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Cheryl Caswell, Dr Ralph Heap and David Marshall Sr addressed the Quail Creek Republicans on November 21st

Steve Sanford introduced the first guest speaker, Cheryl Caswell, candidate for LD 19 House of Representatives seat. Cheryl has been an active participant in Arizona GOP politics from the LD level down to the local level.  She expressed her desire to provide a new face for LD 19.  She was given some tough questions from the attendees. Caswell is a staunch defender of the values that make America great.

Steve then introduced a GOP duo who are running in opposition to two of the Republican members of the Corporation Commission.  Both gentlemen are current members of the State legislature; David Marshall Sr is the representative of LD 7 and Dr Ralph Heap is the representative of LD 10.  Both men believe that we need a new face for the Republican party representing the Corporation Commission.  Both men have been influential in the day to day functioning of the state legislature during their tenures. Both candidates have extensive religious backgrounds and believe in conservative core values.

Quail Creek Republicans
Gather for a BBQ at the Longhorn

A large group of Republicans gathered on Friday evening, October 17, at the Longhorn Bar & Grill in Amado to enjoy camaraderie, music, politics, and fun. President Pat Colburn welcomed everyone and introduced the evening’s special guests: State Representatives Gail Griffin and Lupe Diaz, State Senator David Gowan, and Sahuarita Mayor Tom Murphy. The crowd was entertained by singer-songwriter Austin Hoffman, who performed a variety of music. Town Councilwoman Diane Priolo, who also serves as the Republican Club’s Program Chair, was in attendance as well. The legislators, all seeking reelection in 2026, mingled with attendees, shared updates on state politics, and engaged in lively conversation throughout the event.  The Longhorn staff prepared and served a BBQ meal, including barbequed chicken and ribs, baked beans, cole slaw, and desert.


Mayor Tom Murphy was the featured speaker for the evening, sharing his personal journey and how he became involved in local government. He emphasized his dedication to the community, highlighting public safety, security, and economic growth as his top priorities. Among recent economic developments, Mayor Murphy announced that the town’s vacant movie theater has been purchased by Roadhouse Cinemas, which plans to renovate the facility to offer both dining and movie experiences. He also mentioned that a new “Boot Barn” store will be opening in Sahuarita, further supporting local business growth. Both projects are in the early stages and opening dates have not yet been determined.

The mayor also spoke about how deeply he was moved by attending the Charlie Kirk memorial in Glendale. He shared that he and his wife left Sahuarita at 1 AM to ensure they could be present for the service. The mayor remarked that Charlie would have been proud to see 70,000 people gather at State Farm Arena to honor his memory. He reflected on Charlie’s enduring legacy and the renewed affirmation of faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Inspired by the mayor’s words, Austin Hoffman performed “How Great Thou Art,” encouraging many attendees to join in singing.

Mayor Murphy presented President Pat Colburn with the Town of Sahuarita challenge coin, recognizing her and the club’s ongoing support for both the mayor and the community. To wrap up the evening, President Colburn announced the nominees for the 2026 Quail Creek Republican Club board. These nominees will be elected by members at the Annual Meeting and Christmas party, scheduled for December 10 in the Crystal Ballroom at the Madera Clubhouse. The event is complimentary for all members who have paid their 2025 dues.

President Colburn also reminded everyone that the next club meeting will take place on Friday, November 21. The featured guest speaker will be Congressman Andy Biggs, who is running for Arizona Governor in 2026.  The meeting will be at the Madera Clubhouse.

Conservative Speaker Loren Spivack Addressed the Quail Creek Republicans on September 19th

Opening Remarks and Tributes

The Quail Creek Republican Club convened in the Ocotillo Room on September 19, 2025. Club President Pat Colburn welcomed attendees, acknowledging both returning members and newly joined participants. Following the introduction, invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance, Rich Ulery—former QCRC president—delivered a moving and poignant tribute to Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. Ulery emphasized Kirk’s dedication to God, the Bible, his family, the Constitution, and the Republican Party. The tragic loss of Charlie Kirk was deeply felt, and Ulery noted that his absence would resonate within the community, nation and world for years to come.

Guest Speaker: Loren Spivack

Pat Colburn introduced the guest speaker, Loren Spivack, an economist, educator, advocate and champion. Spivack is renowned for his passionate belief in the free-market system and capitalism, asserting that this system offers the best means to organize society. He has dedicated his professional life to helping others understand why the free market works and highlighting the threats it faces from dictators, socialists, and revolutionaries around the world.

Often referred to as the “Free Market Warrior,” Spivack is known for his satirical and humorous approach to explaining American politics and economics. In 2009, he founded ‘Free Market Warrior’ to promote economic literacy and advocate for capitalism and free market principles. Through seminars conducted across the United States, he blends humor and education to clarify conservative ideas for diverse audiences.

Spivack has authored books under the pen name “Dr. Truth,” which are parodies of famous children’s stories. Using rhyme and illustrations, these books critique progressive politics and champion free market values. Spivack is a staunch defender of the values he believes made America great, emphasizing that freedom and liberty foster wealth and happiness. He warns that these ideals are under attack from the ideological descendants of Lenin, Woodrow Wilson, FDR, and Lyndon Johnson—all of whom he associates with modern socialist movements within the Democratic Party.

Born and raised in Massachusetts, Loren Spivack spent much of his life in New York City. His work as “Dr. Truth” is characterized by clarity and humor, reminiscent of conservative radio legend Rush Limbaugh. Spivak’s philosophy posits that modern socialists and progressives are not motivated by principles, and he finds that satire and humor are effective tools for exposing the flaws of socialism. By making ridiculous comparisons, Spivak believes laughter leads to understanding and helps people grasp why socialism consistently fails in practice.

In closing Spivack emphasized the three greatest threats that Republicans are facing: loss of the Freedom of Speech, inequality in the interpretation of the Law, and demonization of Capitalism.  A short Q & A followed.

The Quail Creek Republican club welcomed Ted Maxwell, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Southern Arizona Leadership Council

The Quail Creek Republican club welcomed Ted Maxwell, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Southern Arizona Leadership Council (SALC) at the August 21 meeting of the club.  Ted is a veteran of 34 years of military service.  He retired as a Major General in 2018 as Commander of the Arizona National Guard.  Ted acknowledged all the veterans in the room especially those who served in Korea and Viet Nam. 

Ted was appointed to serve on the Arizona State Transportation Board by Governor Ducey in 2021.

SALC is a non-partisan organization whose mission is to improve greater Tucson and the State of Arizona by bringing together resources and leadership to create action that will enhance the economic climate and quality of life in our communities.  The membership is made up of 159 members from elected officials, governing boards, business organizations and the community.

The focus areas of the SALC are

  • Education – Advance a P-20 education system that supports student matriculation to the highest possible levels and meets the region’s workforce needs
  •  Infrastructure – Promote efficient, effective water, energy, and communications infrastructure.
  •  Innovation – Foster and support a robust entrepreneurial culture and access to capital that sustains and grows the Innovation Economy of our region and state.
  • Non-partisan governance – Cultivate efficient and effective governance by addressing deficiencies at local, regional and state levels.
  • Healthcare – Champion a sustainable, high-quality healthcare system.

The SALC carries out their mission through engagement, collaboration and advocacy.

Ted spoke about the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) which currently has over 1.7 billion in invested revenues and over 1100 projects. 

Arizona has only two counties in the state that can support the RTA – Maricopa and Pima. He mentioned some of the historical and current deficiencies of the Arizona Transportation System – Arizona was the only state that lagged in the completion of I-10.    

Funding for roads and infrastructure is primarily through the gas tax which has not increased from 18 cents per gallon.  Arizona has the 4th lowest gas tax in the country.

The “Sonoran Corridor” or SR 410 has not been fully funded.   The state of Arizona Legislature funded part of the corridor.  Ted believes that once it’s finished, which won’t be for another 20 years or more, it will be the first Arizona toll road and essentially a bypass.  The road will run approximately 21/2 miles north of Quail Creek.  The current plan is three-fold with a Vail connection to the airport being the first. 

Ted discussed the goals of the road –

  • Improve vehicle mobility and the transportation system.
  •  Improve access to existing and future activity centers.
  • Reduce persistent traffic backups and congestion.
  • Address high-growth areas.
  • Address wildlife and environmental impacts.

Ted proposes modernizing our transportation system.  Current funding only covers road maintenance. The increased use of roads by heavier vehicles underscores the need for modernization.

The next meeting of the QC Republican Club will be Friday, September 19 beginning with coffee at 8:30 am.  The meeting will begin at 9AM in the Ocotillo/Mesquite rooms, Kino Conference Center.  The guest speaker will be Loren Spivak, a nationally known speaker and author.  Always with a fresh take, Loren examines the issues of our time through the eyes of an economist. And he reveals fundamental truths underlying the political challenges we face.

The QUAIL CREEK REPUBLICAN CLUB WELCOMES

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE FOR ARIZONA GOVERNOR,

KARRIN TAYLOR ROBSON

At a standing room only June 20th QC Republican Club Meeting, President Pat Colburn welcomed Karrin Taylor Robson, Republican Candidate for Governor of Arizona.

Karrin opened her remarks speaking about Israeli freed hostage, Omer Shem Tov who she met with and heard the harrowing details of his inhumane treatment. 

Karrin spoke about who she is and why she is running for governor.  Her campaign this year is different from when she ran for Arizona Governor 4 years ago; now she has President Trump’s back and his endorsement. 

 She has a background in land use law.   After graduating college, She was a staff assistant for President Ronald Reagan‘s economic policy council, her father, Carl Kunasek, was president of the Arizona State Senate and a member of the Arizona Corporation Commission.

She is the Founder and President of Arizona Strategies.  She has served on the boards of numerous government, community and economic development organizations.  She currently serves as a member of the Civic Leaders Group for the Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force, the board of American Council of Trustees and Alumni, USSAZ Legacy Foundation, St. Vicent De Paul, Creighton University Board of Trustees, and a member of the board of Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC).

She also serves as the chairwoman of the Arizona PAC, an organization that fought to defend Arizona’s one-vote majorities in the House and Senate and in so doing helped expand the Republican majorities in both chambers.

Her children inspired her to seek public office, and she is a strong believer in “giving back” to those who came before us.    She is the mother of 4 children and a grandmother and the wife of Ed Robson.   

Her platform priorities are Security, Economy and Education. 

Security

  • A Strong Border
  • Community Security

Economy

  • A diversified economic base
  • DOGE!
  • Karen hopes to make Arizona the Startup Capitol of the World by attracting young innovative minds.

Education

  • School Choice
  • Emphasis on reading at the 3rd grade level

Karrin is a conservative champion and pro-life advocate.

Karrin fielded several questions from the audience.

There is no meeting in July.  The next meeting will be Thursday, August 21 at 9AM, 8:30 Coffee in the Kino Conference Center, Ocotillo/Mesquite rooms.  The guest speaker will be Ted Maxwell.  Ted Maxwell joined the Southern Arizona Leadership Council (SALC) in April 2013. He assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer in July 2018. 

Ted retired as a Major General in 2018.  His final military position was as the Commander of the Arizona Air National Guard. 

In May 2021, Governor Ducey appointed Maxwell to the Arizona State Transportation Board for a six-year term, representing Pima County.

For more information on the Quail Creek Republican Club contact Membership Chair Lin Sanford at linsanford@gmail.com  or President Pat Colburn at patcolburn5@hotmail.com. 

Quail Creek Republicans Hear from Local Host of Wake Up with Chris DeSimone


The Quail Creek Republican Club met in the Kino Conference Center Friday, May 23. President Pat Colburn welcomed all attendees.

She gave the floor to Christi Emery, Precinct #84 Committeeman to discuss the latest information and news about Precinct 84. Christie recognized several of the precinct workers who were in attendance.

Pat then introduced Chris DeSimone, the meeting’s guest speaker.

Chris is the host of the talk radio show “Wake Up, with Chris DeSimone!” Chris is also the Vice President of Business Development for two companies, Live The Dream Media LLC and Blue-Chip Planning. Chris was born and raised in New York but now calls Oro Valley home. He is an unabashed supporter of all conservative causes. He speaks his mind and lets his audience know where he stands on those issues and causes. His Facebook description describes himself as a stubborn advocate for business owners, taxpayers and the working poor.

Chris began by reviewing the ineffectiveness of the previous administration and the wild ride that we have been on for the past 4 months and the success of Republicans gaining control of both houses of the Arizona state legislature. He emphasized the need for Republicans to win elections and that ALL Republicans need to support the most conservative candidate who can win. That led to a discussion of Andy Biggs versus Karrin Taylor Robson for Governor and more discussion on reasons to avoid a contentious primary.

Chris then switched to county, city and school board elections and announced that he is going to run for Oro Valley City Council. He brought up an idea that he has floated about annexations and areas breaking off and forming a new county. He stressed the importance of good candidates running for any of those three entities. He emphasized the importance of these positions as building a “farm team” for more advanced political positions.

A very active and engaging Q&A session followed.

Pat then gave some closing comments and gave a brief outline of the year’s planned guest speakers and events. The planned guest for June is Karrin Taylor Robson, candidate for the primary for Arizona Governor.

You can join the club for the first time or renew your membership for 2025 by visiting the club’s website at www.quailcreekrepublicans.com or contact Pat Colburn at 720-530-3594 or patcolburn5@hotmail.com for more information. 

Steve Sanford, 1st VP