On Saturday, I drove to Charlotte, North Carolina to participate in mandatory training as a volunteer at this week’s Democratic National Convention. Organizers with the help of volunteer trainers briefed

2,400 volunteers of all ages over three days time. I had the chance to review the volunteer force while standing under a tent outside Bank of America Stadium and I commented aloud that there were more black people under this small tent than had participated in or attended the Republican National Convention. The volunteers were all ages, colors and kinds of people and in that diversity they resembled America. The volunteers including myself were attentive, cooperative and excited to participate in this historical political event. The camaraderie I felt in that group was immediate and effortless.

The contrast between my first hand experience and the general commentary emanating from the main stream media is stark. I felt palabable excitement and dedication to the cause of re-electing our president. On Face the Nation yesterday, host Bob Schieffer commented that “the enthusiasm for this president, especially among young people seems to be much lower this year.” I would have asked Mr. Schieffer what he bases this opinion on? Is this based on telephone polls that only survey land lines, not cell phone users? If so they have no idea what the youth of America is thinking or feeling about our president. In talking about the upcoming Democratic National Convention, Schieffer noted the featured speech by former President Bill Clinton and asked if his presence signaled a move to the center by the Democratic Party? What is he talking about? President Obama has been a centrist since the day he was elected. He has sided with former President Bush on issues of national security and embraced a Republican authored national health care plan. I often feel that the MSM are reading off a set of talking points issued by conservatives. Most of the time, there comments have no basis in fact.

I am looking forward to attending the convention in person and making my own mind up about what Democrats are thinking and feeling these days and I’ll pass on the word.