Thursday, January 29, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Coming to the end
Hello readers!
After days of excitement and busy schedules, I'm finally able to blog. Let me recap the past few days.
On Sunday the 19th the law student group found their way to D.C. After a trip to the hospital and (I'm guessing) plenty of rest breaks, the drivers arrived at our D.C. condo by 11pm. Having a little bit of an idea that the next days were going to be crazy and fun, we decided to call it a night. Our condo was two bedrooms and one and a half bath in the NE side of D.C. We were at a great location on the New York station on the red line (only one stop away from Union Station). The area has a history of being a bit rough, but because of its excellent location has become the new up and coming neighborhood.
On Monday, our group decided to part ways so all of us could explore the city. Randy Langford, his niece Kristen and I has a BLAST walking around town... and there was a lot of walking! We started out by walking the few miles to the capital. We walked around all sides of the capital and found our way to the Supreme Court. As law students (and Kristen who's an attorney in Laredo) we all looked at the Supreme Court with awe. Everyone we met along the way were incredibly nice and helpful. D.C. definitely welcomed us with open arms. After we visited the capital area we walked over to the Newseum. That place was the BEST museum I've ever been to! I'm a news junkie and loved every bit of it. A few of the exhibitions include the Pulitzer photo gallery, the 1st Amendment exhibit, and an entire section of the Berlin wall and watch tower, an the Great Books exhibit (which had original versions of the Magna Carta, The Constitution, the Federalist Papers, and many more priceless books). Of those my favorites were the Pulitzer Photos and the 1st Amendment gallery. The Pulitzer photos really prove that a picture is worth more than a thousand words, the pictures brought out tons of emotion. At night we went out for some food and to check out the local scene. We went to a bar called Hawk and Dove and to 18th Amendment, which are both on the SE side of D.C. Taxi's were easy to get, the crowds on Monday were well managed and we all had a great time.
Tuesday was a day to remember. Randy left the condo by 6:30am in hopes of getting a good spot and the rest of us made our way out by 8. We underestimated the crowd for sure, and as Liz mentioned in her post it took us several hours of confusion and detours till we made our way to the National Mall. For We entered the Mall near the WWII memorial, and saddly people were climbing all over the memorial in hopes of getting a better view. We all felt that was disrespectful to the monument and what it stands for, but the crowd became so daunting that I understood that people were finding space wherever they could. Trying to maneuver the crowds with a group of 7 was pretty difficult. To help find each other we had a poster that read "Texans for Obama" that we raised up so a lost team member could find us. That sign garnered lots of attention, applause and even people taking our photos! haha. Apparently, people didn't know that there were Texans for Obama!
We got to our spots and huddled to stay warm. It was difficult to see and hear what was happening but everyone in the crowd had a sense of cooperation that amazed me. D.C. did not prepare for the inauguration very well. Jumbotrons were few and far between and they were not as large as they should have been and speakers were not loud enough for the entire crowd to hear what was happening. As a shorty, I got a little frustrated when I couldn't see one of the jumbotrons but Nikki helped keep me in the loop by telling me what was happening on screen. When Obama was getting sworn in, the crowd hushed. You could probably hear a pin drop in that crowd of 2 million. I was very proud that all people were showing each other courtesy and kindness.
I thought the speech was fantastic. It was not over the top enthusiastic and it wasn't too grim either. It had a perfect tone for the hard times that many of us are feeling and it gave me a desire to do more to help move us all out of economic hardship. At the National Mall I realized how many people had come from not only all parts of the US but from all over the world. There were large groups of Germans and Austrians that were around us, and it was really heart warming to know that they wanted to be a part of this experience with us.
The way out of the National Mall was really difficult. Because all of the entrances were carefully controlled for security, there were lots of walls and fences that kept people from getting out quickly and efficiently. Instead millions tried to get out of a few small entrances, which led a lot to be frustrated and the the entire process taking over an hour. In the process of trying to get out, our group got separated. It took us hours to get home. I was one of the first to get back home and we got home by 4:30.. over four and a half hours after inauguration!
There were lots of crowds, lots of walking and LOTS of cold, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat!
I'll post some pictures soon!
After days of excitement and busy schedules, I'm finally able to blog. Let me recap the past few days.
On Sunday the 19th the law student group found their way to D.C. After a trip to the hospital and (I'm guessing) plenty of rest breaks, the drivers arrived at our D.C. condo by 11pm. Having a little bit of an idea that the next days were going to be crazy and fun, we decided to call it a night. Our condo was two bedrooms and one and a half bath in the NE side of D.C. We were at a great location on the New York station on the red line (only one stop away from Union Station). The area has a history of being a bit rough, but because of its excellent location has become the new up and coming neighborhood.
On Monday, our group decided to part ways so all of us could explore the city. Randy Langford, his niece Kristen and I has a BLAST walking around town... and there was a lot of walking! We started out by walking the few miles to the capital. We walked around all sides of the capital and found our way to the Supreme Court. As law students (and Kristen who's an attorney in Laredo) we all looked at the Supreme Court with awe. Everyone we met along the way were incredibly nice and helpful. D.C. definitely welcomed us with open arms. After we visited the capital area we walked over to the Newseum. That place was the BEST museum I've ever been to! I'm a news junkie and loved every bit of it. A few of the exhibitions include the Pulitzer photo gallery, the 1st Amendment exhibit, and an entire section of the Berlin wall and watch tower, an the Great Books exhibit (which had original versions of the Magna Carta, The Constitution, the Federalist Papers, and many more priceless books). Of those my favorites were the Pulitzer Photos and the 1st Amendment gallery. The Pulitzer photos really prove that a picture is worth more than a thousand words, the pictures brought out tons of emotion. At night we went out for some food and to check out the local scene. We went to a bar called Hawk and Dove and to 18th Amendment, which are both on the SE side of D.C. Taxi's were easy to get, the crowds on Monday were well managed and we all had a great time.
Tuesday was a day to remember. Randy left the condo by 6:30am in hopes of getting a good spot and the rest of us made our way out by 8. We underestimated the crowd for sure, and as Liz mentioned in her post it took us several hours of confusion and detours till we made our way to the National Mall. For We entered the Mall near the WWII memorial, and saddly people were climbing all over the memorial in hopes of getting a better view. We all felt that was disrespectful to the monument and what it stands for, but the crowd became so daunting that I understood that people were finding space wherever they could. Trying to maneuver the crowds with a group of 7 was pretty difficult. To help find each other we had a poster that read "Texans for Obama" that we raised up so a lost team member could find us. That sign garnered lots of attention, applause and even people taking our photos! haha. Apparently, people didn't know that there were Texans for Obama!
We got to our spots and huddled to stay warm. It was difficult to see and hear what was happening but everyone in the crowd had a sense of cooperation that amazed me. D.C. did not prepare for the inauguration very well. Jumbotrons were few and far between and they were not as large as they should have been and speakers were not loud enough for the entire crowd to hear what was happening. As a shorty, I got a little frustrated when I couldn't see one of the jumbotrons but Nikki helped keep me in the loop by telling me what was happening on screen. When Obama was getting sworn in, the crowd hushed. You could probably hear a pin drop in that crowd of 2 million. I was very proud that all people were showing each other courtesy and kindness.
I thought the speech was fantastic. It was not over the top enthusiastic and it wasn't too grim either. It had a perfect tone for the hard times that many of us are feeling and it gave me a desire to do more to help move us all out of economic hardship. At the National Mall I realized how many people had come from not only all parts of the US but from all over the world. There were large groups of Germans and Austrians that were around us, and it was really heart warming to know that they wanted to be a part of this experience with us.
The way out of the National Mall was really difficult. Because all of the entrances were carefully controlled for security, there were lots of walls and fences that kept people from getting out quickly and efficiently. Instead millions tried to get out of a few small entrances, which led a lot to be frustrated and the the entire process taking over an hour. In the process of trying to get out, our group got separated. It took us hours to get home. I was one of the first to get back home and we got home by 4:30.. over four and a half hours after inauguration!
There were lots of crowds, lots of walking and LOTS of cold, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat!
I'll post some pictures soon!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
The Ball
Just got back from the Mid-Atlantic Ball, one of the 10 official Inaugural balls held this evening. It was in the convention center with four other balls. The remaining were held at various locations in the District.
Needless to say the convention center was quite a busy place. Coat check alone for five separate balls was enough to make one worry about losing their winter protection.
I cannot speak for the other events, but the Mid-Atlantic was a success. The Vice President showed up a little past 10 pm. He spoke and danced with his wife Jill. About an hour later the President and First Lady arrived. He said some words and they also danced. About an hour after their departure the party wound down.
Honestly, the balls are not fancy, even if they are black tie. The food is run-of-the-mill. We dined on pasta salad, veggie trays, and bowls of pretzels and chips. The bar was cash. And tickets were pricey. The music was decent (Wyclef Jean and the reunited Dead). In the end people attend to see others (politics is a small world) and their newly elected leaders.
Obamas dancing at the Mid-Atlantic Ball.
The President speaking at the Mid-Atlantic Ball.
The Dead's base drum head. Thought it worth noting.
The Vice President speaking at the Mid-Atlantic Ball.
Needless to say the convention center was quite a busy place. Coat check alone for five separate balls was enough to make one worry about losing their winter protection.
I cannot speak for the other events, but the Mid-Atlantic was a success. The Vice President showed up a little past 10 pm. He spoke and danced with his wife Jill. About an hour later the President and First Lady arrived. He said some words and they also danced. About an hour after their departure the party wound down.
Honestly, the balls are not fancy, even if they are black tie. The food is run-of-the-mill. We dined on pasta salad, veggie trays, and bowls of pretzels and chips. The bar was cash. And tickets were pricey. The music was decent (Wyclef Jean and the reunited Dead). In the end people attend to see others (politics is a small world) and their newly elected leaders.
Obamas dancing at the Mid-Atlantic Ball.
The President speaking at the Mid-Atlantic Ball.
The Dead's base drum head. Thought it worth noting.
The Vice President speaking at the Mid-Atlantic Ball.
Team Hope is Strong In Us!
Today has been UNBELIEVABLE! Everyone in our group has their own story to tell, so I cannot speak for everyone's individual experience. I can, however, talk a bit from my own perspective.
We headed out at 7am, which turned out to be more of an issue than we'd anticipated. In order to ensure a spot in the National Mall to watch the swearing-in ceremony, we tried to leave as early as seven people staying in a two-bedroom apartment would allow. After two unsuccessful attempts at getting on the Metro, we decided to walk the two miles downtown. We did our best to stick together as more and more people began filing into the closed-off streets, but things started looking a bit impossible-- the city had closed off many of the entrances to the National Mall, so we had to stop constantly to ask police officers at different intervals for the best way to get in. While some of us powered through like professionals, others, freezing and tired, began to defect. These two factions of our group grew into what would become "Team Hope" and "Team Despair."
After what seemed like days (but was more likely about two hours), we found ourselves filing into the National Mall along with the thousands of people around us. We walked around, trying to find a spot from which we could see the Jumbo Tron that would broadcast Obama's address. We positioned ourselves next to the Washington Monument, huddled in with the others around us, and prepared for history. I myself found my way into the group of people standing next to me, in order to get a better view.
The address was incredibly inspirational, yet still a reminder of the problems that our nation currently faces. When he finished, we all filed out of the National Mall as calmly as possible. It was a little bit stressful getting out, but everyone worked together to try to make the experience as easy as possible.
What was most striking for me was the fact that everyone was so happy and excited, despite the fact that it was freezing and we were packed in like sardines. What may now sound cliche, but is no less true, is the amazing realization that, despite our different backgrounds, different locations, and different experiences, we were coming together for something that meant so much, not only to each of us individually, but to America as a whole. The people I met were from Philadelphia. The woman next to me was the daughter of an African immigrant. Talking with people from all over the world really opened my eyes to what was really happening-- that we were uniting together with the genuine desire to make the world a more accepting and diverse place.
We are all currently back in our apartment, watching the inaugural ball on television. We are all absolutely exhausted and absolutely thrilled to have been a part of this moment in history. We will post a wrap-up after our 24-hour road trip back home. Wish us luck!
Congratulations, President Obama!
We headed out at 7am, which turned out to be more of an issue than we'd anticipated. In order to ensure a spot in the National Mall to watch the swearing-in ceremony, we tried to leave as early as seven people staying in a two-bedroom apartment would allow. After two unsuccessful attempts at getting on the Metro, we decided to walk the two miles downtown. We did our best to stick together as more and more people began filing into the closed-off streets, but things started looking a bit impossible-- the city had closed off many of the entrances to the National Mall, so we had to stop constantly to ask police officers at different intervals for the best way to get in. While some of us powered through like professionals, others, freezing and tired, began to defect. These two factions of our group grew into what would become "Team Hope" and "Team Despair."
After what seemed like days (but was more likely about two hours), we found ourselves filing into the National Mall along with the thousands of people around us. We walked around, trying to find a spot from which we could see the Jumbo Tron that would broadcast Obama's address. We positioned ourselves next to the Washington Monument, huddled in with the others around us, and prepared for history. I myself found my way into the group of people standing next to me, in order to get a better view.
The address was incredibly inspirational, yet still a reminder of the problems that our nation currently faces. When he finished, we all filed out of the National Mall as calmly as possible. It was a little bit stressful getting out, but everyone worked together to try to make the experience as easy as possible.
What was most striking for me was the fact that everyone was so happy and excited, despite the fact that it was freezing and we were packed in like sardines. What may now sound cliche, but is no less true, is the amazing realization that, despite our different backgrounds, different locations, and different experiences, we were coming together for something that meant so much, not only to each of us individually, but to America as a whole. The people I met were from Philadelphia. The woman next to me was the daughter of an African immigrant. Talking with people from all over the world really opened my eyes to what was really happening-- that we were uniting together with the genuine desire to make the world a more accepting and diverse place.
We are all currently back in our apartment, watching the inaugural ball on television. We are all absolutely exhausted and absolutely thrilled to have been a part of this moment in history. We will post a wrap-up after our 24-hour road trip back home. Wish us luck!
Congratulations, President Obama!
44
I'll be brief, because it has been a long day and it is far from over.
The Inauguration was an extraordinary event. I will talk more of the emotional response at some point (as I type, the Obamas walk down Pennsylvania Ave during their parade); now I will focus on the other things.
There were a lot of people at today's festivities. And they got there earlier than expected. It looks as though there were about 2 million people on the Mall this morning. The amount of people, and the unprecedented security, caused gridlock and backups all over town. Metro was clogged. Lines to enter security zones were backlogged. The ability to exit security zones was inhibited by fences. And tourist and locals alike were not educated on how to get out and get home. All were eager to see and participate in history, but few had any patience.
My journey home took two hours. By comparison it should have been 15 minutes by taxi or a 35 minute metro ride. In any event, I got home in time to see the slightly delayed parade, and eat lunch. Even had time to pick up my tux for tonight. More about the ball this evening perhaps.
The Inauguration was an extraordinary event. I will talk more of the emotional response at some point (as I type, the Obamas walk down Pennsylvania Ave during their parade); now I will focus on the other things.
There were a lot of people at today's festivities. And they got there earlier than expected. It looks as though there were about 2 million people on the Mall this morning. The amount of people, and the unprecedented security, caused gridlock and backups all over town. Metro was clogged. Lines to enter security zones were backlogged. The ability to exit security zones was inhibited by fences. And tourist and locals alike were not educated on how to get out and get home. All were eager to see and participate in history, but few had any patience.
My journey home took two hours. By comparison it should have been 15 minutes by taxi or a 35 minute metro ride. In any event, I got home in time to see the slightly delayed parade, and eat lunch. Even had time to pick up my tux for tonight. More about the ball this evening perhaps.
Good Morning!
After arriving in D.C. at 3:00 am, standing in line for hours and making a mad dash out of security, we're sitting down behind the reflecting pool in front of the capital building anxiously waiting for the festivities to begin. We've made new friends from all over the country and we can't wait until 12:00pm. The energy of the crowd is intense. Only a few more hours until we witness history!
Gabe Hernandez
Gabe Hernandez
An interesting change to what began as a rather peaceful morning.
The lack of crowd control and an overwhelming amount of people has caused some problems. Vanessa and I we're almost trampled over by groups of people jumping fences to get a closer look. The only thing that stopped them was a frozen reflection pool. People are climbing statues and running across the lawn. Hopefully everything will return to normal soon.
Gabe Hernandez
Gabe Hernandez
Great job!
Great job bloggers! I really appreciate everything that you've posted so far, and I hope that you have the opportunity to keep us posted throughout the day. We've got the TV on in the office, and I'm checking the blog every minute to see what you guys have posted. Keep it up!
-Lauren
-Lauren
Brrrrrrrrr
It is early and cold and dark outside. While I have tickets to a reserved section, seeing the amount of people ALREADY assembled on the Mall worries me. I have CNN on and there is quite a crowd. All the buses from the Embassy Suite next to my building (about 12 total) have already gone. I am currently layering-up and will write something once I am safely back in Arlington.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Cue the butterflies...
It's almost midnight and I'm anxiously waiting our departure from Williamsburg, VA to Washington D.C. I had a great time touring the Colonial Williamsburg area, even though our visit was cut short. I am so nervous about tomorrow; I can't wait to set foot on the National Mall and wait for the ceremony to begin. I received my ticket this afternoon, and it has not left my sight! Soon I'll be freezing with millions of people who have made the journey to D.C. Only 12 more hours! ---Gabe Hernandez
On the Road Again!
Greeting from Arkansas. It's 1:20 on a beautiful Sunday afternoon and we are a few miles outside of Little Rock. We have been traveling for about 12 hours already and the bus is finally coming to life. Many are keeping themselves occupied with books, movies, and casual conversations with new friends. I'm still trying to soak in the idea that we are on our way to witness history. One woman on the bus could not imagine that she was going to be alive to see this day come let alone be at our nation's capitol to witness it. A few surprises keep popping up; I reconnected with my old high school band director who drove up with her mother for the trip.The snow came and left but for now, we have to worry about the day drive that is ahead of us! --- Gabe Hernandez
Little Rock!
Hey Everyone, greeting from Little Rock. Words can't express the excitement and anticipation I feel as I sit here talking to my bus mate Carlos about what this election means for the future of the United States and the people of this great country. I just feel blessed to be part of history. So until our next blog entry, I'll talk to you soon!--- Vanessa Mendoza
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Feel the love
Despite the crowds, the hurry up and wait aspect of this tour, there is a wonderful spirit in the city. It seems that everyone is happy, ready to help each other, more polite - it wonderful. Had a conversation with a man and his daughter riding metro home tonight. They found out yesterday that they had two tickets to the inauguration. The flew from Minnesota to JFK in New York and took a train to Union Station here in DC. They were on the Metro heading to Alexandria, VA. He had know idea how to get anywhere, but everyone had been helpful and they were so excited. People are finding their way here to be part of this historic event!
We Are One: A Made for TV Event
Lots happening today, but you will want to hear about the extravaganza at the Lincoln Memorial.
Considering how bad the weather could have been (tonight it might snow), this afternoon was an ideal day for a concert. It is probably the warmest day of the long weekend, and it was dry. Little wind. But lots of people.
This is one of my pictures of the crowd. The Post and NYT took some fantastic pictures and are worth a browse.
I cannot say enough about the crowd. They were enthusiastic. Energetic. Jocular. And prepared for the worse. There was chanting. Picture taking. And even tossing of beach balls (some of which landed on the frozen reflecting pool.) There was a definite energy on the Mall this afternoon. And while it was nice seeing it person, the show was much better on HBO this evening.
There is no doubt that this afternoon's program tried to tie the president-elect to historic figures. Comparisons to MLK and Lincoln and FDR that were birthed earlier in the campaign were continued today. All were mentioned in today's opening ceremony. All will find their way into the write-ups of the events of this Inaugural weekend.
Here is another picture; the Obamas are being introduced. Because the area is so flat, people had to raise their cameras in the air to snap pictures - thus all the elevated digital cameras.
Considering how bad the weather could have been (tonight it might snow), this afternoon was an ideal day for a concert. It is probably the warmest day of the long weekend, and it was dry. Little wind. But lots of people.
This is one of my pictures of the crowd. The Post and NYT took some fantastic pictures and are worth a browse.
I cannot say enough about the crowd. They were enthusiastic. Energetic. Jocular. And prepared for the worse. There was chanting. Picture taking. And even tossing of beach balls (some of which landed on the frozen reflecting pool.) There was a definite energy on the Mall this afternoon. And while it was nice seeing it person, the show was much better on HBO this evening.
There is no doubt that this afternoon's program tried to tie the president-elect to historic figures. Comparisons to MLK and Lincoln and FDR that were birthed earlier in the campaign were continued today. All were mentioned in today's opening ceremony. All will find their way into the write-ups of the events of this Inaugural weekend.
Here is another picture; the Obamas are being introduced. Because the area is so flat, people had to raise their cameras in the air to snap pictures - thus all the elevated digital cameras.
Obama sighting
Obama was in his limo 10 feet from us as he entered Arlington National Cemetery on his way to lay a wreath at the tomb! My kids we sooo excited, it made their whole trip. Of course Obama's visit kept us from visiting the tomb ouselves but WE SAW OBAMA.
Day Two
Back on metro to meet group one at Arlington National Cemetery. Later today there is a huge inaugural concert at the Lincoln Memorial. Expected to headline are Bono, Bruce Springstein, Beyonce and others. Obama is expected to make an appearance so security is tight and a lot of roads are closed which will make maneurvering around the city challenging. For early Sunday morning metro is busier than usual!
Great Day for a Concert, or: Hey You Kids, Get Off My Lawn
Getting ready to head downtown for a few receptions and the opening ceremony of the Inauguration. Folks are pretty excited about the lineup at today's concert; less excited about the expected crowd. Estimates are between 500,000 and a million people. HBO will air the concert live at 2:30 pm EST, and again at 7:00 pm EST. (Even if you do not have HBO you will be able to see the concert.) If you are heading down to the Lincoln to see the show, go early. Gates opened at 8:00 am - about 15 minutes ago.
It is much much warmer today; currently it is a comfortable 32, and the high for today is 39. Much better than yesterday. Don't be fooled because Tuesday will be colder.
I think getting downtown will be ok this morning. Traveling to the District yesterday evening was not as bad as expected (still not great). The problem will be getting home after the event at the Lincoln. Officials have closed some bridges and metro stations for security reasons. That means lots of walking.
It is much much warmer today; currently it is a comfortable 32, and the high for today is 39. Much better than yesterday. Don't be fooled because Tuesday will be colder.
I think getting downtown will be ok this morning. Traveling to the District yesterday evening was not as bad as expected (still not great). The problem will be getting home after the event at the Lincoln. Officials have closed some bridges and metro stations for security reasons. That means lots of walking.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Just returned to my hotel after meeting 1/2 of my group. This school, from San Francisco, has 13 students and 3 twenty-something chaperones!! The group leader is younger than my middle child. They are enthusiastic and full of energy. After a brief dinner at a packed Pentagon City Mall we walked over to the newest memorial in DC - the Pentagon Memorial. It was a time of Remembering, Reflecting and Renewing. It was about 20 degrees and these west coast students were freezing by the time we got back to the motor coach.
Tomorrow we start at Arlington National Cemetery which will undoubtedly be sub zero! Hopefully the other half of my group will catch up by mid-afternoon.
Tomorrow we start at Arlington National Cemetery which will undoubtedly be sub zero! Hopefully the other half of my group will catch up by mid-afternoon.
Temperature: 16 degrees... feels like 1!
Napolean's gift to his wife.
The hope diamond
The Washington Memorial
The C-Span bus
Us with President Lincoln
The Washington MemorialThe C-Span busUs with President Lincoln
This is at the World War II memorial. Each star represent 100 people that were killed.
A butterfly exibit
Contrary to popular belief there is half a street.
The White House of course!
Obama and Reagan
A butterfly exibit
Contrary to popular belief there is half a street.
The White House of course!
Obama and Reagan
So it all started with Hope...
Well no, not really. Although we did pass through Hope, Arkansas, the birthplace of former President Bill Clinton and GOP Candidate Mike Huckabee.
We were set to begin our journey bright and early at 6am. That didn't quite happen and we officially got the 15 passenger van fully loaded at 8am. It's been about ten hours and we're still driving strong. I believe we're on the outskirts of Tennessee where we be ending today's drive in Nashville. It's been pleasant, warm and restful, which will hopefully prepare us for the absolute awesomeness of the upcoming days. Not much else yet. Pictures of our traveling arrangements will be posted soon. Otherwise, we sign off with fast-food wishes and sleep-on- the-floor dreams. Ha, not really, we're just poor law students.
More tomorrow!
Emily J
We were set to begin our journey bright and early at 6am. That didn't quite happen and we officially got the 15 passenger van fully loaded at 8am. It's been about ten hours and we're still driving strong. I believe we're on the outskirts of Tennessee where we be ending today's drive in Nashville. It's been pleasant, warm and restful, which will hopefully prepare us for the absolute awesomeness of the upcoming days. Not much else yet. Pictures of our traveling arrangements will be posted soon. Otherwise, we sign off with fast-food wishes and sleep-on- the-floor dreams. Ha, not really, we're just poor law students.
More tomorrow!
Emily J
St. Mary's Alumni Happy Hour
On Friday night, the St. Mary's Alumni Association (Washington, D.C. chapter) and a few close friends got together to kick off this weekend's Inauguration festivities. We met for Happy Hour at Panache in downtown D.C. The turnout was great, despite the bitter cold weather! Everyone was glowing with happiness (and a few rosy cheeks from the arctic cold air) and excitement as we get ready to inaugurate our nation's 44th President and welcome him to his home for the next four years.
Arrival in D.C.
Hello! My names Clarissa Acosta, and I am from El Paso, Texas. I am a freshman attending St. Mary's University. I started my trip yesterday, which was Friday, January 16, 2009. My plane left San Antonio at five, and I arrived at around 11:30 where my friend James Bonneau (a student at George Washington University) picked me up from the airport. The weather was freezing to say the least with the wind chill the recorded temperature was only one degree!! This was a big difference from the Texas weather I was used to.
This morning James and I ventured out to The Museum of Natural History and the Museum of American History. We spent the day touring through the many artifacts and visited the Washington memorial and the World War II memorial. Although all these adventures were quite exciting, I would have to say the high light of my day was finding out that Congressman Sylvestre Reyes is giving my friend and I two tickets to the inauguration!! This week should prove to be a rather eventful and exhilarating week.
This morning James and I ventured out to The Museum of Natural History and the Museum of American History. We spent the day touring through the many artifacts and visited the Washington memorial and the World War II memorial. Although all these adventures were quite exciting, I would have to say the high light of my day was finding out that Congressman Sylvestre Reyes is giving my friend and I two tickets to the inauguration!! This week should prove to be a rather eventful and exhilarating week.
And the fun begins...
As I was heading into town with some other tour directors I got an email telling me one of the two schools I will be touring with had a flight cancellation and would not arrive until tomorrow.
I had a great time checking out the Mall, the new Capitol Visitors' Center and the recently opened American History Museum. The weather is cold, but if the sun stays out it won't be too bad.
I am taking a rest before I meet one of the schools at Pentagon City Mall for dinner and then to a quick tour of the new Pentagon Memorial before they head to their hotel. Tomorrow will be a full day!
As I was heading into town with some other tour directors I got an email telling me one of the two schools I will be touring with had a flight cancellation and would not arrive until tomorrow.
I had a great time checking out the Mall, the new Capitol Visitors' Center and the recently opened American History Museum. The weather is cold, but if the sun stays out it won't be too bad.
I am taking a rest before I meet one of the schools at Pentagon City Mall for dinner and then to a quick tour of the new Pentagon Memorial before they head to their hotel. Tomorrow will be a full day!
excitement grow
There is definitely an electricity in the air. Riding Metro and visiting a few places everyone is talking about the inauguration. You can buy almost anything with Barack's name even "barackwurst".
A Few Pictures
The Capitol, pre-Inauguration. (Picture taken by Kathryn Hambleton, StMU alum who works much closer to the Hill than I)
Picture (also taken by Kathryn Hambleton) of the Capitol before the Tuesday festivities. This is the seated section.
Behind the trees is the Presidential watching stage (facing us); the closer white structure is the media platform. The white structure in the left of the frame is the White House.
Parade bleachers on Pennsylvania Ave; White House is directly to the right, outside the picture frame.
Picture of a banner near the White House.
Picture (also taken by Kathryn Hambleton) of the Capitol before the Tuesday festivities. This is the seated section.
Behind the trees is the Presidential watching stage (facing us); the closer white structure is the media platform. The white structure in the left of the frame is the White House.
Parade bleachers on Pennsylvania Ave; White House is directly to the right, outside the picture frame.
Picture of a banner near the White House.
Friday, January 16, 2009
NYT Article Sums It Up for Locals...
Not to speak on behalf of all locals (and please disagree if so moved), or even a majority, but an article by Katharine Seelye that appears in tomorrow's New York Times sums up the thoughts of many I have spoken to - and so put in an earlier post today. A lot of folks, including myself, have mixed feelings about Tuesday's ceremony.
Local media have set clear expectations for the events of the next few days: prepare for the worst. Crowd estimates have been lowered, but are still record setting. Bridges once closed to all but limos and charter buses are now open to pedestrians because it will be nearly impossible for the public transportation infrastructure to handle the crowds, event with metro operating on rush-hour service for 17 hours on Tuesday! And weather will be between bad and horrible.
The choice to stay home and watch the festivities on TV or stand with millions of citizens on the National Mall will probably be made early Tuesday morning. Very early. For those of us attending other events, like the concert on Sunday at the Lincoln Memorial, or various Inaugural parties and receptions, Tuesday will be the end of a very long weekend.
Speaking as someone who works in politics, it is not easy to say that I might stay home and watch the history unfolding outside my apartment window on the television.
Local media have set clear expectations for the events of the next few days: prepare for the worst. Crowd estimates have been lowered, but are still record setting. Bridges once closed to all but limos and charter buses are now open to pedestrians because it will be nearly impossible for the public transportation infrastructure to handle the crowds, event with metro operating on rush-hour service for 17 hours on Tuesday! And weather will be between bad and horrible.
The choice to stay home and watch the festivities on TV or stand with millions of citizens on the National Mall will probably be made early Tuesday morning. Very early. For those of us attending other events, like the concert on Sunday at the Lincoln Memorial, or various Inaugural parties and receptions, Tuesday will be the end of a very long weekend.
Speaking as someone who works in politics, it is not easy to say that I might stay home and watch the history unfolding outside my apartment window on the television.
Just finished training - overload of information. But when you are moving over 6000 students you have to anticipate everything. On top of all the great info, we were given other things to help us on inauguration day. We received hand and foot warmers, and a lime green safety vest that we will wear so that our students can find adults from our company. There will be about 200 lime green vests on the Mall, so if you see one on the television it might be me!
I am so thankful that this is my 3rd year leading student tours in DC. There are about 25 brand new course leaders will be leading their first tour in the next few days. Yikes - I can only imagine the panic they are feeling!
I am so thankful that this is my 3rd year leading student tours in DC. There are about 25 brand new course leaders will be leading their first tour in the next few days. Yikes - I can only imagine the panic they are feeling!
I'm busy preparing for our 24 hour road trip tomorrow but I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself to the blog. We made the decision to take this trip on election night and I can't believe that it all came together and that we are actually going! I plan to post pictures of our adventure along the way. Here's one I took of Obama at an early campaign rally back in 2007:
Signs of Life
This morning when I was walking the dog I noticed the first sign of the impending millions: charter buses. We usually do not see charters during the winter months; they start to appear again when school groups take their spring break trips to the Capital. So between mid-November and early March the streets are void of charters.
(In December, when the city was expecting 4 million for Tuesday's swearing in ceremony, organizers expected to register 10,000 charter buses. There are currently 3,000 registered. While this is a substantial number, folks worry that bus companies do not know that they need to register their vehicles.)
I have been conducting an un-scientific survey to gauge locals' likelihood of attending Tuesday's Inauguration. Two factors seem to be key to their decision: 1. the weather; and 2. the perception that the crown will be record (historic?) and will inhibit their travel to and from the Mall. Most appear happy to stay home, and warm, and watch the events of the day on TV.
This probably says more about locals than about the historic nature of the events of the next few days.
(In December, when the city was expecting 4 million for Tuesday's swearing in ceremony, organizers expected to register 10,000 charter buses. There are currently 3,000 registered. While this is a substantial number, folks worry that bus companies do not know that they need to register their vehicles.)
I have been conducting an un-scientific survey to gauge locals' likelihood of attending Tuesday's Inauguration. Two factors seem to be key to their decision: 1. the weather; and 2. the perception that the crown will be record (historic?) and will inhibit their travel to and from the Mall. Most appear happy to stay home, and warm, and watch the events of the day on TV.
This probably says more about locals than about the historic nature of the events of the next few days.
Washington DC Welcomes You! Sorry About This Weather!
Hi St. Mary's bloggers! Welcome to Washington D.C! I'm a St. Mary's Law grad (89) and lifelong San Antonian until 3 years ago, when I moved up here. My husband and I live in the Woodley Park neighborhood of Washington, about a block from two big hotels that are hosting inaugural balls and parties all weekend and through Tuesday. We also work in Indianapolis-based Barnes & Thornburg's D.C. office, which is located at 17th and Pennsylvania, about one block from the White House. Needless to say, the city is packed and bustling today.
The weather, however, is absolutely brutal. Despite the fact that the sun is shining, it is currently 15 degrees with a brisk wind that makes it feel like -1 degree!!!! This is crazy cold weather for Washington. If you are going to be out and about here for the next few days, you'll need a hat, gloves, scarf, and a heavy coat. The forecast calls for 30's Monday and Tuesday, which will feel much better, I think.
These next few days will be very interesting at our house and office. Our office will be about a block inside the "hard" security perimeter that will be set up on Tuesday. Hopefully, DC Metro Police and the U.S. Secret Service will do well in getting people through, given the chilly weather. Our home is right in the thick of all of the party action this weekend. I'm sure we'll see some sights. Who knows, maybe we'll even catch a glimpse of the Obamas, Stevie Wonder, or "The Boss." They are all apparently around here somewhere.
I will report my observations as warranted.
For now, I wish all of our St. Mary's students and alums a wonderful time in Washington. It's a spectacular city on any day, but these days, it is just a stunningly energetic and fun place.
So much more than Obama
I left yesterday from San Antonio outward bound to Balitimore International Airport. I was ready and excited to finally make this whole trip a reality. On my flights out I expected the plane to be filled with the typical college/grad aged and politically active crowd that I have been surrounded these past few months, however who was on these flights surprised me. Most of my flight had African Americans that were over 50.
While I'm not suprised at all that African Americans will be a part of this inauguration, I was surprised that people from an older generation were as excited as we were. On my flight I overheard a conversation between the 80 year old woman who sat next to me and her friend sitting across from her. She came from a generation where every part of her life was based on discrimination and segregation, and this inauguration represents more than a change in administration, it represents a symbolic departure from a hurtful past. I celebrated this inauguration mainly as a welcome change in the administration, but to her this inauguration is about so much more than Obama.
For others going to this inauguration, when you see that older person wheeling their way out to the National Mall, remember America's history and see the bigger picture. After my flight out here, I know I will.
While I'm not suprised at all that African Americans will be a part of this inauguration, I was surprised that people from an older generation were as excited as we were. On my flight I overheard a conversation between the 80 year old woman who sat next to me and her friend sitting across from her. She came from a generation where every part of her life was based on discrimination and segregation, and this inauguration represents more than a change in administration, it represents a symbolic departure from a hurtful past. I celebrated this inauguration mainly as a welcome change in the administration, but to her this inauguration is about so much more than Obama.
For others going to this inauguration, when you see that older person wheeling their way out to the National Mall, remember America's history and see the bigger picture. After my flight out here, I know I will.
statistics
I am in a training session with 149 other course leaders (tour guides)and 20 assistants from area colleges. Our company alone will have about 6000 students. We are using 20 hotel properties, some as far away as Baltimore's Inner Harbor.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Today was my travel day to Washington, DC. I am a professional tour director and during the springs months you can usually find me in Washington, DC with 8th grade students. This year is special, because it will be my first time to attend an inauguration and I will be sharing my experiences with 8th graders from the west coast. I arrived today because tomorrow will be a day of training and preparation. I am an independent contractor working for one of the largest student travel companies. The company has been working for months preparing for this historic event and trying to find solutions for the logistical nightmare that will surely happen on Tuesday. Tomorrow we will spend 8 hours digesting as much as we can so that we can be successful on Tuesday.
Until next time...
Until next time...
Driving Downtown on Wednesday
I took a taxi yesterday evening that made its way down 15th Street NW, the area that will be epicenter of the Inaugural festivities, past the Treasury Department, Ellipse and Washington Monument. Much had changed since the last time I was in the area. Huge grandstands lined the barricaded part of Pennsylvania Ave, between the White House and Lafayette Square. Red white and blue bunting was being hung – at 10:30 pm on a Wednesday evening. Fencing was everywhere. Chain link and a more substantive stouter form probably used to keep pedestrians off the street. And portable toilets.
There has been some news recently about the number of toilets available, or the lack thereof. There will be about 5,000 toilets for the multiple millions of people expected. I will leave it at that.
The weathermen are also starting to set expectations for Tuesday: cold. The high will be 32. Which is warmer than tomorrow’s high of 22.
There has been some news recently about the number of toilets available, or the lack thereof. There will be about 5,000 toilets for the multiple millions of people expected. I will leave it at that.
The weathermen are also starting to set expectations for Tuesday: cold. The high will be 32. Which is warmer than tomorrow’s high of 22.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Hitting the ground running
I'm soon to be on my way to DC and I can't wait! I just got home from the law student groups last organization meeting and left with a sense of excitement and pride that we were actually able to get this together. From the night of the election we've wanted to put this trip together, and to the surprise of many, we actually did it!
I leave tomorrow from San Antonio to Baltimore by plane. I'm going to be meeting up friends and family in the surrounding area until my law school classmates come into DC on Sunday. At that time we'll all be going to the place we rented. It'll be a full house with people crashing on couches and sharing floor space, but isn't that what this is all about? Being able to celebrate this experience with others makes this entire trip worthwhile.
I leave tomorrow from San Antonio to Baltimore by plane. I'm going to be meeting up friends and family in the surrounding area until my law school classmates come into DC on Sunday. At that time we'll all be going to the place we rented. It'll be a full house with people crashing on couches and sharing floor space, but isn't that what this is all about? Being able to celebrate this experience with others makes this entire trip worthwhile.
Hello bloggers!
Thanks for participating! Please write up your post about why you're going to the Inauguration before you leave. Feel free to post as often as you want, about anything. We welcome any thoughts and observations you have. You are the St. Mary's eyes and ears in D.C. - we want to know what's going on.
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