Day 5, Part 2 - Rock Stars, All Stars and Superstars

Carolina in My Mind

By the time the actual scheduled activities started, the arena was already packed and the place was electric.  No, I'm not talking about the thunderstorms outside.  The atmosphere inside TWCA was amazing. So much excitement, so much anticipation for an incredible evening.  So when James Taylor took the stage, everyone was ready to go crazy. And since the rain cut his appearance short on Monday at Carolina Fest, he was more than happy to start with "Carolina in My Mind". Also, loved his comments about an empty chair next to him as well as his demographic (JT at the DNC)

Hero

The night just got better from there, including (in no particular order) Marc Anthony (National Anthem), Barney Frank, John Lewis (twice in the same week...wow), Mary J Blige (she was rockin' the house Mary J at the DNC),  Zach Wahls (Zach), The Obama Hot Girls (Scarlette Johansson, Kerry Washington, Eva Longoria, who had one of my favorite lines tonight when she said "The Eva Longoria who worked at Wendy's flipping burgers—she needed a tax break. But the Eva Longoria who works on movie sets does not."), Charlie Christ, Brian Schweitzer.  But several things stood out above the rest.  First, the Foo Fighters playing Hero and Walk.  Also, John Kerry gave the speech of his career.  Had he been that genuine, that passionate, that natural 8 years ago who knows what might have been (Ask Osama Bin Laden if he's better off today than he was 4 years ago!).  

Gabby Giffords, Debbie Wasserman Schultz

The most special moment was having Gabby Giffords walk on stage to lead the arena in saying The Pledge of Allegiance. There was not a dry eye in the place.  Although we lost her as a tremendous public servant in Jan 2011, her strength and courage should be an inspiration for all of us. 

A personal highlight for me was the Edith Childs video.  I love everything about this story, especially the message that everyone is important, everyone has a voice, and everyone can make a difference. I believe this with all my heart, and it continues to inspire me to stay active, stay informed, speak up and keep going when I get tired or frustrated.  And it's why when I made up business cards for Charlotte, the quote I chose to put on the back of the card was "If one voice can change a room..."

V-POTUS: Joe, like so many others at the DNC, gave the speech of his career.  No slip ups, no "Joe being Joe". He gave a genuine, heartfelt description of the man he's gotten to know and watch in action, and a strong defense of the administration's actions and results of the last 3+ years.  He was funny, he was sincere, and he was direct. He gave us a little bit of the insiders perspective as Pres. Obama made the tough choices regarding the American auto industry and Osama Bin Laden.  And as only Joe can say "Osama Bin Laden is dead, and General Motors is alive".

POTUS:  "As citizens, we understand that America is not about what can be done for us. It's about what can be done by us, together".  Although this is only one line in the speech, it in some ways truly sums up a significant difference between the parties and the candidates in this election.  I thought the speech was honest and direct, acknowledging that we are a country and people that are still struggling to fully recover from the deep pit we'd fallen into, but also recognizing that things have improved and will continue to under the policies being followed, and perhaps a little cooperation from the 10% congress.

After the speeches were all over, I didn't want to leave.  It seemed too abrupt. Like being at a major championship game when your team won, you want to stay around and let it all soak in, with others that are feeling the same way.  So I walked all around TWCA for about 30-45 minutes, talking with other delegates, taking pictures for people, walking down to the stage, and just hanging out. And on my way out, I had an interesting conversation with another gentlemen contrasting this speech with Denver in 2008. And while there were a lot of similar themes, it was also very different in part because the '08 speech was such a historic one. While the '08 speech will/should go down as one of the greatest speeches in political history, this one may actually be thought of in time as a much more significant/important one.  

There will be one more blog coming, giving some general impression overall of the convention as well as information on what I'm doing for the next 8 weeks and what you can do to get involved in CA or anywhere in the US.  I hope you've enjoyed the stories/perspective I've tried to provide.  And yes, in case you couldn't tell, I had a great time.

Day 5 - The Day We've All Been Waiting For (Part 1)

CA Delegate Bash

Well, the morning came way too early since the evening ended way too late (see picture to the left).  I had already decided on skipping the CA delegation breakfast in the morning (although I would have loved to see Debbie Wasserman Schultz) in favor of attending yet another Bloomberg event, this one titled "The Internet, Jobs and The Economy" Featuring Sen Mark Begich (D-AK), Sen Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Gov. Dannel Malloy (D-CT) and Austan Goolsbee, Prof of Economics at Univ of Chicago's Booth School of Business and former Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers for Pres Obama.  What a fascinating discussion about the impacts of the internet and technology on businesses and the global marketplace.  If anyone is interested in seeing this event, the video is at (http://www.bloomberg.com/video/begich-whitehouse-malloy-goolsbee-on-tech-jobs-9dE8gbufRRSX3gVbGkUkNw.html). Any of the other events I attended can be found at Bloomberg.com and searching for one of the individuals that participated. I was going to attend one more in the afternoon (Unleashing the New Energy Economy w/ Gov Ritter (CO) and Sen Wyden (OR) but I was worried about getting to the convention hall too late so I passed.

Like any other day in Charlotte, it was hot and humid with a constant threat of rain showers and thunderstorms.  Unlike any other day in Charlotte, there was a noticeable increase in the security around town.  Cops on bikes, motorcycles, horses, automobiles and on foot, from all over the country (these guys were from Atlanta).  Secret Service everywhere (and those were just the ones you could see). Places where you could go earlier in the week were now blocked off. And then just when you thought you had it figured out, something would happen (for instance, a protest) and change things around. As I mentioned in a tweet, I had my credentials checked 4 times BEFORE I got to the security checkpoint.

I got to the TWCA before 3 pm and I'm really glad I did.  While earlier in the week the arena filled up slowly, today again was different.  Lots of people wanted to make sure they had seats for the evenings speakers and entertainers, and the fire marshall had shut down the arena the day before due to reaching capacity. They were also tightly controlling floor access; only delegates and media were allowed as they didn't want to exceed capacity.  And even with all that going on, the security people and volunteers were some of the nicest, most helpful people I've met at any big event.  They all did Charlotte proud, no matter where they were from.

So I'm not even sitting down with my fellow delegates when a runner from CNN comes up to me and asks "Would you like to be on TV? We're getting people together that have on red/white/blue hats and shirts." Hesitating at first, I then said "sure" and proceeded on over to find Kyra Phillips, a HLN reporter who had gathered many of us and was including us in a live feed that was discussing the collection of convention memorabilia with 2 guys from the Smithsonian.  And here we are.  I haven't been able to find the video, but if I do I'll be sure to post that as well later. And while I was busy doing this, others from CD33 were busy talking with KABC Los Angeles about their experiences at the convention and what they were expecting from tonight's speech.

There's so much to talk about that I've decided to break up Day 5 into 2 separate blogs (at least). Part 2, which will discuss some of the more memorable moments from the nights speeches and entertainers will be posted shortly.

Day 4 - Back to the Future

This morning came much too early after a late night of convention, convention parties, and blogging. But it's a tough job that somebody has to do, and I'm up for the task!  After a quick breakfast this morning, it was off to another fantastic Bloomberg Link event. This morning was a discussion with former Sec of State Madeleine Albright on foreign policy and national security. All of us got an autographed copy of her new book about her upbringing in war torn Europe.  It was an honor just to be in the same room.  Finding these events has been the find of the convention. Great speakers/guests, great topics and great discussion.

I also made a new friend today and have to give a shout out to Marlys Shulda.  Marlys is a smart, articulate progressive mom who's running for State Representative in Kansas.   She's doing the hard grassroots work, knocking and doors and shaking hands and is running in a very competitive district that's about 50/50 split registration.  If you can find a few bucks to help her be a voice for progressives in Kansas and push back on the extreme conservative agenda of Sam Brownback, you can go to www.marlysshulda.com to make a donation.

We got word this morning that the DNC has decided to move the acceptance speech and associated activities indoors tomorrow night due to the threat of inclement weather.  I feel bad for all the community credentialed people that won't get to hear Barack in person.  I know he's going to do a phone call with them tomorrow before the speech, and maybe he'll do another event in Charlotte before the election. 

Maybe it's the lack of sleep, or maybe just an incredible feeling of patriotism and pride being a part of the whole process, but I have to admit that between Gabby Douglas leading The Pledge of Allegience and Winton Marsalis playing the National Anthem I was a little choked up.  Too many great speakers/speeches to mention all of them tonight, and much has already been written about Elizabeth Warren and President Clinton, so let me highlight Emanuel Clever (D-MO), head of the congressional black caucus.  WOW, did he bring the house down with a very impassioned speech.  He turned the whole TWCA into something like a Baptist Church on Sunday morn.  Everybody was Fired Up and Ready To Go!

I think Clinton gave the speech of his life.  He made a great case for a second term for POTUS, what's been done, what's working, where we're going, and why now is not the time to give up...as only Bill can do. And all without the help of an empty chair!

The official business of the night was voting on the nomination of Barack Obama to be the party's candidate for POTUS.  In a deliberate move, Mississippi deferred to Ohio (sorry Michigan) so that they could cast the deciding votes to nominate Barack Obama. As Mississippi said afterwards, now Ohio has the responsibility to deliver the state, and the election, for The President in November.

The night (or morning) ended with the CA delegation bash at the NASCAR Hall of Fame.  Coolest part of the night was driving a simulator "around" the track.  I can't talk about my time, but the guy did compliment me on my nice spin out to finish the sim.  I think I'll stick with my day job!

Thursday is the last day.  Even though the weather isn't cooperating and we're moving indoors, I'm sure it's still going to be an amazing day.   And then it will be time for all of us to go home, get a good night's rest, and then get to work for the next 60 days to re-elect Barack Obama.

Day 3 - Estrogen, Lots of Estrogen

What a great day it's been. Although not officially the day of the woman it certainly worked out that way.  B'fast speakers this morning included Barbra Boxer, Sandra Fluke, Kamala Harris and Debra Bowen, the best Sec of State in the country INMO. Later in the day, I was in a sea of pink at the Planned Parenthood rally. As Mayor Cory Booker said at the rally (wrt women's issues) "One guy talks about it, and one man IS about it". Or as Wis Rep Gwen Moore said, these are not just health issues, this is not just about abortion, but these are economic issues for women. 

I also caught up with the "infamous" DocJess, one of my favorite bloggers and now someone who I can call a friend. Jess works for http://www.democraticconventionwatch.com.  I highly recommend following her and her colleagues either on the website, facebook or twitter (or all the above). We had a great time talking politics, conventions and finding out more about each other. 

Before going into TWCABloomberg Link. Wow. Panelists included The Hon. Doug Wilson - Obama Campaign Co-Chair, Defense Working Group, former Assistant Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, The Hon. Michèle Flournoy - Obama Campaign Chair, National Security  Advisory Committee, former Undersecretary of Defense for Policy The Hon. Patrick Murphy, and former Member, House Armed Services Committee Tammy Duckworth, Former Asst. Secretary, Dept. Of Veterans Affairs.  There I was with a bunch of journalists, eating lunch, talking national security and politics.  I felt like any moment someone was going to tap me on the shoulder and say "Excuse me sir, but we made a mistake.  You don't belong here".  And tomorrow, at the same venue, Madame Secretary Albright.  I think I just became a big Bloomberg fan!

So many great speeches tonight at the TWCA, but of course they truly did save the best for last in Michelle.  What a heart felt, genuine speech.  She really is a remarkable person. Something that didn't get network coverage was the Ted Kennedy tribute video, which was great and certainly didn't leave a lot of dry eyes in the audience.  The Liberal Lion of the senate is still a presence in all that we should be trying to do to help all citizens be successful. 



Official delegate vote for POTUS. 4th from bottom

 Of course, one of my official duties here this week is to cast my vote as a delegate for POTUS. I was incredibly honored, proud and filled with a sense of patriotism as I signed my name tonight. Thanks to all those in the district, and all my friends who supported me, in letting me represent  you here at the convention. I'm honored.
Hope you're all enjoying the blogs.  Not sure why comments aren't accepted, but use fb until I can get it fixed.  Good night!


 

Day 2 - It's Not The Heat, It's The Humidity

First official day, and it was very busy.  Started with a run this morn.  Yes, I realized that if I want to drink and eat and enjoy the local cultures without worrying about it, I was going to have to exercise here. Found a great little park/river path just south of the hotel that was a beautiful place to run. I got to see a great sunrise. as well as the local Vietnam Vets Memorial. Of course, I need my social/political music to listen to while I'm running at the DNC - today's selection was Neil Young.

Every morning the CA delegation has a breakfast scheduled with state and national politicians.  Monday morning was exceptional, starting with congressman and civil rights leader/legend John Lewis, and ending with Speaker Pelosi (let's hope we're saying that again in a few months!).  When I see and hear John Lewis, I feel like I'm standing in the room with history.

After breakfast, Diane had to stop to honor an interview request from Kitty Felde, KPCC Wash Correspondent to discuss education and the lack of an education caucus at both the state and national level.  Very cool.  We all remember when Diane was just one of us.  Then it was off into the heat/humidity that is now Charlotte, as hurricane Isaac continues to pump moisture into the area (more on that later).  We found our way to The Presidential Experience, a kind of mobile mini Smithsonian of travelling presidential memorabilia.  Very cool.  Even got to take a picture of Barack's shoes.  And J&M puts the name inside.  Check it out.



Before Rain



After finding a place for lunch (Carolina Ale House.  Good food, great beer selection, air conditioning) we went to the main stage at CarolinaFest, where Jeff Bridges and his band was playing great until the skies opened up.  At that point, I was under an overhang and rode out the 15 minutes staying mostly dry.  Seeing an opportunity, I headed back to the stage near center and about 30 feet back to wait for James Taylor, the native son of NC and star attraction. Unfortunately, after about 4 songs (I Feel Fine, Country Roads, You've Got a Friend, Steamroller), the skies opened up once again.  Before I could find shelter, I got about as wet as if I jumped into a pool.  No worries except for concerns about the camera and iphone, but all was fine in the end.



After Rain



Last event of the evening was a party thrown by the NIAF (National Italian American Foundation "A Voice For Italian Americans In The Public Policy Arena".  Several members of the House were there, and Jim Messina, but Justice Scalia was a no show.  He probably had other plans

Another busy day tomorrow, including first night in the Time Warner Cable Arena (TWCA). Can't wait to hear Michelle, Pres Carter and the tribute to Ted Kennedy among other speakers.  Lastly, a special thanks to my special life partner and wife Deb.  18 years ago we stood in the courtyard of a Marriott in Plainsboro, NJ and promised to love each other for the rest of our lives (at least that's what she says the Jewish marriage certificate says, but I can't read it!).  I can't imagine my life without her, and without her support, encouragement and love I would not be what/where I am today, not personally, not professionally, and certainly not as dad.  Thank you for helping me be more than I ever thought I could be.  Happy Anniversary sweetheart.

Oh yeah, and we ran into John Oliver too

Day 1 - Travel Coast to Coast

First, a special thanks to Cindy for waking up early on a Sunday to get me to the airport.  The worst part of the trip was checking in.  I'm not sure why US Air didn't expect a boat load of people during 1) a holiday weekend and 2) for the non-stop to Charlotte, but let's just say there weren't enough agents to check people in.  Speaker Perez was on my flight, although he wasn't sitting in first class like I was ;-)  (got to use those miles early!).  Spent most of the trip trying to arrange the schedule for the rest of this week and putting it in the iphone so that I know what's happening where and when.  Other than a little bumpy landing (they're still getting fallout from Isaac) it was a completely uneventful flight.  As I stopped to "take care of business" after the long flight, I suddenly remembered what happened after the plane landed in Denver 4 years ago.  As I stepped up to the wall, I turned and looked to my right and there next to me was Dan Rather!  So far, no celebrity sightings this time around, neither in nor out of the bathroom.  But one thing you couldn't miss were the volunteers.  They were everywhere, incredibly helpful and very friendly.  Boy, there's a lot to be said for southern hospitality.  There are also police everywhere, most of the time in groups of 3 or more.  Let's hope they have a  very boring week ahead of them.

Another thanks to my fellow delegate Max Kanin, who picked an awesome restaurant called Mert's Heart and Soul.  I'm no expert on Southern soul food, but this was an amazing experience.  Just a little more incentive to try to get that run in tomorrow morn before the day starts and doesn't stop.  Had a nice peaceful walk home past some of the sights you'll see later this week - the desk locations for MSNBC, CNN and Fox News, The NASCAR Hall of Fame, The Convention Center and the Time Warner Cable Arena.  Beautiful night for a nice walk.  Waiting on my roommate to show up, a La Jolla delegate.  Seems like a nice enough gentleman, although I've only spoken to him once and traded emails a few times. 

Tomorrow is the start of a very busy week. Most excited about b'fast with the CA delegation (speakers included John Lewis and Nancy Pelosi) and the Carolinafest events including James Taylor. But more on that tomorrow.  Tonight's an early night.

Day 0 - Getting Ready to Go

So here I am, less than 12 hours before leaving for Charlotte and my first national convention as an official delegate.  I've actually been to 2 others as what would best be described as a spectator. 4 years ago, I crashed the party in Denver because I wanted to be a part of history.  And because of a chance meeting with someone who was willing to sell a credential, and support from some dear republican friends who were willing to provide a place to sleep, I made it into Invesco Field for a night I will never forget.  The other convention?  That would be the republican convention in 1980 in Detroit. Home from college that summer, and at the time a registered republican, I went downtown with a buddy just to check things out.  I think I still have a poster somewhere in the garage. 

Before leaving for Charlotte today, it seemed only natural that I spend some time registering voters and sitting with the Beach Cities Dem Club at the Fiesta Hermosa. To me, registering voters is always one of the most rewarding things I do around elections.  Always interesting sitting on "free speech row" where they put us these days.  Our table was right next to the John Birch Society.  Yes, they're still around.  

One thing's for sure, there just isn't enough time in a day, or throughout the week, to attend all the caucuses, parties, rallies, lectures and other festivities during the week.  I'll try to post at least once a day to let people know where I am, what I'm doing, and give a little bit of an insiders perspective.  One thing that I hope to do is meet one of my favorite bloggers, DocJess from Demconwatchblog.com.  Not only do they give excellent commentary on the conventions, but they're also a great resource for the what's happening in all the congressional races across the country.  I highly recommend you check them out. 

One closing thought...as I said above, at one time I was a registered republican.  Certainly there were many things that caused me to change perspective on issues over the years, but I also truly believe that the mainstream of the republican party has moved so far to the right I don't even recognize them as a party I once belonged to.  And that transition is best summed up by this scene from my new favorite show, HBO's The Newsroom.  The American Taliban

And with that, good night from Manhattan Beach.  See you in Charlotte!