Getting Down to Business

Wednesday morning's delegation breakfast meeting was filled with important business. We heard several labor union reps from mighty BIG national unions.

The best line of the day came from a labor leader who spoke on the importance of talking to our neighbors about how supportive of labor our democratic nominee has been. He allowed as how during those conversations we are likely to face excuses and prejudices against Obama on every level. But he said: "If people tell you they just can't vote for a black man, you look them straight in the eye and tell them that's BULLSHIT."

Well alrighty then. Neighbors: you have been forewarned.

Then came the business of the day: The New Jersey Delegation's vote. There were several impassioned speeches from Hillary delegates who said it was time to show throw our UNANIMOUS support behind Obama. They came from ordinary citizens and party leaders and one thing was quite clear. They wanted to go into the official convention roll call with a strong, progressive clear-headed support of our party's nominee. They felt New Jersey needed to provide an example to the country of UNITY within our diversity.

We voted, it was unanimous...cheers and even a few tears from some delegates at the next table. I would only learn later the true import and impact of this vote. (to be continued)

We were then treated to a wonderful thank you speech from none other than Governor David Patterson of New York. A staunch Hillary delegate from the get go, Patterson assured us that this vote was exactly what Hillary wanted, and was particular meaningful coming from New York's favorite neighbor.

He also thanked us for our plentiful shopping malls...and gave one of the funniest speeches I have heard all week. I think Mr. Spitzer may have done a favor for the fine people of New York by leaving them in the able hands of this terrific guy.