Brown Defense: May 25 Appeal Presentation
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ALICÉ LEUCHTE Secretary May 23, 2013
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Direct: (910) 742-0467 • Fax: (907) 331-4202
Re: Complaint and process against the Chairman, Debra Holle Brown Dear Members, The elected officers of the Alaska Republican Party are tasked to to serve the interests interests of Alaska Republicans. Contrary to popular opinion, the office of Secretary Secretary should not serve the whims of a Chairman, but the welfare of the organization. organization. Therefore, as Secretary, I have a responsibility to voice concern when a matter jeopardizes the integrity of the Party. Over the course of my time in office, and after a fter obtaining what records I could that pertained to my responsibilities, I raised concerns when and as appropriate to the the Chairman (Ruedrich & Brown), the Executive Executive Committee (SEC) and Central Committee Committee (SCC). One such matter included the election of the Regional Representatives, who hold 7 of the 17 authorized voting positions on the SEC. The information gathered January 2013 on these positions indicates that the majority of the offices were not filled through a proper election process, but through inconsistent inconsistent and informal methods. Members of the SCC that were eligible to run for these positions were not informed of the opportunity. In some cases, District Chairmen (who cast a vote to determine the Regional Representatives) Representatives) were not included in the process. Also, the confusion with with the regions in May 2012, and the interim rule change on their composition in December 2012, contributed to my concerns. After reviewing the rules and gathering gathering supporting data, I explained my my concerns to Chairman Brown. It was her intent, as later stated in a letter dated April 3, to hold proper elections for these positions in April. She also added the regional issue to the SEC agenda for March 11, 2013; however, business was stalled with discussion over all the 2012 SEC minutes tabled under Chairman Ruedrich. The following day Goldberg contacted Chairman Brown, stating she would be removed by the SEC if she didn’t resign. On April 9, 2013, I released a letter summarizing summarizing my records pertaining pertaining to the office of State Chairman.
I stand by that
determination. In this presentation, I support my objections to the process Bruce Schulte’s Schulte’s complaint followed. It is important to note that the actions and efforts of those involved – including those of Vice Chairman Goldberg and National Committeeman Seekins (also the proxy of National Committeewoman Joslin) in Los Angeles – has not only caused further chaos to the Party business, it also deprived Alaska full representation at the 2013 Spring RNC meeting. We have the opportunity to restore the representative process within our organization during 2013, which will heal and fortify against the struggles struggles we will find in 2014. In order to do this, we must have have leadership that is not only only willing to work on rehabilitating our infrastructure, but is willing to do so within the rules. On a related note, it seems unethical for SEC members to vote on the decisions they have made. Therefore, I challenge the voting members of the SEC (past and present) present) to refrain from voting on these appeals. You, your credibility and office are just just as much on trial as that of Russ Millette, Debbie Brown, and whoever else is kept from serving their elected office before May 25. For those voting on these appeals, put aside your personal loyalties, and clear your mind of the rumors and sensationalism that has clouded the matters at hand. Base your decisions on facts and principles. Our Party and our future depend on it. Thank you, you,
Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party
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Complaint and Process against the Chairman, Debra Holle Brown This file contains an assessment of my records, as they pertain to the process for the complaint brought against Chairman Debbie Brown by Bruce Schulte Schulte of District 21. The documents linked linked in blue and bold are contained within within this file. Click the link to jump to to the document, or navigate using the bookmarks available within this file. The following is the body of my April 9 letter, regarding the positions of Chair man, Vice Chairman and Executive Director: As the elected State Secretary of the Alaska Republican Party, I affirm my records reflect:
Debra Holle Brown is the current State Chairman. Chairman Brown was elected to the Vice Chairman position at the last State Convention on April 28, 2012. She was found ‘not guilty’ of a complaint brought against her in January 2013, and assumed the office of State Chairman February 1, 2013 after the removal of the Chairman Elect, Russ Millette. A second attempt to remove Chairman Brown from leadership took place April 8, 2013; however, according to my records, this meeting was not an official ARP meeting, as: The outcome was predetermined (March 12) before charges were even filed (March 14); 25% of the voting membership did not call the meeting (March 24-26); The complaint did not go through the proper process before the call of the meeting; and The complaint was reviewed by the new Rules Committee and was determined to be unfounded (April 6). Therefore, Debra Holle Brown still remains the Chairman of the Alaska Republican Party.
Peter Goldberg is the current State Vice Chairman. Peter was elected to serve as Vice Chairman by the State Central Committee at the February 9, 2013 meeting in Juneau, Alaska.
Randy Ruedrich is the Past Chairman. He is incorrectly listed on GOP.com (http://www.gop.com/members/alaska/ (http://www.gop.com/members/alaska/) as the Executive Director. The Alaska Republican Party Party does not currently have an Executive Director.
The following pages of exposition and materials provide the support for the bulleted items.
The outcome was predetermined (March 12) before charges were even filed (March 14) The outcome to the latest hearing to remove Chairman Debbie Brown from offic e was predetermined, as admitted by Vice C hairman Peter Goldberg in a phone conversation with Brown, and in a follow up email sent to the Chairman March 12, 2013: From: Peter Goldberg <[email protected]> Date: March 12, 2013 10:14:39 PM AKDT To: DEBBIE BROWN <[email protected]> Subject: Final Thought When We Lost Connection Debbie, Should you decide to resign rather than go through a hearing, a hearing that will inevitably have the same result, i.e. removing you as chair, I would suggest that you do it before you go to the RNC meetings. This way, you will not have wasted your money on the cost of the trip. There woud be no hotel bill at $189 per night and you could cancel your airline reservation and get credit for the airfare (minus the airline change fee). This will save you in excess of $1000. [continued…]
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While I know it is hard for you to accept, I need to tell you again that everyone that I am aware of in this process believes you to be of strong moral fiber, of good character, and dedicated to the Party. While all believe this to be true, it does not change the opinion of all of these same people that you have neither adequately performed your duties thus far as relates to finances nor do these people believe that you would be successful at it in the future. I'm sorry for the pain that this causes you. I wish I did not have to be the one to bring it to you. -Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired
Not only does this email show a predetermined outcome, but also misrepresents the opinions of select voting members of the SEC (e.g. Secretary Alicé Leuchte). Other aspects to this email, specifically the “advice” about not attending the RNC meeting, gives evidence that what transpired in Los Angeles at the spring RNC meeting was premeditated and carried out with the cooperation of Ralph Seekins and Debbie Joslin, our National Committeeman and Committeewoman: “I would suggest that you do it before you go to the RNC meetings. This way, you will not have wasted your money…”
Essentially, Vice Chairman Goldberg issued Chairman Brown an ultimatum - resign or charges will be manufactured, and “we” will remove you. Chairman Brown refused to be blackmailed, and did not resign the Chairmanship. According to Vice Chairman Goldberg, charges were filed March 14, 2013, and he immediately (and improperly) attempted to call an “Emergency” meeting for March 30, 2013 in order hear these unevaluated charges: From: Peter Goldberg <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2013 8:24 PM To: Alicé Leuchte; Beka Zerbst; Bruce Schulte; Charlie Huggins; Debbie Joslin; Frank McQueary; Glenn Clary; Julie Gillette; Mike Chenault; Mike Tauriainen; Paulette Simpson 32; Ralph Seekins; Randy Reudrich; Rex Shattuck; Rhonda Boyles 2; Steve Strait; [email protected] Subject: Emergency Meeting of the SEC, March 30, 2013, 9 a.m., ARP Headquarters Flag Status: Flagged All SEC Members, I have received a written complaint alleging that Debbie Brown had failed to carry out or perform the duties to which she was elected. As Vice Chairman, it is my duty to hold a hearing where the charge will be heard and Chairwoman Brown will be given an opportunity to defend against that charge. It will then be your duty to determine if the charge is valid. If determined to be valid, it will be your duty to determine how to proceed, up to and including removal from office. Therefore, an Emergency Meeting of the SEC will be held on March 30, 2013, 9 a.m. at the ARP Headquarters at 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. I know that most of you are familiar with the situation. Please do not share the reasons for this meeting with anyone. From my conversations with you, I am under the impression that all of you agree with me that nothing has happened to suggest any kind of malicious, destructive, disloyal, or criminal behavior. I believe that Debbie's heart is in the right place, that she is a strong believer in Republican principles, and she wants the best for the Party. We should do all in our power to minimize the possibility that her reputation will be maligned by any actions that we feel compelled to take. For these reasons, we are not inviting the media to this hearing. Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired Page 3 of 10
Please note that all SEC members were not included as addressed - Debbie Brown was not included, while Randy Ruedrich, a nonSEC member, was included instead. Also, the name of the Complainant was not given, the charges were not not distributed, and no investigative committee had reviewed the charges prior to this attempted call for a hearing, as prescribed by Robert’s Rules of Order (see Chapter XX beginning on page 643, particularly §63, Investigation and Trial ). Multiple objections were voiced via email, including by ARP Legal Ken Jacobus, who had not been notified or consulted regarding this complaint. Not consulting Legal Counsel on such such a matter opens up the ARP - and very specifically, members of the SEC - to serious legal liabilities, and indicates a clear di sregard for the welfare of all involved. In his email dated March 16 (1:15PM), Jacobus references Goldberg’s email on March 12: In that email, you specifically stated, and I quote this: "Should you decide to resign rather than go through a hearing, a hearing that will inevitably have the same result, i.e. removing you as chair....(emphasis added)" In doing so, in effect you have told Ms. Brown that the matter has already been decided, and that she would not get a fair hearing as guaranteed to her by Party Rule, Article X, Section 3(c).
25% of the voting membership did not call the meeting (March 24 -26) The first attempt to call an “Emergency” meeting for March 30 was also addressed by ARP Legal, Ken Jacobus in his March 16 email: This hearing was called as an "emergency" meeting of the SEC. However, under Party Rule Article VI, Section 5, special meetings may be called upon petition of 25% of the SEC membership, and emergency meetings may be called by the State Chairman and no one else. Accordingly, the Party will be f aced with the argument that this was not a validly called emergency meeting.
On March 22, Goldberg sent an email stating the meeting was to be moved to April 8: Ken Jacobus, ARP counsel has indicated that it would be better to handle the complaint at the next regularly scheduled SECmeeting. At least two other members of the SEC concur. As I recall, that would be on April 8th. I would hope that we can deal with this with maximum fairness so I have no problem moving the date of the hearing. Unless there is substantial objection, I will consider it moved.
While April 8, 2013 was one of several potential dates considered for the next regular SEC meeting (scheduling was intentionally left flexible due concerns for the availability of a Parliamentarian), no regular meeting of the SEC had been called yet for April. It isn’t until March 2 Ϯ that I began to receive formal requests for a meeting to hear these these charges, to be held held April 8, 2013. For general reference, the requests stated something similar to the following: I request an emergency meeting of the Alaska Republican Party State Executive Committee on April 8 at 5:30 at the office of the ARP on Fireweed Lane. The purpose of the meeting is to hear the March 14, 2013 charges against Debbie H. Brown.
I received requests between March 2 ϯ and 2ϲ ;ƉůĞĂƐĞŶŽƚĞƚŚĞƐĞĚĂƚĞƐĂƌĞĂĐŽƌƌĞĐƚŝŽŶƚŽŵLJŝŶŝƚŝĂůďƵůůĞƚŝƚĞŵͿ
from Steve Strait,
Paulette Simpson, Rhonda Boyles, Rex Shattuck Shattuck and Glenn Clary. Peter Goldberg cited the requestors requestors as “Bruce Schulte, Paulette Simpson, Rex Shattuck, Rhonda Boyles, Glenn Clary and Steve Strait” in an email dated March 26. As of March 26, the 25% of the membership required required had requested the meeting. meeting. Five (5) was needed with all voting positions filled on the SEC (with the exception of the State Finance Chairman); however, the number of voting members changed April ϯ, 2013. The Treasurer, Glenn Clary (along with the Assistant Treasurer, Frank McQueary) had been terminated, and an unconfirmed
Treasurer appointed (Treasurer Julie Hamm, with Assistant Treasurer Liz Vazquez).
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The previously confirmed Regional Finance Chairmen (Regions II-VII) had been terminated, leaving one Regional Representative ineligible to serve serve as Regional Representative (Region (Region VII, Paulette Simpson). The Past Chairman had failed to confirm another Regional Finance Chairman (Region I, Beka Zerbst), which also jeopardized the eligibility to serve despite proper election otherwise. While emails had been submitted January 17, 2013 asserting the proper measures were taken in filling these offices, no minutes had been submitted for the elections elections of these Regional Representatives – again, with the exception of Region I. After further research, I found reasonable evidence that proper elections were needed for these positions, and submitted the findings to Chairman Brown. These findings included cases where all the District Chairmen in a region had not voted, and other cases where they were unaware they were participating an election. For example, in a later email chain from April April 9, Chris McMullins, Chairman of District 10, wrote: From: Chris McMullins Subject: Re: reply to Aaron Downing To, Cc: [Multiple Recipients] Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2013, 10:18 PM Rex, You and I both know there were no minutes. There was no meeting. There was no election. The process was EXTREMELY informal. I question whether or not some folks actually realized they were "voting" for you. Frankly I felt manipulated and I don't know how many others did too. I would testify to that. Chris McMullins Dist 10 Chair
Also, SCC members that were eligible to run for the Regional Representative positions had not been informed there was an election for these seats, much less informed of their eligibility to be candidates ( ARP Rules, Article VI, Section 17 ). And all of these concerns even outweigh the controversy surrounding the composition and interim confirmation of the “new” regions which took place December 2012. Chairman Brown decided to add this topic to the agenda for the March 11, 2013 SEC meeting and arrange for new elections; however, the meeting ran long due to housekeeping items (all of the 2012 SEC minutes Randy Ruedrich, the Past Chairman, failed to address) and the issue was not addressed with the SEC. Note that it was the day after this meeting, where the Regional concerns were to be addressed, that Vice Chairman Goldberg
contacted Chairman Brown to inform her that the members of the SEC would produce charges and seek her removal if she didn’t resign. The Regional Representatives held 7 of the 16 voting positions at the time. Upon the ruling of ARP Legal on March 25 concerning the Chairman’s ability to remove and replace appointed members (and that the submittal of a complaint against the Chairman does not effect a removal from office), Chairman Brown terminated the Regional Finance Chairmen on April 2, and then notified the Regional Representatives (for regions II-VII) that proper elections would be held during April. For general reference, here is the body of one such letter: Your participation and countless hours of volunteer service to the Alaska Republican Party are greatly appreciated. Given your work towards promoting republican values, I am certain you understand the importance of public trust when it comes to the success of our Party – now and in 2014. [continued…]
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To this end, we must restore trust in the Party leadership by evaluating how we conduct our business. Unfortunately, Party records show a lack of documentation verifying your election to the position of Region VI Representative. Therefore, your service as the Region VI Representative is terminated, effective immediately. A regional meeting will be called this month so that elections may take place for this vacant position. All Republicans eligible will be notified and encouraged to run. Not only do I encourage you to run, but I look forward to your help in this effort to restore confidence in the SEC and the Party at large. More election information will be available soon. Also, I am seeking letters of application for appointed positions from members who are genuinely committed to our platform, dedicated to integrity and determined to grow the participation within our Party. Please consider submitting a letter of application for the position or standing committee you feel most qualified. I would also welcome any suggestions you may have for achieving mutual respect and unity within our party.
As of April ϯ, 2013, all seven of the ZĞŐŝŽŶĂů ZĞƉƌĞƐĞŶƚĂƚŝǀĞƐ were no longer voting members of the the SEC. In recalculating the the required number for quorum (to include only filled voting positions), three (3) calls from voting members would be needed to have the April 8, 2013 “Emergency” SEC meeting. After this date, only one of the submittals submittals was from a voting member - even if you prefer the six (6) requests cited by Goldberg: Glenn Clary Rex Shattuck Steve Strait Bruce Schulte Paulette Simpson
Treasurer Region II Representative Region IV Representative Region V Representative Region VII Representative
Replaced Pending Reelection Pending Reelection Pending Reelection Ineligible
Rhonda Boyles
AFRW
Voting Member
The complaint did not go through the proper process before the call of the meeting Since the ARP Rules do not encompass a complete complaint process (RNC Rules do not either), then per Article I, Section 1 , the latest edition of Robert’s Rules of Order (11
th
Edition, unabridged) is to guide guide our disciplinary procedures. procedures. Robert’s Rules of Order Order
defines the ‘steps in a fair disciplinary process’ (page 656): 1.
Confid Con fident ential ial inve investi stigat gation ion by by a commit committe tee; e;
2. 3.
Report of the comm Report committee ittee,, and and referral referral of of charges charges if warrante warranted; d; Formal For mal not notific ificati ation on of the acc accuse used; d;
4.
Trial; and
5.
The assembly assembly’s ’s review of a trial trial committee committee’s ’s findings findings (if the trial trial has been held held in a committee committee instead instead of the assemb assembly…). ly…).
While the investigative committee does not have to be the ARP Rules committee (actually, many recommend a special committee be formed to review complaints), the precedence has been set thus far that the Rules Committee a lso serve this function. As with prior complaints, the ARP Rules Committee has served as the investigative committee within the disciplinary process; however, the Rules Committee - as it was composed until March 22, 2013 - had not reviewed Bruce Schulte’s complaint that was submitted to the Vice Chairman. Only after Chairman Brown replaced replaced the members did the Rules Rules Committee finally meet and review the charges. The following email illustrates illustrates this fact: From: Frank McQueary <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 22, 2013 at 10:11 PM Subject: Current Events To: Terri Mooradian <[email protected]>, Kirk Wickersham <[email protected]>, [email protected], "Brown, Ben" <[email protected]>, <benjamino1789@hotm ail.com>, [email protected], Eileen Becker <[email protected]>, [email protected] Cc: "Goldberg, Peter" <[email protected]>, "Steven R. Strait" <[email protected]>, Ralph Seekins <[email protected]>, Debbie Joslin <[email protected]>, "Clary, Glenn" <[email protected]>, Bruce Schulte <[email protected]>,
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[email protected], "Gillette, Julie" <[email protected]>, "Zerbst, Beka" <[email protected]>, "Shattuck, Rex" <[email protected]>, <[email protected] >, [email protected], Paulette Simpson <[email protected] <[email protected]> > All: Given what is now transpiring transpiring I have postponed the the Rules Committee Committee hearing until sometime sometime next week. As I’m sure that that you are aware by now charges have been filed against Debbie Debbie Brown and the SEC has been been asked to remove her from office. Debbie has countered by attempting to continue acting as Chair and has stated that she is dismissing the Rules Committee. It is my understanding of the rules that she does not have this power while charges are pending and that she only has it in the normal course of events with the advice and consent of the the SCC. Since I and you were all appropriately appointed to two year terms after the last convention we would expect expect to serve until the next convention convention unless replaced with the approval of the the SCC. I will verif y my interpretation with Thomas Balch and if I am correct we will schedule a meeting next week. I know that the turmoil has taken its toll on our morale, however, we must remember that the rules were written the way they were to enable our organization to protect itself from the the kind of external attacks which we are currently currently experiencing. The SEC and SCC will act in the best interests of the party vis a vis Debbie. We all saw in the hearing on Russ Millette’s removal that he admitted that every charge he had brought against the ARP before, during and after his election were admitted by him to have been false. Even though he admitted bearing false witness against the Party and its officers in front of television cameras, that has not kept him from continuing with his attacks from outside the party. While we can only speculate as to the motives of the various groups involved (Ron Paul, Occupy Wall Street and Joe Miller) there is some speculation that the intent was to take over the the Party, suspend the rules and convert to a caucus based selection process for our statewide candidates. It is pretty obvious who would benefit from this change. Debbie will also have a fair hearing and an opportunity to convince the governing board of the party that she has been acting in the best interests of the party. If she fails in that she will be replaced. Cordially, Frank McQueary, Chair ARP Rules Committee
Upon receiving this email, I engaged McQueary about the process which complaints should follow, and clearly stated my objections. I also cleared up the fact that the Rules Committee, under McQueary, had not been confirmed by the SCC after the State Convention (April 28, 2012) – in fact, I had just learned who the members members of the Rules Committee were that that week. Also, as Chairman of the Rules Committee, he had failed in providing the State Secretary of any minutes as required by the ARP Rules ( Article VI, Section 7(f)). In a later response to Goldberg , I expressed: From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 12:31 PM To: '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]' Cc: '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected] '[email protected]'; '; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; [email protected] Subject: Point of Order! Point of Order: I am extremely concerned about the lack of process being used with this newest complaint. Before I personally commit to attending yet another hearing, I want to know what process this complaint has gone through. I do not think it is appropriate to schedule a meeting for a hearing where the charges have been simply distributed by the Complainant. If we establish the precedent that no review process is required for a complaint, this would mean that any complaint ARP receives would be automatically valid and must be heard. Just imagine the level of havoc the Democrats could wreak on the party under this scenario. They would be able to shut us down any time they pleased and for as long as they pleased.
Not acceptable. So: “Point of order!” Page 7 of 10
The communications I have received since have been predominately false accusations and threats of removal if I do not comply with their approach. This includes a “ verbal reprimand” for my April 9 letter, which came in the form of a proposed resolution brought to the floor by Steve Strait and Bruce Schulte on April 29. This “reprimand” included the threat of a written censure, censure, followed by removal. While the motion ultimately ultimately failed (and was expunged from the minutes), minutes), the inappropriateness of the motion stands .
The complaint was reviewed by the new Rules Committee and was determined to be unfounded (April 6) The new Rules Committee , as appointed by Chairman Brown, met to review the complaint submitted by Bruce Schulte on April 6, 2013. The Rules Committee made the following ruling: Charge: Since being elected as Vice-Chair in 2012 and subsequently taking office as Chair on February 1 – Debbie Brown has raised no funds for the ARP, nor has she shown any aptitude or ability to do so.
Possible Grounds: Art X Section 1(b) Failure to carry out or perform the duties of the office to which he was was elected.
Facts: Debbie Brown was elected as Vice Chairman-Elect at the State Convention 2012 by the majority of the convention body. This means that on February 1st, 2013, she would have become Vice Chairman of the party, and during the interim between the 2012 State Convention and that date, she was in the appointed position of Vice-Chair of the State Finance Committee (Article VI, Section 19(b)). This charge was filed March 14th, approximately 6 weeks after she became Chair.
Ruling: Since her term as Vice-Chair of the State Finance Committee was already over, it is too late to file charges based on her performance on that job. Also, those charges would have to be filed with the chair of her committee. There were no charges filed with that committee before February 1st, and due to SCC action at the February 9th SCC meeting there is currently no chair (or vice-chair) of the State Finance Committee. In regards to her current position of Chairman (starting February 1st), the rules don’t give an amount of time that is to be used to evaluate performance, but it is incredulous that anyone would think that her job performance could be evaluated after six weeks. The final phrase in that sentence “nor has she shown any aptitude or ability to do so.” is subjective, and has no relation to the possible grounds, since “Failure to carry out or perform” has nothing to do with aptitude or ability, but with whether actions are actually carried out or not.
Charge: In addition, historically reliable donors have indicated that they have no confidence in Debbie as Chair and will contribute no money to the ARP while she remains in office. Thus, in addition to being ineffective in raising funds, she has regrettably, become a significant impediment to the efforts of others trying to raise funds for the ARP.
Possible Grounds: There are no grounds in Article X Section 1 that this charge can be based on. The body of the convention expressed confidence in her by their act of electing her as Vice Chairman, and the will of that body is the ultimate authority for the Alaska Republican Party.
Conclusion: These charges do not meet any of the grounds for removal that are given in Article X Section 1.
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Additional Information Continued Election Concerns Upon Peter Goldberg assuming the position of Vice Chairman on February 9, this left the Region III Representative seat open for election. Instead of holding a proper election, election, the same informal approach was applied: From: Jason Rampton [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Sunday, March 31, 2013 7:07 PM To: [email protected] Subject: ellection to Region III Alice, I have been told that I need to to pass this info on to you. I have been elected to serve as the region III representative. representative. I received vote from Robert Timmins, Mike Mike Paulson, and Jeremiah Stevens. The final vote was cast by Mr. Stevens Stevens on 27 Mar 2013. Thanks for all you do. Jason Rampton District 26
Region III includes districts 12, 13, 14, 25 and 26. David Eastman and Kyle Easterly, Chairmen in Districts 12 and 13 respectively, were not included in this process. Also, no consideration was given to any other SCC members who wished to run for the seat.
Quorum Given the recent, targeted quorum determination solicited from Thomas Balch (by McQueary, Raygor & Goldberg), I would like to add that if this opinion were applied to the April 8, 2013 meeting led by Vice Chairman Goldberg, then it would also be without quorum. All voting positions would have to be considered, properly filled or not. There are 17 authorized voting positions on the SEC, which requires 9 positions to be represented in order order to have a quorum. If you look beyond the issue of how the meeting was called, and assume the meeting could take place (those requesting the meeting were voting members at the time they submitted their requests), only 7 of the authorized positions were properly represented on April 8. POSITION
POSITION STATS Filled by
Voting Position
APRIL 8 STATS Elected/ Confirmed
Validly Filled
Vote Used
NOTE Vote Used By
Chairman Election Yes Yes Yes No N/A Absent Vice Chairman Election Yes Yes Yes Yes Goldberg Present/Phone Natl. Com. Man Election Election Yes Yes Yes Yes Seekins Present Natl. Com. Woman Election Yes Yes Yes Yes Hove Proxy – Brian Hove Secretary Election Yes Yes Yes Yes Gillette Automatic Proxy – Assistant Secretary Asst. Secretary Election No Yes N/A N/A N/A Non-Voting Member Treasurer Appointment Yes No No Yes McQueary Appointed but not confirmed by SCC Asst. Treasurer Appointment No No N/A N/A N/A Appointed but not confirmed by SCC Finance Chairman Appointment Yes No No No N/A Vacant – Appointment rejected Feb 9 SCC Region I Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Zerbst* Pending SCC Confirmation as Finance Chair* Region II Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Shattuck Election Pending Region III Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Rampton Election Pending Region IV Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Strait Election Pending Region V Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Schulte Election Pending Region VI Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Tauriainen Election Pending Region VII Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Simpson Election Pending House Rep. I Affiliate Yes Yes Yes Yes Higgins Higgins Selected by House Majority Senator I Affiliate Yes Yes Yes Yes Stedman Selected by Senate Majority AFRW Affiliate Yes Yes Yes Yes Johnson Proxy – Ginger Johnson Parliamentarian Appointment No Yes N/A N/A Raygor Non-Voting Member Legal Counsel Appointment No Yes N/A N/A Jacobus Non-Voting Member *There are minutes showing election; however, it was later found Zerbst was never confirmed by th e SCC as Finance Chairman, therefore ineligible for election. Also, given the change in regions which took place December 2012 via interim rule, holding a new election would be recommended to ensure full representation.
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Altered Complaint It is also worth noting that on April 8, Bruce Schulte submitted an altered complaint containing a new charge at Brown’s hearing . The charges read at that meeting are documented in the minutes (available upon request) from that meeting, and are as follows: Charge 1a: Failure to perform as Vice-Chair of the State Finance Committee – Failure to raise funds.
Specification: At the 2012 State Convention, Mrs. Brown was elected as Vice-Chair Elect. Under ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 22,) this automatically made her State Finance Committee Vice-Chair. During the period between the April 2012 Convention and February 1, 2013, no funds were raised that could be directly or indirectly attributable to Mrs. Brown’s activities in that office.
Charge 1b: Failure to perform as State Chair -Failure to raise funds.
Specification: Since taking office as State Chair on February 1, 2013, Mrs. Brown has raised no funds that could be directly attributable to her efforts, and the ARP has received a scant few hundred dollars that might be indirectly attributable. As State Chair, one of Mrs. Brown’s responsibilities is to raise funds to finance ARP activity (Article VI, Section 9; Functions and Duties of the State Chairman.)
Charge 2: Failure to perform as State Chair – Failure to faithfully represent the ARP.
Specification: Because of her actions – including attempts to dismantle the ARP (SEC and SCC,) historically reliable donors have indicated that they too have no confidence in Debbie as Chair and will contribute no money to the ARP while she remains in office. Thus, in addition to being ineffective at raising funds, she has regrettably, become a significant impediment to the efforts of others trying to raise funds for the ARP. Without the ability to raise funds, the mission of the ARP is impossible to fulfill.
The original charges distributed March 20 are as follows: Since being elected as Vice-Chair in 2012 and subsequently taking office as Chair on February 1 – Debbie Brown has raised no funds for the ARP, nor has she shown any aptitude or ability to do so. As a nonprofit organization, the ARP cannot function without the contributions from donors which are our only source of income. In addition, historically reliable donors have indicated that they have no confidence in Debbie as Chair and will contribute no money to the ARP while she remains in office. Thus, in addition to being ineffective in raising funds, she has regrettably, become a significant impediment to the efforts of others trying to raise funds for the ARP. Without the ability to raise funds, the mission of the ARP is impossible to fulfill. Applicable Rules:
ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 22: Functions of the State Vice-Chair Elect) [The] State Vice Chair-Elect shall serve as State Finance Committee Vice Chair until February 1 after the state convention. The State Vice Chair Elect becomes State Vice Chair on February 1 and serves for two years.
ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 9: Functions and Duties of the State Chairman) The State Chairman shall supervise the ARP organization and affairs; chair State Conventions and ARP meetings; and perform other duties incident to his office, subject in all cases to SCC direction, ARP rules and RNC rules.
ARP Rules (Article X, Section 1: Grounds for removal) Any person holding elected ARP office may be removed from office for any o f the following reasons: b) Failure to carry out or perform the duties of the office to which he was elected. Page 10 of 10
Complaint against ARP Chair – Debbie Brown
The following complaint is brought against Debbie Brown, ARP Chair for failure to perform her role as ARP Chair. Since being elected as Vice-Chair V ice-Chair in 2012 and subsequently taking office as Chair on Fe bruary 1 – Debbie Brown has raised no funds for the ARP, nor has she shown any aptitude or ability to do so. As a nonprofit organization, the ARP cannot function without the contributions from donors which are our only source of income. In addition, historically reliable donors have indicated that they have no confidence in Debbie as C hair and will contribute no money to the ARP while she remains in office. Thus, in addition to being ineffective in raising funds, she has regrettably, become a significant impediment to the efforts of others trying to raise funds for the ARP. Without the ability to raise funds, the mission of the ARP is impossible to fulfill.
Applicable Rules:
ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 22: Functions Functions of the State Vice-Chair Vice-Chair Elect) [The] State Vice Chair-Elect shall serve as State Finance Committee Vice Chair until February 1 after the state convention. The State Vice Chair Elect becomes State Vice Chair on February 1 and serves for two years.
ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 9: Functions Functions and Duties of the State State Chairman) Chairman) The State Chairman shall supervise the ARP organization and affairs; chair State Conventions and ARP meetings; and perform other duties incident to his office, subject in all cases to SCC direction, ARP rules and RNC rules.
ARP Rules (Article X, Section 1: Grounds Grounds for removal) Any person holding elected ARP office may be removed from office for any of the following reasons: b) Failure to carry out or perform the duties of the office to which he was elected.
Submitted by:
Bruce Schult e
District 21 Chairman
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Dear Mr. Goldberg,
I have been in California and just read this email today, Saturday, March 16, at about noon. Ms. Brown called me today. today. She informed me that she she was aware of the fact that that a complaint was allegedly filed against her, but has not been provided a copy of the complaint. I have not seen seen one either, nor do I know know who filed it. Please provide me with a copy by return email. As a matter of procedural due process, Ms. Brown is entitled to a copy of the complaint so that she can defend against it. As of this point, point, she does not even know who made the complaint. One should be provided to her as soon as possible. I have told Ms. Brown, who presently is party chairman, that my role in this matter is to represent the Republican Party of Alaska, Alaska, and not any individuals. individuals. My responsibilities are set forth in Party Rule, Article Article VI, Section 14. I must advise and assist the the Party as necessary, generally, to keep the Party out out of trouble. Until very recently, I did not know that a complaint had been filed or that an "emergency" meeting of the SEC had been called to conduct a hearing. I cannot keep the Party out of trouble if I am not not consulted with before the Party does something which is likely to get it into trouble. Had I been asked, I would have recommended that this hearing be conducted at the next regular meeting of the SEC, and that Ms. Brown be immediately provided with a co py co py of the complaint. At the very least, she should should have immediately been told who filed it. At this point, I anticipate that the Party is going to be faced with the the following problems: problems: 1. This hearing was called as an "emergency" meeting of the SEC. However, under Party Rule Article VI, Section 5, special meetings may be called upon petition of 25% of the SEC membership, and emergency meetings may be called by the State Chairman and no one else. Accordingly, the Party will be faced with the the argument that this was not not a validly called emergency meeting. 1
2. It is now March 16, which is only 14 days before the scheduled scheduled meeting. The argument will be that this is not sufficient time for Ms. Brown to prepare for the hearing. 3. The meeting has has been set for the Saturday between Good Good Friday and Easter. I do not not believe that this is a good time time for most people involved. involved. 4. The worst thing about this this situation, however, is the email that you sent to to Ms. Brown on March 12, suggesting that she should resign before the RNC meeting so that she would save an amount in excess of $1000 $1000 to travel there. In that email, you specifically specifically stated, and I quote this: "Should you decide to resign rather than go through a hearing, a hearing hearing that will inevitably have the same result, i.e. removing you as chair....(emphasis chair....(emphasis added)" In doing so, in effect you have told Ms. Brown that the matter has already been decided, and that she would not get a fair hearing as guaranteed to her by Party Rule, Article X, Section 3(c). Remember the two kangaroos that someone someone brought and set set up in front of the Party headquarters on the day of the Millette hearing? You have just proved that that the person who brought the kangaroos kangaroos was correct. How can I defend this from the inevitable court challenge which will follow from the second removal from office of a party officer elected at the Convention?? My recommendation is that this "emergency" meeting be canceled and that everyone work together for the benefit of the Alaska Republican Party. If the complaint goes forward, forward, it should be considered considered at the next regular SEC meeting. What is going on is only helping the Democrats and other Socialists. We and others in the United States are living living in an out of control left-wing nightmare right now, and self-destruction of the Alaska Republican Party is not at all appropriate. Thank you. Ken Jacobus Kenneth P. Jacobus 310 K Street, Suite 200 Anchorage AK 99501-2064 Phone 907-277-3333 Fax 907-264-6666 [email protected] From: P eter Goldberg <padipete@ [email protected]> gmail.com> To: Alicé Leuchte <[email protected]>; Beka Zerbst <[email protected]>; Bruce Schulte
<[email protected]>; Charlie Huggins <[email protected]>; Debbie J oslin <joslinak@ joslinak@gm gmail.com> ail.com>; Frank McQueary McQ ueary <fmcqueary@gc [email protected]> i.net>; Glenn Clary Clary <gclary@ [email protected]> ancbt.org>;; J ulie Gillette Gillette <arpass arpasstsecgil tsecgillette@ lette@yahoo. yahoo.com> com>; Mike Chenault <mike.chenault@ [email protected] akleg.gov> v>; Mike Mike Tauriainen Tauriainen <miket <miket@ @gci. gci.net> net>; Paulette P aulette Simpson Simpson 32 <paulettem <paulettem@ @gci. gci.net> net>; Ralph Seekins S eekins <ralph@s [email protected]> eekins.com>; Randy Reudrich R eudrich <[email protected]>; Rex Shatt S hattuck uck <2akB4UDI <2akB4UDIE E@gm gmail.com> ail.com>; Rhonda Boyles 2 <[email protected]>; Steve Strait <[email protected]>; [email protected] Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2013 8:23 PM Subject: Emergency Meeting of the SEC, March 30, 2013, 9 a.m., ARP Headquarters 2
All SEC Members, I have received a written complaint alleging that Debbie Brown had failed to carry out or perform the duties to which she was elected. As Vice Chairman, it is my duty to hold a hearing where the charge will be heard and Chairwoman Brown will be given an opportunity to defend against that charge. It will then be your duty to determine if the charge is valid. If determined to be valid, it will be your duty to to determine how to proceed, up to and including removal from office. Therefore, an Emergency Meeting of the SEC will be held on March 30, 2013, 9 a.m. at the ARP Headquarters at 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. I know that most of you are familiar with the situation. Please do not share the reasons for this meeting with anyone. From my conversations with you, I am under the impression impression that all of you agree with with me that nothing has happened to suggest any kind of malicious, malicious, destructive, disloyal, or criminal criminal behavior. I believe that Debbie's heart is in the right place, that she is a strong believer in Republican principles, and she wants the best for the Party. We should do all in our power to minimize the possibility that her reputation will be maligned maligned by any actions that we feel compelled to take. For these reasons, we are not inviting the media to this this hearing. Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired 907-726-1265 (home) 907-250-8822 (cell)
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Ken Jacobus, ARP counsel has indicated that it would be better to handle the complaint at the next regularly scheduled SECmeeting. At least two two other members of the SEC concur. As I recall, that would be on April 8th. I would hope that we can deal with with this with maximum fairness fairness so I have no problem moving the date of the hearing. Unless there is substantial substantial objection, I will consider it moved. I am still out of the country. The earliest I might be back in Alaska would be on a red eye flight flight arriving Tuesday morning. If any of you have tried to to call me, me, I'm sorry, but I haven't had phone reception. Internet access has also been sporadic. Peter
-Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired 907-726-1265 (home) 907-250-8822 (cell)
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The Cha Chair irm man di dire rect cted ed me to fo forw rwar ard d this mes essa sage ge to al alll the the SEC mem membe bers rs.. SEC Members, As I am the Chairman of the Party, the SEC Chairman, as well as the subject of the complaint, should I not be consulted prior to any date being set for this complaint hearing? Further, the ARP rules require 25% of voting members of the SEC to call a meeting (as deemed necessary). As Chairman, I am requesting written documentation showing 25% of the voting SEC members have called for both the 30 March 2013 meeting and also documenting the request for a new hearing date. P lease send this documentat documentation ion to the the attention attention of ARP AR P legal counsel Ken J acobus as well as Secretary S ecretary Alice Leucht L euchte. e. Due process requires that I be involved in scheduling this matter. Further, this email is to inform you that I will not be available to participate in a hearing of this complaint until 25 May 2013 the regularly scheduled SCC meeting. I am also requesting the complaint against me, filed by Bruce Schulte, be withdrawn immediately, as the charges are frivolous, groundless, and harassing. This em This emai aill is al also so to fo form rmal ally ly in info form rm you ou,, of of my ap appe peal al of an any y de deci cisio sion n by SEC mem membe bers rs to re rem mov ove e me fr from om of offi fice ce of ARP Chairm Chairman, with a date request for the appeal hearing to be set for 25 May 2013. Sincerely, Debra Holle Brown, Chairman Alaska Repub R epublican lican Part P arty y
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Alice You should have read my email announcing an emergency SEC meeting by now. Please send to all SEC members the phone number for teleconferencing. Remind all that this is an executive session making it closed to the public. Debbie may bring counsel and witnesses but no others. Thanks Peter
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Request for Emergency ARP SEC Meeting Meeting I request an emergency ARP SEC meeting to hear the March 14, 2013 charges against Debbie H Brown on April 8 at 5:30 pm at the ARP office, 1001 W Fireweed Lane, Anchorage. Anchorage. This matter needs to be settled and a fair hearing conducted. conducted. The The ARP needs strong leadership to move forward. forward. Our Our ship has been battered by the tumultuous storms of of mistrust, mistrust, deception, and character assassination. assassination. The The sails of of united united purpose and transparent communication have been torn and lowered. lowered. This This has caused the power to propel us to the port of of significance significance and influence to be gravely diminished. diminished. We We must repair our sails and chart another course that will moor us to the dock of of victory. victory. This This new course will ensure an ARP US Senator, Governor and additional State Legislators. Legislators. But But this course can only be achieved when all Republican shipmates lay aside personal ambitions. ambitions. Each Each of of us us must honestly evaluate our personal abilities and skills to determine the assignment we can successfully complete on this great political warship. warship. Only Only then will the knives and swords we point at one another be sheathed, causing us to focus our efforts on our individual tasks at hand. hand. Having Having this kind of of crew crew will ensure victory and success. success. It It will not matter if if our our task is to swab the deck, hoist the sail, control the anchor, prepare the meals, guard the gold, or captain the ship. ship. We We will be united as the victorious crew of of the the USS ARP, working together for a common goal, which is getting Republicans elected. elected. So So put away selfish ambitions and conceits, look not on to your own desires but to the desires and goals of of an an entire united crew. crew. If If your malice is munity and destruction stay on shore. shore. For For the rest, WELCOME ABOARD! ͘ /ĂŵĂǀŽƚŝŶŐŵĞŵďĞƌŽĨƚŚĞ^ƐĞƌǀŝŶŐĂƐdƌĞĂƐƵƌĞƌ 'ůĞŶŶůĂƌLJ 1
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MR. Jacobus and Ms Leuchte: Leuchte: I request an emergency meeting of of the the Alaska Republican Party State Executive Committee on April 8 at 5:30 at the office of of the the ARP on Fireweed Lane. Lane. The charges filed against Debbie H. Brown on March 14, 2013 would be the purpose of of the the meeting. meeting. I am the president and and voting voting member of of the the Alaska Federation of of Republican Republican Women on the SEC. SEC. Thank you. Rhonda Boyles at 907 907ͲͲ388 388ͲͲ2606 2606 March 24, Sunday, 2013
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March 24, 2013 Dear Mr. Jacobus and Ms. Leuchte: I hereby request an emergency meeting of the Alaska Republican Party State Executive Committee (SEC) on April 8 at 5:30 pm at the ARP office, 1001 W Fireweed Lane, Anchorage. The purpose of the meeting is to hear the March 14, 2013 charges against Debbie H. Brown. I am a voting member of the SEC, serving as Region VII (Southeast) chair. Paulette Simpson 907~321~0056
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All SEC Members: In accordance with Article VI - State Central Committee, Section 6: State Executive Committee, pa ragraph (c), voting members of the State Executive Committee in excess of 25% of the voting members, have requested an emergency meeting of the State Executive Committee to be held at the Alaska Republican Party Headquarters, 1001 West Fireweed Lane in Anchorage at 5:30 p.m. The requestors are: Bruce Schulte, Paulette Paulette Simpson, Rex Shattuck, Rhonda Boyles, Glenn Clary and Steve Steve Strait. The emergency meeting will will be held at the time and place requested. The purpose of the meeting is to hold a hearing regarding the charges filed against Chairman Debbie Brown on March 14, 2013 by Bruce Schulte. If you cannot attend, you have the option of sending a proxy in your place. That form form is attached. If you do send a proxy, in addition to sending or faxing that form to the ARP Headquarters, I suggest that you have your proxy carry the oriiginal copy.to the meeting. Given the nature of the meeting, please please try to attend in person if you are reasonably able to do so. Information for joining the meeting via teleconference will be provided separately. -Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired 907-726-1265 (home) 907-250-8822 (cell)
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DEBRA HOLLE BROWN
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY
Chairman
1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
April 3, 2013
NOTICE
The duties of Chairman include making appointments to offices and committees which serve at the pleasure of the Chairman. With this notice, I am appointing the the following Alaska Republicans to serve as State Treasurer and Assistant State Treasurer, effective immediately:
Julie Hamm Liz Vazquez
District 8 District 20
State Treasurer Assistant State Treasurer
Confirmation of these appointed members will be placed on the agenda for the Saturday, 25 May State Central Committee Meeting, to be held in Homer, Alaska.
Sincerely,, Sincerely
Debra Holle Brown
Chairman, Alaska Republican Party
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
P1
Regional Representative Documentation Regions From: Randy Ruedrich <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 9:06 AM To: 'Alicé Leuchte' Subject: RE: Do you have access to a f ax machine for materials for tomorrow's meeting?
The adopted interim rule conforms precisely to the district combinations use before the May elections of Regional Representatives. One change is Gloria Shriver resigned as District Chair which eliminates her as Region IV Representative. District 19 Chair Steve Strait has been elected as the Region IV Re presentative. From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 8:49 AM To: 'Randy Ruedrich' Subject: RE: Do you have access to a f ax machine for materials for tomorrow's meeting?
Oh, hey… I am getting together the roll for this evening and realized that since the regions changed in December, that there should be new elections for the Regional Reps. Do you have the minutes/election results for the new reps? Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected]
Region I Minutes documenting the proper election process of Beka Zerbst were submitted from the Golden Heart GOP (available upon request). District 38 was not present present (unknown reason). reason). District 39 (Nome) was included in Region I in the December 2012 SCC interim rule change; therefore, this district was not represented. represented. Also, Zerbst was never presented to the SCC for confirmation for the appointed position of Region I Finance Chairman, making her ineligible to serve in this office (according to ARP Rules). Please note that once it was realized (April 2013) that District 39 had been left out, Beka Zerbst reached out to the Chairman of District 39, Don Handeland, and has included this district in recent regional activities.
Region II From: Rex Shattuck [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 4:52 PM To: Randy Ruedrich Subject: Historical Report
Dear Alaska Republican Party, I was recently asked about historical information related to events in our region. Here is a brief note on several points of interest. In early April 2012 our Region’s Chairmen voted for me to be their representative to State Executive Committee (SEC). Initially Jim Norcross, Lisa Santerre, and Brandon Wahl supported me for the position on the SEC. After further discussion with Chris Mullin and Edna DeVries and answering their questions, they also supported me for the position. I believe these individual voted to support me in this position due to past experience with party process and my commitment to work with them on issues. Over the summer we worked together on a Valley Republican picnic, local political races, and a number of events leading up to the Presidential election. We are presently planning a future meeti ng and ways to continue our success in the Mat-Su Valley. Rex Shattuck
Region III From: Peter Goldberg [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 4:04 PM To: Randy Ruedrich Subject: Re: I need a note on your election prior to May 5, 2012 SEC meeting
Mr. Ruedrich, I received either verbal concurrence or email concurrence for each of the District Chairman for Region 3 agreeing that I would be the Regional Chairman. All of these concurrences occurred between approximately May 1st and May 4th. There were no abstentions and no votes in the negative. Furthermore, none of the other District Chairs of my Region expressed any interest in being the Regional Representative. I might add that at the last SCC meeting where I was asked to give a Region 3 report, there were no objections from the floor challenging my representation of Region 3 as the Representative. Peter S. Goldberg District 26 Chair Region 3 Representative
Region IV From: S [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 10:14 AM To: 'Randy Ruedrich' Subject: RE: I need a note on your election prior to May 5, 2012 SEC meeting
Randy, Here's a listing of the votes I received to become Dist. 4 Regional Rep. Do you need more details ? Steve Strait District 15 District 16 District 17 District 18
District 19 District 20
David Morgan 2170 Stanford Dr Anchorage 99508 563-4812 Spoke with David M. 1/16/03 --phone call . David agreed to support my position of Region Rep. Kirk Wickersham 280 W 34th Ave Anchorage 99503 561-3726, 351-3726 Spoke with Kirk Wickersham 1/15/03 --phone call . Kirk agreed to support my being the Region Rep. Randy Stevens 830-4246 Spoke with Randy Stevens by phone Dec 31. He supports my representing Region 4 Ric Davidge 1515 W ThirteenthAve. Anchorage 99501 Ric Davidge, at Dec 30 Dist 18 mtg gave his support for my representing Dist. 18. This was the mtg Gloria resigned Dist Steve Strait Anchorage 99502 248-1028 I support my representing Region 4 William Spearman 2920 Rita Cir Anchorage 99502 248-0792; 786-3910 Spoke with Bill Spearman via phone Dec. 31st. He agreed to support me as Region 4 Rep.
Region V From: Bruce Schulte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 3:07 PM To: Randy Ruedrich Subject: Fwd: Region 5 Rep selection
Randy, On May 7 and in response to the e-mail below, I received the support of all of the District Chairs in my Region to serve as our Regional Rep on the SEC. Cheers, Bruce Schulte
---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Bruce Schulte <[email protected] [email protected]> > Date: Sun, May 6, 2012 at 9:27 PM Subject: Region 5 Rep selection To: Andy Clary <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Joe Riggs <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Richard Giessel <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Jason Pretzel < [email protected] [email protected]> > Cc: [email protected] [email protected],, Alex Gimarc <[email protected] <[email protected]> > Gentlemen, We have some unfinished business to complete: Accoring to the ARP rules, we (Region 5 Chairs) are to select our Regional Representative from amongst the various SCC members within our Region (District Chairs and Bonus Votes). As some of you know, I have served as our Regional Rep. since 2010 and I would be honored to continue in that capacity - pending your approval. What say you? Regards, Bruce Schult e
District 21 Chair
Region VI From: Randy Ruedrich <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 4:45 PM To: 'Alicé Leuchte' Subject: Region Rep VI
Chris Byrnes confirmed his approval of a Kenai Regional Rep to me at the State Convention From: Mike Tauriainen [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 2:22 PM To: Ruedrich, Jr, Randy Cc: DuPerron, Neal; 'Dick Hawkins' Subject: Region Rep
Randy On or about May 4, 2012 I called Neal DuPerron (D29) and Dick Hawkins (D30) to discuss Region Rep for our region. I expressed my willingness to serve in that capacity and they each consented that I be our region’s rep. No meeting was held – just phone calls. I did not call the Kodiak D35 Chair because I did not have any contact information. I did not contact D36 or D 37 chairs because I was not aware they were in our region. Let me know if you need additional information. Mike From: Randy Ruedrich <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, January 29, 2013 2:29 PM To: Alice Leuchte (secretary) Subject: Mike Tauriainan update
----- Forwarded message ----From: "Mike Tauriainen" <[email protected] <[email protected]> > Date: Mon, Jan 28, 2013 6:17 pm Randy I have contacted all Region VII district chairs. Brandt, Sherman and Byrnes concur with previous decision by DuPerron, Hawkins and Tauriainen that Tauriainen be Region VII Rep on SEC. Mike
Region VII From: Paulette Simpson [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 12:18 PM To: randy ruedrich Subject: Region 7 Chair Randy, At the state convention, (Southeast) Region 7 district chairs and district officers did not have time to formally meet so agreed to connect via telephone to formalize regional representation. Ben Brown had previously served as our SEC representative for 4 years. The first week of May, after discussing the issue in person with Connie McKenzie and outgoing chair Ben Brown, I phoned Kathy Hosford in Skagway, Bill Privett in Wrangell and Robert Venables in Haines. All agreed that I should serve as Region 7 representative for purposes of serving on the State Executive Committee. Mr. Privett recalls that I phoned him around Wednesday, May 2. District 31 - Connie McKenzie, Juneau District 32 - Kathy Hosford, Skagway District 33 - Bill Privett, Wrangell District 34 - Robert Venables, Haines Paulette Simpson
KEN JACOBUS Legal Counsel March 25, 2013
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
For Your Information: The extent of the power of the Chairman is a substantive legal question and is not a question of parliamentary procedure as McQueary would have have you believe. It is very clear that the chairmen of the standing committees serve at the pleasure of the chairman. ARP Rules Article VI, Section 7(c). Mr. McQueary has now been validly removed from his position as chairman of the Rules Committee. It is also very clear that until a person is removed from office, that they continue to act in the office. It is only during the period of appeal that they cannot perform the duties of the office. ARP Rules Article X, Section 5(b). Accordingly, Ms. Brown continues to act in her office as Party Chairman until she is "removed." The filing of a complaint does not effect a removal from office. If that were so, then that complaint against Mr. Ruedrich, which the Executive Committee allegedly ignored for over a year, would have removed him from office immediately, and the position would have to have been filled by by the vice-chairman. This never took place. Sincerely,, Sincerely
Ken Jacobus Legal Counsel, Alaska Republican Party
Kenneth P. Jacobus, PC • 310 K Street, Suite 200, Anchorage AK 99501-2064 Phone (907) 277-3333 • Fax (907) 264-6666 • Email [email protected]
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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22 March 2013 Dear Rules Committee member, This email is to inform you that your appointment ap pointment to the ARP Rules Committee is hereby hereb y terminated effective immediately. Pursuant to the ARP Rules, the chairman and members of each standing and special committee serve at the pleasure of the ARP State Chairman. Many thanks for your past efforts, volunteer service, and an d contributions to the Rules Committee and the Alaska Republican Party. Sincerely, Debra Holle Brown, Chairman Alaska Republican Party
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[mailto:[email protected]]] From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2013 4:10 PM To: 'Frank McQueary' Cc: 'Terri Mooradian'; 'Kirk Wickersham'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Eileen Becker'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Steven R. Strait'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; '[email protected]'; 'Bruce Schulte'; 'Julie Gillette'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Paulette Simpson'; [email protected] Subject: RE: Current Events Hey, Frank! th
I spent quite a bit of of time time reviewing the relevant sections of of Robert’s Robert’s Rules (11 edition, unabridged) and the ARP rules last night, and found nothing supporting your assertion. assertion. In In fact, what is going on in this situation *does not* appear to be in keeping with the process described for complaints and removal. Given the liabilities, having ARP Legal involved is very relevant and very important, I have copied Ken Jacobus on this email (who was appointed and confirmed by the SCC). In the meantime (and as I did in similar circumstances while Randy was in office), I plan to continue with the business of the party under the Chairman. Thank you, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected]
From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 9:11 PM To: 'Frank McQueary' Cc: 'Terri Mooradian'; 'Kirk Wickersham'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]';
'[email protected]'; 'Eileen Becker'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Steven R. Strait'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; '[email protected]'; 'Bruce Schulte'; 'Julie Gillette'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Paulette Simpson' Subject: RE: Current Events Hey, Frank! I appreciate your response to my question. question. II will check out RoR tonight. Thanks! Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected]
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[mailto:[email protected]]] From: Frank McQueary [mailto:[email protected] Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 8:53 PM To: [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; Cc: 'Terri Mooradian'; 'Kirk Wickersham'; [email protected] [email protected]; 'Eileen Becker'; [email protected] [email protected]; [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Steven R. Strait'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Bruce Schulte'; 'Julie Gillette'; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected];; 'Paulette Simpson' [email protected] Subject: RE: Current Events Importance: High Alice:These Alice: These questions all default to Roberts Rules where it is quite clear that once charges are leveled the charged officer loses the power to act in any official capacity. capacity. This This is not a legal question, it is one of of parliamentary parliamentary procedure. procedure. So So whatever the other issues that you bring up, until the SEC and SCC rule on the charges against Ms. Brown she can no longer act in any official capacity for the party nor can she instruct you or any other official in any manner. Cordially, Frank McQueary
From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 6:26 PM To: Frank McQueary Cc: 'Terri Mooradian'; 'Kirk Wickersham'; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];;
[email protected]; 'Eileen Becker'; [email protected] [email protected]; [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Steven R. Strait'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Bruce Schulte'; Julie Gillette; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected];; 'Paulette Simpson' [email protected] Subject: RE: Current Events Hey, Frank! I have a question, and a few points of of clarification: clarification: "It is my understanding of of the the rules that she does not have this power while charges are pending and that she only has it in the normal course of of events events with the advice and consent of of the the SCC." Could you please direct me to the article(s) & section(s) of of the the rules which apply, specifically to your first point? point? II believe the second aspect has already been addressed by ARP Legal. "Since I and you were all appropriately appointed to two year terms after the last convention we would expect to serve until the next convention unless replaced with the approval of of the the SCC." The Rules Committee appointments were not presented, declared or approved at the SCC Meeting following the convention (April 28, 2012 SCC Minutes attached). attached). In In fact, I didn't even known who the members of of the the Rules Committee were until this week, and I am now halfway through my term. What makes this really surprising is that, according to the rules (VI.7f), the Chairman of of each each Standing Committee is to submit minutes of of each each meeting of of their their committee to the State Secretary. Secretary. This This includes the Rules Committee, yet I have received none. “While we can only speculate as to the motives of of the the various groups involved (Ron Paul, Occupy Wall Street and Joe Miller) there is some speculation that the intent was to take over the Party, suspend the rules and convert to a caucus based selection process for our statewide candidates.”
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Every time you speculate about the motives of of “those “those people,” it is something different. different. Last Last spring it was about stealing the elections or stealing all of of the the National Delegates Delegates – – and now you say it was about changing to a caucus system?! It is almost like you aren’t actually speculating at all, but instead instead just just fanning the flames of of the the division in the party to motivate people your way. “I know that the turmoil has taken its toll on our morale, however, we must remember that the rules were written the way they were to enable our organization to protect itself itself from from the kind of of external external attacks attacks which we are currently experiencing. experiencing. The The SEC and SCC will act in the best interests of of the the party vis a vis Debbie.” I really like you, Frank, and I sincerely respect the work you have done for the party; however, I have to call you out at this point. point. II am sick of of hearing hearing about “these people” and “those people” in reference to *Republicans. Republicans.* * Debbie Brown is not some external force attacking the party. party. She She is the Chairman, and she was unequivocally *elected *elected* * at the State Convention to serve the party.
Sincerely, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected]
From: Alice Leuchte Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 12:33 AM To: Alice Leuchte Subject: Fwd: Current Events
---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Frank McQueary <[email protected] [email protected]> > Date: Fri, Mar 22, 2013 at 10:11 PM Subject: Current Events To: Terri Mooradian <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Kirk Wickersham <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, [email protected],, "Brown, Ben" < [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]>, >, [email protected] [email protected],, Eileen Becker <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, [email protected] [email protected] Cc: "Goldberg, Peter" < [email protected] [email protected]>, >, "Steven R. Strait" <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Ralph Seekins <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Debbie Joslin < [email protected] [email protected]>, >, "Clary, Glenn" <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Bruce Schulte < [email protected] [email protected]>, >, [email protected] [email protected],, "Gillette, Julie" <[email protected] [email protected]>, >, "Zerbst, Beka" <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, "Shattuck, Rex" <[email protected] [email protected]>, >, [email protected] [email protected],, Paulette Simpson < [email protected] [email protected]> > All: Given what is now transpiring transpiring I have postponed the Rules Committee Committee hearing until sometime next week. As I’m sure that you are aware by now charges have been filed filed against Debbie Brown and the SEC has been asked to remove her from office. Debbie has countered by attempting to continue acting as Chair and has stated that she is dismissing the Rules Committee.
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It is my understanding of the rules that she does not have this power while charges are pending and that she only has it in the normal course of events with the advice and consent of the SCC. Since I and you were all appropriately appointed to two year terms after the last convention we would expect to serve until the next convention unless replaced with the approval of the SCC. I will verify my interpretation with Thomas Balch and if I am correct we will schedule a meeting next week.
I know that the turmoil has taken its toll on our morale, however, we must remember that the rules were written the way they were to enable our organization to protect itself from the kind of external attacks which we are currently experiencing. The SEC and SCC will act in the best interests of the party vis a vis Debbie.
We all saw in the hearing on Russ Millette’s removal that he admitted that every charge he had brought against the ARP before, during and after his election were admitted by him to have been false. Even though he admitted bearing false witness against the Party and its officers in front of television cameras, that has not kept him from continuing with his attacks from outside the party. While we can only speculate as to the motives of the various groups involved (Ron Paul, Occupy Wall Street and Joe Miller) there is some speculation that the intent was to take over the Party, suspend the rules and convert to a caucus based selection process for our statewide candidates. It is pretty obvious who would benefit from this this change.
Debbie will also have a fair hearing and an opportunity to convince the governing board of the party that she has been acting in the best interests of the party. If she fails in that she will be replaced.
Cordially,
Frank McQueary, Chair ARP Rules Committee
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[mailto:[email protected]]] From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 12:36 PM To: 'Peter Goldberg'; 'Alicé Leuchte'; 'Beka Zerbst'; 'Bruce Schulte'; 'Charlie Huggins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; 'Glenn Clary'; 'Julie Gillette'; 'Mike Chenault'; 'Mike Tauriainen'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Randy Reudrich'; 'Rex Shattuck'; 'Rhonda Boyles 2'; 'Steve Strait'; 'DEBBIE BROWN'; 'Kenneth Jacobus' Cc: [email protected] Subject: RE: Emergency Meeting of the SEC, April 8, 2013, 5:30 p.m., ARP Headquarters Importance: High Again, “Point of of Order!” Order!” See my previous email: _________________ _________ ________ From: Alicé Leuchte [ mailto:[email protected] From: Alicé mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 12:31 PM To: '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]' Cc: '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; [email protected] Subject: Point Point of of Order! Order! Importance: High Point of Point of Order: Order: I I am am extremely concerned about t he he lack lack of of process process being being used used with with this this newest newest complaint.
Before I personally personally commit commit to to attending yet yet another another hearing, hearing, I want want to to know know what what process process this complaint complaint has has gone through.I do not is appropriate to schedule a meeting meeting for for a a hearing where the charges have been simply simply distributed distributed by by the the Complainant. think it think it is If we establish the If we the precedent precedent that that no no review process process is required for a for a complaint, this would would mean mean that that any any complaint complaint ARP ARP receives imagine tt he he level level of of havoc havoc tt he he Democrats Democrats could could wreak wreak on on t he he party party under under would be would be automatically automatically valid valid and and must must be be heard.Just imagine this scenario. this scenario.They They would would be be able to shut shut us us down any any time time they pleased and pleased and for as for as long as they pleased. pleased. Not acceptable. So: “Point “Point of of order!” order!”
_________________ _________ ________ Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected] Google Voice: (910) 742 742ͲͲ0467 HelloFax: (907) 331 331ͲͲ4202 Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected] 1
[ mailto:[email protected]]] From: Peter Goldberg [mailto:[email protected] Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 12:32 PM To: Alicé Leuchte; Beka Zerbst; Bruce Schulte; Charlie Huggins; Debbie Joslin; Glenn Clary; Julie Gillette; Mike Chenault; Mike Tauriainen; Ralph Seekins; Randy Reudrich; Rex Shattuck; Rhonda Boyles 2; Steve Strait; DEBBIE BROWN; Kenneth Jacobus Subject: Emergency Meeting of the SEC, April 8, 2013, 5: 30 p.m., ARP Headquarters
All SEC Members: In accordance with Article VI - State Central Committee, Section 6: State Executive Committee, pa ragraph (c), voting members of the State Executive Committee in excess of 25% of the voting members, have requested an emergency meeting of the State Executive Committee to be held at the Alaska Republican Party Headquarters, 1001 West Fireweed Lane in Anchorage at 5:30 p.m. The requestors are: Bruce Schulte, Paulette Paulette Simpson, Rex Shattuck, Rhonda Boyles, Glenn Clary and Steve Steve Strait. The emergency meeting will will be held at the time and place requested. The purpose of the meeting is to hold a hearing regarding the charges filed against Chairman Debbie Brown on March 14, 2013 by Bruce Schulte. If you cannot attend, you have the option of sending a proxy in your place. That form form is attached. If you do send a proxy, in addition to sending or faxing that form to the ARP Headquarters, I suggest that you have your proxy carry the oriiginal copy.to the meeting. Given the nature of the meeting, please please try to attend in person if you are reasonably able to do so. Information for joining the meeting via teleconference will be provided separately. -Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired 907-726-1265 (home) 907-250-8822 (cell)
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ALICÉ LEUCHTE Secretary April 9, 2013
Re:
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
Debra Holle Brown, Chairman Peter Goldberg, Vice Chairman Randy Ruedrich, Past Chairman
Dear Sir or Madam: As the elected State Secretary of the Alaska Republican Party, I affirm my records reflect:
Debra Holle Brown is the current State Chairman. Chairman Brown was elected to the Vice Chairman position at the last State Convention on April 28, 2012. She was found ‘not guilty’ of a complaint complaint brought against her in January January 2013, and assumed the office of State Chairman February 1, 2013 after the removal of the Chairman Elect, Russ Millette. A second attempt to remove Chairman Brown from leadership took place April 8, 2013; however, according to my records, this meeting was not an official ARP meeting, as: The outcome was predetermined (March 12) before charges were even filed (March 14); 25% of the voting membership did not call the me eting (March 24-26); The complaint did not go through the proper process be fore the call of the meeting; and The complaint was reviewed by the new Rules Committee and was determined to be unfounded (April 6). Therefore, Debra Holle Brown still remains the Chairman of the Alaska Republican Party.
Peter Goldberg is the current State Vice Chairman. Peter was elected to serve as Vice Chairman by the State Central Committee at the February 9, 2013 meeting in Juneau, Alaska. (http://www.gop.com/members/alaska/)) as Randy Ruedrich is the Past Chairman. He is incorrectly listed on GOP.com (http://www.gop.com/members/alaska/ the Executive Director. The Alaska Republican Party does not currently have have an Executive Director. For further information, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] [email protected],, or call (910) 742-0467.
Thank you, you,
Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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CENSURE OF THE ARP SECRETARY (AS TRANSCRIBED) April 29, 2013 Submitted by Steve Strait Seconded by Bruce Schulte
Steve Strait: “This is a motion to censure the Secretary of the ARP.” The purpose of this censure is “to reprimand the
member with the hopes of reforming him or her so that the behavior won’t occur again…. The result of a censure, if it were to pass, would be that the member is put on notice, that if he or she repeats the offense, he or she could be suspended or removed from membership or office.” The censure reads:
WHEREAS, the Secretary violated her duties by not forwarding timely information to the membership regarding SEC actions taken place April 8 to remove the current Chair and appoint Peter Goldberg as the new Chair; and WHEREAS, the following removal of Chair Brown on April 8, the Secretary issued a factually incorrect press release the next day on RPA letterhead, stating that Debbie Holle Brown remains the current ARP Chairman; WHEREAS, the Secretary falsely stated in her April 9 press release on ARP letterhead that 25% of the voting membership did not call the SEC meeting; WHEREAS, the Secretary incorrectly announced in her April 9 press release “The complaint did not go through the proper process before the call of the meeting” referring to Brown’s hearing; WHEREAS, the Secretary worked against the Republican Party of Alaska showing disloyalty, spreading confusion to party members during a critical time of leadership change; and WHEREAS, such conduct was detrimental to the organization; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ARP Secretary be censured.
This motion did not pass as a written censure. Instead, it was decided to let the reading of this resolution serve as a “verbal reprimand,” to be followed by by a written complaint and/or removal. Also, this item of business was expunged expunged from the minutes at the request of the body.
This resolution was transcribed from the audio of the April 2 9, 2013 meeting held by Vice Chairman Peter Goldberg. Transcribed by Alicé Leuchte (the ARP Secretary).
From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 5:32 PM To: 'Peter Goldberg' Cc: 'Frank Jeanne McQueary'; '[email protected]'; 'Pam Raygor'; 'Ralph Seekins'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]';
'Christy Strutz - RPA'; [email protected]; 'S' Subject: RE: Revised Agenda Item Special Rules of Order Peter – I know precisely what what was addressed at your meeting April 29, as I listened to the recordings. This “committee” was to address address a very specific subject. From the attached: “Pam Raygor stated that RoR gives the society the right to protect itself. The society can stop its meeting and have a person removed that is doing something against the will of the body. The person can also be accused of trespassing if he refuses to leave after a vote of removal by the body. A committee of the following people will meet and determine a course of action: Frank McQueary, Pam Raygor, Ken Jacobus, and Steve Strait.” My job does not include agreeing with or voting with another officer, misleading members about independent proposals or playing mail server for unofficial business. Nor does it include supporting supporting unethical unethical behavior. Sorry. I am the Secretary, and Julie is the Assistant Secretary. Together, we two determine how our responsibilities will be carried out and divided. Thank you, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected]
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From: Peter Goldberg [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 5:01 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: Revised Agenda Item Special Rules of Order
If you had bothered to do your job and be part of the last SEC meeting you would understand understand what this special committee was doing. They came up with a recommendation for conducting business at the SCC meeting in Homer. It still requires SCC approval. The secretary is recording, I.e. Julie since you won't be there. Julie will be assisted in vote counts by two folks to be appointed. For the appeals, the respondent will pick one and the complainant the o ther to assist Julie. If you want to stay on as Secretary, stop refusing to do your job. Peter On Friday, May 17, 2013, Alicé Leuchte wrote: Discipline Committee?! Are you guys now creating new committe es in secret, and making decisions about how business will be conducted -
without consulting with those who will be affected? Three clarifications: 1. The Secretary reserves the right to record. record. 2. Votes from those on the phone need to be copied to the Secretary. 3. This is not a communication or proposal from an official body within the Party; therefore, I will not be sending this out. Thanks, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] From: S [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 1:53 PM To: Peter Goldberg; [email protected] Cc: Frank Jeanne McQueary; [email protected] [email protected];; Pam Raygor; Ralph Seekins; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; Christy
Strutz - RPA Subject: Revised Agenda Item Special Rules of Order
Peter Goldberg, Our discipline committee met again this morning via phone calls and agreed to revise agenda item “Special Rules of Order for the May 25 Homer meeting. We trimmed our Motion by eliminating Items already covered by RPA and R.R.s. This tidy's up the motion significantly and we wish to thank those who made these suggestions. Please accept this as an agenda item Motion "Special Rules of Order" immediately following Introductions on the agenda. I am copying our Secretary so this can be placed on the agenda and distributed to SCC members in advance of our May 25 Meeting. Sincerely, Steve Strait Chair Discipline Committee Reg. 4 Rep Chair Dist. 19
ARP State Central Committee May 25, 2013 Special Rules of Order The following Special Rules of Order are presented for adoption with the intention using th em to conduct SCC business. TheseSpecial Rules of Order are subordinate to the Alaska Republican Republican Party Rules Rules, and National Republican Party Rules . Voting Body SCC members and those carrying Proxy voting authorizations will be issued name tags which must be worn at all time during the meeting. Floor Tellers Floor Tellers shall be appointed to count, tabulate and report to the Chair standing votes. A record of the tabulated vote sh all be entered in the minutes. All doors are to be secured during a counted vote, only floor tellers shall be permitted to move about. Phone Tellers Phone Tellers shall be appointed to monitor teleconference calls to ensure members are afforded t he ability to participate and to count, tabulate and report voice votes to the Secretary. Voting Members in attendance must remain in their seats at the time the vote is taken. Members participating telephonically may vote by conveying their vote to the Phone Tellers by email or text; using pre-determined or recognizable contact information that has been previously provided to the ARP. Conduct of Members and Guests Attendees shall not record audio or video, videotape, broadcast, transmit, photograph, without without prior permission of the Chair. Press/Media shall be accredited by the Chair and shall be identified with Name Badge and Organization. Please turn off or mute cell phones, etc.
From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] .com] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 9:23 PM To: 'S'; 'Pamela Ann Raygor' Cc: 'Peter Goldberg'; 'Frank Jeanne McQueary'; '[email protected]'; 'Ralph Seekins'; '[email protected]'; 'Julie Gillette'; 'Christy Strutz - RPA'; '[email protected]' Subject: RE: Publish the Agenda for May 25
Steve – Pursuant to ARP Rules Article VI, Section 15(a ) - stating “The TheState StateSecretary Secretaryand andthe theAssistant AssistantState StateSecretary Secretaryshall shalldivide divideand and perform such duties as are mutually agreeable between between them them to to ccarry arry out the duties duties of the ARP Secretary” Secretary - you are in no position to dictate how or when these duties are carried out. Thank you, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected]
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From: S [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 9:16 PM To: [email protected] [email protected];; 'Pamela Ann Raygor' Cc: 'Peter Goldberg'; 'Frank Jeanne McQueary'; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Ralph Seekins'; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Julie Gillette'; 'Christy Strutz - RPA'; [email protected] Subject: Publish the Agenda for May 25
Madame Secretary, Please be cognizant of your duties under RPA rules , see RPA highlights below. The heChair Chairhas hasdirected directedyou youto topublish ppublish ublish the theagenda agendaas as submitted. Please do so this this evening. Steve Strait Reg. 4 Rep From: Peter Goldberg [ mailto:[email protected] mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 5:01 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: Revised Agenda Item Special Rules of Order
If you had bothered to do your job an d be part of the last SEC meeting y ou would understand what this special committee was doing. They came up with a recommendation recommendation for conducting business business at the SCC meeting in Homer. It still requires SCC approval. The secretary is recording, recording, I.e. Julie since you won't won't be there. Julie will be assisted in in vote counts by two folks to be appointed. For the appeals, the respondent will pick one and the complainant the other to assist Julie. If you want to stay on as Secretary, stop refusing to do your job. Peter
Article VI, Section 11 : Functions and Duties of the State Secretary. The State Secretary shall be responsible for keeping the minutes of all SCC meetings and for ma intaining the current RPA records and files. He shall be responsible for the giving and serving of all SCC notices and shall perform such other duties as shall be required by the SCC or the State Chairman. The State Secretary shall transmit SCC and State Executive Committee minutes to all members members within a period of not more than thirty (30) calendar days.
DEBRA HOLLE BROWN
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY
Chairman
1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
March 26, 2013
NOTICE
The duties of Chairman include making appointments to offices and committees which serve at the pleasure of the Chairman. With this notice, I am appointing appointing the following Alaska Republicans Republicans to serve as members of the Rules Committee, effective immediately:
Lance Roberts Chris McMullins Ron Johnson Randy Stevens Rich Giessel Neal DuPerron Alice Leuchte
District 5 District 10 District 11 District 17 District 27 District 29 District 32
Committee Chairman
Confirmation of these appointed members will be placed on the agenda for the Saturday, 25 May State Central Committee Meeting, to be held in Homer, Alaska.
Sincerely,, Sincerely
Debra Holle Brown
Chairman, Alaska Republican Party
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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DEBRA HOLLE BROWN Chairman April 3, 2013
To: Re:
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
State Executive Committee Members Essential Processes
Dear Members, According to the ARP Rules (Article I, Section 1), the latest edition of Robert’s Rules of Order is to be considered when the ARP Rules and RNC rules r ules do not provide the essential processes: ARTICLE I - RULE RU LES S AN AND D PARLIAM ENTARY AU AUTHORITY THORITY Section 1: Parli Parli ament ary Auth orit y for Republi Republi can Part Part y Procedures Procedures Except as otherwise provided in these Alaska Republican Party (ARP) Rules, all proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the Rules of the Republican Party of the United States (RNC), or where the proceedings are not otherwise covered, in accordance with ROBERT'S RULES OF ORDER, latest edition.
When it comes to complaints, the ARP has used Robert’s Rules of Order to guide us through a fair and equitable process. For your reference, the latest edition of Robert ’s Rules Rules of Order is the 11th edition (unabridged), and is available in hardback and paperback. The most applicable information to the removal process can be found in Chapt er XX,
Disciplin Dis ciplinary ary Procedures (page 643), with detailed sections on Removal f rom Off ice and Other Remedies Remedies fo forr Derelict ion of Dut y in Offi ce or M isc isconduc onduct t (§62), and Inves Investt igat ion and Trial (§63). Before a complaint is to be heard, it should should be validated by an investigative committee. The Rules Committee has served this function for the ARP with past complaints. If a complaint is found to be valid by the Rules Committee, the Rules Chairman will forward the complaint to the appropriate officer with instructions on how to proceed. Given the complaint submitted by Bruce Schulte has not been referred to the Rules Committee for validation, a meeting to hear the complaint is premature. Therefore, the call announced for an “Emergency” SEC meeting on April 8, 2013 for the purpose of hearing this complaint is inappropriate and hereby rescinded. I will have the Secretary forward the pending complaints to the Rules Committee Chairman, Lance Roberts ([email protected] [email protected]), ), by the end of business business today. Also, the next regular SEC meeting will be be scheduled after the regional elections have been been completed. All members should be prepared to submit a written report. Thank you for your diligence and service to the party. Sincerely,, Sincerely
Debra Holle Brown Chairman, Alaska Republican Party
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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To the SEC: Please note that out of courtesy I'm copying those who were on the SEC when the charges were made, since it may still be relevant to them after they've had the proper elections. I apologize up front if I missed anyone on this distribution. Attached to this email is the Ruling from the Rules committee on the Charges against Debbie Brown submitted by Bruce Schulte, and a complaint raised against those charges. The rules committee voted unanimously to approve this ruling. We plan on looking at the new set of charges brought by Randy Ruedrich against the Chairman at our next meeting, and an d the other pending charges that the last rules committee did not make a ruling on. I realize that the April 8th meeting has been cancelled, and this ruling should give more reasons why it would have been inappropriate to hold that meeting. Please let me know if you feel the format I used for this ruling should be modified for the future. Thanks for participating, Lance Roberts ARP District 5 Chair ARP Rules Chair cc: Rules Committee District 5 Committee
1
From: "DEBBIE BROWN" <[email protected] < [email protected]> > Date: April 2, 2013, 12:55:08 PM AKDT To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] [email protected],, [email protected] Subject: ARP WORK ASSIGNMENT: Submit Information to APOC APOC Tom Lucas
Christy, On Tuesday 26 March, I spoke with ARP Treasurer, Glenn Clary, and yourself, requesting information be changed and added to the the APOC Alaska Republican Republican Party registration/account. registration/account. Adding my name and title as ARP Chairman to this account was a good step forward, but did not accomplish all that was requested that day. I have spoken with Mr. Tom Lucas (APOC) and verified my requests for changes were stated correctly to you. Yes, they were. In order to be legal for APOC purposes, to receive funds from ARP contributors, my name needs to also be added to the "registration list" as a Deputy Treasurer. Additionally, I am requesting my name be added as an Administrator Administrator to the Account. Account. This enables me to add names to the "registration list" myself. Thank you for your immediate immediate attention to these these tasks. (2 April 2013). 1. Add my name to the the "registration list" as Deputy Deputy Treasurer 2. Add my name as administrator on the the APOC Alaska Republican Party account account and provide me with the password. Sincerely, Debra Holle Brown, Chairman Alaska Republican Party
From: "Lucas Thomas R (DOA)" <[email protected] < [email protected] > [email protected]"" <[email protected] <[email protected]> > To: "[email protected] Cc: "Anderson, Jerry D (DOA)" < jerry.anderson@ [email protected] alaska.gov>, >, "Douglas, Tamara M (DOA)" <[email protected] [email protected]> > Sent: Fri, 05 Apr 2013 23:32:48 +0000 Subject: Receipt of contributions
Ms. Brown: This is to confirm our conversation this morning wherein I told you that pursuant to AS 15.13.076(2): “A contribution to a group may be received only by the group’s campaign treasurer or a deputy treasurer” During that conversation you asked whether or not you, not being a treasurer or deputy treasurer, could legally receive name, address, occupation, employer and credit card information from a contributor and then pass that information on to a treasurer or deputy treasurer for the transaction to be processed. I have been unable to find a clear answer to that question. Neither the statute nor the regulations define the word “receive” for purposes of who may receive contributions. There appear to be reasonable arguments on both sides of the issue. Thus, if you were to accept the contributor information you asked about; it might be considered an illegal receipt of contributions. If someone filed a complaint, APOC staff would investigate, make a recommendation to the Commission; and the Commission would decide decide how to interpret the statute given the facts of the case. You may, however, request an advisory opinion concerning this issue. In that case, staff would make a recommendation to the Commission, and the Commission would issue an Advisory Opinion that you could rely on to guide your actions. If you have any questions or desire further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thomas Lucas Associate Attorney II Alaska Public Offices Commiss Commission ion 2221 E. Northern Lights #128 Anchorage, AK 99508-4149 907-276-4176
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Direct: (910) 742-0467 • Fax: (907) 331-4202
Re: Complaint and process against the Chairman, Debra Holle Brown Dear Members, The elected officers of the Alaska Republican Party are tasked to to serve the interests interests of Alaska Republicans. Contrary to popular opinion, the office of Secretary Secretary should not serve the whims of a Chairman, but the welfare of the organization. organization. Therefore, as Secretary, I have a responsibility to voice concern when a matter jeopardizes the integrity of the Party. Over the course of my time in office, and after a fter obtaining what records I could that pertained to my responsibilities, I raised concerns when and as appropriate to the the Chairman (Ruedrich & Brown), the Executive Executive Committee (SEC) and Central Committee Committee (SCC). One such matter included the election of the Regional Representatives, who hold 7 of the 17 authorized voting positions on the SEC. The information gathered January 2013 on these positions indicates that the majority of the offices were not filled through a proper election process, but through inconsistent inconsistent and informal methods. Members of the SCC that were eligible to run for these positions were not informed of the opportunity. In some cases, District Chairmen (who cast a vote to determine the Regional Representatives) Representatives) were not included in the process. Also, the confusion with with the regions in May 2012, and the interim rule change on their composition in December 2012, contributed to my concerns. After reviewing the rules and gathering gathering supporting data, I explained my my concerns to Chairman Brown. It was her intent, as later stated in a letter dated April 3, to hold proper elections for these positions in April. She also added the regional issue to the SEC agenda for March 11, 2013; however, business was stalled with discussion over all the 2012 SEC minutes tabled under Chairman Ruedrich. The following day Goldberg contacted Chairman Brown, stating she would be removed by the SEC if she didn’t resign. On April 9, 2013, I released a letter summarizing summarizing my records pertaining pertaining to the office of State Chairman.
I stand by that
determination. In this presentation, I support my objections to the process Bruce Schulte’s Schulte’s complaint followed. It is important to note that the actions and efforts of those involved – including those of Vice Chairman Goldberg and National Committeeman Seekins (also the proxy of National Committeewoman Joslin) in Los Angeles – has not only caused further chaos to the Party business, it also deprived Alaska full representation at the 2013 Spring RNC meeting. We have the opportunity to restore the representative process within our organization during 2013, which will heal and fortify against the struggles struggles we will find in 2014. In order to do this, we must have have leadership that is not only only willing to work on rehabilitating our infrastructure, but is willing to do so within the rules. On a related note, it seems unethical for SEC members to vote on the decisions they have made. Therefore, I challenge the voting members of the SEC (past and present) present) to refrain from voting on these appeals. You, your credibility and office are just just as much on trial as that of Russ Millette, Debbie Brown, and whoever else is kept from serving their elected office before May 25. For those voting on these appeals, put aside your personal loyalties, and clear your mind of the rumors and sensationalism that has clouded the matters at hand. Base your decisions on facts and principles. Our Party and our future depend on it. Thank you, you,
Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party
Page 1 of 10
Complaint and Process against the Chairman, Debra Holle Brown This file contains an assessment of my records, as they pertain to the process for the complaint brought against Chairman Debbie Brown by Bruce Schulte Schulte of District 21. The documents linked linked in blue and bold are contained within within this file. Click the link to jump to to the document, or navigate using the bookmarks available within this file. The following is the body of my April 9 letter, regarding the positions of Chair man, Vice Chairman and Executive Director: As the elected State Secretary of the Alaska Republican Party, I affirm my records reflect:
Debra Holle Brown is the current State Chairman. Chairman Brown was elected to the Vice Chairman position at the last State Convention on April 28, 2012. She was found ‘not guilty’ of a complaint brought against her in January 2013, and assumed the office of State Chairman February 1, 2013 after the removal of the Chairman Elect, Russ Millette. A second attempt to remove Chairman Brown from leadership took place April 8, 2013; however, according to my records, this meeting was not an official ARP meeting, as: The outcome was predetermined (March 12) before charges were even filed (March 14); 25% of the voting membership did not call the meeting (March 24-26); The complaint did not go through the proper process before the call of the meeting; and The complaint was reviewed by the new Rules Committee and was determined to be unfounded (April 6). Therefore, Debra Holle Brown still remains the Chairman of the Alaska Republican Party.
Peter Goldberg is the current State Vice Chairman. Peter was elected to serve as Vice Chairman by the State Central Committee at the February 9, 2013 meeting in Juneau, Alaska.
Randy Ruedrich is the Past Chairman. He is incorrectly listed on GOP.com (http://www.gop.com/members/alaska/ (http://www.gop.com/members/alaska/) as the Executive Director. The Alaska Republican Party Party does not currently have an Executive Director.
The following pages of exposition and materials provide the support for the bulleted items.
The outcome was predetermined (March 12) before charges were even filed (March 14) The outcome to the latest hearing to remove Chairman Debbie Brown from offic e was predetermined, as admitted by Vice C hairman Peter Goldberg in a phone conversation with Brown, and in a follow up email sent to the Chairman March 12, 2013: From: Peter Goldberg <[email protected]> Date: March 12, 2013 10:14:39 PM AKDT To: DEBBIE BROWN <[email protected]> Subject: Final Thought When We Lost Connection Debbie, Should you decide to resign rather than go through a hearing, a hearing that will inevitably have the same result, i.e. removing you as chair, I would suggest that you do it before you go to the RNC meetings. This way, you will not have wasted your money on the cost of the trip. There woud be no hotel bill at $189 per night and you could cancel your airline reservation and get credit for the airfare (minus the airline change fee). This will save you in excess of $1000. [continued…]
Page 2 of 10
While I know it is hard for you to accept, I need to tell you again that everyone that I am aware of in this process believes you to be of strong moral fiber, of good character, and dedicated to the Party. While all believe this to be true, it does not change the opinion of all of these same people that you have neither adequately performed your duties thus far as relates to finances nor do these people believe that you would be successful at it in the future. I'm sorry for the pain that this causes you. I wish I did not have to be the one to bring it to you. -Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired
Not only does this email show a predetermined outcome, but also misrepresents the opinions of select voting members of the SEC (e.g. Secretary Alicé Leuchte). Other aspects to this email, specifically the “advice” about not attending the RNC meeting, gives evidence that what transpired in Los Angeles at the spring RNC meeting was premeditated and carried out with the cooperation of Ralph Seekins and Debbie Joslin, our National Committeeman and Committeewoman: “I would suggest that you do it before you go to the RNC meetings. This way, you will not have wasted your money…”
Essentially, Vice Chairman Goldberg issued Chairman Brown an ultimatum - resign or charges will be manufactured, and “we” will remove you. Chairman Brown refused to be blackmailed, and did not resign the Chairmanship. According to Vice Chairman Goldberg, charges were filed March 14, 2013, and he immediately (and improperly) attempted to call an “Emergency” meeting for March 30, 2013 in order hear these unevaluated charges: From: Peter Goldberg <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2013 8:24 PM To: Alicé Leuchte; Beka Zerbst; Bruce Schulte; Charlie Huggins; Debbie Joslin; Frank McQueary; Glenn Clary; Julie Gillette; Mike Chenault; Mike Tauriainen; Paulette Simpson 32; Ralph Seekins; Randy Reudrich; Rex Shattuck; Rhonda Boyles 2; Steve Strait; [email protected] Subject: Emergency Meeting of the SEC, March 30, 2013, 9 a.m., ARP Headquarters Flag Status: Flagged All SEC Members, I have received a written complaint alleging that Debbie Brown had failed to carry out or perform the duties to which she was elected. As Vice Chairman, it is my duty to hold a hearing where the charge will be heard and Chairwoman Brown will be given an opportunity to defend against that charge. It will then be your duty to determine if the charge is valid. If determined to be valid, it will be your duty to determine how to proceed, up to and including removal from office. Therefore, an Emergency Meeting of the SEC will be held on March 30, 2013, 9 a.m. at the ARP Headquarters at 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. I know that most of you are familiar with the situation. Please do not share the reasons for this meeting with anyone. From my conversations with you, I am under the impression that all of you agree with me that nothing has happened to suggest any kind of malicious, destructive, disloyal, or criminal behavior. I believe that Debbie's heart is in the right place, that she is a strong believer in Republican principles, and she wants the best for the Party. We should do all in our power to minimize the possibility that her reputation will be maligned by any actions that we feel compelled to take. For these reasons, we are not inviting the media to this hearing. Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired Page 3 of 10
Please note that all SEC members were not included as addressed - Debbie Brown was not included, while Randy Ruedrich, a nonSEC member, was included instead. Also, the name of the Complainant was not given, the charges were not not distributed, and no investigative committee had reviewed the charges prior to this attempted call for a hearing, as prescribed by Robert’s Rules of Order (see Chapter XX beginning on page 643, particularly §63, Investigation and Trial ). Multiple objections were voiced via email, including by ARP Legal Ken Jacobus, who had not been notified or consulted regarding this complaint. Not consulting Legal Counsel on such such a matter opens up the ARP - and very specifically, members of the SEC - to serious legal liabilities, and indicates a clear di sregard for the welfare of all involved. In his email dated March 16 (1:15PM), Jacobus references Goldberg’s email on March 12: In that email, you specifically stated, and I quote this: "Should you decide to resign rather than go through a hearing, a hearing that will inevitably have the same result, i.e. removing you as chair....(emphasis added)" In doing so, in effect you have told Ms. Brown that the matter has already been decided, and that she would not get a fair hearing as guaranteed to her by Party Rule, Article X, Section 3(c).
25% of the voting membership did not call the meeting (March 24 -26) The first attempt to call an “Emergency” meeting for March 30 was also addressed by ARP Legal, Ken Jacobus in his March 16 email: This hearing was called as an "emergency" meeting of the SEC. However, under Party Rule Article VI, Section 5, special meetings may be called upon petition of 25% of the SEC membership, and emergency meetings may be called by the State Chairman and no one else. Accordingly, the Party will be f aced with the argument that this was not a validly called emergency meeting.
On March 22, Goldberg sent an email stating the meeting was to be moved to April 8: Ken Jacobus, ARP counsel has indicated that it would be better to handle the complaint at the next regularly scheduled SECmeeting. At least two other members of the SEC concur. As I recall, that would be on April 8th. I would hope that we can deal with this with maximum fairness so I have no problem moving the date of the hearing. Unless there is substantial objection, I will consider it moved.
While April 8, 2013 was one of several potential dates considered for the next regular SEC meeting (scheduling was intentionally left flexible due concerns for the availability of a Parliamentarian), no regular meeting of the SEC had been called yet for April. It isn’t until March 2 Ϯ that I began to receive formal requests for a meeting to hear these these charges, to be held held April 8, 2013. For general reference, the requests stated something similar to the following: I request an emergency meeting of the Alaska Republican Party State Executive Committee on April 8 at 5:30 at the office of the ARP on Fireweed Lane. The purpose of the meeting is to hear the March 14, 2013 charges against Debbie H. Brown.
I received requests between March 2 ϯ and 2ϲ ;ƉůĞĂƐĞŶŽƚĞƚŚĞƐĞĚĂƚĞƐĂƌĞĂĐŽƌƌĞĐƚŝŽŶƚŽŵLJŝŶŝƚŝĂůďƵůůĞƚŝƚĞŵͿ
from Steve Strait,
Paulette Simpson, Rhonda Boyles, Rex Shattuck Shattuck and Glenn Clary. Peter Goldberg cited the requestors requestors as “Bruce Schulte, Paulette Simpson, Rex Shattuck, Rhonda Boyles, Glenn Clary and Steve Strait” in an email dated March 26. As of March 26, the 25% of the membership required required had requested the meeting. meeting. Five (5) was needed with all voting positions filled on the SEC (with the exception of the State Finance Chairman); however, the number of voting members changed April ϯ, 2013. The Treasurer, Glenn Clary (along with the Assistant Treasurer, Frank McQueary) had been terminated, and an unconfirmed
Treasurer appointed (Treasurer Julie Hamm, with Assistant Treasurer Liz Vazquez).
Page 4 of 10
The previously confirmed Regional Finance Chairmen (Regions II-VII) had been terminated, leaving one Regional Representative ineligible to serve serve as Regional Representative (Region (Region VII, Paulette Simpson). The Past Chairman had failed to confirm another Regional Finance Chairman (Region I, Beka Zerbst), which also jeopardized the eligibility to serve despite proper election otherwise. While emails had been submitted January 17, 2013 asserting the proper measures were taken in filling these offices, no minutes had been submitted for the elections elections of these Regional Representatives – again, with the exception of Region I. After further research, I found reasonable evidence that proper elections were needed for these positions, and submitted the findings to Chairman Brown. These findings included cases where all the District Chairmen in a region had not voted, and other cases where they were unaware they were participating an election. For example, in a later email chain from April April 9, Chris McMullins, Chairman of District 10, wrote: From: Chris McMullins Subject: Re: reply to Aaron Downing To, Cc: [Multiple Recipients] Date: Tuesday, April 9, 2013, 10:18 PM Rex, You and I both know there were no minutes. There was no meeting. There was no election. The process was EXTREMELY informal. I question whether or not some folks actually realized they were "voting" for you. Frankly I felt manipulated and I don't know how many others did too. I would testify to that. Chris McMullins Dist 10 Chair
Also, SCC members that were eligible to run for the Regional Representative positions had not been informed there was an election for these seats, much less informed of their eligibility to be candidates ( ARP Rules, Article VI, Section 17 ). And all of these concerns even outweigh the controversy surrounding the composition and interim confirmation of the “new” regions which took place December 2012. Chairman Brown decided to add this topic to the agenda for the March 11, 2013 SEC meeting and arrange for new elections; however, the meeting ran long due to housekeeping items (all of the 2012 SEC minutes Randy Ruedrich, the Past Chairman, failed to address) and the issue was not addressed with the SEC. Note that it was the day after this meeting, where the Regional concerns were to be addressed, that Vice Chairman Goldberg
contacted Chairman Brown to inform her that the members of the SEC would produce charges and seek her removal if she didn’t resign. The Regional Representatives held 7 of the 16 voting positions at the time. Upon the ruling of ARP Legal on March 25 concerning the Chairman’s ability to remove and replace appointed members (and that the submittal of a complaint against the Chairman does not effect a removal from office), Chairman Brown terminated the Regional Finance Chairmen on April 2, and then notified the Regional Representatives (for regions II-VII) that proper elections would be held during April. For general reference, here is the body of one such letter: Your participation and countless hours of volunteer service to the Alaska Republican Party are greatly appreciated. Given your work towards promoting republican values, I am certain you understand the importance of public trust when it comes to the success of our Party – now and in 2014. [continued…]
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To this end, we must restore trust in the Party leadership by evaluating how we conduct our business. Unfortunately, Party records show a lack of documentation verifying your election to the position of Region VI Representative. Therefore, your service as the Region VI Representative is terminated, effective immediately. A regional meeting will be called this month so that elections may take place for this vacant position. All Republicans eligible will be notified and encouraged to run. Not only do I encourage you to run, but I look forward to your help in this effort to restore confidence in the SEC and the Party at large. More election information will be available soon. Also, I am seeking letters of application for appointed positions from members who are genuinely committed to our platform, dedicated to integrity and determined to grow the participation within our Party. Please consider submitting a letter of application for the position or standing committee you feel most qualified. I would also welcome any suggestions you may have for achieving mutual respect and unity within our party.
As of April ϯ, 2013, all seven of the ZĞŐŝŽŶĂů ZĞƉƌĞƐĞŶƚĂƚŝǀĞƐ were no longer voting members of the the SEC. In recalculating the the required number for quorum (to include only filled voting positions), three (3) calls from voting members would be needed to have the April 8, 2013 “Emergency” SEC meeting. After this date, only one of the submittals submittals was from a voting member - even if you prefer the six (6) requests cited by Goldberg: Glenn Clary Rex Shattuck Steve Strait Bruce Schulte Paulette Simpson
Treasurer Region II Representative Region IV Representative Region V Representative Region VII Representative
Replaced Pending Reelection Pending Reelection Pending Reelection Ineligible
Rhonda Boyles
AFRW
Voting Member
The complaint did not go through the proper process before the call of the meeting Since the ARP Rules do not encompass a complete complaint process (RNC Rules do not either), then per Article I, Section 1 , the latest edition of Robert’s Rules of Order (11
th
Edition, unabridged) is to guide guide our disciplinary procedures. procedures. Robert’s Rules of Order Order
defines the ‘steps in a fair disciplinary process’ (page 656): 1.
Confid Con fident ential ial inve investi stigat gation ion by by a commit committe tee; e;
2. 3.
Report of the comm Report committee ittee,, and and referral referral of of charges charges if warrante warranted; d; Formal For mal not notific ificati ation on of the acc accuse used; d;
4.
Trial; and
5.
The assembly assembly’s ’s review of a trial trial committee committee’s ’s findings findings (if the trial trial has been held held in a committee committee instead instead of the assemb assembly…). ly…).
While the investigative committee does not have to be the ARP Rules committee (actually, many recommend a special committee be formed to review complaints), the precedence has been set thus far that the Rules Committee a lso serve this function. As with prior complaints, the ARP Rules Committee has served as the investigative committee within the disciplinary process; however, the Rules Committee - as it was composed until March 22, 2013 - had not reviewed Bruce Schulte’s complaint that was submitted to the Vice Chairman. Only after Chairman Brown replaced replaced the members did the Rules Rules Committee finally meet and review the charges. The following email illustrates illustrates this fact: From: Frank McQueary <[email protected]> Date: Fri, Mar 22, 2013 at 10:11 PM Subject: Current Events To: Terri Mooradian <[email protected]>, Kirk Wickersham <[email protected]>, [email protected], "Brown, Ben" <[email protected]>, <benjamino1789@hotm ail.com>, [email protected], Eileen Becker <[email protected]>, [email protected] Cc: "Goldberg, Peter" <[email protected]>, "Steven R. Strait" <[email protected]>, Ralph Seekins <[email protected]>, Debbie Joslin <[email protected]>, "Clary, Glenn" <[email protected]>, Bruce Schulte <[email protected]>,
Page 6 of 10
[email protected], "Gillette, Julie" <[email protected]>, "Zerbst, Beka" <[email protected]>, "Shattuck, Rex" <[email protected]>, <[email protected] >, [email protected], Paulette Simpson <[email protected] <[email protected]> > All: Given what is now transpiring transpiring I have postponed the the Rules Committee Committee hearing until sometime sometime next week. As I’m sure that that you are aware by now charges have been filed against Debbie Debbie Brown and the SEC has been been asked to remove her from office. Debbie has countered by attempting to continue acting as Chair and has stated that she is dismissing the Rules Committee. It is my understanding of the rules that she does not have this power while charges are pending and that she only has it in the normal course of events with the advice and consent of the the SCC. Since I and you were all appropriately appointed to two year terms after the last convention we would expect expect to serve until the next convention convention unless replaced with the approval of the the SCC. I will verif y my interpretation with Thomas Balch and if I am correct we will schedule a meeting next week. I know that the turmoil has taken its toll on our morale, however, we must remember that the rules were written the way they were to enable our organization to protect itself from the the kind of external attacks which we are currently currently experiencing. The SEC and SCC will act in the best interests of the party vis a vis Debbie. We all saw in the hearing on Russ Millette’s removal that he admitted that every charge he had brought against the ARP before, during and after his election were admitted by him to have been false. Even though he admitted bearing false witness against the Party and its officers in front of television cameras, that has not kept him from continuing with his attacks from outside the party. While we can only speculate as to the motives of the various groups involved (Ron Paul, Occupy Wall Street and Joe Miller) there is some speculation that the intent was to take over the the Party, suspend the rules and convert to a caucus based selection process for our statewide candidates. It is pretty obvious who would benefit from this change. Debbie will also have a fair hearing and an opportunity to convince the governing board of the party that she has been acting in the best interests of the party. If she fails in that she will be replaced. Cordially, Frank McQueary, Chair ARP Rules Committee
Upon receiving this email, I engaged McQueary about the process which complaints should follow, and clearly stated my objections. I also cleared up the fact that the Rules Committee, under McQueary, had not been confirmed by the SCC after the State Convention (April 28, 2012) – in fact, I had just learned who the members members of the Rules Committee were that that week. Also, as Chairman of the Rules Committee, he had failed in providing the State Secretary of any minutes as required by the ARP Rules ( Article VI, Section 7(f)). In a later response to Goldberg , I expressed: From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 12:31 PM To: '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]' Cc: '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected] '[email protected]'; '; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; [email protected] Subject: Point of Order! Point of Order: I am extremely concerned about the lack of process being used with this newest complaint. Before I personally commit to attending yet another hearing, I want to know what process this complaint has gone through. I do not think it is appropriate to schedule a meeting for a hearing where the charges have been simply distributed by the Complainant. If we establish the precedent that no review process is required for a complaint, this would mean that any complaint ARP receives would be automatically valid and must be heard. Just imagine the level of havoc the Democrats could wreak on the party under this scenario. They would be able to shut us down any time they pleased and for as long as they pleased.
Not acceptable. So: “Point of order!” Page 7 of 10
The communications I have received since have been predominately false accusations and threats of removal if I do not comply with their approach. This includes a “ verbal reprimand” for my April 9 letter, which came in the form of a proposed resolution brought to the floor by Steve Strait and Bruce Schulte on April 29. This “reprimand” included the threat of a written censure, censure, followed by removal. While the motion ultimately ultimately failed (and was expunged from the minutes), minutes), the inappropriateness of the motion stands .
The complaint was reviewed by the new Rules Committee and was determined to be unfounded (April 6) The new Rules Committee , as appointed by Chairman Brown, met to review the complaint submitted by Bruce Schulte on April 6, 2013. The Rules Committee made the following ruling: Charge: Since being elected as Vice-Chair in 2012 and subsequently taking office as Chair on February 1 – Debbie Brown has raised no funds for the ARP, nor has she shown any aptitude or ability to do so.
Possible Grounds: Art X Section 1(b) Failure to carry out or perform the duties of the office to which he was was elected.
Facts: Debbie Brown was elected as Vice Chairman-Elect at the State Convention 2012 by the majority of the convention body. This means that on February 1st, 2013, she would have become Vice Chairman of the party, and during the interim between the 2012 State Convention and that date, she was in the appointed position of Vice-Chair of the State Finance Committee (Article VI, Section 19(b)). This charge was filed March 14th, approximately 6 weeks after she became Chair.
Ruling: Since her term as Vice-Chair of the State Finance Committee was already over, it is too late to file charges based on her performance on that job. Also, those charges would have to be filed with the chair of her committee. There were no charges filed with that committee before February 1st, and due to SCC action at the February 9th SCC meeting there is currently no chair (or vice-chair) of the State Finance Committee. In regards to her current position of Chairman (starting February 1st), the rules don’t give an amount of time that is to be used to evaluate performance, but it is incredulous that anyone would think that her job performance could be evaluated after six weeks. The final phrase in that sentence “nor has she shown any aptitude or ability to do so.” is subjective, and has no relation to the possible grounds, since “Failure to carry out or perform” has nothing to do with aptitude or ability, but with whether actions are actually carried out or not.
Charge: In addition, historically reliable donors have indicated that they have no confidence in Debbie as Chair and will contribute no money to the ARP while she remains in office. Thus, in addition to being ineffective in raising funds, she has regrettably, become a significant impediment to the efforts of others trying to raise funds for the ARP.
Possible Grounds: There are no grounds in Article X Section 1 that this charge can be based on. The body of the convention expressed confidence in her by their act of electing her as Vice Chairman, and the will of that body is the ultimate authority for the Alaska Republican Party.
Conclusion: These charges do not meet any of the grounds for removal that are given in Article X Section 1.
Page 8 of 10
Additional Information Continued Election Concerns Upon Peter Goldberg assuming the position of Vice Chairman on February 9, this left the Region III Representative seat open for election. Instead of holding a proper election, election, the same informal approach was applied: From: Jason Rampton [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Sunday, March 31, 2013 7:07 PM To: [email protected] Subject: ellection to Region III Alice, I have been told that I need to to pass this info on to you. I have been elected to serve as the region III representative. representative. I received vote from Robert Timmins, Mike Mike Paulson, and Jeremiah Stevens. The final vote was cast by Mr. Stevens Stevens on 27 Mar 2013. Thanks for all you do. Jason Rampton District 26
Region III includes districts 12, 13, 14, 25 and 26. David Eastman and Kyle Easterly, Chairmen in Districts 12 and 13 respectively, were not included in this process. Also, no consideration was given to any other SCC members who wished to run for the seat.
Quorum Given the recent, targeted quorum determination solicited from Thomas Balch (by McQueary, Raygor & Goldberg), I would like to add that if this opinion were applied to the April 8, 2013 meeting led by Vice Chairman Goldberg, then it would also be without quorum. All voting positions would have to be considered, properly filled or not. There are 17 authorized voting positions on the SEC, which requires 9 positions to be represented in order order to have a quorum. If you look beyond the issue of how the meeting was called, and assume the meeting could take place (those requesting the meeting were voting members at the time they submitted their requests), only 7 of the authorized positions were properly represented on April 8. POSITION
POSITION STATS Filled by
Voting Position
APRIL 8 STATS Elected/ Confirmed
Validly Filled
Vote Used
NOTE Vote Used By
Chairman Election Yes Yes Yes No N/A Absent Vice Chairman Election Yes Yes Yes Yes Goldberg Present/Phone Natl. Com. Man Election Election Yes Yes Yes Yes Seekins Present Natl. Com. Woman Election Yes Yes Yes Yes Hove Proxy – Brian Hove Secretary Election Yes Yes Yes Yes Gillette Automatic Proxy – Assistant Secretary Asst. Secretary Election No Yes N/A N/A N/A Non-Voting Member Treasurer Appointment Yes No No Yes McQueary Appointed but not confirmed by SCC Asst. Treasurer Appointment No No N/A N/A N/A Appointed but not confirmed by SCC Finance Chairman Appointment Yes No No No N/A Vacant – Appointment rejected Feb 9 SCC Region I Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Zerbst* Pending SCC Confirmation as Finance Chair* Region II Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Shattuck Election Pending Region III Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Rampton Election Pending Region IV Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Strait Election Pending Region V Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Schulte Election Pending Region VI Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Tauriainen Election Pending Region VII Rep. Election Yes No No Yes Simpson Election Pending House Rep. I Affiliate Yes Yes Yes Yes Higgins Higgins Selected by House Majority Senator I Affiliate Yes Yes Yes Yes Stedman Selected by Senate Majority AFRW Affiliate Yes Yes Yes Yes Johnson Proxy – Ginger Johnson Parliamentarian Appointment No Yes N/A N/A Raygor Non-Voting Member Legal Counsel Appointment No Yes N/A N/A Jacobus Non-Voting Member *There are minutes showing election; however, it was later found Zerbst was never confirmed by th e SCC as Finance Chairman, therefore ineligible for election. Also, given the change in regions which took place December 2012 via interim rule, holding a new election would be recommended to ensure full representation.
Page 9 of 10
Altered Complaint It is also worth noting that on April 8, Bruce Schulte submitted an altered complaint containing a new charge at Brown’s hearing . The charges read at that meeting are documented in the minutes (available upon request) from that meeting, and are as follows: Charge 1a: Failure to perform as Vice-Chair of the State Finance Committee – Failure to raise funds.
Specification: At the 2012 State Convention, Mrs. Brown was elected as Vice-Chair Elect. Under ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 22,) this automatically made her State Finance Committee Vice-Chair. During the period between the April 2012 Convention and February 1, 2013, no funds were raised that could be directly or indirectly attributable to Mrs. Brown’s activities in that office.
Charge 1b: Failure to perform as State Chair -Failure to raise funds.
Specification: Since taking office as State Chair on February 1, 2013, Mrs. Brown has raised no funds that could be directly attributable to her efforts, and the ARP has received a scant few hundred dollars that might be indirectly attributable. As State Chair, one of Mrs. Brown’s responsibilities is to raise funds to finance ARP activity (Article VI, Section 9; Functions and Duties of the State Chairman.)
Charge 2: Failure to perform as State Chair – Failure to faithfully represent the ARP.
Specification: Because of her actions – including attempts to dismantle the ARP (SEC and SCC,) historically reliable donors have indicated that they too have no confidence in Debbie as Chair and will contribute no money to the ARP while she remains in office. Thus, in addition to being ineffective at raising funds, she has regrettably, become a significant impediment to the efforts of others trying to raise funds for the ARP. Without the ability to raise funds, the mission of the ARP is impossible to fulfill.
The original charges distributed March 20 are as follows: Since being elected as Vice-Chair in 2012 and subsequently taking office as Chair on February 1 – Debbie Brown has raised no funds for the ARP, nor has she shown any aptitude or ability to do so. As a nonprofit organization, the ARP cannot function without the contributions from donors which are our only source of income. In addition, historically reliable donors have indicated that they have no confidence in Debbie as Chair and will contribute no money to the ARP while she remains in office. Thus, in addition to being ineffective in raising funds, she has regrettably, become a significant impediment to the efforts of others trying to raise funds for the ARP. Without the ability to raise funds, the mission of the ARP is impossible to fulfill. Applicable Rules:
ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 22: Functions of the State Vice-Chair Elect) [The] State Vice Chair-Elect shall serve as State Finance Committee Vice Chair until February 1 after the state convention. The State Vice Chair Elect becomes State Vice Chair on February 1 and serves for two years.
ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 9: Functions and Duties of the State Chairman) The State Chairman shall supervise the ARP organization and affairs; chair State Conventions and ARP meetings; and perform other duties incident to his office, subject in all cases to SCC direction, ARP rules and RNC rules.
ARP Rules (Article X, Section 1: Grounds for removal) Any person holding elected ARP office may be removed from office for any o f the following reasons: b) Failure to carry out or perform the duties of the office to which he was elected. Page 10 of 10
Complaint against ARP Chair – Debbie Brown
The following complaint is brought against Debbie Brown, ARP Chair for failure to perform her role as ARP Chair. Since being elected as Vice-Chair V ice-Chair in 2012 and subsequently taking office as Chair on Fe bruary 1 – Debbie Brown has raised no funds for the ARP, nor has she shown any aptitude or ability to do so. As a nonprofit organization, the ARP cannot function without the contributions from donors which are our only source of income. In addition, historically reliable donors have indicated that they have no confidence in Debbie as C hair and will contribute no money to the ARP while she remains in office. Thus, in addition to being ineffective in raising funds, she has regrettably, become a significant impediment to the efforts of others trying to raise funds for the ARP. Without the ability to raise funds, the mission of the ARP is impossible to fulfill.
Applicable Rules:
ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 22: Functions Functions of the State Vice-Chair Vice-Chair Elect) [The] State Vice Chair-Elect shall serve as State Finance Committee Vice Chair until February 1 after the state convention. The State Vice Chair Elect becomes State Vice Chair on February 1 and serves for two years.
ARP Rules (Article VI, Section 9: Functions Functions and Duties of the State State Chairman) Chairman) The State Chairman shall supervise the ARP organization and affairs; chair State Conventions and ARP meetings; and perform other duties incident to his office, subject in all cases to SCC direction, ARP rules and RNC rules.
ARP Rules (Article X, Section 1: Grounds Grounds for removal) Any person holding elected ARP office may be removed from office for any of the following reasons: b) Failure to carry out or perform the duties of the office to which he was elected.
Submitted by:
Bruce Schult e
District 21 Chairman
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Dear Mr. Goldberg,
I have been in California and just read this email today, Saturday, March 16, at about noon. Ms. Brown called me today. today. She informed me that she she was aware of the fact that that a complaint was allegedly filed against her, but has not been provided a copy of the complaint. I have not seen seen one either, nor do I know know who filed it. Please provide me with a copy by return email. As a matter of procedural due process, Ms. Brown is entitled to a copy of the complaint so that she can defend against it. As of this point, point, she does not even know who made the complaint. One should be provided to her as soon as possible. I have told Ms. Brown, who presently is party chairman, that my role in this matter is to represent the Republican Party of Alaska, Alaska, and not any individuals. individuals. My responsibilities are set forth in Party Rule, Article Article VI, Section 14. I must advise and assist the the Party as necessary, generally, to keep the Party out out of trouble. Until very recently, I did not know that a complaint had been filed or that an "emergency" meeting of the SEC had been called to conduct a hearing. I cannot keep the Party out of trouble if I am not not consulted with before the Party does something which is likely to get it into trouble. Had I been asked, I would have recommended that this hearing be conducted at the next regular meeting of the SEC, and that Ms. Brown be immediately provided with a co py co py of the complaint. At the very least, she should should have immediately been told who filed it. At this point, I anticipate that the Party is going to be faced with the the following problems: problems: 1. This hearing was called as an "emergency" meeting of the SEC. However, under Party Rule Article VI, Section 5, special meetings may be called upon petition of 25% of the SEC membership, and emergency meetings may be called by the State Chairman and no one else. Accordingly, the Party will be faced with the the argument that this was not not a validly called emergency meeting. 1
2. It is now March 16, which is only 14 days before the scheduled scheduled meeting. The argument will be that this is not sufficient time for Ms. Brown to prepare for the hearing. 3. The meeting has has been set for the Saturday between Good Good Friday and Easter. I do not not believe that this is a good time time for most people involved. involved. 4. The worst thing about this this situation, however, is the email that you sent to to Ms. Brown on March 12, suggesting that she should resign before the RNC meeting so that she would save an amount in excess of $1000 $1000 to travel there. In that email, you specifically specifically stated, and I quote this: "Should you decide to resign rather than go through a hearing, a hearing hearing that will inevitably have the same result, i.e. removing you as chair....(emphasis chair....(emphasis added)" In doing so, in effect you have told Ms. Brown that the matter has already been decided, and that she would not get a fair hearing as guaranteed to her by Party Rule, Article X, Section 3(c). Remember the two kangaroos that someone someone brought and set set up in front of the Party headquarters on the day of the Millette hearing? You have just proved that that the person who brought the kangaroos kangaroos was correct. How can I defend this from the inevitable court challenge which will follow from the second removal from office of a party officer elected at the Convention?? My recommendation is that this "emergency" meeting be canceled and that everyone work together for the benefit of the Alaska Republican Party. If the complaint goes forward, forward, it should be considered considered at the next regular SEC meeting. What is going on is only helping the Democrats and other Socialists. We and others in the United States are living living in an out of control left-wing nightmare right now, and self-destruction of the Alaska Republican Party is not at all appropriate. Thank you. Ken Jacobus Kenneth P. Jacobus 310 K Street, Suite 200 Anchorage AK 99501-2064 Phone 907-277-3333 Fax 907-264-6666 [email protected] From: P eter Goldberg <padipete@ [email protected]> gmail.com> To: Alicé Leuchte <[email protected]>; Beka Zerbst <[email protected]>; Bruce Schulte
<[email protected]>; Charlie Huggins <[email protected]>; Debbie J oslin <joslinak@ joslinak@gm gmail.com> ail.com>; Frank McQueary McQ ueary <fmcqueary@gc [email protected]> i.net>; Glenn Clary Clary <gclary@ [email protected]> ancbt.org>;; J ulie Gillette Gillette <arpass arpasstsecgil tsecgillette@ lette@yahoo. yahoo.com> com>; Mike Chenault <mike.chenault@ [email protected] akleg.gov> v>; Mike Mike Tauriainen Tauriainen <miket <miket@ @gci. gci.net> net>; Paulette P aulette Simpson Simpson 32 <paulettem <paulettem@ @gci. gci.net> net>; Ralph Seekins S eekins <ralph@s [email protected]> eekins.com>; Randy Reudrich R eudrich <[email protected]>; Rex Shatt S hattuck uck <2akB4UDI <2akB4UDIE E@gm gmail.com> ail.com>; Rhonda Boyles 2 <[email protected]>; Steve Strait <[email protected]>; [email protected] Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2013 8:23 PM Subject: Emergency Meeting of the SEC, March 30, 2013, 9 a.m., ARP Headquarters 2
All SEC Members, I have received a written complaint alleging that Debbie Brown had failed to carry out or perform the duties to which she was elected. As Vice Chairman, it is my duty to hold a hearing where the charge will be heard and Chairwoman Brown will be given an opportunity to defend against that charge. It will then be your duty to determine if the charge is valid. If determined to be valid, it will be your duty to to determine how to proceed, up to and including removal from office. Therefore, an Emergency Meeting of the SEC will be held on March 30, 2013, 9 a.m. at the ARP Headquarters at 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. I know that most of you are familiar with the situation. Please do not share the reasons for this meeting with anyone. From my conversations with you, I am under the impression impression that all of you agree with with me that nothing has happened to suggest any kind of malicious, malicious, destructive, disloyal, or criminal criminal behavior. I believe that Debbie's heart is in the right place, that she is a strong believer in Republican principles, and she wants the best for the Party. We should do all in our power to minimize the possibility that her reputation will be maligned maligned by any actions that we feel compelled to take. For these reasons, we are not inviting the media to this this hearing. Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired 907-726-1265 (home) 907-250-8822 (cell)
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Ken Jacobus, ARP counsel has indicated that it would be better to handle the complaint at the next regularly scheduled SECmeeting. At least two two other members of the SEC concur. As I recall, that would be on April 8th. I would hope that we can deal with with this with maximum fairness fairness so I have no problem moving the date of the hearing. Unless there is substantial substantial objection, I will consider it moved. I am still out of the country. The earliest I might be back in Alaska would be on a red eye flight flight arriving Tuesday morning. If any of you have tried to to call me, me, I'm sorry, but I haven't had phone reception. Internet access has also been sporadic. Peter
-Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired 907-726-1265 (home) 907-250-8822 (cell)
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The Cha Chair irm man di dire rect cted ed me to fo forw rwar ard d this mes essa sage ge to al alll the the SEC mem membe bers rs.. SEC Members, As I am the Chairman of the Party, the SEC Chairman, as well as the subject of the complaint, should I not be consulted prior to any date being set for this complaint hearing? Further, the ARP rules require 25% of voting members of the SEC to call a meeting (as deemed necessary). As Chairman, I am requesting written documentation showing 25% of the voting SEC members have called for both the 30 March 2013 meeting and also documenting the request for a new hearing date. P lease send this documentat documentation ion to the the attention attention of ARP AR P legal counsel Ken J acobus as well as Secretary S ecretary Alice Leucht L euchte. e. Due process requires that I be involved in scheduling this matter. Further, this email is to inform you that I will not be available to participate in a hearing of this complaint until 25 May 2013 the regularly scheduled SCC meeting. I am also requesting the complaint against me, filed by Bruce Schulte, be withdrawn immediately, as the charges are frivolous, groundless, and harassing. This em This emai aill is al also so to fo form rmal ally ly in info form rm you ou,, of of my ap appe peal al of an any y de deci cisio sion n by SEC mem membe bers rs to re rem mov ove e me fr from om of offi fice ce of ARP Chairm Chairman, with a date request for the appeal hearing to be set for 25 May 2013. Sincerely, Debra Holle Brown, Chairman Alaska Repub R epublican lican Part P arty y
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Alice You should have read my email announcing an emergency SEC meeting by now. Please send to all SEC members the phone number for teleconferencing. Remind all that this is an executive session making it closed to the public. Debbie may bring counsel and witnesses but no others. Thanks Peter
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Request for Emergency ARP SEC Meeting Meeting I request an emergency ARP SEC meeting to hear the March 14, 2013 charges against Debbie H Brown on April 8 at 5:30 pm at the ARP office, 1001 W Fireweed Lane, Anchorage. Anchorage. This matter needs to be settled and a fair hearing conducted. conducted. The The ARP needs strong leadership to move forward. forward. Our Our ship has been battered by the tumultuous storms of of mistrust, mistrust, deception, and character assassination. assassination. The The sails of of united united purpose and transparent communication have been torn and lowered. lowered. This This has caused the power to propel us to the port of of significance significance and influence to be gravely diminished. diminished. We We must repair our sails and chart another course that will moor us to the dock of of victory. victory. This This new course will ensure an ARP US Senator, Governor and additional State Legislators. Legislators. But But this course can only be achieved when all Republican shipmates lay aside personal ambitions. ambitions. Each Each of of us us must honestly evaluate our personal abilities and skills to determine the assignment we can successfully complete on this great political warship. warship. Only Only then will the knives and swords we point at one another be sheathed, causing us to focus our efforts on our individual tasks at hand. hand. Having Having this kind of of crew crew will ensure victory and success. success. It It will not matter if if our our task is to swab the deck, hoist the sail, control the anchor, prepare the meals, guard the gold, or captain the ship. ship. We We will be united as the victorious crew of of the the USS ARP, working together for a common goal, which is getting Republicans elected. elected. So So put away selfish ambitions and conceits, look not on to your own desires but to the desires and goals of of an an entire united crew. crew. If If your malice is munity and destruction stay on shore. shore. For For the rest, WELCOME ABOARD! ͘ /ĂŵĂǀŽƚŝŶŐŵĞŵďĞƌŽĨƚŚĞ^ƐĞƌǀŝŶŐĂƐdƌĞĂƐƵƌĞƌ 'ůĞŶŶůĂƌLJ 1
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MR. Jacobus and Ms Leuchte: Leuchte: I request an emergency meeting of of the the Alaska Republican Party State Executive Committee on April 8 at 5:30 at the office of of the the ARP on Fireweed Lane. Lane. The charges filed against Debbie H. Brown on March 14, 2013 would be the purpose of of the the meeting. meeting. I am the president and and voting voting member of of the the Alaska Federation of of Republican Republican Women on the SEC. SEC. Thank you. Rhonda Boyles at 907 907ͲͲ388 388ͲͲ2606 2606 March 24, Sunday, 2013
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March 24, 2013 Dear Mr. Jacobus and Ms. Leuchte: I hereby request an emergency meeting of the Alaska Republican Party State Executive Committee (SEC) on April 8 at 5:30 pm at the ARP office, 1001 W Fireweed Lane, Anchorage. The purpose of the meeting is to hear the March 14, 2013 charges against Debbie H. Brown. I am a voting member of the SEC, serving as Region VII (Southeast) chair. Paulette Simpson 907~321~0056
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All SEC Members: In accordance with Article VI - State Central Committee, Section 6: State Executive Committee, pa ragraph (c), voting members of the State Executive Committee in excess of 25% of the voting members, have requested an emergency meeting of the State Executive Committee to be held at the Alaska Republican Party Headquarters, 1001 West Fireweed Lane in Anchorage at 5:30 p.m. The requestors are: Bruce Schulte, Paulette Paulette Simpson, Rex Shattuck, Rhonda Boyles, Glenn Clary and Steve Steve Strait. The emergency meeting will will be held at the time and place requested. The purpose of the meeting is to hold a hearing regarding the charges filed against Chairman Debbie Brown on March 14, 2013 by Bruce Schulte. If you cannot attend, you have the option of sending a proxy in your place. That form form is attached. If you do send a proxy, in addition to sending or faxing that form to the ARP Headquarters, I suggest that you have your proxy carry the oriiginal copy.to the meeting. Given the nature of the meeting, please please try to attend in person if you are reasonably able to do so. Information for joining the meeting via teleconference will be provided separately. -Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired 907-726-1265 (home) 907-250-8822 (cell)
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DEBRA HOLLE BROWN
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY
Chairman
1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
April 3, 2013
NOTICE
The duties of Chairman include making appointments to offices and committees which serve at the pleasure of the Chairman. With this notice, I am appointing the the following Alaska Republicans to serve as State Treasurer and Assistant State Treasurer, effective immediately:
Julie Hamm Liz Vazquez
District 8 District 20
State Treasurer Assistant State Treasurer
Confirmation of these appointed members will be placed on the agenda for the Saturday, 25 May State Central Committee Meeting, to be held in Homer, Alaska.
Sincerely,, Sincerely
Debra Holle Brown
Chairman, Alaska Republican Party
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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Regional Representative Documentation Regions From: Randy Ruedrich <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 9:06 AM To: 'Alicé Leuchte' Subject: RE: Do you have access to a f ax machine for materials for tomorrow's meeting?
The adopted interim rule conforms precisely to the district combinations use before the May elections of Regional Representatives. One change is Gloria Shriver resigned as District Chair which eliminates her as Region IV Representative. District 19 Chair Steve Strait has been elected as the Region IV Re presentative. From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 8:49 AM To: 'Randy Ruedrich' Subject: RE: Do you have access to a f ax machine for materials for tomorrow's meeting?
Oh, hey… I am getting together the roll for this evening and realized that since the regions changed in December, that there should be new elections for the Regional Reps. Do you have the minutes/election results for the new reps? Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected]
Region I Minutes documenting the proper election process of Beka Zerbst were submitted from the Golden Heart GOP (available upon request). District 38 was not present present (unknown reason). reason). District 39 (Nome) was included in Region I in the December 2012 SCC interim rule change; therefore, this district was not represented. represented. Also, Zerbst was never presented to the SCC for confirmation for the appointed position of Region I Finance Chairman, making her ineligible to serve in this office (according to ARP Rules). Please note that once it was realized (April 2013) that District 39 had been left out, Beka Zerbst reached out to the Chairman of District 39, Don Handeland, and has included this district in recent regional activities.
Region II From: Rex Shattuck [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 4:52 PM To: Randy Ruedrich Subject: Historical Report
Dear Alaska Republican Party, I was recently asked about historical information related to events in our region. Here is a brief note on several points of interest. In early April 2012 our Region’s Chairmen voted for me to be their representative to State Executive Committee (SEC). Initially Jim Norcross, Lisa Santerre, and Brandon Wahl supported me for the position on the SEC. After further discussion with Chris Mullin and Edna DeVries and answering their questions, they also supported me for the position. I believe these individual voted to support me in this position due to past experience with party process and my commitment to work with them on issues. Over the summer we worked together on a Valley Republican picnic, local political races, and a number of events leading up to the Presidential election. We are presently planning a future meeti ng and ways to continue our success in the Mat-Su Valley. Rex Shattuck
Region III From: Peter Goldberg [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 4:04 PM To: Randy Ruedrich Subject: Re: I need a note on your election prior to May 5, 2012 SEC meeting
Mr. Ruedrich, I received either verbal concurrence or email concurrence for each of the District Chairman for Region 3 agreeing that I would be the Regional Chairman. All of these concurrences occurred between approximately May 1st and May 4th. There were no abstentions and no votes in the negative. Furthermore, none of the other District Chairs of my Region expressed any interest in being the Regional Representative. I might add that at the last SCC meeting where I was asked to give a Region 3 report, there were no objections from the floor challenging my representation of Region 3 as the Representative. Peter S. Goldberg District 26 Chair Region 3 Representative
Region IV From: S [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 10:14 AM To: 'Randy Ruedrich' Subject: RE: I need a note on your election prior to May 5, 2012 SEC meeting
Randy, Here's a listing of the votes I received to become Dist. 4 Regional Rep. Do you need more details ? Steve Strait District 15 District 16 District 17 District 18
District 19 District 20
David Morgan 2170 Stanford Dr Anchorage 99508 563-4812 Spoke with David M. 1/16/03 --phone call . David agreed to support my position of Region Rep. Kirk Wickersham 280 W 34th Ave Anchorage 99503 561-3726, 351-3726 Spoke with Kirk Wickersham 1/15/03 --phone call . Kirk agreed to support my being the Region Rep. Randy Stevens 830-4246 Spoke with Randy Stevens by phone Dec 31. He supports my representing Region 4 Ric Davidge 1515 W ThirteenthAve. Anchorage 99501 Ric Davidge, at Dec 30 Dist 18 mtg gave his support for my representing Dist. 18. This was the mtg Gloria resigned Dist Steve Strait Anchorage 99502 248-1028 I support my representing Region 4 William Spearman 2920 Rita Cir Anchorage 99502 248-0792; 786-3910 Spoke with Bill Spearman via phone Dec. 31st. He agreed to support me as Region 4 Rep.
Region V From: Bruce Schulte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 3:07 PM To: Randy Ruedrich Subject: Fwd: Region 5 Rep selection
Randy, On May 7 and in response to the e-mail below, I received the support of all of the District Chairs in my Region to serve as our Regional Rep on the SEC. Cheers, Bruce Schulte
---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Bruce Schulte <[email protected] [email protected]> > Date: Sun, May 6, 2012 at 9:27 PM Subject: Region 5 Rep selection To: Andy Clary <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Joe Riggs <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Richard Giessel <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Jason Pretzel < [email protected] [email protected]> > Cc: [email protected] [email protected],, Alex Gimarc <[email protected] <[email protected]> > Gentlemen, We have some unfinished business to complete: Accoring to the ARP rules, we (Region 5 Chairs) are to select our Regional Representative from amongst the various SCC members within our Region (District Chairs and Bonus Votes). As some of you know, I have served as our Regional Rep. since 2010 and I would be honored to continue in that capacity - pending your approval. What say you? Regards, Bruce Schult e
District 21 Chair
Region VI From: Randy Ruedrich <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 4:45 PM To: 'Alicé Leuchte' Subject: Region Rep VI
Chris Byrnes confirmed his approval of a Kenai Regional Rep to me at the State Convention From: Mike Tauriainen [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 2:22 PM To: Ruedrich, Jr, Randy Cc: DuPerron, Neal; 'Dick Hawkins' Subject: Region Rep
Randy On or about May 4, 2012 I called Neal DuPerron (D29) and Dick Hawkins (D30) to discuss Region Rep for our region. I expressed my willingness to serve in that capacity and they each consented that I be our region’s rep. No meeting was held – just phone calls. I did not call the Kodiak D35 Chair because I did not have any contact information. I did not contact D36 or D 37 chairs because I was not aware they were in our region. Let me know if you need additional information. Mike From: Randy Ruedrich <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, January 29, 2013 2:29 PM To: Alice Leuchte (secretary) Subject: Mike Tauriainan update
----- Forwarded message ----From: "Mike Tauriainen" <[email protected] <[email protected]> > Date: Mon, Jan 28, 2013 6:17 pm Randy I have contacted all Region VII district chairs. Brandt, Sherman and Byrnes concur with previous decision by DuPerron, Hawkins and Tauriainen that Tauriainen be Region VII Rep on SEC. Mike
Region VII From: Paulette Simpson [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Thursday, January 17, 2013 12:18 PM To: randy ruedrich Subject: Region 7 Chair Randy, At the state convention, (Southeast) Region 7 district chairs and district officers did not have time to formally meet so agreed to connect via telephone to formalize regional representation. Ben Brown had previously served as our SEC representative for 4 years. The first week of May, after discussing the issue in person with Connie McKenzie and outgoing chair Ben Brown, I phoned Kathy Hosford in Skagway, Bill Privett in Wrangell and Robert Venables in Haines. All agreed that I should serve as Region 7 representative for purposes of serving on the State Executive Committee. Mr. Privett recalls that I phoned him around Wednesday, May 2. District 31 - Connie McKenzie, Juneau District 32 - Kathy Hosford, Skagway District 33 - Bill Privett, Wrangell District 34 - Robert Venables, Haines Paulette Simpson
KEN JACOBUS Legal Counsel March 25, 2013
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
For Your Information: The extent of the power of the Chairman is a substantive legal question and is not a question of parliamentary procedure as McQueary would have have you believe. It is very clear that the chairmen of the standing committees serve at the pleasure of the chairman. ARP Rules Article VI, Section 7(c). Mr. McQueary has now been validly removed from his position as chairman of the Rules Committee. It is also very clear that until a person is removed from office, that they continue to act in the office. It is only during the period of appeal that they cannot perform the duties of the office. ARP Rules Article X, Section 5(b). Accordingly, Ms. Brown continues to act in her office as Party Chairman until she is "removed." The filing of a complaint does not effect a removal from office. If that were so, then that complaint against Mr. Ruedrich, which the Executive Committee allegedly ignored for over a year, would have removed him from office immediately, and the position would have to have been filled by by the vice-chairman. This never took place. Sincerely,, Sincerely
Ken Jacobus Legal Counsel, Alaska Republican Party
Kenneth P. Jacobus, PC • 310 K Street, Suite 200, Anchorage AK 99501-2064 Phone (907) 277-3333 • Fax (907) 264-6666 • Email [email protected]
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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22 March 2013 Dear Rules Committee member, This email is to inform you that your appointment ap pointment to the ARP Rules Committee is hereby hereb y terminated effective immediately. Pursuant to the ARP Rules, the chairman and members of each standing and special committee serve at the pleasure of the ARP State Chairman. Many thanks for your past efforts, volunteer service, and an d contributions to the Rules Committee and the Alaska Republican Party. Sincerely, Debra Holle Brown, Chairman Alaska Republican Party
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[mailto:[email protected]]] From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] Sent: Sunday, March 24, 2013 4:10 PM To: 'Frank McQueary' Cc: 'Terri Mooradian'; 'Kirk Wickersham'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Eileen Becker'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Steven R. Strait'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; '[email protected]'; 'Bruce Schulte'; 'Julie Gillette'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Paulette Simpson'; [email protected] Subject: RE: Current Events Hey, Frank! th
I spent quite a bit of of time time reviewing the relevant sections of of Robert’s Robert’s Rules (11 edition, unabridged) and the ARP rules last night, and found nothing supporting your assertion. assertion. In In fact, what is going on in this situation *does not* appear to be in keeping with the process described for complaints and removal. Given the liabilities, having ARP Legal involved is very relevant and very important, I have copied Ken Jacobus on this email (who was appointed and confirmed by the SCC). In the meantime (and as I did in similar circumstances while Randy was in office), I plan to continue with the business of the party under the Chairman. Thank you, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected]
From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 9:11 PM To: 'Frank McQueary' Cc: 'Terri Mooradian'; 'Kirk Wickersham'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]';
'[email protected]'; 'Eileen Becker'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Steven R. Strait'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; '[email protected]'; 'Bruce Schulte'; 'Julie Gillette'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; 'Paulette Simpson' Subject: RE: Current Events Hey, Frank! I appreciate your response to my question. question. II will check out RoR tonight. Thanks! Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected]
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[mailto:[email protected]]] From: Frank McQueary [mailto:[email protected] Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 8:53 PM To: [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; Cc: 'Terri Mooradian'; 'Kirk Wickersham'; [email protected] [email protected]; 'Eileen Becker'; [email protected] [email protected]; [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Steven R. Strait'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Bruce Schulte'; 'Julie Gillette'; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected];; 'Paulette Simpson' [email protected] Subject: RE: Current Events Importance: High Alice:These Alice: These questions all default to Roberts Rules where it is quite clear that once charges are leveled the charged officer loses the power to act in any official capacity. capacity. This This is not a legal question, it is one of of parliamentary parliamentary procedure. procedure. So So whatever the other issues that you bring up, until the SEC and SCC rule on the charges against Ms. Brown she can no longer act in any official capacity for the party nor can she instruct you or any other official in any manner. Cordially, Frank McQueary
From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 6:26 PM To: Frank McQueary Cc: 'Terri Mooradian'; 'Kirk Wickersham'; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];;
[email protected]; 'Eileen Becker'; [email protected] [email protected]; [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Steven R. Strait'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Bruce Schulte'; Julie Gillette; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected];; 'Paulette Simpson' [email protected] Subject: RE: Current Events Hey, Frank! I have a question, and a few points of of clarification: clarification: "It is my understanding of of the the rules that she does not have this power while charges are pending and that she only has it in the normal course of of events events with the advice and consent of of the the SCC." Could you please direct me to the article(s) & section(s) of of the the rules which apply, specifically to your first point? point? II believe the second aspect has already been addressed by ARP Legal. "Since I and you were all appropriately appointed to two year terms after the last convention we would expect to serve until the next convention unless replaced with the approval of of the the SCC." The Rules Committee appointments were not presented, declared or approved at the SCC Meeting following the convention (April 28, 2012 SCC Minutes attached). attached). In In fact, I didn't even known who the members of of the the Rules Committee were until this week, and I am now halfway through my term. What makes this really surprising is that, according to the rules (VI.7f), the Chairman of of each each Standing Committee is to submit minutes of of each each meeting of of their their committee to the State Secretary. Secretary. This This includes the Rules Committee, yet I have received none. “While we can only speculate as to the motives of of the the various groups involved (Ron Paul, Occupy Wall Street and Joe Miller) there is some speculation that the intent was to take over the Party, suspend the rules and convert to a caucus based selection process for our statewide candidates.”
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Every time you speculate about the motives of of “those “those people,” it is something different. different. Last Last spring it was about stealing the elections or stealing all of of the the National Delegates Delegates – – and now you say it was about changing to a caucus system?! It is almost like you aren’t actually speculating at all, but instead instead just just fanning the flames of of the the division in the party to motivate people your way. “I know that the turmoil has taken its toll on our morale, however, we must remember that the rules were written the way they were to enable our organization to protect itself itself from from the kind of of external external attacks attacks which we are currently experiencing. experiencing. The The SEC and SCC will act in the best interests of of the the party vis a vis Debbie.” I really like you, Frank, and I sincerely respect the work you have done for the party; however, I have to call you out at this point. point. II am sick of of hearing hearing about “these people” and “those people” in reference to *Republicans. Republicans.* * Debbie Brown is not some external force attacking the party. party. She She is the Chairman, and she was unequivocally *elected *elected* * at the State Convention to serve the party.
Sincerely, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected]
From: Alice Leuchte Sent: Saturday, March 23, 2013 12:33 AM To: Alice Leuchte Subject: Fwd: Current Events
---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Frank McQueary <[email protected] [email protected]> > Date: Fri, Mar 22, 2013 at 10:11 PM Subject: Current Events To: Terri Mooradian <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Kirk Wickersham <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, [email protected],, "Brown, Ben" < [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]>, >, [email protected] [email protected],, Eileen Becker <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, [email protected] [email protected] Cc: "Goldberg, Peter" < [email protected] [email protected]>, >, "Steven R. Strait" <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Ralph Seekins <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Debbie Joslin < [email protected] [email protected]>, >, "Clary, Glenn" <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, Bruce Schulte < [email protected] [email protected]>, >, [email protected] [email protected],, "Gillette, Julie" <[email protected] [email protected]>, >, "Zerbst, Beka" <[email protected] <[email protected]>, >, "Shattuck, Rex" <[email protected] [email protected]>, >, [email protected] [email protected],, Paulette Simpson < [email protected] [email protected]> > All: Given what is now transpiring transpiring I have postponed the Rules Committee Committee hearing until sometime next week. As I’m sure that you are aware by now charges have been filed filed against Debbie Brown and the SEC has been asked to remove her from office. Debbie has countered by attempting to continue acting as Chair and has stated that she is dismissing the Rules Committee.
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It is my understanding of the rules that she does not have this power while charges are pending and that she only has it in the normal course of events with the advice and consent of the SCC. Since I and you were all appropriately appointed to two year terms after the last convention we would expect to serve until the next convention unless replaced with the approval of the SCC. I will verify my interpretation with Thomas Balch and if I am correct we will schedule a meeting next week.
I know that the turmoil has taken its toll on our morale, however, we must remember that the rules were written the way they were to enable our organization to protect itself from the kind of external attacks which we are currently experiencing. The SEC and SCC will act in the best interests of the party vis a vis Debbie.
We all saw in the hearing on Russ Millette’s removal that he admitted that every charge he had brought against the ARP before, during and after his election were admitted by him to have been false. Even though he admitted bearing false witness against the Party and its officers in front of television cameras, that has not kept him from continuing with his attacks from outside the party. While we can only speculate as to the motives of the various groups involved (Ron Paul, Occupy Wall Street and Joe Miller) there is some speculation that the intent was to take over the Party, suspend the rules and convert to a caucus based selection process for our statewide candidates. It is pretty obvious who would benefit from this this change.
Debbie will also have a fair hearing and an opportunity to convince the governing board of the party that she has been acting in the best interests of the party. If she fails in that she will be replaced.
Cordially,
Frank McQueary, Chair ARP Rules Committee
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[mailto:[email protected]]] From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 12:36 PM To: 'Peter Goldberg'; 'Alicé Leuchte'; 'Beka Zerbst'; 'Bruce Schulte'; 'Charlie Huggins'; 'Debbie Joslin'; 'Glenn Clary'; 'Julie Gillette'; 'Mike Chenault'; 'Mike Tauriainen'; 'Ralph Seekins'; 'Randy Reudrich'; 'Rex Shattuck'; 'Rhonda Boyles 2'; 'Steve Strait'; 'DEBBIE BROWN'; 'Kenneth Jacobus' Cc: [email protected] Subject: RE: Emergency Meeting of the SEC, April 8, 2013, 5:30 p.m., ARP Headquarters Importance: High Again, “Point of of Order!” Order!” See my previous email: _________________ _________ ________ From: Alicé Leuchte [ mailto:[email protected] From: Alicé mailto:[email protected] ] Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 12:31 PM To: '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]' Cc: '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]'; [email protected] Subject: Point Point of of Order! Order! Importance: High Point of Point of Order: Order: I I am am extremely concerned about t he he lack lack of of process process being being used used with with this this newest newest complaint.
Before I personally personally commit commit to to attending yet yet another another hearing, hearing, I want want to to know know what what process process this complaint complaint has has gone through.I do not is appropriate to schedule a meeting meeting for for a a hearing where the charges have been simply simply distributed distributed by by the the Complainant. think it think it is If we establish the If we the precedent precedent that that no no review process process is required for a for a complaint, this would would mean mean that that any any complaint complaint ARP ARP receives imagine tt he he level level of of havoc havoc tt he he Democrats Democrats could could wreak wreak on on t he he party party under under would be would be automatically automatically valid valid and and must must be be heard.Just imagine this scenario. this scenario.They They would would be be able to shut shut us us down any any time time they pleased and pleased and for as for as long as they pleased. pleased. Not acceptable. So: “Point “Point of of order!” order!”
_________________ _________ ________ Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected] Google Voice: (910) 742 742ͲͲ0467 HelloFax: (907) 331 331ͲͲ4202 Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] [email protected] 1
[ mailto:[email protected]]] From: Peter Goldberg [mailto:[email protected] Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 12:32 PM To: Alicé Leuchte; Beka Zerbst; Bruce Schulte; Charlie Huggins; Debbie Joslin; Glenn Clary; Julie Gillette; Mike Chenault; Mike Tauriainen; Ralph Seekins; Randy Reudrich; Rex Shattuck; Rhonda Boyles 2; Steve Strait; DEBBIE BROWN; Kenneth Jacobus Subject: Emergency Meeting of the SEC, April 8, 2013, 5: 30 p.m., ARP Headquarters
All SEC Members: In accordance with Article VI - State Central Committee, Section 6: State Executive Committee, pa ragraph (c), voting members of the State Executive Committee in excess of 25% of the voting members, have requested an emergency meeting of the State Executive Committee to be held at the Alaska Republican Party Headquarters, 1001 West Fireweed Lane in Anchorage at 5:30 p.m. The requestors are: Bruce Schulte, Paulette Paulette Simpson, Rex Shattuck, Rhonda Boyles, Glenn Clary and Steve Steve Strait. The emergency meeting will will be held at the time and place requested. The purpose of the meeting is to hold a hearing regarding the charges filed against Chairman Debbie Brown on March 14, 2013 by Bruce Schulte. If you cannot attend, you have the option of sending a proxy in your place. That form form is attached. If you do send a proxy, in addition to sending or faxing that form to the ARP Headquarters, I suggest that you have your proxy carry the oriiginal copy.to the meeting. Given the nature of the meeting, please please try to attend in person if you are reasonably able to do so. Information for joining the meeting via teleconference will be provided separately. -Peter S. Goldberg Vice Chairman, Alaska Republican Party Colonel, US Army Retired 907-726-1265 (home) 907-250-8822 (cell)
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ALICÉ LEUCHTE Secretary April 9, 2013
Re:
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
Debra Holle Brown, Chairman Peter Goldberg, Vice Chairman Randy Ruedrich, Past Chairman
Dear Sir or Madam: As the elected State Secretary of the Alaska Republican Party, I affirm my records reflect:
Debra Holle Brown is the current State Chairman. Chairman Brown was elected to the Vice Chairman position at the last State Convention on April 28, 2012. She was found ‘not guilty’ of a complaint complaint brought against her in January January 2013, and assumed the office of State Chairman February 1, 2013 after the removal of the Chairman Elect, Russ Millette. A second attempt to remove Chairman Brown from leadership took place April 8, 2013; however, according to my records, this meeting was not an official ARP meeting, as: The outcome was predetermined (March 12) before charges were even filed (March 14); 25% of the voting membership did not call the me eting (March 24-26); The complaint did not go through the proper process be fore the call of the meeting; and The complaint was reviewed by the new Rules Committee and was determined to be unfounded (April 6). Therefore, Debra Holle Brown still remains the Chairman of the Alaska Republican Party.
Peter Goldberg is the current State Vice Chairman. Peter was elected to serve as Vice Chairman by the State Central Committee at the February 9, 2013 meeting in Juneau, Alaska. (http://www.gop.com/members/alaska/)) as Randy Ruedrich is the Past Chairman. He is incorrectly listed on GOP.com (http://www.gop.com/members/alaska/ the Executive Director. The Alaska Republican Party does not currently have have an Executive Director. For further information, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] [email protected],, or call (910) 742-0467.
Thank you, you,
Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party
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ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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CENSURE OF THE ARP SECRETARY (AS TRANSCRIBED) April 29, 2013 Submitted by Steve Strait Seconded by Bruce Schulte
Steve Strait: “This is a motion to censure the Secretary of the ARP.” The purpose of this censure is “to reprimand the
member with the hopes of reforming him or her so that the behavior won’t occur again…. The result of a censure, if it were to pass, would be that the member is put on notice, that if he or she repeats the offense, he or she could be suspended or removed from membership or office.” The censure reads:
WHEREAS, the Secretary violated her duties by not forwarding timely information to the membership regarding SEC actions taken place April 8 to remove the current Chair and appoint Peter Goldberg as the new Chair; and WHEREAS, the following removal of Chair Brown on April 8, the Secretary issued a factually incorrect press release the next day on RPA letterhead, stating that Debbie Holle Brown remains the current ARP Chairman; WHEREAS, the Secretary falsely stated in her April 9 press release on ARP letterhead that 25% of the voting membership did not call the SEC meeting; WHEREAS, the Secretary incorrectly announced in her April 9 press release “The complaint did not go through the proper process before the call of the meeting” referring to Brown’s hearing; WHEREAS, the Secretary worked against the Republican Party of Alaska showing disloyalty, spreading confusion to party members during a critical time of leadership change; and WHEREAS, such conduct was detrimental to the organization; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the ARP Secretary be censured.
This motion did not pass as a written censure. Instead, it was decided to let the reading of this resolution serve as a “verbal reprimand,” to be followed by by a written complaint and/or removal. Also, this item of business was expunged expunged from the minutes at the request of the body.
This resolution was transcribed from the audio of the April 2 9, 2013 meeting held by Vice Chairman Peter Goldberg. Transcribed by Alicé Leuchte (the ARP Secretary).
From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 5:32 PM To: 'Peter Goldberg' Cc: 'Frank Jeanne McQueary'; '[email protected]'; 'Pam Raygor'; 'Ralph Seekins'; '[email protected]'; '[email protected]';
'Christy Strutz - RPA'; [email protected]; 'S' Subject: RE: Revised Agenda Item Special Rules of Order Peter – I know precisely what what was addressed at your meeting April 29, as I listened to the recordings. This “committee” was to address address a very specific subject. From the attached: “Pam Raygor stated that RoR gives the society the right to protect itself. The society can stop its meeting and have a person removed that is doing something against the will of the body. The person can also be accused of trespassing if he refuses to leave after a vote of removal by the body. A committee of the following people will meet and determine a course of action: Frank McQueary, Pam Raygor, Ken Jacobus, and Steve Strait.” My job does not include agreeing with or voting with another officer, misleading members about independent proposals or playing mail server for unofficial business. Nor does it include supporting supporting unethical unethical behavior. Sorry. I am the Secretary, and Julie is the Assistant Secretary. Together, we two determine how our responsibilities will be carried out and divided. Thank you, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected]
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From: Peter Goldberg [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 5:01 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: Revised Agenda Item Special Rules of Order
If you had bothered to do your job and be part of the last SEC meeting you would understand understand what this special committee was doing. They came up with a recommendation for conducting business at the SCC meeting in Homer. It still requires SCC approval. The secretary is recording, I.e. Julie since you won't be there. Julie will be assisted in vote counts by two folks to be appointed. For the appeals, the respondent will pick one and the complainant the o ther to assist Julie. If you want to stay on as Secretary, stop refusing to do your job. Peter On Friday, May 17, 2013, Alicé Leuchte wrote: Discipline Committee?! Are you guys now creating new committe es in secret, and making decisions about how business will be conducted -
without consulting with those who will be affected? Three clarifications: 1. The Secretary reserves the right to record. record. 2. Votes from those on the phone need to be copied to the Secretary. 3. This is not a communication or proposal from an official body within the Party; therefore, I will not be sending this out. Thanks, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected] From: S [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 1:53 PM To: Peter Goldberg; [email protected] Cc: Frank Jeanne McQueary; [email protected] [email protected];; Pam Raygor; Ralph Seekins; [email protected] [email protected];; [email protected] [email protected];; Christy
Strutz - RPA Subject: Revised Agenda Item Special Rules of Order
Peter Goldberg, Our discipline committee met again this morning via phone calls and agreed to revise agenda item “Special Rules of Order for the May 25 Homer meeting. We trimmed our Motion by eliminating Items already covered by RPA and R.R.s. This tidy's up the motion significantly and we wish to thank those who made these suggestions. Please accept this as an agenda item Motion "Special Rules of Order" immediately following Introductions on the agenda. I am copying our Secretary so this can be placed on the agenda and distributed to SCC members in advance of our May 25 Meeting. Sincerely, Steve Strait Chair Discipline Committee Reg. 4 Rep Chair Dist. 19
ARP State Central Committee May 25, 2013 Special Rules of Order The following Special Rules of Order are presented for adoption with the intention using th em to conduct SCC business. TheseSpecial Rules of Order are subordinate to the Alaska Republican Republican Party Rules Rules, and National Republican Party Rules . Voting Body SCC members and those carrying Proxy voting authorizations will be issued name tags which must be worn at all time during the meeting. Floor Tellers Floor Tellers shall be appointed to count, tabulate and report to the Chair standing votes. A record of the tabulated vote sh all be entered in the minutes. All doors are to be secured during a counted vote, only floor tellers shall be permitted to move about. Phone Tellers Phone Tellers shall be appointed to monitor teleconference calls to ensure members are afforded t he ability to participate and to count, tabulate and report voice votes to the Secretary. Voting Members in attendance must remain in their seats at the time the vote is taken. Members participating telephonically may vote by conveying their vote to the Phone Tellers by email or text; using pre-determined or recognizable contact information that has been previously provided to the ARP. Conduct of Members and Guests Attendees shall not record audio or video, videotape, broadcast, transmit, photograph, without without prior permission of the Chair. Press/Media shall be accredited by the Chair and shall be identified with Name Badge and Organization. Please turn off or mute cell phones, etc.
From: Alicé Leuchte [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] .com] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 9:23 PM To: 'S'; 'Pamela Ann Raygor' Cc: 'Peter Goldberg'; 'Frank Jeanne McQueary'; '[email protected]'; 'Ralph Seekins'; '[email protected]'; 'Julie Gillette'; 'Christy Strutz - RPA'; '[email protected]' Subject: RE: Publish the Agenda for May 25
Steve – Pursuant to ARP Rules Article VI, Section 15(a ) - stating “The TheState StateSecretary Secretaryand andthe theAssistant AssistantState StateSecretary Secretaryshall shalldivide divideand and perform such duties as are mutually agreeable between between them them to to ccarry arry out the duties duties of the ARP Secretary” Secretary - you are in no position to dictate how or when these duties are carried out. Thank you, Alicé Leuchte Secretary, Alaska Republican Party [email protected]
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From: S [mailto:[email protected] [mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 9:16 PM To: [email protected] [email protected];; 'Pamela Ann Raygor' Cc: 'Peter Goldberg'; 'Frank Jeanne McQueary'; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Ralph Seekins'; [email protected] [email protected];; 'Julie Gillette'; 'Christy Strutz - RPA'; [email protected] Subject: Publish the Agenda for May 25
Madame Secretary, Please be cognizant of your duties under RPA rules , see RPA highlights below. The heChair Chairhas hasdirected directedyou youto topublish ppublish ublish the theagenda agendaas as submitted. Please do so this this evening. Steve Strait Reg. 4 Rep From: Peter Goldberg [ mailto:[email protected] mailto:[email protected]]] Sent: Friday, May 17, 2013 5:01 PM To: [email protected] Subject: Re: Revised Agenda Item Special Rules of Order
If you had bothered to do your job an d be part of the last SEC meeting y ou would understand what this special committee was doing. They came up with a recommendation recommendation for conducting business business at the SCC meeting in Homer. It still requires SCC approval. The secretary is recording, recording, I.e. Julie since you won't won't be there. Julie will be assisted in in vote counts by two folks to be appointed. For the appeals, the respondent will pick one and the complainant the other to assist Julie. If you want to stay on as Secretary, stop refusing to do your job. Peter
Article VI, Section 11 : Functions and Duties of the State Secretary. The State Secretary shall be responsible for keeping the minutes of all SCC meetings and for ma intaining the current RPA records and files. He shall be responsible for the giving and serving of all SCC notices and shall perform such other duties as shall be required by the SCC or the State Chairman. The State Secretary shall transmit SCC and State Executive Committee minutes to all members members within a period of not more than thirty (30) calendar days.
DEBRA HOLLE BROWN
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY
Chairman
1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
March 26, 2013
NOTICE
The duties of Chairman include making appointments to offices and committees which serve at the pleasure of the Chairman. With this notice, I am appointing appointing the following Alaska Republicans Republicans to serve as members of the Rules Committee, effective immediately:
Lance Roberts Chris McMullins Ron Johnson Randy Stevens Rich Giessel Neal DuPerron Alice Leuchte
District 5 District 10 District 11 District 17 District 27 District 29 District 32
Committee Chairman
Confirmation of these appointed members will be placed on the agenda for the Saturday, 25 May State Central Committee Meeting, to be held in Homer, Alaska.
Sincerely,, Sincerely
Debra Holle Brown
Chairman, Alaska Republican Party
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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DEBRA HOLLE BROWN Chairman April 3, 2013
To: Re:
ALASKA REPUBLICAN PARTY 1001 West Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, Alaska 99503 Phone: (907) 276-4467 • Fax: (907) 276-0425 Visit us online at alaskarepublicans.com
State Executive Committee Members Essential Processes
Dear Members, According to the ARP Rules (Article I, Section 1), the latest edition of Robert’s Rules of Order is to be considered when the ARP Rules and RNC rules r ules do not provide the essential processes: ARTICLE I - RULE RU LES S AN AND D PARLIAM ENTARY AU AUTHORITY THORITY Section 1: Parli Parli ament ary Auth orit y for Republi Republi can Part Part y Procedures Procedures Except as otherwise provided in these Alaska Republican Party (ARP) Rules, all proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the Rules of the Republican Party of the United States (RNC), or where the proceedings are not otherwise covered, in accordance with ROBERT'S RULES OF ORDER, latest edition.
When it comes to complaints, the ARP has used Robert’s Rules of Order to guide us through a fair and equitable process. For your reference, the latest edition of Robert ’s Rules Rules of Order is the 11th edition (unabridged), and is available in hardback and paperback. The most applicable information to the removal process can be found in Chapt er XX,
Disciplin Dis ciplinary ary Procedures (page 643), with detailed sections on Removal f rom Off ice and Other Remedies Remedies fo forr Derelict ion of Dut y in Offi ce or M isc isconduc onduct t (§62), and Inves Investt igat ion and Trial (§63). Before a complaint is to be heard, it should should be validated by an investigative committee. The Rules Committee has served this function for the ARP with past complaints. If a complaint is found to be valid by the Rules Committee, the Rules Chairman will forward the complaint to the appropriate officer with instructions on how to proceed. Given the complaint submitted by Bruce Schulte has not been referred to the Rules Committee for validation, a meeting to hear the complaint is premature. Therefore, the call announced for an “Emergency” SEC meeting on April 8, 2013 for the purpose of hearing this complaint is inappropriate and hereby rescinded. I will have the Secretary forward the pending complaints to the Rules Committee Chairman, Lance Roberts ([email protected] [email protected]), ), by the end of business business today. Also, the next regular SEC meeting will be be scheduled after the regional elections have been been completed. All members should be prepared to submit a written report. Thank you for your diligence and service to the party. Sincerely,, Sincerely
Debra Holle Brown Chairman, Alaska Republican Party
Paid for by the Alaska Republican Party • 1001 W. Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99503. Not authorized or approved by any candidate or candidate committee.
ALASKAREPUBLICANS.COM
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To the SEC: Please note that out of courtesy I'm copying those who were on the SEC when the charges were made, since it may still be relevant to them after they've had the proper elections. I apologize up front if I missed anyone on this distribution. Attached to this email is the Ruling from the Rules committee on the Charges against Debbie Brown submitted by Bruce Schulte, and a complaint raised against those charges. The rules committee voted unanimously to approve this ruling. We plan on looking at the new set of charges brought by Randy Ruedrich against the Chairman at our next meeting, and an d the other pending charges that the last rules committee did not make a ruling on. I realize that the April 8th meeting has been cancelled, and this ruling should give more reasons why it would have been inappropriate to hold that meeting. Please let me know if you feel the format I used for this ruling should be modified for the future. Thanks for participating, Lance Roberts ARP District 5 Chair ARP Rules Chair cc: Rules Committee District 5 Committee
1
From: "DEBBIE BROWN" <[email protected] < [email protected]> > Date: April 2, 2013, 12:55:08 PM AKDT To: [email protected] Cc: [email protected] [email protected],, [email protected] Subject: ARP WORK ASSIGNMENT: Submit Information to APOC APOC Tom Lucas
Christy, On Tuesday 26 March, I spoke with ARP Treasurer, Glenn Clary, and yourself, requesting information be changed and added to the the APOC Alaska Republican Republican Party registration/account. registration/account. Adding my name and title as ARP Chairman to this account was a good step forward, but did not accomplish all that was requested that day. I have spoken with Mr. Tom Lucas (APOC) and verified my requests for changes were stated correctly to you. Yes, they were. In order to be legal for APOC purposes, to receive funds from ARP contributors, my name needs to also be added to the "registration list" as a Deputy Treasurer. Additionally, I am requesting my name be added as an Administrator Administrator to the Account. Account. This enables me to add names to the "registration list" myself. Thank you for your immediate immediate attention to these these tasks. (2 April 2013). 1. Add my name to the the "registration list" as Deputy Deputy Treasurer 2. Add my name as administrator on the the APOC Alaska Republican Party account account and provide me with the password. Sincerely, Debra Holle Brown, Chairman Alaska Republican Party
From: "Lucas Thomas R (DOA)" <[email protected] < [email protected] > [email protected]"" <[email protected] <[email protected]> > To: "[email protected] Cc: "Anderson, Jerry D (DOA)" < jerry.anderson@ [email protected] alaska.gov>, >, "Douglas, Tamara M (DOA)" <[email protected] [email protected]> > Sent: Fri, 05 Apr 2013 23:32:48 +0000 Subject: Receipt of contributions
Ms. Brown: This is to confirm our conversation this morning wherein I told you that pursuant to AS 15.13.076(2): “A contribution to a group may be received only by the group’s campaign treasurer or a deputy treasurer” During that conversation you asked whether or not you, not being a treasurer or deputy treasurer, could legally receive name, address, occupation, employer and credit card information from a contributor and then pass that information on to a treasurer or deputy treasurer for the transaction to be processed. I have been unable to find a clear answer to that question. Neither the statute nor the regulations define the word “receive” for purposes of who may receive contributions. There appear to be reasonable arguments on both sides of the issue. Thus, if you were to accept the contributor information you asked about; it might be considered an illegal receipt of contributions. If someone filed a complaint, APOC staff would investigate, make a recommendation to the Commission; and the Commission would decide decide how to interpret the statute given the facts of the case. You may, however, request an advisory opinion concerning this issue. In that case, staff would make a recommendation to the Commission, and the Commission would issue an Advisory Opinion that you could rely on to guide your actions. If you have any questions or desire further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thomas Lucas Associate Attorney II Alaska Public Offices Commiss Commission ion 2221 E. Northern Lights #128 Anchorage, AK 99508-4149 907-276-4176
