MDGOP

FALL CONVENTION

REPORT

A www.RobertDyer.net Exclusive!

Yesterday, I went to the Fall 2009 Maryland Republican Party Convention to represent the Republican registered voters of Montgomery County. The convention was held at the Comfort Inn in Bowie. The facility seemed pretty nice, and it was obviously well-planned to be situated directly off of the exit ramp from Route 50. But I'm still wondering why, if you're having a convention in Prince George's County, it would not be at National Harbor? Because, frankly, there's nothing to do in that part of Bowie after the convention is over. I much preferred Hagerstown and Westminster. And, of course, Annapolis, where we have held thousands of conventions (or at least it seems that way). But seriously, there is plenty to do in those other towns, so I was shocked at the choice after a committee had been appointed to make conventions more diverting.

The morning started off with a Sausage, Egg, and Cheese biscuit and two cups of coffee from the McDonald's drive-thru. Now I was ready to drive to Bowie.

Next, Congressman Roscoe Bartlett, his staff member (?), and I attempted to enter the rear door of the hotel. Which requires a key card, eventually supplied by a fellow Republican who actually stayed at the hotel and had a room card to get us through the door.

Surprises? A speech by Governor Bob Ehrlich was probably the high point. Then he was off to join his wife on their radio program. Congressman Bartlett also gave a good speech after that.

Then more and more speeches. A one-time only voting scheme that reduces Montgomery County's voting power passes, despite me voting against it.

Finally we elected a new chairperson, Audrey Scott (former mayor of Bowie). And then we adjourned.

So, when are we going to have a convention in Ocean City, like they used to before I was elected to the Central Committee? By the way, we actually have to pay our own way at these things, unlike the Montgomery County Council, who charge the taxpayer for a conference of counties in Ocean City... Good deal they've got there.