Its cold in D.C - January 12

Well i think I'm going get used to going to sleep late and waking up early. All for a good cause. The morning started out like that last. As the crowd shuffled into the University of the District of Colombia, everyone was ready to listen and learn. Its great to see so many college students are willing to sit down and pay attention with such interest.

The speakers for the day were excellent. I already knew who two of them were (Cal Thomas and Bob Beckel, both columnists for USA today), so i was excited. First the scholar in residence, Michael Genovese (who also authored the seminar text) spoke a little more about the power (or according to him lack thereof) of the office of the president.

The next speaker i did not expect to be so good. In fact he was so great I can't even mention his name. He is Secret Service agent in charge of security at the Inauguration. As described by him, it is a daunting task that only few can tackle, and it seems by the way he spoke that he is one of those. It was great listening to his stories. And yes (it was asked by someone from the audience) he carries a gun.
Finally the speakers I was anxious to see came out to discuss their new book Common Ground. Cal Thomas, a conservative, and Bob Beckel, a liberal, discussed how both sides can get along. It was a funny, witty, straight and overall amazing speech. It was highly enjoyable. I recommend reading the book. I even got a picture with Cal.






After lunch, the second half of the day was spent at the Center for American Progress. It is a liberal think tank that lobbies for social reform in America. Although being a conservative, i was outnumbered in beliefe, it was amazing to hear the great work they do to improve the quality of life for people in our country.
It was a great day, and I look forward to more!!