"Tonight, I have the privilege given to few Americans--the privilege of accepting our party's nomination for president of the United States. And I accept it with gratitude, humility and confidence....." Senator McCain's introductory words.

When Senator McCain came on the floor at Xcel Center we were prepared to support our candidate. The introduction by Cindy McCain was all we needed to whoop and yell at the top of our voices as Senator McCain confidently came out on the changed stage. He waived his acknowledgement and gave his familiar thumbs up to the crowd.  The excitement was mounting and as he strode to his place at the newly installed podium it was apparent he was prepared for the task at hand.

He spoke of his admiration for his VP choice, which literally brought down the house. We all still had a vivid memory of the Thursday evening speech by Governor Sarah Palin. But the rest of his speech was all McCain. Saying that ideas should not be rejected just because we didn't think of them first, McCain began his approach of his idea of what his Presidency would look like. "We are going to get started getting things done for the people", he said, "I won't care who gets the credit".

Speaking of his history of working with members of both parties to fix problems he gave the impression of how he would govern as President. Little mention was made of Senator Obama in his comments. Certainly, Governor Palin had taken care of that the previous night with her blistering speech.

"I'm not in the habit of breaking promises to my country and neither is Governor Palin. And when we tell you we're going to change Washington, and stop leaving our country's problems for some unluckier generation to fix, you can count on it." And so, continued the theme of Senator McCain's speech. "Keeping taxes low and cutting them when I can" he stated. "Plans to open new markets for American products and services and cutting government spending" were more of his continued words. In all, the Delegations heard music to their ears.

Time and time again he was interrupted as his words resonated well with the gathered Republicans. As he continued he became more and more energized by the applause. His words became more adamant and his comments more pointed. "I am running for president to keep the country I love safe, and prevent other families from risking their loved ones in war as my family has", was received with thunderous applause. "We need to change the way government does almost everything: from the way we protect our security to the way we compete in the world economy", he stated.

The key of his comments were that change was coming and he and Sarah were going to Washington to make those changes. Finally he concluded to the thrilled, energized audience, full of support of their candidate, "Fight with me. Stand up, stand up and fight. Nothing is inevitable here. We're Americans, and we never give up.  We never quit. We never hide from history. We make history..."

It was beyond words to speak of the excitement of the moment. We were ready to follow him anywhere he asked. The troops were ready for battle and we looked at each other, big smiles on our faces and beaming with pride.  That's OUR candidate.  Then, as if that was not enough to get us charged up, out walked Governor Sarah Palin, Cindy McCain and all their families.  The thunderous applause continued and continued, reaching the heights of the auditorium and shaking the roof.  

Right on clue, as if loosened by the loud noise reaching the roof, the balloons and confetti came pouring down from the rafters. First in little bits and pieces then in billows as if loosed by a magic hand.  There were huge balloons, small ones, red, white and blue came flooding down on us. Soon we were up to our knees in balloons barely able to move! People were popping some and making even more noise which sounded like fireworks there were so many.  Yet, even with the deafening roar, a little baby in her mother's arms slept peacefully in the row in front of us as if to say, "What's the big deal? I need my sleep."  Finally the baby woke up looking up into the ceiling with her mouth open as she saw thousands more balloons fall down on us. 

We were happy! We were thrilled!  It seemed that it was ending too soon. Still, we were ready, ready to begin the ground game, get out the messages we heard over the last few days, and make sure we get out the vote for Senator John McCain and Governor Sarah Palin. On to victory on November 4^th! 

It has been great sharing our time at the Republican Convention with you. We have lived the moments together.

Bob Pacheco

My thanks to Gayle Pacheco, for helping me share all the moments with you.

The conclusion of the Republican Convention is to be today. Suddenly, the nearly one week of activities was coming to an end. Following Wednesday's introduction of Sarah Palin, we were still in a state of awe with fascination and respect for the future Vice President.  Comments about her from convention goers were: "Brilliant", "Exceptional", "Outstanding", "A Great Speaker", and certainly, "A Strong Addition to the Republican Ticket". The expectations are that she exemplifies the best one can receive from a great politician that happens to be a woman.

The strong relationship between Senator McCain and Governor Palin was visible to all. Each showed respect and appreciation for the qualities each has. The team was clearly meshing well. The question on everyone's mind was how Senator McCain would deal with the new star. The outstanding speech Sarah Palin gave the day before was on the lips of everyone I spoke to this morning.

But today was Senator McCain's day in the sun. It was his day to talk about why he should be the Presidential selection for voters. We did not know what he would say and how he could top the Sarah Palin's speech. However, we were impressed with the manner in which he handled the topic. He gave Sarah Palin plenty of room to be herself, he showed genuine respect and affection for Sarah and did not in any manner seek to undermine her status or detract from the attention being heaped on her. When dealing with the media Senator McCain was clear in his words, he had made the right choice and was proud of it.

Prior to starting out the day a phone interview with a Latino Radio station in Los Angeles was in order. It is always interesting how most of the radio commentators seem to lean to the liberal side. Today they were working overtime on trying to blunt the impact of Sarah Palin's speech and what Senator McCain had to say.  We read in the papers how Sarah's speech had put the Obama camp in a defensive position. They seemed not to be able to counter the impact of her speech and clearly the broad positive support for her from women and men alike. When the question came up about whether Sarah should not be putting her career first rather than her family, I quickly informed the reporter that millions of women across the country have similar choices every day.

Women everywhere take on their responsibilities with the courage and determination exactly as does Sarah. How demeaning to ask a woman to choose between a career and her family when daily, women work, take care of families and manage to do it with the same love and attention expected from a mother that stays at home. Certainly, the question is never asked of the men who seek higher office.  When has Senator Obama been asked if he is concerned that he will not take care of his family while running for president?  The intent of the press was clearly to attempt to dissuade women voters not to support Sarah.  "It will not work", I said to the reporter, "If I was a woman I would be boiling mad and insulted by the question". As it was, I was quick to defend the courage of Sarah in seeking to be Vice President of the United States.

A meeting with Latino leaders came first before heading to the Xcel center for the convention speeches. Latino leaders are well organized and participating strongly in support of Senator McCain. It was plain to see that Latinos were stepping up to the plate by help the campaign because of their deep respect and admiration for Senator McCain. McCain has been a friend of Latinos long before he decided to run for the office of President.

The big event tonight was Senator McCain's speech and the air was strong with anticipation. Getting to the Xcel Center was always a challenge but more so today. Protesters were everywhere but the police had things under control. Bustling, the Center was full early. People trying to get into the Center without credentials were everywhere. A common approach to getting into the Center was to borrow credentials and passes from others, then once inside, people would pass on the credentials to others to get others inside. Today was no exception. The Center filled quickly and empty seats were at a premium. Those with no assigned seats were milling around trying to find an empty seat of someone who had not shown up. Excitement was high. Looking up to the ceiling we could see thousands of balloons stored in huge nets ready to drop the final moment after the last speeches were given.

The stage had been changed so that Senator McCain could be closer to the audience. The traditional podium was removed and, in its place, was a smaller low profile podium. This would allow Senator McCain to talk to the audience rather than the camera in the same manner as he talks to audiences in town hall meetings. So the stage was set.

After several speeches from local officials, former U.S. Treasurer Rosario Marin came on to speak. Her unique story of how an immigrant from Mexico came to be the first foreign-born U.S. Treasurer is inspiring. Moreover, she connects well with Governor Palin's family story because she too has children, served in a high capacity in Government and, all the while, has managed to fulfill her position as both executive and mother without difficulty. Sarah has a child with Down Syndrome; so does Rosario. As Rosario stated, there is nothing to prevent women today to fulfill their roles as mothers, even while achieving their lifelong career goals and dreams.

An introduction to Senator McCain would come from one close to him and in a position to know him better than anyone else.  That person, Cindy McCain, the loving wife of Senator McCain, was introduced to the audience by a video telling about her life and achievements and why she has earned the respect of everyone.  We were so impressed to see how she uses her wealth to improve the lives of others. Perhaps the most moving part of her story was when she took a child from Sister Teresa of Calcutta orphanage. The child was born with a severe cleft palate that surely would have lead to the child's death had she remained at the orphanage. Bringing the child home, Cindy very simply told Senator McCain that he had a new daughter. His reply, it was, "Good". And today, that daughter, Bridget, was there, beautiful in contrast of skin color to the other children, but equally proud of her adopted parents.

This is truly a wonderful family. Seeing a picture of Senator McCain with Cindy and all their children one can only feel a special connection with them. They are the typical family. A mom and dad that love their children unconditionally and with great passion is the image they present to the world.

With that presentation, walking into the spotlight, Cindy McCain came ready to speak of her husband to the world. It was a breath taking moment. She is a beautiful woman, well dressed and has a presence that spelled out "First Lady'.

Cindy began her introduction of John McCain with his story of being a naval officer, shot down in Vietnam and then subjected to unbearable torture. Cindy spoke with pride and an air of a woman speaking of the man she loves. By the end of her comments we were more than ready for, our Presidential candidate, Senator John McCain.

Senator McCain walked into the Republican Convention to a standing ovation. We were ready to see and hear him. We had spent the last 4 days building up to this moment and Cindy had prepared us to receive him with open arms. Moreover, we already had great expectations because of all the previous speakers, especially, Sarah Palin, the night before. We anticipated that he would have to give the speech of his life and we were not disappointed.

Senator McCain's speech could be best classified as Presidential. It was not his role to take potshots at the opposition or to criticize Senator Obama but to get the nation to know the Senator McCain they need to vote for as President.

Final segment will be coming next: Stay tuned

Wow what a day we had today! We started our morning with a Delegation Breakfast. Our guest speakers this morning were Senator Orrin Hatch, R-Utah and our very own Congressman David Dreier, R-California. Senator Hatch has always been a friend to California and Congressman Dreier has been solidly representing our district since 1980 advocating free markets, limited government, strong national defense, and personal freedom. It was energizing to listen to both gentlemen, who personally know of Senator Obama's dismal record in Washington. Contrasting his record with his rhetoric, it became apparent from their personal observations that Obama lacks the experience, or even the presence, to get things done.

Following the breakfast we attended a private screening of "Blocking the Path to 9/11" by Citizen's United Productions. It exposes the Democratic censorship of the ABC Docudrama Mini- Series and how the Clinton Administration and the Democratic Congress pressured ABC to cut important factual information from the film. It was riveting and informative and we were shocked to hear how our elected officials could censor it, even before they had seen the film. 

We then headed to the Xcel Energy Center. Because we did not take the Shuttles, we saw first hand some of the protester's. I must say that the Minnesota police and volunteers have been incredible and we thank them for their hard work and dedication! We clearly were unprepared for the costly taxi rides when we do not take the shuttles. So, after spending a couple of hundred dollars on taxies, we certainly will take the buses.

Once inside Xcel Energy Center we could feel the excitement building. Again, a stirring  presentation of colors followed by a duet of two outstanding singers that, with great energy, sang our National Anthem and made us so proud to be Americans and a part of this great experiment in Democracy.

There were many speeches by local and congressional representatives followed by our own California State Senator Abel Maldonado. One comment Abel made that is still remembered is that, even if you do not personally get a tax increase, you will pay for it in increase costs for food, gas, and other products. How very true, we all pay for increases in taxes in one form or another!

Next it was Mike Huckabee, former Republican Governor of Alabama, who brought the crowd to their feet. Feeding raw meat to the gathered Republicans, Governor Huckabee reminded everyone that being Governor of a state is a huge responsibility with constant executive decisions. Comparing a Governor's duties to being a member of Congress, Huckabee scored point after point.

Mayor Rudy Giuliani followed with a fiery speech that drew roars of approval from the convention.  Giuliani is clearly a popular speaker. Prior to his remarks, the background behind him showed the twin towers and gave everyone the image none of us can ever forget. He spoke with passion about the differences between the two candidates.

The stirring speeches from Governor Romney, Senator Lieberman, Governor Mike Huckabee and Mayor Giuliani were a great symbol of party unity. Each addressed their speeches to specific segments of the party faithful. Romney addressed economic conservatives, Huckabee, evangelicals and Giuliani those interested in national security. Giuliani spoke of Senator Obama as the least experienced candidate for president in at least 100 years. Delegates picked up the comment and began chanting, ZERO, ZERO, ZERO, NADA, NADA, NADA.  Giuliani concluded his comments by stating that this is no time for on the job training. 

Finally in concluding his remarks, Giuliani spoke of Governor Palin and referred to her as a new generation and then stated,  "She has more executive experience than the entire Democratic ticket". That set the stage for the next speaker, Governor Sarah Palin and what an introduction to Sarah Palin it was. 

Governor Palin came into the convention floor to a standing 12-minute ovation that likely would have continued had she not started speaking to quiet everyone down. To put it mildly, Sarah Palin hit home runs, hit the bulls-eye, hit the jackpot or just bowled everyone over.  "I'm not a member of the permanent political establishment", she said. Speaking of Senator Obama she said, "My fellow citizens, the American presidency is not supposed to be a journey of personal discovery." And so it went for the next 40 minutes. She was feisty, bright, thoughtful, and poised. Facing likely the largest television audience ever, the convention was transfixed with her appearance and ability to capture their imagination.

Addressing the issue of change generally referred to by Senator Obama, Governor Palin stated, " In politics, there are some candidates who use change to promote their careers." Comparing Senator McCain she went on to say that he used his career to promote change. It would be an understatement to say that Governor Palin made a great speech. It was by all measures a speech that put Democrat V.P. Biden on notice that the barracuda is in town and he better watch out.

 In speaking of national security and foreign policy experience, she remarked, "McCain is the only candidate who has ever fought for you." What a powerful reminder of the tremendous background and experience of McCain.

Republicans were clearly on the attack and they came out swinging at Democrats, Senator Obama and the news media for their biased scrutiny of Governor Palin. Addressing the media directly, Governor Palin stated, "I'm not going to Washington to seek their good opinion; I'm going to Washington to serve the people of this country."

I was so impressed with her speech that I am convinced that together with Senator McCain they will be and are a formidable team that will turn Washington upside down and finally clean it up!

Stay tuned for more.

We woke to a steady warm rain, but were pleased to see, that the sun was out in Louisiana as we watched the weather reports for the gulf region. We quietly said our prayers in thanks for the reduced impact of Gustav that was downgraded from a Category 5 to a 2 hurricane.

We were thankful that the 2 million Americans, who had been evacuated from their homes and businesses, would soon be allowed to return home. We were also hopeful that the convention activities would resume. As we met with our California Delegation at breakfast we received the good news, we were back on track. We heard from both Frank Luntz and Hugh Hewitt who gave us their perspective on the candidates. Their very positive analysis and comparison to the Democrat candidates, left us energized and excited as we headed for the Excel center for interviews.

At the Excel Center the atmosphere was bustling with excitement. Everyone was in great humor, hopeful and wonderfully expectant of the speeches to come. Printed signs with the word SERVICE printing on one side and COUNTRY FIRST on the other were distributed. Hand painted signs, made by student volunteers, were also handed out. 

The session began with the Presentation of Colors, the National Anthem and our Flag Salute. Native Americans wearing their tribal colors and beautiful headgear of feathers and beads made it a splendid and spectacular display of patriotism. The Boy Scouts bearing the colors of our country gave us a stirring display. It took our breath away and we sat mesmerized. A beautiful rendition of our national anthem followed and we were ready for business.

Several local government elected officials and three small business owners spoke of how Republican policies helped them to improve their businesses, while the proposed policies of Senator Obama would create new and larger tax burdens on them.

The always elegant and beautiful Laura Bush addressed the accomplishments of the last 8 years and then introduced President Bush who spoke via satellite. President Bush spoke glowingly of the accomplishments of Senator McCain and that often Senator McCain had shown his maverick ways by opposing President Bush as well. Without going to great detail he said he had great respect for the man he described as an American Hero that had shown his loyalty to his country time and time again. In closing President Bush stated John McCain "is ready to lead this nation."

Senator Fred Thompson spoke next. Starting rather slowly as is his usual approach, Senator Thompson soon turned on the heat on Senator Obama. Speaking of how Senator Obama had done little in creating legislation helpful to American taxpayers. Speaking of Obama's  proposed package of tax increases, Senator Thompson accused Senator Obama of having little experience to become President. Speaking of the Vice Presidential choice by Senator McCain he said, "What a breath of fresh air Governor Sarah Palin is".  Calling her courageous, and a successful reformer, then saying she is not afraid to take on the establishment.

Next Senator Lieberman, starting out by saying that "eloquence is no substitute for a record."  Speaking of Senator Obama's record he accused Senator Obama of failing to work across party lines to get anything done. One strong comment was that Obama's accomplishments were meager compared to those of Senator McCain. Then speaking of Senator McCain he said, "I'm here to support John McCain because country matters more than party". That became a repeated cry by the delegates. In contrast he called Obama a "gifted and eloquent young man who might do great things in the future, but that he is not read to lead now".

Senator Lieberman has given a speech that clearly embarked him on a course that will certainly alienate his relationship with fellow Democrats because of his strong support for Senator McCain. Truly this was an evening of putting Country before self.

Stay tuned for more from the Republican Convention tomorrow.

The day started quite somber as our California Delegation met for breakfast. Most had been watching news of the hurricane. We were advised that the session had been curtailed. Due to the rules of the convention we still had to convene to take care of formal business.

When we arrived at the Excel Center the usual excitement of a convention of this type was unusually quiet. We were still hoping that early news, that Gustav was not as devastating as first thought, was true. When the convention opened we were invited to "text" a donation into a "text2give" website and were given many other opportunities for giving. It was amazing to watch as hundreds of delegates pulled out their cell phones to make donations to help the victims of the affected areas.

We were pleased to hear from First Lady Laura Bush and Cindy McCain asking all present to put aside politics to help our fellow Americans. Both of these strong and remarkable women asked us to do what we could to help those in need. It was an amazing event, to turn a political convention into a fundraiser for those in need. I cannot recall that ever happening, at least in my 50 years of watching conventions.  It was an interesting turn of events.  Republicans faced that what was to be a strong convention now became clouded by a natural disaster. Yet, Republicans turned a loss into a positive event.  Raising over a million dollars in a few hours for hurricane relief was a strong positive reflection of a party united, willing to give and thinking of country first without political thought.

Not only did the fundraiser involve the delegates, but corporations sponsoring events willingly also gave money to support the relief effort. Everyone's involvement turned the hurricane disaster into a human outpouring of sympathy in keeping with the idea of  "Country First". 

Later in the day we visited the convention center in St Paul where convention goers gathered to eat foods of all kinds spread out on numerous tables in a huge convention hall. We were entertained by beautiful young ladies all decked out in tops to uniforms singing old patriotic songs going back to world war II. After feasting for about 1 hour Lee Greenwood came out to a roaring group of people anxious to hear his many hits. For 40 minutes we heard hit after hit as Lee went through a long list of songs. But when Lee Greenwood began to sing his most famous song, "Proud to be an American", the entire audiance broke into song, loving every second of his famous lyrics.  It was a moving experience as could be seen by the wiping of tears from the eyes of numerious men and women.

The entire group was then envited to attend the private screening of "An American Carol", a frontal attack on the excesses of the American left. The movie, scheduled to open all across the united states in numerious theatres. The movie is hilarious and willl be well worth the money to see it when it comes to theatres near you.  After the movie we wandered into the convention center where again location after location there was delicious food and many souvenious to buy for the folks back home;.

Leaving the hotel a while later we visited a group of Latino leaders connected to "Daddy Yankee", a latino entertainer that recently endorsed Senator McCain and the dream entertainer for millions of young people.  It was a wonderful opportunity to share many views as we spoke to Hispanic leaders from all parts of the country.  A speciall part of the meeting was talking to the producer and manager of Daddy Yankee.  We learned how Daddy Yankee met Senator McCain and was moved by the senator's story.  Daddy Yankee took a calculated risk in endorsing Senator McCcain publically because of Hollywood's continued obvious left leaning and vocal dislike for Republicans. However, we don't

Tomorrow will be a busy day. Stay tuned for day three.  

We were stressed with the usual rush to LAX that we all experience for a 6:30 AM flight. Parking, luggage, security, a Starbuck's coffee for Gayle and then finally we relax in our seats on the plane. Gayle reviews the schedule of events and we chat about which we will be attending. The flight is smooth and we arrive in Minneapolis a few minutes early. Our hotel is designated as the official hotel for the California Delegation.  We are greeted by great volunteers and friendly staff.  

Once we have our credentials we depart for the opening reception "Tiki in Minnesota". A beautiful paddle boat tour of the lakes make us understand very well why our Lakers were named "Lakers". There are literaly thousand of beautiful lakes and waterways. We enjoy the beauty and hospitality of Twin Cities. We met old friends and make new ones. We discuss the upcoming campaign and enjoy the evening.

When we return to our room we hear the very sad news about huricanne Gustaf. Our hearts and prayers go out the people of New Orleans. We understand the seriousness of the situation and turn our eyes to the progress of the storm.

The convention has taken a quiet tone as we pray for the people affected by the coming huricanne. All the new here is concentrated on the progress of the storm. We are told President Bush has canceled his appearance at the convention as did Governor Jindel of Louisiana.

Tomorrow will be another full day.

What a powerful beginning to this day as we prepare to travel to St. Paul Minneapolis. The excitement was visible on my wife Gayle's face as she stood rivited to the television set, her eyes filled with tears, as we listened to the hockey mother of 5 children, proud of being pro-life and not ashamed to show her conservative credentials to the world and proclaiming that women will shatter the glass ceiling that has held women down for so long. On the day that women gained the right to vote so many years ago, this exceptional woman stood side by side with the next president of the United States, Senator John McCain. The excitement continues to build. Tomorrow we will be in Minneapolis, busy getting our credentials and settling in for the week ahead. We will anxiously be waiting for the time they come on the stage together. We can already feel the crescendo of joy and expectation the Republican Convention has not seen in many years. Stay tuned for more excitement tomorrow.