Both the Hawaii Republican and Democratic parties held their 2006 political conventions this weekend. I attended the Republican convention as a delegate from our district.

Attending a political party convention is something you should do at least once in your life. These events are huge pep rallies for the party faithful and the Hawaii Republican Party convention was no exception.

The 3-day convention had the party faithful attending workshops and rallies on a number of topics including education, candidate training and policy making. The highlight of any convention are the colorful general session rallies. These are loud and pompous occasions where one can see and listen to some of their favorite candidates.
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Today was the perfect day to have a big parade. Thousands of soldiers and veterans of previous wars marched or rode on vehicles down Kalakaua Ave. in the “A Salute to the Troops” parade and event. The parade started at Fort DeRussy and marched Diamond Head toward Kapiolani Park, where it was finished off with lunch and a concert.

The crowds that lined the street were appreciative of the soldiers and sacrifice they have made to preserve our freedoms as many received rounds of applause and cheers as they marched on by. Vintage military vehicles from the Hawaii Military Vehicle Preservation Association added a touch of nostalgia, especially for those veterans who actually used them in wars gone by. Some of the younger soldiers oogled at the vintage tank after the parade was over.
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