I attended Barack Obama’s rally at the Memorial Coliseum this morning. I arrived just over an hour before the event was scheduled to start and found quite a crowd gathered in line to get in. The police presence was only eclipsed by the volunteer force stumping for their local candidate or particular cause. The “Hooked on Novick” guys were out in full force.

Once I got through the metal detectors (which I as usual tripped inviting a vigorous pat down) I wandered around looking for the best vantage point. I quickly realized that I had two choices. I could either sit relatively close but behind him (and would have to get a seat immediately) or I could get some caffeine in me and find a more comfortable vantage point.

There was a great and diverse crowd to cheer on Sen. Obama, and the Coliseum was pretty much packed. I ended up finding a seat straight across from podium about halfway up with some 20 and 30 something couples and families. There was a great deal of energy in anticipation of the Senators arrival. Rep. Earl Blumenauer came out about 9:15 to get the crowd fired up (like that needed to happen).

I loved the choices in music mostly 60s and 70s soul. There were super long lines at the few concession stands open and I waited for roughly a half hour to get a 4 dollar 20oz coke. Does that qualify as a campaign contribution? At 9:45 and they show the “Yes we can” video but there was still no Sen. Obama in sight. Everyone seems to be in and seated I hoped that we would get going soon. There were lots of cops inside and outside although they were most visible outside, what with their rooftop spotters and a police dog in the crowd going ape shit over ever patchouli soaked college student. It reminded me of the plot line of the first season of 24. Read my full play-by-play after the jump.

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A good friend to many, you’ll be missed Kyle. I’ll leave a seat next to me at the rack for ya next time I go.

http://www.myspace.com/wakamile

I received a letter yesterday from my auto insurer, American Family Insurance. Apparently they’ve reviewed their files and no longer feel the same way about me that I feel about them. The letter states they will have all of their stuff out by 2/22 when they are able to get their own place. Bastards. The worst part of the letter was the matter-of-fact laundry list of indiscretions from the last two years in our relationship. I mean, yes I got caught during the time we were together. More than once. They know how sorry I was and never ever in our relationship did I ever hit them with a claim. Bastards.