republican executive committee are held at the Town Pump Tavern (behind the Fox Theatre), 100 West Montcalm, in downtown Detroit. All Republican precinct delegates are invited to attend.
This district leadership group meets on the second Monday of each month. Any questions about meeting may be directed to Joseph at (313) 343-2900.
State Vice Chairman Golden Addresses February Meeting
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Matt Golden
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Guyla Dedinas
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Edith L. Floyd
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Ed Joseph, chairman, introduced Matthew Golden, Michigan Republican Party vice chairman for youth activities, at the 13th district Republican executive committee meeting February 13, 2006, in downtown Detroit.
Golden told of ongoing efforts to recruit and mobilize youth throughout Michigan, and particularly in the metro Detroit area.
He currently works as a communications specialist in the Michigan Senate. Golden has previously served as treasurer of the Michigan Federation of College Republicans, and is in his second term as vice chairman of the Isabella County Republicans. In addition, Golden is studying community development and public administration at Central Michigan University.
Golden, originally from Mount Pleasant, says he has always had an interest in politics. He became involved with his local Republican Party during high school and went on to serve as their campaign coordinator during the 2002 election. Since then Golden has also worked for Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land and State Representative Sandy Caul.
Also introduced at the meeting were Guyla Dedinas, Michigan GOP field director for Wayne County, and Edith L. Floyd, candidate for the Michigan House of Representatives, District 2, Republican nomination.
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Chuck Gaidica Featured
At Detroit GOP Fundraiser
Michigan television and radio personality, Chuck Gaidica, was featured speaker at the 13th district's 2006 buffet dinner.
The March 2, 2006, event was held at Sandbags in Detroit. >> More. 
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This district leadership group meets on the second Monday of each month. The next meeting is scheduled for April 10. Any questions about meeting may be directed to Joseph at (313) 343-2900.
District Leaders Hear from Gaffney, DeVos for Governor Campaign
Meeting January 9 for their leadership meeting, district 13 Republicans were updated on legislation passed and pending in the Michigan House of Representatives by Representative Ed Gaffney, Grosse Pointe.
District chairman Ed Joseph introduced Darrin Moore, representing the DeVos for Governor campaign. He provided an update on the successful nominating petition drive and plans for stepped up activity in the weeks ahead.
In addition, on behalf of Dick DeVos, Moore publicly thanked Marti Miller, Grosse Pointe Woods, for her volunteer efforts on behalf of the campaign to elect a Republican governor. He presented her with a copy of the book, Rediscovering American Values, written by Dick DeVos. 
State committeeman Thomas R. McCleary provided an update on the various alternatives under consideration for handling the 2008 Republican primary and made an appeal for active precinct delegate recruiting.
This district leadership group meets on the second Monday of each month. The next meeting of the committee is set for Monday, February 13, at the Town Pump Tavern (behind the Fox Theatre), 100 West Montcalm, in downtown Detroit. All Republican precinct delegates are invited to attend.
Any questions about the meeting may be directed to Joseph at (313) 343-2900.
District Boundary
With the swearing in of the new Congress in January 2003, Michigan's 13 th Congressional District reflects the 2000 census and reunites the five Grosse Pointes, Harper Woods and portions of Detroit and four Downriver communities. The district extends from Eight Mile Road to Wyandotte. >> See maps.
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