It is just plain cool to think I could walk the streets of DC and spot the new First Lady. Michelle and Jill Biden met Washington, DC Mayor Adrian Fenty and his wife Michelle for lunch at Georgia Brown's on 15th Street NW. The Obamas are bringing excitement and charisma to this town - the most I president bring in my lifetime. If you were around during the Robert F. Kennedy days, does this new era take you back? From my history courses and the pictures I have seen, the Obamas are the Kennedys of my generation – from their styles to their leadership qualities. Has Washington DC changed? Or, have we returned to the District dynamics from more than 40 years ago?
Since moving here in late 2004, this is my first time witnessing a change in administration and, I can tell you, it has been fascinating. I had to go into the city last week and was 2 blocks away from the House. I couldn't help myself -- I was looking for the Obamas. I think many Americans relate to the new first family because they are normal people just like the rest of us.
The First Family’s normal style is taking the world by storm. Michelle's JCrew green gloves and the little girls' jackets crashed the retailer’s Web site. President Obama is not sporting the jacket in the Oval Office. Washington is often criticized for a lack of style. I strongly disagree. There are boutique districts in Bethesda and Old Towne. And, don’t even get me started on Georgetown and Friendship Heights. DC has style – its own style. Nevertheless, I can’t help but think bringing a sense of normal back to fashion gives a girl like me hope. I can’t drop money at boutiques but sure wish I could. I see women with great outfits and style but spend a fortune to get it. I mean, isn’t what this new administration is about, hope?
The designers Michelle chose to showcase January 20, 2009 were symbolic. Not only does she have a classy, unique style but a true compassion for those that work hard, have passion, and never quite. Her style choices spoke a BIGGER message: support small business! Small businesses should be feeling the hope. She could have any BIG designer but instead she chose designers with a lower profile. Well, Isabel Toleldo and Jason Wu can say good-bye to the quiet lives they once lived! It appears whatever the Obamas touch, do, and eat to turn to gold.
I was warned this town was transient. Recently I have seen a lot more moving trucks along The Pike. There are new cars in my apartment parking lot reflecting license plates from around the globe, new faces in the elevator, new floor neighbors. There is a refreshing vibe everywhere I go.
From my perspective electing Obama is the biggest change in history I have seen. And you?
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
A Purple Sunset: What a Symbolic End to a Historic Day
As this day in history comes to an end, I sit at my kitchen table in my Arlington, VA studio apartment gazing at the purple sunset stretching across the DC sky. Purple: a range of color shades between red and blue on the color spectrum. What a symbolic sign to the end of a day the world will never forget. The purple sky can also remind us there is change in the air - the end to a day for the history books but the beginning of a long, challenging, and rewarding road.
Millions of people from around the globe gathered on the Mall to be part of history. I chose to stay warm and safe in my apartment. But, I feel lucky to have attended the Convention and to have traveled the campaign trail to PA and NH. My blinds have been pulled up all day for a bird's eye view of the Capitol. My 6:30 am wake-up call was sirens, helicopters, and flashing lights. A bit early for a day off but a wake-up call I will NEVER forget. Tomorrow I go back to my clock radio.
This leads me to larger question. Will we all go back to our normal routines tomorrow? Will this energy and enthusiasm continue? The White House Web site http://www.whitehouse.gov/ transferred power at 12:03 pm today. The headline reads "Change has Come to America." Yes, there is a change in Beltway leaders. But, most important, let's remember there is a change happening across America. And, as Obama emphasized today, this change is more about the millions of Americans. Our country has spoken. I encourage you to browse the new White House Web page. I said it before and will say it again. Obama's technology and media team is brilliant. He is the first (of many to come) Internet Presidents.
I am confident this energy and enthusiasm will continue. I am anxious to see what our country does with this new positive vibe. What a wonderful time to be living inside the Beltway.
Millions of people from around the globe gathered on the Mall to be part of history. I chose to stay warm and safe in my apartment. But, I feel lucky to have attended the Convention and to have traveled the campaign trail to PA and NH. My blinds have been pulled up all day for a bird's eye view of the Capitol. My 6:30 am wake-up call was sirens, helicopters, and flashing lights. A bit early for a day off but a wake-up call I will NEVER forget. Tomorrow I go back to my clock radio.
This leads me to larger question. Will we all go back to our normal routines tomorrow? Will this energy and enthusiasm continue? The White House Web site http://www.whitehouse.gov/ transferred power at 12:03 pm today. The headline reads "Change has Come to America." Yes, there is a change in Beltway leaders. But, most important, let's remember there is a change happening across America. And, as Obama emphasized today, this change is more about the millions of Americans. Our country has spoken. I encourage you to browse the new White House Web page. I said it before and will say it again. Obama's technology and media team is brilliant. He is the first (of many to come) Internet Presidents.
I am confident this energy and enthusiasm will continue. I am anxious to see what our country does with this new positive vibe. What a wonderful time to be living inside the Beltway.
Friday, August 29, 2008
That's a Wrap
Sorry for the late post. I have heard from followers that were concerned there was no post yesterday. That makes me so happy because my goal was to be your credible and fun connection to the DNC. Sadly, I am fighting a 101 degree fever. So, this is going to be short and sweet, unlike my day yesterday.
My body has never been this sore and I have never been this tired in my whole life. I headed to Invesco Field @ Mile High at about 11:00 am to get acclimated with the new venue and set-up. I found my way to PIC 4 located on the suite level. Radio and Periodical Row was located there.
I was the first one to the PIC, so I started to set-up the room. There were media coming in asking me what access their Pepsi Center credential got them at Invesco and others had assigned spots at Pepsi and thought that meant they had a spot at Invesco, which was certainly not the case. I really had to learn quickly what was going on and who was supposed to, and allowed to go, where. I called the media logistics line a few times to get all of my questions answered and then worked with another team member to type a FAQ document for the team. I saw it as an opportunity and by the end of the night managers were turning to me for answers. It was a very rewarding feeling.
I did anything from answer questions about how to obtain a floating credential and filing a story to getting the air turned down in CNN radio’s press box. I also helped Vanity Fair find their spot along with getting settled in. I made some connections with Reuters, PBS, and Hearst publications during the week in my tent. It was great to continue to work for them Thursday in a different setting. We chatted and exchanged cards.
When Obama spoke, the suite level was silent. His line about McCain not following Bin Laden into the caves was a hit. Jennifer Hudson was also the talk on level 4.
I think the 38 million eyes on Denver last night, and the millions over the whole week, feel Denver and the Democratic Party could not have ended such a historical and monumental week any stronger. The Green Team did a wonderful job of keeping Denver clean, residents were welcoming, and the weather was perfect. Obama’s speech drew more than 80,000 attendees. Unfortunately, Springsteen and Bon Jovi was a big rumor. There was also talk that Dave Matthew’s Band was going to make a surprise appearance.
The only negative about Invesco, from what I heard, was the transportation. But, we must remember everyone was just starting to get Pepsi down and then had to pick-up shop and settle in a new environment.
I will never forget last night and surly never forget the week. I am glad I documented each day for myself and for you! Who knows, maybe I will just have to continue blogging.
Have a fun and safe holiday. Your 2008 convention girl always, Stephanie
My body has never been this sore and I have never been this tired in my whole life. I headed to Invesco Field @ Mile High at about 11:00 am to get acclimated with the new venue and set-up. I found my way to PIC 4 located on the suite level. Radio and Periodical Row was located there.
I was the first one to the PIC, so I started to set-up the room. There were media coming in asking me what access their Pepsi Center credential got them at Invesco and others had assigned spots at Pepsi and thought that meant they had a spot at Invesco, which was certainly not the case. I really had to learn quickly what was going on and who was supposed to, and allowed to go, where. I called the media logistics line a few times to get all of my questions answered and then worked with another team member to type a FAQ document for the team. I saw it as an opportunity and by the end of the night managers were turning to me for answers. It was a very rewarding feeling.
I did anything from answer questions about how to obtain a floating credential and filing a story to getting the air turned down in CNN radio’s press box. I also helped Vanity Fair find their spot along with getting settled in. I made some connections with Reuters, PBS, and Hearst publications during the week in my tent. It was great to continue to work for them Thursday in a different setting. We chatted and exchanged cards.
When Obama spoke, the suite level was silent. His line about McCain not following Bin Laden into the caves was a hit. Jennifer Hudson was also the talk on level 4.
I think the 38 million eyes on Denver last night, and the millions over the whole week, feel Denver and the Democratic Party could not have ended such a historical and monumental week any stronger. The Green Team did a wonderful job of keeping Denver clean, residents were welcoming, and the weather was perfect. Obama’s speech drew more than 80,000 attendees. Unfortunately, Springsteen and Bon Jovi was a big rumor. There was also talk that Dave Matthew’s Band was going to make a surprise appearance.
The only negative about Invesco, from what I heard, was the transportation. But, we must remember everyone was just starting to get Pepsi down and then had to pick-up shop and settle in a new environment.
I will never forget last night and surly never forget the week. I am glad I documented each day for myself and for you! Who knows, maybe I will just have to continue blogging.
Have a fun and safe holiday. Your 2008 convention girl always, Stephanie
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
The Power of a Moment: Hillary, Hillary and More Hillary
Hillary is still my hero. And, after last night, she is now more than ever before. Last night, she looked like a president; she spoke like a president; and she made an impact like a president. I had the privilege to be on the floor during her moment. I am young and Hillary got me excited about our political system.
As I stood in line for my morning chai at Perk's in the Grand Hyatt, I heard some weeping. The woman in front of me was crying. I tried cheering her up by pointing out some adorable $4 donkey cookies sitting in the pastry case. But, I quickly came to learn her tears were for Hillary. Then I started to cry.
Reporters are critiquing every line of her speech. Could she have been more blunt? Were her words sincere? Is Chelsey planning on getting into politics? Yes, she could have been more blunt but for the first time in a long time, she was 100% herself. No one can take that away from Hill. She has worked too long and hard for that moment. I think her words couldn't have been more than sincere. And, I do think Chelsey will jump into the political ring someday.
On my way to Harry's book party, I stumbled across a small group of women and men protesting for Hillary. This group is mad at the party because they took Hillary's votes away. I am supporting Obama because I support the party. But, it was a out-of-mind experience. I found myself on the grass with this group. I wasn't chanting with them. It was out of curiosity. I wanted to know why they couldn't move forward. I wondered if they thought their actions separate, and not bring together, the party. There was too much anger and disappointment on their end to even get a straight answer. This is when I was interviewed for a documentary. See below.
I think I could go either way on this issue, but at this point, I think what all Hillary supports must keep in mind is: IT IS WHAT IT IS, and anything is better than 4 more years of the 8 we have just had. If Obama is her candidate, then Obama is my candidate.
CELEBRITY TALK: I spotted Reverend Sharpton in the lobby of the Grand Hyatt during my daily coffee run. I also ran into Marc, my friend from Bradley University who invited mom and I to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's book signing party. I met Harry too! Mom and I sat with some great ladies - Lorette from Georgia and Karen from California. Some of my association colleagues were at the party too. But, I never did see any books.
If you think this is good, I found Charlize and her boyfriend downing beers at The Market at about 5ish. One woman went up and asked her if she was in fact Charlize. The movie star apparently answered, "No. I am 15 pounds heavier than her." OK, sorry but it was so her. The word is she hates reporters like myself and lies about being her all the time.
Oh, in case you didn't get the alert, I am a celebrity now. I was interviewed for a documentary. The California-based production company plans to inform me of when the movie will be out for release.
And, again, you heard it here first. Bon Jovi and Springsteen will be performing at tomorrow's Obama acceptance speech. I will be there so look for the girl with curly hair. It should not be that hard to spot me in the crown of 70,000. The logistics that go along with switching from one venue to another venue is historic. And, considering so much is still up in the air logistically, I think it is going to be stressful on all staff.
Blue is now the new color of the night. Jill, Joe's mom, and Michelle were all sporting it tonight and I have to say it looked phenomenal.
FOOD and ENTERTAINMENT: This goes out to a special person with a unique question. No, there is NO Guitar Hero on the Pepsi Center compound. But, what were they thinking? That would have been fabulous. Politicians in bow ties and suits jamming out to oldies but goodies.
The food at Pepsi Center is delicious and even better that it is free. FirstData is distributing $10 gift cards that can be used for food and merchandise in the Pepsi Center. What a great way to promote FirstData's new gift card. When I was an intern at Schenkein, I was on the FirstData account. It wouldn't surprise me if Schenkein had their hands in this amazing promotional campaign. The one item of food that you can't purchase with the gift card is Donkey Donuts. I plan to purchase tomorrow and report on ASAP. CNN Grill has been handing out free vanilla ice cream with red and blue sprinkles everyday from 4-5 pm. Tamayo, the location for Harry's fiesta, has some tasty modern Mexican and some strong margaritas. If you are ever in Denver, this is mandatory stop. Oh, the priorities.
COLORADANS CRAVING POWER: A lady eating linner on Larimer Square stopped me and asked, "How do I get myself one of those things? I want to be a delegate and vote. I give a lot of money to the Colorado Democratic Party." This goes along with my post from yesterday. These credentials are getting out of control. In fact, I was standing near the restroom with my binder in one hand and Blackberry in the other. Folks started flashing their credentials at me thinking I was security. I never thought flashing and power would go hand-in-hand. I guess anything is possible at the DNC.
Quote of the Day: A DNCC manager: "Hey, it's a convention. What more is there to do than party?"
It is true. People are here to party. I pick-up a copy of a special DNC edition of The Washington Post every morning. And, what are the only 2 sections included in this special section? News and Style. Does that tell you anything?
I am exhausted and came home early to soak my feet. Your DNC2008 gal, Stephanie
The Word on the Street...
Here are some snippets of conversation snatched from shuttle and train rides. And, I will be honest, some are my own opinions and event re-caps.
* Orange is Hillary's color! Why didn't she start wearing it earlier?
* Hill's speech was the best speech some of us will hear in a lifetime. There were tears and joy for hours following the speech -- on my shuttle, train, and walk. People couldn't get enough of Hill. Her Twin Cities joke won the crowd over: "With an agenda like that, it makes sense that George Bush and John McCain will be together next week in the Twin Cities. Because these days they're awfully hard to tell apart."
* Why did the fire marshals kick reporters out of the Pepsi Center?
* The E line Southbound on Light Rail was running late because there was white powder found on one train. And, there was a shooting at a stop in Aurora. More to come on this tomorrow.
* Denver is hosting everyone PERFECT! All of the convention goers I have talked to can't say enough great things about the Mile High City.
* Bill Clinton was mouthing, during Hill's speech, "I Love That Woman! I Love That Woman!"
* Mark Warner was wearing far too much make-up.
* I helped Newsweek's Jonathan Alter and his family get to the NBC tent.
* I ran into another gal, Jennifer, from my childhood. Apparently, Denver still is a small city.
* Caroline Kennedy's remarks seem to have wone over Hill supporters more than Hill's words. Caroline reminded democrats that we must vote for the party!
* From what I have been told, Republicans are now tracking my blog. The elephants just can't get enough of us now can they? Rudy this morning and Mitt, I just learned about. Who's next?
Quote of the Day: A woman at the Orchard Light Rail stop: "Michelle's dress from last night reminds me of curtain fabric. Oy, her designer!"
* Orange is Hillary's color! Why didn't she start wearing it earlier?
* Hill's speech was the best speech some of us will hear in a lifetime. There were tears and joy for hours following the speech -- on my shuttle, train, and walk. People couldn't get enough of Hill. Her Twin Cities joke won the crowd over: "With an agenda like that, it makes sense that George Bush and John McCain will be together next week in the Twin Cities. Because these days they're awfully hard to tell apart."
* Why did the fire marshals kick reporters out of the Pepsi Center?
* The E line Southbound on Light Rail was running late because there was white powder found on one train. And, there was a shooting at a stop in Aurora. More to come on this tomorrow.
* Denver is hosting everyone PERFECT! All of the convention goers I have talked to can't say enough great things about the Mile High City.
* Bill Clinton was mouthing, during Hill's speech, "I Love That Woman! I Love That Woman!"
* Mark Warner was wearing far too much make-up.
* I helped Newsweek's Jonathan Alter and his family get to the NBC tent.
* I ran into another gal, Jennifer, from my childhood. Apparently, Denver still is a small city.
* Caroline Kennedy's remarks seem to have wone over Hill supporters more than Hill's words. Caroline reminded democrats that we must vote for the party!
* From what I have been told, Republicans are now tracking my blog. The elephants just can't get enough of us now can they? Rudy this morning and Mitt, I just learned about. Who's next?
Quote of the Day: A woman at the Orchard Light Rail stop: "Michelle's dress from last night reminds me of curtain fabric. Oy, her designer!"
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
EXCLUSIVE - Giuliani Makes A Surprise Visit to DNC
Yes, blog followers, you heard it here first. OK, well second. Rudy Giuliani, for some reason or another, decided to show his face here at the DNC. The art exhibit he was visiting was not on the Pepsi Center compound. There is a TON of buzz!
Day 2 - A Caste System Forms in What Used to be a Small City
Yesterday was my first official day on the job. I was so tired and sore last night, I came home and went straight to bed. But, I did catch the Michelle speech on TV. Why did I not just watch Michelle LIVE? It all comes down to the credential, or so I learned very quickly.
I arrived at the Colorado Convention Center for check-in and credential pick-up at 8:30 am sharp. As they called my name, I said “here” and was handed a perimeter credential. This meant I could get into the grounds of Pepsi Center but could not enter the actual arena. I am stationed outside anyway so that would make sense. But, I was upgraded to an arena credential. I thought this meant I would get to see Michelle, Teddy and Hillary speak. So did the other volunteers.
After a long day of work and walking 20 blocks to the Darfur Exhibit with Ally Walter and then 20 blocks back to witness last night’s speeches, I learned the arena credential gets me inside Pepsi Center but not into the hall. The hall credential is purple and mine was orange. However, the arena pass does allow me to watch the speeches unedited and on a large, digital TV. I made a little spot for me on the marble floor, bought some popcorn and teared up when Teddy came on. A superstar usher also allowed me inside the hall briefly for some quick pics.
The credential is a real power symbol. I have noticed everyone looks down at each other’s credentials. It is quick way to make a judgment and gauge individual importance. Looks like I am right in the middle - the safest place to be.
I ran into an old co-worker Ben from PorterNovelli in the Grand Hyatt lobby. I also saw a star from my high school’s football team Matt. He works for the Obama campaign.
Celebrity Spotting: Yesterday was a big day. I asked for a photo with James Carville and got it. Also, check out my pictures of Ted Coppel and Terry McAuliffe outside the Colorado Convention Center. Governor Ritter made a quick stop at the Darfur Exhibit.
Fashion Update: It was refreshing to see so many ladies in Privos. That is my shoe of choice. And, I was concerned I would be in the minority but as it seems I am setting a fashion trend. They are so comfortable and now can be seen as “in.” I have seen lots of peace jewelry, awareness bracelets, and more flip flops. Casual does seem to be the way to be. I bailed from The Lure Lounge party. I was too tired and had too many blisters. But, I took more shoe pics last night. There were some crazy ones I saw at the Exhibit party. They looked like ankle braces. I have NO idea where you get these but I don't think I want to. YIKES.
Political Update: I made a huge mistake of leaving Pepsi Center compound, going to the exhibit and then trying to return. There was a mob of people and it took nearly an hour to get through security. I am in tonight and not leaving until I am on the floor to see Hillary. Today and tonight is a tribute to women and I have to be there. Wish me luck.
From what I have heard, the platform was set last night but is not available to the public quite yet. When I learn more, I pass along to you.
I have never been more proud to call Denver my home. I have always believed Denver will have a special place in my heart. Everyone has truly stepped up the plate to host thousands of people with nothing but smiles. I left Denver 4 years ago but Denver will NEVER leave me.
I arrived at the Colorado Convention Center for check-in and credential pick-up at 8:30 am sharp. As they called my name, I said “here” and was handed a perimeter credential. This meant I could get into the grounds of Pepsi Center but could not enter the actual arena. I am stationed outside anyway so that would make sense. But, I was upgraded to an arena credential. I thought this meant I would get to see Michelle, Teddy and Hillary speak. So did the other volunteers.
After a long day of work and walking 20 blocks to the Darfur Exhibit with Ally Walter and then 20 blocks back to witness last night’s speeches, I learned the arena credential gets me inside Pepsi Center but not into the hall. The hall credential is purple and mine was orange. However, the arena pass does allow me to watch the speeches unedited and on a large, digital TV. I made a little spot for me on the marble floor, bought some popcorn and teared up when Teddy came on. A superstar usher also allowed me inside the hall briefly for some quick pics.
The credential is a real power symbol. I have noticed everyone looks down at each other’s credentials. It is quick way to make a judgment and gauge individual importance. Looks like I am right in the middle - the safest place to be.
I ran into an old co-worker Ben from PorterNovelli in the Grand Hyatt lobby. I also saw a star from my high school’s football team Matt. He works for the Obama campaign.
Celebrity Spotting: Yesterday was a big day. I asked for a photo with James Carville and got it. Also, check out my pictures of Ted Coppel and Terry McAuliffe outside the Colorado Convention Center. Governor Ritter made a quick stop at the Darfur Exhibit.
Fashion Update: It was refreshing to see so many ladies in Privos. That is my shoe of choice. And, I was concerned I would be in the minority but as it seems I am setting a fashion trend. They are so comfortable and now can be seen as “in.” I have seen lots of peace jewelry, awareness bracelets, and more flip flops. Casual does seem to be the way to be. I bailed from The Lure Lounge party. I was too tired and had too many blisters. But, I took more shoe pics last night. There were some crazy ones I saw at the Exhibit party. They looked like ankle braces. I have NO idea where you get these but I don't think I want to. YIKES.
Political Update: I made a huge mistake of leaving Pepsi Center compound, going to the exhibit and then trying to return. There was a mob of people and it took nearly an hour to get through security. I am in tonight and not leaving until I am on the floor to see Hillary. Today and tonight is a tribute to women and I have to be there. Wish me luck.
From what I have heard, the platform was set last night but is not available to the public quite yet. When I learn more, I pass along to you.
I have never been more proud to call Denver my home. I have always believed Denver will have a special place in my heart. Everyone has truly stepped up the plate to host thousands of people with nothing but smiles. I left Denver 4 years ago but Denver will NEVER leave me.
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