Hi, this is LaRue posting live from the Convention!   The energy here is exciting.  People of all colors, ages, shapes and sizes have come out to have their voices heard.  All are competing for the attention of media and basically anyone else that will listen.  Supporters, protesters and even strip clubs (Shotgun Willie's?) have attempted to get people's attention.

There have been some great events here today.  I sat in on an interesting panel about leadership which had Will.I.Am and Kerry Washington as guests.  There were also a number of impressive elected officials aged 25 and under speaking.  They all seemed extrodinarily focused and talented.  I didn't get the opportunity to ask them about the importance of non-political life/work experience prior to a career as an elected official, but would have been interested in their answers.  I think work experience prior to politics is something that all aspiring politicians should think about.  Food for thought: Would one be a better public official if he or she actually worked in the "real world" prior to elected office or does it not even matter?