Letter from the President

Dear MCRA Members,

I hope this message finds you well and that you're enjoying a cool and pleasant summer here in Merced County.

As many of you know, we host our Second Thursday Speaker Series each month at the Branding Iron in Merced. These events have seen great turnouts in the past, but attendance has dipped recently. On the bright side, we’re seeing new faces, which is encouraging! However, we’re also noticing fewer familiar ones. While I’m not saying you need to attend every month, I encourage you to attend more frequently if possible. Your presence makes a difference.

Securing quality speakers isn’t always easy, and I could use your help. If you're interested in assisting or have ideas for speakers or topics you'd like to see, please let me know. Your input is always valued.

At these meetings, we also share our upcoming schedule and announce the events we’ll be attending or participating in. While this may be an off-election year, it’s still important to stay engaged. Your involvement matters more than ever.

RPMC Affiliation

Although the MCRA is an activist organization, we share many of the same goals as the Republican Party of Merced County (RPMC)—including voter registration, outreach, GOTV (Get Out the Vote) efforts, and fundraising. Many MCRA members are already part of the RPMC.

Side Note: You can join the RPMC as an Associate Member for just $25 per year. Associate Members may attend General Meetings and be heard, and may attend Board Meetings with the Chair’s permission. You’ll also receive a 10% discount on RPMC merchandise and events.

If MCRA votes to become an official affiliate of the RPMC, we would appoint a liaison to represent us at RPMC General Meetings. That liaison would have voting rights, and—depending on approval from RPMC—affiliate groups may be eligible for financial support. This is something we’ll need to vote on as a group.

A Quick Ask

For our Speaker Series, we ask that attendees please consider donating $5 (or whatever amount you feel comfortable with) at the dinner to help cover the speaker’s meal and possibly travel expenses.

Looking Ahead

Next year marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, a historic milestone. It’s a huge opportunity for Merced Republicans to step up. We’ll need your help for events across the county—4th of July celebrations, parades, and outreach. It’s going to be a busy and exciting year, and we need all hands on deck.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our shared values and mission. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Sincerely,

Gene D. Johnson Jr. 

MCRA President

CRA Vice President

MCRA Founding Member                    

mercorebass@gmail.com

209-580-9933