What a whirlwind the first day has been. I woke up early and hitched a ride to the Sheraton (where the California Delegation is staying...I'm staying with a buddy in Denver to cut down on costs) and stood in line to get my credentials.
The lobby of the Sheraton was full of politicos; I don't know many other delegates and chose to stand back and just take it in for a minute. A few high school students came up to me and introduced themselves. They are part of the Junior Statesmen Program. I don't know much abou the program, but it sounds incredibly interesting. Those of you reading this who are in high school should check it out. They are here all week and are able to attend some of the events at the convention.
Security is really tight here. There have been a few protests, a bomb scare (not at the Sheraton) and a guy who tried to enter a hotel with a firearm...all in a day's work at the convention, I guess.
The California Delegation breakfast was terrific. Nancy Pelosi was the keynote. Each of us was given a placard sign to hold up that said "Madame President." The historical significance of having the first woman Speaker of the House and the first viable woman presidential candidate who received more of the popular vote during the primaries than either McCain or Obama is truly amazing. Other speakers included Jack O'Connell, the Superientent of Education in California (with whom I got a picture) and Michael Honda, the Congressman from my district and the district where my school is. It was exciting.
I was interviewed by Australian Radio (I like to think I am a big deal there, now...ha ha), a blogger, and "Roll Call," an online political website. Local television stations were there (KTVU and a few others) as was KQED, our local NPR radio station.
The press seems really interested in the divide between Hillary supporters and Obama supporters. Regardless of how the press represents it, I think it is important to note that every Clinton delegate I have spoke with will vote for Obama and Biden in the election, but simply want the historical significance of her candidacy to be honored. We'll see how it all unfolds.
I got to meet Gloria Alred; for those of you who have followed the politics of women's rights over the last 30 years will know Ms. Alred as an outspoken activist of women's issues. She's very bright.
At 2:00 today, I will be meeting with Lt. Governor John Geramendi. I am looking forward to meeting him and hope to advocate for issues important to educators when I meet with him.
I'm going to try to upload some pictures, but I'm not super familiar with the blogspot site, so bear with me.
The convention begins at 3 pm today. For those looking for me on live broadcasts, I'm wearing a white dress shirt with light green vertical and horizontal lines. I'll wave at the camera.
Until next time...
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2 comments:
Mr. B! Sounds like your day was very full. I looked out for you...but all I was ever able to see was the California sign. It seems like the energy there was very high today! I hope it continues!
Mr. B I think it's awesome you are able to be there at the convention. I talked a little about what you were doing with my classes today. It would be great if you could come and talk to them when you get back. Enjoy your time in Denver!
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