THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 4, 2008: 10am

Sorry for not posting yesterday, but it was a little hectic, so here's a chronological account of Wednesday:

Our morning breakfast was a joint event with the Louisiana delegation. It was at the Crowne Plaza where the Louisiana delegation is staying- however there are two Crowne Plazas in the Twin Cities area. One is in Brooklyn Park and the other is downtown. The bus carrying the Oklahoma delegation went to the wrong one, but we took our car, so we arrived 45 minutes before the rest of the delegation. Former Congressman J.C. Watts Jr. was the breakfast speaker. J.C. had spoken at the church prayer breakfast prior to our event. J.C. had the same problem- his cab driver took him to the wrong Crowne Plaza which delayed the start of the breakfast.

The Chairman of the Louisiana Republican Party, Roger Villere, related the first time he heard J.C. speak was at the 1992 Republican National Convention. He said it was the single best speech he had ever heard at a political event. "I knew J.C. could throw lightening from his arm (referring to his days as a college and pro football quarterback), but I didn't know he could throw thunderbolts with his mouth."

Villere introduced J.C. who was given a prolonged standing ovation. "People ask me why I left congress, but friends, my 8 oz. cup had about 1.5 oz. in it. I was drained." "I needed to focus on my children, my family and while the cheer of the crowd is seductive, at the end of the day, it's not about us," Watts said. "When you get to the point that you are grading your own tests and we know what happens when you grade your own tests- you make a good grade, that means our focus is wrong," Watts continued.

Watts contrasted the definition of a hero and a celebrity. "Celebrities are famous for being famous- known for being known." Heroes are known for their values and resolve." He talked about the WWII generation and the quite resolve they possessed. "I remember the first time I saw my dad cry (the day that Martin Luther King was shot) and it baffled me." "That generation doesn't express their emotions, but they are the true heroes in our society." "John McCain is from that generation," Watts said.

Watts talked issues as well. "We cannot solve the health care crisis without talking about health." "Maybe we should provide tax incentives for those whose cholesterol stays under 200." "We need to become a more health conscious society that puts the responsibility for health back with the people and not the government," Watts said.

On business and industry, J.C. said, "Capital is a coward and will not go into a hostile environment." "We must create and foster an environment that attracts and grows industry."

In a wonderful illustration of cultural diversity, J.C. had a lady from Louisiana and Gary Jones join him on stage. He positioned the three across the stage, separated by a 4-6 foot distance. "What do you see here?" he asked. You see a white male, a white woman, and a black man." "Separately, you may not like one or all of us," Watts said. He then had the three stand shoulder to shoulder and asked, "What do you see now?" "You see us." "That is the key to diversity- seeing beyond the individuals skin color, gender, or cultural background," Watts concluded.

When he turned to the selection of Sarah Palin as the VP pick, Watts said, "the message I'm getting from the top Democrats is- "you dirty Republicans- I dare you appoint a real person."

Because I was in charge of the SERVICE PROJECT at the St. Paul Citadel Corps Community Center (The Salvation Army) and it started at 11am, Debbie, Jeremy and I ducked out early. We arrived around 11:45 and were met by Lisa Mueller, Captain and Corps Office for the Army. I have long admired the work of the Salvation Army. For my money, they get the most "bang for their buck" for those feeding the poor and helping the downtrodden. The Salvation Army was founded in London in in 1865 by William Booth. Booth is famous for saying, "The greatness of a man's power is the measure of his surrender." We had nine people show up to help in this worthwhile endeavor. We worked until 2:30, painted their dining hall and deep cleaned the kitchen. Without breaks or stops for lunch, the nine labored with a passion to complete the job and do it with quality. Thanks to Lisa and her team for their flexibility (she was on vacation and came back to be with us for the project) and their understanding of our tardiness (the breakfast ran over slightly). Channel 5 from St. Paul was there filming our work as was the regional newsletter director. I can assure you these nine dedicated, hard working political activists didn't do it for a photo opportunity- our goal was to really show our appreciation to our host city for their hospitality. We had to rush back to the hotel to clean up and change to catch the 3:30pm bus to the convention center for the delegation photo.

When we arrived for the delegation photo, Texas was getting theirs shot immediately before us. Because of the size of their delegation- 140 delegates plus alternates, it was difficult to get all in the picture. Ours went smoothly and I must credit Vice Chairwoman Cheryl Williams for organizing the group before we got on the risers. Congressman John Sullivan and Congresswoman Mary Fallin joined the delegation in the photograph. Jeremy, even though he was a guest, was allowed to be in one of the photos. He has enjoyed his experience at the convention and has made friends with several of the delegates. So long as he keeps the "family secrets" secret, we may invite him back.

When I got the the convention floor, my friend and fellow blogger Bobby Cleveland http://thatsjustbob.blogspot.com/ was excited because his normally non-political daughter-in-law, Christine Cleveland, had text messaged him stating that while working at the Cleveland County HQ in Norman, a lot of women had been coming in getting McCain yard signs. They were says the reason was because he had picked Sarah Palin as the VP nominee. "I'm fired up," Christine told Bobby. Bobby had on a second UNCLE SAM hat Wednesday night. One of his grandsons had asked for the dred locks one- even thought he thought his grandpa looked "dorky" on TV with it on. As Bobby described his convention experience- his first- his eyes were full of tears as he talked about the moving National Anthem presentation. "I just got to thinking about what that flag means, " Bobby said.

Senator Norm Coleman spoke first and said we create jobs three ways: (1) We make government more efficient. "The Democrats plan to raise taxes to create jobs is like putting Round-up on your garden," Coleman said. (2) Increase our energy supply. "We must drill, pursue alternative energy sources and reduce our dependence on foreign oil," Coleman said to applause. (3) Reform Health Care and education. The Minnesota Senator is up for reelection against former comedian Al Franken in November.

During the other preliminary speeches, I visited the South Carolina delegation to find a delegate named Mike FAIR. During the permanent rules meeting, their representative had sat by me and told me about him. Mike is a South Carolina State Senator, had been married 39 years, has one daughter and 3 grandchildren. He was up for reelection this cycle, but didn't draw an opponent. He lives in Greenville, SC and when I asked him who his political mentors were, he cited Senator Strom Thurmond, but said the major influence in his life was his father. "Even though my dad and his dad were not political people, they taught me the values that guide me politically," Fair said. He is excited about the Palin pick because one of the most important issues for Fair are pro-life issues. "South Carolina is a very Republican state and I expect this will be a good year for us with McCain/Palin at the top of the ticket." Fair is a rare name and it was nice to meet a "Cuz" at the convention.

The keynote speeches featured Mitt Romney, former Governor of Massachusetts, whose zinger "I have one solution for energy conservation- keep Al Gore's private plan on the ground." Romney said, "America is strong, not because of government but because of the American people." "The right course is to build the private sector," he concluded.

Next up was former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee. Huckabee was warmly received by the delegates. He finished second in the primary and is certainly the most articulate of the presidential candidates in 2008- including Barack Obama. "I want to thank the elite media for helping to unite the GOP," Huckabee said to thunderous applause. Sarah Palin has been unmercyfully attacked and maligned since it was announced she was the VP pick. "There are three things we don't want to change in America- Freedom, Opportunity to prosper, and Liberty," Huckabee said. In a swipe at Obama's Europian tour, which Huckabee called OBAMA'S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE, the Guv said, "Barack forgot he was running for President of the United States, not the world." On Sarah Palin, Huckabee said, "Sarah Palin got more votes running for mayor of Wasilla than Joe Biden running for President."

During a break, I visited with a fellow Oklahoma delegate, Thomas Kiene. Thomas is a retired engineer from Seagate and we have a mutual friend- Sammy & Amber Bishop. Amber underwent a liver transplant a couple of years ago and Sammy's parents are friends of ours in Duncan- Jack & Ann Bishop. Thomas was elected delegate at the Third District Convention. He is married, has two kids and 4 grandkids. "I'm be right up front with you- I'm a Ron Paul supporter," Thomas said. "I believe we have to change the Republican party because when we had both Houses of Congress and the Presidency, we didn't see the changes we were promised during the campaigns." Kiene was against the war in Iraq, which I told him I disagreed with him on. I told him about my political mentor- the late Dr. Gerald Beasley, who introduced me to Dr. Ron Paul several years before. Kiene has met the Congressman and said while Paul is inspiring the movement he said it's not just about Ron Paul. "It's about true constitutional government," Keine said. I found Thomas to be gracious and civil and while our dialogue for fifteen minutes ranged from theological to political, I believe we probably agree more than disagree. Thomas is raising fruits and vegetables(truck farming) now and lives in Piedmont.

Also during the break, fellow delegate David Weston and I talked theology. David is an ordained Southern Baptist deacon and the former State Party Finance Director. David is a good Bible student and the discussion was fun. The only places David and I disagree are where he's wrong. Seriously, I appreciate David's consistent passion for politics and his recommendation to Olvis Kennedy of the Lexington Observer to run my weekly opinion/editorial piece. The Observer article never fails to generate comments each week to my Inbox- some actually positive.

The former Mayor of New York City, Rudolph William Louis Giuliani was the next speaker at the podium. On Obama's record of voting "Present" during his tenure in the Illinois legislature, Giuliani said, "He couldn't figure out whether to vote yes or no- it was too hard." "I have some advice for Obama- the next time you are unsure about making a decision, call John McCain," Rudy said to loud applause. Talking about the Iraq war, Giuliani said,"In the the single biggest policy decision in the this election, McCain got it right and Obama got it wrong." "Our country will be safe in the hands of John McCain," Giuliani concluded.

I took a break to visit with my son and ran into Michael Bates from Tulsa. Michael is a fellow blogger and is blogging from the convention. You can access his site at http://www.batesline.com/. He invited me down to bloggers row and I plan to visit it tomorrow night.

After a moving a Capella singing of the National Anthem, Vice Presidential designate Sarah Palin took the stage. The three minute ovation was impressive. After accepting the nomination of Vice President, Palin talked about her background. "I'm a hockey mom and the only difference between a hockey mom and a pit bull is lipstick," she proclaimed to the excited crowd. She introduced her family which included her parents- both educators. "They taught me this is America and every woman can walk through every door of opportunity," Palin said.

On John McCain, Palin said, "As the mother of one of those troops serving overseas, McCain is exactly the kind of Commander-in-Chief I want want leading our troops."

Palin questioned the motives of politicians when she said, "some politicians use change to promote their careers and others use their careers to promote change." Obama is running on a platform of change. In another shot across Obama's bow, Palin said, The American presidency is not supposed to be a journey of personal discovery." "Obama talks about fighting for you, but let's be clear, only one candidate has really fought for you," Palin said to thunderous applause.

Palin was join on stage by her family. She proudly held her special needs child, hugged her husband and children. She was joined on stage by McCain, who proclaimed, "It's clear we made the right choice."

After a short break, it was time to conduct the business of the roll call vote. State-by state announced their results, but Arizona the home state of McCain was called upon they passed. The protocol is to allow the home state to "put the nominee over the stop," so each state passes when that number is reached. The procedure is largely symbolic, but allows the home folks to feel they were the state that actually gave him the victory. After that was done, Arizona announced their votes for McCain and he was proclaimed the 2008 Republican nominee for President. The states that had passed when then given the opportunity to have their votes recorded and state-by-state, that was done. When it reached Oklahoma, outgoing National Committeeman Lynn Windel introduced US Senator Jim Inhofe to read our votes. The votes were 39 for John McCain and 2 for Ron Paul. Due to a pause, Senator Inhofe's mike was turned off and the secretary of the convention stated publicly- "Oklahoma casts 41 votes for McCain" which was not true. Senator Inhofe attempted to have them come back and have Oklahoma's votes restated, but that was not allowed. It could have been due to the latest of the hour, or as some believe, the Ron Paul supporters are not given the respect of other candidates supporters. While I don't know the motives of the persons conducting the roll call, it was clearly a mistake and while not intentional, it did create the perspective in some people's minds that was the case.

Lynn Windel, National Committeeman from Oklahoma, said the official record will record Oklahoma with the 39-2 spilt, but we can't change what happened on the floor.

Arriving back at the hotel, Gary Jones, State Party Chair, asked the Ron Paul supporters in the Oklahoma delegation, who number about 25 to meet with him in the hospitality suite. He asked me to join them. Gary started the meeting by apologizing to the two delegates whose votes were not recorded properly. He stated he would release a press statement concerning the error and would ask the NRC to announce from the podium tonight the error in the recording of Oklahoma's vote. While I understand the disappointment the Paul supporters felt, their spirit of forgiveness for what was clearly human error was not apparent.

Tempers flared during the meeting and accusations concerning Gary Jones from several Ron Paul supporters were inappropriate and uncivil. Gary Jones is not a perfect man or a perfect Chairman, but he is an honest, ethical, principled man whose convictions have cost him financially and politically. He is my friend and I have known him long before he became the Chairman of the Republican Party. To accuse a principled man of being unprincipled is not a tactic that advances a cause. I will likely be attacked and maligned for my support of my friend, but I can not stay idlely by and watch a good man be attacked by the ESTABLISHMENT Republicans and others.

I believe in the principle of Matthew 18 that says Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. This forum in Room 711 was much too public and should have been handled between the two delegates who votes were not reported correctly and Senator Inhofe. That fundamental step was not done and the public forum allows for misunderstandings, resentment and hard feelings to develop. Read my Saturday evening post concerning Debbie and I's attendance at Bethleham Baptist Church where John Piper preached Saturday evening. The message is very applicable to this situation.

Former State Representative Porter Davis and I had a brief conversion after the meeting that I enjoyed. Porter's father is William "Bill" Davis who owned William E. Davis in OKC for years. Mr. Davis is an honest, ethical businessman who sold his company several years ago. Porter and I have several mutual acquaintances, including a distance cousin- Mike Fair who served in the Oklahoma legislature. Porter was a voice of reason and rightly pointed out that there was political passion in the room and new energy and interest in politics. As a long time political activist, who has begged for poltical volunteers, I appreciate passion. I only hope the error is corrected to everyones satisfaction. As I told Porter, I don't take myself too seriously, because after all, I'm not getting out of life alive.

Thursday September 4, 2008- 1pm

Breakfast had several speakers including Congressman Tom Cole who said Palin's speech reminded him of the country music song written by Tom T. Hall called Harper Valley PTA. It was a major hit single for country songstress Jeannie C. Riley in 1968, which is probably before most of the people in the room. The song tells the story of a junior high student who is sent home with a note to her single mother from the PTA of the school decrying her behavior by small-town standards. The mother decides to speak to a meeting of the PTA where she addresses various episodes of misbehavior on the part of several of its members, concluding, "This is just a little Peyton Placce/And you're all Harper Valley hypocrites." Cole was complimentary of all his congressional colleagues.

Congressman Frank Lucus and Congresswoman Mary Fallin spoke as well. Fallin will address the convention tonight in prime time at 8pm. Senator Inhofe spoke as well and he explained what happened at the convention and offered an apology to the two delegates whose votes were not announced correctly. They were not in attendance at the breakfast. Inhofe who is up for reelection said that he was being targeted by the Hollywood elite like Richard Pombo was in 2006. "They spent 4-7 million dollars in his race, busing in college students paying them $18 an hour to campaign for Jerry McNerney, Pombo's opponent. Pombo had served in the House for seven terms and was a target because of his views on global warming in which he agrees with Senator Inhofe. "They don't care who my opponent is, they just want me gone," Inhofe concluded.

Lynn Windel, National Committeman and Bunny Chambers, National Committeewoman, gave their final adresses to the delegation. Both are retiring after the convention. It was moving and emotional for both they and the delegates. They have done great jobs of helping to build the party in Oklahoma from the grassroots up. (See photo at top of post)

Jeremy and Debbie are at the Mall of America and I'm blogging. We have to be in our seats for the convention tonight at 4:30pm, so buses leave the hotel at 3:30pm. Stay tuned- tonight is always the most exciting.

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 2ND: MIDNIGHT

We left the hotel at 5pm on the last bus going to the Xcel Center. We walked to the BNSF/Koch Industries reception. The reception was held at the historic St. Paul library. The buffet table was decorated with Sunflowers in honor of the Kansas flower.

In the buffet line, I met Jamie Woodworth, the 4th district chair of the Kansas Republican Party who also works for U.S. Senator Sam Brownback. We thought it was interesting that we were both 4th ditrict chairs. The speakers at the event were Senator Brownback and Congressman Tom Cole. The Senator suggested the Saddleback Civil Forum format be used to compare the two candidates- one on economic issues, one on social issues, one on Foreign Policy, etc.

Brownback had two requests for the Oklahoma delegation: (1) That Oklahoma would lose to Kansas in football this fall and (2) Work hard for GOP candidates at all levels.

4th District Congressman Tom Cole was introduced by the CEO of Burlington Northern/Santa Fe as "the quarterback of the US House election team." In his role as Chairman of the RNCC, Cole is charged with helping in the reelection efforts of GOP US House members nationally. He said that Kansas has a good chance of picking up two House seats in November- one with current Kansas State Senator Nick Jordan who is running against five term Congressman Dennis Moore. Congressman Cole said he thought Jordan is a clear opportunity to pick up a seat. The other seat Cole said we should pick up is the 2nd district in Kansas where CPA and current Kansas Treasurer Lynn Jenkins is running. Jenkins won a contentious primary. She beat Jim Ryun- the former Congressman- by 1,000 votes in the primary, but Cole said they have come together for the general election. The seat is currently held by Nancy Boyda.

While standing in the security line to get into the Xcel center, we were directed to go to another gate they were going to open up. After we had walked two blocks they changed their minds and we had to walk back to the original line. I struck up a conversation with State Senator Harry Brown from North Carolina. Brown owns a couple of car dealerships in Jacksonville, NC and was elected to the state legislature in 2004. He didn't draw an opponent this year, so he will be returned to office. He is married, has three children and two grandchildren. When I asked him about Palin, he said, "She is a great choice. She will motivate the base and the hoopla about her daughter's pregnancy is something that can happen to any family." "I believe they have handled it well." Kristen Brown, one of our interns from CTI is also from North Carolina and she and the Senator struck up a conversation. His political mentor was the late US Senator Jesse Helms. With all the personality of a salesman, Brown was engaging and personable.

The Convention program began with US Senator Norm Coleman from Minnesota. Coleman said of McCain, He has never said no to adversity." The invocation was offered by Miles McPherson. McPherson is the President of Miles Ahead, and Senior Pastor of the Rock Church in San Diego. He also played professional football for the San Diego Chargers. Using a line that former Congressman J.C. Watts Jr. has used, Character is doing what's right when no one is looking,"McPherson altered it slightly and said we should always understand that God is watching. "There are some times when the National Guard, the Government, your boss, your company or your mother can't help you, but God is always there," McPherson stated.

I then met with RNC Regional Communication Director Campbell Kaufman. Campbell is a volunteer for the convention, but also operates Cornerstone Government Affairs, a PR firm in Washington, DC. Campbell is from Baton Rouge and we have a common acquaintance. He took me through Radio Row where broadcast media was set up. As we walked through the facility, I bumped into former Congressman J.C. Watts and we talked briefly. He asked if I was going to do a live broadcast of Darrell and Leonard, a radio show that State Representative Dennis "Leonard" Johnson and I hosted several years before. We both laughed and went our way. J.C. will speak to the Oklahoma delegation tomorrow morning at breakfast. I met Don Tatro, Dr. Coburn's Press Secretary. Tatro is a polished young man who pledged to add Fair & Biased to his press release list. Campbell escorted me back to the delegate section and I enjoyed the visit with the PR guru. It's obvious he is very professional and well organized. When people of that ability and caliber are volunteering their time, it gives you hope that our side is going to be OK.

The next speaker was Congresswoman Michele Bachman, the first woman elected to Congress from Minnesota. Michele and her husband are raising their family of five children plus they have opened their home to 23 foster children over the years. Bachman remarked, "Some Presidential candidates know more about service than others." "Service survives and thrives best in an environment of freedom." "We want to let you keep more of your hard earned money and give your money to those causes that touch your heart." The Congresswoman concluded her remarks by says, "John McCain doesn't just speak about service- he has lived a life of service."

Wes Gullett, John McCain's former administrative assistant, addressed the convention and related the story of how in 1991, while visiting Mother Teresa's orphanage, Cindy McCain took two young female infants back to the U.S. with her. The Gulletts adopted one- Mickey- and the McCain's the other. When asked about the adoption several years ago, McCain said, "Well it was primarily my wife's Cindy's idea. She was in Bangladesh and she and some of the medical personnel visited Mother Theresa's orphanage to try and help the children there. There were two little baby girls there. One had a heart problem the other a severe cleft palate. Cindy was very concerned about their ability to survive and their need for medical treatment, so she decided to bring them here for medical treatment. She fell in love with both of them. We decided to adopt Bridget. Two close friends of ours adopted Mickey, the other child. As the story of the adoption was related from the podium, Cindy McCain wiped tears from her cheek. Her adopted daughter beamed and looked lovingly at her mother. It was a special moment- particularly to anyone who has been involved in the adoption process.

There was then a tribute to the military. Five former Congressional Medal of Honor winners were in attendance, as were twenty four former POWs. Former President George Herbert Walker Bush and his wife Barbara were seated with the Cindy McCain and her mother in law, Roberta McCain, 96, surrounded by these military heroes.

A video about the actions of Master at Arms Second Class Michael Anthony Monsoor was played which detailed his life. Monsoor was a Navy Seal killed during the Iraq War by a grenade which was thrown onto the rooftop by an insurgent in the street below. The grenade hit Monsoor in the chest and fell onto the floor. Immediately, Monsoor fell onto and covered the grenade with his body, saving the lives of three people. Monsoor was critically wounded and, although evacuated immediately, died 30 minutes later. Two SEALs next to him were injured by the blast but lived. For his heroic efforts, Monsoor was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. His sister was in attendance representing the family. A sustained standing ovation honoring her brother was moving and she was absoluted touched by the tribute.

First Lady Laura Bush took the stage and introduced her husband, but before she did, she outlined some STRAIGHT TALK about "W". She listed his accomplishments:

• Test scores for minority students are at an all time high nationally.
• The quality of the Supreme Court Nominees by George W. Bush.
• The partnering with Faith based organizations to aid citizens- a move that has prompted 35 states to emulate the federal program.
• AIDs Relief- When Bush took office only 50,000 people suffering from AIDS were receiving proper medical treatment- today that figure is 2 million.
• AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST- He has kept America safe! There has not been a terrorist attack on American soil since 9/11.

Because of Gustav, President Bush addressed the convention by satellite. He said, "I'm sorry I couldn't be with you in person, but with Laura there, you have clearly upgraded." On McCain, Bush said, "If the Hanoi Hilton can't break John Cain's resolve, the radical left will not be able to either." "One Senator believed the surge would work and that Senator was John McCain." Bush said he and McCain had disagreed occasionally, but he said on the Iraq war McCain had told him, "I would rather lose an election than to see my country lose a war."

After the President, a tribute video to former President Reagan detailed his life. Then following, another actor turned politician turned actor former US Senator Fred Thompson took the stage. Obviously at ease before a crowd, the Law and Order star had the crowd eating out of his hand. You could have heard a pin drop as Thompson described the conditions of McCain's imprisonment as a POW. "We hear a lot about hope today, but John McCain knows about hope- HOPE was all he had in a prison camp in Viet-nam." Thompson continued by saying, "Being a POW doesn't qualify a person to be President, but it does reveal character." "There are two questions we will never have to ask ourselves about John McCain, Thompson said, "Who is this man and can we trust him with the presidency." Thompson concluded his remarks by describing Barick Obama's plan to raise taxes on businesses and not people. "I guess that means if you don't buy gas, or clothes or any goods and services from a business- if you don't get a paycheck from a business, this tax increase will not impact you." Thompson's remarks were well received and the enthusiasm from the crowd was contagious.

Perhaps Thompson's funniest line was when he spoke about VP designate Governor Sarah Palin. "I think I can safely say this is the first major party nominee that can properly field dress a moose-with the possible exception of Teddy Roosevelt." The crowd roared with laughter.

The final speaker of the evening was Senator Joe Lieberman, the Independent/Democrat from Connecticut. In his slow, deliberate speaking style, Lieberman said, "County matters more than party." Quoting from Washington's farewell address (Link: http://www.earlyamerica.com/earlyamerica/milestones/farewell/text.html) where the Father of our Country said that party would be a determent to our survival, Liberman expalined why he was endorsing someone not of his own party. While certainly not the fiery orator like Senator Zell Miller- the Georgia Democrat- who delivered THE speech of the 2004 convention, it was still historical. Oklahoma delegate Don Burdick from Tulsa remarked, "It's amazing the Democrat nominee for Vice President just eight years ago is now endorsing the Republican candidate." Recognizing the paradox of his being at the GOP convention and endorsing someone not in his party, Liberman said, "If John McCain would just another Republican, I would be endorsing the Democrat, but while Senator Obama is a talented person- eloquence is no substitute for a record." Liberman then turned his remarks to the Democrats and Independents viewing the convention by broadcast media. "To my Democrat friends, this is no ordinary election- these are not ordinary times and John McCain is not an ordinary candidate." I urge you to vote for the person best able to lead our country and not for the party you belong to."

We got back to the hotel at 11pm and went directly to our room. Tomorrow is a busy day with a SERVICE PROJECT from 11-2 at the St. Paul Salvation Army Feeding Center. Twenty five Oklahoma delegates and alternates will paint their dining hall and deep clean their kitchen. This will happen right after breakfast where Congressman Watts will speak.

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 2, 2008: 3PM

After breakfast, Debbie, Jeremy and I decided to hit the Mall of America. Jeremy wanted to get an iPhone at the Apple store. We had lunch at Kokomos, a great spot to eat and checked out a number of shops in the mall. When we arrived at the hotel, Anderson Cooper of CNN was checking in. Anderson Cooper is an Emmy award winning journalist, author and television personality. He currently works as the primary anchor of Anderson Cooper 360. Cooper is the son of artist, designer, writer, and heiress Gloria Vanderbilt, granddaughter of Cornelius Vanderbilt II of the prominent Vanderbilt Family.

Jeremy asked Cooper if he could get his photo with him- see above. Cooper said he had just gotten in from the Gulf region. Jeremy asked him how many people were evacuted and he said 1.9 million total and he indicated the levees are holding. He was very gracious and friendly and laughed when Jeremy said he had read his book after getting it at Half Price Books.

It's cloudy and rainy with temps in the mid 70s- great weather if you're an Okie used to triple digits in early September. Full night of festivities at the convention tonight.

Tuesday September 2, 2008- 10am

Tuesday morning began with breakfast at 8am. This morning's speaker was Ron Kessler , Keesler, 65, is an American journalist and author. He is chief Washington correspondent of the conservative news and commentary website Newsmax.com. Kessler wrote A Matter of Character in 2004 which was a book about George W. Bush's presidency. Introduced by Mayor Mick Cornett's COS, David Holt, Kessler's comments were brief and to the point. He predicted David Holt would one day come to Washington as a member of Congress. "Obamas achievements thus far have been purely to get him elected," Kessler said. "It's amazing a person of Obama's age has been able to achieve so little in his lifetime," Kessler said to loud applause. See Kessler's photo above.

USA Today is reporting that several members of the Connecticut were attacked by protesters when going to the Xcel center yesterday. They attempted to ripped the credentials off several members of the delegation and sprayed them with pepper spray. Over 200 protesters were arrested. A Fox News correspondent questioned a number of protesters asking them to identified well known political figures and the responses were amazing. Airing on Fox & Friend this morning, the segment revealed many of the protesters are clueless on who are are protesting.

Our second speaker this morning was Oklahoma 4th District Congressman Tom Cole. Cole said, "If Barack Obama is elected as President and the Democrats retain control of the House and Senate, he will sign anything Reid and Peloski put on his desk." Cole went on to say the Democrats will try to portray Sarah Palin as a hillbilly coming to Washington. "Someone told me they expected Palin to have a "deer in the highlights" look at the press conference announcing her selection as VP," Cole said, "but I told them remember she shoots deer." Cole emphasised that whatever the outcome, this election was going to a historical one. "I want conservatives to understand the Democrat ticket has the most liberal Senator and the third most liberal Senator running." "And the criticism about Palin's experience is unwarranted." "If Obama's experience makes him ready to be President, then Palin is overqualified to be V.P.", Cole concluded.

Walking back to the room, I visited with Dr. Ross Rumph from Enid. He is a retired physician who now participates in medical mission trips throughout the world. What a gracious man. His wife Mary is the former Oklahoma National Committeewoman.

There are a multitude of events and receptions today- the convention starts tonight with a full schedule.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 1, 2008- 11:30pm

On the way to the convention, I visited with John Tyler Hammons, the youngest Mayor in America. John Tyler was elected Mayor of Muskogee three months ago. He is currently attending NSU studying Political Science. Hammons loves history and his ambition is to be at least Governor of Oklahoma. He gives out Guitar Picks with Muskogee on them. Muskogee is Oklahoma's music center. The Chamber of Commerce came up with the idea. John Tyler's political mentor is his high school history teacher Jack Harrison. When I asked John Tyler if the office of first lady of Muskogee was filled, he said it was currently vacant, but he was taking applications. John Tyler credits his mother as "the defining person in his life." Hammons is an intelligent, engaging new man with a bright future. Mature beyond his years, he has some ambitious goals for Muskogee. Write his name down- in 2028, we may be attending a convention nominating John Tyler Hammons as a Presidential nominee. See our photo above.

When we reached the Xcel Center around 1pm, the nearly two hour wait allowed me the opportunity to interview several fellow delegates, including State Representative Jack Williams from Alabama. A friend of former Oklahoma GOP State Chairman Steve Edwards, Williams is married with two kids and is attending his first convention. His sixteen year old son is a page. Jack is optimistic that 2008 will be a big year for Alabama with the goal for the GOP to take the State legislature in 2010. Williams said the Palin pick by McCain was "a home run." "It's historical and she is so energetic, it will help Republicans down ticket," Williams concluded.

David Lewis is from Alaska. He is also attending his first convention. He has two kids and lives in Eagle River, Alaska. David said he has met Governor Palin and is excited she will be on the ticket. When asked why he got involved in politics, Lewis said it was because "to understand the government, you need to get involved." David has been involved at all levels of activism- from knocking doors to putting out signs to contributing to campaigns.

Custer County Chairman Steve Millspaugh lives in Weatherford and is involved in the oil and gas industry. Steve is married and has three kids and 3 grandkids. He is attending his second convention- but his first as a delegate. "The convention is different and not what we expected, but we are making the best of a tough situation," Millspaugh said.

While Steve and I were talking a delegate from Colorado, Sharon Johnson came looking for my wife, Debbie. It seems that Sharon's sister lives in Duncan. Her name is Ryleen Driggs and she works at Gardentown. We enjoyed visiting with her and I told her I would love to get her sister involved in the Stephens County GOP.

After that, I went looking for my friend David Barton among the Texas delegation. David is the founder of Wallbuilders, an organization that promotes the fact that America was founded by Christian on Christian principles. I met Mark Klecka, a CPA from Houston. He is currently the President of the Cherry Tree Republicans (cherrytreegop.org). Mark is a University of Houston alumni and got involved in politics because of his concern about tax issues. He is excited about McCain and Palin and said the convention had been "great thus far."

I also met Stan Stanart, a delegate from Texas. Stan graduated from Oklahoma State. He is married and hsi wife is an alternate to the convention. Stan is a candidate- running for County school trustee- a partisan position in their county. When I asked Stan what motivated him to get involved in politics, he cited the influence of David Barton and Wallbuilders. Stan is the immediate past President of the Cherry Tree Republicans.

I found David and we visited briefly before the delegates and alternates were asked to take their seats for the start of the convention. David's organizations Wallbuilders does a great work and I would encourage you to research them and attend one of their events when they are in your area. The link to their web site is: http://wallbuilders.com/

My son Jeremy called me and said that from the Guest seating, he could see thousands of protesters behind a police line. See photo above. The local news channels are reporting that 250 were arrested at the protests, but we never saw them.

State Representative Gary Banz from Midwest City was interviewed on C-Span and fellow blogger Bobby Cleveland (www.thatsjustbob.blog.com) from Slaughterville along with Debbie and I were photographed by the St. Paul Pioneer Press. Bobby was wearing an Uncle Sam hat with dred locks and I must admit cast a pretty striking figure. He was very popular with the photographers, so I expect he will make the highlight reel and a few newspapers.

After the convention was called to order, and before the various committee broke out into their various meetings., RNC Chairman Mike Duncan asked every delegate, alternate and guest to donate $5 via their cell phone to the Red Cross for the victims of Gustav. He encouraged us to give at least that amount.

I serve on the Permanent Rules committee along with Phyllis Gorman of Oklahoma City, so before I went to the meeting, I traded my Delegate badge with Alternate Allie Burgin, Chairman from Garvin County, so he could get on the floor. After the meeting, I sat in the Alternate section for the remainder of the session with my friends- the Boydstuns from Mulhall, Oklahoma.

John and Alice Boydstun drove to Minneapolis. Alice is a long time activist from Payne County and she and John serve as the district committeeman and committeewoman from Payne County to the third district. Alice has been working in local politics for over twenty years. When I asked John about McCain, he replied, "I'm feeling better about him every day." "His POW experience illustrates that when the chips are in the dirt, that's when a man finds out what he is really made of," John concluded.

Congressman Kevin McCarthy from California is Chairman of the Platform committee. Our National Committeeman, Lynn Windel and National Committeewoman, Bunny Chambers represented Oklahoma on the committee. McCarthy was born in Bakersfield, CA, which endears him to a lot of Okies since many traveled to that area during the dust bowl of the 1930s. "We asked people from all walks of life for their input and we ripped out the political rhetoric in this platform," McCarthy said. Senator Richard Burr of North Carolina was co-chair of the platform committee and he said, "this is the most principled platform in over a generation and this platform is a testament to the American spirit." The platform passed unanimously.

In an unannounced surprise visit, the First Lady Laura Bush and Cindy McCain appeared on stage, with Ms. Bush introducing a video of four of the five Governors from the states impacted by Gustav. Texas Governor Rick Perry was standing in front of a National Guard aircraft that was unloading evacuees from Louisiana. Perry said, "This is what we do- we take care of our citizens." Next Bob Riley from Alabama addressed the convention crowd via video. Riley's message was "I want to express my gratitude to the National Guard and when adversity comes, Americans do what is right with character, courage and sacrifice."

Florida Governor Charlie Crist said, "In America, we help our neighbors and Florida is committed to doing just that."

The final Governor to address the crowd by video was former RNC Chairman Haley Barbour. Barbour now serves as Governor of Mississippi. The blunt, candid straight shooting Barbour humbly asked for the prayer of the delegates of the convention. "We need those prayers and appreciate them," Barbour said.

Cindy McCain quoted her husband when she returned to the stage after the videos by saying, "John says that it's time we take off our Republican hats and put on our American hats." McCain urged all delegates to contribute to the hurricane victims relief efforts by logging onto causegreater.com.

Shortly after five o'clock, Chairman Duncan asked for a motion to recess. We headed back to the buses about 4 blocks away. A Wisconsin delegate from the 2nd Congressional District show my red Oklahoma shirt and asked me if I knew Jack Dake from Norman. Jack is a friend and the former County Chairman of Cleveland County. One of the reasons Cleveland County is so Republican now is due to Jack's tireless efforts. Regina Schaar was the ladies name and she wanted Jack to know how he had inspired her to get involved and stay involved in politics. Regina is Vice Chairwoman for the 2nd Congressional District in the Cheesehead state- sorry Dairy State.

While standing in line for the bus to pick us up and go back to the hotel, I visited with Colorado State Senator and delegate Jack Taylor from Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Taylor has served sixteen years in the legislature and said about Sarah Palin- "She has a bright personality and she understands the oil and gas situation which I believe is critical at this point in time. Jack is termed out and only has about four months to go on his term. He jokingly said, "My wife said if I ran for the house, I would have to find another house to live in."

When we got back to the hotel and to the room, I noticed my phone was missing. My son Jeremy called it and it had fallen out of my pocket on the bus. A Minneapolis police officer rides the bus with us to the Xcel center, so he was kind enough to bring it back to the hotel.

Former 4th district Congressman JC Watts Jr. was in the lobby when I was down getting my phone. J.C. and I visited briefly- I invited him to break bread with me, but he had a previous engagement. He said his wife Frankie's brother had died unexpectedly, so I would urge you to remember that family in prayer as the funeral is later in the week. J.C. will be speaking at our Wednesday morning joint breakfast with Louisiana.

Jeremy, Debbie and I then made the decision to go to Civic Fest at the Minneapolis Convention Center. It has over 35 world class exhibits and lots of stuff to buy. I spent $100 of the Stephens County GOP's money on buttons, including one that said God created Adam & Eve, not Adam & Steve. Trust me, we will get a fair return on investment- We will use the buttons to raise money to help operate the party. We also took photos in a model "Oval Office" and my swearing in ceremony as prez will be a featured item at the next SCGOP Fish Fry. I was so loud in taking the Oath of Office administered by my son, that State GOP 72 hour task force coordinator and Duncan native Carissa Darling had to make her way to the festivities from across the exhibit hall to see what was going on. Carissa said, "I recognized your voice and I had to see what was going on." The favorite thing we brought was a baby bib for my nine month old grandson that says, Liberals make me spit up.

After a quiet, relaxing family dinner with our son at Outback, we made our way back to the hotel. The hospitality room was full of about 45 delegates, alternates and guests sitting in round table fashion talking and joking. After two jokes, I was booed out of the room. Those of you that know me recognize that two of my jokes are about as many as you can take. Seriously, I needed to complete my post and I wanted to get it done before midnight.

It's been an interesting and productive day. We still are unsure of what tomorrow's convention schedule will be. I will keep you updated.

Monday September 1, 2008: 11:50pm

PALIN'S DAUGHTER PREGNANT!

http://www.reuters.com/article/topNews/idUSN2944356420080901?feedType=RSS&feedName=topNews&rpc=22&sp=true
ST. PAUL (Reuters) - The 17-year-old daughter of Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin is pregnant, Palin said on Monday in an announcement intended to knock down rumors by liberal bloggers that Palin faked her own pregnancy to cover up for her child.
Bristol Palin, one of Alaska Gov. Palin's five children with her husband, Todd, is about five months pregnant and is going to keep the child and marry the father, the Palins said in a statement released by the campaign of Republican presidential candidate John McCain.
Bristol Palin made the decision on her own to keep the baby, McCain aides said.
"We have been blessed with five wonderful children who we love with all our heart and mean everything to us," the Palins' statement said.
"Our beautiful daughter Bristol came to us with news that as parents we knew would make her grow up faster than we had ever planned. As Bristol faces the responsibilities of adulthood, she knows she has our unconditional love and support," the Palins said.
The Palins asked the news media to respect the young couple's privacy.

"Bristol and the young man she will marry are going to realize very quickly the difficulties of raising a child, which is why they will have the love and support of our entire family. We ask the media, respect our daughter and Levi's privacy as has always been the tradition of children of candidates," the statement concluded.

MCCAIN KNEW
Senior McCain campaign officials said McCain knew of the daughter's pregnancy when he selected Palin last week as his vice presidential running mate, deciding that it did not disqualify the 44-year-old governor in any way.
In the short period since she was announced last Friday, Palin has helped to energize the Republican Party's conservative base, giving the McCain camp fresh energy going into the campaign for the November 4 election against Democrat Barack Obama.
McCain officials said the news of the daughter's pregnancy was being released to rebut what one aide called "mud-slinging and lies" circulating on liberal blog sites.
According to these rumors, Sarah Palin had faked a pregnancy and pretended to have given birth in May to her fifth child, a son named Trig who has Down syndrome. The rumor was that Trig was actually Bristol Palin's child and that Sarah Palin was the grandmother.
A senior McCain campaign official said the McCain camp was appalled that these rumors had not only been spread around liberal blog sites and partisan Democrats, but also were the subject of heightened interest from mainstream news media.
"The despicable rumors that have been spread by liberal blogs, some even with Barack Obama's name in them, is a real anchor around the Democratic ticket, pulling them down in the mud in a way that certainly juxtaposes themselves against their 'campaign of change,'" a senior aide said.

This reinforces who McCain is- a guy who thinks outside the box. Can you imagine Barack Obama making a decision to keep someone on the ticket whose minor child was pregnant? McCain could have taken the easy road and perhaps the smarter political move, but as his son said, "Every decision my Dad makes is based on Country First."

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 1, 2008: 10:30am

Breakfast for the Oklahoma delegation started at 8am. What a line-up of speakers. Congresswoman Heather Wilson from New Mexico, the only woman veteran in Congress and a graduate of the Air Force Academy spoke first. She was introduced by Oklahoma Congresswoman Mary Fallin. Wilson addressed the changes in the convention schedule. "We take care of our neighbors first." The first priority is to take care of the people," Wilson said. She announced that a Hurricane Information Center had been set up for delegates for states that could be potentially impacted by Gustav. "The conditions on the ground in the gulf coast will impact the convention as needed," Wilson stated. Addressing the difference between three years ago and Katrina and today, Wilson said, "One of the major differences is Louisiana now has a Governor which is doing the right thing."

Wilson was followed by former Secretary of Veteran Affairs Jim Nicholson who also headed up the Republican National Committee. Nicholson spoke of a defining moment in 1995 when Senator McCain came to Colorado to campaign for Senator Phil Gramm. "After a long day of campaigning, John McCain wanted to make an unannounced visit to the local VA Hospital." "He didn't want the media or the cameras and his interaction with those veterans was unbelievable."

The next speaker was Governor John Huntsman from Idaho. Huntsman has been a long time supporter of McCain and said Americans need to elect McCain for three reasons- (1) He is a man of vision and leadership, (2) He is an original and (3) He is a phenomenal Dad. Huntsman said, "I have seen him with his children- Bridget, his adopted daughter from Mother Teresa's orphanage and his son who is serving in Iraq without the media around." "He is warm and loving and doesn't reveal that side often." On Sarah Palin, Huntsman said, "Those who are under estimating Sarah Palin and her ability- I can't wait." Huntsman, a former Secretary of the Interior and U.S. Senator, quoted Ronald Reagan when he said, "Only in Washington D.C. would the agency in charge of the outdoors be called the Interior Department." Huntsman said during a recent luncheon with former British Leader Tony Blair he said, "I pay that whomever America chooses is tough, because of the potential crisis's we will face in the future."

The next speaker was retired Air Force Colonel Tom Kirk. He was shot down by the North Vietnamese in October 1967 and was a POW until 1973. He shared a cell with John McCain in Hanoi. Col. Kirk flew combat missions on two tours in Vietnam and one tour in Korea. He retired after 28 years in the United States Air Force and resides in Vail, Colorado. During his captivity, Kirk said he lost ninety pounds. As he described the conditions of he and McCain's imprisonment, tears flowed in the audience. "In my 80 years, I have never met a man with more absolute integrity and resolve than John McCain," Kirk proclaimed. As he described McCain's leadership skills, he did it with a matter of fact, military style that was refreshing and so much different than what you normally see at a political event. "I would walk the last mile of my life with John McCain," Kirk concluded. I had my photo taken with this American hero (See above)

The last speaker was Andy McCain, who is McCain's son from his first marriage. "We used to tease Dad about his service to our country." "He was always saying he owed a debt to our country, but what a lot of people don't know is that before he was shot down, he wrecked 5 fighter jets in battle, so he may still need to work a few more years to pay that debt off." Andy was complimentary of his father. "Every decision my Dad has every made has been country first." "He instilled a sense of patriotism and service to our country that was passed down to him by his father and grandfather." "He's a great Dad."

Morale is high and many of the Oklahoma delegates asked me to see if the local Salvation Army could use us today since we had some down time due to the changes in the convention schedule. Because it is a holiday and the local Salvation Army operation is in disaster mode, they really didn't feel they could accommodate us, however Lisa Mullelur the Captain of the SA in St. Paul said she would call me if they needed some help with the disaster relief. After some housekeeping items and recognition of Brenda Jones, of Jones Public Relations, who organized the breakfast, the event was concluded in prayer led by Tony Lauinger, the Chairman of Oklahomans for Life.