tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26245609537564200932024-03-05T03:31:34.835-05:00Ann Zucker...Who I amAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-60287160266252354872010-08-08T10:10:00.001-04:002010-08-08T10:12:04.885-04:00Voting RecommendationsDear Friends<br /><br />As many of you know, I have spent the summer getting to know many of these candidates personally. I am basing my recommendations on the results of that quest. In the case of the judges, I have tried to endorse those who think the same way I do. While party affiliation is not supposed to be a factor, in some cases it had to be. Candidates who donated heavily to the Republican party (George Bush, Clay Shaw etc.) were not candidates I felt would make judgments representing the way I felt. Some of these were very hard to choose from, but I did the best I could. While I found that almost all were qualified, I needed to choose the person I felt would be best suited from each individual race. I did not use incumbency as a yardstick. Some incumbents were fabulous at what they did and there were some whose time had come and who needed to step down. The names I bolded were of candidates that I got to know really well and fell in love with :-). They are young, fresh, enthusiastic and would do us proud on the bench. It's been quite a summer :-)<br /><br />Please use these recommendations in the spirit in which they were intended. They are only a guide and the way I feel. Feel perfectly free to pass these recommendations on to your voting lists, making any changes you feel are necessary.<br /><br />Happy voting!!!!!!!<br /><br />UNITED STATES SENATOR Kendrick B. Meek<br />ATTORNEY GENERAL Dan Gelber<br />STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 94 Hazelle P. Rogers<br />COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 4 Ken Keechl<br />COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 6 Suzanne Gunzberger<br />COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 8 Angelo Castillo<br />COUNTY COMMISSION DISTRICT 9 Dale Holness <br /><br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 2 Kenneth L. Gillespie<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 4 Elijah H. Williams<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 6 Carlos Rodriguez<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 9 Susan Lebow<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 15 Robert Abraham Jakovich<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 22 Carlos Rebollo<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 23 Barbara Anne McCarthy<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 24 Olga Levine<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 47 Lisa Porter<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 51 Sandra Perlman<br />CIRCUIT JUDGE GROUP 53 Eileen M. O’Connor<br /><br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 1 John Howes<br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 3 Peter Skolnick<br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 4 Lloyd Golburgh.<br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 12 John (Jay) Hurley<br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 13 Linda R. Pratt<br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 14 Mary Rudd Robinson<br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 15 Mindy Solomon<br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 20 Steven Schaet<br />COUNTY JUDGE GROUP 26 Nathaniel Klitsberg<br /><br />SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 1 Ann Murray<br />SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 2 Patti Good <br />SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 4 Robert Mayersohn<br />SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 6 Laurie Rich Levenson<br />SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 7 Nora Rupert<br />SCHOOL BOARD DISTRICT 8 Nick Sakhnofsky<br /><br />Remember, this is only a guide and my opinions. Please take it in the spirit in which it is offered :-)Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-45950787711689022822010-05-08T07:02:00.006-04:002010-05-08T07:24:45.593-04:00This year's August electionsLately there has been a lot of hue and cry over judges and other officials (normally elected) who were unfortunate enough to draw opponents. The hue and cry stems from the fact that these judges, county officials, and even a school board member were appointed to their position and therefore deserve that position for life, or their term limits, whatever comes first.<br /><br />These judicials and others were never elected to positions by the people and in most cases, the people don't even know who they are. Yet, they and their entourages, feel entitled. They are mortified. How dare they be challenged.<br /><br />Well, I personally feel that they should be challenged. An appointment by Jeb Bush or Charlie Crist is not, in my opinion, a mandate to keep an elected official. This is not to say that they are bad judges, or officials. I am simply saying that it is time the public had a say over their tenure in the position.<br /><br />I see nothing wrong with an appointed judge having to prove himself to the public he or she serves. I see nothing wrong with an appointed school board member or county commissioner having to seek the validation of the population. I have a major problem with a judicial coming to me for support and explaining that they were appointed because they were the best for the job. We all know that isn't true. I think I also am totally insulted with that line.<br /><br />There are some cases where the appointed judicial happens to be wonderful in that position and I am proud to be supporting that person. I will say, however, that it is not always the case. I truly resent the sense of entitlement that I am hearing from judges who were appointed to that position. They are sure they own the judicial role. I also feel that way with judicials who were elected many years ago and do not want to have to go through an election again.<br /><br />My position on all this is that no one is elected to any position for life here in Broward County. We need our elected officials, all of them, to keep proving to us that they are the best for the job. They, above all, should understand this. The crying needs to stop!Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-2779629908712358942010-04-17T09:36:00.003-04:002010-04-17T18:56:55.246-04:00History Repeats Itself<div>As a teenager growing up, I always was told that I needed to make sure I took care of my little sister. When she was around eleven, she came to me crying hysterically that kids were throwing rocks at her. Despite my advanced age (I was 18), I went to those kids and started throwing rocks at them (my mother was furious, and rightly so), but no one messed with my sister. I think I scared those kids half to death.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>When my son was young, we were in the Library one day when a group of Juvenile Delinquents cornered him and started throwing books at him. He was terrified, and when I got there, I determined that I would protect him at all costs. I chased those kids into the middle of a New York street and with traffic flowing both ways, I caught one of them and spanked him. Quite a spectacle.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>When Sharon was growing up, and was picked on by a teacher in the middle of the rotunda at her high school, I called the principal and explained that if that teacher did not publicly apologize to my daughter and undo the embarrassment that she was caused, this story would be in every newspaper in New York City as well as in the courts. I also explained that I fully expected my daughter to receive an "A" in her coursework so her college applications were not affected. Sharon was protected.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>When my husband was rendered paralyzed by ALS, there was a situation where he fell getting into a County sponsored limo and was left there, on the floor, by the driver. I was furious. The owner of that Limo service is probably still shaking by the explanation of what was going to happen to him, his service and his very lucrative County contract unless my husband received a full apology from him, the driver was fired, and my husband was treated royally from that time on.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>I'm sure that those who know me remember all of these events quite well!</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>Bottom line here.....I will fight to the death to protect those I love. No one messes with my loved ones without having to deal with me...and that is not always a pleasant experience!</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>I am getting that same feeling now, watching my kids lose their educational benefits due to a top heavy, selfish, wasteful, school Administration and I am determined to protect them at all costs. Many people have applauded the fact that I am apparently relentless in my quest to see that this damage does not happen. They don't understand that for me this is just as personal as those incidents reported above.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>I inherited my love of Broadway musical theater from music and drama classes starting in the elementary schools. My school library was my second home and I loved seeing my friends (note that it was never me) winning their competitions in their gym classes. These were the things that I loved about school and that love of education is with me to this day. </div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>We are in a situation here in Broward County where administrative waste and excess is threatening to take all those things from our kids. I won't bore you by listing all the ridiculous excesses, they can easily be found elsewhere. I will say that I will fight to the death to make sure that it does not happen. I am hearing school board members blame it on administration and I find it mind boggling. To begin with...who works for whom? I don't ever remember voting for a school Superintendent or an Area Director. I do remember voting for school board members and I know that I have the power to help reelect them if I so choose. I will only choose to work with those who are working with our public.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>We did an amazing thing this week. The strength of the public lobbying here in Florida was so intense that we caused a Republican governor to veto a Republican bill and ensure that our teachers did not get the short end of the educational stick on a state wide level. Too many people are resting on those laurels and not remembering that though teachers on the higher level were protected, a large number of our elementary school teachers have been cut or eliminated from their positions. It is going to take a major battle to reach the public and get the outpouring of emotion that saved our teachers salary and tenure. Here in Broward county, what is the good of salary and tenure if there is no job.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>What is the good of an educational system that is not well rounded for our kids. What is the good of a school system that takes the joy out of the educational system. What is the good of an educational system that focuses purely on academics without bringing out the creativity of our children.</div><br /><div> </div><br /><div>This needs to change and we need to alert everyone to the power of their vote. You have that power, you just need to use it.</div>Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-47964928634501539062009-04-25T16:38:00.002-04:002009-04-25T16:48:12.261-04:00Life seems so short<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ilV5K8tw_6o&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ilV5K8tw_6o&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />This is a clip of Bea Arthur and Angela Lansbury doing the "Bosom Buddies" act that they created in the show "Mame". The song, as the singers, have always been favorites of mine. These were beautiful women who dealt with the aging process with grace, retaining their feminity and beauty. They were funny, sharp, creative women who seemed to have it all. They were my role models. They were doing what I always wanted to do. Performing and having a wonderful time.<br /><br />They are no more. Bea Arthur passed away today. She was 86 years old. That alone was an incredible shock to me. How could she be 86 years old, when in my mind she was somewhere in her early 60's.<br /><br />My mother had a saying. She would turn to us and say "They could shoot me dead 6 times, but they will never kill me". I believed her. Her death was a double shock to me. The first for the obvious reason that she was my wonderful, beautiful, charismatic, and lively mother,,,and the other was that they did kill her. She was wrong. <br /><br />I felt that way about Bea Arthur as well. She was an indomitable woman with strength and determination second to none. Just recently she was on stage here in South Florida and enchanting all who saw her. I missed that performance, but was eagerly awaiting the next one. There won't be a next one. I feel terrible. I shouldn't have been so cavalier about missing that performance.<br /><br />There is a lesson to be learned here. I'm not sure exactly what it is and need to crystalize my thoughts. It will come to me, but until it does......<br />Rest in peace Bea Arthur....your admirers will miss you.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-14377911954696827762009-01-31T19:21:00.002-05:002009-01-31T20:19:51.606-05:0025 Things About MeMy daughter dared me to write 25 things about me on my Facebook page. These are the things that I came up with. Basically this is who I am.<br /><br />1. I am basically a very lazy person. My most comfortable days are when I don't get dressed.<br /><br />2. I am happiest when I am curled up in the recliner with a good book.<br /><br />3. I am an obsessive collector. I can't just have one of something I like - I buy in bulk<br /><br />4. I am the eternal optimist. I always try to see whatever bright side exists.<br /><br />5. I am very high maintenance. I require a lot to exist.<br /><br />6. I am vain. I like to look nice and work real hard at it. I passed that trait down to Sharon, but then again, she always looks nice.<br /><br />7. I just had a birthday and it had to be one of the most painful days of my life. The older I get, the more I cherish my old friends.<br /><br />8. I am very fortunate that I have a wonderful family. It wasn't easy, but when you work at it, it comes together.<br /><br />9. My son lives in New York and it kills me. I know that he is where he needs to be and where he belongs, but I wish he felt that way when he lived down in Florida.<br /><br />10. My daughter lives around the corner from me and I feel wonderfully fortunate that she allows me to be part of her day to day life.<br /><br />11. Sharon's husband Darren is an absolute saint. Not only does he put up with my daughter, but he puts up with me as well and I'm not easy!!!<br /><br />12. My sister and her family are now part of my every day existence. It was not an easy process, but we had to grow into our feelings and I think we finally made it. We also have more in common now than ever before.<br /><br />13, I have a niece that was part of my world before and is part of my world again. She is also part of me.<br /><br />14. ADHD is a family trait. My father's family is rife with it and I unfortunately passed it on to my son and my niece. My Emma is also ADHD the way we were. I know just what she is experiencing.<br /><br />15. I wanted to be a musical comedy star when I was growing up. My favorite role was Ado Annie in Oklahoma and I performed it in school plays.<br /><br />16. I passed my love of theater down to my children. Emma and Camryn are the only kids that age that know the lyrics to showtunes.<br /><br />17. I also passed down my love of performing. My daughter was a theater major and Emma takes drama classes. Larry did stand up comedy and made entertainment interviews the lynchpin of his profession.<br /><br />18. I get very scared that one day I will not be able to handle the myriad things life throws at me.<br /><br />19. I get scared that more will be thrown at me and I really think I've had enough.<br /><br />20. I nursed my mother through cancer and my husband through five years of ALS. I want this to be my time.<br /><br />21. I am very scatterbrained. I am constantly locking my keys in my car and calling Darren to come and unlock the car for me.<br /><br />22. I have a minor focus problem. It takes me a minute to process what is said - sometimes people think I don't hear them, but what really happens is that I need to process.<br /><br />23. I am a very private person. I can go on for hours about things that really mean nothing to me, but rarely communicate the things that are very important.<br /><br />24. I have a tendency to block unpleasant things from my memory. People and incidents where I was left hurting just stop to exist in my world.<br /><br />25. My mother was a beautiful woman but my father was the person that I idolized all mylife.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-17859426481296615782008-11-02T13:09:00.001-05:002008-11-02T13:09:32.472-05:00It's Not Over Till It's Over......…and that hasn’t happened yet. I am getting increasingly nervous about the number of undecided voters showing up in the polls. Are they really undecided or afraid to be labeled as one thing or another (I think the word I am having trouble with is racist).<br />The antidote for this is to make sure that every vote that can be cast has been cast. Here, in Florida, we expend a lot of energy on getting out the vote, but that goes for my friends in other states as well. Please make sure that everyone you know votes, and votes correctly. No one can be complacent enough to decide that their vote is really not necessary. Their vote is very necessary and becoming more so with each poll that comes out on realclearpolitics.com.<br />This email is to not request, but rather to beseech you to help in your area to get out the vote. Guilt them into it if you need to, but I beg you – do whatever you need to do to help us get out the vote…wherever you live….no matter how partisan the area may be. Use the vision of Sarah Palin if that will help. Again, pull out all the stops.<br />There is that great video going around where you insert a name and blame just one person for the wrong guy winning. That is almost not funny.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-38003190033409453382008-10-12T08:03:00.003-04:002008-10-12T08:12:16.475-04:00Getting Closer to the ElectionYesterday, I observed the Obama field workers in action. It was really something to see. We had over 250 volunteers from Weston, my home town. The demographics ran the gamut from high school students to 90 year old men and women. The word of the day was enthusiasm. Another word might be joy.<br /><br />You could tell from the electricity in the room, that there was a real chance for the state to go Democratic....something we are not usually used to. We were told that there would be a team of the best lawyers in the country at our beck and call for any emergency that might happen....very reassuring when you live in Florida. As a Democratic Leader, I really felt statewide victory and came away elated.<br /><br />I somehow became very emotionally engaged in this election. I dislike the Republican team so intently and adore the Democratic team. I really do see hope when Obama Biden is in charge of our country. I just wish it was all over already. It almost is. Absentee ballots were received Friday and I will be voting today. At least it will be over for me.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-26561329767713176172008-08-30T00:18:00.006-04:002008-08-31T23:43:40.086-04:00My dance with Mo Rocca on the Leno showThis one was the Leno piece - I thought Mo was just a very rude delegate. I didn't realize that he was joking until I saw the Tonight show microphone. Once I saw that I played along and we had a great time - but my son was correct.....boy did I look stupid!!! <br /><br />Funny thing, though.....my family told me to avoid Comedy Central at all costs....they just forgot to mention the Tonight Show<br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /><object type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://widgets.nbc.com/o/4727a250e66f9723/48b8cae67abb6782/4741e3c5156499a7/fa1a6a4" id="W4727a250e66f972348b8cae67abb6782" height="283" width="384"><param value="http://widgets.nbc.com/o/4727a250e66f9723/48b8cae67abb6782/4741e3c5156499a7/fa1a6a4" name="movie"><param value="transparent" name="wmode"><param value="all" name="allowNetworking"><param value="always" name="allowScriptAccess"></object><br /></span>Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-90852340706068063082008-08-31T17:33:00.001-04:002008-08-31T17:35:22.878-04:00Note From Karen Thurman, Florida Democratic Party ChairShe put it so well - that really was what it was like:<br /><br />Dear Friends,<br /> <br />I just wanted to write you all a quick note saying thank you for helping make the 2008 Democratic Convention a success. I think we all had a great time seeing old friends, meeting new ones, watching history being made, and working together.<br /> <br />I have heard from so many friends across the nation about how the Florida delegation always seemed to be at the center of everything. People noticed that our delegation was most enthusiastic and fun delegation – constantly dancing and partying on the convention floor. They commented positively on our delegations coordinated dress – whether it was the tropical/Florida attire; the red, white, and blue dress complete with the blinking Mickey Mouse necklaces; or the Obama themed night.<br /> <br />The beach balls flying around our delegation were also noted – and several other delegations copied the idea on Thursday night. I don’t even need to mention the great seats that we had all week.<br /> <br />Floridians lead the lineup at the podium with Rep. Robert Wexler, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Rep. Kendrick Meek, Rep. Kathy Castor, Miami Mayor Manny Diaz, Marine Corps Gen. John Estrada (Orlando), Janet Lynn Monaco (Brevard), Pastor Joel Hunter (Northland) all speaking. Iraq War Veteran Mike Wilson (Brevard) had the unique honor of nominating Barack Obama.<br /> <br />The Villages resident Marsha Shearer was one of ten people nationwide who were chosen to meet with Senator Obama during the convention through the Backstage with Barack online program.<br /> <br />While many people, including Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton, Joe Biden and others gave inspiring speeches, Barack Obama’s was one for the history books. He looked and sounded presidential while making the case for how he will bring the change we need to America. Obama laid out his detailed policy platform, spelling out how he will rebuild our economy and keep our nation safe. He also illustrated how John McCain represents more of the same, including questioning McCain’s judgment in supporting George W. Bush more than 90% of the time.<br /> <br />While I regret that there were some logistical issues that arose during the week, many of which were unfortunately out of our control, I think we had an extremely successful convention. If you had any specific issues that you would like to discuss or great memories you would like to share, please feel free to contact me.<br /> <br />As always I look forward to working with you as we continue building the wave of support to elect Democrats up and down the ticket.<br /> <br />Sincerely, <br /> <br />KarenAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-25731118977442131262008-08-31T11:04:00.003-04:002008-08-31T11:06:14.023-04:00Cinderella Is Back From The Ball....sigh<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEm0ZMfXFWOR4eNcWzH_Y3xV9AzVv7Mwh5z-OtotNNQe_xj6jgQa3mQ7NAE_kISo5Lu4tDHcZUBHQr8_UCvww_Vsobp77EwpXcaJ8HDT3hsmo-4sdhxEaTEMroyI-jHO8wZ7RZ9cgU9T8/s1600-h/sunsentinel.com"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEm0ZMfXFWOR4eNcWzH_Y3xV9AzVv7Mwh5z-OtotNNQe_xj6jgQa3mQ7NAE_kISo5Lu4tDHcZUBHQr8_UCvww_Vsobp77EwpXcaJ8HDT3hsmo-4sdhxEaTEMroyI-jHO8wZ7RZ9cgU9T8/s320/sunsentinel.com" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5240698026638611922" /></a>Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-46106268708078729462008-08-29T10:23:00.004-04:002008-08-29T11:07:54.193-04:00The Celebration Is Over - Time To Get To WorkIncredible experience. That is the only way that I can express yesterday's convention sendoff.<br /><br />Our day started with our delegation breakfast where we were told that things were not going to be easy that day and that we should get to the field very early. The convention <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">buses</span> were starting at 2:30, but shuttles downtown with rail transport was available.<br /><br />I had little or no patience to sit and wait for the delegation bus - so off I went to brave beautiful downtown Denver and the "common people"! Turns out my trip was a great adventure.<br /><br />I hooked up immediately with two guys who had both traveled from far places. One was from Bermuda and the other one was from West Palm. Neither one of these guys had tickets to the event, but they had traveled to Denver to be part of the happening. As it turns out, both got tickets. I was blown away. Almost everyone on the train was going to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Invesco</span> Field. All lived far away and traveled by plane and none were convention delegates. All were drawn by the incredible historic evening.<br /><br />The event at the field was not to be believed. The delegates were seated on the floor and Florida's spot was directly in front of the podium. All of our elected officials from Bob Graham and Bill Nelson down were sitting with the delegation. Celebrities were walking around and mingling with everyone and it was common place to walk with the likes of Jesse Jackson.<br /><br />The amazing thing was that we were sitting and looking up at the stands. They were filled to capacity. All 80,000 were cheering, holding signs and out there with the moment.<br /><br />The speakers started to come out. Noteworthy were Al Gore and, of course, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Barak</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Obama</span>. Gore was incredible. He looked wonderful, lost both weight and the beard, and was sharp and on task. He ripped into the Republicans and Republican tactics. He reminded us of what was done to him and assured us that would not happen again. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Barak</span> would not allow it.<br /><br />Stevie Wonder and Cheryl Crow were among the entertainers and the crowd went wild. The dancing in the aisles reached its crescendo by the time <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Barack</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Obama</span> came to the podium. The crowd was blown away. His speech aced everything that could possibly be thrown at him. His positions were made clear and euphoria was everywhere, from the delegation down front to the people in the farthest reaches of the stadium. Fireworks exploded, confetti rained down (red, white, and blue). We were all standing on chairs watching <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Barack</span> and Joe with their families waving and cheering along with us.<br /><br />Yes, if this convention did nothing else, it brought Senators <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Obama</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Biden</span> into the mainstream and they are now <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Barack</span> and Michelle, Joe and Jill, people of the people. Our candidates were sold throughout this convention as down home people and we bought it, hook, line and sinker. We fell in love with our candidates and I know the Florida delegation will go back and work like hell to bring in this slate.<br /><br />The mood on the bus going back to the hotel was camp style. We were calling across the bus and cheering all the way to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Stapleton</span>. We all went into the bar, where <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">MSNBC</span> was replaying the evening, and became silly teenagers again. What fun that was, but like all good things, must come to an end. This is just the beginning.<br /><br />My roommate had a meeting of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">DNC</span> downtown this morning, and I am going to take my book to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Panera</span> and chill out. After that I intend to do what every red blooded woman does. I'm going shopping. It is time to see if Denver malls are any different from any others. I will be back home tomorrow and ready for the next big event in my life.<br /><br />My Emma is being Bat <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Mitzvah</span> a week from Saturday. Very big party. We have family arriving from different parts of the country. Time to start concentrating on family.<br /><br />Have a wonderful day everyone and get out and make sure everyone you know votes for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Obama</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Biden</span> ticket.....you know, my friends <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Barack</span> and Joe.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-89675519532182123342008-08-28T02:40:00.002-04:002008-08-28T03:06:32.996-04:00The Best Night YetEach session, I decide is the best one yet. Nothing can top it. Wrong...the session we had today was the best ever. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">OMG</span> we had everything, including hometown heroes.<br /><br />The first order of business was the placing in nomination of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Barack</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Obama</span> for President of the United States. The name was put into play by our own Debbie <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Wassserman</span> Schultz. I am President of Debbie's home club, so it became a particularly personal moment for me. I was very proud.<br /><br />Once that was taken care of we had the roll call vote. The vote was stopped when it got to New York as Senator Hillary <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Rodham</span> Clinton moved that we nominate <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Barack</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Obama</span> by acclamation, thereby ensuring a show of a united party to all the outsiders. The roll call vote was exactly the way it appears in the movies, with each state touting itself and then announcing it's totals. When Hillary came to her state's mike, the room went crazy.<br /><br />John Kerry came out and reinforced the damage that was done to him and that we will never allow to happen again. He was followed by Melissa <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Etheridge</span> who tore the house down with her music. Another favorite Florida son, Representative Robert <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Wexler</span> spoke next with his passion for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Obama</span> and why our country needs him.<br /><br />Finally, the moment we were all waiting for. President Bill Clinton was the next speaker. Bill Clinton was introduced by our own Kendrick Meek. Another feather in South Florida's cap. President Clinton aced his speech and nailed exactly what we needed. He placed <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Barack</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Obama</span> at the helm of the country and likened the campaign to his campaign. The Clinton's were the stars once again.<br /><br />Senator Evan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Bayh</span> of Indiana followed and charmed us with his charismatic personality. I had a chance to speak with him. He thanked me for my efforts in Florida and I thanked him for his efforts for the country.<br /><br />By this time, the room was rocking. We were all dancing and carrying on and because of the placement of the delegation, the media was with us the whole time.<br /><br />Representative <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Pelosi</span> then came out and asked for a motion to accept the nomination of Joe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Biden</span> for Vice President. The room screamed out the motion and when it came to seconding, my son told me that according to CNN I was the one who seconded the name of Joe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Biden</span>. How did we ever live without text messaging?<br /><br />Beau <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Biden</span>, Joe's son and the Attorney General for the State of Delaware came out to introduce his father following a biography of Joe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Biden</span>. He is an amazing person and an absolute man of the people. By the way, his wife is a teacher and still teaches. He spoke beautifully and eloquently about the need for change in our country. He talked about his son, who is leaving for deployment to Iraq in October. We were cheering throughout the speech and our cheering reached a crescendo when the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Biden</span> family came out...children, grandchildren, mother, brother, nieces and nephews. The climax to the whole thing came when <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Barack</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Obama</span> marched out to surprise the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Biden</span> family....what a beautiful moment.<br /><br />We were done for the night - it was time. Tomorrow is the big event at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Invesco</span> Field with 80,000 people participating.<br /><br />Oh, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">ane</span> by the way, my son called me as we were on the bus coming back to the hotel to tell me that I was on Jay Leno's show dancing with Mo <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Rocca</span>. He told me I looked silly, but was having lots of fun. That was the case for this whole convention. Definitely the experience of a lifetime.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-58162049135422994192008-08-27T12:41:00.002-04:002008-08-27T13:15:40.826-04:00OMG WHAT A MORNING!!!!!Usually our delegation breakfasts are tepid events. Most of the delegation members are creeping due to long night <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">before</span>. That is exactly the way that this breakfast started. When I came in I made it to my group very slowly and carefully, with my eyes half closed. I explained that mornings are not my finest hour and that they should just ignore my presence. I went to the buffet and filled up on extra coffee prepared to sleep at my table with my eyes wide open.<br /><br />Our first speaker was Senator Bob Graham who is a favorite son in Florida. We all know both Bob and his family, they stay at the hotel with us and travel the delegation bus. This was definitely not a high point and I continued sleepwalking.<br /><br />The next speaker woke me up in spades. That really cool guy from Montana, Governor Brian Schweitzer came up to the podium and within 5 minutes, we were all up on our feel screaming and cheering. This man is the least politician like person I ever met. Dressed down in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">jeans</span> and a string tie, he spoke our language or should I say screamed our language. Whatever he did, it was fabulously effective and he woke up the Florida delegation.<br /><br />Right after the Governor, Rick Minor, who is the Dem chair of Leon County came up to the mike. Rick called his girlfriend up to stand with him. With the entire group watching, he got down on his knees, proposed and gave her a ring. Not a dry eye left in the place.<br /><br />Our next order of business was actual voting. We were told that Hillary had relinquished her pledges and asked people to vote their consciences. We all got in line to receive our ballots and then learned that Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz....our Debbie....member of my Weston Democratic Club and Weston resident.....would be placing the name of Barack Obama in nomination this afternoon. I was totally blown away, and exceedingly proud of Debbie.<br /><br />Left breakfast on a high and came upstairs to write my thoughts and get the last figures on yesterday's primary. More later.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-27314949531120240682008-08-27T03:24:00.003-04:002008-08-27T03:37:03.063-04:00Hillary Spoke TonightThat was the main essence of the evening. The air was filled with tension and the reporters were trying to get their major story out of the Florida delegation. They were asking very leading questions and waiting for an answer they could pounce on. Hopefully they did not get either.<br /><br />The rest of the session was geared to giving each of the party stars a chance to shine. We saw three South Floridians who were taking on major Republican congresspersons. The Florida delegation cheered them on and promised support.<br /><br />There was also a lull in proceedings because of the primary election back home. One of the reporters even asked why almost everyone in the delegation had cell phones glued to their ears. It was difficult to pay attention when your mind was obsessed with getting figures from the Supervisor of Elections office in Broward county. We multitasked very well and by the time the Governor of Montana came to the podium, we were throwing around our beach balls and were once again the loudest group in the hall.<br /><br />Governor Schweitzer of Montana put the excitement back in the room. He had us standing up and yelling for McCain's downfall. By the time Chelsea Clinton came to the mike we were psyched and ready for her mother.<br /><br />Hillary's speech was terrific. She told us what we needed to hear. She told us that we all needed to unite behind Barack Obama because the alternative would reshape the country in a way that would destroy our way of life forever. We screamed, we cheered, we held up signs, but most of all we realized that it was time to come together for our common goal. We need to elect Barack Obama as the next President of the United States.<br /><br />Once the session ended, exhausted Florida delegates who had been multitasking all night creeped out of the hall. At that point I reached my convention highlight. I took a picture with gorgeous David Gregory of MSNBC news. What a momento to leave my grandchildren <grin><br /><br />Tomorrow is another day with another early delegation breakfast. Time to sleep.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-37846665994193759002008-08-26T02:56:00.002-04:002008-08-26T03:09:41.909-04:00What A Day!!!!!Our day started out bright and early (well, maybe early, but not too bright) at 7:00 in the morning when we were due at the delegation breakfast. There were a lot of bleary eyed Floridians sitting there and getting our instructions for the day. We also received our goody bags with lots of fun things and our credentials for the day.<br /><br />Everyone was exhausted and we knew that we had a very long day ahead of us so Florida trekked back to our rooms for naps. We were due at the bus at 1:30. This was tropical day and we all dressed in tropical themed clothing.<br /><br />The thing that struck me the most was the security. Our bus had a police presence and all along the route to the Pepsi Center there were clutches of security people guarding our way. We had to be checked thoroughly to get in, but once we were in the complex, we entered Fairyland.<br /><br />The first reporter to stop us came from Finland. We interviewed him as well as having him interview us. I noticed that even Al Jazeera had a presence at the convention. The Florida delegation was placed right in front of the stage. I am guessing that this was because of all the aggravation we were given before the convention.<br /><br />The first order of business was the Rules report giving the Florida delegation full voting rights. The delegation exploded, singing and dancing, throwing beach balls all around and generally having a wonderful time. All the photographers and news groups were around us because we were definitely the most fun of all the delegations. I received six text messages from friends who had seen me on television.<br /><br />There were lots of speeches and lots of celebrities, but the high points were definitely the speech given by Senator Ted Kennedy. There was not a dry eye in the place by the time he finished. Emotion ran high. It was an incredible moment.<br /><br />The second high point was the speech by Michelle Obama. What a terrific lady this is. Her humanity shown through the speech and there were times where she almost lost her composure while talking about her late father and her love for her husband. She brought out her two daughters who were simply adorable.<br /><br />My first convention day was not to be believed. Absolutely the best experience of my life, but quite frankly, if I don't sleep now, I might pass out at the computer.<br /><br />More tomorrowAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-29068442371817436122008-08-25T00:04:00.002-04:002008-08-25T00:16:58.650-04:00THE WORD FOR THE DAY..........is camaraderie!. We officially began our convention activities tonight. There was a kickoff with food and drink, along with a very loud rock group at the Colorado Convention Center. The mood was incredible. We met our colleagues from all over the country. There was even a delegation of Democrats overseas!<br /><br />The selection of Joe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Biden</span> filled the gaps that people saw in the campaign. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Biden</span>, a true man of the people who goes home to his family nightly, is able to relate to the delegates in a wonderfully, positive fashion. The convention center was jammed with delegates buying all kinds of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Obama</span>/<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Biden</span> paraphernalia. They just could not get enough!<br /><br />We took the bus back to the hotel and went into the bar to sit, drink, have dessert and chat from table to table. When it finally reached a point that no one could move, the Florida delegation to the Democratic National Convention went up and went to sleep.<br /><br />We are due at the delegation breakfast at 7:15 tomorrow morning. We will be receiving our credentials for tomorrow's session at breakfast.<br /><br />Going to sleep.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-40302258372684953512008-08-24T15:50:00.002-04:002008-08-24T15:58:03.171-04:00WELCOME TO DENVER..........that is the sign that we are seeing everywhere we pass. It seems that the whole city is dressed up for the coming of the Democrats.<br /><br />Made it to the airport very early this morning. Security went off without a hitch and when we got to the gate we met many members of the Florida delegation. They were as bleary eyed as we were. It reminded me of the camp busses. People walked around the plane and chatted. It was great to see Debbie Wasserman Schultz dressed down and relaxed. I told her that I almost didn't recognize her without Chris Matthews or Keith Olbermann next to her:-)<br /><br />The hotel we are staying at, the Red Lion, is the home base of the Florida delegation. People are out in the lobby, milling around, talking politics and the mood is excited. Our first event is the welcoming ceremony tonight. The shuttle will take us to the Convention Center at 5:30 and we have a few hours to network. I will definitely take the camera!<br /><br />Our delegation breakfast begins at 7:00 tomorrow morning. I am still on eastern time so at some point I will definitely need to sleep.<br /><br />Have to unpack now - more laterAnnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-43782126055261067182008-08-23T06:54:00.006-04:002008-08-23T07:40:39.394-04:00The Day BeforeSleeping is getting harder and harder. I knew that the big announcement was coming this morning and that this would generate as much if not more hype than the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pre</span> convention broadcasts. It went the way I hoped for. I think Joe <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Biden</span> is perfect to balance the ticket.<br /><br />I loved the email addressed to <span style="font-weight: bold;">Ann</span>, talking about <span style="font-weight: bold;">Joe </span>and signed <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Barack</span></span>. Great PR - made me feel (even though I knew that was hardly the case) that this was all about me.<br /><br />Haven't really started packing yet. Too many things to take care of before. When I return from Denver I only have a week before my Emma's Bat <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Mitzvah</span> with guests from various parts of the country. Had to get ready for that as well.<br /><br />I am really bummed because we will be in Denver on Primary Day and I have a lot invested personally in that as well. In addition to my really good friend Scott Israel running for Sheriff, I have many good friends running for judicial positions. Ellen <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Feld</span>, Paul <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Eichner</span>, Steve <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Feren</span> and Catalina <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Avalos</span> are all very dear to me. I am really sorry that I will not be around to drink all the champagne, but they all promised to save some for me.<br /><br />So many people have told me that this is an extra special convention and I will be a part of history in the making that I am starting to believe it. Got a call from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Obama</span> campaign the other night asking me if I would be available for press coverage. After I stopped laughing I said "sure". Whole thing is definitely surreal.<br /><br />Invitations have been coming fast and furious. I think just about every lobbying group in the world is having a gala party, dinner, lunch, event etc. I don't quite understand why they are doing this for the little people. When push comes to shove, we have nothing to say about anything and are really only there for help in motivating the country with our enthusiasm. I hear there are going to be lots of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">protesters</span> in front of the Convention Center, but I think that is more preaching to the choir. Of course we are anti War - of course we are pro choice - that is why we are Democrats.<br /><br />It's going to be a wild ride - I really can't wait!Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-38376767559722547862008-08-07T15:34:00.002-04:002008-08-07T15:53:18.863-04:00Convention Schedule<span style="font-weight: bold;">To give everyone an idea of what we will be doing and seeing, I am posting the convention schedule that was sent to us. It is exceedingly surreal that I will be taking part in probably the most important convention ever and making history myself. WOW!<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Sunday, August 24th:<br /><br /></span>Themes and Attire at the Convention:<br /><br />This is New Orleans themed but there is no suggested attire.<br /><br />We will be arriving at approximately 1:00 and immediately going to the hotel to check in. From there we will probably go to the Convention Center to network, mill around and take part in the gatherings that are offered. We will be staying at the Red Lion, the home hotel of the Florida delegation.<br /><br />2:00pm- 4:00pm: Interfaith Gathering. Wells Fargo Theatre, Colorado Convention Center. The Democratic National Convention Committee will join the Democratic Party's Faith in Action Initiative to host the first interfaith gathering ever to be part of a Democratic National Convention. The Interfaith Gathering will feature clergy of a variety of faiths, Party leaders, elected officials and local community leaders<br /><br />6:00pm-8:00pm: Delegation Party hosted by the Democratic National Convention Committee the Colorado Convention Center. Open to delegates/alternates and one guest each. This is a ticketed event. The event will benefit The Friends of New Orleans a non-profit organization dedicated to ongoing recovery efforts in New Orleans and surrounding areas<br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: DNCC transportation will be provided from delegation hotels to the venue. Details to follow.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Monday, August 25th:<br /><br /></span>Themes and Attire at the Convention:<br /><br />Florida attire. Think tropical! Sunglasses will be provided.<br /><br />8:00am-9:30am: Delegation Breakfast at the Red Lion Denver Central <br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: For those staying at either the Embassy Suites Denver Aurora or The Timbers we will be providing transportation from those hotels to the Red Lion Denver Central. Transportation to the Red Lion will start at 7:10am.<br /><br />10:00am-4:00pm: Caucus Meetings at the Colorado Convention Center. At this point, I am not involved in any particular caucus, I intend to chill out at the hotel and network with Florida delegates.<br /><br />Buses will begin picking up at delegation hotels starting at 9am. Transportation from the Colorado Convention Center to hotels will end at 12pm.<br /><br />4:00pm-9:00pm: Convention Business at the Pepsi Center<br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: DNCC transportation for convention business will start at 1:30pm from the hotels at will end at 5:30pm. ONLY THOSE WITH DNCC CREDENTIALS ARE ABLE TO TAKE THIS TRANSPORTATION. Transportation from the Colorado Convention to the Pepsi Center is available and can only be accessed by those with credentials.<br /><br />Hey, Ann Ruth Isacowitz Zucker from Brooklyn is one of those credentialed delegates. Who woulda thunk it?????<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tuesday, August 26th:<br /><br /></span>Themes and Attire at the Convention:<br /><br />Open night to express yourself!<br /><br />8:00am-9:30am: Delegation Breakfast the Red Lion Denver Central<br /><br />Buses will begin picking up at delegation hotels starting at 9am. Transportation from the Colorado Convention Center to hotels will end at 12pm.<br /><br />4:00pm-9:00pm: Convention Business at the Pepsi Center<br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: DNCC transportation for convention business will start at 1:30pm from the hotels at will end at 5:30pm. ONLY THOSE WITH DNCC CREDENTIALS ARE ABLE TO TAKE THIS TRANSPORTATION. Transportation from the Colorado Convention to the Pepsi Center is available and can only be accessed by those with credentials.<br /><br />10:00pm-1:00am: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Post Convention Party with the Delegations of Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Florida at INVESCO Field.</span> Food and drink are themed around each state including Key Lime Pie. This is open to each delegation member plus one guest.<br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: We will be taking people from the Pepsi Center to INVESCO Field. Transportation will start at 9:30pm and run till 11pm from the Pepsi Center to INVESCO Field. Transportation from INVESCO Field to our delegation hotels will start at 11:30pm and run till 1:30am.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wednesday, August 27th:<br /><br /></span>Themes and Attire at the Convention:<br /><br />Red, White, and Blue night. This is the night that voting will take place at the Convention.<br /><br />8:00am-9:30am: Delegation Breakfast the Red Lion Denver<br /><br />Buses will begin picking up at delegation hotels starting at 9am.<br /><br />10:00am-12:00pm: Delegate Service Day Project at Bicentennial Park (must have signed up at www.demconvention.com/delegates2008 to participate in this event. Username: delegate. Password: service.)<br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: Denver Public Schools’ buses will be on-hand to pick delegates up from their hotel and transport them to Bicentennial Park. Buses will also return delegates to their hotel at the conclusion of the project. The transportation host for this project will meet delegates at their hotel at 9:30 a.m. and accompany them to the project site. The host will also accompany delegates back to their hotel after the project. <br /><br />Additional Information: As this project is located outside, please wear comfortable, cool clothing that you do not mind getting dirty and closed-toed shoes. Also remember to wear sunblock and bring water to drink.<br /><br />4:00pm-9:00pm: Convention Business at the Pepsi Center<br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: DNCC transportation for convention business will start at 1:30pm from the hotels at will end at 5:30pm. ONLY THOSE WITH DNCC CREDENTIALS ARE ABLE TO TAKE THIS TRANSPORTATION. Transportation from the Colorado Convention to the Pepsi Center is available and can only be accessed by those with credentials.<br /><br />10:00pm-12:00am: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Post Convention Event hosted by United Airlines,</span> The Airline Pilots Association, The Association of Flight Attendants and the Veterans PAC at Coors Field. Food and drink will be provided. This is open to our delegation members and their guests.<br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: Currently transportation is being worked out. Details to follow.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Thursday, August 28th:<br /><br /></span>Themes and Attire at the Convention:<br /><br />Obama gear. Wear your shirts, buttons, hats, sunglasses, etc to show your support of Senator Obama. This is the night we join the other 76,000 enthusiasts!!!!!<br /><br />8:00am-9:30am: Delegation Breakfast the Red Lion Denver Central<br /><br />4:00pm-9:00pm: Acceptance Speech at INVESCO Field<br /><br />TRANSPORTATION: DNCC transportation will be available for the acceptance speech at INVESCO Field and is open to only those with DNCC Credentials.Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-30473145435432531882008-07-22T13:47:00.001-04:002008-07-22T13:51:33.247-04:00South Florida politics - Daily Show styleCouldn't resist this one - gives the average reader from up north an idea of what we are really facing down here in Paradise.<br /><br /><embed FlashVars="videoId=177061" src='http://www.thedailyshow.com/sitewide/video_player/view/default/swf.jhtml' quality='high' bgcolor='#cccccc' width='332' height='316' name='comedy_central_player' align='middle' allowScriptAccess='always' allownetworking='external' type='application/x-shockwave-flash' pluginspage='http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer'></embed>Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2624560953756420093.post-7957273378380609662008-07-22T11:09:00.000-04:002008-07-22T11:10:08.584-04:00I'm going to the Democratic Convention!!!!!!<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; color: black;"> Hey good friends – just wanted to share my excitement!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; color: black;">I can’t believe it’s real! It’s actually coming closer. In one month, I will be leaving for the Democratic Convention in Denver. I almost feel like Cinderella, taking part in all the conference calls and planning meetings for our delegation. The latest and most exciting part is that the acceptance speech will be in a 75000 seat stadium. I can’t even imagine that one. We’ve already gotten invitations to the pre convention parties (of which there seem to be many) and one of my colleagues reminded me that I will be taking part in history.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; color: black;">FYI, I have decided that I will be blogging the convention so that you can all live it with me. For now, though, you can get a small idea of what is coming by going to the following site:<o:p></o:p></span></p> <b style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; color: rgb(31, 73, 125);"><a href="http://demconvention.com/?lang=en">http://demconvention.com/?lang=en</a></span></b>Annhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14190862781796030207noreply@blogger.com1