Arriving in D.C.

Today had an early start, but Tim, Andrew, and Russell kept me awake for the drive to Nashville's airport.

The flight to D.C. was quick and painless, but the shuttle ride from the Baltimore Airport to our hotel was one to be remembered. We began talking about who was the most liberal-leaning conservative in the car, which turned into a somewhat-heated debate on gay marriage. I consider myself a moderate Republican, but apparently, I was one of the more liberal students involved in the discussion because I have nothing against gay marriage. I believe that the subject is a private one, not meant for government intervention. Some say they are okay with civil unions but don't want to de-sanctify the concept of marriage, but, in my opinion, the concept they are referring to is a religious one- not a state interest to be protected. That's just me.

Once we all dragged our luggage into the hotel, we went on a tour of the Capitol, conducted by a staff member from Congressman Brett Guthrie's office. Coincidentally, I went to high school with that staff member! Those Sacred Heart Academy women are always the best. The chamber where the House of Representatives convenes was obviously the best part of the tour; however, it was rather dull because Congress was not in session. Congressman Guthrie's office was a little more intriguing because I could really see his "home style" that my Legislative Process class (PS 316) has been discussing. For example, he had a red towel hanging in his glass cabinet.



He also had pictures of West Point Naval Academy and Yale University hanging on his wall, emphasizing the importance of never forgetting the people and places that got him to where he is today. I enjoyed his office so much that, at the end of the visit, I introduced myself to Jennifer Beil, his executive assistant, and talked to her about possible internships in Guthrie's office. Tim completed one and recommended it, so it might be something I'll look into further in the future. Either way, a little networking never hurt anyone.

Dinner at the pizza place was a success, considering none of our exhausted heads fell into slumber on top of our food. Now back at the hotel, ready for a full day tomorrow!

Ali Edelstein

PS- Look for stories about Tyrese on the Metro in other bloggers' entries. Always entertaining to see free speech being exercised rather ostentatiously in our nation's capitol.