Convention kicks off

As the first day of the Democratic National Convention was coming to an end Monday, state House Majority Leader Christopher Donovan, D-Meriden, checked in with the Record-Journal by phone.

As he chatted, he waited with other local attendees for the train that would take them to their hotel. People are carrying Obama signs and wearing T-shirts and pins, he said. Donovan also said that while waiting at the train station, he was able to tell several people about Meriden.

The first day of the convention included several speakers, such as Sen. Edward M. Kenndy, D-Mass., and Sen. Barack Obama's wife, Michelle Obama.

Donovan said Kennedy's speech was moving, and he said the senator told the large crowd that he will be there when Obama is sworn in as president next year. Kennedy is battling brain cancer.

"People were just very glued to him," Donovan said.

Donovan also said Michelle Obama's speech was very good. She talked about the importance of family and working hard, he said.

"It was a really warm, powerful presentation," Donovan said.

Donovan summed up the atmosphere at the convention by saying that people are caught up in the quest for change.

Donovan, along with others from Connecticut in Denver for the convention, will start their Tuesday off with a breakfast that will allow for social mingling. A full day, which includes a speech by Sen. Hillary Clinton, will follow.

But until Tuesday's activities begin, Donovan said he and his travel companions want to rest. An early morning flight, jet lag and a lower level of oxygen in the Mile High City tuckered those representing the Nutmeg State out, he said.

- Reported by Amanda Falcone