I apologize for not getting an entry in yesterday but the schedule has been grueling. Over the past two nights I have seen some of the most amazing things happen in American politics. I heard an inspiring speach by Governor Brian Schweitzer that energized a crowd of thousands, I watched a very heartfelt address by Senator Clinton that spoke to her supporter and Senator Obama's supporters as one group.
Today was no exception. The roll-call vote happened early this morning and if was somewhat of a stressful time because with any vote you never know what is going to happen. Then Senator Clinton came out of nowhere to end the process we all Clinton and Obama supporters came together in an amazing way. The patriotic rendition of "God Bless America" by Melissa Ethridge was incredible and full of love for the country that we all live in. Madeleine Albright's address was well thought out and suggested a path for the future. And Bill Clinton - what can I say, the man owned the croud this evening. He moved the healing process forward and put us on a path towards the White House. John Kerry had some great lines in regard to the Republicans. And in an emotional introduction Beau Biden introduced his father and Joe Biden did not disappoint. His speech was strong and heartfelt.
Finally, after Biden's speech the suprise of all suprises, the man him self. I was so excited... I trided hard to take a picture, but I was shaking so bad I couldn't take a picture without it looking blurred. TOMORROW WILL BE GREAT!!!!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
DAY 2 & 3
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 11:03 PM 0 comments
Monday, August 25, 2008
If this is day 1 then we are in for a treat!
I can barley put into words what this day has been like. It is surreal to be able to walk among the leaders of our party and even stop to say hey! But let me start from the beginning.
This morning we had our Delegate meeting with special guests Kathleen Sebelius and Chet Edwards (they were great)! I also rand into the co-author of the book "Bush's Brain" Wane Slater. I was totally star struck and I hope I did not make a fool of myself. I was like "hey your Wane Slater" and he was like "ya, I am." Anyway it does not diminish the experience.
After the meeting I went down to the hotel's lower level to pick up my credential for the day. It was exciting and I got to meet some really great people from all around the state, but after being credentialed we all slowly began to move towards the elevators. A group of 5 enter the elevator and got stuck. We had to call the front desk from the elevator and for 15-20 minutes we all waited for maintenance to arrive. We all took turns introducing ourselves and we had a good chat, and once the problem was solved we moved on our separate ways.
We all then piled into several buses and went downtown to the Hard Rock Cafe reception hosted by Charlie Wilson. That was also amazing and during that time I again had to opportunity to meet some really diverse an interesting people. The conversions were outstanding.
After leaving I made my way down to the Preforming Arts Center were I watched the first half of a round table discussion on the "New Philanthropy" among the speakers were Ted Turner, Dr. L. Brilliant, Harry Smith, and others. It was moderated by Walter Isaacson and I learned a years worth of philanthropy in 40 minutes. These folks were so insightful and thoughtful in their speech I could hardly write fast enough to keep up with all of their ideas. Any it was truly amazing.
Now up to this point I had been having a great day, and it could have ended there but the best was yet to come! I walked from the Preforming Arts Center to the Pepsi Center to be there when the 3:00 PM gavel dropped. I made it in time and found a good seat in the Texas delegation spot (just under the BBC broadcasting booth... so look for me). I had no idea what what going to happen next. Howard Dean starts us off and a variety of speakers begin to take the stage. Some good some OK. So, I leave my seat and begin to walk around and I see this guy that is impersonating Barack ( he was scary good!) I kept wondering around and I see a variety of reporters walk by me including Terry Moran, Sam Donaldson, and Chuck Todd. I again am star struck. I go outside to do a phone interview with CBS 7 and then call and check in at home... then I'm off again fighting my way through this huge gambit of people and a gaggle of cameras and light move toward me and I feel like a deer in the headlights of a fast moving car and out of this tormoil emerges Governor Bill Richardson. I got to shake his hand! Then Charle Rangle from New York. I had to pinch myself I could not believe I was standing infront of all these people I've seen on TV.
I made it back to my seat to listen to the end of Nancy Pelosi's speech, and the announcer says please stand for President Jimmy Carter and Rose Carter (at this point I'm on overload) Then Jesse Jackson's Son comes out to speak and gave a marvlous speech that meant alot to me as a Democrat. But then... there was another roar in the crowd. and just one section over there was Senator Joe Biden. I rushed over to meet him and grab a few photos... that was awesome! Then as I returned to my seat I looked up and above the Texas delegation on the upper deck was Maria Shriver. WOW!
Caroline Kennedy came out next and introudce a touching video tribute to Edward Kennedy. I was awestruck, but just as it ended Ted Kennedy took the stage, and gave a great and uniting speech. Finally Michelle Obama took the stage and rendered a speech that was the best I had ever heard from her. It was perfect!
As our delegation was leaving Senator Binden left at the same time, and I got to say hello to him again as we all tried to exit the Pepsi Center. We then were wisked away to the Texas Delegation Gala at Mile High Station. It was amazing but it was getting late and I headed back to the hotel and got on the elevator again with one of the others who I was stuck with earlier. We joked about getting stuck, and as fate had it, the elevator got stuck again! Unbelievable, that is the day that I have had!
Love to Jen, Abby, and Jack
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 11:16 PM 0 comments
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Sunday's Events
As soon as I hit the ground here it was work, work, work. I got to go mess around on the Denver light rail transit system so that I could find my way around. I was unable to attend the interfaith rally at 2:00 because my check in was delayed. But I did get to go to the kick off event, the "All-Delegate Celebration Recognizing Katrina Relief Organizations. WOW! What a gathering it was! It was staged in the Korbel Ballroom of the Denver Convention Center and I got to meet people from all over the US. It was amazing. To top it off there was a surprise speaker at the end of the celebration Chairman of the DNC Howard Dean. There are alot of thoughts running through my head as I am surrounded by all of these figures. I feel like a small fish in a very large bowl.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 8:27 PM 0 comments
Finally in Denver
I just arrived at the Red Lion Hotel (the Texas Delegation Hotel in Denver). I have met several delegates from El Paso, Dallas, and Houston. Everyone is really excited and there is an intoxicating atmosphere everywhere from the Airport to the Hotel. I flew up with about 8 delegates from New Mexico and they say we need to do well in Lea County. Imagine that. David Rosen has been telling us this, and now even our people from New Mexico are telling us this. Anyway, I check back later. If anyone has any questions please leave a comment on the blog.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 12:02 PM 0 comments
Saturday, August 23, 2008
OBAMA BIDEN 2008!
The Obama / Biden ticket will be amazing. This is a ticket that every democrat can stand behind, and I know that we will be victorious in November.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 7:06 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
RIGHT NOW
On Sunday I will take time away from my family, my profession, and my friends to step into a new and fascinating world of politics. I have often stated on this blog how much I have invested in this campaign and I wonder if my efforts will bear fruit as I travel to Denver, Colorado to do what I can to CHANGE the course of this nation. I am a small and relatively insignificant part of this process, but I feel like I am doing what it I should be done by all Americans.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 6:25 PM 0 comments
Thursday, August 14, 2008
10 DAYS LEFT
I can't believe that there are only 10 days until the Democratic National Convention in Denver. I am making reservations to every event that I can. My itinerary is getting full, and once I finalize it I will post it so everyone can follow what is going on. I can hardly wait.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 2:44 PM 0 comments
Thursday, July 31, 2008
The time is approaching
I am excited beyond words about going to the Democratic National Convention in Denver. I hope to learn as much as possible at the convention, but I also want to soak up every moment that I get to have while I'm there. I hope to get things I can pass on to my kids at school, my precinct in Midland, my friends in the area, and all of the members of Senate District 31.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 6:41 AM 0 comments
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
This Campaign
As I have been calling Democrats in Midland I have had contact with some who are not going to support Senator Obama anymore for one reason or another. I got so frustrated and it really tested my resolve to continue organizing, because I felt that I was just spinning my wheels.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 8:46 AM 0 comments
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Give Me Your Eyes
Today my wife introduced me to a song entitled: Give Me Your Eyes by Brandon Heath. It is a truly inspiring song and it really reminds me of what our community building effort is all about. Here are the Lyrics ENJOY:
Chorus
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 1:36 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Moving Midland Forward
Throughout this very interesting campaign season we have worked hard to change our idea of politics here in Midland and around the great State of Texas. It is difficult at times to stay focused on the campaign since all of the media attention seems to keep saying that Texas is a "Red" state and that "its a lock for John McCain." Plus our everyday lives are more complex because we want to provide the best for our family and friends during hard times, and often don't have spare time for a presidential campaign. Others say "it is too early to be working on the November campaign in July," and others say "your gonna burn people out on all this Obama Change stuff."
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 8:55 PM 0 comments
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Time To Stand Up For What You Believe In
It is time for all of us to stand up for what we believe in. If we are ready for a change in the way politics in Washington are played we must stand up. It will be difficult and other still attack us for feeling and thinking differently than they do. The truth is we know it is time for change and the candidate that embodies that ideal is Senator Barack Obama. Keep working hard: making calls, canvassing neighborhoods, talking to neighbors, putting up signs, and slapping on bumper stickers. Our opposition can rip off our stickers, tear up our signs, and verbally harass us, but they can't stop the movement that has begun with this campaign. STAND UP!
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 10:14 AM 0 comments
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
My Response
Hopefully this will end up in the Midland Reporter Telegram on Sunday:
In response to the letter by Joan S. Nobles
There has been much talk about the experience of Senator Barack Obama and his ability to lead this country. Many criticize him by scaring those who have small businesses, farms, or even ranches by saying that he will raise the tax burden on them. This is simply propaganda. Senator Obama wants to provide more middle class tax relief to small business owners, farmers, and ranchers. He understands that right now in our current economic situation that the aforementioned business owners are being squeezed, and it is hard for them to get a fair price for their products. The help promised by Senator Obama will provide breaks for independent farmers and ranchers and not the large corporate agribusiness.
In last weeks editorials the question of experience was raised. It is hard to comprehend why so many buy this. Senator Obama’s life embodies hard work. He was raised by a single mother, attended school, graduated from college, and received a scholarship to one of our finest institutions of higher education. He then uses that education to help the people of Illinois by representing them in the State and the National Legislatures. How is all of that not good experience?
Lastly, many have attacked and questioned Senator Obama’s faith, racial attitudes, and patriotism. Hopefully, we as a community understand that religion should never be used as a wedge to divide people. If we truly believe that we are a racially, culturally, and religiously tolerant people, then our politics should not fan the flames of ideas that would divide us. To suggest that Senator Obama should have only learned lessons of life through Bill Cosby and Colin Powell suggests a divide still present in our own community that should be addressed. Overall, there has been a pathetic attempt by the far right to tarnish the patriotism of this truly great American. But this type of tactic is to be expected when you are running against a man that says he is for “straight talk” when he is really speaking out of both sides of his mouth.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 12:00 PM 1 comments
Sunday, June 15, 2008
The problem!
Today while reading the Midland Reporter Telegram I read a letter to the editor entitled "Obama lacks experience in dealing with problems." This was written by Joan S. Nobles and is a very short sighted and misguided representation of Senator Obama's campaign. The article reads as follows:
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 9:49 AM 2 comments
Friday, June 13, 2008
Here We Go!
I have to say this campaign is not easy. There are people in our area who are so short sighted and superficial that will not even give Barack consideration (because he is a democrat and other more sinister reasons). However, in the same breath that I say that, there are others that are hungry for something new and willing to work to bring about change. Now is our time to work! There are even others that have been involved in Democratic politics for years saying we can't really do anything since we are the minority. While I respect their opinions and observation they are negative as to the end to which we can achieve. As long that is the ideal of the party we will not succeed. Even as a teacher I have not liked that. If a student tells me I can't do that because of this or that I always say "Yes you can, you just need to adopt a different attitude." Maybe that is why Barack has struck such a chord with me. In the beginning many didn't give him a chance to contend in this election and look at him now (the presumptive nominee). Those who question our ability to change our community I say this. YES WE CAN! It will not be easy, I actually guarantee it will be hard, and you will question what you are doing from time to time. You must work through this and understand we are on a fascinating journey together. Strap in ---- Here We Go!
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 5:58 AM 1 comments
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Sunday, June 8, 2008
~ A U S T I N ~
After an exhausting two days in Austin I am finally home and able to get some rest. What a truly amazing experience. I have met some of the most incredible people this weekend. To all my new friends in Senate District 31, you all are amazing and I look forward to working with you all as we work on the general election!
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 11:31 AM 1 comments
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Off To The Convention
Tomorrow morning I will be flying in to Austin for the convention. I am so excited as I have recently been selected floor leader for the Obama delegates for Senatorial District 31. Again, I can't state how monumental this all is, but it pales in comparison to how much I will miss my family. I love you all for your support and as soon as the business concludes in Austin I'm coming home.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 7:41 PM 0 comments
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Soaking It All In
Today has been a great day. I have made several phone calls to our friends in the North (Amarillo) and I just have to say I am looking forward to meeting up with these extremely nice folks. I look towards Friday and the inner workings of the campaign process. Again it is very inspiring to be involved in something like this. I am a high school government teacher and I have taught my students about the election process, but it has been a totally different experience being involved in the campaign. I hope this weekend is enlightening and productive as we move the campaign a step closer to Washington DC through Austin.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 6:33 PM 0 comments
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
History Unfolding Before Us
Any moment Senator Obama will pass the threshold in delegates to become the Democratic Nominee. As I sit here reflecting on the work that we al have done, and think of all the people who told us that this moment would never happen I am very proud to say I support Barack Obama for President of the United States of America. The potential behind all of this is amazing. The potential restoration of greatness of this nation is upon us and we all need to understand the significance of this moment of history unfolding before us.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 3:19 PM 0 comments
Monday, June 2, 2008
Yes We Can - Barack Obama Music Video
Pause Playlist below to listen to the video.
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 8:35 PM 0 comments
Exciting Time
As the Texas Democratic Convention nears, the excitement of the moment grows. The nomination process has been brutal yet we stand on the verge of a historic time in our nation. Many are unsure as to what the future holds, but the supporters of Senator Obama's presidency sum up our enthusiasm with one word, HOPE. Hope for a brighter future, a move towards a getting back to what has made this country great. The grassroots efforts that have grown over the past year have sent a call for renewal in the politics we address and the power we the people possess. Finally, we can feel confident that the highest office in our country will be responsive to the needs of the people. We have the opportunity to improve health care for all Americans (young to old and poor to wealthy). We can salvage our flawed education system by truly leaving no child behind and paying our teachers what they are worth. We can do so many things to repair the errors of the past eight years. However, It will take time, it will take initiative, but most importantly it is possible. I was reminded today that "attitude is everything." If we are so caught up in our personal problems that we feel hopeless and ignore the greater good that can be served with our efforts we can't move forward. Many are jaded by the way things are, and they feel that negativity is the only way to deal with adversity. If this prevails we will never feel like anything we do will matter. Looking at my family every day makes me believe that anything is possible. Overall, I am truly blessed to have wonderful friends, family, children, and a wife that despite my flaws has always been by my side. Thanks to all, and let the countdown begin!
Posted by Christopher Hightower at 8:27 PM 1 comments