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Thursday, March 26, 2009
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Monday, March 23, 2009
It's time for Tweet Cleaning
Spring is always the time for a good cleansing because things tend to become too cluttered in my house over the winter This year I'm applying the same principles to my social/business twitter.com account (Karen Welsh). At first I bought into the hype that a twit should add every person who wanted to follow them. Before long, I had so many tweets that I couldn't keep up. It would take me hours to read through all the comments,many of which didn't appeal to me, only to find out hundreds of other comments were made by the time I got to the end of the list. So, for me, I've decided it's best to par down the list and un-follow those who don't quite fit into my life, and it will be in this order:
#1 I'm going to discontinue any tweets from friends and family. I've got Facebook for them and adding them to my twitter account is redundant.
#2 Any and all multi-level marketers who only tweet about joining their ranks
#3 People who are flippant with the English language, using swear words or sexually explicit imagery
#4 People who obviously don't have anything in common with me. I figure if I wouldn't have dinner or hang with you if we lived in the same town, then it's pretty hopeless to be chirping at each other in twitterville
#5 I'm getting rid of all the people I've coined "Twogs." Those who happily glean followers, but are extremely out-of-balance in who they follow (example 100,000 followers, but only following 50)
#6 People I've followed, but after an appropriate amount of time have not chosen to follow me. I can take the hint!
As I tidy up my twitter account, there are definitely people I will keep in place. #1 Those business people involved in legitimate marketing, publishing, writing, editing and photography are tops on my list. That's because I'm the cream of the crop when it comes to writers and photographers and I'm hoping this unique social network will help me to become connected to the broader community. After all, Hilo, Hawaii, where I live, is very remote and isolated. It may be paradise, but it's hard to connect to those like-minded from paradise.
#2 People from Hawaii that want to be connected to people from the neighbor islands. #3 Twixters that I find fun and witty. I don't care who you are, if you have a stellar sense of humor I'll follow you to the end of the earth.
#4 Brothers and sisters in Christ who encourage me in my faith
#5 Politicians or those who are conservative in politics who keep me abreast of the political climate in the United States.
Now that I've got a plan, I've got all the tools I need to have a successful Tweet Cleaning. Now, if I can just find my broom....er, I mean the delete button!
#1 I'm going to discontinue any tweets from friends and family. I've got Facebook for them and adding them to my twitter account is redundant.
#2 Any and all multi-level marketers who only tweet about joining their ranks
#3 People who are flippant with the English language, using swear words or sexually explicit imagery
#4 People who obviously don't have anything in common with me. I figure if I wouldn't have dinner or hang with you if we lived in the same town, then it's pretty hopeless to be chirping at each other in twitterville
#5 I'm getting rid of all the people I've coined "Twogs." Those who happily glean followers, but are extremely out-of-balance in who they follow (example 100,000 followers, but only following 50)
#6 People I've followed, but after an appropriate amount of time have not chosen to follow me. I can take the hint!
As I tidy up my twitter account, there are definitely people I will keep in place. #1 Those business people involved in legitimate marketing, publishing, writing, editing and photography are tops on my list. That's because I'm the cream of the crop when it comes to writers and photographers and I'm hoping this unique social network will help me to become connected to the broader community. After all, Hilo, Hawaii, where I live, is very remote and isolated. It may be paradise, but it's hard to connect to those like-minded from paradise.
#2 People from Hawaii that want to be connected to people from the neighbor islands. #3 Twixters that I find fun and witty. I don't care who you are, if you have a stellar sense of humor I'll follow you to the end of the earth.
#4 Brothers and sisters in Christ who encourage me in my faith
#5 Politicians or those who are conservative in politics who keep me abreast of the political climate in the United States.
Now that I've got a plan, I've got all the tools I need to have a successful Tweet Cleaning. Now, if I can just find my broom....er, I mean the delete button!
Monday, March 16, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Finally, a video that truly shows my "inauguration crowd" nightmare!
Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
YoYo Ma uses recording at Inauguration
Quartet pre-recorded Obama music
Itzhak Perlman, left, and Yo-Yo Ma at US President Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony on 20 January, 2009
Organisers said the recording was used as a last resort
Millions watching the US presidential inauguration heard a recording made in advance by four famous musicians - amid fears the cold could ruin the concert.
Cellist Yo-Yo Ma, violinist Itzhak Perlman, pianist Gabriella Montero and clarinettist Anthony McGill did play along - but without being amplified.
Organisers said a late decision to use a recording was made over fears frozen weather could damage instruments.
The version heard around the world was recorded two days earlier, they said.
The musicians, playing John Williams' Air and Simple Gifts, "were very insistent on playing live until it became clear that it would be too cold", said Carole Florman, a spokeswoman for the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.
She said the cold weather could have caused strings to snap, and instruments to crack or go out of tune.
'Not Milli Vanilli'
"No-one's trying to fool anybody," she told the New York Times newspaper. "It's not something we would announce, but it's not something we would try to hide," she said.
A broken string was not an option. It was wicked cold
Yo-Yo Ma
Cellist
"This isn't a matter of Milli Vanilli," she added, referring to a pop band that was stripped of a Grammy music award in 1989 because the duo did not sing on their album and lip-synched in concerts.
Ms Florman said that the NBC network, which was handling the television pool of the inauguration ceremony, were told of the likely use of a recording the day before.
Violinist Itzhak Perlman said "it would have been a disaster if we had done it any other way".
"This occasion's got to be perfect. You can't have any slip-ups," he told the New York Times.
Yo-Yo Ma added: "A broken string was not an option. It was wicked cold."
All the other musical performances during the ceremony were live, although Aretha Franklin was accompanied by taped music and additional voices.
Itzhak Perlman, left, and Yo-Yo Ma at US President Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony on 20 January, 2009
Organisers said the recording was used as a last resort
Millions watching the US presidential inauguration heard a recording made in advance by four famous musicians - amid fears the cold could ruin the concert.
Cellist Yo-Yo Ma, violinist Itzhak Perlman, pianist Gabriella Montero and clarinettist Anthony McGill did play along - but without being amplified.
Organisers said a late decision to use a recording was made over fears frozen weather could damage instruments.
The version heard around the world was recorded two days earlier, they said.
The musicians, playing John Williams' Air and Simple Gifts, "were very insistent on playing live until it became clear that it would be too cold", said Carole Florman, a spokeswoman for the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.
She said the cold weather could have caused strings to snap, and instruments to crack or go out of tune.
'Not Milli Vanilli'
"No-one's trying to fool anybody," she told the New York Times newspaper. "It's not something we would announce, but it's not something we would try to hide," she said.
A broken string was not an option. It was wicked cold
Yo-Yo Ma
Cellist
"This isn't a matter of Milli Vanilli," she added, referring to a pop band that was stripped of a Grammy music award in 1989 because the duo did not sing on their album and lip-synched in concerts.
Ms Florman said that the NBC network, which was handling the television pool of the inauguration ceremony, were told of the likely use of a recording the day before.
Violinist Itzhak Perlman said "it would have been a disaster if we had done it any other way".
"This occasion's got to be perfect. You can't have any slip-ups," he told the New York Times.
Yo-Yo Ma added: "A broken string was not an option. It was wicked cold."
All the other musical performances during the ceremony were live, although Aretha Franklin was accompanied by taped music and additional voices.
I ended up in the Honolulu Advertiser!
Click on this link to see the pics!
Aloha,
Karen
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=M1&Date=20090119&Category=NEWS&ArtNo=901190805&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=5
Aloha,
Karen
http://www.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=M1&Date=20090119&Category=NEWS&ArtNo=901190805&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=5
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Letter from Congress to Senators Feinstein and Bennett
January 21, 2009
Senator Dianne Feinstein
331 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Senator Bob Bennett
431 Dirksen Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator Feinstein and Senator Bennett,
Thousands of Americans with tickets to the Inauguration, despite waiting in the cold for hours on end, were not allowed in to see the ceremony yesterday due to a complete lack of crowd control by those tasked with organizing the event. Many traveled to D.C. From every comer of our country and spent thousands of dollars after being informed that they had a ticket to the event and would be able to see President Obama sworn in. The promise made by these tickets 'was not kept.
Numerous reports from the staging area describe a complete lack of any form of crowd control-no police, no volunteers to direct people and no organization or information on what was going on. We are lucky that the thousands who were eventually denied entry, despite having valid tickets, remained calm and that no one was hurt.
This was a failure in planning and organization and one that must be explained. Why was there no form of crowd control in the ticketed screening areas? Why didn't the planners better mark the areas, provide staff to help direct people or include a way to pass along information? Why was the screening process so unprepared for the event and why were thousands of people unable to attend the Inauguration despite having tickets to the event? We do not want to assign blame. We only want to know what went wrong and how it can be prevented :ITomhappening again in the future.
Finally, those Americans who were shut out deserve an apology. They were promised admission to the historic Inauguration of President Obama and they were denied the opportunity. No matter how far they traveled, how much money they spent or how long they waited, every person who was issued a ticket and was unable to get in should receive an apology from those responsible for organizing.the Inauguration. Yesterday was a proud moment for ~ and it is a shame that it was marred by something as simple as the inability to take people's tickets.
Senator Dianne Feinstein
331 Hart Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Senator Bob Bennett
431 Dirksen Building
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator Feinstein and Senator Bennett,
Thousands of Americans with tickets to the Inauguration, despite waiting in the cold for hours on end, were not allowed in to see the ceremony yesterday due to a complete lack of crowd control by those tasked with organizing the event. Many traveled to D.C. From every comer of our country and spent thousands of dollars after being informed that they had a ticket to the event and would be able to see President Obama sworn in. The promise made by these tickets 'was not kept.
Numerous reports from the staging area describe a complete lack of any form of crowd control-no police, no volunteers to direct people and no organization or information on what was going on. We are lucky that the thousands who were eventually denied entry, despite having valid tickets, remained calm and that no one was hurt.
This was a failure in planning and organization and one that must be explained. Why was there no form of crowd control in the ticketed screening areas? Why didn't the planners better mark the areas, provide staff to help direct people or include a way to pass along information? Why was the screening process so unprepared for the event and why were thousands of people unable to attend the Inauguration despite having tickets to the event? We do not want to assign blame. We only want to know what went wrong and how it can be prevented :ITomhappening again in the future.
Finally, those Americans who were shut out deserve an apology. They were promised admission to the historic Inauguration of President Obama and they were denied the opportunity. No matter how far they traveled, how much money they spent or how long they waited, every person who was issued a ticket and was unable to get in should receive an apology from those responsible for organizing.the Inauguration. Yesterday was a proud moment for ~ and it is a shame that it was marred by something as simple as the inability to take people's tickets.
Signed by various members of Congress, both Republican and Democrat
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
My column today in the Hawaii Tribune-Herald
Change did Hilo girl good
By Karen Welsh
Published: Wednesday, January 21, 2009 10:35 AM HST
WASHINGTON -- It's been an incredible week at the 2009 presidential inauguration in Washington D.C. It's been a privilege to presonally attend and witness this historical event.The theme this week is one of "change," and former Hilo resident Wendy Yamada Clerinx knows all about that.A typical local girl, Wendy, the daughter of Katsuya and Alma Yamada, enjoyed her childhood, which included riding her bike and hanging out and working at KTA, but decided she desired to broaden her life experience. She left the Big Island after graduating from Waiakea High School in 1992.
"I just wanted to try something new," she said. "I wanted a change."
This led Wendy to Santa Clara University in California, where she earned a bachelor's degree in political science and economics, and then to George Washington University in Washington D.C. to attend law school.After graduating, Wendy heard U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) was looking for a legislative assistant for his office on Capitol Hill.Wendy accepted the challenge and went to work on environmental issues, including natural resources, energy, clean water, endangered species, pollution and native Hawaiian issues.She said it's been wonderful working with the seasoned politician."I enjoy working for him," she said. "I've learned a lot from him. I also feel like I'm making a difference, otherwise, I wouldn't be here."Although Wendy has established a fulfilling and successful career, and started a family, she has begun to yearn for the simplicity of island life again."Now that I've been away, my problem is trying to find my way back to Hilo," she said. "I miss the food, I miss my family. I love them and miss them every day. I miss slippers and I miss being able to wear shorts all the time. Sooner or later I will move back there."For now, Wendy's content to stay and work for U.S. Rep. Abercrombie. She's never regretted making a new path for her life because change is often necessary part of life."If you have a chance to do something different, don't be afraid to try, even if you have to leave Hawaii and your support system," she said. "I had to do it and it was difficult. But, there is personal fulfillment just in the trying and venturing out."Now that's change that makes sense!
By Karen Welsh
Published: Wednesday, January 21, 2009 10:35 AM HST
WASHINGTON -- It's been an incredible week at the 2009 presidential inauguration in Washington D.C. It's been a privilege to presonally attend and witness this historical event.The theme this week is one of "change," and former Hilo resident Wendy Yamada Clerinx knows all about that.A typical local girl, Wendy, the daughter of Katsuya and Alma Yamada, enjoyed her childhood, which included riding her bike and hanging out and working at KTA, but decided she desired to broaden her life experience. She left the Big Island after graduating from Waiakea High School in 1992.
"I just wanted to try something new," she said. "I wanted a change."
This led Wendy to Santa Clara University in California, where she earned a bachelor's degree in political science and economics, and then to George Washington University in Washington D.C. to attend law school.After graduating, Wendy heard U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) was looking for a legislative assistant for his office on Capitol Hill.Wendy accepted the challenge and went to work on environmental issues, including natural resources, energy, clean water, endangered species, pollution and native Hawaiian issues.She said it's been wonderful working with the seasoned politician."I enjoy working for him," she said. "I've learned a lot from him. I also feel like I'm making a difference, otherwise, I wouldn't be here."Although Wendy has established a fulfilling and successful career, and started a family, she has begun to yearn for the simplicity of island life again."Now that I've been away, my problem is trying to find my way back to Hilo," she said. "I miss the food, I miss my family. I love them and miss them every day. I miss slippers and I miss being able to wear shorts all the time. Sooner or later I will move back there."For now, Wendy's content to stay and work for U.S. Rep. Abercrombie. She's never regretted making a new path for her life because change is often necessary part of life."If you have a chance to do something different, don't be afraid to try, even if you have to leave Hawaii and your support system," she said. "I had to do it and it was difficult. But, there is personal fulfillment just in the trying and venturing out."Now that's change that makes sense!
Article in 1-20-09 Hawaii Tribune-Herald that quoted me
Isle residents eager to see Obama's big day in D.C.
Published: Wednesday, January 21, 2009 10:37 AM HST
Tribune-Herald Staff And Wire Services
Hawaii is celebrating island-born Barack Obama's inauguration on TV, with hula dancers and at multiple parties from the islands to Washington, D.C.
Some Big Island residents have made the trek from the balmy islands to the cold of the nation's capital, and many more will wake up early to see one of their own be sworn in at 6:30 a.m. Hawaii time today.
In Washington, D.C., the parties started Sunday, and they'll continue into tonight.
On the rooftop terrace of the Hay-Adams Hotel, three of the state's four mayors joined musician John Cruz on Sunday to serenade a crowd of about 200 who gathered to toast Obama at the Hawaii for Obama Inaugural Gala.
"The excitement that people have, I think, knowing that we're going to have a new president, a new hope for the future -- it's just been a really amazing time," said Andy Winer, who served as coordinator of Obama's campaign in Hawaii.
About 500 people attended the first Aloha Inaugural Ball, where they enjoyed performances by hula dancers from Halau Hoomau i ka Wai Ola o Hawaii and Halau o Aulani.
Big Island resident Maureen Riley and her husband, Lionel, started planning back in June to take their two daughters to the inauguration.
Around Thanksgiving, they had to resort to eBay to find a ball gown and tuxedo to wear to the Aloha Inaugural Ball.
"We had to give our Social Security numbers to the Secret Service." Maureen Riley said.
Since cell phone service in the D.C. area will be sporadic today, with an estimated 4 million people squashed into one area, the Rileys bought walkie-talkies to keep in contact with their two daughters, Grace, 15, and Abigail, 10.
"Our kids are the exact same racial makeup as Obama," Maureen Riley said. "This is almost a pilgrimage for us. Every barrier has been broken but gender."
Tonight's Obama Home States Inaugural Ball at the Washington Convention Center is one of 10 official presidential balls, with a visit expected from Obama.
Lyman Museum Director Dolly Strazar, who was a Hawaii superdelegate, planned to attend the Home States ball with her husband, Louis Doody. Both are professional historians.
"To see something this major, such a significant change, to see a hapa-haole president, and from Hawaii. To me, that's a dream come true," Strazar said.
Elsewhere in Washington, the Hawaii State Society will hold an unofficial bash several blocks away from the Home States ball. Then there's also an Inaugural Luau, featuring Hawaiian music and island food including laulau, kalua pork, lomi salmon, long rice and poi.
"People in Hawaii always read about history in the textbooks. We don't experience it," said Sandi Yorong, a financial adviser from Oahu who has tickets to the swearing-in ceremony and the Home States Inaugural Ball. "I want to be there to capture the history and feel it and bring it home with pictures and stories to pass on to my grandkids."
Cynthia Orlando, superintendent of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, got stuck in a half-mile line of people Sunday trying to pick up their tickets for the ceremonies. She was just there to bring a box of ginger cookies from the Big Island to U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono.
"I was prepared for the cold," Orlando said. "I was not prepared for the lines."
Hilo High School teacher Mike Staszkow and a group of seven Big Island high school students flew to Washington, D.C., last Thursday.
Staszkow said the students were eager to attend today's inauguration.
"It's a way for them to live history," Staszkow said of the students. "They come back better for the experience. The kids are really excited."
Karen Welsh, a freelance writer for the Tribune-Herald, shared the sense of anticipation. A conservative who did not vote for Obama, Welsh nevertheless felt compelled to attend the inauguration.
"I am a spiritual woman, and I felt I was supposed to go as a witness," said Welsh.
To get a ticket, Welsh wrote Hirono a note, "laying it all out on the table."
"I am a Republican, and I didn't vote for him," she said. "They wrote back and said I had a ticket."
Welsh added: "People are so excited about this. There's a level of energy I've never seen in my life for a president. I am willing to support Barack Obama as if I had voted for him. I want things to change in this country."
Back in the islands, many more festivities are planned for today -- from small parties in Hilo, to upscale galas at Waikiki resorts.
The Democratic Party of Hawaii will sponsor a ball with tickets starting at $250 at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki.
In addition, the All Korean American Inaugural Ball will charge $100 per person for its party at the Hawaii Prince Hotel.
"It's awe and nonbelief," said Alan Lum, one of Obama's high school basketball teammates who now teaches second grade at Punahou. "It's surreal. you can't believe it. If you were to ask me, I can't explain. I'm dead silent."
Published: Wednesday, January 21, 2009 10:37 AM HST
Tribune-Herald Staff And Wire Services
Hawaii is celebrating island-born Barack Obama's inauguration on TV, with hula dancers and at multiple parties from the islands to Washington, D.C.
Some Big Island residents have made the trek from the balmy islands to the cold of the nation's capital, and many more will wake up early to see one of their own be sworn in at 6:30 a.m. Hawaii time today.
In Washington, D.C., the parties started Sunday, and they'll continue into tonight.
On the rooftop terrace of the Hay-Adams Hotel, three of the state's four mayors joined musician John Cruz on Sunday to serenade a crowd of about 200 who gathered to toast Obama at the Hawaii for Obama Inaugural Gala.
"The excitement that people have, I think, knowing that we're going to have a new president, a new hope for the future -- it's just been a really amazing time," said Andy Winer, who served as coordinator of Obama's campaign in Hawaii.
About 500 people attended the first Aloha Inaugural Ball, where they enjoyed performances by hula dancers from Halau Hoomau i ka Wai Ola o Hawaii and Halau o Aulani.
Big Island resident Maureen Riley and her husband, Lionel, started planning back in June to take their two daughters to the inauguration.
Around Thanksgiving, they had to resort to eBay to find a ball gown and tuxedo to wear to the Aloha Inaugural Ball.
"We had to give our Social Security numbers to the Secret Service." Maureen Riley said.
Since cell phone service in the D.C. area will be sporadic today, with an estimated 4 million people squashed into one area, the Rileys bought walkie-talkies to keep in contact with their two daughters, Grace, 15, and Abigail, 10.
"Our kids are the exact same racial makeup as Obama," Maureen Riley said. "This is almost a pilgrimage for us. Every barrier has been broken but gender."
Tonight's Obama Home States Inaugural Ball at the Washington Convention Center is one of 10 official presidential balls, with a visit expected from Obama.
Lyman Museum Director Dolly Strazar, who was a Hawaii superdelegate, planned to attend the Home States ball with her husband, Louis Doody. Both are professional historians.
"To see something this major, such a significant change, to see a hapa-haole president, and from Hawaii. To me, that's a dream come true," Strazar said.
Elsewhere in Washington, the Hawaii State Society will hold an unofficial bash several blocks away from the Home States ball. Then there's also an Inaugural Luau, featuring Hawaiian music and island food including laulau, kalua pork, lomi salmon, long rice and poi.
"People in Hawaii always read about history in the textbooks. We don't experience it," said Sandi Yorong, a financial adviser from Oahu who has tickets to the swearing-in ceremony and the Home States Inaugural Ball. "I want to be there to capture the history and feel it and bring it home with pictures and stories to pass on to my grandkids."
Cynthia Orlando, superintendent of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, got stuck in a half-mile line of people Sunday trying to pick up their tickets for the ceremonies. She was just there to bring a box of ginger cookies from the Big Island to U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono.
"I was prepared for the cold," Orlando said. "I was not prepared for the lines."
Hilo High School teacher Mike Staszkow and a group of seven Big Island high school students flew to Washington, D.C., last Thursday.
Staszkow said the students were eager to attend today's inauguration.
"It's a way for them to live history," Staszkow said of the students. "They come back better for the experience. The kids are really excited."
Karen Welsh, a freelance writer for the Tribune-Herald, shared the sense of anticipation. A conservative who did not vote for Obama, Welsh nevertheless felt compelled to attend the inauguration.
"I am a spiritual woman, and I felt I was supposed to go as a witness," said Welsh.
To get a ticket, Welsh wrote Hirono a note, "laying it all out on the table."
"I am a Republican, and I didn't vote for him," she said. "They wrote back and said I had a ticket."
Welsh added: "People are so excited about this. There's a level of energy I've never seen in my life for a president. I am willing to support Barack Obama as if I had voted for him. I want things to change in this country."
Back in the islands, many more festivities are planned for today -- from small parties in Hilo, to upscale galas at Waikiki resorts.
The Democratic Party of Hawaii will sponsor a ball with tickets starting at $250 at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki.
In addition, the All Korean American Inaugural Ball will charge $100 per person for its party at the Hawaii Prince Hotel.
"It's awe and nonbelief," said Alan Lum, one of Obama's high school basketball teammates who now teaches second grade at Punahou. "It's surreal. you can't believe it. If you were to ask me, I can't explain. I'm dead silent."
Reflections
Well, I'm at the airport headed home. I've been able to network with others who went to the inauguration and came away feeling as I did, no matter thier party affiliation. I will hopefully fill you in later. I do have some neat pics of the day and will post when I can. A hui you!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
I had a dream...then it became reality
This is not the blog I had "planned" on writing today. I expected something bright and cheery.
Just last week I had a dream. Not like Martin Luther King Jr., but a real, bonafide vision. It occurred last week. I was standing on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. Suddenly lava erupted about a quarter mile away. I thought it was beautiful and grabbed for my camera to take pics. Unbeknownst to me, the lava was throwing rocks high in the air and began to hit everyone. An audible voice from heaven simply said, "Pay attention."
Today I paid attention.
I was the one a quarter mile away from the U.S. Capitol steps. All was well. Anyone who's been talking with me or reading my blogs know full well I've been excited about the 2009 Presidential Inauguration. I thought it would be the highlight of my trip. I've been anticipating it. That's what I came to Washington D.C. for in the first place. In fact, I was so excited, that I didn't sleep last night. Call it insomnia. Call it anxiety. Call it nerves. I simply couldn't sleep. I left the house at 4 a.m. with Angie. It was freezing cold with a brisk wind that penetrated our very beings, but we were hyped, giggling and laughing as we walked the many blocks from her home. Only the inept security (who, BTW, were only worried about Pres. Obama's safety and seemed unconcerned for the millions of people jamming into the streets and crushing into piles of people they could have helped if they would have opened some barriers to relieve the many security-induced logger jams near the Capitol) kept Angie, who was a volunteer, from getting to her designated location. Undaunted (the problem solvers that we are), we back tracked a few blocks and bore with the crowds to catch the underground metro subway.
We actually got off at the right stop and made our way to her group leader at the Smithsonian Castle on Independence Avenue. By then it was 5 a.m. and the people were pouring in from everywhere. It wasn't long before we the flow of humanity became fast and furious, so we determined the safe thing would be for me to get to my gate a few blocks away.
It was still dark and now I was alone. The cold was unbearable. I thought about turning back not once, but a hundred times, and taking the metro back to Angie's warm abode. That voice came back again and again and told me to be persevere. Reluctantly I obeyed. At this point, I knew this wasn't me, but the voice of the Almighty kept me moving in the right direction. My mind reflected on my dream. For such a time was this. Persevere. Stay. Pay Attention.
As I arrived nearer my destination the crowd of people grew in intensity. True to form, security showed not the least bit of concern with the crowd and corralled people coming and going. Before I was able to comprehend, I was caught in a glut of people coming and going. We were so packed that we were forced to stomp through the knee-high shrubbery lining the office building. Pretty soon I could not move, but more and more people kept coming from both sides. It became so intense. I looked up at this beautiful, tall African-American lady. She had an entourage of three or four men that were shielding her. Looking back, I now believe she was some kind of celebrity. When our eyes met she could see my panic. I began to cry and blubber about being from Hawaii and the fact that I'm not used to crowds. Like an angel, she took my hand and told me not to worry, just keep moving. She never let go through many scary moments where I was crying uncontrollably. It wasn't my best moment, but they got me out. I must have thanked her about 20 times for helping me (my hands are sweating just thinking about this!). I finally got in the blue ticket line. There were military men, all snug and warm in the building, while 20,000 people waiting in this one line. There were no volunteers to give us information. The military men were useless, coming outside in groups of five or six, but congregating and "chatting" together instead of stationing themselves every 25 yards for crowd control. No, their only concern was that President-elect Obama wasn't shot or attacked by terrorists during the ceremony. Our "line" was then spread out on the avenue about 75 people wide and 100s of people deep. There we inched along for three-and-a-half grueling hours, again too close and pressed. By now I was getting within a 100 yards of the security checkpoint. Everyone was getting anxious, wanting to get in the security area before 11:30 a.m. For the second time that morning it was hard not to lose it. People were angry and mad at the inept way they handled this area. Again, the security could care less about us. It was apparent that the "everyman" didn't count. Once we got within a 100 feet of the security gate, we all began to realize that they were funneling us from a space of 75 people wide to a two-person gate. Again, people began to press in. Thankfully no one fell over or they would have been crushed. I wanted to dodge out and leave again, but the voice said "stay." I began to wonder if I came all the way to D.C. to die in this line. I had vivid recollections of soccer fans being crushed to death when thousands of people pressed in from behind. I began to pray God's protection and a hedge of thorns around me and the other people. I asked for God to calm the crowd. The time was also growing close for them to close the gates, so I also prayed if it was God's will that I get in. It was grim at moments, but we were finally about to funnel in and make it through security with only three moments to spare!
By the time we got in, the crowd was, once again, packed like sardines. I found an area on the road that was more open and decided to stay put there. I began to feel hopeful again, but the police were mean and unresponsive to the needs of the crowd as a collective. I felt like a cow going to slaughter. Police vehicles were going up and down the road, whooping their horns as the ceremony began (that's a whole other blog). Also, hundreds of charter buses were lined up on a nearby street to wait hours for their occupants to return. You think those bus drivers would turn off their engines? No, they ALL kept them running, spilling untold diesel fumes into the air the entire time. It was gagging all of us captives. I kept wondering how this was going "green"? Tons of fuel wasted. CO2 filling the air....etc...Guess it didn't matter if we could breathe or not. It was also very noisy.
Back to my story. I still maintained a shred of enthusiasm for the event. I had stayed the course through incredible odds. Within a couple of moments they began introducing the former presidents as they processed in. Jimmy Carter...yeah...then, George Bush Sr. I couldn't believe my ears. There was this vocal minority (not by race, but by the content of their character) in the crowd erupted and began to boo our former leader. No clapping, just booing. Where was the respect? Bill Clinton...yeah. President George W. Bush....louder boos that kept building and building. Many joined in as followers. Then, they sang "Hey, Hey, Hey, Goodbye" in a taunting manner. (now I place a disclaimer here. I'm sure everyone was not booing or taunting. I know there were respectful people in the crowd, but their unruly party members cast a huge shadow on all of them at this point). My question was, where were their manners? Pastor Rick Warren prayed and several people turned their back on him in disrespect (well, at least they didn't boo him!). Aretha Franklin sang "My Country Tis of Thee" and several woman began to loudly exclaim that they couldn't wait until Obama took office so he could arrest Bush, prosecute him for war crimes and send him to jail. Most of you who know me understand that it's hard to hold my tongue, especially when they were interrupting Aretha. Here I was a Republican who didn't vote for Obama, but I was here to soak in the experience and put my toes in the waters of change to see if it was for me. I turned around and told them this solemn ceremony was neither the time or the place to have this conversation, that people wanted to listen to what was going on. Undaunted, they kept it up. Again, I turned around and said, "Gee, we've been talking this entire week about unity, coming together...that would be a great mandate to give Obama his first week in office. Again, they kept talking and I finally told them to shut up. That did the trick. By then the event had lost its luster. I stayed for the historical swearing in, then began to leave. I turned to the ringleader and told her I was a Republican and how offended I was at her comments, especially during this important ceremony.
Then it dawned on me. I was suppose to hear all of this. I was meant to be a witness at this time. Int his moment. I began to think that people viewing the inauguration on television would not hear what was really going on with the audience. They would only hear the sounds on the stage and the gushing of newscasters. I had paid attention and realize I had witnessed the eruption of a vocal and aggressive group of people whose values or ideologies I definitely do not share. The rocks were falling and began to hit. Many Republicans had jumped party lines to vote for Obama. He is a nice, respectful man. He has charisma. Again, I don't want to lump all people in the Democratic Party in this category, but, when people voted for him, they also cast their vote for this unruly, disrespectful, ill-mannered people and their agenda. They may be in the minority in the Democratic Party, but folks, what I witnessed is that they are ravenous for control and power. They will force themselves and be heard. I left in tears, mourning this new reality. It was worse than being crushed in a sea of people, which is often the unwitting consequence when one follows the crowd. I pray Obama will be wise and keep us all secure.
Today I paid attention.
I was the one a quarter mile away from the U.S. Capitol steps. All was well. Anyone who's been talking with me or reading my blogs know full well I've been excited about the 2009 Presidential Inauguration. I thought it would be the highlight of my trip. I've been anticipating it. That's what I came to Washington D.C. for in the first place. In fact, I was so excited, that I didn't sleep last night. Call it insomnia. Call it anxiety. Call it nerves. I simply couldn't sleep. I left the house at 4 a.m. with Angie. It was freezing cold with a brisk wind that penetrated our very beings, but we were hyped, giggling and laughing as we walked the many blocks from her home. Only the inept security (who, BTW, were only worried about Pres. Obama's safety and seemed unconcerned for the millions of people jamming into the streets and crushing into piles of people they could have helped if they would have opened some barriers to relieve the many security-induced logger jams near the Capitol) kept Angie, who was a volunteer, from getting to her designated location. Undaunted (the problem solvers that we are), we back tracked a few blocks and bore with the crowds to catch the underground metro subway.
We actually got off at the right stop and made our way to her group leader at the Smithsonian Castle on Independence Avenue. By then it was 5 a.m. and the people were pouring in from everywhere. It wasn't long before we the flow of humanity became fast and furious, so we determined the safe thing would be for me to get to my gate a few blocks away.
It was still dark and now I was alone. The cold was unbearable. I thought about turning back not once, but a hundred times, and taking the metro back to Angie's warm abode. That voice came back again and again and told me to be persevere. Reluctantly I obeyed. At this point, I knew this wasn't me, but the voice of the Almighty kept me moving in the right direction. My mind reflected on my dream. For such a time was this. Persevere. Stay. Pay Attention.
As I arrived nearer my destination the crowd of people grew in intensity. True to form, security showed not the least bit of concern with the crowd and corralled people coming and going. Before I was able to comprehend, I was caught in a glut of people coming and going. We were so packed that we were forced to stomp through the knee-high shrubbery lining the office building. Pretty soon I could not move, but more and more people kept coming from both sides. It became so intense. I looked up at this beautiful, tall African-American lady. She had an entourage of three or four men that were shielding her. Looking back, I now believe she was some kind of celebrity. When our eyes met she could see my panic. I began to cry and blubber about being from Hawaii and the fact that I'm not used to crowds. Like an angel, she took my hand and told me not to worry, just keep moving. She never let go through many scary moments where I was crying uncontrollably. It wasn't my best moment, but they got me out. I must have thanked her about 20 times for helping me (my hands are sweating just thinking about this!). I finally got in the blue ticket line. There were military men, all snug and warm in the building, while 20,000 people waiting in this one line. There were no volunteers to give us information. The military men were useless, coming outside in groups of five or six, but congregating and "chatting" together instead of stationing themselves every 25 yards for crowd control. No, their only concern was that President-elect Obama wasn't shot or attacked by terrorists during the ceremony. Our "line" was then spread out on the avenue about 75 people wide and 100s of people deep. There we inched along for three-and-a-half grueling hours, again too close and pressed. By now I was getting within a 100 yards of the security checkpoint. Everyone was getting anxious, wanting to get in the security area before 11:30 a.m. For the second time that morning it was hard not to lose it. People were angry and mad at the inept way they handled this area. Again, the security could care less about us. It was apparent that the "everyman" didn't count. Once we got within a 100 feet of the security gate, we all began to realize that they were funneling us from a space of 75 people wide to a two-person gate. Again, people began to press in. Thankfully no one fell over or they would have been crushed. I wanted to dodge out and leave again, but the voice said "stay." I began to wonder if I came all the way to D.C. to die in this line. I had vivid recollections of soccer fans being crushed to death when thousands of people pressed in from behind. I began to pray God's protection and a hedge of thorns around me and the other people. I asked for God to calm the crowd. The time was also growing close for them to close the gates, so I also prayed if it was God's will that I get in. It was grim at moments, but we were finally about to funnel in and make it through security with only three moments to spare!
By the time we got in, the crowd was, once again, packed like sardines. I found an area on the road that was more open and decided to stay put there. I began to feel hopeful again, but the police were mean and unresponsive to the needs of the crowd as a collective. I felt like a cow going to slaughter. Police vehicles were going up and down the road, whooping their horns as the ceremony began (that's a whole other blog). Also, hundreds of charter buses were lined up on a nearby street to wait hours for their occupants to return. You think those bus drivers would turn off their engines? No, they ALL kept them running, spilling untold diesel fumes into the air the entire time. It was gagging all of us captives. I kept wondering how this was going "green"? Tons of fuel wasted. CO2 filling the air....etc...Guess it didn't matter if we could breathe or not. It was also very noisy.
Back to my story. I still maintained a shred of enthusiasm for the event. I had stayed the course through incredible odds. Within a couple of moments they began introducing the former presidents as they processed in. Jimmy Carter...yeah...then, George Bush Sr. I couldn't believe my ears. There was this vocal minority (not by race, but by the content of their character) in the crowd erupted and began to boo our former leader. No clapping, just booing. Where was the respect? Bill Clinton...yeah. President George W. Bush....louder boos that kept building and building. Many joined in as followers. Then, they sang "Hey, Hey, Hey, Goodbye" in a taunting manner. (now I place a disclaimer here. I'm sure everyone was not booing or taunting. I know there were respectful people in the crowd, but their unruly party members cast a huge shadow on all of them at this point). My question was, where were their manners? Pastor Rick Warren prayed and several people turned their back on him in disrespect (well, at least they didn't boo him!). Aretha Franklin sang "My Country Tis of Thee" and several woman began to loudly exclaim that they couldn't wait until Obama took office so he could arrest Bush, prosecute him for war crimes and send him to jail. Most of you who know me understand that it's hard to hold my tongue, especially when they were interrupting Aretha. Here I was a Republican who didn't vote for Obama, but I was here to soak in the experience and put my toes in the waters of change to see if it was for me. I turned around and told them this solemn ceremony was neither the time or the place to have this conversation, that people wanted to listen to what was going on. Undaunted, they kept it up. Again, I turned around and said, "Gee, we've been talking this entire week about unity, coming together...that would be a great mandate to give Obama his first week in office. Again, they kept talking and I finally told them to shut up. That did the trick. By then the event had lost its luster. I stayed for the historical swearing in, then began to leave. I turned to the ringleader and told her I was a Republican and how offended I was at her comments, especially during this important ceremony.
Then it dawned on me. I was suppose to hear all of this. I was meant to be a witness at this time. Int his moment. I began to think that people viewing the inauguration on television would not hear what was really going on with the audience. They would only hear the sounds on the stage and the gushing of newscasters. I had paid attention and realize I had witnessed the eruption of a vocal and aggressive group of people whose values or ideologies I definitely do not share. The rocks were falling and began to hit. Many Republicans had jumped party lines to vote for Obama. He is a nice, respectful man. He has charisma. Again, I don't want to lump all people in the Democratic Party in this category, but, when people voted for him, they also cast their vote for this unruly, disrespectful, ill-mannered people and their agenda. They may be in the minority in the Democratic Party, but folks, what I witnessed is that they are ravenous for control and power. They will force themselves and be heard. I left in tears, mourning this new reality. It was worse than being crushed in a sea of people, which is often the unwitting consequence when one follows the crowd. I pray Obama will be wise and keep us all secure.
This post was not meant to offend anyone. I know many of you are in the Democratic Party and would never dream of acting like this. I respect you. I know I live in harmony and unity with most of you. This was not the blog I had planned for today. However, my plan did not count. If it had, I would have headed for a warmer environment and not been there at all.
Aloha,
Karen
Karen
Monday, January 19, 2009
Meeting Congresswoman Mazie Hirono
I had a private interview with Congresswoman Mazie Hirono today. She is a very lovely woman. More details to follow in a future blog, as I've got to get up in less than two hours to head out to the inauguration! A hui hou!
Let it snow!!!
The weather's been a bit (well, maybe more than a bit) on the brisk side this week. I've been bundled up, so all is well, although I came home with frozen hands from the D.C. mall today!
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Freedom is not free
As I've written before, I've never been to Washington D.C., but now that I've been here I believe that each and every citizen should have to come here before they are entitled to vote. I spent most of the day in tears over my visit to our war memorials. I hope you will be touched as I have today and never forget that freedom is not free! God Bless the USA! Until next time, a hui hou.
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Sunday, January 18, 2009
Sunday Inauguration Celebration Concert at the D.C. Mall
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Today was a wonderful Sunday Inauguration Concert at the Lincoln Memorial. It was impossible for us to get close (unless we got up there at 4 a.m. and I'm saving my energy for the swearing-in ceremony!), but we went anyway and enjoyed the energy and vibrancy of millions of people in the same place at the same time. The concert was very good. I was able to capture a bit of it via pics and video. Please click on the Smilebox to see. I ask that you not forward any smileboxes I make for this event, as this is a private, exclusive blog for those who helped get me here. Perhaps in the future...but for now, this is for your eyes only! Until tomorrow...a hui hou!
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Aloha All!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Video of President-elect Barack Obama and Entourage Entering Washington D.C. after his train trip from PA
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It was a banner day. No, really, it was!
The one thing I love is how everyone is preparing for the 2009 Presidential Inauguration by hanging banners, flags, and other periphenalia in anticipation of the celebration. It truly is a festive atmosphere. I've tried to add my own by wearing red, white, and blue every day (see other posts for pics)
This just in: I'm working at the actual swearing-in ceremony!
It's official. I will be working alongside Angie (I'm going to tell you how I met her in a future blog) at the official 2009 Presidential Inauguration Ceremony! My job starts at 5 a.m. on Tuesday morning. I'm not sure what my responsibilities will be when I get there, but Angie and I are leaving at 4 a.m. to make the mile long walk from her home to the U.S. Capitol. They are going to give me an official red knitted cap for my head that says I'm on the Obama Inauguration Team and official credentials! How excited am I? Very, very excited!
Setting Up for the 2009 Presidential Inaugural Parade
This is the seal that is on the special bulletproof viewing area that the President and his family will be sitting. Please watch my video blog to get more details and to see the special booth build especially for this occasion. It is located directly behind the rear of the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue.
It takes a lot of prep work and rehearsal to ensure the big event comes off without a hitch. Here is a camera crew setting up their angles for the parade.The White House...aka...the "Big House"
The front of the White House. Notice how bundled up I am because it was cold, cold, cold! Many thanks to Angie's mom, Patsy, who lent me a thicker coat to endure the coldest weather that Angie can remember. Mahalo to Camille Walker who lent me another coat, which would have been perfect to wear if the weather had been warmer. No one knew I was going to the North Pole for the inauguration!
A full view of the front of the White House. We walked around three-quarters of the presidential home and I must say one has to walk a long way to see the entire thing!
This is the best picture I could get of the back of the White House because they have set up bleachers all along Pennsylvania Avenue for the 2009 Presidential Parade (see Presidential Parade Blogs). I really liked the stark contrast of the trees with the presidential home!Washington Post It Notes and More!
Karen with Leslie Waugh, a former Freedom Communications co-worker (Kinston Free Press in North Carolina).
Karen in front of the first printing press at The Washington Post
Looking out the window at The Washington Post
Angie holding today's PostOne of the joys of traveling to the mainland is reconnecting with old friends. In this case, I got to see a former Freedom Communications co-worker, Leslie Waugh. She was a copy editor at the Kinston Free Press in North Carolina, where I was a feature writer for the paper and the managing editor of The Jones Post. Angie and I met Leslie for lunch and then a personalized tour of The Washington Post, where Leslie now works as a copy editor. We had such an awesome time together. Leslie spent the afternoon with us. After we ate, fellowshipped, and caught up on our lives, Leslie escorted us through the massive newsroom (it takes up two floors in a large downtown building!). It was fun to pass out all the gifts from Big Island Candies, the Polynesian Cultural Center, lei from the Sullivans, and other goodies from the islands. I think we made their day as we shared aloha. When we were finshed, we walked a couple of blocks down to the White House (see White House Blog). It was a very enjoyable afternoon, but we were tired after walking around the large presidential estate in the freezing weather.
Friday, January 16, 2009
This one's for Glen Welsh
This picture, taken of a section in a complete band of artwork that encircles the entire U.S. Capitol Rotunda, is of the Orville Brothers testing their plane in the first flight. I dedicate this picture to my father-in-law, Glen Welsh, who spent many years serving our country in the Air Force, and also in the Federal Aviation Administration. I know if he would have saved everyone if he had been the pilot of that downed plane in the Hudson River. I know his efforts helped the airlines figure out better safety measures for those beautiful birds in the sky!
Today's Lesson: When it's freezing outside, burrow underground
It was only 12 degrees today. That was quite a shock for someone who was wearing shorts only a couple of days before. Even with bundling up it was frigid, to say the least. Thankfully, a compassionate legislative assistant took Angie and I down to the basement, where there is a vast labrinth of tunnels connecting all the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives offices, the Library of Congress and even the White House with the U.S. Capitol. Not only is there a maze of tunnels running here, there, and everywhere, but there is also a small city underneath the ground, complete with restaurants, ice cream shops, gyms, shoe-shiners, movie rental and dry cleaning stores and much more. It's incredible! That's probably why Capitol Hill seems like a virtual ghost town. There aren't crowds of people walking around the area. Only tourists and a lot of security guards watching the tourists. Those working in the area have no reason to go outside, which is a smart idea on an ultra-cold day like today.The Crypt
Angie and I took a tour of "The Crypt" ocated in the basement of the U.S. Capitol Building. The electricians were busy putting up the spotlights for President-elect Barack Obama's walk-through to the West Lawn right before the inauguration.
I found it interesting that this round room is called "The Crypt" because it holds the empty tomb of our first U.S. President George Washington. It was the plan of our forefathers to bury Pres. Washington there, but he unexpectedly died long before his final resting place was complete. The Capitol architects talked to his wife, Martha, about moving his body from Mount Vernon to Washington D.C. and, apparently, she agreed. However, the construction was still not completed before she died and the surviving members of his family said they had never heard of the arrangement and they were unwilling to release his body for re-internment. The matter went to court and the State of Virginia agreed and he has forever remained buried on the property of his beloved home. No one has since been buried there and the crypt remains empty. It's probably for the best, because the place would have been a bit spooky with the remains of dead bodies and assured rumors about hauntings and ghosts hanging around. That would have made for some awesome American Folklore!
Today I went on a tour of the Capitol Building (picture of the Rotunda). It was pretty impressive. What I didn't know, or had forgotten, was this was our second Capitol Building. The construction of the first building to house the U.S. Senate, House of Representatives and Judiciary System (Supreme Court) began in 1799 and was completed many years later. Much slave labor was involved in the construction of the massive building. However, in August 1814, the British came in and set the entire building on fire. Very little survived the blazing inferno. The British were hopeful that the devastation of the U.S. Capitol would break down the resolve of our nation. Little did they know how very wrong they were! It only strengthed our resolve and we defeated them in resounding victory!This one's for "Scotchy"
One of my subscribers is fondly known to many as "Scotchy." Congressman Neil Abercrombie (D-HI) sends his fondest aloha. He said to remind you of the time you served in the Hawaii State Senate together. With a twinkle in his eye and a broad smile, Congressman Abercrombie relayed the following tale: He said there was one particular vote on the floor where he and Sen. Ben Cayatano (also former Hawaii Governor) thought you were on board. However, when it came to the vote, they voted "yea" and you voted "nay." Flustered, they charged into your office and exclaimed "What happened man? We thought you were going to vote with us. Your reply: "I was blinded by reason." He said you stumped them so bad that they left your office speechless! He still remembers to this day and he wanted to let you know.
Don't forget, everyone is welcome to comment on my blogs! I look forward to reading your comments! More posts forthcoming today, so check often!
I'm here...let the festivities begin!
I arrived yesterday, in the late afternoon. It was already dark by the time we arrived in D.C. , so I couldn't see much, but what I did view was interesting. I love the architecture here!We ate dinner at Outback Steakhouse (picture is of Camille Walker and Angie "Baby" Valladares). We had a great time fellowshipping and feasting!
Needless to say, I fell into bed from all the activity of the day. I woke up and it's cold here this morning. I believe it is 12 degrees outside. I'm all dolled up in my long underwear, double socks, a turtle neck and a fleece jacket. I have scarves, mittens and a coat when we go out. It's so confining!
I'm with Angie right now. We're about to leave to visit all the Hawaii and North Carolina senators and congressmen and women. I will take pics and videos. I can't wait to report! Until then, a hui hou!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Aloha I will go...I mean Hawaiian Air, of course!
I'm sitting in the Hawaiian Airlines lounge in Honolulu at this moment. I have a few moments to relax before taking the WikiWiki shuttle over to the mainland terminal. From there I will be boarding United Airlines on a flight from Honolulu to Denver, then onto Dulles, where Angie Baby will be picking me up!
I determined to have enough omiyage (gifts from Hawaii) to make up 200 gifts to hand out when I get there. I already have plans to visit the entire Hawaii and North Carolina contigent of senators and congressmen and congresswomen. Each have a staff of nine people, so that's a huge chunk of gifts. I'm also going to visit the Washington Post, where a former colleague of my works as a graphic design artist. I had so much that I decided not to lug it through the airport, so I hesitantly packed two full check-on suitcases. My husband, Brian, made a wise decision to call a porter over to help when we arrived at Hilo International Airport. The porter was awesome. He lifted and carried my full bags from beginning to end. I quickly scrambled in my carry on and pulled out a gift for him and one for the attendant behind the Hawaiian Air counter. Each had my business card attached and I excitedly talked about going to the inauguration. The Hawaiian airline employee responded and only charged me a total of $25.00 for both bags. That would have been the cost for the first one on United. The second would have cost me $50.00, so he saved me a bundle. My plan is to ditch the second bag before coming home, as I won't need it. It is broken and has pukas developing in it, so it's time to discard anyway. That way I'll only bring one bag home.
Once I checked in, I flew through security and headed for the bathroom. Somewhere along the way I lost my boarding pass. I'm usually so careful, but I guess it happens every once in a while, even to the best of us. I was worried that I'd miss my flight, but the gal at the gate was gracious and allowed me to board.
There is already so much aloha and good will along the way. I sat by a really nice guy named Joe. He helped me with my oversized carry on, putting it into the overhead bin and then taking it out and carrying it until we got off the plane. I could tell he was nervous about flying, so I struck up a conversation. We talked about our ohana and keiki. Before we knew it the flight was over and we were landing in Honolulu.
So, here I am. I'm sipping on a root beer and I just finished watching the tail end of American Idol. I'm thankful for the air conditioning, although I'll probably miss the warm weather once I land in Denver! Thank heavens I packed my long underwear in my carry on!
Well, it's time to catch the WikiWiki now, so I will close. Please feel free to leave your comments on the blog. I would like to hear from all of you! Write as often as you like!
Again, thank you for all of your support. This trip means the world to me.
Aloha for now and always!
Karen
I determined to have enough omiyage (gifts from Hawaii) to make up 200 gifts to hand out when I get there. I already have plans to visit the entire Hawaii and North Carolina contigent of senators and congressmen and congresswomen. Each have a staff of nine people, so that's a huge chunk of gifts. I'm also going to visit the Washington Post, where a former colleague of my works as a graphic design artist. I had so much that I decided not to lug it through the airport, so I hesitantly packed two full check-on suitcases. My husband, Brian, made a wise decision to call a porter over to help when we arrived at Hilo International Airport. The porter was awesome. He lifted and carried my full bags from beginning to end. I quickly scrambled in my carry on and pulled out a gift for him and one for the attendant behind the Hawaiian Air counter. Each had my business card attached and I excitedly talked about going to the inauguration. The Hawaiian airline employee responded and only charged me a total of $25.00 for both bags. That would have been the cost for the first one on United. The second would have cost me $50.00, so he saved me a bundle. My plan is to ditch the second bag before coming home, as I won't need it. It is broken and has pukas developing in it, so it's time to discard anyway. That way I'll only bring one bag home.
Once I checked in, I flew through security and headed for the bathroom. Somewhere along the way I lost my boarding pass. I'm usually so careful, but I guess it happens every once in a while, even to the best of us. I was worried that I'd miss my flight, but the gal at the gate was gracious and allowed me to board.
There is already so much aloha and good will along the way. I sat by a really nice guy named Joe. He helped me with my oversized carry on, putting it into the overhead bin and then taking it out and carrying it until we got off the plane. I could tell he was nervous about flying, so I struck up a conversation. We talked about our ohana and keiki. Before we knew it the flight was over and we were landing in Honolulu.
So, here I am. I'm sipping on a root beer and I just finished watching the tail end of American Idol. I'm thankful for the air conditioning, although I'll probably miss the warm weather once I land in Denver! Thank heavens I packed my long underwear in my carry on!
Well, it's time to catch the WikiWiki now, so I will close. Please feel free to leave your comments on the blog. I would like to hear from all of you! Write as often as you like!
Again, thank you for all of your support. This trip means the world to me.
Aloha for now and always!
Karen
Monday, January 12, 2009
All Bundled Up and No Place to Go....yet!!!
I have borrowed mittens, snowboots, coat, scarves and I'm ready to go...now if I can find room in my suitcase, which is full of gifts from Hawaii to malama those in D.C.
A huge mahalo to Lance Duyao and Big Island Candies for a generous gifting of omiyage. WOW! Many people will be blessed by your aloha!
So, here I am, all bundled up with your love and good wishes. There's only a couple more days left until I go.
Let the countdown continue!!
A huge mahalo to Lance Duyao and Big Island Candies for a generous gifting of omiyage. WOW! Many people will be blessed by your aloha!
So, here I am, all bundled up with your love and good wishes. There's only a couple more days left until I go.
Let the countdown continue!!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
It's none of my "business," but it is yours!
I just made up "business-sized" cards on my very own computer (I had the high-gloss paper, so I thought what the heck). I think they turned out really nice (look to the left and judge for yourself). I will be able to hand them out to people I meet along the way and to put with the makana I'm giving out. I'm giving a special shout out to Bobby Akoi at the Polynesian Cultural Center. This is where I took the picture (it's a bonafide Hawaiiana quilt hanging in their Hawaiian Village) in the first place and I couldn't have done that without his generosity. Both Bobby and PCC rock!
It's three days and counting down quickly. Check back soon for more updates!
Friday, January 2, 2009
I got lei'd and more...
The aloha spirit is going with me in full force to Washington D.C.
Mahalo to Mike and Carol Sullivan for providing a bundle of eyelash lei to take on the trip! It's going to make people feel special all along the way!
Mahalo to Bobby Akoi from the Polynesian Cultural Center for providing a huge box of chocolate covered mac nuts.
Mahalo to each and every one of you for providing funds and other needed assistance along the way!
I can hardly wait to go!
Me Ke Aloha Pumehana,
Karen
P.S. I hope they let me take makana into the capitol!
Mahalo to Mike and Carol Sullivan for providing a bundle of eyelash lei to take on the trip! It's going to make people feel special all along the way!
Mahalo to Bobby Akoi from the Polynesian Cultural Center for providing a huge box of chocolate covered mac nuts.
Mahalo to each and every one of you for providing funds and other needed assistance along the way!
I can hardly wait to go!
Me Ke Aloha Pumehana,
Karen
P.S. I hope they let me take makana into the capitol!
Monday, December 22, 2008
Welcome to my Presidential Inauguration 2009 Blog!
Aloha to all my supporters. This is your exclusive blog that will take you through my journey to the 2009 Presidential Inauguration of President-Elect Barack Obama. I will be arriving on January 15, 2009. It is my plan to attend all the festivities and most of the important sites in Washington D.C. I will post blogs, pics, and hopefully some videos of my time there. Please check this site often from now on. I will post updates leading up to the trip (how is prep leading up to the trip is going). The majority of my blogs will take place between January 14-22). Please keep yourself up-to-date!
Aloha,
Karen Welsh
Hilo, Hawaii
Aloha,
Karen Welsh
Hilo, Hawaii
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