Republican headquarters opens in Newton

The Republican Party of Jasper County took to the street Monday night to welcome friends and celebrate the grand opening of its 2014 election headquarters at 207 W. Second St. N. just off the Newton square.

A city permit was acquired so the group could provide additional space for the crowd. With nearly 70 in attendance, the group heard from guest speakers Mary Mosiman, Iowa’s state auditor; Sam Clovis, candidate for state treasurer; and former state representative Jeff Kaufmann, the recently elected chairman of the Republican Party of Iowa.

Pizza and soft drinks were served as plans for the upcoming election were outlined and discussed.

“One of the reasons we wanted to rent this particular space is because we figured we could get the road closed,” said Marshall Critchfield, chairman of the local party. “I’m encouraged by the turnout we had. Most attendees have offered favorable comments regarding the ‘block party’ format so I wouldn’t be surprised if we revisit the concept for subsequent gatherings.”

The party can be found on Facebook at Jasper County Iowa GOP or contacted by emailing JasperGOP@gmail.com.