Jan

19

Inauguration Journal: Day 2

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Bush Bash Crowd
The crowd in anticipation of President Bush’s arrival

My trip to Washington D.C. is turning out to be a bipartisan affair. On Sunday evening, as Washington D.C. was filling-up with Obama supporters, I had the opportunity through a good college friend to join Bush’s White House team for a farewell bash. Attendees included several members of the cabinet including Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. A very casual affair, the “Crossing the Finish Line” celebration was held in the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park.

The evening’s festivities were cohosted by Josh Bolten and Andy Card, the two people who served as White House Chief of Staff during Bush’s eight years in office.

As everyone checked in, those who worked or interned with the President were encouraged to fill out a “Bush-Cheney Alumni Association” card so they could stay in touch.

Texas-style barbecue was served for dinner. Guests danced to an excellent band that played hits from the 70s and 80s.

As I watched these friends and colleagues say hello and goodbye to each other, I was reminded of my college graduation. The experiences are similar. A group of people came together from all over the country for a four year term. For some, four years became eight years. They started out as strangers with different backgrounds and areas of expertise. They jumped in, worked intensely and did a job as best they could. Now, as when my classmates and I finished college, they are scattering, thankful for the experience, sad to say goodbye and excited to explore what the next chapter of their lives will bring.

The President and Laura
Bush addressing his staff

The President and Mrs. Bush arrived a little after 9:00 and immediately stepped onto the stage. He gave a short and thoughtful speech, thanking everyone for their dedication and excellence during his term as president. Many people in the audience were in tears. At the end, he invited everyone to stop by their home in Dallas for dinner anytime, saying they will always be welcome. The same group was invited to Andrew’s Air Force Base to join The President and Mrs. Bush on Tuesday for their official departure.

After the event wound down and we departed, I left grateful to have experienced such an intimate look at the Bush administration in a way so few people can.

For now, I’m off to bed in preparation of getting another look (albeit a less intimate one) at the next chapter of American history at tomorrow’s inauguration.


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