8/16/2006

Pennington County Teen-Age Republicans Earn National Recognition

The Pennington County Teen-Age Republicans Club (TAR) was given the Outstanding TAR Club in the Nation Award at the National TAR Leadership Conference held in Washington D.C in July. The award is given to one organization every year that demonstrates community leadership and involvement in the political process. Anthony Conklin of Rapid City accepted the award on behalf of the County Club.

“It just goes to show that it doesn’t always matter how large of a group you have,” Conklin said. “The important thing is what you do with it. When compared to other groups nationwide Pennington County has a very small club, but we meet every month and are dedicated to Republican principles.”

This award is given annually to those clubs that display an exceptional dedication to spreading the Republican philosophy and volunteering. The Pennington County TARS are determined, and driven; over the past year they have volunteer their time, their hands, and their hearts out of love for the Republican Party. They traveled to Pierre in March to participate in a Mock Legislative Session. They helped candidates with literature drops, door to door efforts, registering voters, and Get Out the Vote Drives.

Only four National Awards were given out this year at the Leadership Conference. Elli Schwiesow, Pennington County TAR Club advisor and District 32 Senate Candidate, serves as the group’s mentor. “We are just thrilled that our Club’s hard work has been recognized at the national level,” she said. “These kids worked really hard and deserve every bit of credit for their success.”

During the five days of the conference, the teenagers heard from political speakers such as Senator John McCain, Congressman J.D. Hayworth and White House Staffer Linda Taylor. The students participated in training to learn how to improve area clubs and participated in an educational tour of our nation’s capital, including visits to many of our national monuments.

The Pennington County Teen-Age Republicans includes members from area high schools. They meet at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of every month at the Pennington County Republican Party Headquarters, 837 East St. Patrick St., Rapid City. Anyone interested in joining the group is encouraged to attend a meeting.