Photo by Andrew Spear This is the first in a series of personal accounts from people we've talked to in the capitol.
At Sunday’s concert, concert I noticed Valerie Long dancing around with a Canadian flag in tow. She seemed pretty interesting, so we chatted with her for a while about what someone north of the border would be doing at the Inauguration. Like Andy and I, it’s her first visit to D.C. ever.
Why did you decide to come down?
I had to. It’s history in the making. I’m all the way from Newfoundland, all the way on the East coast. Celebrating my 50th birthday here was a gift, and it’s an opportunity to be a part of the world changing.
When did you leave?
I left about 5 a.m. their time this morning, and flew, checked into the hotel, and just came here. When it’s 10 p.m. here, it’s 11:30 in Newfoundland. We have our own time zone – a half hour to ourselves.
Would you say that most Canadians are excited about Obama?
Canadians have been smiling, laughing, and crying tears. Watching [Obama’s speech] yesterday, I thought “I’ll have my own tears, here.” We’re with you. We all feel that this is the opportunity for the world to change.
What are so many Canadians supporting him?
We’re his first stop. His first official visit is going to be to Canada and he knows that he has the north with him. We will forge a good working relationship and friendship because he understands that we’re smart and intelligent like he and Michelle are.
What do you think about the atmosphere here?
We just checked into the hotel, and said" let’s get right over to the Mall." And we walked in, and Stevie Wonder welcomed us, and then Bono. Who could ask for a better welcome?
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