Washington D.C. Day 2

Today we awakened early and ate breakfast a local eatery which was fine. Then we left early for D.C. We arrived at Union Station by 9:30 and there was organized chaos for about a half and hour as we helped the kids find bathrooms, places to buy disposable cameras and waters, etc....Then our group split off from the others and hopped on the subway. We made three different connections and walked with immense crowds of people to the National Mall where Obama was scheduled to appear at 2 pm. There was an inaugural kick off with superstars like Bruce Springsteen, Jonas Brothers, Beyonce, Tom Hanks, Denzel Washington, Aretha Franklin, etc...and of course Obama and his wife and kids and the VP. We had a long distance view of the Lincoln Memorial and the reflecting pool (same shot as in Forrest Gump when Jennie runs into the pool). The kids were really excited about that! There was security like you would not believe with snipers on rooftops and humvees, mounted park police on Clydesdales, and military helicopters buzzing overhead. It was pretty exciting to see Marine Helicopters bearing the VIPs to the Lincoln Memorial...In an couple of days those same helicopters will be called Marine I and hover onto the White House lawn bearing the new president to his new home.

The kids were really great and enjoyed every moment of the day...One girl kept saying, with tears in her eyes, "I can't believe that I am witnessing history!" I have to admit one does get caught up in the historical aspects of what is taking place here. The crowds exude excitement and hope that cannot be denied or waved away. We are here and we are part of history in the making and that is pretty damn cool. The day was long...there was a lot of walking and the kids and adults were all pretty darn tired. The hotel was completely silent shortly after we pulled in and disembarked from the buses.

We have another early day tomorrow as we head to Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and then an Air and space museum at Dulles International Airport...there is supposed to be a space shuttle there! Then out to eat before returning to the hotel for a very early night because the band is leaving by 3 am for check in at the Pentagon. Poor Mr. D, Val, and Christy will have all the kids to themselves per order of the U.S. Military and the rest of us are on our own as we head to the city in personal vehicles and subways to fight the crowds and stand in the cold for hours to witness the swearing in and the parade....we are preparing ourselves mentally and physically with sleep and warm clothing. It will be long johns, long sleeved shirts, fleeces, wool socks, hats, mittens, and warm jackets. Fortunately for me, I have experience at this kind of stuff...and it is cold but not as cold as New Years...I will keep you all posted on the events as they unfold.

Washington D.C. Day 1

Yesterday we arrived at Sanford High School by 5 am and had our luggage searched and got our marching orders. There was huge excitement and energy in the building. We left 7 minutes after 7 am with a wonderful send off from parents and supporters. Vicki and I sat in the back of the bus and many of the other chaperones expressed envy at the fact that we seemed to be having a party....we were and we are not apologizing for that. The kids were wonderful. But as much fun as the party was I fell asleep for the next four hours. I did not snore but I apparently hogged the seats and shoved Vicki further and further into the aisle. I do not believe her, because I distinctly recall her ass hitting mine when she turned to her left to doze off herself! Oh, by the way...she is going by Viv now instead of Vicki because thats what her identity card states. I kind like that new name...Viv...I think it makes her sexier. She has been sketching out the entire time because she thinks I am going to put the moves on her. All I can say is what happens on the bus stays on the bus. (Actually Viv told me to tell you all that). We ended up in Maryland by 4ish...and then sat around the hotel for a while trying to figure out what to do because the bus drivers had timed out...and could not drive long distances because of federal regulations. We ended up at the Golden Corral for supper--which was incredible. I had always seen those in Florida but had never been inclined to try it...well my mistake! The food was plentiful, tasty, well prepared and diverse. Steak, pot roast, chicken, pork, lots of veggies, salad, fruit, and sides...pizza, cakes, pies and ice cream..the hot buttered rolls were delicious. The kids ate and ate...the adults did too....we all had carb overloads and we all hit the bed early. We did do a radio show and everyone should check that out and listen up tonight at 8 pm.

Student Autobiography

Tampa Productions Preview

Sue and the Giant Wave

Yesterday my friend Sue and I went to Old Orchard Beach to visit my backyard beach...she had an unfortunate incident occur while admiring the view.

Video of Africa

Some have asked me why do I create a movie about Africa. I reply, "Why not?" I love the breathtaking views of the various landscapes; the remarkable sights of the wildlife; and the moving images of its people. I have a friend whose dream it is to become a nurse practicioner and work in Africa for Doctors Without Borders. I cannot think of many dreams that are nobler than that. I hope to visit my friend one day to view the lives she will change with such a labor of love. It is a fine thing to say to someone "Someday, I will come to see you in Africa."

Evolution of Security

One of the things I strive for is fairness. Injustice bristles me and I tend to speak out in some form--either a blog, my radio show, or just in person. My first post to this blog discussed how I felt compelled to just shut my mouth in the face of what I saw as insensitivity of TSA officers in Tampa International Airport. Well, one of the things that I like to do is mention when things are positive as well. To that end, this posting is in recognition of what the TSA is doing right.

Several months ago, the TSA realized they needed to do better. The level of outcry had reached a breaking point. They finally responded by creating a blog. Now, I know that many people will think "Whoopdeedo!" What was amazing about this blog, however, was that it provided a venue for customers to speak their mind. People, like me, began to post in earnest of just being able to speak out. What was equally as nice is that they allowed for people to post anonymously so those amongst us who are truly afraid or paranoid need not panic. I, for one, posted as Big Red and did so with pride. I might be too wise to complain in line at the airport, but I am not afraid to exercise my first amendment right when my travel plans are not at risk. This blog was made available for everyone to review--the average citizen, foreign and national press, and even terrorists. This is what America is all about. We are an open society.

After listening to customers on the blog, and in the airports, the TSA has begun to respond. They are in what they called "evolution". They are transforming the way we check in at the airports--with ideas ranging from adding soothing lighting and music, to providing opportunities to repackage our belongings without feeling hassled. The lines will run far smoother according to their new plans--permitting passengers to move at their own pace. Those who are in a rush and prepared can leapfrog ahead of those of us who are frazzled and trying to compose ourselves. This is a positive thing. I for one will be eagerly looking forward to seeing the changes that are brought about.

I would caution all of us to be patient because change always brings some difficulty until all the participants adjust. But I think the TSA, today, deserves some credit for their efforts.