Notes from the DNC: Day 6/Finale

Words and photos by F LoBuono

There are so many things in life that have to be experienced first hand, i.e. personally, to appreciate in their totality. Television, even using the latest ultra-real High Definition cameras and TV's, can only do so much. A good production can give you a sense of what the actual event might be like but, it is nearly impossible to capture the real feel of it.

Last night at the DNC was exactly what I am talking about.

There were about a million cameras there last night garnering the action from every conceivable angle. There were cameras above the stage, on it, near it, around it, and, yes, in it. There were even Steady Cams to give you the best feel for what it's like to be on the Convention floor. However, NONE of them could capture the emotion of certain moments. Especially ones like Hillary Clinton accepting her Party's nomination for President of the United States. It was Transforming.

And, if done well, that's EXACTLY why they have these darned Conventions!

Let's be real for a moment (although I always am). These events, both RNC and DNC, are staged affairs. They are highly choreographed. Speakers and entertainment are chosen for effect. And, like a good Broadway show, they build to a climax. So-called less important figures (meaning less famous) speak early in the evening followed by increasingly powerful ones. Both Parties approach this in the same manner. Still, there is a message not only in WHAT they say, but in whom is saying it. And, in the case of the RNC and DNC the differences are as illuminating as their core messages.

As their so-called celebrity speakers, the Republicans choose actor Scott Baio, TV personality Willie Robertson of "Duck Dynasty" fame (I had to look him up) and football great Fran Tarkington, among others. As for the entertainment, I must honestly say I don't remember it at all (this may be just a failing memory, but I don't think so)! The Democrats countered with the likes of actors Meryl Streep, Lena Dunham and America Ferrara, basketball legend turned author Kareem Abdul Jabbar, and a host of others. The entertainers who performed included Paul Simon, Lenny Kravitz, Carol King, Alicia Keyes, and Katy Perry among many more appearing on tape. So, even in terms of Pop Culture, the difference in the two Political Parties was striking.

In the end (literally) it all leads to the moment everyone is waiting for: the formal of acceptance of their parties nomination for President of the United States of America. If done well, it is as awesome a moment as anyone could experience.

The GOP did a respectable job of leading into their Main Man, Donald Trump, although some would debate that. I believe that they did a creditable job of hammering home their message: God, Guns, Country. After 4 grueling days, Trump entered the arena to accept the GOP nomination to a wildly enthusiastic base. They chanted in unison TRUMP! TRUMP! TRUMP! USA! USA! And, in his bombastic, imperial manner, he did not disappoint. He relished in the moment. As it has always been for me with BOTH parties, it was a spectacular moment. It's just so GRAND!

However, and, perhaps, it has at least partially to do with the fact that I so dislike the man, but Trump's acceptance moment could not compare in any way, shape, or form, to Hillary Clinton's at the DNC.

It couldn't.

It could not because it lacked the historic significance of nominating the first woman in the history of this Nation to the Office of President! And, the moment, and she herself, did NOT disappoint.

As I too often mention, I have been fortunate because my work allows me to witness many spectacular moments like a launch of the Space Shuttle or being in the eye of a hurricane. I have also been privy to many historic moments like the election of the first black man as President and a Pope. This, my friends, was every bit as awe inspiring.

When she strode with great confidence to the podium, the delegates erupted into a deafening roar that shook the arena. The energy level, which had ebbed and flowed through a long evening, ratcheted WAY up. As she spoke and laid out her plans for her vision of America, the crowd would interrupt with chants of Hill-a-ry! Hill-a-ry! Hill-a-ry! Any acrimony that may have still simmered from past divisions were drowned out by the chorus.

Ms. Clinton spoke well - in every sense of the word. Unlike her opponent, Mr. Trump, she avoided the use of pejoratives, even while at the same time being very critical of him and his policies. Or, should we say the LACK of such policies. Her vision was clearly within the progressive movement of the Party as she spoke of creating a society that is MORE inclusive, MORE intelligent, MORE compassionate. She made a point of mentioning her chief Democratic rival, Bernie Sanders, and even promised to implemented many of his platforms like free college education and addressing income inequality. Ms. Clinton spoke of her belief in science and directly chided Mr. Trump for his use of Fear and Loathing as a tactic. She was proud, strong, and, yet, still humble. She was obviously moved by the moment. In the end, Ms. Clinton is a woman with a plan. I believe that she won the crowd - and the day.

Once again, it was a privilege to be present in that moment.

And, it is only just beginning . . .

A little more - later - I need some sleep.

Ciao for now.