CPAC Reflections

After getting back into Nashville and to Bowling Green, I began to think about the good time I had at CPAC and in Washington D.C. I think the Republican Party has gotten away from its small government roots and has bought into the entitlement mentality of the Democrats and liberals. I am glad that we as the conservative movement are thinking about economics. We need to get the Fairtax legislation implemented as soon as possible because that piece of legislation would be the biggest economic stimulus that any generation would see in their lifetime. We need to stop giving industries and financial institutions bailout money because that bailout money fosters a cycle of dependency and make the government the ultimate codependent. I think the Republicans need to stand for traditional values and the strength of marriage as the union of one man and one woman for life. We need to stand for the value of every human life and we need to make sure that a fetus in the womb is classified as a human being. I think that the Republican Party and the Conservative movement needs to stand for national security and national defense. We need the best military in the world and we need a military that is second to none as we had in the 1980s when we were facing the Soviet Union as two rival superpowers. Now we are facing radical Islamic Extremists who have every intention of wiping out America as we know it and our entire way of life. We need to be wary of Russia’s emerging dominance as a world power and we need to use missile defense to repel a nuclear or hydrogen bomb. I enjoyed having the opportunity to hear these important people speak in Washington D.C and I look forward to going back next time.

O its over... how sad...

My time at CPAC and in Washington was amazing, I had such a good time and while i was hesitant to go I am glad that I did. From the first day of just getting to know the city to the last day of coming home on a flight that was less than pleasing I had non stop fun. I wish I could do this all over again but luckily and unfortunately I will be graduating in May. I would suggest that everyone go on this trip when they get the chance the people that you get to meet, not just your peers but the Conservative party as well are a learning experience.
It was truly a blast e blast getting to see everyone from good ole Abe Lincoln to Rush Limbaugh everything was awesome! Too bad the flight home was less than awesome because we hit some turbulence and I thought I was gonna die! But I didn't thus why I am writing this blog, so amen! But yea that's all I got I learned a lot from this experience it felt good and refreshing to be surrounded by people who share my views. But yea that's all I got it was a good time and I wish I could go again!

Kalleigh Turnmyre

CPAC: A Summation

I'm not sure where to begin in my summation of my experiences in Washington, D.C. this past week. I guess the best place to start would be the beginning.

I anticipated that I would enjoy my trip, as I was accompanied by a few good friends, and had never traversed to the capital before. My knowledge of the city was limited to a sort of post-apocalyptic image from Fallout 3, which takes place in D.C. (and happens to be my favorite game released this past year). I was afraid I would feel out of place in my new surroundings, as I haven't been very involved in SGA or College Republicans. I was wrong.

The conference itself was mindblowing. The speakers I heard reinforced my beliefs, helping me realize exactly why I chose to be a conservative, and helped me discern my political affiliation from that of my friends. Everyone I met at CPAC were so engaging, and helped me get out of political apathy and into a positive direction. Even at this age, I realized I do have a voice in politics, and it is imperative to develop a political identity.

Meeting Ann Coulter was among the highlights of the conference, and hearing Mike Pence speak really left a lasting impact. Mike Huckabee and Rush Limbaugh also really struck a nerve, and helped me realize that conservatism will soon make its comeback. I couldn't believe how bias the media really is against conservatives, and it gave me more confidence in my News/Editorial major. I'm excited about the internship fair next year, as I hope to be able to be an influential conservative voice in the media one day.

The city itself was amazing, as I got to see the White House, Capital Building, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Museum of Natural History, the Ford Theater, and Arlington National Cemetery.

I strengthened the bonds of friendship with my roommates, as well as met and grew to like some faces from WKU I hadn't seen before. I look forward to going again, as choosing to go has been one of the best decisions I've made this school year. The experience has led me to really want to become more involved in politics and the conservative movement not just in regards to national interest, but on the local level as well. I'm thankful for the experiences I've had, and really applaud the Politial Science Dept. for making this opportunity possible.

Allegra Robbins

Flying Home :(

Sunday was our official last day of CPAC. The morning started early with a 4:30 wake up call, however, Miranda and waited till the last minute to wake up. Thankfully we made it down to the lobby on time (first time the whole trip). After two hours of sitting in an airport it was time to board and head home. On the plane there was a bit of turbulence that scared the heck out of me. I had to put the death grip on Hunter, but thankfully everything was okay:) When I heard the news that we had landed in Nashville it was an amazing feeling. I had visions of getting a lot of sleep when I got home:) The car ride home was interesting with Hunter taking two packages of dramamine not two pills. Apparently Billy did not explicate his medical advice very well.

I was so happy to be home, but I CPAC was an amazing experience. The people on the trip were the best people to share that experience with. I feel more empowered to stand up for my conservative view points especially after listening to Bay Buchannon. Also, this sounds cheesy but standing next to Lincoln made me want to strive to work harder. It's a feeling unexplainable but that is how it made me feel. Thank you so much Dr. Turner for putting up with everything, it was a pretty big task to take on and you handled it well:)

whitney waller

A Bumpy Flight Home

We were left with one last site as we headed toward the airport, Washington D.C. slightly frosted in a layer of snow. While this could have added complications to our flight, we managed to leave on time and arrive even 5 minutes early (although those five minutes were taken up by the group picture we begrudgingly stood together for, we just wanted to go home). There was so much I didn't have time to see, the Smithsonian Castle, The International Spy Museum, and more but I definitely won't be against another trip to D.C. maybe even next CPAC.

I am surprised at how much I truly enjoyed the conference, all the free books, candy, bags and posters aside, I enjoyed all the speakers. Men like Mike Pence, who I expect to hear from more as we draw closer to another election and of course Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney who both were inspiring. I enjoyed hearing Ron Paul speak although his ideas may be out there he certainly can stir up the crowds, however Rush Limbaugh took the spotlight. The man was suppose to speak for 20 minutes and he stayed for over an hour, he ended the conference with a bang. The women were out there too, Ann Coulter was awesome and Bay Buchanan had quiet an influence on me. She spoke of using the power you have to your advantage and not arguing over petty things, when I approach the job market her words will remain with me.

Probably the one thing I learned most out of this conference is how much the media really does run things. I have been told this of course time and time again but until now I had been naive the how far they actually reach. I bought a copy of Media Malpractice, which shows the war the media fought against Palin and it shows how well it worked for Obama. Today more medias are becoming available through the internet, blogs, Facebook and Twitter are now legitimate tools for political use. CPAC really openned my eyes to the world of politics, and I can't wait until next year.

Kaitlin Vonderschmitt

Last Posts

Last Day at CPAC Today was the last day of CPAC, and I must say I am sad it has ended so soon. Today started off with my missing Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s speech due to my not being woken up. After waking up I got ready, went to the train station, and got on the metro. I was running on time to get to CPAC to at least see the speech in overflow, but then my train stopped, because there was a down train in the tunnel ahead of my train. It seems that it’s never enough to have just a little bad luck. That said my day got better. During the panel discussion “Driving Energy Policy for the 21st Century” we heard a rousing speech by Nigel Innes of “The Congress of Racial Equality”. Nigel spoke about how radical environmentalism is the modern civil rights struggle, because the costs of over taxation and policies that lead to higher fuel costs hurt low income people who are attempting to better themselves. Nigel’s speech was more than just one of a series of speeches that take up time, but rather a speech symbolic of the ongoing transformation of the Republican Party. The Republican Party has for far to long been thought of as the party of “backward bigots”, but that image is changing. The Republican Party is becoming increasingly inclusive and in my opinion we are truly the party of the American people. Then we heard from two Irish people who made the film “Not Evil Just Wrong”. This film demonstrates how radical environmentalism is not only harming people through the slowing of economic development, but also leading to human death via the ban on DDT. While I have never thought to think about the effects of the ban on DDT it has become apparent to me that we will never be able to stop the surfing in Africa by defeating AIDS alone. We must also use every necessary tool to prevent the spread of disease. Then came what everyone had been waiting for the arrival of Rush Limbaugh. While I am no fan of Rush Limbaugh he gave a transformational speech that let the nation and the world know what Republicans truly stand for and why the American people should give us a second chance. I have long believed that Rush was a liability to the party, but after listening to his speech I have come to realize that all wings of the Republican Party deserve a seat at the table.   Wrap up I was not very excited about going to CPAC this year, but how I am so glad I decided to attend. I put everything I had into last years election only to watch my party and country crash and burn. This years CPAC was truly about picking ourselves up from the ashes, brushing them off, and ushering in a new spring. Us Republicans do not have the misconstrued notion that we will have any say in the operation of government over the next two to four years or much hope that the nations rapid decline will do anything but accelerate over the next few years, but we know that our party and this great nation will survive. I believe that not only had the Republican Party lost its way via reckless spending but also that the American people had lost touch with reality and have forgotten what makes this country great. An many ways the Republican Party and the American people deserve all that we are going through and the pain left to come due to our unwillingness to do what is right rather than what is easy. That said those of us who believe in America will prevail in the end, because the American spirit is stronger than any recession, war, or tyrannical socialist president. CPAC reminded both those who attended and to some degree the world that we are Americans and we will preserver.

Back in BG

Like several other students that went on the trip, I am missing being in a big city right now. It was refreshing to return home to the quietness of Bowling Green, but at the same time I miss all the opportunities that DC had to offer. I enjoyed being able to just get on the metro and be able to go see such amazing speakers at CPAC or visit historic places and learn about our country's history.

Overall CPAC gave me a lot to think about for the next couple months. It made me analyze my own beliefs, visualize what I should do as an American for the future of this country, and made me excited for the future. I really enjoyed the trip and value all the "cultural" activities along with the CPAC experience as a whole.

I hope everyone does not struggle too much getting back into the swing of classes!

Katharine

Farewell

Now that I am back in Bowling Green, Kentucky I am able to reflect on the past 5 days. I think after attending the speakers through the week I can look at myself as economically conservative but I tend to be more socially liberal then most of the speakers this week. Bay Buchanan was one of the most inspirational speaker at the conference, I think all of the girls there would agree that she just motivated us to come back to campus and start organizing events. I also am really excited about a film that was previewed at the conference called, "Not Evil Just Wrong" This film just seemed to be exactly what the Republicans need to fire back at the Democrats for making claims of global warming. The film makers were so energetic about the film you couldn't help but find yourself just as excited.

I had such a fun time with everyone on the trip, we all worked together to make this past few days a wonderful experience for all. I really do miss DC right now. It didn't remind me of a big city in the sense that I did not ever feel like there were tons of people every where I went. There was hardly any traffic all the places I went to, and the metro was fun to ride. I could see myself living there one day! Thank you Dr. Turner for making this a fun and educational trip and for treating us as adults.

Allie Hembree

A past time..

Yesterday we returned home from our DC adventure. It was a sad time, to say the least. Getting up so early in the morning wasn't really that much fun, but I was able to sleep the whole way on the plane until I was abruptly awakened by violent turbulence. I felt as though I was experiencing a scene from season one of Lost! :)

Anyways, we got back safe and sound, and that's what matters. I miss DC a lot because I love bug cities and taking the Metro. They're so much fun and there are so many interesting people to meet and talk to. I hope that I'm able to return next year for CPAC! That would be so awesome. The whole entire week was an experience of a life time. I mean, being allowed to hear these incredible speakers and be surrounded by so many people that have the same beliefs as myself is always exciting.

Sadly, I've got to get back into the swing of things, like school and whatnot. BAHH!

Betsy Whiteman

Back Home from CPAC 2009

Yesterday our group left our hotel and headed via airport shuttle to BWI airport at 5:40 AM. When our group got to the airport it was on to the check-in line and then on to security checkpoint in order to go to our gate. Once we cleared security, we all went and ate some breakfast and some went to the various airport shops to buy items to take back home while we were waiting for our plane to arrive 2 hrs later.

I really enjoyed the speakers at CPAC and it has given me new insight to what exactly goes on in Washington, DC. I plan on attending CPAC next year as I am really wanting to work in DC as a policy researcher. I just wanted to say to everyone in the group that it was nice getting to meet you and to those of you who are on facebook, it was good to put a face with a name. Dr. Turner, I just wanted to say a big thank you for taking our group and for putting up with us.

This post was created by Laura K. Green

Home Again

Everyone keeps asking, "How was D.C.?" My answers vary. To my sorority sisters, I tell them it was a worthwhile experience, but I'm glad to be back at WKU with them again. I missed them a lot. To other political science majors, I go a bit more in detail and encourage them to go to the conference next year. To my family, I simply say, "Overwhelming."

The trip was a good experience for me because, although I'm interested in political ideas and process, I don't know much about the current political setting in the United States. I don't have a T.V. in my dorm, much less do I often have time to read the news in print or online. It was hard to listen to several speakers I knew nothing about, but it pushed me to become more knowledgable about them and their conservative ideas. For me, this experience was a current events class. Relevant, informative, and applicable.

I am definitely looking forward to returning to CPAC with WKU next year now that I know what to expect. I think I will definitely gain more from my attendance when I have done some research beforehand, have become more involved in political organizations on WKU's campus and off, and can contribute my thoughts and opinions to debates about speakers' discussions.

The people on this trip were amazing and I'm always grateful for new friendships. Turner- thanks for taking us and putting up with our nonsense for the past five days. It was fun.

Ali Edelstein

Last Day

The chairs in the Regency Ballroom at CPAC weren't that comfortable, but I managed to fall asleep on one for the first speech or two of Saturday. I did wake up to hear the Education Panel, though. I was glad I did. Jeanne Allen was a great speaker who presented some valid points about why education vouchers are important in improving the education system of the United States. Another woman spoke on behalf of the Heritage Foundation, which I plan on looking up to learn more about soon.

After that, some of the girls and I went to the Claire Booth Luce Conservative Women's Luncheon. The food was good, but Bay Buchanan was better. Being the strong woman that she is, she spoke on how to be successful in the political and business worlds. Some of her points included: never think you are too qualified to get someone else's coffee, always have a positive attitude, and learn when to pick your battles. These messages might sound simple, but I found the stories that accompanied them to be very profound. During the question and answer session, it was also empowering to hear the young ladies with questions introduce themselves and tell about their political involvement in their school's Student Government Association, etc. Made me think about getting involved in the SGA at WKU.

After CPAC ended, just took it easy for the rest of the day. I let the sights I've seen and the thoughts I've heard sink in. It's been a lot to handle.

Ali Edelstein

Home Again

Note to self,
when Billy says to take 2 dramamine,
he means 2 pills, not 2 packages which equal 4.

Hunter was a little loopy.
It hasn't worn off yet.
Sorry.

So basically,
I'm exhausted,
a little stressed for homework,
and kind of ready to see my mom.

But I wouldn't have traded the past few days for anything.

It has been one the greatest networking experiences of my life,
and well, conservatives know how to have a good time. =)

Next time though Turner,
let's ride Shamu.

I'm not playing any games either.

Thanks to everyone who made this trip absitively, positutely neato.

Last Time,

Hunter Stevens

P.S. I'm home Mom, chill.

My Heros

Well....
The day was early...I was exhausted. But CPAC 2009, here I come again.
The day started with none other than the Hon. Elaine Chao.
Basically, she did very, very well.
She is a very classy woman who not only carries herself well, but also presents herself well.
Next was and educational panel.

Two words: William Bennett.
I know, right?!

Who's next? Can anyone tell me?
ANN COULTER!!!!!!
Practically the funniest person in the entire world.
No one can insult the liberals better.
Except maybe my Peepaw, but you know.

After that it was time for our Women's Luncheon.
dun dun dun dun
Bay Buchanon is my hero.
No really though.
Her's was one of the best talks I heard the entire conference, and trust me, that is saying a lot, because there were some great ones.
She's so intelligent and inspiring.
She has an amazing work ethic, and the brains to go along with it.
Bay Buchanon, you rock my socks.

Well Rush was next.
I know you're going to kill me.....
I fell asleep!

I know, right?
One of the biggest talks ever and Hunter is snoring away.
Go me.

Anyways, after my little afternoon nap the group went to a pizza restaraunt which serves 1,000 lb. calzones.
No really though.
It was big.

To tell you the truth, as much as I miss campus and my friends and family,
I really never want to leave D.C.
You would assume that the newness would wear off,
you would become desensitized, and take the wonders of that city for granted.

Not possible for me.

D.C. takes my breathe away.
Only here do history and the future collide violently with such amazing ends.

Thanks Turner.
You done good.

Signed,
Hunter Stevens

P.S. Don't worry mom, the snow isn't bad.

Bringing it Home...

After a snowy 5:00 am wake up call, we boarded our plane in Baltimore and returned to Nashville, where our journey began. 

This week we joined a group of close to 10,000 like minded individuals to stimulate our political knowledge and motivation. This week we learned policy, politics, and personal touch from the best in the business. I know I have been motivated by the magnitude of the event, and the sheer momentum that has been created this week. The conservative movement is not dying, nor is it changing, rather we are returning to our core values and principles. 

This was an opportunity to see leaders and influential political figures that we would have otherwise never experienced. 

The CPAC trip has not only expanded my political knowledge and abilities, but it has also been an experience with making new friends and networking with other young professionals. 

I would like to take this time to thank everyone who helped make this trip possible, especially Dr. Turner for your leadership and guidance on this journey. I would also like to thank all 16 of the other students, who helped make this trip memorable and exciting, there was never, NEVER, a dull moment. Lastly I would like to thank everyone who followed our blog and our experiences, without you all, our motivation to bring continuously interesting posts would have been fizzled out by now. I thank you for your support and encouragement. 

As of 3:00 pm CST, there have been 971 blog hits by 435 people in 26 different states. 

Thanks for everything from everyone!!

Shane A. Noem

The Final Day of CPAC

Today my feet felt much better and I was ready to hit CPAC and meet new people. After arriving I picked up a new pass because my old one was lost, and I also got my ticket for the Women of the Year Award Luncheon. I began the day by listening to Elaine Chao speak, I was terribly tired so I went to get some coffee and I ran into of all people Robert Davi. Being my usual self I had no idea what he looked like and I think I offended him terribly when I asked him exactly who he was. After he told me I felt like an idiot. Anyway after coffee, I worked my way back to the conference room to try and catch a glimpse of Ann Coulter. By the time I got a good seat it was already time for the Lady's Luncheon so off I went. We had a delicious luncheon, it consisted of a chicken caesar salad, roll, and for desert the best cheesecake with raspberries I have ever had ending with a coffee. The luncheon speaker was great she answered many of our questions and inspired me to become a more bold person for my own conservative views. After the luncheon was over I went to get in line to hear Rush Limbaugh. Let me tell you the line to hear this guy speak would have probably reached to the moon and back (exaggeration). After a lady told us that the conference room was full and we would have to get in line for an overflow room we did so and the over flow room was full and Rush talked and talked and talked, after taking all I could of the claustrophobic situation we headed back to the room for dinner. I caught the tail end of the Ky game and was just down right sick. Then Whitney and I decided to go shop a little at H&M and have dinner at China Town to be culturally involved we ate Chinese food and it was great. After returning to the hotel, Billy and I decided to visit the monuments in the sleet and snow. I'm very glad we went because it touched me in a way and moved me like nothing I have ever experienced in my life. As I looked out from the Lincoln Memorial I couldn't help but think and recreate in my mind the scene in the movie Forest Gump where Jenny is running through the reflection pond towards Forest and they meet in the middle of the water with such charisma. After visiting the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial we headed back to the hotel. On the way back though we got a little disoriented and lost but we made it back safe and sound and I learned many lessons along the way.
-Miranda Puckett

Day 3.

When I woke up on day 3 my feet hurt so bad I thought I would never walk again, although I did. This morning all of the girls in the group were going to Arlington Cemetary, I have always wanted to see this place. After another rigorous morning of trying to get prettied up, I headed to the metro with the other girls to catch a train to Arlington. It was a longer train ride to reach this destination than the others we had been to so far. The day was very nice in the morning the sun was shinging and the temperature was very moderate. As I walked through the cemetary of the fallen soldiers I felt very proud to be an American and thankful that the men and women of our country had fought for my freedom and I felt very loved and sad. As far as my eyes could see I only saw row after row after row of bright white tombstones, I wept. As I kept walking through the cemetary I came to the grave site of JFK and that was very interesting to see the flame that burned all the time. After leaving Arlington, I went back to the hotel because I had forgotten to take my medicine and my feet were killing me so I changed shoes in hopes of relieving my pain. After I arrived back at my room I realized I didn't have my pass for the conference and I was afraid they would not let me in so I hung out at the hotel by myself for a little while and then Whitney came back to the room for a small break and we looked everywhere for my name tag/pass but we couldn't find it unfortunately. So later we went to eat at a small resturaunt called Pot Belly's and we had some amazing sandwiches, the claim to have the best ones in DC. I don't know about all of that but the resturaunt was very retro and neat, I enjoied myself and had some very good chocolate ice cream with bananas and oreos. After that I called it a day.

-Miranda Puckett

Day 2.

Today I woke up very excited to meet new people and learn new things. At the hotel I dressed up in my favorite purple pants suit and headed off with the group to catch the metro to arrive at CPAC where many other college students just like me were gathering. I didn't realize there would be so many people, the first place that I went after I arrived at CPAC was the "place with all the free stuff". Here there were many different groups of people who were selling everything from bumper stickers and pins to books and memberships for different interest groups. One interest group that I had always liked was the NRA (the national rifle association) and they were giving a ten dollar discount today for CPAC attendees. So with that great deal being offered I decided to buy a membership and join the NRA. After this event, I listened to many different speakers share their political views like Mike Huckabee. Moving along in the day, Billy and I met Joe the Plumber, where we took a picture with him and had him sign books. After discussing with him where we were from he asked for our number because he said he comes to Bowling Green quite a bit and would like to talk to us more and hang out. Later in the evening I attended the public speaking workshop where I learned tactics to help me become a better public speaker. After that we all went back to the hotel and I had a nice dinner.

-Miranda Puckett

Day 3-4

Thursday, February 26th
Today was our first day at CPAC. The first person I saw speak was former UN Ambassador John Bolton. For those of you who don’t know I live for foreign policy, and Ambassador Bolton is a true hero for those of us who believe in a strong national defense. Bolton discussed the issues that threaten U.S. National Security like Iran and North Korea’s nuclear weapon programs and the increasingly aggressive Russia. Bolton was bipartisan in his criticism. The likidhood that Iran will acquire a nuclear weapon within this year is just as much to blame on Bush being a coward as it is on Obama’s inexperience and naivety. The next important speaker was Mike Chickadee of Arkansas. I don’t have a lot to say about good ol’ mike other than he’s just as ignorant as he’s always been. (Anyone who needs proof of this google Mike Huckabee on “Talking to Americans”.........Although our “brilliant new president believed that Canada has a president) Anyway the final person of importance today was Senator Bob Coker of Tennessee. I was rather looking forward to seeing the senator from the great state of Tennessee speak, but he was too busy doing his job to stick around and give a speech. (Unlike elected officials from other states Tennesseans like Bob Corker, Marsha Blackburn, and even Democratic governor Phil Bredesen actually do their job)

Friday, February 27th
Today was pretty uneventful on the intellectual front. Senator’s John Cornyn, Jim DeMint, John Boehner, Coburn, and McConnell spoke today. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich gave a speech that laid out steps he belived could help revived the Republican Party. As always he was articulant and well informed. We were in an out of the ballroom to see the speeches throughout the day. To be honest we all really just wanted to see Rep. Ron Paul. As always he was very entertaining. After leaving the conference Dr. Turner and the rest of us walked from one end of the National Mall to the other and looked at all the sites. I have walked the mall several times, but it’s always an interesting walk.

Jeremy Roe

Heavy Hitters close out!

We started the morning off with a little of Lasley's favorite potential presidential candidate, Tim Pawlenty, the current Governor of Minnesota. He made his CPAC debut as the second speaker of the day. PS Lasley, I wore the button, and some guy interviewed me thinking I was from Minnesota. Next was the infamous Anne Coulter, she gave an always provocative speech about the state of the party. This speech was followed by a series of boring energy experts, but there was one speaker who stuck out to me after saying that global warming is a racist agenda and that got me thinking. It is also anti-poverty. There was an interesting movie that I am looking into called its not evil, its wrong. This movie debunk global warming. We also heard from Bill Bennett who is a CNN commentator, writer, radio host, and former Reagan Education Secretary. We also saw the famous former Secretary of Labor, Secretary Chow. Lastly but not least was the Great American Hero, Rush Limbaugh, his pompusness and confidence is perfect. He insulted everyone and anyone he could while still acting sophisticated and maturely. Whether you like him or not, he truly is a master of communication. He is also still the most popular talk show host in the world, and now a recipient of the Defender of the Constitution Award. And last but not least again... his body guard looked just like Stalin!!! This trip has been a growing experience and a wonderful opportunity to network and make new friends. I hope you all have enjoyed our blog, I will make one last post when I get home tomorrow.

Rush Limbaugh and Students

Rush Limbaugh

Rush Limbaugh
Rush Limbaugh
Anne Coulter
Bill Bennett
Secretary Chow
Tim Pawlenty

SN

Hon. Elaine L. Chao, Bay Buchanan, and tour of DC at night

Today I left my hotel room around 9:00 AM to head over to the final day of the CPAC conference. The first speaker that I heard this morning was the Hon. Elaine Chao who is Senator McConnell's wife and she is the former Secretary of Labor. I found her speech to be very motivating and she was talking about what her role was as the Secretary of Labor and how the economy can be fixed.

Next I headed off the the exhibit hall to pick up a book that Joe the Plumber wrote and I got him to sign the book and take a photo with me and him together. Joe the Plumber is a very nice person and he was talking a little bit about how he became famous and he had a quote that I like "actions not words". I also took Russell over to get his book and for Russell to have a chance to get a photo of Joe the Plumber.





After I got done with going to the book signing, I headed over to see Ann Coulter speak but had to see her speak in an overflow room as she is very popular.







I was not able to stay for her whole speech as I needed to head over to another ballroom for the Clare Boothe Luce Policy Institute luncheon where Bay Buchanan spoke about attitudes in the workplace and how to get a campus activist organization started. Her speech was very nice and she did an excellent job of motivating the crowd.


In the late afternoon, I left to go and see the sights of Washington, DC at night....the Lincoln Memorial was very cool as was getting to see the White House and Capital. We even got to eat at a Greek restaurant on Capital Hill.

This post was created by Laura K. Green

Last Day in D.C. :(

Today was the last official day of the CPAC conference :( Today was really busy with having conferences all day long. First we listened to Mitch's wife who was absolutely amazing. I am pretty sure she is the sweetest politician I have ever heard. After she spoke Miranda and I were starving so we decided to go grab a bite to eat. Then, we apparently met a famous actor but we had no clue. Miranda had walked outside and during her trip a man walked up asking where she got her coffee, she thought it was all strange because people were following him like he was something important, but she did not think much of it. After showing him where to get coffee he introduced himself and the people around him started shaking her hand. Then he proceeds to walk over to our table and introduce himself to me. He stays and talks to us about how he likes Kentucky, and then Miranda asks him, "So who are you?" Everyone apparently knew who Robert Davi was but we were clueless. Then, as we are trying to get in line for Ann Coulter Stephen Baldwin is walking with us.

Ann was interesting with her jokes regarding the comparison between Obama and Jesus...(if anyone has Dr. Turner for psychology I thought of our blog when she was talking). My favorite thing she said though was they are constantly comparing Obama to two presidents that were not democrats...Reagan and Lincoln. I have a minor obsession with Lincoln and Reagan started my love for politics, so it kind of upsets me when someone tries to fill their shoes, so it was quite funny when she brought this up. After Ann the girls went to the Claire Booth Luce Institute luncheon where Bay Buchanan spoke. She is phenomenal and to hear her words of encouragement kind of made me feel like I could do anything. She mentioned how sometimes even if we have prestigious degrees you have to start low because that is how you gain respect. She is remarkable and deserved to be the woman of the year.

The saddest part of the day was after waiting in line to see the love of my life Rush L. I was informed that I would not be able to get in to hear him speak so I had to go into an overflow room. At first I was a little upset because he is another person I kind of love, but then I moved on. CPAC had come to a close, and honestly I was a little sad. It's been amazing and inspiring on so many levels. These people that I did not know coming into this trip are some amazing people, and I am so glad we all got to share this experience :)

Whitney Waller

Coulter, Rush and Kaylee

The day started out with Elaine Chao and Ann Coulter who was just great! She knew exactly what to say to get the crowd fired up. The girls left after Ann Coulter to go to a woman's luncheon that featured Bay Buchanon. She was one of my favorite speakers of the whole CPAC trip.


It was then time to get back in our seats to get ready for Rush. He was hilarious in his "first address to the nation" (HA). Of course he made some blantant statements, but those only got the audience more energetic.
But to top my night off, I got a visit from my BFF Kaylee! We went to pizza and sat with Turner and Shane and recalled funny stories from our past few days in DC. We were all glad to see a familiar face. Laughing with Kaylee ended my trip to CPAC very nicely.

Allie Hembree

More fun than disneyland....

Today was kind of a downer, as I practically broke my ankle. I spent my CPAC adventure today in a wheelchair, which was pretty terrible, because apparently people like to treat you differently when you're in a wheelchair.

I got to hear Ann Coulter and Rush Limbaugh speak. Ann Coulter would be the equivalent of an idol to me. I stood in line for hours so she could sign my book. She thinks I'm fabulous, I'm sure (but probably just because I was in a wheelchair).

Dinner with the girls plus Russell was fun I guess. We had Indian food.

I would write more, but I'm in pain. And I'm sure Betsy or Kalleigh or Katie will pretty much say whatever I would've said anyway.

Goodnight, and farewell D.C.

Czarita Allegra

Thursday Friday Saturday Wrap up

Thursday,

This was my first full day in DC second day in town. CPAC officially started today and there were a lot of speakers that i really hadn't heard of but I went to see John bolton at 10:45 he was an excellent speaker and had the crowd on their feet most of the way through his speach. The person who I was really looking forward to seeing was Mike Huckabee. I had followed his attempt to become the presidential candidate for the republicans so I was interested to hear what he had to say. He really didn't say anything that he hadn't said before except he spent like 10 min. making a bass boat analogy that really didnt make sence. I saw where he was going with it but he just pushed it too far and lost my attention.

Friday,

I slept in today because I really didn't know much about the earlier speakers, but i did make sure i made it to see Newt Gingrich who was the first speaker that i had seen who really was treated like a big celebrity he came in through the back and shook hands with all of the people on the isle while he received at at least a 5 minute standing ovation. His speech was very motivating a well delivered but the real treat of the day was Ron Paul, what makes his speech so great is the Ron Paul fans who show up in t shirts while every one else has on suits and ties, it seems like everyone knows that he is a little bit radical and just like to hear how far he will push his ideas like abolishing treasury. That night a few of us went out to sing Karaoke but when we got there no one sang I guess we were just too conservative for that kind of thing.

Saturday,

Today was the best day of the trip for one reason: I got to see Ann Coulter my hero speak about the condition of the nation. I wont repeat what was said in the speech because the majority of it isnt appropriate for a forum like this, thanks "Censor Shane". Ann is the person who got me interested in politics with her book "How to talk to a Liberal, If you must" ever since then I have been interested in politics and she is probably the reason for my major, along with my high school political science teacher in high school who mocked me for being a right winger. After her speech i tried to go get her to sight one of my books but she had to leave to got to the fox studio before I could get up there and then i couldn't get into to see Rush so i watched the UK game instead and UK lost, wow this is depressing im gonna just stop here.

Sorry we didnt do another video but we spent hours tring to upload the last one and it wasnt worth the trouble.

Peace
Billy Bishop

The ending of all endings!!

I woke up today after a late night last night expecting a tearful morning at the holocaust museum, only to have it totally ruined by Ali and her ankle. Of course I'm joking I couldn't have asked for better rommies, they are all awesome and I love them. Once we finally did roll out of the hotel and make it to CPAC it was just in time to hear Ann Coulter speak, using Ali's gimpness to our advantage we cut to the front of the line and managed to get a spot in the overflow room. I wish I could have heard her whole speech however, I had to bolt to the Conservative Women Luncheon, where again amazing food was served, and even better the speaker was great. Bay Buchanan was really cool, I really enjoyed her speech. One of the things she said that stuck with me was that you should hold the power you hold and don't give it up, even if people don't treat you how you believe you should be treated do your job and do it better than anyone else. After the lunch we went and watch Media Malpractice, which I recommend everyone sees, it truly does show a lot of the the bias the media held toward Palin. It also shows the power the media has over the American people, by interviewing Obama voters, you saw their ignorance and the sway the media had over their decisions. After that we returned to the overflow room to listen to Rush Limbaugh, another amazing and hilarious speaker, who unfortunately we did not get to stay the whole time for but was still great none the less. To end the amazing day of speakers and videos we traveled to India (or across the street) for some lovely Indian food, accompanied by my roommates and Russell, we closed the place down, laughing and carrying on. So like my title implies it was the ending of all endings and I don't think I would change anything on this trip, well except maybe Ali getting hurt. It was an awesome trip and it gave me a lot to think about, and I hope I get the chance to experience CPAC again and see even more of Washington DC.

Kaitlin Vonderschmitt

BROKEN ANKLES

(in honor of Ali's mishap, please, I am begging you, watch this hilarious video!)

Today started out ridiculously. Well, I guess it all started last night when Ali slipped on a bag in our room and pretty much broke her ankle. 

It wasn't bothering her too much last night, but when she woke up this morning it was VERY swollen and rather purple. So, we skipped going to

the Holocaust Museum and got breakfast at the BK next door and ran to CVS to get 'ole Al an Ace bandage! I wrapped her ankle up real good,

almost too good, to be honest. Well, I mean, her toes did turn purple, but that's beside the point. The point of this story here, is that I got to push

her around in a wheel chair all day! It really was quite an experience. I mean, the looks people give you are just silly! Plus, it's rather ridiculous the

amount of people that don't stop and let you pass by, or ask if you need any help.

We made it just in time to see Ann Coulter speak, and that was just fabulous!!! I am so thrilled I was able to see her speak, even though it was in the

overflow room. And, the only reason we even made it in there was because we go to cut line to get to the little wheel chair elevator! That was a definite

plus. That also helped us out when we were going to see Rush speak as well!

We spent a lot of time waiting in line to get Ali's book signed by Ann, to only find out that she was done and we needed to return at 4:15, so we left and

went to watch the film Media Malpractice, which was based on how Obama and Palin were portrayed in the media during the election and how unfair

things were, etc. We watched the full length, uncut version of an interview with Palin. She wasn't prepared at all for what they were throwing at her and

it was just so impressive how she held her own and responded to questions and videos they showed her.

We left early from Rush's speech because we didn't want to get caught in that traffic with a wheel chair. I ran into enough ankles for the day...

We re-packed and then headed to dinner, which was eaten at this Indian restaurant across the street from our hotel. It was so good! Russel was a RIOT!

He kept us laughin' the whole night, talking about politics and tzars, well...ya know. It was just a good time.

Unfortunately, the battery to my camera broke so I don't have any pictures from today. Oh, well. Here's one I meant to put up the first day!

Betsy Whiteman

Days 3 and 4 - its going too fast!

Ok, so apparently my last post was thwarted by the sketchy wifi here at the Days Inn, so I'll give you both days now!

Friday

So, I wasn't able to go on the Arlington trip this morning because I am incompetent with my phone alarm. I met up with Shane and Dr. Turner after their White House trip and had some breakfast at "A Taste of Pleasure" by the hotel. lol. By the time I got to the Omni, I was halfway into the "Will congress take our guns" lecture. This is something that I feel very strongly about (ask anyone on this trip). I did join the NRA at the beginning of the trip, so I hope to become much more active in fighting for my 2nd Amendment rights.

Also on Friday, I spoke to a gentlemen from the Freedom Alliance. This organization is run by Oliver North and Sean Hannity. He offered me a paid internship for the summer working as a counsellor at the youth military camp in Virginia. I am very interested in doing this.

The rest of the day was with Newt Gingrich (yes yes yes), Ron Paul (said in a high pitched voice), and the number 1 choice for president in 2012 (according to the CPAC straw poll) Mitt Romney.  All three gave great speeches. After the last one, I tracked down Ron Paul after a book signing and cornered him for a minute. I asked him to elaborate on the rumor that his son Rand (a Bowling Green doctor) was going to run for senate if Jim Bunning retired. Ron said "Rand would very much like to see Mr. Bunning go away" lol. awesome.

Saturday

Ok, so today was a great finale for CPAC. I showed up a little later, but I saw all the lectures\speeches that I really wanted to see.  Everything really picked up in the afternoon. There was a movie preview with the creators of "Not evil, just wrong", a film made by Irish filmmakers about the global warming hype. After that, we heard a speech by Ward Connerly about racial relations in the US. The big speaker for the day was Rush Limbaugh. I've been a fan of Rush ever since I was old enough to understand what he was talking about. He gave a 90 minute speech (an hour overtime) which aired on Fox news. Rush was amazing. 

...more to come once I quit buzzing from Rush's speech. I need to analyze this...

-Alex Gerard

Day numero four...

So today started off by Ali ruining my day, but I forgave her and still love her, see she hurt her ankle last night which prevented us from visiting the Holocaust museum this morning. So we laid around helping her ankle out then I piggy backed Ali to the metro so that we could go to CPAC. When we got there we waited in a crazy long line to see Ann Coulter in which case we just got to sit in the overflow seating but still seeing her speak was amazing. I love how straight forward she is, I aspire to be as ballsy as her one day. Then me and Katie went to the women's luncheon and enjoyed ourselves there while we listened to Bay Buchanan speak. After that we went back into the overflow seating to see Rush Limbaugh speak, even though we were not in the exact same room as him you could still feel his energy.
We have now just returned to the hotel from what was by far the most interesting dinner I have ever had. We went to a Indian restaurant right across the street and I ate my first official Indian meal and it was not half bad. I had amazing company my roomies plus Russell! Russell provided us with the best dinner conversation I have could have imagined. We talked about the zoo, Russia, growing facial hair, Conservatives, girls and Obama. We made the first official Conservative View, its just like the regular show the View but with a man and we are a bunch of conservatives! Russell also gave me the best quote of the trip " i like girls" Ali quickly followed with the second best quote of the trip calling Kaitie "a cyclone of terror" I laughed so hard and had such a good time.
This trip has be amazing and I am so glad that I got the chance to experience the conservative party in full swing. It was truly amazing to see so many conservatives out, seeing as how our school houses many liberals. It was nice to be among people who shared my political views but also knew about politics. This trip gets an A++

Kalleigh Turnmyre

a world full of issues

Today I spent all of the day at CPAC. I listened to a variety of speakers discuss a multitude of topics. The topics ranged from immigration, education, leadership, labor issues, and ridiculous laws of our country.  The speakers I heard from included: Stephen Balch, Elaine Chao, William Bennett, Bay Buchanan, Jeanne Allen, a little bit of Ann Coulter, and Rush Limbaugh. 

After listening to all these speeches and panels filled with passion, conviction, and knowledge--I felt empowered. I did not agree with every statement made, which made me realize that I need to look at my own values and beliefs to know what exactly I stand for and why. Once I do this, I need to become passionate about these principles and spread them. I believe Bay Buchanan summed up how I feel after attending this conference, she stated " Become a leader in your own right." That's what we need to do as an individual so that we can unite this country as a whole. ( I know that sounds really cliche and extremely cheesy but that's what I think.)

Looking forward to being ready by 4:45 am to return home tomorrow...not! I think I just might miss the metro and not having to drive ( or endure my roommate's driving :) 

Katharine Stewart