Republicans Don't Let Rain Ruin Polo Outing

Members of the Grand Old Party from Hamilton, Wenham and Republican Town Committees from across Massachusetts fought back raindrops to enjoy "Polo and Politics" on Sunday at .

“The turnout has been great,” said State GOP Committeeman John Racho, who represents Essex County. "Each year it grows and it is truly exciting to see."

The event was co-sponsored by the Hamilton and Wenham Republican Town Committees and the GOP Essex Club, with proceeds from the event going towards upcoming campaigns for Republican candidates.

Attendees included State Sen. Bruce Tarr of Gloucester and state Rep. Brad Hill of Ipswich - who both represent Hamilton and Wenham on Beacon Hill - plus GOP State Committeeman and Committeewoman John Racho and Christina Bain, Hamilton Selectman Jeff Hubbard, Elaine Appel, chairwoman for the Hamilton Republican Town Committee and Don Costin, chairman for the Wenham Town Republican Committee.

Former Lieutenant Governor candidate Richard Tsei and candidate for U.S. Rep. Bill Hudak also attended.

Guests' attire ran the gamut from polo shirts, shorts and flip-flops to ladies dressed in party dresses and multi-colored hats as the onlookers mingled under the VIP Pavilion tent. The occasional dog meandered into the conversation pool from parts unknown; although it became apparent they were lobbying for their share of some of the snacks.

Conversation was anything but run-of-the-mill. As the cacophony of different discussions permeated the air, a buzz of key themes threading the conversations together filled the air including jobs, economy, redistricting and gearing up for the 2012 Presidential and Senatorial elections.

“I am looking forward to working on the upcoming elections,” said Angela Hudak, wife of Congressional candidate Bill Hudak.

Angela Hudak, who worked tirelessly during her husband’s unsuccessful campaign against U.S. Rep. John Tierney, D-Salem, last year, is saddened by the current administration’s lack of solutions to reduce unemployment and strengthen the economy with free market enterprise.

“Something has got to be done before it is too late,” Angela Hudak said.

Hill said he has seen volunteers showing up who never used to feel the need to get involved in political campaigns. Most notably, Hill referred to U.S. Sen. Scott Brown’s upcoming battle for a second term.

“People are energized about the upcoming elections,” Hill said. “They are not happy with the economy and it will be the driving factor this year into next on whether to support the candidates.”

Some returning guests were more intent on watching the polo players and ponies as the 7-and-a-half-minute bell sounding approached during the fifth chukker. Don Costin, chairman of the Wenham Republican Town Committee, sat comfortably in the front row of the stands alongside .

Elaine Appel, newly elected Chairwoman of the Hamilton Republican Town Committee this year, was pleased with the turnout. Since taking over the event a few years ago, Appel has breathed new life into the group.

“We’ve added six new members and have created a new membership category, which allows people to serve on a voluntary basis,” notes Appel.