ATTN: All members of the Young Republican League of Minnesota

Dear patriot,

I would like to first and foremost extend warm greetings to all of my Minnesota Young Republican friends, and an even warmer welcome to all new members. These are exciting times for the MNYR's, and there's a huge potential for growth.

It's time for the YR's to open its doors to its members. The elected board does not exist to present our finished product to the members, but rather we are a reflection of what all YR's can and do contribute to the group. Moving forward this group is going to be both flatter and stronger than what you've experienced in past years. All ideas will flow through the board and be considered, and most importantly, more leadership will be delegated to you 'young' republicans. I want YOU to use me for a means to the group's ends.

We have something for all political tastes:

* For the social crowd, the monthly happy hours will continue, albeit albeit as a complement to the new events we're planning. Wine-tastings and gun shoots will definitely remain. If you'd like to gain some experience in arranging these, let the state board or your local chairperson know. Many have mentioned different clubs that should be rechartered, and groups that should be re-formed. My response to all of these requests is an emphatic "DO IT!"

* For the political thinker, I would like to reintroduce Conservatively Speaking and the Book Club, both of which got tremendous reception and participation when someone was taking the initiative to host these events. If any YR out there would like to take the initiative, let me know immediately.

* For the young conservative activist, we will be busy with elections dropping literature and making calls to get out the GOP vote. Come support and talk to the elected officials you WANT to see in office.

* For the civic-minded, I want the YR's to become a valuable asset to communities in Minnesota by reinvigorating our community involvement, and volunteering.

* And lastly, for the Young Republicans as a whole, we need leaders within our group to step up and take charge of these events. Without individual action, there's no effective activism. The Young Republican League of Minnesota needs a stronger and louder seat at the MNGOP table. The YRs are currently in a seat tantamount to the kids table, and only we can change that. If you want to have a voice in your state's GOP party, now is the time to get involved. If you're not happy with the GOP's direction, now is the time to sow the seeds of change within the party apparatus, by being an active part of the next generation! The GOP needs this group's time, energy, and votes so it's time to start using some leverage.

There will be an introductory board meeting in the very near future that will be OPEN TO ALL MEMBERS. Check the website regularly for updates about when this will take place. Please come prepared with ideas and suggestions for the next year.

If you've moved, changed phone numbers, or are concerned for any reason that you're being left off invites, evites, etc, please send Jeff Peil ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) your current contact information. Also, make sure to set your spam blocker to accept emails from This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

I look forward to working with all of you and please do not hesitate to contact me or the board members with any questions, comments, or concerns.

Sincerely,

David A. Berdass
2009-2010 State Chairman
Young Republican League of Minnesota