Chair's Corner
Subject: A Call for Unity and Change: Hawaii Republican Party Convention
Aloha Members and Delegates of the Hawaii Republican Party,
As we approach our convention on May 4th and 5th, I want to take a moment to express mahalo to each one of you for your commitment and dedication to our party. Also to the efforts and contributions made by so many are the backbone of our preparations, and I am thrilled to see our community come together in such a manner.
A special Mahalo goes to Mary Smart, who has taken the helm of the Platforms and Resolutions. Her leadership is instrumental as we refine our party’s vision and principles. Brett Kulbis deserves commendation for his diligent efforts since October 2023, leading the committee through crucial rule updates, ensuring our procedures reflect our voices, values and address the needs of our districts and State effectively.
Dalene McCormick has been pivotal as the head of the Credentials Committee, and Sheryl Bieler’s groundwork in organizing essential materials has not gone unnoticed. I thank Jamie Detwiler and HFRW for setting up and decorations, all of our elected officials for their availability to attend and speak to the delegates. Their contributions, along with Steve Hock’s generous donation and Mike and Karla Rompel’s contribution of pizza for our Saturday lunch, exemplify the spirit of generosity and teamwork that defines us. These are only some of the people who are dedicated to making the party a success and I appreciate everyone who has stepped up to help.
Our State Executive Committee and members of the State body have worked hard, and it’s through your collective efforts that we are set to have a successful convention. This is a testament to what we can accomplish when we stand united and committed to our cause.
This year, more than ever, our gathering is crucial. We have overcome substantial hurdles, from navigating nearly $70,000 in debt, averting bankruptcy, addressing back taxes, and sidestepping foreclosure on the HRP building. Our journey has been challenging, yet through resilient efforts and strategic changes like implementing the GROW program, enhancing our website for better user engagement, and focusing on grassroots initiatives, we have begun to turn the tide.
I am proud of the progress we have made and the list of many accomplishments that we have established. However, our work is far from over. We must continue to strengthen our base, focus on election integrity, and, most importantly, ensure that our voices...your voices...are heard and translated into action.
This weekend, let us demonstrate what it truly means to be a Republican in belief, unity, and conduct. I know everyone will approach the convention with the respect and dignity that befits the efforts invested this year. We are at a pivotal moment where change is not just a choice but a necessity. The old ways have not brought us the victories we strive for, but with a renewed focus and collective effort, we can reshape our future.
Let us come together, with a purpose to effect the change that has been long awaited. This is about "WE the people," and your participation is crucial in steering our party towards success. We cannot afford the insanity anymore. Doing the same thing over and over again isn't working, and has only benefited a select few. Change is needed to benefit us all. WE are in the fourth quarter, and it's time we make the right plays in order to win the game.
Looking forward to seeing each of you this weekend. Let’s embrace this opportunity to renew, rebuild, and reaffirm our commitment to our party and the values we hold dear.
Mahalo,
Tamara McKay State Chair, Hawaii Republican Party
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