Intern Blog

Each week the interns in my Washington, DC, office share some of their thoughts, experiences and impressions about their internship. On this page, you will find entries from the interns who are working in my office in the current semester.  To read entries from previous semesters, please visit the Intern Blog Archives.

October 26, 2009

I really like living in a big city. I reference everything based on its relationship to the metro station. In my head I have an image of the metro map and that is how Washington DC looks to me. This has led me to have a surreal experience this last weekend. From the capital building you can see a large number of tall building to the south west. I never really knew what these buildings were until Saturday. I was riding in a car driving from DC towards those large building. We took a freeway exit straight into those tall buildings. It turns out that these tall buildings were in fact the neighborhood where I live. It was a strange sensation realizing this was my neighborhood.

Matt, Pocatello, Idaho State University.

October 23, 2009

One of the nicest things about D.C. is its central location to so many interesting places.  Over the past couple of weeks I have been lucky enough to take day trips to Gettysburg, Philadelphia, Harpers Ferry, and Valley Forge.  Each place was amazing and had something different to offer. In Philadelphia my friends and I visited Independence Hall, saw the Liberty Bell, and sampled some of the city’s best cheesesteak. Valley Forge is a short drive from Philly and it was interesting to see where George Washington and his troops camped during the Revolutionary War. The landscape here was stunning and covered with many color changing trees. We were able to walk through the woods and throughout the course of our visit we saw around 100 deer. Gettysburg was also very beautiful and it was neat to be able to see some Civil War reenactments while we were there. On our way back from Gettysburg, we stumbled upon the last day of the National Apple Harvest Festival-and it is something that I definitely will come back to. There was delicious apple cider, applesauce, pumpkin funnel cake, pretzels, and even some fried Oreos to savor! The drive to and from Gettysburg was very striking.  Through visiting these places, I have been able to develop a greater appreciation for the history of United States as I have seen and experienced the atmosphere where so many important things occurred.

Whitney, American Falls, Idaho State University.

October 15, 2009

Working on Capitol Hill is a fun experience. I find myself walking down halls alongside Senators. Most of the time I’m fine, but there are times when I catch myself starstruck and staring. I feel embarrassed when this happens, but it makes me laugh.

I get to give the tours. I give at least two a week. Before the tours start, I ask if anyone has anything that is not allowed in the Capitol building. Normally if people have food or water bottles, they will leave them in the office. I recently had a tour where a girl had a small mace canister on her key chain. She had forgotten that she had it. They found it at the metal detectors in the Senate Gallery. They let me take the tour into the gallery and then I left the capital with the mace.

It's getting much colder here in Washington, DC. When I first got here, I was amazed by how hot it was. Now I'm amazed at how cold it's gotten. It has gotten cold fast.

Matt, Pocatello, Idaho State University.

October 15, 2009

Working in the press shop has given me a new insight on the important role that the media plays in the world of politics. The media really is the means by which any politician is able to communicate his or her message to the public and to their constituents, especially while they are away in Washington, DC.  On Tuesday, I had the opportunity of going and watching Senator Crapo be interviewed for Fox Business News in the Russell Senate Building Rotunda.  It was neat to be able to see the whole process of an interview from start to finish.

Also, over the past couple of weeks I have had the opportunity to attend some pretty interesting Foreign Relations hearings. I was able to attend a hearing to examine violence against women, focusing on its global costs and consequences. This was the first large scale hearing on this subject that a Senate committee had ever heard. It was interesting to hear the stories and the facts of how much of a difference the way women are treated makes in the success of a society. I also was able to attend another hearing about the role U.S. international broadcasting plays in advancing U.S. interests in Afghanistan and Iraq. Attending these hearings has reaffirmed the fact in my mind of the important and critical role that the U.S. plays in our world. These topics discussed in these hearings and the policy that stems from them will not only affect the U.S. but the entire world. 

Whitney, American Falls, Idaho State University.

October 13, 2009

I think I have finally adjusted to the East Coast Time Zone! I spent my whole life in the Pacific Time Zone, so it has taken me a long time to adjust physically and mentally.  I am so used to being three hours behind the East Coast!  My mom came out to visit the other week, which turned out to be great.  I was able to act like I knew what I was doing when I toured her around Capitol Hill.  We got to experience some of the good food around town and now my task for the next month, in my free time of course, is to find more great food in the neighborhoods around the capitol.  I hear “Ben’s Chili Bowl” is something to try out…I will let you all know. 

On a work-related note, I have keep my interest in economics and finance alive by attending various meetings involving the Senate Finance Committee as well as meetings where the Chairman of the Federal Reserve, Ben Bernanke, speaks in either the House or the Senate side of the Capitol.  I hope to one day put my degree in Economics to good use!  Stay tuned for more adventures from "The Hill".

Bret, Marin County, University of Oregon.

October 9, 2009

I had the opportunity this week to attend my first Supreme Court hearing. One of my friends and I arose early,  and arrived at the steps of the Supreme Court building at 6am. We went that early in hopes of securing a  audience spot at the 10am hearing of the controversial  establishment clause suit of Salazar v. Buono. Public seating is limited and therefore it is on a first come first serve basis. The court hands out "line holding" orange tickets to the first 75 people in line, these tickets do not guarantee you a seat at the hearing but rather hold your spot in line for about an hour, until it is time to line up again. I was lucky ticket holder 73. But, because of the controversial nature of the first case being presented, there weren't as many open public seats open, so only those with tickets 1-45 were able to go in and watch the case.

The Supreme Court holds back-to-back hearings, so we simply stayed in line and were able to get in to hear the 11 o’clock case. The case we heard was Reed Elsevier v. Muchnick. It was a case concerning whether federal courts have subject matter jurisdiction over copyright infringement actions. Listening to it was very fascinating because I was able to see the concepts and cases that I learned in my Constitutional and Business Law classes being applied right before my eyes.  It was very interesting to watch the Justices question the attorneys and see how harsh and to the point they were. Overall it was an experience that I thoroughly enjoyed, and I hope that I'll be able to make it to another case sometime this semester.

Whitney, American Falls, Idaho State University.

October 1, 2009

There have been a number of calls these last few weeks from people concerned about the Baucus health care bill. Since Senator Crapo is a member of the Finance committee, which is marking up the bill, this office has been getting calls from across the nation. These calls vary in topic, mostly they are concerning amendments coming up that day or the next day. These calls can last as little as a few seconds to as long as a few minutes. More often then not though, they seem to last a few minutes. I find it fascinating what people are concerned about, and that they feel strongly enough to call in and voice those concerns.

I was curious where people were calling from, so I started to Google their area codes. Then I started to keep track of which states were calling the most. This led into us googling a bingo sheet, where we filled the spaces in with states names. And call-in bingo was born.

Matt, Pocatello, Idaho State University.

 

October 1, 2009

It's amazing how life can fly by sometimes, and the past month I've been here seems to have gone at light speed! The health care legislation has made things pretty crazy here on "The Hill." There definitely is a lot of excitement everywhere you look, because history really is in the making. By watching this process, I am becoming more aware of how a Senator's office functions as a team where everyone is an important member, and no matter what your job is-it matters! I also am greatly impressed daily with how many Idahoans call in to voice their concerns, opinions, or support. Public participation truly is key to the whole political process. By watching the Finance Committee mark up the health care reform bill, I am realizing how much time and effort is put into making an idea become a law.

I was able to see the Dodgers play the Nationals last week, and, to no one's surprise, the Dodgers won!! I've also recently discovered many of the fabulous running and biking trails that are along the Potomac. One of my friends and I spend Saturday mornings running through, and exploring different areas of the city. It is a quick and healthy way to get a feel for the city and all that it has to offer.  Two of my best friends from Idaho came to visit for the weekend, so I was able to show and explore D.C with them. I had a great time seeing Eastern Market, Georgetown, Alexandria, Arlington, the Capitol and many of the memorials with them!

Whitney, American Falls, Idaho State University.

 

September 24, 2009

Business on the hill had been getting more intense.  Senator Crapo, as some of you may already know from watching CSPAN, has been working on the healthcare bill non-stop with his fellow committee members.  The mode around the office has been face paced and focused toward healthcare, but still seems fun in a weird way.  Folks here in the office like to pause and watch Senator Crapo in action when we catch him speaking in his various committees…It’s rewarding and comforting to see the Senator on TV.

As for me, I will be once again roam around DC getting my full exposure before I venture out even further.  There’s too much to see on and around Capitol Hill.  Today, Sept. 25, is a little overcast with a hint of rain, but that will not stop me from grabbing a good cheese burger with fries!  I am looking forward to many more adventures with the staff outside the office and will keep all the people in internet land posted. 

Bret, Marin County, University of Oregon.

September 21, 2009

This last week was great! On my free time I was able to get out, walk around the city and venture into more of the museums.  Our office also hosted a “Thursday Luncheon” in the US Capitol; it was filed to the brim with Idaho potatoes sent specially from our Boise office, thanks guys, for all the attendees.  Even then, during the down time before the luncheon, we were able to snoop around the building and see more of the amazing artwork.  I love it here more and more! Soon some of the other interns and I will plan more trips around D.C. and maybe even to the other surrounding cities.  I hope to get up to New York and possibly Boston before my time is up here.   I am soaking up so much history and information that I will always remember my time here in Washington D.C.

Bret, Marin County, University of Oregon.

September 16, 2009

It’s hard to believe that I am already onto my third week of being here! Time really has been flying by! I have been able to experience and see a lot this past week. Today, I had the opportunity to attend a hearing for the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. The topic was "Countering the Threat of Failure in Afghanistan." I was absolutely fascinated the entire hearing, and it was interesting to see how the committee functioned. The Senators on the committee would come in and out as they pleased, and many would simply leave after they had their opportunity to ask their seven minutes worth of questions. The hearing took a brief recess so the Senators could leave and go vote on the floor. There were three experts on issues regarding Afghanistan, who represented three different perspectives on what should be implemented in regard to policy in Afghanistan. There were also about twenty members of the Afghani Parliament in the audience, who were listening intently to what the Senators and panelists had to say.  I have briefly studied the conflict in Afghanistan so I enjoyed hearing about the different solutions, perspectives, and concerns that the Senators as well as panelists had.

One of my favorite things to do in D.C. is to go and visit the memorials at night. They aren't as crowded, and they have a whole other aura that surrounds them in the dark of night. Every time I walk through the Lincoln, Vietnam, Korean, etc. memorials I am reminded of the greatness of our nation, and how one individual can really make a difference in society. This weekend I also went with a group of my friends to an event at the National’s stadium called “Opera in the Outfield.”  It is a free, public event where an opera is telecast from the Kennedy Center onto the large screen at the stadium. The opera shown was the Barber of Seville and it was excellent! It is something that I would definitely recommend doing if you are in D.C. in the fall.

Whitney, American Falls, Idaho State University.

September 11, 2009

My name is Bret. I am one of the three interns this fall semester in Senator Crapo's Washington, DC, office.  I was born and raised in Marin County, California, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco.  I graduated this last spring from the University of Oregon and have taken my scholastic interests and degree in economics to DC…a new place to me…3,000 miles from home.  I have never been west of the Rocky Mountains, sorry John Denver, before my adventures here as an intern, but I seem to have adapted to my surroundings quite well. 

The staff here is great.  They all seem to get along quite well and are all very open and loving people.  Today is an overcast and rainy day, but that will not stop me from exploring more of the city I have yet seen!  I figure I will find a good restaurant and have a good meal tonight to celebrate making it through two weeks on the hill.  Even through working in Senator Crapo’s office seems to be more fun than work.  Check back later for more…

Bret, Marin County, University of Oregon.

September 9, 2009

I have been in D.C. for a little less than two weeks now and so far the time has flown by! The city, atmosphere, and people never cease to amaze me. I’m blessed to be able to see the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court Building, and the Capitol building as I walk to work each morning. Living in D.C. is dramatically different than the small town Idaho life I’m used to, but I love every minute of it!

 I’ve been interning for a little over a week now, and so far I have really enjoyed it. When I arrived Congress was in recess so everyone was a bit more laid back, the atmosphere was causal, and well, things were kind of slow. Now that Senate is back in session, things have really started to pick up. The energy and excitement that is present throughout the building is great!  

As an intern, I work in the press shop. One of my main duties is to complete the daily news briefs. This is a project that I enjoy because it helps me stay up to date and informed on what is happening in the great state of Idaho. I also have been getting my fair share of practice answering the phone. Many Idahoans call and voice their concerns to Senator Crapo about a variety of issues. It’s great to see that so many citizens believe and can see that by voicing their opinion and concerns that they can make a difference.  

A week ago I had opportunity of attending a BBQ with Peter at the National Republican Senatorial Committee building. All the Chief of Staffs of the Republican Senators were present, as well as several lobbyists. Growing up, and through my studies, I have grown to have a natural dislike for lobbyists. After this outing I realized that all of my past negative conceptions were wrong.  The lobbyists I met that afternoon were not scheming individuals out to make millions; rather, they were genuinely good people, just like you and me. The NRSC works to help fundraise for Republican Senators throughout the year this event served that purpose. Attending this event with Peter really opened my eyes to a whole new side of the political process, and how much work and effort it takes on a year round basis to be an effective politician and representative of the Idaho people. 

Whitney, American Falls, Idaho State University.

 

September 8, 2009

Hello all, this being my first blog as an intern, (first blog ever as well,) I thought that I’d introduce myself. My name is Matt, and I am from Pocatello. I recently graduated with a BA in American Studies, from Idaho State University. I thought an internship in Washington DC would be a great experience, so here I am. I am fascinated with the political process, and am looking forward to see more of that process in action.

I have been in DC for almost two weeks now and every day find myself taken back by this town. Every block of this city seems to have a monument or marker of some historical event. I have already spent a number of afternoons in museums and memorials. This city has by far exceeded my expectations.

My assignments as an intern include meeting people as first come into the office. I also answer the phones in the front office. I feel that this is a good fit because you never know what to expect, and I enjoy that. So far I’ve spoken to a wide range of people; from those looking for different staff members, to constituents from Idaho wanting to share their opinions with the senator. I haven’t had the opportunity to work on some legislative issues yet, but I am told that I will at some time.

An opportunity that I am looking forward to as an intern is to give tours of the capital building. You could spend a lifetime walking through the halls of the capital and still not see all that is there. There is so much there to see and experience. I find myself in awe every time I am there.

Matt, Pocatello, Idaho State University.

August 7, 2009

My summer break from school has come and gone while being here in Washington DC.  I will be flying back to Idaho tomorrow afternoon.  It seems twelve weeks went by rather quickly.  It has been a good summer, and I am very glad I had the chance to come out here and see and do and work in all of the things I was able to take part in.  Having said that, I am looking forward to going back home and returning to University of Idaho for my senior year.

For any prospective interns who may be reading this, you should know that this is an excellent office to work in.  From my conversations with interns in other offices whom I met this summer, this is truly one of the better internships on the Hill.  A lot of other offices only have four or six week programs and constantly have a turnover of interns every few weeks all summer.  In contrast, you have the opportunity to spend the entire summer or semester in Senator Crapo’s office and really assimilate with the permanent staff and feel like you are actually creating value for the office.  If you are looking for a valuable work and learning experience in Washington, I strongly encourage you to apply for Senator Crapo’s office.    

Casey, Fruitland, University of Idaho.   

August 7, 2009

My time in Washington has come to a close.  The past ten weeks have offered me unbelievable opportunities and experiences, which I doubt I will ever replace.  From being a part of the legislative process, to riding in elevators with Senators and Congressmen on a daily basis, Washington is truly a unique place to live and work.  This experience has given me unbelievable insight to the ways of congress, and I can’t express how much I’ve learned in my time here.  To anyone contemplating an internship on the Hill, I would highly recommend it; especially with a staff as outstanding as can be found in this office.  While I am excited to get back to Idaho, this experience has left a large imprint on me, and I’m sure I will cross paths with Washington again. 

Brad, Boise, Gonzaga University.

July 31, 2009

After spending a few months here in DC, it’s just about time for me to go back to Idaho.  I had a friend from school come into town this past weekend and got to be tour guide for a few days.  We managed to see and do quite a bit—including a few sites I had not made it to yet such as the Jefferson Memorial and the National Gallery of Art.  I would recommend the east building of the art gallery over the west.  There are some much more unusual and interesting pieces and exhibits in the east building while the west building is filled with a bunch of portraits and paintings that are hundreds of years old. 

If you find yourself in DC and the forecast calls for rain, you should probably bring your umbrella.  I have been caught in the rain several times over the past couple of weeks without it and paid the price.  I was walking to the Metro station after work on Thursday last week and I wasn’t out the door 5 minutes until I was completely soaked.  It rained so hard that I was dripping on fellow passengers on the train ride home.

Casey, Fruitland, University of Idaho

July 30, 2009

I am so grateful for the opportunity I have been given to serve in the United States Senate with Senator Crapo and his staff.  The personal aspect of working among the congressmen has been impressive.  I have enjoyed the personable aspect of working here as I have shared elevators with various senators and met them in the halls.           

A couple weeks ago I was able to attend a summer intern lecture at which the CEO of C-SPAN spoke to us.  He took the time to create a meaningful discussion with us and was genuinely interested in our views.  He told us that he was intrigued by what he was able to see firsthand while he worked in the senate and C-SPAN was created to make that firsthand experience somewhat available to all United States citizens.  While, I believe working here has opened a whole new vista of understanding for me about how the United States Congress works, it really is amazing that everyone can educate themselves through C-SPAN and the internet.

I will come away from this experience with a greater appreciation and reverence for the fact that our government, made up of so many different voices, opinions, passion and interests not only works but has helped create one of the strongest nations on earth.  The senators debate the issues with their ideas and different backgrounds and they come up with a solution one bill and amendment at a time.  The Seal of the United States reads: E Pluribus Unum meaning "out of many one".  I better understand what that means after having had this opportunity. 

           

For anyone looking into interning here in Senator Crapo's office this is a great place to get meaningful experience.  Senator Crapo has a welcoming staff that allows you to gain as much experience as you can while also giving you meaningful work responsibilities.    

Amanda, Mountain Home, BYU-Idaho.                       

July 17, 2009

It has been another interesting week on the Hill.  It seemed like the media had forgotten about Supreme Court nominee Judge Sotomayor since she had first been announced by the president earlier this summer.  That has all since changed as the nomination hearings began and concluded this week in the Senate Judiciary committee.  As a result, there has been much attention focused on our Senate side of the neighborhood.  In addition to the media attention, there have been several demonstrators protesting her confirmation just outside the entrance to our office in the Dirksen building.  While I won’t get into the specifics of the content this group was distributing, it was a little distracting and unsettling to listen to while waiting in line to go through security.  I did however have the chance to sit in for  part of the hearing on Thursday.  It was awesome to see and listen to in person the members of the committee ask the nominee some tough questions and hear how she handled them.

Also on Thursday I had the task of taking the Executive Assistant over to the Capitol to drop off some paper work.  I was supposed to be the guide and get her to the correct room on time, but it turns out I do not know the building as well as I thought I did and we had to ask for directions.  It was an adventure and we ended up running through the hallways in the basement to drop off the paper work and get back to the office on time for the Senator’s afternoon meetings.  Despite our run through the Capitol, we were still a few minutes late.  It just goes to show you never know what to expect as an intern and each day usually offers something new and unusual. 

Casey, Fruitland, University of Idaho

July 15, 2009

This week I was able to sit in on Senator Crapo’s teleconference with Idaho reporters.  I am almost sure they covered all the current issues and more with the Senator in the small amount of time allotted to them.  While Senator Crapo is always well-informed as to his opinions and positions on issues, the press staff made sure he was prepared for any question. 

Something I did not realized before I came here was the extent and importance the staff is to a Senator’s ability to function.  The Senators trust their staff to stay informed and connected to the issues they are directly involved in and especially those issues they are not directly involved in.  His scheduling, his meetings, and even some of his extracurricular activities are planned out to make the best use of his time.  It is quite amazing to me the team work that goes in to making sure the Senator is able to do all that he does, well scheduled and well-informed. 

I believe something to be commended of Senator Crapo is his ability and keen interest in staying connected most closely with the issues that directly affect Idahoans.  Each Senator has a variety of issues they could focus on with passion, but it may do not mean much to the people they represent.  Senator Crapo makes sure his passions are served in the interest of the people of Idaho, and he cares what they think.  He constantly encourages Idahoans to make their voices heard to those in the state and in other states.    

     

This week’s main event has been the Sotomayor nomination to the United States Supreme Court hearings in the Senate.  Jared and I sat in on one yesterday evening.  I have seen hearings filled with reporters and cameras, but it was quite a sight to see the hundreds of reporters stuffed into that room.  They were all over the tables on the floor and the walls opened up to make balcony-like spaces for more cameras and media along the sides of the room.  Senator Al Franken was on the Senate bench, waiting his turn to question Sotomayor.  He seems to be working his way into the life of a Senator full speed ahead.  But then again if someone chooses to become a Senator they should probably understand that everything about a Senator’s life is full speed again. 

Amanda, Mountain Home, BYU-Idaho.    

July 14, 2009

It’s official.  You cannot get PB&J on Capitol Hill.  We called a few places today asking if they could make us a sandwich and they actually laughed at us.  I see nothing funny about peanut butter and jelly—it is actually still considered a delicacy in most European countries.  Get with the program, D.C.  Potato bread, crunchy peanut butter and grape jelly should be readily available on the Hill.  We’ve got shoe shines, barbers, one hundred coffee shops, countless restaurants and cafeterias, candy shops, three different places to get gelato, gift shops, you name it.  PB&J—just not happening.  It’s very upsetting.  This is what happens when Jared doesn’t get PB&J:

Jared when he doesn't get PB&J sandwiches.

 

A retired Director of Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, met with the Senator today and as we were all trying to make connections with each other in the front office (it’s not usually hard), I found out that he is actually one of my neighbors from Boise.  In fact, I was able to identify which house I lived in by telling him what kinds of dogs we had.  We might be in D.C., but it’s still a small Idaho world when people visit from the Gem State.    

Hearings for the nomination of Sonya Sotomayor have kept the Senate Offices buildings packed with strangers this week.  Tickets are distributed across the street, and then anyone can come sit in on the hearings once they have one (including protestors in disguise).  Senator Leahy has had to kick several people out already for inappropriate outbursts—it’s a circus.    

Brad, Boise, Gonzaga University.

July 13, 2009

Well, I only have about a month left on the internship.  Time flies when you are having fun.  So many cool things happen that it is impossible to chronicle them all.  The Senate is now complete now; Minnesota has resolved its election and Al Franken is now a Senator.  The big issues still are health care and cap and trade.  Health care is such an important issue because everyone has a stake in the system if there are reforms.  So on that issue, there are as many opinions as there are people in the system, which makes the issue all the more complex.  However, the cap and trade issue is interesting.  Democrats are pushing hard for it, yet I don't think I have found a single person in favor of the cap and trade bill.  Not a single call in favor of it.  I don't think Idahoans or Americans generally see this as a high priority. 

Last weekend I went to Gettysburg with my BYU group.  We recreated Pickett's Charge, and I was the color guard and carried our standard into battle.  Turns out someone in the group filmed all this, slowed the film down and I look and sound like King Kong running down a hill.  We also made stop in a quiant West Virginian hamlet, Harper's Ferry.  All in all, it was a fun trip.  For this Idahoan, it's nice to get out of the city. 

Jared, Burley, Brigham Young University.

 

July 10, 2009

It was a slow week during the July 4th recess and not much was going on around the office.  My fellow interns and I had the chance to go on a guided tour of the Library of Congress Jefferson Building because of the slow week.  It was a great tour and amazing building to see.  We even had time to go to the Main Reading Room and browse the bookshelves.  Although I missed the fireworks and all of the celebration for the Fourth in Washington, I instead went to Nashville, Tennessee, to visit my sister for the long weekend and had a great time.

Things have picked up considerably now that Senate is back in session this week and everybody is back to work.  I have just been busy with my usual responsibilities of sorting faxes, distributing scheduling requests, and making phone calls.  I did have the chance this week to go and visit the Senate Gallery and watch a vote.  It was the first time I had been there all summer and it turned out to be really neat.  Watching the floor proceedings in person is much more entertaining than watching on C-SPAN. 

Casey, Fruitland, University of Idaho.

July 9, 2009

Of all the July 4th celebrations I have attended this year’s celebration was one to remember.  The Washington D.C. atmosphere was a perfect place to celebrate the birth of this great nation and also to celebrate the independent and liberated foundation upon which it still stands.  I went to the Parade and then I went to the Capitol 4th concert outside the Capitol building.  It was kind of unreal to realize that I was not just there as a tourist for the day, as I had been in the past, but that I was actually living there and working in the Capitol building.  The concert drew a larger crowd this year than most according to the park rangers.  It was quite a site to see people all over the Capitol stairs and the lawns, a sea of people in red, white, and blue.  Then the fireworks went off over the Washington Monument in the distance with the symphony orchestra playing Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" in the background.  It was a memorable experience to say the least.

After a congressional recess last week and a long three-day weekend, things are back to business here on Capitol Hill this week.  Debates about environmental care and energy bills are keeping the Senator very busy as he moves from one meeting or hearing to the next.  The healthcare bills are also being revised and continue to be debated over.  They want to have a solid proposal through the senate before the August recess.  I am still not a fan of having this be a fast process.  The scope of it is too far reaching for any definite answers to be researched and concluded by August.    

The summer internship months are going fast and I am now in the find a job mode.  I just read an article in The Examiner Washington this morning entitled, “Jobless grads go home again”.  Needless to say I am hopeful that I will find a job in the thriving metropolis of Washington D.C.  Though, I am beginning to get the feeling that the old adage is true, even with a bachelor’s degree, that beggars can’t be choosers.     

Amanda, Mountain Home, BYU-Idaho.

July 7, 2009

So it’s been a while since my last blog.

Let’s see where are we…Well the Senate is back in session this week after a recess leading up to the Fourth of July holiday.  This was my first experience with a recess, and the office was nowhere near as slow as I expected it to be.  While the general hustle and bustle of Capitol Hill slowed during recess, we found plenty projects to keep the interns busy.  Casey and I spent several days sorting through the many photos of the Senator with constituents, which we were very glad to finally complete.  My first Fourth of July in Washington was a blast.  I spent time with friends in the city, and even took a trip to Harper’s Ferry where we floated the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers.  The water here is a lot warmer than in Idaho this time of year, so that was a welcome change to say the least.  Watching the fireworks display over the Washington Monument from a friend’s apartment in Arlington rightfully capped off the weekend’s festivities.  This week it’s back to business as usual, so until next week…

Brad, Boise, Gonzaga University.

June 25, 2009

The summer is going by fast as I am realizing that my intern experience is nearly halfway complete.  This Friday will mark the sixth week I have been with Senator Crapo’s office.  It has been a busy six weeks as there is usually plenty to do where I work on the scheduling side of things.  Plenty of people, businesses, organizations, groups, and constituents wish to meet with the Senator.  It takes much coordination and organization to accommodate as many meeting and event requests as his schedule permits. 

A few things I have learned while sorting through requests to meet with Senator Crapo is that there is a union, association, coalition, or cooperative for just about every interest out there.  From the United Watermelon Growers to the National Association of Convenience Stores, there is a group that shares and promotes the interests and concerns of a certain segment of the population.  However, a constant criticism that Americans have of Congress is that it is influenced too much by interest groups.  After working with these groups through my scheduling intern responsibilities, I have come to the conclusion that they are merely ordinary people, united by a certain cause, and are a legitimate part of the democratic process.  While they may be more organized and better situated to affect certain legislation than the ordinary citizen, it is important to remember that groups, unions, and coalitions represent the views of hundreds, thousands, or possibly millions of ordinary citizens.  Rest assured, democracy is alive and well in Congress.

Casey, Fruitland, University of Idaho.

June 23, 2009

I had hoped to be a better blogger than I have been.  There have been so many interesting things going on.  Fast-forward three weeks or so.  They unveiled a statue of Ronald Reagan in the rotunda.  I happened to be walking on my way to the House side when the ceremony concluded.  I met former Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert and had a chance to speak with him for a few minutes.  And I saw Henry Kissinger from a distance, among many other VIPs too numerous to mention.  I think it is very appropriate to have a statue of Reagan in the rotunda among such luminaries as Eisenhower, Washington and Jefferson.

Two weekends ago, with some friends from BYU I rented a car and we took a day trip to Hershey, PA.   It was so nice to get out of the city and back into Small Town America.  We learned how chocolate is made and ate our fill at a chocolate tasting concourse.  Later that night we drove back to Washington through Amish country.  We decided that we need to spend some more time up there and hopefully we can spend a weekend among the Amish this summer.  Last Friday, the BYU interns spent the entire day at National Defense University at Ft. McNair.  We did a simulation of bilateral talks between the United States and Mexico regarding border issues.  It was really interesting and it is the same training that State, Defense, Homeland Security and military personal go through to prepare for the real thing.

I’m keeping rather busy in the office.  I don’t work up front as much any more.  I spend a good portion of my day filling flag requests.  Senators and Congressman have a neat service available to them where they can request flags be flown for constituents over the Capitol and it is nearly a full-time job keeping up with all of the requests from Idahoans. In addition to that, I help all of the legislative staff with whatever projects they may have for me, big or small.  I’ve become quite the expert in running letters around the Capitol complex, usually getting the signatures of the Idaho delegation for letters sent to Obama administration officials.  The other interns and I have been enjoying some of the receptions after work, which are very nice for the budget of poor college students.

Jared, Burley, Brigham Young University

June 19, 2009

It’s Blog day again.  It’s been a quiet Friday for the most part.  Fridays leave time to catch up on and conclude the various projects accumulated during the week.  My list of intern duties is expanding, and the expansion is definitely for the better.  I’ve been assigned more and more projects by staffers, and in addition to my normal circuit of committee hearings during the week I was able to attend a Mark-Up Hearing regarding the Clean Water Restoration Act, S.909.  Sitting right behind the Senators in Committee, and watching them vote on legislation is remarkable to say the least.  I’ve been bothering our LA on environmental issues enough that he allowed me to sit in on a meeting in our office regarding land usage legislation within Idaho’s White Cloud Mountains.  That’s all for now, I’ll check back next week. 

Bradley, Boise, Gonzaga University

June 17, 2009

Health care is the hot topic on Capitol Hill this week.  With the President announcing strongly his endorsement of nationalizing health care, many Republican Senators are debating their views that there are other options that need to be discussed first.  I understand the need for a reformed health care plan, but I am fearful that a decision will be made without the adequate amount of time reasonable to help the situation for longer than a few years.  I am nervous about the government's role in so much of American life that was once privately owned and free market accessible.  When I think of nationalized health care in its basic form, I think of hour-long phone calls on hold while flipping through a large book of government regulations and policies. 

There are simply too many Americans for the government to regulate cases that are so individual as health care.  I don't have the answers but there are brilliant men on Capitol Hill debating better options that will take some thought and time, but I believe will lead us in a better direction in the long run, for my children and grandchildren.    

I was able to share an elevator with Senator Specter yesterday, and I told him that I was on my way to Pennsylvania this weekend for a family reunion.  Of course, he knew the town and the county I was going to, as small as it is.  Then I told him that I was born and raised in Idaho, and the conversation kind of ended.  Hmmm…  He had just finished talking to a group of Capitol Hill interns.  He told us to figure out what we want to do, work hard to get there, and we can achieve anything.  He also quoted something his wife told him, I am paraphrasing, "you only regret what you didn't do."          

Amanda, Mountain Home, BYU-Idaho.

June 10, 2009

I have been on Capitol Hill for a little over three weeks now.  I would say my favorite part about the internship and the whole experience is the energy here.  Almost everyone is listening to the issues and debating the best way to solve them or improve them.  Sometimes when I am sitting in on a hearing or even walking down the hall I have to remind myself that I am at the center of the United States government; the people around me are making important decisions that affect my life now and in the future. 

The first hearing I attended was on the Afghan/Pakistan Strategies.  The testimony of Admiral Mullen and the discussion was serious and eye-opening.  That was also my first introduction to the pink ladies that are extremely against the war in Iraq and began to voice their opinions in the middle of the meeting without reservation.  Opinions are shared in all kinds of ways here on Capitol Hill, yet there is also a respect and an order that is enforced.   I enjoy being in the background, learning firsthand the day-to-day workings of the United States Congress.     

Outside of work I have visited the Holocaust Museum a few times and I still haven’t seen everything there is to see and learn.  The stories from the Jewish Holocaust and the information about the genocides that continue today have touched me deeply.  Many of the Jews who were liberated by the Americans speak of the United States with great reverence.  They treasure the freedoms we enjoy here and they have reminded me to do the same. 

Amanda, Mountain Home, Brigham Young University-Idaho

June 10, 2009

I have been in Washington for almost one month now and have thoroughly enjoyed my time working for Team Crapo.  It has been very rewarding to experience life in our nation’s capital and, needless to say, quite the change of pace from my routine at University of Idaho.  

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the 2009 Senate-House Dinner.  The dinner was a very large fundraiser hosted by the Republican Senate and House committees.  The Master of Ceremonies was Academy Award winner Jon Voight and speakers at the event included Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, House Minority Leader John Boehner, as well as other Senators and Congressmen.  The keynote address was given by former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich.  It was an amazing experience as I had never been to an event as grandiose and extravagant such as this.  There were a few thousand people in attendance, the entire area was lit up in red and blue, there were some great live music performances and speakers, and the dinner was excellent.  Attending this event and being in the presence of so many influential people was a great opportunity and one of the many perks of spending the summer in Washington.

Casey, Fruitland, University of Idaho.

June 10, 2009

I am now in my second week as a "Hill" intern, and feel like I’m shedding the glazed-over look on my face with each passing day.  On a serious note, the first few days were stressful, as it is with any new situation; but I am starting to get the swing of things.  My phone handling skills are sharpening, as I no longer drop calls when concerned constituents are on the line.  Today was actually the first day a staffer entrusted me to a project reaching beyond my front office duties, so things are headed in a positive direction!  It’s extremely fortunate to be placed so close to the Capitol building.  Today I gave myself a personal tour through some of the areas closed to the public.  There is just something about life in Washington D.C. that makes it a fantastic place to live, as the Senator put it "…it's the seat of power for the most powerful nation in the world".   There’s something about walking by a Sotomayor press conference, and then seeing the live press conference on C-SPAN in the office that makes this a fun office to be a part of.

Bradley, Boise, Gonzaga.

June 3, 2009

For the long weekend I went to New York City with some friends from BYU.  We rented a car, which was actually relatively cheap when split among 5 people…the most amazing thing was that we all managed to fit in it.  One of the guys in our group has a sister who lives near Princeton, NJ.  Her family was on vacation for the week, so they let us stay in their home.  While the free lodging was very nice, the house turned out to be haunted—I kid you not.  There were screams in the night which freaked us all out, but the source of which still remains a mystery.   Some highlights of the trip were:  a massive pastrami on rye sandwich with fat kosher pickles, pizza and cannolis in Little Italy, a stop at Ellis Island, an amazing organ concert at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, joining in with an impromptu rendition of “Imagine” at the John Lennon memorial in Central Park, and driving through Delaware, which it turns out is slightly smaller than Cassia County.

The President has made his choice for the seat on the Supreme Court vacated by Justice David Souter, and the nomination is Judge Sonia Sotomayor from the 2nd Circuit.  It was a propitious time for President Obama to name her because the Hill is dead and all of the Senators were back in their states for the Memorial Day Recess.  It will be fun to be here during her confirmation hearing, which will take place just a few doors down the hall from our office.  At the Barlow Center we had Congressman Buck McKeon, ranking member on the House Education and Labor Committee, speak to us.  He and Senator Crapo were both members of the 1992 freshman class in the House of Representatives.  I had a chance to speak with him for a few minutes and he said that he can sense the same type of frustration now that fomented into the Republican Revolution of 1994.  I agree with him just based on the calls we are getting in the office.  He also had some really good ideas on how to save a considerable amount of money at the Department of Education as well, which might come in handy given how we have been spending around here recently.

Jared, Burley, Brigham Young University.

May 18, 2009

Well, I have been here two weeks now and I’ve kept busy because it has been basically just Rachel and me up front.  It has forced me to learn the ropes quickly and I feel like I have mastered the phone system…well, not mastered it, but at least I don’t drop calls anymore or freeze up when a Senator calls.  I love to spend time in the Capitol, especially when there are lawmakers milling about.  Every day my first week here after I got off work I would go up to the Capitol and sit in the gallery for a while.  At home I am a perpetual C-SPAN watcher so it has been fun to see the action live and in person.

There are many important people that come in the office, and it is fun to meet them.  Mayor Bieter from Boise came in and we shocked everyone when we broke into Basque.  He is much more conversant than I am.  We had a group of state legislators from Idaho and it was fun to see them again and always a number of CEOs, lobbyists, and politicians. 

Carole King passed by and I had a rather unique experience with her.  Luke had come in because she was a minute late for her appointment with Senator Crapo and he sat down.  I turned to him with my back to the door and I started to sing “Carole King is too late baby, now she’s too late…” a spoof of her famous song.  All of a sudden, Luke gets this funny look on his face and I suddenly realize that Carole King is standing directly behind me!  I guess we all were looking at her funny or something, so she said “I feel like my ears are red.”  And we told her what I was doing and then she sang the song for us.  It was pretty cool! 

On May 14 BYU students met with Judge Tom Griffith from the DC Circuit Court of Appeals and it was incredible.  Judge Griffith was very direct and answered all of our questions. The discussion was “off the record” and I was given specific instructions not to blog about the contents of the lecture, but let me just say if we had more judges like him, the country would be in much better shape. 

Jared, Burley, Brigham Young University.

May 6, 2009

Hey it’s been a while. It’s crazy to think how fast the last four months have gone by. It is kind of a surreal feeling to be going home. It’s like the first few moments after waking up from a vivid dream. For that brief time it is hard to distinguish the difference between the reality and the fleeting thoughts of the sleep. But such is life. It is always changing. Personally, I think that is what keeps it interesting.

This internship has been a great experience. I have so many fun and exciting experiences to look back on as I continue on my course in life. The experiences here have definitely helped me solidify some of the things I have learned in the classroom and it has opened the door to new ideas and possibilities. Man, I just want to say, life is good. To all of you who read this and are wondering if you should apply for an internship, I suggest you stop reading this and get on it.Well anyways, it’s been real, it’s been fun, and I’m excited for what adventures lie ahead. Later ya’ll!!! 

Jedediah, Rigby, Utah State University.

May 6, 2009

I never thought it was possible to learn so much in such a small amount of time. Although I have been working in the office since September, since I only come in on Wednesdays it turns out I’ve only been here the equivalent on 32 days. Most of the other interns spend months here, so only coming once a week turned out to be a slight disadvantage. However, the other interns are nice and willing to help me with most any problem no matter how small the task is. Now, looking back on all my days here I realized I have been in constant learning-mode, no matter how non-eventful the day might have seemed. I would have to be completely dedicated to not learning a single thing in order to leave the office without gaining knowledge. I’m not necessarily saying that every week I learn about a new life experience or a life-changing fact but the people here teach me so much about The Hill and the state of Idaho. For instance, today I learned that Idaho lies exactly between the North Pole and the Equator. Not something I would consider life-changing but still more than I knew when walking into the office this morning. Another aspect that I have benefited from has been answering phones. Some people dread answering phones or taking calls, but I find it interesting talking to all the callers. Most people who call in are polite, and know exactly what they are talking about. These callers are my favorite because the fact that they are so dedicated to a cause really transfers over the line and causes me to learn from their views.

Recently, the bill on Hate Crimes has been something noted quite a bit on the phone lines. The bill “encourages and facilitates the creation of secure public networks for communication, commerce, education, medicine, and government.” Most callers are concerned with the fact that the bill will affect the already standing law of free speech, as promised by the Constitution. Other callers are more concerned with the fact they believe some of the bill is very vague, and does not elaborate enough on the topic of pedophilia.

My days here, although scattered throughout the past few months, have really proved to be beneficial. As a junior in high school, most of my peers don’t get to experience opportunities like working on Capitol Hill and though at first I was weary of the job I have come to learn that being here every Wednesday continues to be a wonderful opportunity that never ceases to amaze me with each new lesson I learn.

Becca, Washington, DC.

April 24, 2009

Here I am- at work… on a Friday. I am going over the past 4 months in my mind and what an adventure its been. Last week Karen bought us lunch to say thanks for our hard work, and it was very kind of her. On Wednesday, we went out to lunch at the Capitol City Brewery because it was Laura's last day. I really hate goodbyes, and I have to say that I am genuinely going to miss the people here at this office. They have all been very kind to me over the past 4 months. They have treated me like a co-worker, and I have had a great time working for them. I took a walk through the Capitol, and the Russell office building, and then took the subway and rode with Senator Wyden of Oregon.

It is so awesome that I have chance to be here, in Washington DC, where there is so much history and attention. I will take a lot of memories with me, and a lot of insight and learned lessons. When I started this little adventure, the only things I was informed about with government was the stuff I learned in my high school American government class, as well as what I gathered off of the news. But, after 4 months of being right here in the midst of the entire process, I am thinking that this has been the chance of a lifetime- and I have gained an incredible amount of insight and knowledge. I have made some wonderful friends, and a lot of memories. Both inside and outside of work. I look forward to continuing to keep in touch with several of those in this office and many continuing friendships. Everyone here has been so kind to me, and I love this office.

By the way- it's my last day.

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University.

April 22, 2009

Yeah, it's been a while. Oops. Time is just flying. So, about two weeks ago, Congressman Bishop from Utah took me on a Dome Tour of the Capitol. It was by far the coolest tour I have been on yet. We made our way up to the top of the Rotunda and were able to look down from the Apotheosis of Washington. I am not afraid of heights. Really, I have done construction my whole life and heights just don't scare me, but when I got up there, my heart was racing and my palms were sweating like crazy. It was awesome, though. From there, we climbed higher and went on the outside of the dome. It is definitely the best 360-degree view in D.C. It was an awesome experience.

Let’s see, so this last weekend was Easter. My parents flew in on Friday evening and stayed until Tuesday morning. It was a blast having them here. Rachel totally hooked us up with a sweet tour that took us around to all of the major monuments in D.C. It was cool. We got to go to the top of the Washington Monument. I don't know what it is with me and tall places, but I guess I am just attracted to them. Anyway, we took an elevator ride up to the 500-foot top and again I was able to see the entire city from a tall vantage point. Thanks, Rachel.

We have been in recess these past few weeks, so things have been a little more relaxed around the office. I have to say working in the press shop with Susan, Marques and Dorothy is by far the best position in the office. I really am not just saying that; it is always fun back here. So, all of you future interns, when it comes time for Rachel to start assigning you positions, make it clear you want to be in the press shop. Now you probably will all be vying for this most coveted spot on the Crapo team, but let me give a few secrets to persuading Rachel to give you what you want. First, she loves sweet water. Just add a little sugar to her water and her spirits lift way up. That is a great first step to assuring your position here. Second, she really likes whispering. Every time she walks in the room, make sure you whisper really softly and you will be in the press shop faster than you can say "ghost mouse". Third, and last for now, Rachel doesn't really seem to like pens with caps. She seems to have a hard time with them. So make sure you never use a pen with a cap when you are around her.

Well, I actually never finished this blog last week when I started writing it, oops. Life is good though. We are out of recess now and time seems to be flying. I just have few more weeks here and then I am out of here. Crazy. I am ready for a good Idaho summer but I have enjoyed my time here immensely. It has been a blast. Yeah, until later.

Jedediah, Rigby, Utah State University.

April 3, 2009

It's rainy in DC. And I have 3 weeks left around this joint. I finished the DC National Marathon! And it was a good chance to see the city. 26 miles around a city gives you a pretty good look at what its made of.  

DC has been a good place to run while I have been in town. Right by my apartment there is the Potomac Trail that runs next to the river. I often take a run that leads me around the airport runway, through the park at the end of the runway, past the Navy Memorial, and across the Memorial Bridge. From there I often go past Lincoln, WWII, and Washington, sometimes the Capitol. And once I got ambitious and trekked all over Roosevelt island and Georgetown.

Moral of the boring story- DC is great for runners.

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs017.snc1/2638_75982413355_655103355_2382290_7098786_n.jpg

This is Me, GLORY, and Sara shortly after the race. Don’t eat the banana frozen yogurt at the Hart Sundry. Just take my word for it. The budget passed this week, and last week the Owyhee Initiative. We had a party at Peter’s to celebrate. Life is good on the Hill. Happy spring.

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University.

April 2, 2009

Last weekend I participated in a tower climb at the Washington National Cathedral, where we climbed 333 steps to the dizzying heights of the bell ringing chamber in the great central tower, 300 feet above the ground.  The National Cathedral has been one of my favorite places since moving here in January, and I visit it often.  They only do the tower climb twice a year and I considered myself lucky to get to see the top of the tower, as well as witness a demonstration of the bell ringing.  My favorite part was, of course, when they pointed out that there is a Darth Vader grotesque (gargoyle) on the northwest tower of the Cathedral.  In the 1980s, National Geographic sponsored a competition for children to design decorative sculptures for the Cathedral and Darth Vader was one of the winners.  It seemed to lessen the reverence of the Cathedral a bit, but it is, after all, a tourist attraction.    

Intern life in the office is still great.  We recently had a huge victory with the passage of the Public Lands bill which included the Owyhee Initiative (which Senator Crapo has been working on for nearly eight years).  The mood has been high, but now the President's budget is on everyone's minds (on the Hill and at home).  We recess for the next two weeks and I think each Senator and Congressman is looking forward to a small break—trust me, they deserve it.   I’m planning on taking advantage of the close proximity of other East Coast cities and will probably travel to Philadelphia or Boston this weekend.  Living out here ain't so bad!

Amanda, Oakley, Brigham Young University

March 24, 2009

Hmmm. Well the weather has been great here in D.C. Sunny, blue skies, fairly warm. It's been great. The work has been rather enjoyable as well. At the beginning of my internship, the work seemed to hit all at once and then it would be gone. It seemed like I was either running around at top speed or just sitting there with not much to do. It has definitely leveled out now. I find my days going by quite quickly as I tend to stay quite busy all day long. It has been a great experience to be working here on Capitol Hill. It has brought the things I've learned in the classroom to life. Things that were just concepts in my mind before are now real-life experiences. Another great part of working here has been the solidifying of my own political views. Being in the middle of the action has made it a lot easier for me to form my own opinion. It has rocked. Of course my absolute favorite part has been meeting some awesome people. The entire Crapo staff rocks and the other interns I live with are sweet. It has been such a blast to work and play here in D.C.

Well I guess I should give you a little taste of what I actually did today. So this morning, as every Tuesday morning, we started off with constituent coffee. It is always fun to meet people from all over the state of Idaho. I helped Marques take photos of constituents with Senator Crapo. After that, we rushed up to the SRC (Senate Republican Conference) where Senator Crapo did a teleconference with local radio stations back in Idaho. It was fun to listen to the radio hosts ask questions and listen to Senator Crapo's replies. After that adventure I came back to my desk and organized the recent news clips for the staff and the Senator. The news clips are articles from national, state, and local new sources that I organize, summarize, and send out to the staff. It helps all of us keep up with the current events. That led into my lunch time where I met up with a couple of the interns I live with and we ate at the Capitol Market. After lunch I took care of a bunch of flag requests for constituents and ran some errands for the rest of the day. It has been great day.

Jed, Rigby, Utah State University.

March 18, 2009

Today I'll do my blog

In a nice Haiku format

Because it is fun 

The Blossoms are out

Around Washington D.C.

And it's getting warm 

This week was Lands Bill

The Senator's Omnibus

On the Senate Floor 

MDC spoke twice

The staff was real excited

I hope it passes 

This place is busy

I have lots of stuff to do

And lots of duties 

Washington is fun

We played some football last night

Right next to our apt. 

I've met great people

Mayors, staff, and all the like

I like the new friends. 

I made a mistake

With important scheduling

But Karen fixed it 

I went to the zoo

I saw lots of animals

And did not get cold 

West Virginia

Is where I went this weekend

To watch horse races 

Happy to be here

In Nation's capitol

My INTERNSHIP ROCKS!!! 

Okay, that was entirely uninformative. But I just wanted to mix it up a little bit. I enjoy this place. I can't think of a better place to intern. I filled out my resume for law school last week, and I was very impressed that this place has given me a great deal of experience and opportunity in a lot of different areas. I feel like I have settled in and that this job is really becoming fun- along with interactions with the staff here. They are fantastic.

This weekend I am running the DC National Marathon! I am, uh, mostly excited for it, kind of nervous. There are 8,000 people running in it and it just looks like a blast! Wish me luck!!

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v2295/233/101/40202319/n40202319_30258877_7139.jpg

 

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University

 

March 12, 2009

Idaho is, of course, the best place on earth, but living on the east coast provides so many historical opportunities.  This weekend I was able to travel to Gettysburg and then Harper's Ferry, which are a little more than an hour away.  I like both towns very much—Gettysburg has so much history behind it, and to see the sites of that battle was amazing: Cemetery Ridge, Cemetery Hill, Little Round Top, Devil's Den, the Peach Orchard; though the fields are scattered with monuments, the history remains.  Apart from the battlefields, there are some houses that still have actual bullet holes in them (some even bullets) from that day over a century and a half ago.  Harper's Ferry is a town about 50 miles northwest of Washington and is the scene of several stirring events during the Civil War period.  Today, it is a lazy town on a river with two main streets lined with old shops.  Apparently there's a notorious ice cream shop there, but my friend and I ended up with Haagen-Dazs—don't know how that happened—and we spent a slow afternoon eating ice cream on a log out in the middle of a river.  It was really nice to get out of the city for a little while; I forgot how much I missed the country!  I would recommend visiting either place as long as the weather is nice.

Amanda, Oakley, Brigham Young University

March 6, 2008

The weeks are starting to just fly by!  I’ve been scheduling many tours that I have yet to go on, but I did go on two different tours this weekend.  The first was of the White House, and the second was a City Segway Tour.  The White House tour is self-guided and can last anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes.  I have a deep appreciation for history and was very excited to finally get to visit the White House, but let me explain my visit this way: I spent 20 minutes there.  In and out, just like that.  It was interesting, but probably not half as cool as the House itself or the West Wing (the tour is of the East Wing).  Perhaps I’ll appreciate the White House more once I’m invited as a guest…

On the other hand, my City Segway Tour was, in a word, amazing.  A machine that is controlled by weight distribution?! Why aren’t we all using these things as transportation?  I recommend seeing the White House this way:

That’s me on the right, and that thumbs-up is genuine.  I am genuinely having the best time of my life.  This tour lasted for three hours and we couldn’t feel our freezing feet when it was over, but it was worth it.  I have the $10 City Segway Tour shirt to prove it. 

Working in this office is still great and I can’t imagine being anywhere else on the Hill.  We’ll see how long I can stick around after the internship is over before they notice…

Amanda, Oakley, Brigham Young University

March 4, 2009

Looks like its blog day again today.

Today I met John Tester. He is a good friend of my Uncle in Montana where they both served in the State Legislature. He very kindly had me over to his office for a personal visit to his office.

I have found that the staff here takes good care of you. Our intern coordinators treat us like family and look out for us very well. From what I can tell, my time here is about halfway up. I’m still immersed in Excel up to my ears but. It passes the time just fine.

Would you like to read a nice quote?

 “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

-Mark Twain

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University

March 3, 2009

It’s been a while since my last blog. Today has been interesting. Nick went home to Australia yesterday so we have had to shift around some of our duties in the office. I am now working with the press staff. It has been pretty fun. I work with Marques to find news clips of interest to the Senator or of current events in Idaho. I then organize them so that the Senator and the staff can access them easily and stay up to date on recent events. I am becoming more informed on Idaho’s current events than I ever have been before.

Thursdays are taco salad day in the Capitol Market Place. Rachel has been raving about these supposedly delicious salads. Whenever she would go off, I would think to myself, “It’s a salad, how can it possible be that good.” Well due to a certain chain of events last Thursday, I found myself down in the basement of the Capitol with Rachel ordering a Taco Salad. I must admit that as they added the giant scoop of guacamole to my finished order, I was excited. My taste buds were pretty much screaming for a taste. Well a few minutes later I was seated and quite immersed in my taco salad. It was delicious. In fact I enjoyed it so much that I didn’t say much during the lunch period. Rachel pointed my quietness out to a fellow Hill worker and implied that I was not usually so subdued. While I am usually the quiet silent calm type while working in the office, I must admit that I was somewhat quieter than usual. This was, as I alluded to above, due to the excellent flavor that had engulfed my sense of taste and made it impossible to speak.

Well that is all for now I suppose.

Jedediah, Rigby, Utah State University

February 26, 2009

I was lucky enough this weekend to have my parents in town and I was able to show them my favorite parts of D.C.  In return, they were able to buy me lots (and I mean lots) of food.  The weekend was spent touring the Smithsonian extensively, which means the Natural History Museum for me, the American History Museum for my mom, and the Air and Space Museum for my dad.  A trip was made to the Museum of National Crime and Punishment, where many murderers, weapons, and various torture devices are exhibited (this is also where the TV show America’s Most Wanted is filmed).  We were actually able to save a couple of bucks and get in for free with my nifty government ID (oh, how I’ll miss it..).  On one of the nights, we attended a comedy show put on by a nationally renowned group called the Capitol Steps, who perform such songs as “Help Me, Honda” to the tune of “Help Me Rhonda,”  “Come Buy From Me” to the familiar jingle of “Come Fly with Me,” and probably the most inappropriate was “Ebony and Ovaries,” to “Ebony and Ivory” (regarding the car industry, ex-Governor Blagojevich, and President Obama and Secretary Clinton, respectively).  On another evening, we were able to go on a Monuments by Moonlight tour, where we saw all of the major monuments in all their nightly glory.  We visited the Capitol, Washington Monument, White House, Iwo Jima, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, National Cathedral, Embassy Row—we did it all.  

Before they left, I was able to take my parents on a tour of the Capitol, in the midst of which we stopped by the gallery just in time to see the Senate vote for cloture on the D.C. Voting Rights Act.  It is still surreal to see all of the senators in one place at one time, and I was glad that I got to share that with my parents.  I made sure to take them to the Senate cafeteria where I forced the infamous Senate Bean Soup down my mother’s throat.  Senate Bean Soup is the best discovery that I have made since my arrival.  Senate Bean Soup, composed of navy beans and ham hocks, is delectable.  If you get the chance, Google it—you’re sure to find the recipe.  Coincidentally enough, the Senate attributes this treat for the taste buds to former Senator Fred T. Dubois of Idaho who served in the Senate from 1901-1907.  When he was chairman of the committee that supervised the Senate Restaurant, he gaveled through a resolution requiring that bean soup be on the menu every day.  Way to go, Idaho!!   Unfortunately, bean soup was not enough to keep my parents here.  Perhaps if the Senate starts serving a good potato chowder… 

Amanda, Oakley, Brigham Young University

February 23, 2009

Surprisingly, I am now into my last week here as an intern on Capitol Hill.

Last week the Senate was not in session, so the Senator and many of his staff returned to Idaho, including Rachel, our Intern Coordinator. With the passing of the so-called "stimulus" bill, the phones have also been much, much quieter. Resultantly, the interns ran wild, but naturally, I’m not at liberty to say more.

Over the Presidents' Day long weekend, I was able to visit New York City and enjoy the amazing skyline of this unique city from atop the Empire State Building. There really is nothing else like it. I was also able to go ice-skating at the Rockefeller Center and visit Grand Central Station, the house that President Theodore Roosevelt was born in and lived during his childhood. However, the few hours I spent at The Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, was probably the best museum visit of this trip, and possibly my life. The museum is a castle, reconstructed from the ruins of churches and cathedrals from Western Europe and dedicated to medieval art and architecture.

Now one of the great dreads of life has confronted me: packing suitcases and a day-long flight to Australia next week. Not to mention the fact that, just as DC emerges from winter, Australia will be on the precipice of its own cold season. I might be a ghastly, pale white at the end of it all…

Nicholas, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

February 20, 2009

This week the Senate has been in out of session.  They scheduled this week for the Senators to head back to their home states and show face with constituents.  Senator Crapo did just that traveling all over Idaho meeting with everyone that could fit in such a short week. 

Future interns--beware that you need to plan ahead for these weeks out of session.  Do some research and plan a tour for yourself.  There will be plenty of time for the well-scheduled intern to explore a little more of Capitol Hill than the Dirksen building.  As the scheduling intern, I kept requests for meetings and events flowing while the Executive Assistant, Karen Brown, was traveling with the Senator.  Not too many requests were received and things slowed to a crawl, and we are counting down the hours this peaceful Friday afternoon. 

Eric, Caldwell, Walla Walla University.

February 18, 2009

DC weather just got gloomy again today. We had a little snow but it disappeared. I played tourist again this weekend and ran all over the District of Columbia with my friend who came to visit me unexpectedly. The Senators are out to recess this week, which means shorter hours and no ties at the office. I am deep into a project for Ken categorizing the huge list of appropriations requests, and demonstrating my ninja skills with Excel. The office is quite. And it's like Ken says… when the Senate is in recess and none of them are on Fox News, nobody really cares about us. That seems to explain the quiet phones around the office.

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University

February 13, 2009

It’s been another fast week—I’m lucky.  Many of my fellow interns are bored in their offices, but I feel like I rarely have down time here (which is really good).  When given the choice between being an intern for the rest of my life or being a homeless person, I choose… well, being a homeless person (only because the travel sounds amazing).  But I did have to think about it!  Sometimes when people call in to voice their concerns, they ask how I like it out here, being in the middle of everything.  I LOVE IT.  Working on the Hill is so great, even if I am scheduling tours and making copies.  I had a dream the other night that I was back at Brigham Young University in Provo and I was so upset, wondering how I could possibly get back to Washington.  Maybe my mind will change in a few more months, but I highly doubt it. 

Amanda, Oakley, Brigham Young University

February 11, 2009

I got lost today again. I was on my way to the Reyburn Building, and I tried to take the secret tunnel to the House side and had to back track… twice. It's busy around here with the stimulus and all. In fact, Friday was a long day with all 5 phone lines tied up literally all day long because of the multitude of callers. Everybody in my apartment is sick but me. I also think this is an appropriate time to highlight my Excel skills, which are being put to use on a project for Ken. Want some advice for coming out here? Graduate first. That’s what I did, and while everyone else is studying and going to seminars after work, I am partying, and enjoying DC. Thanks again for reading- I kept it short so you would read the whole thing.

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University

February 10, 2009

Let’s see, yesterday I came down with a cold and left work around 11:00 a.m. so as not to spread the germs around the office. After some Nyquil and a good night’s rest, I was back in the office this morning feeling somewhat better. With the stimulus bill in the chute, the phones have been off the hook. Although I personally disagree with the stimulus plan of our current administration, it is cool to be here in D.C. and see it all happen.

The weather has been pretty warm lately. It’s been really nice. We (the interns I live with and I) have started playing football at night in a nearby park. It is a blast. I feel bad for my family back in Idaho who still has to deal with snow and cold while I get to go outside in shorts and a t-shirt. Life is great.

Jed, Rigby, Utah State University

February 9, 2009

These past few days in Washington have been unusually warm for winter, which has been a pleasant change from the thick snow and icy pathways that I have often had to navigate whilst walking around town. Regardless, the weather here is nothing like the 120 degrees Fahrenheit heat waves and bushfires currently afflicting Australia.

During the last week, I was able to attend two very interesting Committee hearings. On Wednesday, I watched Paul Volcker give evidence to the Senate Banking Committee on the financial crisis and financial regulatory reform, which included an appearance by the boss, Senator Crapo, to ask a few questions. The next day, the Senate Select Intelligence Committee conducted the confirmation hearing for Leon Panetta, who has been nominated to be CIA Director. This was without doubt the best briefing I have attended thus far, as committee members discussed the policy of extraordinary rendition and torture. Refreshingly, the witness was also asked some tough, pointed questions related to his lack of intelligence experience, his view on Guantanamo Bay and how he intended to handle terrorist suspects with vital information when an attack on America could be imminent.

Nicholas, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

February 6, 2009

This week has been groundbreaking.  The congress is debating on a "Spending bill" of 1 Trillion dollars ($1,000,000,000,000). Plus the administration is planning to take on more toxic dept held by some of their nearly federalized banks. By the end they are estimating it all to pile up to some 4 trillion. They are high rollers, I suppose. I mean it is only the American way to be in debt for more than you make in a year. American GDP is roughly 12 Trillion with slowdowns that are bound to continue. Awesome.


I saw John McCain for the first time this week, and 3 times at that. The first was at a Republicans on the Stimulus hearing that they held at the beginning of the week. Honestly, I feel bad for the man. He seemed to be a washed-out politician who now has to discover what he can do with the rest of his time on earth. The hearing room was empty compared to all other that I have attended and only three senators showed for the event. They had three economists on hand to support their agenda. McCain could not find a rhythm and it was difficult to watch this man stumble his way though a statement , after having given a poetic congratulatory speech to Barack on election night.

Yesterday I went to watch the opening scene in the gallery of the Senate. I missed the opening prayer and pledge but heard the increasingly aggressive speeches of Reid and McConnell in comparison to the bipartisan talk earlier in the week. The Democrats, through Senator Baucus of Montana, tried to stall debate for a few hours in hopes of reaching a vote by the end of the day. With resistance from Senators McCain and Inhofe, debate was allowed. It seems McCain in a few short days decided to Maverick up. He has spent quiet a bit of time on the Senate floor, putting pressure on the Democrats.

The GOP, we will see what happens, we seem to be running out of options and there is word that a few lightweights may give in to the Democrats if they slim the bill by a few 100 bill, if you know what I mean. Only on Capitol Hill will such numbers seem trivial.

Eric, Caldwell, Walla Walla University.

February 5, 2009

I have been on trips to the House about three times this week, and I almost know my way around.  I believe this to be an accurate depiction of the quickest route from the Dirksen Senate Office Building to the Rayburn House Office Building:

Yes, it’s as bad as it looks. Another intern who works in the House thought he’d be nice and show me a shortcut to the underground subway that would take me to the Capitol.  On our way down the escalator, we were talking and laughing, having a gay old time, when I decided to miss a step in my five-inch heels and fall down the steps.  Yes, it was mortifying.  And yes, the House had just recessed and all of the Congressman were clogging the hallways to get back to their offices.  One of them even shouted a profanity and came running to my rescue.  I will never walk down an escalator again, and I will never wear such tall shoes to work again.  Lesson learned.

Other than my field trips to the House, I’ve attended briefings on art competitions, U.S. relations with Afghanistan, and nearly joined the Army (they provided free pizza and let us shoot fake guns—who wouldn’t want to join after that?!).  The weeks are going by so quickly and I do not look forward to the end of this experience. 

Amanda, Oakley, Brigham Young University

February 4, 2009

So, check this out: I talked to a man from my home town (Inkom which has like 700 people) and he is working on lobbying for some legislation for WILDLAND FIREFIGHTERS. And it turns out that that’s what I do. (In the off season of course, it keeps my intern skills sharp).

So I am totally excited because I spoke with Misti and she said that I could read up on it and help her out. So I read through it, and I think that it is a very good piece of legislation that could make my life in the summer a LOT better, as well as many other of my colleagues.

It gave me new appreciation for the "Schoolhouse Rock" song that I used to listen to as a kid (okay, and once or twice while I have been an intern to refresh my memory of the process) Please see the attached link, as it is very informative:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEJL2Uuv-oQ

I look forward to seeing this sample Bill make its progress as potential legislation, and I very much hope that something will come of it.

Anyway, there are endless phone calls, and I figured out that if you keep your ear to the ground that there are often noontime hearings that give you free lunch. I have also been helping Colin out a lot on energy matters. I have been to a couple of hearings this week that have honestly been very interesting. Thanks for reading my blog.

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University

February 3, 2009

Small, white, frozen particles streamed by the dirt-streaked windows as we emerged from the black gaping mouth of the underground tunnel. At a distant glance they were nothing but a white characterless smudge. A closer examination could reveal an intricate and delicate tiny universe in each one. They were snow flakes, and they were streaming past the windows as the metro train sped along across the inexorable Potomac. That unyielding force drifted downstream with a cool menacing look.

The scene changed with the blink of an eye as the Metro once again descended to the underground.  A few Metro stops later and a brisk walk through the falling snow and I was in the office.

So, leaving the almost mystical experience on the Metro behind, let’s go onto my day. This morning we started out with Constituent Coffee. It’s an informal meeting where constituents can come into the office and meet and greet with Senator Crapo. It was the first of what will be a weekly Tuesday activity. After all of that hubbub, it was back to the front lines for Bryan and me. We worked the phone system like the pros we have become. As always we had some good laughs in the front office. It was all in good manner even though Rachel swears we always seem to have mischievous looks on our faces. The truth is we are as innocent as angels and just happen to have cheerful countenances.

Well as the saying goes, time flies when you are having fun and before I knew it we were off to lunch. The PEO STRI (U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training and Instrumentation) hosted a display with free pizza at lunchtime. It was pretty cool. They showcased the military’s simulation technology that is used to train soldiers. It was interactive and we got to fire some fake M16’s and try out some virtual reality while eating pizza. It was way cool.

After lunch I went back to the Legislative shop with Luke (he was wearing a nice purple shirt today) and Colin. It was grand as I worked on a briefing write-up. From there I ended the day back at the front desk answering the phones.

Jed, Rigby, Utah State University

February 2, 2009

Four receptions, a few hearings, more office work and a big day trip to Philadelphia.

Another week of action passes, and suddenly the realization has dawned upon me that I am now halfway through my internship here in D.C. True, but hard to believe.

What I was able to do last week perhaps provides a good summary for just how much happens in D.C. and how busy it can get, especially whilst the Senate remains in session. From hearings on Eric Holder and radiation oncology to receptions by the Idaho State Society, National Republican Senatorial Committee, Georgetown University and the Australian Embassy plus more work in the press shop, there’s a lot that happens here in Senator Crapo’s office. It was also exciting to meet Sen. John Cornyn of Texas at the NRSC event, on the same day that I had seen him admonish Eric Holder’s nomination at the Judiciary Committee.

My visit to Philadelphia on Saturday was one of the real highlights of my time here thus far. I saw the famous Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the building where the U.S. Congress met for the first ten years of independence. Importantly, the return train journey to D.C. saw me conquer the other Australian interns playing the card game 500.

I’m hoping the recent string of warm days continues for the rest of the week; last week was freezing, meaning that for the only time in my life, Australia Day was not sunny beaches and barbecues, but instead, sub-zero Celsius temperatures and a lot of snow. The sight of squirrels running around in the snow in the park just outside the Dirksen Building was another quirky Washington moment; almost as quirky as the wacko who stands outside Union Station every morning with a placard proclaiming “The CIA got your money”. Apparently, this proposition can be proven by the two-sided leaflet which incoherently alludes to tariffs, railways, dam construction, Palestine and privatization.

Nicholas, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

January 30, 2009

There is just one thing keeping me from living right here in the office, a bed.  They have everything you ever need right here in a three-block circumference.  Nearly every building is connected by tunnels and subways.  In the Senate buildings, there are cafeterias, post office, credit union, dry cleaning, barber, shoe shine, the library of congress, and plenty of good-looking young staffers running around everywhere; what more could an intern want? 

Interns need adventure.  If you are dying to leave the boredom of the Senate granite hallways, bundle up and head to Union Station.  Catch a cab, the Metro, or a Train and, in a tolerable amount of time, there are endless things to do.  Be aware not to plan on visiting a Smithsonian at night; they close at 5:30.  I know right?  I thought I was moving to a big city but, as it turns out, it closes down as early as McCall.

Do not be mistaken, there is plenty to do in the evenings.  If you pick a random night, you will found plenty of things to fill your time.  The Washingtonian just published a list of the top 100 restaurants.  By following that list and checking it twice, you will never have a fruitless evening in D.C.  Interns are cheap for the Senate; therefore, if you want to spend much time going out at night plan ahead and save up before you arrive.

Eric, Caldwell, Walla Walla University.

             

January 29, 2009

Last week was a week to remember.  We (the interns) were surprised last minute with tickets to the inauguration and couldn’t have been more grateful.  We got what were supposed to be the worst tickets, but I ended up getting a fantastic view of the Capitol from across the reflecting pool with millions of people behind me.  Security was tough in some places and nonexistent in others (our section actually ended up rushing the handicap section—what a mess!), and even though it was a standing section, one of my friends managed to convince the crowd that if we worked together, we could all sit down on the grass.  This led to enthusiastic chants of “Yes we can!” (i.e., sit down) and through a group effort we were all able to step back and enjoy the Capitol from a sitting position (this was pre-handicap rushing). 

How amazing to be a witness to history.  One day, my kids (or cats) will learn about that day, and I will be able to say I was there.   It was inspiring, emotional, and absolutely freezing.  And as for the President not taking the actual oath of office….

Obama pictures and McCain pictures

If I ever attend an inauguration again, it will definitely be as a volunteer from inside the Capitol, like my supervisor did.  In a nutshell, she ended up being an escort for one of Obama's key advisers and wound up shaking hands with BOTH Presidents, Vice Presidents, and their wives.  Unbelievable. 

Our office is finally done answering phone calls asking for inaugural tickets and we can get back to the important issues: the upcoming vote on the stimulus package.  It has really been eye-opening to see how many people care about what happens in the country.  Some remark that their calls "won't do any good anyway," but they do!  Keep calling, people.  I’ll talk to you all day long and relay the message.  Try me.  

Amanda, Oakley, Brigham Young University

January 28, 2009

It’s a snowy January day outside, and it doesn’t look like this winter is going to end anytime soon. This is Bryan in the Leg. Shop. Short for “Legislation Shop.” I hang out back here a lot now because Rachel says I am the “Rapid Response” Intern. Basically means that I make the copies, take coats back when other Senators’ staff members leave them in the conference room, and do really, really important things as an official representative of the Intern Coordinator. Not that I am trying to brag or anything, but it's probably the best job. Right now I am putting together a big intern packet that Rachel can take to the schools when she does her recruiting.

I passed Senators McCain, Burris, and Kerry today in various parts of the building, following which I was informed by my fellow interns that sometimes my blogs are sad. So I am turning over a new leaf. As a matter of fact, to start my new blog let me just tell you about how big of a fan I am of the staff members that I work around. I don’t think you are going to believe this one; but Luke bench-pressed 315 POUNDS 6 times 2 nights ago! If that isn't a representation of how talented the people I work with are, I don’t know what is. It is good to be serving with such physically capable and incredibly manly individuals. I feel very safe here and I bet he is also a really good football player. I also appreciate Luke for answering several of my questions that I tend to have throughout the day. He is a bank of knowledge. He and Collin are very funny to listen to. Collin and I talk about soccer and he is probably going to coach a championship little league soccer team that his son plays on. I am very proud of him. He is a very cool guy that makes me feel like a champ every day. He is very personable and is kind to me, he also knows his stuff incredibly well and works hard.

Yesterday Rachel got a little prank pulled on her. Jed plugged a wireless mouse into her computer and made her mouse arrow do funny things all day. She was convinced that her computer was haunted but quickly discovered the origin of the crazy mouse. We had a good laugh at that. The phones are ringing off the hook here due to a couple of votes lately. One was the confirmation of Tim Geithner as Treasury Secretary, and the other is the Stimulus Bill. It is out of control and the interns up front find themselves constantly getting haranguing phone calls, but it keeps it exciting.

I am enjoying the internship, and I feel very lucky because I am very busy and have a lot to do.

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University

January 27, 2009

Today has been good. Yesterday I think I answered at least over 200 phone calls about the Timothy Geithner nomination. It was a busy day on the lines. Today has been noticeably slower on the phone calls. Well I just have to say I am thoroughly enjoying my time in Senator Crapo's office. I'm not just saying that to brown nose either, although I must admit it looks good. So far I have mainly been working at the front desk. Between random phone calls from constituents, random e-mails from my good friend Bryan, and Rachel freaking out about her haunted mouse, life at the front desk stays fairly entertaining. My days seem to go by rather quickly.

Life as an intern is sweet. I love it in D.C. It is pretty cool to just be in the middle of things and see it all happen. What I have experienced on the Hill so far has reinforced what I previously learned in the classroom. It’s great!

Jed, Rigby, Utah State University

January 26, 2009

Not much happened this last week. Except for some guy called Obama being inaugurated for some trivial position called President. Apparently it was important enough for a few million people to descend upon the Capitol and form an audience stretching from the steps all the way down the National Mall to the Washington Monument, and I was one of them. The night before I was also one of about 12,000 who turned up to the Texas State Society’s Black Tie & Boots Ball at the amusingly-named Gaylord Convention Centre.

Even after a week, the inauguration and Obama’s speech is still getting a lot of coverage – and almost all of it unanimously positive. He must have a really good Communications Director; one almost as good as Susan.

Meanwhile, I have been reading obscure sections of the Internal Revenue Code and undertaking various other research tasks for Senator Crapo. I also attended debate on the Senate floor preceding the vote confirming Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State on Thursday, then went to the Foreign Relations Committee Room to see the committee deliberate further on the nomination of Susan Rice as Ambassador to the United Nations. In an extraordinarily expeditious meeting, the chairman, Senator Kerry, uttered the statement “I would ask for a motion” where another Senator immediately interjected “and so moved”, which was then carried without dissent. The Senators then speedily left the room, having resolved to refer the nomination of Ambassador-designate Rice to the full Senate without saying as much.

Nicholas, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

January 23, 2009

Quiet literally that is what Friday has become.  The Senate is not in session on most Fridays; therefore, it is a catch-up day for staff.  This means paperwork and meetings without the formality of having the Senator on hand.  It is casual Friday and sweaters are popular at the Crapo office.

The first week of training I was assigned to assist Karen, the Scheduler/ Executive Assistant, and a great boss.  This means that I distribute the faxes that come in throughout the day keeping an eye out for scheduling items.  Faxes are often legislative issue updates, constituent mail, or event/meeting requests.  The updates and mail are distributed electronically while the requests are printed and passed on to staff that handle similar issues.  For example, legislative staff handle specific issues, therefore if someone wants to talk with the Senator about health or education I would pass it on to Katie (who receives the most requests by a large margin).  They give a recommendation on how best to respond and the Senator looks over every request.  It is pretty incredible to work for Senator Crapo; he makes sure to meet with as many constituents as possible while they are visiting the D.C.

Few hearings happen on Friday, therefore, paperwork and a field trip to the Library of Congress filled what was our third Friday at the office.

Eric, Caldwell, Walla Walla University.

January 20, 2009

My day started at about 4 in the morning as I woke up and began to fight the masses on my way to the inauguration. Getting to the Mall was relatively easy enough; the only opposing force seemed to be the freezing weather. The next five and a half hours were quite uneventful as the other interns and I huddle together for warmth. At around 11ish the VIPs started showing up and things started getting more interesting. I was disappointed when the crowd booed when Pres. George Bush's name was read over the PA system. I don't exactly agree with everything Pres. Bush did while in office, but he was still President of the United States and he deserves some respect. So that was disappointing, but it was way cool to witness the inauguration and be a part of history as the first African-American president was sworn in. After the ceremony was over, we again fought our way through the masses, about 2.5 million, to make it home. The Metro stations were overwhelmed in minutes and we ended up walking about 3 miles down a deserted freeway to get back to our apartment. It was a good day.

Jed, Rigby, Utah State University

January 15, 2009

Wow—this week has been nuts!  Apparently it's only going to get crazier around here after the inauguration.  I've only been here one week and I'm obsessed.  The energy here, the atmosphere, the excitement—it's contagious.  It is surreal to be working here in the Dirksen building next to the Capitol.  The things we do and see (many of which cannot be spoken—how cool does that sound?) are amazing.  I’m still impressed by the small things, like taking Senator Crapo's floor statements to the Cloak Room of the Senate every day.  I'm more impressed when Executive Branch designees come to meet with the Senator.  I can handle my duties pretty well until someone important comes in, and then I get flustered and nervous!  I'm sure that I'll get used to it eventually. 

Working as an intern in this office is great.  Rachel (the smartest, most beautiful intern supervisor on the Hill) requires us to go to at least two hearings or briefings a week.  I've spoken to other interns who express their jealousy at this assignment.  Today, as we were watching Senator Biden deliver his farewell address on C-SPAN, Rachel said, "Do you guys want to go over there and watch?"  "Umm, yes!"  One of the other interns and I had the opportunity to go watch him from the Senate gallery in the flesh.  At the end of his address, everyone stood up and gave him a standing ovation.  Biden fan or not, it was an emotional scene for all senators and attendees. 

On a more general note, the food here is great, the Idahoans I work with are great (and the Australian), and the days go by quickly.  I keep thinking that it's time to pack up and go home from my vacation—it will be a sad day when I do. 

Amanda, Oakley, Brigham Young University

January 14, 2009

When I first found out I would be interning on Capitol Hill my junior year in high school I thought it would be an interesting, but slightly boring task. I have found to realize I was very wrong about this assumption and my Wednesdays spent in Senator Crapo’s offices have been busy and a lot of fun. On my very first day, I met Senator Crapo and at first I was a little star-struck but after talking with him for a few minutes I felt very comfortable having a conversation with him and the other interns. I’m not sure why, but I always imagined all senators to be very stern but after meeting Senator Crapo I was proved wrong, again. The Senator was friendly and very engaged in the conversation with me and the other interns. 

The hardest things that I've dealt with so far would probably be angry callers about the financial bailout and all of the inauguration ticket requests. The thing with angry callers is that once you know how to deal with one, you can deal with all of them. It just takes a little effort and a little (okay, maybe a lot) of time.  What was different about inauguration ticket requests was that once you thought you were done taking calls, reading e-mails, and sorting everything, there would be a stack of 100 more requests that you needed to go through before you could do anything else.

Inauguration ticket requests flooded into the office, almost hundreds a day, starting in mid-November. Once they started coming it seemed as if they were never going to stop. Thankfully, I didn’t have to deal firsthand with all of the requests. I just had to sort them and occasionally enter them into an excel spreadsheet we had to keep track of all the requests. By the end of it, I think there were a couple thousand requests and our office was only given a few hundred tickets.

I’ve learned a lot in the past few months working for Senator Crapo. I have a few friends also working in Senators' offices and after hearing a few of their experiences in their offices, I'm definitely glad I chose to apply to Senator Crapo's office. Everyone working here is so friendly and definitely a pleasure to be around. I look forward to spending my Wednesdays here until May and I am excited to continue learning about politics and everything else that makes Capitol Hill so unique.

Becca.

January 14, 2009

I have spent the past couple of days in the legislative end of the office. Collin put me to work on a little project working on getting some info together about tax incentives for renewable energy sources. I have been putting together an Excel spreadsheet with data about how much tax credit is given for power derived via nuclear, wind, solar, geothermal, etc. This is an exciting week here because the confirmation hearings are underway for the various new cabinet members. The legislation end of the building is not quite as lively as the front desk but I enjoy it nonetheless. The staff have been very kind to me and I am getting to know them more personally. There are nice people who work here.

I must admit, that work is often a little bit slow and sometimes I find myself wanting something to do. I am told however, that things are going to pick up in a hurry following this next week when the new President arrives. More to come on this topic.

This weekend I spent at the Holocaust Museum and at the National Archives where the Constitution is on display. I then attended a free concert at the Kennedy Center. One thing that is nice about this town is that it is never lacking things to do. In fac,t it makes it hard to go to bed at a reasonable time because there is a lot of fun to be had on weekends. There is a nice running trail that goes right past where I live, so it has been easy for me to keep up my hobby of running when I am not at work.

I am learning a lot, and watching a lot of Cspan… which is something that I used to make fun of my friends for back home, but suddenly now I think it is pretty cool.

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University

January 13, 2009

"Good afternoon, Senator Crapo’s Office" seems to have become more of a reflex rather than a cognitive reply. I won't be surprised if I start answering my cell phone that way. It's funny, back home when I told people I would be working on the Hill in D.C., they seemed fairly impressed. Now when I tell people here in the D.C. area that, they seem sorry for me. Then when I get to work I realize that I'm just an intern, one of many working on Capital Hill. However, it is pretty cool to get up everyday and go to the nation's Capitol for work. I still walk by in awe every morning as I pass the Capitol Building. It's pretty cool to be here, no matter how menial the current task may be.

Well, it's January and several different issues seem to be the main buzz in the office and on the phones. Pres-elect Obama's inauguration is coming up in a week and we have been inundated with requests for tickets. For some odd reason, people seem somewhat surprised when we tell them that we have no tickets left available, even though it is going to take place in one week's time. Anyways, next Tuesday should be a very busy and chaotic day in Washington D.C.

Another big issue that many Idahoans seem to be calling in about are the various economic bailout proposals going around. It seems the majority of callers are against any form of a bailout. Sometimes the call can start out a little tense as the constituent releases a lot of built-up tension and sometimes anger over the bailout plans, but they are usually pretty calm and even quite cheerful by the end of the conversation. So far no interns have experienced death or serious injury while answering the phone. I’ll keep you all updated if that changes.

Jed, Rigby, Utah State University   

January 12, 2009

British Prime Minister William Gladstone once attributed it with the description, "that remarkable body, the most remarkable of all the inventions of modern politics."

The United States Senate without question lives up to the generous accolades that have been lavished upon it. One cannot help but avoid feeling the grandeur this venerable institution exudes as you admire the architecture, walk the corridors of the buildings or casually walk past a Senator in one of the underground tunnels that link the congressional office buildings to The Capitol. For an institution that sought to replicate the central role of the Roman Senate in more ancient times, it does not disappoint.

For the next seven weeks, I have the privilege of writing this blog from Senator Crapo’s office on Capitol Hill.

The first week of my internship has passed and already I have learned much about American history and politics, the internal operation of Congress and Senator Crapo’s constituency of Idaho. The opportunity to research topical legislative issues, attend important Senate Committee briefings, interact with Idahoan constituents and see how the Senator manages the media has provided a real contrast with the more familiar Westminster parliamentary system that I know and work with in Australia.

Additionally, it has allowed me to visit some of Washington D.C.'s best attractions. The National Mall, the litany of imposing federal government buildings and a staggering number of museums will keep me more than occupied on weekends as I endeavor to visit as many of these locations as possible. D.C. continues to add a new dimension to my American experience, which thus far has included California, Las Vegas, Florida and New York City.

As the U.S. moves toward a new Administration combined with a strengthened Democratic congressional majority, it will be interesting to observe how the Republican minority, including Senator Crapo, responds. My first meeting with the Senator last week convinced me that the arrogant Democrats, still addicted to discredited Keynesian economics and constitutional vandalism, will not be permitted to impose fiscally negligent economic policies at a time when America can barely afford its present debt burden without diligent, intense scrutiny. Nor will their agenda to undermine the legitimate constitutional freedoms of Americans succeed, with the Bush Administration announcing that it was overturning regulations prohibiting the carrying of firearms inside National Parks – a sensible policy that was driven by the staunch advocacy of Senator Crapo.

Little wonder, then, that Senator Crapo was resoundingly re-elected in 2004 with the support of 99% of Idahoans.

Nicholas, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

January 8, 2009

I arrived in DC Thursday, January 1st after a 23-hour Amtrak ride from Florida. I had planned to arrive in DC with my car but unfortunately I had a mishap near Brandon, FL that left me without a vehicle, after that the train was the only way that I had of getting me and all of my bags up here. Although I had plans of having a car to drive here, I honestly can say that I am so far glad that I don’t have a car. First of all because it costs extra money to park at the place I live, and second of all because DC has a fantastic metro system that takes me most of the places I want to go. So if I had to make the decision over again I think I would show up without a car.

I am four days into this thing, and the first four days have been an adventure. I am learning a lot and hoping that Rachel gets feeling better. I feel bad for her having to train us while she is so sick.

I enjoy the staff, many of them are from Idaho, and they are very kind. I hope to get to know them better as time goes on.

I attended a hearing today about the effect that our suffering economy is having on state and local law enforcement.  It was vey interesting, and it was a nice meeting where the Senators and the witnesses were very down to earth. It was not like I had envisioned. I was actually very interested the entire time. I come from a college background in biology, having just graduated from at Idaho State. Because of that, I feared that I would have a real hard time making the cut here because the only political science class I have ever had in college was American Government 101. I had to ask Jed what "GOP" stood for on Monday. I felt really dumb, but that’s just the way I am. Despite all of this, I feel like I am picking up quick and to be honest I don't think there is much that I have experienced thus far that really requires an extensive political science background. Mostly if I don’t know it I can find it.

I am still not sure what to expect but I have had some cool experiences. I was in this very building when Senator Burris was barred from entering by the guard, it was pretty exciting. I got to escort Senator Risch and his family from his office to the Capitol the other day. That same day I was privileged to meet Senator Crapo. The members of President-Elect Obama’s cabinet are coming through today, and I have met a couple of them. I doubt any of these people will remember me, but it is cool to brush shoulders with many of our nation’s greats. I enjoy riding the Senate subway and walking through these halls and thinking of all the famous people who have been here before and are here now.

DC is very cold, and this place seems huge- but here goes a great experience!!

Bryan, Inkom, Idaho State University

December 10, 2008

Nearing the end of my time here as an intern for Senator Crapo, I can’t help but reflect on the past 3 ½ months. So much has happened since the beginning of September! Memorable, historical occurrences have taken place. I have been privileged to see how the government works under extreme circumstances. I’ve seen it, the system really works. Ok that might sound funny, but it’s true. The bailouts; A.I.G. was among the first companies to receive federal funds and most recently with the big 3 auto industry that possibly will receive help. I feel like I have been a part of everything that is going on. I have learned so much by researching and listening to staff members’ opinions. I love to hear other people’s views on current events and conveying my opinion to them. Having an idea and putting it into words so others can understand it is politics.

I can honestly say that I view the world differently than 4 months ago when I first came to Washington D.C. I feel like a new person.. in a good way. J  My knowledge of political issues has grown greatly and this internship has given me a taste how it would be to be employed by the government in the long term.

In talking to my younger brother who is currently living in Africa and will be there for a couple of years, I told him that he should definitely come to D.C. to experience this. I have loved working with each and every one of the staff members here in this office. They are AWESOME! It truly has been great to work for a senator that I share the same values with. It feels great to have someone that stands for what you believe and to be a person on their staff pushing their cause forward.

Spencer, BYU-Idaho, Sugar City

November 25, 2008

The tension from election time has slowly ebbed away. It is interesting how current problems seem so big at the moment and you think if only it would pass, life would be easy. A few days after it is over, yes, that particular problem may be gone, but then the next item on the list of problems becomes the next on the "wish it would go away" list. I bring this up because the bailout right now is the big problem, and once it gets better then there will be something else that comes up. The media finds something to be worried about.

Well, we are back in session once again. The crisp, freezing morning air makes for a long walk to the Dirksen building. I have about a 10-minute walk from the Capitol South metro stop (and that is when I am walking fast). Inside our office was quite chilly today, so I am glad when I get to take packages to different offices and warm up.

We had a staff Thanksgiving dinner last Saturday. We all signed up for different parts of the meal and I was left with making cranberry sauce, which was a first for me. Ten people came and I enjoyed socializing with staffers in a non-work environment. It was really fun to hang out. We talk about things that have to do with work even though we're off the clock. I like to listen to what each person has to say because it gives me a different insight. Everyone has a unique perspective based on the issues that they’re expert in.

Spencer, BYU-Idaho, Sugar City

November 17, 2008

The pace of things in the office is starting to pick up as we prepare to move into session again.  While it is a lame duck session, Senator Crapo has several things on the table, which we in the office hope to see accomplished this week.   Of course, on the national stage, the most pressing issue is the continued evolution of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act.  The Banking Committee had another hearing last week to monitor the Administration's delegation of funds to curb the current economic downturn, and will be meeting again later this week to monitor the situation and investigate the current state of American automakers.  While many of the financial mechanisms being discussed are beyond my limited understanding, I have learned a tremendous amount about the American financial system during my internship.  Just a few months ago, I had little to no understanding of credit-default swapping, mortgage backed securities, risk management strategies, or even the smallest idea about how these instruments could bring about a liquidity crisis.  I now have a solid base to begin to evaluate financial legislation, such as the securities clearinghouses which is to begin acting by the end of this year.  I am still far from being any sort of expert but it is nice to have acquired a basic understanding of something that has become the most pressing political issue of the times. 

The Senate could possibly send a portion of the economic stabilization funds to the nation’s automakers this week.  I have attended college in Michigan the past two years and have seen firsthand the worsening state of our auto industry.  I am not fully aware of the intricacies of the problems or the ways in which a bailout could affect the industry.  However, I hope to gain a reasonable understanding of these issues over the next few days so I can make a more educated evaluation of the current events and the possible steps forward.    

The other issue that may come to a vote during this brief session is the Omnibus Public Lands bill, though it appears that it is more likely this legislation will come to a vote early next year.  Senator Crapo has spent numerous years working with conservation groups, ranchers and recreational enthusiasts to negotiate a land management program for the Owyhee public lands in southwestern Idaho.  The final proposal entitled the Owyhee Initiative is included in the Omnibus Package.  I am the prototypical male Idahoan who likes nothing more than a good morning on a trout stream or backpacking deep in Idaho’s backcountry.  This initiative ensures that some of Idaho’s natural treasures will remain wild for my children and grandchildren and preserve many aspects of life that are so important to Idahoans.

David, Idaho Falls, Alma College      

November 14, 2008

The inauguration is coming up and I'm surprised so many people from Idaho want to go. We have had a lot of requests, but it is all relative. Dave went to another Senator's office and they said they had about 50,000 requests for inauguration tickets. It is quite the historical event.

 I remember at least a couple times when the news covered a certain country that elects an official as a new president and the President-elect is shot or the government is overthrown. That is what separates us from other countries, is our ability to be united, though we may disagree on a president. We can see the transference of power done in a peaceful way. It is really something to be proud of as a people. We can agree to disagree and leave it at that.

I was watching C-Span and heard Senator Crapo speak while manning the phones. I heard only a portion of his thoughts when people began calling and telling me what they thought of the Banking meeting. I saw him in the hall directly following the meeting and thanked him for the things he said in the Banking and Finance Committee hearing yesterday. The meeting was very interesting. Senators were asking what the banks were doing with the money given to them by the government.

The office here is great! It has been really laid back during these past few weeks we have been out of session. I have gotten to know the staff much better during this time. We have things to do, but it hasn’t been crazy. I'm going to enjoy it while it lasts because next week we are back in session.

Spencer, BYU-Idaho, Sugar City

November 4, 2008

Well, history was made last night when an African-American was elected president. It is great to be here in D.C. now. So much is going on. The air is filled with electricity. Our office is kind of a somber place to be. Senator Coleman did win, where our Chief of Staff, who had taken annual leave, was campaigning. So having another Republican win is a victory in and of itself.

I watched the news last night to see how close it was going to be, though I did not have realistic hope that John McCain would win. As I watched the banner scroll across the TV screen proclaiming that our new President-elect was Barack Obama I knew inside that these next four years are going to be different. Different than any other President’s term not only because he is African-American, but because of his policies and the stresses our country is under right now. I am just so surprised that he has come so far. He is in his forties and VERY recently became a senator.

Of course Barack Obama’s face was plastered all over the news today. During lunch hour, I walked past the Newseum, a museum for the news, and outside were about 20 different papers all with different pictures of Obama and a CNN news camera filming something next to all the commotion. It is a time of reflection for what the future holds. He will have the power to do many things, and I hope that he will use that to our benefit.

On a different note, I got to ride on a bus from Reston to West Falls Church (1 hr bus ride) and it was amazing to see all the trees' leaves. I was playing solitaire at first and then I told myself, "what am I doing, I'm here for a little longer, then I’m going back to a desert!" So I stopped playing solitaire for awhile and just looked at the scenery. It was great. It is easy to get caught up in the "hurried lifestyle" or listening to music and sometimes I forget to just look around and enjoy what I have right in front of me.

Spencer, BYU-Idaho, Sugar City

November 4, 2008

 

I've done poorly on keeping up on this blog, so I'll do my best to fill you in on the past few weeks with this entry.  Various staff members have been on travel during the past few weeks giving me an opportunity to taste different aspects of the office as I assist in covering responsibilities.  The our deputy communications director was out for a few days and, in his absence, I prepared the Senator's news clippings.  This job was actually very eye-opening.  I was emailed news stories dealing with issues in our state from our staff in Idaho.  I then reduced them to short briefings, categorized them, printed up the briefs for the Senator, and later archived the stories.  After doing this for a few days, my knowledge of what was happening in the state and nation increased incredibly.  I knew everything from the status of the potato harvest to proposed sewage treatment facilities in northern Idaho.  It is refreshing to know that even though our Senators’ schedules are incredibly busy, they are still able to stay in touch with their constituents' day to day lives. 

Of course the big news of today is the election.  It has been nice to be around so many well-informed people during this election cycle.  I agree with some folks and don't with others, but I would say listening to all opinions has made me a more educated voter today than ever before.  I can now see political implications that a few months ago would have passed under my eyes undetected. This being said I trust everyone voted today and I hope that regardless of how the next government is configured it will be effective in addressing some of the problems this country is facing. 

David, Idaho Falls, Alma College

November 1, 2008

This past week we have heard so much on the elections and about fraudulent voting. It seems like (and probably is true) that is all that is on the TV. ACORN has a large part to do with the ruckus concerning fraudulent votes. Some of their workers registered people to vote that never gave their consent. Even names like Mickey Mouse were used so that workers could meet their quota for signatures and receive pay. So far, thousands of votes have been disregarded because the person doesn’t actually exist. Also, there have been problems with college students voting twice: once in the state they are in, and then they would send absentee ballots home.

There is electricity in the air, because Sen. McCain could come back and win the election, although it is unlikely. A couple of people from our office took some leave time and went to the call center and did campaign work for McCain yesterday. My sister and her boyfriend are campaigning in Colorado for McCain. I am not sure how I feel about this election. I know I'm going to vote because it is a civil duty, but it is hard when I don’t feel like either of the candidates share my views on how the country should be run.

This past week my parents have been here, so I have gotten to see more of D.C. I went on a bus tour and that was when I realized that so many things are so close to where I work! The Air and Space Museum, Lincoln and Jefferson Memorial, Arlington Cemetery, The Capitol Building and Senate buildings are so close to each other. I have more of a visual picture in my brain where things are located and know I can walk to many of the sites. I know where a lot of good restaurants are too!

Spencer, BYU-Idaho, Sugar City

 

October 24, 2008

Rachel, our supervisor, is gone this week to go recruit at different colleges. Dave and I are manning the front desk. When she told us at the beginning that a month into the internship she would be leaving us for a week, I wondered if I would have the skills necessary to take care of everything. Things have gone well.

One of my old roommates from BYU-Idaho lives in Pennsylvania and Monday was a National holiday (Columbus Day) so my friend picked me up on Sat. night and we went to his house in Philadelphia. Even though I was there for only a couple of days, I got to see Valley Forge, downtown Philly, drove by Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and even ate a Philly cheese steak sandwich! The sandwich might have been the best part. It was pretty greasy and good.

The phone lines have died down quite a bit so giving a tour once a day makes the day go a lot faster. I returned from giving a capitol tour. Then I had a really interesting phone call that ended badly. A guy called and said he wanted to talk to Senator Crapo right away. I said he was busy and so he said “I’ll hold.” I tried everything I knew to get him to send a fax to us to set up a phone call with the senator. He was rude and didn’t seem to be going anywhere. It lasted for about 10 minutes then he finally hung up. We haven’t gotten any angry calls lately so it took me by surprise.

Spencer, Sugar City, BYU-Idaho

October 6, 2008

As you can imagine, the financial crisis has made the past two weeks incredibly busy on Capitol Hill.  While there have been brighter chapters in American history, I could not have asked for a better time to learn how Washington really works.  Every Senator and Representative was forced to make an incredibly tough decision this past week, and I respect the courage each one showed in voting regardless of whether they said aye or nay.  Most Americans strongly opposed the financial rescue plan, many economists and party leaders believed it was absolutely necessary, and, of course, our legislators had to deal with a barrage from interest groups and others.  Those who voted in favor of the bill did so in defiance of their constituents, and I respect their decision.  I believe leaders must have the strength to vote for something that is unpopular with the masses but which they believe to be in the nation's best interest.  By voting no, Senator Crapo stood up against very strong lpressures, something just as difficult and equally important in a leader.  Some may say the aye votes were bought by Wall Street, others believe the nays crumbled under constituent pressure, but my personal observation is that the Members voted according to their own personal ideological convictions.  I will never forget the examples of strong leadership I witnessed in the past few days.

I was privileged enough to actually be sitting in the Senate gallery for the historical vote.  Watching the Senators interact on the floor gives the Senate a human face that one does not appreciate before they see it in person.  Senator John Kerry surprised me by how jovial and social he seems on the floor.  Senator Crapo is one of the quieter leaders on the floor, preferring to listen and comprehend the situation entirely before speaking.  I have heard on many occasions how much respect his colleagues have for his calm, humble disposition as well as his high intellect.  He might not speak a great amount, but he is the type of man who people listen to when he does speak, and I feel very privileged to be interning in his office.  

     

David, Idaho Falls, Alma College

October 3, 2008

Yeah! I finally moved from Reston, Virginia, to Arlington. I lived out in Reston for the first month of working here because I couldn’t find anywhere else. My commute was about an hour and a half by bus and then Metro. Now it is about 40 minutes, which is a really nice change. If I had to do it again, I would get housing more than a couple weeks before I came to D.C.

I thought I had to answer a lot of calls before this week, but my definition of busy has changed. This week Congress was supposed to be out of session, but because the pressing matter of the Financial Rescue Package, they have stayed in session until they can come to some agreement and pass a bill to help fix the economy. Up until the Senate voted a few days ago, we got quite a few angry calls. The night Senator Crapo voted no on the bailout plan, the next day, Thursday, we got all the nice calls from around the U.S. saying thanks. I love feeling like people like us. One guy even said sorry for yelling at us a couple days before and that his wife said he needs to think before he talks. It was kind of funny. The bailout package was passed in the Senate, and today it passed in the House. I got to go in the House gallery to hear some of the debates on the bill. The Representatives’ floor seems more chaotic than the Senate floor. People were raising their voices and would pop up at different times getting a minute to speak and sometimes yell. I didn't think the bill would pass the House because the majority of "minute speeches" were vehemently opposed to the $700 billion bailout.

I got to give some more tours over the past couple weeks. I feel comfortable giving tours now and can convey the information easier. I watered the plants again this week, which helps with the oxygen in the room, which makes for more intelligent conversations, which is quite an important job. I feel more comfortable with watering plants now, too.

Spencer, Sugar City, BYU-Idaho

September 30, 2008

This is my second blog so far and my fourth week here.. It's been busy what can I say? In the midst of all of the economic commotion, it has been crazy and people let us know how they feel by calling us. There have been quite a few angry phone calls and some people call every Senator to express their views!  I got tired of answering so many negative calls where people aren’t happy about the bailout, but, luckily, Dorothy brought in some brownies to help us feel better.  It worked.

I got to meet the Senator, and it was great! He is a very personal man. We went into his office and sat around his coffee table and just got to know each other. He asked us questions and we found out what he likes. He is super busy and so we had to wait 3 weeks to formally meet him. I have another office close to Karen's office (executive assistant) and so I see him rushing back and forth to and from appointments which are usually 15 minutes long because of all the things he has to do in a day.

I was able to attend a couple of Banking and Finance hearings with Ben Bernanke as the main witness and then another meeting with Henry Paulson, Christopher Cox, and Ben Bernanke on the witness stand taking a beating from a joint House and Senate hearing. I enjoy listening to what they have to say and especially the question and answer sessions after. When Ben Bernanke was the main witness, I didn't feel like he even knew what he was talking about. I was expecting to come out of it with a heightened perception of the economy, but really I just had a sore behind.

Capitol tours are definitely getting easier to do and flow pretty well now. Just yesterday the Dow Jones went down almost 800 points and I think, as I look back, I will remember when I was working here and the things that happened. I am grateful to be here to see our government in action and to gain a deeper knowledge and appreciation of legislation in general. I really feel like I am a part of history and when I get to be so close to the Capitol building where votes are cast and bills are passed.

Spencer, Sugar City, BYU-Idaho

September 17, 2008

One of the basic jobs falling to congressional interns is that of tour guide for the constituents wishing to visit the nation’s Capitol.  I began tour duty this past Thursday.  It’s amazing how many little tidbits of information you pick up from working in a building for a single week.  Thankfully, all of my tours went smoothly.  The Capitol is a beautiful building, and I am still somewhat of a tourist myself when walking through its majestic halls.  I highly recommend taking advantage of the congressional tour service for anyone visiting Washington, DC.

Over the weekend, some of my roommates and I visited the National Portrait Gallery and the American Museum of Art.  We spent all afternoon roaming the museums and never came even close to seeing everything they had to offer.  The internship has provided me with a real opportunity to explore the city’s museums, which honestly could take weeks.  This weekend I will be exploring my childhood favorite--the Smithsonian Natural History Museum. 

As the 2008 presidential election continues to near its climax, the energy in Washington is also building.  Everywhere you go, the election whispers can be heard, and nowhere else in the country are the voters more passionate or well informed.  I am one of those sick individuals that enjoy a good political conversation and in Washington everyone I converse with opens my eyes to a new aspect of the political world.  Again, at the end of this week, I am amazed at the sheer amount of knowledge I have gained.

David, Idaho Falls, Alma College

September 15, 2008

Well, this has been a great first week. A little slow.. OK, it was very slow, but very good. Recess is the best time to learn how to handle all the buttons on the phone. I felt like a pilot at first, looking at all those buttons and blinking lights in front of me. David and I felt pretty confident the second day we were in charge of the phones, but it was just trial and error until we got it. Now we have since learned which buttons to press and how to transfer calls to the staff’s relief. J The people are great to work with too.

One of my favorite parts of being here so far has been going on the Capitol tours. I love the history and can almost see the stories playing out in my mind’s eye. I liked the Statutory Hall the best and the story of John Adams (5th President) "sleeping" on his desk but really, because of the acoustics, he had his head down and would pop up every once in a while and know exactly what was being talked about. The information is so fascinating; hearing about our land in its early stages, led by men who were inspired. I ride the Metro to work every day and get off at Capitol South where I walk down First Street. I pass the Supreme Court, Capitol Building and the Library of Congress every day on my way to work, and I just try to imagine what has happened in there in its past. I love the history.

Lastly, I have really enjoyed attending the different hearings. I am an accounting major and was able to attend a Banking and Finance hearing, which I found quite interesting. So many issues that are talked about here and am excited to learn more about all of them!

Spencer, Sugar City, BYU-Idaho

September 10, 2008

Well, I have been in the office for just over a week now and am pleasantly surprised at just how much I have learned.  All of the staffers are great, many of them were also interns at one time, and treat us as their students, not cheap free labor to be abused.  Thankfully, absolutely none of the clique intern horror stories have come even close to passing.  I have had numerous opportunities to tour the Capitol, watch proceedings on the floor and sit in on committee meetings.

One of the highlights of my first week was sitting in on the Senate Armed Services hearing on Georgia and implications for U.S. policy meeting.  International politics has been one of the highlighted subjects during my collegiate studies and, in particular, I find Eastern European nationalistic conflicts interesting.  I know it sounds pretty nerdy, but whatever.  In the Senate Armed Services Committee, I was able to see several of the more notable Senators including Senator Hillary Clinton and Senator Joseph Lieberman; also Senator Carl Levin chairs the committee.  Levin is one of the Senators from Michigan, the state in which I go to school, which makes seeing him particularly neat to me.

The internship has offered me ample time to get out and see the city.  I haven’t been through D.C. since I was a child, and my appreciation for the area's history and culture has grown immensely.  Exploring the city with my roommates has been a tremendous experience.  Washington is a town filled with incredible people, and it is really strange how connections seem to exist between all of the Idahoans on the Hill; if you're an Idahoan, you’ll know someone.  I look forward to further adapting to the office environment and increasing my understanding of the Senate's functioning in the coming weeks.  

David, Idaho Falls, Alma College

July 25, 2008

I know I've gotten a little behind on my blog writing but you get around to it when you can.  Well, my time here is almost up. I only have two more days left in the office. I was planning on staying through August, but I am also employed in Florida, so I am going to head down there and spend two weeks working. Not to say I don't love it here because I really do. Things just changed when they moved the recesses date up. Ashley left last week and it's weird not having her around she was a great co-worker.

It has been interesting seeing how much I've grown since I started here. I was reading my first blog about how nervous I was to give a tour and how silly it sounded, but now I feel like I am so efficient in my tours, my scheduling, and I'm pretty sure I hold the record for the fastest fax sorter. As I said, I have loved this job and will miss everyone, but, most of all, I will miss Karen. She is the sunshine in my morning, the peanut butter with my jelly, the battery in my radio, the cream in my coffee. We keep mentioning here and there about how things will be when I leave. For sure, she's going to stay Aunt Karen to me forever. I’ll be calling her specifically about dieting and school for the rest of my life. In the meantime for all of you future interns, she can be a tough cookie, so watch out (I mean come on she has a reputation to preserve.)

If I could pass any information or advice on, I would say that this is one of the best offices you could be chosen to work for. Our Senator and staff are top -notch. They have a very firm grip on what they are doing and why they are here.  What meant the most to me was how much they take care of their interns. You are not just another number on the payroll and certainly not another body to fill the desk. Everybody takes the time to know you and respects all of the work you put forward in the office and it is such an honor to work here.

I will be the second of my roommates to move out. It is so odd that I say this has been my best roommate situation ever. I mean there are three girls in one room?! I know it sounds weird, but I have loved living with these girls. As far as the city, I love it here.  I'm really going to miss having so much to do and so much to see.  There is a sense of accomplishment and confidence I think one gains by living here.  You have to become more independent and in doing so you learn to trust instincts, make smart contacts, and take chances.  

I am slowly remembering how hard it was last summer to go from a very fast-paced proactive environment to Cedar City, and to a college classroom. It is a very drastic change. I at least hope that this time it is an easier adjustment. I guess the next question is what is in store for me next.  As long as I have my friends, my family, and God I have no worries!  (Who knows maybe I will end up working in D.C. again. More importantly, I could be working for Senator Crapo.

This has been the experience of a lifetime, and I want to thank everybody in the office for being so wonderful. I will miss you and wish you all the best of luck!

Lindsey, Twin Falls

July 24, 2008

Well, things are slowing down here. It is looking as if we are going into recess on August first which will really make the place like a ghost town. In the past two weeks I have gone on a White House tour and a Pentagon tour, which were both very cool. Those two things are about the extent of my tourist activities for the summer. The other day a fellow intern and I were watching Senator Crapo speak on the floor, and I waved at him and he waved back, which was exciting. I later found out that you are not supposed to wave to people on the floor from the galleries, but oh well the senator still waved at me which was really cute!

I finally went to a hearing, which my staff assistant has been trying to get me to do for weeks now. It was very interesting; I choose one that was about the rising cost of pharmaceuticals. All in all the summer is coming to an end and excitement on the hill is as well. I guess I have a quiet August to look forward to…

Jacky, Post Falls

July 23, 2008

I had another great week here at my internship, and I am very sad that my time here is quickly coming to an end. I’ve been trying to squeeze in as much tourists stuff as possible in the last couple of weekends, and have been going to as many museums and seeing as many sights as possible. I only have a little over a week left here and I’ve been trying to take in as much as I can.

I’ve been keeping busy at work as well. I attended a couple of Agriculture Committee briefings in the past two weeks. They were really interesting and gave me a greater insight into the inner workings of the Agriculture Committee. Yesterday, Senator Crapo spoke on the senate floor about energy prices and I was able to go watch him speak. I thought he did a really great job and I truly enjoyed watching him.

Chris, Weiser

July 21, 2008

My older brother was researching at the National Archives last week and so I was able to give him a tour of the Capitol. It was strange for me because I took him on a Saturday, which means I couldn’t take him on my usual route. When we came out over the west lawn, Ron Paul was having a rally on the steps; all those people spread out on the lawn was a pretty cool sight.

Sadly, last Thursday was one of our fellow interns last day here in Senator Crapo’s Office. It even feels a little bit empty without Ashley! Because she was leaving, I’ve been training to take over some of her duties. Every morning, I read through newspaper articles that mention the Senator or are topics of interest in Idaho and summarize them. It’s a great chance to keep up on the news in Idaho, even though I’m all the way in D.C. I also went to the Senate Republican Conference Briefing this morning, which was really interesting. As part of my new duties I’m visiting places in the Capitol where I’ve never been- since I really only know the areas where we go tours. So it’s fun to see a little bit more of the building.

I’ve been trying to make it to more hearings because they’re a great opportunity. Last week I went to one for the Senate Judiciary on the impact of current detainee policy on terrorist activity. Much of the hearing focused on the rights of prisoners in Guantanamo Bay, especially in light of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Hamdan v. Rumsfeld. One of the most interesting testimonies came from retired Air Force Colonel Will Gunn, who was the chief defense council for detainees in Guantanamo Bay. 

Sara, Rexburg

July 17, 2008

Today is a sad day for me—it is my last day as an intern for Senator Crapo.  I have truly had an amazing experience!  Before I arrived in Washington DC, I was unsure of what my daily activities would entail.  I am happy to say that the opportunities I have had over the past ten weeks have completely surpassed my expectations. 

One of my favorite activities was leading constituent tours.  The Capitol is an amazing building and I am thrilled that I had the chance to learn its rich history.  Moreover, I took pleasure in getting to know the people on my tour and hearing their stories—Idaho is home to many brilliant and talented people.  I will miss interacting with constituents from throughout the state and sharing my knowledge of the Capitol and Washington DC with them.

I am thankful for the various conferences, events and hearings that I was able to attend.  There is always an assortment of intriguing meetings occurring and I was fortunate to attend a few that particularly appealed to me.  I have discovered there is no better way to learn about the government than by interaction and these activities provided a great way to observe the governmental process first hand. 

However, what I am most appreciative of was my opportunity to interact with a phenomenal staff.  Each member of Senator Crapo’s staff is amongst the best and brightest workers on Capitol Hill.  Further, they want to the interns to have a positive experience.  They trust the interns to complete tasks and are always willing to answer questions.  The staff played a major role in my unforgettable Washington DC experience.  If you are considering applying for this internship, I strongly recommend that you do! 

Ashley, Boise

July 11, 2008

Last week, especially last Friday, D.C. was absolutely packed for the Independence Day celebration! I spent the whole day on the National Mall and had a lot of fun, even though there were so many people, aka tourists, that I could barely move. Honestly, it was a bit of a shock to come back to the office after the three-day weekend.

This week I went with some of the other interns went to the Constituent Coffee held in Senator Craig’s office. It was interesting to hear Senator Craig talk to a fairly small group in an open question-and-answer session. Afterward we all got our pictures taken with him. We also went on a tour of the White House, which was cool in theory because it’s really difficult to a White House tour approved. However I have to say, in reality a tour of the Capitol is much more exciting and informative! The definite highlight of my week was the opportunity to go to a discussion of the Merida Initiative. The first speaker was Mexico’s Ambassador to the United States Arturo Sarukhán. The Merida Initiative is a cooperative effort between Mexico and the United States to stop drug trafficking and organized crime. Ambassador Sarukhán was an excellent speaker, and his speech was extremely thought-provoking.

Sara, Rexburg

July 10, 2008

Last week I helped out on the Senator’s lunch that he hosted in the Capitol, which despite all the craziness, was very cool.  To top it off, we all got homemade jam and blankets, thanks to Mrs. Crapo. I finally made it into the White House, which was short, but interesting, although I would have loved a West Wing tour; apparently those are hard to get or something, I guess…haha.

Yesterday was a very big vote.  It was the first day that Senator Kennedy was back from being sick, and we all tried to go watch the vote.  Unfortunately, everyone else had the same idea, and we missed it. Two of the other interns met Obama, which I am very jealous about because I have been trying to meet him since I started working here. But, oh well. I will keep my fingers crossed. I have a tour of the pentagon on Monday, thanks to Ashley, which I am very excited about! All in all fun and busy things on the hill, and only more to come, I hope!

Jacky, Post Falls

July 9, 2008

Today was probably the busiest day I have had here in the office and by far the most interesting. I started the day by attending an Agriculture Committee briefing where I learned about how to revitalize a forest after it has been strip by a fire.  It was fascinating to hear about the various ways to rebuild a forest.

In the afternoon I went to the National Turkey Federation luncheon and had some very high-quality fried turkey. On the way back we ran into the Democratic Party’s presumptive nominee for president, Senator Barack Obama of Illinois. It was odd seeing him in person, mainly because he has been in the public eye so much lately.

After lunch I went to the senate gallery to watch the senator’s vote on HR 6331, the Medicare bill. It was one of the more exciting votes, because Senator Edward Kennedy of Massachusetts came back to vote for the first time since he was diagnosed with a brain tumor. All in all it was a very interesting and exciting day here on Capitol Hill.

Chris, Weiser

July 8, 2008

Today, I had the opportunity to attend the Senate Republican Capital Markets Task Force meeting with Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JP Morgan Chase.  The meeting was regarding the current state of the markets and the possible steps Congress should or should not take to address this issue.  This meeting was particularly intriguing to me due to my hopes to enter the financial field after I complete my undergraduate schooling.  It was interesting to hear Mr. Dimon’s view on the US economic conditions and what he feels is the best approach for Congress to take.   After the conference, I escorted Mr. Dimon and his staff to their next meeting in the Capitol.  During this time, I was able to tell them about my desires to pursue a financial career.  You never know what kind of connections you will be able to make during a Capitol Hill internship!

Ashley, Boise

July 2, 2008

It's hard to believe that I've been interning for over a month. My time here in Washington, D.C., has really flown by. It's hard to imagine that the summer is almost halfway over.

I've been trying to take advantage of my time here on the East coast, so last weekend I went to New York City with my roommates. It was the first time I had ever been to New York City, and it was an eye-opening experience. The city is a far cry from the downtown areas of cities in Idaho. I felt trapped and little overwhelmed walking around in Manhattan. The large amounts of people on the streets and the height of the buildings can really make you feel small. Even though it was a fun trip, I was very happy to get back to my house in D.C.

This week has been a little slower in the office because it is a state ork period. A state work period is when the Senate takes a break so the Senators can go home and visit with their constituents. We will be back in the swing of things next week when the Senate reconvenes.

Chris, Weiser

July 1, 2008

OK!!!  Blog for this week since I missed last week, and every hour I have a pop -up that says "do blog" I guess I’ll get to it. I really shouldn't be writing right now because I'm so hyper and just lovin' life and feeling crazy! The last two weeks were so busy and crazy. First my roommate and I got to help with the Congressional Awards national program. It was so fun helping with the group and the ceremonies all day. Then that night we had a huge dinner, 100$ a plate! The food was delish! "The Rock" was there, so I guess I'm building up my list of famous people while I’m here. I've also seen Regis, Mike Ditka, and Terry Bradshaw.

This last week we were ending our session, and Senator Crapo was in charge of the Republican Senators' Thursday lunch. Well, that means I was in for a BUSY schedule! We were working on invitations and gifts and food and delivery. It was so fun. Now Karen and I are convinced I should be doing events and coordinating.

As for my free time, two weeks ago was the national BBQ competition, and it was AMAZING! I went with two friends, and it was all of these display tables and promotions, but the coolest thing was the ½-mile long tent of free Safeway samples! I was about to die! Then we met up with all of the other interns to go paddle boating. Then we shopped and played in Chinatown and went to the museum.

This last weekend three of us drove out to North Beach in Maryland. It was great to get out again and just lay out after a stressful week! I haven’t been to Virginia Beach, but what I've heard vs. my experience at North, I'd recommend the longer drive to Virginia Beach. One of my friends took us out to Baltimore for dinner Friday night, and it was love at first sight! We ate at Phillips on the pier, then went to the side of the pier that had Gold's Gym, Barnes and Noble, night clubs/restaurants, and most importantly… ESPN ZONE! I am such a huge ESPN fan! And if that weekend wasn't good enough, I topped it off with another Sunday BBQ with all of my friends and a motorcycle ride to Rock Creek Park! At first I was jealous that Monica was in Hawaii playing, but now I'm having the time of my life. Like I said, while I miss my family more and more every day, I still think of them, write them letters, send packages and talk to them when I can.

Lindsey, Twin Falls

June 28, 2008

           

I spent this afternoon preparing a fact card for the Senator to use during one of his committee hearings.  The fact card featured a variety of facts and figures in the US and Idaho.  For example, I included the ethnic breakdown of population in the United States as well as the breakdown in Idaho.  Overall, the card featured facts addressing population statistics, illegal immigration, Operation Iraqi freedom, oil prices and US GDP, debt and taxes.  It was interesting to compare the national figures to Idaho figures. 

I acquired the information from various sites including the Census Bureau, Department of Defense, Department of Labor and the Congressional Budget Office.  Some of the state information was difficult to come across due to the shear volume of information on each of these websites.  It is amazing how much information these sites provide but if you actually want to take advantage of the website you have to have a good idea of exactly what you are looking for when you visit the site. 

Ashley, Boise

June 25, 2008

This last weekend I went paddle boating in the Jefferson Tidal Basin with all the other Idaho interns. It was great seeing the Jefferson Memorial up close, and being out on the water all day was a blast. All in all, it was a great Saturday, hanging out with my fellow interns.

This week at work has been very busy so far. It's the last week before the July Fourth break, and everyone around the office is working hard to make sure as much as possible can be done before we go into recess. We’ve also been rearranging the front office, which has led to some additional hassle.

A highlight of the week was when I was giving a Capitol tour, and I saw Senator John Kerry of Massachusetts. Although I am not a big fan of where he stands politically, it was still really cool to see him in person.

Chris, Weiser

June 23, 2008

This was my second week here in Senator Crapo’s Office.  On Wednesday most of the interns went to watch the Senate vote to override the Presidents veto on the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act- a truly historic event. We also had a huge group for a tour of the Capitol where we led groups of 15 or more on Wednesday. Having big groups isn’t very fun because it takes forever to get through security and it’s hard to talk to and keep them together. On Thursday, the whole office took pictures with the Senator on the Capitol steps. All of the interns had a blast hamming it up for the photos. Later, we went over to the Capitol Hill Ice Cream Social and brought back tons of ice cream for the staff members. On Saturday, we got together with the interns from other Idaho offices to go paddle-boating on the Jefferson Tidal Basin. Free pizza, fun on the water, and getting to know people who actually know where your hometown is made it a great event!

Sara, Rexburg

June 19, 2008

My third week is coming to a close here in Washington D.C. It has been a very busy and exciting week here at the office. I’ve given a tour every day this week and gave two tours today. The second tour was just a small group so I was able to show them the actual tomb built for George Washington below the capitol rotunda. He was never actually buried in the tomb so it is now just an empty space where a catafalque rest in between times when it is used for people lying in state.

Another great thing I did this week was go and take notes at a congressional hearing. The congressmen and congresswomen were questioning a man who had been accused of unfairly distributing government grants. It’s really neat going to a hearing and then seeing a article about it in the newspaper the next day.

This weekend I’m going paddle boating with other Idaho interns and I can’t wait to get in the sun.  I’m going to go to some museums as well so I let you all know how that goes.  

Chris, Weiser

June 17, 2008

Well, I know I’m a few days behind to be writing a blog but I guess I was just waiting for something super exciting to happen. Last week was all well. We’ve just had crazy rainstorms off and on. I LOVE the weather here. I know some times it's deathly hot, but usually that just means a rainstorm is on its way to cool things down.

The more I work with scheduling I know I’m in the right place. I don’t think I can say enough times how much I love working with Karen and Linda back here. It gives me a chance to work with everyone, but do something I’m good at.

Yesterday I gave a tour to about 23 students from Raft River and they were SO fun! I had a blast; they all wanted pictures with me and Sara. Now I bet I’m going to have about 12 9th graders requesting me as a friend on Facebook.

This last weekend a bunch of us went to Six Flags--a MUST DO if you ever get the chance. We missed the bus by two minutes so had this crazy cab driver take all six of us. It was a day of NON STOP fun! Plus the whole place is made for superhero/comic book nerds so it was like heaven for me. I only wish my best friend Tony could have also been there he was so jealous. We also went to the 12-story local art exhibit for its last weekend before they shut it down. That was so neat! Plus free!

I really miss Taushia and Monica and all of my radio friends back home and my family (especially my niece Kylie when I talk to her on the phone) but I’m just learning to love every minute of every experience here. On Sunday, one of my friends took me for a night ride through the District, through Virginia and into Maryland on his motorcycle. Just know, there is no other way to see the city the way we did! It was amazing! That’s pretty much my 411!  

Lindsey, Twin Falls

June 16, 2008

This is my first week here in Senator Crapo’s Office. So far I’m mostly working in the front office- answering phones, letting people know when their appointments arrive, etc. I’ve had a few mistakes so far but everyone has been really nice. Everyone was also really understanding when I was two hours late on Wednesday because I got lost! On Friday, all of the interns went to the Library of Congress to pull books for children and women from their surplus to send to Idaho. It was a lot of fun as we compared all of the crazy titles we found. Also on Friday, I got to go on my first real tour of the Capitol. It was a small group of only three, one of which was an alumni from my school (College of Idaho), led by Chris.

Sara, Rexburg

June 13, 2008

The first two weeks have flown by here in D.C.  Being in a new place and coming into a new job can really put your head into a spin. I feel that I have learned so much in the last two weeks that it is hard to put into words. The people in the office are really great, and they’re making sure I get the most out of the short time I have here this summer. The first couple of days I learned about the basic functions of the office and the various things I’ll be doing this summer. All the staff members really work to get you involved in their work, and always try to supply you with projects so you can learn more about the legislative process.

Yesterday was the most exciting day I have had here on the hill so far. In the morning I attended a Banking Committee hearing where mayors from around the United States testified on the quality of their cities infrastructure. Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York City testified to the committee members about his city and it was really cool seeing democracy in action. In the afternoon I gave a tour of the Capitol to a group from Coeur d’Alene. They were a really fun group so it made for a great afternoon.

In the evening I went to an Idaho Power ice cream reception and met Senator Larry Craig of Idaho. It was really cool seeing him mingling amongst everyone else at the reception. He seemed very humble, which is an attribute I believe every politician should have. All in all it has been a really great first two weeks and I’m so excited for the rest of the summer.

Chris, Weiser

June 13, 2008

This week was busy. There were a lot of constituent calls about the Medicare bill. I have been archiving all the tour logs for the last 3 months, which is kind of a boring time consuming job, but I am now into May, and well on my way to getting them finished, which is good. I wrote a couple letters with Luke this week, which was pretty cool. Chris and I gave our first tour, well it was more him then me, but I am trying to learn the ropes, he has a much better memory then I do, so he got all the facts down very fast. I am looking forward to giving them; I will have to study up though.

We went to a couple of events this week also, we had huckleberry ice-cream which was amazing since it is impossible to get huckleberries around here!

All in all it was a good week

Jacky, Post Falls

June 12, 2008

This morning we went over to the LOC [Library of Congress] to pull and catalogue books.  Each week our office enters the stacks and pulls specific books to send back to the Idaho offices.  Every week they pull children’s books for the underprivileged kids; additionally, if the Idaho offices are sponsoring a special event, then we pull books on the event topic.  I was astonished by all of the books, not to mention completely random books, which we saw!  I saw numerous books that I wanted to take out and read for myself.  I’m looking forward to doing this job each week.

Ashley, Boise

June 10, 2008

I’m learning that I LOVE my job. I’m really glad I got put where I am and with the people I’m with. This job is awesome on the busy days, but there are definitely slow days. I never though I’d say that, but I love staying busy and that’s not always the case.

This last week was kind of hard because I was off and on sick. I threw up twice, one of those times being this weekend. We went on a White House tour (which was good, but I can’t believe they are so stickler about it; the security took longer then the actual tour). Then I went out to Fairfax, and my #1 advice… if you’re hot and it's hot outside, don’t get into a hot Metro car that doesn’t have working air conditioning! So I got sick on the way there, but then we took a bus to the fairground and watched the Bowling For Soup concert. I was like showered in sweat, and I feel like I’m living in FL again, but it was worth it the concert was a blast.

We also got to do some other fun stuff this last week, like a Library of Congress tour and a Supreme Court tour. I especially liked that one because there was an ASL interpreter.

The weather here is the only thing I don’t like; this week, we’ve had crazy humidity, heat warnings, thunder/lightning storms, and the tornado scare! By the way, when we had the tornado lockdown, I was taking a tour through the Capitol and we were stuck in the crypt! Could any other place be worse! So I wandered with my group to the House side and, through a series of strange events, we ended up in the House Gallery, watching them in session.

So that’s about all for me! Lovin’ life here, and I REALLY don’t want to go back to SUU. But I can make it through one more year.

Lindsey, Twin Falls

June 3, 2008

Today was insane!  I lead two very exciting tours.  My first tour was a "VIP" tour.  The people on the tour were friends of an Idaho Representative and then the others were family of the Chief Justice of Idaho.  Before I took them up to the gallery, I explained to them how I originally had this idealized image of the Senate:  one in which all of the Senators sat at their desks and listened to each Senator present.  I finished by telling them that they would most likely only see one or two Senators, probably whom they couldn’t recognize.  After a 20 minute wait to enter the gallery, I was proven completely wrong!  There were about 10 Senators on the floor including Senators [John] Kerry [Massachusetts], [Barbara] Boxer [California] and [John] Warner [Virginia].  Senator [Bob] Corker, from Tennessee, concluded his presentation on the Climate Security Act with about 3-½ minutes to spare.  Immediately Senator Boxer jumped up and announced her plan for how they would split up that leftover time.  This caused an uproar, and the Senators fought, for the next 3-½ minutes, about how to split up the time.  Once they had neared a conclusion, one of the Senators asked the President Pro Tempore how much time was left.  You could tell the Pro Tem was ecstatic when he revealed that the Senators had wasted that extra time fighting over the way in which they would split the time.  I found this hilarious.

Later, I was able to take my two visiting friends on a quick tour of the Capitol.  It was nice to have an informal group.  Partway into my tour, a security guard stopped us.  A few seconds later, Vice President Cheney and about 15 Senators rushed past.  The entire Senate had just taken a picture on the floor, so we were able to see a big group of them as they left. I didn’t recognize all of the Senators but I did recognize Elizabeth Dole [North Carolina] and Senator [Dick] Durbin [Illinois].  We waited for the entourage to pass and entered the Rotunda.  An intern caught my attention from the corner of my eye—it was one of my friends from high school! It turns out that he is interning in the Capitol this summer as well.  All I can say is that it really is a small world.

Ashley, Boise

May 30, 2008

Well, week one for me is halfway over!  I am SO glad I took Political Science before I came out here.  I had NO idea how important knowing details were about how our government is run.  I love it here, though.

My apartment complex is awesome and really nice plus I’m with great girls!  It is a little different going from a single bedroom to having three of us in one room but is all apart of the experience.  I was able to get here over Memorial Day weekend, so I had a few days to settle in.  The Metro wasn’t as bad as I thought; I’ve pretty much got it down after a week of trial and error.

The dress code here is crazy but fun.  I would probably be the last person you’d see wearing a skirt and heels, but on some level it feels like dress up.  I like acting all professional and stuff--haha!

My first day on the job I was overwhelmed. Rachel runs the office here and she’s great, but I already came into this thinking I was not cut out for the job, so making mistakes made it even harder.  The most important thing is just learning to trust yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

I also met Karen, who will technically be my boss.  I’ll be working with the scheduling, and I’m totally excited.  Everyone else in the office is very nice. I think this was a great pick!

Really, the biggest thing that got me was when I found out the two guys over the mail, Chas and Jim, are hearing impaired. That is so cool to me because I’m going into deaf studies, and I just love talking with them. They are the coolest guys ever!

I also have to give my first Capitol tour tomorrow!  Ah! I’m kind of nervous because it is so soon but we will see! That’s about all from me. This will be a rockin’ summer!

Lindsey, Twin Falls

May 22, 2008

Time flies when you’re having fun and working hard!  It seems like these past five months of my internship in the DC office have flown by, and I have enjoyed my time here and have learned many professional ‘tricks of the trade’.  Specifically throughout my internship I have learned the value of effective communication, time management, organization, following through on assignments, double checking work and always putting forth my best effort, as well as many other invaluable lessons.  Attending briefings and events, typing and writing letters, and working in the front office have instilled in me a specific skill set that I will be able to always utilize in whatever future position I may hold.  I enjoyed each of the 38 tours of the Capitol building I gave, and loved learning about the history of this incredible building and our government processes.  I will always look back at this time in my life as very unique and wonderful.

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

April 10, 2008

This week it was my pleasure to give a Capitol tour to a group of students from Avignon, France.  It was the first time I had given a tour to an international group, and it was difficult because very few of the students spoke any English.  If I spoke slowly, their teacher could translate most of the tour to them.  As difficult as it was, I was surprised at how much could be communicated in spite of the language difference.  For example, they knew Idaho was “the land of potatoes,” and they asked me about McCain, the world's largest producer of frozen French fries.  They must sell their product in France!  We also had an interesting discussion about Supreme Court justices and their life tenure.  The students seemed to be concerned that life tenure meant the justices were not representative or responsive to the American.  I tried to explain to them that the life tenure was important for the justices to be impartial and uninfluenced by partisan politics.  They asked what would

happen if a justice slipped into dementia or was otherwise incapacitated and unable to make important decisions.  I explained that the justices can, and usually do, retire before that point.  Long story short—taking the French students on a tour was a refreshing break from typical tours.  They were very appreciative and fun to interact with.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

April 4, 2008

This was a pretty busy week as it was our first week back from Easter Recess.  I have given two tours, and done a lot of work in the scheduling department.  I have called people and confirmed their meetings, and been kept busy the whole day through going through meeting requests and typing in confirmed meetings.  I have also helped cover phones and do little different jobs throughout the office. 

Yesterday our Chief of Staff took us interns out to lunch in the Senate Dining Room café!  It was wonderful and I felt at awe that I was able to attend and eat lunch there!  When we walked in, the Secretary of Defense was also dining, and there were several body guards around.  It was also delicious food and I was able to keep a souvenir menu!  

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

March 28, 2008

Since we are in Easter Recess, this week has been slow meeting and office wise, but tour wise has been crazy!  It’s a good thing my family calls me tour guide Barbie – because I have given a tour almost every day for the past two weeks!  I really enjoy giving tours of the Capitol.  I love sharing with people my excitement and gratitude for our founding fathers, and I love watching their faces as we go throughout the diverse rooms of the Capitol building.  It is an incredible feeling to realize that you are where history truly happened.  Sometimes I can just imagine Abraham Lincoln strolling down these halls – it is magnificent!

I also did a lot of scheduling work this week.  I took the next step up in responsibility and actually called constituents and set up their exact time, got all of their information, etc.  That is also a great experience and I am learning about how to handle different situations and be more professional.

My husband’s family has been in town this week, and it has been fun to show them around Washington and share in their excitement and joy.  Our nation’s capitol is truly an incredible place, and the examples of Americans before me that are highlighted and celebrated here inspire me to become a better citizen of my country.

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

March 26, 2008

Today qualified as an interesting day at work.  I gave a tour to a group of junior high students from Boise. We had just entered Brumidi Corridors in the Capitol, about ten minutes into the tour, when one of the teachers alerted me that a student was sick and needed to throw up. I frantically looked around the corridor for a trashcan, but there was not a trashcan in sight. We rushed down the hallway and around a corner, and thankfully there was a men's bathroom. Meanwhile, the remainder of the tour group was ten feet behind us trying to catch up. It's always a trick to keep groups together in the Capitol, especially when you're rushing to find a bathroom. Apparently, a flu bug was going around the group, because they said they had to fly a couple of the students home the day before because of illness. However, the sick boy came out of the bathroom looking much relieved and ready to continue the tour. Luckily, he grabbed two plastic bags in case it happened again, and it did. We made it through the Old Supreme Court Chambers and up the stairs to the chandelier before he felt the urge to vomit again. It was mildly humorous, because the Capitol was packed shoulder-to-shoulder and the plastic bag he had was clear, so everyone could hear, see, and smell the kid throwing up. It took everything I had not to gag, and the other students (mainly girls) were all grossed out as well. Of course, the nearest bathroom was back downstairs and on the other side of the building. I offered to escort the kid there, but he insisted he was fine and didn't need to wash his mouth out, so we proceeded into the Old Senate Chamber. I'm not exactly sure, but he may have used his last bag and thrown up again in the last room, Statuary Hall. At that point, the tour was close enough to being over that I was searching for an exit for the kid. Again, he insisted he was fine and didn't need to wash his mouth out, but this time his teacher forced him to. I just had to chuckle that something so random and disgusting would happen on one of the busiest tourist days of the year!

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

March 20, 2008

Last weekend, a couple friends and I went to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. I visited the museum three years ago, but I had the flu and did not spend much time there. I heard a lot of wonderful things about it and wanted to visit again, so I was glad for the opportunity.

As you enter the museum, you are given an identification card with a photograph and life story of a Holocaust prisoner. My identification card told the story of Else Skutezka Kulkova, a Jewish milliner. There are three floors in the museum: Nazi Assault—1933 to 1939, The “Final Solution”—1940 to 1945, and the Last Chapter. With each level of the museum, you read another page of your identification card, and the person’s life story followed what you were learning about at the museum. In 1942, Elsa, her husband, and her son were forced to sell their businesses for less than $10 and were deported to Theresienstadt in Czechoslovakia. Elsa died after six months of slave labor at age forty.

After receiving our identification cards, we watched a short film called “The Nazi Rise to Power.” It was a good introductory to the exhibits and a good refresher of events leading up to the Holocaust that I had forgotten from high school history. I was struck by how easily the people of Germany were deceived by Adolf Hitler. I did not know he had served time in jail before coming to power, and it made me realize the importance of researching political candidates and what they stand for before voting for them. I was also astounded at how quickly the events surrounding the Holocaust began once Hitler became the Chancellor of Germany, and that there were some Jews that did escape Germany and find refuge in neighboring countries before concentration camps were set up.

I had also forgotten about Kristallnacht, or “The Night of Broken Glass,” when the Nazis led a one-night raid on thousands of Jewish businesses and synagogues. As part of the Nazi propaganda, the desecration of these buildings was wrongly blamed on spontaneous German retaliation to a young Jew who shot and killed a diplomat.

At the end of the exhibits, there was a poem by Martin Niemoller written on the wall that said:

First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out- Because I was not a Socialist.

Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out- Because I was not a trade unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out- Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me- and there was no one left to speak for me.

It really drove the point of the Holocaust Museum home, and I think the point of the museum is to gain an awareness of what happened so that something similar never happens again. A lot of people talk about how depressing the Holocaust Museum is, but I was glad for the time I got to spend there and the things I learned.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

March 14, 2008

This was truly an incredible and very busy week! Each day brought a new adventure, and I loved each experience!  I gave three tours this week - one to my third grade teacher, one to the Mayors of Idaho Falls and Rexburg, and one to an older couple and their family.   I was also able to help purchase a pre-flown flag (flown over the capitol) for my brother’s elementary school.  I received the letter with his handwriting on it, (he is the student body president), and showed it and the actual letter to the Senator, who was very happy and loved it!  He personally signed the letter of recognition for the school, and was very excited that they wanted a flag! 

On Thursday, the senate had a vote-a-rama; basically the Senate had over 40 roll call votes.  Consequently, as Senator Crapo was voting so many times but still wanted to work, I was the go-between for him and the executive assistant.  I ran things over to the Capitol to the Senator personally 7 times throughout the day.  I was able to see more of the Capitol and had several short chats with the Senator, it was quite the experience!

 
Also on Thursday morning, I attended a Congressional Remembrance Ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda honoring the soldiers and families of those soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.  It was so amazing to sit in the Rotunda and listen to the speeches and the singing of the National Anthem.  I felt such an intense gratitude for our founding fathers and soldiers who have given so much for us.  In attendance were approximately 80 senators, including John McCain, John Kerry, Harry Reid, Ted Kennedy, and many more!!! I actually sat three seats behind John McCain, and had the opportunity to shake hands with him! I told him that I liked his tie, he said “thank you very much!” and the senator standing next to him (I don't know who it was) said ‘Wow, that will be the best thing he'll hear all day!'  I later saw a picture of him with President Bush in Time magazine wearing the same tie! 

I also had the opportunity to shake hands with Ted Kennedy and John Kerry.  While Kerry was taking a picture with a soldier, he looked at me straight in the eye and said 'He makes me look good, huh?'  I agreed, and then shook hands with them and he thanked me for coming. I also was a few feet away from Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi!  Nancy and Harry both spoke about soldiers and freedom.  It was very powerful, especially as Harry said “164 years ago, in this very room we are now in, Abraham Lincoln's body laid in state...he was fighting a different war...we stand not as Democrats or Republicans, but as Americans in honoring our soldiers, country, and their families”.  At the end of the ceremony we all sang “God bless America” together.  It was so powerful to be in this historic room with major leadership while honoring our nation’s heroes, our soldiers.

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

March 13, 2008

This week’s pace has changed incredibly.  The changes have occurred for a few different reasons.  First, our staff assistant left to move back to the state.  With his leaving, the interns have been assigned to a few new responsibilities.  Second, schools across the country are beginning spring break, and Capitol Hill is a buzz.  Spring break means more Capitol tours and more meetings with constituent groups.  I was excited to see a few people I knew from my hometown come through for a meeting yesterday.  Finally, the Senate has been debating the budget resolution.  Today, there was a vote-a-rama on the Senate floor to debate and vote on dozens of amendments to the budget.  The budget resolution drew a lot of attention and deservedly so.  The presidential candidates left the campaign trail to return to the Hill and attend to their senatorial responsibilities, and constituents have been calling in droves to express their views on different aspects of the budget.  Needless to say, the office has been busy!  Next week the Senate goes into Easter recess, and while there will still be plenty of work to do, it will be a welcome lull.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

March 10, 2008

I am so amazed at the opportunities that have come my way while being here! Just this week alone, I ran into Senator Crapo and another senator on the railway between our building and the capitol, and I also ran into Senator Leahy!  I am learning so much in every aspect.

This week I was given some extra responsibilities.  I called people and actually confirmed the time and set up the meeting, versus typing in a computer.  I am also the official 'package runner' to Crapo when he is on the senate floor for a vote.  We put everything in a huge official envelope and then I have to literally run it to the Senate galleries to the Senator. I take it to the senate receiving room, which is beautiful! It has a large chandelier and these huge doors that lead to the actual floor.  If you try to go through those, large security men take you out quick.  Trust me, I know. I also am in charge of putting together the Senator's briefing packet which he takes everywhere and holds his flight info, meeting info, etc. This weekend he went to Idaho, so I taped some chocolate onto a paper and put it with his plane ticket with a little message!

This week we had an exciting visitor...Stella, a falcon!  She is cousin to the Peregrine Falcon, which is the bird on the Idaho quarter and was removed from the Endangered Species List in 1999.  She visited our office, and everyone took pictures with her.  In my picture I held up the Idaho quarter, and Stella freaked!  She started screeching and flapping.  I looked scared in the picture because I thought she was going to attack me!  The trainer got Stella to open her wings in her picture with the Senator.  It was pretty cool! 

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

 

March 7, 2008

For President's Day, and in celebration of the great George Washington's birthday, I ventured a little ways out of town and went to Fredericksburg where the man himself "cut down a cherry tree" (or so they still say).   I visited Ferry Farms, where he lived for the first ten years or so of his life, and saw the house in old town that he bought for his mother, his sister's house just down the street and the tavern his brother owned. . . .  In each, we traveled through time as the guides dressed in the garb of the day and taught us about the phraseology, which supposedly originated there . . . . " “Mind your P’s and Q's!"  "Bottom's up!"  "Mind your beeswax!"

Aside from celebrating Washington's birthday, I also got to visit the humble sites where parts of the Civil War were fought.  Fredericksburg is about halfway between the historic Capitol of the North and the headquarters of the South, and so there is a Confederate cemetery, commemorating the lives of those who fought for the South.  There is also a quiet drive you can take on Lee Rd. where you can see Civil War cannons and man-made trenches in the woods.  The actual town of Fredericksburg is lovely; it is very quaint.  As I walked through the streets of Old Towne, it occurred to me that this is where George Washington and many others made history. 

Every once and a while, I get the same chills as I'm giving a Capitol tour, as I reach the sudden realization that the words I’m saying—". . . this is the room where Thomas Jefferson was inaugurated. . . where the Dred Scott Decision was handed down. . .  " really hit me, because I am here where the political leaders of the past made important decisions which still affect us today.  The other day, I sat in the Senate Gallery where, in honor of President's Day, a member of the Senate read George Washington's Farewell Address.  The more tours I give, pointing out the significance of why George Washington wasn’t buried in the Crypt, or why he gave up his position as depicted in the oil on canvas in the Rotunda, "General George Washington Resigning His Commission". . . the more amazed I am with the impact he had on this country.  The things I have mentioned are just a few major significant moves that Washington did,  which, had he done differently, this country of ours would have turned out very differently . . . . .  It has been amazing this President's Day to reflect on the progress this country has made while being here where it all happened, and to know further still that I am still here where all of the political leaders of today are making the history that will be tomorrow.  It is an exhilarating experience to be a part of the process and to see so much of it firsthand. 

Rachel, Boise, Boise State University

March 6, 2008

Last Friday, Suzi, a fellow intern from Canberra, Australia, completed her internship and headed back to Australia.  Suzi was a lot of fun to work with and a delightful person.  When she left, I was given one of her responsibilities—compiling news clips for the press shop.  This task involves compiling articles that mention Senator Crapo and articles of significance to Idaho and then summarizing them for the Senator and staff.  It is very gratifying to be doing work that is given directly to the Senator and read by the entire staff, but it is also a bit unnerving.  So far, I have also really enjoyed reading and learning about issues of importance to local areas in the state of Idaho.

In conjunction with my new press shop responsibilities, Marques, our Deputy Communications Director, took me to the Senator’s radio teleconference on Tuesday.  It was exciting to get to walk with the Senator and sit in a real recording studio with microphones, headphones, and an “On Air” light.  The Senator answered a range of questions about things like the Consumer Protection Safety Act that is before Congress this week, the North Atlantic Free Trade Agreement, the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, and the progress of the current Farm Bill.  I was impressed by the Senator’s knowledge on such a wide range of topics and his ability to respond to random questions so eloquently.

Another highlight of the week was getting to have my picture taken with Stella, a falcon that the Peregrine Foundation brought in.  Stella was about a foot tall, with a yellow beak and black and brown body.  Her talons must have been sharp, because her handler had to wear leather gloves.  When prompted, Stella surprised us by spreading her wings for photos with the Senator.  Her visit to the office was a novelty that enlivened a rather busy and laborious day.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

February 28, 2008

This week has been very busy, and I have gone home exhausted each day!  With the senate back in full swing, it has been fun to help coordinate meetings and schedules.  I have also witnessed first hand the importance of good communication and team work. The office would not run smoothly without everyone doing their specific task.

 This week I had the opportunity to meet the entire Idaho delegation once again, and also to meet several prominent figures in Idaho’s energy industry.  It was very interesting and fascinating to hear our congressional representatives talk about Idaho, earmarks, and other things that are of current importance. I felt a sense of pride about Idaho and how the state is growing while the congressmen spoke and I realized just how proud and grateful I am to be an Idaho girl!

On Saturday we went to three ½ museums - the Holocaust, Smithsonian Air and Space, the National Archives, and the small exhibit of the Smithsonian American History (the ½ museum) since the entire museum is currently undergoing renovation.  It was amazing!  I loved seeing pictures, artifacts, and learning more about our Nation’s history. Among other things we saw the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, George Washington’s army uniform, and Abraham Lincoln’s top hat he wore to Ford’s Theatre.  It was a great week and I look forward to many more great weeks to come!

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

February 28, 2008

As part of my internship, I am participating in the Washington Seminar Program through Brigham Young University.  Every Friday, I attend briefings and lectures organized by my professor.  Thus far, we have heard from a wide range of fascinating speakers. 

Our first lecture was given by a communications specialist, who spent the day teaching us about how the media crafts messages and how to respond to difficult questions.  It was the most useful of the lectures to date.

Subsequently, the lectures focused on grassroots lobbying and mobilization.  The central question of the unit was, “How effective are lobbyists and what makes them effective?”  One particular Friday, we toured the Mirant Plant.  Mirant is a coal plant that produces electricity for parts of the D.C. area.  At the plant, we learned about the Environmental Protection Agency’s regulations and how Mirant is staying within these regulations.  In the afternoon, we heard a presentation by a representative of NOTICE, the civic organization in Alexandria, Virginia that opposes the Mirant Plant.  It was interesting to hear both sides of the issue and see how these two groups work with the government.

In addition to lectures and briefings, we took a weekend trip to Valley Forge and Philadelphia, where we toured Valley Forge National Historic Park, the National Constitution Center, Independence Hall, and Betsy’s Ross’ house.  There was so much to do and see, and I gained a much greater respect for the Revolutionary soldiers and our Founding Fathers.

In the coming months, we will be hearing from television correspondents, Congressmen, Senators, and a Court of Appeals Judge in addition to taking a trip to Gettysburg and Harpers Ferry.

I would encourage any prospective interns to check with their university and see what internship programs they offer.  The Washington Seminar Program has enriched my D.C. internship experience.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

 

February 25, 2008

Over the President’s Day weekend, my family flew into town from Idaho to visit.  It was not their first time visiting D.C., and they wanted to see some of the more discreet sites in D.C. that they hadn’t seen before. 

One of the more uncommon and unique places we went was Eastern Market, a flea market on Capitol Hill.  The Market was built in the late 1800s and features various exhibitors’ products, such as art, photography, handmade jewelry, and furniture.  The East Hall of the Market is indoors, and you can purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, meats and flowers.

We spent another day in Old Town Alexandria, exploring.  If you’ve never been to Alexandria, I suggest spending some time strolling the historic cobblestone streets and browsing the boutiques.  We wandered through the Torpedo Factory (a renovated factory from World War I and II that now serves as an artist colony), listened to a glass musician on the waterfront, and toured the historic Carlyle House.  In celebration of President’s Day and the fact that Alexandria is George Washington’s hometown, there was an afternoon parade and Revolutionary War reenactments.  The colonial history makes Old Town Alexandria one of the most charming places in the D.C. area.

My family’s visit reminded me of how much there is to do in DC aside from the monuments, museums, and federal buildings. If you’ve been to DC once and seen the typical tourist attractions, there’s always more left to see and do.  Don’t hesitate to visit again!

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

February 22, 2008

The Senate is not in session this week so the office has been quieter and more relaxed. It has also snowed again, reminding me of my first few weeks here. Although I have found the Washington weather unpredictable, I have enjoyed experiencing winter at time when I’d usually be getting burnt at the beach.

Over the Presidents Day long weekend, I had the chance to explore Washington and see some trendy DC areas. I loved walking around Dupont Circle and shopping in the cute stores in Georgetown. I also had a great time going to Eastern Market - a good place for street stalls, fresh food and interesting people. During my time here I have found my weekend activities to be a lovely balance to my time at work. They have also showed me another side of DC, distinct to the political world Washington is often associated with.

At work this week, I attended a luncheon on social insurance and was intrigued by the opinions offered on how to improve America’s health and fiscal policy. Coming from a country with only 21 million people, I often find the size of America’s health insurance issue overwhelming. I can certainly see why lawmakers are at odds to fix such a complex problem.

To add to my American experience, I also went shooting this week and had a great time. Guns are generally prohibited in Australia so the concept of holding and shooting them was foreign to me. When I first arrived in America, it was unsettling to think that somebody could be carrying a gun next to me in the street in Virginia. However, after learning more about guns and visiting the NRA range, it was good to know that most people are very careful about the way they use firearms.

Time has flown and I look forward to seeing, doing and hearing more during my last week of my internship.

Suzi, Canberra, Australia, University of Canberra

February 21, 2008

I have never seen so much celebration for President’s Day!  It was an awesome feeling to see everyone excited and honoring our founding fathers.  We went to a parade, where revolutionary soldiers were firing a round of guns, George W. himself was walking the streets, as well as Abraham Lincoln, and a man walked before the parade began ringing a bell announcing that the parade in honor of Washington was coming. Oh! I almost forgot, George and Martha were seated at the grandstand to watch, and most likely judge the floats!

Work was good this week, though a little bit slower than usual because of the short recess.  Today I attended a nomination hearing on the Senate Judicial Committee for three different people to become judges in the district courts.  It was really neat to see them defend the judicial system during this process. For example, Senator Leahy (the chairman) asked if they would judge President Bush unfairly because of his status.  The nominee replied that, according to the law, he would judge fairly and not give any special breaks to anyone, no matter what their position.   It was also a neat feeling when Senator Leahy pointed out that if the American public does not have faith in our court system, the whole checks and balances action falls out of place.  He stressed the importance of doing your best for the American public. 

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

February 19, 2008

In The Fountainhead, a novel by Ayn Rand, she writes "I would give the greatest sunset in the world for one sight of New York's skyline, the sky over New York and the will of man made visible.”  That being said, I’m sure she never travelled to the West Coast and saw the sunset over the Rocky Mountains, but as I approached New York, that very same skyline to which she refers did take my breath away.  I had the opportunity to travel to New York City a weekend or so ago; while I am here on the East Coast, I figured I might as well take the opportunity to go to THE City—New York City.  So. . . .  $25 and a 3 ½ hour bus ride later, I found myself in New York City for a day.  I saw Phantom of the Opera at an off-Broadway Theatre and walked up, down, through and near Madison Square Garden, Times Square, Macy’s Parade Square and Broadway; Lady Liberty stood within eyeshot of my hotel room window.  A trip to New York has always been a dream, but when it’s only 3 ½ hours away, I couldn’t pass up making it a reality; that and even on an intern salary, a grand total of under $100 isn’t bad!  It is a fascinating city to visit—I can’t think of any other like it. 

One thing that represents the East Coast State of Mind that I have observed both by being here and going to New York is the representation of the pace at which people both live, work and play—The Blackberry.  I’ll be honest—I’d heard of it before I came out this way, and that’s saying a lot. . . .   It’s an electronic device that can send and receive e-mails, it also occasionally functions as a phone, and acts as a built in file-a-fax.  People on the East Coast eat, breathe and sleep Blackberrys. . . .  To give a little perspective, I have concluded that if the world simultaneously ran out of water and Blackberrys, the people here would likely first and foremost miss their little electronic devices.  I have literally seen people so buried in them that they are walking into walls and getting off the elevator on the wrong floor.  Granted, I say this in the very best of humor, acknowledging that I may very likely become the epitome – the poster child, if you will—of everything that I am now making fun of. . . .

Rachel, Boise, Boise State University

February 15, 2008

This week has been very busy and I have again had the chance to experience many interesting things.

My day began early on Wednesday when I lined up at 8:00 a.m. with a fellow intern to attend a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing. The key witness was Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice so there was some hype around the event and increased security. Scheduled to start at 10:30, I was eager to get a good seat and was pleased to see others line up behind us - it was nice to know that we weren’t the only people excited about a budget hearing!

The room was filled with TV cameras and photographers and I was able to sit near the front with an excellent view of the committee. I enjoyed watching the famous faces on the committee question Secretary Rice, particularly when some delivered their questions more vigorously than others. Later I watched some of the same hearing on C-SPAN so was able to see more of Secretary Rice’s facial expressions and responses.

Later in the week I attended a lecture at Georgetown University about the relationships between the United States, Australia and China. Being an Australian in the U.S., I was particularly interested in the lecturer’s opinions about the U.S. Australia relationship and how they compared with my own.

Next week the Senate will be out of session although I’m sure it will still be busy. With only two weeks left in my internship I’m looking forward to experiencing more of what D.C. has to offer.

Suzi, Canberra, Australia, University of Canberra

February 15, 2008

This week has been slower in activities and hearings, but office wise it was pretty busy.  On some days, it got really intense as the Senator literally had one minute between back-to-back meetings the entire afternoon! It was exciting to be part of the process and help everything go smoothly.  I have done several smaller projects for diverse members of staff, such as look up bills, type up letters, ship boxes, etc. and that has been really interesting to witness all parts of the office.  My favorite part of the week was actually last Saturday, when we attended the Barry Manilow concert! It was awesome!

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

February 14, 2008

This Wednesday, I got up early to stand in line for a chance at attending the Committee on Foreign Relations’ hearing on the President’s foreign affairs budget.  Normally, I would not be eager enough to show up two hours early and stand in line for a hearing; however, Condoleezza Rice, the Secretary of State, was the witness.  Additionally, this was the last budget she would present as Secretary of State under the Bush administration.  My efforts paid off, because I was one of the first people through the doors, and I was able to sit just a few yards from Secretary Rice.

It is interesting that over the past month and a half I have seen many high-profile government officials, but I am still "star-struck" when I see someone in real life that I am used to seeing on television.  Another staff member referred to it as "intoxicating."

I was impressed as I watched Secretary Rice address the committee and respond to their questions.  She had such an impressive grasp of foreign affairs.  She answered the committee’s questions with ease and honesty, and the breadth and depth of her knowledge was impressive for one person.  The President’s budget is expansive, and topics under the Foreign Relations Committee’s jurisdiction alone ranged from student VISAs to the Civilian Response Corp.

Foreign affairs are not one of my strengths, so I was glad to have this opportunity to acquaint myself with some of the issues involved in the President’s budget.  In addition, I am glad to have been able to see Secretary Rice testify in person.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

February 8, 2008

This week has proven to be just as wonderful as the previous weeks.  Several exciting things happened, and I am amazed at the opportunity I have to take part in the action!

While I was sitting in the Senate galleries watching Senator Crapo give a floor speech, and later on when I attended a vote in which all of the ‘big name’ senators were present, I felt privileged to see government work.  When the voting was taking place, it just hit me that I was watching these powerful men and women make a decision that would affect me and my family. It was really eye-opening to me about what responsibility the government has.  Also, when the amendment didn’t pass because of one vote, I was reminded of the power of an individual!

This week I also attended a hearing about preserving our founding father’s works and letters.  In the hearing were Senator Leahy and Ted Kennedy.  It was such an awesome feeling to be so close to these people who I admire, then watch their interactions with each other and realize they are just normal citizens who have something to say and are working for it.  It motivates me to be more active about issues that I care about, and reminds me that anyone can make a difference.

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

February 8, 2008

I have learned to be a little less shocked when I step onto the elevator, or subway car with a Senator who is happy to engage in small talk if he/she happens to look up from their blackberry they seem otherwise attached to.    I went to the gallery the other day for a cloture vote on the economic stimulus package, and all of the big name up-and-coming Senator/Presidential candidates from this election (and the last) were there for the vote—except for John McCain.  Senators Brownback, Clinton, Lieberman, Obama and Kerry were all present for the vote and about forty feet from where I sat in the gallery. 

My state of mind has also taken a peculiar twist.  If I were playing a word association game two months ago, I honestly think that for words like FBI, CIA, National Intelligence, etc., I would come up with associations like Gracie Hart, Jason Bourne, CTU, Eric O’Neil and Jack Bauer.  It isn’t that I’m obsessed with Hollywood, but on the west coast, my experience with intelligence organizations are limited to those television shows and movies that I expose myself to.  For the most part, the FBI and CIA aren’t big news in the Pacific Northwest.  Coming here, I expected to see secret service, but I didn’t expect to be seated twenty feet from the heads of the CIA, DIA, FBI and National Intelligence agencies as they reported the annual threat assessment to the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence; nor did I expect to sit behind the Attorney General of the United States as he testified before the Judiciary Committee on similar national intelligence issues.  Maybe "comprehend" is a more realistic term; it isn’t that I wasn’t expecting it, but I didn’t comprehend that such an experience was likely.  Those departments and agencies have become very real to me as I work here in the heart of where it all happens.  The government system is made up of checks and balances; on the primary level, that relationship is usually described in one way—the president can veto a bill sent to him by congress.  Fortunately the strategy and success of the system goes far beyond that and getting the opportunity to go to committee hearings and see that particular facet of the government is one of the many advantages that make this internship so fulfilling thus far. 

Rachel, Boise, Boise State University

February 8, 2008

Another week has passed and I’m having even more fun getting used to life in D.C.

I was fortunate to be able to give my first tour a few days ago and got the chance to show some Idaho constituents a few of the best parts of Washington. I took three constituents around the Capitol and had an excellent time pointing out the legendary sights within the building. I’ll never forget watching their three faces drop in awe as we walked into the Rotunda for the first time. Straight away they looked up, drawn to the magnificent dome above them and the meticulous artwork adorning the walls. It was then that I realized that this would become my favorite part of each tour.

I also had the opportunity to watch a vote from the Senate gallery this week, which was very exciting, particularly as it drew extensive media attention. Most of the Senators were there and it was fun to watch them all virtually meters away from me. I watched as Senators Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama exchanged smiles and words on the floor, and later looked on in interest at an intense conversation between Senators Obama and Kerry. It was interesting to watch them all mingle on the floor and see how they communicated with each other.

One of my favorite moments this week was when I sat in with the Senator during his weekly teleconference. Before leaving Australia to begin my internship, I had listened to Senator Crapo’s weekly teleconferences, and always thought that he responded well to questions. Now, sitting across from him as the tapes were rolling, I was even more impressed. The Senator responded quickly and provided thoughtful, in-depth responses without a single pause. I really enjoyed the conference but best of all, there was finally a visual element that I could watch with the audio.

In addition to giving tours, watching a vote and sitting in on a teleconference, I visited the Library of Congress, attended a hearing, enjoyed three receptions and watched the excitement of Super Tuesday – all of this in the space of a few days! I can’t wait to experience more.

Suzi, Canberra, Australia, University of Canberra

February 7, 2008

This week proved to be quite busy and exciting, thanks to Super Tuesday, the economic stimulus package, and a variety of other happenings on the Hill.  The most exciting event I attended this week was "The Founding Fathers' Papers: Ensuring Public Access to our National Treasures," a hearing held by the Senate Judiciary Committee.  I was first intrigued by the description of the event in a Hill newspaper, but it proved to be an even greater delight than I had first anticipated.

 I was seated and waiting for the hearing to begin when David McCullough, an American historian and author of "1776" and "John Adams," walked in.  I heard Mr. McCullough speak once before and was really impressed with his knowledge of American history and speaking style, so I was pleased to find out he was one of the expert witnesses at the hearing.

The point of the hearing was to discuss the dilemma of what to do with the Founding Fathers' letters and papers.  Many projects have been started by private institutions, universities, and libraries to make the Founding Fathers' letters and papers accessible to the public, but none of the projects are expected to be completed for decades and will not necessarily be affordable for the general public.

There is a sense of urgency to increase the pace of these projects and preserve what Senator Ted Kennedy called our "nation’s scriptures."  Towards the end of the hearing, the committee and panel stressed the importance of these documents for educational purposes as well as scholarly works, such as McCullough’s books.  Possible suggestions to the problem included increased funding and staff, as well as a free website where the projects could collaborate and publish their work.

It will be interesting to watch in the upcoming sessions of Congress to see how such an important undertaking evolves.  I look forward to the documents being made public, and I am glad I had the opportunity to attend the hearing and listen to experts such as Mr. McCullough.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

February 1, 2008

Wow! My first month as an intern in Senator Crapo’s office has flown by.  I am amazed at how much I have learned! Not only have I seen how a Senate office functions, I have also become more equipped with diverse software programs as I have done various assignments and tasks.   I also attended two congressional receptions – one featuring classic food of the west, and one that emphasized the importance of saving the whales.  At this reception, I met the actress Hayden Panetierre and was able to talk with her about being young and still working for what you believe in.  

This week I attended a briefing on Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Protection.  It was such an awesome feeling to be in a large hearing room with C-span filming.  One cannot help but feel part of the show and action!  I also saw the excitement and energy on Capitol Hill with the State of the Union Address given by President Bush on Monday.   It was so interesting to hear people on the street and all the newspapers, etc. comments on the speech and also on the election.  Being an intern has heightened my awareness and interest in these political issues. 

I also am amazed at the contacts I am making.  While riding the underground metro to the Capitol, I always see several different powerful Senators and House members.  Being in Washington D.C. is a surreal feeling and the knowledge I am gaining is irreplaceable and will prove beneficial throughout all my life.   

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

February 1, 2008

It has been an exciting week and I have again witnessed inspiring and impressive events over these last five days on the Hill.

My highlight for this week was the night that President Bush delivered his State of the Union address. I had a great experience as I was able to watch the address from one of the conference rooms inside the Capitol, the very building where it was all happening. During the speech I could hear the rumble of the applause coming from the House and it was exciting knowing that all of the powerful political figures I have read about were together in a nearby room.

Following the address, I had the chance to view Statuary Hall and see the media pack do what they do best. The hall had been transformed into a studio and was filled with bright lights and long black cables that snaked around the statues. Camera crews were waiting expectantly as I watched the Congressmen and Senators crowd back into the Hall after the speech ready to conduct their interviews. As they arrived they were met with a rush of microphones, cameras and busy journalists, eager to listen to their responses. Every so often camera bulbs would flash quickly as a famous Senator or Congressman walked through the pack, reminding me that some of these politicians are celebrities.

In the past few days I have had the chance to attend some reception events on the Hill which have been excellent. While walking through the halls on my way to one reception, I saw a stream of Senators pass me by on their way to the Senate side, their pins proudly displayed on their jackets. At these events I have met many interesting people, tasted great food and also learnt more about various organizations, their function in Washington and their links to Idaho. These events are also a good opportunity to meet other interns and hear about their experiences and I look forward to attending more.

Suzi, Canberra, Australia, University of Canberra

January 31, 2008

This week I had the pleasure, along with the rest of the nation, of listening to President Bush’s State of the Union Address.  Being in the nation’s capital for the address was a real pleasure.  Before the address, some of my fellow interns and I attended a reception hosted by the Western Business Roundtable.  The reception was western themed, and the main refreshment was Rocky Mountain Oysters.  While I was not brave enough to try the Rocky Mountain Oysters, I did enjoy myself, and it was a great way to preface the address.

The State of the Union was exciting to watch considering I have now seen the room in which it is held, and I recognize many of the Congressman’s faces from passing them in the halls of the Capitol and office buildings.  I got chills when I heard the Sergeant of Arms exclaim, “Madame Speaker, the President of the United States” on President Bush’s arrival.  While listening to President Bush’s words, I understood the importance of the issues and where current legislation stood.  It made me realize how much I have learned in the short time I have been here and infused me with energy to continue informing myself and absorbing information around me.

The address was Bush’s last before the presidential office transfers to a new president, and in the address President Bush highlighted the importance of the relationship between Congress and the President.  This importance is also stated in Article II of the Constitution, where the requirement for a State of the Union is found.  “He shall from time to time give to Congress information of the State of the Union and recommend to their Consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient."  We are lucky to live in a free country where government really does try to work together for the needs of the people, and it was my privilege to be in the “Capital of the Free World” for the address.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

 

January 28, 2008

Things on the hill are starting to pick up as the Senate reconvenes.  There are more constituents calling about issues and more hearings to attend as bills move along.  I had the opportunity to attend a mark-up hearing this week where I listened to Representatives from Texas, Florida, and Colorado debate possible amendments to a bill before the bill went to full committee.  For a good part of the hearing, I’ll be honest, the words to the all familiar educational Schoolhouse Rock song ran through my head. . . . “I’m just a bill.  Yes, I’m only a bill. . . .” 

The greatest pleasure this week was that I, along with all of the interns, had the honor of having an official meeting with Senator Mike Crapo himself.  I have met him on several occasions and in various political arenas, but it was a unique pleasure to be able to sit down in his office and hear him talk about himself, and about Idaho—policy and politics aside.  He cares very much about the state itself, and the people who reside there.  He talked about his love of outdoor Idaho, which I happen to agree holds much of Idaho’s charm. 

Rachel, Boise, Boise State University

January 25, 2008

This week I have had the opportunity of participating in a number of exciting activities that are unique to Washington D.C. and the Capitol Hill intern experience.  The first was meeting Senator Crapo.  Although I had seen him in the office prior to this meeting, this was the first time I had an opportunity to sit down and speak with him.  The interns met together, asked Senator Crapo a few questions, and had our pictures taken with him.  I was very impressed by Senator Crapo’s responses and professionalism.  He sincerely cares about the constituents of Idaho’s concerns and how best he can serve them.  He works very diligently to make honorable decision and represent Idaho as best he can.

Another exciting experience was taking a tour of the White House.  The White House has always been a symbol of patriotism and power, so seeing it up-close and getting to go inside was a real treat.  Walking down the corridors lined with presidential portraits and 19th century possessions once owned by past presidents was surreal.  I learned about the different stages of renovation the White House has gone through, the uses of each of the rooms on the tour, and other interesting facts.  Did you know that the floral arrangements in the White House are fresh flowers?  They are created anew for every room approximately every week.  Did you know that the Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington from 1797 is the same that hung in the White House in 1800?  Dolly Madison saved it when the British set fire to the White House in 1814.  Did you know that the walls in some of the rooms are covered with silk rather than painted?  The tour of the White House was very enjoyable and enlightening.  As I left, I could relate to the remarks of John Adams carved over the fireplace mantel in the State Dining Room.  It says, “I pray heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this house and all that shall hereafter inhabit it.  May none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof.”

Finally, this afternoon I attended the nomination hearing of Edward Schafer for Agriculture Secretary.  It was the first hearing I have attended, and it was a really interesting process.  The hearing was lead by the chairman, and each senator on the committee made opening remarks followed by Schafer’s remarks and questions from the committee.  It is now up to the committee to vote on the nomination and send the nominee to the Senate for a confirmation vote.  I look forward to attending more hearings.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

January 25, 2008

This week the Senate resumed and activity in the office increased, exposing me to more exciting opportunities and experiences.

Looking outside the window this week it was evident that the Hill was again in full swing. Streams of people lined the sidewalks protesting their cause despite the freezing cold weather and bleak gray sky. The crowd, complete with placards and brightly colored balloons was a reminder of one of America’s greatest and most central ideas, freedom of speech. It was good to see that any American can have their say without fear and with confidence.

While activity outside was buzzing, inside my building was further proof of the busy life in the Senate. Walking up the corridors to the office I passed C-SPAN set up in the hallway recording a nearby hearing. Turning the corner, I saw a long line of people waiting expectantly for the hearing to begin, waiting for their chance to see U.S. politics in action.

In addition to seeing activity on the Hill accelerate I have been given the chance to experience it through the tasks assigned to me in my office. One of these is the writing of the daily clips. In this project I help compile and write summaries of local and national news stories concerning Idaho. Completing this task has enabled me to learn more about the issues important to Idaho residents and to also understand how they feel about them. The task has also made me appreciate just how hard the Idaho congressional delegation works for their constituents. Each day there are fresh stories about new issues, new developments and new actions by Idaho’s congressional representatives.

In addition to assisting with the daily clips, I had the opportunity to attend a symposium on climate change at the Australian Embassy and a speech on immigration reform by Sen. Jeff Sessions. Both of these outings enabled me to learn more about what is happening in the US and the world, the very reason I came here. They also made me appreciate how rich the intern learning experience is. We are not stuck at desks all day but are encouraged to get out there and see and learn all that we can. This is certainly a unique opportunity.

My highlight for the week was meeting Sen. Crapo. Before starting this internship I had read much about him, his policies and his opinions so was looking forward to meeting him in ‘real life’. As I sat down with the other interns in his office, I was not disappointed. His sharp mind and personable nature was impressive. It is clear that his constituents are of great importance to him and that his actions are dictated by what they want and his own conscience – good cues to follow.

I look forward to seeing, doing and hearing more next week and know that my internship on the Hill will continue to be more exciting as time goes on.

Suzi, Canberra, Australia, University of Canberra

January 25, 2008

This week was fun.  I went to a hearing for the House Budget Committee called “Budget and Economic Outlook.”  An economist spoke telling the committee members about the current state of the economy and offered suggestions concerning the economic stimulus that congress was considering.  He showed some interesting charts about the future deficits that will come if congress doesn’t change their policies.  I loved hearing all of the economic jargon being used by the economist; although, I doubt many of the committee members understood it, or any economics reasoning in general.  I gave some tours this week.  I gave one to a professor from my school, BYUI.  He was real nice.  Later that evening, he took me and two other BYUI interns out for dinner.  He told us he would serve as a source of recommendation if we needed him too.  It is nice to get food for free out here because food in general is pretty expensive.  It helps me ration my food budget when I get free food.  I am thinking about going to the NRA range this weekend.  The range is underneath the parking lot of the NRA; the compound is about five minutes from my house.  It is a nice, expensive range but it does good considering I can’t just go up to the hills here like I can in Idaho.

Chase, Idaho Falls, Brigham Young University

January 24, 2008

This week has been full of exciting duties and events.  I attended two hearings, one on immigration and one on breast cancer research.  I was also able to tour the White House and watched the Senate reconvene and vote!  I also attended a reception where I met the entire Congressional delegation from Idaho.  It was amazing to meet these wonderful men and realize how much they sacrifice for us in Idaho.

Some of my specific duties include typing in the Senator’s schedule, filling out request forms for meetings, and making a briefing packet for the Senator that highlights and shows all of his appointments for the day.  As I have done this, I am amazed at the busy schedule and how he is able to get everything done!  I have been awakened to how much the government does for us as citizens and all the work that goes in behind the scenes. 

This week I was also able to give my first two tours of the Capitol building.  As I guided the people and watched their expressions of excitement and joy as they entered the Rotunda and other parts of the building, I felt such a gratitude for my chance to be here and help others recognize the majesty of the American capitol and government.  It is incredible to me that I am here in our Nation’s capital assisting our government to run, and in my own, small way affecting history.

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

January 22, 2008

This week is my introductory entry on the intern blog.  I have been interning for Senator Crapo’s office for a couple of weeks now and would like to relate some impressions of my first few days here.  Senator Crapo’s office is a pleasure to work in.  Each day, I learn so many new and interesting things about our nation’s capital and the workings of government.  For example, I learned to screening and routing phone calls and answering questions of a general nature, to respond to constituent letters, do legislative research, give Capitol tours, and a plethora of other things.

My general impressions of Washington, DC are also positive.  I love the energy and history in this city.  The scale of the federal buildings and monuments is truly awe-inspiring.  As a small-town girl, the hustle and bustle has taken some getting used to, but there is so much to see!  Some of my favorite sites thus far are the Eastern Market, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, Mount Vernon, and of course the Capitol building.  I am so lucky to get to work so close it.

Capitol Hill is a friendly place, and Senator Crapo’s staff is very competent and capable.  I am impressed by how efficiently and professionally matters are handled in the office.  Idaho constituents can rest assured their Senator and his staff are representing the state in a way that would make them very proud.  I look forward to future learning opportunities, and I encourage you to visit Washington DC and witness the workings of government firsthand.

Camille, Brigham Young University, Burley

January 18, 2008

It is good to be back in DC.  I was here four years ago as an LDS missionary.  It is warmer here in the winter than Idaho is; I rarely wear my coat.  My favorite part about my internship so far has been the learning aspect of it.  I like reading the CRS reports on the economy (economics is my major at BYUI), and attending Hearings on the same subject.  I like the economics stuff best but I would go to hearings all day if they would let me.  DC is full of learned people; many of them masters in their field.  I am continually amazed by Democrats.  They are so political in everything they do, very partisan.  I can’t understand how they think increased federal consumption spending and increased taxation is beneficial for our economy.  In some ways, I have become more skeptical of federal government in general; it is as if all of the representatives are plundering the treasury for pet projects.  Fortunately, Sen. Crapo is not part of that crowd.  He is fiscally responsible and cares about the ideals of his constituency.

Chase, Brigham Young University, Idaho Falls

January 17, 2008

As I walked out of the subway and onto Capitol Hill that first day, I knew that my experience as a Washington intern would be life-changing. Surrounded by iconic buildings including the Capitol and the Supreme Court, these once esoteric places were now open for me to explore and experience.

Coming from the other side of the world, my view of Washington D.C. was shaped by two-dimensional narratives, limited political rhetoric and fleeting city images. Politics and the government are completely different in my home country Australia and Washington was always a distant entity. Now, stepping onto the Hill, I had the chance to live and breathe Washington.

During my first two weeks I have found myself constantly looking around, absorbing my surroundings and absorbing a more intense perception of the world. The hundreds of years of history around me continue to offer new insights and I know that my view of DC will evolve the longer I stay inside the Beltway.

In these two short weeks I have already had the chance to tour the Capitol, visit the White House, meet some friendly Idaho constituents and research important legislative issues. When wandering through the Capitol I’ll often stop and remember that it is here that so many famous political figures walked before me.

As the Senate resumes next week I look forward to seeing more events and issues unfold. Coming to work each day is exciting and I know that over the coming weeks I’ll be intrigued, captivated and challenged – I can’t wait.

Suzi, Canberra, Australia, University of Canberra

January 17, 2008

These first two weeks have been amazing!  I have learned a great deal and feel personally better prepared for the career world and to handle greater responsibility and trust.  Time flies- in just two weeks as an intern, I have met my boss and other members of Congress, gone on tours of the Capitol Bldg. and seen other historical points of interest, gotten to know my way around Washington, and have met several wonderful people.   I have handled interesting constituent phone calls dealing with current legislation and other issues, and also learned to become more professional through my interactions with others in the office.   The staff in this office is wonderful and very helpful, and I have grown more as they have entrusted me with greater responsibility.  I have also learned a great deal about computer and software programs as I have helped typing in the Senator’s schedule and other items.  I have run errands for the staff, and love showing my ID badge as I go into the stores that say “Senate I.D. required”!  One of my favorite things about this internship is knowing that not only am I learning about our history, I am where it happened and where our founding fathers stood!  I feel immensely grateful to be here and I have fully enjoyed my first two weeks!

Sarah, Pocatello, BYU-Idaho

January 16, 2008

Confucius said:  “Tell me and I'll forget. Show me and I'll remember. Involve me and I'll understand.”  As a recent college graduate, I can appreciate a solid education, but getting the opportunity to supplement four years of education in the political science field with two weeks in a U.S. Senate office, I feel humbled by how much I have yet to learn.  Learning new things every day, there are many things which can be taught, and can be taught well, but nothing compliments education better than experience.  Since beginning my internship here in Senator Crapo’s Washington D.C. office, I have had the opportunity to interact with constituents, research legislative issues, tour the White House, and learn fascinating things about the United States Capitol and the history that resides therein.  All that, and believe it or not—Senate is still in recess!

I knew and expected that this internship would be an embarkation on the great political hub of our nation, but it still catches me off guard to see evidence of what actually transpires here.  Walking down the street, headed to training, I passed a big name news reporter setting up in front of the Supreme Court, ready to report live.   I suddenly realized that the highest judiciary body in the country met here, a block from where I work.  Headed back from that same training session in the Library of Congress, I passed Clarence Thomas, an associate justice of that same great judiciary body, casually strolling down 1st Street.  That justice is one member out of the nine who interpret the law which governs the entire country.  That too—is humbling. 

I am looking forward to getting more involved as time goes on, attending committee hearings, giving constituent tours of the capitol and much, much more.  I am grateful that I came here with a passion to learn and an open mind to store the abundance of learning that I am only just beginning. . . .

Rachel, Boise, Boise State University

 

Intern Blog Archives

Fall 2007 Blog Entries

Fall 2006 Blog Entries

Return to Senate Internship Information main page.

10/20/2006 - Monuments

Hey everyone, just wanted to let you know if you want to see the monuments in DC but don't want to walk everywhere the tour-trolley is a great way to go. They drop you off at the major sites and you walk around the site taking as much or as little time as you want. When you get tired of an area just hop on a trolley and go to the next area, they cover the mall and Arlington National Cemetery. more...

- AH-Rexburg-BYU-Idaho

10/07/2006 - DC Sports

Not really something to blog about, but I wanted to let everyone know that sports are a great way to relax and enjoy the city. I went to a soccer game, DC United vs. New England Revolution and had a blast. I am anxious for the hockey season to start so I can go to a Caps game.more...

- AH-Rexburg_BYU-Idaho

09/22/2006 - First Post

Three weeks have past since I have started here and I have learned more than I usually learn in a semester at school. The experiences that I have had so far are great. The staff here has given me the opportunity to give tours of the U.S. Capitol building, research topics, draft letters, and attend committee meetings, judiciary hearings, receptions, etc. It has been a great experience that many people should take advantage of.

- AH-Rexburg-BYU-Idaho

09/01/2006 - First Day

I feel that I should preface this blog entry with my current location. As I type, I'm currently sitting under moonlight in front of the Lincoln memorial with a strip of dark water, the Washington Monument and the Capitol staring back at me. Seemingly within arms reach due to their sheer size, it's hard to keep my eyes on the screen. If you do happen to make it out to the DC area, or anywhere near it for that matter, this is a sight you absolutely cannot miss. more...

- AW-Boise-Boise State

Last updated 10/26/2009
REGIONAL OFFICES:

Idaho State

251 E. Front St., Suite 205
Boise, ID 83702

Southwestern

524 E. Cleveland Blvd., Suite 220
Caldwell, ID 83605

North Idaho

610 Hubbard, Suite 209
Coeur d' Alene, ID 83814

North-Central Region

313 'D' St., Suite 105
Lewiston, ID 83501

Eastern Idaho, North

410 Memorial Dr., Suite 204
Idaho Falls, ID 83402

Eastern Idaho, South

275 S. 5th Ave., Suite 225
Pocatello, ID 83201

South-Central

202 Falls Ave., Suite 2
Twin Falls, ID 83301

Washington, DC

239 Dirksen Senate Building
Washington, DC 20510

For questions, problems or suggestions while viewing this website please contact the webmaster.