Start a political blog - Check
Get Press Credentials - Check
Attend the DNC Convention - Check
Capture unique insight - triple check

So, where do we go from here? 
First, over the next several days, I'll continue to provide reflections from our time at the convention.  In particular, an upcoming column in the Mattoon paper reveals two startling stories from our trip.  (For their generosity in getting me into the convention, they deserve to break the news.)

As you know, I was accompanied on the trip by Dick Rhodes and John Perles.  Their efforts truly enhanced the trip; in the things we saw, the people we met and the stories we gathered.

Dick took on the responsibility of visibility for the Republican Reporter.  In addition to creating the highly visible mobile unit, Dick was diligent in promoting this blog to hundreds at the convention.  Based on the volume of readership to this blog, his efforts were incredibly successful.

John Perles is the author of the Republican Reporter theme - "Connecting the Dots".
You'll see me refer to this many times in the 9 weeks leading up to the election.  For both the Republican and Democratic candidates, it's critical that voters "connect the dots" of their ideas, before making their important choice. 

Our trip to the DNC convention was an incredible adventure.  I hope you'll continue be a part of the ongoing journey of the Republican Reporter.