The Convention Last Night

I would say the hightlight of the convention last night was Ted Kennedy's speech. I didn't expect him to come out but he did and it was great to see him. He got a huge ovation. Michelle gave a great speech and the kids were cute. I liked Michelle's brother too - I had no idea he was a basketball coach.

Being at convention was like nirvana for political junkees. There are stars at every corner, not to mention media from all over the world. The arena looks great. It seems much bigger on TV. These conventions have become very staged. We received at least four signs last night to hold up at some time during the convention. What a waste of paper.

Security is worse than going through an airport. They have blockaded the area around the convention center and you need credentials to get through any of the check points. I walked from the Convention center and had to make several detours due to the blockades. Then I had to walk half way around the Pepsi Center to get through security. They allowed me to take my water in only because I took a sip. These stations were also being run by the TSA. On the other side was free ice cream from CNN. That was the best thing I ate all day! I bought some cheese pizza at the Pepsi Center - it was so awful that I had to throw it out! I will remember to eat something tonight before the convention starts.

Also, we have assigned seating at the convention. My friend Julie saved me a seat. I had gotten a call from the Hillary coordinator telling me to come early so that the Hillary delegation could all get seats together. Well, I thought going to the NJDC event was a lot more interesting that getting to the Pepsi Center early for a good seat.

I met Alice London, the Austin Director for Annie's List. She started talking to me because I was wearing my Carol Kent button. Really enjoyed chatting with her. We were sitting together when they introduced Jimmy Carter. Neither of us applauded.