Dear Friends & Family,

In 1968 there were riots at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago protesting the war. "The eyes of the nation focused on Chicago and we decided who we were, what side we were on, and what we would fight for. Chicago changed minds, Chicago changed politics, Chicago changed the Left, Chicago changed the media, Chicago changed those who were here and those who watched from far away, and Chicago changed Chicago."
-Dean Blobaum

This Thursday is the 40th anniversary of that riot. It is also the 45th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr's "I Have a Dream" speech.

Don't get me wrong...I'm not suggesting we riot. I am saying this DNC has a similar extreme potential to affect Chicago, the world, and each of us personally. This Thursday 8.28.08 Barack Obama will deliver his official acceptance speech for the Democratic Nomination. It is the day he officially takes on his role as our symbol of hope and change. It is an important day for Chicago, for the United States, and for the world. It is a day to remember history and celebrate the future. It is a day to celebrate.

I am hosting a gathering of close friends and family at my apartment Thursday at 7PM to watch the speech with the people who are closest to me. I'm projecting it on an 8 foot screen and my folks are bringing a few extra folding chairs. If you're interested in joining us let me know.

With Hope,
Sully