NHL Journal
Day 1 (8/4/08)
Today was the first day of the internship and I was really happy. I was like a little kid in a candy store, or on Christmas morning with the type of smile I had on my face. I smiled through the paperwork and everything that came our way. We first started with the HR director Josie Russell filling out paperwork for the duration of time. This period exposed us to what everyone has to go through before being employed by the NHL. After the paperwork, Michelle Fluhr, who is the International Business and Events Asst. and is our lead person, took us on a tour of three out of five floors. Out of the very interesting tour, we met people like Andy Crawford (Office Service), Frank Macina (Events), Paul Conway (Creative Services), Aliya Ansari (Events), and Rich Villani (Apparel/ Consumer Products). We learned what they did on a daily basis and they also shared life lessons for us because we are going off to college in a few weeks and many of them are not too far removed from that stage. Many of the people who work for the league did not major in anything sports related in college. Many of them are lawyers, etc. We also had lunch with Ken Yaffe (International Bus.) and talked more about the foundation and life which was very interesting. I LOVE this league and LOVE hockey I’m very thankful to be taking advantage of this opportunity. This is my first time in New York, first time on the subway and I am really enjoying myself learning new things.
Day 2 (8/5/08)
What an action packed day. Going places and meeting people you never thought you would ever meet. Ken Yaffe met us over at ABC/ESPN International to meet Russell Wolff (Executive VP Managing Director) at the headquarters. He gave us a lot of positive insight and OFFERED US INTERNSHIPS!!! That’s a BIG opportunity for us. You don’t get to meet people like him on an everyday basis. His main task is to brand ESPN globally. Once we got back to the office we met Mark McCrary (Game Presentation) who has a rather cool job. He gave us a very interesting story on his background and how he got where he is now. We also met Jessica Tomao (Manager NHL Images) who told us about her job and also about Getty images partnership that the league and the rights to photos. Later that day, we partook in an experience that is going to be fulfilling. Going to Yankee Stadium in its last of existence is one of the most memorable things that I have done. We met with Michael Tusiani (Sr. VP, Corporate Sales & Sponsorships) and he gave us some very great insight on his job, sponsors for the team, and Yankee history. He had some business to attend to, but he called upon Evan Nielsen (Coordinator, Corporate Sales & Sponsorship) and a 2000 NHL Draft Pick of the Atlanta Thrashers. He gave us the historic tour of Yankee stadium where we went on the field, Monument Grove, Dugout, and other areas. This is something that I will never forget because I’ve always wanted to come to Yankee Stadium. This day brought a lot of very life lasting experiences, what will tomorrow have in store?
Day 3 (8/6/08)
Another day packed with things to do. We started out with talking to club services and learning about their department. This department is new to the league. The first professional league to develop a program such as this is the NBA, and other leagues have followed. Jeff Morander (VP Club Consulting & Services) gave us insight. It’s a small but interesting department. Thirteen employees offer service to 30 teams and 4 people manage 7-8 on a stronger relationship. Later on in the day we got the chance to meet Eric Haugen (SR Manager -Regional Television) and Emily Nasits (SR Manager- National Television) of the broadcasting team and they explained the markets that they cover and what their job titles mean. They also took us on one of the most interesting tours of the week and that was to the broadcast studio for the NHL XM network channel in the studio that overlooks the NHL store which was very cool. We sat in the same chairs that the radio personalities sit, and played around with the equipment. After we left the studio we went to the control room and met Eric Eisenberg (Producer?) saw the operation in a more in depth look. We saw what controls controlled the camera and what controls make transitions on television and how the graphics are made. They best part is……Tristyn learned a little about the system through actual interaction with the programs. The people in the room were amazed at how fast we picked up what they were giving us. After we left their department we were done for the day so we made our way through and enjoyed a Mets game. This was a very great experience because we visited both New York stadiums that are very historic and are in their last season of existence and is something that I will never forget as long as I live. I got to see Yankee and Shea stadium, two of the oldest current and arguably most historic ballparks in the history of baseball in person with my own two eyes.
Day 4 (8/7/08)
Many people don’t get the chance to sit on a live show and see it developed from the ground up. We sat in the “Hockey Show,” an internet based show on NHL.com for hockey fans to watch. The head person over this department was ( ). She explained the process and it starts in the broadcast room where the host does their part. Then the video is sent to the editing suite to be patched up and added in a system that is being placed between b-roll that is already edited. Simultaneously, the producer who is receiving the video is making sure it’s going to run online, sending emails to create traffic to the show on the website and also pushes the final button to put the video up for display. Later on, we go the chance to work with the PR (Public Relations) department and I was so happy because I was with people that I knew from the All-Star game in February. Nirva Milord and Clare MacClellan were so helpful and we so anxious to see me because we kept in contact since All-Star and waited no time with telling us about their jobs. We also got work experience in PR as well.
Day 5 (8/8/08)
Day 5, the last day at the office….tear! We have done so much thus far and don’t want to leave. Everyone is so use to us now and love us being in the office. The first thing we did was meet with Events and Entertainment. Some of the point person in this department we talked to was Dean Matsusaka. Dean talked about events more to us because had been hearing about events whole week but now we see what it really is. We also got the chance to offer insight on the 2008 Winter Classic at Wrigley Field in Chicago. He showed is diagrams of sight lines in the ballpark of where the ice will be and what the best angle to align the ice and what section should they charge the most. It was cool being to help make those decisions. After events we met with Brad Holland (NHL Connect) and he helped us post blogs online. He showed us how to set up our account and also featured us on the main page of NHL.com, the largest portal for hockey on the internet. Many people found me on the site and said congratulations and added me as a friend and seem like cool people. This concludes the week, saying our last goodbyes, getting our last pictures in and soaking in the NHL office, it was time to go to the NHL store one last time and shop before heading home. New York was very rewarding and I am thankful that I got the chance to explore this great city and create some new relationships that will impact my future.
Hello New Look Family,
As a registered voter, I am very excited that I was a part of history on November 4, 2008 (Election Day for the United States of America). I proudly stood in line for 2 and 1/2 hours to cast my ballot!... You would think that one election day would satisfy for all candidates. Clearly, a run-off election will be on December 2nd in Georgia for the chance to allow Jim Martin a chance to be a part of the US Senate. 42nd US President Bill Clinton was on Clark Atlanta's campus on Wednesday, Nov 19th, to speak about his feelings about Jim Martin.
Atlanta, GA (WRCB)- Jim Martin, Democratic Senate Candidate in GA, got a boost Wednesday from the 42nd President. Bill Clinton shared the stage with Martin at Clark Atlanta University in front of a crowd numbering more than one thousand. "You need to know this is not about Republican and Democrat, this is about yesterday and tomorrow," Clinton said. He spoke for around twenty minutes and maintained high energy and passion. "Jim Martin ought to be the Senator from Georgia, he is the kind of person we can respect, honor, support and be proud of," he continues.
Jim Martin talked about incumbent Senator Saxby Chambliss' time in office,"After eight years of top down, trickle down Saxby CHambliss economy, we have lost 96,000 jobs in Georgia." Clinton urged voters to head to the polls, both campaigns know this will be the challenge. "The person who wins this election will be the one who's supporters want it the most," Clinton said.
PS. I was able to share my feelings about the memorable event to WRCB Network. I was interviewed and shared my appreciation for President Clinton in the AUC Center. GET OUT AND VOTE ON DEC. 2nd! I Know I will!!!! IF U Can't, tell others about it as well!
Sincerely,
Chantia Robinson
For some reason I thought I was gonna get Vip seats next to Jay-Z and P.Diddy.
Why did I think that? Because I'm cool with Usher!!! Let me tell you how it went down.
We woke up early in the morning, dressed like Eskimos. I wanted to be fly for the inauguration, but the weather had other plans for me. We needed to use those little head warmer bag things... It keeps your hands and feet warm. I'm from New Orleans I never had to use those things in my life.
You do not want to get lost in 12 degree weather at an Obama inauguration. But guess what? I did...
If you are interested in working in a Part-Time Internship Position w/ Pay for Usher's New Look Inc., then this is for you!!!!
The Positions include:
The Requirements:
If you are interested, please email your resume to rcain@ushersnewlook.org
Today is Usher Raymonds Birthday. He is ____ Years old (Can't tell you that....lol). Let Mr. Raymond know that he is special on this blog!!!!!!

This story touched my heart. If anyone ever says that superstars do not give back to their communities, they haven't met Usher! Here is the story::
Usher Partners to Provide Christmas for 300 Underserved Youth and Grants Families’ Christmas Wishes
The Christmas Holiday is the time of year where moms, dads, and Santa make dreams come true. In today’s economy, the moms and dads that have helped Santa in the past are finding it hard to be his little helpers this year. In an effort to make Santa’s job a little easier and to provide children with a little more hope, Usher has partnered with several charities and programs to make a difference. He has taken time out to organize and give Christmas to those that deserve it. Usher has once again found a way to give back to the community that watched and helped him become the superstar he is today.
The first of which to receive Usher’s holiday cheer was with V-103’s Frank and Wanda Morning Show. Due to the tight budget that all are experiencing, Frank and Wanda were saddened at the reality that they may not be able to provide for as many families, through their “Christmas Wish List”, as usual. The “Christmas Wish List” is a charitable program which grants wishes for 10 families in the Metro-Atlanta area who are experiencing financial hardships. In order to be considered for the Christmas Wish List, candidates must write in 2,000 words or less why they deserve Christmas and the situation in which their family is in. Usher Raymond IV helped with their “Christmas Wish List” effort by generously donating $20,000. Usher reminded Frank and Wanda that they “can always rely on [him]”. Following his announcement, Mayor Shirley Franklin commented on his philanthropic attitude by saying, “It really shows Usher’s compassion and makes me so proud of him”. Thanks to Usher’s help the V-103 “Christmas Wish List” will not be compromised this Christmas holiday.
Usher also partnered with the Atlanta Bow-Tie Society to give Christmas to underprivileged teenagers of the Metro-Atlanta area. The Atlanta Bow-Tie Society, founded by Kelly and Scott Willett along with their close friends; Tom and Ellenwood Barton, and Bill and Lisa Tush, feels that teens are often forgotten during the Christmas Season. “Toys for Tots” is a program primarily for young children, but what about the hundreds of teens? The Bow-Tie Society hosted a Christmas Give-A-Way at Willett Honda of Atlanta, where Usher and 9 charities provided gifts for teens living in the charities’ housing. About 300 teens received the gathered gifts which included iPod shuffles, Wiis and Playstation 3s, clothing, and shoes for their households. “It was amazing! For Usher to take time out of his busy schedule to help hand out gifts was wonderful”, said Kelly Willett of Usher’s involvement in the Christmas Give-A-Way. Her husband, Scott Willett also commented, “A couple of times Kelly and I were very close to tears. Those kids were so excited to meet and speak to Usher, especially on such an individual basis. It was so kind of Usher to spend that much time with those teens”.
Few superstars give year round. Usher Raymond has made sure that he is one of those few that continuously helps make a difference by giving back to the community that raised him and his career. Through these charitable donations and spending time with underserved youth, Usher has given these children more than mere gifts. He has given them a memory and the knowledge that people do care about them, including the superstars they admire.
Usher Continues to Expose Youth to the Business of Entertainment Through his New Partnership With got noise?
The people that bring you those unforgettable milk mustache ads that remind youth to drink milk for a healthy body, just like their countless famous spokespeople, has partnered with Usher for a once in a lifetime experience. The new “got noise?” campaign is giving 20 applicants the opportunity to make Usher’s next music video! Usher is the first artist of the “got noise?” campaign that is designed to get youth involved in the conceptualization, production, editing, and airing of a music video.
Through the campaign, Body by Milk hopes the involvement with youths’ favorite artists will inspire them to drink milk and stay active to maintain a healthy body and combat obesity. Usher is looking forward to working with youth to create his next music video and commented on the campaign by saying, “It also sends a message to my fans about the importance of healthy living. That’s something I believe in and want teens to recognize”. Interested in being a part of the production? From December 16 through January 31, all interested teens between the ages of 13 and 18 can apply online at http://www.bodybymilk.com. There are no participation fees or experience required. Yes, that means it is free and even though you may not have any experience in the video or editing fields, you are still eligible! The two teams, made up of 10 teens each, will collaborate with Usher to brainstorm and shoot the video. Then following the week’s shooting and editing, the two videos will be aired and voted for online. The winning team will receive VIP tickets to an Usher concert, Final Cut Pro editing software and Apple Mac Book Pro laptops.
The “got noise?” program is designed to give teens a chance to learn skills and make connections so they can express themselves through two things that are a part of their active lives: music and music videos. “This initiative falls right into line with Camp New Look’s mission,” explains Usher,” It’s a great way to reach even more youth”. This is a perfect opportunity for all you Camp New Look Alumni whether or not you were involved in the video track! Not only will you be putting the knowledge you learned hands on at camp to use, but you will be in complete control of the video shoot, production, editing, and airing of the music video. After you show off your skills, you could win a Mac Book Pro to help continue in your endeavors to pursue a career in video production, directing, and even producing. This could be the first step towards making connections and advancing into the video and production side of music. The video track is not the only possible group to benefit from this experience. Those alumni that were involved in the music component will learn how to put the skills they learned to successfully give feedback and direction on how to portray Usher in his new music video. The lessons you learned on the set of the Camp New Look music video shoot can be transposed right into Usher’s music video. Make your experience at Camp New Look an effective one by applying and exhibiting your knowledge!
Hello New Look Family,
Presidentially dressed in my suit, heels, long coat, gloves, hat, and scarf, I proudly walked out of the hotel with a new energy and a new appreciation for life. I knew that I was about to witness history in less than three hours. Internal conflicts and drama seemed to vanish as I got in the car with Shawn Wilson, Shavonna (Wilson’s wife), Dewey, Couture, and Supa. The diversity among the millions was a beautiful site. The transit system, Metro, was packed with pedestrians. The inquisitive mind may wonder about the attitude of the people in the crowd. Surprisingly, there was a mellow spirit. People were respectable and helpful in more ways than one.
Supa, Dewey, Couture and I received inauguration tickets from the New Look Foundation; they were tickets within the Yellow Gate. Indeed the ticket holders were divided by sections: Yellow, Silver, Purple, Orange, and Blue. Wilson and his wife were ticket holders of another section therefore Supa, Dewey, Couture, and I were left to an unforgettable journey to the Yellow gate. Several officials stated that we take a tunnel and make a right in order to reach the Yellow Gate. Much to our surprise, a few tunnels were visible. We chose the tunnel directly in front of us and only hoped for the best. Indeed we were blessed to be in the correct one. I asked a kind man “Where is the Yellow Gate?” He replied “I have a yellow ticket. It’s this way.” My face was literally covered with a silver and black scarf. We began to walk with more momentum due to time and the cold. We finally joined others in the yellow ticket line. A two hour wait in the cold resulted to my right big toe numbing in my shoe. I hardly felt my left foot until I was able to insert one of Shavonna’s heat pads in my shoe. Indeed she gave all of us heating pads. Metal detectors and officials were visible at the Yellow Gate entrance. The time was 11:20 am. The Inauguration was supposedly starting at 11:30am. I directed my attention to a perfect spot under a tree. I showed the others where I would be seated. A surge of joy rushed through me. I watched as millions patiently waited for the services.
I visibly saw the podium surrounded with thick bullet proof glass and the US seal directly below it. Sadly, my camera did not pick it up. A projection screen display was set up for viewing. The crowd stood on its feet to welcome President George W. Bush. Some people were not pleased, but overall he received a good response (I can only talk about my section). Aretha Franklin sang and musicians blessed the crowd with their talent. Senator Joe Biden stood and took the oath of office. It was a truly a blessing to be one of miiions to view the services. Now Vice President Joe Biden. Finally the crowd stood on its feet to welcome Malia. Sasha, Michelle, and Barack Obama. They were stunning. President elect Obama took his oath of office. Now President Barack Obama. He gave his inaugural address. He shared his outlook on America. He wants America to remember the unity that will help in change. I believe one of my tears froze midway down my face.
I met up with Dewey, Couture, and Supa . This event was for all people regardless of status. Indeed I saw Yolanda Adams( I waved), Magic Johnson( We Love you!), Diddy, and of course Usher and his family( we hugged). President Obama is living a part of MLK Jr’s dream. America has judged President Obama not by the color of his skin, but by the content of his character. Thanks NEW LOOK for this lifetime experience!!!!!! This was not only a moment, but an initiation of a movement in America!
Chantia Robinson
Monday 9/10 Soon as I made it to New York, and got settled, God Father and I hit the gym. Back home I never exercise, but my pride wouldn’t let me get schooled by an old man on the treadmill (just joking). After the gym we washed up and headed downstairs for a very important meeting. Before I can even get seated Shawn reminded me why im here. I didn’t have a clue why I was there, but I know I was lucky, I made it to New York because Usher saw leadership and limitless potential in me. I had no idea so much work went into preparing for a presentation/Speech. I had to prepare my introduction for Usher; I only had 60 seconds so I had to make a huge impact. After going for a stroll in Times Square looking for a mall, or place to buy some fly clothes, we went back to the hotel and prepped all night long for the following day. Thursday 9/11 Dewey and I woke up ready for a very exciting jam packed day. After breakfast God Father sent us on an intern run. He gave us directions and sent us to Kinko’s for some copies. I had no idea the block in New York were so long and busy. Our day didn’t start until didn’t really start until 12:00 p.m. I put on my business man attire (White button up, Black tie, Black Dockers, and Black Gators). We went over to Usher’s hotel room, at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. While Mr. Raymond finished up an interview I made my way down to the lobby lounge for a bite to eat. We kicked it with Usher for a while, until he had to go get dressed and prepare himself for a long day. We left the hotel and got into one of those exclusive presidential Chevy Tahoe Trucks. In the car we didn’t talk that much because everybody was focus and going over the lines for the speeches we prepared. Our body guards meet us at Columbia University. I got to get a first hand look at how Usher prepares for a long day of talking to the masses. I got to talk on the podium with Usher in front of many cameras and reporters. After the speech I turned into an instant celebrity. Everywhere I went people were trying to interview me and take pictures. I got to do the intro for Usher his Youth Chairman Acceptance. It was soon time for us to take our seats at the presidential forum about service. I got a chance to meet people like The President of Langston Hughes University, Toby McGuire (Spiderman), Leonardo DiCaprio (Titanic), The President of Target, Jordin Sparks (American Idol), Lil Mama (Rapper), and many more great people. I had so much fun that day, and I didn’t want it to end. After the event we headed back to the hotel and packed our bags so we can leave Friday evening. Friday 9/12 Friday was a great day; I had a really good time. I had the chance tot sit in a business meeting with Usher Raymond and a few of New Look’s partners. We had great conversations about business, politics, and voting. The CEO of “City Year” said a quote that never left me “Great ideas don’t sink, they float until you pick them up.” We got to chill with Laura Bush “The First Lady” and her daughter. I also got to kick it with Alicia Keys. She was feeling my swag, ask Godfather and Usher. I also attended a luncheon with mayor Bloomberg (Mayor of New York). One thing that really shocked me was all the people in New York that spoke so highly of my city New Orleans! They didn’t talk about us as victims; they called us a great city that’s full of life and cultural. We got so much accomplished in so little time. Soon it was time for us to go home. I headed back to the hotel, and prepared for my departure. Thank You, Usher’s New Look P.s. it’s hard going from a celebrity to a normal person. New Look should bring us out on the road more often. 
We headed back to Hotel Palomar. We failed to realize the traffic that we would encounter.We sat in the car for more than an hour on a bridge. Officials told Shawn Wilson that they didn’t want drivers to pass until the pedestrians passed.
Finally we arrived at the hotel.Couture and I got dressed in nice formal dresses for MTV's Inaugural Youth Ball. We met Shawn Wilson, his wife, Dewey and Supa in the lobby. Everyone looked sensational. As we got in the car, Wilson reminded us that we would get interviewed by the media about our experience. Butterflies filled my stomach. MTV,MTV,MTV!!!! The people at the ball directed us to the green room which held great cuisine and nice table and chairs. Supa, Dewey, Couture, and I were literally feet away from Usher and his wife Tameka. It was very interesting to watch Usher work the room with the press holding tape recorders in hand and cameras.
Finally we left the green room and mingled with other youth at the ball. We jammed to live performances from Kanye West and Kid Rock. Shawn Wilson aka Godfather kept us abreast on the scheduled interviews. Suddenly, Couture and Dewey spoke to a 20/20 interviewer. They shared their experiences from our D.C. trip and also shared information about Usher’s New Look Foundation. Likewise, Supa and I shared the same information. Indeed there was a twist. Right before our live interview, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama graced the stage. President Obama spoke and finally they danced the night away . Of course, the youth took out any electronic device to take pictures and get any video footage. My mind was scrambled. Not only did I see President Obama twice, but I was about to turn around in front of MTV cameras to share my experience to the world. I kept saying that I would keep it short and sweet. Supa on the other hand can handle pressure well. I admit that he gave me pointers along the way. He is a natural in front of the camera.
Immediately after the Obamas left, the MTV crew and Usher rapidly came to us. We cheered OBAMA! OBAMA! Usher held the MTV mic in his hand. The red light came on. Action Time. He spoke as the OBAMA cheer faded away. I could hardly hear what he was saying. I looked rather awkward in the camera for a few seconds and now you know why LOL! We I finally heard him ask the question: Usher says “ We just created our First Lady and President. How did you feel about that?” I began emotional and spoke from my heart. The interview can be watched by clicking the following hyperlink: http://www.mtv.com/videos/news/333652/at-last-barack-and-michelles-dance.jhtml#id=1603059 Watch around 3:50 of the video clip to see the Usher interview.
After this breathtaking experience, we headed to the green room. Guess who we saw: Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore. Amazing. We mingled and spoke to Ashton Kutcher about Usher’s New Look Foundation. I was finally able to share with Kutcher my favorite Punk’d episode: Beyonce and the crashing Christmas Tree LOL. We took pics with Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore.
I , Chantia Plié Robinson, want to thank Usher and Usher’s New Look Foundation from the bottom of my heart. Also I am very glad that Shawn Wilson called and offered this once in a lifetime opportunity due to my continuous political activity after camp. Thanks to all the other contributors I did not mention. Thanks!
Chantia Robinson
Election Night
Tuesday, November 4th, 2008
Chicago, Illinois
If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.
It’s the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.
It’s the answer spoken by young and old, rich and poor, Democrat and Republican, black, white, Latino, Asian, Native American, gay, straight, disabled and not disabled – Americans who sent a message to the world that we have never been a collection of Red States and Blue States: we are, and always will be, the United States of America.
It’s the answer that led those who have been told for so long by so many to be cynical, and fearful, and doubtful of what we can achieve to put their hands on the arc of history and bend it once more toward the hope of a better day.
It’s been a long time coming, but tonight, because of what we did on this day, in this election, at this defining moment, change has come to America.
I just received a very gracious call from Senator McCain. He fought long and hard in this campaign, and he’s fought even longer and harder for the country he loves. He has endured sacrifices for America that most of us cannot begin to imagine, and we are better off for the service rendered by this brave and selfless leader. I congratulate him and Governor Palin for all they have achieved, and I look forward to working with them to renew this nation’s promise in the months ahead.
I want to thank my partner in this journey, a man who campaigned from his heart and spoke for the men and women he grew up with on the streets of Scranton and rode with on that train home to Delaware, the Vice President-elect of the United States, Joe Biden.
I would not be standing here tonight without the unyielding support of my best friend for the last sixteen years, the rock of our family and the love of my life, our nation’s next First Lady, Michelle Obama. Sasha and Malia, I love you both so much, and you have earned the new puppy that’s coming with us to the White House. And while she’s no longer with us, I know my grandmother is watching, along with the family that made me who I am. I miss them tonight, and know that my debt to them is beyond measure.
To my campaign manager David Plouffe, my chief strategist David Axelrod, and the best campaign team ever assembled in the history of politics – you made this happen, and I am forever grateful for what you’ve sacrificed to get it done.
But above all, I will never forget who this victory truly belongs to – it belongs to you.
I was never the likeliest candidate for this office. We didn’t start with much money or many endorsements. Our campaign was not hatched in the halls of Washington – it began in the backyards of Des Moines and the living rooms of Concord and the front porches of Charleston.
It was built by working men and women who dug into what little savings they had to give five dollars and ten dollars and twenty dollars to this cause. It grew strength from the young people who rejected the myth of their generation’s apathy; who left their homes and their families for jobs that offered little pay and less sleep; from the not-so-young people who braved the bitter cold and scorching heat to knock on the doors of perfect strangers; from the millions of Americans who volunteered, and organized, and proved that more than two centuries later, a government of the people, by the people and for the people has not perished from this Earth. This is your victory.
I know you didn’t do this just to win an election and I know you didn’t do it for me. You did it because you understand the enormity of the task that lies ahead. For even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime – two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century. Even as we stand here tonight, we know there are brave Americans waking up in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan to risk their lives for us. There are mothers and fathers who will lie awake after their children fall asleep and wonder how they’ll make the mortgage, or pay their doctor’s bills, or save enough for college. There is new energy to harness and new jobs to be created; new schools to build and threats to meet and alliances to repair.
The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even one term, but America – I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there. I promise you – we as a people will get there.
There will be setbacks and false starts. There are many who won’t agree with every decision or policy I make as President, and we know that government can’t solve every problem. But I will always be honest with you about the challenges we face. I will listen to you, especially when we disagree. And above all, I will ask you join in the work of remaking this nation the only way it’s been done in America for two-hundred and twenty-one years – block by block, brick by brick, calloused hand by calloused hand.
What began twenty-one months ago in the depths of winter must not end on this autumn night. This victory alone is not the change we seek – it is only the chance for us to make that change. And that cannot happen if we go back to the way things were. It cannot happen without you.
So let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it’s that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers – in this country, we rise or fall as one nation; as one people.
Let us resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long. Let us remember that it was a man from this state who first carried the banner of the Republican Party to the White House – a party founded on the values of self-reliance, individual liberty, and national unity. Those are values we all share, and while the Democratic Party has won a great victory tonight, we do so with a measure of humility and determination to heal the divides that have held back our progress. As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, “We are not enemies, but friends…though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection.” And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn – I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too.
And to all those watching tonight from beyond our shores, from parliaments and palaces to those who are huddled around radios in the forgotten corners of our world – our stories are singular, but our destiny is shared, and a new dawn of American leadership is at hand. To those who would tear this world down – we will defeat you. To those who seek peace and security – we support you. And to all those who have wondered if America’s beacon still burns as bright – tonight we proved once more that the true strength of our nation comes not from our the might of our arms or the scale of our wealth, but from the enduring power of our ideals: democracy, liberty, opportunity, and unyielding hope.
For that is the true genius of America – that America can change. Our union can be perfected. And what we have already achieved gives us hope for what we can and must achieve tomorrow.
This election had many firsts and many stories that will be told for generations. But one that’s on my mind tonight is about a woman who cast her ballot in Atlanta. She’s a lot like the millions of others who stood in line to make their voice heard in this election except for one thing – Ann Nixon Cooper is 106 years old.
She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn’t vote for two reasons – because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.
And tonight, I think about all that she’s seen throughout her century in America – the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can’t, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can.
At a time when women’s voices were silenced and their hopes dismissed, she lived to see them stand up and speak out and reach for the ballot. Yes we can.
When there was despair in the dust bowl and depression across the land, she saw a nation conquer fear itself with a New Deal, new jobs and a new sense of common purpose. Yes we can.
When the bombs fell on our harbor and tyranny threatened the world, she was there to witness a generation rise to greatness and a democracy was saved. Yes we can.
She was there for the buses in Montgomery, the hoses in Birmingham, a bridge in Selma, and a preacher from Atlanta who told a people that “We Shall Overcome.” Yes we can.
A man touched down on the moon, a wall came down in Berlin, a world was connected by our own science and imagination. And this year, in this election, she touched her finger to a screen, and cast her vote, because after 106 years in America, through the best of times and the darkest of hours, she knows how America can change. Yes we can.
America, we have come so far. We have seen so much. But there is so much more to do. So tonight, let us ask ourselves – if our children should live to see the next century; if my daughters should be so lucky to live as long as Ann Nixon Cooper, what change will they see? What progress will we have made?
This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time – to put our people back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids; to restore prosperity and promote the cause of peace; to reclaim the American Dream and reaffirm that fundamental truth – that out of many, we are one; that while we breathe, we hope, and where we are met with cynicism, and doubt, and those who tell us that we can’t, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people:
Yes We Can. Thank you, God bless you, and may God Bless the United States of America.
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I had the honor of being part of history in the making in new York as I represented Usher and New Look as one of the 101 young leaders across the nation to attend the service summit where Obama and McCain the two presidential candidates for the first time in history came together to address the same legislation. I was also educated on the importance of serving and serving in the community and how it brings people together and builds relationships on a positive level, instead of relaying on the negative things like the streets guns drugs you can participate in community service and help others and have fun in doing so you have that positive support system and also if we don’t care about the community that were living in and we live there then who will also I came to the conclusion that allot of times in life we all have a common goal but different approaches to reach that goal this builds a rivalry amongst each other and from rivalry breeds hate It is better to come together and incorpate the approaches together and I bet you that we can reach that goal two times faster than we would have on our own and why not if we want the same thing, and also it is very important to help in the community because what is better than being part of an effort that is going to bring forth a positive change so im asking everyone join me and commence to take action in your community
Sunday Jan 18, 2009 was my first time in Washington, DC. And little did I know, it was the first time I would be doing alot of things. After checking in at the hotel, I headed to my room and got situated. I had to attend a youth briefing and go over the busy interie of the trip. New Look gave us stipends, so u know I ate good, sleep good and eat some more. I didn't realize how cold DC was until we took a walk on M street to get some food. Do u know how it feels to be cold, hungry, and lost? Well it don't feel good! We finally decided it was time to stop walking and start eating so we stopped at a REAL ItAlian restersunt. I use the word real because all they had was Italian Food on the menu. It wasn't like those other places where u can order pasta and tacos at the same time. We had to eat really fast because we were on a tight schedule. Later on that night "GodFather" gave Dewey and I our pep talk about parting to hard. That night we went to the Mayor's ball at Club 930. It was soo much fun, I wish you could have been there. We were chillen in the VIP with the Mayor of DC at a club. How many 18 year olds can say that? We also got to see live performances by T.I., Wyclef Jean, and Fall Out Boy. Usher spoke at the event and let us stand on stage with him as he talked about the I Cant But You Can Campain. The crowd gave us an extremely welcoming ovation. Usher was so proud of us. After the event we headed back to the hotel and prepared for Monday ( Oprah Show/ Service Learning Project).
About a week ago, I went to an "Exploring Educational Excellence" conference in Jacksonville, Florida. I was invited to discuss the structure of different college universities. There were representatives from Rice, Cornell, Columbia (
where i wanna go), Brown, and Chicago Universities. It was very informative, and made me second guess my current college choice...Columbia. It's still a great college, but doesn't accept AP classes as college credit as some of the other colleges do. Plus, one of the others...can't think of it right now...said that you are NOT required to take any "core" classes your freshman year! You can start college immediately with classes that pertain to your major, and nothing else...I've got alot of thinkin to do....maybe Columbia isn't right for me....
I started my day off pretty good, I must say. I took a nice long shower and eat steaks and eggs for breakfast. I was dressed for success and feeling my best. Today was the day we gave back and helped through service and volunteerism.
Service Nation and Target were sponsoring a service project at Simon Elementary school in DC. We introduced ourselves to most of the people that were over the project, and immediately got to work. My first task was to organize a book shelf in the big kids library. Alphabetize, Categorize, you know, stuff like that. Guess what?... Oprah was video taping while I worked on fixing the books. Everybody on earth saw me at work. Lol.
I felt so good, because i got a chance to help kids out side of my city. and it makes me realize that i can make a difference across the world if i keep working hard and stay on the right path.
The Inauguration Chronicles::
THE SIMON ELEMENTARY && OPRAH
-Day 2 Event 1
We awoke bright and early the next morning in anticipation of going to the Simon Elementary School service project. The service project was put on by MTV and ServiceNation. In the service project we teamed up with sponsors such as Target and CityYear to help paint hallways and create two new libraries for the children of Simon Elementary. These children were deprived of a library and due to this fact, the literacy rate was down to 15% creating a future drop out rate of 50% or higher. It was a beautiful thing to see the hundreds of volunteers milling around and in and out the different rooms and organizing books for the newly constructed shelves. Me and Supa tackled the Biographies while Plie and Dewey took on the never-ending pile of autobiographies. While we were helping with books and organization, Oprah did a live broadcast and featured the service project on the show. We were all excited about being part of a project that was so important Oprah felt it was worthy of her attention. Not only did Usher stop by to get involved, but Allen Rossum, Tobey Maguire (Spiderman), and Brandon Routh (Superman) also came by to show support and provide some hands on help. We left the service project and got a chance to do some interviewing of the People Magazine Editor AnneMarie Cruz. She gave us tips for picking a career and how to move up the ladder. Talk about enlightening!!! THe next stop was the National Mall.
see Chronicles 4
(We rode in a white stretch 300C and had a few laughs and candid moments, you can see them as well as footage from the service project on the video blog section.)