I did some work for the Republican Party in Virginia this year, and some campaign work for the President’s campaign in Virginia. (Yes, I know, shocking.)
In any event, it seems I’m not getting that ambassadorship to Tahiti, but my wife and I are invited to the Inaugural Ball - the one at which Mr. and Mrs. Bush will make their first appearance of the night.
Good thing I have a tux already!
Hey, if you see my cousin Larry from California, say hi! Have fun!
Didn’t vote for the guy but I’d snap up a Ball ticket in a sec. Let us know how it goes–should be a unique experience!
Maybe you can still get the post in the Dominican Republic. I’ll be interested to hear your first hand account later. I picture everyone dancing very formally like in Scorsese’s Age of Innocence.
Funny, I picture the opera house at the end of Coppola’s The Godfather: Part III…
Nah. Enjoy yourself, you crazy kids, and see if you can pick up some trivia for the next Bricker Challenge. I need some accessories for my grill. 
You must have given more money than me, Bricker.
I’ll be volunteering at the Celebration of Freedom on the Ellipse, the night before.
Sweet score! Think you can get permission from Mrs. B to dance with Condi if the opportunity presents? 
This is one of those bits of US politics I used to think was just for films. Brass bands and streamers and people being introduced to balls. It all seems so quaint.
Well, from the loyal opposition, have a good time. Inaugural balls are a fabulous Washington tradition, and a memory you’ll treasure forever.
I second the 'Bear’s sentiments – hard though we fight in GD, you’ve always been a worthy and aboveboard opponent, and a good friend, and I’m happy that your efforts are getting the recognition they deserve.
In fact, my heart would break
should Brickernot make
it to the ball
Which ball? Aren’t there several?
Have fun at any rate.
Have a good time, Bricker. I was hoping to get invited myself this year, but there was one teensy problem with my strategy.
–Cliffy
I wonder if you’ll have to sign a loyalty oath to get in. 
A ball is a ball though, so have fun.
To the soundtrack of Deliverance.
Righteous. Say hi to Georgie for me.
Wouldn’t be a problem, I’m sure.
Bricker, have fun.
And tell them not to close bases or cancel defenses here in California.
I was at Reagan’s second. It was so damned cold that it was moved indoors, so I watched it from Congressman (now Senator) Jefford’s office. I ran into an old high school classmate who was on his staff, had a great time.
Have fun at the ball, and I do hope that you’ve been practicing your dance steps.
Congrats! What bands are playing at your ball?
Bit of advice that may allow you and the Mrs to enjoy things a bit more, based on my experiences at the 1996 balls I went to. (I’ve been dying to go back to one since then, but things just haven’t worked out… :mad: )
If at all possible, leave the overcoats at home. The coat checks are disasters.
Seating tends to be in short supply. The lady may want to consider this as she selects her shoes for the evening.
The balls are one thing, but the events for the parties (DNC, RNC) are da bomb. I’m sure they’re run differently every year, but in '96 I was able to crash one of the inner circle DNC events by asking folks coming out for their tickets. That little bit of grovelling allowed me to see the Buckwheat Zydeco Band play for four hours, and the cooks served waffles and french toast at 5 am.
If you do, don’t tell us. I will die of jealousy.
Congratulations - I hope it is everything you dream of it being.
Regards,
Shodan