no point really

As many know, I was in DC for the fifty-sixth inauguration of the forty-fourth president of ‘these United States.’ It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Not necessarily the inauguration itself (although it was hilarious that the oath of office was messed up), but the entire city of DC; its history, architecture, weather, and everything that is encompassed within the area.

As I’m sure many who might read my blog have been to DC before, I won’t explain everything in detail. But, I do want to point out a few things. The ability to see historic buildings and things you see on TV all the time up front, close and personal was really mind blowing.

Standing in front of the Supreme Court, or on the Steps of the Library of Congress, on the bridge to the Capital, or even walking the entire length of the National Mall (at least 4 times). Looking at amazing memorials or witnessing history be made: it was all amazing and I was so fortunate to be able to be apart of it.

Now, with that being said; the conference I went with has some serious issues to deal with. Besides the small fact that they falsely advertised the conference in multiple faucets, they were also one of the most unorganized and ill-prepared organizations I have ever seen. You would think that with over 5,000 university students, 2,500 junior-high students, and over 8,000 high-school students (all paying quite a sum of money) they would have their stuff figured out. Apparently not. I’m proud to say though, I am taking part in the class-action law suit against UPIC and will be happy to report if something happens. I’m also happy to report that I did not let their lack of professional class ruin my time in DC.

Besides the great sights, we were able to hear an exclusive lecture/speech from former Secretary of State, General Colin Powell & not-so-luckily had to listen to former Vice President Al Gore (at least half of the 15,000 Presidential Inaugural Conference attendants were falling asleep). We also had the opportunity to hear/meet Luke Russert (son of late Tim Russert of Meet the Press) as well as a host of other political analysts and advisers.

Aside from the lectures/talks, we were given free time to explore the city and see anything and everything we wanted. Although, due to the high-security nature of the week, most of the tours of buildings and memorials were closed (such as the White House, the Washington Monument, and the Capital). We saw as much as we could fit in with travel and little sleep. Of course, we were also on the National Mall (very near to the front) on inauguration day. That was an entirely too early morning and it was way too cold to be outside that long.

I can’t wait to come back and finish up the city. We didn’t get to see some things like the Tomb of the Unknown Solider, the inside of the Library of Congress, Arlington Cemetery, Ford Theater, or any of the larger museums.

To wrap up an already amazing trip, we attended the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum Inaugural Gala. All dressed up in our tuxs and gowns and acting like children taking tons of pictures was great! Also, getting on the Metro at midnight was quite an experience.

Overall, the trip was amazingly great and I cannot wait to travel back to DC and just sight-see as long as possible. I’d recommend it to everyone!

Also, checkout my photo albums to see everything I visited!

Posted by Nathaniel Keifer