Published: September 02, 2008 11:56 pm            

First days of convention focus on relief efforts

Editor’s Note: Russell Martinez is a Texas delegate to the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn., and chairman of the Walker County Republican Party.



Monday

The first day of the convention started with breakfast for the Texas delegation. We were honored to have First Lady Laura Bush attend and address the delegation. She expressed appreciation for the convention’s efforts to reach out to those affected by Hurricane Gustav.

Texans also heard from U.S. Sen. John Cornyn and Texas Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst. Republican Party of Texas Chair-man Tina Benkiser briefed us on the new convention schedule. Leaving the breakfast, I met Peggy Noonan, former speechwriter for President Reagan.

We arrived early for the first session and Texans were media favorites. I was interviewed by television stations from Ireland and Japan, did radio interviews for German radio and talk radio from Washington, D.C., and did interviews for ABCNews.com and the Washington Times.

Most reporters wanted to talk about Hurricane Gustav and Sarah Palin. My friend Kathie from Livingston was the media star. She was interviewed no fewer than 20 times and was picked on by comedian correspondent Mo Rocca.

All I can say is try to watch the Jay Leno Show on Tuesday and Wednesday. If they use the material, and I think they will, you will enjoy it.

The first session began a little before 3 p.m. and we conducted official party business.

My committee, the Permanent Organization Committee, met and approved the list of recommendations for national convention officers.

When the session reconvened, we heard from First Lady Laura Bush, who received a lengthy ovation, and spoke about the importance of helping those affected by Hurricane Gustav.

She also introduced video remarks by Govs. Rick Perry, Texas; Haley Barbour, Mississippi; Charlie Crist, Florida; and Bob Riley, Alabama.

Each addressed the ongoing planning and relief efforts in their states. Mrs. Bush was joined by Cindy McCain, both of whom encouraged those attending the convention, and those watching from home, to become involved in hurricane relief efforts.

Mrs. McCain asked everyone to go to www.causegreater.com to get involved.

We are waiting to hear the schedule for the remainder of the convention. Everyone is upbeat and focused on helping those along the Gulf Coast.

The convention is organizing a delegate project for Wednesday where we will meet at the Minnesota Convention Center to put together care packages to be sent to Louisiana and Texas.

I’ll have more to report tomorrow.

        

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