Winnipeg Part One

Well, it's not called Winter-peg for nothing folks. The temperature is a balmy zero degrees and there is plenty of snow left from a storm last weekend, typical for this time of year in the Gateway to the West. Also, the intersection of Portage and Main, definitely the windiest corner in Canada.

Day One of the Convention saw the registration open at around 12:15 and the entrance of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and wife Laureen to pick up their badges (because they really need them, you know). Yours truly had a handshake and quick chat with the PM, photos to follow. Even better, I brought my copy of Harper's Team and the PM actually stopped and signed it for me. Yes, the man is cool.

Hit the Hospitality Suite of Conservative Party President Don Plett last night with Hamilton Mountain candidate Terry Anderson and had a 15 minute cocktail and talk with Doug Finley, National Campaign Director. He is Canada's top campaign manager and after talking with him, it's easy to see why. Mr. Finley is a smart, strategic guy but also takes time to learn about each and every riding, the candidate, and what's going on on the ground. If he continues as National Campaign Director, Hamilton Mountain can expect to see the party's resources invested in the riding.

Opening Ceremonies with Prime Minister Harper as the keynote speaker in an hour. More hospitality to follow...