Clear blue skies, bright sun and 70 degree temps were a dramatic improvement from the sub-zero weather Obama endured during the February Iowa Caucus that kicked off his primary campaign. Senator Obama made an appearance before and estimated crowd of 25,000 people today in Des Moines, and gave a rousing speech with a nod to the state that gave him his big push forward only 10 months ago.
VIDEO
Follow me over the fold for pics!!
Speaking before Obama were Rep.Leonard Boswell, Congressional candidate Becky Greenwald...
Senator Tom Harkin....
Iowa Governor Chet Culver....
An amazing rendition of the Star Spangled Banner performed by Iowa native Simon Estes (there was weeping.....it was truly exquisite). UPDATE...found video! Not the best sound but you get the idea....I wanted to embed but this style of player doesn't work here. Trust me when I say its worth clicking into.... SIMON ESTES SINGS
A cool pic of an apartment building nearby with a girl in the window, sharp-shooter on the roof and mammoth American flag waving in the warm Autumn breeze....
And then it was time for Barack!!!!
At the end Obama actually came right down to the crowd...I was able to pass him the sign my 5 year old daughter had made for him (his logo, Obama '08 and her name on it)! She was thrilled and has big plans to make more for us to send to him!
I'll add any videos or updates as I come across them today!!!!