A BFD

So it's been a little bit longer than normal between posts.  Probably because Tuesday was fairly quiet, and Wednesday didn't quite merit its own post.  Cue a fantastic Thursday to make this post a mix of several different topics, each one probably meriting more time than I'll allot, but that's mainly because it's a little late, and y'all probably don't want to read the same types of posts over and over again.
The world of Washington has been slightly busier this week, even on a short week.  The Democrats are now off to their retreat, so tomorrow the House is out of session, but following the previous week's Republican retreat, everyone got down to work.  The main issue was a GOP-led vote to repeal the health reform bill.  It did pass, effectively along partisan lines.  I'll attach a link if you want to see how each member voted, but there was very little bipartisanship on this bill.  It will now head to the Senate, and promptly die at the hands of a Democratic majority, thus preserving the reform bill of the 111th Congress.

Work has settled into a fairly set schedule, and because I really can't discuss the details of my job, I'll be forced to move on to the more social aspects of DC.  This week is restaurant week, where some of the nicest places to eat in the city open up their doors to the great unwashed masses for still expensive, but greatly reduced prices.  A group of WSP interns went to dinner on Wednesday at Charlie Palmer, a high-class steakhouse with an magnificent view of the Capitol.  I would have some grilled scallops that were delicious along with a salad and some carrot cake.  For those looking to indulge a little bit, restaurant week is just the thing.  There's one each winter and summer.

Today, Thursday, was the 50th Anniversary of JFK's inauguration.  There was a ceremony hosted in the Capitol Rotunda which I was able to attend.  It truly was the most incredible experience I've had so far.  Our seats were about the best possible: fifth row from the front, with my seat being on the center aisle.  The program featured musical performances by the Navy band and Army chorus, both of which were incredibly talented.  The panel of speakers, which I was seated about 30 feet away from included the Congressman John Lewis, Caroline Kennedy, Senator John Kerry, Former Labor Secretary Elaine Chao, Speaker of the House John Boehner, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, and Vice-President of the United States Joe Biden.  I'm sure in time, this will become slightly more usual, but right now, to an intern of 2 weeks, it's what the Vice-President might call a "BFD."

Anyway, here's to a great Friday, and a great weekend.