(Community Matters) Realizing did a better job of updating yesterday at AAS site, so reposting here too. Pardon repeat:
I made it to Pepsi yesterday in time to catch Cecile Richards – such a rock star. Of course, this isn’t news to anyone. I’ve know first hand since serving on her TFN board before she moved to DC. Currently the national president of Planned Parenthood, she combines the powerful, memorable presence of her mama (Gov. Ann) with Vogue-striking good looks.
Despite my best intentions to take it easy early in the day, Brownsville trial attorney Tony Martinez found me in the hotel lobby at breakfast and propelled me with him and Carol through his whirlwind of Tuesday activities. We joined a luncheon honoring former Denver mayor and Secretary Frederico Pena. Then, a reception honoring NLC fundraisers. Bunch of us from Tx texting all day and agreeing to meet at the Pepsi Center and after, especially at Mark Strama’s party. My friend, Bo Smith, arrived from Arkansas. Steve Adler & Diane Land must have arrived at Pepsi as early as I did; they caught Cecile too. Kirk Rudy was making the rounds sporting that nearly all access credential, a floor pass (Amy’s arriving tonight – can’t wait). Lynn & Tommie Meredith and Sarah perched in one of the private boxes. I think Mark Winkelman and his son Chuck were there too. Though, we didn’t catch up at the end of the night as expected. Suspect they dashed off with Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer to celebrate Brian’s out-of-the-ballpark speech on national television. The Governor is a close friend of the Meredith’s who I’ve met over dinner at their house. Greeted Senator Watson on Bertha Means among the Texas delegates.
Hillary Clinton also scored a gold medal for her gracious, exciting and on-point speech. Kudos to Obama campaign for appropriately celebrating her primary and career accomplishments. Felt as if unity in the making. Watched from a super suite/lounge with Alexa & Blaine Wesner. No Julie & John Thornton yet; they’re arriving today.
After, a bunch of us to celebrate Rep. Mark Strama who was being celebrated as a Rising Star at Club 5 Degrees. Completely sold out and packed with Austin buddies including me, Bo, Diane & Steve, Nona Niland, Ann Kitchen, Kirk Rudy, Jan Soifer, Patrick O’Connell, Rick Cofer and evidently Ian Davis, Amy Everhart and some of their crew. They texted me during the event but I couldn’t find ’em
Good gosh, was that really only my first 24 hours?
Community Matters 