By Steve Gill
The Robertson County Republican Party Annual Reagan Dinner, held in Springfield, was a great success with over 175 in attendance. The dinner featured a 7th Congressional District candidate forum for those running in the special election to fill the seat vacated by Congressman Mark Green. State Senator Kerry Roberts moderated the candidate discussion.
Early voting in that election begins on September 17.
The results of the straw poll conducted after the forum produced a win for Matt Van Epps, who led the field with 59 votes. Gino Bulso followed with 31 votes, Jody Barrett 27, and Stewart Parks 17 made up the top four. Others receiving votes were Adolph Dugan 4, Mason Foley 6, Joe Leurs 2, Lee Reeves 4, and Tres Wittum 8, according to the tally provided by the Robertson County Republican Party ( RCRP).
Chairperson Christine Apple welcomed the crowd and Tommy Vallejos started the evening with prayer. Former State Rep. Terry Lynn Weaver sang the National Anthem. State Rep. Sabi Kumar spoke about the significance and legacy of President Ronald Reagan.
The dinner also included a well-deserved recognition of the leadership and service of longtime Republican activist Jan Gammon. Nobody has influenced the development of the RCRP more than her.
Steve Gill is Publisher and Editor of TriStar Daily.
